My time with Lisa Mladinich was my second stint with coaching. While I certainly found the coaching I received the first time around as helpful and useful, my time with Lisa has truly been groundbreaking for me, not just in a leadership role over others, but as a pastor.
In the past, I had always thought that there was a dichotomy between being a “boss” and being a priest and pastor. Lisa, with her gentle way of approaching things and unbelievable listening skills, has shown me that these roles are not exclusive to one another and absolutely need to be integrated for true effective leadership.
In addition, as a recovering “people pleaser,” I have had difficulty with correcting and confronting others, especially my staff. Lisa has been invaluable in helping me find a voice that I didn’t know I had. Her constructive feedback has allowed me to find the best way for me to address situations that have always made me feel uncomfortable, in a way that is true to my faith, my core values, and my way of operating and looking at the world.
I never realized how much I processed and unpacked the struggles of being the spiritual leader of a staff and a community by “talking it out,” and Lisa has been the perfect conduit and sounding board. Staff issues and interpersonal conflicts that were the topics of conversation and I couldn’t see a way to properly address would, uncannily, have a concrete plan towards resolution at the end of 60 minutes.
I am ESPECIALLY grateful for Lisa’s availability in “911” moments. As anyone in ministry can tell you, issues do not conveniently wait until you have a scheduled session. Whether by email or a quick phone call, Lisa was integral in helping me unpack complicated issues in a timely fashion.
The best part? You knew that she was praying for you throughout the process. That kind of gift is priceless. While I have often been accused of hyperbole, I can honestly say that I am a much different (and better) pastor because of our time together.






















