The L3 Leadership Podcast with Doug Smith

Doug Smith
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Aug 26, 2025 • 21min

9 Ways to Develop Your Character

Send us a textIn this episode of the L3 Leadership Podcast, Doug Smith shares a personal lesson on 9 Ways to Develop Your Character. As Doug explains, character development is the most important development for any leader—because without integrity, everything else eventually crumbles. Drawing from his own journey and the wisdom of mentors, Doug outlines nine practical and powerful ways to strengthen your character so that you can lead well, finish well, and live with integrity in every area of life.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:00:00 Introduction to Doug’s personal journey in character development01:00 Why only 2% of leaders finish well—and how to be one of them02:00 Step 1: Get a vision for your finish line03:00 Step 2: Follow God and allow Him to shape your character05:00 Step 3: The most dangerous prayer you can pray for growth06:00 Step 4: Surround yourself with people of high character07:00 Step 5: Listen to the small checks and convictions in your heart10:00 Step 6: Admit it, quit it, forget it13:00 Step 7: Get some real friends who love you enough to challenge you15:00 Step 8: Confess temptations before they become failures17:00 Step 9: Realize you are always an example—whether you want to be or not19:00 Doug’s hope: that every leader makes it to their finish line intactThe L3 Leadership Podcast is sponsored by Andocia Marketing Solutions. Andocia exists to bring leaders’ visions to life. Visit https://andocia.com to learn more.WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://youtu.be/e4o5TLH87yE?si=ur3Ph7a40XzOQFv7🎙️ FOLLOW THE PODCAST ON SPOTIFY: https://open.spotify.com/episode/6huMUOmGFupQNjvrKALZ6u?si=7a9b9a2e1dcd4eac 🎙️ FOLLOW THE PODCAST ON APPLE: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-l3-leadership-podcast-with-doug-smith/id1569987442?i=1000723571859🎙️ FOLLOW THE PODCAST ON ALL PLATFORMS: https://www.buzzsprout.com/5082/episodes/17705473SUBSCRIBE TO: @l3leadership @dougsmithlive
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Aug 13, 2025 • 38min

Rob Dube on How to Achieve True Entrepreneurial Freedom

Send us a textIn this episode of the L3 Leadership Podcast, Doug Smith interviews Rob Dube, author of Shine: How Looking Inward is the Key to Unlocking True Entrepreneurial Freedom, co-written with Gino Wickman. Rob shares powerful insights on how leaders can balance their drive with inner peace, manage their energy, and lead with humility. From understanding the nature of being “driven,” to implementing the 10 Disciplines that protect your boundaries and amplify your impact, Rob offers practical steps to help leaders align their inner and outer worlds.00:00 Introduction to Rob Dube and Shine 01:00 Why looking inward fuels greater outer-world success 02:20 The power of sharing your inner story 04:55 Recognizing you’re not alone in leadership challenges 05:43 Discovery #1 – You’re driven: strengths, pitfalls, and management 07:52 Discovery #2 – Decisions from love vs. fear 11:23 Discovery #3 – It’s possible to be driven and have peace 14:55 The True Self Assessment and protecting your boundaries 17:10 Discipline #1 – 10-year thinking and living in the present moment 23:32 Discipline #5 – Knowing your 100% and working at your optimal capacity 27:35 Discipline #3 – Saying no with grace and setting mentoring boundaries 30:45 Discipline #10 – Being humble and practicing daily gratitude 35:02 Final encouragement to leaders: free your true self and shineThe L3 Leadership Podcast is sponsored by Andocia Marketing Solutions. Andocia exists to bring leaders’ visions to life. Visit https://andocia.com to learn more.🎙️ FOLLOW THE PODCAST ON SPOTIFY: https://open.spotify.com/episode/... 🎙️ FOLLOW THE PODCAST ON APPLE: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/... 🎙️ FOLLOW THE PODCAST ON ALL PLATFORMS: https://www.buzzsprout.com/5082/episodesSUBSCRIBE TO: @l3leadership @dougsmithlive
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Jul 29, 2025 • 53min

Are Leaders Made or Born?

