How Leaders Eliminate Distraction | An Interview with Shawn Vanderhoven

Brigham Young University professor and religious folklorist Christopher Blythe discusses the nature of revelation, spiritual manifestations, and claims to mysticism within Latter-day Saint history and culture. The conversation examines how members and leaders can evaluate personal spiritual experiences, navigate claims of revelation that exceed proper authority, and guard against deceptive influences or speculative practices. Dr. Christopher Blythe is an assistant professor of English at BYU, where he teaches courses on folklore, myth, and Latter-day Saint literature. He holds a PhD in American Religion from Florida State University, an MA in History from Utah State University, and a BA in Religious Studies from Utah State University. Professionally, Dr. Blythe has worked extensively as a religious folklorist and historian, including previous roles with the Joseph Smith Papers Project, the Church History Department, and as a research associate at the Neal A. Maxwell Institute for Religious Scholarship. He is also the author of Terrible Revolution: Latter-day Saints and the American Apocalypse, a study on millenarianism and lay visions in Church history. As a convert who joined the Church at age 13, Dr. Blythe’s research centers on “vernacular religion”—exploring how everyday members live, share, and interpret their faith on the ground. Over the years, he has served in various Church callings, including as a missionary in West Virginia, a high priest group leader, and in various local leadership and teaching assignments. He resides in Utah with his family, where he also co-hosts online content exploring Latter-day Saint history and folklore. Links Dr. Blythe’s Lost Library Angels and Seerstones LDS Uncorrelated Watch the video and share your thoughts in the Zion Lab community Transcript available with the video in the Zion Lab community Highlights 00:03:00 – Dr. Christopher Blythe on Religious Folklore and Vernacular Religion 00:06:22 – Navigating Mysticism, Personal Stories, and Spiritual Trump Cards 00:09:18 – Calling Members, Priesthood Keys, and Avoiding Manipulation 00:17:11 – Cultural Misconceptions Around Foreordination and Pre-Existence 00:20:34 – Hiram Page, D&C 28, and the Order of Revelatory Authority 00:23:25 – Kirtland Manifestations, D&C 50 & 52, and Trying the Spirits 00:29:21 – Continuationism, Manifestations, and Modern Church History 00:35:16 – Discernment and Circles of Confidence in Sharing Personal Revelations 00:44:17 – Recognizing Divine Manifestations and the Baptism of Fire 00:47:10 – Cognitive Bias, Discomfort, and the Cost of Discipleship 00:54:02 – The 1913 Dream Mine First Presidency Statement on Speculation 01:02:37 – Offshoot Movements, Energy Healing, and Focusing on the Family 01:09:05 – Addressing Doubts, Questions, and Counterfeit Revelations 01:12:41 – Handbook Guidance on Energy Healing Key Insights Vernacular Religion & Interpretation: Official Church handbooks, scriptures, and doctrines provide structure, but “vernacular religion”—how individual members interpret and live their faith on the ground—shapes how spiritual experiences and calls are experienced day-to-day. Hierarchy and Bounds of Revelation: Early Church history, such as the 1830 revelation regarding Hiram Page’s seer stone (D&C 28), established the fundamental principle that while all members are entitled to personal revelation for their own spheres, only the head of the Church receives revelation to direct the Church as a whole. Trying the Spirits: Grounded in early revelations (such as D&C 50 and 52), leaders and members are instructed to “try the spirits” to ensure spiritual manifestations align with standard Church doctrine, priesthood channels, and sound judgment rather than self-serving claims or deceptive influences. Mysticism vs. Daily Discipleship: Spiritual trump cards or over-mystifying administrative decisions can lead to manipulation or unrealistic expectations. True spiritual grounding often manifests in consistent, daily acts of service and devotion—particularly within the family—rather than sensational claims. Historical Warnings Against Deception: Historical declarations, such as the 1913 First Presidency statement on the “Dream Mine,” warn against individuals using claims of visions, dreams, or private revelations to induce members into financial schemes, speculative ventures, or movements that undermine established priesthood authority. Leadership Applications Guiding Council Dynamics: Leaders can prevent individuals from using “spiritual trump cards” (e.g., claiming a strong spiritual feeling to override council discussions) by maintaining that decisions should be made through open, prayerful deliberation under proper priesthood keys. Handling Boundary-Crossing Claims: When members present private revelations intended to direct others, advise the ward, or promote speculative groups, leaders can refer to foundational principles of stewardship to gently clarify that personal inspiration applies only within one’s assigned sphere or family. Reframing Calls and Service: Leaders can help members focus on covenant-keeping and everyday Christlike living, reducing the cultural tendency to view callings or leadership roles through an ego-driven or hyper-mystical lens. 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.

