Podcast appearances and mentions of tod bolsinger

Send me a text! I'd love to know what you're thinking!In this episode, Markus Watson and Tod Bolsinger explore what it really means to lead with care—especially when consensus isn't possible and someone might get hurt. Tod brings his insight on adaptive leadership, highlighting the tension between seeking unity and making tough, missional choices that can disappoint or cause pain. Together, Markus and Tod reflect on how Jesus modeled mission-centered leadership, caring for people while staying true to his calling—even when it meant letting others down.Tod Bolsinger and Markus Watson discuss this quote from Marc Schelske in Ep. 258: Walking the Path of Other-Centered Leadership:“If I really love all the people that are impacted by this decision, then this decision has to be consensual."THIS EPISODE'S HIGHLIGHTS INCLUDE:Leaders foster togetherness when they involve everyone in the decision-making process.Healthy leadership accepts that some decisions will inevitably cause pain or disappointment.Groups achieve consensus when everyone commits to follow the chosen path, even amidst disagreement.Leadership requires balancing love for people with dedication to the organization's mission.Leaders best serve their communities when they offer care to those most affected by painful decisions.Click HERE to get my FREE online course, BECOMING LEADERS OF SHALOM.

Send me a text! I'd love to know what you're thinking!This conversation reflects on the urgent need for genuine transformation in the church, rather than simply tweaking what isn't working. Tod Bolsinger and Markus Watson explore the signs that point to deeper issues—like plateauing membership, aging congregations, and stagnating giving—and why now is the time for a true “hero's journey” of change, not just rearranging the chairs on the Titanic.Tod Bolsinger and Markus Watson discuss this quote from Rex Miller in Ep. 254: Digital Disruption and the Future of the Church:"There are some telltale signs that it's time to go on a hero's journey. One telltale sign is we're plateauing in our membership. Or our members are getting older.  Or our giving is plateauing. Now is not the time to try to rearrange the chairs on the Titanic.”THIS EPISODE'S HIGHLIGHTS INCLUDE:Church leaders recognize critical signs—like plateauing membership, aging congregations, and stagnant giving—that indicate the need for deep transformation.Leaders create only superficial change when they settle for “rearranging the chairs on the Titanic” instead of tackling the root issues.Effective leadership requires admitting when you don't know what to do and being willing to learn all over again.Leaders lose key, healthy members when they make ministry primarily about themselves rather than about something greater.Transformation happens when leaders embrace adaptive change, let go of their expertise, and journey into new ways of leading.Click HERE to get my FREE online course, BECOMING LEADERS OF SHALOM.

When familiar strategies fall short and the path ahead is uncertain, how do leaders respond with clarity and courage? In this episode, Dr. Tod Bolsinger—founder of AE Sloan Leadership, executive director of the De Pree Center Church Leadership Institute, and associate professor at Fuller Seminary—offers powerful insights on navigating rapid change with adaptive resilience, humility, and a renewed sense of purpose. Find full show notes here: https://bit.ly/441drtodbolsinger Share the love. If you enjoyed this episode, please rate it on Apple Podcasts and write a brief review. https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-flourishing-culture-podcast/id1060724960?mt=2   By doing so, you will help spread our podcast to more listeners, and thereby help more Christian workplaces learn to build flourishing cultures. | Follow our Host, Al Lopus, on X https://twitter.com/allopus  | Follow our Host, Al Lopus, on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/allopus/ | Email our host at al@workplaces.org  

Send me a text! I'd love to know what you're thinking!This episode explores the critical role awareness plays in avoiding burnout and fostering healthy leadership practices. Tod Bolsinger and Markus Watson discuss personal anecdotes and practical strategies to cultivate awareness, so we can better navigate the challenges that come our way. Whether you're leading a team or just trying to lead a more intentional life, this conversation is packed with insights to help you break free from autopilot mode and make mindful adjustments for a more effective and fulfilling leadership journey.Tod Bolsinger and Markus Watson discuss this quote from Jonathan Hoover in Ep. 254: Endless Expectations and Emotional Exhaustion:“Awareness is a precursor to adjustment.”THIS EPISODE'S HIGHLIGHTS INCLUDE:Awareness aids leaders in recognizing when they approach burnout.Well-trained leaders naturally navigate crises using second nature skills.Developing awareness prompts leaders to stop, assess shifts, and adjust effectively.Noticing emotions or bodily sensations signals leaders to pause and reflect.Naming issues in a room empowers leaders to identify and implement adjustments.Click HERE to get my FREE online course, BECOMING LEADERS OF SHALOM.

Send me a text! I'd love to know what you're thinking!Tod Bolsinger and Markus Watson discuss insights on the importance of developing leaders who are skilled in curious listening and creating a collaborative environment where ideas are shared and valued. The conversation uncovers how shifting from monologue to dialogue can not only empower communities but also lead to more meaningful adaptive leadership in times of change.Tod Bolsinger and Markus Watson discuss this quote from Scot McKnight in Ep 250, The Prophetic Challenge of Deconstruction:“The evangelical world does not have a culture of conversation.”THIS EPISODE'S HIGHLIGHTS INCLUDE:Leaders improve their effectiveness by first listening before proclaiming.Sharing leadership with a team fosters better decision-making through collaboration.Engaging in conversations helps leaders adapt to situations without clear solutions.Encouraging conversations empowers groups by promoting shared ownership.Feeling heard validates individuals and supports their faith journey.Click HERE to get my FREE online course, BECOMING LEADERS OF SHALOM.

Send me a text! I'd love to know what you're thinking!Markus Watson and Tod Bolsinger explore Mandy Smith's powerful words on combating darkness and feelings of futility in leadership. Tod reflects on his own struggles with imposter syndrome and insecurity, highlighting the need for honesty and spiritual practices to overcome these challenges.Tod Bolsinger and Markus Watson discuss this quote from Mandy Smith in Ep 244, Finding Strength in Desperation:“Every week I have to stand up there and press against this darkness that wants us to be quiet.  And wants to come against us and disrupt our sleep; and disrupt our sense of well-being; and tell us that nothing we do makes any difference.”THIS EPISODE'S HIGHLIGHTS INCLUDE:Spiritual leaders must acknowledge and resist darkness that seeks to undermine their efforts and well-being.Tod Bolsinger shares that addressing insecurities and imposter syndrome builds resilience in ministry.Church leaders should recognize that leadership is about serving and pointing to Jesus, not about personal validation.Adopting a Jewish perspective on the Sabbath, Tod practices trust in God by resting, demonstrating faith in God's control.Addressing self-doubt and learning to trust in divine purpose helps leaders mitigate anxiety and retain their focus on meaningful service.Click HERE to get my FREE online course, BECOMING LEADERS OF SHALOM.

Send me a text! I'd love to know what you're thinking!Tod Bolsinger and Markus Watson explore how leadership often feels like moving through a dense fog where vision is limited. Tod shares his thoughts on the importance of valuing enduring principles over having a clear vision in times of rapid change. He emphasizes that being anchored in unchangeable values and the mission of our faith can guide us through uncertain landscapes. The conversation also unpacks the role of Jesus and the Spirit in adaptive leadership, highlighting the need to align our actions with what Jesus is doing in the world.Tod Bolsinger and Markus Watson discuss this quote from David Quel in Ep 242, Life and Leadership in the Fog:"That's what it means to belong to Jesus, that even in the fog, he can be trusted."THIS EPISODE'S HIGHLIGHTS INCLUDE:Leaders face fog by walking in faith, not just relying on vision.Leadership requires clarity on unchanging values amidst a rapidly changing world.Clear, essential values guide leaders when vision is uncertain.Adaptive leadership involves aligning with Jesus' ongoing work in the world.Trusting Jesus in the fog fortifies leaders' commitment and direction.Click HERE to get my FREE online course, BECOMING LEADERS OF SHALOM.

