Geoff Thatcher is an experienced creative leader who takes projects from concept to reality. He is the founder & chief creative officer at Creative Principals, and previously worked as a creative writer, producer, and creative director. His projects are most often about creating world-class experiences in corporate visitor centers, museums and theme parks, such as his most recent work in the College Football Hall of Fame in Atlanta. Geoff is the president of the Savannah YSA Branch in the Savannah Georgia Stake and was a guest on the podcast when he previously served as assistant director of communications in Cincinnati, Ohio.

Geoff first shares insights from his background in experience design and public affairs, particularly focusing on the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in enhancing visitor experiences at museums, such as the College Football Hall of Fame. He discusses the potential of AI to create personalized experiences that engage individuals in meaningful ways, while also cautioning against the risks of over-reliance on technology.

Transitioning to his role as a YSA branch president, Geoff recounts the process of establishing the branch, which stemmed from a need for young adults to have a dedicated space for worship and community. He shares the results of informal focus groups that revealed young adults’ desire for worship over programmed activities and their wish to be treated as adults rather than youth. Geoff emphasizes the importance of creating an environment where young adults feel valued and engaged, sharing stories of how the branch has grown. He highlights the significance of treating YSAs as adults, allowing them to take on responsibilities and speak about their passions during meetings, which fosters a sense of belonging and community. The episode concludes with Geoff’s reflections on the responsibility of church leaders to reach out to young adults, emphasizing that they are not lost but rather have been overlooked, and the need for leaders to actively engage and support them in their spiritual journeys.

06:10 – Geoff’s Background and Current Work

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. 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, 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 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 700 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.

Watch Part 1: Creating a Transformational Sunday School | An Interview with Dan Duckworth.

Dan Duckworth is the founder and host of LeaderQuest, an elite leadership program that transforms managers and executives into dynamic changemakers. He speaks, teaches, and writes on leadership and leadership development, and provides one-on-one coaching to leaders aiming to drive transformational change. Dan has served as a board member for Leading Saints since 2019. To learn more, visit idylli.co or find Dan on LinkedIn.

This is the second of a two-part podcast. The conversation continues, focusing on the transformative role of mentorship in youth leadership and the dynamics of effective Sunday school teaching. Dan shares insights on the nature of transformation in leadership. He stresses that effective teaching is not merely about mastering tactics but involves a fundamental shift in belief systems. This transformation requires educators to engage in a cycle of experimentation and reflection, challenging their preconceived notions of what it means to teach and learn. Dan illustrates this with examples from his own experiences, emphasizing the need for teachers to create an environment where students can co-create their learning experiences rather than passively consume information.

The episode delves into the concept of culture within church settings, with Dan advocating for a proactive approach to challenging and reshaping cultural norms. He encourages leaders to embrace discomfort and uncertainty as they experiment with new teaching methods, using the metaphor of pushing against the walls of culture to gather valuable insights. The discussion also touches on the importance of fostering authentic community within Sunday school classes, where trust and openness can lead to deeper engagement and meaningful dialogue.

Dan outlines practical principles for effective teaching, including the necessity of a single driving question to guide discussions and the importance of creating a safe space for students to share their thoughts and experiences. He shares a structured approach to lesson planning that prioritizes engagement and interaction, allowing for a more dynamic and impactful learning environment. Throughout the episode, Dan emphasizes the value of personal experiences and the need for teachers to be vulnerable and authentic in their interactions, ultimately aiming to facilitate a transformative experience for both educators and students alike.

02:09 – Discussion on Culture and Sunday School

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. 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, 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 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 700 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.

Kent Jordan was recently released as stake president from the Wilmington, Delaware Stake. He has previously served as a high councilor, in bishoprics and elders quorum presidencies, and as an early-morning Seminary teacher. Kent currently teaches elders quorum and is looking forward to retirement and meeting four new grandbabies in 2025.