Shawn Vanderhoven is the author of the USA Today bestseller Pause: How to Lead Brilliant Work in a Busy World and a Partner at The Wiseman Group, where he leads the executive development practice for senior leaders and rising talent. A collaborator on the New York Times bestseller Multipliers: How the Best Leaders Make Everyone Smarter (Second Edition), Shawn co-designs strategies that help organizations amplify their people, advising leaders at companies like Amazon, Alphabet, Adobe, Microsoft, and Salesforce. He holds a BS in History from Brigham Young University and lives in the San Francisco Bay Area with his wife, Anne, dedicated to helping leaders create the conditions where teams can focus on what matters most. In the Church, Shawn has served as an Elders Quorum President and holds a deep passion for working with the rising generation, having served as a Young Men president four different times. Links Pause: How to Lead Brilliant Work in a Busy World LinkedIn: Shawn Vanderhoven Watch the video and share your thoughts in the Zion Lab community Transcript available with the video in the Zion Lab community Highlights Shawn Vanderhoven discusses concepts from his book Pause: How to Lead Brilliant Work in a Busy World. The conversation explores how leaders can help their teams avoid constant distractions, hyperconnectivity, and superficial busyness. Shawn highlights how shifting from an action-oriented mindset to an impact-oriented approach creates room for meaningful focus in both corporate and Church settings. 00:03:42 – The Moment of Inspiration for Writing the Book 00:04:52 – Chaos and Lack of Clarity in Leadership 00:06:46 – Research on Focus and Distraction 00:08:31 – The Impact of Hyper-Connectivity on Leadership 00:10:13 – Challenges Faced by Church Leaders 00:12:10 – The Default of Hyper-Connected Communication 00:13:07 – Advice for Leaders in the Whirlwind 00:14:26 – Assumptions About Work and Meetings 00:15:27 – Bias Towards Action vs. Bias Towards Impact 00:18:57 – Clarity in Leadership and Prioritization 00:20:30 – The Importance of Focus in Leadership 00:22:25 – Creating a Culture of Open Communication 00:23:43 – Delegation and Respecting Time 00:25:35 – Counseling Before Extending Callings 00:30:25 – Tuning In Before Jumping In 00:32:20 – The Role of Revelation in Leadership Decisions 00:37:54 – Respecting Individual Circumstances in Callings Key Insights Action vs. Impact: A bias toward action often causes frantic busyness and shifting priorities, whereas a bias toward impact prioritizes high-value outcomes and clear goals. Clarify Priorities: The primary source of distraction for most teams is a lack of clear priorities. Focusing on a few core objectives reduces burnout and improves execution. Counseling Before Calling: Extending callings or tasks effectively requires counseling with individuals beforehand to understand their current capacity and life constraints. Holding a Clearing: Creating structured systems where individuals can express emotional or interpersonal frustrations removes distractions and clears the mental runway for high-level work. Establishing “House Rules”: Leaders must set explicit expectations around communication and meetings to prevent hyperconnectivity from overwhelming team members. Put Growth on the Agenda: Dedicating regular time in one-on-one meetings to align an individual’s personal development with organizational needs builds long-term commitment. Leadership Applications Define What Not to Do: When focusing a ward or organization on specific spiritual goals, leaders should explicitly set aside lower-priority initiatives so members can direct their energy effectively. Tune In Before Jumping In: Instead of utilizing “drive-by delegation” or abrupt task handoffs, leaders should ask what someone is currently managing and discuss what can be removed from their plate to accommodate new assignments. Set Clear Communication Boundaries: Bishoprics and council leaders can establish ward “house rules” regarding text messaging, response times, and off-hours communication to protect personal lives and prevent burnout. 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.

