EPISODE 251: What does it mean to be a man in today’s world?

In this powerful episode of Linch with a Leader, Mike Linch sits down with Pastor Joby Martin to explore the crisis of masculinity and the call to biblical manhood in a culture of confusion and compromise.

Together they unpack:

▪️ The dangers of a culture that shames men

▪️ How to raise sons with purpose and rites of passage

▪️ The inner question every man wrestles with: Do I have what it takes?

▪️ Guardrails against temptation (lust, pride, and greed)

▪️ The power of spiritual brotherhood and legacy

Whether you’re a father, a pastor, or a young man searching for identity — this episode will challenge and encourage you to stand firm and lead well.

🎯 Truths from Joby

- Manhood is in crisis - and Scripture speaks to it clearly

- Boys become men through intentional rites of passage

- Ever man longs to know: Do I measure up?

- Accountability and community are essential

- Legacy is built one generation at a time

🎧 Listen & Subscribe

Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/linch-with-a-leader/id1279929826

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0dJfeLbikJlKlBqAx6mDYW?si=3be196d45ecc469c

📝 Show notes & more: www.mikelinch.com

📺 Watch on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@linchwithaleader

🗓️ Join Mike on a Sunday at NorthStar: www.northstarchurch.org | www.youtube.com/@nsckennesaw

📱Follow Mike:

Instagram: @MikeLinch

X/Twitter: @Mike Linch

📚 Read 'Stand Firm and Act Like Men': https://a.co/d/bNcXb7C

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00 The Crisis of Manhood in Today's Society

05:48 Defining True Manhood

08:08 Rites of Passage: Transitioning from Boy to Man

11:01 The Fundamental Question: Do I Have What It Takes?

13:31 The Importance of Community and Accountability

16:19 Facing Shame and Vulnerability

18:51 Building Authentic Relationships

21:21 Wisdom from Experience

22:25 Guardrails Against Temptation

24:25 The Importance of Accountability

26:27 Staying Vigilant in Life

28:43 The Role of Influence Across Generations

30:59 Passing the Baton of Faith

33:57 The Legacy of a Father

36:14 Living Authentically as a Man

In this episode, Casey and Mike discuss the importance of encouragement in leadership, the challenges leaders face in loving their teams well, and the significance of recognizing the contributions of individuals over mere metrics. They reflect on insights from Jay, emphasizing that leadership is about people and relationships, not just results.

In this episode of 'Linch with a Leader', Mike Linch interviews Jay Brown, CEO of David Weekley Homes, exploring his personal journey, the impact of family and faith on leadership, and the importance of people in business. Jay shares insights on overcoming challenges, the significance of continuous learning, and the balance between work and family life. He emphasizes the need for leaders to love, learn, and lead well, and reflects on the legacy he hopes to leave for his children.

Mike's Leadership Lessons from Jay:

- Great businesses are great because of their people.

- The journey to leadership often starts with overcoming personal fears.

- Family plays a crucial role in shaping one's character and values.

- Empowering employees leads to better business outcomes.

- Time management is essential for effective leadership.

- Continuous learning is vital for personal and professional growth.

- Balancing work and family is a key aspect of leadership.

- Legacy is about the impact you leave on others.

Welcome to the Linch with a Leader Podcast, where you're invited to join the spiritual principles behind big success, with host Mike Linch.

Subscribe to the channel so you never miss an episode:

Watch: @linchwithaleader

Prefer just listening? SUBSCRIBE to the podcast here:

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0dJfeLbikJlKlBqAx6mDYW?si=6ffed84956cb4848

Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/linch-with-a-leader/id1279929826

Find show notes and more information at: www.mikelinch.com

Follow for EVERYDAY leadership content and interaction:

Follow on X: https://x.com/mikelinch?s=20

Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mikelinch?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==https://www.instagram.com/mikelinch/?...