Kent offers insights into organizing stake conferences, emphasizing the importance of prayer and collaboration with his counselors and the stake council to determine the needs of the members. He highlights the significance of after-general conference discussions to align teachings with the needs of the stake. Kent shares key leadership principles that guided him during his time as stake president, starting with the importance of loving and respecting the people within his stewardship. He recounts the profound experience of seeing members through the Savior’s eyes, which deepened his connection to them.

Kent also discusses the value of personal priesthood interviews with leaders, emphasizing the importance of showing up in their lives and ministering together. He shares how these interactions fostered a sense of community and support among the leaders. Additionally, he reflects on the welfare efforts within the stake, noting the diverse approaches of bishops and the importance of trusting them to handle their responsibilities. Kent concludes by discussing the blessings he witnessed among the saints, encouraging the sharing of their experiences to build faith within the community.

04:45 – Reflections on Nine Years as Stake President

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. 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, 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 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 700 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.

Dan Duckworth is the founder and host of LeaderQuest, an elite leadership program that transforms managers and executives into dynamic changemakers. He speaks, teaches, and writes on leadership and leadership development, and provides one-on-one coaching to leaders aiming to drive transformational change. Dan has served as a board member for Leading Saints since 2019. To learn more, visit idylli.co or find Dan on LinkedIn. This is the first of a two-part conversation

This is the first of a two-part podcast conversation. Kurt and Dan explore the challenges faced by local leaders in adapting to changes in church programs, particularly in Sunday School and ministering. They critique the tendency to revert to traditional methods rather than embracing innovative approaches that align with The Church’s evolving directives. Drawing on scriptural examples, they illustrate the need for leaders to actively engage in creating a culture that supports spiritual growth and community building. Dan emphasizes the importance of understanding the unique characteristics of Sunday School, including the nature of its membership, the role of teachers, and the communal aspect of spiritual development.

Throughout the episode, they advocate for a shift from knowledge transfer to transformational teaching, encouraging leaders to experiment with new methods that foster engagement and personal growth. By redefining the purpose of Sunday School and embracing a more dynamic, interactive approach, local leaders can create an environment where individuals feel empowered to share their spiritual journeys and support one another. The discussion ultimately serves as a call to action for leaders to embrace their roles in cultivating a vibrant, Christ-centered community that reflects the principles of the gospel.

04:45 – The Connection Between Leadership and Zion

Coming soon: Part 2 of this conversation

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. 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, 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 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 700 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.

Cynthia Collier grew up in Salt Lake City in a family that enjoyed the performing arts. She studied philosophy, English, and music at Brigham Young University, and has taught music and theater in schools. Over the past 25 years she has been involved in writing and directing live productions for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, including Savior of the World at the Conference Center Theater in Salt Lake City, and the Nauvoo and British pageants in Nauvoo, Illinois. She has served in the Church as a teacher, in various music callings, and in presidencies in wards and stakes. She most recently served with her husband as a branch minister at the University of Utah and Huntsman Hospitals in Salt Lake City. She is married to Eric Collier and is a mother and grandmother.

Amy Robinson graduated from Brigham Young University in Humanities and Modern dance, and was thrilled to be part of the BYU International Folk dance team and Modern Dance team. She believes her greatest educational opportunities came from touring with those companies to many amazing places including China, India, and Europe. This may be where she gained her nomadic spirit—she and her husband Nathan have moved 27 times in 20 years of marriage! In London, England, in 2013, Amy had the opportunity to create the choreography for the first British Pageant. It was a life-changing experience to see the miracles that came to the participants of that show and audience. In 2015, Amy enjoyed helping set the British pageant on the Nauvoo stage and returned to help family casts learn choreography for the pageants in 2022 and 2024. She considers it her dream job to “move with joy” with the casts in England and then Nauvoo.

Amy has also been part of the Arts in Education program in Utah through Tanner Dance, teaching dancers of all ages in elementary schools, and teaches folk dance at American Heritage School in Salt Lake City. Amy and Nathan are the parents of six children and her greatest joy is time spent with them—dancing in the kitchen and singing in the car—and serving in the Church, especially with youth and children.

