Field Notes for Transformation

Ep 13: From Information to Inner Knowing: Practices that Lead To Transformation with Dr. Brian Russell

In this conversation, Dr. Brian Russell shares his journey of spiritual transformation, discussing pivotal moments that ignited his passion for growth and helping others. He reflects on the challenges of navigating multiple identities as a scholar, coach, and spiritual leader, and emphasizes the importance of silence and contemplative practices in fostering inner knowing. Brian also explores the difference between mere information and true understanding of the scriptures, advocating for an approach that invites readers to encounter God. He highlights the significance of suffering in shaping compassion and the need for leaders to create transformative spaces for others. 
 
Episode field note: Not through effort, but through presence. 
Brian suggests a simple practice to start your day:
 
1. Begin with GratitudeWrite down three or four things you’re truly grateful for.Let God fill the space with joy, memory, and grace.
2. Listen to Your BodyPause.Notice: Where do you feel tension? Butterflies? Tightness?Ask gently: What’s bothering me?Write what comes. Let it surface without needing to solve it.
3. Sit with Jesus in Silence“Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy on me, a sinner.”Then sit in stillness for five minutes.Not to produce — but to be present.
 
 
 
Resources and links:
Brian’s website: www.brianrussellphd.com
Brian’s book:  Astonished by the Word: Reading Scripture for Deep Knowing
Brian’s Instagram: @yourprofessorforlife
Brian’s X: @briandrussell
Follow SLI: @spiritualleadershipinc
This episode is brought to you by Spiritual Leadership, Inc
Head to spiritual-leadership.org to take a look at resources for ministry leaders. 

Ep 12: Never Alone: Healing the Soul Wound of Our Time with Michael Adam Beck

In this conversation, Michael Adam Beck discusses his book 'Never Alone' and the urgent need for community in a world plagued by loneliness. He shares personal experiences, including the loss of his brother, and emphasizes the importance of healing in community rather than isolation. Michael critiques individualistic culture and advocates for a collective approach to healing and faith. He also explores fresh expressions of church, the empowerment of lay leadership, and the significance of self-donation over self-preservation in ministry.
 
Takeaways
Healing can only occur in community, not in isolation.
Loneliness is a significant issue in today's society, and the church has a unique role in addressing it.
Self-donation is essential for church vitality, contrasting with self-preservation.
 
Episode field note: 
Spend time with Jesus. Every day.
Take a Sabbath. Every week.
Delight in God. Not because you have to but because you get to.
 
Resources and links
Michael’s website: https://michaeladambeck.com/
Michael’s Book 'Never Alone' - https://www.amazon.com/Never-Alone-Sharing-Community-Lonely/dp/1513815180
Follow SLI: @spiritualleadershipinc
This episode is brought to you by Spiritual Leadership, Inc
Head to spiritual-leadership.org to take a look at resources for ministry leaders. 

Ep 11: Mistakes, Messiness and Ministry with Mark Youngman

In this conversation, Mark Youngman shares his experiences and insights on leadership, emphasizing the importance of learning from mistakes, embracing messiness, and creating environments that foster growth and transformation. He discusses the balance between transparency and effectiveness in leadership, the significance of small groups, and the core values that guide his ministry. Mark's passion for seeing people thrive in their God-given purpose shines through as he reflects on the journey of discipleship and the impact of community.
Takeaways
Discipleship is a lifelong journey, not an overnight process.
Investing time and effort is crucial for building healthy environments.
Thriving communities often embrace messiness and chaos.
A strong common vision helps navigate challenges in community.
 
Field Note:
The journey of faith is about Jesus, not metrics or systems.
 
Resources and links:
Discipleship work at Providence Church: https://prov.church/discipleship/
Mark’s Website: https://www.markyoungman.com/
Mark’s Instagram: @youngmanmark
Follow SLI: @spiritualleadershipinc
This episode is brought to you by Spiritual Leadership, Inc
Head to spiritual-leadership.org to take a look at resources for ministry leaders.
 

