Leading Saints

To hear the full presentation, grab your free spot for the Liberating Saints Virtual Summit: LeadingSaints.org/liberating The post Why do Some Struggle with Porn and Others Don’t? appeared first on Leading Saints.

A thoughtful perspective and encouragement for church leaders when someone is struggling with pornography. This is just a clip of one of the 15+ presentations that will be shown during the Liberating Saints Virtual Summit, starting June 30. See the speakers & Register at https://leadingsaints.org/liberating The post The Church Leaders Role When Someone Struggles with Pornography appeared first on Leading Saints.

Join Kurt Francom and other fantastic speakers and entertainers for the Sea Saints Alaskan Cruise. Find all the details and book your cabin at SeaSaints.com Use Code: LeadingSaints to be included in exclusive Leading Saints experiences onboard.

Jeff Strong worked nearly 30 years in the consumer products industry as a senior executive at Procter & Gamble and global president and chief customer officer at Johnson & Johnson. He then taught in the Marriott School of Business at Brigham Young University and worked as an advisor to the Church before serving as a […] The post Part 1: What Leaders Can Learn From the People Who Are Leaving the Church | An Interview with Jeff Strong appeared first on Leading Saints.

Robin Ritch has spent her career building things that matter. She has led teams at Microsoft, Intel, and Cisco, and most recently served as President and Publisher of Deseret News Publishing Company, where she helped transform a 172-year-old institution into a nationally recognized digital voice. Throughout her career, Robin has had a knack for seeing […] The post Women Zion Builders | An Interview with Robin Ritch appeared first on Leading Saints.

David Boice is a faith-based storyteller and traveler originally from Wausau, Wisconsin, and the creator of the YouTube series 52 Churches in 52 Weeks. What began as a personal search for a spiritual home became a nationwide journey through nearly 200 congregations, documenting not just what churches teach, but how they receive those walking in […] The post Analyzing 52 Church Cultures | An Interview with David Boice appeared first on Leading Saints.

Jump into Zion Lab: https://app.leadingsaints.org In this episode we back up to early March for the first “Zion Lab Live” livestream where Kurt Francom explains more about Zion Lab and shares highlights from discussions. We discuss: Zion Lab as a Resource Generational Disconnect: The gap between older and younger generations, the pressure to conform to […] The post Zion Lab Live: Engaging Conversations on Leadership, Community, and Spiritual Growth appeared first on Leading Saints.

Zion Lab Live | March Recap + The Future of Leading Saints Jump into Zion Lab: https://app.leadingsaints.org/ Kurt Francom shares highlights from the past month in Zion Lab — Leading Saints’ growing online community app — and digs into the biggest topic on everyone’s mind: the upcoming changes to the Sunday meeting schedule taking effect […] The post New Church Schedule: How to Turn 25 Minutes into 60+ Minutes appeared first on Leading Saints.

Jeff Strong worked nearly 30 years in the consumer products industry as a senior executive at Procter & Gamble and global president and chief customer officer at Johnson & Johnson. He then taught in the Marriott School of Business at Brigham Young University and worked as an advisor to the Church before serving as a […] The post What to Say When Loved Ones Leave the Church | An Interview with Jeff Strong and Joseph Grenny appeared first on Leading Saints.

Tucker Boyle has spent over 25 years teaching Seminary and Institute for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, where he has worked closely with youth and young adults to help them deepen their relationship with Jesus Christ and navigate real-life challenges with faith and awareness. He has served as a Young Single Adult […] The post When the Seminary Teacher Has a Faith Crisis | An Interview with Tucker Boyle appeared first on Leading Saints.

A best-selling author and internationally sought-after speaker and consultant, Michael Timms teaches practical leadership strategies that drive high-performance. He earned an M.B.A. from Utah State University, and was a consultant with Deloitte and an HR leader in the construction and manufacturing industries, prior to forming his own consultancy. Michael is the author of How Leaders […] The post How to Keep Your Ward Accountable | An Interview with Michael Timms appeared first on Leading Saints.

Steve Webber served a mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in the Spain Barcelona Mission and later graduated from Brigham Young University with a degree in Business Management. Professionally, he owns and manages an advertising agency. Steve has served in various leadership capacities, including bishop, high counselor, Young Men president, elders […] The post Home Ministering | An Interview with Steve Webber appeared first on Leading Saints.

Brandon Bennett currently serves as a Professor of Religious Education at Brigham Young University–Idaho. He previously worked for more than a decade in Seminaries and Institutes of Religion in Utah and Texas, where he was blessed to teach the restored gospel to many remarkable youth and young adults. Throughout much of his adult life, he […] The post False: Everything Happens for a Reason | An Interview with Brandon Bennett appeared first on Leading Saints.

