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Church Law
Church Law and Tax - Part of the gloo network of brands
62 episodes
5 days ago
Pastors and church leaders in America face challenges that are increasing in scope and impact. Whether we're talking issues of cultural dynamics and the church or need-to-know information about everyday operations, the legal issues impacting churches aren't going away. Listen to the Church Law podcast to gain real life insights from a real lawyer who does this work everyday. You'll gain key insights to help your church in this critical time, and learn the pitfalls to avoid. All straight from The Church Attorney® along with some special guests!
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Religion
Religion & Spirituality
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All content for Church Law is the property of Church Law and Tax - Part of the gloo network of brands and is served directly from their servers with no modification, redirects, or rehosting. The podcast is not affiliated with or endorsed by Podjoint in any way.
Pastors and church leaders in America face challenges that are increasing in scope and impact. Whether we're talking issues of cultural dynamics and the church or need-to-know information about everyday operations, the legal issues impacting churches aren't going away. Listen to the Church Law podcast to gain real life insights from a real lawyer who does this work everyday. You'll gain key insights to help your church in this critical time, and learn the pitfalls to avoid. All straight from The Church Attorney® along with some special guests!
Show more...
Religion
Religion & Spirituality
Episodes (20/62)
Church Law
Faith, Philanthropy, and Equity: How Churches and Nonprofits Can Align Giving with Values and Justice w/ guest Nicole Baker Fulgham

In this inspiring episode of The Church Law Podcast, host Erika Cole, The Church Attorney®, sits down with Nicole Baker Fulgham, founder of The Townsend Collaborative, former Chief Impact Officer at Charles and Lynn Schusterman Family Philanthropies, and current Bridgespan Fellow with the Racial Equity in Philanthropy team. 

Nicole shares her remarkable journey—from her beginnings in education with Teach For America to leading efforts that reimagine philanthropy through a lens of racial equity and faith. Together, Erika and Nicole explore how churches and nonprofits can engage in equity-focused giving, collaborate with philanthropic networks, and strengthen their community impact while staying grounded in mission and values. 

Whether your church is navigating financial challenges or stewarding abundance, this episode offers practical insights and spiritual encouragement to help leaders cultivate generosity, justice, and sustainability. 

Tune in to learn: 

● How faith shapes effective, justice-centered leadership 

● What racial equity in philanthropy means for the Church 

● Strategies for building meaningful partnerships between churches and philanthropists 

● A vision for the future of faith-driven giving and community transformation 


SHOW NOTES 

Connect with Nicole Baker Fulgham: 

● http://www.townsendco.org 

● https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicolebakerfulgham/ 


Watch this podcast on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@TheChurchAttorney 

Missed the 2025 Church Law & Leadership Summit? Grab the replay bundle for 20% only at this link: https://the-church-attorney.thinkific.com/courses/2025-CLLSBUNDLE?coupon=podcast20 


This event has been recommended for church leaders by Church Law & Tax and includes resources from partners like ECFA. 

Join the Faithful Foundations Membership today! 2025 Faithful Foundations Membership enrollment 

Download your FREE copy of The Church Attorney Legal Audit® System document checklist here, and check out Episode 29 (“Using a Legal Audit to Position Your Church for the Long Haul”) to learn about the importance of a legal audit for your church. 

Unlock exclusive insights and expert advice by subscribing to The Church Attorney® YouTube Channel! Get access to video podcasts, live recordings, and much more—designed to help you navigate the legal landscape of church management with confidence. Don’t miss out—subscribe today! 

Questions? Comments? We welcome them! Please contact Erika Cole at erikacole.com. Erika reads each comment and may answer your question in an upcoming episode. 

See all episodes of Church Law. 

The Church Law podcast is part of Gloo LLC’s ChurchLawAndTax.com. 

Erika E. Cole, Esq., known as The Church Attorney®, is the creator of The Church Attorney Legal Audit® System, a proprietary legal audit process that helps church leaders be confident they are operating with integrity, and avoiding costly risks. Learn more at erikacole.com. 

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1 week ago
28 minutes 20 seconds

Church Law
The Future of the Large Church w/ guest Warren Bird

In this episode of the Church Law Podcast, Erika Cole, The Church Attorney®, sits down with Dr. Warren Bird—one of the nation’s foremost researchers and authors on large churches—to explore the future of the large church in 2025 and beyond. From pastoral succession and multisite models to digital ministry and community impact, Dr. Bird shares fresh insights from decades of groundbreaking research. Whether you’re a pastor, church leader, or nonprofit executive, this conversation will equip you with the data and perspective to lead with wisdom, innovation, and integrity.

Key Topics Discussed:

  • Why the 2025 large church survey is unique and timely

  • The current state of America’s largest churches since the pandemic

  • Which models (planting, multisite, mergers) seem most sustainable for the next generation

  • How large churches are serving their local and global communities

And more! Whether you’re a pastor, church leader, or believer who longs to see true reconciliation, this conversation will equip and challenge you to become a bridge-builder in your own community.

SHOW NOTES

What's really happening inside America's largest and most influential churches? Is the church back better than ever? If you serve a church from 1,000 to 100,000, you can help my friend Dr. Warren Bird find out and put the results back in your hands. Take the survey at bit.ly/largechurch2025

Learn more about Warren and his work at www.warrenbird.com

Join the Faithful Foundations Membership today at the current price until October 1! 2025 Faithful Foundations Membership enrollment

Download your FREE copy of The Church Attorney Legal Audit® System document checklist here, and check out Episode 29 (“Using a Legal Audit to Position Your Church for the Long Haul”) to learn about the importance of a legal audit for your church.  

Unlock exclusive insights and expert advice by subscribing to The Church Attorney® YouTube Channel! Get access to video podcasts, live recordings, and much more—designed to help you navigate the legal landscape of church management with confidence. Don’t miss out—subscribe today!

