Manhood Tribes: Building a Strong Foundation w/ Don Ross

Is Comfort Keeping You From Your Calling?

"Are churches too comfortable just going through the motions? Are you?” Do you agree that the church needs to raise the bar on disciple-making.   In today’s culture, many churches are content with size and entertainment, losing sight of Jesus' call to radical discipleship. Jesus didn’t shy away from hard truths or confrontation—He raised the bar, challenged His followers, and understood that true leadership involves making others uncomfortable for their growth.   If we want to see authentic change, it starts with leaders being willing to confront the status quo, hold each other accountable, and embrace discomfort as part of spiritual growth. It’s time to ask ourselves: are we leading like Jesus or trying to stay comfortable?   Worth reflecting on. What’s one area in your leadership where you need to raise the bar? #LeadershipDevelopment #ChurchGrowth #RedLetterLeadership #DiscipleshipMatters #Accountability   Key Topics * Biblical leadership and the theology of work * Handling conflict and opposition in leadership * The role of business as a platform for ministry * Church growth strategies and disciple-making * Leadership accountability and integrity   Applications: * Reflect on your church or organization culture and its openness to accountability. * Implement or review accountability structures with trusted leaders. * Embrace conflict as a growth opportunity and handle it biblically. * Reevaluate your leadership approach to ensure it aligns with biblical principles. * Seek continuous learning and humility in leadership.   Chapters   00:00 Introduction to Leadership and Personal Journey 02:52 Overcoming Adversity: Robert's Early Life and Military Experience 05:48 The Intersection of Business and Ministry 08:25 The Theology of Work and Its Implications 11:28 Foster Care and Leadership Development 14:10 The Role of Business Leaders in Church Growth 16:57 Comfort in the American Church: A Critical Analysis 19:46 Leadership Lessons from Jesus and the Early Church 22:38 Raising the Bar: Discipleship and Church Growth 25:31 Conclusion: The Future of Leadership in the Church 31:47 The Dangers of Self-Reliance in Leadership 32:52 Misunderstanding Church Leadership 34:05 The Cost of Discipleship 35:51 Urgency in Advancing the Kingdom 37:16 Handling Conflict in Leadership 42:26 The Importance of Accountability in Leadership 01:02:24 Introduction to Leadership Lessons from Jesus 01:03:33 Exploring the Book: Red Letter Leadership 01:04:36 Vision Casting and Prayer Journal Resources   “Red Letter Leadership: Leadership Lessons from the Life of Christ” https://www.redletterleadership.com/book [https://www.redletterleadership.com/book]   If you have a copy of the book, don’t forget to download our resource that will help guide your study of leadership lessons from the life of Christ. This resource categories all 370+ lessons into one or more of these four areas of leadership: 1) Leading Yourself, 2) Gaining Influence, 3) Leading a Team, and 4) Developing Leaders. Through our study of Jesus’ leadership, we learned that He shaped His environment to accomplish His mission in these four areas of leadership. We believe that when we seek mastery in these areas, we will be able to shape our operating environment to accomplish the assignment God has given us. Download this valuable resource here: https://www.redletterleadership.com/shapeyourenvironment [https://www.redletterleadership.com/shapeyourenvironment]   Are you seeking God for a big vision for your business or ministry? Be intentional with our “7-Day Vision Casting Prayer Journal” built for leaders who desire to wholeheartedly seek God through studying His word, prayer, fasting, and reflecting on what God is speaking to them. https://www.redletterleadership.com/prayer-journal [https://www.redletterleadership.com/prayer-journal]   Do you have a God-sized vision for your life or business? Do you understand why it is so important that trust God for a seemingly impossible vision? If this is a new concept for you, I invite you to watch the training I gave on this titled: “Aim Small, Miss Small: The Art and Science of Achieving a God-Size Vision.” https://www.redletterleadership.com/asms [https://www.redletterleadership.com/asms]   If you are ready to step out in faith and cast a big, God-size vision for your life or business but you are unsure where to start, I invite you to join my next 4-day challenge called, The MAKE IMPOSSIBLE POSSIBLE Challenge. This is a 4-day event that will take you from dreaming again to establishing a clear, seemingly impossible vision with defined strategic objectives and a pathway to achieving it. Go to this link to learn more: https://www.redletterleadership.com/mipc [https://www.redletterleadership.com/mipc]

