Leading Saints Podcast

Rebecca Woolf shares her inspiring journey from faith crisis to serving as a Relief Society president. A mother of four, she discusses the emotional challenges of leadership transitions and the grief of leaving beloved roles. Her reflections on navigating faith amidst social media highlight the delicate balance between personal belief and online influences. Rebecca emphasizes authenticity in leadership and the power of vulnerability to foster genuine connections, ultimately transforming ministering through community support and proactive engagement.

Robert Ferrell, a former dental surgeon now focused on mental health and humanitarian work, shares insights from his experiences as a missionary leader in Peru. He discusses the delicate balance of leadership and mental health, emphasizing the importance of connection and support in church communities. Ferrell reflects on fostering strengths in young adults, mentoring, and the transformative power of service. He highlights how vulnerability can enhance leadership and encourages open dialogue around sensitive issues to nurture growth.

Devin Pope, a Behavioral Science and Economics professor at the University of Chicago and bishop of the Hyde Park 2nd Ward, shares his journey of innovative community engagement in Southside Chicago. He discusses transforming traditional church activities into welcoming events like movie nights and haunted houses to attract families. Devin highlights the importance of creating a sense of belonging, especially for diverse populations, and outlines his strategies for effectively integrating new members into the church community.

Greg Trimble, founder of Lemonade Stand and a prominent figure in faith-based organizations, shares his insights on empowering youth as ward missionaries. He emphasizes the transformative power of mentorship and genuine relationships in leadership. Trimble discusses innovative programs that prepare youth for missionary work, highlighting the significant emotional connections formed during service. He also reflects on the role of music in strengthening faith and community ties, showcasing how these experiences nurture both personal growth and collaborative leadership.

Joshua Dennis, a designer for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and current stake president, shares a gripping tale from his childhood when he was lost in an abandoned mine. He reflects on the profound impact of this harrowing experience on his faith and leadership style. The conversation highlights the upcoming film, 'Faith of Angels,' inspired by his story, and underscores the importance of Christ-centered leadership, kindness, and the lessons learned from both challenges and blessings in guiding a diverse community.

Taysom Hill, a utility player and quarterback for the New Orleans Saints, shares his unique journey from small-town Idaho to the NFL. He discusses the influence of his mission in Australia on his character and faith. Taysom emphasizes the power of routines in achieving success and how genuine leadership is rooted in belief and empowerment. Reflecting on his time as a captain, he highlights the importance of resilience and authenticity in both sports and church leadership. His insights offer valuable lessons on personal development and the intersection of faith and leadership.

Jacob Hansen, an advocate for blending values and interests to deepen community ties, returns to discuss innovative strategies in the Long Beach East Stake. He highlights the power of interest-based groups in forging connections and combating loneliness among members. The conversation covers grassroots engagement, the success of diverse activities like yoga classes, and the importance of welcoming atmospheres for new members. Jacob emphasizes the transformative potential of these initiatives in creating a thriving, inclusive church culture.

Tami Harris, the Chaplain Services Manager for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and the first female chaplain in the Church's modern era, shares fascinating insights from her journey. She discusses the vital role of chaplains, emphasizing the necessity of empathy and active listening in pastoral care. Tami also reflects on the historical context of female chaplains and recent military policy changes. Personal anecdotes reveal the profound impact chaplains have during crises and highlight their collaboration across faiths to foster emotional safety.

Join Thomas Griffith, a Harvard Law lecturer and former federal judge, as he delves into the complex interplay of faith and politics. He discusses President Oaks' vital message on the U.S. Constitution and the urgent need to combat political tribalism. Griffith emphasizes the importance of maintaining political neutrality within religious communities and the challenges of navigating misinformation. With insights on fostering empathy and understanding in political discourse, his thoughts encourage unity and constructive engagement in congregations.

Rebecca Buffington is a credentialed ADHD coach and parenting expert with a personal connection to the disorder. She shares insights on ADHD's impact on executive function and the importance of compassion in faith communities. The discussion emphasizes reframing ADHD from a flaw to a challenge that can reveal unique strengths. Buffington also highlights the unique experiences of women with ADHD and the critical need for tailored support strategies, especially in leadership and educational settings, to foster understanding and self-compassion.