Listen Now

Dr. Nancy Ammerman is the Professor of Sociology of Religion at Boston University. She has written a number of important books on the intersection of sociology and religion, including Pillars of Faith: American Congregations and Their Partners, Bible Believers: Fundamentalists in the Modern World, Everyday Religion: Observing Modern Religious Lives, and most recently, Sacred Stories, Spiritual Tribes: Finding Religion in Everyday Life. Tune in to hear Kurt and Nancy discuss how communities are changing, not only demographically, but also in their lifestyles, and how churches can change to keep up with that and stay relevant.   Key Takeaways: [1:28] Kurt introduces his guest for this episode — Nancy Ammerman. [2:34] What kind of research does Nancy do? [5:46] Kurt observed that the demographic of some churches no longer reflects the demographic of the community that it exists in. How do churches deal with this? [8:56] In a period of decline, churches that say that they want to welcome in new people have to be willing to change themselves. Do churches do this in practice? [10:51] Kurt thinks that it's not just the demographics that are changing around the church, but also the lifestyles. Nancy brings up some aspects of this that she has identified in her book. [16:26] Studies show that there's a broad array of people — those who exaggerate how often they go to church — those who don't identify as religious, but also those who identify as spiritual but are not doing anything about it. [18:29] Nancy uses the term “Spiritual Tribe” in her book to develop the notion that people are increasingly looking for others with whom they can have spiritual conversations and share spiritual practices. While this can happen for people outside the walls of a traditional congregation, we need to recognize that it doesn't happen for people on their own. [19:15] In a relationship, having similarities or commonalities in faith or spirituality is necessary to sustain it; otherwise, it just fizzles out. What impact does this have on subsequent generations? [21:37] Another idea Nancy raises in the book is the importance of having some sort of faith tradition to fall back on, especially in times of crisis. [24:2

In this episode, Kurt is joined by JR Griggs, founder and President of Red Wall Marketing, based in Tampa, Florida. He is also an author and interestingly, he has a degree in theology and apologetics. JR usually works with companies, and helps them grow their business, but today, he’s here to tell you why marketing is relevant and important to your church. Tune in to learn more about what marketing is, how you can use it to your church’s advantage, and to get some tips on how to turn your struggling church into a vibrant part of the community.   Key Takeaways: [1:24] Kurt introduces his guest for this episode — JR Griggs. [1:40] As pastors and congregational leaders, it is important to listen to this podcast about marketing, because it will help us effectively attract other leaders, members, and community partners, to successfully carry out our mission. [2:00] What does JR define marketing? How is it similar to or different from advertising and sales? [4:45] Marketing, for a large part, is something that addresses or directs the feelings that people have about a product, service, or organization. True or false? [5:20] What does marketing have to do with church? [7:34] Marketing starts with a strategy. How can churches set themselves apart from all the other churches around them? [12:34] Some churches have much older congregations. Kurt shares his experience at a church he used to attend, where the church started struggling with internal issues, rather than focusing on the community, as a result of trying to bring younger folk in. [15:20] JR thinks it's important for pastors to define who they are, and what the church exists for. Once you have the basics down, it's time to focus on what you're passionate about. [19:48] Kurt has come across situations where he has questioned motives of some people who have become clergy. [21:05] How can pastors and leaders turn their struggling churches into a useful part of the broader community? How would JR suggest churches start identifying a vision and a series of actions steps to take? [25:10] Try thinking of your church, not as a church, but as a meet-up group that attracts people with the same passion to get things done. [26:03] Fin