Davis Smith is the founder, chairman, and emeritus CEO of Cotopaxi, a Salt Lake City–based outdoor gear brand dedicated to poverty alleviation. Raised throughout Latin America, he developed a lifelong commitment to social impact after witnessing economic inequality firsthand. A serial e-commerce entrepreneur, Davis founded several successful ventures, including Brazil’s 2012 “Startup of the Year,” before building Cotopaxi into a global brand that has assisted millions living in poverty. He has served as a Presidential Leadership Scholar and a member of the United Nations Foundation’s Global Leadership Council. Alongside his career in social business, Davis is a Senior Fellow at Yale University’s Jackson School of Global Affairs, where he teaches courses on leadership and social entrepreneurship. Davis and his wife, Asialene, are the parents of four children and have served extensively in Church leadership, including as mission leaders in the Brazil Recife North Mission (2023–2026) and in a stake presidency. He holds degrees from BYU and the Wharton School and is the author of The Next Ten Years. Links The Next Ten Years: A Returned Missionary’s Guide to the Decade That Shapes Your Life Weaving a Vision into Your Service | An Interview with Davis Smith Watch the video and share your thoughts in the Zion Lab community Transcript available with the video in the Zion Lab community Highlights In this YouTube livestream conversation, Kurt and Davis talk about navigating post-mission transitions, applying practical life skills, and developing lifelong discipleship centered on Jesus Christ. 00:01:27 – Davis Smith’s Mission Experience 00:02:14 – Missionary Statistics and Diversity 00:03:02 – Background in Brazil 00:04:42 – Overview of the Book Project 00:05:08 – Life Lessons from Zone Conferences 00:07:21 – Importance of Lifelong Discipleship 00:09:02 – Connecting Mission Skills to Life Skills 00:10:34 – Preparing Missionaries for Post-Mission Life 00:11:05 – Sending Off Missionaries 00:12:49 – The Contract for Return Missionaries 00:14:44 – The Significance of Marco Zero 00:15:15 – Maintaining Relationships with Returned Missionaries 00:15:46 – Intimate Compassion and the Good Samaritan 00:18:57 – Selecting Principles for the Book 00:21:00 – Book Release and Formats 00:21:54 – The Importance of the Next 10 Years 00:23:45 – Critical Times for Return Missionaries 00:26:27 – Spiritual Growth After the Mission 00:28:51 – Finding Purpose After a Mission 00:30:38 – Supporting Return Missionaries 00:32:13 – Advice for Parents of Return Missionaries Key Insights Connecting Mission Skills to Real-Life Success: The competencies developed on a mission—such as goal setting, communication, team coordination, and networking—directly translate into professional, financial, and relational success when returned missionaries learn to connect those dots. Intimate Compassion (Oil Before Wine): Drawing from the parable of the Good Samaritan, effective leadership and personal correction require establishing love and empathy (“oil”) before offering invitation, counsel, or direction (“wine”). Aiming for Continuous Growth, Not Maintenance: A spiritual peak reached during dedicated service should serve as a baseline for future growth rather than a status to merely maintain. Immediate Post-Mission Focus & Purpose: The initial three to six months after full-time service are the most critical for establishing daily habits, securing church callings, avoiding technology distractions, and redirecting focus outward toward community service. Financial Stewardship Early in Life: Establishing foundational financial habits—such as paying tithing first, saving consistently, and utilizing simple long-term investment vehicles like index funds—early in adulthood creates long-term independence and security. Leadership Applications Ask Intentional, Reflective Questions: Rather than asking for casual stories, leaders and parents can help returned missionaries process their service by asking targeted questions about spiritual gifts discovered, personal habits to keep, and lessons learned from mission leaders. Provide Clear Purpose and Responsibility: Local leaders can ease tough life transitions by extending meaningful callings or mentoring assignments early on, helping individuals shift their focus away from self-centered anxiety and toward serving others. Support Alternate & Service Mission Paths: Leaders should exercise empathy and avoid judgment when a mission ends unexpectedly or transitions to a service mission, recognizing that God’s plan and approval apply to all sincere efforts to serve. 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.

