Leaders on Fire Podcast

Profit isn’t the villain; misplaced priorities are. We wrap the Prioritized Leader journey by showing how purpose, people, pace, and perception create the conditions for healthy profit—and why what you do with margin determines your true impact. You’ll hear a vulnerable story about profit anxiety quietly steering decisions, the relief that comes from realignment, and the freedom of shifting from ownership to stewardship.We dig into a practical and deeply motivating idea: God is the owner, and we are stewards. That mindset doesn’t weaken performance; it elevates it. When every dollar is treated as mission fuel, excellence becomes a trust, teams find fresh meaning in their work, and generosity stops being an afterthought. We share how Leaders on Fire models “purposeful profit” by committing 100% of profits to reinvestment and giving, and how that conviction turned into tangible change—like long-term support for Christ-centered education in the Dominican Republic. Vision trips connect frontline work to lives transformed, revealing the flywheel: purpose inspires, people engage, pace protects, perception clarifies, and profit multiplies impact.If you’re ready to reorder your leadership from the inside out, we also walk through concrete next steps. The Prioritized Leader course and assessment surface where you’re thriving or stuck across the five priorities, then guide you with lectures and workbooks to embed the right order into daily habits. Roundtables and coaching offer accountability and a space to grow, whether you’re early in your faith or seasoned in leadership. Leave with a clear takeaway: margin serves mission, and stewardship turns profit into purpose. Subscribe, share this episode with a leader who needs a fresh lens on profit, and leave a review to help others find the show.Leaders on Firewww.leadersonfire.com

Clarity isn’t luck; it’s built. We take a hard look at perception as the quiet force behind great leadership—how you see yourself, your people, your pace, and your future—and why leaders who slow down actually move farther, faster. Through honest stories and practical frameworks, we unpack four pillars that sharpen the lens: clarity of vision, discernment, self-awareness, and reality checks. Miss one and your plans wobble; integrate all four and decisions get cleaner, conversations get kinder, and culture gets stronger.You’ll hear why morning quiet time and journaling create outsized returns on focus, how a simple jar-of-water metaphor can reset a frantic mind, and why healthy pace is the foundation for seeing clearly. We talk about faith as a source of discernment, the battle with pride that clouds judgment, and the small, repeatable habits that keep perception crisp: dedicated thinking blocks, trusted feedback circles, and lightweight tools that reveal how others experience your leadership. We also connect perception to innovation—reading weak signals in your market, aligning team capacity to shifting needs, and avoiding the trap of plans built on expired assumptions.If you want your intentions to land, start by sharpening how you see. Listen for ways to pair purpose with people, calibrate pace, and then let perception turn insight into action. When leaders slow the jar and let the sediment settle, vision clears, peace returns, and the next step becomes obvious. Subscribe, share with a leader who needs clarity today, and leave a review to help more people find Leaders on Fire.Leaders on Firewww.leadersonfire.com

Ever feel like you’re sprinting a marathon and still slipping behind? We dig into the hidden mechanics of pace and show how it sits at the center of purpose, people, perception, and profit. Using Iron Man racing as a vivid lens, we unpack why fueling, recovery, and cadence decisions determine whether your team finishes strong or flames out. If you’ve ever watched a high performer go “zombie mode” near a deadline, you’ll recognize the cost of poor pacing—and the relief that comes with doing it right.We start by redefining fueling for business: the investments you make in your people, yourself, and the company’s systems. Think practical training, clear processes, and psychological safety instead of empty perks. From there, we map endurance rhythms you can implement this week: no-meeting blocks for deep work, planned sprints with real cool-downs, and leader-modeled boundaries that protect energy. You’ll hear how a people-first culture can push to a 10 when crisis hits, then glide back to baseline without resentment or burnout.We also connect pace to perception—the leader’s ability to see around corners, plan with clarity, and innovate under pressure. When speed stays redlined, cortisol narrows your field of view and you miss the moments that matter. Adaptive pace restores perspective. We share a simple framework that blends fueling strategies, recovery rituals, adaptability in changing seasons, and the kind of grit that sustains excellence without glorifying exhaustion. If you want a team that moves fast and finishes well, this is your playbook.If this resonated, share it with a leader who’s sprinting too long, subscribe for more practical tools, and leave a review so others can find the show.Leaders on Firewww.leadersonfire.com

