Blake Erickson is the co-founder of Scaling.com, a company dedicated to helping entrepreneurs scale bigger and faster than they ever thought possible. He is the co-author of the New York Times best-selling book The Science of Scaling, and a highly sought-after keynote speaker specializing in guiding companies and individuals to achieve rapid growth and seemingly impossible goals. Blake resides in Utah with his amazing wife, Bre, and their two sons.

The Science of Scaling: Grow Your Business Bigger and Faster Than You Think Possible

Blake discusses the importance of setting ambitious goals and the principles of effective leadership within the context of Latter-day Saint service. The conversation emphasizes how faith and intentionality can lead to significant results in both personal and church-related endeavors.

Goal Setting and Faith: Blake shares his experience of setting a seemingly impossible goal of 100 baptisms during his mission, illustrating how faith and ambition can drive success.

Identifying Key Indicators: He emphasizes the importance of recognizing patterns and indicators that lead to success, such as focusing on individuals who are genuinely interested in the gospel rather than spreading efforts too thin.

The Power of One: The discussion highlights that often, one person can make a significant impact, whether in a business or church setting, by inspiring others and driving collective progress.

Less is More: Blake advocates for the idea that achieving goals often requires doing less but with greater focus, rather than simply increasing activity levels.

Cultural Dynamics: The conversation touches on the need to challenge existing cultural norms that may hinder progress, encouraging leaders to empower all members to contribute actively.

Setting Clear Goals: Latter-day Saint leaders can adopt Blake’s approach by establishing clear, ambitious goals for their congregations, focusing on what truly matters to drive spiritual growth and engagement.

Fostering a Culture of Participation: Leaders should encourage all members to take initiative and share their insights, breaking down barriers that prevent individuals from stepping forward in service.

Prioritizing Key Activities: By identifying the most impactful activities and focusing efforts on those, leaders can enhance the effectiveness of their ministries, ensuring that resources are used wisely and results are maximized.

00:03:24 – Blake Erickson’s Mission Experience

The award-winning Leading Saints Podcast is one of the top independent Latter-day Saints podcasts as part of nonprofit Leading Saints’ mission to help Latter-day Saints be better prepared to lead. Find Leadership Tools, Courses, and Community for Latter-day Saint leaders in the Zion Lab community. Learn more and listen to any of the past episodes for free at LeadingSaints.org.

Past guests include Emily Belle Freeman, David Butler, Hank Smith, John Bytheway, Reyna and Elena Aburto, Liz Wiseman, Stephen M. R. Covey, Benjamin Hardy, Elder Alvin F. Meredith III, Julie Beck, Brad Wilcox, Jody Moore, Tony Overbay, John H. Groberg, Elaine Dalton, Tad R. Callister, Lynn G. Robbins, J. Devn Cornish, Bonnie Oscarson, Dennis B. Neuenschwander, Kirby Heyborne, Taysom Hill, Coaches Jennifer Rockwood and Brandon Doman, Anthony Sweat, John Hilton III, Barbara Morgan Gardner, Blair Hodges, Whitney Johnson, Ryan Gottfredson, Greg McKeown, Ganel-Lyn Condie, Michael Goodman, Wendy Ulrich, Richard Ostler, and many more in over 800 episodes.

Discover podcasts, articles, virtual conferences, and live events related to callings such as the bishopric, Relief Society, elders quorum, Primary, youth leadership, stake leadership, ward mission, ward council, young adults, ministering, and teaching.

The post Why Ward Goals Matter | An Interview with Blake Erickson appeared first on Leading Saints.

Kurt Francom, the executive director of Leading Saints, shares his thoughts on the challenges and responsibilities of leading a nonprofit organization within the Latter-day Saint community. He reflects on the need for support, the complexities of church culture, and the importance of individual leadership in building the Kingdom of God.

“I’m Not the Gatekeeper, I’m the Welcoming Committee” | An Interview with Kurt Brown

Funding Challenges: Kurt discusses the difficulties of securing funding for Leading Saints, emphasizing the need for both small and large donations to sustain the organization’s mission.

Cultural Issues in the Church: He highlights the complexities of church culture, including the struggles of church leaders and members with faith crises, LGBT issues, and the need for a supportive community.

The Role of Individual Leadership: Kurt stresses that effective leadership is crucial for fostering a positive church culture, which can help individuals navigate their faith journeys and challenges.

Transformational Experiences: He believes that rather than providing formal training, Leading Saints focuses on creating transformational experiences that empower individuals to lead and make a difference in their communities.

Call to Action: Kurt invites listeners to engage with Leading Saints through initiatives like Zion Lab and becoming Zion Builders, emphasizing the collective effort needed to build Zion.

Encouraging Community Support: Latter-day Saint leaders can foster a culture of support by actively seeking and encouraging contributions from their communities, similar to how fans rally around a sports team.

