The L3 Leadership Podcast with Doug Smith

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 |

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 

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.

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

Send us a textEpisode Summary: In this episode of the L3 Leadership podcast, Marc Serrao shares the lessons he’s learned along the journey of creating one of the world's greatest bakeries. He talks about the role of generosity and faith in his life and even gives advice to church leaders.About Marc Serrao: Marc and Susan Serrao started Oakmont Bakery in 1988, establishing themselves as the town’s only full service retail bakery. They began with 1,200 square feet, 2 children and a big dream. Since then, their space has dramatically expanded to over 12,500 square feet, making Oakmont Bakery one of the largest retail bakeries in America, their family has more than doubled, adding 3 more children, and their dream of owning a successful business that will serve Pittsburgh and its surrounding communities for generations to come has been realized.The bakery was established on firm Christian beliefs and an absolute dedication to excellence and integrity in all areas. In 2010 Oakmont Bakery was honored to receive "Retail Bakery of the Year" by Modern Baking magazine - the most prestigious award in the retail bakery industry given to only one bakery in the country each year. Marc and Susan attribute their success first to their strong faith in God, and then to their superior product, hardworking staff and loyal customers, for all of whom they are deeply grateful.Marc and Susan are blessed to work side by side with many of their family members to provide a positive working environment where lasting relationships are formed. They consider it an honor to serve Pittsburgh with the outstanding products that their talents, hard work and dedication have created.4 Key Takeaways:1. Marc talks about his career journey starting at age 14 to the present day.2. He discusses some obstacles he’s overcome, such as being sued and competition.3. Faith and giving are crucial to Marc's outlook on life. 4. Marc talks about work culture and why he believes in supporting his employee's dreams.Quotes From the Episode:“I like taking risks where I know what I’m capable of and I can climb to that.”“Lead like your legacy depends on it.”Resources Mentioned:Oakmont BakeryPittsburgh Leadership FoundationLee Kricher’s WebsiteConnect with Marc:Website| LinkedIn

Send us a textEpisode Summary: In this episode of the L3 Leadership podcast, Mark Miller returns to the show to discuss his new book Culture Rules, and what he’s learned about culture throughout his career. About Mark Miller: Mark started over 40 years ago working as an hourly employee at a local Chick-fil-A.  He has worked all across the business since then and currently serves as Vice President of High-Performance Leadership at Chick-fil-A.  For the last 20 years, Mark has traveled the United States and the world focusing much of his time on serving leaders, helping them grow themselves, their teams, and their organizations. 4 Key Takeaways:1. Mark describes what he believes are the essential elements of leadership.2. He advises leaders to take action rather than getting hung up on semantics.3. Mark and Doug discuss what it takes to change the culture of an organization.4. Having listening skills is vital to leadership. Quotes From the Episode:“It is an unseen force, but it is the cumulative effect of what people see, hear, experience, and believe.”“Every organization has a culture, either by design or default.”“Listening only matters if you respond.”Resources Mentioned:Culture Rules by Mark MillerConnect with Mark:Mark’s Website | Facebook | YouTube | Instagram | Twitter | LinkedInPhone 678-612-8444