Ganel-Lyn Condie is a popular speaker, author, and mental health advocate. With insight shaped by faith, lived experience, and cultural awareness, she brings both compassion and clarity to the question many leaders and members are asking: How do we help people feel seen, known, and loved—especially those on the margins? In this episode, Ganel-Lyn discusses […] The post From Cliques to Community: Ministering in a Lonely Ward | An Interview with Ganel-Lyn Condie appeared first on Leading Saints.

Frank Schwartz is a husband—for nearly 25 years—and a father of three girls. He has served in several bishoprics, elders quorum presidencies, high councils, high priest group leaderships and Young Men presidencies (back when those were a thing), and a variety of other callings over the years. Frank did undergraduate and graduate work in Psychology […] The post Leading Elders Quorum is Simple | An Interview with Frank Schwartz appeared first on Leading Saints.

Brother Eric Richards teaches Institute and Seminary in the Utah North Area, is a member of the Veritas society, a contributing author for the Patheos project, and a member of the International Writers and Editors Association. He has served in several Bishoprics, twice on High Councils, in the Stake Presidency, and now serves as a […] The post 10 Lesser-Known Ideas to Help Ward Members Connect with Jesus Christ | An Interview with Eric Richards appeared first on Leading Saints.

Stephan Taeger is an assistant professor in Ancient Scripture at Brigham Young University. He received a PhD from BYU in Instructional Design and Technology. Stephan’s research focuses on Homiletics (the study of preaching), narrative instruction, and ancient scripture. He is also an author and co-host of the RVVL podcast with David Butler. Links Y Religion: […] The post Why Every Leader Needs to Understand Justification & Sanctification | An Interview with Stephan Taeger appeared first on Leading Saints.

This is a rebroadcast of a podcast episode from Teaching Restored, a podcast exploring the how of teaching the restored gospel of Jesus Christ to bring others unto Him, helping gospel teachers become more confident, converted, and consecrated. Hosts Kevin Jones and Julie Hillyard are both former guests on the Leading Saints Podcast and you […] The post Are We Doing Home Centered & Church Supported Right? appeared first on Leading Saints.

Ernesto Quintanilla is the co-host (with his wife Nancy) and driving force behind Santos en Liderazgo, the official Spanish-language expansion of the Leading Saints podcast. A dedicated leader and communicator, Ernesto is passionate about helping Spanish-speaking Latter-day Saints enhance their leadership skills and better serve their communities. By interviewing experienced leaders and sharing research-backed principles, […] The post Leading Latino Saints | An Interview with Ernesto Quintanilla appeared first on Leading Saints.

In this livestream, Kurt Francom facilitates a collaborative discussion on the practical and spiritual aspects of ward music, featuring insights from Landon, a BYU master’s student in organ performance. The episode addresses common challenges faced by ward music coordinators and organists, ranging from planning Christmas programs to integrating the Church’s new hymns. The central theme […] The post Ward Music | A Zion Lab Livestream appeared first on Leading Saints.

Rob Smith, LMAC, LASUDC, is a therapist with over 10 years of personal and professional experience. He specializes in helping individuals tap into their inner strengths, generate momentum for change, and live in alignment with their core values. Rob loves spending time with his wife and supporting their kids in their passions and activities. Links […] The post Supporting Ward Members Without Losing Yourself | An Interview with Robert Smith appeared first on Leading Saints.

Where is Leading Saints going in 2026? Listen in to find out! Links Watch the video and share your thoughts in the Zion Lab community Become a Zion Builder Transcript available with the video in the Zion Lab community Highlights In this episode, Kurt Francom discusses the evolution of Leading Saints and the introduction of […] The post Leading Saints in 2026 appeared first on Leading Saints.

Lani Hilton is a dedicated enthusiast of the Easter Season. She has lived a Christ-centered Easter season with her family for 20 years and has been teaching about it in settings like BYU Education Week and firesides since 2015. She published a book called Celebrate Sunday and has written articles for the Liahona and LDS […] The post Start Now to Celebrate Easter Season | An Interview with Lani Hilton appeared first on Leading Saints.

John Hilton III was born in San Francisco and grew up in Seattle. He served a mission in Denver, and got a Bachelor’s degree from Brigham Young University. While there he met his wife Lani and they have six children. They have lived in Boise, Boston, Miami, Mexico, Jerusalem and China. John has a Master’s […] The post Teaching with Different Bible Translations | An Interview with John Hilton III appeared first on Leading Saints.

Joshua Sears earned his BA in Ancient Near Eastern Studies at Brigham Young University, an MA from The Ohio State University, and a PhD in Hebrew Bible from The University of Texas at Austin. His research focuses on biblical polygamy, the book of Isaiah, and Latter-day Saint Bible editions. He has presented at numerous academic […] The post Tips for Teaching the Old Testament in 2026 | An Interview with Joshua Sears appeared first on Leading Saints.

