EPISODE 257: What if the true measure of your leadership isn’t what you build… but what you leave behind?
In this episode of Linch with a Leader, Mike Linch sits down with David Ashcraft, former Senior Pastor of LCBC Church and current President of the Global Leadership Network, for a powerful conversation about vision, succession, calling, and staying faithful in every season of leadership.
David’s journey spans more than three decades of impact:
from growing up in Texas determined not to become a pastor…
to leading LCBC Church from 150 to over 25,000 across 19 campuses…
to walking through conflict, culture shifts, and calling as the church scaled…
to developing one of the most intentional, healthy leadership handoffs in modern ministry.
What unfolds is a conversation rich with wisdom about longevity, systems thinking, spiritual identity, and the legacy every leader leaves—whether they plan for it or not.
Together, Mike and David explore how to lead through adversity, how to create a culture that doesn’t depend on one person, why succession should start a decade in advance, and how staying curious and humble sets the tone for finishing well.
Whether you’re a pastor wondering how to navigate succession, a business leader scaling a team, or a young leader trying to think long-term—this episode will expand your vision and sharpen your purpose.
🎯 Leadership Lessons from David:
- Leaders don’t quit in storms, they stay until God says otherwise.
- You don’t get what you expect, you get what you inspect.
- Healthy succession starts long before the handoff.
- Culture is shaped by what you celebrate and what you won’t tolerate.
- Systems empower scale. Ego prevents it.
- Legacy leadership is about preparing others to succeed without you.
- Faithful leaders don’t chase platforms, they steward what’s in their hands.
🎧 Listen & Subscribe
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/linch-with-a-leader/id1279929826
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0dJfeLbikJlKlBqAx6mDYW?si=3be196d45ecc469c
📝 Show notes & more: www.mikelinch.com
📺 Watch on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@linchwithaleader
🗓️ Join Mike on a Sunday at NorthStar: www.northstarchurch.org | www.youtube.com/@nsckennesaw
📱Follow Mike:
Instagram: @MikeLinch
X/Twitter: @Mike Linch
Timestamps:
What if the greatest impact you’ll ever make isn’t just about what you build, but how you hand it off?
In this episode of Linch with a Leader, Mike Linch sits down with David Ashcraft, former Senior Pastor of LCBC Church and President of the Global Leadership Network, to unpack a story of vision, resilience, and the kind of leadership that outlasts a title.
From refusing to become a pastor…
to leading a church from 150 to over 25,000 across 19 locations…
to one of the most intentional leadership transitions you’ll ever hear,
David’s journey is a masterclass in longevity, humility, and raising up the leaders around you.
Together, Mike and David explore what it really means to lead well over decades; not just at scale, but with integrity at home, in your heart, and through seasons of both conflict and calling.
They talk about building culture that lasts, creating systems that empower others, and why the success of your leadership is ultimately measured when you’re no longer in the room.
Whether you’re leading a team, planting a church, or wondering when (and how) to let go—this episode will challenge how you define success and inspire you to lead with the end in mind.
Mike’s Leadership Lessons from David:
• “You don’t get what you expect. You get what you inspect.”
• Culture is built by what you celebrate—and what you refuse to allow.
• Great leaders stay through storms. Weak ones walk away.
• Succession planning isn’t a 6-month process—it’s a 10-year investment.
• Systems allow growth. Ego prevents it.
• If you’re the lid, the organization stops with you.
• Your identity isn’t in your title—it’s in your obedience.
Welcome to the Linch with a Leader Podcast, where you're invited to join the spiritual principles behind big success, with host Mike Linch.
