This Blog Site Is Changing

I have moved my blog to a new location. You can now find it at kyledowden.com. Also, check out my new church website at infinitychurch.tv.

Leading While the Boss is Away

I received the call early this morning. "Something has come up. Can you cover for me?" It was my boss. He is going to be gone for the day. Not too long ago, it was a two week vacation. Before that, it was a week long work-sponsored cruise

Whenever the boss is away, the mice have two choices: play or do their job.

Most of us get so used to the daily routine that we don't plan for the days when the department head is out of the office. Today, I have some thoughts on how you can spend these boss-free days.

Five Reasons Why You Need a Diverse Team

In the more than twelve years of involvement in leadership, one of the best lessons I have learned is the importance of having a solid team around you.

Teams provide so much more to a group or organization than a single person could do on their own.

Here are five reasons you need a diverse team surrounding you.

• A team of people gives you diversity. When a leader tries to go it alone, they are only able to provide the wisdom and experience of one lifetime. A team gives you access to several experts and lifetimes all in the same room.

• Teams multiply the abilities of the leader. One person can only work so hard and for so long before they wear down. A team can carry that burden and split the workload to accomplish the goal in a much more manageable timeframe.

• Teams provide accountability. The leader who thinks he should be accountable to no one has a fool for an advisor. Teams help to push the leader toward the goals of the organization, and provide necessary feedback for approval or correction.

• Teams allow the leader to delegate responsibilities to the most qualified and experienced in the company. This frees the leadership to dream up new ideas and vision, while ensuring the work is completed on time and with excellence.

• Finally, the leader who develops a competent and skilled group will be setting the company up for long term success long after the leader has left the organization. That its what we call "leaving a legacy."

What are some other benefits of a leadership team? I'd love to hear your thoughts.

Hire Me, I'm a Consultant

Every so often, I'll make mention that I do consulting work for artists and radio stations looking to improve what they do.

Everyone has an opinion on the quality of the product they produce. It is vital that your product (in this case, music and station) be reviewed by third parties and coached on ways to make it better.

I have expert knowledge in Christian music formats, and ways to make your music production better. Also, as an eight-year programming veteran at a Christian radio station, I can also advise on ways to make your crew stand out.

For more information on Kyle Dowden Consulting, drop me an email with your information, and I'll make contact with you about pricing and other details.

People Want to See You Fail

"I hope he fails."

Those were the words that Rush Limbaugh sent to the New York Times in January 2009 in response to a request the paper had sent out seeking comment about the upcoming inauguration of President Barack Obama.

Today's post isn't about politics, or who was right and who was wrong. It's about the fact that in the American culture (and presumably many others), we are all rubber-neckers.

Sin Will Take You Farther Than You Want to Go

That is the title to a very famous song from The Cathedral Quartet.

In Romans 7:15, Paul tells a familiar tale. I want to do the right thing all the time, but I don't. I don't want to ever sin, but I do.

I think that is the story of our lives -- even Christ-followers. We were born in sin, and after accepting Christ as our savior, we still live in a sin-filled world. We are still prone to sin. And, if we are honest with ourselves, when we head down that path of sin, we end up someplace we did not want to go.

Leading Like a Rock Star Does Not Make You a Rock Star

We live in a world that is dominated by personalities. The strong ones lead and influence. The weak trail and do what they're told.

At least, that's what we believe. But, in reality, the best leaders don't stick to this mold.

In his book, "Good to Great," author Jim Collins breaks leadership down into five levels. To his surprise, the study revealed that the level five (top level) leader was not the egocentric, self-absorbed person we might imagine. Instead, Collins says that some of the biggest personalities only produced moderate results.

Providential Moments

Last week, my wife and I were headed home from an appointment we had when she said, "Let's get pizza for supper."
I knew what that meant -- Little Ceasars. So, I drove the van the extra couple of miles to the nearest store to our home, and took one of my boys in to pick up supper.

Now, I have made this same trip to this same store dozens of times, and never has anyone called out my name. I mean, it would be cool if I walked in and everyone game me the Cheers-NORM treatment, but that has never happened...until last week.

Can Leaders Be Friends With Their Staff?

This is a great question that is always being asked. Can members of the leadership team be friends with those they lead?

There are two schools of thought on this, and today I want to explore these and give you my take.

Those schools of thought say either: yes or no. I would like to think it is yes AND no (at least a little no).

