The Tim Ahlman Podcast

Religion & Spirituality Podcasts

The Tim Ahlman Podcast is your go-to resource for inspiring conversations that equip leaders to thrive in every vocation, inside and outside the church. With three primary focuses, this podcast dives deep into: Leadership: Learn from experts across diverse fields as we explore how their insights can shape and sustain a healthy culture in the local church and beyond. Over 60% of listeners expressed a desire for practical discussions on cultivating thriving environments—and that's exactly what these conversations will deliver. Learn: Engage in deep theological discussions with scholars who illuminate how Christ is revealed on every page of Scripture. Together, we’ll bridge theology to the realities of a post-Christian America, ensuring practical application for today’s world. This segment aligns closely with the themes of the American Reformation Podcast and resonates with the 60% of you who crave more exploration in this area. Live: Discover healthy habits that empower leaders in all vocations to become holistically healthy. As followers of Jesus, we’re called to lead not only with faith but also with physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. Join Tim Ahlman as we navigate leadership, learning, and living with purpose, so you can lead with strength, wisdom, and a Christ-centered vision.

Location:

United States

Genres:

Religion & Spirituality Podcasts

Description:

The Tim Ahlman Podcast is your go-to resource for inspiring conversations that equip leaders to thrive in every vocation, inside and outside the church. With three primary focuses, this podcast dives deep into: Leadership: Learn from experts across diverse fields as we explore how their insights can shape and sustain a healthy culture in the local church and beyond. Over 60% of listeners expressed a desire for practical discussions on cultivating thriving environments—and that's exactly what these conversations will deliver. Learn: Engage in deep theological discussions with scholars who illuminate how Christ is revealed on every page of Scripture. Together, we’ll bridge theology to the realities of a post-Christian America, ensuring practical application for today’s world. This segment aligns closely with the themes of the American Reformation Podcast and resonates with the 60% of you who crave more exploration in this area. Live: Discover healthy habits that empower leaders in all vocations to become holistically healthy. As followers of Jesus, we’re called to lead not only with faith but also with physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. Join Tim Ahlman as we navigate leadership, learning, and living with purpose, so you can lead with strength, wisdom, and a Christ-centered vision.

Language:

English

Website:

https://americanreformation.buzzsprout.com

Email:

media@americanreformationpodcast.org

Episodes

Getting Through What You’re Going Through

2/19/2026

Author, spoken word poet, and speaker Tanner Olson joins the Tim Ahlman Podcast to talk about poetry, grief, humor, AI, NBA basketball—and most importantly—hope. Tanner’s newest book, Getting Through What You’re Going Through, releases February 17, 2026, and is a powerful collection of poems, essays, and reflections for anyone navigating anxiety, loss, identity questions, or spiritual wrestling. This episode is vulnerable, joyful, honest—and filled with encouragement for anyone who feels like they’re just trying to get through what they’re going through. Grab Tanner’s new book: https://www.amazon.com/Getting-Through-What-Youre-Going/dp/0310465745 Connect with Tanner at https://www.writtentospeak.com/ If this episode encouraged you, share it with someone who needs hope today. Support the show Watch Us On Youtube!

Duration:00:58:36

What Really Shapes Healthy Lutheran Churches?

2/4/2026

Tim’s new book is out now and tackles the real leadership and discipleship challenges facing the LCMS today. If you care about faithful, missional Lutheran leadership rooted in Scripture and love for the local church, this book is for you. https://www.amazon.com/Confession-Jesus-Mission-Pastors-Prayer/dp/B0G1685QDV/ref=tmm_hrd_swatch_0 Churches don’t drift toward mission—they drift toward maintenance. In this episode of the Tim Ahlman Podcast, Tim sits down with Pastor Dan Hauser to talk about what it really looks like to lead a church and school toward gospel-centered transformation. From reaching the unchurched through mission schools to creating a culture where people feel known and loved, Dan shares hard-won leadership insights shaped by decades of ministry, church revitalization, and church planting. They dig into the tension between traditional and contemporary worship, why vision and values matter more than ever, and how churches can move people from consumer Christianity to empowered discipleship. This conversation is especially relevant for pastors, church leaders, and educators navigating growth, cultural change, and mission in today’s church. Support the show Watch Us On Youtube!

