The Leader's Journey Podcast

In this episode of The Leader’s Journey Podcast, Trisha Taylor and Michael DeRuyter explore empathy as a guiding principle for leaders. Is empathy always a strength, or can it sometimes get in the way? Through stories, humor, and systems thinking, they unpack what empathy really is, why it is often misunderstood, and how mature empathy helps us stay grounded, connected, and responsible. This conversation invites leaders to move beyond reactive compassion toward empathy that sustains courage, clarity, and truth. Conversation Overview Redefining Empathy Empathy, Sympathy, and Emotional Fusion The Role of Perspective and Curiosity Empathy and Systems Thinking Boundaries, Responsibility, and Courage Resources Mentioned A Failure of Nerve by Edwin H. Friedman Dare to Lead by Brené Brown Empathy Zoom Dialogue – October 21

What does it mean to be truly welcoming? In this episode of The Leader’s Journey Podcast, Trisha Taylor is joined by author and spiritual director Laura Murray to explore welcome as a guiding principle for life and leadership. Together they unpack how hospitality goes deeper than surface-level friendliness, why boundaries are essential to real welcome, and how leaders can create environments of safety, curiosity, and belonging. This conversation will inspire you to rethink what welcome looks like in your home, your leadership, and your community. Laura Murray is a minister, author, and spiritual director who brings faith formation into the digital space through her innovative work with online retreats and resources. She is passionate about integrating ideas, connecting people, and releasing the gifts of others. Her newest book, Becoming a Person of Welcome, explores what it means to embody hospitality in ways that are healthy, grounded, and transformative. Learn more about Laura’s work, including her retreats and resources, at laurabmurray.com. Conversation Overview Welcome as more than friendliness Why genuine welcome requires boundaries and limits Protecting both people and purpose in our communities The grief and gift of acknowledging our limitations Learning to welcome our own humanity before we can welcome others Endings, closure, and repair as essential parts of welcome The multiplying effect of welcome beyond ourselves How God’s welcome shapes the way we welcome others   Resources Mentioned Becoming a Person of Welcome by Laura Murray LauraBMurray.com  The Leader’s Journey Coaching 

Introduction Life and leadership inevitably bring seasons of disruption and instability. What do we do when the ground shifts beneath us, and the places we thought were safe no longer hold? In this conversation, Trisha Taylor talks with Rusty Mackey about resilience as a guiding principle—learning to live with instability, to cultivate presence, and to find stability not in circumstances but in God. Guest Bio Rusty McKie is a spiritual director, spiritual formation coach, and somatic coach. He is the founder of Steadfast Ministries, where he helps leaders survive and thrive in ministry. Rusty is also the host of The Art of Stability podcast and author of the book The Art of Stability: How Staying Present Changes Everything. His newest initiative, Man School, is a five-year rite of passage curriculum designed to equip fathers to raise their sons into men of character. Rusty lives out his passion for helping leaders and families build resilience through presence, reflection, and spiritual depth. Conversation Overview Guiding principles as steady reference points in instability Instability as an invitation from God rather than betrayal The link between fragility, resilience, and presence The role of lament and compassion in cultivating resilience Orientation, disorientation, and reorientation as a cycle of growth Noticing our bodies and responses in times of instability How personal growth reshapes leadership and relationships   Resources The Art of Stability Steadfast Ministries: steadfastmin.com Man School: manschool.co The Art of Stability Podcast Guiding Principles Series - The Leaders Journey Podcast Integrity in Action: Alligning Words, Promises, and Values 