Promoting Individual Initiative: Leaders should empower members to take initiative in their callings and personal faith journeys, recognizing that everyone can contribute to building the Kingdom of God, regardless of their formal position.

Creating Transformational Opportunities: Leaders can focus on providing experiences that inspire and uplift their congregations, rather than relying solely on traditional training methods, to cultivate a more engaged and resilient community.

00:01:08 – The Journey of Leading Saints

The award-winning Leading Saints Podcast is one of the top independent Latter-day Saints podcasts as part of nonprofit Leading Saints’ mission to help Latter-day Saints be better prepared to lead. Find Leadership Tools, Courses, and Community for Latter-day Saint leaders in the Zion Lab community. Learn more and listen to any of the past episodes for free at LeadingSaints.org.

Past guests include Emily Belle Freeman, David Butler, Hank Smith, John Bytheway, Reyna and Elena Aburto, Liz Wiseman, Stephen M. R. Covey, Benjamin Hardy, Elder Alvin F. Meredith III, Julie Beck, Brad Wilcox, Jody Moore, Tony Overbay, John H. Groberg, Elaine Dalton, Tad R. Callister, Lynn G. Robbins, J. Devn Cornish, Bonnie Oscarson, Dennis B. Neuenschwander, Kirby Heyborne, Taysom Hill, Coaches Jennifer Rockwood and Brandon Doman, Anthony Sweat, John Hilton III, Barbara Morgan Gardner, Blair Hodges, Whitney Johnson, Ryan Gottfredson, Greg McKeown, Ganel-Lyn Condie, Michael Goodman, Wendy Ulrich, Richard Ostler, and many more in over 800 episodes.

Discover podcasts, articles, virtual conferences, and live events related to callings such as the bishopric, Relief Society, elders quorum, Primary, youth leadership, stake leadership, ward mission, ward council, young adults, ministering, and teaching.

The post Will Leading Saints Last? appeared first on Leading Saints.

This podcast episode features part of a Zion Lab live stream conversation with a group of ward and stake leaders discussing the purpose and execution of ward conferences. The conversation emphasizes the need for meaningful engagement and feedback from members to enhance the effectiveness of these conferences.

General Handbook 29.2.3 Ward Conference

04:26 – Overcoming Traditional Approaches

Purpose of Ward Conferences: Leaders reflect on the importance of ward conferences as a means to unify the ward, provide spiritual nourishment, and address local needs, rather than merely fulfilling a procedural requirement.

Feedback Mechanisms: The discussion highlights the necessity of gathering feedback from both leaders and general members to assess the value of ward conferences and identify areas for improvement.

Innovative Approaches: Leaders share successful strategies, such as organizing activities leading up to the conference and involving youth, to create a more engaging and meaningful experience for the congregation.

Avoiding Tradition for Tradition’s Sake: The conversation stresses the importance of not falling into the trap of maintaining outdated practices simply because “it’s always been done that way.” Leaders are encouraged to innovate and adapt based on current ward needs.

Collaboration and Council: The value of collaborative meetings among stake and ward leaders is emphasized, allowing for shared insights and collective problem-solving regarding ward needs and challenges.

Solicit Member Feedback: Leaders should actively seek input from ward members about their experiences and expectations for ward conferences, ensuring that the events are tailored to meet their needs.

Create Engaging Experiences: By planning activities and discussions that involve the entire ward community, leaders can foster a sense of belonging and investment in the ward’s culture and mission.

Embrace Flexibility: Leaders are encouraged to approach ward conferences with an open mind, willing to adapt formats and themes based on the unique dynamics of their wards, rather than adhering strictly to traditional methods.

The award-winning Leading Saints Podcast is one of the top independent Latter-day Saints podcasts as part of nonprofit Leading Saints’ mission to help Latter-day Saints be better prepared to lead. Find Leadership Tools, Courses, and Community for Latter-day Saint leaders in the Zion Lab community. Learn more and listen to any of the past episodes for free at LeadingSaints.org.

Past guests include Emily Belle Freeman, David Butler, Hank Smith, John Bytheway, Reyna and Elena Aburto, Liz Wiseman, Stephen M. R. Covey, Benjamin Hardy, Elder Alvin F. Meredith III, Julie Beck, Brad Wilcox, Jody Moore, Tony Overbay, John H. Groberg, Elaine Dalton, Tad R. Callister, Lynn G. Robbins, J. Devn Cornish, Bonnie Oscarson, Dennis B. Neuenschwander, Kirby Heyborne, Taysom Hill, Coaches Jennifer Rockwood and Brandon Doman, Anthony Sweat, John Hilton III, Barbara Morgan Gardner, Blair Hodges, Whitney Johnson, Ryan Gottfredson, Greg McKeown, Ganel-Lyn Condie, Michael Goodman, Wendy Ulrich, Richard Ostler, and many more in over 800 episodes.

Discover podcasts, articles, virtual conferences, and live events related to callings such as the bishopric, Relief Society, elders quorum, Primary, youth leadership, stake leadership, ward mission, ward council, young adults, ministering, and teaching.