Culture doesn’t change because of a poster on the wall; it changes when leaders make people their next priority after purpose. We dig into what that looks like day to day and why simple, repeatable behaviors—listening well, recognizing effort, and showing up alongside your team—move engagement and performance faster than any new process. You’ll hear a real turnaround story from an acquired branch that went from worst to best on engagement and results by putting a character-driven, shepherd-style leader in place who balanced care with accountability.We unpack the invitation–challenge matrix to show how belonging and high standards can coexist without burning people out. If you’ve ever wondered why some teams feel safe and driven while others feel anxious or complacent, this framework gives you language and levers you can use immediately. We also break down the Five C’s—character, competency, capacity, chemistry, and calling—as a practical lens for hiring, coaching, and self-evaluation. Expect real tactics: how to recognize people in ways that land, how to read the room with emotional intelligence, and how to avoid spending all your time on chronic low performers while neglecting steady contributors.Finally, we connect people-first leadership to sustainable pace. When trust is banked, teams can sprint for a season and recover without cracking. That’s how purpose flows into profit through people. If you’re ready to build a culture where belonging fuels excellence and accountability feels like care, this conversation delivers the tools and mindset to start today. If it resonates, subscribe, share it with a leader who needs it, and leave a review to help more people find the show.Leaders on Firewww.leadersonfire.com

Fire needs fuel—our leadership needs purpose. We dive straight into the why behind the work, tracing the moments that shaped our convictions and the practices that keep them alive. From a powerful birth story that reset identity to three years serving in the jungles of Papua New Guinea, we unpack how a clear purpose turns fear into focus and even gives meaning to hardship. The thread runs from the deeply personal to the highly practical: how purpose informs vision, how values guide daily choices, and how alignment between personal calling and company mission can transform culture, hiring, generosity, and impact.We share the backbone of our framework—the five priorities—and explain why purpose sits at the top. You’ll hear how a family business grew by placing mission at the center, tithing as a company, and stewarding resources to empower others to flourish. We make the case that purpose is more than a statement on a wall; it’s a decision filter that shapes what you start, what you stop, and what you stay with when the road gets long. When vision (where you’re going) and values (how you act) integrate with purpose (why it matters), leaders gain clarity that scales.If you’ve felt adrift or unsure how to turn a vague calling into concrete action, we walk through tools that help: the Prioritized Leader Purpose module with video guidance and a workbook to define personal purpose, organizational purpose, and lived values; plus our Epic Story: All In resources that root identity and calling in a redemptive narrative. Whether you’re building a startup, leading a team, or rethinking your career, this conversation offers a path to align your why with your work and live it out with courage and consistency.If this resonates, subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a leader who needs a spark. Then check the show notes for links to the assessment and Epic Story resources, and tell us: what’s the next decision your purpose needs to shape?Leaders on Firewww.leadersonfire.com

What if the order of your priorities is the reason your team feels stretched, your strategy feels foggy, and your results feel fragile? We dig into a simple sequence—purpose, people, pace, perception, profit—that quietly rewires how leaders decide, communicate, and grow. Drawing from our own journey in a family business shaped by stewardship and generosity, we share how putting purpose first and profit last (as the outcome) transformed culture, decision-making, and long-term performance.We break down each priority with real examples. Purpose clarifies who you serve and why you exist, and it only sticks when it’s embedded in rhythms and language. People come next because talent isn’t a tool; it’s the engine—development, empowerment, and alignment unlock excellence. Pace sits in the middle for a reason: grow too fast and you burn out; move too slow and you drift. We use an Ironman pacing metaphor to show how sustainability beats speed. With a healthy pace, perception gets sharper—time to think, scan the market, and run an innovation loop that turns insight into action. Then profit arrives as it should: the lifeblood that fuels mission. Where there is no margin, there is no mission—and when the first four are right, margin becomes sustainable.We also introduce practical tools to help you apply this: a robust Prioritized Leader assessment that reveals your true order and depth (pace is almost always off), a comprehensive course with workbooks and study guides on our LoFi platform, and roundtables that add accountability while you implement. Expect candid stories, clear steps, and a fresh way to measure success that ties impact to income without losing your soul.Ready to reorder your leadership and get your time, team, and results back in sync? Listen now, take the assessment, and share which priority you’re shifting this quarter. If this helped, follow the show, leave a review, and pass it to a leader who needs a better pace.Leaders on Firewww.leadersonfire.com