Subscribe to the channel so you never miss an episode:
Watch: @linchwithaleader
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Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0dJfeLbikJlKlBqAx6mDYW?si=6ffed84956cb4848
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/linch-with-a-leader/id1279929826
Find show notes and more information at: www.mikelinch.com
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TIMESTAMPS
00:00 From Texas Roots to Pennsylvania Calling
05:52 Lessons from a Father's Leadership
08:41 Navigating Early Challenges in Ministry
11:01 The Growth Journey of LCBC
13:56 Leadership Evolution Amidst Growth
16:32 Building a Strong Staff Culture
18:44 The Importance of Communication and Accountability
21:39 Balancing Family and Ministry
24:20 Maintaining Disciplines and Focus
26:08 Establishing Boundaries in Leadership
28:05 Navigating Leadership Challenges
31:01 The Importance of Succession Planning
31:23 Recognizing the Right Time to Transition
38:23 Dealing with Identity After Transition
40:21 Finding New Purpose After Leadership
43:09 Staying Curious and Committed to Learning
EPISODE 256: What if the career God is calling you to isn't the one you planned for, and following Him means trusting the detours?
In this episode of Linch with a Leader, Mike Linch sits down with Molly McManimie, NFL Agent and Director of Football at the Wasserman Agency, for a deeply honest conversation about calling, faith, burnout, and alignment in one of the most competitive industries in the world.
Molly’s journey is anything but linear:
from dreaming of a future on the Supreme Court…
to navigating law school and early career burnout…
to an unexpected phone call that launched her into the NFL…
to now representing elite athletes while discipling others through her local church.
What unfolds is a powerful conversation about identity before position, why burnout is often a misalignment issue, and how God uses zigzags; not straight lines to shape leaders of depth, integrity, and courage.
Together, Mike and Molly explore what it means to lead with honesty, to tell the truth when it’s uncomfortable, to walk through open doors God places in front of you, and to move from simply believing in God to fully following Him.
Whether you’re a young professional searching for direction, a leader questioning your next step, or someone feeling drained in a role that no longer fits,this episode will meet you right where you are.
🎯 Leadership Lessons from Molly:
- Burnout isn’t about doing too much, it’s about doing what isn’t aligned.
- God often reveals calling through detours, not clarity.
- Faithful leadership requires honesty, availability, and courage.
- Preparation builds confidence; discipline fuels trust.
- Your character matters more than your résumé.
- Following Jesus changes how you lead in every space.
- Purpose often makes the most sense in hindsight.
🎧 Listen & Subscribe
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/linch-with-a-leader/id1279929826
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0dJfeLbikJlKlBqAx6mDYW?si=3be196d45ecc469c
📝 Show notes & more: www.mikelinch.com
📺 Watch on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@linchwithaleader
🗓️ Join Mike on a Sunday at NorthStar: www.northstarchurch.org | www.youtube.com/@nsckennesaw
📱Follow Mike:
Instagram: @MikeLinch
X/Twitter: @Mike Linch
Timestamps:
In this conversation, Mike Linch and Casey Linch discuss the importance of capturing negative thoughts as a leader, the journey of leadership, and the role of faith in personal growth. They reflect on their experiences and the influence of mentors in their lives, emphasizing the need for self-awareness and resilience in leadership roles. The discussion also touches on the significance of gratitude towards listeners and the anticipation of future conversations.
EPISODE 255: What if the role you're in isn't the one you were made for and God is calling you to something you never expected?
In this episode of Linch with a Leader, Mike Linch sits down with John Felkins, Executive Director of Coaching for EntreLeadership Elite at Ramsey Solutions, to unpack a powerful story of calling, identity, and how God uses every chapter of our lives, even the confusing ones, to shape who we become as leaders.
John’s journey is anything but linear:
from growing up on an almond farm…
to dreaming of being a fighter pilot…
to grinding through engineering school out of insecurity…
to accidentally becoming the coach who built Ramsey’s leadership coaching program.
What emerges is a deeply honest conversation about faith, self-awareness, limiting beliefs, and the inner battles leaders silently carry.
🎯 Leadership Lessons from John
- You can’t lead others if you haven’t learned to lead yourself.
- God never wastes your story, even the parts -you wouldn’t choose.
- Limiting beliefs don’t disappear; leaders confront them head‑on.
- Wholehearted leadership is sustainable leadership.