Leading Toward Happiness

Being a leader in the workplace is not easy. You are constantly being pulled in all directions by every imaginable force.

Employees always want your attention. The ownership wants more productivity. Customers want greater satisfaction. With all the strain and stress, it can be easy to overlook some of the smaller or less noticeable details.

But, ignore the small things long enough, and they will compound upon each other and eventually leave you with a mess to clean.

What One Thing Can I Do to Improve My Music?

When artists ask me what they can do to improve their chances of getting played on the radio, I typically tell them that good production and good singing are a great place to start.

To get those, and artist or group ususally has to spend big bucks in a recording studio. It's clearly one of those "you get what you pay for" deals.

But, simply saying good production or good singing isn't much of a measuring stick. But, there is one thing an artist can do to measure the "good" of their music.

Lead Like the World Depends on It

I admit guilt to today's post. I've done it before. And, I'm embarrassed to admit it. I've led small groups...I've taught...I've preached based on the size of the group.

What does that mean? Well, simply put, it's easier to lead or teach a large group of people when you can be the rock star they're all looking to. It's a lot more difficult when you're hoping for a great turnout, but only get a handful.

You might even prepare for a dozen, but when you get only two, the wind goes out of your sails, and you give a two-effort. On the flip side, if you prepped for two, but got the dozen, you would be thrilled.

The Myth of More than You Can Handle

I'm not a fan of bumper sticker theology. That's a term that easily describes quick, feel-good comments that are passed off as biblical theology.

Some carry absolute truth, such as "God loves you," or "Jesus is Lord of all." True, yes. But, they don't tell the whole story. For that matter, they don't even come close.

But, bumper sticker theology is best known for taking a biblical truth (or a part of it) and twisting it into something designed to give us warm fuzzies. One of the worst offenders is the notion that God will not give you more than you can handle.

Continuing Education for Business

One of the challenges that leaders face on a regular basis is ensuring that their people have what they need to do their job.

All too often in organizations, leadership will train a new hire how to do the job they were hired for and that is where the training stops.

But, the people under you need more than a one and done training session. They need a continual education to keep their mind sharp and their ability honed.

By continually training your staff, you can keep them updated on any of the changing forces within your industry. This keeps you ahead of the game, and puts you at the front of your competition.

An educated employee is a challenged employee is a happy, productive employee.

How to Make Southern Gospel Radio Better

I've been on the air for 19 years, most of it spent spinning southern gospel music. I've seen a lot over the years -- some good, some bad.

One of the things I have figured out is that there is a great misconception about what southern gospel is, and what it is not. Many people outside the genre think it to be a poor quality style of music. They may cite poor vocals, poor arrangements, poor concerts, aging audience, etc.

Discipling the Next Generation of Believers

Yesterday, I wrote about mentoring from a leadership angle. But, in Christianity, there's another term for mentoring -- discipleship.

In Matthew 28, Jesus tells his followers to go into the world and make disciples. That passage even defines what it means to become a disciple. It says that the disciple would do all the things that Jesus commanded.

Leadership Mentoring

I was a senior in high school when I got my first taste of leadership. Granted, it was both as president of my church youth group, and as a member of Missouri Boys State. But, that is where it started.

To be honest, I was too young to fully comprehend the opportunities that lay ahead. It wasn't until someone took the time to invest in my leadership growth that I started to realize the possibilities.

I was 20 when I met the man who would become my first leadership mentor. For the next nine years, his insight and advice would guide me up the leadership trail. And, it was through my interaction with him and others on our team that I learned the importance (and the joy) of being a mentor.

Seeking God During the Hard Times

On September 11, 2001, life changed in America. As four hijacked airliners made their final, horrific flights, Americans trembled in fear, but also stood in anger.

A tragedy of that magnitude left millions of people searching for answers. It caused many of us to reflect on our lives, and to appreciate what we had.

That was a Tuesday. Five days later, these millions of people flocked to churches in the hope that God could provide some sense of meaning in the tragedy.

Leading Through Hard Times

Leadership can be very rewarding for those who aspire to be in such positions. The chance to make decisions that impact an organization, or the opportunity to pour knowledge into those you lead can be very rewarding.

But, a leader's real worth doesn't come during the easy time. It comes when things go wrong.

Music Review: Ernie Haase and Signature Sound

Rating: 8 out of 10

Today, I am reviewing the new album from Ernie Haase & Signature Sound, Here We Are Again.