Questions? Comments?  We welcome them! Please contact Erika Cole at erikacole.com. Erika reads each comment and may answer your question in an upcoming episode.

See all episodes of Church Law.

The Church Law podcast is part of Gloo LLC’s ChurchLawAndTax.com.

Erika E. Cole, Esq., known as The Church Attorney®, is the creator of The Church Attorney Legal Audit® System, a proprietary legal audit process that helps church leaders be confident they are operating with integrity, and avoiding costly risks. Learn more at erikacole.com. 

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1 month ago
36 minutes 19 seconds

Church Law
Why Unity in the Church is Important with guest, Latasha Morrison

In this episode of the Church Law Podcast, Erika sits down with Latasha Morrison—speaker, author, certified trainer in cultural intelligence and unconscious bias, and founder of Be the Bridge.


Latasha has devoted her life to racial reconciliation and equipping church leaders to foster unity in the body of Christ. Together, we explore the church’s responsibility to lead the charge in healing racial divides, why cultural intelligence matters in ministry, and how pastors and leaders can move from good conversations to lasting transformation.

You’ll hear:

  • Why the church must step into its God-given role as a reconciler

  • Common barriers leaders face when addressing race—and how to overcome them

  • Practical steps to start cultivating cultural intelligence in your congregation

  • A hopeful vision of what racial unity in the church could look like

Whether you’re a pastor, church leader, or believer who longs to see true reconciliation, this conversation will equip and challenge you to become a bridge-builder in your own community.

SHOW NOTES

Learn more about Latasha and her work at:

  • https://bethebridge.com/

  • https://latashamorrison.com/

Register for the virtual 18th Annual Church Law & Leadership Summit and enter code PODCAST20 to receive a 20% off discount! Also, if you purchase a Team Package by September 10th, you’ll receive my exclusive training: ​“What Every Church Board Needs to Know”(a $197 value – FREE!). Plus, all summit registrants will also be entered into a giveaway for a chance to win a copy of Dr. Nicole Massie Martin’s book, Nailing-It: Why Successful Leadership Demands Suffering and Surrender! https://churchattorney.thrivecart.com/clls-registration/?coupon=PODCAST20

Join the Faithful Foundations Membership today! 2025 Faithful Foundations Membership enrollment

Download your FREE copy of The Church Attorney Legal Audit® System document checklist here, and check out Episode 29 (“Using a Legal Audit to Position Your Church for the Long Haul”) to learn about the importance of a legal audit for your church.  

Unlock exclusive insights and expert advice by subscribing to The Church Attorney® YouTube Channel! Get access to video podcasts, live recordings, and much more—designed to help you navigate the legal landscape of church management with confidence. Don’t miss out—subscribe today!

Questions? Comments?  We welcome them! Please contact Erika Cole at erikacole.com. Erika reads each comment and may answer your question in an upcoming episode.

See all episodes of Church Law.

The Church Law podcast is part of Gloo LLC’s ChurchLawAndTax.com.

Erika E. Cole, Esq., known as The Church Attorney®, is the creator of The Church Attorney Legal Audit® System, a proprietary legal audit process that helps church leaders be confident they are operating with integrity, and avoiding costly risks. Learn more at erikacole.com.

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1 month ago
30 minutes 20 seconds

Church Law
What You Can Expect at the Church Law & Leadership Summit

In this special episode of the Church Law Podcast, Erika Cole, The Church Attorney®, gives you an exclusive preview of the 18th Annual Church Law and Leadership Summit, happening Thursday, September 18, 2025.

With the theme “For Such a Time as This: Standing Firm, Serving Strong,” this year’s Summit is more than just an event—it’s a divine appointment for pastors, church leaders, and faith-based executives. Erika reflects on the 18-year journey of the Summit, from its early days as a local in-person gathering to now serving over 1,200 leaders from all 50 states through a dynamic online format.

You’ll hear about the history, purpose, and impact of this unique gathering, plus a breakdown of the sessions, speakers, and special opportunities awaiting attendees. Whether you’re leading a congregation, managing church operations, or navigating the challenges of ministry in today’s legal and cultural climate, this episode equips you with insight and inspiration to step into leadership with wisdom and confidence.


SHOW NOTES

ACT NOW! Register by September 2nd for the Virtual 18th Annual Church Law & Leadership Summit with the coupon code BIRTHDAY and receive an exclusive preview of the first month’s lesson of the Faithful Foundations Membership ($80 value). All summit registrants will also be entered into a giveaway for a chance to win a copy of Dr. Nicole Massie Martin’s book, Nailing-It: Why Successful Leadership Demands Suffering and Surrender! https://www.erikacole.com/summit2025

Join the Faithful Foundations Membership today! 2025 Faithful Foundations Membership enrollment

Download your FREE copy of The Church Attorney Legal Audit® System document checklist here, and check out Episode 29 (“Using a Legal Audit to Position Your Church for the Long Haul”) to learn about the importance of a legal audit for your church.  

Unlock exclusive insights and expert advice by subscribing to The Church Attorney® YouTube Channel! Get access to video podcasts, live recordings, and much more—designed to help you navigate the legal landscape of church management with confidence. Don’t miss out—subscribe today!

Questions? Comments?  We welcome them! Please contact Erika Cole at erikacole.com. Erika reads each comment and may answer your question in an upcoming episode.

See all episodes of Church Law.

The Church Law podcast is part of Gloo LLC’s ChurchLawAndTax.com.

Erika E. Cole, Esq., known as The Church Attorney®, is the creator of The Church Attorney Legal Audit® System, a proprietary legal audit process that helps church leaders be confident they are operating with integrity, and avoiding costly risks. Learn more at erikacole.com.


