Leading Saints Podcast
Helping Latter-day Saints be Better Prepared to Lead
Latest episodes
19 snips
Apr 9, 2025 • 57min
3 Types of Elders Who Attend Quorum Meeting | A How I Lead Interview with Adam Broderick
In this engaging discussion, Adam Broderick, a former elders quorum president with a PhD in Chemical Engineering, shares his insights on revitalizing quorum meetings post-COVID. He emphasizes fostering personal connections and creating safe spaces for open dialogue. Adam highlights the importance of starting meetings with personal check-ins and establishing trust, allowing members to feel valued. He also discusses the use of anonymous feedback in meetings to encourage vulnerability, ultimately enhancing community ties and spiritual growth.
35 snips
Apr 3, 2025 • 36min
Why Your Elders Quorum Needs Round Tables | An Interview from Salty Saints
Join Hayden Holm, co-host of the Salty Saints YouTube channel, and Daniel Oki, an Elders Quorum president from Charlotte, as they revolutionize Elders Quorum dynamics. Daniel shares insights on transforming unengaging meetings into round-table discussions filled with snacks and brotherhood. He candidly reflects on overcoming the challenges of a diverse quorum and re-engaging members through meaningful conversations and anonymous surveys. Their innovative approach aims to reshape church culture while strengthening connections among members.
9 snips
Mar 29, 2025 • 52min
Toxic Perfectionism at Church | An Interview with Justin Dyer
In this intriguing conversation, Justin Dyer, a BYU professor specializing in religion and mental health, dives into the concept of toxic perfectionism, particularly among Latter-day Saints. He reveals surprising research showing that Latter-day Saint youth experience lower levels of toxic perfectionism than their atheist peers. The discussion also touches on how spiritual practices can foster self-acceptance and the significance of supportive communities. Justin emphasizes the need for unconditional parental support and compassionate church leadership to help individuals navigate their faith and identity.
Mar 26, 2025 • 1h 9min
Putting Jesus at the Center of Your Ward | An Interview with David Butler
This is a rebroadcast. The episode originally ran in July 2020.
David Butler is a religious educator at Utah Valley University. He also cohosts the popular YouTube scripture study channel Don’t Miss This and is the author of many religious books, including Almighty: How the Most Powerful Being in the Universe Is Also Your Loving Father, Redeemer: Who He Is and Who He Will Always Be, and Spirit: The Gift that Connects You to Heaven. David has previously served as a bishop. He and his wife Jenny are the parents of six children.
Links
Don’t Miss This
Instagram: @mrdavebutler
Instagram: @dontmissthisstudy
Books by David Butler
Y Religion podcast
Seekers Wanted | An Interview with Anthony Sweat
Church Doctrine, Policy, & Leadership | An Interview with Prof. Anthony Sweat
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Highlights
Dave shares his journey into teaching, which began unexpectedly during his college years when he took a class on teaching the gospel. Despite initially vowing never to become a teacher, he found himself drawn to the profession, particularly in the context of teaching youth and sharing the gospel. Dave reflects on his experiences as a bishop, discussing how he approached leadership with a focus on people rather than programs. He emphasizes the importance of creating a meaningful sacrament meeting experience that fosters a deeper connection with God, rather than adhering strictly to traditional formats.
Throughout the episode, Dave challenges the conventional norms of church leadership and encourages listeners to question established practices. He advocates for a people-centered approach, urging leaders to consider the needs of their congregations and to innovate rather than simply follow the unwritten rules. The discussion also touches on the significance of the Come Follow Me program, with Dave suggesting that it should be viewed as a resource rather than a rigid program. He encourages families to focus on their unique needs and to create their own meaningful experiences in scripture study, ultimately aiming to foster a deeper love for God and each other.
04:04 – Dave’s Journey into Teaching
06:12 – Unexpected Path to Teaching
10:03 – Balancing Teaching and Leadership
12:26 – Embracing Individuality in Leadership
13:04 – Questioning the Status Quo
20:20 – Focusing on People Over Programs
24:02 – Creating a Meaningful Sacrament Meeting
28:07 – Innovative Approaches to Sacrament Meeting
32:50 – Collaborating with Stake Leadership
36:17 – The Importance of Individual Worship
40:50 – Grace in the Come Follow Me Program
42:43 – Viewing Come Follow Me as a Resource
45:00 – Interview with Anthony Sweat
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, Hank Smith, John Bytheway, Reyna and Elena Aburto, Liz Wiseman, Stephen M. R. Covey, 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, 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, Kirby Heyborne, Taysom Hill 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.
