Best Pastor Dan Todd Podcasts (2024)

1
Is the Economy Crashing!? How Would It Affect the LCMS? Leadership Insights from Jim Sanft 37:46

1h ago37:46

37:46

Can demographic shifts and economic changes redefine the future of Concordia Plan Services? Explore this and more in our enlightening conversation with Jim Sanft. As we unpack the multifaceted challenges surrounding pension plans and rate increases, Jim illuminates how demographic declines in ordained and commissioned ministers are counterbalanced …

1
PREACH! Does the LCMS Do It Right? with Rev. Dr. David Schmitt 1:03:30

3d ago1:03:30

1:03:30

Reverend Dr. David Schmitt has spent nearly three decades shaping the voices of future pastors, and today, he shares his wisdom on the art of preaching with us. Discover how he likens sermon crafting to cooking a rich stew, blending diverse life experiences to create messages that resonate deeply with congregations. We'll uncover how integrating pe…

1
Unlocking the Power of Specialized Roles in Ministry with Vince Parks 49:42

7d ago49:42

49:42

Unlock the secret to effective church leadership with insights from Vince Parks, one of the few ordained executive pastors in the Lutheran Church Missouri Synod. Our conversation reveals how specialized roles like the executive pastor can transform a congregation by focusing on operations, systems, and strategy, thereby allowing traditional pastors…

1
Facing the Facts: An Urgent Call for Accountability in the LCMS with Rev. Drs. Scott Seidler and Ben Haupt 40:14

10d ago40:14

40:14

What if the centralized control within the church is holding back its mission? To Register for the Unfettered Word Conference CLICK HERE Join us for a thought-provoking conversation with Reverend Dr. Ben Haupt and Reverend Dr. Scott Seidler as we dissect the Mission Partners Platform—a groundbreaking initiative aiming to build a stronger, more inte…

1
Don't Miss! Part 2 - The LCMS Has Changed? with Will Sohns and Bob Newton 1:06:14

14d ago1:06:14

1:06:14

What if our understanding of Scripture has been too narrow? This episode invites you to explore the profound concept of the Missio Dei—the sending nature of God—with our esteemed guests, Will and Robert Newton. We discuss how God's mission transcends the church, aiming to forgive and transform the entire world. By shifting our focus from an insular…

1
The LCMS Has Changed? Part 1 | New Season of Lead Time with Will & Steve Sohns 55:32

17d ago55:32

55:32

Check out http://thegreatsending.org/ New SEASON of LEAD TIME!! This episode features a heartwarming conversation with Will and Steve Sohns, a father-son duo passionately involved in mission and ministry within the Lutheran Church, Missouri Synod. We celebrate Will's upcoming 91st birthday and his lifelong dedication to spreading Jesus' joy, includ…

1
C.S. Lewis on Screen: Bridging Faith and Film with Todd Freeman | Hot Topic Friday 33:42

14d ago33:42

33:42

Can Christian themes hold their own against blockbuster franchises like "Fast and the Furious" and "Iron Man"? Join us as Todd Freeman, a seasoned filmmaker turned ministry director, shares his insights on the power of "suspension of disbelief" and how it allows audiences to embrace even the most fantastical elements in storytelling. We explore why…

1
Faith and Reason: Navigating Theology in Secular Academia with Dr. Joshua Hollmann 54:56

24d ago54:56

54:56

Can faith and reason coexist in today's secular academic world? Join us in a compelling discussion with Reverend Dr. Joshua Hollmann, professor of systematic theology at Concordia University in St. Paul, as we navigate the complex landscape of integrating faith into academic life. Dr. Hollmann shares his profound insights from his article "Faith Se…

1
Pastor John Stennfeld after 35 Years of Ministry: Traditional or Contemporary? and much more! 55:37

28d ago55:37

55:37

What sustains a pastor through 35 years of ministry? Join us as John Stennfeld, a seasoned pastor at Christ Lutheran in Austin, Texas, reveals the foundations of his enduring journey. With a focus on God's word and a balanced identity, John discusses how understanding his "why" has influenced his leadership and ministry. Discover the significance o…

1
The Truth about Concordia Ann Arbor - Discussing the Future of Lutheran Institutions with Dan Burk 55:47

1M ago55:47

55:47

Join us as we chat with Dan Burk, principal and chief operating officer at St. Matthew Lutheran Church and School in Westland, Michigan, who shares his intriguing journey and the layers of challenges and rewards that come with it. Join the Lead Time Newsletter! (Weekly Updates and Upcoming Episodes) https://www.uniteleadership.org/lead-time-podcast…

