The Five Gifts Podcast

The Five Gifts Podcast exists for Christian Leaders and Christ-followers to rediscover Christ's presence and activity in their lives and their churches.

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Charles Russell has served in Pastoral Ministry for 26 years. He is also a certified John Maxwell speaker, coach, and trainer for staff, leadership teams, and volunteers. He has a Masters in Organizational Leadership. Find out more at charlesrusselltraining.com.

Bruce Ritter Bruce Ritter has been a lead Pastor for 28 years and a Spiritual Life and Leadership Coach since 2005. He is also a consultant with Church Life Resources. He has a Masters in Pastoral Ministry and a Doctorate in Evangelism and Discipleship. Check out more at his website Coaching Cardia.

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Beyond Words: How Spirit-filled Leaders Connect through Communication

2025-08-25

Words only account for 7% of communication—so how do Spirit-filled leaders connect beyond words? Authentic, Spirit-led connection happens through thought, emotion, and action.

Most leaders assume that communication is all about the message. But UCLA research shows that only 7% of communication comes from words—while 38% comes from tone and 55% from body language. That means more than 90% of your effectiveness as a leader comes from how you show up, not just what you say. In this episode of The Five Gifts Podcast, Charles Russell and Bruce Ritter explore John Maxwell’s principle that connecting goes beyond words. They break down the three components of communication—thought, emotion, and action—and show how each applies uniquely to apostles, prophets, pastors, teachers, and evangelists. Together, they offer Spirit-filled wisdom, biblical insights, and practical tools to help you: • Preach and teach with authenticity and anointing • Lead with conviction, not just information • Connect with people visually, emotionally, and intellectually • Align your thought, heart, and lifestyle so that your leadership inspires trust This episode will challenge and equip you to lead in a way that people don’t just hear—they experience and remember.

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Filetype: M4A - Size: 39 MB - Duration: 44:30m (118 kbps 48000 Hz)