Duration:00:50:41

A Lutheran (LCMS) Conversation on LGBTQ Questions

1/29/2026

Want to take part in the private Zoom Call with Pastor Tim?? 14 Spots remain! Your Purchase of Tim's Book is your ticket to the event! https://pci.jotform.com/cglc/confessing-jesus-mission-order-form In this episode of the Tim Ahlman Podcast, Tim is joined by Pastor Mark Schultz and Josh Salzberg for a careful, pastoral conversation about one of the most sensitive and emotionally charged topics facing the Church today. Rather than rushing to arguments or soundbites, this conversation slows down and asks a different question: What does it look like to lead with the gospel when real people and real pain are involved? Support the show Watch Us On Youtube!

Duration:01:13:43

Why “Spiritual but Not Religious” Isn’t Enough

1/21/2026

Want to take part in the private Zoom Call with Pastor Tim?? 40 Spots remain! Your Purchase is your ticket to the event! https://pci.jotform.com/cglc/confessing-jesus-mission-order-form In an age where many describe themselves as “spiritual but not religious,” what is actually being lost? In this wide-ranging conversation, Tim Ahlman sits down with Lutheran pastor and theologian Gabe Kasper to explore why intuition-driven spirituality ultimately leaves people unrooted—and why historic Christian confession, ritual, and community still matter deeply today. Wednesday in the Word What the Bible means and how we know, the longest running Bible study podcast in the world Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify Support the show Watch Us On Youtube!

Duration:01:01:05

Why Leadership Growth Often Stalls in Churches

1/15/2026

What if the church’s leadership problem isn’t theology—but formation? Want to stay up to date on LCMS Happenings from Pastor Tim? Join the LCMS Current: https://www.uniteleadership.org/thelcmscurrent In this episode of the Tim Ahlman Podcast, Tim sits down with John Rector, ministry leader, executive coach, and Area Director for Fellowship of Christian Athletes in Austin, Texas. John shares his journey from church planting and nonprofit leadership to coaching leaders in ministry and the marketplace. Together, they explore why coaching—not just preaching—may be the missing ingredient in leadership development, and how Jesus Himself modeled a coaching approach to discipleship. Whether you’re a pastor, church staff member, coach, or leader in the marketplace, this episode will challenge how you think about discipleship, authority, and legacy. 📌 Learn more about John’s work at https://rectorleadership.com/ 📌 Explore FCA Austin at https://fcaaustin.org/ Support the show Watch Us On Youtube!

Duration:01:04:40

Second-Chair Leadership: Hard Conversations That Matter

1/7/2026

What does faithful leadership look like when you’re not the one in charge? Want to stay up to date on LCMS Happenings from Pastor Tim? Join the LCMS Current: https://www.uniteleadership.org/thelcmscurrent In this episode of the Tim Ahlman Podcast, Tim sits down with Emily Phoenix, Program & Communications Director at KINDLE and host of Cultivating Second Chair Leaders, for a wide-ranging and honest conversation about leadership, identity, and faithfulness in today’s church. This episode isn’t about winning arguments — it’s about cultivating gentleness, courage, and Christ-centered leadership in a polarized age. Whether you’re a pastor, commissioned worker, lay leader, or simply someone longing for healthier conversations in the church, this episode invites you to slow down, listen well, and refocus on the mission of Jesus. Support the show Watch Us On Youtube!

Duration:00:54:32

The Voices in Your Head Are Shaping Your Leadership

12/23/2025

What voices are shaping your leadership—encouraging courage, or quietly reinforcing shame? In this episode of the Tim Ahlman Podcast, Tim sits down with pastor, coach, and author Jeff Meyer to explore the concept of your Internal Board of Directors—the inner voices that guide (or derail) your decisions, identity, and spiritual resilience. Jeff shares vulnerably about a dark season that exposed the power of negative self-talk, the theology of shame, and how leaders—especially pastors—often become their own harshest critics. Together, Tim and Jeff unpack how law and gospel shape our inner dialogue, why isolation is so dangerous for leaders, and how grace reshapes both our brains and our leadership. This conversation weaves together neuroscience, pastoral theology, Luther, Scripture, and practical habits for cultivating healthier internal leadership—anchored in baptismal identity and the Spirit of Truth. Want to stay up to date on LCMS Happenings from Pastor Tim? Join the LCMS Current: https://www.uniteleadership.org/thelcmscurrent Support the show Watch Us On Youtube!

