Best Pew Research Center Podcasts (2025)

1
Conviction and Cause: The Lutheran Balance 55:04

4d ago55:04

55:04

Dr. Jon Braunersreuther joins Tim Ahlman to challenge one of the most persistent false dichotomies in Lutheran circles: the notion that being "confessional" and "missional" represent opposing priorities. Drawing from his role as Director of District-Wide Strategy for the Texas District LCMS, Jon presents a compelling alternative—a reciprocal and re…

1
Tim Ahlman Issues a Formal Apology to the LCMS... 20:55

12d ago20:55

20:55

Tim Ahlman shares important commitments being made to increase unity in the LCMS regarding pastoral formation discussions, explaining his decision to step back from public commentary on this topic while pursuing appropriate denominational channels for dialogue. • Tim commits to no longer discussing LCMS pastoral formation on his podcasts or promoti…

1
Jesus Never Feared a Tough Conversation (And Neither Should the LCMS) 47:28

16d ago47:28

47:28

Attorney Kurth Brashear doesn't shy away from addressing the challenging governance issues facing the Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod today. Drawing from his extensive experience in both church leadership and legal practice, he offers a candid assessment of how the church's governance structures sometimes hinder rather than help our shared mission. …

1
Your Body Matters: Ethics and Faith in the Age of AI 56:48

19d ago56:48

56:48

What does it mean to be human in an age where technology increasingly blurs the lines between body and machine? Dr. John Pless, professor at Concordia Theological Seminary, tackles this question through the lens of Lutheran ethics. • Lutheran ethics begins with our relationship to God, not merely descriptive or prescriptive approaches • Transhumani…

1
The Wittenberg Project: Mission, Collaboration, and Growth in the LCMS 1:04:49

23d ago1:04:49

1:04:49

Tim and Jack welcome Tyree Toney (aka Lex Lutheran) to discuss his transition from a Baptist background to confessional Lutheranism, the Wittenberg Project, and opportunities for growth and enhanced mission within the LCMS. • Lex shares his journey from a Baptist upbringing through Catholicism and Methodism before finding his home in confessional L…

1
From Liturgical Purist to Pragmatist: Rethinking Lutheran Worship 50:49

26d ago50:49

50:49

Dr. Kent Burreson shares his 25-year journey teaching Lutheran worship, exploring how liturgy should serve the gospel rather than becoming an end in itself. He offers wisdom on balancing historical practices with contextual relevance while keeping Christ at the center of worship. • Journey from liturgical purist to liturgical pragmatist • How polit…

1
Rethinking LCMS Conflict: Lessons from Seminex to Today 50:10

1M ago50:10

50:10

Tim and Jack welcome back Nick Graff, a former Marine Corps sergeant and special forces member, to discuss the aftermath of Seminex and its implications for the modern Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. • The aftermath of Seminex resulted in a more confessionally unified LCMS while also creating a spirit of disunity • Contemporary debates about worshi…

1
The State of the LCMS: Insights from the New Pew Research Study 1:04:57

1M ago1:04:57

1:04:57

The Lutheran Church Missouri Synod faces significant challenges based on the latest Pew Research Center findings, with declining prayer frequency, weekly worship attendance, and scripture reading. Tim and Jack offer candid insights into the demographic shifts and spiritual trends affecting LCMS congregations nationwide. • LCMS demographics show an …

1
The Center for Missional and Pastoral Leadership: A Big Announcement 47:51

1M ago47:51

47:51

The rapid decline in active LCMS pastors—down 10% in just two years—underscores the need for new approaches to theological education that remain confessionally Lutheran while meeting modern ministry contexts. Enter the Center for Missional and Pastoral Leadership: Biblical. Reformational. Missional. Affordable. Global. Visit https://cst.ilt.edu/cmp…

1
The Lost Art of Listening with Pastor Brian Davies 50:52

1M ago50:52

50:52

Listening may be the most powerful yet underutilized tool in our spiritual arsenal, particularly in a culture that prizes quick responses and winning arguments over deep understanding. Grab Pastor Brian Davies' new book! • Pastor Brian Davies introduces his book "Captivating Conversations: How Christians Can Reclaim the Lost Art of Listening" • Jes…