What happens when a successful church leader suddenly finds himself overwhelmed by anxiety and intrusive thoughts? Michael Poorman, Executive Pastor of Mission Point Community Church, takes us on a powerful journey through his unexpected mental health crisis and the transformative lessons he learned in the darkness.Michael's story begins like many ministry leaders - steadily taking on more responsibilities, saying yes to every opportunity, and building a reputation as someone who could handle it all. But when a perfect storm of circumstances hit - including the loss of his mother-in-law in a car accident during COVID and the accumulation of professional responsibilities - he found himself facing debilitating anxiety that he couldn't control through willpower alone.With remarkable vulnerability, Michael shares how this crucible experience forced him to develop new spiritual practices that became lifelines. From praying the Lord's Prayer during moments of overwhelming anxiety to creating what he calls a "trench of truth" to combat intrusive thoughts, his journey reveals practical tools for anyone facing mental health challenges. Most powerfully, he explains how professional counseling and medication became part of God's provision for healing, helping him overcome the shame often associated with mental health treatment.The transformation that emerged from Michael's suffering has rippled outward, enabling him to minister to others with newfound compassion. His "rule of life" now prioritizes slowness, rest, and intentional connection with God - disciplines that fuel sustainable leadership rather than the burnout-inducing pace he once maintained. For anyone currently walking through their own crucible experience, Michael's story offers both practical wisdom and the hope that God truly does refine us through fire, shaping us into leaders whose dependence on Him becomes their greatest strength.Leaders on Firewww.leadersonfire.com

What happens when personal tragedy reshapes your entire approach to leadership? Matt Binkerd, Athletic Director at Warsaw Community High School, opens up about the midnight phone call that changed everything—his 20-year-old nephew had died at a college party. This devastating loss forced Matt to confront how sports were pushing faith to the margins of his family's life.From the crucible of grief emerged a transformed vision: helping young athletes see sports not just as competition, but as a platform for spiritual growth. "It's not about what you do," Matt explains, "but who you're becoming in Christ through your participation in sports." This perspective shift completely transformed his approach to athletic leadership.Matt's journey from Oregon to Indiana unfolds through a series of remarkable "divine appointments"—his children attending Midwest Christian colleges, his family's house selling unexpectedly in two days, and a last-minute job interview that almost didn't happen because of a flight schedule. Each seemingly random event formed part of a larger purpose that Matt only recognized in retrospect.Now at Warsaw Community High School, Matt has created the Fellowship of Shepherd Athletes, a student-led program where young people apply biblical principles to their athletic experiences. His book, "Maintain the Heart of a Shepherd Coach," guides others in this philosophy while respecting the separation of church and state in public education.For anyone wrestling with personal tragedy or seeking deeper purpose in leadership, Matt's story offers profound hope. The crucible moments that refine us—though painful—often reveal our truest calling and help us emerge as "Leaders On Fire" with renewed clarity and mission.Leaders on Firewww.leadersonfire.com

What if your greatest challenges are actually precious opportunities for transformation? Brent Wildman knows this truth intimately. At 60 years old, he completed his first Ironman triathlon. At 72, he just finished his 12th. But these physical feats merely symbolize a deeper reality he's discovered through decades of business leadership and ministry."Life itself is the crucible experience," Brent reveals in this heart-stirring conversation. As founder of Second Mile Adventures, he's dedicated his life to creating challenging experiences that push people beyond their comfort zones—physically, mentally, and spiritually. Why? Because he's witnessed firsthand how these crucible moments burn away impurities and reveal what truly matters.Brent's journey from reluctant businessman to passionate ministry leader unfolds through remarkable stories of divine intervention. Standing in his father's dry cleaning store at age 13, he somehow knew he'd return to business despite having other dreams. Years later, that business would double in size through what Brent calls "literally, impossible situations that never should have happened. Only because God made it possible did it happen."Most powerful is Brent's description of a transcendent moment at a familiar intersection. As Third Day played on his car radio, the lyrics "Who is this King of glory that pursues you with this love?" seemed to leap from the speakers and imprint themselves on his windshield. This divine appointment became the defining theme of his life's work.The wisdom Brent shares applies to everyone facing challenges—whether in leadership, relationships, or personal growth. Are you retreating from difficulties or stepping into them with faith? Are you allowing yourself to be refined through life's crucibles? And once refined, are you helping others navigate their own challenging paths?Listen now to discover how embracing your crucible moments can transform you into a leader who truly makes a difference—a leader on fire.Leaders on Firewww.leadersonfire.com