What does it really mean to live with integrity? In this episode, Jim Herrington and Trisha Taylor unpack the guiding principle of integrity, not as a rigid rule, but as a dynamic, life-giving process. They explore how our words create reality, why honoring our commitments matters, and how integrity helps us align with God’s design for our lives, families, and communities. This conversation offers practical wisdom, honest stories, and a framework for growing integrity in ways that transform relationships and leadership. Jim Herrington and Trisha Taylor are authors, coaches, and co-founders of The Leader’s Journey. They are passionate about helping leaders grow the inner life and outer skills needed for sustainable leadership. Through coaching, teaching, and honest conversations, they guide individuals and organizations to live into their guiding principles with courage and integrity. Learn more at theleadersjourney.us. Conversation Overview Why guiding principles help us navigate anxiety and stay grounded in our values Integrity as more than “being good” How our words create expectations and shape reality The distinction between keeping our word and honoring our word Why we’re designed to make big promises A four-step process for “cleaning up messes” when we break our word How leaders, families, and communities can cultivate a culture of integrity The role of accountability and coaching in growing integrity over time

Join Jim and Trisha as they discuss how we, as the church, can embrace the paradigm shift to a new structure in a church without walls. Their insightful conversation with this week’s guest, Terry Walling, offers a unique perspective on how nomadic believers are truly helping grow the church as they act as disciples within the community. Terry Walling is a pastor, professor, and author of Unlikely Nomads: In Search of the New Church. He has also launched a podcast series in which he has conversations with a variety of people who are in search of a deeper journey with Jesus and with following Him in a different kind of church in America.   Conversation Overview  -Moving in an Old, New Direction -The Nomadic Believer -Personal Renewal that Leads to Corporate Change -Apprenticing the life of Jesus -Embracing the Mystery    Resources: http://leaderbreakthru.com/ Unlikely Nomads by Terry Walling Canoeing the Mountains by Todd Bolsinger A Non-Anxious Presence by Mark Sayers The Great Emergence   Podcast Series The Equations of Ministry: Imagining Beyond the Traditional Church Model Apprenticing to Jesus   Related Blog Posts Unlikely Nomads: Redefining Church for a Missional Future – Repost   Unlikely Nomads: A Reflection   Unlikely Nomads: Redefining Church for a Missional Future

In Part 2 of this conversation, Trisha Taylor continues her dialogue with Mac and Josie McCarthy, diving deeper into what it means to lead churches and communities where people with disabilities can truly belong. Rather than offering a one-size-fits-all solution or launching a new program, this episode encourages leaders to shift their attention, challenge their assumptions, and engage the theological and relational work of creating environments where everyone can flourish. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by the complexity of inclusion or unsure where to start, this conversation offers grounded wisdom, gentle challenge, and hopeful next steps rooted in the heart of God’s kingdom. Conversation Overview: Moving beyond inclusion and into belonging The role of leaders in shifting community attention and assumptions How disability challenges our theology of brokenness and healing Encouragement for leaders to start small, stay present, and notice more Guest Bio: Mac McCarthy is a pastor at Crosspoint Community Church near Milwaukee and a coach with The Leader’s Journey, where he helps leaders develop emotionally healthy, systems-aware leadership grounded in their deepest values. Learn more about Mac’s coaching work. Josie McCarthy is a recovery nurse, mother of three, and passionate voice for dignity and connection in the disability community. She brings a grounded, relational perspective rooted in personal experience and deep faith. Resources Mentioned: Mac McCarthy at The Leader’s Journey – Learn more about Mac’s coaching and leadership development. Esau McCaulley – Reading While Black – A powerful example of theology from a specific social location. Find The Leader’s Journey on YouTube Subscribe to The Leader's Journey Newsletter