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2 months ago
16 minutes 32 seconds

Church Law
How to Nail Church Leadership in Challenging Times, with guest Dr. Nicole Martin

In this episode of The Church Law Podcast, host Erika Cole, The Church Attorney®, sits down with Rev. Dr. Nicole Massie Martin—COO of Christianity Today and author of Nailing It: Why Successful Leadership Demands Suffering & Surrender—to explore how church leaders can navigate challenging times with wisdom, integrity, and grace. Together, they tackle key issues such as scaling ministries without losing sacred intentions, avoiding dysfunctional loyalty, fostering unity over blind allegiance, and embracing a God-aligned pace in leadership. Packed with biblical insight and practical strategies, this conversation equips pastors, ministry leaders, and church staff to lead faithfully, even in seasons of difficulty. Plus, listeners will hear how to enter for a chance to win a signed copy of Nicole’s book during the upcoming Church Law & Leadership Summit! 


SHOW NOTES 

Register to join us virtually on Sept. 18th at the 18th Annual Church Law & Leadership Summit and be entered in the book giveaway! https://www.erikacole.com/summit2025 

For more information on Dr. Nicole Massie Martin’s book, Nailing-It: Why Successful Leadership Demands Suffering and Surrender, visit: https://www.ivpress.com/nailing-it 

Ep. 31: Equipping Younger Church Leaders, with guest Dr. Nicole Martin, CT’s chief impact officer – https://www.churchlawandtax.com/podcast-church-law/equipping-younger-church-leaders/ 

Ep. 14: The Rise and Fall of Mars Hill and What You Should Consider Before Changing Your Bylaws – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hjvpNxPpC4U 

Join the Faithful Foundations Membership today! 2025 Faithful Foundations Membership enrollment 

Download your FREE copy of The Church Attorney Legal Audit® System document checklist here, and check out Episode 29 (“Using a Legal Audit to Position Your Church for the Long Haul”) to learn about the importance of a legal audit for your church. 

Unlock exclusive insights and expert advice by subscribing to The Church Attorney® YouTube Channel! Get access to video podcasts, live recordings, and much more—designed to help you navigate the legal landscape of church management with confidence. Don’t miss out—subscribe today! 

Questions? Comments? We welcome them! Please contact Erika Cole at erikacole.com. Erika reads each comment and may answer your question in an upcoming episode. 


See all episodes of Church Law. 

The Church Law podcast is part of Gloo LLC’s ChurchLawAndTax.com. 

Erika E. Cole, Esq., known as The Church Attorney®, is the creator of The Church Attorney Legal Audit® System, a proprietary legal audit process that helps church leaders be confident they are operating with integrity, and avoiding costly risks. Learn more at erikacole.com. 

Show more...
2 months ago
25 minutes 18 seconds

Church Law
Trademarks 101 for Churches, with guest Nathan Adams IV, Esq.

In this episode of The Church Law Podcast, Erika Cole, The Church Attorney®, sits down with Nathan “Nate” Adams, partner at Holland & Knight, to unpack the essentials of trademark protection for churches. Whether your church is newly launched or generations old, this conversation will help you understand how to protect your name, avoid common legal pitfalls, and steward your ministry wisely. 

You’ll learn: 

● The difference between a trademark and a trade name 

● What legal protections state or IRS registration don’t provide 

● How churches unintentionally infringe on trademarks 

● Why legal protection is critical when growing an online presence 

● How trademarking aligns with good stewardship 


SHOW NOTES 

Trademark disputes can be messy, even with Christian organizations. Christian ministries and churches can find themselves in trademark issues due to expansion, similar town names, or even disgruntled attendees. For Mars Hill Church in Seattle, they were hoping to expand into California when they were met with another Mars Hill Church in Sacramento. Ironically, this church no longer exists after the tragic downfall of its founder. For a Christian university, the trademark issue can arise from west-coast and east-coast universities within different towns, both named Rochester. Lastly, although rare, disgruntled attendees can attempt to dilute the influence of the organization by creating fake organizations with the same name to discourage attendance. Trademark protections can be vital before any suit is seen on the horizon. Read More regarding these suits here: erikacole.com/churchlawcases/trademarkclashes 

Join the Faithful Foundations Membership today! 2025 Faithful Foundations Membership enrollment 

Download your FREE copy of The Church Attorney Legal Audit® System document checklist here, and check out Episode 29 (“Using a Legal Audit to Position Your Church for the Long Haul”) to learn about the importance of a legal audit for your church. 


Unlock exclusive insights and expert advice by subscribing to The Church Attorney® YouTube Channel! Get access to video podcasts, live recordings, and much more—designed to help you navigate the legal landscape of church management with confidence. Don’t miss out—subscribe today! 

Connect with Nathan Adams: 

● ww.hklaw.com/en/professionals/a/adams-nathan-a 

● www.linkedin.com/in/nathan-adams-86380412 


Questions? Comments? We welcome them! Please contact Erika Cole at erikacole.com. Erika reads each comment and may answer your question in an upcoming episode. 

See all episodes of Church Law. 

The Church Law podcast is part of Gloo LLC’s ChurchLawAndTax.com. 

Erika E. Cole, Esq., known as The Church Attorney®, is the creator of The Church Attorney Legal Audit® System, a proprietary legal audit process that helps church leaders be confident they are operating with integrity, and avoiding costly risks. Learn more at erikacole.com. 

Show more...
5 months ago
27 minutes 15 seconds

Church Law
The Ultimate Guide to Maintaining Your Church’s Tax-Exempt Status

In this episode of The Church Law Podcast, Erika Cole, The Church Attorney®, dives into the vital topic of maintaining your church’s tax-exempt status. With over 25 years of experience guiding ministries of all sizes, Erika unpacks what tax exemption really means, the top five ways churches unknowingly put their status at risk, and real-life cautionary tales from churches that lost theirs. Learn how to avoid IRS scrutiny, protect your ministry’s financial future, and lead with legal confidence. 