What does it truly mean to be a "leader on fire"? In this profound conversation with Steve Longbreak, we discover that authentic leadership often emerges not from displaying strength, but from embracing vulnerability through childlike faith.At 73, Steve brings decades of wisdom from his journey as a Christian school administrator, founder of Race to Win Ministries, and his work with Sylvius Insurance Group helping marketplace professionals integrate faith into their careers. Though officially retired, Steve remains actively involved on several boards, continuing to mentor leaders with the same passion that has defined his life's work.The heart of our conversation explores the crucible moments that transformed Steve's leadership. He vulnerably shares about losing his first wife to cancer when their children were just 12 and 14, leaving him to navigate single parenthood while maintaining his professional responsibilities. What's remarkable isn't just that he survived this devastating period, but how his unwavering faith became the foundation for a deeper, more empathetic approach to leadership."A childlike faith is a step toward wisdom," Steve explains, offering a counterintuitive perspective on leadership that challenges conventional thinking. Rather than viewing leadership as something we accomplish through our own strength, Steve suggests true leadership emerges when we acknowledge our dependency on God's wisdom and provision.This conversation offers a refreshing alternative to typical leadership advice. Instead of adding spiritual principles to our existing leadership framework, Steve encourages us to recognize ourselves as children of God, stewarding what He has entrusted to us for His purposes. For anyone navigating their own crucible moments or seeking to lead with greater authenticity, Steve's journey provides both comfort and challenge.How might your leadership transform if approached with childlike faith rather than self-determination? Listen now and discover what being a "leader on fire" truly means.Leaders on Firewww.leadersonfire.com

What if your greatest failures are actually divine refinement in disguise? Bob Vitoux knows this transformation firsthand.Growing up in a tiny Indiana town with a father who taught him to "make others the hero," Bob became the first in his family to attend college. Through his journey from public accounting to executive leadership in orthopedics, Bob discovered that leadership isn't forged in comfort but in the crucible of challenge.When asked about his defining crucible moments, Bob doesn't point to dramatic events but to failure itself. "It's during those times of failure that our greatest learnings happen," he reflects with hard-earned wisdom. Taking over an organization down to just one employee, he faced not only operational hurdles but personal growth regarding inclusivity. "I had some pretty strong biases," he admits candidly, "but I don't think I was as conscious of how I expressed that and made others feel."This delicate balance—maintaining principled leadership while ensuring others feel valued—became a cornerstone of Bob's leadership philosophy. His time at Ambassador Enterprises solidified this approach, teaching him to pursue a three-returns mission: financial returns enabling cultural and eternal impact.Perhaps most powerful is Bob's perspective on diversity: "What a remarkably boring place the kingdom would be if we were all exactly the same." Through forty years of marriage, fifteen relocations, and countless leadership challenges, Bob has emerged as a leader on fire—not because he avoided the heat, but because he allowed it to refine him.Are you currently facing your own crucible moment? Listen and discover how your greatest challenges might be preparing you for transformative leadership.Leaders on Firewww.leadersonfire.com