Send me a text! I'd love to know what you're thinking!Tod Bolsinger and Markus Watson discuss the importance of acknowledging when leaders feel overwhelmed and how critical it is to slow down and reflect rather than react impulsively. Through engaging metaphors and practical advice, they share strategies for adaptive leadership, highlighting practices such as pausing, getting perspective, and silent prayer to navigate chaos and uncertainty effectively.Tod Bolsinger and Markus Watson discuss this quote from David Quel in Ep 242, Life and Leadership in the Fog:"The world is moving fast. Change is speeding up and human brains haven't necessarily changed in order to be able to cope with all that's happening."THIS EPISODE'S HIGHLIGHTS INCLUDE:Leaders need to acknowledge feeling overwhelmed when confronting rapid change.Practicing adaptive leadership requires slowing down and reflecting rather than reacting impulsively.Effective leaders train themselves to pause and assess before taking action during crises.Pausing to pray or gain perspective can help leaders manage chaotic situations more effectively.Leaders should ask if immediate decisions are necessary to avoid defaulting to outdated practices.Click HERE to get my FREE online course, BECOMING LEADERS OF SHALOM.

How can we help others shift from a maintenance mindset to a missional one? It starts with prayer and reflection but also requires creating an environment where people feel safe to explore new ideas and take risks. Encouraging continuous learning is key. By embracing new knowledge and experiences, we can deepen our faith and learn to live it out more fully. This journey of growth breaks down silos, builds stronger relationships, and fosters a vibrant, mission-oriented community. Join me as I sit down with Fr. Dave Belt, Pastor of St. Stephen the Martyr in Omaha, to discuss the transformative power of learning. He shares personal stories, effective team-building practices, and insights on fostering a sense of purpose and mission, Discover how helping others see their efforts as part of something larger and more meaningful can inspire a dynamic, responsive, and Gospel-rooted Church—the Church that God is calling us to be. [01:05] Meet Father Dave Belt: A Lifelong Educator [07:46] The Importance of Ongoing Learning [12:59] Building Trust and Collaboration in Parish Staff [19:41] Effective Meeting Strategies and Leadership [25:43] Empowering Second Chair Leaders [35:06] Embracing the Call to Evangelize [41:28] From Christendom to Apostolic Mission [47:01] Canoeing the Mountains: Leadership Lessons [53:44] Building a Missionary Culture [56:57] Focusing on the Individual [59:26] Trusting in the Slow Work of God Don't forget to check out Leading from the Second Chair (https://www.amazon.com/Leading-Second-Chair-Fulfilling-Realizing/dp/1506463290/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=), our episode with Tod Bolsinger (https://equip.archomaha.org/find-your-spiritual-compass-navigating-change-using-discernment-featuring-tod-bolsinger/), and his book Canoeing the Mountains (https://www.amazon.com/Canoeing-Mountains-Christian-Leadership-Uncharted/dp/0830841261). For more practical advice and experiences from real people sharing their mission with the world, go to https://equip.archomaha.org/podcast/. A Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha Editor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)

Send me a text! I'd love to know what you're thinking!Based on their experiences as pastors, Tod Bolsinger and Markus Watson explore the delicate balance between seeking consensus through voting and the necessity of leading with focus and clarity. They delve into the unique challenges and responsibilities that come with adaptive leadership, emphasizing the importance of mission-driven decisions.Tod Bolsinger and Markus Watson discuss this quote from Uli Chi in Ep. 240. Leading with Wisdom from Above, with Uli Chi:“There are times when leaders lead by providing focus and clarity, rather than simply taking a vote on everything.”THIS EPISODES HIGHLIGHTS INCLUDE:Leaders guide by offering focus and clarity, not just by voting on every decision.Decisive leadership is necessary in complex situations.Effective pastors highlight the mission and encourage their boards to make decisions accordingly.True leadership sometimes requires addressing difficult truths instead of seeking unanimous consensus.Providing focus and clarity often involves asking the right questions to guide the team's decision-making process.Click HERE to get my FREE online course, BECOMING LEADERS OF SHALOM.

Transformation in leadership is impossible without trust, but trust alone does not guarantee transformation. In this enlightening conversation, Aaron welcomes back Tod Bolsinger, who discusses his latest book, "Invest in Transformation." Tod emphasizes that effective change requires a focus on character, integrity, and the willingness to face inevitable losses during the change process. The dialogue explores the concept of a "holding environment," where leaders can foster trust and facilitate difficult conversations necessary for meaningful transformation. Listeners will gain valuable insights on navigating resistance, embracing adaptive leadership, and investing in those who are mature and motivated, ultimately leading to successful missional change.Takeaways: Transformation requires trust, but trust alone does not guarantee transformation; investment is essential. Leaders should focus on engaging with the mature and motivated individuals for effective change. Disappointment in leadership often arises from the very people who asked for change. Creating a holding environment fosters trust and facilitates important, often difficult conversations. Embracing experimentation in leadership allows for adaptive solutions and ongoing learning opportunities. Loss is an inevitable part of change, and leaders must navigate it with care.

This podcast features a deep conversation with Tod Bolsinger, who emphasizes the vital importance of adaptive leadership in a rapidly changing world. He draws on his experience as a pastor and consultant to highlight how leaders must not only adapt their strategies but also transform themselves and their communities to thrive. Tod shares insights from his book, "Canoeing the Mountains," using the historical context of Lewis and Clark's expedition as a metaphor for navigating uncharted territory in leadership. Throughout the episode, he discusses the critical characteristics of effective leaders, including technical competence, relational congruence, and adaptive capacity, while providing practical advice on how to cultivate these traits. Listeners will gain valuable perspectives on fostering communal transformation and the courage required to embrace uncertainty as they lead their organizations through change.Takeaways: Leadership is about energizing a community towards transformation to accomplish a shared mission. Adaptive capacity is crucial as leaders face changing environments and shifting cultural contexts. Trust is essential for transformation, but it does not guarantee that transformation will occur. Best practices may not work in new contexts, requiring leaders to adapt and innovate. Relational congruence fosters trust, enabling leaders to effectively guide their communities through change. To lead effectively, one must discern core values and adapt them wisely in a changing world.

Send me a text! I'd love to know what you're thinking!Tod Bolsinger and Markus Watson explore the essential question: "What thirsts of my soul am I bringing to my congregation?" They discuss the importance of leaders acknowledging their own needs and the dangers of seeking fulfillment from their congregations instead of God. Learn how aligning personal needs with God's guidance can help leaders bring true abundance to their communities.Tod Bolsinger and Markus Watson discuss this quote from Alan Fadling in Ep 238, Lead with Less Anxiety:"What thirsts of my soul am I bringing to my congregation in hopes they'll meet me there rather than learning to take the thirsts of my soul to God so that God could meet me in those places? And then I could bring abundance to the community of people entrusted to me.”THIS EPISODE'S HIGHLIGHTS INCLUDE:Leaders must acknowledge their needs to avoid seeking affirmation from their congregations improperly.Effective leaders should bring their soul's needs to God rather than their congregations.Leaders face the temptation of people-pleasing, which can derail their adherence to God's mission.Being transparent about personal needs helps leaders avoid subconscious behaviors that could hinder mission-focused leadership.Fulfilling personal needs through appropriate relationships prevents dependence on congregational approval.Click HERE to get my FREE online course, BECOMING LEADERS OF SHALOM.