- Faith doesn’t sit outside leadership — it shapes it.
- Identity must be formed before leadership can flourish.
- Purpose often becomes clear only in the rearview mirror.
🎧 Listen & Subscribe
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/linch-with-a-leader/id1279929826
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0dJfeLbikJlKlBqAx6mDYW?si=3be196d45ecc469c
📝 Show notes & more: www.mikelinch.com
📺 Watch on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@linchwithaleader
🗓️ Join Mike on a Sunday at NorthStar: www.northstarchurch.org | www.youtube.com/@nsckennesaw
📱Follow Mike:
Instagram: @MikeLinch
X/Twitter: @Mike Linch
Timestamps:
00:00 Introduction
05:03 Culture and Leadership at Ramsey
07:25 Personal Journey and Early Aspirations
10:01 The Role of Faith in Leadership
12:35 Transition from Engineering to Leadership
14:56 Overcoming Limiting Beliefs
17:20 The Importance of Lifelong Learning
19:38 Developing Confidence and Resilience
22:28 Purpose and Impact in Leadership
In this episode, Casey Linch and Mike Linch discuss insights from Mark Batterson's new book, 'Gradually, Then Suddenly.' They explore themes of leadership, adaptation, and legacy, emphasizing the importance of persistence and intentionality in achieving success. The conversation highlights how leaders can adapt their methods while maintaining their core message and the significance of being respected by those closest to us as a measure of true success.
EPISODE 254: What if the breakthrough you're waiting for is closer than you think?
In this episode of Linch with a Leader, Mike Linch sits down with bestselling author and pastor Mark Batterson to unpack the powerful themes behind his newest book, 'Gradually Then Suddenly' a compelling look at long obedience, legacy, and the slow, steady work God does in our lives.
Together they unpack:
▪️ Why "overnight success" is an oxymoron
▪️ What 13 years of waiting taught Mark about calling
▪️ How to build spiritual habits that last
▪️ The difference between vision and long vision
▪️ How to recognize when your ego is creeping into your leadership
No matter where you're at in this season: planting, waiting, persevering, or dreaming, this episode will encourage you to stay the course, trust God's pace, and not quit one day before the walls fall.
🎯 Leadership Lessons from Mark
- Destiny is not a mystery, it's built on daily decisions.
- Legacy is created through consistency, not charisma.
- God's greatest work often happens gradually... until suddenly.
- Every leader must guard their heart more than their platform.
- Spiritual habits determine spiritual longevity.
- The long game always wins over the fast game.
- Never quit one day before the walls fall.
🎧 Listen & Subscribe
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/linch-with-a-leader/id1279929826
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0dJfeLbikJlKlBqAx6mDYW?si=3be196d45ecc469c
📝 Show notes & more: www.mikelinch.com
📺 Watch on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@linchwithaleader
🗓️ Join Mike on a Sunday at NorthStar: www.northstarchurch.org | www.youtube.com/@nsckennesaw
📱Follow Mike:
Instagram: @MikeLinch
X/Twitter: @Mike Linch
📚 Read 'Gradually Then Suddenly': www.markbatterson.com/books/gradually-then-suddenly/
Timestamps:
00:00 Welcoming New Beginnings
05:53 Embracing the Joy of Grandparenting
08:33 Daily Disciplines for a Centered Life
11:01 The Long Game of Leadership
13:29 Navigating the Messy Middle of Life
16:26 Falling in Love with Gradually
18:52 The Power of Long Obedience
21:25 Long Vision for Future Generations
24:03 Creating a Legacy Beyond Ourselves
26:29 The Challenges of Long Obedience
29:01 Defining Legacy in Leadership
In this episode, Mike and Casey Linch discuss the profound insights shared by Randy Alcorn regarding living with eternity in mind and the importance of generosity. They explore how believers can approach their faith and finances with a focus on making a meaningful impact, rather than merely seeking personal security. The conversation emphasizes the heart behind generosity and the legacy it creates, encouraging listeners to adopt a mindset of stewardship and investment in their communities.