This is the groups first original album in three years, and is a showcase of this group's diversity.

The album opens with an interesting take on the classic "Swing Low, Sweet Chariot." The song carries a vaudeville-like feel that is different than the typical southern gospel song, but not so far removed from the imaginations of Signature Sound. After all, these guys have showed the genre what it means to be different.

Easter Week

As a Christ-follower, Easter has become my favorite holiday. It represents the resurrection of Jesus Christ.

His death paid OUR debt from sin. His resurrection gave us hope for eternity. For those who believe in Him, Jesus made all things new.

Check out this video.

Leadership From a Cooking Show

I will confess it. My wife and I like to watch the Food Network. Not all of the shows, mind you, but we enjoy some of the "game shows" they offer. We've also gotten into those shows where the star transforms a troubled eatery, trying to make it successful again.

But, in March, the network debuted a new show that takes that latter point to a whole new level. Where Robert Irvine would go into a failing restaurant and try to make wholesale changes to bring it back to profitability, Willie Degal has a different approach.

March Blog Report: Top Five Posts

Each month, I am going to start posting the top five most viewed posts on this blog. Here is what readers found most interesting this month.

1. Leaders Must Take a Break
2. Listen for the God Moments
3. Fighting the Urge to Take Over
4. Tone Deaf Does Not Make Good Music
5. Come One, Come All

Listen for the God Moments

As a Christ-follower, there is a lesson I have learned about God. He is always speaking.

Now, in full-disclosure, I am not always listening. I would like to think that I am, but in all honesty, I know that I am not.

I allow all manner of distractions to get in my way. My distractions range from my wife and kids to television, games, work and a whole host of other things. I tend to think a lot, and every time I pause to focus on God in prayer, my mind races to think of as many non-God things as possible.

Fighting the Urge to Take Over

Those who aspire to become leaders all share one quality. I'll warn you ahead of time that it isn't earth shattering, or life altering. The quality that all leaders share is that they want to lead.

See, it wasn't that much of a stretch.

Likewise, because leaders want to lead, this means that they typically want to call the shots...grab the bull by the horns...make the big decision...be the chief of their tribe. For the majority of aspiring leaders, this is the driving force to lead.

Tone Deaf Does Not Make Good Music

You have a friend who loves to sing. Your singing friend sings all different styles of music. Your stylish, singing friend is tone deaf. Your flat-sounding, stylish, singing friend needs intervention.

I could stop right there with today's blog entry, but that wouldn't be very helpful. Today, I want to help out the tone deaf folks who want a singing career.

You know who you are. In spite of your mama telling you that you sing like a dove, deep down you know its more like a screech owl. I have good news. I'm here to help.

Come One, Come All

There is a belief out there in the church world that some churches are suited for older folks, and others are best for younger folks. Full disclosure: I used to believe this. But, not anymore.

I'm not sure where this idea got it's origin. Church historians in America can at least trace part of it back to the 1700s when the so-called "worship wars" began.

These intra-church battles over worship style are nothing new. Today's contemporary-verses-traditional is just the latest in the battle over preferences. But, it is only part of a bigger issue in the church, today.

Leaders Must Take a Break

It goes without saying that life in the western culture moves at increasing velocity. Everything moves faster as each day passes.

The corporate world's desire for more, better, faster has placed huge demands on the people who lead and work for organizations. But, is this drive to beat out the competition healthy?

In a word, the answer is "no." However, there is good news. It can be managed.

Proper Care and Handling of Your Finances

Has anyone ever asked you this question: If resources were not an issue, what would you like to accomplish in life?

It's a great question that seeks to discover your passion and goals. It's a question that challenges the questioned to think big, and to imagine the possibilities. It is a great motivational question.

But, unfortunately, it's also a pipe dream without the resources. And, all too often, the great dreams we have will never see the light of day, because we don't have the finances to pull it off.

Blog Re-post: Respecting the Leader or the Position: Part 2

This is part two of a post that originated last June. Enjoy.

Respect is always a two-way street. Yesterday, I wrote about this from the leader's perspective. Today, I write from the follower's view.

Respect works in both ways. A follower respects a leader, and a leader respects the follower. In both cases, respect is earned through a lengthy relationship building process, and can be destroyed in a single moment.