Send me a text! I'd love to know what you're thinking!Tod Bolsinger and Markus Watson reflect on how fear influences our congregations and the importance of addressing it directly. They discuss the role of technical expertise in building trust and how leaders can compassionately accompany people through their fears, especially in times of change and perceived loss. Tod shares strategies for normalizing fear, creating communities of empathy, and tackling resistance by engaging with those who are most fearful.Tod Bolsinger and Markus Watson discuss this quote from David Quel in Ep 236, Supporting Families with Autism in Your Church:“People have a tendency to be fearful of what they don't understand and what they don't know.”THIS EPISODE'S HIGHLIGHTS INCLUDE:Tod Bolsinger emphasizes the importance of accompanying people through their fears in leadership.Leaders need to acknowledge and normalize fear to help people navigate their anxieties.Churches should invite experts to build technical competence and trust.Addressing resistance directly helps calm fears and fosters gradual progress.Creating a community of empathy ensures that no one faces loss or fear alone.Click HERE to get my FREE online course, BECOMING LEADERS OF SHALOM.

Send me a text! I'd love to know what you're thinking!Tod Bolsinger and Markus Watson engage in a meaningful conversation about the delicate balance of honoring the "inherited church" while experimenting on the edges to drive adaptive change. Drawing from a quote by Shannon Kiser, who is deeply involved in adaptive leadership and fresh expressions of church, Tod explains how churches can innovate without discarding valuable traditions.Tod Bolsinger and Markus Watson discuss this quote from Shannon Kiser in Ep 177, Exploring New Forms of Church:“We don't have to give up what we love and cherish about the inherited church to also experiment on the edges.”THIS EPISODE'S HIGHLIGHTS INCLUDE:Church leaders honor the inherited church by experimenting on the edges without abandoning tradition.Adaptive leadership brings life to faith communities by evolving core practices to fit changing environments.Teams conduct modest experiments on the fringes to introduce effective innovations into the church.Effective change requires balancing respect for the past with openness to new approaches.Congregations thrive by integrating new discoveries that cater to both historical and present needs.Did you know Spiritual Life and Leadership has been named the #1 Spiritual Leadership Podcast by the Feedspot Podcasters Database? Check it out HERE!

Send me a text! I'd love to know what you're thinking!Markus Watson and Tod Bolsinger discuss the concept of the kingdom of God as a way of life, rather than a distant place. Inspired by a powerful quote from Yolanda Solomon, they discuss the profound implications this understanding has for ministry leadership and personal discipleship. Discover how embracing God's will in the present moment can transform your leadership and community, and what it means to live out the reality of God's reign right here, right now.Tod Bolsinger and Markus Watson discuss this quote from Yolanda Solomon in Ep 232, Learning from Jesus:"The kingdom that Jesus proclaims and the kingdom that Jesus embodies is not a place. It's a way of life."Did you know Spiritual Life and Leadership has been named the #1 Spiritual Leadership Podcast by the Feedspot Podcasters Database? Check it out HERE!

Send me a text! I'd love to know what you're thinking!Markus Watson and Tod Bolsinger discuss the essential role of pastors and spiritual leaders in "standing in the gap," inspired by a profound quote from Amy Peeler. They explore how leaders can support their communities by being present in times of crisis, offering intercessory prayer, and providing emotional and spiritual accompaniment. Through personal stories and leadership insights, they highlight the importance of not letting others face challenges alone and the powerful impact of embodying a pastoral presence during tough decisions and anxious moments.Tod Bolsinger and Markus Watson discuss this quote from Amy Peeler in Ep 224, Leadership Through the Lens of Hebrews:"As a priest, as a pastor, we are called to stand in the gap for people. Right? That could be as simple as, we have the time and the resources to study God's word during the week so that, when the congregation comes in, we can share the fruit of that time that we've invested."THIS EPISODE'S HIGHLIGHTS INCLUDE:Ministry leaders stand in the gap for their congregations, embodying both authority and empathy.Pastors enrich their congregations by dedicating time to study God's word, offering spiritual insights in return.Effective leaders accompany their team through anxious and challenging times, providing support and reassurance.Spiritual leadership involves being present with people, especially in moments of crisis and decision-making.Leaders foster a sense of community by ensuring no one feels alone in their burdens and responsibilities.Did you know Spiritual Life and Leadership has been named the #1 Spiritual Leadership Podcast by the Feedspot Podcasters Database? Check it out HERE!

Send me a text! I'd love to know what you're thinking!Markus Watson and Tod Bolsinger engage in an enlightening conversation exploring a profound quote by Efrem Smith on the evolving narrative of church communities. They discuss the critical role of the emerging generation in not just being part of the church's story, but actively shaping its future. The episode explores the importance of diverse perspectives, adaptive leadership, and the humility required to foster a truly inclusive and vibrant faith community.Tod Bolsinger and Markus Watson discuss this quote from Efrem Smith in Ep 222, Building a Multi-Inlusive Church:“As the story of your church unfolds, is it obvious that the emerging generation is not only part of the story, but part of shaping the story that will be told?”THIS EPISODE'S HIGHLIGHTS INCLUDE:Ministry leaders engage future generations by including their voices at the decision-making table.Tod Bolsinger emphasizes the necessity for leaders to adopt a humble approach and be open to learning.Markus Watson stresses the importance of diverse perspectives for a fuller understanding of God's calling.Churches increase vitality by valuing spiritual maturity over age when selecting leaders.Tod Bolsinger encourages leaders to focus on creating processes that foster deeper understanding and growth.Did you know Spiritual Life and Leadership has been named the #1 Spiritual Leadership Podcast by the Feedspot Podcasters Database? Check it out HERE!

Welcome to the Pinkleton Pull-Aside Podcast. On this podcast, let's step aside from our busy lives to have fun, fascinating life giving conversation with inspiring authors, pastors, sports personalities and other influencers, leaders and followers. Sit back, grab some coffee, or head down the road and let's get the good and the gold from today's guest. Our host is Jeff Pinkleton, Executive Director of the Gathering of the Miami Valley, where their mission is to connect men to men, and men to God. You can reach Jeff at GatheringMV.org or find him on Facebook at The Gathering of the Miami Valley.Tod Bolsinger is the Vice-President for Vocation and Formation and Assistant Professor of Practical Theology at Fuller Theological Seminary. For seventeen years, he was the Senior Pastor of San Clemente Presbyterian Church in San Clemente, California, after serving for ten years at First Presbyterian Church of Hollywood. He earned a Ph.D. in Theology and Master of Divinity from Fuller Theological Seminary. He is the author of two books, including the Christianity Today Award of Merit recipient, It Takes a Church to Raise a Christian: How the community of God transforms lives. He blogs, speaks, consults and is an executive coach for corporate, non-profit, educational and church organizations in transformational leadership.Tod has been married to Beth since 1989. Beth is a marriage and family counselor who is an executive coach and consultant. She is also a professional artist. They have two young-adult children, Brooks and Ali. An avid outdoor lover, if he hadn't taken biology after lunch in high school, Tod would have been a National Park Ranger. When he retires, he is going to be a ski host who puts four people on every quad chair lift.