In this episode of The Leader’s Journey Podcast, Trisha Taylor is joined by Mac and Josie McCarthy for a deeply honest conversation on disability, faith, and the church. Sharing their journey as parents of a child with Down syndrome, Mac and Josie open up about the grief, growth, and spiritual reframing they experienced, and how it has changed the way they see God, themselves, and their community. Together, they challenge us to move beyond pity and mere inclusion toward presence, dignity, and belonging, recognizing the gifts individuals with disabilities bring to the body of Christ. Whether you are a parent, pastor, or community leader, this episode will encourage and challenge you to see disability not as a problem to fix, but as a call to deeper love and interdependence. Mac McCarthy is the lead pastor of Crosspoint Community Church near Milwaukee and a coach with The Leader’s Journey, where he helps leaders build emotionally healthy, systems-aware communities rooted in Christian values. Learn more about Mac’s coaching work here. Josie McCarthy is a nurse, mother of three, and passionate advocate for recognizing the dignity and gifts of individuals with disabilities, bringing practical wisdom and deep faith to this conversation. Conversation Overview: Moving through grief and acceptance after a disability diagnosis How disability challenges and reframes our theology and expectations The way Jesus sees and engages individuals with disabilities From pity to presence The pitfalls of prejudice, disability blindness, and transactional service Seeing individuals with disabilities as vital, gifted members of the church Navigating the tension between challenge and joy in disability Encouragement for leaders feeling overwhelmed in creating spaces of belonging Resources: Mac McCarthy at The Leader’s Journey – Learn more about Mac’s coaching and leadership development work. Zoom Dialogue on Disability (July 24 at 1:00 PM Central) – A live dialogue with Mac and Josie exploring how leaders can practically engage these conversations. Disability Theology (to be explored in Part 2) – A framework for understanding faith and disability in the church. Find The Leader's Journey on YouTube Dive a little deeper into the conversation pertaining to disability by reading these recommended books:   Amy Kenny's My Body Is Not a Prayer Request  Nancy Eiesland's The Disabled God Organizations that equip churches to be places of inclusion & belonging: Key Ministry -- https://keyministry.org SOAR -- https://soarspecialneeds.org

In this candid bonus episode of The Leader’s Journey Podcast, Trisha Taylor, Michael DeRidder, and Aundrea Baker open up an honest conversation about the realities of abuse and misconduct within faith communities and organizations. Sharing insights from their ongoing learning, including reflections from a recent conference, the team explores the power dynamics, cultural patterns, and systemic issues that allow abuse to occur and persist. They discuss the deep wounds left in individuals and communities, the need for preemptive culture work, and the essential role of leaders in creating environments of safety and accountability. If you are leading or serving in a church or organization, this conversation will challenge and equip you to think differently about prevention, response, and healing when abuse surfaces. Trisha Taylor, Michael DeRuyter, and Aundrea Baker are coaches with The Leader’s Journey, where they guide individuals, teams, and organizations toward emotionally healthy, systems-aware leadership rooted in Christian values. They bring deep experience in walking alongside leaders navigating crises and transformation, helping communities engage challenging conversations with courage, clarity, and care. Conversation Overview: The weight of healing and the need for shared responsibility How power dynamics and organizational culture enable abuse The myth of exceptionalism and its role in silencing victims Why systems thinking is critical for addressing abuse The importance of leaders creating cultures of safety and openness Moving from protecting perpetrators to caring for survivors Preemptive culture-building as abuse prevention Resources: Being Human: Podcast with Chuck and Steve https://churchcares.com/ Find Aundrea Baker and Michael DeRuyter on The Leader’s Journey Extraordinary Relationships by Roberta Gilbert – Framework on systems thinking, including the concepts of being separate, equal, and open in relationships and organizations.

In this episode of The Leader’s Journey Podcast, Jim Harrington is joined by coaches Rick Rorick and Nate Pyle to unpack what culture actually means within a church or organization—and why it matters more than we think. Together, they explore why “culture eats strategy for breakfast,” how culture shapes daily experiences for staff and volunteers, and how leaders can take intentional steps to build a healthy, life-giving environment that aligns with their values. If you’ve felt stuck in your church or organization’s culture, or if you’re wondering how to lead meaningful change, this conversation will give you both clarity and courage to take your next faithful steps. Rick Rorick is a Leader’s Journey coach with decades of leadership in the business world, including at Invesco and Coca-Cola, bringing a passion for helping leaders and organizations build healthy, effective cultures. Nate Pyle is the pastor of Christ Community Church in Fishers, Indiana, and the author of Man Enough and More Than You Can Handle. He coaches leaders to cultivate emotionally healthy systems within their teams and churches, helping them navigate change with integrity and clarity. Conversation Overview: The true definition of culture Navigating the gap between aspirational values and lived experiences How addressing mistakes and conflicts builds healthier culture Why building culture requires personal transformation from leaders Why culture work is hard and why coaching is essential for lasting change   Resources Mentioned: Man Enough by Nate Pyle More Than You Can Handle by Nate Pyle The Leader’s Journey 

