Vanderbloemen Leadership Podcast

On this episode of the Vanderbloemen Leadership Podcast, we sits down with, Brett Connolly Executive Search Consultant at Vanderbloemen, to talk about what it really takes to develop young leaders in ministry. Brett shares his personal journey from almost pursuing a career in sports marketing to discovering his call to ministry, and eventually stepping into his current role. Together they discuss why exposure is just as important as experience, how churches can avoid the “revolving door” of student ministry hires, and what senior leaders can do today to invest in the next generation. If you want practical insights on building leaders who last, this episode is for you.

Leadership transitions do not have to be messy. In this episode of the Vanderbloemen Leadership Podcast, Sarah Meggars, Executive Search Consultant and former worship ministry leader, shares practical wisdom for both sides of the handoff. We talk about building trust fast, entering a new role with a learning posture, normalizing succession planning, and why humility and self-awareness matter more than ever. You will learn: How to design a “crossfade” handoff instead of a hard cut Ways new leaders earn trust without stalling for six months Why authenticity in the interview process protects both sides · How to spot and develop future leaders long before you need them Simple steps to make succession a normal, healthy conversation Whether you are handing off, stepping in, or preparing your organization for what is next, this conversation will help you build, run, and keep great teams.

In this episode of the Vanderbloemen Leadership Podcast, William Vanderbloemen unpacks the rapidly changing landscape of communication, and what it means for pastors, heads of school, and nonprofit leaders. From the importance of contextualizing messages to embracing an omnichannel strategy and understanding the timeless power of emotional connection, William shares practical tips and real-world stories to help you become a more effective communicator in today’s noisy world. Whether you’re crafting Sunday sermons, leading a staff meeting, or reaching your community online, you’ll walk away with tools for communicating clearly, consistently, and meaningfully—across every platform and generation.

In this episode of the Vanderbloemen Leadership Podcast, executive search consultant Ivette Naron shares practical and inspiring insights for leaders who want to think differently. From understanding the difference between problems and tensions, to using the “Six Thinking Hats” method for creative solutions, Ivette unpacks tools leaders can use to break out of the cycle of reactive problem-solving. Whether you’re leading a church, nonprofit, or business, this conversation will challenge you to: Step out of the weeds and gain organizational altitude Create margin for reflection (not just reaction) Embrace feedback as a friend, not an enemy Build a culture that supports collaborative problem-solving If you’re ready to lead with clarity and creativity, this episode is for you.

Behind every thriving team is a leader who knows how to spot the signs of trouble and take action. In this episode, Vanderbloemen COO Jennifer Paulson shares practical wisdom for identifying “check engine lights” in team health, from gossip and disengagement to meetings after the meeting. Learn why tough conversations matter, how to lead with transparency and humility, and how to develop future leaders who can do the same. Whether you’re leading a church, nonprofit, or business, this conversation will help you create a culture of trust and accountability that lasts.

What Makes a Workplace Truly Attractional? What sets apart the organizations top talent lines up to join and what makes others struggle to attract anyone at all? In this episode, we sit down with Eric Albert, Senior Executive Search Consultant at Vanderbloemen, to talk about what really makes a workplace stand out. Spoiler alert: it’s not the stocked snack fridge or the trendy job title. We explore what makes a culture truly attractional, the hidden factors that push candidates away, and why mission statements don’t mean much without action. Eric shares practical ways leaders can create a healthier workplace culture and tells a powerful story of a church that recognized its unhealthy staff environment and turned things around. Whether you’re hiring now or preparing for the future, this conversation is full of insights on how to build a team people want to join and stay on.

In this episode of the Vanderbloemen Leadership Podcast, William Vanderbloemen unpacks why the future of pastoral ministry isn’t about better preaching, trendier content, or digital strategy, it’s about returning to the roots of relational leadership. In a time when sermons can be streamed and content is everywhere, the greatest impact comes from something far more personal. AI might write sermons, but it can’t do pastoral care. Online church is helpful—but it’s the echo of the echo. The pastors people remember are the ones who showed up. Deep connection over drive-by engagement.  H2H (human-to-human) skills are the new essential leadership trait. Whether you're leading a church, nonprofit, or school, this conversation will help you rethink how you connect—and why the most meaningful ministry moments are still the most human.

In this episode of the Vanderbloemen Leadership Podcast, William Vanderbloemen unpacks one of the most common but overlooked challenges in leadership: invisible lids. These growth limiters—whether personal, organizational, or team-related—often hold leaders back without them even realizing it. Growth lids are often invisible but real. Flexibility fades with time—stay intentional. Time management is a leader’s greatest asset. Mediocre hires = long-term team ceiling. Don’t settle—anticipate and outgrow your lids. Whether you're just starting out or you're decades into your leadership journey, this episode will help you name the lids that might be holding you back—and how to plan ahead to grow beyond them.