In this episode, Kurt is joined by Walter Brueggemann, the William Marcellus McPheeters Professor Emeritus of Old Testament at Columbia Theological Seminary. He is also an ordained minister in the United Church of Christ, and has authored numerous books including, “Names for the Messiah," "Journey to the Common Good," "A Way Other Than Our Own," "God, Neighbor, Empire," and "Rebuilding the Foundations." In this episode, Kurt and Walter discuss who the modern day prophets are, what their message is and why being prophetic is political.   Key Takeaways: [1:30] Kurt introduces his guest for this episode — Walter Brueggemann. [2:22] How does Walter think about who the prophets were? [4:45] It is important not to get confused — there are prophets who speak to political power, and those who speak to religious power, and church hierarchies. [6:04] In our world today, where and who are the prophets? Is it possible we've been looking in the wrong places for them? [7:58] Walter mentions some people he considers to be prophets — are any of them in parish ministry or are they in a para-theological system? [9:57] Kurt shares some of the people he considers to be prophetic. [10:33] When hearing a prophetic sermon, some people in the congregation accuse the pastor of being political. How can pastors explain the difference between being prophetic and being political? [14:18] People don't seem to engage very deeply with the text in the Bible. Walter recommends a much closer reading of the text is necessary, and one way to get the truth of the Gospel in contemporary modes. [18:34] Why does the Gospel's progressive voice seem to have so little political clout today? How can this be changed? [21:08] We should be focusing on the text itself, and what we're taught through prophetic voices and actions, rather than being limited by doctrines and modern means of dealing with the Bible. The truth will set us free. [:22:46] Many people want to be non-confrontational, and keep their feelings to themselves, but prophecy is all about upsetting the apple cart. [24:26] How does one share one's message or wisdom in a way that it can be received in our modern day society? Specifically, how can you raise

Reverend Dr. Jerry Jones is a retired congregational minister, author, grief counselor, and bereavement aftercare specialist. In 2013, he was awarded the Fred and Lina Myers Spirit of Caring Award. His most recent book is After the Casseroles: Rediscovering Hope in Grief's Journey. In this episode, Kurt and Jerry discuss dealing with grief and bereavement after the passing of a loved one, and how we as pastors and spiritual leaders can help those in our congregation also deal with their grief. Tune in to hear more!   Key Takeaways: [1:20] Kurt introduces this episode's guest — Reverend Dr. Jerry Jones. [1:50] Jerry tells us a little about his calling. He used to be a dairy farmer in Michigan before he became a pastor. What was his life like, and what made him decide to make the switch? [3:05] In seminary, we are taught some things about dealing with grief and helping others through that process. What are some things that may make it harder for a pastor or a spiritual leader to deal with their own grief? [4:56] Sometimes, it is important for a pastor or spiritual leader to be taken out of their position of leadership or authority to focus on healing. How can pastors deal with needing to distance themselves from their congregation, in order to navigate what they're going through personally? [7:22] The thing is, you can't really prepare ahead of time for a situation like this, so stress levels can get extremely high when a loved one passes. [8:30] Times like these can really cause people to call their core beliefs into question. Do pastors sometimes also question their core beliefs? [9:30] What can be done to help congregations understand the changes they are going to experience as a congregation whose leader is experiencing loss? What can they do as a church to help their pastor? [10:54] Jerry runs bereavement programs to help people understand how to go through the process. He provides us with more information — how do these programs work, and how do they change the lives of people attending, or those around them? [14:27] Kurt has observed people in the younger generation relating more to their technology than to the people around them. Would this affect the amount of help people would need in grieving?

Michael Parise was a Catholic priest for over 32 years, and served as a pastor, spiritual director, pastoral counselor, teacher, mentor, healer, published author, and artist. Michael is currently a life and spirit coach and is certified in spiritual direction, stress reduction, and trauma recovery. He has a university degree in Biology and three Masters degrees in various theological fields. Right now, he specializes in helping executives and professionals who are drowning in personal responsibilities to take charge of their priorities and simplify their lives, to achieve more balance. Michael has a new book called Life, Interrupted: Taking Charge After Everything has Changed. Tune in to find out how you can deal better with radical change.   Key Takeaways: [1:18] Kurt introduces his guest for this episode — Michael Parise. [3:35] We can't expect to always do the things that we have done, and expect success — we have to pivot at some point. [4:10] Michael talks about "radical change." How do we deal with that? [8:15] Many people get stuck mentally and spiritually. Michael shares some of his experiences in dealing with getting unstuck. [14:46] Some radical changes may turn out differently than what we had thought. [16:13] Institutions don't always do what they say. What are some things that highlight the effectiveness or ineffectiveness of institutions have in navigating transitional times? [20:43] Kurt feels strongly about the value of doing assessments to identify the strengths of new employees at the outset. What does Michael think about these assessments? [24:00] Going from a top-down, hierarchical structure, to employees having more responsibility is a huge paradigm shift. How can institutions start to deal with this? [27:36] Institutions are not the only solution for helping people navigate change. People have gifts within that they can use. What are some of these gifts, and if people don't even recognize that they have them, how can you tease that out of them? [30:48] Check out Michael's book Life Interrupted: Taking Charge After Everything has Changed, for more insights about navigating change. [31:07] Michael is offering all listeners a complimentary, obligation-fre

