Lyman Stone addresses Former President Jerry Kieschnick's 12 reasons for membership decline in the Lutheran Church Missouri Synod. We take a heartfelt look at the challenges Kieschnick faced and emphasize the crucial need for conversations filled with love and truth when discussing church governance, mission focus, and theological concerns. In our discussion, we reveal how demographic trends such as low birth rates and youth retention have led to a generational decline in LCMS membership. With r...
Jun 07, 2024•1 hr 33 min•Season 5Ep. 50
Unlock the secrets to fostering long-lasting pastor-church relationships as we sit down with Tim Nations of Chemistry Staffing. This episode is an invaluable resource for church leaders seeking to navigate the nuanced world of ministry team dynamics. We delve into why aligning theological beliefs is just the starting point for successful partnerships and how the search for the right fit can avoid the costly trend of short pastoral tenures. Churches today face the daunting task of not only findin...
Jun 04, 2024•57 min•Season 5Ep. 45
Embracing the complexities of modern ministry, Pastor Joe Beran joins us to dissect the vibrant landscape of the Lutheran Church Missouri Synod, specifically the feedback on his provocative book, "The Ends of the LCMS." His insights reveal a ministry striving to stay relevant amidst an ever-evolving culture, as ministers resonate with his candid observations while raising thoughtful critiques. We navigate through the treacherous waters of reactive church strategies and the quest for proactive en...
May 31, 2024•38 min•Season 5Ep. 44
Explore the dynamic interplay of faith and leadership with Jim Sanft, president of Concordia Plan Services, as we uncover the foundations of his insightful new book, "Leading by Faith." Jim, with his characteristic blend of humility and expertise, peels back the layers on the limitations of a purely mathematical approach to problem-solving and invites us into a world where God's boundless mathematics take the lead. Our conversation navigates the powerful potential of church partnerships within t...
May 28, 2024•50 min•Season 5Ep. 43
Is your local church functioning with the finesse of a Fortune 500 company? Discover why Candice and I believe that embracing business-like efficiency isn't just practical—it's essential for ministries to thrive. In a provocative conversation, we delve into the symbiotic relationship between spiritual missions and financial acumen. With Jesus's own ministry as our prime example, we expose the parallels between apostolic prudence and the demands of modern church management. We argue that a church...
May 24, 2024•38 min•Season 5Ep. 41
Join us for our first ever HOT TOPIC FRIDAY discussion. Guests and I will debate 3 topics for 10 minutes each!! Come back Fridays for more engaging content modeling healthy debate! Discover the crucial intersection of soul care and ministry leadership as we sit down with Bill and Kristi Gaultiere . Through their expert lens as psychologists with a passion for spiritual direction, we uncover the often-neglected truth that the health of a pastor's soul is intimately tied to the vitality of their m...
May 17, 2024•38 min•Season 5Ep. 40
Embark on a profound exploration of God's mission and its undeniable impact on ministry, as Reverend Dr. William Utech shares his expert insights. Dr. Utech, with his deep roots in confessional Lutheranism, joins me to dissect the Missio Dei concept, revealing how God's mission permeates through the Church's work in our world. Our conversation traverses the historical and contemporary landscape, considering the example set by the apostles and its resounding echo in today's pastoral leadership. N...
May 15, 2024•56 min•Season 5Ep. 39
Reverend Dr. Rob Kasper joins us to share his 41-year odyssey through ordained ministry and how his experiences have shaped his insights into leadership within the Lutheran Church Missouri Synod (LCMS). Listen as he unwraps his journey from the waters of baptism in Wisconsin, through academia at Concordia-St. Paul, to his influential role in the Michigan district, where he’s pioneering methods such as deacon training and alternative seminary education pathways, all while leveraging the Kairos pl...
May 03, 2024•58 min•Season 5Ep. 37
Have you ever pondered the enduring legacy of the Lutheran Church Missouri Synod and its century-long journey through peace, growth, and controversy? Reverend Dr. Gerhard Bode joins us to unravel this narrative, revealing the pivotal moments that have shaped the LCMS, especially during the transformative post-WWII era. Dr. Bode's deep well of knowledge brings to life the Synod's pursuit of higher education standards and its commitment to mission work, while also examining the scars left by the S...
Apr 30, 2024•52 min•Season 5Ep. 36
When Dan Morton, with his rich tapestry of corporate experience, steps into the role of campus director at Christ Greenfield, he brings a fresh perspective on leadership that defies conventional boundaries. Our latest episode of Lead Time chronicles Dan's inspiring journey from the adrenaline-fueled world of lending and commercial security into the heart of spiritual community leadership. Together, we reminisce about our harrowing escape from a forest fire during a Boy Scout campout, an event th...
