138. Everyone’s Busy, but Nothing’s Moving: Fixing Parish Alignment
Jon and Thai explore why parish teams can be faithful, busy, and well-intentioned—yet still stuck. The problem isn’t effort or motivation, but misalignment caused by unclear communication, vague vision, and meetings that don’t lead to decisions.
Through concrete parish examples, they show how vague agreement (“yeah, we should do that”) without named ownership or follow-up quietly breeds frustration. When vision isn’t clear or actionable, every ministry feels urgent, priorities disappear, and leaders struggle to say no.
The conversation reframes meetings as decision-making engines rather than information dumps and highlights simple rhythms that restore clarity. The episode closes with a challenge to steward time well so leaders can spend less energy maintaining programs and more time actually ministering to people.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Parish teams stall not from lack of care, but from unclear communication.
Misalignment happens when decisions and ownership aren’t named in real time.
Vision must be concrete to function as a real decision-making filter.
Meetings that don’t produce decisions quietly create confusion.
When leaders steward time well, ministry shifts from maintaining programs to serving people.
NOTABLE QUOTES
“When everything feels important, nothing actually is.”
“Unclear roles aren’t the real problem. The real problem is that no one ever names the decision.”
“Meetings don’t create alignment. Decisions do.”
“There’s a real joy that comes from actually ministering to people, not just pulling off another program night.”
137. Priests Aren’t MBAs — And That’s Okay w/ Fr. Shane Deman
This conversation explores the gap between seminary formation and parish reality—and why that gap is not primarily about missing technical skills, but about human formation, self-knowledge, and shared leadership.
Father Shane Deman explains what seminarians are actually formed to do (preach, sanctify, govern) and why expecting priests to also function as MBAs, HR directors, and marketing experts is both unrealistic and unhealthy. The deeper issue isn’t competency—it’s overload, isolation, and a lack of shared responsibility between priests and the laity.
The episode ultimately argues that renewal stalls when ministry becomes program-driven instead of relationship-driven, and when both priests and parish leaders neglect the basics: prayer, self-awareness, healthy relationships, and trusting others with real responsibility.
Key Takeaways
Priests are formed to shepherd souls, not run corporations. Seminary formation is already full; expecting priests to “just add” business mastery misunderstands the priesthood.
The biggest gap isn’t skills—it’s self-knowledge and security. Healthy leadership flows from knowing one’s limits and inviting others to fill the gaps without fear or defensiveness.
Burnout is usually a breakdown of basics. Sleep, prayer, friendships, accountability, and boundaries are not optional—they are foundational.
Lay leadership is not about taking control, but offering gifts well. The most effective collaboration happens when lay leaders approach priests with humility, clarity, and a desire to serve—not to fix or override.
Renewal grows through relationships, not programs. One-on-one investment, prayer together, and trusted disciple-makers multiply far more fruit than perfectly executed initiatives.
136. Why Parish Renewal Stalls — and How Synodality Moves It Forward w/ John Gaffney
Synodality has become a buzzword that many parish leaders quietly find frustrating or annoying — often because it feels abstract, over-processed, or disconnected from real parish life.
In this episode, John Gaffney, Director of Evangelization and Mission for the Diocese of Des Moines, reframes synodality not as endless meetings or committees, but as listening that must lead to action.
Drawing from his experience at both the parish and diocesan level, John explains why synodality and pastoral renewal are not separate initiatives, but two dimensions of the same Spirit-led journey. He shares practical ways parishes can take the lived experiences of their people seriously, translate that listening into concrete decisions, and begin real cultural transformation — without burning out staff or multiplying meetings.
This conversation is especially helpful for parish staff and priests who feel stuck between good intentions and actual execution.
Key Takeaways
Synodality is not about more meetings. It’s about structured listening that leads to discernment and action.
Culture eats strategy for breakfast. Renewal fails when culture is ignored, even with a solid plan.
Listening is not responding — it’s understanding. Leaders must resist the urge to defend or fix too quickly.
Pastoral renewal happens when practices change, not when reports are written.
Lay leadership matters. Delegation and trust honor baptismal dignity and strengthen communion.
You don’t need to overhaul everything. One well-designed listening moment can unlock momentum.
