5LQ Episode 468: Dave Alpern

In this episode of the 5 Leadership Questions podcast, Todd Adkins and Chandler Vannoy are joined by Dave Alpern. Alpern is the president of Joe Gibbs Racing and author of Taking the Lead. They discuss being a reluctant leader and investing in what matters most for your current season of life. BEST QUOTES “If you want job security, deliver more value than you’re paid.” “Most leadership books are written from the perspective of the alpha leader, I am not that. I am a reluctant leader.” “One of my philosophies in meetings was to never talk first and to talk infrequently so that everyone listens.” “When I am in a meeting, even if I think I have a lot to offer, I will save it because I really want to listen and I don’t want to skew people.” “It starts with spending time in the Word, spending time in prayer, and taking time of yourself.” “It’s really important for me to focus on that idea of investing in who matters the most – investing in my family, myself, making sure I am healthy there before I even think about trying to lead at work.” “The Bible is a great blueprint for God using all kinds of different people to lead – sometimes misfits, sometimes extraordinarily impressive, sharp people, and sometimes people in between.” “You don’t have to fit a certain profile to be a leader.” “You are not a success or failure based on your title.” “Your job isn’t your identity.” “Leadership has nothing to do with your title.” “Who am I influencing as the president that I couldn’t influence when I was an intern? Am I being a good steward of that influence and that responsibility?” RECOMMENDED RESOURCES Lifeway Leadership Podcast Network Taking the Lead by Dave Alpern This Episode’s Sponsor: Downline Ministries’ mission is to encourage a restoration of biblical discipleship in and through the local church by equipping men and women to know God’s Word and make disciples.  The primary way we partner with churches is through the Downline Institute, a 9 month biblical discipleship training program that walks students through the Bible (Genesis-Revelation), biblical manhood/womanhood, and key discipleship lessons. Listeners can receive $100 off tuition cost by using the code LIFEWAY when you apply at www.downlineministries.com.