Send us a textEpisode Summary: In this episode of the L3 Leadership podcast, Molly Fletcher shares some of the lessons she’s learned from working with some of the world's peak performers as a sports agent, her thoughts on youth sports, and her advice to women in leadership.            About Molly Fletcher: Hailed as the “female Jerry Maguire” by CNN, Molly Fletcher made a name for herself as one of the first female sports agents. During her almost two-decade career and as President of CSE, Molly negotiated over $500 million in contracts and represented over 300 of sports’ biggest names, including Hall of Fame pitcher John Smoltz, PGA TOUR golfer Matt Kuchar, broadcaster Erin Andrews and basketball championship coaches Tom Izzo and Doc Rivers.As a World’s Top 50 Keynote Speaker, she delivers her inspiring message to audiences around the world. She is the author of five books, including The Energy Clock, Fearless at Work, and A Winner’s Guide to Negotiating.Molly is the founder and host of the Game Changers with Molly Fletcher podcast, where she interviews experts and celebrities in every field including Arthur Blank, Dabo Swinney, John Mackey, Matthew McConaughey, Priyanka Chopra Jonas, and Simon Sinek.Her insights have been featured in prestigious media outlets, including CNN, ESPN, Forbes, Fast Company, InStyle, and Sports Illustrated. As the founder of The Molly Fletcher Company, she helps leaders transform workplace complacency with her Game Changer Negotiation Training and The Energized Leader programs.5 Key Takeaways:1. Molly shares about how she went from being a college athlete to finding her place in the sports agency field.2. She talks about some of the most memorable moments she’s experienced while working.3. Molly discusses what separates successful athletes from those who don’t make it.4. She talks about how she made the shift to becoming a full-time keynote speaker.5. Molly provides valuable advice to women in leadership.Quotes From the Episode:“I think if you align your values and goals with your behaviors, then the outcome of that is a better version of you every single day and that’s more fulfilling.”“If we’re aligning our values and goals with what matters most, it actually offsets burnout. I think the reason that people are so burned out is because the work they’re doing isn’t aligned with their deepest values.”“Be gentle on yourself.”Resources Mentioned:Mollys Ted TalkThe Naked Mind by Annie GraceBooks by MollyBook Molly as a Keynote SpeakerGame Changers by Molly Fletcher PodcastConnect with Molly:Website | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Linkedin | YouTube | TikTok

Send us a textEpisode Summary: In this episode of the L3 Leadership podcast, John Stahl-Wert returns to the podcast to talk about the role of pain in a leaders life, books he’s written, and provides some valuable advice to leaders who may be struggling.                   About John Stahl-Wert: Dr. John Stahl-Wert is a best selling author, speaker, and acclaimed authority in the field of leadership development. His focus is helping individuals, organizations, and communities worldwide to embrace and implement the principles of Serving Leadership.As an entrepreneur who successfully launched multiple for- and non-profit organizations, John understands the challenges of life and leadership that enables him to quickly and authoritatively connect with the hearts and minds of his audience.John serves as the President of Newton Institute, which provides leadership development training and resources to aspiring, emerging and existing leaders around the world. John also serves as Adjunct Faculty for the Ray Bakke Centre for Urban Transformation in Hong Kong and for Geneva College’s Master of Science in Organizational Leadership program.John’s best-selling books have been translated into nine languages, sold more than 120,000 copies, and have garnered praise from top leadership experts Ken Blanchard, Henry Cloud, Max DePree, Frances Hesselbein, Laurie Beth Jones, and William Pollard. Dr. John Stahl-Wert is a best selling author, speaker, and acclaimed authority in the field of leadership development. His focus is helping individuals, organizations, and communities worldwide to embrace and implement the principles of Serving Leadership.4 Key Takeaways:1. John talks about how leaders must “grow up” in order to truly serve.2. He shares his views on admitting faults and posturing yourself for improvability.3. John talks about his organization, Center for Serving Leadership.4. He provides some insight into what he believes causes insecurity in leaders and how to overcome that.Quotes From the Episode:“I don’t see problems when I have a strategy, I see solutions.”“It’s impossible to make progress if we cannot admit we have a problem.”“One of the chief roots of our insecurity is comparison.”Resources Mentioned:Books by JohnCenter for Serving LeadershipConnect with John:Website | Linkedin | Facebook 