In this episode, Kurt is joined by Brian McLaren, a well-known Christian thinker, author and activist, as well as being on the board of Convergence. Brian is also a former pastor and the author of over a dozen books, the most recent being The Great Spiritual Migration: How the World's Largest Religion is Seeking a Better Way to be Christian. Tune in as Kurt and Brian discuss the four biggest threats facing our generation today, and how church leaders can respond to and overcome these challenges.   Key Takeaways: [1:25] Kurt introduces his guest for today — Brian McLaren. [1:58] Kurt has observed that pastors and other congregational leaders are trying to navigate in an extremely polarized world, while remaining true to their calling. What does Brian think of this trend? [2:53] What is the quadruple threat that Brian talks about in his book? [3:55] The first challenge that we are facing is the crisis of the planet. [4:25] The second challenge is the crisis of poverty. [5:20] The third challenge is the crisis of peace. [6:02] The fourth and deepest challenge is the crisis of religion, and this is relevant to every pastor who is listening. [6:43] Kurt points out an observation he has made — it's shocking how few religious leaders make any acknowledgement of what's going on in the world. [7:30] In previous generations, they often only had to deal with one or two of these challenges, but with the current generation, all four of these challenges are present. How can we respond to and overcome all of these challenges bombarding us all at once? [10:11] How does a pastor navigate the few people in his or her congregation who disagree with the church becoming "too political," when discussing issues in the world today? [14:40] Kurt shares his experiences worshiping at his church. The idea of differences of opinion becomes far less important when people of the congregation are out in the community helping others. [17:25] How does a pastor know if they should stick it out and work through the conflicts in their congregation, or try to find a new congregation or position where they can be authentic to themselves? [20:54] Another useful tool is to have a network

In this episode, Kurt is joined again by R. Shawn McBride, Founder and Managing Member of the R. Shawn McBride Law Firm. In this episode, Shawn and Kurt discuss how to create a robust leadership for your organization. It's not about the size of the organization or how many leaders or managers you have, but how effectively the organization can run in your absence. Regardless of the size or stage of your business, tune in to find out how to build an organization with robust leadership.   Key Takeaways: [1:20] Kurt welcomes R Shawn McBride to the show again! [2:03] What does robust leadership mean? [3:49] Having robust leadership is important for any organization, not just businesses or corporations, to stand the test of time. [4:40] Shawn recommends separating the leadership from the organization for two reasons, the practical side and the strategic side. [6:35] In order to have robust leadership, there has to be mutual trust. How big of an issue is this in organizations? It is usually the biggest issue. [9:11] Hiring usually happens based on skill set, and not a person's underlying personality, which doesn't necessarily build trust. What does Shawn think about this? [11:15] How would Shawn coach people to get their business in shape to make a transition out of it? [15:46] What are some ways to get people past the fact that they have to eventually give up control? [17:53] Kurt shares his own personal battles with giving up control in his organization. [21:12] What does Shawn think about having strategic relationships with others in the same industry? [23:31] Shawn's company has broken the 5 year mark! What are some things Shawn does in his own business to make it more robust? [25:09] What is a goal that Shawn is going to accomplish in 2017 because of his leadership?   Mentioned in This Episode: God’s Business God’s Business on Facebook