Dave McCann is a veteran sportscaster, play-by-play announcer, and television anchor with decades of broadcasting experience across regional and national media. After graduating from Brigham Young University with a degree in broadcasting, he began his career as a college sports reporter for ABC’s Good Morning America before anchoring sports in Las Vegas for nearly 20 years. He later served as an evening news co-anchor for KSL-TV in Salt Lake City and became a prominent media personality for BYUtv, hosting pre- and post-game shows alongside lead play-by-play coverage for BYU football and basketball. McCann also writes sports commentary for the Deseret News and co-hosts the digital BYU sports talk show Y’s Guys. He currently serves as an elders quorum president. Dr. Mark D. Ogletree is a professor of Church History and Doctrine at Brigham Young University and a licensed professional counselor who has worked with individuals, couples, and families for over 30 years to strengthen relationships and navigate personal challenges. After spending two decades in the Church Educational System as a Seminary and Institute teacher and director, he joined the BYU faculty in 2010, specializing in family dynamics and prophetic teachings. An accomplished author, Ogletree has published numerous books and articles on marriage, family life, parenting, mental health, and contemporary Latter-day Saint history, including recent titles such as The Leadership Legacy of LaVell Edwards, Christ’s Miracles: Yesterday and Today, Heaven Is Cheering You On, and Beyond the Honeymoon. Alongside his wife, Janie—with whom he shares eight children and 32 grandchildren—he hosts two weekly podcasts: Preserving Families and Stand by My Servants. In addition to his academic, clinical, and writing endeavors, Ogletree has served as a bishop in both McKinney, Texas, and Provo, Utah, and currently serves as a stake president in Provo. Links The Leadership Legacy of LaVell Edwards MarkOgletree.com Offering Transformation Through Jesus to Those You Lead | An Interview with Pastor Derwin L. Gray How LaVell Edwards Influenced His Team to be a Team of Leaders | An Interview With Paul Gustavson Love Without Works is Dead | An Interview With Chad Lewis, Former BYU Player & NFL Pro-Bowler From BYU Quarterback to Stake President | An Interview with Brandon Doman Watch the video and share your thoughts in the Zion Lab community Transcript available with the video in the Zion Lab community Highlights Mark Ogletree and Dave McCann discuss their book, The Leadership Legacy of LaVell Edwards. They share insights gained from interviewing dozens of former players, staff, and loved ones of the legendary Brigham Young University (BYU) football coach. The conversation centers on Edwards’ unique, Christlike approach to leadership, relationship-building, delegation, and personal mentorship. Key Insights Delegation and Empowerment: LaVell Edwards believed in hiring capable experts, trusting them completely, and giving them the autonomy to execute their roles without micromanagement. One-on-One Relationships: Rather than focusing purely on football tactics, LaVell maintained an open-door policy and prioritized checking in on his players’ personal lives, families, and future goals. Seeing Unseen Potential: LaVell possessed a unique ability to identify hidden talents in individuals—often encouraging position changes, urging players to serve missions, or convincing them to stay when they wanted to quit. Lifting the Lost and Struggling: He repeatedly reached out to lower-string players or individuals in crisis, offering unwavering support, loyalty, and personal investment during their hardest moments. Innovation and Vision: Recognizing systemic limitations, LaVell embraced innovative approaches—such as pioneering a high-powered passing offense—to elevate his program to national prominence. Leadership Applications Empower Ward and Organizational Leaders: Latter-day Saint leaders can emulate LaVell Edwards by delegating real authority to presidency members, committee leaders, and council members rather than attempting to manage every operational detail. Prioritize Personal Ministering: Leaders should create accessible, low-pressure environments (such as open-door settings or informal check-ins) to focus on individual souls rather than just administrative tasks. Instill Belief in Others: Leaders can actively express confidence in those they serve, helping individuals recognize their divine potential and encouraging them toward transformative choices like missionary or church service. 00:03:12 – Origins of the Book Project 00:04:45 – The Impact of LaVell Edwards 00:06:21 – LaVell’s Influence Beyond Football 00:07:13 – The Personal Touch of LaVell Edwards 00:08:37 – LaVell’s Unique Leadership Style 00:10:15 – LaVell’s Unexpected Journey to BYU 00:12:06 – LaVell’s Vision and Innovation 00:13:09 – The Last Moments with LaVell 00:14:06 – Mentorship in LaVell’s Life 00:15:33 – LaVell’s Leadership Style in the Church 00:17:27 – Balancing Authority and Delegation 00:19:40 – Creating a Culture of Trust 00:20:49 – One-on-One Relationships with Players 00:22:49 – LaVell’s Home as a Safe Space 00:24:53 – The Importance of Team Prayer 00:26:34 – Common Themes from Player Interviews 00:29:03 – Humility as a Key Principle 00:30:38 – LaVell’s Care for All Players 00:32:25 – Encouraging Players to Stay 00:34:00 – Promoting Missionary Service 00:42:12 – Conclusion and Legacy of LaVell Edwards 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.