Send us a textIn this episode of the L3 Leadership Podcast, host Doug Smith flips roles as he is interviewed by Ron Moore on the Living Grounded Podcast. The conversation delves into a variety of leadership topics, including whether leaders are born or made, the importance of failure in growth, and the value of mentorship and personal development.00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Today's Episode00:41 Starting the Interview with Ron Moore01:28 Defining Leadership04:19 Born Leaders vs. Made Leaders11:55 The Role of Failure in Leadership16:32 Parenting and Leadership24:25 Authenticity and Character in Leadership26:15 Foundations of Leadership26:40 The Role of Vision and Inspiration28:02 Team Building and Execution29:04 Generational Leadership Challenges37:33 Servant Leadership Defined42:52 The Importance of Mentorship and Community49:03 Final Thoughts and PrayerThe Living Grounded Podcast - Real stories. Genuine faith. Through triumph and tragedy, The Living Grounded Podcast shares powerful stories of lives transformed by Jesus, even through the highs and lows.You can find The Living Grounded Podcast:On YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@living-groundedOn Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/3yOO6tq4QgnGd2blHJJiWh?si=3bab186664b941b2On Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-living-grounded-podcast/id1703404695▶️ WATCH FULL EPISODE: https://youtu.be/-XOpbQwlFxs🎙️ FOLLOW THE PODCAST ON SPOTIFY: ⁠⁠https://tinyurl.com/b6ehe4ea🎙️ FOLLOW THE PODCAST ON APPLE: https://tinyurl.com/5n6mc6z7🎙️ FOLLOW THE PODCAST ON ALL PLATFORMS: https://www.buzzsprout.com/5082/episodes/16831008SUBSCRIBE TO: @l3leadership @dougsmithliveThe L3 Leadership Podcast is sponsored by Andocia Marketing Solutions. Andocia exists to bring leaders' visions to life. Visit https://andocia.com to learn more.To find more leadership resources and helpful content for your leadership journey, check out our website at https://l3leadership.org/ today.
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Jul 15, 2025 • 24min

Reflections on Turning 40!

Send us a textIn this episode of the L3 Leadership Podcast, host Doug Smith shares personal reflections and insights gained from turning 40. From expressing gratitude for life, emphasizing the importance of personal growth, to highlighting the significance of family and faith, Doug offers a comprehensive summary of his key takeaways over the years. 00:00 Introduction and Purpose00:32 Turning 40: Reflections and Gratitude01:40 Life Lessons and Personal Growth04:43 Finding Your Voice and Platform12:34 The Importance of Family15:53 Community and Personal Well-being17:42 Health, Fitness, and Faith21:11 Financial Foundations and Future Goals22:36 Conclusion and EncouragementThe L3 Leadership Podcast is sponsored by Andocia Marketing Solutions. Andocia exists to bring leaders’ visions to life. Visit https://andocia.com to learn more.🎙️ FOLLOW THE PODCAST ON SPOTIFY: https://open.spotify.com/episode/6OX3...🎙️ FOLLOW THE PODCAST ON APPLE: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast... 🎙️ FOLLOW THE PODCAST ON ALL PLATFORMS: https://www.buzzsprout.com/5082/episo...SUBSCRIBE TO: @l3leadership @dougsmithlive
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Jul 1, 2025 • 58min

Lessons Learned from Being the Pittsburgh Steelers Chaplain with Kent Chevalier

Send us a textIn this episode of the L3 Leadership Podcast, Doug Smith interviews Kent Chevalier, Chaplain of the Pittsburgh Steelers. Kent discusses his journey from a campus pastor to serving in the NFL, emphasizing the unique role he and his wife play in supporting players and coaches spiritually and emotionally.00:00 Welcome Back, Kent Chevalier!00:41 Role of a Chaplain in the NFL02:00 First Year Experiences08:06 Building Trust in the NFL12:50 Leadership Lessons from Coach Tomlin17:21 The Human Side of the NFL28:15 Addressing Accountability Among Peers28:39 Deflect the Glory Campaign33:06 The Origin Story of Becoming a Chaplain39:37 Do It Afraid: Embracing Faith Over Fear44:15 The Importance of Community and Brotherhood48:12 Encouragement for Church Leaders53:30 Final Thoughts and FarewellThe L3 Leadership Podcast is sponsored by Andocia Marketing Solutions. Andocia exists to bring leaders’ visions to life. Visit https://andocia.com to learn more.Connect with Kent: https://www.kentchevalier.com/Watch the Full Episode: https://youtu.be/WCJm8MDH1jE🎙️ FOLLOW THE PODCAST ON SPOTIFY: https://open.spotify.com/episode/2FETBcC2tk24UEbquEN8nY?si=b290e350eb6a4eba🎙️ FOLLOW THE PODCAST ON APPLE: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lessons-learned-from-being-the-pittsburgh-steelers/id495751888?i=1000715269373🎙️ FOLLOW THE PODCAST ON ALL PLATFORMS: https://www.buzzsprout.com/5082/episodes/17427344SUBSCRIBE TO: @l3leadership @dougsmithlive
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Jun 17, 2025 • 51min

