Linch With A Leader

In this episode of Linch with a Leader, Mike Linch sits down with Johnny Shelton, the team chaplain and life coach for the Baltimore Ravens. Johnny shares his powerful journey from growing up without a father, to playing college football, to surrendering his life to Jesus, and ultimately being called to serve some of the biggest names in professional sports.You’ll hear how Johnny walked away from corporate America to pursue God’s calling, what spiritual leadership looks like in high-pressure environments, and how the Ravens’ culture of character and faith fuels their success.Whether you’re a coach, leader, pastor, athlete, or believer navigating purpose; this conversation will challenge and inspire you.Mike's Leadership Lessons from Johnny:- Leading with the ministry of presence is crucial.- Adversity shapes character and prepares us for our purpose.- Faith can transform lives and perspectives.- Transitioning from sports to business requires adaptability.- Presence in leadership fosters trust and connection.- Leadership is about serving others, not just directing them.- The importance of character in team selection.- Genuine relationships are built on trust and service.- Leadership lessons can be learned from observing others.- Purpose in life is about loving and helping others.Welcome to the Linch with a Leader Podcast, where you're invited to join the spiritual principles behind big success, with host Mike Linch.Subscribe to the channel so you never miss an episode: Watch: @linchwithaleader Prefer just listening? SUBSCRIBE to the podcast here:Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0dJfeLbikJlKlBqAx6mDYW?si=6ffed84956cb4848Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/linch-with-a-leader/id1279929826Find show notes and more information at: www.mikelinch.comFollow for EVERYDAY leadership content and interaction:Follow on X: https://x.com/mikelinch?s=20Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mikelinch?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==https://www.instagram.com/mikelinch/?...JOIN Mike for a Sunday at NorthStar Church:www.northstarchurch.org Watch: @nsckennesawTIMESTAMPS:00:00 Introduction and Connection05:44 The Roots of Passion and Adversity08:32 Finding Faith Through Struggles12:48 The Turning Point: A Life-Changing Experience16:21 Transitioning from Sports to Business19:58 Embracing a New Calling in Ministry21:48 Lessons Learned in College Football Chaplaincy25:24 Living Offendable: The Path to Understanding26:57 A New Chapter: Joining the Baltimore Ravens29:39 Evolving Perspectives: NFL Players Today31:14 The Power of Prayer on the Field33:19 Behind the Scenes: The Real Lives of NFL Players34:54 Spiritual Foundations: The Ravens' Success37:05 Leadership Lessons from Coach Harbaugh39:58 The Role of a Chaplain: Serving with Purpose44:16 Finding Purpose: Love, Help, and Discipleship#ravens #baltimoreravens #nfl #christianleadership

In this episode, Casey and Mike discuss the insights shared by Dr. Karen Gordon on the significance of self-care in leadership. They explore how self-care is not selfish but essential for effective leadership, the importance of discovering one's purpose, and the role of leaders in creating a positive work culture. The conversation emphasizes the need for leaders to manage their emotions and maintain their energy to inspire and energize their teams.

Why do so many great leaders burn out? In this episode of the Linch with a Leader podcast, host Mike Linch sits down with Dr. Karyn Gordon, CEO, author of The Three Chairs, and leadership/relationship expert, to talk about the one skill every leader needs but often neglects: self-care.Whether you’re leading a business, church, nonprofit, or family, this conversation will help you discover why self-care is not selfish and is the secret to great leadership, strong culture, and lasting influence.Mike's Leadership Lessons:- Leaders must balance self-care with caring for their teams.- The three chairs concept is timeless and applicable across various contexts.- Emotions in leadership are contagious and impact team culture.- Finding and maintaining purpose is crucial for effective leadership.- Professional growth should be a priority for leaders and organizations.- Play and laughter are essential for reducing stress in the workplace.- Clear goals enhance confidence and engagement among team members.- Regular check-ins and cadences help maintain focus on purpose.- Investing in employee development is key to retention and engagement.- Leaders should seek to understand their divine purpose and align their actions accordingly.Welcome to the Linch with a Leader Podcast, where you're invited to join the spiritual principles behind big success, with host Mike Linch.Subscribe to the channel so you never miss an episode: Watch: @linchwithaleader Prefer just listening? SUBSCRIBE to the podcast here:Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0dJfeLbikJlKlBqAx6mDYW?si=6ffed84956cb4848Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/linch-with-a-leader/id1279929826Find show notes and more information at: www.mikelinch.comFollow for EVERYDAY leadership content and interaction:Follow on X: https://x.com/mikelinch?s=20Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mikelinch?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==https://www.instagram.com/mikelinch/?...JOIN Mike for a Sunday at NorthStar Church:www.northstarchurch.org Watch: @nsckennesaw