In this episode of The Leader’s Journey Podcast, Jim sits down with Houston-area pastor Melissa Emerson to explore what it means to live faithfully in the midst of deep church change. After stepping into leadership of Mosaic Community Covenant Church following her father’s sudden passing, Melissa and her husband have led their community through a nomadic, experimental journey—redefining what church can be in the most diverse suburb in the U.S. With honesty, wisdom, and a heart for justice, Melissa shares what it’s been like to shed institutional expectations, rediscover community, and follow the Spirit’s leading in uncharted territory. If you’ve ever felt disillusioned with “church as usual,” or if you’re discerning a new way forward, this conversation offers courage and clarity for the road ahead. Melissa Lee Emerson is a third generation Chinese American woman co-pastoring Mosaic Community Covenant Church with her husband. Mosaic meets at a YMCA in the most diverse suburban county in the United States. Passionate about the intersection of faith and justice, Melissa dedicates her energy to the church, to Mosaic Learning Center, and raising her two daughters. She has a masters of divinity from North Park Theological Seminary with an emphasis on intercultural ministry and a bachelors in psychology with an emphasis on sociology and human development. She enjoys multicultural learning spaces and trips, especially if food is involved.  Conversation Overview: The shift from institutional church to a nomadic, mission-focused church Creative approaches to discernment  Developing missional partnerships Embracing Unlearning Rebuilding culture: resisting performance-driven worship and prioritizing outreach The role of emotional maturity, spiritual formation, and slowing down in adaptive leadership   Resources:  Mosaic Covenant Community Church Unlikely Nomads: In Search of the New Church by Terry Walling A prophetic and pastoral look at the shifting landscape of the North American Church and how leaders are navigating toward new expressions of faith. Shattered Dreams – a sermon by Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. A profound reflection on disappointment, surrender, and trusting God’s larger purpose through unfulfilled expectations. Acts 1:8 Model A biblical framework used to guide outreach and mission—beginning in one’s immediate community (“Jerusalem”) and expanding outward to the world. Dwelling in the Word (Lectio Divina) A contemplative practice of reading Scripture in community with an emphasis on spiritual listening and discernment. Nomads in the Changing Church - The Leader's Journey Podcast  Find The Leader's Journey on YouTube!

In this episode of The Leader’s Journey Podcast, host Trisha Taylor is joined by coach and colleague Aundrea Baker for a rich and practical conversation about self-awareness and the Enneagram. Together, they explore how understanding the inner motivations behind our behavior can lead to personal growth, deeper compassion, and stronger team dynamics. Whether you're new to the Enneagram or a long-time student, this episode offers insightful reflections and practical tools to help you better understand yourself and others. Aundrea Baker is a leadership coach with The Leader’s Journey, bringing deep experience in church leadership, nonprofit work, and pastoral ministry. A former co-pastor and nonprofit founder, Aundrea holds a doctorate and has spent the past decade exploring the transformative power of the Enneagram. She lives in the Houston area and works alongside her husband Warwick, who is also part of the team. Key Points: Self-awareness is foundational for growth, especially in leadership. The Enneagram offers language and insight into our inner motivations—not just behaviors. Aundrea's personal journey with the Enneagram began during a season of burnout and transition. Misidentifying one’s type is common; deeper exploration often reveals more accurate insights. Understanding your type can foster self-compassion and reduce judgment. The Enneagram helps coaches and clients uncover unconscious motivations and internal narratives. It’s a dynamic system—growth is possible by accessing other traits and motivations. Team dynamics benefit when members understand each other's types and communication styles. Awareness of triads (assertive, compliant, withdrawing) can improve collaboration and reduce misunderstandings. Compassion is key: the Enneagram should be a tool for empathy, not judgment. Resources:  The Narrative Enneagram :https://www.narrativeenneagram.org/  -This is the organization in which Aundrea received her training. They have an online test, information about each type on the website, and conduct regular online training. For more information on the Hornevian Triad, see The Enneagram Map to Your Deeper Self: Living Beyond Your Type by Sandra Smith. -This book also offers basic Enneagram info with practices, blessings, and prayers. The Enneagram for Black Liberation: Return to Who You Are Beneath the Armor You Carry by ChiChi Agorom Finding Freedom: Understanding Our Relationships Using Object Relations and the Enneagram by Belinda Gore The Road Back to You by Suzanne Stabile and Ian Morgan Cron The Enneagram for Spiritual Formation by AJ Sherrill   View this episode on YouTube