Giving Firm Feedback in a Fragile World with Jeff Hancher

Send us a textIn this episode of the L3 Leadership Podcast, Doug Smith interviews Jeff Hancher, author of 'Firm Feedback in a Fragile World.' Jeff shares his journey from growing up in poverty to a successful 24-year career, emphasizing the pivotal moments shaped by firm feedback and strong leadership. 00:00 Welcome and Introduction00:35 The Journey to Writing a Book01:14 Overcoming Personal Struggles03:05 The Impact of Leadership05:16 The Role of Faith and Mentors06:40 The Importance of Firm Feedback10:00 Transforming Visions into Results12:54 Balancing Love and Accountability in Leadership14:47 The Power of Feedback24:20 Building a Leadership Brand25:50 Speed Limits and Accountability26:59 Setting Realistic Expectations28:26 Techniques for Accountability32:27 The Importance of Time in Leadership35:34 The Fragility of Feedback38:56 The Journey to Writing a Book44:23 Entrepreneurial Challenges and Advice48:06 Connecting with Jeff and Final ThoughtsThe L3 Leadership Podcast is sponsored by Andocia Marketing Solutions. Andocia exists to bring leaders’ visions to life. Visit https://andocia.com to learn more.🎙️ FOLLOW THE PODCAST ON SPOTIFY: https://open.spotify.com/episode/6OX3...🎙️ FOLLOW THE PODCAST ON APPLE: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast... 🎙️ FOLLOW THE PODCAST ON ALL PLATFORMS: https://www.buzzsprout.com/5082/episo...SUBSCRIBE TO: @l3leadership @dougsmithlive
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Jun 10, 2025 • 34min

How to Create a Life Plan that Drives Your Growth

Send us a textIn this episode, Doug Smith joins Nick Poole on the Calvary Leadership Podcast. Doug shares his journey from being unaware of personal development to becoming a champion of continuous growth is highlighted through his impactful story. Doug shares his life plan approach for setting long-term goals in various life areas—spirituality, marriage, family, finances, friendships, and health—and emphasizes the value of feedback, resilience, and effective mentorship. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome00:17 First Encounter and Early Memories00:47 Doug's Work and Personal Life00:54 The Importance of Personal Development02:02 Daily Disciplines for Growth04:01 Staying Connected to God05:15 Maintaining Hunger and Vision10:35 Seeking and Responding to Feedback15:39 Balancing Personal Development and Leadership17:03 The Value of Real-World Experience19:20 The Importance of Accountability20:58 Finding and Engaging with Mentors24:36 Preparing for Mentor Meetings27:43 Fostering Resilience and Adaptability30:44 Final Thoughts and EncouragementThe Calvary Leadership PodcastListen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/calvary-leadership-podcast/id1547285159The L3 Leadership Podcast is sponsored by Andocia Marketing Solutions. Andocia exists to bring leaders’ visions to life. Visit https://andocia.com to learn more.🎙️ FOLLOW THE PODCAST ON SPOTIFY: https://open.spotify.com/episode/6OX3...🎙️ FOLLOW THE PODCAST ON APPLE: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast... 🎙️ FOLLOW THE PODCAST ON ALL PLATFORMS: https://www.buzzsprout.com/5082/episo...SUBSCRIBE TO: @l3leadership @dougsmithlive
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May 27, 2025 • 55min

When Your Family Can't Compete with Standing Ovations with Ryan Leak

Send us a textIn this episode of the L3 Leadership Podcast, Doug Smith and guest Ryan Leak discuss Ryan's journey as a New York Times bestselling author and speaker. Ryan shares his extensive experience of speaking at over 120 events annually and reaching millions through his work. They delve into the importance of stewardship over opportunism, balancing faith in God with personal hustle, and the need for character development and accountability among leaders.The L3 Leadership Podcast is sponsored by Andocia Marketing Solutions. Andocia exists to bring leaders’ visions to life. Visit https://andocia.com to learn more.🎙️ FOLLOW THE PODCAST ON SPOTIFY: https://open.spotify.com/episode/6OX3YwUQby8H0S64Kwc2lX?si=33162b5d5b4b436c🎙️ FOLLOW THE PODCAST ON APPLE: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-l3-leadership-podcast-with-doug-smith/id495751888?i=1000706493702 🎙️ FOLLOW THE PODCAST ON ALL PLATFORMS: https://www.buzzsprout.com/5082/episodes/17088527SUBSCRIBE TO: @l3leadership @dougsmithlive
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May 20, 2025 • 51min

