First & Focused - What 31 Leaders Taught Me About Following Jesus | The First 6 Months of First & Focused

Send us Fan Mail30 Episodes • 30 Leaders • 4 Lessons • One Common ThreadWhat can you learn when you spend the first six months sitting across the table from 30 leaders who are intentionally putting God first?In this special episode of First & Focused, Mark Greaves takes a step back from the traditional interview format to reflect on the first six months of the show—and the critical moments, conversations, and lessons that have emerged from the first 31 episodes.From entrepreneurs and business leaders to pastors, doctors, ministry leaders, and community influencers, the guests have come from remarkably different backgrounds. Yet as Mark looks back across their stories, four common themes continue to emerge.First, every guest has a clear sense of their priorities—with Christ at the center and family as a foundation.These leaders aren't simply trying to be successful. They've developed a framework for understanding what matters most. Their faith isn't something they've added to their professional lives; it shapes how they approach leadership, relationships, work, and family.Second, every guest has demonstrated a deep understanding of their own weakness and their need for Jesus every day.Behind the accomplishments are men and women who understand they don't have everything figured out. They recognize their limitations, their failures, their struggles, and ultimately their dependence on Christ.Third, they've accepted that living a life that glorifies God isn't always the easy road.Following Jesus doesn't eliminate difficulty. In many cases, it creates opportunities to choose obedience when the easier option would be to compromise, quit, or take control. These leaders have learned that faithfulness matters more than convenience.And fourth, they possess a remarkable sense of peace and poise in the middle of life's challenges.Not because life has been easy—but because they've learned where their confidence comes from.Mark revisits lessons and moments from conversations with leaders including Dr. Todd Marrah, Joe Schmitz, Dr. Duke Heller, Courtney Markley, Jon Mullen, Harvey Hook, Brian Ziemer, Scott Arnold, Sam Koon, Pastor Ben Douglass, Dr. Jeffrey Broadnax, and many more.After 31 episodes, here is The conclusion:The most impressive thing about these leaders isn't what they've accomplished. It's who they have become—and Who they are following.To learn more or view prior episodes visit www.markgreaves.com