In this episode, Casey and Mike discuss the impactful conversation with Coach Dan Skirka, focusing on the importance of building a culture that transcends mere wins and losses. They explore the significance of leaders believing in their team members, the essence of living beyond one's professional role.

Murray State head coach Dan Skirka led the Racers on a historic run to the 2025 College World Series, a journey built on faith, family, and relentless belief in his team. In this interview with Mike Linch on Linch with a Leader, Coach Skirka shares how his Christian faith, leadership philosophy, and underdog mentality shaped a culture that made Murray State one of the most inspiring stories in college baseball.Whether you’re a coach, athlete, or faith-driven leader, you’ll be challenged by his approach to building character, overcoming adversity, and leading with love.Mike's Takeaways:- Faith played a crucial role in Skirka's life, especially during challenging times.- Transitioning from assistant to head coach required preparation and resilience.- Building a winning culture at Murray State was a key focus for Skirka.- The 2025 season exceeded expectations, showcasing the team's growth and determination.- Overcoming challenges, including COVID-19, shaped the team's resilience.- The journey to Omaha was marked by belief in the process and each other.- Family support, especially from his son, added a personal dimension to Skirka's coaching experience.- Skirka aims to leave a lasting impact on his players, preparing them for life beyond baseball.- The importance of love and service in coaching is a central theme in Skirka's philosophy.Welcome to the Linch with a Leader Podcast, where you're invited to join the spiritual principles behind big success, with host Mike Linch.Subscribe to the channel so you never miss an episode: Watch: @linchwithaleader Prefer just listening? SUBSCRIBE to the podcast here:Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0dJfeLbikJlKlBqAx6mDYW?si=6ffed84956cb4848Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/linch-with-a-leader/id1279929826Find show notes and more information at: www.mikelinch.comFollow for EVERYDAY leadership content and interaction:Follow on X: https://x.com/mikelinch?s=20Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mikelinch?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==https://www.instagram.com/mikelinch/?...JOIN Mike for a Sunday at NorthStar Church:www.northstarchurch.org Watch: @nsckennesaw

In this episode, Casey and Mike discuss key insights from Jon Gordon's leadership principles, focusing on the importance of belief, commitment to growth, and the role of encouragement in leadership. They explore how these themes manifest in sports and other areas of life, emphasizing the need for leaders to balance accountability with valuing their team members.

In this episode, Mike Linch and Jon Gordon discuss the essential elements of building winning teams. They explore the importance of commitments over goals, the value of teammates, and the necessity of maintaining a positive outlook in the face of adversity. Jon shares insights from his experiences with various teams and emphasizes the significance of encouragement and continuous improvement as a leader. Mike's Takeaway's:- Winning teams have underlying habits that contribute to their success.- Health checks can provide peace of mind and early detection of issues.- Commitments are more impactful than mere goals in achieving success.- Valuing teammates is crucial for building strong relationships.- Staying positive is essential, especially during tough times.- Encouragement can help overcome discouragement and keep teams motivated.- Continuous improvement is necessary for effective leadership.- Belief in oneself and the team is vital for success.- Learning from others, regardless of their level, is key to growth.- Teams should commit to each other to foster unity and success.Welcome to the Linch with a Leader Podcast, where you're invited to join the spiritual principles behind big success, with host Mike Linch.Subscribe to the channel so you never miss an episode: Watch: @linchwithaleader Prefer just listening? SUBSCRIBE to the podcast here:Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0dJfeLbikJlKlBqAx6mDYW?si=6ffed84956cb4848Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/linch-with-a-leader/id1279929826Find show notes and more information at: www.mikelinch.comFollow for EVERYDAY leadership content and interaction:Follow on X: https://x.com/mikelinch?s=20Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mikelinch?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==https://www.instagram.com/mikelinch/?...JOIN Mike for a Sunday at NorthStar Church:www.northstarchurch.org Watch: @nsckennesaw