Will Kennedy and Isiah Gray are members of Brothaz in the Foyer, a group that produces content to represent and share the experiences of Black members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. They are part of a larger group of hosts for the Brothaz in the Foyer Podcast, and their goal is […] The post What Leaders Should Know About Black Latter-day Saints | An Interview with Brothaz in the Foyer appeared first on Leading Saints.

Primary is so much more than schedules, rolls, and meetings—it’s a sacred opportunity to love, lift, and lead like the Savior. In this inspiring interview, we explore how Primary presidencies and leaders can transform everyday administration into meaningful ministry. Michelle Colledge lives in Cedar Hills, Utah with her husband, Rick, and their five children. She […] The post Primary: From Administration to Connection | A How I Lead Interview with Michelle Colledge appeared first on Leading Saints.

Become a Zion Builder and Learn More Here: https://app.leadingsaints.org/c/1-000-zion-builders/ The post Can Leading Saints “Fix” Your Ward Culture? appeared first on Leading Saints.

Blake Erickson is the co-founder of Scaling.com, a company dedicated to helping entrepreneurs scale bigger and faster than they ever thought possible. He is the co-author of the New York Times best-selling book The Science of Scaling, and a highly sought-after keynote speaker specializing in guiding companies and individuals to achieve rapid growth and seemingly […] The post Why Ward Goals Matter | An Interview with Blake Erickson appeared first on Leading Saints.

Kurt Francom, the executive director of Leading Saints, shares his thoughts on the challenges and responsibilities of leading a nonprofit organization within the Latter-day Saint community. He reflects on the need for support, the complexities of church culture, and the importance of individual leadership in building the Kingdom of God. Watch the video and share […] The post Will Leading Saints Last? appeared first on Leading Saints.

This podcast episode features part of a Zion Lab live stream conversation with a group of ward and stake leaders discussing the purpose and execution of ward conferences. The conversation emphasizes the need for meaningful engagement and feedback from members to enhance the effectiveness of these conferences. Watch and share your thoughts in the Zion […] The post Ward Conference Best Practices | A Zion Lab Livestream appeared first on Leading Saints.

Jenn Curtis is the president of North Star, an organization dedicated to supporting LGBT Latter-day Saints. With a lifelong commitment to the teachings of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Jenn has navigated her own journey of self-discovery and faith, advocating for understanding and compassion within the Church community. She has been actively […] The post Community with Covenant-Keeping LGBT Saints | An Interview with Jenn Curtis appeared first on Leading Saints.

Roy Zwahlen has extensive background in innovation. He serves as Chief Strategy Officer at the Eshelman Institute of Innovation, which develops therapeutics and digital health technologies and startups. Roy recently co-authored the book Race to Innovation: Unleashing the Power of Entrepreneurship for Everyone. He also serves as Associate Dean at the University of North Carolina […] The post Should Your Ward Try to Innovate? | An Interview with Roy Zwahlen appeared first on Leading Saints.

For the past seven years, Ajax Trueblood has served as an Elders Quorum Service Coordinator in two different wards in Utah—and he calls it the best calling in the Church. Through that experience, he’s learned that consistent, inspired service doesn’t just bless those being helped—it transforms the hearts and unity of those who serve. Links […] The post The Often-Overlooked Role of the Elders Quorum Service Coordinator | A How I Lead Interview with Ajax Trueblood appeared first on Leading Saints.

Daniel Johnston is a Major in the United States Air Force, serving as a maintenance officer with experience commanding teams in both combat and training environments. He currently serves as the Director of Operations for the C-5 Maintenance Squadron at Dover Air Force Base. His previous assignments include serving as an Air Force ROTC instructor […] The post Leadership Styles of Past Church Leaders | An Interview with Daniel Johnston appeared first on Leading Saints.

This podcast episode is a portion of a Zion Lab livestream discussing the challenges and best practices of bishop’s wives as they support their husbands in their demanding calling. Watch the video and share your thoughts in the Zion Lab community Transcript available with the video in the Zion Lab community Highlights The central topic […] The post The Lonely Bishop’s Wife | A Zion Lab Livestream appeared first on Leading Saints.

Liberty Kepford lives in Tallahassee, Florida. She is a youth Sunday School teacher and has also served in a Primary presidency and as a Primary teacher. Liberty previously taught 5th grade and now works as a curriculum writer for the homeschool curriculum “Art Makes Me Smart”. She and her father, Robert Johnson, are the authors […] The post Autism in Your Ward | An Interview with Liberty Kepford and Robert Johnson appeared first on Leading Saints.