SHOW NOTES 

Join the Faithful Foundations Membership today! 2025 Faithful Foundations Membership enrollment 

The Church Attorney’s Guide to 501(c)(3) Tax-Exempt Status, How to Obtain, Maintain and Protect Your Church’s Tax-Exempt Status 

Tax Exempt Organization Search bulk data downloads (Publication 78) 

Case of first church tax-exempt status revocation based on engagement in political activity 

Church Law & Tax article: Understanding the Consequences for Losing Tax Exemption for Churches 

Download your FREE copy of The Church Attorney Legal Audit® System document checklist here, and check out Episode 29 (“Using a Legal Audit to Position Your Church for the Long Haul”) to learn about the importance of a legal audit for your church. 

Unlock exclusive insights and expert advice by subscribing to The Church Attorney® YouTube Channel! Get access to video podcasts, live recordings, and much more—designed to help you navigate the legal landscape of church management with confidence. Don’t miss out—subscribe today! 

Questions? Comments? We welcome them! Please contact Erika Cole at erikacole.com. Erika reads each comment and may answer your question in an upcoming episode. 

See all episodes of Church Law. 

The Church Law podcast is part of Gloo LLC’s ChurchLawAndTax.com. 

Erika E. Cole, Esq., known as The Church Attorney®, is the creator of The Church Attorney Legal Audit® System, a proprietary legal audit process that helps church leaders be confident they are operating with integrity, and avoiding costly risks. Learn more at erikacole.com. 

Show more...
6 months ago
20 minutes 49 seconds

Church Law
Top Legal and Tax Issues: Answering Listener Questions with guest, Matthew Branaugh, Esq.

In this episode of the Church Law Podcast, Erika welcomes back special guest Matthew Branaugh, attorney and editor at Church Law & Tax. Together, they tackle a variety of legal and tax questions submitted by you, our listeners—offering valuable guidance to help churches and ministries navigate complex issues. Topics include volunteer background checks, receiving property from another church, handling love offerings, protecting 501(c)(3) status while generating income, church name protection, and more. This informative conversation equips church leaders with practical insight to steward their ministries with wisdom and legal clarity.

SHOW NOTES

Join the Faithful Foundations Membership today! 2025 Faithful Foundations Membership enrollment

The Church Attorney®’s Guide, Love Offerings

National Sex Offender Public Website

Ep. 39 - Expanding Uses for Church Property and Related Legal Considerations, with attorney Midgett Parker

Ep. 9 - Fraud in Church: It Can Happen to You! With guest Vonna Laue, CPA

Download your FREE copy of The Church Attorney Legal Audit® System document checklist here, and check out Episode 29 (“Using a Legal Audit to Position Your Church for the Long Haul”) to learn about the importance of a legal audit for your church.  

Unlock exclusive insights and expert advice by subscribing to The Church Attorney® YouTube Channel! Get access to video podcasts, live recordings, and much more—designed to help you navigate the legal landscape of church management with confidence. Don’t miss out—subscribe today!

Questions? Comments?  We welcome them! Please contact Erika Cole at erikacole.com. Erika reads each comment and may answer your question in an upcoming episode.

See all episodes of Church Law.

The Church Law podcast is part of Gloo LLC’s ChurchLawAndTax.com.

Erika E. Cole, Esq., known as The Church Attorney®, is the creator of The Church Attorney Legal Audit® System, a proprietary legal audit process that helps church leaders be confident they are operating with integrity, and avoiding costly risks. Learn more at erikacole.com. 

Show more...
6 months ago
42 minutes 41 seconds

Church Law
The New Administration and What Your Church Should Know

In this episode, Erika provides essential guidance to help churches and ministries stay ahead of shifting legal and compliance requirements under the new administration. Learn critical steps your ministry must take to remain compliant and secure while discovering the invaluable support offered through Faithful Foundations Membership. Don’t let your ministry be caught off guard—stay informed, prepared, and faithful.

Key Discussion Points:

  1. Understanding the Changing Landscape

  • Overview of key policy shifts under the new administration

  • How these changes impact churches and ministries

  1. Key Steps for Churches to Take Now

  • Compliance updates and legal requirements

  • Best practices for financial and operational stability

  • Proactive measures to safeguard religious freedoms

  1. Faithful Foundations Membership: Your Trusted Resource

  • Exclusive support for churches navigating compliance changes

  • Resources, training, and legal insights

  • Community support and best practices for ministry growth

SHOW NOTES

Join the Faithful Foundations Membership today! 2025 Faithful Foundations Membership enrollment

Download your FREE copy of The Church Attorney Legal Audit® System document checklist here, and check out Episode 29 (“Using a Legal Audit to Position Your Church for the Long Haul”) to learn about the importance of a legal audit for your church.  

Unlock exclusive insights and expert advice by subscribing to The Church Attorney® YouTube Channel! Get access to video podcasts, live recordings, and much more—designed to help you navigate the legal landscape of church management with confidence. Don’t miss out—subscribe today!

Questions? Comments?  We welcome them! Please contact Erika Cole at erikacole.com. Erika reads each comment and may answer your question in an upcoming episode.

See all episodes of Church Law.

The Church Law podcast is part of Gloo LLC’s ChurchLawAndTax.com.

Erika E. Cole, Esq., known as The Church Attorney®, is the creator of The Church Attorney Legal Audit® System, a proprietary legal audit process that helps church leaders be confident they are operating with integrity, and avoiding costly risks. Learn more at erikacole.com. 

Show more...
7 months ago
23 minutes 32 seconds

Church Law
Immigration and the Church: What May Change in 2025 with guest Lina Hughes, Esq.

In this episode, Erika tackles a critical issue facing churches and ministries—immigration law and its evolving impact on faith-based organizations. With rapid policy shifts, many churches serving immigrant communities are left wondering how to navigate the legal landscape effectively.  