This episode focuses on the leadership and organization behind the Nauvoo Pageant, highlighting the unique structure of the pageant, which features a rotating cast of family participants who rehearse for a week and perform the following week, allowing for a diverse range of individuals to engage in the production.

Cynthia and Amy emphasize the importance of creating a joyful and supportive environment for participants, many of whom arrive feeling nervous and unsure of their abilities. The leadership style of the pageant focuses on fostering a sense of community and collaboration, where mistakes are seen as opportunities for growth rather than failures. They share inspiring stories of participants who have experienced personal miracles during their time in the pageant, illustrating the transformative power of faith and community. They also discuss the significance of teaching children and families to embrace the unpredictability of performances, highlighting the importance of love and acceptance in the rehearsal process.

As the conversation progresses, they share valuable leadership principles, such as the “good fruit principle,” which encourages individuals to focus on sharing positivity and blessings rather than complaints. This principle has been instrumental in creating a spirit of Zion among participants and volunteers. The episode concludes with practical advice for primary presidencies and leaders in church settings, emphasizing the need for patience, understanding, and a focus on the greater purpose of building relationships and fostering joy within the community.

07:29 – Guest Introductions: Amy Robinson

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. 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, 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 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 700 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.

Watch Part 1: What About Our Culture is Holding Us Back? | An Interview with Ryan Gottfredson

Ryan Gottfredson, Ph.D. is a cutting-edge leadership development author, researcher, and consultant. He helps organizations vertically develop their leaders primarily through a focus on mindsets. Ryan is the Wall Street Journal and USA Today best-selling author of Success Mindsets: The Key to Unlocking Greater Success in Your Life, Work, & Leadership and The Elevated Leader: Leveling Up Your Leadership Through Vertical Development. He is also a leadership professor at the College of Business and Economics at California State University-Fullerton.

This is the second of a two-part podcast conversation on effective church leadership. The discussion continues with a reflection on the value of open communication and the need for leaders to encourage their team members to express their thoughts and feelings. Ryan emphasizes the significance of establishing a culture where individuals feel safe to share their vulnerabilities, which can lead to deeper connections and trust within a group.

The conversation delves into the challenges leaders face when balancing the need to cover prescribed topics versus allowing for authentic, vulnerable discussions that may arise organically. Ryan suggests that leaders should prioritize creating conditions conducive to growth rather than merely focusing on outcomes. He explains the concept of “gardener-minded leadership,” where leaders cultivate an environment that fosters development and flourishing among their team members.

Kurt and Ryan next consider the role of ego in leadership. Ryan defines ego as the part of ourselves that prioritizes self-preservation over value creation for others. He highlights the importance of self-awareness and the need for leaders to confront their insecurities and limiting beliefs to elevate their leadership effectiveness. The episode also touches on the necessity of vulnerability in leadership, illustrating how it can lead to more meaningful relationships and a stronger sense of community.

Listeners are encouraged to reflect on their leadership styles, consider how they can create a more supportive environment, and recognize the importance of healing their relationship with themselves to become more effective leaders. The episode concludes with practical suggestions for leaders, including the importance of developing a clear purpose and fostering a culture of learning and openness. Overall, this episode serves as a valuable resource for leaders seeking to enhance their effectiveness and create a thriving community within their organizations.

02:09 – Encouraging Open Communication

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. 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, 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 Anthony Sweat, John Hilton III, Barbara Morgan Gardner, Blair Hodges, Whitney Johnson, Greg McKeown, Ganel-Lyn Condie, Michael Goodman, Wendy Ulrich, Richard Ostler, and many more in over 700 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.

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

Professor Susan R. Madsen is the Karen Haight Huntsman Endowed Professor of Leadership in the Jon M. Huntsman School of Business at Utah State University. Dr. Madsen is considered one of the top global scholars and thought leaders on the topic of women and leadership and has authored or edited nine books and published hundreds of articles, chapters, and reports. She is a well-known speaker in local, national, and international settings. She is also the founding director of the Utah Women & Leadership Project and has worked for years motivating more women in Utah to graduate from college and to lead and influence more profoundly.