Mar 22, 2025 • 53min
The Temple is a Jesus Place | An Interview with Gary Miller
Gary Miller is the host of the “Hope In Him Today” and “Outside The Lane” podcasts. Before joining The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, he served as an independent fundamental Baptist pastor. He spent 11 years in the United States Air Force, dividing his time between critical care medicine and professional development training as a master military training instructor. He holds a B.S. from Wayland Baptist University and studied theology at Liberty Theological Seminary. Currently, he works as a director of marketing for a Salt Lake City-based insurance firm and serves as a stake high councilor in the Katy Texas Stake. He and his wife, Crystal, live in Katy, Texas, with their four children. You’ll likely find him at a NASCAR race somewhere when he’s not doing these things.
Links
From Baptist Preacher to Latter-day Saint | An Interview with Gary Miller
Hope in Him Today podcast
Outside the Lane podcast
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Highlights
This conversation delves into Gary’s journey of faith, focusing on the challenges and triumphs he has experienced as he navigates the cultural differences between his previous faith and his new one. Gary shares insights into the complexities of conversion, emphasizing that it is not merely a one-time event but an ongoing process that requires time and reflection.
Throughout the episode, Gary discusses the significance of the temple in his faith journey, highlighting how his understanding evolved from initial confusion to a deeper appreciation for its role in connecting him to Jesus Christ. He stresses the importance of personal connections and clear messaging when discussing the temple, advocating for a focus on the principles of Jesus rather than the mystique often surrounding the temple experience. Gary also addresses the challenges of being perceived as a newcomer in the faith, noting the need for patience and understanding as individuals navigate their spiritual journeys at their own pace.
02:08 – Gary’s Journey from Baptist Minister to Latter-day Saint
03:01 – Conversation Dynamics Between Friends
04:11 – Life Updates from Gary Miller
05:44 – The Complexity of Conversion Stories
06:34 – Cultural vs. Theological Conversion
09:14 – The Ongoing Nature of Conversion
10:27 – The Binary Nature of Faith Commitment
12:14 – The Importance of Personal Reflection in Faith
13:18 – Navigating the Journey of Faith
15:23 – The Cage Stage of New Believers
18:12 – The Need for Quiet Reflection
19:08 – Balancing Old and New Faith Communities
21:00 – Building a Foundation in Faith
22:33 – The Role of the Temple in Conversion
25:49 – Personal Connections and Understanding the Temple
29:06 – The Temple as a Place of Worship
30:40 – Messaging the Importance of the Temple
32:07 – The Need for Authentic and Simple Messaging
34:01 – Engaging with Old Friends about the Temple
36:29 – The Gravity of Worship in the Temple
37:34 – Current Calling and Church Involvement
38:32 – Gary’s Podcasting Journey
41:08 – Balancing Scripture
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 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.
Mar 19, 2025 • 50min
Gathering African Saints to the Temple | A How I Lead Interview with Brenda Angle
Help Tanzanians get to the Kenya Temple Open House. DONATE HERE to support the Nairobi Temple Open House Trip.
Brenda Angle has served as a Young Women president, Primary president, stake and ward Relief Society president, stake camp director, and as a service missionary teaching study skills at the Provo Missionary Training Center. She is an author and a certified faith-based life coach and speaker who has also trained and certified 200 other faith-based life coaches. Brenda has served as president of United Families for Arizona and as an NGO lobbyist at the United Nations. In her humanitarian work, she has served as vice president of Hearts and Hands for Humanity, vice president director of philanthropy for Legacy Giving Fund, and has traveled to Tanzania, Africa for eight years. She is the mother of nine children and grandmother of 40.
Links
Nairobi Temple Open House Trip Fundraiser
Why Not Me?
Breaking the Yokes that Bind Us
Mully
Hearts and Hands for Humanity
Faith-Based Life Coaching Academy
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Highlights
Brenda shares her journey of navigating leadership within the Latter-day Saint community after experiencing divorce. She reflects on her personal struggles and the feelings of being sidelined in the church community post-divorce, emphasizing the importance of empathy and connection for those facing similar challenges. Brenda recounts her experiences of feeling isolated and the transformative power of service, which ultimately led her to take on leadership roles, including serving as a stake Relief Society president.