Send me a text! I'd love to know what you're thinking!Markus Watson chats with Tod Bolsinger about a profound quote from Gayle Beebe, President of Westmont College. They explore the significance of staying emotionally present with your organization, its people, and its mission, especially during crises. The conversation highlights the balance between gaining perspective ('balcony' view) and staying connected (‘dance floor' engagement), essential for fostering trust and effective leadership. Perfect for those navigating the complexities of ministry leadership.Tod Bolsinger and Markus Watson discuss this quote from Gayle Beebe in Ep 220, Leading Through Tragedy, Adversity, and Crisis:"You have to stay emotionally present to the organization, to the people in the organization, to the mission of the organization so that you can make adjustments that actually allow you to prevail."THIS EPISODE'S HIGHLIGHTS INCLUDE:Ministry leaders must stay emotionally present to effectively lead organizations through crises.Gayle Beebe emphasizes the importance of connecting with the mission and people of the organization.Leaders need to balance the perspectives of the balcony (overall strategy) and the dance floor (emotional connection).Building trust through emotional attunement accelerates change within an organization.Leaders must acknowledge and manage their own emotions to make mission-focused decisions.Did you know Spiritual Life and Leadership has been named the #1 Spiritual Leadership Podcast by the Feedspot Podcasters Database? Check it out HERE!

Send me a text! I'd love to know what you're thinking!Tod Bolsinger and Markus Watson discuss the immense pressures faced by pastors today, as articulated by Tim Alberta. Tim highlighted how congregants increasingly expect pastors to function beyond their traditional roles, turning them into part-time pundits and cultural commentators on a myriad of contentious issues ranging from masking and vaccines to abortion and trans rights. Markus and Tod examine the challenges this poses, especially during heightened political seasons, and explore strategies for pastors to manage these pressures healthily, emphasizing the importance of honesty, mission focus, and relational support.Tod Bolsinger and Markus Watson discuss this quote from Tim Alberta in Ep 234, Political Power and American Evangelicalism:"What I kept coming back to was this immense pressure on pastors to be more than a pastor. In other words, their congregants in so many cases are looking to them in this moment saying, 'Okay. So, what about masking? What about the vaccine?  What about the trans issue?  What about abortion? What about, I mean, about everything.'...  They start to view their pastor as sort of a part-time pastor, but also a kind of part-time pundit, a part-time cultural commentator, part-time prognosticator of world events."THIS EPISODE'S HIGHLIGHTS INCLUDE:Pastors face immense pressure to address a wide range of social and political issues.Congregants often expect pastors to act as experts beyond their theological training.Effective leadership includes honestly admitting when answers are unclear.Addressing political tensions in congregations requires a commitment to the mission of following Jesus.Building strong relationships and seeking support helps pastors navigate crises and maintain integrity.Did you know Spiritual Life and Leadership has been named the #1 Spiritual Leadership Podcast by the Feedspot Podcasters Database? Check it out HERE!

Tod Bolsinger is the founder and principal at AE Sloan Leadership Inc., the executive director of the DePree Center Church Leadership Institute, and associate professor of leadership formation at Fuller Seminary. He is the author of Canoeing the Mountains and Tempered Resilience. Tod and his wife, Beth, split their time between Pasadena, California, and Ketchum, Idaho. Key Points How to influence change in an organization  The practical side of leadership Leading at a pace others can follow How to take people where they need to go Resources Canoeing the Mountains Leading Through Resistance The Mission Always Wins Invest in Transformation How Not to Waste a Crisis --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/the-monday-christian/support

Tod Bolsinger is the founder and principal at AE Sloan Leadership Inc., the executive director of the DePree Center Church Leadership Institute, and associate professor of leadership formation at Fuller Seminary. He is the author of Canoeing the Mountains and Tempered Resilience. Tod and his wife, Beth, split their time between Pasadena, California, and Ketchum, Idaho. Key Points Tod's faith journey Leading in unprecedented times  Defining true leadership Tod's new four-part leadership book series  Resources Canoeing the Mountains Leading Through Resistance The Mission Always Wins Invest in Transformation How Not to Waste a Crisis --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/the-monday-christian/support

Send me a text! I'd love to know what you're thinking!Markus Watson and Tod Bolsinger discuss the importance of framing for church leaders, particularly in the context of political polarization. Drawing on a quote from Andrew Hanauer, they explore how providing a Biblical framework to congregants can shape their understanding of the world and mitigate the influence of external, often divisive, narratives. Through practical advice and insightful examples, they illustrate how asking the right questions can lead to transformative perspectives grounded in faith.Tod Bolsinger and Markus Watson discuss this quote from Andrew Hanauer in Ep 226, Tackling Toxic Polarization in Your Church:"If you don't help your congregants have a framework for understanding the world around them, they will get that framework from somewhere else."THIS EPISODE'S HIGHLIGHTS INCLUDE:Ministry leaders can frame questions to help congregants see the world through the eyes of Jesus.Leaders should encourage their congregants to develop a biblical framework for understanding the world.Leaders should prompt curiosity through questions instead of giving lectures.Leaders can use personal stories to help congregants empathize and rethink their preconceived notions.Congregants will find alternative, potentially harmful frameworks if leaders do not provide a biblical one.Did you know Spiritual Life and Leadership has been named the #1 Spiritual Leadership Podcast by the Feedspot Podcasters Database? Check it out HERE!

Sponsors: The Clergy Confessions Podcast (www.clergyconfessions.com); Gardner-Webb University School of Divinity (www.gardner-webb.edu); Baptist Seminary of Kentucky (www.bsk.edu); Baylor's Garland School of Social Work; The Community Transformation Center at Palm Beach Atlantic University (www.pbactc.org); The Center for Congregational Health (https://healthychurch.org); and The Baptist House of Studies at Union Presbyterian Seminary (https://www.upsem.edu/). Join the listener community at https://www.classy.org/campaign/podcast-listener-support/c251116. Music from HookSounds.com.

Send me a text! I'd love to know what you're thinking!Markus Watson and Tod Bolsinger explore the concept of power within the framework of discipleship and adaptive leadership, inspired by a quote from Michael Rhodes. They discuss how power, when used responsibly, can prevent harm and support the vulnerable, such as orphans, immigrants, and widows. The conversation delves into the transformative potential of Jesus' use of power, emphasizing that true leadership requires the release and sharing of power to foster justice and love. They conclude with reflections on the societal challenges of redefining power in ways that uplift and protect the most vulnerable in the community.Tod Bolsinger and Markus Watson discuss this quote from Michael Rhodes in Ep 200, The Justice Feast:“How does our discipleship help us become people who faithfully exercise power in community, particularly on behalf of the orphan, the immigrant, and the widow?”THIS EPISODE'S HIGHLIGHTS INCLUDE:Tod Bolsinger explores the concept of power and its importance in preventing evil and harm.Discipleship involves using power to protect the most vulnerable, such as orphans, immigrants, and widows.Adaptive leadership emphasizes transformation and inclusivity, drawing from many voices within a community.Jesus demonstrates ultimate power by sacrificing himself for others, illustrating love and justice in the kingdom of God.Effective leadership requires adapting and redefining traditional views of power and authority.Did you know Spiritual Life and Leadership has been named the #1 Spiritual Leadership Podcast by the Feedspot Podcasters Database? Check it out HERE!