Heidi Lee serves as a stake communication director in the Mountain’s Edge area of Southwest Las Vegas, as well as in the Las Vegas West Mission office. Over the past 20 years, her Church service has including serving in four stake Relief Society presidencies as secretary, counselor, and president. Her wide-ranging calling experience spans serving as a Stake JustServe Specialist, Young Women presidency member, ward camp director, Relief Society teacher, and Primary music leader. Most recently, Heidi served as the lead organizer for “A Walk with Jesus,” a multi-stake Easter walkthrough event that coordinated four neighboring stakes, numerous committees, and auxiliary leaders to transform a local chapel into interactive displays depicting the Savior’s life and resurrection. A devoted stay-at-home mother, Heidi and her husband raised four children and now love spending time with their 16 grandchildren. In her personal time, she enjoys temple service and deep, lifelong gospel study. Links leadingsaints.org/fullpond A Walk With Jesus: Master Replication Guide Bible & Easter videos Read the tag comments Facebook: A Walk With Jesus – Southwest Las Vegas Instagram @walkwithjesusswlv Email Heidi Lee at [email protected] YouTube: Southwest Las Vegas 2026 Walk with Jesus YouTube: Northwest Las Vegas 2025 Walk with Jesus YouTube: Northwest Las Vegas 2026 Walk with Jesus Highlights Heidi Lee talks about the successful initiative called “A Walk with Jesus,” which transformed a Latter-day Saint chapel into an immersive experience depicting the life of Jesus Christ. The project aimed to enhance the celebration of Easter and foster community engagement. Key Insights Community Engagement: The initiative was inspired by a desire to create a more significant Easter celebration, moving beyond traditional services to involve the broader community. Collaborative Effort: The project involved multiple stakes working together, with each stake contributing resources and leadership to create a unified experience. Interactive Experience: The chapel was transformed into various rooms representing key events in Jesus’s life, allowing participants to engage with the stories through self-guided tours and interactive displays. Youth Involvement: Local youth played a crucial role, participating in the event by dressing in costumes and helping facilitate the experience, which provided them with service hours and a sense of ownership. Feedback Mechanism: A comment wall was implemented to gather participant reflections, highlighting the spiritual impact of the experience and fostering a sense of connection to Christ. Financial Planning: The project was funded through contributions from each stake, with careful budgeting and community donations to cover costs, demonstrating the importance of financial stewardship in church projects. Leadership Applications Fostering Collaboration: Latter-day Saint leaders can encourage collaboration among different wards and stakes to create larger community events, enhancing unity and shared purpose. Engaging Youth: Involving youth in meaningful ways can empower them and strengthen their connection to church activities, making them feel valued and engaged. Creating Immersive Experiences: Leaders can consider how to transform traditional church events into more interactive and engaging experiences that resonate with members and the community, ultimately deepening faith and understanding of gospel principles. 00:05:01 – Introduction to Heidi Lee 00:05:34 – Origin of the Walk with Jesus Project 00:06:42 – Concept of Transforming the Chapel 00:08:52 – Initial Thoughts and Inspiration 00:10:06 – Mission Statement Development 00:12:55 – Organizing Stake Participation 00:15:14 – Role of Decorators and Committees 00:17:42 – Event Timeline and Structure 00:19:45 – Room Themes and Experiences 00:20:38 – Evening Concerts and Adjustments 00:22:59 – Visual Examples of the Event 00:23:10 – Chapel Usage and Event Flow 00:25:37 – Sunday Operations and Attendance 00:28:30 – Community Involvement and Outreach 00:30:59 – Youth Involvement and Costumes 00:32:13 – Red String Keepsake Initiative 00:34:00 – Managing Finances and Budget 00:37:12 – Donations and Support 00:40:42 – Lessons Learned for Future Events 00:42:32 – Social Media and Marketing Strategies 00:44:32 – Comment Wall and Feedback 00:46:33 – Event Impact and Attendance Growth 00:48:14 – Reflections on the Experience 00:50:17 – Addressing Questions and Future Planning 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.