1
From ELCA to LCMS: Navigating Lutheran Challenges with Rev. Dr. Robin Dugall | HOT TOPIC FRIDAY! 39:28

1M ago39:28

39:28

Reverend Dr. Robin Dugall takes us on a compelling journey through his transition from the Evangelical Lutheran Church of America (ELCA) to the Lutheran Church Missouri Synod (LCMS). Facing challenges within congregations that he felt were veering away from foundational principles, Reverend Dugall’s narrative offers an intimate glimpse into his per…

1
Dreaming BIG in the LCMS with Pastor Matt Popovits 1:04:57

1M ago1:04:57

1:04:57

Ever wondered how a shift from musical theater to ministry could shape a dynamic pastoral career? Join us for an inspiring chat with Pastor Matt Popovits, senior pastor at St. Mark Lutheran in Houston, Texas, as he shares his remarkable journey and the pivotal role that mentorship played in his transformation. Learn how empowering young leaders wit…

1
Michigan District President David Davis on the State of the LCMS in Michigan and Beyond 42:28

1M ago42:28

42:28

How can we lead lives of true significance and unity in our vocations, whether in pastoral roles or everyday professions? Join the Lead Time Newsletter! (Weekly Updates and Upcoming Episodes) Reverend David Davis, the district president of the Lutheran Church Missouri Synod (LCMS) in Michigan, joins us to unpack these profound themes. David shares …

1
What It's Like Being a Pastor's Wife with Alexa Ahlman 48:54

2M ago48:54

48:54

Ever wondered what it's like to grow up in the unique world of a pastor's family? This episode promises a blend of humor, candor, and valuable insights into the multifaceted lives of pastors and their families: Meet Alexa Ahlman, who shares her heartfelt and humorous tales of life as a pastor's kid. From the fun and camaraderie with her brothers at…

1
Challenging Institutions with Grace, Love, and Humility with Rob Kelly 1:00:28

2M ago1:00:28

1:00:28

What if transformation isn't just about self-driven change, but a divine journey that starts from within? In this episode of Lead Time, we sit down with Rob Kelly, co-author of "Metanoia: How God Radically Transforms People, Churches, and Organizations from the Inside Out," to explore this profound concept. Find the book here: https://www.metanoia-…

1
WE CONFESS JESUS: The Heart of Lutheranism with Pastor Trevor Sutton 1:03:57

2M ago1:03:57

1:03:57

What does it mean to be Lutheran in today's world? Join us on Lead Time as we sit down with Trevor Sutton, senior pastor at St. Luke Lutheran Church in Lansing, Michigan, to explore this question. Discover how confessional Lutheranism stands apart from its more liberal counterparts, and why confessing Jesus and adhering to the authority of scriptur…

1
Faith and Legal Challenges - Insider on Concordia Texas | Hot Topic with President Don Christian 35:09

2M ago35:09

35:09

How does a university navigate the complexities of faith, leadership, and legal battles? Join the Lead Time Newsletter! (Weekly Updates and Upcoming Episodes) https://www.uniteleadership.org/lead-time-podcast#newsletter Dr. Don Christian, president of Concordia University Texas, joins us to discuss the ongoing lawsuit with the Lutheran Church—Misso…

1
Can the LCMS Be More Inviting? | The Ministry Journey of Pastor Greg Griffith 1:04:36

2M ago1:04:36

1:04:36

What if your journey to finding purpose took a turn you never expected? In this episode of Lead Time, we sit down with Greg Griffith, a seasoned pastor from King of Kings in Omaha, to uncover his unexpected path to ministry. From a seemingly ordinary childhood faith to a profound transformation in college, Greg shares how a mentor's guidance and a …

1
Baptismal Identity - A Response to Criticism with Pastor Dan Schepmann | Hot Topic Friday 36:45

2M ago36:45

36:45

What happens when a church community embarks on a profound journey to explore the rich and transformative practice of baptism? Join us as we welcome Pastor Dan Schepmann from Gloria Dei in Nassau Bay, sharing the inspiring story of their recent baptismal remembrance Sunday. Over a powerful four-week sermon series, 48 members of the congregation eit…