Ep 10: Relationships: The Heart of Discipleship with Velma Tim

In this conversation, Velma Tim shares her transformative journey into mission work, emphasizing the power of storytelling, the importance of relationships in discipleship, and the role of digital media in reaching and empowering others. She discusses how her experiences shaped her understanding of leadership and collaboration, highlighting the significance of vulnerability and clarity of vision in building effective teams. Velma advocates for a shift towards relational leadership and prioritizing genuine connections over superficial interactions.
Takeaways
Storytelling connects people from diverse backgrounds to the larger mission.
Digital spaces offer unique opportunities for discipleship and connection.
Effective discipleship is rooted in genuine relationship.
 
Episode field note:
Sometimes it’s as simple as an invitation. You don’t need a program or permission, just the courage to call someone closer. You might be the voice they are waiting for.
 
Resources and links:
Velma’s websites:
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@velmatim3617
Insagram: @velmatim1_official
Follow SLI: @spiritualleadershipinc
This episode is brought to you by Spiritual Leadership, Inc
Head to spiritual-leadership.org to take a look at resources for ministry leaders.

Ep 9: The Power of Identity in Leadership with Wes Olds

In this conversation, Wes Olds shares his transformative journey of discovering his identity as a 'child of God, person of worth' (COGPOW) during one of the most challenging seasons of his life. He discusses the impact of this realization on his personal and leadership style, emphasizing the importance of understanding one's worth beyond performance. Wes also reflects on the joy of witnessing transformation in others, highlighting the signs of genuine change in ministry and personal relationships.
 
Takeaways
The journey of faith involves continuous learning, and the holy spirit plays a crucial role in personal transformation.
Healthy leadership requires intentional practice and behaviors.
Covenant making is a foundational practice for building trust and accountability in leadership.
 
Episode field note:
Before the work begins, build how to work together. Introducing a team covenant can be a culture-shaping game changer. Not a legalistic, multi-page document but a simple, shared agreement created in a season of calm to carry the team through inevitable storms.
Email: Lindsay.m@spiritual-leadership.org for a free covenant building resource.
 
Resources and links:
Wes’ website: https://www.egracechurch.com/
Follow SLI: @spiritualleadershipinc
This episode is brought to you by Spiritual Leadership, Inc
Head to spiritual-leadership.org to take a look at resources for ministry leaders.

Ep 8: Transforming Leadership Through Experience with Stephanie Faulkner

Summary
In this conversation, Lindsay and Stephanie Faulkner dive deep into the transformative journey of leadership, spotlighting the power of trust, communication, and cultural awareness. Stephanie opens up about her personal leadership experiences, sharing both the hurdles and triumphs of building meaningful relationships and creating a nurturing environment. Stephanie also explores how faith shapes leadership and the crucial role of self-care in sustaining long-term impact.
Takeaways
Leadership is not a fixed trait but an evolving journey, shaped over time by lived experiences, challenges, and growth.
Trust and communication are the bedrock of any transformative leadership. They create the space for authentic connections, foster collaboration, and pave the way for meaningful change and progress.
Cultural differences play a pivotal role in shaping leadership dynamics. Understanding and respecting these differences can unlock deeper relationships, bridge gaps, and foster an environment where diverse perspectives lead to innovative solutions.
Faith serves as a powerful guiding force in leadership.
 
 
Field Note
There is balance between self-care and selflessness, emphasizing that while it's important to take care of oneself, it’s equally essential to remember that life and leadership isn’t solely about individual needs. Stephanie referenced Wesley's Covenant Prayer from his covenant service, a tool she uses to remind herself of her confidence in both her identity and her purpose.
Resources and links:
Stephanie’s non-profit Nueva Vida: nuevavidaguatemala.org
Follow SLI: @spiritualleadershipinc
This episode is brought to you by Spiritual Leadership, Inc
Head to spiritual-leadership.org to take a look at resources for ministry leaders.

Ep 7: Building a Movement of Belonging with Jacob Armstrong

In this conversation, Jacob Armstrong shares his journey of founding Providence Church, discussing the vision behind the church, the hurdles faced in church planting, and the importance of engagement over attendance. He emphasizes the need for leaders to evolve, the significance of creating environments for discipleship, and the challenges of creating a culture that fosters belonging. Jacob also reflects on the barriers that keep people disconnected from the church and offers practical advice for leaders to focus on mission.
Takeaways
Creating a culture of discipleship is essential for church health and growth.
Focusing on the mission helps prevent a closed-loop culture.
Identifying and empowering new leaders is crucial.
 
