Leader2Leader: The Multiplication Factor

In this episode of the Leader to Leader Podcast, Dr. Justin Irving, Professor of Leadership at The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, shares insights from more than 25 years of investing in and developing ministry leaders. He reflects on the mentors who shaped his own journey, the spiritual disciplines that sustain him, and the vital importance of community and friendship in leadership. Dr. Irving reminds us that thriving leaders never go it alone—and that effective leadership begins with pouring into others.

About ECFA:

Key Takeaways:

• Mentoring others is at the heart of effective leadership.

• Daily engagement in Scripture, prayer, and worship sustains the soul of a leader.

• Every task—no matter how small—can be an act of worship.

• Biblical models like Barnabas remind us that encouragement multiplies impact.

Scripture References:

Psalm 90 – “Establish the work of our hands.”

Acts 4 & 11 – The example of Barnabas, the Son of Encouragement.

Memorable Quotes:

“Leaders who go it alone tend to get isolated. Deep friendships are essential for thriving.”

“Even the mundane tasks of leadership can be doxological—acts of worship.”

Guest Bio:

Links & Resources:

ECFA – ECFA.org

Follow and subscribe to the Leader to Leader Podcast on CLATV in the Godcaster.fm app or wherever you listen.

Margaret’s Story: From Survival to Thriving

In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Margaret, who opens up about her powerful journey from simply surviving life’s challenges to stepping fully into a life of thriving.

Growing up in an unstable environment, Margaret carried many of those struggles into adulthood—impacting her career, relationships, and sense of self. But through intentional choices, faith, and supportive community, she discovered that breaking old cycles and creating a new path forward is possible.

How Margaret recognized unhealthy patterns and chose change.

The role of faith and resilience in overcoming setbacks.

Practical habits that fueled her transformation—journaling, setting boundaries, and rest.

Why small daily practices can lead to lasting growth.

The importance of surrounding yourself with people who encourage and uplift you.

“I started to see challenges as opportunities to grow.” – Margaret

0:00 – Introduction & Margaret’s background

5:30 – Recognizing cycles of survival

12:15 – Faith as a foundation for resilience

18:40 – Small habits that bring big change

25:00 – Lessons for anyone seeking to thrive

Summary In this episode of Journey to Thriving, Brian Taylor, CEO and Chief Investment Officer of Cornerstone Management, shares his journey of integrating faith and investment management for over 30 years. Serving nearly 90 faith-based organizations, Brian reflects on his upbringing in a Christian home, his passion for missions and business, and how God reshaped his view of leadership.

He opens up about moving from control-driven leadership toward a surrendered, compassionate model that mirrors the Father’s heart. Through meditating on Scripture, engaging vulnerably in small groups, and cultivating prayer, Brian has discovered a thriving leadership rooted not in striving for God but in working with Him. His wisdom offers encouragement for leaders navigating loss, celebration, and the call to align with God’s larger story.

🔑 Episode Highlights

Brian Taylor’s background and call to integrate faith with investment management.

Cornerstone Management’s work serving ~90 ministries, including Samaritan’s Purse, Compassion International, Taylor University, and Columbia International University.

His spiritual turning point—moving from “a form of godliness” to surrendering control and embracing God’s leadership model.

Transformative disciplines: Scripture meditation, small-group vulnerability, and prayer.

The importance of grieving losses and celebrating with others in leadership.

Defining thriving as being fully engaged with the Lord’s work through us, living out God’s desired impact in His larger story.

In this moving episode, we sit down with Vonna — a woman whose story embodies the spirit of resilience, healing, and hope. From walking through deeply painful seasons to discovering renewed purpose, Vonna shares her powerful testimony of what it means to go from simply surviving… to truly thriving.

What You’ll Hear:

🌱 How Vonna found strength in the midst of loss and uncertainty

💡 The role faith and community played in her transformation

🔥 What it looks like to rebuild your identity after life falls apart

🙌 Encouragement for anyone feeling stuck, forgotten, or broken

Why It Matters:

In this powerful episode, Dustin shares his raw and redemptive story of transformation—from despair to freedom and purpose. You’ll hear how his journey through darkness led to a life rooted in faith, restoration, and thriving.

Dustin discuss the realities of rock bottom, the importance of community, and the role of spiritual surrender in true recovery. This is a testimony you won’t want to miss—real, honest, and full of hope.

Key Themes:

Hitting rock bottom—and finding the way up

The role of faith and mentorship in recovery

How vulnerability opens the door to healing

From surviving to thriving: Dustin’s message to others still struggling

Takeaway Quote: “There’s nothing too broken that God can’t restore. You just have to be willing to step into the light.” – Dustin

Resources & Mentions:

⁠Learn2Live.org⁠ – Tools and support for your journey

In this heartfelt episode of L2L - Journey To Thriving, we delve into Karen's transformative journey from enduring trauma to embracing a life of empowerment and healing. Karen candidly shares her experiences, shedding light on the challenges she faced and the resilience she cultivated along the way.

Listeners will gain insights into:

The pivotal moments that sparked Karen's path to recovery.

The strategies and support systems that facilitated her healing.

How she transformed her pain into a purpose-driven life, inspiring others in the process.

Karen's narrative is a testament to the human spirit's capacity to overcome adversity and find strength in vulnerability. Her story serves as a beacon of hope for anyone navigating their own healing journey.

In this powerful conversation, Doug Nuenke—Founder of 7872 Leaders and former U.S. President of The Navigators—unpacks the heart behind the Leader2Leader Journey to Thriving. Drawing from decades of discipling leaders, Doug shares how 7872 is helping men and women move from surviving to thriving by deepening their walk with God, strengthening relationships, and finding renewed clarity in their calling.

Whether you're a seasoned ministry leader or navigating transition, this message will encourage you to live with purpose and lead with joy.

Sadder. Harder. But way better. Leading where God leads you to go has more difficulty and sadness than you may have expected but in the end, the destination is better than you could have ever dreamed. 

Tracy Mathews - Executive Director of Attune