Legacy isn't always about what we build. Sometimes it's about what we pour into people and what they go on to do with it. In this conversation, Jason Squires sits down with Mike Sexton from Awana to talk about the power of investing in leaders and the incredible ripple effect that can happen when those leaders pour into kids. Together they talk about creating an environment where kids know they are seen, believed in, and capable of making a difference, and what it looks like to invest in people even when you may never get to see the full impact of that investment.

Mike has spent years helping leaders develop and lead the next generation, and this conversation is a reminder that some of the most significant things we create may never have our name on them. They live on through the people we choose to invest in. And, of course, we talk about food because every good conversation eventually gets there.

What does it look like to build something that can outlast you? Join Jason Squires and Jeremy Willet, founder of The Million Movement, as he shares what inspired him to launch a vision bigger than himself. He also shares what he's learning about building for the future. Jeremy and Jason sit down to talk about developing others to carry the vision, staying faithful when the results may be years away, and what it means to “plant trees you will never sit in the shade of.” And of course, we talk about his favorite food stops on tour. Join the Million Movement at https://themillionmovement.com/.

What does it take to create a place where the next generation feels truly connected? Justin Knowles, Lead Next Gen Pastor at VantagePoint Church in Eastvale, CA , joins Jason Squires to talk about what it looks like to create a culture where students are known, valued, and connected to others. As his ministry grows to the point of separating Junior High and High School, Justin shares how meaningful relationships, intentional leadership, and a strong culture can help students move from simply showing up to truly belonging. Because creating connection isn't just about getting people in the room. It's about creating a place where they want to stay. Connect with Justin and learn more about his coaching at https://www.youngpastornetwork.com/ or catch him on his podcast called Youth Ministry Hacks.

What happens when the people on your team have to trust each other with their lives? In this conversation, Jason Squires sits down with Eric Zane, Fire Chief of the Woodland California Fire Department, to talk about the power of connection within a team. For firefighters, trust and communication aren't just important leadership principles, they can be the difference between life and death. Eric shares what he's learned about building trust, creating opportunities for connection, navigating conflict, and developing a culture where people genuinely have each other's backs. Whether you lead a fire department, a business, a church, or simply a team of people, this conversation is a reminder that strong teams don't happen by accident. Connection has to be created, protected, and intentionally cultivated.

Music has a unique way of bringing people together. A single song can transport us back to a moment in time, spark a conversation, or create a memory that lasts a lifetime. Join Jason Squires as he sits down with composer, producer, and longtime musical director Jim Daneker to explore the power of connection through music.

After spending nearly three decades touring with Michael W. Smith, Jim launched Arcade Orchestra, a one-of-a-kind concert experience that reimagines the iconic songs of the '80s with the power of a live orchestra. Together, Jason and Jim talk about honoring the music people love while creating something fresh, why audiences are craving shared experiences more than ever, and how timeless songs have the ability to connect generations. They also dive into the value of building lasting relationships in a creative industry that's often driven by networking, and why genuine connection has been one of the defining themes of Jim's remarkable career. Whether you're a musician, leader, or creative, this conversation will remind you that the most meaningful work isn't just about what you create. Learn more about Arcade Orchestra at https://arcadeorchestra.com/.

Leaders Who Create Connection: Stories have a way of connecting with us that facts alone never can. Whether it's through a sermon, a song, or a simple conversation, the stories we share often become the moments people remember most. Join Jason Squires as he sits down with pastor, songwriter, and military veteran Luke Eldredge to explore the power of story. Together they discuss why stories help people connect, how vulnerability builds trust, and what it looks like to faithfully steward your own story without oversharing. If you've ever wondered whether your experiences could encourage someone else, this conversation is a reminder that God often uses the stories we're willing to share to help others feel seen, understood, and pointed toward Him. Learn more about Luke at https://lukeeldredge.com/.

Over the last twelve episodes, we've had conversations about growth, belonging, and healthy rhythms with leaders from a wide variety of creative backgrounds. While every guest brought a unique perspective, we kept hearing the same themes come up again and again. In this solo episode, join Jason Squires as he steps back to reflect on what we've learned together. We'll talk about why talent alone isn't enough, how healthy cultures are built, why belonging matters more than performance, and how the rhythms we choose today shape the leaders we become tomorrow. If you've missed a few episodes, this is a great place to catch up. We want to encourage you to go back and listen to episodes you've missed. If you've been listening all along, we hope this conversation helps connect the dots and encourages you to keep growing, create places where people belong, and build a life that's sustainable for the long haul.

Leaders Who Create Healthy Rhythms: Healthy rhythms sound great in theory, but living them out is a different story. Join Jason Squires as he sits down with John Cassetto to talk about what it really looks like to lead well without running yourself into the ground. They discuss how to recognize when a rhythm that once served you is no longer healthy, how to create margin in a world that expects constant access, and why so many leaders wrestle with guilt when they finally slow down.

John also shares honestly about the tension of seasons when your work is thriving but your soul isn't. If you've ever felt like you're constantly pouring into others while neglecting your own health, this conversation will encourage you to rethink what sustainable leadership really looks like. Connect with John on Instagram @JohnCassetto

Leaders Who Create Healthy Rhythms: Join Jason Squires as he sits down with Brian Taylor for an honest conversation about creating healthy rhythms that last. They discuss why so many leaders feel guilty when they slow down, the difference between being busy and being fruitful, and how to protect your family while faithfully carrying the responsibilities of leadership. If you've ever struggled to find the balance between leading well at work and being fully present at home, this conversation will encourage and challenge you to rethink what success looks like. Brian shares practical wisdom from years of coaching leaders and reminds us that healthy leadership isn't about doing more it's about becoming the kind of leader who can faithfully serve for the long haul. Plus, Brian shares the one restaurant that's always worth the detour. Learn more about Brian Taylor at www.briantaylor.co

Leaders Who Create Healthy Rhythms: Join Jason Squires as he sits down with Dr. Heather Penny to talk about why so many leaders are great at carrying responsibility but struggle to care for themselves. They discuss the rhythms she's learned to protect, how to build healthy habits without becoming legalistic, and why creativity needs margin to flourish. They also have an honest conversation about a culture that often confuses availability with value. If you've ever felt like you have to be "on" all the time just to prove your worth, I think this part of the conversation will really resonate with you. Whether you're leading a team, creating every week, or simply trying to build a healthier pace of life, I hope this episode encourages you to create rhythms that help you last. Learn more about Heather Penny at www.heatherpenny.com.