1
Addressing the Perception Gap in Church Growth with Lyman Stone 1:04:38

2M ago1:04:38

1:04:38

Unlock the secrets behind successful church growth and discover the environments that best support adult conversions in the LCMS. This episode features Lyman Stone, a seasoned demographer and LCMS layperson, who shares the motivations and rigorous methodologies behind the recent Lutheran Religious Life Survey. From innovative survey participation t…

1
Is It a Sin To Use Data As a Church? -- It's All About the Heart with Blue Van Dyke | Hot Topic Friday 43:02

2M ago43:02

43:02

Unlock the secrets of effective church engagement with our special guest, Blue Van Dyke. As an executive pastor with a rich background in global marketing, digital advertising, and venture capital, Blue brings a unique perspective on how business principles can transform church communication and member engagement. From his journey with prestigious …

1
"The Beating Heart of Missouri's Mission" with Dr. Ben Haupt 1:14:37

2M ago1:14:37

1:14:37

Could the Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod's mission history hold untapped wisdom for today's challenges? Reverend Dr. Ben Haupt joins us to unravel this enigma, sharing his captivating journey from a parish pastor to a global executive leader at the Pastoral Leadership Institute (PLI). His profound insights challenge conventional wisdom, arguing for…

1
Why Are We So Bad at Taking Negative Feedback? and More with Ryan Ermeling | Hot Topic Friday 36:07

2M ago36:07

36:07

Ever wondered why negative feedback can be the ultimate game-changer for leaders? Join us as we sit down with Ryan Ermeling, leader of Parent Pulse and the Chair of the Board of Regents at Concordia University, Irvine. Ryan unveils the surprising benefits of actively seeking out and embracing negative feedback to foster growth and self-improvement.…

1
Praying For A New Day: Big Vision, Big Goals, Big Accountability with Rev. Dr. Scott Seidler 1:01:28

3M ago1:01:28

1:01:28

What does it take to challenge leadership practices and still maintain your faith? Reverend Dr. Scott Seidler shares his transformative journey, from confronting the Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod's leadership in 2016 to revitalizing his ministry in Arizona amid the challenges of COVID-19. We delve into the importance of having a bold vision and ho…

1
Real Talk: How United is the LCMS? | Hot Topic Friday with Rev. Dr. Jeff Skopak 38:14

3M ago38:14

38:14

What happens when you bring ministry to an eclectic and diverse mountain town? Reverend Dr. Jeff Skopak shares his remarkable journey serving at Emmanuel Lutheran Church and School in Asheville, North Carolina. Jeff unveils the unexpected joys and unique challenges of ministering in a community where the cultural, social, and political landscape is…

1
Empowering Lay Leadership: Navigating Challenges and the Future of Ministry with Reverend Erik Gauss 48:11

3M ago48:11

48:11

Reverend Erik Gauss from Cross Lutheran Church and School in Illinois, takes us through his 17-year ministry journey, shedding light on his dedication to developing lay leadership. Erik recounts his personal experiences and the various initiatives like huddles, men's groups, and leadership groups that he has spearheaded. We also navigate the unsett…

1
Does AI Belong in the Church? with Matt Engel | Hot Topic Friday 33:29

3M ago33:29

33:29

Can AI truly transform the way ministry operates within the church? Join us on this thought-provoking episode of Lead Time Hot Topic Friday! We uncover the revolutionary potential of artificial intelligence in ministry alongside my good friend Matt Engel. We dive into the many facets of AI integration, from streamlining administrative tasks like em…

1
An Uncomfortable Conversation on the Concordia University Ann Arbor Struggles.... With Mae Keller 1:03:09

3M ago1:03:09

1:03:09

Ever wondered how transformational leadership can steer a university through tumultuous times? Mae and I tackle the contentious financial health issues, the over-reliance on athletic programs, and the potential premature closure of the athletic department. We explore the broader implications of administrative decisions and leadership changes on sta…

1
What is Stopping the LCMS from Casting A Vision For Growth? | Hot Topic Friday with Rev. Dr. Chris Holder 37:45

3M ago37:45

37:45

Discover the unexpected ways small churches are making a huge impact in the world of church planting, as Reverend Dr. Chris Holder joins us to share his wisdom on fostering gospel-centered growth. Through our enlightening conversation, it becomes clear that the size of a congregation doesn't dictate its ability to contribute to new ministries. We d…