Send us a textEpisode Summary: In this episode of the L3 Leadership podcast, Don Yeager joins Doug to talk about what he’s learned from influential leaders, storytelling, and his writing career.About Don Yaeger: As an award-winning keynote speaker, an eleven-time New York Times Best-selling author, host of the top-rated Corporate Competitor Podcast, Executive Leadership Coach, and longtime Associate Editor for Sports Illustrated, Don Yaeger has fashioned a career as one of America’s most provocative thought leaders.He is primarily sought to discuss lessons on achieving Greatness, learned from first-hand work alongside some of the greatest sports and business legends in the world. Additionally, Don has been retained by companies and organizations to coach their leaders on building a culture of Greatness, using the framework built through his exhaustive study of Great Teams in sports and business, discerning the lessons we can learn from them. Throughout his writing career, Don has developed a reputation as a world-class storyteller, in fact, renowned thought leaders such as John Maxwell and Simon Sinek have called Don the best storyteller they have ever worked with! Because of these achievements, Don has been invited as a guest to every major talk show – from Oprah to Fox Business News, from CNN to Good Morning America.Don began his career as a reporter for the San Antonio Light where he rose through the ranks to pen investigative features for the daily. He later moved on to the Dallas Morning News. Following his stint in Dallas, he worked as a political editor for the Florida Times-Union. After four years, he decided to dedicate himself to the pursuit of writing books. Don’s first book, Undue Process: The NCAA’s Injustice For All, was published in 1990. In the 30+ years since, he has penned more than three dozen books, including an incredible ELEVEN New York Times Best-sellers.Born and raised in Hawaii, Don has traveled extensively through his career. A graduate of Ball State University where he was selected as one of the university’s “50 Graduates of Distinction” over its first century and subsequently was inducted into their Hall of Fame in 2022, Don now resides in Tallahassee, Florida. He and his wife, Jeanette, have a son (Will) and a daughter (Madeleine).4 Key Takeaways:1. Don talks about how he’s been able to meet with and be mentored by various influential leaders throughout the years and shares some wisdom he’s learned about interviewing leaders.2. He shares some tips for leaders who may want to get better at storytelling.3. Don gives advice to people who want to write books.4. He talks about some of the most influential leadership moments he’s witnessed and what he’s learned from those interactions. Quotes From the Episode:“One thing that I always look for are ways to ask the hard question.”“You need to be really passionate about whatever it is you’re going to write about.”“We have to remember that what we do matters, and we have to be reminded who it matters to.”Resources Mentioned:Don’s BooksConnect with Don:Website | Instagram | Linkedin | Facebook | Twitter | Youtube

Send us a textEpisode Summary: In this episode of the L3 Leadership podcast, Chad Willardson returns to the podcast to discuss his entrepreneurial journey, shares tips for entrepreneurs looking to level up, and provides some basic financial advice to anyone who is pursuing financial freedom. About Chad Willardson: Chad is the president of Pacific Capital, a fiduciary wealth advisory firm he founded in 2011 that serves entrepreneurs and families. His best-selling first book, Stress Free Money has been featured in Forbes 21 books to read in 2021, NBC News, and Yahoo Finance.In addition to serving the family office clients of Pacific Capital, Chad also manages the 450 million-dollar investment portfolio as the elected city treasurer of his community. Chad is recognized as one of the top wealth management experts in the country and has appeared in the Wall Street Journal, Forbes Inc., US News and World Report, Investment News, Entrepreneur, and Financial Advisors Magazines.  He lives in Southern California with his wife, Amber, and their 5 children.4 Key Takeaways:1. Chad talks about the changes brought about in the corporate banking world after the financial crisis of 2008, and why this drove him to start his own company in 2011 with no real entrepreneurship experience.2. Distractions such as media can get in the way of growth and self-development. 3. Chad gives a lot of credit to Dan Sullivan for his personal development. Chad and Doug discuss the four freedoms that he’s learned about from Dan’s program.4. He provides some general money advice for people who are looking to have more financial freedom. Quotes From the Episode:“Regardless of whether you own your own business or not, I believe that you should be working to maximize your own talents and gifts and doing something that you really have fun doing.”“The more I use my time for things that matter, then the more that I can grow.”“Don’t be miserly until some future retirement date, still enjoy your life. If you can’t enjoy the money you’re earning a little bit, then what’s the point? It’s not all about ‘I’m going to live life at some future date.’.Resources Mentioned:Dan Sullivan’s Strategic CoachSmart Not Spoiled by Chad WillardsonGravystackStress-Free Money by Chad WillardsonBeyond the Money by Chad WillardsonDie with Zero by Bill PerkinsConnect with Chad:Website | Twitter | Linkedin