To provide expert insight, Erika welcomes guest, Lina Hughes, a seasoned immigration attorney with over 26 years of experience. Lina is the principal attorney at Yen Hughes Law, a professor of immigration law at Trinity Law School, and an advocate for attorney well-being.  

Together, they discuss: how immigration policies have historically impacted churches, the latest policy changes affecting faith-based organizations, practical steps churches can take to prepare and adjust, the importance of a written immigration policy, and more.   

If your church or ministry serves immigrant populations, this episode is a must-listen. Gain wisdom, confidence, and practical strategies to continue serving with excellence in 2025 and beyond.  


SHOW NOTES

Join the Faithful Foundations Membership today! 2025 Faithful Foundations Membership enrollment

Know Your Rights Toolkit

Red Cards/Tarjetas Rojas

Download your FREE copy of The Church Attorney Legal Audit® System document checklist here, and check out Episode 29 (“Using a Legal Audit to Position Your Church for the Long Haul”) to learn about the importance of a legal audit for your church.  

Unlock exclusive insights and expert advice by subscribing to The Church Attorney® YouTube Channel! Get access to video podcasts, live recordings, and much more—designed to help you navigate the legal landscape of church management with confidence. Don’t miss out—subscribe today!

Questions? Comments?  We welcome them! Please contact Erika Cole at erikacole.com. Erika reads each comment and may answer your question in an upcoming episode.

See all episodes of Church Law.

The Church Law podcast is part of Gloo LLC’s ChurchLawAndTax.com.

Erika E. Cole, Esq., known as The Church Attorney®, is the creator of The Church Attorney Legal Audit® System, a proprietary legal audit process that helps church leaders be confident they are operating with integrity, and avoiding costly risks. Learn more at erikacole.com.

Show more...
8 months ago
31 minutes 10 seconds

Church Law
Employees vs. Contractors: Proper Worker Classification for Churches with guest, Tiffany Releford, Esq.

This podcast episode, hosted by Erika Cole, The Church Attorney®, features employment law expert Tiffany Releford. The discussion provides valuable insights into employment law as it applies to churches and nonprofit organizations. Topics include distinguishing between employees and independent contractors, the implications of part-time versus full-time status, and how recent federal executive orders impact nonprofit compliance. 

Tiffany also highlights the importance of understanding legal protections against discrimination, particularly in light of evolving government policies. Church leaders and nonprofit administrators will find practical guidance on navigating workplace legal complexities while staying mission-focused.


SHOW NOTES

Join the Faithful Foundations Membership today! 2025 Faithful Foundations Membership enrollment

Church Law Podcast, Episode 12: HR Matter for Churches w/ guest Tiffany Releford, Esq.

Are you a religious leader who is feeling burnt out? Register today for Take the Next Call, a 6-week online course that will empower you to take control of your journey and fulfill your destiny beyond your church leadership role.

Download your FREE copy of The Church Attorney Legal Audit® System document checklist here, and check out Episode 29 (“Using a Legal Audit to Position Your Church for the Long Haul”) to learn about the importance of a legal audit for your church.  

Unlock exclusive insights and expert advice by subscribing to The Church Attorney® YouTube Channel! Get access to video podcasts, live recordings, and much more—designed to help you navigate the legal landscape of church management with confidence. Don’t miss out—subscribe today!

Questions? Comments?  We welcome them! Please contact Erika Cole at erikacole.com. Erika reads each comment and may answer your question in an upcoming episode.

See all episodes of Church Law.

The Church Law podcast is part of Gloo LLC’s ChurchLawAndTax.com.

Erika E. Cole, Esq., known as The Church Attorney®, is the creator of The Church Attorney Legal Audit® System, a proprietary legal audit process that helps church leaders be confident they are operating with integrity, and avoiding costly risks. Learn more at erikacole.com. 

Show more...
8 months ago
30 minutes 25 seconds

Church Law
Rest as a Sacred Leadership Commitment, with guest Dr. Saundra Dalton-Smith

In this episode, we explore the often-overlooked importance of rest in leadership, especially for those in ministry. Erika is joined by Dr. Saundra Dalton-Smith, a Board-Certified internal medicine physician, work-life integration researcher, and author of Sacred Rest. Together, we discuss how rest is not a luxury but a sacred commitment that leaders must prioritize to serve others effectively.

Church and ministry leaders often carry heavy responsibilities, facing the demands of their roles while neglecting their own well-being. Dr. Dalton-Smith shares her expert insights on the critical connection between rest and health, and how leaders can incorporate holistic rest into their lives to recharge, refocus, and continue their work with renewed energy and purpose.

If you’ve been feeling overwhelmed or burnt out, this episode is a must-listen! Tune in for practical advice and encouraging wisdom on how to make rest an integral part of your leadership journey.


SHOW NOTES

Join the Faithful Foundations Membership today! 2025 Faithful Foundations Membership enrollment

Sacred Rest by Dr. Saundra Dalton-Smith 

Sacred Rest Quiz (Link to quiz for listeners to assess their rest needs)

Are you a religious leader who is feeling burnt out? Register today for Take the Next Call, a 6-week online course that will empower you to take control of your journey and fulfill your destiny beyond your church leadership role.

Download your FREE copy of The Church Attorney Legal Audit® System document checklist here, and check out Episode 29 (“Using a Legal Audit to Position Your Church for the Long Haul”) to learn about the importance of a legal audit for your church.  

Unlock exclusive insights and expert advice by subscribing to The Church Attorney® YouTube Channel! Get access to video podcasts, live recordings, and much more—designed to help you navigate the legal landscape of church management with confidence. Don’t miss out—subscribe today!

Questions? Comments?  We welcome them! Please contact Erika Cole at erikacole.com. Erika reads each comment and may answer your question in an upcoming episode.

See all episodes of Church Law.

The Church Law podcast is part of Gloo LLC’s ChurchLawAndTax.com.

