Rock Cast Episode 211: How Church Leaders Should Respond to the AI Race Published Apr 15, 2026 Jon and Emily are joined by a new voice on the show, Nicole Shibata, who handles marketing, fundraising, and conference planning here at Rock. Jon leads the team through the most consequential three months in AI since ChatGPT launched. They talk about what shipped in the industry, why the rapid pace matters, and what church leaders need to do about it now. Emily then unpacks Will Guidara’s Unreasonable Hospitality to understand how service is different than hospitality. This is where churches have a unique opportunity to lead because Rock empowers churches with the tools they need to intentionally care for people. The real question is whether those tools are being used to create moments that are unexpected, meaningful, and unforgettable. Nicole closes the conversation with a look at how this concept is ingrained into the Rock Community, highlighting the recent Ambassador Kickoff Meeting. Rock Partners We are thankful for our Rock Sponsors and their support of the Rock Community. Visit their websites through the link above to learn how they can help your ministry and confirm that those you work with are as invested in the success of Rock as you are! Quick Links Join the brand-new Rock Cast Rocket Chat channel to see what others are saying about this episode! Read Unreasonable Hospitality by Will Guidara to be inspired. Stay updated on AI by listening to Nathaniel Whittemoreʼs AI Daily Brief podcast on Apple and Spotify. Subscribe to our YouTube Channel to watch Rock Cast.