Leading Saints Podcast

David Geens, a bishop from Flanders, Belgium, shares insights from his unique five-year mission and his journey as a 13-year convert. He discusses the challenges of maintaining church membership in a secular society and emphasizes the power of positive communication in leadership. David reflects on loving God and neighbor as core principles and talks about adapting to the dynamics of a small church community. His experiences shed light on the complexities of faith in a modern, urban context, showcasing the importance of empathy and trust within church life.

Brad Lowder, Senior Vice President at FamilySearch International, shares his rich background in media and marketing to engage youth in family history. He discusses the pivotal role emotional connections play in preserving genealogical records and how innovative tools can make family history exciting for the younger generation. Lowder emphasizes using technology and personal stories to forge identity and resilience while creating a deeper bond with ancestral roots. His insights highlight the transformative impact of temple work in strengthening family connections.

Mark Mathews, an educator and temple worship expert, shares insights on preparing members for their temple experience. He emphasizes the transformative nature of the temple and its connection to divine presence. The discussion covers the importance of understanding temple covenants and their ties to the plan of salvation. Mathews highlights the profound love that mirrors parental relationships and encourages openness about temple ordinances. He also explores how marriage enriches family life while navigating life's challenges with faith and trust in God's plan.

Trevor Farnes, author of "The Conquer Code" and CEO of MTN OPS, shares his journey of faith and leadership. He discusses innovative strategies for engaging youth in spiritual growth and emphasizes grounding leadership in core values. Trevor reveals how community support and accountability partnerships can foster resilience through life's challenges. His personal story about founding Operation Conquer Hunger highlights the impact of transformative experiences in both business and personal life while offering insights into youth development in the church.

ToriAnn Perkey, an experienced choir director and executive director of a private educational company, shares her journey in church music leadership. She emphasizes the importance of effective leadership in revitalizing choir participation through gathering feedback and fostering community. ToriAnn discusses the emotional and spiritual impact choir directors have, highlighting the significance of personal connections and an inviting atmosphere. Her insights on enhancing engagement and the transformative role of music in spiritual leadership are particularly inspiring.

Richard Hanks, an author and business adviser, shares insightful stories about his father, Marion D. Hanks, who served as a General Authority for nearly 40 years. They discuss Marion's early calling at just 31 and his role in establishing early morning seminary programs. Rich highlights Marion's mission presidency in England, emphasizing the shift from numerical goals to genuine conversions. He also elaborates on the introduction of the Christus statue, showcasing how it became a significant symbol of the Church, reflecting its Christian identity.

Mark Castillo, the Sunday School president in Highland, Utah, brings a wealth of experience from his background in business and human resources. He emphasizes essential leadership principles like the significance of personal conversion and the power of teaching in one's unique style. Mark discusses the importance of personal stories in education and the impact of consistent spiritual growth. He also shares insights on fostering community connections in Sunday School and practical tools for effective teaching.

B.J. Allen, an associate professor of Marketing at Brigham Young University and bishop, shares insights from his new book, "The Compensating Power of Christ." He explores how the Atonement of Jesus Christ helps navigate life's unfairness and personal weaknesses. B.J. emphasizes the significance of faith during trials and the comforting power of Christ in leadership roles. Listeners will discover how atonement fosters personal growth, guides individuals through repentance, and transforms experiences of suffering into opportunities for healing.

Jay Timms, an experienced organizational psychologist and current bishop, shares insights on motivating individuals in both organizational and church settings. He emphasizes the importance of understanding personal values to foster engagement. Jay discusses strategies like personalized leadership, regular check-ins, and celebrating achievements to enhance community involvement. He illustrates how empathy and collaboration can inspire growth, and he encourages self-awareness in leadership to create a positive culture.

Beth Zeleny, a ward history specialist with extensive church and educational experience, discusses the transformative unit history website that modernizes documenting congregational stories. She highlights how the tool makes sharing personal and communal experiences engaging for everyone. Beth emphasizes the importance of storytelling in strengthening community ties and archiving cherished memories for future generations. She also shares strategies for capturing meaningful moments through photography, making the ward's history accessible and inclusive.