Ever found yourself in the middle of a challenge so grueling that quitting seems not just reasonable, but necessary? Drew Scholl takes you to the heart of the Madison Wisconsin Ironman triathlon—where relentless rain, punishing winds, and near-freezing temperatures created what many called the most brutal race conditions they'd ever witnessed.Through vivid storytelling, Drew recounts how nearly a third of athletes abandoned their Ironman dreams that day. The transition area resembled a "morgue," with competitors wrapped in aluminum blankets, shivering uncontrollably. Yet something deeper than mere athletic ambition kept him moving forward through the 2.4-mile swim, 112-mile bike ride, and 26.2-mile marathon. What compels someone to endure such voluntary suffering? More importantly, what can we learn from these crucible moments that applies to leadership and life?The parallels between endurance sports and spiritual perseverance become strikingly clear as Drew unpacks the Apostle Paul's wisdom that "suffering produces perseverance, perseverance produces character, and character produces hope." Just as athletes voluntarily subject themselves to rigorous discipline for temporary rewards, we're invited to embrace life's challenges as refinement opportunities leading to eternal significance. Whether you're facing professional obstacles, personal trials, or spiritual doubts, this episode offers a compelling framework for pressing forward when everything in you wants to quit. Listen now to discover how your current crucible might be forging you into a leader on fire, ready to inspire others through your example of steadfast endurance.Leaders on Firewww.leadersonfire.com

Kirk Burnett's journey from broken to bold reveals the transformative power of crucible moments in leadership development. When Kirk first joined Wildman Business Group, he described himself as directionless—focused on partying and self-gratification with no real compass for his life. What he encountered at Wildman was a culture unlike anything he'd experienced before, centered on authentic faith and genuine care for others.The defining crucible that reshaped Kirk's character came through a promotion that thrust him into 80-100 hour workweeks alongside his mentor. Rather than viewing this grueling schedule as exploitation, Kirk recognized it as purposeful refinement—separating him from destructive habits while surrounding him with positive influences. What's remarkable about Kirk's story isn't just the intensity of his crucible, but his response to it. Instead of resisting the discomfort, he leaned in completely, becoming voracious in his pursuit of growth through spiritual disciplines and leadership development.Through company-sponsored mission trips, Kirk's heart was broken by the poverty he witnessed in the Dominican Republic. After several visits, he felt unmistakably called to relocate there permanently with Second Mile Missions. Nine years later, Kirk has created an extraordinary life of purpose—serving the community, mastering Spanish through complete immersion, meeting his wife, and raising two children there.Kirk's transformation demonstrates what happens when we embrace our crucible moments rather than run from them. His journey from self-centered employee to mission-focused leader shows how periods of intense pressure, when approached with the right mindset, can forge extraordinary character and purpose. Whether you're currently in your own crucible or emerging from one, this conversation offers powerful insight into how our most challenging seasons often prepare us for our greatest calling.Leaders on Firewww.leadersonfire.com

When successful entrepreneurs and creatives face crucibles of transformation, what emerges on the other side? In this vulnerable conversation with Bible Project founders Tim Mackie and John Collins, we journey into the heart of what it means to surrender identity and embrace divine redirection.John Collins shares the wrenching year-long process of selling his business – a decision that threatened not just his financial security but his very sense of self. "What made it so hard was that my identity of being a successful creative felt like failure to walk away," he reveals. Through spiraling fears and depression, John encountered a pivotal moment when God asked him, "Won't I still be enough?" This question cut through layers of fear, freeing him to step into an unknown future that would eventually birth the Bible Project.Meanwhile, Tim Mackie was undergoing his own vocational crucible. Despite his scholarly nature and introverted personality, he had pursued urban pastoral ministry until panic attacks signaled a profound misalignment. "My crucible was giving up being the cool hip urban pastor guy and recognizing that's just not who I'm made to be," Tim explains. His journey reveals the courage required to release cultural expectations and embrace authentic calling.What makes this episode particularly powerful is the reflection on divine timing in our suffering. Tim draws from the seven-day creation narrative to illustrate how all non-divine beings must journey through cycles of light and darkness toward completion. "The biblical story tells us that our cycles of going through the night are going somewhere," he observes, offering hope that our crucibles serve an essential purpose in character formation.Whether you're currently facing your own crucible or helping others through theirs, this conversation offers profound insights on surrender, authentic leadership, and the redemptive purpose behind our most challenging seasons.Leaders on Firewww.leadersonfire.com