In this episode, Kurt is joined by R. Shawn McBride, Founder and Managing Member of the R. Shawn McBride Law Firm. In this episode, Shawn and Kurt discuss the best ways to make your nonprofit stand the test of time and create a lasting impact on the community that it serves. In order to create something of lasting value, the appropriate policies and procedures need to be put into place, so tune in to find out how you can do that for your nonprofit organization.   Key Takeaways: [1:25] Kurt introduces his guest for this episode — R. Shawn McBride. [3:33] What are some things that people need to be aware of when they're starting or taking over the leadership of a nonprofit? [4:16] Shawn talks about the Four Ds that nonprofits need to be prepared to deal with. [5:54] A nonprofit is not the same as a sole proprietorship; it is more of a public corporation. [8:14] Kurt and Shawn discuss the risks of running a nonprofit, using a real life situation of what's happening with the homeless youth in Hernando County. [9:33] How can we think strategically about problems to ensure we are resolving them in the long run instead of merely putting band aids on hemorrhages? [11:42] How does a nonprofit go about finding the right people for their board? [13:03] Sharing a mission and believing in a cause is great, but what comes next? [14:22] A lot of what applies to for-profit businesses, also applies to nonprofit businesses! [15:40] What's the first thing that can be done to keep the stakeholders of a nonprofit safe? [17:59] Going back to the situation of homeless youth in Hernando County, Shawn assesses the risks for a solution Kurt proposes. [21:32] What is Shawn's advice for someone who is passionate about starting a nonprofit? [23:25] What is Shawn's favorite book or resource that can help with early stage planning? [24:55] Shawn leaves us with some words of encouragement.   Mentioned in This Episode: God’s Business God’s Busines

In this episode, Kurt is joined by Gordon Firemark, an entertainment, media and intellectual property attorney in Los Angeles, California. He works with creatives and businesses in the fields of theater, film, television, and new media. Among his clients are several houses of worship and charitable organizations, and other traditional businesses. He blogs about entertainment law, and is the producer and host of several podcasts and YouTube channels relating to entertainment law. Tune in to find out more about getting licenses and releases for your podcasts, and how it can affect you in the future.   Key Takeaways: [1:19] Kurt introduces this episode's guest — Gordon Firemark. [3:15] Let's talk about podcasts — what are some of the risks you face when you publish content without the necessary releases? [6:45] What recommendations does Gordon have for situations where guests on a podcast later change their mind about broadcast? [7:50] What's the protocol for having releases from anyone who appears in videos and pictures? [11:56] What is the importance of making sure that you have the licenses for any copyrighted material used? [13:31] When an employee of an organization produces material on behalf of the organization, the employer owns that material. [15:25] For houses of worship, there are organizations that can help you navigate copyright issues. [16:23] Public performance rights are handled by several organizations. [18:09] Quick reminder — Gordon Firemark is an attorney that knows all about performance rights and how to protect podcasts and broadcasts from problems with rights in the future. [18:29] We live in a hyper-polarized world. Is it important now more than ever to have releases? [21:58] If a guest on a podcast eventually decides he wants his recording to be taken down, what is the process he would have to follow? [25:38] Gordon is available for any questions you may have about this topic! Contact him via his website!   Mentioned in This Episode: God’s Business