In this episode, Jim and Mike explore how Bowen Family Systems Theory offers powerful tools for leading in times of uncertainty and anxiety. Drawing on personal stories—including parenting a child with trauma, navigating racial and cultural dynamics in St. Croix, and caring for a spouse with Alzheimer’s—they discuss how guiding principles, curiosity, humor, and staying connected help leaders function in the face of anxiety rather than be driven by it. They reflect on the necessity of running experiments when off the map, and why leadership today demands skills more like map-making than map-reading. Key Topics Anxiety is not something to eliminate, but to manage Functioning in the face of anxiety with guiding principles Managing anxiety to access guiding principles The value of humor in anxious situations Curiosity as an antidote to anxiety Seeing the system and yourself in it Resistance is part of adaptive change Running experiments when off the map Coaching and community as support for off-map leadership   Resources https://www.thebowencenter.org/ Watch this episode on YouTube!  

In this episode of The Leader’s Journey Podcast, Trisha and Jim sit down with coach and educator Dawn Bird to explore the deep emotional and spiritual transformation that can come through Family of Origin work. Through vulnerable storytelling and honest reflection, Dawn shares how doing this work helped her uncover grief, reshape her understanding of her family, and show up differently in every area of her life—from her marriage and parenting to her leadership and coaching. This conversation is a rich, compassionate look at how healing the past creates new freedom in the present—and new hope for the future. Dawn Bird is a professional coach, facilitator and educator with 9 years of experience in non-profit, business, and healthcare settings. Dawn has an M.A. in Educational Psychology with a concentration in Counseling. Dawn has been involved in Faithwalking for 11 years, first as a participant and then as a coach and facilitator.  Through Faithwalking, she was introduced to Bowen Family Systems theory which has been particularly helpful in her own journey of transformation and in her work with others as well.  Dawn has done extensive Family of Origin work and enjoys leading others through that process as individuals and in groups. She also has training in Internal Family Systems. Dawn lives with her husband, Bill Bird, in northwest Illinois. They have 3 adult children. Dawn enjoys reading, learning, live theatre, and working out on her Peloton. Conversation Overview Starting the Work What It Looks Like Emotional Differentiation in Action Patterns We Inherit Siblings & New Conversations Grief and Healing Showing Up Differently Coaching & Accountability Resources:  Books Growing Yourself Up – Jenny Brown Everything Isn’t Terrible – Kathleen Smith The Fangirl Life – Kathleen Smith The Ties That Bind – Peter Steinke Tools & Courses Genogram – a tool for mapping multigenerational family patterns Faithwalking – a spiritual and emotional formation process Going Home Again – a Family of Origin course led by Dawn (available after completing the 6 Faithwalking modules)  

Welcome to this episode of The Leader’s Journey Podcast, where we take a deep dive into one of the most foundational — and often fragile — elements of leadership and community: trust. In this extended conversation, we explore how trust gets broken, why it's so emotionally charged, and what it really takes to rebuild it — both in relationships and within organizations. Whether you're a leader trying to repair harm, or someone deciding whether to trust again, this conversation is for you. Converstation Overview Trust is a two-way street: Both parties play a role in either building or breaking trust. It’s not about assigning equal blame, but about seeing the complexity of the system we’re part of. There are different kinds of trust: Sincerity, reliability, competence, and care — and naming which one was broken matters. The emotional impact matters: It's not enough to just hear feedback; trust repair requires acknowledging and connecting to the pain your actions caused. Restoration is mutual: Even after an apology, the other person has to “let it count” for trust to begin to rebuild.. Trust takes time: Just because someone is trying to change doesn’t mean trust will instantly be restored. Rebuilding is often slow, with regular check-ins along the way. Trust yourself: At the end of the day, we each have to develop trust in our own capacity to be okay, even if trust isn’t fully restored with someone else. Resources The Thin Book of Trust by Charles Feltman The Leaders Journey Youtube Channel Coaching support from The Leader’s Journey team The Leaders Journey Blog