Robert Cornilles is an executive, author, and educator with a background in business leadership and community engagement. He serves as the Founder and CEO of Game Face, Inc., an executive training firm that has advised over 400 global brands, including more than 200 professional sports franchises. A bestselling author, he published The Sales Game Changer: How to Become the Salesperson People Love and Preparing Tomorrow’s Missionaries Today. He also shares his expertise as an adjunct professor teaching MBA candidates at the BYU Marriott School of Business. Rob served as a full-time missionary in Japan and has extensive experience in church leadership, having served in high councils, bishoprics, and various ward council roles. He currently serves as the bishop of the Lake Mountain Single Adult 5th Ward in the Saratoga Springs Utah Stake—a mid-singles unit he has led since it began in May 2023. In this role, he oversees a rapidly growing congregation drawn from multiple stakes, focusing on supporting mid-singles through their unique personal and spiritual journeys. Rob and his wife, Allison, oversaw the training of more than 40,000 volunteers for the 12-week long Saratoga Springs Utah Temple open house and dedication, the longest temple open house in Church history. They are the parents of three sons who have blessed them with three daughters-in-law and three granddaughters. Links Game Face, Inc. Watch the video and share your thoughts in the Zion Lab community Transcript available with the video in the Zion Lab community Highlights The conversation focuses on the unique challenges and cultural dynamics faced by mid-singles in the Latter-day Saint community, particularly in Utah, and how leaders can better support this demographic. Key Insights Cultural Dynamics: Mid-singles often feel disconnected in family wards due to the predominance of married members in leadership roles, leading to feelings of exclusion and instability. Out-of-Unit Members: Many mid-singles attend their neighborhood wards while also participating in mid-singles wards, creating a challenge for leaders to maintain engagement and consistency. Family Influence: Family obligations can pull mid-singles away from ward activities, making it difficult for them to build connections within their ward family. Spiritual Focus: Rob emphasizes that the primary role of leaders is to connect members with Christ, rather than solely focusing on helping them get married. Meaningful Activities: Activities should be Christ-centered and relevant to the members’ lives, fostering a sense of community and belonging. Leadership Applications Encourage Engagement: Leaders should create an environment where mid-singles feel valued and included, recognizing their unique challenges and encouraging them to participate in ward activities. Foster Connections: Leaders can facilitate opportunities for mid-singles to connect with each other and with Christ through intentional, spiritually uplifting activities that focus on attributes of Jesus Christ. Communicate with Families: Leaders should engage with the families of mid-singles to help them understand the importance of allowing their loved ones the space to build their own lives and relationships within the ward community. 00:02:30 – Cultural Dynamics in Mid-Singles Wards 00:04:00 – Understanding the Mid-Singles Experience 00:04:30 – Interview with Bishop Robert Cornilles Begins 00:05:00 – Bishop Cornilles’s Calling Story 00:07:00 – Formation of the New Mid-Singles Ward 00:08:30 – Challenges of Serving a Mid-Singles Ward 00:10:00 – Selecting Counselors for the Bishopric 00:12:00 – Current Responsibilities as a Bishop 00:13:00 – Mid-Singles Bishops Councils in Utah 00:15:00 – The Need for Mid-Singles Wards 00:16:00 – Cultural Challenges for Mid-Singles 00:20:00 – Navigating Family Dynamics and Church Involvement 00:22:00 – The Dilemma of Out-of-Unit Members 00:25:00 – Building a Strong Ward Culture 00:28:00 – Encouraging Engagement in the Ward 00:30:00 – The Importance of Personal Relationships 00:32:00 – Respecting the Needs of Mid-Singles 00:34:00 – Connecting Members with Christ 00:37:00 – Creating Meaningful Activities 00:40:00 – Intentionality in Planning Activities 00:46:00 – Monthly Themes and Attributes of Christ 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.

Mark A. Beck earned a BA in Business and Japanese Language from Pacific University and an MBA from Harvard Business School. Over his three-decade corporate career, he served in executive leadership at Corning Incorporated, as Executive Vice President at Danaher Corporation, and as President and CEO of JELD-WEN, guiding the company through its IPO. Today, Mark owns three manufacturing companies, co-chairs KDC/ONE, and serves as board chair for Accendra Health (formerly Owens & Minor) and IDEX Corporation. Passionate about servant leadership, he serves as faculty for the Adler Fellowship Program and has taught strategic leadership of innovation as a Visiting Professor of Practice at Cornell University. Adrienne and Mark have been married for 38 years. They reside in Matthews, North Carolina, and are the parents of five children and two grandchildren. Together, they navigated unique life blessings, including caring for their youngest son, Wesley, who was born with a rare health condition and expected to live only a few months. Wesley lived for 20 years through many miracles and Adrienne’s devoted caregiving. Following his passing, Adrienne resumed her educational goals and is on track to earn her bachelor’s degree later this year. Deeply committed to faith, family, and community, both Mark and Adrienne have spent years serving in Church leadership—Mark previously served as a stake president, and Adrienne as a stake Young Women president and two-time ward Primary president. Today, the couple serve side-by-side as branch president and YSA advisor for the Hemby Young Single Adult Branch in the greater Charlotte area. Beyond hosting regular home dinners and monthly “Friday Night Hangouts,” they pioneered a stake-wide mentorship program that connects young adults with community