At the time this was recorded, Dr. Madsen was the Orin R. Woodbury Professor of Leadership & Ethics in the Woodbury School of Business at Utah Valley University. A returned missionary, she received a bachelor’s degree from Brigham Young University, master’s from Portland State University, and a doctorate from the University of Minnesota. Dr. Madsen and her husband Greg are the proud parents of four adult children and six delightful grandchildren.

5:40 Women feeling a calling or purpose in both religious and secular settings gives them more confidence

8:40 Either/or socialization for women has become powerful in Church culture over the past 60 years

11:30 Research into sister missionaries started with the purpose of learning what influences women’s goals and aspirations to become leaders in their homes and communities

13:50 What leadership skills have women developed through mission service? How do they use them now? What other opportunities do they wish they would have had?

17:50 Men are more likely than women to see themselves as leaders

19:00 Competencies and leadership skills women gain from serving a mission: public speaking, conflict management, courage, interpersonal skills, problem solving, planning organization and accountability, confidence, spiritual growth, empathy, giving and receiving feedback, grit and resilience, mentoring, teaching, critical thinking, listening, personal growth and awareness, accepting others, time management, training others, teamwork, foreign language skills, intercultural competencies, goal-setting, managing people, work ethic, serving others, taking direction, independence, patience, decision-making and judgment, standing their ground, leading by example, self-discipline, adaptability, lifelong learning

27:10 Connecting these skills to leadership for women: “We have to be leaders”

33:45 How can we encourage women to act with confidence in leadership roles when men are present? Increasing internal confidence and changing societal systems

37:00 Women are socialized to keep quiet in a group with men

38:50 Leaders who understanding the differences between men and women create more powerful action and teams

42:50 A Mission President’s wife is a leader: to develop leadership identity, women need to see other women leading

45:15 Yearning for sisters to be included in leadership and missionary training

48:15 Talking more about Mother in Heaven and recognizing a connection to her

52:30 What are returned sister missionaries currently doing to use their knowledge and skills? All of those skills apply to leadership in the family and Church roles, and they have also translated them into leadership in their careers

59:05 Receiving personal revelation about what God wants women to do in the world

1:06:30 Serving a mission is one of the best leadership development opportunities for both men and women

1:09:30 Young women who do not serve missions should thoughtfully consider other ways they can intentionally develop leadership skills: do hard things and push yourself

1:13:45 Helping young women better prepare to serve missions

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. 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, 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 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 700 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.

Ryan Gottfredson, Ph.D. is a cutting-edge leadership development author, researcher, and consultant. He helps organizations vertically develop their leaders primarily through a focus on mindsets. Ryan is the Wall Street Journal and USA Today best-selling author of Success Mindsets: The Key to Unlocking Greater Success in Your Life, Work, & Leadership and The Elevated Leader: Leveling Up Your Leadership Through Vertical Development. He is also a leadership professor at the College of Business and Economics at California State University-Fullerton.

This is the first of a two-part podcast conversation on effective church leadership. Ryan shares his extensive experience in leadership research and consulting, highlighting the varying levels of leadership sophistication he encounters in organizations. He categorizes leaders into three levels: those focused on safety and belonging, those striving for advancement, and the most elevated leaders who prioritize contribution and value creation.

Ryan discusses the significance of establishing a clear, inspirational, and stakeholder-centric purpose within church organizations, drawing parallels to successful leaders in the corporate world. He emphasizes that a well-defined purpose can help shift focus from individual concerns to a collective mission, fostering a more engaged and vibrant community. The conversation also touches on the importance of mission and vision statements, as well as the need for clear values that guide behavior in challenging situations. Ryan suggests that church leaders should conduct a stakeholder analysis to identify key groups impacted by their leadership and to ensure that their efforts create meaningful value for these stakeholders.