1
Rethinking Ministry: The Power of Co-Vocational Leadership in Church Growth 58:19

1M ago58:19

58:19

Pastor Robert Balduc shares his journey from corporate life at Ford to planting St. Peter Lutheran Church and becoming an intentionally co-vocational pastor maintaining his role at Volkswagen alongside ministry leadership. • Coming from a corporate background before entering seminary and founding St. Peter in 2006 • Transitioning to a co-vocational…

1
The Biblical Case for Raising Up Leaders in Your Church 39:31

2M ago39:31

39:31

Tim and Jack explore why developing church leaders locally is both biblical and essential for church health and growth. • The urgent need for leadership in the post-Christian, secular American context • Sustainable leadership training that is robust, affordable, and accessible • Cultural relevance – locally developed leaders understand their commun…

1
The Value of Walking Together: How Church Plans Protect Workers 41:37

2M ago41:37

41:37

Jim Sanft, President and CEO of Concordia Plan Services, breaks down the differences between single-employer church plans and multiple-employer denominational benefit programs like CPS. He offers crucial insights on how CPS's governance structure provides strong protection for LCMS workers' retirement security. • Addressing a recent Wall Street Jou…

1
How the LCMS Can Live in Concordia (Harmony) 57:49

2M ago57:49

57:49

Pastor Andrew Jones shares insights on unity within the Lutheran Church Missouri Synod, exploring how harmony functions differently from uniformity and creates a more beautiful expression of Christ's body. • Concordia (harmony) creates beauty through diversity of notes working together rather than identical sounds • Musical metaphors illuminate chu…

1
Holy FOMO: How to Build an Invitation Culture 32:42

2M ago32:42

32:42

We explore the theological and practical foundations for creating an invitation culture in your church and why it's essential for long-term growth and sustainability. • Churches often resist growth because people fear change and want to maintain personal relationships with everyone • The church uniquely transforms people from consumers to contribut…

1
Feel Like Your Church is Invisible? Church Marketing Conversation from an LCMS perspective 36:49

2M ago36:49

36:49

Discover actionable church marketing strategies to boost attendance and connect with your community. This episode emphasizes the importance of authentic outreach in today's changing landscape. • Discusses the significance of church marketing for growth • Shares three key outreach strategies: announcements, invitations, and hospitality • Details the…

1
Does Branding Matter for Churches? With James Saleska 34:48

2M ago34:48

34:48

The episode delves into the significance of branding in church ministry, emphasizing how identity and storytelling play crucial roles in reaching new audiences. Church leaders are encouraged to rethink their approach to branding, ensuring alignment between mission statements and the experiences they provide. • Emphasis on the holistic nature of bra…

1
Journey of Faith: Reverend Dr. Dale Meyer on Ministry, Culture, and Personal Growth 54:26

3M ago54:26

54:26

Rev. Dr. Dale Meyer shares his profound insights on faith, ministry, and the church's evolving role in a rapidly changing world. He emphasizes the significance of building genuine relationships within local congregations and encourages leaders to embrace adaptability while reflecting on their vocation and the importance of community outreach. • Hig…

1
How the Light Shines Through with Rev. Dr. Chad Lakies | Part 2 59:04

3M ago59:04

59:04

The episode focuses on the interconnected themes of identity and story, emphasizing that understanding one's identity as a gift can alleviate the burdens of self-creation. Rev. Dr. Chad Lakies leads the discussion on navigating authenticity in a complex society, the role of suffering, and the impact of essentialism in relationships. • Exploring the…

1
How the Light Shines Through with Rev. Dr. Chad Lakies | Part 1 53:05

3M ago53:05

53:05

See Graphic: Believers are called to resist the discouraging narratives of darkness and hopelessness by embodying empathy, vulnerability, and resilience. Through creative community engagement, Dr. Chad Lakies inspires a refreshed understanding of church as a beacon of light, extending beyond its walls into the world. • Importance of resilience in t…

1
Discussing Church Growth - From a Lutheran Church Missouri Synod Perspective 25:11

3M ago25:11

25:11

This episode dives deep into the importance of multiplication over mere growth in church leadership. We explore humility as a foundational quality for leaders, the biblical basis for raising up other leaders, and practical steps for cultivating a culture of discipleship. • Emphasizing humility as a key trait for effective leaders • Understanding mu…