The post Ward Conference Best Practices | A Zion Lab Livestream appeared first on Leading Saints.

Jenn Curtis is the president of North Star, an organization dedicated to supporting LGBT Latter-day Saints. With a lifelong commitment to the teachings of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Jenn has navigated her own journey of self-discovery and faith, advocating for understanding and compassion within the Church community. She has been actively involved in creating resources and spaces for dialogue around LGBT issues and faith, helping individuals reconcile their identities with their beliefs.

NorthStarSaints.org

This podcast conversation centers on Jenn’s personal journey with same-sex attraction, her experiences within the church, and the importance of community and understanding in navigating these complex issues.

Personal Journey: Jenn shares her experience of coming to terms with her same-sex attraction while married, emphasizing the internal struggles and the process of self-discovery.

Community Support: The North Star community provides a safe space for LGBT individuals and their families, fostering open dialogue and understanding about faith and sexuality.

Curiosity Over Judgment: Jenn highlights the importance of curiosity in conversations about LGBT issues, suggesting that church leaders should ask questions and seek to understand rather than make assumptions.

Covenant Path: The discussion emphasizes that North Star promotes a gospel-centered approach, encouraging members to strive to keep their covenants while navigating their identities.

Tension in Faith: Jenn acknowledges the tension many LGBT individuals feel between their faith and their sexual orientation, advocating for a compassionate and understanding approach from church leaders.

Foster Open Dialogue: Leaders can create environments where members feel safe to discuss their struggles and questions about faith and sexuality without fear of judgment.

Encourage Curiosity: Leaders should practice curiosity by asking open-ended questions to better understand the experiences of LGBT members, which can help reduce fear and stigma.

Promote Inclusivity: By recognizing the diverse experiences within their congregations, leaders can work towards creating a more inclusive community that supports all members in their faith journeys.

00:04:48 – Jenn’s Personal Story and Journey

The award-winning Leading Saints Podcast is one of the top independent Latter-day Saints podcasts as part of nonprofit Leading Saints’ mission to help Latter-day Saints be better prepared to lead. Find Leadership Tools, Courses, and Community for Latter-day Saint leaders in the Zion Lab community. Learn more and listen to any of the past episodes for free at LeadingSaints.org.

Past guests include Emily Belle Freeman, David Butler, Hank Smith, John Bytheway, Reyna and Elena Aburto, Liz Wiseman, Stephen M. R. Covey, Benjamin Hardy, Elder Alvin F. Meredith III, Julie Beck, Brad Wilcox, Jody Moore, Tony Overbay, John H. Groberg, Elaine Dalton, Tad R. Callister, Lynn G. Robbins, J. Devn Cornish, Bonnie Oscarson, Dennis B. Neuenschwander, Kirby Heyborne, Taysom Hill, Coaches Jennifer Rockwood and Brandon Doman, Anthony Sweat, John Hilton III, Barbara Morgan Gardner, Blair Hodges, Whitney Johnson, Ryan Gottfredson, Greg McKeown, Ganel-Lyn Condie, Michael Goodman, Wendy Ulrich, Richard Ostler, and many more in over 800 episodes.

Discover podcasts, articles, virtual conferences, and live events related to callings such as the bishopric, Relief Society, elders quorum, Primary, youth leadership, stake leadership, ward mission, ward council, young adults, ministering, and teaching.

The post Community with Covenant-Keeping LGBT Saints | An Interview with Jenn Curtis appeared first on Leading Saints.

Roy Zwahlen has extensive background in innovation. He serves as Chief Strategy Officer at the Eshelman Institute of Innovation, which develops therapeutics and digital health technologies and startups. Roy recently co-authored the book Race to Innovation: Unleashing the Power of Entrepreneurship for Everyone. He also serves as Associate Dean at the University of North Carolina (UNC). Roy has a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from Brigham Young University and a Juris Doctor from the George Mason School of Law. He has executive education in Innovation and Entrepreneurship from the Stanford Graduate School of Business and Chief Strategy Officer executive training from Wharton School of Business.

Roy loves spending his early mornings hassling 20+ teenagers as a Seminary teacher in Pittsboro, North Carolina. He has served in bishoprics, elders quorum presidencies, Sunday School presidencies, and in various teacher callings with Primary clearly being the best. Roy, his wife, and their five children—all of whom are much cooler than he is—live in Chapel Hill, North Carolina.

https://www.racetoinnovation.net/

In this episode, Roy discusses the intersection of innovation and church leadership, emphasizing how Latter-day Saints can embrace creativity and entrepreneurial spirit to build the kingdom of God. He outlines five principles of innovation that can empower individuals and leaders within the church.

Innovation in the Church: Innovation is rooted in the ongoing restoration of the gospel, with historical examples from church leaders like Joseph Smith and President Nelson demonstrating the importance of adapting and evolving.

