“Like a Boss.” 5 characteristics of what that actually should mean.

Photo by Brooke Lark on Unsplash Trust is crucial for influence and credibility. Oren Harari in The Powell Principles: 24 Lessons from Colin Powell, a Legendary Leader shares a good word on establishing trust that’s essential for leaders to learn. People are inclined to trust those who… Are competent – individuals who have relevant knowledge and experience and…

Emotional and spiritual abuse from a pastor? Nah, that never happens.

In walks Mr. or Mrs./Ms. Narcissism. I’m wise. You’re not. I’m in charge. You’re not. Shut your mouth while I’m talking. Don’t ever talk to me that way? Do you know who I am? You don’t have the right or freedom to ask me questions or question my authority.  Intimidation. Threats. Long stares. Biting sarcasm.…

Before We Forget: Introducing Our Soon-to-Release Book

Over the course of a few years, Nathan Millican and I worked on a book with several other friends. The book is aimed at pastors and releases in June. Below is an excerpt from the introduction I wrote to the book. Links to pre-order the book, if you’re inclined, are at the end of this…

Mike Schoonover on boxing and 4 truths for your life.

Photo by Attentie Attentie on Unsplash TAKE A 9-COUNT Boxers train. A lot. We’ve all seen the movies. Movies of the underdog boxer incessantly training with motivational 80’s rock music playing in the background. The boxer who runs through the streets of his town in the rain and snow, morning, noon, and night. The sweat covered boxer doing…

Leadership Must Involve Encouragement

One of my favorite leadership expressions says that if you think you’re leading people but no one is following, you’re not leading – you’re just taking a walk. A surefire way to get people to stop following is to be demanding and correct them constantly without offering profuse encouragement. As Mark Chanski says in his…

Theological Triage, Yes. How about Emotional Triage, Too?

There are these moments. These situations where your conversation enters into the realm of debate. The disagreement is clear. Debate ensues. You hold one position, your friend another.  On the inside, you are convinced of your position. You have studied the issue, read your Bible, formulated careful conclusions, and are ready to stand your ground.…