Leading Saints Podcast

Dive into the unwritten principles of church leadership and the importance of teaching foundational concepts clearly. Explore how experiential learning enriches leadership dynamics and why understanding both written and unwritten doctrines is crucial. Discover the pivotal role of bishops in meetings and how maintaining order can inspire spiritual growth. The insights from seasoned leaders and the necessity of dignified conduct during gatherings will leave you reflecting on the power of community in guiding faith.

Kurt Francom dives into the intriguing concept of the 'unwritten order of things', highlighting its origins and influence on church leadership. He urges leaders to critically evaluate informal norms instead of blindly following them. The discussion navigates the historical context of these unwritten rules and their relevance today, prompting listeners to reconsider traditional practices. Kurt also stresses the need for clarity and local adaptation in leadership to foster a more effective and inclusive community.

Michael Goodman, a Brigham Young University professor specializing in eternal families and marriage, dives deep into the doctrines related to being single or married. He discusses how BYU teaches the significance of marriage and family within Latter-day Saint theology, blending eternal principles with practical life lessons. The conversation also addresses the emotional challenges faced by single adults in faith communities, highlighting the importance of understanding one's worth beyond marital status while fostering hope in relationships and the search for divine connections.

In this engaging conversation, Jeff Strong, a seasoned executive and educator with a passion for understanding church dynamics, delves into the often hidden tensions within faith communities. He shares insights from a comprehensive survey on why members are leaving the Church, exploring the balance between cherished traditions and the need for change. Jeff emphasizes the importance of creating safe spaces for discussions, understanding individual experiences, and cultivating a sense of belonging to foster growth and acceptance among members.

In this engaging conversation, John Bytheway, a renowned speaker and author with a master's degree in Religious Education, shares his extensive experience in youth education and church leadership. He discusses how writing often stems from his teaching experiences and emphasizes the importance of understanding community needs in his role as a bishop. Bytheway offers insightful strategies for addressing welfare challenges through mentorship rather than mere transactions. His approach highlights the significance of connection and personal growth in guiding youth effectively.

Patrick Sedivy is the Founder and CEO of Cumorah Academy, a non-profit private school dedicated to empowering individuals to follow Jesus Christ and positively impact their lives, careers, and communities. His commitment to service and leadership is rooted in his faith and family background—his parents defected from communist Czechoslovakia in 1969 in search of religious freedom, and he later served as a missionary in the Czech Republic. Patrick and his wife, Allyse, share a passion for inspiring and guiding young adults, which led them to establish Cumorah Academy. Patrick also serves as CEO of HYPE, a program dedicated to empowering youth and creating unforgettable experiences. Links CumorahAcademy.org GoHYPE.org Share your thoughts in the Leading Saints community Transcript coming soon Get 14-day access to the Core Leader Library Highlights 00:03:39 – The Vision Behind Cumorah Academy 00:05:23 – Understanding the Structure of Cumorah Academy 00:06:30 – The Importance of Leadership Skills 00:08:00 – Who Can Attend Cumorah Academy? 00:09:49 – The International Reach of Cumorah Academy 00:10:34 – Tuition and Scholarships 00:12:26 – Language and Learning Environment 00:13:11 – Success Stories from Cumorah Academy 00:14:41 – Transformative Experiences of Students 00:16:25 – The Need for Continuous Learning 00:17:42 – Addressing the Transition Challenges for Young Adults 00:18:50 – Curriculum Overview and Key Principles 00:19:28 – Accountability and Personal Growth 00:20:34 – Conflict Resolution Skills 00:22:08 – Interactive Learning Methodology 00:23:40 – Balancing Workload and Downtime 00:25:57 – Creating Positive Connections Among Students 00:27:36 – The Role of Visiting Mentors 00:29:50 – Public Speaking and Presentation Skills 00:31:07 – Leadership Curriculum and Modules 00:32:54 – Holistic Approach to Student Well-being 00:34:37 – Measuring Emotional Resilience and Hopefulness 00:36:39 – The Importance of Human Connection 00:38:06 – Opportunities for Mentorship and Involvement 00:39:49 – Conclusion and Resources for Further Engagement 00:41:13 – Introducing Hype: Humanitarian Leadership 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. 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, 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.

Join Adam McHugh, an author and former hospice chaplain, as he dives into the experiences of introverts within church settings. He explores the definition of introversion and extroversion, highlighting the unique struggles introverts face in an extroverted culture. McHugh emphasizes the importance of deep connections over small talk and shares insights on the power of listening and being present, especially in times of grief. His reflections encourage a more inclusive understanding of faith that values both introverted and extroverted contributions.

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.