Recognizing Potential: Leaders should actively recognize and nurture the divine potential in all members, encouraging creativity and new ideas rather than dismissing them due to comfort with the status quo.

Power of Enclaves: Supportive groups or enclaves foster innovation by providing emotional and practical support, enabling individuals to take risks and share their ideas without fear of failure.

Enabling Ownership: Leaders should empower members to take ownership of their ideas, allowing them to lead initiatives rather than relying solely on institutional approval.

Unique Perspectives: Embracing the diverse backgrounds and experiences of members can lead to innovative solutions that enrich the church community.

Accelerating Change: Leaders should focus on how to accelerate innovative ideas, ensuring that they are not just reactive but proactive in creating positive change within their congregations.

Encouraging Initiative: Leaders can create an environment where members feel safe to propose new ideas, such as starting a community service project or a new class, by actively listening and providing support.

Building Support Networks: Forming small groups or committees within the ward can help individuals collaborate on innovative projects, leveraging their unique skills and experiences to enhance church activities.

Fostering a Culture of Innovation: By promoting a mindset of continuous improvement and openness to new ideas, leaders can inspire members to contribute creatively to the church’s mission, ultimately strengthening the community and its outreach efforts.

00:03:34 – Framing Innovation in Church Leadership

The award-winning Leading Saints Podcast is one of the top independent Latter-day Saints podcasts as part of nonprofit Leading Saints’ mission to help Latter-day Saints be better prepared to lead. Find Leadership Tools, Courses, and Community for Latter-day Saint leaders in the Zion Lab community. Learn more and listen to any of the past episodes for free at LeadingSaints.org.

Past guests include Emily Belle Freeman, David Butler, Hank Smith, John Bytheway, Reyna and Elena Aburto, Liz Wiseman, Stephen M. R. Covey, Benjamin Hardy, Elder Alvin F. Meredith III, Julie Beck, Brad Wilcox, Jody Moore, Tony Overbay, John H. Groberg, Elaine Dalton, Tad R. Callister, Lynn G. Robbins, J. Devn Cornish, Bonnie Oscarson, Dennis B. Neuenschwander, Kirby Heyborne, Taysom Hill, Coaches Jennifer Rockwood and Brandon Doman, Anthony Sweat, John Hilton III, Barbara Morgan Gardner, Blair Hodges, Whitney Johnson, Ryan Gottfredson, Greg McKeown, Ganel-Lyn Condie, Michael Goodman, Wendy Ulrich, Richard Ostler, and many more in over 800 episodes.

Discover podcasts, articles, virtual conferences, and live events related to callings such as the bishopric, Relief Society, elders quorum, Primary, youth leadership, stake leadership, ward mission, ward council, young adults, ministering, and teaching.

For the past seven years, Ajax Trueblood has served as an Elders Quorum Service Coordinator in two different wards in Utah—and he calls it the best calling in the Church. Through that experience, he’s learned that consistent, inspired service doesn’t just bless those being helped—it transforms the hearts and unity of those who serve.

Watch the video and share your thoughts in the Zion Lab community

Ajax shares his experience magnifying the often-overlooked calling of the elders quorum service coordinator. He talks about shifting the culture of an elders quorum to be proactively service-oriented, fostering spiritual growth, and extending Christlike care to members and the community beyond the traditional tasks of moving furniture. Ajax emphasizes that selfless service is a central, scriptural tenet of the gospel that should guide the quorum’s efforts.

Key Insights

The “Movers and Shakers Squad” (M&S): Ajax organizes volunteers into the M&S list, which is mobilized quickly via text messaging for physical labor, focusing on positive responses only to keep communication clean. Physical projects are handled by small, efficient teams with a designated on-site team leader to improve safety and effectiveness.

The Power of “Soup Patrol”: This initiative is a non-physical service designed to provide emotional connection and support. It involves quickly delivering small tokens, such as homemade soup, bread, or cookies, to those who are sick or struggling, emphasizing presence and care over the physical item.

Coordination Over Execution: A key principle is that the coordinator’s primary focus should be on coordination—getting the right people the opportunity to serve—rather than defaulting to execution and doing all the work themselves. This builds linkages and involves more people.

Beyond Ward Boundaries: The quorum’s service extends beyond active members and ward boundaries to help anyone in the community, including those needing yard work, cleanup, or help moving, using these opportunities as a bridge for fellowship and missionary work.

Synergy with Ministering: Service efforts must support the ministering program. Ajax proactively contacts assigned ministering brothers to give them the opportunity to be involved first, ensuring the service coordinator system reinforces the core assignment rather than displacing it.

Leadership Applications

Offer Diverse Service Opportunities: By implementing low-physical-demand options like the “Soup Patrol,” leaders can engage members (like the elderly or young fathers) who may be maxed out or resistant to physically demanding assignments like moving, providing a place for everyone to serve.