Brenda also discusses her humanitarian work in Eastern Africa, where she has been involved in various projects, including drilling wells and empowering young women through education. She shares her excitement about the recent announcement of a temple in Nairobi, Kenya, and the unique challenges faced by members in Africa who may not fully understand the significance of the temple. Brenda is organizing a trip for Latter-day Saints from Tanzania to attend the temple’s open house, aiming to deepen their understanding of its importance and encourage them to pursue their own temple ordinances. Throughout the episode, Brenda emphasizes the need for church leaders to reach out consistently to those who are struggling, fostering a sense of belonging and community.
05:02 – Brenda’s Mission to Help Struggling Saints
06:22 – Common Struggles Among Latter-day Saints
07:24 – Navigating Life’s Messiness
07:47 – Brenda’s Books and Their Themes
08:44 – The Question of “Why Me?”
09:09 – Brenda’s Journey Through Divorce
10:27 – The Challenge of Being a Divorced Leader
11:07 – The Social Dynamics of Divorce in the Church
12:14 – The Importance of Presence and Support
13:05 – The Need for Connection in Leadership
14:28 – The Experience of Being Sidelined
15:18 – Finding Purpose After Divorce
16:10 – The Role of Service in Healing
17:23 – The Impact of Leadership on Others
18:25 – The Importance of Empathy in Leadership
19:46 – The Value of Non-Formal Callings
21:05 – The Need for Consistent Outreach
22:06 – Brenda’s Humanitarian Work in Africa
23:32 – The Joy of Serving in Africa
25:00 – The Dynamics of the Church in Africa
26:06 – The Need for Understanding and Support
27:32 – The Excitement of the Nairobi Temple Announcement
29:05 – Preparing Members for the Temple Experience
30:30 – The Logistics of the Temple Trip
32:00 – Fundraising for the Temple Trip
33:40 – The Importance of Empowering Local Members
34:40 – Observations on the Church’s Growth in Africa
34:50 – The Need for Cultural Sensitivity in Leadership
37:00 – The Significance of the Nairobi Temple
39:00 – Engaging Members in the Temple Experience
40:00 – Planning for the Temple Trip Logistics
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 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.
Mar 15, 2025 • 53min
How I Lead as a Jewish Rabbi in Utah | An Interview with Rabbi Chaim Zippel
Rabbi Chaim Zippel was born and raised in nearby Salt Lake City, and is the first-Utah born Chabad Rabbi. He attended Yeshivas in California and New York, and has extensive experience in outreach work and youth programming all over the country. Rabbi Chaim & Esty Zippel moved to Lehi, Utah in 2022 to launch Chabad of Utah County. Chabad of Utah County is dedicated to promoting and strengthening Jewish awareness, pride, and observance, by providing educational, cultural, and social services to all Jewish individuals regardless of background, philosophy or level of commitment. The fundamental principle of Chabad is unconditional love and acceptance of every Jew.
Links
JewishUtahCounty.com
Instagram: @jewishutahcounty
Facebook: @jewishutahcounty
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Transcript coming soon
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Highlights
Rabbi Chaim Zippel, co-director of the Chabad of Utah County, shares about the unique experience of being Jewish in a predominantly Latter-day Saint community. He shares insights into the mission of Chabad, which aims to create a welcoming environment for Jewish individuals moving to Utah County, providing them with a space to gather, learn, and grow in their faith. The conversation delves into the differences between Jewish and Latter-day Saint practices, particularly regarding community engagement and religious observance. Rabbi Chaim explains that while prayer services may not attract large crowds, community events and educational opportunities are highly valued. He recounts his family’s journey to Utah, highlighting the challenges and rewards of establishing a Jewish presence in the area.
The discussion also touches on the complexities of Jewish dietary laws and the importance of understanding the rationale behind religious practices, emphasizing that some commandments are followed simply because they are divinely ordained. Rabbi Chaim reflects on the supportive nature of the Latter-day Saint community, noting that Utah County is one of the least anti-Semitic places he has experienced. He shares anecdotes about community support during challenging times, illustrating the strong interfaith relationships that have developed.
