Leadership isn’t built on titles, charisma, or quick-fix strategies—it’s built from within.

On this special episode, Jason welcomes Dr. Matt Paden, co-author of the powerful new book The Core: 8 Principles for Building Strong, Authentic Leadership, which releases on April 21, 2026.

In a world filled with noise, pressure, and uncertainty, this timely conversation reveals what truly sustains leaders when it matters most: character, integrity, humility, and purpose.

Blending a compelling story with practical leadership wisdom, The Core follows the journey of a young leader whose life is changed through mentorship and timeless principles. Dr. Paden shares how anyone—whether a business professional, parent, educator, entrepreneur, or emerging leader—can develop authentic influence by strengthening their foundation. This is leadership that transforms teams, families, organizations, and communities.

If you’re ready to grow as a leader and make a greater impact, don’t miss this inspiring discussion. Discover the eight core principles that can help you lead with grace, embrace truth, remain coachable, and stay focused on your purpose.

This episode will challenge, equip, and encourage you to lead stronger from the inside out.

Mike speaks and teaches business, growth, and sales development for sales professionals and orthodontic teams so they can develop, sell, and grow with purpose.

John Shackelford currently serves as the Executive Director of Eagle Ranch, succeeding
Eddie Staub, Eagle Ranch’s Founder, in July 2021. In his role, John is ultimately
responsible for leading the Staff in accomplishing the Ranch’s mission to restore and
renew children and families in relational crisis.

Originally from Orlando, Florida, John graduated from Wheaton College (Illinois) in
2011 with degrees in Business/Economics and Theological Studies. John also played
basketball at Wheaton and served as team captain his senior year.

Prior to Eagle Ranch, John and his wife and children lived in Atlanta as he worked for
10 years at Chick-fil-A Inc. in the corporate Marketing department. In his most recent
role, he led Chick-fil-A’s Brand Planning team, responsible for the communications
planning and marketing of new products, among other duties. He was previously Team
Leader for the Sponsorships and Events marketing team, leading national partnerships
with ESPN, the Chick-fil-A Peach Bowl, and the Chick-fil-A College Football Hall of
Fame. Additionally, John helped start the national Chick-fil-A Leader Academy
program and Chick-fil-A’s fleet of food trucks.

John and his wife, Stephanie, have three children and live with a portion of Eagle
Ranch’s staff on the ministry’s almost 500-acre campus.

About Eagle Ranch

Eagle Ranch is a Christ-centered nonprofit organization that takes a whole family
approach to restoring and renewing relationships for children and families. Our aim is
to provide renewal through restored relationships, practical resources and hope for a
more flourishing future.
 
From humble beginnings as a residential children’s program, Eagle Ranch’s services
have expanded to include family assessments, a day school program, outpatient
counseling, parenting resources and other offerings to help families heal brokenness
and gain tools for long-term success.

For more information, visit EagleRanch.org.

Marcylle Combs is a seasoned leader whose journey through healthcare, real estate, and leadership development has been guided by faith, perseverance, and a heart for people. For more than 30 years, she has worked to grow organizations with integrity, compassion, and a commitment to excellence — always recognizing that every achievement is ultimately a gift from God.

Bio: Heather Trumpfheller serves as Chief Growth Officer at Switchboard, a nonprofit tech startup mobilizing Christians around the world. She lives in Austin, TX and is heavily involved in the faith and work space, sitting on boards such as Austin Women in Technology and Austin Bridge Builders Alliance.

The Fortified Life Podcast with Jason DavisEpisode 226 |
Guest: Steve Woodworth – Marketing, Management, and Organizational Development Expert
Show Theme: Developing a dependency on Jesus in the marketplace—because from the boardroom to the bathroom, God is with you!

Guest Introduction

• Steve Woodworth brings over 40 years of expertise in advancing Christian organizations through marketing, management, and organizational development.
• Former leader at World Vision, overseeing a decade of double-digit growth
• Steve co-founded and leads Masterworks, serving hundreds of Christian organizations.
• Board volunteer, industry convener, CEO advisor
• Author of Lost in Transition: Lessons from the Most Disastrous and Successful Ministry Successions

Key Topics & Highlights
Steve’s Professional Journey

• Radical conversion to Christianity led to a desire to engage in missionary work.
• Early career at World Vision, rising from data analytics to senior leadership.
• Steered World Vision through remarkable growth
• Co-founded the Masterworks agency to help Christian organizations achieve their missions

Book Focus: Lost in Transition

• Explores both successful and disastrous leadership transitions in ministries and nonprofits
• Motivated by seeing many failed successions and the pain they caused leaders and organizations.
• Principles in the book help prevent disasters and create healthy, honoring transitions.