EPISODE 253: What if you realized your life today shaped your eternity tomorrow?
In this episode of Linch with a Leader, Mike Linch sits down with bestselling author and theologian, Randy Alcorn, to unpack biblical truths about eternal rewards, generosity, and what it means to live for the "long tomorrow."
Together they unpack:
▪️ Do all Christians hear "Well done" in heaven?
▪️ Why rewards in heaven don't compromise grace
▪️ How Jesus wants you to think about money
▪️ Randy's personal story of giving and legacy
▪️ Why your generosity today echoes in eternity
No matter where you're at in your life, your eternity is at stake. This is an episode you don't want to miss!
🎯 Truths from Joby
- The concept of rewards in heaven is often misunderstood.
- Good works are valuable to God and should be pursued by believers.
- Eternal rewards are based on our actions and faithfulness on earth.
- Living with an eternal perspective changes how we view our lives.
- Giving is a greater blessing than receiving, as taught by Jesus.
- The balance between grace and works is crucial in understanding salvation.
🎧 Listen & Subscribe
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/linch-with-a-leader/id1279929826
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0dJfeLbikJlKlBqAx6mDYW?si=3be196d45ecc469c
📝 Show notes & more: www.mikelinch.com
📺 Watch on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@linchwithaleader
🗓️ Join Mike on a Sunday at NorthStar: www.northstarchurch.org | www.youtube.com/@nsckennesaw
📱Follow Mike:
Instagram: @MikeLinch
X/Twitter: @Mike Linch
📚 Read 'The Law of Rewards': https://a.co/d/c84sgL5
TIMESTAMPS:
00:00 The Journey of a Writer
06:34 Exploring Eternal Rewards
10:21 Understanding God's Economy
13:53 Balancing Grace and Works
17:31 The Importance of Good Works
21:59 The Significance of Money in Faith
27:37 The Impact of Mentorship and Gratitude
31:48 The Joy of Giving vs. Receiving
39:55 Understanding Eternal Rewards
47:19 Living for the Long Tomorrow
In this conversation, Mike Linch reflects on his recent episode with Katie Cole, discussing the relevance of her insights in leadership, particularly for those in their 40s. He emphasizes the importance of making intentional choices about where to invest time and energy, especially as one matures in their career. The discussion also touches on the significance of soul health and how it intertwines with leadership effectiveness. Mike shares personal practices that help him maintain balance and health in his life, while also looking forward to future conversations about leadership and spiritual growth.
EPISODE 252: What does it take to lead well and last in today's world?
In this episode of Linch with a Leader, Mike Linch sits down executive coach, author, and consultant Kadi Cole to unpack how leaders can thrive for the long haul, avoid burnout, and raise up the next generation.
They dive into:
▪️ How to multiply yourself through leadership development
▪️ Why soul health determines leadership impact
▪️ How to navigate "the double shift" as a woman in leadership
▪️ Stewarding your energy, focus, and time across seasons
▪️ Why your 40s and 50s are crucial for lasting influence
Whether you’re a pastor, business leader, ministry staff, or a parent navigating leadership in a busy world, this episode will challenge and encourage you to lead with wisdom, margin, and multiplication.
🎯 Truths from Kadi
- Leadership must evolve across seasons of life.
- Multiplying others is the key to long-term impact.
- Delegation isn't just about efficiency, it's about stewardship
- Burnout is often the result of poor internal alignment
- Soul, heart, mind, and strength are integrated - not separate
- Women often carry the invisible "double shift" in leadership and home life.
- The 40s and 50s are pruning seasons meant to clarify calling.
- You don't need a title to live with Kingdom influence.
- You're never too late to reimagine your next 20 years.
- Purpose-drive leadership leaves a legacy that outlives you.