03:35 – Rabbi Chaim’s Background and Role
04:07 – Overview of Chabad in Utah County
05:03 – Community Focus vs. Traditional Services
06:23 – Jewish Community Dynamics in Utah
07:27 – Rabbi Chaim’s Journey to Utah
09:03 – Family Background and Chabad Movement
10:40 – The Need for Jewish Presence in Utah County
12:02 – Rabbi’s Outreach to Jewish Youth
12:35 – Community Support and Anti-Semitism in Utah
21:05 – The Role of a Rabbi and Path to Leadership
23:02 – Conversion and Personal Journeys in Faith
30:03 – Understanding Jewish Laws and Practices
32:31 – Experiences and Testimonies in Faith
36:25 – Conversion Perspectives in Judaism
40:06 – Conclusion and Final Thoughts on Faith
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 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.
Mar 12, 2025 • 1h 9min
How I Lead in the Seoul Korea Military District | An Interview with Jon Holdaway
Jon Holdaway was born and raised in Pleasant Grove, Utah. He served in the Korea Seoul Mission, where he met Sister Juliette Landsem. They have two children. Jon graduated from Brigham Young University and BYU Law, and served in the Utah Army National Guard. He later became an Army JAG officer with assignments including Charlottesville, Virginia, Fort Sill, Oklahoma, and Darmstadt, Germany, where he also served in church leadership roles including bishopric member, high council member, and stake mission president.
After leaving the Army, Jon moved to Los Angeles and practiced law while serving as bishop in the Venice/Marina del Rey area. He later returned to government service, working in the national security field for 12 years and serving in various church leadership roles, including high priest group leader and stake young men president. Jon and his wife moved to Korea in 2020, where he works as a senior civilian attorney and legal advisor to the United Nations Command, Combined Forces Command, and U.S. Forces Command. He currently serves as president of the Seoul Korea Military District.
Links
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Transcript coming soon
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Highlights
Jon shares shares insights from his unique leadership role within a transient community of military personnel and their families, highlighting the challenges of leading in a district where members frequently move, often serving in leadership positions for only a short time. He discusses the importance of revelation in leadership, emphasizing that leaders must be proactive in seeking divine guidance and making timely decisions. Jon shares personal anecdotes about his journey to Korea, his military background, and the diverse community he serves, which includes members from various countries and backgrounds.
Throughout the conversation, Jon stresses the significance of ministering to individual leaders and ensuring their well-being, particularly in high-pressure environments. He explains how he fosters a culture of quick adaptation and responsiveness, encouraging leaders to “do something” rather than wait for perfect conditions. The episode also touches on the importance of having a clear mission statement and aligning efforts with the priorities set by church leadership, such as focusing on the rising generation, missionary work, and temple service. Jon’s experiences illustrate the necessity of building momentum in leadership roles, even amidst constant change, and the value of creating a supportive environment where leaders can thrive.
05:04 – Jon Holdaway’s Journey to Korea
06:03 – Military Background and Current Role
07:10 – Personal Connection to Korea
08:02 – Career Path and Revelatory Process
10:12 – Unique Calling as District President
11:00 – Reporting Structure in the Military District
12:36 – Coverage and Responsibilities of the District
13:43 – Diversity in the Military District
17:52 – Interaction with Korean Stakes
19:09 – Managing Transient Leadership
20:05 – Importance of Revelatory Leadership
25:16 – Coaching New Leaders on Revelation
30:20 – The Need for Quick Decision-Making
32:31 – Building Momentum in Leadership
35:35 – Aligning with Prophetic Priorities
37:10 – Customizing Efforts for Branch Needs
39:18 – Feedback and Improvement in Meetings
44:05 – The Importance of Quality Meetings
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 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.
Mar 8, 2025 • 1h 3min
Fellowshipping Men in Elders Quorum | An Interview with Frank Schwartz
Frank Schwartz is a husband—for nearly 24 years—and a father of three girls. He was recently released from his elders quorum presidency and has served in several bishoprics, elders quorum presidencies, high councils, high priest group leaderships and Young Men presidencies (back when those were a thing), and a variety of other callings over the years.
