
The L3 Leadership Podcast with Doug Smith
The L3 Leadership Podcast is focused on leadership development and personal growth. We are obsessed with helping you grow to your maximum potential and maximizing the impact of your leadership. We release a new episode every week to help you grow and develop as a leader. You will hear a mix of personal lessons from our Founder, Doug Smith, and conversations Doug has with world-class leaders from around the world. Doug interviews leaders like Pittsburgh Steelers Coach, Mike Tomlin, Pittsburgh Penguins Coach, Mike Sullivan, Tony Horton, Liz Wiseman, Brian Tome, John Mark Comer, Mark Batterson, Ryan Hawk, Nona Jones, Claude Silver, Ken Coleman, Christy Wright, Rachel Cruze, Mark Cole, and many more. Our hope is that you will not only learn great leadership lessons but that you will catch great leadership from the lives of the leaders that we expose you to.
Latest episodes

Aug 8, 2023 • 53min
Sam Chand on Leadership Pain (Encore Episode)
Send us a textEpisode Summary: In this episode of the L3 Leadership Podcast, we revisit one of our most downloaded podcast episodes, Doug’s interview with Sam Chand. About Sam Chand: Dr. Sam Chand serves Pastors, ministries and businesses as a Leadership Architect and Change Strategist. Dr. Sam Chand has served as senior Pastor, college President, Chancellor and President Emeritus.He personally consults, mentors and coaches some of the country's largest church Pastors, speaks regularly at leadership conferences, churches, corporations, Leadership Roundtables, Minister's Conferences, seminars and other leadership development opportunities. He was named in the top-30 global leadership Gurus list.His singular vision for his life is to Help Others Succeed. Dr. Sam Chand develops leaders through Leadership Consultations, Leadership Resources - books/CDs and Leadership Speaking. Leaders are using Dr. Sam Chand's books as handbooks worldwide in leadership development.Being raised in a pastor's home in India has uniquely equipped Dr. Sam Chand to share his passion - that of mentoring, developing and inspiring leaders to break all limits - in ministry and the marketplace.Key Takeaways: 1. We tackle the intimate process of character development. Breaking it down into three steps: walking, standing, and sitting. 2. Dr. Chan underscores the importance of having truth-tellers and recognizing the perils of a path leading towards sin. 3. Sam details the crucial role relationships play in our leadership journeys.Resources Mentioned:Sam Chand's Leadership InstituteQuotes from the Episode:"Raise the issue and ask the question." "Idealism gets you into the arena."Connect with Sam: Website | Facebook | Twitter | YouTube

Aug 1, 2023 • 19min
Doug Smith on How to get a Meeting with Anyone (Encore)
Send us a textIn this episode of the L3 Leadership Podcast, Doug shares how to score meetings with anyone, including those at the top of your bucket list. He discusses how to bring a unique proposition to every meeting and add value to the leader sitting at the other end of the table. He also highlights how to show each leader you meet with that you truly know and value who they are, and make yourself unforgettable in their eyes as a result.About Doug: Doug Smith is the Director of Development atLight of Life Rescue Mission and Founder and CEO of L3 Leadership. He is the author of his eBook, “Making the Most of Mentoring”, a step-by-step guide to help you build and cultivate relationships with mentors. He blogs atdougsmithlive.com, he is the host of the L3 Leadership podcast, and he is a sought-after public speaker. He is married to his high school sweetheart, Laura, who currently works as an Account Executive at Ivalua. Together, they love family, personal growth, travel, working out, and serving others.3 Key Takeaways:1. The impact that relationships can have on your professional trajectory.2. One of the most important personal growth principles to consider if you want to spend time with leaders.3. Why it is so essential to build your credibility as a leader.Connect with Doug:Website | Twitter | Facebook | Linkedin | Instagram