In this candid and insightful episode, William Vanderbloemen talks through one of the hardest parts of leadership—what to do when you’re fired, forced out, or just feel like your season is ending. From William’s teenage painting job to his years in ministry and executive search, he shares real stories and practical advice on how to navigate transitions with self-awareness, integrity, and hope. He discusses: Why few people admit getting fired—and why they should How to process your part in a job loss without shame Why how you leave will be remembered more than what you did Signs a firing or transition might be coming The surprising power of rest in avoiding failure What to do if you're burned out, broke, or in-between roles Whether you're leading a church, business, or nonprofit, this episode is a must-listen for anyone navigating a difficult season. Your setback could be God’s setup for your comeback.

In this episode of the Vanderbloemen Leadership Podcast, Jared sits down with William Vanderbloemen to explore how church leaders can wisely navigate the rise of AI and other emerging technologies. From sermon preparation to staffing decisions, they discuss where AI fits into ministry—and where it doesn’t. Key discussion points include: AI in the Pulpit: Should pastors use AI to help build sermons? What’s ethical and what’s helpful? Human-First Ministry: Why the future of the church will depend on real human connection more than ever before. The Echo of Worship: What makes in-person ministry irreplaceable, even in a digital world. Hiring in the Age of AI: How churches and values-based organizations can future-proof their teams by investing in relationally gifted leaders. Tech-Savvy Leadership: Why every senior leader needs someone on their team who understands the digital landscape—and how to protect your data. Whether you're excited about AI or overwhelmed by it, this conversation will help you s

In this episode of the Vanderbloemen Leadership Podcast, Jared sits down with William Vanderbloemen to talk about one of the toughest leadership decisions: knowing when it’s time to add a team member — and when it’s time to let someone go. Drawing on lessons from church plants, nonprofits, and businesses alike, William shares practical advice, honest stories, and leadership insights for navigating team changes wisely. Key discussion points include: The Volunteer to Staff Shift: How to know when a volunteer is too vital to leave unpaid — and why delaying can cost you. Living on Margin: Why operating with financial margin is crucial to growing your team the right way. Hiring Doers vs. Leaders: How recruiting, training, and retaining volunteers is the real engine behind church and nonprofit growth. Avoiding Cheap Leadership: Why underpaying (or over-relying on free labor) eventually backfires — and what Scripture says about honoring laborers. Building a Resilient Team: Why every leader needs a “vomit l

In this episode of the Vanderbloemen Leadership Podcast, Jared sits down with William Vanderbloemen to unpack why vision isn’t just a top-level conversation—it’s the fuel that drives every part of a healthy organization. From pop quizzes on vision statements to the concept of "uber vision," they explore why vision clarity at all layers of leadership is critical for building, running, and keeping great teams. Key discussion points include: Vision at Every Level: Why it's not enough for just the leadership team to know the vision—and how to make sure everyone from the receptionist to the CEO is aligned. Uber Vision vs. Vision: How setting a high enough North Star can create momentum that carries the whole team farther than ever imagined. Turning Vision into Action: Why casting big vision must be paired with clear, practical steps so teams don't feel overwhelmed but empowered. Navigating Changes: How the age and size of an organization affect how quickly (or slowly) vision shifts can happen—and why urgen

In this episode of the Vanderbloemen Leadership Podcast, Jared sits down with William Vanderbloemen, to talk about what it really means to build a team from level zero. From working off a card table with just his dog for company to leading a thriving business, William shares humorous stories, hard-earned lessons, and practical advice for leaders who are building their dream team—especially in the early stages. Key discussion points include: Level Zero Leadership: Why you don’t need to look like a big organization to make a big impact—and how being small can be your biggest strength. Hiring Your First Team Members: The risks, mistakes, and mindset shifts leaders need to navigate when making their first few hires. Trust vs. Talent: Why hiring only people you “know” can backfire—and how to balance familiarity with fit. The Danger of Too Much You: How self-awareness and diversity of thought create healthy, high-functioning teams. Slow to Hire, Quick to Fire: Why rushing the hiring process is the number one mista

In this episode of the Vanderbloemen Leadership Podcast, Jared sits down with Eugene Lee, Director of Consulting at Vanderbloemen, to unpack what it really means to lead beyond your title. Together, they explore the kind of leadership that builds trust, inspires action, and creates lasting impact—not because of position, but because of influence. Key discussion points include: Leadership Beyond the Title: Why a role or title alone isn’t enough—and how true leadership is rooted in influence, not authority. Building Trust Through Relationships: How trust, not control, creates a thriving team culture. The Power of Self-Awareness: Why most leaders think they’re self-aware (but aren’t), and practical ways to get an honest view of yourself. Healthy Feedback Culture: How to both give and receive feedback in a way that builds people up and unlocks growth. Courageous Authenticity: What it looks like to lead with vulnerability—and why it might be your greatest leadership strength. Whether you're leading a team of two