In this insightful episode, we are joined by John and Tim, the founders of the Bible Project, as they share their crucible moment. They narrate their own personal journeys, detailing how they found purpose and strength in adversity, reminding us that trials can refine and mold us into effective leaders on fire.Throughout our conversation, we discuss the interplay between faith, challenges, and transformation. The guests weave in Biblical principles that illuminate how trials can lead to greater understanding and growth. From the testing of one's faith to navigating tough decisions, John and Tim offer a unique approach to seeing the value in crucible moments. They emphasize the importance of shared experiences and community, creating a sense of belonging as we all navigate our respective paths.This episode invites listeners to reflect on their crucible moments and consider how these experiences have contributed to their personal journeys. As we delve into these themes of resilience and purpose, we hope to encourage you to embrace your challenges and emerge as a leader on fire. Join us for an uplifting discussion that leaves you not only inspired but equipped to tackle the tests life throws your way. Don’t forget to share and engage with us about your own experiences!Watch The Test here:https://bibleproject.com/explore/video/the-test/?utm_source=web_social_share&medium=shared_videoLeaders on Firewww.leadersonfire.com

What happens when a semi-professional wakeboarder faces a life-changing injury and finds unexpected purpose in the family business? Join us as we sit down with Josh Wildman, CEO of Wildman Business Group, who shares his journey from aspiring athlete to successful business leader. With nearly 500 employees across seven locations, Josh's story is one of growth, faith, and unforeseen paths. Discover how his passion for wakeboarding continues through his sons, and how a commitment to giving has steered the company towards success.Explore a narrative filled with personal and professional challenges, including the transformative power of a sabbatical taken during the COVID-19 pandemic. Josh opens up about the emotional struggle of letting go during a crisis and the crucial role of faith and trust in navigating leadership crucibles. We discuss insights from the book of James and leadership experts like John Maxwell, offering wisdom for those in the throes of their own trials. This episode promises to inspire with lessons on resilience and unwavering belief in one's purpose.Leaders on Firewww.leadersonfire.com

What happens when a commercial contractor finds himself on a transformative journey into the heart of community service? Eric Lane, the founder and executive director of Fellowship Missions, joins us to share his fascinating transition from project management to leading a nonprofit in Warsaw, Indiana, that supports those struggling with homelessness and addiction. Drawn by a construction project at Warsaw Community Church, Eric's career took an unexpected turn, fueled by pivotal life decisions and the unwavering support of his wife, Tammy. Eric candidly reflects on the moments that stirred his soul, inspiring him to embrace his calling and change the lives of countless individuals within his community.Eric recounts the challenging yet enriching journey of establishing Fellowship Missions, highlighting the importance of faith and perseverance. From the initial steps in 2010 to addressing housing support needs to the pivotal spiritual experiences that shaped his path, Eric's story is a testament to trusting in a higher plan. You'll hear about the liberating process of stepping out of your comfort zone, evidenced by anecdotes of moving to Papua New Guinea and adopting a child. By weaving scriptural insights with personal anecdotes, Eric's narrative encourages listeners to embrace change, recognize divine opportunities, and find fulfillment in aligning with a greater purpose. Join us for a conversation that promises to inspire and uplift, illuminating the power of faith and resilience in leadership.Leaders on Firewww.leadersonfire.com

Have you ever pondered the impact of the 'birth lottery' and how it shapes lives and opportunities? Join us as Riley Fuller, the passionate visionary behind Humanity and Hope United and Generous Coffee, takes us through his inspiring journey of purpose-driven leadership. Riley's life story, enriched by his unwavering faith and a pivotal moment of revelation in 2013, sheds light on how love, hope, and respect can transform communities and lives. He opens up about his personal evolution from a childhood anchored in sports to a path of service and leadership that seeks to uplift those affected by life's inherent inequalities.Riley's path has not been without its challenges. Drawing strength from a spiritual turning point in October 2020, Riley shares how life’s adversities have refined his character and reinforced his commitment to his mission. Our recent adventure to Honduras with Riley offered a glimpse into the transformative work being done on the ground, a testament to his relentless dedication to creating lasting change. Through reflection on these experiences, Riley encourages us to view our struggles as opportunities to grow into empowered leaders with a burning purpose.Our conversation provides a message of hope and transformation, urging listeners to embrace their personal crucibles as a divine shaping of destiny. We explore how these moments of trial can be the forge that molds us into leaders ignited with passion and resilience. Whether you're a parent, a leader, or someone seeking inspiration, this episode promises a wealth of insights and encouragement to navigate life's challenges and emerge stronger on the other side.Leaders on Firewww.leadersonfire.com

