Episode 4: How to ask for a Raise & Hiring a Spiritual Director

Asking for a Raise When It’s Not Raise Season

This question was asked by someone who’s taken on extra work after a team member’s departure and wants to request a raise without seeming ungrateful:

* Frame It as Contribution: Approach your boss with a solution, not a complaint. “I’ve handled Ken’s tasks for six months—could we nest their roles into my job description permanently?”

* Extend Value, Not Demands: Highlight benefits to the company. “This could save hiring costs; I’d like to discuss fair compensation for the added scope.”

* Market Test Yourself: Apply for other jobs every 3-5 years to know your worth—use offers to negotiate thoughtfully or switch if better.

* Avoid Ultimatums: Don’t say “match this or I’m gone”; try “I’d prefer to stay—how can my growth here align with this offer?”

* Build on Trust: Ensure a strong relationship with your manager, as leveraging external offers can risk trust if mishandled.

* Increase Earning with Impact: More contribution justifies more pay—don’t ask for a raise without adding value first.

Hiring a Spiritual Director for Life Transitions

A reader those curious about my decision to hire a spiritual director and how it differs from a pastor or therapist:

* Seek Faith-Focused Guidance: Hire a spiritual director for major transitions (e.g., my move from New York to Pennsylvania) to discern God’s role in my transitions.

* Define Your Need: Therapy digs into mental health; spiritual direction deepens faith and purpose—I chose it for a Christ-centered focus over self-focus.

* Plan Midlife Intentionally: At 37, nearing half my lifespan, I used a director to shape my 40s-70s purposefully, inspired by Richard Rohr’s work.

* Differentiate from Pastors: Pastors equip congregations, not individuals one-on-one long-term—their role as broader than personal direction.

* Find the Right Fit: Unlike therapy’s mixed results, spiritual director Tim Pynes offers tailored, ongoing support twice monthly.

* Explore for Yourself: If intrigued, research spiritual direction—it’s distinct from therapy’s coping tools or a pastor’s community leadership.

This podcast episode was produced by Jeffrey Riggs.

Music by Fyodor Zharkov from Pixabay

My Spiritual Director is Tim Pynes

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