THE COHORT EXPERIENCE
Community, Space, and Support
Six months. A small, closed circle. Two retreats, monthly one-on-one and group coaching with a proven process underneath it all.
OUR APPROACH
More Than a Peer Group
Most leaders don't join a cohort because they're in crisis. They join because they take their calling seriously—and they've realized that doing it alone, surrounded only by people who need something from them, isn't a growth strategy.
Think about your last week. How many conversations did you have where nobody needed anything from you? For most pastors, the honest answer is zero. Not because anything is wrong. Because the role is built that way.
But honesty alone isn't a plan. Every cohort runs on WholeCare™—our framework that treats your life, leadership, and ministry as one integrated whole. Every challenge gets looked at in full context, with experienced coaches guiding the process, so the conversations build toward something.
You don't just leave with friendships. You leave with clarity about who you are, what matters most, and how to lead from it for the long haul.
Kyle Burkholder
THE COVENANT CHURCH
"Pastoral ministry can be deeply isolating and I've longed to find others who get it. During my cohort, I found meaningful relationships with real friends who know the journey I'm on."
Cody Whitfill
RIVER VALLEY CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP
"Tired of tips and tricks promising results only to be disappointed? I was. Then I went to a cohort with The Authentic Pastor. The process was real and the results were tangible."
Brett Lester
FBC LIVINGSTON
"I joined a cohort with pastors from all over the country who have become brothers. I'm being encouraged, challenged, held accountable, and loved for who I am, not for what I do."
JR Lee
FREEDOM CHURCH
"I wasn't sure what I was walking into, but The Authentic Pastor has been an absolute gift. The camaraderie, the encouragement, the friendships. If you're looking for that, look no further."
THE COACHES
The People You'll Be Working With
Tim and Brian lead every cohort, supported by a growing team of pastors and professors who've spent their lives in ministry. Your individual sessions are matched to the right coach for your situation.
Tim Eldred
FOUNDER | CEO
Brian Aaby
CHIEF STRATEGIST
Dr. Jeff Gill
ACADEMIC DIRECTOR
Jeff Noel
PASTORAL COACH
Dr. Ken Castor
LEADERSHIP EDUCATOR
Jim Probst
MINISTRY STRATEGIST
FOR YOU AND YOUR BOARD
Get the Info Packet
A cohort usually takes two yeses—yours and whoever signs off on the budget. This packet is built for both of you: what's included, the investment, the schedule, and a page written for the one who decides. Read it yourself, then hand it over.
A cohort leader will follow up to answer questions and help you figure out whether this is the right fit. No pressure, no pitch. September and November 2026 cohorts are open now, and each one caps at 12 leaders.
By completing this form, we’ll also send you helpful resources, ministry insights, and occasional updates. You can unsubscribe at any time.
