
The Leader's Journey Podcast
In each episode, we are going to work to give you one easy to understand concept and tell you at least one story that illustrates the concept being put into practice. The concept will be easy to understand, but it will require your very best self and a good deal of practice over time if you are going to implement it.
Latest episodes

Sep 14, 2024 • 38min
Playing Politics: Leading in an Election Year, Part 2
In a world where every conversation or statement can spark intense debates, how do you maintain your composure and stay true to your values? Join Trisha, Nate, and Mac as they dive into a conversation about managing both online and in person engagement with empathy, leading through political tensions, and making a meaningful impact on a local level. Mac McCarthy has been in Christian ministry for over 15 years. As a pastor, practitioner, and coach, he is passionate about equipping leaders by integrating missional theology, spiritual formation, family systems, and adaptive leadership to navigate congregational change. Nate Pyle is a pastor, author, and coach. He has over 25 years in Christian ministry, and during that time Nate began learning and practicing skills related to adaptive leadership, congregational revitalization, family systems, emotional maturity, and spiritual formation. Key Points Engaging on Social Media Dialogue over Provocation Outrage vs. Conviction Maintaining Perspective and Empathy Recognizing Limitations Managing Anxiety and Maintaining Emotional Maturity References The Colossian Forum Ten Arguments for Deleting Your Social Media Accounts Right Now by Jaron Lanier

11 snips
Aug 24, 2024 • 37min
Trauma Informed Leadership: Part One
Note: This podcast is part one of a three-part series on trauma-informed leadership. You can find it in the podcast archives of our website on dates January 23, Feb 13 and Feb 27 of 2019. Trauma is real and leaders who understand the effects of trauma in their own lives and in the lives of others are less likely to be sabotaged by trauma and are more likely to lead in ways that turn out to be healthy and lifegiving. Conversation overview: Trauma and leadership Trauma can hinder and stimulate growth Unaddressed trauma in leaders is dangerous How do we access trauma? Experiencing other people's trauma Leaders may be survivors of trauma; leaders are also leading survivors of trauma The past is always present Resources: The Boy Who Was Raised as a Dog The Body Keeps the Score Healing Developmental Trauma If you enjoy listening to The Leader's Journey podcast, the best way to support us is to take a few seconds and leave a rating and/or a comment on iTunes or share it on Facebook. Thank you!

8 snips
Aug 10, 2024 • 19min
Mastering Transformation Conversations
Dive into the art of transformative conversations that can spark real change. Learn how our words can inspire hope and create meaningful connections. Explore the importance of authenticity in storytelling and share your journey to empower others. Discover personal reflections on overcoming shame and the impact of vulnerability in leadership. The power of honest dialogue can reshape perceptions and drive significant transformation in lives.

16 snips
Jul 27, 2024 • 40min
Defined and Connected
Emotional maturity in leadership is explored through the balance of being defined and connected. The conversation uncovers how articulating core values fosters empathy and meaningful relationships, even in disagreements. Listeners are encouraged to assess their own patterns of self-definition versus connection, learning from historical examples like the Civil Rights Movement and Jesus' teachings. Practical examples illustrate the importance of integrity and accountability, creating a roadmap for healthier interactions and personal growth.

Jun 29, 2024 • 43min
The Misuse and Abuse of Authority - Part Three
In the latest episode of The Leader's Journey Podcast, explore the nuances of navigating misuse and abuse of authority with Jim and Trisha. In a candid discussion, they delve into crucial topics: from recognizing various forms of abuse to implementing proactive measures for prevention. With clarity and empathy, they outline practical steps and resources every leader should consider to create safer environments. Whether you're new to these discussions or well-versed, their approachable style and wealth of experience make this episode a must-listen. Join Jim and Trisha as they equip listeners with tools to foster healthier, more informed organizational cultures. Conversation Overview Overview of previous episodes Reporting Abuse What are you pretending not to know? Risks of and Responses to Confrontation Taking a Victim Centric Approach Awareness of Triggers Communication is Key Recognizing Culpability Doing Your Part Podcast Series Power Dynamics Power Dynamics for Trustworthy and Transformative Leaders Power Dynamics and Conflict The Balance of Power: How Leaders Balance Authority and Vulnerability Creating Space for Flourishing. Trauma Informed An Introduction to Trauma for Leaders Part 1 An Introduction to Trauma for Leaders Part 2 An Introduction to Trauma for Leaders Part 3 Links and Resources Matt Tebbe: Some Common Tactics Used to Avoid Justice Church Cares Website Net Grace Website - While we don't recommend particular groups for consulting because each group has its own unique approach and we recommend each individual do their research to determind what is best for them,we absolutely recommend the resources on the GRACE page. A Church Called Tov Bully Pulpit When Narcissism Comes to Church

Jun 17, 2024 • 35min
The Misuse and Abuse of Authority - Part Two
Join Jim and Trisha with guest Ryan Donovan as they explore the evolving role of authority in today's world. They discuss recognizing blind spots, the effects of a double bind, and stewardship of authority. Ryan, a licensed counselor, brings valuable insights on connection vs. commitment and the paradigm shift in authority dynamics.