In this episode, Kurt is joined by Paul Friedlander from the West Pasco Chamber of Commerce. As the Membership Director, Paul handles all memberships and relationships, past, present, future, and potential, and makes great connections with people in the community. Listen to find out more about how a Chamber of Commerce can potentially be of real value to churches or religious congregations. Key Takeaways: [1:19] Kurt welcomes this episode's guest — Paul Friedlander [2:49] What happens when you join a Chamber of Commerce? [3:40] Paul shares an example of how his Chamber has helped a church to grow by providing networking opportunities. [5:05] In today's world, it's important to go out and make relationships, to get people into church. [7:05] It's about connections — a Chamber of Commerce offers a platform for members of the church to come out and make those connections. [8:35] Kurt highlights that a ribbon-cutting is a great photo opportunity that indicates the type of relationship the congregation has with the community and vice versa. [9:55] Paul relates the story of a young girl who joined the Chamber two years ago after recognizing it as an excellent opportunity, and even received a scholarship through her networking efforts. [12:13] A Chamber of Commerce also offers training and courses for minimal costs. [13:41] Social media doesn't take over for physical touch. [15:00] Even email has an art to it. If that is missed, it can confuse things. It is sometimes faster and more efficient to just have a meeting. [17:54] Once part of the Chamber, both parties will share a give-and-take relationship that is mutually beneficial. [19:54] When you become a member of a chamber, everybody in your congregation is now considered a member of the chamber. [21:31] How does the Chamber provide a resource for knowing where there are needs for the community that need to be addressed? [26:50] Check out the West Pasco Chamber of Commerce online!   Mentioned in This Episode: God’s Business

In this episode, Kurt is joined by Alan Baughcum, who was the senior pastor at a church where Kurt was interim organist and choir director. Alan graduated from Emory university and started his life as a chartered financial analyst. He was a professional economist for more than 30 years, working as a consultant in Boston, Washington, D.C., and Seattle, dealing with important clients, before becoming the senior pastor of a little country church, after getting his Master of Divinity degree from Wellesley Theological Seminary. Tune in to hear Alan and Kurt discuss trying to deal with discernment, which may come in the middle of your life, and having to make the decision to respond or not to God’s call.   Key Takeaways: [1:16] Kurt introduces today's guest — Alan Baughcum. [3:33] What happened in Alan's life, that lead him to leave his successful career? How did he figure out if it was God calling? [5:30] Alan was moved by a woman who shared her gay son's difficulties growing up, and felt the pastoral sense during that incident. [7:50] Alan had a moment when God spoke to him about the issue of ordaining gays and lesbians into the Ministry, resulting in a 180 degree change in his point of view. [9:37] It became clear to Alan that he shouldn't be questioning God's plan for him to be a pastor. [11:28] Many of us are actively engaged in another career, when we get the urge to go back to school. [11:59] How did Alan's family deal with the idea of him returning to school? [13:36] You need to be very cognizant of the impact on your family, as you go on this journey. [15:19] Communication is key to getting through this process. [16:03] How did Alan's time as an economist, and working for large organizations, impact his role as a pastor? [19:26] Being a pastor, you need to be able to listen, and recognize that problems people are facing may not be a logical process, but an emotional or spiritual process instead. [20:57] Alan shares how deep listening and loving conversation can help a congregation. [23:10] When Alan started at his first church, did he face any surprises or disappointments? [26:16] What were some things the consultant worked on with Ala

In this episode, Kurt is joined by Rev. Dr. Keith Posehn, the pastor and head of staff at Grace Presbyterian Church in Spring Hill, Florida. A self-described 5th generation Californian, he attended the Pacific Lutheran University in Tacoma, Washington and the San Francisco Theological Seminary, before getting his Doctorate of Ministry at Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary. He has authored books dealing with relationship health, indepth Bible study, and some works of fiction. Tune in to hear him discuss finding the balance between academic education and practical experience, and how to survive in ministry — one of the most difficult callings.   Key Takeaways: [1:19]  Kurt introduces his guest for today — Rev. Dr. Keith Posehn [2:10]  Having earned a doctorate and spent significant time in Seminaries, what are some of the biggest differences Keith has seen between academic environments, and local parish ministry? Everything. [3:30] What were some of the biggest surprises other people may have, when they enter Ministry without prior experience? [6:11] Kurt comments that people who find themselves running a smaller church tend to feel overwhelmed. Does this also apply to people at bigger organizations? [7:56]  Someone who's had a lot of success in a smaller church, may not have the tools to deal with being part of a larger organization. [9:08] Keith remarks that another thing they don't teach you at Seminary, is how to delegate, and that's one of the most important things a Pastor needs to be able to do,  for his or her own self-preservation. [10:01] The pastor's ability to delegate also creates a safety net for the church. [10:44] It takes humility to be able to delegate. Keith shares his experiences coming to grips with things he's not good at, and delegating them to others who are. [12:33] Kurt brings up the idea of radical hospitality — when we welcome in strangers into our congregation, not only are we hoping that they will be changed, but we have to be willing to be changed ourselves. [13:59]

