Leaders on Fire Podcast

What if your greatest failures are actually divine refinement in disguise? Bob Vitoux knows this transformation firsthand.

Growing up in a tiny Indiana town with a father who taught him to "make others the hero," Bob became the first in his family to attend college. Through his journey from public accounting to executive leadership in orthopedics, Bob discovered that leadership isn't forged in comfort but in the crucible of challenge.

When asked about his defining crucible moments, Bob doesn't point to dramatic events but to failure itself. "It's during those times of failure that our greatest learnings happen," he reflects with hard-earned wisdom. Taking over an organization down to just one employee, he faced not only operational hurdles but personal growth regarding inclusivity. "I had some pretty strong biases," he admits candidly, "but I don't think I was as conscious of how I expressed that and made others feel."

This delicate balance—maintaining principled leadership while ensuring others feel valued—became a cornerstone of Bob's leadership philosophy. His time at Ambassador Enterprises solidified this approach, teaching him to pursue a three-returns mission: financial returns enabling cultural and eternal impact.

Perhaps most powerful is Bob's perspective on diversity: "What a remarkably boring place the kingdom would be if we were all exactly the same." Through forty years of marriage, fifteen relocations, and countless leadership challenges, Bob has emerged as a leader on fire—not because he avoided the heat, but because he allowed it to refine him.

Are you currently facing your own crucible moment? Listen and discover how your greatest challenges might be preparing you for transformative leadership.

Leaders on Fire
www.leadersonfire.com

Ever found yourself in the middle of a challenge so grueling that quitting seems not just reasonable, but necessary? Drew Scholl takes you to the heart of the Madison Wisconsin Ironman triathlon—where relentless rain, punishing winds, and near-freezing temperatures created what many called the most brutal race conditions they'd ever witnessed.

Through vivid storytelling, Drew recounts how nearly a third of athletes abandoned their Ironman dreams that day. The transition area resembled a "morgue," with competitors wrapped in aluminum blankets, shivering uncontrollably. Yet something deeper than mere athletic ambition kept him moving forward through the 2.4-mile swim, 112-mile bike ride, and 26.2-mile marathon. What compels someone to endure such voluntary suffering? More importantly, what can we learn from these crucible moments that applies to leadership and life?

The parallels between endurance sports and spiritual perseverance become strikingly clear as Drew unpacks the Apostle Paul's wisdom that "suffering produces perseverance, perseverance produces character, and character produces hope." Just as athletes voluntarily subject themselves to rigorous discipline for temporary rewards, we're invited to embrace life's challenges as refinement opportunities leading to eternal significance. Whether you're facing professional obstacles, personal trials, or spiritual doubts, this episode offers a compelling framework for pressing forward when everything in you wants to quit. Listen now to discover how your current crucible might be forging you into a leader on fire, ready to inspire others through your example of steadfast endurance.

Leaders on Fire
www.leadersonfire.com

Kirk Burnett's journey from broken to bold reveals the transformative power of crucible moments in leadership development. When Kirk first joined Wildman Business Group, he described himself as directionless—focused on partying and self-gratification with no real compass for his life. What he encountered at Wildman was a culture unlike anything he'd experienced before, centered on authentic faith and genuine care for others.

The defining crucible that reshaped Kirk's character came through a promotion that thrust him into 80-100 hour workweeks alongside his mentor. Rather than viewing this grueling schedule as exploitation, Kirk recognized it as purposeful refinement—separating him from destructive habits while surrounding him with positive influences. What's remarkable about Kirk's story isn't just the intensity of his crucible, but his response to it. Instead of resisting the discomfort, he leaned in completely, becoming voracious in his pursuit of growth through spiritual disciplines and leadership development.

Through company-sponsored mission trips, Kirk's heart was broken by the poverty he witnessed in the Dominican Republic. After several visits, he felt unmistakably called to relocate there permanently with Second Mile Missions. Nine years later, Kirk has created an extraordinary life of purpose—serving the community, mastering Spanish through complete immersion, meeting his wife, and raising two children there.

Kirk's transformation demonstrates what happens when we embrace our crucible moments rather than run from them. His journey from self-centered employee to mission-focused leader shows how periods of intense pressure, when approached with the right mindset, can forge extraordinary character and purpose. Whether you're currently in your own crucible or emerging from one, this conversation offers powerful insight into how our most challenging seasons often prepare us for our greatest calling.