Your Past Doesn't Have to Be Your Future

Last week, I wrote about Jabez, and how he got his name from the pain his mother experienced at his birth. Later in life, Jabez prayed that God would spare him from pain, and God honored that prayer.

I want to expand on that thought by using one of my favorite stories in the Bible. You find it in the John 4 telling of Jesus and the Samaritan woman. I like this story, because there are a lot of life lessons we can pull from it. It essentially illustrates that Jesus loves everybody.

In this story, we have a woman with a past. Jesus calls her out that her past includes five blown marriages, and she was shacking up with her boyfriend when Jesus came to town. She could have easily been the test case of Dr. Laura's "Ten Stupid Things Women Do to Mess Up Their Lives."

Blog Re-post: Respecting the Leader or the Position: Part 1

I posted this entry last June, but thought it worthy to bring back for a re-visit. Part Two will come next Tuesday. Enjoy.

Every one of us, from time to time, have had to deal with the issue of respect, whether as a leader or a follower. For the next couple of days, I'm going to tackle this idea, first from the leader's perspective, and tomorrow from the the follower's perspective.

All leaders know there is value in having the respect of the followers, whether it be a teaching, volunteer, political or employment setting. Gaining the respect of those we lead is a valuable asset, because respect makes leading easier and requires less convincing to get "buy in" from the followers.

What I Look For When Screening Music

One of the tasks of my job at KWFC is the duty of screening our incoming music to see if it is worthy of airplay. Today, I would like to share some of what I look for when I approve or chuck the music I receive.

I'll have to be honest, Simon Cowell has done more for my ability to discern and choose good music than any other resource. Here's how. Simon was part of American Idol for several years. His opinion, while often brutal, was also correct and honest. Rarely did he ever miss it.

I have actually taken a lot of what he has had to say in critiquing music, and applied it to how I screen music. I'll list a few of the things I now look for in music albums and singles.

What Jabez Says About Your Future

Have you ever considered the meaning of your name? Chances are that you haven't. But, most names carry a certain meaning.

For instance, I looked up my name, and found that in the Irish it means "handsome." It also means "narrow land," which I'm not sure what that really means other than maybe some Kyle from the past got ripped off in a land deal.

If you've ever read the geneologies in the Bible, you are going to encounter some very strange names. Most of these names carry a special meaning. Sometimes we are told that a child is given a name to represent something going on in the parents' lives at the time of birth. Other times, the name represents what the parent hopes for their child. We find similar in the story of Jabez.

Letting Go of Great Ideas

I would venture to guess that today's leadership lesson could apply to just about everyone, regardless of leadership status. At some point in our lives, we have had a great idea.

Ok, to be truthful, most of us thought they were great ideas, because they were our ideas. Every once in a while, those we work with or lead would concur, and the idea would be implemented.

There is a great sense of satisfaction when the organization you work for uses one of your ideas, and that idea is successful. For people who are driven by accomplishments, this is very rewarding.

Need a Consultation?

If you have followed my blog for some time, you know that I have extensive experience in leadership, ministry and media. Therefore, I would like to make my services available as a consultant in any of these categories.

I specialize in teaching leadership to your staff or church leaders, presenting strategic solutions for your ministry, consultation work for your music group or radio station.

If you are interested in setting up a consultation, email me. I will respond within 24-48 hours to see how we can partner to meet your group's needs.

Three Easy Media Tools Every Church Should Use

When I first started to get involved in church leadership, one of the first things I realized was the disconnect that exists between information and communication.

Here's what I mean. Every church has events, activities, and basic information they want to pass along to the people that attend there. There is other information that the church wants to get out to people who don't attend.

The electronic age has produced three easy, cost-effective ways to get the word out.

Lessons from Hezekiah

I've been reading 2 Kings this week in my personal Bible study time. Yesterday, I came to the story of Hezekiah.

Rarely will you find more than a chapter or two devoted to a particular king. But, the Bible records three lengthy chapters for Hezekiah, and for good reason.

The Bible narrative tells us that King Hezekiah lived according to God's plan throughout his lifetime. Some of the kings before him had followed God while others didn't. Those who did still managed to make some spiritual errors that hurt the people.

Leaders Never Stop Learning

"Leadership Student Since 1991"

I'm considering putting that in my bio. Maybe I'll have it made into a bumper sticker for my Toyota Avalon. Why? Because its true.