135. What Apostolates Are Doing That Parishes Often Can’t w/ Eric Gallagher
What happens when we stop playing it safe in ministry and start offering real depth?
In this conversation, Eric Gallagher shares the heart behind Suscipe and the fruit that has followed a decade of intentional discernment. Drawing from years in parish and diocesan ministry, Eric explains why adults are often hungry for more than “milk,” how deeper formation actually bears fruit, and why apostolates are becoming increasingly essential in the life of the Church.
This episode is a hopeful permission slip for parish leaders who sense there’s more — and are wondering how to pursue it faithfully.
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Key Takeaways
Depth precedes fruit. Lasting evangelization flows from rooted discipleship, not volume.
Discernment comes before action. God’s vision clarifies what to say yes — and no — to.
People give their time where they see fruit. Engagement follows meaning.
Apostolates surface hunger. Parishes don’t need to fear them — they need to partner wisely.
You don’t need permission to go cultivate depth. You need courage, clarity, and obedience.
134. Don’t Avoid the Hard Stuff: Why Conflict Matters in Parish Life w/ Justin Derry
In this episode of the Catholic Ministry Professionals Podcast, Jon engages with therapist Justin Derry to explore the integration of mental health awareness within Catholic ministry. They discuss the importance of tough conversations, the impact of conflict avoidance in parish teams, and the necessity of self-care for effective ministry. Justin emphasizes the need for an integrated approach to personal well-being, highlighting the connection between physical health and team performance. The conversation also delves into actionable frameworks for addressing difficult conversations and the mindset shifts required for fostering healthy relationships within ministry teams.
133. Conversations That Change Lives w/ Mike Ward
In this episode of the Catholic Ministry Professionals Podcast, Jon Konz and Mike Ward discuss the transformative power of pastoral conversations in parish ministry. They explore the importance of being present, listening, and creating a culture of trust within the church community. Mike shares insights from his experience in pastoral ministry, emphasizing the need for intentionality in conversations, overcoming barriers, and leading with a clear vision. The discussion also highlights the significance of relationships and the impact of surprising conversations that can lead to meaningful change in the parish. Ultimately, the episode encourages parish leaders to engage in open dialogue and to be proactive in their ministry efforts.
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Being fully present and listening is crucial in pastoral conversations.
Transformative conversations often happen in unexpected moments.
We have to trust our people.
Building relationships is key to effective ministry.
Asking the right questions is key to unlocking potential.
Vision and clarity are essential for church growth.
132. The Hidden Bottlenecks Killing Parish Engagement
In this episode, Jon and Thai break open the real reason parish engagement feels flat or unpredictable: bottlenecks. Not spiritual weakness. Not apathy. Bottlenecks.
From confusing workflows to unclear ownership to scattered communication, most parishes are trying to grow while dragging dead weight behind them.
We walk through the most common bottlenecks, why they matter, and how they quietly block parishioners, volunteers, and even staff from moving deeper into mission.
You’ll also learn a simple, practical process for mapping your current systems, identifying the real friction points, and redesigning your workflow so engagement becomes predictable instead of accidental.
We also introduce a free tool — the Workflow Mapping Worksheet — that will help your team name the problem, build the solution, and start moving with clarity.
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TAKEAWAYS
Engagement breaks down at the bottlenecks, not the margins.
Most parishes lack a shared definition of what “good engagement” looks like.
The highest-leverage fix is mapping the workflow behind one engagement metric.
Bottlenecks become obvious when steps and owners are written down.
Engagement increases when leadership alignment replaces guesswork.
131. AI for Catholic Churches
AI isn’t a threat to ministry—it’s a tool that helps you reclaim time for mission. In this episode, Jon and Thai talk about how parish leaders can start small, build confidence with AI tools, and make the shift from busyness to intentional leadership.
TAKEAWAYS
You don’t need to be techy to use AI effectively.
Start with a Time Audit Worksheet to see where your time goes.
Automate or delegate the mundane so you can focus on mission.
130. Principled Flourishing w/ Mike “The Monk Guy” Ferrell
In this conversation, Mike Ferrell discusses the concept of profound hospitality, emphasizing the importance of approaching everyone as if Christ were present. He outlines five key points that define this approach, focusing on the need for surprise, delight, and attention to detail in creating a welcoming environment.