Be Proactive, Not Passive: Service coordinators should adopt a proactive approach, constantly keeping their “feelers out” by asking members for needs and looking for opportunities rather than waiting for formal requests to come down through the bishopric or ward council.

04:00 – Introduction to the Elders Quorum Service Coordinator Role

06:00 – The Service Coordinator Calling is Foundational to the Gospel

07:10 – Handbook Reference and Magnifying the Calling

08:05 – Organizing Service in a Rapidly Growing Ward (Vineyard)

08:50 – The Key to Success: Asking for Volunteers

11:00 – Service in an Older Ward (St. George) and Moving Beyond Moves

11:50 – The Spirit of Service and Emotional Connection

13:00 – Organizing Moves with the “Movers and Shakers Squad” (M&S)

14:00 – Operating Principle: Small Groups and Designated Team Leaders

15:50 – Using Text Messages and Coordinating the Three M&S Lists

20:15 – Distinguishing Service from Ward Maintenance

21:20 – Serving Outside the Ward Boundaries and Active Members

23:50 – Non-Moving Service Opportunities: Yard Work and Cleanup

26:00 – Service as a Bridge for Ministering and Missionary Work

26:45 – The Concept of “Soup Patrol”

28:35 – Integrating Service with Ministering Brothers and Sisters

30:40 – The Gospel is Not a Program; Focus on the Heart

32:25 – Delivering Soup: Surprise Visits vs. Calling Ahead

33:50 – Rotating Service to Involve More Quorum Members

37:50 – Building a Culture of Service Beyond the Coordinator

40:50 – The Need for Communication and Cooperation with Relief Society

43:50 – Proactively Seeking Out the Poor and Needy

47:15 – Focus on Coordination Over Execution

48:35 – Using Service Opportunities for Spiritual Development

50:40 – The M&S Lists: Recruiting Volunteers, Not Assigned Callings

52:10 – Avoiding Competition with Ministering Assignments

56:05 – How the Role Fosters Better Discipleship

The award-winning Leading Saints Podcast is one of the top independent Latter-day Saints podcasts as part of nonprofit Leading Saints’ mission to help Latter-day Saints be better prepared to lead. Find Leadership Tools, Courses, and Community for Latter-day Saint leaders in the Zion Lab community. Learn more and listen to any of the past episodes for free at LeadingSaints.org.

Past guests include Emily Belle Freeman, David Butler, Hank Smith, John Bytheway, Reyna and Elena Aburto, Liz Wiseman, Stephen M. R. Covey, Benjamin Hardy, Elder Alvin F. Meredith III, Julie Beck, Brad Wilcox, Jody Moore, Tony Overbay, John H. Groberg, Elaine Dalton, Tad R. Callister, Lynn G. Robbins, J. Devn Cornish, Bonnie Oscarson, Dennis B. Neuenschwander, Kirby Heyborne, Taysom Hill, Coaches Jennifer Rockwood and Brandon Doman, Anthony Sweat, John Hilton III, Barbara Morgan Gardner, Blair Hodges, Whitney Johnson, Ryan Gottfredson, Greg McKeown, Ganel-Lyn Condie, Michael Goodman, Wendy Ulrich, Richard Ostler, and many more in over 800 episodes.

Discover podcasts, articles, virtual conferences, and live events related to callings such as the bishopric, Relief Society, elders quorum, Primary, youth leadership, stake leadership, ward mission, ward council, young adults, ministering, and teaching.

The post The Often-Overlooked Role of the Elders Quorum Service Coordinator | A How I Lead Interview with Ajax Trueblood appeared first on Leading Saints.

Daniel Johnston is a Major in the United States Air Force, serving as a maintenance officer with experience commanding teams in both combat and training environments. He currently serves as the Director of Operations for the C-5 Maintenance Squadron at Dover Air Force Base. His previous assignments include serving as an Air Force ROTC instructor at Brigham Young University and as the Logistics Fielding Chief for the T-7A Red Hawk program.

Daniel is also the author of Leading with Faith, a book that explores how modern leaders can apply faith-centered principles drawn from scripture and Church history. He earned both his bachelor’s degree and MBA from Brigham Young University. After serving a two-year mission in the England London Mission, he has continued to serve in various leadership roles within his local congregation, including as a stake Sunday School president, a member of a bishopric, and currently as a Gospel Doctrine teacher.

Leading with Faith: Timeless Lessons from Spiritual Giants

Daniel discusses his book, Leading with Faith: Timeless Lessons from Spiritual Giants, which explores various leadership styles through the lens of scriptural and Church history figures. The conversation emphasizes the importance of understanding different leadership approaches and how they can be applied in both spiritual and secular contexts.

Diverse Leadership Styles: Daniel identifies six leadership styles—communicators, builders, peacemakers, exemplars, servant leaders, and disruptors—each exemplified by notable figures from church history and scripture.

Communicator: Gordon B. Hinckley is highlighted as a master communicator who shaped the Church’s public perception and effectively conveyed messages both internally and externally.