Erika E. Cole, Esq., known as The Church Attorney®, is the creator of The Church Attorney Legal Audit® System, a proprietary legal audit process that helps church leaders be confident they are operating with integrity, and avoiding costly risks. Learn more at erikacole.com. 

Show more...
9 months ago
29 minutes 35 seconds

Church Law
BONUS EPISODE: An Interview with Richard Hammar, attorney, CPA, and co-founder, Church Law & Tax

Hammar, attorney, CPA, and co-founder of Church Law & Tax. Rich reflects on his more than 40-year career representing churches and informing them through his articles for Church Law & Tax and his many books, including Pastor, Church & Law, Fifth Edition, and the annual Church & Clergy Tax Guide. 

The two discuss the top five reasons churches and religious organizations go to court. They also explore the issues and challenges that have changed over the past four decades, and why churches face increasing legal liability. 

And Erika asks Rich about his career transition—and what church leaders can learn from his experience.

SHOW NOTES

  • Episode 2: “The Top Legal Issues Confronting Churches”
  • Episode 15: “Keeping Children Safe in Your Church” 
  • Pastor, Church & Law, Fifth Edition, by Richard R. Hammar
  • The annual Church & Clergy Tax Guide, by Richard R. Hammar
  • The top five reasons churches and religious organizations go to court
  • Erika Cole’s 2024 Church Compliance Conference
  • “Breach of a Fiduciary Duty,” by Richard R. Hammar
  • “More States Expand Victims’ Rights to Sue for Abuse,” by Richard R. Hammar
  • “Generative AI Is All the Rage. Handle With Care.” by Matthew Branaugh
  • Become a ChurchLawAndTax.com Advantage Member and enjoy full access to articles, a Legal Library, a copy of the annual Church & Clergy Tax Guide, and more.
  • Download your FREE copy of The Church Attorney Legal Audit® System document checklist here, and check out Episode 29 (“Using a Legal Audit to Position Your Church for the Long Haul”) to learn about the importance of a legal audit for your church.
  •  Join the waitlist for the 2025 Faithful Foundations Membership enrollment.
  • Unlock exclusive insights and expert advice by subscribing to The Church Attorney® YouTube Channel! Get access to video podcasts, live recordings, and much more—designed to help you navigate the legal landscape of church management with confidence. Don’t miss out—subscribe today!

Questions? Comments? We welcome them! Please contact Erika Cole at erikacole.com. Erika reads each comment and may answer your question in an upcoming episode.

See all episodes of Church Law.

The Church Law podcast is part of Gloo LLC’s ChurchLawAndTax.com.

Erika E. Cole, Esq., known as The Church Attorney®, is the creator of The Church Attorney Legal Audit® System, a proprietary legal audit process that helps church leaders be confident they are operating with integrity, and avoiding costly risks. She serves as a senior editorial advisor for ChurchLawAndTax.com.

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11 months ago
40 minutes 52 seconds

Church Law
When to Hire An Executive Pastor, with XPastor.com Founder David “Fletch” Fletcher
So, you’ve planted your church, and it has entered a growth phase. And with that growth has come added responsibility, stress, and pressure.  Therefore, it’s understandable that you might be considering bringing in someone to help. Should that someone be an executive pastor? David “Fletch” Fletcher, founder of XPastor.com and an advisor-at-large for Church Law & Tax, is known as the “Dean of Executive Pastors.” In this episode, he offers wisdom and insights gleaned from four decades leading churches of various sizes and makeups. Using Acts 6 as a guide, Fletch unpacks what it is for pastors to effectively delegate certain duties and roles, and thus free themselves to focus on their calling, as they lead growing, ever-changing churches. This is especially critical when a church enters the 500-1,000 member range, Fletch says, and begins to see declines in productivity among a growing staff, or even missional drift.  It’s why an executive pastor might be the wisest investment a church can make. SHOW NOTES Episode 27: “Building a Healthy Leadership Culture in Your Church” State of the Church – 2025: Measuring What Matters in Ministry, by Gloo and Barna Become a ChurchLawAndTax.com Advantage Member and enjoy full access to articles, a Legal Library, a copy of the annual Church & Clergy Tax Guide, and more. Download your FREE copy of The Church Attorney Legal Audit® System document checklist here, and check out Episode 29 (“Using a Legal Audit to Position Your Church for the Long Haul”) to learn about the importance of a legal audit for your church.    Join the waitlist for the 2025 Faithful Foundations Membership enrollment. “The Changing Face of the Executive Pastor Role,” by Matthew Branaugh “How to Interview Your Next Church” by David Fletcher Church Finance: The Church Leader’s Guide to Financial Operations, by Michael E. Batts Questions? Comments? We welcome them! Please contact Erika Cole at erikacole.com. Erika reads each comment and may answer your question in an upcoming episode. See all episodes of Church Law. The Church Law podcast is part of Gloo LLC’s ChurchLawAndTax.com. Erika E. Cole, Esq., known as The Church Attorney®, is the creator of The Church Attorney Legal Audit® System, a proprietary legal audit process that helps church leaders be confident they are operating with integrity, and avoiding costly risks. She serves as a senior editorial advisor for ChurchLawAndTax.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
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1 year ago
27 minutes 1 second