This is a rebroadcast. The episode originally ran in August 2020. Greg McKeown has dedicated his career to discovering why some people and teams break through to the next level—and others don’t. The definitive treatment of this issue is addressed in his New York Times and Wall Street Journal bestseller, Essentialism: The Disciplined Pursuit of […] The post Creating Essential Change In Your Organization | An Interview with Greg McKeown appeared first on Leading Saints.

Jeff McCullough is an ordained minister and has served in ministry for over 25 years, including 15 years in pastoral ministry. He holds a Master’s in Biblical Studies from Moody Theological Seminary. Now serving in Utah, Jeff previously spent two decades preaching and leading in the St. Louis area. He focuses on using online platforms […] The post Are We Building Bridges or Better Arguments? | An Interview with Jeff McCullough appeared first on Leading Saints.

This is a rebroadcast. The episode originally ran in May 2019. Tad R. Callister served as Sunday School general president, in the Presidency of the Seventy, as a member of the Second Quorum of the Seventy, an Area Seventy, president of the Canada Toronto East mission, regional representative, stake president, bishop, and as a full-time […] The post A Case for the Book of Mormon | An Interview with Tad R. Callister appeared first on Leading Saints.

Skyler Wilcox is originally from Logan, Utah and is the senior administrator with the Especially For Youth (EFY) program. He has a bachelors degree in Broadcast Journalism and a masters degree in Public Administration, both from Brigham Young University. After working as a counselor and coordinator for four summers, Skyler joined the EFY team full […] The post Creating the Experiences Youth Need | An Interview with Skyler Wilcox appeared first on Leading Saints.

High Council members engaged in a live discussion focused on sharing ideas and experiences to strengthen how councils serve their wards and stakes. This podcast is a portion of the livestream discussion. Watch the video and share your thoughts in the Zion Lab community Links The entire conversation and transcript are available in the Zion […] The post Serving on the High Council | A Zion Lab Livestream appeared first on Leading Saints.

This is a rebroadcast. The episode originally ran in February 2024. Marjorie Nelson Lowder discusses the remarkable life and enduring influence of her mother, Dantzel White Nelson. Born and raised in Salt Lake City, Utah, Marjorie grew up as the 9th of 10 children of President Russell M. Nelson and Sister Dantzel White Nelson, surrounded […] The post The Life of Sister Dantzel White Nelson | An Interview with Marjorie Nelson Lowder appeared first on Leading Saints.

Ernest Lee Davis, a native of Los Angeles, California, spent most of his life there before earning an athletic scholarship to the University of Idaho, where he graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Communications. He earned his MBA from Western Governors University and will finish his Doctorate in Philosophy of Leadership with an emphasis […] The post Leading in the Lord’s Way | An Interview with Ernest Davis appeared first on Leading Saints.

In this podcast episode, Kurt Francom and Dan Duckworth discuss the importance of addressing community tragedies within Latter-day Saint congregations. They explore how leaders can create spaces for healing and connection during difficult times, emphasizing the role of vulnerability and unity in fostering a supportive church environment. Dan Duckworth speaks, teaches, and writes on leadership, […] The post The Local Ward When Tragedy Strikes | A Conversation with Dan Duckworth appeared first on Leading Saints.