Builder: Brigham Young is recognized for his exceptional ability to create lasting structures and communities, demonstrating that effective leadership often involves problem-solving and vision.

Peacemaker: Nephi is presented as a leader who prioritized peace and made difficult decisions for the greater good, illustrating that peacemaking can involve strength and resolve.

Exemplar: King David serves as an example of leading by action, showing that leaders can inspire others through their behavior and commitment to principles.

Servant Leader: Gail Halverson, known as the Candy Bomber, exemplifies servant leadership by prioritizing the needs of others and making a significant impact through small acts of kindness.

Self-Assessment: Latter-day Saint leaders can benefit from identifying their own leadership style, which allows for personal growth and the development of strengths that align with their natural inclinations.

Adapting Leadership Approaches: Leaders can experiment with different styles, such as stepping into the role of a peacemaker or servant leader, to enhance their effectiveness and better meet the needs of their communities.

Fostering Community: By understanding and applying the principles of various leadership styles, leaders can create a more inclusive and supportive environment that encourages growth and collaboration among members.

00:06:00 – Leadership Styles Overview

The award-winning Leading Saints Podcast is one of the top independent Latter-day Saints podcasts as part of nonprofit Leading Saints’ mission to help Latter-day Saints be better prepared to lead. Find Leadership Tools, Courses, and Community for Latter-day Saint leaders in the Zion Lab community. Learn more and listen to any of the past episodes for free at LeadingSaints.org.

Past guests include Emily Belle Freeman, David Butler, Hank Smith, John Bytheway, Reyna and Elena Aburto, Liz Wiseman, Stephen M. R. Covey, Benjamin Hardy, Elder Alvin F. Meredith III, Julie Beck, Brad Wilcox, Jody Moore, Tony Overbay, John H. Groberg, Elaine Dalton, Tad R. Callister, Lynn G. Robbins, J. Devn Cornish, Bonnie Oscarson, Dennis B. Neuenschwander, Kirby Heyborne, Taysom Hill, Coaches Jennifer Rockwood and Brandon Doman, Anthony Sweat, John Hilton III, Barbara Morgan Gardner, Blair Hodges, Whitney Johnson, Ryan Gottfredson, Greg McKeown, Ganel-Lyn Condie, Michael Goodman, Wendy Ulrich, Richard Ostler, and many more in over 800 episodes.

Discover podcasts, articles, virtual conferences, and live events related to callings such as the bishopric, Relief Society, elders quorum, Primary, youth leadership, stake leadership, ward mission, ward council, young adults, ministering, and teaching.

The post Leadership Styles of Past Church Leaders | An Interview with Daniel Johnston appeared first on Leading Saints.

This podcast episode is a portion of a Zion Lab livestream discussing the challenges and best practices of bishop’s wives as they support their husbands in their demanding calling.

The central topic of the conversation revolved around navigating the emotional, physical, and relational demands of the role, with a particular focus on combating the common feeling of loneliness and isolation experienced by the wives. The conversation provided practical tools for setting boundaries and lessons on delegation.

Loneliness and Entity Status: A common struggle is the feeling of loneliness, stemming from the bishop’s need for strict confidentiality (preventing him from sharing heavy matters with his wife) and the public perception of the family as a “third person” or “entity,” which can complicate social dynamics within the ward.

The Need for Boundaries: Wives act as protectors of their husband’s time and the marital relationship. They learn to set boundaries by directing members to approach the bishop directly rather than using the wife as a “back door” intermediary for requests or feedback.

The 24-Hour Rule: Multiple participants recommended the practice of waiting up to 24 hours before responding to non-urgent communications. This method ensures that true emergencies are addressed while allowing non-urgent issues to often resolve themselves, freeing up the bishop’s mental space and time.

Delegation to Empower: Effective delegation is essential to lessen the bishop’s burden. One participant emphasized fully empowering the elders quorum and Relief Society presidents to handle the adult members of the ward, allowing the bishopric to focus its primary attention on the youth.

Defining the Role Through Priesthood Blessing: While the role is not a formal calling, it is sacred. Multiple participants recommended that the bishop or stake president give the wife a priesthood blessing to provide personal direction and spiritual clarity on her unique role and areas of focus.

Finding Joy in Involvement: Wives can find connection by being involved on a family level. One participant shared that quarterly planning of creative Sacrament Meetings (e.g., Q&A sessions, open mics) with the entire bishopric and their wives led to a more exciting church experience for the congregation and increased her own joy.

Spiritual Support: Bishops should give their wives a priesthood blessing upon being called to help them understand their unique, inspired role and receive strength for the coming demands.

Teach Proper Channels: Bishopric members and other ward leaders must teach members to utilize the proper channels for help, such as ministering brothers/sisters, rather than immediately contacting the bishop for non-confidential or non-urgent matters.