Kurt and Ryan delve into the complexities of administering temple recommends, exploring the balance between behavior-focused and grace-centered discipleship. They consider the implications of current temple recommend questions and how they may inadvertently create a caste system within the church. The episode concludes with a thought-provoking examination of how church culture can either uplift or alienate members, emphasizing the need for leaders to cultivate an environment where all feel valued and included. Overall, this episode offers valuable insights for church leaders seeking to enhance their effectiveness and foster a more inclusive and purpose-driven community.

01:48 – Welcoming Ryan Gottfredson Back to the Podcast

Watch Part 2: What About Our Culture is Holding Us Back? | An Interview with Ryan Gottfredson

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. 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, 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 Anthony Sweat, John Hilton III, Barbara Morgan Gardner, Blair Hodges, Whitney Johnson, Greg McKeown, Ganel-Lyn Condie, Michael Goodman, Wendy Ulrich, Richard Ostler, and many more in over 700 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.

Christian McOmber is the founder of Missionary Universe—a non-profit organization that empowers youth to learn missionary skills early so they can support their local communities and prepare for full-time missionary service. He works in advertising as a creative director. Christian’s writing has come to life in the form of Super Bowl commercials, experiential activations, and more, for brands like Pepsi, Lexus, Burger King, and NBA 2K. At church, he has served as a ward mission leader and with the youth. Christian currently resides with his family in Los Angeles, California, the City of Angels.

Christian’s passion for missionary work shines through as he discusses his own experiences and the inception of Missionary Universe.

He recounts his upbringing in Seattle, where his father’s enthusiasm for missionary work inspired him. After serving a mission in Brazil, he returned home with a strong desire to continue sharing the gospel, despite facing health challenges. Christian emphasizes the importance of setting ambitious goals and maintaining momentum in missionary efforts, sharing his experience of inviting 92 people to his homecoming talk, resulting in three baptisms. The conversation shifts to practical advice for church leaders on integrating returned missionaries into ward activities, highlighting the significance of keeping them engaged in missionary work.

The episode delves into goal-setting strategies for wards, encouraging leaders to involve youth in the process. Christian shares a successful approach where he and the youth set a goal of baptizing 20 people, which they achieved through consistent outreach and support from the ward. He emphasizes the need to view goal-setting as a partnership with God, allowing for divine intervention in achieving these goals. The discussion also covers the importance of maintaining a positive mindset and learning from experiences, even if goals are not met within the initially set timeframe.

As the episode progresses, Christian shares insights on organizing community outreach events, such as “Fishers of Men” activities, where youth and ward members visit less-active members to invite them back to church. He highlights the power of youth involvement in missionary work and the impact of their enthusiasm on the entire ward. The episode concludes with Christian discussing his ongoing projects, including “Preach My Gospel on Film,” aimed at equipping youth with the skills needed for effective missionary work. He encourages listeners to share this content with youth and leaders to inspire a new generation of missionaries, reinforcing the idea that the youth are the “battalion of the Lord” and can achieve remarkable things when empowered.

04:50 – Introduction to Missionary Universe

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. 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, 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 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 700 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.

In this episode, Kurt Francom, executive director of Leading Saints, shares his thoughts on how leaders can handle the question that always seems to come up: “How can I motivate people?”

Traditional notions of motivation may be misguided. Kurt cites a Church training with Elder Bednar where he asserted that motivation is essentially a false concept. Motivation can only come from the inside, not from external pressures or guilt. He highlights the importance of recognizing one’s ego as a driving force in leadership and the need to create a culture of love and identity rather than relying on high expectations and shame. Kurt shares practical strategies for fostering motivation, such as building relationships, offering autonomy, and inviting community engagement. He emphasizes the significance of creating a supportive environment where individuals feel valued and connected.

Ultimately, true motivation stems from understanding one’s identity in Christ and fostering a culture of discipleship. Kurt encourages leaders to surrender their expectations and allow individuals to find their own paths to engagement, reinforcing the idea that leadership is about guiding others toward their divine potential rather than merely achieving specific metrics or goals. Leaders can embrace their roles with compassion and patience, recognizing that the journey of discipleship is a collective effort that requires understanding and support.

02:15 – Common Leadership Concerns

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. 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, 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 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 700 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.