In this episode, Kurt is joined by Rev. Efrain Rodriguez, the owner of ChurchNet USA, a company that provides much needed services to small churches and other organizations in helping them thrive, by taking some of the busywork off their table and allowing them to focus on other things that are really important. In this episode, Efrain and Kurt discuss the importance of a church having a 501(c)(3) and how it can create additional streams of income for ministries and outreach programs. Tune in to find out more about how the 501(c)(3) can help your church!   Key Takeaways: [1:16] Kurt introduces today's guest — Rev. Efrain Rodriguez. [2:27] In churches smaller than 200 people, it is easy to use the wrong indicators, such as the number of people and the offering plate, to measure success. Focus on the transformations you make on people's lives and your communities. [3:37] Small churches rely on bake sales and yard sales throughout the year to help fund ministries, but these aren't very effective fundraisers. [4:17] Efrain explains that getting a grant is not easy, as many of these churches don't have their own 501(c)(3), and not a lot of foundations want to support churches. [5:53] One way to get around this problem is to create separate 501(c)(3)s for specific ministries and outreach programs. [6:22] The reason why churches need a 501(c)(3), is because while they may be tax-exempt, their donors are not. [8:25] Many or all of the larger churches have multiple 501(c)(3)s, depending on the part of the business they are running — this helps them apply to different sources of grants, because these organizations are very specific on what they fund. [10:21] What are the things a church needs, or what are the barriers that churches should be willing to cross, when creating additional 501(c)(3)s? [11:16] If churches are relatively small, and don't have an existing 501(c)(3), Efrain recommends getting the first 501(c)(3) for outreach ministries. [13:49] How does Efrain coach people through the process of starting additional 501(c)(3) when there are changes in leadership in the church? [15:39] How are the various 501(c)(3)s for different ministries and outreach programs different, for example between the

In this episode, Kurt is joined by Bryan Kirk, the music director and organist of the First Presbyterian Church of Glens Falls, New York. Bryan graduated from the New England Conservatory in Boston, and has been with this church since 2005. He manages a graded choral program, and recently facilitated the complete renovation of the Chancel Organ. Tune in to hear more about the role that music plays in church and worship, and get some practical advice from Bryan of a variety of topics, ranging from choosing different styles of music to dealing with acoustics.   Key Takeaways: [1:20] Kurt introduces today's guest, Bryan Kirk, music director and organist at the First Presbyterian Church of Glens Falls, New York. [2:57] How was Bryan able to do the transition from the person who previously had the job, and make it his own? [6:35] What is Bryan's impression of people's reactions when they hear pipe organ music for the first time? [8:25] Churches that are struggling may end up chasing things that aren't really solutions to our problems. [9:30] Bryan does a mix of traditional and contemporary pieces at his church. Was that something people asked him for, or was he astute enough to realize that it is what was needed? [14:27] How does Bryan deal with different styles of music, and adapt them to the acoustics of his church? [17:45] What kind of feedback does Brain receive from the congregation about getting students to play at services? [20:34] Kurt shares some of his impressions of Glens Falls, New York. [21:45] Bryan talks about how his music ministry is aligned with, and part of, the overall vision for the church in taking it into the future. [26:15] How does Bryan's team operate? [29:50] There's a definite maturity in the relationship between all parties involved, based on trust that each other is going to do things that are appropriate. [30:20] Bryan leaves us with some advice on music and arts in the church.   Mentioned in This Episode: God’s Business God’s