1
Hope in the LCMS: Celebrating the Good - Lutheran Hour Ministries Speaker Rev. Dr. Michael Zeigler 51:34

3M ago51:34

51:34

Rev. Dr. Michael Zeigler shares his hopeful perspective on the LCMS, emphasizing the importance of cultural hospitality and unity through shared goals. The conversation explores the mission of Lutheran Hour Ministries, the importance of dialogue in faith, and the future vision for a welcoming church community. • Discussing hope and innovation withi…

1
Does the LCMS Even Need New Churches?! | Pastor Ted Doering 1:03:56

3M ago1:03:56

1:03:56

Pastor Ted Doering discusses the critical need for church planting and revitalization within growing communities in this episode. He emphasizes the importance of hospitality, adaptability through challenging times, and unity within the LCMS, offering insights and encouragement for listeners engaged in church leadership and discipleship. • Exploring…

1
Did Jesus Really Say That!? | Rev. Dr. Chris Kennedy 44:27

3M ago44:27

44:27

Rev. Dr. Chris Kennedy joins us for an impactful discussion on the challenges and joys of pastoral ministry, exploring difficult sayings of Jesus and their relevance in today's church. We reflect on leadership, personal growth, and the importance of clear communication in ministering to others. • Reflecting on the joys of pastoral work, especially …

1
Video Preaching in the LCMS...Yea or Nay?? | Aaron Engelman 43:45

4M ago43:45

43:45

Aaron Engelman shares his journey of discovering meaningful roles within the church beyond traditional pastoral work, emphasizing the importance of technology and innovation in ministry. The conversation explores the changing landscape of church work, where professionals can leverage their skills to serve the gospel effectively while fostering conn…

1
Changing the Culture of LCMS Conventions with Rev. Dr. David Maier 58:54

4M ago58:54

58:54

This episode highlights the central theme of transforming the church’s approach to mission work by prioritizing outreach and collaboration. Dr. David Maier discusses the rebranding of the Mission Partners Platform into ‘The Center’ and focuses on unity, humility, and effective community engagement within church leadership. • Importance of making Je…

1
Our Current Frustrations with the Lutheran Church Missouri Synod 23:16

4M ago23:16

23:16

https://www.uniteleadership.org/post/from-power-to-invitation-easing-frustration-and-building-trust-within-the-lcms In this conversation, Tim Ahlman and Jack Kalleberg discuss the impact of culture on the local church, focusing on leadership styles, the importance of values and mission, and the frustrations within the Lutheran Church Missouri Synod…

1
Faith, Sacrifice, and the Future of the LCMS with Pastor Jeff Cloeter 50:31

4M ago50:31

50:31

https://lovedsent.org/ What happens when the calling of faith meets the complexities of modern life? Pastor Jeff Cloeter joins us for a heartfelt discussion about the joys and trials faced by pastors today. From extraordinary stories of faith, to the core mission of transforming hearts and spreading God's love, we explore the evolving landscape of …

1
We're Jesus People First - Gospel Centered Leadership with Pastor Tom Pfotenhauer 52:00

4M ago52:00

52:00

The episode revolves around the themes of identity, community, and the joy of Jesus as central aspects of faith. Pastor Tom Pfotenhauer shares his extensive Lutheran heritage and emphasizes how belonging can empower congregants during struggles, illuminating the significance of hospitality and strong community ties in ministry. • Discusses the sign…

1
Managing Change within a Long-Established Community: Pastor Tim Niekerk's Journey at Salem Lutheran Church 53:51

4M ago53:51

53:51

The journey of church leadership can be filled with challenges, as Tim Niekerk shares his experiences navigating change, trust, and moral crises at Salem Lutheran Church. His story illustrates the importance of communication and understanding in fostering a healthy church community while also addressing the unique complexities of leading a long-sta…

1
The Challenge of Diversity in the LCMS with Pastor Gregory Manning 50:31

4M ago50:31

50:31

This podcast episode explores the transformative journey of Broadmoor Community Church under Rev. Gregory Manning, emphasizing the importance of inclusivity and community engagement in urban ministries. Listeners gain insight into the challenges and strategies of creating a culturally relevant church that serves a diverse congregation, particularly…