How to Lead an Unwilling or Unprepared Team

Leadership when your team isn't ready or willing—what's the move? Drop a comment if you've ever faced this challenge. Sometimes, as leaders, we must step up even when the team can't follow. In both the military and the story of Jesus at the Last Supper, we see that setting the example is key. Jesus knew His team was unprepared to follow Him into the full mission, but He still took the bold step, trusting growth and trust would follow.   When your team hesitates or isn't ready, your actions speak louder than words—stand up, move forward, and love intentionally. It’s not about having all the answers but about leading with grace, patience, and authenticity. Remember: your influence isn’t about perfection — it’s about presence and relationship.   The next step? Get to know your team beyond tasks. Take them to lunch, listen without agendas, build trust. That’s how real leadership happens—when we put others before ourselves, even in the toughest moments.   What's one way you'll invest in your team this week? #LeadWithLove #ChristCenteredLeadership #BuildTrust #LeadershipTips #TeamGrowth   Key Topics   * Leadership in unprepared teams * The fighter-leader concept in practice * Building trust and love in leadership * Jesus' leadership example at the Last Supper * Preparation and intentionality in leadership   Chapters   00:00 Leadership Responsibilities: Mission vs. Team Care 06:03 Understanding Team Readiness: The Fighter-Leader Concept 11:45 Knowing Your Team: The Importance of Understanding 17:22 Grace and Love in Leadership: Simplifying Expectations 23:11 Influence and Connection: The Essence of Leadership 31:25 Practical Takeaways: Building Relationships Through Lunch   “Red Letter Leadership: Leadership Lessons from the Life of Christ” https://www.redletterleadership.com/book [https://www.redletterleadership.com/book]   If you have a copy of the book, don’t forget to download our resource that will help guide your study of leadership lessons from the life of Christ. This resource categories all 370+ lessons into one or more of these four areas of leadership: 1) Leading Yourself, 2) Gaining Influence, 3) Leading a Team, and 4) Developing Leaders. Through our study of Jesus’ leadership, we learned that He shaped His environment to accomplish His mission in these four areas of leadership. We believe that when we seek mastery in these areas, we will be able to shape our operating environment to accomplish the assignment God has given us. Download this valuable resource here: https://www.redletterleadership.com/shapeyourenvironment [https://www.redletterleadership.com/shapeyourenvironment]   Are you seeking God for a big vision for your business or ministry? Be intentional with our “7-Day Vision Casting Prayer Journal” built for leaders who desire to wholeheartedly seek God through studying His word, prayer, fasting, and reflecting on what God is speaking to them. https://www.redletterleadership.com/prayer-journal [https://www.redletterleadership.com/prayer-journal]   Do you have a God-sized vision for your life or business? Do you understand why it is so important that trust God for a seemingly impossible vision? If this is a new concept for you, I invite you to watch the training I gave on this titled: “Aim Small, Miss Small: The Art and Science of Achieving a God-Size Vision.” https://www.redletterleadership.com/asms [https://www.redletterleadership.com/asms]   If you are ready to step out in faith and cast a big, God-size vision for your life or business but you are unsure where to start, I invite you to join my next 4-day challenge called, The MAKE IMPOSSIBLE POSSIBLE Challenge. This is a 4-day event that will take you from dreaming again to establishing a clear, seemingly impossible vision with defined strategic objectives and a pathway to achieving it. Go to this link to learn more: https://www.redletterleadership.com/mipc [https://www.redletterleadership.com/mipc]

How to Handle Team Rejection and Still Lead Effectively

Feeling rejected by your team? Here's the truth most leaders avoid admitting. In leadership, pushback and rejection are part of the process — but how you respond makes all the difference. When your ideas aren't embraced, it’s tempting to isolate, get defensive, or even force your way through. But that only builds walls, not bridges. Real growth starts when you pause and reflect: Did I communicate clearly? Does my approach align with the team's values? Have I considered the environment and their perspectives? Sometimes, the way we present matters more than what we’re presenting. It’s about strategy, tone, and timing. Take time to "look in the mirror" — your approach could be the missing piece. Seek feedback, analyze next steps, and remember: rejection may simply be a redirection.   Worth thinking about.   What’s one way you’ve tried to turn team rejection into an opportunity? Drop it below👇   #LeadershipGrowth #TeamDynamics #CommunicationTips #VisionCasting #LeadWithHumility   Key Takeaways:   * Consider your approach in tone and clarity before presenting ideas. * Align your proposals with team mission, values, and strengths. * Build relationships with influential team members before proposing ideas. * Analyze your environment to understand team dynamics and communication. * Seek detailed feedback to refine your ideas and approach. * Practice patience and strategic thinking when ideas are rejected. * Use rejection as an opportunity for self-reflection and growth.     Chapters   00:00 Introduction: Facing Rejection in Leadership 00:34 Common Reactions to Rejection and Their Pitfalls 02:05 The Importance of Healthy Team Dynamics 02:49 Case Study: Church Vision and Rejection 05:59 Luke 9: Lessons on Rejection and Service 09:14 Applying Biblical Principles to Leadership Rejection 10:41 Self-Reflection: The First Step in Handling Rejection 11:30 Assessing Your Communication Approach 12:44 Aligning Ideas with Mission and Values 13:42 Influence and Relationship Building in Leadership 15:40 Thinking Through the Bigger Picture and Impact 16:14 Seeking Constructive Feedback and Refinement 18:06 Analyzing Your Environment for Better Decisions 18:52 Practical Steps for Effective Vision Casting 19:39 Invitation to a Vision Casting Prayer Journal   Red Letter Leadership book: https://www.redletterleadership.com/book [https://www.redletterleadership.com/book] 7-Day Vision Casting Prayer Journal: https://www.redletterleadership.com/pl/2148793617 [https://www.redletterleadership.com/pl/2148793617]