As pastors and ministry leaders, when we come up against a challenge or crisis, how can we reframe our perspective so that we do not waste the opportunity that challenge presents? In this week's conversation on FrontStage BackStage, host Jason Daye is joined by Tod Bolsinger. Tod is the founder and principal of AE Sloan Leadership. Tod also serves as the executive director of the DePree Center Church Leadership Institute and as an associate professor at Fuller Seminary. He's the author of the best-selling book Canoeing The Mountains, as well as several other books, including How Not to Waste a Crisis. In this episode, Tod and Jason explore some of the common default modes that we move to as leaders when we face a crisis. Tod shares how we can reframe these situations so that we can better serve the kingdom and the people to whom we're called to minister.Dig deeper into this conversation: Find the free Weekly Toolkit, including the Ministry Leaders Growth Guide, all resource links, and more, at http://PastorServe.org/networkSome key takeaways from this conversation:Tod Bolsinger on the importance of balance and growth beyond one's natural strengths: "Really good leaders, we found, fall into the same mistakes, and one of their mistakes is relying on their ‘superpower.'"Tod Bolsinger on the significance of leadership that values and promotes learning as a core element of success: "Really good leaders in a changing world lead the learning."Tod Bolsinger on the importance of developing problem-solving skills rather than just focusing on finding immediate solutions: "It's not solving the problem. It's learning the process of how to learn your way through it and then you can solve every problem."----------------Looking to dig more deeply into this topic and conversation? FrontStage BackStage is much more than another church leadership show, it is a complete resource to help you and your ministry leaders grow. Every week we go the extra mile and create a free toolkit so you and your ministry team can dive deeper into the topic that is discussed.Visit http://PastorServe.org/network to find the Weekly Toolkit, including the Ministry Leaders Growth Guide. Our team pulls key insights and quotes from every conversation with our guests. We also create engaging questions for you and your team to consider and process, providing space for you to reflect on how each episode's topic relates to your unique church context. Use these questions in your staff meetings, or other settings, to guide your conversation as you invest in the growth of your ministry leaders. Love well, live well, & lead well Complimentary Coaching Session for Pastors http://PastorServe.org/freesession Follow PastorServe LinkedIn | Twitter | Instagram | FacebookConnect with Jason Daye LinkedIn | Instagram...

Send me a text! I'd love to know what you're thinking!Markus Watson and Tod Bolsinger explore how to discern and join in what God is doing in the world. They discuss the importance of humility, recognizing God's ongoing work beyond the church, and adopting practical spiritual disciplines. Tod shares personal practices, like evening prayers of gratitude and a mindset that sees God's activity through the night, to better align with God's work. They emphasize listening to both God and others to understand the broader context of God's presence and action.Tod Bolsinger and Markus Watson discuss this quote from Tim Soerens in Ep 204, How to Cultivate Presence in Your Community:“What is God up to? And how do I join in it? And what are the practices and postures and prompts that we need to keep asking ourselves in order to join in what God's doing?”THIS EPISODE'S HIGHLIGHTS INCLUDE:Tod advises starting the day with the mindset that God has already been at work throughout the night.Tim Soerens' quote emphasizes the need to discern what God is doing rather than trying to get God to join in our own plans.Markus encourages listening to the people in our communities to understand their hopes and fears.Tod highlights the importance of praying for God's kingdom to come on earth as it already exists in heaven.Markus reframes the perspective of a megachurch to see itself as a small part of the larger body of Christ.Did you know Spiritual Life and Leadership has been named the #1 Spiritual Leadership Podcast by the Feedspot Podcasters Database? Check it out HERE!

In today's episode I chat with Tod Bolsinger about his new four book series, Practicing Change. In our conversation Tod briefly unpacks each book in the series, walking me through what it looks like to lead a church through positive change and transformation in the midst of crisis and resistance, while building trust and staying on mission. If you are a Christian leader of any sort, Tod's new series is a must read, and hopefully this episode is a good precursor to it! Tod Bolsinger is the founder and principal at AE Sloan Leadership Inc., the executive director of the DePree Center Church Leadership Institute, and associate professor of leadership formation at Fuller Seminary. He is the author of Canoeing the Mountains and Tempered Resilience. Tod and his wife, Beth, split their time between Pasadena, California, and Ketchum, Idaho.  

Send me a text! I'd love to know what you're thinking!Markus Watson and Tod Bolsinger unpack a poignant quote from Adam McHugh, discussing the often-overlooked grief experienced during life transitions such as career changes and identity shifts. They reflect on Adam's personal journey from pastoral ministry to becoming a wine sommelier, emphasizing how letting go of deeply ingrained identities can be a difficult yet necessary process for embracing new seasons of life. The conversation underscores the importance of grief in these transitions and challenges the notion that Christians should always be joyful, highlighting that genuine grief prepares the way for new beginnings and deeper hope.Tod Bolsinger and Markus Watson discuss this quote from Adam McHugh in Ep 208, Letting Go in Leadership to Move Forward in Life:“You know, we talk about grief when you lose a loved one or when you lose something very specific. But there's a real grieving process, I think, that comes along with life transition, with career loss, with job loss, with identity loss."THIS EPISODE'S HIGHLIGHTS INCLUDE:Adam McHugh emphasizes the importance of grieving life transitions to move forward.Tod Bolsinger highlights that Christians often struggle with grief, favoring joy insteadTod says letting go of identity is difficult but necessary for embracing new life chapters.Markus Watson points out that Christians tend to skip over the grieving of Holy Saturday.Tod asserts that genuine grief prepares us for the new promises God holds for us.Did you know Spiritual Life and Leadership has been named the #1 Spiritual Leadership Podcast by the Feedspot Podcasters Database? Check it out HERE!

Tod Bolsinger has built his career on developing and empowering great leaders. In this conversation with Eddie and Chris, he talks about how leaders can leverage the trust they've built to make risky decisions with empathy and vulnerability, how to deal with pushback, and how important it is to acknowledge the losses that come with change.Tod is the Vice-President for Vocation and Formation and Assistant Professor of Practical Theology at Fuller Theological Seminary, where he earned his Ph.D. in theology. He has served as Senior Pastor of San Clemente Presbyterian Church. He is the author of a series of leadership guides as well as the books Tempered Resilience and Canoeing the Mountains.Resources:Listen to Tod's previous episode on The Weight, Adaptive Leadership Buy Tod's books at IVPressFollow Tod on Facebook or X

Lantz and Tod Bolsinger discussed the role of leadership in facilitating transformation, with a focus on personal growth, adaptive leadership, and the importance of transformation. They also explored the differences and similarities between the marketplace and ministry worlds, the concept of sabotage in leadership, the importance of mentorship in personal and professional growth, and how if you don't have a mentor you are committing leadership malpractice. Additionally, they delved into the classic book by Edwin Friedman and Lantz's number one most recommended leadership book "Failure of Nerve" and its insights on family systems theory and adaptive leadership, and how these concepts can be applied in your leadership. Tod Bolsinger https://www.aesloanleadership.com Get your copy of the Practicing Change Leadership series. -- Lantz Howard is your trusted advisor and guide for solving complex leadership problems and reaching your next goal with your whole heart. www.lantzhoward.com