Duration:00:46:38

The Fire That Sustains Ministry and Marriage

12/17/2025

In this episode of TAP, Tim Ahlman is joined by pastor, author, and theologian Carl Lehenbauer for a wide-ranging and deeply human conversation about ministry longevity, marriage, discipleship, and the fire of God’s love that holds it all together. Carl shares his journey from associate pastor to senior pastor—and now into a discipleship-focused role—reflecting honestly on burnout, self-awareness, delegation, and the quiet faithfulness that sustains long-term ministry. From there, the conversation moves into the heart of Carl’s new book, Fire and Song, a rich exploration of the Song of Songs as God’s love song to His people. Together, Tim and Carl explore: - Why love—not programs—is the foundation of a healthy church - How God’s love fuels marriage rather than asking couples to manufacture it - The connection between the Song of Songs, Pentecost, and the Holy Spirit - Why admiration and commitment still matter in a distracted culture - How marriage forms us into people who look more like Christ This episode is honest, theological, pastoral, and hopeful—a reminder that God’s love is not only proclaimed, but sung over His people. Want to stay up to date on LCMS Happenings from Pastor Tim? Join the LCMS Current: https://www.uniteleadership.org/thelcmscurrent Support the show Watch Us On Youtube!

Duration:00:48:31

From Felonies to Freedom: How Jesus Transformed Pastor Raygen Mitchell

12/10/2025

Pastor Raygen Mitchell from Scottsdale Bible Church shares his extraordinary journey—from a traumatic childhood, seven felonies, multiple incarcerations, and meth addiction… to a supernatural encounter with Christ that completely transformed his life. Want to stay up to date on LCMS Happenings from Pastor Tim? Join the LCMS Current: https://www.uniteleadership.org/thelcmscurrent In this episode, Tim and Raygen dive deep into: - How God uses suffering and brokenness to shape leaders - What Raygen means when he says “God said…”—and how Scripture formed his discernment - The explosive revival happening among Gen Z - Discipleship models that are actually working in large churches - What healthy multi-site leadership looks like - Why unity across denominations matters now more than ever This is one of the most powerful personal testimonies we’ve ever featured. If you’re longing for hope, revival, or clarity on how to disciple well in 2025 and beyond, this conversation will move you. Support the show Watch Us On Youtube!

Duration:00:51:22

Is Pastoral Formation "Adiaphora?" -- Dr. Biermann Explains

12/3/2025

Want to stay up to date on LCMS Happenings from Pastor Tim? Join the LCMS Current: https://www.uniteleadership.org/thelcmscurrent In this rich and wide-ranging conversation, Pastor Tim Ahlman sits down with Dr. Joel Biermann, Professor of Systematic Theology at Concordia Seminary—one of the most influential voices in the LCMS today. They tackle some of the most misunderstood and debated topics in Lutheran life: Adiaphora, Christian freedom, pastoral formation, worship, and Lutheran identity. Dr. Biermann offers historical clarity, theological precision, and pastoral wisdom on issues shaping the future of the church. What counts as Adiaphora? Are we making rules where Scripture hasn’t? What actually forms a pastor? How do congregations and seminaries work together? And how should pastors speak into cultural chaos without losing their footing in the gospel? Whether you're a pastor, lay leader, seminarian, or someone passionate about the future of the LCMS, this episode delivers clarity, challenge, and encouragement. Support the show Watch Us On Youtube!

Duration:00:39:52

How Porn Culture Shapes Church Leadership — Without Us Knowing

11/26/2025

Want to stay up to date on LCMS Happenings from Pastor Tim? Join the LCMS Current: https://www.uniteleadership.org/thelcmscurrent In this episode, Tim sits down with Dr. Andrew Bauman — author, researcher, and founder of the Christian Counseling Center — for one of the most eye-opening conversations we’ve ever had on the podcast. Dr. Bauman recently gathered data from 2,800 women serving in Protestant churches, uncovering patterns of sexism, power misuse, and cultural blind spots that many church leaders never see. We talk about: • What actually makes a church unsafe • The shocking data leaders need to hear • How porn culture has quietly shaped Christian leadership • Why Paul’s “women be silent” passages may not mean what you think • The shadow side of ministry leadership • True intimacy vs. AI-driven fantasy culture • How pastors can heal their own inner world to lead healthier churches This episode is not about politics — it’s about becoming a safer, more Christlike church. Dr. Bauman’s Book: Safe Church https://www.amazon.com/Safe-Church-against-Christian-Communities/dp/1540903974 Support the show Watch Us On Youtube!