Take More Risks: An Interview with the Founder of Soul Survivor Outdoor serving active military

Do you ever feel like your biggest obstacle is just figuring out how to start?   I used to ask myself, "How can I possibly do this?" but then I realized—God already provided the talents, resources, and calling. ✨ If you're ready to step out in faith—trust that He’s already equipped you. When Rick started Soul Survivor Outdoors, he didn’t have all the answers. He had doubts, fears, and zero clarity on how to make it work. But each step of obedience opened doors he never imagined, especially when he trusted God with what he had. It's not about being perfect or fully prepared; it’s about saying "Yes" and trusting that God will do the rest. Like Peter stepping out on water—it’s risky, but that’s where faith grows. 🚶‍♂️💧 Are you holding back because you're waiting to feel more qualified? Remember, God uses those willing to move—even imperfectly—to do incredible things. So what’s the first step you need to take today? Trust Him, take the leap, and watch how He supplies the rest. #FaithInAction #GodSizedVision #StepOutInFaith #TrustGod #LivingOnPurpose   Key topics * Rick Wolf's background and faith journey * The founding and mission of Soul Survivor Outdoors * The parable of the talents and applying it to faith and ministry * Overcoming doubts and trusting God's plan * The importance of taking risks in faith and leadership * God's sovereignty and partnering in His mission * Practical steps for believers to step out of their comfort zones     Apply this episode to your life: * Reflect on your God-sized vision and take a step of faith * Identify one area where doubt is holding you back and pray for trust * Seek opportunities to serve and lead outside your comfort zone * Partner with others in faith-based initiatives   Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Soul Survivor Outdoors 03:09 Rick's Background and Faith Journey 11:17 The Vision Behind Soul Survivor Outdoors 23:15 Overcoming Doubts and Qualifications 29:24 The Journey of Faith and Action 33:16 The Call to Action: Stepping Out in Faith 38:51 Navigating Doubts and Embracing God's Vision 44:43 The Struggle of Trusting God's Plan 50:51 Taking Risks: The Journey of Faith 56:53 Challenging Comfort: The Call to Move Forward     Soul Survivor Outdoors - https://soulsurvivoroutdoor.org [https://soulsurvivoroutdoor.org] Red Letter Leadership Book: https://www.redletterleadership.com/book [https://www.redletterleadership.com/book]

How Leaders Can Empower Teams and Increase Influence

Ever feel like you need to have all the answers as a leader?   What if the real power comes from humility rather than control?   Have you ever struggled with trying to do it all yourself?   Real leadership isn't about having every solution—they often come from empowering your team and trusting their answers. Stepping back and trusting your team, instead of micromanaging them, will make your mission more successful.   You don’t need to carry the burden of always knowing the answer. Instead, focus on providing clear direction and empowering others to excel. Like the story of the Canaanite woman, humility unleashes unimaginable influence—when you acknowledge your limits and trust your team, powerful things happen.   Worth thinking about. Where could you step back today and let your team execute?   #LeadershipHumility #EmpowerYourTeam #TrustAndLead #HumilityInAction   Key Topics:   * The burden of having all the answers in leadership * The concept of Founder's Syndrome and its impact * The importance of strategic delegation and empowerment * The dangers of micromanagement and how to avoid it * The role of humility in increasing influence and power * The significance of seeing the bigger picture as a leader * Placing oneself at points of friction to anticipate challenges * The story of a Marine leader's success through humility * The biblical example of the Canaanite woman and humility * Practical steps for leaders to develop humility and empower their teams     Chapters   00:00 The Burden of Leadership 02:43 The Importance of Delegation 07:07 Seeing the Bigger Picture 13:47 Empowering Your Team 17:26 The Power of Humility 28:37 The Challenge of Leadership   Red Letter Leadership book: https://www.redletterleadership.com/book [https://www.redletterleadership.com/book]