In this episode, Kurt is joined by Rev. Robin LaBolt, pastor of United Church of Christ, Florida. She is a self described rabble-raiser, cage rattler, and challenger, who believes we can all live together in peace and harmony. Listen as she shares some of her experiences going into a new church that has experienced some level of success but has its own challenges, and the importance of active listening.   Key Takeaways: [1:20] Kurt introduces today's guest — Rev. Robin LaBolt [2:23]  What has Robin's experience been going into a church that has experienced some success but also some struggles in the past? How do you go in and make your own mark on the ministry, while being true to yourself? [4:06]  Was Robin born with great listening skills or was it something she had to work on? [5:49] As a pastor, it's critical to let the conversation go where it is going to go, and not worry about what your response is going to be. [7:28] Robin recognizes that she is not the expert. She doesn't have all the answers and isn't afraid to communicate that to members of her congregation. [8:30] Kurt and Robin discuss what it's like to be a pastor of the UCC, where people have often had different religious experiences before. [11:12] When you take over at a new or established church, who's going to come into your office first and what does that mean? [13:25] What should you say in a case where you're new to a church, and you're being approached by people in the church who want to keep their power, or are looking to get power? [15:14] It is important to remember that the way someone describes events playing out may or may not be true, but their feelings are always accurate. [18:24] As her church grows, what kind of challenges and issues does Robin face? [21:47] Something unique about Robin's church, and churches in Florida, in general, is that everybody is from somewhere else, so they can afford to be more gracious and open to each other. [24:43] How much credit or blame does the pastor take for the growth or decline of the congregation? How does Robin get people to realize the role that they play?

In this episode, Kurt is joined by Rev. Nathan Robinson, pastor of Emanuel Lutheran Church, in Woodstock, Virginia. He grew up in a very small town in rural Pennsylvania, but moved to Boston to pursue his studies. Since graduating from Boston University School of Theology in 2006, Nathan has had a great deal of success in his church, in turning some things around and adapting to new realities. Tune in as Nathan shares what happens when we lose sight of “we,” and the importance of listening.   Key Takeaways: [1:20] Kurt introduces today's guest — Rev. Nathan Robinson. [2:25] How was Nathan able to navigate all the changes in his life — life changes, family changes, and geographic changes? [4:48] How did Nathan's experience with people of differing perspectives or mindsets, help influence him as a pastor in his church? [10:03] Nathan discusses the challenge and struggle of seminary. [11:01] What happens when people lose sight of the pronoun, "we," and start thinking about themselves and others as individuals? [14:15] Nathan has done an incredible job in his church. Where did Nathan acquire his management skills? Who are some people who helped him with his leadership? [17:46] How does Nathan handle differences in opinion about the direction of the church? Tip: Approach the situation with pastoral care, focus on prayer and listening. [20:50] Nathan recommends meeting people one-on-one, before communal meetings, to ensure everyone's perspective is heard. [22:25] How does Nathan find out what concerns the church and surrounding community have, and how does he respond to them? [25:00] Nathan shares some anecdotes about how his church works to serve needs of the community. [27:10] How does Nathan manage all the church expectations and his family commitments? [31:10] Nathan leaves us with some words of wisdom for those feeling overwhelmed and confused about how to manage their competing priorities: 1) Care for others, and care for self. 2) Have a mentor, to get different perspectives.   Mentioned in This Episode: God’s Business

In this episode, Kurt is joined by Dawson Hicks, Vice President of Client Services at Sentinel Background Checks. Dawson has obtained the NAPBS FCRA Advanced Certification and uses his project management skills to develop innovative solutions for customers. Tune in to find out more about the importance and process of conducting background checks on potential employees and volunteers to ensure the best hire for your organization.   Key Takeaways: [1:20] Kurt introduces today's guest — Dawson Hicks [2:00] What are the different kinds of background checks available? How are they used? [3:12] In terms of professional business relationships, why are background checks so important? [4:24] When would a background check be conducted for a new hire? [6:05] The process of hiring, including doing background checks, needs to be compliant and every applicant needs to go through the same process consistently. [7:22] Dawson advises you to do some research into the company you are hiring to do your background checks to ensure the correct procedures are in place and followed. [9:38] An FCRA lawsuit can be brought against you for negligent hiring, not having the right procedures in place, discrimination and documentation issues. [10:17] Dawson gives his recommendations for the types of background checks to be done on a potential hire at a bank. [15:09] What type of background checks should religious organizations or non-profits, especially those dealing with children, be conducting? There is a difference between the ones that they are required to do and those that they should do. [18:35] Dawson recommends having multiple procedures to ensure that the person hired is suitable for the position and organization. [20:37] How do background check companies work with insurance companies? [23:06] What are some pitfalls that you should be aware of when doing background screening activities? [24:23] Social media feeds can come up in background checks, as can non-convictions from up to seven years, if the record hasn't been expunged. [26:57] Make sure that background checks you do are compliant, and avoid cutting corners — you'll end up paying more for it in