Church Law
The Thriving, Expanding Church, with guest Brad Hill, chief solutions officer, Gloo
Many churches make it out of their infancies and early years and hit their strides as they approach the double-digit years of existence. When a church’s life cycle reaches this point, it’s easy for its leaders to focus on what got them there. But that can be a misstep. In this episode, Erika talks with Brad Hill, Gloo’s chief solutions officer, about how thriving, expanding churches can maximize their opportunities by developing new ways of thinking about ministry and doing it.  Embracing new technologies like AI, and the ways they can be used for advancing the Good News and making disciples, is one such way. Finding ways to measure the health and well-being of the people coming to the church is another way. Learn more as Erika and Brad explain how a thriving, expanding church is made possible when that church thinks innovatively about helping its people thrive and flourish. Show Notes: Episode 45: “The Lifecycle of a Church” Episode 32: “Readying Your Church for the AI Wave” AI and the Church - Gloo State of the Church – 2025: Measuring What Matters in Ministry, by Gloo and Barna Become a ChurchLawAndTax.com Advantage Member and enjoy full access to articles, a Legal Library, a copy of the annual Church & Clergy Tax Guide, and more. Download your FREE copy of The Church Attorney Legal Audit® System document checklist here, and check out Episode 29 (“Using a Legal Audit to Position Your Church for the Long Haul”) to learn about the importance of a legal audit for your church.  Join the waitlist for the 2025 Faithful Foundations Membership enrollment  “Generative AI is All the Rage. Handle With Care,” by Matthew Branaugh “Yes, Ministries Should Embrace AI,” by Jonathan Smith Church IT, Third Edition, by Nick Nicholaou and Jonathan Smith Questions? Comments? We welcome them! Please contact Erika Cole at erikacole.com. Erika reads each comment and may answer your question in an upcoming episode. See all episodes of Church Law. The Church Law podcast is part of Gloo LLC’s ChurchLawAndTax.com. Erika E. Cole, Esq., known as The Church Attorney®, is the creator of The Church Attorney Legal Audit® System, a proprietary legal audit process that helps church leaders be confident they are operating with integrity, and avoiding costly risks. She serves as a senior editorial advisor for ChurchLawAndTax.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
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1 year ago
26 minutes 1 second

Church Law
Navigating the Early Years, with guest Pastor Soboma Wokoma
Pastors Soboma and Faith Wokoma weren’t planning to start a church. But bringing 17 people together for connection, coupled with earnest commitments to prayer, eventually led to launching Legacy Center Church in Wake Forest, North Carolina. Eight years later, the church draws about 350 people a week. The church is at a stage some consider “the messy middle” of ministry: Operations have grown, the newness has faded, and it’s easy for ministries to move off course. Continuing the theme of “the lifecycle of a church,” Erika talks more with Pastor Soboma about how Legacy Center has intentionally worked to avoid drift. The two discuss skill-building among staff and volunteers, using bivocational pastors, and calling upon volunteers with workplace experience to help lead the church’s administrative operations. That last approach—volunteer-led administration—also underscores the power of continual assessment and adjustment, Pastor Soboma notes, because leadership abilities and needs change, and approaches must be flexible to respond for the long-term good of the church Show Notes: Episode 46: “Starting a Church, with guest Peter Olson, executive pastor” Episode 45: “The Lifecycle of a Church” A Special Offer for Our Podcast Listeners! As a special thank-you to our loyal podcast listeners, we’re offering an exclusive 20-percent discount on registration for the 17th annual Church Compliance Conference, a virtual event on September 19, 2024. Simply use the discount code PODCAST at checkout, or, use these links to the discounted registration pages: All Access Group Ticket Individual Ticket + Companion Guide and Conference Replay Single Admission Church Goverance, Richard R. Hammar Become a ChurchLawAndTax.com Advantage Member and enjoy full access to articles, a Legal Library, a copy of the annual Church & Clergy Tax Guide, and more. Download your FREE copy of The Church Attorney Legal Audit® System document checklist here, and check out Episode 29 (“Using a Legal Audit to Position Your Church for the Long Haul”) to learn about the importance of a legal audit for your church. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
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1 year ago
26 minutes 31 seconds

Church Law
Starting a Church, with guest Peter Olson, executive pastor
Three years ago, Harvest Valley Church was a dream—a vision—to reach the people of Horace, North Dakota. From humble beginnings meeting in coffee shops to forming small groups to using a “portable” approach from week to week, the church has grown to nearly 500 people as it approaches its third anniversary. How does a church like this start right and grow in a healthy way? In this episode, Erika speaks with Peter Olson, the executive pastor of Harvest Valley (and a Church Law podcast listener!). The two talk about the fundamental importance of good pre-launch planning and organization, the creation of good governing documents, and the filings with the secretary of state and Internal Revenue Service that develop good order.  They also talk about key spiritual components to starting a church. Understanding vision and mission, following the way of Jesus, and embracing the value of consistently asking questions—of staff, of volunteers, and of congregants. The result? “A lot of learning, a lot of learning, and a lot of learning,” Olson observes. And recognizing that faithful obedience—not just numerical growth—should be the first priority.  A Special Offer for Our Podcast Listeners! As a special thank-you to our loyal podcast listeners, we’re offering an exclusive 20-percent discount on registration for the 17th annual Church Compliance Conference, a virtual event on September 19, 2024. Simply use the discount code PODCAST at checkout, or, use these links to the discounted registration pages: All Access Group Ticket Individual Ticket + Companion Guide and Conference Replay Single Admission Show Notes Church Governance, by Richard R. Hammar Pastor, Church & Law, Fifth Edition, by Richard R. Hammar Download your FREE copy of The Church Attorney Legal Audit® System document checklist here, and check out Episode 29 (“Using a Legal Audit to Position Your Church for the Long Haul”) to learn about the importance of a legal audit for your church. Questions? Comments? We welcome them! Please contact Erika Cole at erikacole.com. Erika reads each comment and may answer your question in an upcoming episode. See all episodes of Church Law. The Church Law podcast is part of Gloo LLC’s ChurchLawAndTax.com.Erika E. Cole, Esq., known as The Church Attorney®, is the creator of The Church Attorney Legal Audit® System, a proprietary legal audit process that helps church leaders be confident they are operating with integrity, and avoiding costly risks. She serves a Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
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1 year ago
23 minutes 1 second