Golden Lund holds three degrees in music from the University of Utah, Indiana University and the University of Nebraska. He is currently a music instructor at St. Ambrose University in Davenport, Iowa, where he helps direct the marching band, pep band, and teaches tuba and other brass instruments. He also performs regularly on the tuba with a semi-professional orchestra in Lincoln, Nebraska. Golden was recently released as a bishop and served in several leadership capacities previously including elders quorum president, high priest group leader, Young Men president, and on his stake high council. Golden and his wife Sandy have been married for 17 years and are the proud parents of two children—a daughter and son who are 12-year-old twins and amaze them every day. Links Transcript available with the video in the Zion Lab community Highlights In this episode of the Leading Saints podcast, Kurt interviews Golden, a former bishop from Bettendorf, Iowa, who shares his experiences and insights from his five-year tenure in leadership during the challenging times of the COVID-19 pandemic. The conversation focuses on mental health, vulnerability in leadership, and the importance of community support. Key Insights: Mental Health Awareness: Golden discusses his struggles with mental health, particularly during a significant crash after a year and a half of service. He emphasizes the importance of seeking help and the positive impact of counseling and medication. Vulnerability in Leadership: By sharing his personal challenges with his ward, Golden fostered a culture of openness, encouraging others to share their struggles and creating a supportive environment. The Sariah Factor: Golden introduces the concept of the Sariah Factor, highlighting the need for leaders to trust their perspective and discernment, even when others may not understand the decisions being made. Delegation and Empowerment: He shares how he empowered his ward leaders, such as the Relief Society and Elders Quorum presidents, to take on responsibilities, which helped alleviate his workload and fostered a sense of ownership among leaders. Community Support: Golden underscores the importance of community, noting that members often overlook the challenges faced by their leaders. Simple expressions of gratitude can significantly uplift those in leadership roles. Leadership Applications: Encourage Open Communication: Leaders should create an environment where members feel comfortable sharing their struggles, which can strengthen community bonds and support. Prioritize Mental Health: Leaders should recognize the importance of mental health and seek help when needed, setting an example for others to do the same. Empower Others: By delegating responsibilities and trusting ward leaders, bishops can manage their workload more effectively while fostering leadership skills in others, ultimately benefiting the entire ward. 05:32 – Calling as Bishop During COVID-19 07:18 – Navigating Early Days as Bishop 08:58 – Demographics of the Ward 10:45 – Reflection on Serving as Bishop 11:19 – Responsibilities of a Bishop 15:43 – Challenges and Overwhelm in Leadership 17:00 – Mental Health Struggles and Support 20:05 – Finding Help and Guidance 21:57 – The Importance of Vulnerability in Leadership 30:02 – Opening Up to the Ward About Struggles 33:44 – The Sariah Factor in Leadership Decisions 38:21 – Examples of Leadership Challenges 49:02 – The Messiness of Revelation in Leadership 51:19 – Normalizing Struggles in Leadership The award-winning Leading Saints Podcast is one of the top independent Latter-day Saints podcasts as part of nonprofit Leading Saints’ mission to help Latter-day Saints be better prepared to lead. Find Leadership Tools, Courses, and Community for Latter-day Saint leaders in the Zion Lab community. Learn more and listen to any of the past episodes for free at LeadingSaints.org. Past guests include Emily Belle Freeman, David Butler, Hank Smith, John Bytheway, Reyna and Elena Aburto, Liz Wiseman, Stephen M. R. Covey, Benjamin Hardy, Elder Alvin F. Meredith III, Julie Beck, Brad Wilcox, Jody Moore, Tony Overbay, John H. Groberg, Elaine Dalton, Tad R. Callister, Lynn G. Robbins, J. Devn Cornish, Bonnie Oscarson, Dennis B. Neuenschwander, Kirby Heyborne, Taysom Hill, Coaches Jennifer Rockwood and Brandon Doman, Anthony Sweat, John Hilton III, Barbara Morgan Gardner, Blair Hodges, Whitney Johnson, Ryan Gottfredson, Greg McKeown, Ganel-Lyn Condie, Michael Goodman, Wendy Ulrich, Richard Ostler, and many more in over 800 episodes. Discover podcasts, articles, virtual conferences, and live events related to callings such as the bishopric, Relief Society, elders quorum, Primary, youth leadership, stake leadership, ward mission, ward council, young adults, ministering, and teaching.