In this episode, Kurt is joined by Jason Valez, one of the global leaders in close quarter combatives, who trains military and law enforcement personnel, using his extensive martial arts expertise. He is the ambassador of many martial arts organizations, and was presented the Goodwill Ambassador award in 2014. Listen as Jason shares some insights into Krav Maga and other martial arts, and tips for handling dangerous situations in real life.   Key Takeaways: [1:16] Kurt introduces his guest for this episode — Jason Valez. [2:52] Jason talks about the situation in Florida, where real estate professionals were being ambushed at homes, practical training that he did, and the feedback he received. [4:50] How does Jason prepare himself physically and mentally for situations he knows ahead of time are going to be really dangerous? [6:30] What is the difference between being paranoid and being aware? [7:36] Are we asking for trouble if we're not paying attention? [8:31] Jason's training system can be adapted to people who may not be at their peak physical level. Krav Maga is actually designed for people without martial arts training. [10:50] How does situational awareness apply to business and church settings? [11:27] Jason shares about OODA (Observe, Orient, Decide, Act), a decision-making process that can help you make quick decisions. [15:25] Kurt uses a similar system called SIPDE (Scan, Identify, Predict, Decide, Execute). [17:48] How would Jason train leaders, personnel, and even congregation members to make them more effective, but not paranoid? [20:14] Jason recommends contacting your local Police Department, to find out what kind of training they offer. [21:10] What does Jason tell people who are not aware of, or do not acknowledge the risks, and resist these kinds of training? [23:39] Krav Maga is not about violence. Its focus is dealing with the threat as quickly as possible, so that you can get to safety. [25:30] Jason gives us some tips on dealing with threats. [28:07] You can contact Jason through his website.   Mentioned in This Episode:

In this episode, Kurt is joined by Rev. Glenn Mortimer of Wakefield/Lynnfield United Methodist Church. Glenn was a preacher’s kid (PK) growing up, and spent time successfully managing a nonprofit organization before seminary. Tune in to find out more about Glenn’s experiences with his uphill battle in his first church placement out of seminary, and how he managed to turn the church around to become a thriving community today.   Key Takeaways: [1:35] Kurt Glacy introduces his guest for this episode: Rev. Glenn Mortimer of Wakefield/Lynnfield United Methodist Church. [2:19] How did Glenn end up at his church? What was it like when he got there? [4:19] Glenn wasn't even an ordained minister when he was appointed to his church. [5:15] What was the congregation like? How did they respond to Glenn's placement there? [6:19] What were some of the first things that Glenn did in his appointment? [8:20] Glenn shares how he is able to successfully balance his role as a pastor and a leader. [10:15] In addition to program and worship-based problems, there were structural issues at the church that Glenn needed to address. [12:33] What were the most valuable skills and experiences that Glenn brought to the table, that helped his church immediately? [14:55] Kurt recommends Autopsy of a Deceased Church, by Tom Reiner, for some lessons we can learn from churches that have failed. [15:15] How did Glenn find out what the needs of the community were? [17:15] When things are going poorly, the natural inclination is to focus in on your organization, but the key to success is to look outward. [19:06] Glenn leaves us with some advice and encouragement for other ministers, church leaders, and seminaries serving at churches in trouble. [20:52] Glenn will be joining us again in the future, to share his wisdom.   Mentioned in This Episode: God’s Business God’s Business on Facebook