🎧 Listen & Subscribe
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/linch-with-a-leader/id1279929826
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0dJfeLbikJlKlBqAx6mDYW?si=3be196d45ecc469c
📝 Show notes & more: www.mikelinch.com
📺 Watch on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@linchwithaleader
🗓️ Join Mike on a Sunday at NorthStar: www.northstarchurch.org | www.youtube.com/@nsckennesaw
📱Follow Mike:
Instagram: @MikeLinch
X/Twitter: @Mike Linch
TIMESTAMPS:
00:00 The Evolution of Leadership
06:15 Navigating Change in Leadership
09:13 The Importance of Soul Health
11:50 Trust and Team Dynamics
14:50 Recognizing Leadership Potential
17:13 Personal Growth and Leadership Journey
23:12 Embracing Leadership Beyond Titles
26:19 Navigating the Challenges of Midlife Leadership
29:28 The Unique Burden of Female Leaders
31:42 Creating Spaces for Women in Leadership
33:57 Reimagining Life in a New Season
40:07 Finding Joy and Purpose in Leadership
In this episode, Casey Linch discusses key takeaways from Mike's conversation with Pastor Joby Martin about his new book. The discussion emphasizes the importance of community, the dangers of isolation, the need for spiritual mentorship, and the establishment of personal guardrails to navigate life's challenges. Casey encourages listeners to reflect on their relationships and the impact they can have on others' spiritual journeys.
EPISODE 251: What does it mean to be a man in today’s world?
In this powerful episode of Linch with a Leader, Mike Linch sits down with Pastor Joby Martin to explore the crisis of masculinity and the call to biblical manhood in a culture of confusion and compromise.
Together they unpack:
▪️ The dangers of a culture that shames men
▪️ How to raise sons with purpose and rites of passage
▪️ The inner question every man wrestles with: Do I have what it takes?
▪️ Guardrails against temptation (lust, pride, and greed)
▪️ The power of spiritual brotherhood and legacy
Whether you’re a father, a pastor, or a young man searching for identity — this episode will challenge and encourage you to stand firm and lead well.
🎯 Truths from Joby
- Manhood is in crisis - and Scripture speaks to it clearly
- Boys become men through intentional rites of passage
- Ever man longs to know: Do I measure up?
- Accountability and community are essential
- Legacy is built one generation at a time
🎧 Listen & Subscribe
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/linch-with-a-leader/id1279929826
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0dJfeLbikJlKlBqAx6mDYW?si=3be196d45ecc469c
📝 Show notes & more: www.mikelinch.com
📺 Watch on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@linchwithaleader
🗓️ Join Mike on a Sunday at NorthStar: www.northstarchurch.org | www.youtube.com/@nsckennesaw
📱Follow Mike:
Instagram: @MikeLinch
X/Twitter: @Mike Linch
📚 Read 'Stand Firm and Act Like Men': https://a.co/d/bNcXb7C
TIMESTAMPS:
00:00 The Crisis of Manhood in Today's Society
05:48 Defining True Manhood
08:08 Rites of Passage: Transitioning from Boy to Man
11:01 The Fundamental Question: Do I Have What It Takes?
13:31 The Importance of Community and Accountability
16:19 Facing Shame and Vulnerability
18:51 Building Authentic Relationships
21:21 Wisdom from Experience
22:25 Guardrails Against Temptation
24:25 The Importance of Accountability
26:27 Staying Vigilant in Life
28:43 The Role of Influence Across Generations
30:59 Passing the Baton of Faith
33:57 The Legacy of a Father
36:14 Living Authentically as a Man
In this episode, Casey and Mike discuss the importance of encouragement in leadership, the challenges leaders face in loving their teams well, and the significance of recognizing the contributions of individuals over mere metrics. They reflect on insights from Jay, emphasizing that leadership is about people and relationships, not just results.
In this episode of 'Linch with a Leader', Mike Linch interviews Jay Brown, CEO of David Weekley Homes, exploring his personal journey, the impact of family and faith on leadership, and the importance of people in business. Jay shares insights on overcoming challenges, the significance of continuous learning, and the balance between work and family life. He emphasizes the need for leaders to love, learn, and lead well, and reflects on the legacy he hopes to leave for his children.