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Takeaways
Profound hospitality means treating everyone as Christ.
Surprise and delight are essential elements of hospitality.
Measuring actions against the principles of hospitality is crucial.
Breaking down walls in business requires a new approach to hospitality.
Attention to detail can transform customer experiences.
129. From Visitor to Disciple: Building a Culture of Engagement
Thai and Jon discuss effective strategies for transforming visitors into disciples within Catholic parishes. They emphasize the importance of intentional engagement, creating follow-up systems, and personalizing communication to foster a welcoming environment. The conversation highlights actionable steps that parishes can take to enhance visitor experiences and build lasting connections.
Takeaways:
Engagement begins with awareness, systems, and communication.
Hospitality must be consistent, personal, and intentional.
Visitors are more likely to return when they feel seen, valued, and invited into next steps.
128. Designed for Discipleship w/ Heidi Indahl
In this episode Jon Konz and Heidi Indahl discuss the transformative approach of Designed for Discipleship, which integrates quality education with authentic faith formation. They explore the gaps in traditional catechesis, the importance of a discipleship-driven mindset, and the four key principles that guide effective faith education. Through real-life examples, they highlight the breakthroughs experienced by parishes and schools that have adopted this approach, emphasizing the need for a personal relationship with Jesus as the foundation for spiritual growth.
TAKEAWAYS
Curriculum alone won't solve faith formation issues.
Discipleship should be the primary focus of education.
Understanding faith increases reverence and desire.
Planning must start with the end goal in mind.
Teaching methods should adapt to different age groups.
127. Rural Catholic Youth Ministry w/ Kevin Losleben
In this episode of the Catholic Ministry Professionals Podcast, Jon interviews Kevin Losleben about challenges and opportunities in rural Catholic youth ministry. They discuss the importance of equipping leaders, creating sustainable programs, and fostering authentic relationships with youth. Kevin shares practical steps for starting youth groups, overcoming common objections, and the impact of one-on-one mentorship in youth ministry. The conversation emphasizes the need for simplicity, sustainability, and authenticity in engaging young people in faith.
Visit CatholicMinistryProfessionals.com to learn more.
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Takeaways
Equipping leaders is essential for sustainable youth programs.
Authenticity is key to connecting with today's youth.
Simplicity in programming helps prevent burnout.
Investing in youth is crucial for the future of the Church.
Starting a youth group can be done with minimal budget.
Prayer and discernment are vital before launching initiatives.
126. Evangelization that scales: Don’t just do the work — MULTIPLY THE MISSION
If you feel like you’re carrying the mission alone, this episode will help you shift from doing the work to building systems and teams that multiply evangelization. You’ll learn practical ways to form others, build simple rhythms, and create sustainable ministry that grows beyond your own time and energy.
Visit CatholicMinistryProfessionals.com and move from frustration to renewal today.
TAKEAWAYS
You can’t sustain ministry alone—systems and people multiply impact.
Start with beauty. Beauty opens hearts to truth and goodness.
Multiplication starts small—one person, one rhythm, one repeatable process.
125. Stop wasting time: How to have meetings that matter
Parish meetings often feel like they go in circles—lots of talking, little action, and even less fruit. In this episode, Jon and Thai unpack why so many meetings feel pointless and how to fix them by anchoring every conversation in mission, goals, and accountability.
You’ll learn how to move your meetings from maintenance to momentum, where clarity replaces confusion, and every conversation moves your parish closer to making more disciples.
TAKEAWAYS
Start every meeting with prayer and a reminder of your parish mission.
Establish a clear rhythm for identifying and pursuing mission-oriented goals.
Build accountability by reviewing next steps and progress at each meeting.
Change happens through small, consistent actions—not big overhauls.
Renewal begins when your meetings move from maintenance to mission.
124. Fundraiser or Outreach Event: Reframing the Fall Festival
Your parish festival doesn’t have to be just a fundraiser or a social gathering. With the right perspective, it can become your biggest outreach event of the year. In this episode, Jon walks through how pastors and parish leaders can reframe success, equip volunteers with 3 simple questions, and lead their parish into mission during the festival.
Takeaways
Parish festivals are often limited to fellowship without outward purpose — but they can be so much more.