1
Maintaining a Strong LCMS Identity in Diverse Academic Settings with Concordia Irvine President, Dr. Michael Thomas 45:51

3M ago45:51

45:51

What does it take to maintain a strong LCMS identity in a diverse academic setting? Dr. Thomas offers an insightful look into Concordia Irvine's hiring practices, the emphasis on Lutheran intellectual tradition, and the holistic formation of students. From the operational dynamics of the Concordia University System to the strategic efforts to build…

1
Embracing Growth: A Journal Entry with Tim Ahlman 4:56

3M ago4:56

4:56

Have you ever felt like growth is a battle rather than a blessing? Join Tim Ahlman in this candid bonus episode of Lead Time, where he shares his personal reflections on growth, both as a spiritual journey and a complex challenge. Through the lens of his own struggles with negative thought patterns and spiritual warfare, Tim opens up about finding …

1
A Response to Controversy: Navigating the Future of the LCMS with Lyman Stone 1:33:20

4M ago1:33:20

1:33:20

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 …

1
Is Your Pastor the Right Fit for Your Church? with Tim Nations 57:05

4M ago57:05

57:05

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 partnershi…

1
Real Talk: Does the LCMS Really Need More Pathways to Ordination? with Pastor Joe Beran | Hot Topic Friday 37:45

4M ago37:45

37:45

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 ob…

1
The Intersection of Theology and Leadership in Modern Ministry with Jim Sanft 50:33

4M ago50:33

50:33

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 invi…

1
Are Churches Businesses? | Hot Topic Friday with Candice Hilse 37:45

4M ago37:45

37:45

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…

1
Reviving the LCMS: Talking with a Former LCMS President - Rev. Dr. Jerry Kieschnick 1:02:35

4M ago1:02:35

1:02:35

Join the conversation with Jerry Kieschnick, former President of the Lutheran Church Missouri Synod, as we address the pressing issues confronting our church today. With congregations diminishing in number, Jerry brings a beacon of hope to this tough topic, sharing his storied experiences from establishing the Specific Ministry Pastor program to ca…

1
First Ever - Hot Topic Friday: Pastors Need to Understand Psychology.... with Bill and Kristi Gaultiere 37:45

4M ago37:45

37:45

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 p…

1
Embracing the Missio Dei and Bridging Divides with Rev. Dr. William Utech 56:14

4M ago56:14

56:14

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 trav…

1
Revolutionizing Seminary Education: Innovative Paths and Financial Models with Greg Henson of Kairos University 1:05:25

4M ago1:05:25

1:05:25

Embark on a transformative journey through theological education as we bring to the forefront an enlightening discussion with Greg Henson, president of Kairos University. Through our conversation, you'll gain a deeper understanding of how Kairos is revolutionizing seminary education with its Competency-Based Theological Education (CBTE) approach, d…

1
Innovative Education: Shaping the Future of the Lutheran Church with Rev. Dr. Robert Kasper 57:43

5M ago57:43

57:43

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 Mi…

1
Have You Ever Heard of the LCMS Seminex? With Rev. Dr. Gerhard Bode 51:42

5M ago51:42

51:42

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 knowl…

1
Blending Passions and Purpose: Dan Morton's Transition from Corporate to Church Leadership 49:53

5M ago49:53

49:53

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…

1
Becoming a Community that Deeply Loves One Another with Rev. Chris Singer 54:51

5M ago54:51

54:51

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 sur…

1
Learn from the Culture and Mission of the LCMC with Pastor Mike Bradley 48:10

5M ago48:10

48:10

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 …

1
What Does 'Confessional Lutheran' Really Mean? with Reverend Dr. Joel Okamoto 54:33

5M ago54:33

54:33

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 livi…

1
What is 'Remnant Theology'? | The Future of Church Identity with Matthew Schultz 1:06:49

5M ago1:06:49

1:06:49

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 rev…

1
Viewing the World as Mission Field, not Apostates with Reverend Dr. Robert Newton 1:02:33

6M ago1:02:33

1:02:33

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 …

1
Are You Struggling with Church Communication? Let's Grow Together with Marlene Lamb 56:48

6M ago56:48

56:48

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 …

1
Empowering Gen Z: Blending Faith, Leadership, and Culture in Youth Ministry with Becky Chaplin 50:08

6M ago50:08

50:08

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…

Podcasts Worth a Listen

Pastor Dan Todd Podcasts

Podcasts Worth a Listen

Quick Reference Guide