Mike's Leadership Lessons from Jay:
- Great businesses are great because of their people.
- The journey to leadership often starts with overcoming personal fears.
- Family plays a crucial role in shaping one's character and values.
- Empowering employees leads to better business outcomes.
- Time management is essential for effective leadership.
- Continuous learning is vital for personal and professional growth.
- Balancing work and family is a key aspect of leadership.
- Legacy is about the impact you leave on others.
Welcome to the Linch with a Leader Podcast, where you're invited to join the spiritual principles behind big success, with host Mike Linch.
Subscribe to the channel so you never miss an episode:
Watch: @linchwithaleader
Prefer just listening? SUBSCRIBE to the podcast here:
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0dJfeLbikJlKlBqAx6mDYW?si=6ffed84956cb4848
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/linch-with-a-leader/id1279929826
Find show notes and more information at: www.mikelinch.com
Follow for EVERYDAY leadership content and interaction:
Follow on X: https://x.com/mikelinch?s=20
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JOIN Mike for a Sunday at NorthStar Church:
Watch: @nsckennesaw
TIMESTAMPS:
00:00 Introduction and Background
06:49 Lessons from Parenting
09:24 Faith and Personal Growth
12:07 Overcoming Public Speaking Fear
14:43 The Importance of People in Business
17:09 Leadership and Empowerment
19:51 Maintaining Connection as a CEO
22:46 The Three L's of Leadership
28:05 The Importance of Time Management
32:18 Balancing Work and Family Life
39:15 Legacy and Impact on Family
In this conversation, Mike Linch discusses the impactful leadership style of Johnny Shelton, a life coach for the Baltimore Ravens. The discussion emphasizes the importance of presence in leadership, the need for encouragement, and understanding people beyond their roles. Mike shares insights on how leaders can connect with others by genuinely getting to know them and celebrating their uniqueness.
In this episode of Linch with a Leader, Mike Linch sits down with Johnny Shelton, the team chaplain and life coach for the Baltimore Ravens. Johnny shares his powerful journey from growing up without a father, to playing college football, to surrendering his life to Jesus, and ultimately being called to serve some of the biggest names in professional sports.
You’ll hear how Johnny walked away from corporate America to pursue God’s calling, what spiritual leadership looks like in high-pressure environments, and how the Ravens’ culture of character and faith fuels their success.
Whether you’re a coach, leader, pastor, athlete, or believer navigating purpose; this conversation will challenge and inspire you.
Mike's Leadership Lessons from Johnny:
- Leading with the ministry of presence is crucial.
- Adversity shapes character and prepares us for our purpose.
- Faith can transform lives and perspectives.
- Transitioning from sports to business requires adaptability.
- Presence in leadership fosters trust and connection.
- Leadership is about serving others, not just directing them.
- The importance of character in team selection.
- Genuine relationships are built on trust and service.
- Leadership lessons can be learned from observing others.
- Purpose in life is about loving and helping others.
Welcome to the Linch with a Leader Podcast, where you're invited to join the spiritual principles behind big success, with host Mike Linch.
