
Pastor to Pastor with Dave Stone Responding to Crisis with Phil Cooke
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Dec 23, 2025 Phil Cooke, a media producer and communications consultant, dives into the importance of crisis management for churches. He shares gripping insights from his global experiences and highlights how poor communication can worsen scandals. Phil discusses real-life examples, like a church destroyed by embezzlement, and emphasizes the need for transparency and crisis planning. He provides practical strategies, such as identifying red flags and ensuring proper media engagement, while also reminding leaders to always prioritize and support victims.
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Near-Death Helicopter Shot
- Phil Cooke almost fell out of a helicopter while filming in Jamaica and kept the camera focused.
- He retied the rope and finished the shoot, showing how crises can hit even when prepared.
Retain A Communications Advisor
- Have a communications person on retainer just like an attorney for legal issues.
- Call them early because late calls often make crises worse due to poor communication.
Communication Amplifies Crisis
- Poor communication often turns a bad situation into a catastrophe.
- When churches appear to withhold information, people invent their own damaging narratives.