Curtis Morley is an author, coach, speaker, and “emotionologist” who has been an entrepreneur for most of his life. He is the author of The Entrepreneur’s Paradox, a Wall Street Journal bestseller. He also has a forthcoming book titled Counterfeit Emotions. His work focuses on helping people, including entrepreneurs, with personal development and growth. He has founded multiple companies and worked with many Fortune 100 businesses. He has also been recognized with awards such as Entrepreneur of the Year and has been included in the Inc. 500/5000 Hall of Fame. Morley’s work and speaking engagements often center on the concept of “counterfeit emotions”—feelings that may seem authentic but can lead to destructive cycles of disconnection. He has developed a framework to help people identify and replace these emotions with authentic ones to live a more fulfilling life. Links The Entrepreneur’s Paradox: How to Overcome the 16 Pitfalls Along the Startup Journey CounterfeitEmotions.com/recovery RecoveryNotSobriety.com Transcript available with the video in the Zion Lab community Highlights Curtis focuses on the myths surrounding pornography addiction. The discussion emphasizes the distinction between sobriety and recovery, exploring how understanding emotions can lead to more effective healing. Key Insights Sobriety vs. Recovery: Sobriety measures how long one can abstain from pornography, while recovery focuses on understanding and processing underlying emotions. True recovery involves addressing the root causes rather than merely avoiding the behavior. Myth of Willpower: Overcoming pornography addiction is not solely about willpower. Many individuals struggle with deeper emotional issues that drive their behaviors, making it essential to address these emotions rather than just the actions. Shame vs. Guilt: Guilt can be a motivating emotion that encourages individuals to make amends, while shame leads to disconnection and despair. Understanding this distinction is crucial for effective recovery. Connection and Community: Building connections and fostering community can significantly aid recovery. Isolation often exacerbates addiction, while supportive relationships can provide the necessary encouragement and accountability. The Importance of Processing Emotions: Curtis introduces the “whole” method for processing emotions, which includes witnessing emotions, harmonizing through breathing, opening the mind to triggers, leading one’s life, and editing the meaning of past experiences. Leadership Applications Creating Safe Spaces: Latter-day Saint leaders can foster environments where individuals feel safe to discuss their struggles with pornography and other issues without fear of judgment, encouraging open dialogue. Focus on Emotional Health: Leaders should prioritize understanding the emotional triggers behind behaviors rather than just addressing the behaviors themselves. This approach can lead to more meaningful support and healing. Encouraging Community Support: Leaders can facilitate peer support groups or mentorship programs that promote connection among members, helping individuals feel less isolated in their struggles and more empowered in their recovery journey. 00:02:15 – Understanding Sobriety vs. Recovery 00:06:49 – The Difference Between Sobriety and Recovery 00:09:06 – Emotional Triggers and Leadership 00:10:08 – The Myth of Sobriety 00:12:12 – Transformational Recovery 00:13:27 – Sobriety is Miserable, Recovery is Peaceful 00:15:02 – Taking Your Demons to Lunch 00:18:08 – Addiction to Shame 00:19:09 – Addressing the Root Causes 00:20:21 – The Loop of Shame and Addiction 00:22:36 – Guilt vs. Shame 00:24:06 – Identifying and Surfacing Demons 00:26:44 – The Importance of Connection 00:29:34 – The Role of Community in Recovery 00:30:17 – The Whole Method Explained 00:36:21 – Overview of the Myths The award-winning Leading Saints Podcast is one of the top independent Latter-day Saints podcasts as part of nonprofit Leading Saints’ mission to help Latter-day Saints be better prepared to lead. Find Leadership Tools, Courses, and Community for Latter-day Saint leaders in the Zion Lab community. Learn more and listen to any of the past episodes for free at LeadingSaints.org. Past guests include Emily Belle Freeman, David Butler, Hank Smith, John Bytheway, Reyna and Elena Aburto, Liz Wiseman, Stephen M. R. Covey, Benjamin Hardy, Elder Alvin F. Meredith III, Julie Beck, Brad Wilcox, Jody Moore, Tony Overbay, John H. Groberg, Elaine Dalton, Tad R. Callister, Lynn G. Robbins, J. Devn Cornish, Bonnie Oscarson, Dennis B. Neuenschwander, Kirby Heyborne, Taysom Hill, Coaches Jennifer Rockwood and Brandon Doman, Anthony Sweat, John Hilton III, Barbara Morgan Gardner, Blair Hodges, Whitney Johnson, Ryan Gottfredson, Greg McKeown, Ganel-Lyn Condie, Michael Goodman, Wendy Ulrich, Richard Ostler, and many more in over 800 episodes. Discover podcasts, articles, virtual conferences, and live events related to callings such as the bishopric, Relief Society, elders quorum, Primary, youth leadership, stake leadership, ward mission, ward council, <a href="https...

Jeff Burningham grew up in Spokane, Washington, served a mission in Charlotte, North Carolina, and attended Brigham Young University. A serial entrepreneur, Jeff has founded multiple companies in real estate technology and venture capital. He has also served in various church callings, including as a bishop and in a stake presidency. Jeff is a father of four, a proud grandfather, and the author of The Last Book Written by a Human: Becoming Wise in the Age of AI. Links The Last Book Written by a Human: Becoming Wise in the Age of AI Stepping Up to Leadership Opportunities | An Interview with Jeff Burningham Transcript available with the video in the Zion Lab community Highlights Jeff discusses his book, emphasizing the importance of human wisdom in a world increasingly dominated by artificial intelligence. He argues that while AI can enhance efficiency, it cannot replace the essence of human connection and community. He encourages church leaders to focus on being rather than doing, fostering genuine relationships within their congregations. The conversation explores how disruption, reflection, transformation, and evolution shape both personal and collective journeys in the age of AI. Jeff highlights the need for leaders to embrace change with love and grace, ultimately guiding their communities toward deeper connections and understanding. 00:03:49 – Jeff’s Background Jeff shares his personal background, including his entrepreneurial journey and church leadership experience. 00:06:17 – The Essence of the Book Exploration of the book’s focus on human wisdom versus AI capabilities. 00:07:45 – The Risks of AI Discussion on the potential dangers of outsourcing humanity to machines. 00:09:56 – AI and Religion The impact of AI on religious practices and the importance of human connection. 00:10:14 – Disruption, Reflection, Transformation, Evolution Overview of the book’s structure and the significance of each section. 00:12:02 – Reforming Religion in the Age of AI The need for religious organizations to adapt to the challenges posed by AI. 00:14:11 – Community Experience in Sunday School Reframing the Sunday School experience as a community-building opportunity rather than just knowledge transfer. 00:16:00 – The Importance of Human Connection Emphasizing the need for genuine human interaction in a technology-driven world. 00:21:07 – Bringing Being into Doing Encouragement for leaders to focus on their presence and authenticity in interactions. 00:23:16 – The Role of AI in Church Discussion on how AI can be used as a tool without replacing the human element in lessons and talks. 00:30:29 – Pattern Breakers The significance of individuals who challenge norms and encourage growth within communities. 00:34:50 – Disruption as a Constant Understanding disruption as a natural part of life and leadership. 00:40:10 – Reflection After Disruption The importance of taking time to reflect on disruptions and learn from them. 00:46:22 – Transformation Through Reflection How reflection leads to personal and collective transformation in the face of change. The award-winning Leading Saints Podcast is one of the top independent Latter-day Saints podcasts as part of nonprofit Leading Saints’ mission to help Latter-day Saints be better prepared to lead. Find Leadership Tools, Courses, and Community for Latter-day Saint leaders in the Zion Lab community. Learn more and listen to any of the past episodes for free at LeadingSaints.org. Past guests include Emily Belle Freeman, David Butler, Hank Smith, John Bytheway, Reyna and Elena Aburto, Liz Wiseman, Stephen M. R. Covey, Benjamin Hardy, Elder Alvin F. Meredith III, Julie Beck, Brad Wilcox, Jody Moore, Tony Overbay, John H. Groberg, Elaine Dalton, Tad R. Callister, Lynn G. Robbins, J. Devn Cornish, Bonnie Oscarson, Dennis B. Neuenschwander, Kirby Heyborne, Taysom Hill, Coaches Jennifer Rockwood and Brandon Doman, Anthony Sweat, John Hilton III, Barbara Morgan Gardner, Blair Hodges, Whitney Johnson, Ryan Gottfredson, Greg McKeown, Ganel-Lyn Condie, Michael Goodman, Wendy Ulrich, Richard Ostler, and many more in over 800 episodes. Discover podcasts, articles, virtual conferences, and live events related to callings such as the bishopric, Relief Society, elders quorum, Primary, youth leadership, stake leadership, ward mission, ward council, young adults, ministering, and teaching.

