Stay up to date on what is happening in the LCMS!
(bi-weekly newsletter covering relevant LCMS topics from Pastor Tim)
https://www.uniteleadership.org/thelcmscurrent

In this episode of LEAD TIME, Tim Ahlman and Jack Kalleberg sit down with Pastor Scott Kirchoff to explore one of the most defining — and often misunderstood — aspects of Lutheran identity: the centrality of the Sacraments.

Drawing from decades of pastoral ministry, federal prison chaplaincy, and work on death row, Pastor Kirchoff challenges a subtle shift happening in American Christianity — where sermons become the high point and the Sacraments quietly move to the margins.

This episode is especially relevant for pastors, church leaders, and thoughtful members within the Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod who are asking hard questions about identity, formation, and faithfulness in a changing cultural landscape.

Support the show

Join the Lead Time Newsletter! (Weekly Updates and Upcoming Episodes)
https://www.uniteleadership.org/lead-time-podcast#newsletter

Visit uniteleadership.org

Stay up to date on what is happening in the LCMS!
(bi-weekly newsletter covering relevant LCMS topics from Pastor Tim)
https://www.uniteleadership.org/thelcmscurrent

Many churches feel tired, conflicted, or stuck—but can’t quite explain why.

In this episode of Lead Time, Tim Ahlman and Jack Kalleberg sit down with Kurt Senske, longtime LCMS leader and governance expert, to talk about something most churches never examine: how decisions actually get made.

From endless meetings and pastor burnout to stalled mission and internal conflict, this conversation explores how church structure can either support the Gospel—or quietly undermine it.

You’ll hear:
- Why many churches feel harder to lead today than ever before
- The hidden cost of outdated church decision-making models
- How healthy governance frees pastors to be pastors
- Why conflict avoidance is hurting congregations
- What faith-filled, mission-driven leadership can look like in the LCMS

This isn’t about importing corporate models into the church. It’s about stewarding leadership wisely so the mission of Jesus can flourish.

Whether you’re a pastor, elder, board member, or longtime church member, this episode will help you see your congregation with fresh eyes.

Support the show

Join the Lead Time Newsletter! (Weekly Updates and Upcoming Episodes)
https://www.uniteleadership.org/lead-time-podcast#newsletter

Visit uniteleadership.org

Stay up to date on what is happening in the LCMS!
(weekly newsletter covering relevant LCMS topics!):
https://www.uniteleadership.org/thelcmscurrent

In this episode of Lead Time, Tim Ahlman sits down with theologian and PhD candidate Will Fredstrom to explore AI through the lens of Christian theology, vocation, and embodied life.

This is not a fear-based conversation — it’s a thoughtful, hopeful, and deeply theological exploration of how Christians can live faithfully in a rapidly changing technological world.

Whether you’re a pastor, leader, parent, or simply wondering how AI is shaping your life, this episode will challenge and ground you.

Support the show

Join the Lead Time Newsletter! (Weekly Updates and Upcoming Episodes)
https://www.uniteleadership.org/lead-time-podcast#newsletter

Visit uniteleadership.org