I can still remember the three events that began my journey into leadership. Both were rather small and today would seem rather insignificant. But, every journey needs a starting point, and I remember mine.

Three Useful Droid Apps

I've had a Droid Incredible for nearly two years, now running the Android v.2.3.4 OS. I've had a pretty enjoyable experience with my phone.

From time to time, I'll present some useful apps I use on my devices. Today, three very useful apps.

Repost: The Importance of Integrity

This entry was originally posted on February 8, 2011. It's timely, and relevant. Read on:

If you have ever had dealings with anyone of questionable character, you fully understand the importance that integrity plays in a person's life.

Recently, I learned that a person I have known for a long time has struggled with a very serious character failure for much of his adult life. He has led people to believe that he is something he is not. Now, if you knew the ways in which he has destroyed his integrity, you would no doubt be shocked.

Leadership Two-Face

Like most people in their 30s, I have had a few bosses in my lifetime. Some have been good. Some ... not so much. I have enjoyed working for some, and walked on egg shells around others. But, this "supervisor diversity" has taught me a few lessons.

Today, I want to tell you about the importance of stability in your leadership.

In my adult life, I count two of my previous supervisors under the two-face label. By that, I mean they presented themselves in a way that really wasn't who they were.

Music Review: Gold City - Somebody's Coming

Rating: 7 out of 10

It has been several years since Gold City has had a fresh, new project on the market. After that very long wait, and several vocal lineup changes, the quartet late last year released this new project to the market.

Somebody's Coming is a ten track project that brings this legendary quartet into a fourth decade of ministry.

When other artists wait several years between major album releases, you would assume they have semi-retired, and are looking for a comeback. Not Gold City.

Casualties of Sin

"I want to do right, but I do not do it. Instead, I do what I hate."

These words penned by the Apostile Paul in Romans 7 illustrate the heart of the human condition, especially for followers of Jesus. In our hearts, we desire to do the right thing, but from time to time we find ourselves veering off course into areas that are sinful.

It can be relatively easy for us to ask God's forgiveness of these failings, and that is good. But, to think that sin's effects end there is to miss a very important fact. Sin is rarely limited to just the individual who committed it. Instead, many times the sin affects others who are caught in its path.

Next Speaking Engagement

This Sunday, I'll be representing the Springfield Pregnancy Care Center at the Victory Baptist Church in Ozark, Missouri. We will also have a display with plenty of information about the PCC.

Great Leaders Think Through Challenges

I'll be honest with you about something. I'm pretty good under last minute pressure. If something happens at that last minute, I have proven to be good at making pressure decisions. But, I wouldn't recommend it.

Sure, there are situations that arise where you cannot control the circumstances. You can only control your response. And, when they come fast and furious, you have to be able to make decisions without all the information you normally would.

But, a great leader doesn't often find themselves in such a position. They will typically take the time to think through their decisions. They will consult with others in their company or organization. They will gather all the information they possibly can before pulling the trigger. They are patient.

Product Review: Kindle Fire

Rating: 9 out of 10

A month ago, I went out an bought the Kindle Fire. I had been debating between the older, e-ink Kindle or saving up for a tablet computer, such as the iPad. I wanted something I could easily read books on, which favors the Kindle, but also wanted something versatile enough to run some of the apps I really like, which favors the iPad.

Then, Amazon announced the Kindle Fire, which retails for $199. This intrigued me, as it apparently did many other people who couldn't afford the $500-$800 price tag for a true tablet computer. After much consideration, and just enough Christmas gift money to cover the cost, I jumped for the Fire.

Is Online Church Really Church

As technology continued to make great strides over the past decade, it was only inevitable that churches would move some of their resources to the Internet.

The Internet provides relatively low overhead and can provide access to information on a worldwide basis. It makes sense that churches would start to put their church services online for the world to see. It's a great medium to spread the word.

Over the past couple of years, a new development has popped up involving the church and the Internet. It's online church. Lifechurch.tv is probably the best example of online church done the right way. They have scheduled times during the week that they repeat the weekend services. Those services are complete with worship music and the message.

Building a Great Customer Experience

Have you ever gone to a restaurant and experienced bad customer service? I would dare say that most of us have.

At one time, I lived in a town that had a reputation for poor customer service. There is a fast-food restaurant near where I live today that is notorious for messing up your order.