May 25, 2024 • 37min
The Misuse and Abuse of Authority - Part One
Authority is inherent in leadership roles, and that inherent authority can be misused and abused. In part one of this series, Jim and Trisha discuss the reality of abuse, the questions surrounding it, and the way leaders are called to respond. Conversation Overview None of This is New Authority is Inherent in Leadership What is Authority and Where Does it Come From? The Legitimate Uses of Authority A Focus on Spiritual Abuse The Impact Outweighs the Intention Responding to the Critical Mirror Conflict and Disagreement vs. Abuse Taking a Victim Centric Approach Get Coaching Find Us on Facebook Podcasts: Power Dynamics for Trustworthy and Transformative Leaders Power Dynamics and Conflict: A conversation for trustworthy and transformative leaders Books: The End of Leadership by Barbara Kellerman Bully Pulpit: Confronting the Problem of Spiritual Abuse in the Church When Narcissism Comes to Church: Healing Your Community From Emotional and Spiritual Abuse

May 11, 2024 • 54min
Engaging with Artificial Intelligence with Curiosity and Intentionality
In this episode, dive into the fascinating world of artificial intelligence (AI) and its impact on various aspects of life, including leadership, sermon writing, and more. Join us as we explore the innovative ways in which AI is being integrated into everyday tasks and decision-making processes. For this special podcast, Jim and Trisha hear some insightful points from multiple guests on how they use AI and how they have seen it impact the world around them. Podcasts guests include Scott Hescht is enthusiastic advocate for AI integration into various fields, Scott brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the discussion. Scott offers unique insights into the practical applications of AI in different contexts, including in his ministry as the pastor at The Haven Community Church in Spring, TX. Rich Braaksma: is the Regional Mission Leader for Resonate Global Mission in Western Canada and part-time pastor of The Road Church in Calgary, Alberta. Leani du Toit: Trauma-informed spiritual, cross-cultural, and leadership coach with a diverse range of experiences. Nathan Herrington: Founder of Nathan Herrington Coaching, delving into AI applications in coaching and content creation. Tim Rotman: Pastor at Zumbro Lutheran Church in Rochester, Minnesota, sharing his experiences with using AI in sermon writing. Conversation Overview: AI in Research and Ministry Beyond the Information Being Curious and Cautious Using AI in Content Creation Making Connections with Large Language Models Resources Ezra Klein and Ethan Mollick: How Should I Be Using AI Right Now? AI Will Shape Your Soul The Haven Community Church Resonate Global Mission Nathan Herrington Coaching Zumbro Lutheran Church The Road Church Leani du Toit Coaching

Apr 27, 2024 • 32min
The Equations of Ministry: Imagining Beyond the Traditional Church Model
Jim talks with Mike Whang about how his shift away from the traditional church model opened up avenues of ministry that can be limited for those in Christian leadership. Mike explains how working out the equations of ministry, the balancing of values, the realities of day to day life, and the needs of the Church, has been a challenge and a blessing as he grows in his walk with God and leadership position. Mike Whang is an ordained elder of the United Methodist Church. He serves Oikon and Wesley as an extension minister of the Texas Annual Conference. He received his M. Div from Duke Divinity School. His favorite foods are rice, kimchi, and eggs. Raised in Los Angeles, he and his wife, Lisa are raising native Texan daughters of Korean descent. Conversation Overview A Shift in Approach Pivoting From a Local Church to a Ministry Organization Gaining Margin by Stepping away from Sunday Centric Model Integrating Faith with Life The Upsides and Downsides of Change Personal Responsibility as a Follower of Christ Limitations of Traditional Structures Different Paths for Spiritual Journeys Resources https://www.oikonandwesley.org/ Nomads in the Church: The Leader's Journey Podcast with Terry Walling

Apr 15, 2024 • 42min
Playing Politics: Leading in an Election Year, part 1.
On this episode of The Leader’s Journey Podcast, Trisha talks with Mac McCarthy and Nate Pyle about how the election year has affected their congregations and the ways they are navigating that social landscape within their churches. Listen to this first of several podcasts in 2024 as they discuss the unique ways they have each worked with the leadership in their churches in order to guide their congregations to focus on building bridges and communicating with grace. Nate Pyle is a pastor, author, and coach. As a pastor, Nate has served as the pastor of Christ’s Community Church in Fishers, Indiana since 2008. During that time, Nate began learning and practicing skills related to adaptive leadership, congregational revitalization, family systems, emotional maturity, and spiritual formation. He has a passion to see the church become a learning community growing its capacity to navigate difference, hard conversations, and congregational change. Mac McCarthy has been in Christian ministry for over 15 years. As a pastor, practitioner, and coach, he is passionate about equipping leaders by integrating missional theology, spiritual formation, family systems, and adaptive leadership to navigate congregational change. Having served in a variety of roles, Mac is currently the Lead Pastor at Crosspoint Community Church in the western suburbs of Milwaukee where has been since 2008. He received his B.A. from Bethel University, his M.Div from Trinity Evangelical Divinity School, and is ordained with the Christian & Missionary Alliance. Mac is also a CrossFit coach and enjoys helping people pursue holistic health. Conversation Overview Political conversation in a Systems Context Getting Your Hands Dirty Political vs. Partisan Being a Minister of Reconciliation Conflating Religious Doctrine and Political Politics Anxiety and Emotional Maturity Capacity Building and Discipleship It Doesn't Always Work Core Conviction and Guiding Principles Resources: Nate Pyle on The Leader's Journey 4 Americas: The Stories and the Gospel - Nate Pyle SermonsMac McCarthy on The Leader's Journey Luke Bretherton on Democracy and Christianity Crosspoint Community Church Christ Community Church
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