Church Law
The Lifecycle of a Church
A new season of the Church Law podcast is here!  In this episode, Erika discusses this season’s theme: The lifecycle of a church.  Whether a church is launching, growing, thriving, or declining, there are important administrative, legal, and spiritual tasks and responsibilities to address.  This season will walk church leaders through each of these seasons, offering the guidance and direction they need to handle the challenges and opportunities well.  Regardless the season your church faces, learn just how—as promised in Romans 8:28—God works for the good in all things for those who love Him.    A Special Offer for Our Podcast Listeners! As a special thank-you to our loyal podcast listeners, we’re offering an exclusive 20-percent discount on registration for the 17th annual Church Compliance Conference, a virtual event on September 19, 2024. Simply use the discount code PODCAST at checkout. Register here. Become a ChurchLawAndTax.com Advantage Member and enjoy full access to articles, a Legal Library, a copy of the annual Church & Clergy Tax Guide, and more. Download your FREE copy of The Church Attorney Legal Audit® System document checklist here, and check out Episode 29 (“Using a Legal Audit to Position Your Church for the Long Haul”) to learn about the importance of a legal audit for your church. Questions? Comments? We welcome them! Please contact Erika Cole at erikacole.com. Erika reads each comment and may answer your question in an upcoming episode. See all episodes of Church Law. The Church Law podcast is part of Gloo LLC’s ChurchLawAndTax.com. Erika E. Cole, Esq., known as The Church Attorney®, is the creator of The Church Attorney Legal Audit® System, a proprietary legal audit process that helps church leaders be confident they are operating with integrity, and avoiding costly risks. She serves as a senior editorial advisor for ChurchLawAndTax.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
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1 year ago
12 minutes 16 seconds

Church Law
A Look at Churches and the Economy in 2024, with Guest Rob Eby
There’s no shortage of economic indicators and reports to read, and as we near the halfway point of 2024, church leaders likely wonder where everything is heading.  Inflation persists and interest rates still hover near recent historic highs. Unemployment remains low, but new jobs reports suggest that may be changing. Many stocks have posted impressive returns while housing prices continue surging in many places.  In this episode, Erika talks about the economy with Rob Eby, a CPA from Aprio who has served churches and nonprofits for more than two decades.  The two review some high-level best practices all churches should remember, regardless of the economic outlook, including staying true to mission and budgeting. They also discuss the power of prayer, the value of reserves, and who should be tapped in a congregation should an economic crisis arise.  “Managing Tough Financial Times,” from the editors of Church Law & Tax Church Finance, Second Edition: The Church Leader’s Guide to Financial Operations by Michael E. Batts “Church Loan Modifications in a Crisis,” by Vonna Laue and Michelle Sanchez “Q&A: Adopting a New Budget During Extraordinary Times,” by Michael E. Batts Download your FREE copy of The Church Attorney Legal Audit® System document checklist here, and check out Episode 29 (“Using a Legal Audit to Position Your Church for the Long Haul”) to learn about the importance of a legal audit for your church. Questions? Comments? We welcome them! Please contact Erika Cole at erikacole.com. Erika reads each comment and may answer your question in an upcoming episode. See all episodes of Church Law. The Church Law podcast is part of Christianity Today’s ChurchLawAndTax.com, a not-for-profit publishing ministry. Erika E. Cole, Esq., known as The Church Attorney®, is the creator of The Church Attorney Legal Audit® System, a proprietary legal audit process that helps church leaders be confident they are operating with integrity, and avoiding costly risks. She serves as a senior editorial advisor for Christianity Today’s ChurchLawAndTax.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
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1 year ago
23 minutes 29 seconds

Church Law
What To Do—or NOT Do—This Election Year
It’s election season in the United States, and after contentious races nationwide in 2020 and 2022, 2024 promises to bring even more heat.  The Oval Office is up for grabs. All 435 seats in the US House are on ballots, as are 34 in the Senate. Add to that a slate of 13 gubernatorial elections and countless state and local elections, and measures. What is a church leader to do? Should pastors speak up, speak out?   In this episode, Erika walks church leaders through some of the key considerations they make about political involvement as Election Day approaches.  Some activities, like endorsing or opposing a candidate, may jeopardize a church’s tax-exempt status. But other activities are allowed. Erika provides need-to-know tips for navigating this tricky line throughout the 2024 election season.  SHOW NOTES “The Tax Implications of Churches and Political Involvement,” by Richard R. Hammar “Politics, Churches, and Constitutional Protections,” by Erik Stanley “Politics and the Church: Activism, Speech, and the Tax Code,” by Church Law & Tax  “Checklist: How Various Political Activities Might Affect Your Church’s Tax-Exempt Status” by Church Law & Tax Download your FREE copy of The Church Attorney Legal Audit® System document checklist here, and check out Episode 29 (“Using a Legal Audit to Position Your Church for the Long Haul”) to learn about the importance of a legal audit for your church. Questions? Comments? We welcome them! Please contact Erika Cole at erikacole.com. Erika reads each comment and may answer your question in an upcoming episode. See all episodes of Church Law. The Church Law podcast is part of Christianity Today’s ChurchLawAndTax.com, a not-for-profit publishing ministry. Erika E. Cole, Esq., known as The Church Attorney®, is the creator of The Church Attorney Legal Audit® System, a proprietary legal audit process that helps church leaders be confident they are operating with integrity, and avoiding costly risks. She serves as a senior editorial advisor for Christianity Today’s ChurchLawAndTax.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
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1 year ago
16 minutes 43 seconds

Church Law
Pastors and church leaders in America face challenges that are increasing in scope and impact. Whether we're talking issues of cultural dynamics and the church or need-to-know information about everyday operations, the legal issues impacting churches aren't going away. Listen to the Church Law podcast to gain real life insights from a real lawyer who does this work everyday. You'll gain key insights to help your church in this critical time, and learn the pitfalls to avoid. All straight from The Church Attorney® along with some special guests!