In this episode, Mike Linch interviews Jesse DeYoung, who shares insights on navigating organizational doubt and the challenges faced at Flat Irons Church. They discuss the importance of understanding different levels of doubt, building trust within teams, and the significance of cultural alignment in hiring. Jesse emphasizes the need for transparency and vulnerability in leadership, as well as the necessity of treating doubt as an ally rather than an adversary. The conversation also touches on the personal experiences of leaders and the impact of doubt on their effectiveness.Welcome to the Linch with a Leader Podcast, where you're invited to join the spiritual principles behind big success, with host Mike Linch.Subscribe to the channel so you never miss an episode: Watch: @linchwithaleader Prefer just listening? SUBSCRIBE to the podcast here:Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0dJfeLbikJlKlBqAx6mDYW?si=6ffed84956cb4848Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/linch-with-a-leader/id1279929826Find show notes and more information at: www.mikelinch.comFollow for EVERYDAY leadership content and interaction:Follow on X: https://x.com/mikelinch?s=20Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mikelinch?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==https://www.instagram.com/mikelinch/?...JOIN Mike for a Sunday at NorthStar Church:www.northstarchurch.org Watch: @nsckennesaw

In this conversation, Mike Linch and David Kraft explore the multifaceted nature of leadership, emphasizing the importance of relationships, character, and lifelong learning. They discuss the evolution of leadership over time, the significance of teamwork, and the challenges modern leaders face. Kraft shares insights on the necessity of finishing well, the role of mentorship, and the impact of a leader's character on their effectiveness. The dialogue highlights the importance of pacing, purpose, and the need for leaders to remain humble and open to learning throughout their lives.Mike's Takeaways: - Leadership is a journey that requires continuous growth and adaptation.- Relationships are foundational to effective leadership.- Mentorship can significantly shape a leader's development.- Teamwork enhances a leader's effectiveness and reach.- Insecurity in leadership can lead to dangerous outcomes.- Finishing well is crucial for a leader's legacy.- Modern challenges require leaders to be secure in their identity.- Character is more important than competence in leadership.- Pacing oneself is essential to avoid burnout in leadership roles.- Lifelong learning is vital for sustained leadership effectiveness.Welcome to the Linch with a Leader Podcast, where you're invited to join the spiritual principles behind big success, with host Mike Linch.Subscribe to the channel so you never miss an episode: Watch: @linchwithaleader Prefer just listening? SUBSCRIBE to the podcast here:Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0dJfeLbikJlKlBqAx6mDYW?si=6ffed84956cb4848Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/linch-with-a-leader/id1279929826Find show notes and more information at: www.mikelinch.comFollow for EVERYDAY leadership content and interaction:Follow on X: https://x.com/mikelinch?s=20Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mikelinch?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==https://www.instagram.com/mikelinch/?...JOIN Mike for a Sunday at NorthStar Church:www.northstarchurch.org Watch: @nsckennesaw

Gabe Lyons, an author and speaker known for his insights on faith and culture, dives deep into marriage dynamics with host Mike Linch. They discuss how vulnerability and communication are crucial for nurturing emotional connection. The conversation highlights common challenges couples face, such as distance and misunderstandings, and emphasizes the importance of shared dreams. Lyons also touches on how our origins shape relational behaviors, offering practical strategies to fight for lasting love and cultivate resilience in marriage.