members to provide life guidance, career coaching, trade school support, and spiritual growth for the rising generation. Links Watch the video and share your thoughts in the Zion Lab community Transcript available with the video in the Zion Lab community Highlights Mark and Adrienne Beck discuss their experiences as leaders of the Hemby Young Single Adult (YSA) branch in North Carolina. They share innovative approaches to building community and mentorship within their branch, emphasizing the importance of connection and support for young adults. Key Insights Community Building: The Becks highlight the significance of creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for YSA members, focusing on fostering a culture of acceptance and belonging. Mentorship Program: They implemented a mentorship initiative that pairs YSA members with older, experienced Latter-day Saints from the stake, providing guidance and support tailored to individual needs. Cultural Shift: The branch has cultivated a culture where members feel safe to share their struggles openly, leading to authentic testimony meetings that encourage vulnerability and connection. Diversity and Inclusion: The branch serves a diverse group of young adults, addressing various socioeconomic backgrounds and personal challenges, which enriches the community experience. Flexible Leadership: The Becks emphasize the importance of adapting leadership styles to meet the unique needs of their members, allowing for a more personalized approach to support and guidance. Leadership Applications Encouraging Mentorship: Latter-day Saint leaders can consider establishing mentorship programs within their congregations, pairing experienced members with those seeking guidance, which can alleviate the burden on leaders and provide essential support to individuals. Creating Safe Spaces: Leaders should foster environments where members feel comfortable sharing their experiences and challenges, promoting open dialogue and community support. Emphasizing Connection: By organizing regular social gatherings and informal meetings, leaders can strengthen relationships among members, enhancing the sense of belonging and community within the ward or branch. 00:03:32 – Background of the Hemby YSA Branch 00:04:07 – Establishing the YSA Branch 00:06:23 – Initial Concerns and Faith in the Process 00:08:02 – Personal Challenges and Extended Service 00:09:07 – The Calling Experience 00:10:00 – Passion for Serving Young Single Adults 00:10:44 – Building the Branch Council 00:12:06 – Creating a Positive Culture 00:14:04 – Strategies for Inclusion and Connection 00:15:41 – Unique Practices in the Branch 00:18:23 – Emphasizing Community and Togetherness 00:20:35 – Authentic Testimonies and Sharing 00:22:28 – Diversity and Its Impact on Leadership 00:23:30 – The Burden of Leadership 00:26:51 – Establishing a Mentoring Program 00:29:11 – Typical Scenarios for Mentorship 00:30:04 – Examples of Mentorship Success 00:31:27 – Adjusting the Mentorship Approach 00:32:50 – The Role of Stake Leadership 00:34:02 – Flexibility in Mentorship Pairings 00:36:10 – Navigating Challenges and Support 00:39:34 – The Impact of Community Support 00:40:54 – Encouragement for Other Leaders 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.

This is a recording of the monthly Zion Lab Live where Kurt Francom explores various topics discussed in the Zion Lab online community. Links Join the conversation in Zion Lab Transcript available with the video in the Zion Lab community Highlights 00:01:12 – Adjusting the Schedule 00:02:06 – Importance of Participation 00:03:29 – Changes in Zion Lab Experience 00:04:12 – Membership Options and Sponsorship 00:06:51 – Involving Core Members in Primary and Young Men’s 00:10:58 – Communication Strategies for Inclusion 00:12:57 – Ideas for Unity in Wards 00:17:05 – New Sunday Format Training 00:19:17 – Challenges with Training Resources 00:24:02 – Dating and Marriage Challenges for Young Adults 00:30:07 – Balancing Acceptance and Gospel Principles 00:32:14 – Ideas for Building Unity 00:35:05 – Successful Come Follow Me Groups 00:40:00 – Experiences of Empty Nesters 00:42:53 – Global Perspectives on Dating Issues Key Insights Involving Primary & Young Men Leaders: Leaders often struggle with keeping Elders Quorum and Relief Society members connected when they serve in youth or children’s organizations. Solutions include rotating members out briefly to lead discussions, utilizing dedicated group messaging apps, and holding casual home gatherings. Navigating the New Sunday Schedule: The transition to shortened 25-minute class periods brings anxiety, but leaders emphasize using official Church materials and maintaining realistic expectations while finding a new operational rhythm. Evolving YSA Dating Dynamics: Modern single adults face significant challenges in finding marriage partners due to shifting cultural values, delayed timelines, and differing personal or political priorities. Power of Informal Gatherings: Organic, non-assigned home study groups (e.g., Come, Follow Me or General Conference review groups) build deeper ward unity, psychological safety, and ministering opportunities than structured Sunday classes alone. Building Ward Culture: Leadership is fundamentally about culture-building. Leaders must proactively address secular cultural influences and create intentional spaces for gospel-centered connection. Leadership Applications Organize Organic Home Gatherings: Encourage members or leaders to host low-pressure home study groups (such as an empty-nester Come, Follow Me night) with snacks and informal discussion to strengthen local relationships. Rotate Out-of-Room Teachers: Elders Quorum and Relief Society presidencies can arrange substitutes for primary teachers once a quarter to allow them to attend adult classes or lead a discussion. Streamline Group Communication: Implement digital communication tools (e.g., GroupMe or Discord) to share ward event links and keep members serving in auxiliary callings informed on adult quorum activities. 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.