Leaders on Fire
www.leadersonfire.com

When successful entrepreneurs and creatives face crucibles of transformation, what emerges on the other side? In this vulnerable conversation with Bible Project founders Tim Mackie and John Collins, we journey into the heart of what it means to surrender identity and embrace divine redirection.

John Collins shares the wrenching year-long process of selling his business – a decision that threatened not just his financial security but his very sense of self. "What made it so hard was that my identity of being a successful creative felt like failure to walk away," he reveals. Through spiraling fears and depression, John encountered a pivotal moment when God asked him, "Won't I still be enough?" This question cut through layers of fear, freeing him to step into an unknown future that would eventually birth the Bible Project.

Meanwhile, Tim Mackie was undergoing his own vocational crucible. Despite his scholarly nature and introverted personality, he had pursued urban pastoral ministry until panic attacks signaled a profound misalignment. "My crucible was giving up being the cool hip urban pastor guy and recognizing that's just not who I'm made to be," Tim explains. His journey reveals the courage required to release cultural expectations and embrace authentic calling.

What makes this episode particularly powerful is the reflection on divine timing in our suffering. Tim draws from the seven-day creation narrative to illustrate how all non-divine beings must journey through cycles of light and darkness toward completion. "The biblical story tells us that our cycles of going through the night are going somewhere," he observes, offering hope that our crucibles serve an essential purpose in character formation.

Whether you're currently facing your own crucible or helping others through theirs, this conversation offers profound insights on surrender, authentic leadership, and the redemptive purpose behind our most challenging seasons.

Leaders on Fire
www.leadersonfire.com

In this insightful episode, we are joined by John and Tim, the founders of the Bible Project, as they share their crucible moment. They narrate their own personal journeys, detailing how they found purpose and strength in adversity, reminding us that trials can refine and mold us into effective leaders on fire.

Throughout our conversation, we discuss the interplay between faith, challenges, and transformation. The guests weave in Biblical principles that illuminate how trials can lead to greater understanding and growth. From the testing of one's faith to navigating tough decisions, John and Tim offer a unique approach to seeing the value in crucible moments. They emphasize the importance of shared experiences and community, creating a sense of belonging as we all navigate our respective paths.

This episode invites listeners to reflect on their crucible moments and consider how these experiences have contributed to their personal journeys. As we delve into these themes of resilience and purpose, we hope to encourage you to embrace your challenges and emerge as a leader on fire. Join us for an uplifting discussion that leaves you not only inspired but equipped to tackle the tests life throws your way. Don’t forget to share and engage with us about your own experiences!

Watch The Test here:

https://bibleproject.com/explore/video/the-test/?utm_source=web_social_share&medium=shared_video

Leaders on Fire
www.leadersonfire.com

What happens when a semi-professional wakeboarder faces a life-changing injury and finds unexpected purpose in the family business? Join us as we sit down with Josh Wildman, CEO of Wildman Business Group, who shares his journey from aspiring athlete to successful business leader. With nearly 500 employees across seven locations, Josh's story is one of growth, faith, and unforeseen paths. Discover how his passion for wakeboarding continues through his sons, and how a commitment to giving has steered the company towards success.

Explore a narrative filled with personal and professional challenges, including the transformative power of a sabbatical taken during the COVID-19 pandemic. Josh opens up about the emotional struggle of letting go during a crisis and the crucial role of faith and trust in navigating leadership crucibles. We discuss insights from the book of James and leadership experts like John Maxwell, offering wisdom for those in the throes of their own trials. This episode promises to inspire with lessons on resilience and unwavering belief in one's purpose.

Leaders on Fire
www.leadersonfire.com

What happens when a commercial contractor finds himself on a transformative journey into the heart of community service? Eric Lane, the founder and executive director of Fellowship Missions, joins us to share his fascinating transition from project management to leading a nonprofit in Warsaw, Indiana, that supports those struggling with homelessness and addiction. Drawn by a construction project at Warsaw Community Church, Eric's career took an unexpected turn, fueled by pivotal life decisions and the unwavering support of his wife, Tammy. Eric candidly reflects on the moments that stirred his soul, inspiring him to embrace his calling and change the lives of countless individuals within his community.

Eric recounts the challenging yet enriching journey of establishing Fellowship Missions, highlighting the importance of faith and perseverance. From the initial steps in 2010 to addressing housing support needs to the pivotal spiritual experiences that shaped his path, Eric's story is a testament to trusting in a higher plan. You'll hear about the liberating process of stepping out of your comfort zone, evidenced by anecdotes of moving to Papua New Guinea and adopting a child. By weaving scriptural insights with personal anecdotes, Eric's narrative encourages listeners to embrace change, recognize divine opportunities, and find fulfillment in aligning with a greater purpose. Join us for a conversation that promises to inspire and uplift, illuminating the power of faith and resilience in leadership.