1
From Doctrine to Outreach in Lutheran Thought with Rev. Dr. John Pless 47:14

4M ago47:14

47:14

Lutheranism’s struggle between mission and doctrine finds renewed clarity in this episode as Dr. John Pless offers insights from his unique journey and extensive theological experience. The conversation highlights how confessional integrity lays the groundwork for effective mission work, calling for unity and collaboration among church members to a…

1
Beyond the Breakwater: Pastor Ed Doerner's Innovative Approach to Church Ministry 1:03:02

5M ago1:03:02

1:03:02

Lead Time listeners, Tim Ahlman here! We love bringing you content to grow as leaders in your ministry and beyond, but we want to make sure we’re hitting the mark. Can you help us out by filling out a quick 5-question survey? It’ll take less than a minute and help us know what you like about the podcast, what topics you want more of, and even which…

1
Balancing Tradition and Innovation: Pastor Zach Zehnder's Journey 53:47

5M ago53:47

53:47

Lead Time listeners, Tim Ahlman here! We love bringing you content to grow as leaders in your ministry and beyond, but we want to make sure we’re hitting the mark. Can you help us out by filling out a quick 5-question survey? It’ll take less than a minute and help us know what you like about the podcast, what topics you want more of, and even which…

1
Passion for the LCMS and Its Future with Pastor Scott Gress 45:35

5M ago45:35

45:35

Lead Time listeners, Tim Ahlman here! We love bringing you content to grow as leaders in your ministry and beyond, but we want to make sure we’re hitting the mark. Can you help us out by filling out a quick 5-question survey? It’ll take less than a minute and help us know what you like about the podcast, what topics you want more of, and even which…

1
Tim Ahlman Makes His Dad Cry - Insights from a Lifetime in Service with Pastor Dave Ahlman 56:07

5M ago56:07

56:07

Discover how to sustain joy throughout a lifetime in ministry with insights from my father, Pastor Dave Ahlman. Starting each day with scripture and prayer, Dave emphasizes the role of a pastor as a humble messenger of God's grace. Joy acts as a vital fuel for effective ministry, and this episode unveils the power of seeking Jesus' love and mercy i…

1
Curious about How Rural Churches can Thrive? with Pastors Adam Finney & Mike Omtvedt 43:06

5M ago43:06

43:06

Discover how a former corporate leader brought his expertise into the world of pastoral ministry with Pastor Mike Omtvedt's inspiring journey. Transitioning from the business world to leading congregations at Hosanna Lutheran Church, Pastor Mike shares his story of utilizing corporate skills to ignite growth and connection within smaller communitie…

1
The Future of the Concordias with CU System President Rev. Dr. Jamison Hardy 57:06

5M ago57:06

57:06

Reverend Dr. Jamison Hardy, the newly elected president of the Concordia University System, joins us to unveil the transformative shifts brewing within the Concordia universities. Discover the impact of the 2023 convention's resolution 704B, which pivots the system from managing bricks and mortar to robust ecclesiastical support. We celebrate the v…

1
Was the Fate of CUAA Sealed? Gratitude in the Midst of Loss with Chance Childers 43:46

5M ago43:46

43:46

Coach Chance Childers, a pivotal figure at Concordia University Ann Arbor, joins us to share his insights on the meaningful intersection of faith and sports. In this conversation, Tim Ahlman and Coach Chance Childers discuss the significant role of Concordia Ann Arbor in shaping young lives through football and education. They explore the impact of…

1
An Apology, the Prior Approval Process, and Healthy Communication with Rev. Dr. Scott Seidler 19:33

5M ago19:33

19:33

What if the key to resolving church conflicts lies in a simple shift towards transparency and understanding? We confront past misunderstandings around the prior approval process within our synod, with Scott offering an apology to President Harrison and other leaders. The importance of clear communication becomes apparent as we extend an invitation …

1
Embracing Grace: Transforming Church Leadership and Mission with Pastor Jason Scheler 53:26

6M ago53:26

53:26

What if your church work felt like a true calling rather than just a job? We had the pleasure of hosting Pastor Jason Scheler, who shares his journey from selfishness to servanthood and the powerful transformation that occurs when we embrace grace. Through heartfelt stories, Jason recounts the pivotal role that dedicated teachers and spiritual infl…