Send me a text! I'd love to know what you're thinking!Tod Bolsinger, Executive director of the Church Leadership Institute, discusses how to maintain a commitment to your mission even in the face of resistance.  He also unpacks the importance of trust in leadership, as well as how to craft and use a powerful mission statement guide you in your church's or organization's decision-making.THIS EPISODE'S HIGHLIGHTS INCLUDE:Tod Bolsinger introduces the "Disagree and commit" concept, highlighting its importance in leadership.Leaders need to earn trust for effective mission adherence.Trust alone isn't transformation, but foundational for it.Tod Bolsinger emphasizes the necessity of investing in transformation over merely relying on trust.Trust and transformation are connected; transformation involves investing trust.Tod Bolsinger discusses his series of four books on ministry leadership, addressing common leadership mistakes.The first book, "How Not to Waste a Crisis," tackles the mistake of outworking the changing world.Markus Watson shares his church's challenge in pleasing crucial stakeholders during change.Tod Bolsinger stresses that organizations should thrive in crises, not just survive.Tod Bolsinger explains the "disagree and commit" approach as essential for leadership teams.Mission statements should be rooted in the church's context and community.Clear, 8-word mission statements with verb, target, and impact are vital for decision-making.Tod Bolsinger explains the significance of verbs, targets, and impacts in mission statements.Good leaders rally stakeholders together for a bigger cause, but can fall into the trap of making decisions to keep everyone happy.Mission statements should be tools for making decisions, not just taglines.RELEVANT RESOURCES AND LINKS:Tod Bolsinger:Church Leadership InstituteFuller Theological SeminaryBooks mentioned:How Not to Waste a Crisis: Quit Trying Harder, by Tod BolsingerInvest in Transformation: Quit Relying on Trust, by Tod BolsingerLeading Through Resistance: Quit Pushing Back, by Tod BolsingerThe Mission Always Wins: Quit Appeasing Stakeholders, by Tod BolsingerRelated episodes:Canoeing the Mountains, with Tod BolsingerDisorientation and Spiritual Leadership, with Tod BolsingerThe Spiritual Life of a Leader, with Tod BolsingerForming Leadership Resilience, with Tod BolsingerDid you know Spiritual Life and Leadership has been named the #1 Spiritual Leadership Podcast by the Feedspot Podcasters Database? Check it out HERE!

Send me a text! I'd love to know what you're thinking!Tod Bolsinger and Markus Watson discuss a quote from episode 216 with guests Brad Strawn and Warren Brown. The quote highlights the perception that contemporary Christianity in the United States is more known for what it opposes than for what it supports. Tod Bolsinger explores this phenomenon, attributing it to the psychological tendency to focus on fears rather than potential gains. The discussion delves into how this fear-based mindset influences church leadership and community actions, emphasizing the need for churches to rally around positive and constructive goals rather than being driven by anxiety and opposition.Tod Bolsinger and Markus Watson discuss this quote from Brad Strawn in Ep 216, Overcoming ‘Puny' Spirituality:"I think one of the sad things about the state of contemporary Christianity in the United States is that we're known for, not what we do, but what we're against."THIS EPISODE'S HIGHLIGHTS INCLUDE:Brad Strawn's quote highlights how contemporary Christianity focuses more on what it opposes than what it supports.Tod Bolsinger explains that fear motivates people to reject potential gains, influencing church behavior.The conversation reveals that pastors often worry about negative outcomes, leading congregations to prioritize protection over potential.Markus Watson and Tod Bolsinger discuss how anxiety drives leadership to control rather than inspire.Tod Bolsinger calls for Christians to unite around positive community impacts rather than opposition to unfavorable elements.Did you know Spiritual Life and Leadership has been named the #1 Spiritual Leadership Podcast by the Feedspot Podcasters Database? Check it out HERE!

During a challenging time, good leaders tend to fall into old habits because those are the things that brought them success int he past. However, when we're facing new challenges, our old habits might just be the things keeping us from achieving future success. In this episode, Tod Bolsinger talks about the need to undo some of these habits in order to successfully navigate change.Resources and Links Mentioned in this Episode:Reliant Mission: reliant.org/cppNewBreed TrainingMissionbyBusiness.comThanks for listening to the church planter podcast. We're here to help you go where no one else is going and do what no one else is doing to reach people, no one else is reaching.Make sure to review and subscribe to the show on your favorite podcast service to help us connect with more church planters.

In this conversation, Tod Bolsinger provides a thoughtful exploration of the challenges and opportunities facing leaders in a rapidly changing world. He shares insights on the importance of adaptability, humility, and a willingness to learn and experiment in the face of crisis and uncertainty. He discusses the need for leaders to shift their values, attitudes, and behaviors to effectively navigate change, while also centering marginalized voices and maintaining a focus on the core mission. We cover topics such as the role of trust and transformation in leadership, the evolving nature of discipleship, and the importance of crafting a clear and concise mission statement. Overall, this conversation offers valuable guidance for leaders seeking to lead their organizations and communities through times of profound change. Tod Bolsinger is the founder and principal at AE Sloan Leadership Inc., the executive director of the DePree Center Church Leadership Institute, and associate professor of leadership formation at Fuller Seminary. He is the author of Canoeing the Mountains and Tempered Resilience. His latest books are the Practicing Change series. Tod and his wife, Beth, split their time between Pasadena, California, and Ketchum, Idaho. Tod's Books:Practicing Change seriesTod's website:AE Sloan LeadershipJoin Our Patreon for Early Access and More: PatreonConnect with Joshua: jjohnson@allnations.usGo to www.shiftingculturepodcast.com to interact and donate. Every donation helps to produce more podcasts for you to enjoy.Follow on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, or Threads at www.facebook.com/shiftingculturepodcasthttps://www.instagram.com/shiftingculturepodcast/https://twitter.com/shiftingcultur2https://www.threads.net/@shiftingculturepodcasthttps://www.youtube.com/@shiftingculturepodcastConsider Giving to the podcast and to the ministry that my wife and I do around the world. Just click on the support the show link belowRegister for the Further Together and Identity Exchange events at allnations.us Support the Show.