Worst-Case Scenario in Succession

• Leaders pushed out or dishonored, losing trust with donors and staff.
• Lack of celebration and poor communication can cause sharp declines in donations and morale.
• One example: A CEO with an eight-year plan was forced out early, leading to significant setbacks for the organization and its finances.

Best-Case Scenario in Succession

• The outgoing leader is honored and included in succession planning.
• Successor is a strong culture fit, and overlap provides continuity.
• Example: World Vision’s transition from Rich Stearns to Edgar Sandoval, with collaboration, respect, and discernment
• Example: Trueface’s founder mentoring and supporting his successor, then returning to serve new opportunities

Dangers of Founders Overstaying

• Founders unwilling to let go can hinder organizational growth and succession, sometimes cycling through multiple potential successors.
• Steve’s personal experience: Gradual transition and willingness to let the new CEO lead, maintaining a respectful, supportive relationship

So, what makes transitions work? Here are the key conditions for a successful handoff:

• Friendship and an ongoing relationship between predecessor and successor help ease the transition.
• Boards should include outgoing leaders and senior staff in the hiring process and bathe the process in prayer.
• Hiring from within increases success rates; mentoring multiple candidates is wise.

Practical Takeaways for Organizations

• Start succession planning years in advance.
• Prioritize culture fit and internal candidates when possible.
• Foster humility, respect, and communication among all parties
• Boards must recognize their own limitations and seek input from those who know the organization best.
• Prayerful discernment is critical at every stage.

Steve Woodworth’s Book

• Lost in Transition: Lessons from the Most Disastrous and Successful Ministry Successions
• Available from: Kingdom Life Publishers and Amazon (Kindle version)

Connect with Steve Woodworth

• Masterworks Agency
• Book details and contact via Kingdom Life Publishers

Additional Resources

• Podcast Website: fortifiedlifepodcast.com
• Host’s Book: Fortify: Being Rooted in God’s Plan for Work and Business by Jason Davis (Available on Amazon)

Closing Encouragement
Don’t compartmentalize your faith. From the boardroom to the bathroom, God is with you!
Listen & Subscribe:

• Apple Podcasts
• Spotify
• iHeartRadio
• YouTube (@ The Fortified Life)

The Fortified Life Podcast with Jason Davis Episode 225 | Guest: Dee Ann Turner – 3x Best-Selling Author, International Speaker, Retired Chick-fil-A VP Show Theme:
Learning to develop a dependency on Jesus in the marketplace—because from the boardroom to the bathroom, God is with you! Guest Introduction

• Dee Ann Turner: Three-time best-selling author, international keynote speaker, and retired VP with 33 years at Chick-fil-A.
• Known for: Building remarkable cultures, recruiting extraordinary talent, and creating exceptional customer experiences.

Key Topics & Highlights Dee Ann’s Journey

• Early ambitions as a writer; graduated from Cincinnati Christian University.
• Started career in a toxic environment, then pivoted to Chick-fil-A on her husband’s recommendation.
• Three pivotal decisions: choosing the right spouse, joining Chick-fil-A, and accepting a role in Human Resources over Marketing.
• Rose through the ranks, eventually becoming responsible for recruiting and selecting franchisees.
• Authored her first book while still at Chick-fil-A, then retired to pursue writing and speaking full time.

Building Remarkable Culture at Chick-fil-A

• Culture built on Truett Cathy’s purpose: to glorify God and be a positive influence.
• Focus on leadership development, high standards, and selecting purpose-driven individuals.
• Emphasis on multiplying leaders and fostering innovation through franchisees.
• Critical people decisions—especially selecting franchise operators—impact the entire brand.

Talent and Leadership

• Transitioned from marketing ambitions to HR, drawn by variety and people-focused work.
• Built systems for staff selection and later managed franchisee recruitment and selection.
• Discovered her calling in helping others find their calling.