JOIN Mike for a Sunday at NorthStar Church:

www.northstarchurch.org

Watch: @nsckennesaw

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00 Introduction and Background

06:49 Lessons from Parenting

09:24 Faith and Personal Growth

12:07 Overcoming Public Speaking Fear

14:43 The Importance of People in Business

17:09 Leadership and Empowerment

19:51 Maintaining Connection as a CEO

22:46 The Three L's of Leadership

28:05 The Importance of Time Management

32:18 Balancing Work and Family Life

39:15 Legacy and Impact on Family

In this conversation, Mike Linch discusses the impactful leadership style of Johnny Shelton, a life coach for the Baltimore Ravens. The discussion emphasizes the importance of presence in leadership, the need for encouragement, and understanding people beyond their roles. Mike shares insights on how leaders can connect with others by genuinely getting to know them and celebrating their uniqueness.

In this episode of Linch with a Leader, Mike Linch sits down with Johnny Shelton, the team chaplain and life coach for the Baltimore Ravens. Johnny shares his powerful journey from growing up without a father, to playing college football, to surrendering his life to Jesus, and ultimately being called to serve some of the biggest names in professional sports.

You’ll hear how Johnny walked away from corporate America to pursue God’s calling, what spiritual leadership looks like in high-pressure environments, and how the Ravens’ culture of character and faith fuels their success.

Whether you’re a coach, leader, pastor, athlete, or believer navigating purpose; this conversation will challenge and inspire you.

Mike's Leadership Lessons from Johnny:

- Leading with the ministry of presence is crucial.

- Adversity shapes character and prepares us for our purpose.

- Faith can transform lives and perspectives.

- Transitioning from sports to business requires adaptability.

- Presence in leadership fosters trust and connection.

- Leadership is about serving others, not just directing them.

- The importance of character in team selection.

- Genuine relationships are built on trust and service.

- Leadership lessons can be learned from observing others.

- Purpose in life is about loving and helping others.

Welcome to the Linch with a Leader Podcast, where you're invited to join the spiritual principles behind big success, with host Mike Linch.

Subscribe to the channel so you never miss an episode:

Watch: @linchwithaleader

Prefer just listening? SUBSCRIBE to the podcast here:

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0dJfeLbikJlKlBqAx6mDYW?si=6ffed84956cb4848

Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/linch-with-a-leader/id1279929826

Find show notes and more information at: www.mikelinch.com

Follow for EVERYDAY leadership content and interaction:

Follow on X: https://x.com/mikelinch?s=20

Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mikelinch?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==https://www.instagram.com/mikelinch/?...

JOIN Mike for a Sunday at NorthStar Church:

www.northstarchurch.org

Watch: @nsckennesaw

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00 Introduction and Connection

05:44 The Roots of Passion and Adversity

08:32 Finding Faith Through Struggles

12:48 The Turning Point: A Life-Changing Experience

16:21 Transitioning from Sports to Business

19:58 Embracing a New Calling in Ministry

21:48 Lessons Learned in College Football Chaplaincy

25:24 Living Offendable: The Path to Understanding

26:57 A New Chapter: Joining the Baltimore Ravens

29:39 Evolving Perspectives: NFL Players Today

31:14 The Power of Prayer on the Field

33:19 Behind the Scenes: The Real Lives of NFL Players

34:54 Spiritual Foundations: The Ravens' Success

37:05 Leadership Lessons from Coach Harbaugh

39:58 The Role of a Chaplain: Serving with Purpose

44:16 Finding Purpose: Love, Help, and Discipleship

#ravens #baltimoreravens #nfl #christianleadership

In this episode, Casey and Mike discuss the insights shared by Dr. Karen Gordon on the significance of self-care in leadership. They explore how self-care is not selfish but essential for effective leadership, the importance of discovering one's purpose, and the role of leaders in creating a positive work culture. The conversation emphasizes the need for leaders to manage their emotions and maintain their energy to inspire and energize their teams.

Why do so many great leaders burn out? In this episode of the Linch with a Leader podcast, host Mike Linch sits down with Dr. Karyn Gordon, CEO, author of The Three Chairs, and leadership/relationship expert, to talk about the one skill every leader needs but often neglects: self-care.