Frank did undergraduate and graduate work in Psychology and worked in television before starting a small, boutique, corporate communications firm. Most recently he has worked for a client in the healthcare payments space. Frank joined F3 in 2014 and has served in the national leadership in different capacities prior to taking over as Nant’an/CEO last year.
Links
F3 Nation
Warrior Heart retreats
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Highlights
Frank shares his personal journey with F3, which began when he was encouraged by friends to join a workout group after facing health issues. He describes F3 as a community that not only promotes physical fitness but also fosters deep connections among men, encouraging them to support one another through challenges. The organization operates on five core principles: it is free, open to all men, conducted outdoors, peer-led, and concludes with a “circle of trust” where participants share personal struggles and support each other.
Frank highlights the parallels between F3 and church leadership, particularly in how both rely on lay leadership and the importance of influence over authority. He discusses the decentralized nature of F3, where local groups operate independently while adhering to shared values, and emphasizes the transformative power of brotherhood and accountability in personal growth. Listen for insights on how church leaders, especially elders quorum presidents, can learn from and leverage F3 to enhance fellowship and support among men in their congregations, ultimately fostering a stronger sense of community and purpose.
04:03 – Frank Schwartz’s Background
05:26 – What is F3?
07:33 – The Founding of F3
12:16 – Personal Journey to F3
16:35 – The Structure and Cadence of F3 Workouts
19:00 – Finding and Starting an F3 Group
21:30 – Leadership vs. Management in F3
25:07 – The Importance of Lay Leadership
30:14 – Starting Your Own F3 Group
36:23 – Inclusivity for All Fitness Levels
37:42 – Building Authentic Fellowship in F3
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 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.
Mar 5, 2025 • 46min
How I Lead as Young Women President | An Interview with Courtney Bush
Courtney Bush lives in the Utah Area, married her high school sweetheart, and together they have two kids. She graduated from Brigham Young University in Early Childhood Education and has a deep love for teaching and helping children. During her time teaching, some of her accomplishments included the Golden Apple Award and KSL Teacher Feature. Courtney currently serves as stake Young Women president. She has previously served as a Young Women president, second counselor, secretary, & advisor, as a Primary counselor, and a Relief Society teacher.
Courtney recently started an Instagram and TikTok specifically for young women, parents, and leaders, where she simply shares the doctrine of Jesus Christ. She enjoys teaching, speaking, and testifying of the Savior, especially within her own home. It’s never boring at Courtney’s house, where they have a miniature pony and a school bus, and their home is always stocked with lots of treats for the youth. She loves serving with her whole heart.
Links
Instagram: @ywfollowjesus
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Transcript coming soon
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Highlights
Courtney emphasizes the need for leaders to inspire youth to take initiative and connect with their faith, ultimately preparing them for future challenges. She delves into her approach to empowering class presidencies, emphasizing the importance of youth-led initiatives and personal revelation, and shares practical strategies for helping young women develop leadership skills, such as counseling together and encouraging them to seek guidance from Heavenly Father. The conversation also touches on the significance of lesson instruction, where Courtney advocates for teaching doctrine in a relatable way, ensuring that young women feel confident in discussing and testifying about their faith.
Courtney talks about “Treat Friday,” a casual gathering she hosts for young women to connect, build relationships, and foster a sense of community. This not only serves as a fun social event but also acts as a bridge for young women to approach their bishop for guidance and support. Courtney also shares her experiences with Girls Camp, emphasizing the importance of creating opportunities for personal revelation and connection with Jesus Christ.
03:15 – Courtney’s Passion for Young Womens Leadership
04:06 – Transition from Ward to Stake Young Womens President
06:09 – Demographics and Challenges in Lehigh, Utah
09:00 – Empowering Class Presidencies
12:06 – Coaching Youth to Seek Revelation
14:39 – Training Adult Leaders in the Stake
16:37 – Workshops for Young Womens Advisors
19:22 – Collaborating with Stake Presidency
21:37 – Treat Friday: A Casual Gathering
24:08 – The Impact of Treat Friday
27:00 – Creating a Safe Space for Youth
29:10 – Principles of Effective Lesson Instruction
31:59 – Enhancing Doctrinal Understanding
34:53 – Best Practices for Girls Camp
36:55 – The Party Bus Experience
40:18 – The Importance of Community and Connection
41:39 – Creating Positive Online Content
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 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.
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