Marianne Downing has a master’s degree in Education (counseling) and began her career as a therapist before combining it with various roles within the nonprofit sector. She has been an entrepreneur since 2002. Since becoming a Latter-day Saint, Marianne served in the New Zealand Auckland mission, and as Relief Society president, counselor in her stake Primary presidency, stake Relief Society president, early morning Seminary teacher, and Young Women president. While living in Paris, France, she was called as part of a committee by the European Area Presidency to establish LDS Family Services in the French-speaking areas of France, Switzerland, and Belgium. She currently serves as a ward missionary. Alan Downing has a bachelor’s degree in music from the Hartt School of Music. He sang professionally for ten years, including in synagogues and churches, while also working as an IT administrator with IBM, Verizon, and Wyeth Pharmaceuticals. He left the corporate world to become a life coach and has created several men’s retreats and trainings. He has led or staffed well over 100 experiential retreats in the United States, Europe, and South and Central America. After his conversion as a Latter-day Saint, he served in the France Toulouse Mission, and has served in callings including as a member of his stake high council, elders quorum counselor, Sunday School teacher, ward finance clerk, ward and stake executive secretary, and many positions related to music. He currently serves as a ward music chairperson. Alan and Marianne are co-founders of the nonprofit organization, Discover Identity, and are both identity coaches. Alan is also on the board of the Utah Valley Interfaith Association and Marianne is a founding member of the Utah Valley Women Leadership Collaborative (now the Bolder Way Forward of Utah Valley). Alan and Marianne are the parents of a blended family of six children and 11—soon to be 12—grandchildren between the United States and New Zealand. Links Your Mission Aligned, nonprofit coaching services Discover Identity, nonprofit retreats Watch the video and share your thoughts in the Zion Lab community Transcript available with the video in the Zion Lab community Highlights Alan and Marianne Downing discuss the concept of identity and its significance in personal development and leadership within the Latter-day Saint community. They emphasize the importance of understanding one’s identity beyond roles and societal expectations, particularly during life transitions. Key Insights Identity Exploration: The fundamental question of “Who am I?” is central to personal growth. Identity is not static; it evolves through life experiences and transitions, such as changes in church callings or family dynamics. Deeper Understanding: True identity goes beyond titles like “mother” or “bishop.” It involves understanding personal values, beliefs, and what makes each individual unique. Belonging vs. Fitting In: There is a distinction between belonging (sharing core beliefs) and fitting in (conforming to external expectations). Leaders should encourage individuality within the community to enhance unity. Risk and Growth: Personal growth often requires taking risks and stepping outside comfort zones. Experiences, such as retreats, can facilitate deeper understanding and wisdom. Mature vs. Immature Identity: Immature identity relies on external validation, while mature identity is anchored in self-awareness and allows for flexibility and growth. Leadership Applications Encourage Individuality: Leaders can foster an environment where members feel safe to express their unique identities, which can enhance community strength and diversity. Facilitate Experiences: Organizing smaller group discussions or experiential learning opportunities can help members explore their identities and support each other through personal challenges. Model Vulnerability: Leaders should be open about their own identity journeys, demonstrating that it is acceptable to question and explore one’s faith and personal growth, thereby creating a culture of openness and support. 00:05:07 – The Concept of Identity 00:06:40 – Exploring Identity Beyond Roles 00:08:07 – The Depth of Identity in the Gospel 00:09:32 – The Paradox of Identity and Individuality 00:10:29 – Navigating Group Identity vs. Individual Identity 00:12:28 – Personal Experiences with Identity 00:15:00 – The Downings’ Journey into Identity Work 00:18:01 – The Importance of Self-Discovery 00:20:40 – The Role of Experience in Identity Formation 00:24:40 – The Balance of Self and God’s Expectations 00:26:41 – Mature vs. Immature Identity 00:30:12 – The Role of Risk in Growth 00:32:15 – Experiential Learning and Retreats 00:34:22 – The Need for Community in Personal Growth 00:36:47 – The Importance of Anchors in Identity 00:39:14 – Embracing the Journey of Identity 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.

Todd Hillyard, a bishop in Vancouver, Washington, shares a variety of ideas about how he involves the youth to improve sacrament meeting. You can listen to the full interview here: https://app.leadingsaints.org/c/livestream-recordings/letting-youth-lead-in-sunday-worship Want to hire an international returned missionary who attended BYU Pathway? Check out https://leadingsaints.org/fullpond