Jul 25, 2023 • 41min
Ted Winsley on Purpose, Identity, and Leadership: Lessons from the Philadelphia Eagles and His Journey in Ministry
Send us a textEpisode Summary: In this episode of the L3 Leadership Podcast, Ted talks about what he’s learned about life and leadership by being the chaplain of the Philidelphia Eagles.About Ted Winsley: Ted has been chaplain to the players of the Philadelphia Eagles since 2001 and is also the chaplain for the Voorhees & Cherry Hill Police Departments. Pastor Ted serves on several boards: Cherry Hill, NJ & IHOC (Interfaith, homeless, outreach, counsel). He is also on the front lines as a facilitator for the Certified Resilient Minds and trains across professions on how to cope with trauma.He has been married to Dawn, his college sweetheart, since 1993 and is the proud father of two children, Tierra and Theodore II, and grandfather to Jonathan. Pastor Ted is the author of View from the End Zone: Four Tests You Must Pass to Win in Life.3 Key Takeaways:1. Ted shares his experience in a dramatic career change, and how he found his way through that transition.2. We explore how we value things based on people's opinions. 3. Ted also discusses why it's crucial to safeguard against tying our identity to fleeting successes or material possessions.Quotes From the Episode:“Are you living in your purpose?”“The test you fail is the one that you will see again.”Resources Mentioned:The Spirit of Leadership by Myles MunroeThe Family ChurchConnect with Ted:Instagram | Facebook | LinkedIn

Jul 18, 2023 • 55min
Andrew Reichert on Living with Intentionality: Entrepreneurship, Leadership, and Core Values
Send us a textEpisode Summary: In this episode of the L3 Leadership Podcast, Doug’s longtime friend Andrew Reichert talks about real estate investing, successful entrepreneurship, leadership, the importance of taking sabbaticals, and more!About Andrew Reichert: Andrew is the CEO and founder of Birgo Realty, a Pittsburgh-based private equity real estate firm with 270 million dollars in assets under management in 2,800+ multi-family units. Through Birgo Realty, he oversees a team of over 80 employees as they raise capital from investors as they purchase and manage multi-family residential real estate.A passionate entrepreneur, Andrew has founded four companies and has been a part of several other startups. Additionally, he launched a nonprofit focused on financial literacy and is active in local nonprofits, including his church. 4 Key Takeaways:1. Andrew provides insight into his journey from working for a company to starting his own company.2. He defines what leadership means to him, and how to surround yourself with other leaders that can bring diversity to your organization.3. Andrew talks about the importance of sabbaticals for him personally, and why he encourages his employees to take them as well. 4. We talk about the role of core values in shaping culture, and why a mission should transcend beyond money and self-interest.Quotes From the Episode:“What are you designed to do and how does that bring value to this world?”“I think diversity is so important. Don’t surround yourself with people like yourself.”“Life is short. Live intentionally.”Resources Mentioned:ReiturnBirgo RealtyRich Dad Poor Dad by Robert T. Kiyosaki7 Habits of Higly Effective People by Stephen CoveyDelivering Happiness by Tony HsiehBooks by Michael HyattMCodeThe Predictive IndexConnect with Andrew:LinkedIn | YouTube

Jul 11, 2023 • 1h 4min
Jeanne Mayo on Redefining Leadership: Insights on Mentorship, Resilience, and the Keys to Success
Send us a textEpisode Summary: In this episode of the L3 Leadership Podcast, Doug’s long-time mentor, Jeanne Mayo goes over through the intricate lanes of leadership, exploring the essence of mentorship, resilience, and the keys to success regardless of your field. About Jeanne: Acclaimed by Ministries Today as “America’s Number One Youth Pastor,” Dr. Jeanne Mayo has thrown her heart and passion into equipping leaders for over five decades. Her ministry DNA is reflected in her life mission statement: “The motivation and mentorship of Kamikaze Christianity into practicing and potential Kingdom champions.” Through the years, Jeanne has been used of the Lord to take challenging ministries to exciting spiritual and numerical health. Jeanne’s successful leadership has placed her in high demand as a communicator as well as a leadership coach and public speaker. She has crisscrossed the U.S. and the globe, speaking in countless venues to a myriad of audiences.In recent years, Jeanne founded Platinum Leadership Coaching and The Cadre, non-profit organizations that seek “to instruct, equip, inspire and encourage the emerging leaders of this generation.” Through these venues, she has coached and mentored thousands of the nation’s premiere leaders.Among her honors, Jeanne was awarded the Lifetime Influence Award from the National Assemblies of God, the world’s largest denomination with over 66 million members and adherents. She has also been featured twice as the “cover story” of Ministries Today magazine. In their most recent feature article on her, Jeanne was once again heralded as one of the nation’s premiere voices in the training and raising up of emerging leaders across our nation and around the world at large.At this season in Jeanne's life, she is largely focusing her heart and passion into putting other leaders "on her shoulders." Her three primary avenues of impact include Platinum Leadership Coaching, The Cadre, and her public speaking.Key Takeaways: 1. We discuss longevity in leadership, the role a mentor plays in shaping strong leaders, and the power of hospitality and friendship in creating a transformational culture. 2. Jeanne shares her thoughts on how to stay steadfast on your leadership path, dealing 'cancel culture,' and the strategies to restore leaders into a place of significance.3. She also talks about parenting, marriage, and the importance of living in the moment.Quotes From the Episode:“When the tough times come, learn the lessons, but forget the details.”“Take the time to get to the root of the vulnerability and remove yourself from the same pattern.”“Friendship is always the highway to the heart.”Resources Mentioned:The CadreConnect with Jeanne:Website | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | YouTube