Empower Quorum/RS Leadership: Leaders must fully empower and train the elders quorum and Relief Society presidencies to confidently lead the adults, reducing the bishopric’s workload and allowing them to successfully focus on their primary responsibility of ministering to the youth.

The award-winning Leading Saints Podcast is one of the top independent Latter-day Saints podcasts as part of nonprofit Leading Saints’ mission to help Latter-day Saints be better prepared to lead. Find Leadership Tools, Courses, and Community for Latter-day Saint leaders in the Zion Lab community. Learn more and listen to any of the past episodes for free at LeadingSaints.org.

Past guests include Emily Belle Freeman, David Butler, Hank Smith, John Bytheway, Reyna and Elena Aburto, Liz Wiseman, Stephen M. R. Covey, Benjamin Hardy, Elder Alvin F. Meredith III, Julie Beck, Brad Wilcox, Jody Moore, Tony Overbay, John H. Groberg, Elaine Dalton, Tad R. Callister, Lynn G. Robbins, J. Devn Cornish, Bonnie Oscarson, Dennis B. Neuenschwander, Kirby Heyborne, Taysom Hill, Coaches Jennifer Rockwood and Brandon Doman, Anthony Sweat, John Hilton III, Barbara Morgan Gardner, Blair Hodges, Whitney Johnson, Ryan Gottfredson, Greg McKeown, Ganel-Lyn Condie, Michael Goodman, Wendy Ulrich, Richard Ostler, and many more in over 800 episodes.

Discover podcasts, articles, virtual conferences, and live events related to callings such as the bishopric, Relief Society, elders quorum, Primary, youth leadership, stake leadership, ward mission, ward council, young adults, ministering, and teaching.

The post The Lonely Bishop’s Wife | A Zion Lab Livestream appeared first on Leading Saints.

Liberty Kepford lives in Tallahassee, Florida. She is a youth Sunday School teacher and has also served in a Primary presidency and as a Primary teacher. Liberty previously taught 5th grade and now works as a curriculum writer for the homeschool curriculum “Art Makes Me Smart”. She and her father, Robert Johnson, are the authors of Autism in Christ’s Church.

Robert Johnson lives in Starr Valley, Nevada. He serves in his ward Sunday School presidency and has previously served in a stake presidency and as a bishop. He recently retired from teaching K-12 Special Education, is a board-certified behavior analyst (BCBA), and runs Nevada Behavior and Autism. Robert and his wife are Liberty’s parents and will be serving a mission in Kumasi, Ghana, starting in 2026.

Autism in Christ’s Church

In this episode, Liberty and Robert discuss their book, Autism in Christ’s Church, which aims to provide insights and resources for Latter-day Saints regarding autism and how to create inclusive church environments. They emphasize the importance of understanding the diverse experiences of individuals on the autism spectrum and the role of disability specialists in supporting these individuals and their families.

Diversity of Autism Experiences: Autism is a spectrum, and individuals experience it differently. The book shares various stories that highlight these unique experiences, emphasizing that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to supporting individuals with autism in the church.

Role of Disability Specialists: Disability specialists are crucial in church settings, providing tailored support to individuals with autism. Their presence can significantly enhance the church experience for both individuals and their families.

Communication and Collaboration: Effective communication between parents, leaders, and disability specialists is essential. Regular meetings and open dialogue can help create a supportive environment that meets the needs of individuals with autism.

Social Skills Development: Leaders should focus on helping individuals with autism develop social skills through structured interactions and support, especially during transitional phases like moving into young men’s or young women’s groups.

Utilizing Strengths: Individuals with autism often have unique strengths and interests. Leaders should identify these strengths and provide opportunities for individuals to contribute meaningfully to the church community.

Empower Disability Specialists: Leaders should actively call and support disability specialists in their wards, ensuring they have the resources and training needed to assist individuals with autism effectively.

Foster Inclusive Environments: Create a culture of understanding and acceptance by encouraging open discussions about autism and providing training for leaders and members on how to interact positively with individuals on the spectrum.

Encourage Participation: Leaders can help individuals with autism find suitable callings that align with their strengths, fostering a sense of belonging and purpose within the church community.

00:04:11 – Origin of the Book “Autism in Christ’s Church”

The award-winning Leading Saints Podcast is one of the top independent Latter-day Saints podcasts as part of nonprofit Leading Saints’ mission to help Latter-day Saints be better prepared to lead. Find Leadership Tools, Courses, and Community for Latter-day Saint leaders in the Zion Lab community. Learn more and listen to any of the past episodes for free at LeadingSaints.org.