Matt Miles is a Political Science professor at Brigham Young University–Idaho and a co-host of This Week in Mormons and the Latter-day Lens podcasts. Links The Latter-day Lens podcast This Week in Mormons The Metrics of Faith: Rethinking Religion’s Role in US Politics Transcript available with the video in the Zion Lab community Highlights This discussion centers on a research-backed framework for measuring religiosity, moving beyond traditional metrics to focus on the transformative effects of faith on an individual’s life. Beyond the Three B’s: Traditionally, religiosity has been measured by “the three B’s”: Behavior (what a person does), Belonging (their social connections), and Belief (their convictions). Matt Miles argues that these are insufficient measures of genuine faith. The Fourth B: Becoming: A more accurate measure is “religious becoming”—the extent to which a person has been transformed by their faith. This concept suggests that true religiosity is not just about actions but about internal change. Four Aspects of Transformation: Based on his research, Miles identified four universal traits that indicate “religious becoming”: Transcendence (a connection to the divine), Humanity (love for others), Justice (a belief in fairness), and Temperance (humility). Faith and Political Tolerance: The research shows that individuals with higher scores in “religious becoming” are more politically tolerant. They are less likely to view those with opposing political views as a threat, in contrast to those whose faith is measured only by the “three B’s.” Challenges of Genuine Change: The episode highlights the difficulty for leaders and parents in discerning whether someone has truly been transformed by the gospel or is simply going through the motions. Leadership Applications Leaders should focus on teaching a “holistic gospel” that emphasizes the principles of “becoming,” rather than just providing a checklist of behaviors. This encourages genuine internal change over external compliance. The discussion suggests that the Church is effective at teaching “transcendence” (connection to God) but could improve at teaching “humanity” (love for others) and “temperance” (humility). Leaders can apply this insight by creating more opportunities for members to serve others and develop empathy. The research on political tolerance can help leaders foster more charitable and understanding discussions within their wards and stakes, particularly on sensitive topics. The award-winning Leading Saints Podcast is one of the top independent Latter-day Saints podcasts as part of nonprofit Leading Saints’ mission to help Latter-day Saints be better prepared to lead. Find Leadership Tools, Courses, and Community for Latter-day Saint leaders in the Zion Lab community. Learn more and listen to any of the past episodes for free at LeadingSaints.org. Past guests include Emily Belle Freeman, David Butler, Hank Smith, John Bytheway, Reyna and Elena Aburto, Liz Wiseman, Stephen M. R. Covey, Benjamin Hardy, Elder Alvin F. Meredith III, Julie Beck, Brad Wilcox, Jody Moore, Tony Overbay, John H. Groberg, Elaine Dalton, Tad R. Callister, Lynn G. Robbins, J. Devn Cornish, Bonnie Oscarson, Dennis B. Neuenschwander, Kirby Heyborne, Taysom Hill, Coaches Jennifer Rockwood and Brandon Doman, Anthony Sweat, John Hilton III, Barbara Morgan Gardner, Blair Hodges, Whitney Johnson, Ryan Gottfredson, Greg McKeown, Ganel-Lyn Condie, Michael Goodman, Wendy Ulrich, Richard Ostler, and many more in over 800 episodes. Discover podcasts, articles, virtual conferences, and live events related to callings such as the bishopric, Relief Society, elders quorum, Primary, youth leadership, stake leadership, ward mission, ward council, young adults, ministering, and teaching.