What drives someone to leave everything they know and start anew in a foreign land? Meet Shaé Brown, the inspiring founder and executive director of the Kutoa Project, whose profound journey from growing up in foster care in Warsaw, Indiana, to becoming a beacon of change in Kenya is nothing short of remarkable. Shea's story is one of triumph over trauma, revealing how personal challenges shaped her path in social work and counseling. Her decision to move to Kenya right after college wasn't just a leap of faith but a testament to her dedication to creating safe spaces for healing and growth.Establishing the Kutoa Project presented its own set of trials and triumphs. Shaé candidly shares the complexities of starting a ministry in a new cultural landscape, touching on the allure of partnerships that could have led her off course and the necessity of building trust and credibility. The episode explores the balance between professional commitments and personal life, especially as Shaé adjusted to marriage in a new country. Despite the setbacks of the pandemic and personal losses, her commitment to the organization's core values and mission remained steadfast, emphasizing the importance of resilience and restorative care for families.Shaé's journey doesn't stop at professional achievements—it delves into profound personal growth and leadership evolution. As Kutoa expands, Shaé reflects on the emotional intricacies of transitioning leadership roles to locals, a move that fulfills the organization's empowering mission. Through overcoming grief and burnout, she underscores how these experiences fortified her leadership skills and transformed her organization. Listeners will find inspiration in Shaé's reflections on finding peace and purpose beyond career success, embracing each phase of life with faith, resilience, and an unwavering passion for leading with integrity.Leaders on Firewww.leadersonfire.com

How does a small-town enthusiast become a visionary leader in the media industry? Meet Mason Geiger, the creative genius and CEO behind DreamOn Studios, as he joins us to share his remarkable journey. From his early love of cycling and endurance sports to his passion for storytelling, Mason's journey in this tale of resilience, faith, and leadership. As Mason recounts the pivotal moments in his life, he reveals how these experiences shaped his unique leadership style and personal philosophy.Mason takes us on an adventure from his humble beginnings in high school to the bustling streets of Los Angeles and back home again, each step adding depth to his vision for DreamOn Studios. It all started with a dream sparked by dissatisfaction with local media and grew into a thriving collaboration with Tim Early and Matt Deuel. Through Mason's storytelling, we uncover the challenges and triumphs that forged DreamOn Studios into a state-of-the-art creative haven in Warsaw, where individual and organizational narratives come alive.Experience the transformative power of endurance and personal growth as Mason discusses the crucible moments that have tested and refined his character. Whether it's through his involvement with Team Triumph or embracing the unpredictable nature of life, Mason exemplifies the spirit of a leader on fire. He inspires us all to pursue our own paths with determination, humility, and a commitment to serving others. Join us for an episode that celebrates the incredible journey of Mason Geiger and the impact of DreamOn Studios, leaving you motivated to tackle your own life's challenges with courage and purpose.Leaders on Firewww.leadersonfire.com

Ever wondered how life's toughest challenges can forge you into a leader with unbreakable resilience? Join me, Drew Scholl, on this enlightening episode of the Leaders on Fire podcast as we explore the concept of crucible moments—those intense experiences that test our limits but ultimately refine us into stronger individuals. Drawing wisdom from the scriptures and the book of James, we unpack how embracing these trials with hope and faith can transform them into powerful growth opportunities. Discover how to shift your perspective and see life's adversities not as obstacles but as stepping stones to becoming a leader on fire.Throughout the episode, we recount the inspiring story of Florence Chadwick, a long-distance swimmer who exemplified perseverance in the face of daunting challenges. Despite failing her first attempt to swim the Catalina Channel due to harsh conditions, Chadwick's unwavering vision and determination led her to success just two months later. Her journey serves as a vivid reminder of the power of keeping our eyes on the unseen and eternal rewards of enduring life's crucibles. Tune in to learn how to harness the heat of your own trials, trusting that you're being molded into a masterpiece ready for the great things ahead.Leaders on Firewww.leadersonfire.com