Get notes on this podcast here:  https://churchleaders.com/podcast/491149-priscilla-shirer-church-leaders-mentorship-accountability.html Priscilla Shirer joins “The Stetzer ChurchLeaders Podcast” to discuss being a true disciple of Jesus, the importance of accountability for church leaders, and her new movie, “The Forge.” Dr. Tod Bolsinger joined us last week to explain the common mistakes even good leaders make during a crisis and how church leaders can be prepared to face a crisis when–not if–one comes. Check out our conversation with him here: https://churchleaders.com/podcast/490731-tod-bolsinger-trying-harder-crisis.html    ► Listen on Apple: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/the-churchleaders-podcast/id988990685   Visit ChurchLeaders Website: https://churchleaders.com Find ChurchLeaders on Facebook: https://facebook.com/churchleaders Follow ChurchLeaders on Twitter: https://twitter.com/ChurchLead Follow ChurchLeaders on Instagram: https://instagram.com/churchlead/ Follow ChurchLeaders on Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/churchleaders/   “I Surrender All” by Priscilla Shirer “Radiant: His Light, Your Life” by Priscilla Shirer "The Forge" movie Follow Priscilla on Facebook, Instagram, and X/Twitter  

Get notes on this podcast here:  https://churchleaders.com/podcast/490731-tod-bolsinger-trying-harder-crisis.html  Dr. Tod Bolsinger joins “The Stetzer ChurchLeaders Podcast” to explain the common mistakes even good leaders make during a crisis and how church leaders can be prepared to face a crisis when–not if–one comes. Sam Allberry joined us last week to share what he learned when his church had biblical teaching, but the gospel didn't seem to be permeating the culture. Sam explains how pastors can have orthodox preaching while also promoting a culture of “gospel safety.” Check out our conversation with him here: https://churchleaders.com/podcast/490194-sam-allberry-avoid-unpreaching-gospel.html    ► Listen on Apple: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/the-churchleaders-podcast/id988990685   Visit ChurchLeaders Website: https://churchleaders.com Find ChurchLeaders on Facebook: https://facebook.com/churchleaders Follow ChurchLeaders on X/Twitter: https://twitter.com/ChurchLead Follow ChurchLeaders on Instagram: https://instagram.com/churchlead/ Follow ChurchLeaders on Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/churchleaders/ “How Not to Waste a Crisis: Quit Trying Harder” by Dr. Tod Bolsinger "Canoeing the Mountains: Christian Leadership in Uncharted Territory" by Dr. Tod Bolsinger Follow Tod on Facebook and X/Twitter

Send me a text! I'd love to know what you're thinking!Tod Bolsinger and Markus Watson discuss a quote from Mike Bonem, which underscores the importance of empowering team members to fulfill their roles. They explore the necessity of recruiting the right people and then giving them the freedom to execute their tasks effectively. Tod emphasizes the value of clarity in mission and supportive leadership, allowing team members to excel in their areas of expertise without micromanagement. He also introduces the concept of "the commander's intent" to highlight the balance between freedom and direction in team management.Tod Bolsinger and Markus Watson discuss this quote from Mike Bonem in Ep 218, Trust, Teams, and Transformational Leadership:“If you're gonna recruit the right people to be on the team, then you need to release them to do the work that God has called them to do.”THIS EPISODE'S HIGHLIGHTS INCLUDE:Mike Bonem's quote emphasizes the importance of recruiting the right people and then empowering them to fulfill their roles. Tod Bolsinger advises that effective leaders clearly communicate their mission to their team members.A good leader recruits talented individuals and grants them autonomy.Leaders should provide clarity and support to their team members.Leaders should hire people who are experts in their roles and trust them to perform their tasks independently.Did you know Spiritual Life and Leadership has been named the #1 Spiritual Leadership Podcast by the Feedspot Podcasters Database? Check it out HERE!

Send me a text! I'd love to know what you're thinking!Tod Bolsinger and Markus Watson discuss the importance of transitions in both individual and organizational life, as highlighted by a quote from Terry Walling. They explore the concept of the "in between," likening it to the liminal space where significant transformation occurs. Bolsinger emphasizes that these periods of uncertainty are essential for faith and growth, encouraging leaders to embrace learning and personal journey as they guide their communities through times of change. The episode explores the challenges of these transitions and provides insights on how leaders can navigate them effectively.Tod Bolsinger and Markus Watson discuss this quote from Terry Walling in Ep 212, Unlearning Old Paradigms for Kingdom Leadership:“Transitions are the most important moments in an individual's life and in an organization's life because God does some of his greatest work in the in-between.”THIS EPISODE'S HIGHLIGHTS INCLUDE:Leaders must embrace the journey of learning to move forward effectively.Churches need to let go of immediate stability to experience transformational growth.Leaders should engage in their own continuous spiritual journey to inspire others.Congregations often resist the discomfort of transitional periods but must persevere.Effective interim leadership requires guiding churches through the unknown with faith.Did you know Spiritual Life and Leadership has been named the #1 Spiritual Leadership Podcast by the Feedspot Podcasters Database? Check it out HERE!

Send me a text! I'd love to know what you're thinking!Markus Watson and Tod Bolsinger engage in a discerning conversation about the leadership and mission implications of the idea that God is already pesent in every culture. They consider the respect and humility required when entering new cultures and relationships, especially with the understanding that God's presence and work precede us. Through personal stories and theological insights, they explore the posture of listening and joining in what God is already doing, rather than imposing our preconceptions.Tod Bolsinger and Markus Watson discuss this quote from Justin Bailey in Episode 173, The Art of Interpreting Culture:“You never go to another culture where God is not already present and at work.”THIS EPISODE'S HIGHLIGHTS INCLUDE:God actively engages in all cultures even before we arrive, as highlighted by Justin Bailey's insight that one never enters a culture where God isn't already present and working.Leaders enhance their missions by respectfully listening first, acknowledging God's presence in every context, as emphasized by Tod Bolsinger's agreement with Justin Bailey.Christian engagement with others thrives when it begins with humility and recognition of God's preexisting activity, instead of approaching with a colonial mindset of bringing God to an empty space.Spiritual encounters flourish when the approach is invitational and inclusive, as demonstrated by Markus Watson's open communion table welcoming all individuals to participate.Adaptive leadership calls for joining in what God is already doing within a community, rather than imposing a preconceived agenda, thus resonating with an organic and responsive mode of spiritual leadership.Did you know Spiritual Life and Leadership has been named the #1 Spiritual Leadership Podcast by the Feedspot Podcasters Database? Check it out HERE!

Executive Director Mark Ramsey speaks with the Rev. Dr. Tod Bolsinger and the Rev. Brady Radford about the importance of practicing change, resisting loss vs. resisting change, and reimagining our vision of success in ministry; as well as Tod's forthcoming book series.

Send me a text! I'd love to know what you're thinking!Tod Bolsinger brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to this conversation, challenging us to resist nostalgia and the allure of a past era—like the 1960s, when the church thrived in a very different context. Reflecting on a quote from Miroslav Volf, Bolsinger, together with Markus Watson, contemplates the dangers of yearning for what no longer exists and the pressing need to adapt to a future we can't fully see yet.Tod Bolsinger and Markus Watson discuss this quote from MIroslav Volf in Episode 169, TThe Materiality of God's Mission:“We can't orient ourselves around the old world; it would be dumb for us to do that.  And we don't know how to orient ourselves with a world that hasn't yet been born.” THIS EPISODE'S HIGHLIGHTS INCLUDE:Many of our churches represent an "old world" paradigm, one led by experienced elders rather reminiscent of past church glories.Clinging to past success impedes churches from effectively engaging with and inhabiting the emerging world.Tod Bolsinger underscores the futility of solving new challenges with outdated solutions, advocating for a learning-oriented approach to leadership.Markus Watson acknowledges that navigating without a clear map of the future requires faith and adaptability.Bolsinger insists that the mission isn't to preserve the church but to pass the faith forward, adapting to the world's evolving needs.Did you know Spiritual Life and Leadership has been named the #1 Spiritual Leadership Podcast by the Feedspot Podcasters Database? Check it out HERE!