Duration:00:53:23

Why Second-Gen Immigrant Ministry Matters More Than Ever

11/19/2025

Want to stay up to date on LCMS Happenings from Pastor Tim? Join the LCMS Current: https://www.uniteleadership.org/thelcmscurrent Today Tim sits down with Mulu Lemma, education program director for Hope for the Second Generation, an organization equipping and discipling second-generation Ethiopian immigrants and young adults across the U.S. and around the world. Find out more about Hope for Second Gen: https://www.hope4secondgen.org/ This episode dives into: - The spiritual challenges and opportunities facing second-gen immigrant youth - Why many young adults feel “caught between cultures”… and how the Church can meet them - The explosive growth of the gospel in Ethiopia - How the Holy Spirit is stirring up a global movement among Gen Z - How the digital age has opened a new mission field - Ministry models that empower young leaders across cultures - The importance of multi-generational discipleship Whether you're a pastor, ministry leader, parent, or someone passionate about reaching the next generation, this conversation will expand your vision for what God is doing right now among young people and immigrant communities. Catch On Fire Podcasts This channel does a deep dive into the scriptures so as to teach what it means to be... Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify Support the show Watch Us On Youtube!

Duration:01:02:03

What 1517 Is Really About: Faith, Freedom, and Lutheran Identity

11/12/2025

Want to stay up to date on LCMS Happenings from Pastor Tim? Join the LCMS Current: https://www.uniteleadership.org/thelcmscurrent Pastor Tim sits down with Erick Sorensen, church partnerships director for 1517, to unpack the story behind one of the most influential Lutheran movements today. They discuss how 1517 began, its open-handed approach to theology, and why Lutherans shouldn’t be afraid to collaborate with others in the wider body of Christ. From law and gospel to vocation, the conversation explores how Lutherans can stay rooted in confession while still learning from the broader Christian world. You’ll also hear about Erick’s personal journey from Calvary Chapel to Lutheranism, his mentorship under Tim Keller, and the exciting new 1517 documentary “Christ for You.” Support the show Watch Us On Youtube!

Duration:00:39:52

Facing Your Giants: Resilient Leadership with Naomi Stohlmann

11/5/2025

Want to stay up to date on LCMS Happenings from Pastor Tim? Join the LCMS Current: https://www.uniteleadership.org/thelcmscurrent Leadership coach and consultant Naomi Stohlmann joins Tim to unpack her Five Giants and Five Stones model — a Christ-centered framework for leaders to navigate internal and external challenges with courage, conviction, and clarity. From athletics to executive coaching, Naomi shares her journey of discovering how God transforms setbacks into strength and equips leaders to thrive in complex, uncertain times. Together, Tim and Naomi explore: - How to overcome fear, imposter syndrome, and burnout - The difference between courage and pride - What makes “growth conversations” possible in teams and churches - Why communication and trust are the heartbeat of healthy leadership 👉 Learn more about Naomi: https://www.innovative-leadership-solutions.com/ Catch On Fire Podcasts This channel does a deep dive into the scriptures so as to teach what it means to be... Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify Support the show Watch Us On Youtube!

Duration:01:01:12

The Bible in Every Language by 2033?

10/29/2025

Want to stay up to date on LCMS Happenings from Pastor Tim? Join the LCMS Current: https://www.uniteleadership.org/thelcmscurrent In this powerful episode, Tim Ahlman sits down with Kyla Rodriguez, Outreach & Engagement Coordinator for Lutheran Bible Translators, to explore one of the most ambitious missions in history: giving every person on Earth access to Scripture by 2033. Kyla shares her journey in ministry, the heart behind LBT’s global translation movement, and why she believes we’re living in a generation ripe for revival. From navigating cultural darkness to raising up women leaders in the church, this conversation is packed with honesty, faith, and vision. Topics include: - Responding to cultural darkness with light and grace - The coming wave of Bible access for all - Gen Z’s surprising hunger for God - Raising up female leaders in the church - Practical ways to reignite Scripture engagement in America Learn more about Lutheran Bible Translators: https://lbt.org Get the new 30-day devotional “God Speaks” by Allison & Zach Zehnder: lbt.org/godspeaks Support the show Watch Us On Youtube!

Duration:00:45:55

The Middle Way: Discipleship, Sabbaticals, and the Future of the LCMS

10/23/2025

Want to stay up to date on LCMS Happenings from Pastor Tim? Join the LCMS Current: https://www.uniteleadership.org/thelcmscurrent Pastor Aaron Gehrke has served 15 years in one congregation — something almost unheard of today. In this episode, Tim Ahlman sits down with Aaron to unpack what he’s learned about discipleship, leadership development, and staying healthy in ministry over the long haul. From raising up leaders who multiply, to embracing sabbaticals as essential rhythms of health, Aaron offers grounded wisdom for pastors and church leaders alike. They also discuss the growing conversation within the LCMS between “Barrier Breakers” and “Distinction Keepers” — and how faithfulness might actually live in the tension between both. Whether you’re a pastor, leader, or layperson passionate about the mission of Jesus, this conversation will challenge you to rethink how the church grows — not by doing more, but by developing more disciples who make disciples. 📧 Contact Pastor Gehrke for sabbatical resources: pastorgerhke@copperluth.org Support the show Watch Us On Youtube!