Subscribe to the channel so you never miss an episode:
Watch: @linchwithaleader
Prefer just listening? SUBSCRIBE to the podcast here:
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0dJfeLbikJlKlBqAx6mDYW?si=6ffed84956cb4848
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/linch-with-a-leader/id1279929826
Find show notes and more information at: www.mikelinch.com
Follow for EVERYDAY leadership content and interaction:
Follow on X: https://x.com/mikelinch?s=20
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TIMESTAMPS:
00:00 Introduction and Connection
05:44 The Roots of Passion and Adversity
08:32 Finding Faith Through Struggles
12:48 The Turning Point: A Life-Changing Experience
16:21 Transitioning from Sports to Business
19:58 Embracing a New Calling in Ministry
21:48 Lessons Learned in College Football Chaplaincy
25:24 Living Offendable: The Path to Understanding
26:57 A New Chapter: Joining the Baltimore Ravens
29:39 Evolving Perspectives: NFL Players Today
31:14 The Power of Prayer on the Field
33:19 Behind the Scenes: The Real Lives of NFL Players
34:54 Spiritual Foundations: The Ravens' Success
37:05 Leadership Lessons from Coach Harbaugh
39:58 The Role of a Chaplain: Serving with Purpose
44:16 Finding Purpose: Love, Help, and Discipleship
#ravens #baltimoreravens #nfl #christianleadership
In this episode, Casey and Mike discuss the insights shared by Dr. Karen Gordon on the significance of self-care in leadership. They explore how self-care is not selfish but essential for effective leadership, the importance of discovering one's purpose, and the role of leaders in creating a positive work culture. The conversation emphasizes the need for leaders to manage their emotions and maintain their energy to inspire and energize their teams.
Why do so many great leaders burn out? In this episode of the Linch with a Leader podcast, host Mike Linch sits down with Dr. Karyn Gordon, CEO, author of The Three Chairs, and leadership/relationship expert, to talk about the one skill every leader needs but often neglects: self-care.
Whether you’re leading a business, church, nonprofit, or family, this conversation will help you discover why self-care is not selfish and is the secret to great leadership, strong culture, and lasting influence.
Mike's Leadership Lessons:
- Leaders must balance self-care with caring for their teams.
- The three chairs concept is timeless and applicable across various contexts.
- Emotions in leadership are contagious and impact team culture.
- Finding and maintaining purpose is crucial for effective leadership.
- Professional growth should be a priority for leaders and organizations.
- Play and laughter are essential for reducing stress in the workplace.
- Clear goals enhance confidence and engagement among team members.
- Regular check-ins and cadences help maintain focus on purpose.
- Investing in employee development is key to retention and engagement.
- Leaders should seek to understand their divine purpose and align their actions accordingly.
Welcome to the Linch with a Leader Podcast, where you're invited to join the spiritual principles behind big success, with host Mike Linch.
Subscribe to the channel so you never miss an episode:
Watch: @linchwithaleader
Prefer just listening? SUBSCRIBE to the podcast here:
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0dJfeLbikJlKlBqAx6mDYW?si=6ffed84956cb4848
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/linch-with-a-leader/id1279929826
Find show notes and more information at: www.mikelinch.com
Follow for EVERYDAY leadership content and interaction:
Follow on X: https://x.com/mikelinch?s=20
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JOIN Mike for a Sunday at NorthStar Church:
Watch: @nsckennesaw
In this episode, Casey and Mike discuss the impactful conversation with Coach Dan Skirka, focusing on the importance of building a culture that transcends mere wins and losses. They explore the significance of leaders believing in their team members, the essence of living beyond one's professional role.
Murray State head coach Dan Skirka led the Racers on a historic run to the 2025 College World Series, a journey built on faith, family, and relentless belief in his team. In this interview with Mike Linch on Linch with a Leader, Coach Skirka shares how his Christian faith, leadership philosophy, and underdog mentality shaped a culture that made Murray State one of the most inspiring stories in college baseball.
Whether you’re a coach, athlete, or faith-driven leader, you’ll be challenged by his approach to building character, overcoming adversity, and leading with love.
Mike's Takeaways:
- Faith played a crucial role in Skirka's life, especially during challenging times.
- Transitioning from assistant to head coach required preparation and resilience.
- Building a winning culture at Murray State was a key focus for Skirka.
- The 2025 season exceeded expectations, showcasing the team's growth and determination.
- Overcoming challenges, including COVID-19, shaped the team's resilience.
- The journey to Omaha was marked by belief in the process and each other.
- Family support, especially from his son, added a personal dimension to Skirka's coaching experience.
- Skirka aims to leave a lasting impact on his players, preparing them for life beyond baseball.
- The importance of love and service in coaching is a central theme in Skirka's philosophy.
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