Jul 4, 2023 • 43min
Zack Blair on The Father Code: Codes of a Connected Father
Send us a textEpisode Summary: In this episode of the L3 Leadership Podcast, Zack Blair joins Doug to discuss the vast terrains of fatherhood, its profound impact, and how Zack's book can help shape better fathers. About Zack: Zack Blair attended Geneva college on a football scholarship. He served in Youth Ministry for many years. Zack and his wife Lauren established Hill City Church in Pittsburgh, PA five years ago. Additionally, Zack is the author of the book titled The Father Code.3 Key Takeaways: 1. We explore the essence of the Sabbath and how it can shape our children's walk with God and family.2. Zach shares his passion for adoption and fostering, his own journey within that, and offers practical advice for those considering this path.3. He talks about effective discipline in parenting, and how discipline should bridge the gap between us and our children, not create a divide.Quotes From the Episode:“Lead your home right.”“You've got to discipline with the best in mind for your son or daughter, and you've got to do it with the end result of being more connected with them.”“Your connection with your kids is one of the most powerful connections in the world And you have a level of responsibility that comes with that.”Resources Mentioned:The Father Code by Zack BlairConnect with Zack:Website | LinkedIn | Instagram

Jun 27, 2023 • 58min
Trudy Cathy White on Building a Lasting Legacy, Faith, and the Chick-fil-A Family Values
Send us a textEpisode Summary: In this episode of the L3 Leadership Podcast, discover how to build a lasting legacy with family values and intentional influence with Trudy Cathy White, daughter of Chick-fil-A founders, Jeanette and Truett Cathy. Gain massive value from Trudy's insights as she shares her journey with the company and her family's legacy.About Trudy: Trudy is the daughter of Truett and Jeannette Cathy, and like her father, she is a beloved leader, communicator, and entrepreneur. When she was just 19 years old, Trudy began working for the family business. She became an operator of a new Chick-fil-A restaurant in Birmingham, Alabama – making her the youngest Operator at that time. Though she had just finished her freshman year at Samford University, Truett believed in his daughter and handed her the keys. She took a year off from school to run the restaurant and, in that time, hired fellow Samford student, John White, who she married. Throughout their marriage, Trudy and John White have actively sought opportunities to connect with and invest in others’ lives. They served for 20 years with the International Mission Board; 10 of those years as missionaries in Brazil where they ultimately started a small church as well as “Lar WinShape,” a home for children in need. The Whites are co-founders of Lifeshape, an organization committed to restoring children at risk, cultivating servant leaders and discipling the nations. They also founded Impact 360 Institute, which offers life-changing experiences that help students live out their faith with confidence. The program includes worldview studies, experiential learning, international travel and leadership training. An attentive wife, mother, grandmother and host, Trudy lives to serve and love others. “There is nothing I enjoy more than spending time with family and friends, and building relationships — both old and new,” she says.3 Key Takeaways: 1. Learn about the story of the Cathy family and the pivotal moments in the Chick-fil-A journey, including the origin of their famous hamburger buns, pickles, and the role of biblical principles in the company's success.2. Trudy discusses her new book, A Legacy That Lasts, and how to preserve your family's legacy and values. 3. She also discusses how to preserve and transfer family values, the impact of our parents' faith on our own, and finding mentors for your spiritual growth.Quotes From the Episode:“Had it not been for the fire in that second restaurant, he probably never would have invented Chick-Fil-A.”“Success is great, but significance is greater.”“If you help enough other people get what they want in life, you’ll eventually get what you want out of life.”“God loves you, trust him.”Resources Mentioned:How Did You Do It, Truett? by Truett CathyA Quiet Strength by Trudy Cathy WhiteA Legacy That Lasts by Trudy Cathy WhiteThe Ruthless Elimination of Hurry by John Mark Comer (Author), John Ortberg (Foreword) Spiritual Leadership by Henry BlackabyConnect with Trudy:Website | Facebook |