Poor customer service is likely the top reason customers either stop frequenting a business. Consistently bad service will eventually develop into a word-of-mouth reputation, leading potential business to never enter the doors. And, businesses with a reputation for bad service will soon be shuttering their doors.

Can You Praise Too Much? - Blog Redirect

Dr. Kevin Leman has a great post on the consequences of praising our children (and people) for everything. He says that today's mentality where everyone gets a trophy has created a "society where kids view reward as their right."

But, we still need to encourage our kids and those around us. Check out Dr. Leman's full comments here.

Early Review: New Look Poet Voices

The Poet Voices, dominant on the southern gospel scene in the '90s and much of the last decade before disbanding, are back. Group founder, Phil Cross, has brought back his trio with a couple of fresh faces. Take a look at their new take on the old PV song "Grace and Glory."



The Future of Church Planting

Until the past decade, the only way to expand the ministry of a church was either 1) the pastor would speak live at each campus, staggering the days and times to make it happen, or 2) the church would commission new pastors to go out an plant new churches with their on separate identities.

Today, those are still viable and useful options. However, a new trend may eventually put those techniques of church planting to rest. Video campuses have started to spring up across the country as a way for a church to expand it's arm of influence from one central location to many regional outlets.

From a businessman or consumer's perspective, it's the equivalent of a successful restaurant adding several locations in your metro area. The result is that you can find a location relatively close to where you live and work.

Becoming Reliable

Being undependable is equal to being untrustworthy. I think we can all agree that neither is a good thing.

When a person, especially a leader, can no longer be relied on for important tasks within his or her organization, a breeding ground for frustration, dissension and chaos is created. No one wants to reach a point in their leadership where their followers (be it volunteers, employees, etc.) become disgruntled because of the leader's lack of follow-through.

If you find yourself to be a leader lacking in dependability, here are three suggestions to get you on track.

Music Review: Dixie Melody Boys - The Call Is Still the Same

Rating: 8 out of 10

I'll admit that when I first heard that the Dixie Melody Boys were producing a 50th anniversary project, I wasn't overly excited. Over the past few years, DMB has gone rather cheap on their recordings, and it really showed.

But, for the 2011 release "The Call is Still the Same," Ed O'Neal has hit a home run. To commemorate the 50th year for The Dixie Melody Boys, O'Neal called in some favors from past group members, Ernie Haase, Devin McGlammery, Allen O'Neal, Harold Reid, McCray Dove, Kent Humphrey and Rodney Griffin. He even managed a duet with Ben Speer, and brought in Jason Crabb.

DMB has been a launching pad to many of southern gospel's great singers and musicians. The fact that this album goes down memory lane with a few of them makes it even sweeter.

Vocally, this album quite good, except maybe the last track where both Ed and Ben Speer team up on "I've Got Family There." But, those aged vocals can be forgiven in exchange for that friendly duo's combo effort.

The guest vocals added to the album are a smash hit, and very well produced. And, on the six tunes performed by the existing quartet, you get to hear this group at its best, and reminescent of their glory days.

Musically, Ed definately went all out. Production and music is great throughout the album.

All of this helped to make this album an easy selection for last year's album of the year at KWFC.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Sanctity of Human Life: Pregnancy Care Center

You may not realize it, but January is Sanctity of Human Life month. Spurred by the U.S. Supreme Court's January 22, 1973 decision in Roe v. Wade, pro-lifers in America sought out a way to bring attention to their cause.

Over the past couple of decades, another movement has arisen. Crisis Pregnancy Centers and Pregnancy Care Centers have sprung up to combat the abortion mills that have been established across the nation.

In the Ozarks, the Springfield Pregnancy Care Center was born in 2000. Since that time, the PCC has grown from a small store front into a three story medical office. Services have gone from basic pregnancy care to full medical care and counselling for expectant moms and dads.

In more recent years, the PCC has grown their outreach to include abstinence education in area schools, parenting and relationship mentoring, and most recently, an international outreach to China.

This month, I encourage you to get involved with your local or regional pregnancy care center. Volunteer and give for the cause of life.

Check out the Springfield PCC for more information.

Being Dependable

Have you ever ran into a situation where you had to depend on someone to get a job done, but they let you down? I'd venture to say the answer is a resounding "yes."

Truth be told, we've all been let down. In fact, there have been times where we have been THE let down. Dependability is very important, especially when your job affects those who rely on you to complete it properly and on time.