Leaders on Fire
www.leadersonfire.com

Have you ever pondered the impact of the 'birth lottery' and how it shapes lives and opportunities? Join us as Riley Fuller, the passionate visionary behind Humanity and Hope United and Generous Coffee, takes us through his inspiring journey of purpose-driven leadership. Riley's life story, enriched by his unwavering faith and a pivotal moment of revelation in 2013, sheds light on how love, hope, and respect can transform communities and lives. He opens up about his personal evolution from a childhood anchored in sports to a path of service and leadership that seeks to uplift those affected by life's inherent inequalities.

Riley's path has not been without its challenges. Drawing strength from a spiritual turning point in October 2020, Riley shares how life’s adversities have refined his character and reinforced his commitment to his mission. Our recent adventure to Honduras with Riley offered a glimpse into the transformative work being done on the ground, a testament to his relentless dedication to creating lasting change. Through reflection on these experiences, Riley encourages us to view our struggles as opportunities to grow into empowered leaders with a burning purpose.

Our conversation provides a message of hope and transformation, urging listeners to embrace their personal crucibles as a divine shaping of destiny. We explore how these moments of trial can be the forge that molds us into leaders ignited with passion and resilience. Whether you're a parent, a leader, or someone seeking inspiration, this episode promises a wealth of insights and encouragement to navigate life's challenges and emerge stronger on the other side.

Leaders on Fire
www.leadersonfire.com

What drives someone to leave everything they know and start anew in a foreign land? Meet Shaé Brown, the inspiring founder and executive director of the Kutoa Project, whose profound journey from growing up in foster care in Warsaw, Indiana, to becoming a beacon of change in Kenya is nothing short of remarkable. Shea's story is one of triumph over trauma, revealing how personal challenges shaped her path in social work and counseling. Her decision to move to Kenya right after college wasn't just a leap of faith but a testament to her dedication to creating safe spaces for healing and growth.

Establishing the Kutoa Project presented its own set of trials and triumphs. Shaé candidly shares the complexities of starting a ministry in a new cultural landscape, touching on the allure of partnerships that could have led her off course and the necessity of building trust and credibility. The episode explores the balance between professional commitments and personal life, especially as Shaé adjusted to marriage in a new country. Despite the setbacks of the pandemic and personal losses, her commitment to the organization's core values and mission remained steadfast, emphasizing the importance of resilience and restorative care for families.

Shaé's journey doesn't stop at professional achievements—it delves into profound personal growth and leadership evolution. As Kutoa expands, Shaé reflects on the emotional intricacies of transitioning leadership roles to locals, a move that fulfills the organization's empowering mission. Through overcoming grief and burnout, she underscores how these experiences fortified her leadership skills and transformed her organization. Listeners will find inspiration in Shaé's reflections on finding peace and purpose beyond career success, embracing each phase of life with faith, resilience, and an unwavering passion for leading with integrity.

Leaders on Fire
www.leadersonfire.com

How does a small-town enthusiast become a visionary leader in the media industry? Meet Mason Geiger, the creative genius and CEO behind DreamOn Studios, as he joins us to share his remarkable journey. From his early love of cycling and endurance sports to his passion for storytelling, Mason's journey in this tale of resilience, faith, and leadership. As Mason recounts the pivotal moments in his life, he reveals how these experiences shaped his unique leadership style and personal philosophy.

Mason takes us on an adventure from his humble beginnings in high school to the bustling streets of Los Angeles and back home again, each step adding depth to his vision for DreamOn Studios. It all started with a dream sparked by dissatisfaction with local media and grew into a thriving collaboration with Tim Early and Matt Deuel. Through Mason's storytelling, we uncover the challenges and triumphs that forged DreamOn Studios into a state-of-the-art creative haven in Warsaw, where individual and organizational narratives come alive.

Experience the transformative power of endurance and personal growth as Mason discusses the crucible moments that have tested and refined his character. Whether it's through his involvement with Team Triumph or embracing the unpredictable nature of life, Mason exemplifies the spirit of a leader on fire. He inspires us all to pursue our own paths with determination, humility, and a commitment to serving others. Join us for an episode that celebrates the incredible journey of Mason Geiger and the impact of DreamOn Studios, leaving you motivated to tackle your own life's challenges with courage and purpose.

Leaders on Fire
www.leadersonfire.com