15 Leadership Lessons I Learned in 2025 (That Will Change How I Lead in 2026) Part I

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of the L3 Leadership Podcast, Doug Smith kicks off part one of his annual reflection series, sharing the most significant lessons he learned in 2025 and how they’re shaping his leadership in 2026. Drawing from his year-end review process, Doug offers honest insights on health, family, leadership presence, fatherhood, faith, and the unseen weight leaders carry.⏱️ Episode Breakdown00:00 – Why Doug does a year-end review every year02:00 – Lesson 1: Taking ownership of your health before it’s too late05:00 – Lesson 2: Big families are a gift worth fighting for08:30 – Lesson 3: Your presence as a leader matters more than you think11:00 – Lesson 4: The lifelong impact of being an intentional parent14:00 – Lesson 5: The tension between progress and preservation16:00 – Lesson 6: One day you’ll become a king—but not for the reasons you think18:30 – Lesson 7: Not every battle deserves your energy21:00 – Lesson 8: Want more *for* people than you want *from* them23:00 – Lesson 9: Being the voice of leadership, not just the position24:00 – Lesson 10: Leading well when life isn’t fairResources Mentioned:Fathered by God: Learning What Your Dad Could Never Teach You by John EldredgeExperience Jesus. Really: Finding Refuge, Strength, and Wonder Through Everyday Encounters with God by John EldredgeWhy Do Black Christians Vote Democrat? – Phil Vischer (Video)Family TeamsGerald Brooks Leadership Podcast🔗 Connect with DougLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dougsmithliveThe L3 Leadership Podcast is sponsored by Andocia Marketing Solutions. Andocia exists to bring leaders’ visions to life. Visit www.andocia.com to learn more.WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsF0cVdRu2oELJGpaHma7AgSUBSCRIBE TO: @l3leadership @dougsmithliveSupport the show