Join us on the Flourishing Culture Leadership Podcast as we explore essential tools for leading change with Tod Bolsinger, author and executive director of the De Pree Center for Church Leadership Institute, delving into adaptive leadership, building organizational trust, and the spiritual aspects of navigating transformation. Find full show notes here: https://bit.ly/393todbolsinger Share the love. If you enjoyed this episode, please rate it on Apple Podcasts and write a brief review. https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-flourishing-culture-podcast/id1060724960?mt=2   By doing so, you will help spread our podcast to more listeners, and thereby help more Christian workplaces learn to build flourishing cultures. Follow our Host, Al Lopus, on X https://twitter.com/allopus  Follow our Host, Al Lopus, on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/allopus/ Email our host at al@workplaces.org

Send me a text! I'd love to know what you're thinking!This episode explores the critical role of joy in fostering deep connections within our communities. As Tod Bolsinger and Markus Watson consider how an atmosphere of joy can be crafted and communicated through our actions, they discuss how this translates to effective ministry and church leadership.Tod Bolsinger and Markus Watson discuss this quote from Jim Wilder in Episode 179, The Neuroscience of Spiritual Formation:"In order to get people to attach to each other you have to create an environment of joy where people are glad to be together."THIS EPISODE'S HIGHLIGHTS INCLUDE:Leaders must foster an environment of joy to help community members form strong bonds with each other.Authentic joy in relationships emerges when individuals feel truly valued and important to one another.Communicating warm, genuine excitement through physical presence bolsters connections within a community.Instilling a sense of joyful belonging serves as the foundation for transformative life experiences.Embracing challenges becomes enriching when undertaken alongside a community that cares deeply for one another.Did you know Spiritual Life and Leadership has been named the #1 Spiritual Leadership Podcast by the Feedspot Podcasters Database? Check it out HERE!

Send me a text! I'd love to know what you're thinking!Markus Watson and Tod Bolsinger reflect on their passion for exploration as an essential element of leadership, discussing the current crisis where the church often resists change and clings to the past rather than venturing into the unknown. Together, they explore the challenges in embracing exploration within the church, examine the role faith plays in embarking on new journeys, and contemplate how our structures often dissuade us from the very essence of adventure that following Jesus entails.Tod Bolsinger and Markus Watson discuss this quote from Dwight Gibson in Episode 25, Organizational Change and the Way of Exploration:“As people of faith I would like to believe we have a greater capacity for exploration because we do recognize there is something beyond ourselves.” THIS EPISODE'S HIGHLIGHTS INCLUDE:Faith calls believers to embrace exploration and take on the risks that come with following Jesus.Current church culture often resists change and exploration, preferring to maintain the status quo.The Church Leadership Institute aims to equip individuals with the skills needed to navigate uncharted territories.Believers must learn to let go of the past, embodying humility and accepting potential losses, to move forward.God's presence provides reassurance and support for the faithful as they embark upon new, explorative journeys.Did you know Spiritual Life and Leadership has been named the #1 Spiritual Leadership Podcast by the Feedspot Podcasters Database? Check it out HERE!

Send me a text! I'd love to know your thiughts and questions.This episode unpacks the concept of differentiation—how it allows us to recognize when someone else's anxiety affects us and vice versa, and the significance of maintaining our personal identity while staying connected in relationships. With vivid examples and relatable scenarios, we'll explore strategies to navigate crises and anxiety within our congregations and leadership teams without succumbing to the contagious nature of anxiety.Tod Bolsinger and Markus Watson discuss this quote from Steve Cuss in Episode 47, Leadership, Anxiety, and Family Systems:“[Differentiation] is your ability to notice when you're getting infected by someone else's anxiety, and how to stop your anxiety from infecting someone else.”THIS EPISODE'S HIGHLIGHTS INCLUDE:Contagious anxiety impairs rational thinking and flexibility within communities.A strong identity enables individuals to engage with others without being overwhelmed by external crises.Differentiation involves maintaining a clear sense of self while staying connected in relationships without enmeshment or detachment. Self-aware leaders discern when to shoulder others' problems and when to maintain boundaries for personal well-being.Recognizing and managing one's anxiety prevents it from spilling over and impacting the wider community.Did you know Spiritual Life and Leadership has been named the #1 Spiritual Leadership Podcast by the Feedspot Podcasters Database? Check it out HERE!

In this episode, Tod Bolsinger and Markus Watson explore the powerful reminder that as pastors and leaders, we are not God and that recognizing our human limitations can prevent dysfunction within our ministries. This conversation will shed light on the protective nature of limitations for both leaders and those entrusted to their care.Tod Bolsinger and Markus Watson discuss this quote from Mandy Smith in Episode 36, The Vulnerable Pastor:“Limitation is a ministry resource.”THIS EPISODE'S HIGHLIGHTS INCLUDE:Limitation serves as a vital ministry resource, protecting both pastors and their communities.Acknowledging our human constraints fosters a necessary dependence on God's provision.An awareness of personal boundaries prevents dysfunction and burnout among spiritual leaders.Embracing vulnerability in leadership equips us to minister from a place of authenticity.The recognition of our limitations enhances our pastoral care and grounds us in our humanity.Did you know Spiritual Life and Leadership has been named the #1 Spiritual Leadership Podcast by the Feedspot Podcasters Database? Check it out HERE!

In this episode, Tod Bolsinger and Markus Watson unpack a powerful quote from Steve Carter, "You only learn resilience through the fire and through the suffering." This quote emerged from Steve Carter's experience of letting go of everything he had known and worked towards when he offered his resignation from a church leadership position in the wake of abuse allegations against the senior pastor, Bill Hybels. From this, the conversation explores the concept of resilience and how leaders are formed in the crucible of change and suffering. Tod Bolsinger draws from his work in Tempered Resilience to discuss the importance of reflection, relationships, and spiritual practices in developing resilience in the face of suffering.Tod Bolsinger and Markus Watson discuss this quote from Markus Watson in Episode 163, You Can't Be Found if You're Never Lost :“You only learn resilience through the fire and through the suffering.”THIS EPISODE'S HIGHLIGHTS INCLUDE:Leaders develop resilience through facing the crucible of change and suffering.Reflecting, nurturing relationships, and spiritual practices are essential in developing resilience.Steve Carter's quote emphasizes the importance of willingly engaging with suffering to learn resilience.Formative leadership happens when individuals courageously face challenges, seeking growth amidst suffering.Resilience isn't just about enduring hardship, it's about embracing reflective practices and nurturing supportive relationships.Did you know Spiritual Life and Leadership has been named the #1 Spiritual Leadership Podcast by the Feedspot Podcasters Database? Check it out HERE!

Tod Bolsinger discusses why leadership is like canoeing the mountains these days, how to disappoint people at a rate they can absorb, and how to handle the sabotage and anxiety that come from leading a church. Show Notes On The Rise Newsletter Preaching Cheat Sheet Watch on YouTube Follow @careynieuwhof Follow @theartofleadershipnetwork   This episode is sponsored by:   THE ART OF LEADERSHIP ACADEMY Every single month in The Art of Leadership Academy, I host a Live Coaching Call, where we tackle the most pressing topics in ministry. This month, Jeff Henderson is joining me to share actionable steps you can use in your church and to answer your questions. If you want in on this month's Live Coaching Call, be sure to join BEFORE February 13th at TheArtOfLeadershipAcademy.com   BELAY Start delegating today with Belay's free Ebook, Delegate to Elevate. In this eBook, you'll learn practical tools to help you free up your time by leaning into the strengths of those around you     Brought to you by The Art of Leadership Network