Theory 2 Thriving

Jesse Enniss & Dave Zietlow

Leadership looks different depending on where you sit—the boardroom, the pulpit, the classroom, or the coaching office. But the principles? They're often the same. Join two hosts with decades of experience across business, ministry, consulting, and organizational development as they explore leadership theory through the lens of real practice. You'll get sharp analysis paired with warm relatability, serious insights without the corporate pretense, and frameworks you can actually use. Whether you're leading a Fortune 500 company, a nonprofit, a church, or just yourself, this is the conversation you've been looking for.

Episodes

  1. 5d ago

    Faith-Based Contingency Leadership

    The conversation explores the application of contingency leadership theory in churches and nonprofit spaces. It delves into the challenges faced by pastors, the importance of flexibility, and the need for support and connection in church leadership. The discussion also highlights the significance of effective listening, understanding generational differences, and maintaining authenticity in leadership roles. Read our Blog: Visit our Substack and our LinkedIn. Continue the conversation: visit our Discord Channel Takeaways Flexibility and adaptability are crucial in church leadershipEffective listening and understanding are essential in new church communities Chapters 00:00 The Absence of Contingency Planning in Churches03:14 Flexibility and Adaptability in Church Leadership05:06 Contingency Leadership and the Early Disciples09:18 Different Models of Church and Their Approach to Contingency11:14 Challenges Faced by Pastors in Church Leadership13:16 Navigating Leadership Transitions in Churches16:15 Training and Orientation for Pastoral Transitions17:53 Effective Listening and Understanding in New Church Communities21:52 Adapting Leadership Styles in Ministry22:57 Understanding Generational Differences in Church Leadership27:56 Navigating Leadership as an Associate Pastor28:44 Maintaining Authenticity in Church Leadership32:36 The Importance of Connection and Support for Church Leaders34:37 The Dangers of a Fixed Leadership Identity36:26 The Need for Support and Connection in Church Leadership

  2. Jul 17

    Contingency Leadership Theory

    Contingency leadership theory addresses the dynamic nature of leadership and the need for flexibility in response to unexpected challenges. It emphasizes the importance of understanding team dynamics, adapting to crises, and maintaining effectiveness in changing situations. The theory also highlights the need for leaders to recognize their own leadership style and adapt their strategies to the situation. The conversation explores the application of appreciative inquiry and contingency theory in the context of crisis and change, with a focus on the role of artificial intelligence. It delves into the characteristics of leaders who are likely to use contingency theory and the importance of self-awareness in contingency leadership. Read our Blog: Visit our Substack and our LinkedIn. Continue the conversation: visit our Discord Channel Takeaways Flexibility and adaptability are essential in leadership, especially in response to unexpected challenges.Understanding team dynamics and individual responses to crises is crucial for effective leadership. Appreciative inquiry and contingency theory play different but complementary roles in responding to crisis and change.The characteristics of leaders who are likely to use contingency theory include flexibility, adaptability, and the ability to work through people. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Contingency Leadership Theory01:35 Challenges of Contingency Leadership03:24 Adapting to Unexpected Challenges06:37 Leadership Styles and Crisis Response14:36 Vision and Goals in Crisis Situations19:32 Applying Appreciative Inquiry to Contingency Theory21:12 Navigating Crisis with Appreciative Inquiry22:41 Transitioning from Contingency Theory to Appreciative Inquiry23:38 The Role of Artificial Intelligence in Change Management30:23 Contingency Theory and the Characteristics of Leaders35:02 Self-Awareness in Contingency Leadership

About

Leadership looks different depending on where you sit—the boardroom, the pulpit, the classroom, or the coaching office. But the principles? They're often the same. Join two hosts with decades of experience across business, ministry, consulting, and organizational development as they explore leadership theory through the lens of real practice. You'll get sharp analysis paired with warm relatability, serious insights without the corporate pretense, and frameworks you can actually use. Whether you're leading a Fortune 500 company, a nonprofit, a church, or just yourself, this is the conversation you've been looking for.