Jun 20, 2023 • 23min
Pittsburgh Steelers Coach, Mike Tomlin, on Adversity and What Separates Great Athletes From Everybody Else
Send us a textEpisode Summary: In this episode of the L3 Leadership Podcast, Mike Tomlin shares what he’s learned about being a Dad, his message to Dads in general, why adversity is a good thing and more. About Mike Tomlin: Mike Tomlin was named the 16th head coach in Pittsburgh Steelers history on January 22, 2007. Hired at the age of 34, Tomlin became only the third head coach hired by the Steelers since 1969. In his 14 seasons as head coach for the Pittsburgh Steelers, Tomlin has accomplished many things that have never been done in the team's storied history. A franchise known for stability at the head coaching position, Tomlin ranks among the League's longest-tenured active head coaches entering the 2021 season.Mike also founded the ManUp conference 10 years ago in partnership with the Urban Impact Foundation.4 Key Takeaways: 1. Mike talks about his involvement with ManUp Pittsburgh, and why it’s important to him.2. He talks about what’s on his heart for ManUp this year.3. Adversity brings about an opportunity to get better.4. In The Lightning Round, Mike shares the best advice he’s ever received and his biggest leadership pet peeve.Quotes From the Episode:“I’ve learned to embrace the misery associated with failure and adversity and I realize that there’s always a silver lining within it and an opportunity to learn and get better.”“The more uncomfortable I am, the greater the growth opportunity.”“Head down and working.”“Don’t be afraid to lead with your heart.”Resources Mentioned:ManUp PittsburghUrban Impact FoundationConnect with Mike:Webpage | Facebook | Twitter

19 snips
Jun 13, 2023 • 1h 3min
Jamie Winship on Living Fearless, Discovering our True Identity, and Living with a Connected Worldview
Jamie Winship, experienced in bringing peaceful solutions to areas of conflict, shares a wild story of solving a crime and the power of prayer. He discusses the importance of true identity and its impact on adaptability and connectedness. The podcast explores the fear arising from a scarcity mindset and the need for a connected worldview. They also discuss living fearlessly, embracing creativity, and understanding true identity.

Jun 6, 2023 • 50min
Derwin Gray on Turning from Political Idolatry to Kingdom Politics and How to Heal our Racial Divide
Send us a textEpisode Summary: In this episode of the L3 Leadership podcast, Derwin Gray joins the podcast to talk about his football career, faith, and shares his thoughts on the racial divide and what he thinks it’ll take to heal it.About Derwin Gray: After graduating from Brigham Young University, Derwin played professional football in the NFL for five years with the Indianapolis Colts (1993-1997) and one year with the Carolina Panthers (1998). During that time, he and Vicki began their journey with Christ and experienced God’s faithfulness and direction as He moved their hearts to know Him and make Him known.Derwin and Vicki began an itinerant speaking ministry in 1999, One Heart At A Time Ministries. Derwin went on to graduate magna cum laude from Southern Evangelical Seminary with a Master of Divinity (M.Div.) degree, with a concentration in Apologetics, where he was mentored by renowned theologian and philosopher, Dr. Norman Geisler.Following God’s call on their lives and their desire to shepherd people towards transforming their world through the mission of Christ, the Lord transitioned Derwin from his primary role of itinerant speaker to serving as the Lead Pastor of Transformation Church in January of 2010. Coupling his dynamic speaking style with a shepherd’s heart, his intense passion for seeing lives and culture transformed is both contagious and inspiring. Key Takeaways:1. Derwin talks about how he transitioned from being an NFL player to becoming a pastor.2. He talks about the relationship between modern-day politics and religion in the US.3. He speaks to white leaders looking to diversify their churches. 4. If you’re not developing your character, you’re not going to have longevity as a leader.Quotes From the Episode:“If you’re filtering your faith through Republican politics or Democratic politics, that is idolatry.” “Only a theological cure can heal a theological problem.” “Why don’t white people go to minority lead churches?”“Leadership is the development of your character.”“Do not compare, bigger is not better, better is better.”Resources Mentioned:How to Heal Our Racial Divide by Dr. Derwin GrayThe Good Life by Dr. Derwin GrayMultiethnic Church RoundtableBuilding a Multiethnic Church by Dr. Derwin GrayTransformation ChurchConformed to His Image by Kenneth BoaConnect with Derwin:Website | Instagram | Facebook | Twitter