A few lapses in dependability can be forgiven here and there. However, the consistently un-dependable person only tightens the noose around their pink slip. This becomes more evident and problematic the higher you are on the corporate food chain.

From a leadership perspective, one of the most important things you can do is to realize that those under your leadership are dependent upon you. They cannot fully complete their job if you are not reliable to do yours.

Whether its scheduling meetings, completing your part of a project, holding to goals and time frames, the failure to remain dependable will cost you in the end. When the people who follow you lose faith in your ability to be dependable, they will begin to bypass you when they can. And, when they cannot get around you, they will become increasingly frustrated with you and your leadership.

Eventually, you will lose your leadership influence with them, as well as their trust.

What are some ways you can easily improve your dependability? Next week, I will share a couple of thoughts. In the meantime, I'd love to hear what you think.

What is a Media Thursday

On Tuesday, I briefly touched on what will be happening with this blog in the future. Each day, Tuesday through Thursday, will have it's own theme based off of the experience I have to share.

Thursdays are dedicated to media issues. This will be my 18th year in radio broadcasting and my 7th as a Program Director. My background includes southern gospel and country music. I also spent nine years as an award winning news reporter, three of those as a News Director.

I mention my background to show that I will be touching on a rather wide range of topics in the media world. Many times, I will use this space for a review of different media, be it music, media devices, media applications, etc.

On that note, I would be happy to review any type of media. If you would like something to be reviewed, leave a comment and I will get in touch with you. I will give it an honest, critical review on this site. Please note that an honest, critical review can sometimes be brutal (see Simon Cowell). It will include the good, the bad and things that need to be improved.

In the coming weeks, I will review the 50th Anniversary album from the Dixie Melody Boys, Amazon's Kindle Fire, and a concert with the group Downhere.

Again, if you have media that you would like reviewed, leave a comment to this post, and I'll make contact with you.

Political Season Reminders

Last night, Mitt Romney barely survived Rick Santorum in the Iowa caucuses. For the rest of the week, supporters of the other GOP candidates will be biting their nails while awaiting word on whether the man or woman they support will stay in the race or drop out.

So much hope wrapped up in individuals who ultimately will fail. The eventual winner will be looked to for the salvation of the country.

Why so much hope placed in people who will at some point disappoint?

One of the things the political season reminds us is that, as a nation, we have stopped relying on God to meet our needs. We now trust in a candidate or a congress or even a bureaucracy of red tape.
We pray that our government support check arrives rather than that God will provide.
We have made idols out of candidates (most of whom will lose), and a governmental system that has a track record filled with failure.

During this year's political season, let us not look to the things that will disappoint and fade away. Nations will fall away, even the United States.

In the end, only two things will remain: Jesus and His church. Look to these for hope and change.
Start today by reading your Bible to discover the plan God has for you. You can get a free Bible for your mobile device or browse their website at youversion.com.

What are you putting your hope in this year?

Changing Focus

In an effort to bring back active blogging to this site, I am changing my focus a little bit.

Instead of writing in the series style, I am moving to a format that I have seen other bloggers employ. Certain days of the week will carry a different theme.

This change should allow for better organization of the blog, and better focus. Plus, if I have a lot to say about a particular subject, I can stretched the series out over a few weeks instead of packing it all into one week.

Yes, this means waiting longer to get my full perspective, but it also means I don't go to the writing well too many times, effective drying up the available topics.

By taking this new approach, I give structure to the blogging. In the past, I might go several weeks focused on one area, and not give other interests the spotlight.

So, here's the new plan. My experiences, career and interests will guide content. That content will focus on leadership, ministry and media.

Leadership
I have been a student of leadership for nearly two decades. I have enjoyed learning how to lead, and implementing what I have learned.

I love to lead people. I love teaching young leaders. And, I hope to share some insights each Tuesday.

Ministry
For a believer in Jesus Christ, nothing is more important than loving God and loving each other. Serving Christ means that we do our part to increase His kingdom.

On Wednesday, I will explore different thoughts about ministry, biblical truth and application.

Media
My day job is as program director of KWFC radio in Springfield, Missouri. My experience will provide a unique insight for artists, listeners and broadcasting folks.

Each Thursday, look for posts on anything from reviews to music production to general media issues.

Other
That, of course, leaves the other four days to address random topics. Don't expect regular posts on these days. I do have to live a life.

But, I do need a place to share about my family and odds & ends.