Past guests include Emily Belle Freeman, David Butler, Hank Smith, John Bytheway, Reyna and Elena Aburto, Liz Wiseman, Stephen M. R. Covey, Benjamin Hardy, Elder Alvin F. Meredith III, Julie Beck, Brad Wilcox, Jody Moore, Tony Overbay, John H. Groberg, Elaine Dalton, Tad R. Callister, Lynn G. Robbins, J. Devn Cornish, Bonnie Oscarson, Dennis B. Neuenschwander, Kirby Heyborne, Taysom Hill, Coaches Jennifer Rockwood and Brandon Doman, Anthony Sweat, John Hilton III, Barbara Morgan Gardner, Blair Hodges, Whitney Johnson, Ryan Gottfredson, Greg McKeown, Ganel-Lyn Condie, Michael Goodman, Wendy Ulrich, Richard Ostler, and many more in over 800 episodes.

Discover podcasts, articles, virtual conferences, and live events related to callings such as the bishopric, Relief Society, elders quorum, Primary, youth leadership, stake leadership, ward mission, ward council, young adults, ministering, and teaching.

The post Autism in Your Ward | An Interview with Liberty Kepford and Robert Johnson appeared first on Leading Saints.

This is a rebroadcast. The episode originally ran in August 2020.

Greg McKeown has dedicated his career to discovering why some people and teams break through to the next level—and others don’t. The definitive treatment of this issue is addressed in his New York Times and Wall Street Journal bestseller, Essentialism: The Disciplined Pursuit of Less. Greg hosts The Greg McKeown Podcast with guests such as Harvard professor Arthur Brooks, Matthew McConaughey, Maria Shriver, John Hope Bryant, and Ariana Huffington. He is one of the most sought-after public speakers globally, with clients including Apple, Google, Microsoft, and Nike.

Originally from London, England, Greg now lives near Phoenix, Arizona, with his wife Anna and their family. In this interview Greg and Kurt talk about how small, consistent steps are more effective for creating lasting change than grand, overwhelming efforts. At the time of this recording, Greg was serving as an elders quorum president in his ward in California.

Being an Essentialism Bishop | An Interview with Greg McKeown

In this episode, Greg discusses the principles of essentialism and how they can be applied to leadership within the Latter-day Saint community. He emphasizes the importance of focusing on small, manageable changes to foster growth and connection in both personal and church leadership contexts.

Essentialism Defined: Essentialism is the disciplined pursuit of less, focusing on what truly matters rather than getting overwhelmed by numerous tasks and responsibilities.

Small and Simple Changes: Greg highlights the scriptural principle that “by small and simple means are great things brought to pass,” advocating for incremental improvements rather than sweeping changes.

The Importance of Relationships: Building genuine relationships within the church community is crucial. Leaders should strive to understand the struggles of others, as most individuals face challenges that may not be immediately visible.

Avoiding Overwhelm: Change does not have to be hard or abrupt. Leaders should focus on small, consistent actions that can lead to significant progress over time.

Celebrating Successes: Recognizing and celebrating even minor achievements can motivate individuals and foster a sense of community and accomplishment.

Incremental Improvements: Latter-day Saint leaders can implement small changes in their quorums or wards, such as enhancing home teaching efforts by celebrating small successes rather than overhauling the entire system.

Fostering Relationships: Leaders should prioritize building relationships by checking in on members regularly and asking meaningful questions to understand their needs better.

Setting Realistic Goals: Instead of aiming for grandiose changes, leaders can focus on achievable, small goals that encourage participation and engagement, making it easier for members to contribute and feel valued.

By applying these principles, leaders can create a more supportive and effective environment within their congregations, ultimately leading to stronger connections and spiritual growth.

00:02:40 – Essentialism and Its Impact

The award-winning Leading Saints Podcast is one of the top independent Latter-day Saints podcasts as part of nonprofit Leading Saints’ mission to help Latter-day Saints be better prepared to lead. Find Leadership Tools, Courses, and Community for Latter-day Saint leaders in the Zion Lab community. Learn more and listen to any of the past episodes for free at LeadingSaints.org.

Past guests include Emily Belle Freeman, David Butler, Hank Smith, John Bytheway, Reyna and Elena Aburto, Liz Wiseman, Stephen M. R. Covey, Benjamin Hardy, Elder Alvin F. Meredith III, Julie Beck, Brad Wilcox, Jody Moore, Tony Overbay, John H. Groberg, Elaine Dalton, Tad R. Callister, Lynn G. Robbins, J. Devn Cornish, Bonnie Oscarson, Dennis B. Neuenschwander, Kirby Heyborne, Taysom Hill, Coaches Jennifer Rockwood and Brandon Doman, Anthony Sweat, John Hilton III, Barbara Morgan Gardner, Blair Hodges, Whitney Johnson, Ryan Gottfredson, Ganel-Lyn Condie, Michael Goodman, Wendy Ulrich, Richard Ostler, and many more in over 800 episodes.

Discover podcasts, articles, virtual conferences, and live events related to callings such as the bishopric, Relief Society, elders quorum, Primary, youth leadership, stake leadership, ward mission, ward council, young adults, ministering, and teaching.

The post Creating Essential Change In Your Organization | An Interview with Greg McKeown appeared first on Leading Saints.