Breaking the Cycle: Larry Hagner on Healing Father Wounds and Building an Epic Family Legacy

Send us a textIn this episode of the L3 Leadership Podcast, Doug Smith interviews Larry Hagner, founder of the Dad Edge, about his mission to create legendary marriages, epic relationships with kids, personal financial mastery, optimized health, and leadership within families. Larry shares his personal journey growing up in a dysfunctional household, the challenges he faced in his early fatherhood, and his moment of transformation when he decided to become a better dad. He discusses the importance of continuous learning, the impact of community, and how to overcome common struggles like impatience and anger.00:00 Introduction and Epic Podcast Intros01:00 Larry's Childhood and Family Struggles04:46 Reconnecting with Biological Father07:50 The Turning Point: Becoming a Better Dad09:09 Creating the Good Dad Project15:26 The Power of Community and Mastermind Groups22:41 Dealing with Anger and Impatience as a Parent24:40 Confronting the Misunderstanding26:03 Weathering the Storm Together28:22 Implementing Family Systems29:35 Mission-Oriented Parenting35:09 Rite of Passage for Sons36:34 The Importance of Leading by Example36:52 Staying Present and Focused39:11 Top Advice for Dads46:36 Connecting with the Community48:17 Final Thoughts and FarewellThe L3 Leadership Podcast is sponsored by Andocia Marketing Solutions. Andocia exists to bring leaders’ visions to life. Visit https://andocia.com to learn more.WATCH THE EPISODE: https://youtu.be/XhQZltLiLsY 🎙️ FOLLOW THE PODCAST ON SPOTIFY: https://open.spotify.com/show/3CBHbRL6rJtSXwpKBaamNo?si=966fa5e7adfb4d5a 🎙️ FOLLOW THE PODCAST ON APPLE: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-l3-leadership-podcast-with-doug-smith/id495751888🎙️ FOLLOW THE PODCAST ON ALL PLATFORMS: https://www.buzzsprout.com/5082CONNECT: @l3leadership @dougsmithlive
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May 6, 2025 • 54min

Running for Office While Raising a Family: Lessons from Team Mercuri

Send us a textIn this episode of the L3 Leadership Podcast, Doug Smith sits down with Rob and Kelsey Mercuri to discuss their experiences in politics, leadership, and parenting.Rob, a former State Representative and candidate for Congress, shares his journey through six elections, offering insights into the challenges of campaigning, the importance of great teams, and the lessons learned from both victories and setbacks. He reflects on the personal and professional aspects of serving in office and emphasizes the need for an engaged and informed electorate. Kelsey offers her perspective on the balancing act of supporting Rob’s political career while raising a family, and both share their approach to leadership, community involvement, and family dynamics.00:00 Introduction and Background02:04 The Demands of Running for Office04:45 The Role of Campaign Teams06:12 The Importance of Community Engagement09:50 Lessons Learned from Election Losses12:38 Staying Involved in Politics After a Loss15:06 The Complexities of Serving in Office17:22 Managing a Full-Time Role as a State Representative20:30 Building Relationships Across the Aisle23:45 The Impact of Social Media on Politics25:12 The Need for an Engaged Electorate27:45 Parenting Tips and Leading a Family Team30:15 Communication and Involvement with Kids32:00 Raising Kids with Responsibility and Gratitude34:21 Balancing Political and Family Life36:50 Final Thoughts on Leadership and ParentingThe L3 Leadership Podcast is sponsored by Andocia Marketing Solutions. Andocia exists to bring leaders’ visions to life. Visit https://andocia.com to learn more.▶️ WATCH FULL EPISODE🎙️ FOLLOW THE PODCAST ON SPOTIFY!🎙️ FOLLOW THE PODCAST ON APPLE🎙️ FOLLOW THE PODCAST ON ALL PLATFORMSSUBSCRIBE TO: @l3leadership @dougsmithlive

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