Blair Treu is an award-winning director whose work includes a variety of feature films, television shows, documentaries, and commercials for over 30 years—from The Power Rangers to Chicken Soup for the Soul. The writer and director of Sharing Aloha and Meet the Mormons, he graduated from Brigham Young University with a bachelor’s degree in Theatre and began his career at the Walt Disney Company. More recently, Blair worked with BYUtv to create the series Real Families, Real Answers, and was a co-director of Granite Flats. Links Watch the video and share your thoughts in the Leading Saints community Get movie tickets and details at sharingalohathemovie.com Transcript coming soon Get 14-day access to the Zion Lab Content Library Highlights The film Sharing Aloha, directed by Blair Treu, highlights the inspiring stories of students at the Polynesian Cultural Center and their transformative experiences. Blair shares how he became involved with the project, and discusses the unique challenges of capturing the students’ stories, emphasizing their resilience and strong family ties. The film aims to showcase the students’ journeys, illustrating how the PCC provides them with opportunities for education and personal growth. Throughout the conversation, Blair reflects on leadership principles learned from working with the students and the PCC staff. He highlights the importance of appreciation and compassion in leadership, drawing parallels to church leadership. 00:01:52 – Introducing Sharing Aloha Introduction to the film “Sharing Aloha” and its connection to the Polynesian Cultural Center. 00:03:44 – The Genesis of Sharing Aloha Blair Treu discusses how the project came to be and the inspiration behind it. 00:04:55 – The Abundance of Stories The challenge of selecting which stories to tell from the many available. 00:06:47 – Blair Treu’s Background Blair shares his experience and previous projects in film and media. 00:08:44 – The Polynesian Cultural Center Discussion about the PCC and its significance in the film. 00:10:43 – Focus on Student Stories The decision to center the film on the students’ experiences rather than the PCC’s history. 00:12:14 – Insights on the YSA Demographic What Blair learned about the Young Single Adult demographic through the film. 00:13:37 – Cultural Connections The importance of family and community in Polynesian culture. 00:16:42 – The Film’s Format Comparison of “Sharing Aloha” to “Meet the Mormons” in terms of storytelling. 00:18:18 – Funding and Support Details on how the film was funded and its relationship with the PCC. 00:20:38 – Addressing Criticism Discussion on the misconceptions and criticisms surrounding the PCC. 00:22:39 – The Value of Work The benefits students receive from working at the PCC compared to other jobs. 00:24:36 – Leadership in Performance Insights into how the PCC manages its performances and trains students. 00:30:14 – Leadership Lessons from Film Production Blair shares leadership principles learned from directing the film. 00:35:16 – The Importance of Appreciation The significance of recognizing and valuing team members in leadership. 00:38:53 – Final Thoughts on the Film Encouragement to support the film and its impact on the PCC. 00:40:41 – Personal Growth Through the Project How working on “Sharing Aloha” has strengthened Blair’s faith and understanding of community. The award-winning Leading Saints Podcast is one of the top independent Latter-day Saints podcasts as part of nonprofit Leading Saints’ mission to help Latter-day Saints be better prepared to lead. Learn more and listen to any of the past episodes for free at LeadingSaints.org. Past guests include Emily Belle Freeman, David Butler, Hank Smith, John Bytheway, Reyna and Elena Aburto, Liz Wiseman, Stephen M. R. Covey, Benjamin Hardy, Elder Alvin F. Meredith III, Julie Beck, Brad Wilcox, Jody Moore, Tony Overbay, John H. Groberg, Elaine Dalton, Tad R. Callister, Lynn G. Robbins, J. Devn Cornish, Bonnie Oscarson, Dennis B. Neuenschwander, Kirby Heyborne, Taysom Hill, Coaches Jennifer Rockwood and Brandon Doman, Anthony Sweat, John Hilton III, Barbara Morgan Gardner, Blair Hodges, Whitney Johnson, Ryan Gottfredson, Greg McKeown, Ganel-Lyn Condie, Michael Goodman, Wendy Ulrich, Richard Ostler, and many more in over 800 episodes. Discover podcasts, articles, virtual conferences, and live events related to callings such as the bishopric, Relief Society, elders quorum, Primary, youth leadership, stake leadership, ward mission, ward council, young adults, ministering, and teaching.