In this episode of the Vanderbloemen Leadership Podcast, Will Klotz and Jared tackle burnout prevention in ministry leadership. They share candid insights, practical strategies, and personal anecdotes on recognizing burnout, nurturing healthy relationships, and balancing ministry demands with rest and recreation. Key discussion points include: Recognizing Burnout: How to differentiate between natural fatigue and the deeper signs of burnout that can derail your ministry.  The Power of Relationships: The essential role of having a coach, counselor, and friend to provide guidance, accountability, and honest feedback.  Rhythms of Rest and Recreation: The importance of integrating Sabbath practices, regular breaks, and hobbies to rejuvenate your mind and body.  Aligning with Your Strengths: Strategies for ensuring that your work leverages your unique gifts, preventing the misalignment that often leads to burnout.  The Ministry Marathon: Practical insights on sustaining long-term passion and energy in a demanding

In this episode of the Vanderbloemen Leadership Podcast, William dives deep into the art of building, running, and keeping a great team by tackling one of today’s most pressing challenges—turnover. He shares candid insights and real-world anecdotes on why people join a cause and why they leave, emphasizing that it’s rarely the company or mission at fault—it’s often the leadership. Key discussion points include: Vision vs. Management: How a compelling vision can attract talent, but a poor management approach drives them away. Realistic Expectations: The importance of setting clear, honest expectations during hiring to prevent disillusionment and turnover. Understanding Your Team: Strategies for learning how each team member is “wired,” and adapting your communication and leadership style accordingly. The Human Element: How genuinely connecting with employees—making them feel seen, known, and valued—can significantly boost retention. Practical Retention Tactics: From setting short-term goals to effect

In this episode of the Vanderbloemen Leadership Podcast, Jared sits down with Vanderbloemen Senior Executive Search Consultant, Eric Albert, to discuss how to recognize and cultivate emerging leaders within your team. Leadership development isn’t just about filling roles—it’s about equipping the right people with the tools to grow and thrive. They delve into: Key traits that indicate leadership potential and how to spot them early.  Practical steps for mentoring and developing future leaders within your organization.  The importance of delegation and hands-on coaching in leadership growth.  How investing in leadership development strengthens your team for long-term success.  Whether you’re leading a church, nonprofit, or corporate team, this episode provides actionable strategies to build, run, and keep a great team.

In this episode of the Vanderbloemen Leadership Podcast, Jared sits down with Vanderbloemen COO Jennifer Paulson to explore the art of people management and leadership development. Together, they discuss why the COO role extends far beyond numbers and operations—it's about understanding, empowering, and growing your team. They delve into: How managing people is at the heart of the COO role and why people challenges often trump operational ones. The essentials of effective delegation: why following up and hands-on coaching are critical for developing emerging leaders. The power of emotional intelligence in navigating difficult conversations and maintaining high team morale. Customizing your leadership style to meet the unique needs of individual team members for optimal performance. Reframing tough decisions—like letting go of employees—as opportunities for growth and a healthier organization. Whether you’re leading a church, nonprofit, or corporate team, this episode offers actionable insights to help you b

In this episode of the Vanderbloemen Leadership Podcast, William Vanderbloemen explores why credibility matters more than perfection in leadership and how to build lasting trust with your team. He delves into: The difference between perfection and credibility in leadership. How to maintain authenticity and integrity as a leader. Practical strategies to build trust that endures. Why striving for excellence, not perfection, leads to stronger leadership. Whether you're leading a church, business, or nonprofit, this episode will help you foster a leadership style grounded in trust and authenticity.

In this episode of the Vanderbloemen Leadership Podcast, William Vanderbloemen and Jennifer Paulson discuss the importance of setting clear goals and how leaders can create alignment to drive their teams forward. They explore: · How to set goals that are both ambitious and achievable. · Why defining success is crucial for team motivation and accountability. · The role of communication in keeping teams focused and aligned. · Practical strategies for overcoming obstacles and adapting goals when needed. Whether you’re leading a church, business, or nonprofit, this episode will provide actionable insights to help you clarify your vision, set meaningful goals, and build a team that is motivated to achieve them. Resources Follow William on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wvanderbloemen/ Follow Vanderbloemen on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vanderbloemen/ Rocket Fuel Book: https://www.amazon.com/Rocket-Fuel-Essential-Combination-Business/dp/1942952317