On the surface, Beth Rooney's career transition from the medical device industry to the nonprofit sector might seem like a leap, but her inspiring narrative reveals a path defined by passion and purpose. Teaming up with Rod Meyer, Beth began her journey with C4One as a volunteer, eventually embracing a full-time role as the Administrative Director. Our conversation with Beth offers a profound look at the struggles and triumphs of leaving behind the corporate world for a life dedicated to meaningful work. Her story is a testament to the power of faith and vision in overcoming financial uncertainties and making a real impact in the community.Reflecting on a personal milestone, our guest shares the pivotal decision made on February 2, 2019—her 41st birthday—to abstain from alcohol for 90 days. This choice marked the beginning of a significant transformation. Grappling with dissatisfaction and seeking deeper fulfillment, Beth's journey became an exploration of vulnerability and spiritual renewal. Her candid revelations about emotional dependency and finding comfort in faith offer a compelling narrative of personal refinement and discovering strength through letting go.As the story unfolds, listeners will encounter a powerful tale of healing and newfound faith. Over two years, life changes propelled Beth into a period of isolation that ultimately catalyzed a spiritual awakening. Embracing new relationships and a vibrant connection with faith, she emerged from the crucible of personal challenges with a renewed sense of purpose. Celebrating her recent engagement, Beth's journey highlights the transformative power of surrendering to a higher plan and the joy of contributing meaningfully to her community.Leaders on Firewww.leadersonfire.com

What if life's toughest challenges were actually opportunities in disguise? Join us on the Leaders on Fire Podcast as we sit down with Keith Sampson, a dynamic serial entrepreneur and thought leader, who exemplifies the art of balancing business success with personal growth. Keith shares his incredible journey from Maryland to the heart of Indiana, where the communities of Winona Lake and Warsaw played a crucial role in shaping his personal and professional life. Through thought-provoking storytelling, Keith reveals how the Global Leadership Summit ignited his passion for leadership and how he manages the demanding roles of entrepreneur and father.Keith's story is a testament to the power of resilience and a growth mindset. He opens up about a pivotal life experience—his father's diagnosis with Lou Gehrig's disease—that became a catalyst for embracing life's crucible moments. Through personal anecdotes, Keith illustrates how physical fitness, mental resilience, and emotional well-being are pathways to high performance. Excitement builds around the upcoming Growth Summit event in Warsaw, Indiana, where renowned speakers will inspire personal and community transformation. This episode is your invitation to reflect on personal growth, embrace challenges, and make a meaningful impact through consistent, intentional actions.Leaders on Firewww.leadersonfire.com

What happens when your faith is tested to the point of transformation? Join us on this compelling episode of the Leaders on Fire podcast as we sit down with Rod Mayer, a leader whose journey of faith and personal growth has redefined his approach to life and leadership. Rod opens up about finding his purpose through a deep relationship with Christ, which has shaped his roles as a husband, father, and entrepreneur. Through a powerful metaphor of the crucible, Rod shares how facing trials not only tested his leadership but also refined him into a passionate leader on fire.We shift gears to a poignant personal testimony of transformation, where the journey from turmoil to spiritual awakening unfolds. On December 10, 1992, a pivotal moment marked the beginning of a profound change, steering away from a life marked by struggles such as alcohol abuse. The story takes a heartfelt turn with the depiction of Ann Margaret, whose short life brought immense challenges but also a strengthened faith and renewed leadership. This narrative unfolds themes of loss, redemption, and the enduring power of faith through adversity.As our conversation progresses, we delve into the trials that often feel overwhelming, comparing them to a forest fire that seems to engulf hope. By highlighting faith and community as pillars of strength, we offer insights into navigating these moments with resilience. Rod, alongside other inspiring leaders, illustrates how embracing these 'crucible' moments can ignite a passion for leadership and personal growth. This episode promises hope and encouragement, suggesting that the challenges we face are integral to shaping effective, passionate leaders who inspire others on their journey.Leaders on Firewww.leadersonfire.com