EP 91: Leadership, Faith, and the Power of Integration with Shawn Yates, Part 1

What if the way you’ve been viewing your work… is incomplete?In this episode, Steve sits down with Sean Yates to explore a powerful shift in perspective around faith and work. For many, faith has been something added onto work—through prayer, Bible studies, or intentional “ministry moments.” But as Sean shares, that was only part of the picture.Over time, his understanding evolved from a task-based approach to something far more integrated. Instead of separating spiritual activities from everyday responsibilities, he began to see that doing his work with excellence—and loving the people in front of him—was itself an expression of the gospel.The conversation highlights how people don’t truly compartmentalize their lives. What happens personally shows up professionally, and leadership becomes an opportunity to meet people where they are. This opens the door not just for better work—but for real growth in both professional and spiritual life.They also unpack the tension many feel between striving and joy in work. When work is viewed as separate from faith, it often feels heavy. But when it’s approached as something done with God, it becomes lighter, more purposeful, and even life-giving.If you’ve ever felt like your job is just a means to an end—or disconnected from your calling—this conversation will challenge and encourage you in a meaningful way.00:00 Welcome & Intro01:06 Journey to Waco03:20 Family Focus05:07 Leadership Path07:21 Faith at Work09:07 Business as Ministry14:35 Work's True Value20:01 With God Living22:50 Closing Insights✅ 5 KEY TAKEAWAYSWork is not separate from faithThe idea of “sacred vs secular” work is a false divide—everything we do can be shaped by the gospel.People don’t compartmentalize their livesWhat’s happening personally shows up at work, making leadership an opportunity to meet people where they are.Doing work with excellence is part of gospel impactIt’s not just about spiritual activities—how you do your work matters.Striving comes from the wrong perspectiveWhen work is seen as separate from God, it feels heavy. Integration leads to greater joy.The goal is to work with God, not just for HimA relational approach to work changes everything—from pressure to partnership.👉 Watch full episode on YT - https://youtu.be/RAYfkibVrV8👉 Join the free Third Fish Academy at ThirdFish.org