AI in the Church: Threat, Tool, or Opportunity? | William Vanderbloemen
Vanderbloemen Leadership Podcast
Release Date: 05/05/2025
Vanderbloemen Leadership Podcast
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...
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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 ...
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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...
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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...
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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...
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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...
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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...
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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,...
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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...
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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...
info_outlineIn 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:
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AI in the Pulpit: Should pastors use AI to help build sermons? What’s ethical and what’s helpful?
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Human-First Ministry: Why the future of the church will depend on real human connection more than ever before.
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The Echo of Worship: What makes in-person ministry irreplaceable, even in a digital world.
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Hiring in the Age of AI: How churches and values-based organizations can future-proof their teams by investing in relationally gifted leaders.
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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 stay grounded in your mission while adapting to the future.