Apr 26, 2024•50 min•Season 5Ep. 35
When tragedy strikes, where can solace be found? Chris from Lutheran Church Charities joins us to share how the gentle nuzzles of canine disaster response teams bring a unique kind of comfort to those suffering in the wake of events like the Uvalde shooting. Our heartfelt discussion traverses the bittersweet path of ministry work, revealing the surprising places where Christian outreach finds its home. We grapple with cultural perspectives on pain and the misconceptions about faith's role in shi...
Apr 19, 2024•55 min•Season 5Ep. 34
Discover the heartbeat of Lutheran leadership and governance through the eyes of Pastor Mike Bradley from the Lutheran Congregations in Mission for Christ. This episode promises to unravel the complexities of church structure with a candid look into LCMC's approach that emphasizes a humble, service-oriented leadership style and a strong commitment to scriptural and confessional foundations. We'll delve into the rich blend of confessional, evangelical, and charismatic elements that define the LCM...
Apr 16, 2024•48 min•Season 5Ep. 33
Join the conversation with Reverend Dr. Joel Okamoto, as he sheds light on the profound depths of confessional Lutheranism, offering a fresh perspective on what it means to declare "Jesus is Lord" in today's complex world. As we navigate the rich traditions and beliefs that underpin Christian identity, Dr. Okamoto challenges us to consider the living confession of our faith, exploring its manifestations in doctrines such as the Trinity and justification by faith. Our engaging dialogue reveals th...
Apr 12, 2024•54 min•Season 5Ep. 32
Embark on an engaging journey with Matthew Schultz as we tackle the dynamic nature of church life, from the fresh energy of church planting to the revitalization of long-established congregations. Listen closely as we unlock the secrets to creating vibrant faith communities that balance innovation with the timeless message of Jesus' love. We'll reveal how churches are redefining worship spaces to resonate with contemporary audiences, ensuring that the essence of the gospel remains at the forefro...
Apr 09, 2024•1 hr 7 min•Season 5Ep. 31
Embark on a captivating exploration with Reverend Dr. Bob Newton, as he narrates his profound journey from a Napa Valley boy entranced by missionary stories to a missiological maestro with a global footprint. As he chats with us, Bob’s experiences unfurl, revealing the transformational power of faith and mentorship on both individual lives and the larger Lutheran church community. His tale transcends mere biography, standing as a beacon for those seeking to understand the ripple effect that one ...
Apr 05, 2024•1 hr 2 min•Season 5Ep. 28
Ever wondered how a church can enhance its communication to foster a stronger community? This compelling episode features Marlene Lamb, Communications Director for Christ Greenfield Church, as we dissect the essentials of tailoring your church's message for impact. She brings a wealth of experience, unveiling her approach to navigating the diverse demands of church leadership and communication, particularly in adapting to the new challenges that the pandemic has introduced. Embarking on a journe...
Apr 02, 2024•57 min•Season 5Ep. 29
When Becky Chaplin of Faith Lutheran in Las Vegas talks, you can't help but feel her infectious enthusiasm for shaping the lives of young people. Our latest sit-down with this vibrant youth ministry leader reveals her unique approach to connecting faith and leadership with the trials and triumphs of today's teens. It's a conversation that will open your eyes to the challenges they face, from the pandemic's mental health fallout to the everyday hurdles of growing up. Becky's personal tales and in...
Mar 29, 2024•50 min•Season 5Ep. 28
When faith meets leadership, the journey is often as profound as the destination itself. This rings true in our enriching exchange with Pastor Mark Renner from St. Mark's Lutheran Church, whose own path took a turn from a non-denominational upbringing to embracing the deep-rooted traditions of conservative Lutheranism. With a backstory that is as compelling as his academic and international missions, Mark unpacks not only his rich family history within the Missouri Synod but also the peaks and v...
Mar 22, 2024•1 hr 7 min•Season 5Ep. 27
Reverend Dr. Timothy Saleska , an Old Testament sage, who joins us on Leigh Time to share the intricacies of a faith-driven journey through ministry, family, and community. We weave through Dr. Saleska's narrative, celebrating his recent transitions and examining the profound impact of his past, uncovering how the threads of forgiveness and the lived presence of Christ are essential to the weft of our day-to-day. The elusive nature of forgiveness is laid bare in this heart-to-heart as we conside...
Mar 22, 2024•51 min•Season 5Ep. 26
When the trials of life threaten to overwhelm us, it's the voices of resilience that offer the most compelling stories of triumph. Curtis Simonson joins us to share his extraordinary narrative of facing stage four colon cancer, reshaping his life's mission, and the indomitable strength found in faith. His experiences bridge the gap between the strategic thinking of a football coach and the compassionate heart of church leadership, providing a unique perspective on how to value every member of a ...
