Leading Saints Podcast

Scott Rasband, owner of a Chick-fil-A and bishop for Young Single Adults, shares his unique approach to leadership. He discusses how Chick-fil-A's values foster community and connection, emphasizing the power of 'second mile service' to create lasting customer impressions. Scott translates these principles into his role as bishop, highlighting the importance of mentorship and empowering young adults. Informal gatherings like 'Straggler Sundays' strengthen bonds and purpose, while his insights on servant leadership illuminate the interplay between business and spiritual growth.

Brenda Angle, an author and certified faith-based life coach, discusses her remarkable work in humanitarian efforts in Tanzania. She shares her inspiring initiative to organize a temple trip that grew from a small outing to an incredible gathering of over 500 participants, including orphans. The podcast highlights the challenges and joys of bringing diverse communities together and igniting spiritual curiosity, along with the transformative power of collective faith and connection in enhancing the lives of Tanzanian Latter-day Saints.

In this conversation, Ryan Gottfredson, a leadership professor and best-selling author, explores the transformative journey of becoming a better leader. He emphasizes the importance of navigating personal emotional complexity and fostering supportive community environments. Ryan discusses the impact of physical spaces on spiritual growth and the role of mental blocks in personal development. He advocates for a balanced approach in leadership that intertwines action with genuine personal healing, encouraging deeper self-awareness for effective leadership.

Jennifer Reeder, a specialist in 19th-century women’s history and author of 'First: The Life and Faith of Emma Smith,' shares insights from her extensive research. She unveils Emma Smith's life as a complex pillar of faith and discusses the often overlooked contributions of women in early church history. Reeder also reflects on her personal battle with leukemia and how adversity has shaped her understanding of leadership. The conversation highlights the importance of empathy, service, and the evolving role of women in church settings.

This conversation features Rick Francom, who navigated the challenges of being a bishop in a transient ward, Bill Luker, a former stake president with a rich background in technology and music, and Lynn Peterson, a retired Air Force member now serving as a Primary chorister. They share fascinating anecdotes about church leadership in the 70s and 80s, discussing financial hurdles, community bonds, and the emotional dynamics of guiding congregations. Their nostalgic reflections on church activities and personal connections highlight the evolving role of leaders.

Mike Houghtaling, a former bishop and air traffic controller, shares his inspiring journey of overcoming addiction and how it shaped his leadership in the church. He discusses his early struggles with pornography and the shame that followed. Houghtaling emphasizes the crucial role of support in recovery and how sharing personal stories fosters understanding. He highlights that those with troubled pasts can lead effectively, advocating for compassion in faith communities. His insights on living one day at a time and the power of love in recovery are truly transformative.

Brandon Doman, a former BYU quarterback turned YSA stake president, shares fascinating insights on blending sports leadership with faith guidance. He explores how his athletic journey shapes his church leadership style, focusing on service and mentorship. Doman emphasizes the role of family in faith development, alongside critical life lessons learned from sports. He discusses balancing leadership roles, the importance of prayer for young singles, and how resilience and community support can lead to profound personal growth.

Calvin Griffin, president of the Denton, Texas stake, shares his inspiring conversion story and extensive leadership journey. He emphasizes the importance of aligning with prophetic keys and staying attuned to the Spirit in leadership roles. Griffin discusses the unexpected challenges leaders face and the power of commitment in faith. He also reflects on personal integrity and the significance of nurturing relationships within the church community, urging listeners to embrace vulnerability as a source of spiritual growth.

Jennifer Rockwood, the head coach of BYU's women’s soccer team since 1989, shares her journey from athlete to coach. She discusses the evolution of women's soccer and her commitment to mentorship, emphasizing the importance of team culture and accountability. Rockwood reflects on the unique challenges young athletes face and highlights her coaching philosophy rooted in belief and positive reinforcement. Additionally, she addresses the impacts of NIL policies and the transition to the Big 12 Conference, showcasing her unwavering dedication to nurturing talent and fostering community support.

Amy Jo Schenewark, a 911 dispatcher and training officer, brings unique insights as the stake Relief Society president in Texas. She discusses innovative leadership strategies for community service and highlights the importance of engagement and effective delegation. Amy shares challenges of managing a geographically vast stake and emphasizes the power of storytelling in leadership. With relatable parables, she connects traffic hazards to personal struggles, showcasing the need for resilience and focus in both life and leadership.