Signature Talks & Topics

• "Remarkable Cultures": Defining purpose, mission, and core values.
• "Leading Talent": Selecting extraordinary talent for organizations.
• "Customer Experience": How culture and talent create customer delight.
• "Servant Leadership": Lessons from Chick-fil-A and beyond.
• Executive-in-Residence at High Point University, mentoring the next generation.

Navigating AI and Innovation in the Workplace

• AI as a valuable business tool for augmenting processes.
• Human relationship-building and communication skills remain irreplaceable.
• Leaders must focus on developing relational, communication, and critical thinking skills.
• Warning against over-reliance on rules-based systems—principles allow for creative, human-centered problem solving.

What Makes Great Talent?

• Servant spirit and humility
• Strong work ethic
• Excellent communication skills (oral and written)
• Relationship-building and teamwork abilities

Looking Ahead: Dee Ann’s Current & Upcoming Projects

• Speaking at major conferences (e.g., International Car Wash Association, events with Lexus)
• Working on a new leadership book (already 10 chapters in!)
• Continuing to mentor and coach leaders and young professionals

Dee Ann’s Books

• Bet on Talent (Recommended – includes and expands on content from her out-of-print first book)
• Crush Your Career (For young professionals, now in paperback)
• Both are available on DeeAnnTurner.com and major online retailers

Connect with Dee Ann Turner

• LinkedIn: Dee Ann Turner
• Facebook: Dee Ann Turner Author
• Instagram: @deeannturner
• Website: DeeAnnTurner.com

Additional Resources

• Podcast Website: fortifiedlifepodcast.com
• Host’s Book: Fortify: Being Rooted in God’s Plan for Work and Business by Jason Davis (Available on Amazon)

Closing Encouragement Don’t compartmentalize your faith. From the boardroom to the bathroom, God is with you! Listen & Subscribe:

• Apple Podcasts
• Spotify
• iHeartRadio
• YouTube (@ The Fortified Life)

Show Notes: The Fortified Life Podcast with Jason Davis – EP 224
Guest: Brian P. Moran, New York Times Best-Selling Author of The 12 Week Year
Episode Highlights

• Host: Jason Davis (aka Mister Fortify)
• Series: Tools and Resources
• Theme: Developing a dependency on Jesus in the marketplace

About the Guest
Brian P. Moran has led in leadership and execution for over 30 years as a CEO, entrepreneur, consultant, and coach. He co-authored the best-selling book The 12 Week Year, transforming how individuals and organizations set and achieve goals. Brian actively helps others accomplish more than they imagined by focusing on effective implementation.

Key Topics Discussed

• Brian’s Professional Journey:
  • From UPS to PepsiCo, consulting, and entrepreneurship

The evolution of the 12 Week Year concept and its roots in athletic training principles

• The 12 Week Year Framework:
  • Why annual planning often leads to procrastination and a lack of urgency
  • The power of shorter 12-week cycles for focus and execution
  • Emphasizing tactical over conceptual planning
• The Five Disciplines of the 12 Week Year:
  1. Vision: Start with personal vision, then align career and business goals
  2. Planning: Set 1–3 focused 12-week goals with tactical plans
  3. Process Control: Use tools and routines to ensure consistent execution
  4. Scorekeeping: Track both actions and outcomes to drive improvement
  5. Time Use: Be intentional with commitments and priorities
• The Three Core Principles:
  1. Accountability: Ownership based on free will and personal choice—not just consequences
  2. Commitment: Making and keeping promises to oneself and others for each 12-week cycle
  3. Greatness in the Moment: Success is determined by choices made in each moment
• Implementation in Real Life:
  • Success stories from organizations and individuals using the 12 Week Year
  • Embrace discomfort and step out of the comfort zone to drive growth.
  • No perfect plan—focus on learning, adapting, and building momentum
• Tools & Resources for Listeners:
  • 12weekyear.com – Solutions for individuals and teams, including the newly enhanced Achieve online system and Accelerator for Leaders
  • Online tools for vision-building, goal-setting, tactical planning, scorecards, and tracking progress
  • Affordable pricing and a free getting-started course
  • Social media: Follow “12 Week Year” for regular content and updates

Connect with Brian P. Moran

• Website: 12weekyear.com
• Social: Search for “12 Week Year” on all major platforms

Additional Resources

• Get a copy of The 12 Week Year book
• Explore online resources and courses at 12weekyear.com.
• Check out the free Getting Started course for an introduction to the methodology.