Episode field note:
Emphasis on the importance of deepening personal relationship with Jesus.
 
Resources and links:
Jacob’s website: https://prov.church/
Follow SLI: @spiritualleadershipinc
This episode is brought to you by Spiritual Leadership, Inc
Head to spiritual-leadership.org to take a look at resources for ministry leaders.

Ep 6: Creating Irresistable Environments with Taylor Foley

In this conversation, Taylor Foley shares his journey and passion for creating healthy organizational cultures, particularly within church environments. He emphasizes the importance of trust, communication, and resilience in building a vibrant culture. Taylor discusses the challenges faced in shifting culture, the role of leadership, and the necessity of measuring cultural health. He also highlights the significance of aligning values with growth and navigating resistance to change. Ultimately, he expresses hope for the future of ministry and encourages leaders to embrace their role in cultivating a positive culture.
 
Takeaways
Creating irresistible environments is essential for engagement.
Leaders must set the tone for their teams.
Aligning values with actions is key to cultural integrity.
 
Episode field note:
Reframing leadership as an opportunity rather than an obligation transforms culture.
Rather than seeing responsibilities as a checklist, embrace the mindset of “I get to do this”. Lean into people, set the tone, and cultivate an environment where growth thrives.
 
Resources and links:
Taylor’s website: egracechurch.com
Follow SLI: @spiritualleadershipinc
This episode is brought to you by Spiritual Leadership, Inc
Head to spiritual-leadership.org to take a look at resources for ministry leaders.

Ep 5: From Fixed to Flourishing: Embracing Identity, Action, and Growth in Leadership with Matthew Hartsfield

In this conversation, Matthew Hartsfield shares his journey of embracing transformation and the importance of identity in leadership. He discusses the intersection of pastoring and coaching, emphasizing the need for a growth mindset and psychological safety in creating effective teams. Hartsfield reflects on his early mistakes in leadership, advocating for a culture of transformation through clarity, consistency, and community. He concludes with insights on the future of leadership, highlighting the necessity of adaptation while maintaining a focus on core values and identity.
 
Takeaways
Every individual and organization has an identity issue that must be addressed before transformation can occur.
A growth mindset is essential for both pastoring and coaching.
Psychological safety is the key factor that differentiates effective teams from ineffective ones.
Leaders should avoid the heroic solo leadership model and embrace collaboration.
Coaching is about asking the right questions and empowering others to find their own answers.
Episode field note:
Field Note: The Power of Forward Motion
Momentum is a leader's greatest ally. When you're stuck or afraid to act, the key is simple: start something.
 
Resources and links:
Matthew’s website: https://www.bayhope.church/
Follow SLI: @spiritualleadershipinc
This episode is brought to you by Spiritual Leadership, Inc
Head to spiritual-leadership.org to take a look at resources for ministry leaders.

Ep 4: From Pastor to Coach: A Journey of Leadership with Jorge Acevedo

In this conversation, Jorge Acevedo shares his journey from nearly four decades in pastoral ministry to becoming a leadership coach. He discusses the evolution of his calling, the importance of transitioning from heroic solo leadership to generative team leadership, and the essential qualities that contribute to resilient and vital ministries. Jorge emphasizes the need for experimentation, sustainability, and the role of personal growth in effective leadership. He also highlights the significance of facing pain for growth, identifying bright-eyed leaders, and cultivating a deep walk with God as foundational to future ministry success.
 
Takeaways
Vitality in ministry requires clear focus and processes.
Experimentation is key to adapting in ministry contexts.
Building adaptive teams is necessary for future challenges.
A deep walk with God is foundational for leadership.
 
Field Note: Lead from Surrender
True leadership begins with surrender. Cultivate your walk with God daily, embracing the easy yoke of Jesus rather than bearing the weight of outcomes.
 
Resources and links:
Jorge’s website: https://www.jorgeacevedo.com/
Follow SLI: @spiritualleadershipinc
This episode is brought to you by Spiritual Leadership, Inc
Head to spiritual-leadership.org to take a look at resources for ministry leaders.