Mar 19, 2024•43 min•Season 5Ep. 25
Embark on a transformative journey with the insightful soon-to-be Reverend Dr. Keith Haney as we dissect the evolution of churches into mission-driven beacons of hope. With his wealth of experience revitalizing congregations, Keith illustrates the seismic shift necessary for churches to truly connect with an ever-changing society. We delve into the pivotal moments church leaders must navigate, from embracing the digital era to addressing the skepticism faced by traditional religious practices. T...
Mar 15, 2024•48 min•Season 5Ep. 24
Discover the heart and soul of church leadership as we sit down with Reverend Micah Glenn, who sheds light on his profound experience within the Lutheran Church Missouri Synod and as director of recruitment at Concordia Seminary. Our insightful conversation traverses the landscape of guiding individuals to their divine callings, embracing the Holy Spirit's influence, and recognizing the thrilling anticipation of their impact on ministry. Expect to be enlightened on how self-awareness, humility, ...
Mar 12, 2024•58 min•Season 5Ep. 23
Prepare to be inspired as we sit down with Dr. Steve Buuck, the visionary CEO of Faith Lutheran Middle School and High School, whose journey from a football coach hopeful to an educational innovator is nothing short of riveting. Explore the intricacies of leading a non-public school that not only educates but instills faith, blending the realms of educational leadership with savvy business management. Dr. Buuck's tale is a testament to the transformative power of purpose-driven leadership, echoe...
Mar 08, 2024•56 min•Season 5Ep. 20
Discover the transformative power of Lutheran theology as Reverend Dr. Robert Kolb and I take you through a grace-filled journey that promises to enrich your Christian faith like never before. We shed new light on Martin Luther's legacy, diving into his vision for a church that's deeply rooted in the communication of God's grace, beyond mere ritual. Far from being just another theological discussion, our conversation is a heartfelt invitation to understand the profound connections between baptis...
Mar 05, 2024•1 hr•Season 5Ep. 19
Reverend Dr. Jordan Cooper - his journey from Presbyterian roots to the robust traditions of confessional Lutheranism struck a chord. His candid revelations on grappling with Reformed doctrines and the profound impact of early Church teachings on his understanding of the sacraments – it's a narrative that intertwines theology with the intimate details of personal struggle and growth. Jordan's openness about his battle with OCD serves as a powerful reminder that one's spiritual journey can deeply...
Mar 01, 2024•1 hr 9 min•Season 5Ep. 18
When William Prann stepped away from the fast-paced world of banking to follow a heart-led calling in church ministry, he embarked on a journey replete with both inspiration and challenge. Our latest episode welcomes this dedicated servant, offering a candid glimpse into his transition from the financial sector to a life rich in spiritual servitude. William's path, marked by significant personal experiences and the support of loved ones, led him to his current role as a DCE partner at St. Luke's...
Feb 27, 2024•52 min•Season 5Ep. 17
Watch these 2 Videos referenced in this Bonus Episode! CUWAA Update 2024 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PevechfrVJ0 CUW Livestream https://www.cuw.edu/stream/index.html Get Caught up with this document: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1Eio-TI3mUg8DTlmZfcjFopr-7eWZbzHN/edit?usp=sharing&ouid=111865677093758698689&rtpof=true&sd=true Faith Over Breakfast Pastors from two creative communities, Andy Littleton and Eric Cepin, discuss the... Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify Support the ...
Feb 21, 2024•40 min
I couldn't be more thrilled to bring you my conversation with the insightful Dr. Vanessa Seifert. Vanessa's tale begins with her high school sports experiences and the recognition of her inherent leadership skills, a story that's not just about the roles we assume, but about the leaderly behaviors we exhibit in every walk of life. Her narrative is shaped by the support of her coach, the unwavering belief of her husband, and her drive to inspire a community where both leaders and learners can pro...
Feb 20, 2024•51 min•Season 5Ep. 17
Embark on a profound exploration of church leadership with John Kieschnick, a wise pastor with over three decades of experience at Gloria Dei. Together, we dissect the critical practice of keeping the mission at the forefront, revealing how our natural tendencies towards selfishness can divert us from our spiritual purpose. John imparts timeless leadership wisdom, from the power of persistent mission reminders to the art of empowering church members. Our conversation strikes at the heart of the ...
Feb 16, 2024•1 hr 2 min•Season 5Ep. 17
As the sun casts its warm glow over the breathtaking Arizona landscape, we sit down with Pastor Steve Sones, a man whose retirement is anything but typical. Embarking on a 'refiring' of faith and mission, Pastor Sohns draws from the rich legacy of his father, Will Sohns, and their devotion to the Lutheran Church Missouri Synod, to inspire and guide others in Christ-centered living. Our conversation is a tapestry of personal reflection, leadership wisdom, and the unquenchable joy found in serving...
Feb 13, 2024•53 min•Season 5Ep. 16