Whether you’re leading a business, church, nonprofit, or family, this conversation will help you discover why self-care is not selfish and is the secret to great leadership, strong culture, and lasting influence.

Mike's Leadership Lessons:

- Leaders must balance self-care with caring for their teams.

- The three chairs concept is timeless and applicable across various contexts.

- Emotions in leadership are contagious and impact team culture.

- Finding and maintaining purpose is crucial for effective leadership.

- Professional growth should be a priority for leaders and organizations.

- Play and laughter are essential for reducing stress in the workplace.

- Clear goals enhance confidence and engagement among team members.

- Regular check-ins and cadences help maintain focus on purpose.

- Investing in employee development is key to retention and engagement.

- Leaders should seek to understand their divine purpose and align their actions accordingly.

Welcome to the Linch with a Leader Podcast, where you're invited to join the spiritual principles behind big success, with host Mike Linch.

Subscribe to the channel so you never miss an episode:

Watch: @linchwithaleader

Prefer just listening? SUBSCRIBE to the podcast here:

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0dJfeLbikJlKlBqAx6mDYW?si=6ffed84956cb4848

Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/linch-with-a-leader/id1279929826

Find show notes and more information at: www.mikelinch.com

Follow for EVERYDAY leadership content and interaction:

Follow on X: https://x.com/mikelinch?s=20

Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mikelinch?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==https://www.instagram.com/mikelinch/?...

JOIN Mike for a Sunday at NorthStar Church:

www.northstarchurch.org

Watch: @nsckennesaw

In this episode, Casey and Mike discuss the impactful conversation with Coach Dan Skirka, focusing on the importance of building a culture that transcends mere wins and losses. They explore the significance of leaders believing in their team members, the essence of living beyond one's professional role.

Murray State head coach Dan Skirka led the Racers on a historic run to the 2025 College World Series, a journey built on faith, family, and relentless belief in his team. In this interview with Mike Linch on Linch with a Leader, Coach Skirka shares how his Christian faith, leadership philosophy, and underdog mentality shaped a culture that made Murray State one of the most inspiring stories in college baseball.

Whether you’re a coach, athlete, or faith-driven leader, you’ll be challenged by his approach to building character, overcoming adversity, and leading with love.

Mike's Takeaways:

- Faith played a crucial role in Skirka's life, especially during challenging times.

- Transitioning from assistant to head coach required preparation and resilience.

- Building a winning culture at Murray State was a key focus for Skirka.

- The 2025 season exceeded expectations, showcasing the team's growth and determination.

- Overcoming challenges, including COVID-19, shaped the team's resilience.

- The journey to Omaha was marked by belief in the process and each other.

- Family support, especially from his son, added a personal dimension to Skirka's coaching experience.

- Skirka aims to leave a lasting impact on his players, preparing them for life beyond baseball.

- The importance of love and service in coaching is a central theme in Skirka's philosophy.

Welcome to the Linch with a Leader Podcast, where you're invited to join the spiritual principles behind big success, with host Mike Linch.

Subscribe to the channel so you never miss an episode:

Watch: @linchwithaleader

Prefer just listening? SUBSCRIBE to the podcast here:

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0dJfeLbikJlKlBqAx6mDYW?si=6ffed84956cb4848

Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/linch-with-a-leader/id1279929826

Find show notes and more information at: www.mikelinch.com

Follow for EVERYDAY leadership content and interaction:

Follow on X: https://x.com/mikelinch?s=20

Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mikelinch?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==https://www.instagram.com/mikelinch/?...

JOIN Mike for a Sunday at NorthStar Church:

www.northstarchurch.org

Watch: @nsckennesaw

In this episode, Casey and Mike discuss key insights from Jon Gordon's leadership principles, focusing on the importance of belief, commitment to growth, and the role of encouragement in leadership. They explore how these themes manifest in sports and other areas of life, emphasizing the need for leaders to balance accountability with valuing their team members.