Closing Thoughts

• Don’t compartmentalize your faith in the marketplace—God is with you everywhere.
• Prioritize what matters most, act urgently, and create momentum through short cycles.

Subscribe to The Fortified Life Podcast:

• Apple Podcasts | Spotify | iHeartRadio | YouTube
• Visit fortifiedlifepodcast.com now to discover more insightful episodes, join our community, and tune in live every Wednesday at 8:30pm ET. Take your next step to a fortified life!.

• Get your copy of Fortify: Being Rooted in God’s Plan for Work and Business by Jason Davis—available now on Amazon.
• Equip yourself today and share your journey with us!

Show Notes: The Fortified Life Podcast, Episode 223.
Host Jason Davis welcomes guest David Holland for a discussion on faith, leadership, and navigating the intersection of media and the marketplace.

Episode Highlights

• Host: Jason Davis (aka Mister Fortify)
• David Holland is a ghostwriter, author, consultant, and principal at Cobalt Bridge Multi Channel. He has ghostwritten or edited 46 published books, is co-author of Paul Harvey’s America (winner of the 2009 Retailers' Choice Award), and is a frequent speaker on faith, media, and public policy.
• Credentials: Ghostwritten/edited 46 published books (3 on NYT Nonfiction Bestsellers List), co-author of Paul Harvey’s America (2009 Retailers' Choice Award), frequent speaker on faith, media, and public policy

About the Guest
David Holland brings a wealth of experience as a writer, consultant, and creative leader, actively helping ministries, businesses, and leaders communicate more effectively. He passionately explores the intersection of faith, media, and the marketplace. David writes for high-profile ministers, politicians, and professional athletes, and now writes his own books that focus on faith, grace, and living out your calling.

Key Topics Discussed

• David’s Journey:
• • Early sense of calling outside traditional ministry roles
  • Discovery of a writing gift and a passion for media, culture, and business
  • He helped ministries grow and communicate, which led him to build a prolific ghostwriting career.
  • He transitioned to writing his own books focusing on faith, grace, and kingdom purpose.
• Faith & Marketplace Calling:
• • God calls people to all spheres, not just traditional ministry.
  • Marketplace roles are kingdom assignments; every context is a place to push back darkness and bring redemption.
• Media & Technology Trends:
• • Shift from platform scarcity to attention scarcity: “It’s never been easier to publish, never harder to get noticed.”
  • Major technological disruptions: personal computers, the internet, smartphones, social media, and now AI
  • People can use every new technology for both good and evil—God continually works through innovation.n.
  • Encouragement for believers to play their part in God’s story and use new tools with wisdom
• Pride, Insecurity, and Leadership:
• • Insecurity often lies at the root of pride—two sides of the same coin.
  • Biblical case study: Saul (insecurity, fear of man, incomplete victory) vs. Jonathan (secure identity, confidence, complete victory)
  • New vocabulary: Insobriety (insecurity + pride) vs. Secureamility (secure + humility)
  • The importance of rooting identity in Christ to serve others and lead well
  • True humility comes from confidence in God’s love and calling.
• Practical Encouragement:
• • Show up, do your part, and trust God for the results (“Only God can make the wind blow”)
  • Find significance and acceptance in being loved and chosen by God—not in achievement.nt.
  • If you’re in Christ, you qualify for every promise of God.

Resources & Next Steps

• David’s books (including Praying Grace) are available on Amazon.
• New book on kingdom purpose and identity coming soon (Spring 2026)
• New website: davidholland.org (newsletter and resources available upon launch)

Connect with David Holland

• Website: davidholland.org
• Amazon Author Page
• Subscribe to the upcoming newsletter for updates, resources, and encouragement.

Closing Thoughts

• Don’t compartmentalize your faith—God is with you everywhere.
• Find your lane in God’s kingdom and run hard in it.
• Lead from a place of security: Confidence in Christ + true humility.