Equipping volunteers with 3 scripted hospitality questions makes outreach simple and practical.
Success isn’t measured by dollars raised, but by connections made and lives touched.
Small, intentional shifts can transform a fundraiser into a mission-focused event.
123. Solve Problems and Create Joy
It can be tempting to see problems as interruptions — something to push through or avoid. But what if problems are actually the places where God wants to show His power? In this episode of the Catholic Ministry Professionals Podcast, Thai and Jon unpack how solving problems creates joy, how to break problems into practical steps, and how inviting others into the process accelerates transformation.
If you’ve been frustrated by ongoing issues in your parish, this conversation will help you reframe those frustrations as opportunities for renewal.
TAKEAWAYS
Joy isn’t found in avoiding problems — it’s found in solving them with the Lord.
All problems break down into three categories: conversations, tasks, and processes.
Ownership accelerates transformation — when others own the solution, the fruit multiplies.
122. A new era for Catholic Ministry w/ Zach Rawson
In this episode of the Catholic Ministry Professionals Podcast, Jon speaks with Zach Rawson, the Director of Youth Ministry and Faith Formation for the Diocese of Winona, MN. They discuss the challenges and opportunities facing rural parishes as they transition to new leadership structures and groupings. Zach shares insights on innovative approaches to faith formation, the importance of empowering parents, and the hope for renewal in ministry through collaboration and community engagement.
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Takeaways
Rural parishes are facing significant changes, including groupings and shared leadership.
Effective youth ministry requires collaboration among parish staff and community members.
Empowering parents is crucial for the spiritual development of children.
The church offers hope and healing through Jesus, especially for young people.
Bishop Barron's vision emphasizes evangelization and increasing seminarian numbers.
Real change often comes from small, intentional actions rather than large programs.
121. From frustration to fun: REDISCOVER JOY in Your Parish Work
Parish ministry doesn’t need to feel heavy. In this episode of the Catholic Ministry Professionals Podcast, we talk about how to move from frustration to fun by rediscovering joy in your parish work. You’ll learn how reconnecting with your “why,” solving problems with creativity, and keeping score where it counts can reignite the fruit of the Spirit in your ministry.
TAKEAWAYS
Joy is not optional—it’s one of the fruits of the Spirit that fuels lasting ministry.
Solving problems with creativity can actually spark joy and strengthen community.
Focusing on lead measures keeps you hopeful and effective, even before big numbers change.
120. Getting UNSTUCK in ministry
In this episode of the Catholic Ministry Professionals Podcast, Jon discusses how to overcome stagnation in ministry. He emphasizes the importance of identifying specific stuck points, engaging in discernment through prayer and community feedback, and taking actionable steps to create sustainable progress. The conversation highlights the need for clarity, intentionality, and small, measurable actions to foster growth and engagement within the parish community.
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TAKEAWAYS
Feeling stuck in ministry is common and can be addressed.
Naming specific stuck points is crucial for progress.
Engage with peers and parishioners for feedback.
Keep action plans small and measurable.
Small adjustments can lead to significant changes over time.
Consistency is vital for long-term success in ministry.
119. The Organized Saint w/ Nicole Morse
In this episode of the Catholic Ministry Professionals Podcast, hosts Thai and Jon engage with Nicole Morse, the new Director of Lifelong Faith Formation at Divine Mercy Parish. Nicole shares her experiences from a recent workshop that provided her with tools for effective ministry, emphasizing the importance of organization, communication, and building relationships within a merged parish setting. The conversation highlights the challenges of unifying multiple parishes, the significance of prayer and discernment, and the need for parental involvement in faith formation. Nicole's insights on celebrating small wins and fostering a collaborative environment among parish leaders offer valuable lessons for Catholic ministry professionals.
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Takeaways
Nicole emphasizes the importance of being organized in ministry.
Building relationships is crucial for fostering unity among parishes.
Prayer and discernment are essential for effective leadership.
Celebrating small wins can help maintain motivation in ministry.
Engaging parents in faith formation is vital for children's spiritual growth.
Listening to individual stories helps in understanding parish dynamics.
Creating a collaborative environment leads to better communication.
The role of a director involves serving and supporting others.
Clarity of vision helps in achieving ministry goals.
Surrendering challenges to God can lead to unexpected blessings.