1
Building Strong Foundations for Lutheran Education with Dr. Thomas Wrege 48:24

6M ago48:24

48:24

Unlock the transformative power of Lutheran education with insights from Dr. Thomas Wrege, who shares his extensive knowledge and experience in this episode. Discover how Lutheran schools approach education as a mission field, welcoming diverse families and teaching the Bible in a distinctively Lutheran way. Explore the challenges and joys of reach…

1
Revitalizing the Church One Small Community at a Time with Pastor Travis Hartjen 50:29

6M ago50:29

50:29

What if the future of the church lies not in grand, imposing structures, but in the intimate connections made within small communities? Join us as we uncover the fascinating journey of Pastor Travis Hartjen, a dedicated church planter and youth minister. His story is a powerful testament to the transformative potential of staying within the church …

1
The Joy of Being Lutheran with Dr. Thomas Cedel 1:07:53

6M ago1:07:53

1:07:53

What does it take to go from fighter pilot to leader in higher education? We explore this intriguing question with Dr. Thomas Cedel, a man whose journey is as diverse as it is inspiring. From almost joining the ranks of NASA astronauts to leading Concordia University Texas, Dr. Cedel shares his thoughts on the Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod and the…

1
Leading with Questions: Adaptive Leadership Insights with Dr. Vanessa Seifert 1:04:31

6M ago1:04:31

1:04:31

What if leadership wasn't about having all the answers, but about asking the right questions? Join us as we explore this paradigm shift with Dr. Vanessa Seifert, a respected leader in the Nebraska District of the Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod. With her deep expertise spanning theology, leadership, and ministry, Dr. Seifert brings a fresh perspecti…

1
Exploring Lutheran Mission Theology with Dr. Detlev Schulz: Bridging Mission and Confession 1:01:14

6M ago1:01:14

1:01:14

Discover the transformative power of Lutheran theology and mission work as we welcome the esteemed Dr. Detlev Schulz to our podcast. As a leading professor and missiologist at Concordia Theological Seminary, Dr. Schulz unpacks the profound insights from his influential book, "Mission from the Cross." Explore the concept of Missio Dei, where God is …

1
Revolutionary Ideas: Enduring Impact of Martin Luther's 95 Theses with Dr. Joel Okamoto 53:04

6M ago53:04

53:04

What if Martin Luther's 95 Theses still hold the key to understanding our modern world? Reverend Dr. Joel Okamoto joins us to uncover the timeless significance of Luther's challenge to the Roman Catholic Church, initially meant to ignite scholarly debate yet resulting in a revolutionary shift. We engage with the importance of open dialogue within c…

1
"Getting to Know Jesus" - Teaching the Bible with Relational Language with Rev. Paul Schult 56:33

6M ago56:33

56:33

Paul Schult, a pastor from Redwood City, California, joins us for a captivating discussion on transforming faith and leadership within the church. Explore the journey of his congregation's rebranding to Bridge City Church and delve into the relational depth of Christianity explored in his book, "Getting to Know Jesus." Learn how Paul uses relations…

1
Navigating Ethical Challenges: LCMS in a Politically Charged World with Rev. Dr. Joel Biermann 57:39

6M ago57:39

57:39

Join us for an enlightening conversation with Rev. Dr. Joel Biermann as we tackle some of the most challenging ethical dilemmas facing church leaders today. As our political landscape heats up, Dr. Biermann provides profound insights into how issues of sexuality, race, and immigration intertwine with rapid societal changes. Discover how Christians …

1
From Viral Video to Lifelong Mission | Mike Warneke: Journey of Faith and Hope in Uganda 57:39

7M ago57:39

57:39

What if you were called to action by a viral video and found yourself on a mission halfway across the world? Meet Mike Warneke, the passionate founder of Fields of Dreams Uganda, whose journey began with a deep-rooted faith and a life-altering visit to Uganda. Inspired by the resilience of the Ugandan people and a calling from his faith, Mike's mis…

Podcasts Worth a Listen

Pew Research Center Podcasts

Podcasts Worth a Listen