Subscribe to The Fortified Life Podcast:

• Apple Podcasts | Spotify | iHeartRadio | YouTube
• Join us for live episodes every Wednesday at 8:30pm ET at fortifiedlifepodcast.com—subscribe for reminders and exclusive content!.

Host Book Recommendation:

• Fortify: Being Rooted in God’s Plan for Work and Business by Jason Davis (Available on Amazon)

The Fortified Life Podcast with Jason Davis – Episode 222
Guest: Dr. Tim Elmore, Founder of Growing Leaders (growingleaders.com)
Episode Highlights

• Host: Jason Davis (aka Mister Fortify)
• Dr. Tim Elmore – Leadership expert, author of 35+ books, creator of Habitudes
• Featured Book: The Future Begins with Z: Nine Strategies to Lead Generation Z as They Upset the Workplace

About the Guest

Dr. Tim Elmore is a renowned leadership expert and the founder of Growing Leaders, a nonprofit focused on developing emerging leaders. He spent 20 years working alongside John C. Maxwell and has appeared in major publications and media outlets. Globally, businesses, schools, churches, and nonprofits seek his practical wisdom for multi-generational leadership.


Key Topics DiscussedUnderstanding Generation Z

• The “Peter Pan Paradox”: Age of authority is dropping, but age of maturity is rising (“26 is the new 18”)
• Gen Z brings tech intuition and a forward-looking view of the workplace, but may lag in social, emotional, and spiritual maturity due to cultural and pandemic factors.
• Importance of listening and coaching over just managing

Hiring & Interviewing Gen Z

• Employers encounter unique challenges with Gen Z, such as eye contact, expectations, dress, language, virtual etiquette, and even parents participating in interviews.
• The “PERKS” Interview Framework:
• • Preferences: Understand their wishes
  • Expectations: Clarify what they assume will be true
  • Requirements: Identify non-negotiables
  • Keys: Discover what makes them tick
  • Salary: Discuss compensation transparently
• Shift interviews to a two-way conversation to set the stage for engagement and retention.

Myths & Realities about Gen Z

• Many stereotypes are misleading—work ethic and motivations are often misunderstood.
• Gen Z values work-life balance as a reaction to previous generations’ workaholism.
• Importance of asking and understanding before assuming

Retaining and Developing Gen Z Talent

• Create entrepreneurial zones or startup-like teams within organizations.
• Provide autonomy, flexibility, and trust (with accountability)
• Use reverse mentoring—invite Gen Z to teach older generations.
• Foster an environment where asking is as valued as telling.

Feedback & Communication

• Approach feedback with grace, curiosity, and belief in the person
• The “ALEG” Feedback Model:
• • Ask (not tell)
  • Listen
  • Empathize
  • Guide
• Build bridges, not just wield badges—connection, not just position, earns influence.

Mental Health & Well-being

• Gen Z faces unprecedented anxiety and pressure, with today’s average teen experiencing anxiety levels that match those of psychiatric patients from the 1950s.
• Encourage margin, movement, and authentic support in the workplace.

Why Dr. Elmore Remains Optimistic

• Every generation is initially misunderstood—even Boomers faced skepticism.
• Positive change often comes from rising generations.
• Inspiring story of the NASA moon landing—entrusting young leaders led to a historic achievement
• “Gen Z is the sandpaper on my leadership I didn’t know I needed.”

Resources & Next Steps

• Dr. Elmore’s books (including The Future Begins with Z and Habitudes) are available from major booksellers.
• Bulk orders: portslightbooks.com
• Learn more and access leadership resources: growingleaders.com, timelmore.com

Connect with Dr. Tim Elmore:

• Website: timelmore.com
• Organization: growingleaders.com
• Social: Search “Tim Elmore” and “Growing Leaders” on major platforms

Closing Thoughts

• Don’t compartmentalize your faith—God is with you everywhere.
• Embrace generational differences as opportunities for growth and innovation.
• Lead with curiosity, connection, and humility.

Subscribe to The Fortified Life Podcast

• Apple Podcasts | Spotify | iHeartRadio | YouTube
• Visit fortifiedlifepodcast.com for more info and live episodes, Wednesdays at 8:30pm ET.

Host Book Recommendation:
Fortify: Being Rooted in God’s Plan for Work and Business by Jason Davis (Available on Amazon)