The Feedback Freeze: Why Your Staff Won't Tell You What's Really Wrong

The Healthy Church Staff Podcast

The Healthy Church Staff Podcast
The Feedback Freeze: Why Your Staff Won't Tell You What's Really Wrong
Mar 30, 2026 Episode 581

In this episode of the Healthy Church Staff Podcast, Todd Rhoades discusses the challenges of obtaining honest feedback from staff who may feel hesitant due to past defensive reactions or fear of being labeled negatively. Todd suggests strategies for creating a safer environment for feedback, emphasizing the importance of asking different questions, listening without immediate judgment, and viewing feedback as a means to improve systems rather than critiquing people.• Staff often hesitates to give honest feedback due to fear and past defensiveness.• Creating a safety net for feedback can encourage transparency.• Ask questions that invite constructive criticism, like 'What could work better?'• Resist immediate fixes; encourage staff to voice solutions.• Schedule specific times for feedback, separate from performance reviews.• Focus on improving systems, not critiquing individuals.• Honest feedback can lead to problem-solving before issues escalate.

Have questions or comments?  Send to podcast@chemistrystaffing.com

Be sure to subscribe to The Healthy Church Staff Podcast wherever you regularly listen to podcasts.

- - - - -

Is Your Church Hiring?
If your church is searching for a new staff member, reach out to Todd for a conversation on how he might be able to help.

Are You Looking for a New Ministry Role?
If you are open to a new church role in the next few months, add your free resume and profile at ChemistryStaffing.com.