"Trust is like the air we breathe -- when it's present, nobody really notices it. When it's absent, everybody notices." Warren Buffett, quoted in Forbes Magazine Trust is the bedrock of every successful relationship—whether personal, professional, or within a community. In this episode, Jim and Trisha dive deep into what trust really means, why it’s essential, and how to cultivate it. Through real-life stories and insightful discussion, they explore the complexities of trust and how it impacts our daily lives.  Key Topics Covered: The definition of trust and why it’s crucial for relationships How trust is built and the common factors that strengthen or weaken it The Components of Trust: Care, Sincerity, Reliability, and Competence The role of self-awareness in becoming a trustworthy person Practical steps to rebuild trust when it’s been broken The connection between trust and leadership in personal and professional settings Real-life examples of trust in action and lessons we can learn   Resources   Houston Rodeo mutton busting The Thin Book of Trust by Charles Feltman Brene Brown on The Anatomy of Trust Dare to Lead by Brene Brown The Speed of Trust by Steven Covey

In this episode, we explore the critical need for men to develop emotional maturity, take personal responsibility, and engage in meaningful self-reflection. Ryan, Aaron, and Trisha delve into how men's work, particularly in groups, can serve as a powerful tool for emotional growth and healthy relationships. Conversation Overview: The Power of Group Work for Emotional Growth   The Role of Self-Reflection in Relationships   Acknowledging Women’s Anxiety About Men’s Spaces   Practical Advice for Emotional Growth   The Role of Emotional Maturity in Leadership Links: Ryan Donovan at The Leaders Journey.    Aaron Fullmer   Men's Work TX.

In this episode of The Leaders Journey podcast, Jim and Trisha are joined by Reverend Dr. Timothy Scoonover, senior pastor at First Presbyterian Church in Moncks Corner, South Carolina. With over a decade of pastoral experience, Timothy shares how, as an unlikely nomade, he has led his congregation through a journey of adaptive leadership, emotional health, and spiritual formation. Timothy’s story is a powerful reminder that leadership in today’s world is a long, slow process. Through cultivating emotional and spiritual health, investing in personal practices, and creating a community culture that supports one another, leaders can navigate the turbulence of change and conflict. A native of Knoxville, Tennessee, Timothy graduated from the University of Tennessee with a Bachelor of Science in Human Services.  He received his Master of Divinity from Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary in South Hamilton, Massachusetts, where he was awarded as the Walters Preaching Scholar. Timothy married his high school sweetheart, Ashley, and they have two sons, Cooper and Micah. He is passionate about church renewal, making disciples, University of Tennessee sports, tennis, coffee, and time with family. Key Highlights: The Power of Experiments in Leadership: Modeling Vulnerability and Emotional Health The Role of Language in Leadership Apprenticeship to Jesus in a Changing World Community Support and Leadership Resources: https://firstpcmonckscorner.org/ The Leaders Journey website.  