Duration:00:40:55

The Shroud of Turin, Women in the Church, and Walking Where Paul Walked

10/15/2025

What if the Bible came alive right before your eyes? Interested in the upcoming 2026 Pauline Epistle Pilgrimage through Rome and Greece? It's a life-changing trip that brings the scriptures to life. Want to Join the 2026 Trip? Contact: ✉️ Jeff Sutherlin: jeffsutherlin@gmail.com ✉️ Mark Renner: stjamespastorcares@gmail.com In this episode of The Tim Ahlman Podcast, Tim sits down with Pastor Jeff Sutherlin and Pastor Mark Renner to discuss faith, archaeology, and the early church’s unstoppable mission. From visiting Israel and Greece to uncovering new evidence around the Shroud of Turin, the conversation bridges the worlds of Scripture, science, and personal faith. They also tackle one of the LCMS’s most debated topics — the role of women in the church — exploring how the early church viewed leadership and how that compares to today’s discussions. Catch On Fire Podcasts This channel does a deep dive into the scriptures so as to teach what it means to be... Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify Support the show Watch Us On Youtube!

Duration:00:35:55

The Problem with “Playing It Safe” in LCMS Ministry

10/8/2025

What if the greatest threat to your ministry isn’t burnout—it’s playing it safe? In this episode, Dr. Cole Braun, CEO of the Lutheran High School Association of Greater Milwaukee, joins Pastor Tim Ahlman to unpack what bold leadership looks like in the Church today. From turning around struggling schools to writing his upcoming book Why Wouldn’t You?, Dr. Braun shares how curiosity, collaboration, and risk-taking can transform ministry culture. Together, they discuss: - Why most Christian leaders dream too small - How fear keeps churches from growing - The power of unity between schools and churches - Why curiosity is one of the most underrated spiritual gifts 💡 “If we serve a massive God, why are we dreaming so small?” — Dr. Cole Braun Let’s lead boldly, together. PodMatch PodMatch Automatically Matches Ideal Podcast Guests and Hosts For Interviews Support the show Watch Us On Youtube!

Duration:00:48:13

Why Worship Is More Than Music: A Conversation with Johnny Venegas

10/1/2025

What does it mean to truly live out your calling? In this episode, Tim sits down with Johnny Venegas, worship leader at King of Kings Church in Omaha, Nebraska, to hear his story of faith, music, and mission. From growing up as a pastor’s kid in Chile to finding his place in the LCMS, Johnny shares how God reshaped his heart for ministry, the struggles and beauty of church leadership, and why worship is about so much more than just music. Together, Tim and Johnny dive into: - How God turns struggles in ministry into growth. - The balance between emotions and theology in worship. - The role of excellence and authenticity in leading teams. - Finding peace and alignment in your true calling. This episode is a powerful reminder that every vocation is holy work—and that worship has the power to transform hearts. PodMatch PodMatch Automatically Matches Ideal Podcast Guests and Hosts For Interviews Support the show Watch Us On Youtube!

Duration:00:49:37

40 Years of Ministry: Lessons on Joy, Sabbath, and Reaching the Lost

9/24/2025

In this episode of the Tim Ahlman Podcast, Tim sits down with Pastor Jeff Scheich, who is celebrating 40 years of ministry. Together, they dive into the power of the resurrection, the importance of sabbath rhythms, and how the church can reach those who feel distant from faith. Pastor Jeff shares stories from launching the innovative 2:11 worship experience at Christ Lincoln, his lessons on saying “no” in ministry, and the balance of joy, reverence, and discipleship in Lutheran worship. They also discuss: - The historical evidence for the resurrection - Why Sabbath is critical for pastors and leaders today - How churches can welcome the de-churched and spiritually curious - The tension between tradition and innovation in Lutheran worship - Healthy habits for life, ministry, and family This conversation is a refreshing reminder that Jesus is alive, the church is for everyone, and ministry can be filled with joy. The Balance of Gray Faith That Challenges. Conversations that Matter. Laughs included. Subscribe Now! Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify Commission Six Eight Covering today's politics and current events through the lens of history and the... Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify Support the show Watch Us On Youtube!

Duration:00:56:26