Join The Leader's Journey team as they explore what it means to ride the waevs of reactivity and and how those waves have shaped their experiences and goals to improve.  a reflective conversation about reactivity—how it shows up in our lives, how we manage it, and what we’re learning in the process. Tricia and the team explore personal stories of how they’ve navigated emotional waves in their own lives—from time management struggles to family dynamics and professional challenges. With reflections from team members Jim Herrington, Rick Rarick, Dawn Bird, Chad Jaeger, and Edie Lenz, this episode offers practical wisdom for anyone looking to stay grounded amidst life’s inevitable anxieties and lead with greater awareness and intention. Conversation Overview Jim Herrington on Asking for Help Rick Rarick on learning to adapt Dawn Bird on Feeling, Acknowledging, and Managing Reactivity Chad Jaeger on Letting Other People Grow Edie Lenz on Learning to Stand Still and Wait   References Kathleen Smith:  Everything Isn't Terrible: Conquer Your Insecurities, Interrupt Your Anxieties and Finally Calm Down    True to You: A Therapist's Guide to Stop Pleasing Others and Start Being Yourself    Kathleen Smith's substack The Anxious Overachiever   Oliver Burkeman: Four Thousand Weeks: Time Management for Mortals

In this episode of The Leader's Journey Podcast, Trisha Taylor, along with Nate Pyle, Matt McCarthy, and Katie Ignatowski, dive into part three of the politics series exploring the challenges of division and leadership in polarized times. While the focus isn't on the U.S. election specifically, the discussion addresses the broader implications of division in churches, workplaces, and communities. With returning guests Nate Pyle and Matt McCarthy, and new voice Katie Ignatowski, this episode provides insights into how leaders can foster dialogue, perspective-taking, and emotional maturity in their communities. Nate Pyle: A pastor and member of The Leader's Journey team, Nate brings a wealth of experience in guiding congregations through challenging conversations and promoting emotional maturity in leadership. Matt McCarthy: Another seasoned leader and pastor, Matt focuses on creating opportunities for embodying the politics of Jesus at the local level, emphasizing community engagement and kingdom work. Katie Ignatowski: An executive director with a legal background, Katie has held significant roles in politics and compliance in Wisconsin. She brings a fresh perspective to the team, blending her expertise in law and leadership with a commitment to grace-filled and truth-centered dialogue. Key Points Polarization and Leadership: The team explores the challenges leaders face in divided environments, highlighting the need to balance empathy and challenge. Holding Tension: Insights on navigating complexity, resisting oversimplification, and fostering productive conversations. Media Literacy: Discussing the importance of critical thinking and diversifying sources to navigate "two different realities" shaped by media consumption. Emotional Maturity: How leaders can grow their own emotional maturity and guide their communities towards it as a critical discipleship practice. Engaging Locally: The value of focusing on local action and influence as a means to foster meaningful change and embody the politics of Jesus. Guiding Principles: The role of guiding principles in making decisions, holding convictions, and navigating polarized contexts. Resource Links The Leader's Journey Coaching Team Miroslav Volf: "Exclusion and Embrace" Playing Politics, Leading in an Election Year Part 1 Playing Politics, Leading in an Election Year, Part 2    

The following episode originally aired in July of 2022. You can find the rest of that coaching series here:  The Leader as a Coach: Developing People The Leader as a Coach: Being Coachable    The five skills that leaders can start to work on today to become more effective leaders through coaching are deep listening, inquiry, giving clear feedback, guiding focus, and doing your own work.  Subscribe to our newsletter! Leaders who learn to lead through coaching and who develop a culture of coaching in their organization will effectively raise up people who can consistently be the healthiest, most effective version of themselves and do their best work. Conversation Overview Coaching is "deliberately providing a safe and challenging environment where change is possible" Deep listening "Being profoundly heard by another person is a transformative experience." – Jim Herrington "The experience of being deeply listened to makes us different." – Trisha Taylor Inquiry One reason we get bored listening is because we're not actively asking questions. We're not really all that curious, we're busy, and we're distracted.  Giving clear feedback Guiding focus Part of the skill of guiding focus is helping people pay attention to the things they need to be paying attention to. Doing your own work Links:  The Leader As Coach: Developing People Giving and receiving feedback Defined and Connected Learning is Imperative for Effective Leadership: Part 1 Two Feet Walking Workbook Coaching description on our website Our Love Hate Relationship with Goals (podcast episode) Two Feet Walking Podcast Series Thank you for listening. If you enjoy listening to The Leader’s Journey Podcast, the best way to support us is to take just a few seconds and leave a rating and/or comment over on iTunes or share it with your friends on Facebook … Thank you!