Young Men Can Do Hard Things | A How I Lead Interview with Skylar Haws

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

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

Blair Treu is an award-winning director whose work includes a variety of feature films, television shows, documentaries, and commercials for over 30 years—from The Power Rangers to Chicken Soup for the Soul. The writer and director of Sharing Aloha and Meet the Mormons, he graduated from Brigham Young University with a bachelor's degree in Theatre and began his career at the Walt Disney Company. More recently, Blair worked with BYUtv to create the series Real Families, Real Answers, and was a co-director of Granite Flats. Links Get movie tickets and details at sharingalohathemovie.com Transcript available with the video in the Zion Lab community Highlights The film Sharing Aloha, directed by Blair Treu, highlights the inspiring stories of students at the Polynesian Cultural Center and their transformative experiences. Blair shares how he became involved with the project, and discusses the unique challenges of capturing the students' stories, emphasizing their resilience and strong family ties. The film aims to showcase the students' journeys, illustrating how the PCC provides them with opportunities for education and personal growth. Throughout the conversation, Blair reflects on leadership principles learned from working with the students and the PCC staff. He highlights the importance of appreciation and compassion in leadership, drawing parallels to church leadership. 00:01:52 - Introducing Sharing Aloha Introduction to the film "Sharing Aloha" and its connection to the Polynesian Cultural Center. 00:03:44 - The Genesis of Sharing Aloha Blair Treu discusses how the project came to be and the inspiration behind it. 00:04:55 - The Abundance of Stories The challenge of selecting which stories to tell from the many available. 00:06:47 - Blair Treu's Background Blair shares his experience and previous projects in film and media. 00:08:44 - The Polynesian Cultural Center Discussion about the PCC and its significance in the film. 00:10:43 - Focus on Student Stories The decision to center the film on the students' experiences rather than the PCC's history. 00:12:14 - Insights on the YSA Demographic What Blair learned about the Young Single Adult demographic through the film. 00:13:37 - Cultural Connections The importance of family and community in Polynesian culture. 00:16:42 - The Film's Format Comparison of "Sharing Aloha" to "Meet the Mormons" in terms of storytelling. 00:18:18 - Funding and Support Details on how the film was funded and its relationship with the PCC. 00:20:38 - Addressing Criticism Discussion on the misconceptions and criticisms surrounding the PCC. 00:22:39 - The Value of Work The benefits students receive from working at the PCC compared to other jobs. 00:24:36 - Leadership in Performance Insights into how the PCC manages its performances and trains students. 00:30:14 - Leadership Lessons from Film Production Blair shares leadership principles learned from directing the film. 00:35:16 - The Importance of Appreciation The significance of recognizing and valuing team members in leadership. 00:38:53 - Final Thoughts on the Film Encouragement to support the film and its impact on the PCC. 00:40:41 - Personal Growth Through the Project How working on "Sharing Aloha" has strengthened Blair's faith and understanding of community. The award-winning Leading Saints Podcast is one of the top independent Latter-day Saints podcasts as part of nonprofit Leading Saints' mission to help Latter-day Saints be better prepared to lead. 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,

This episode features a portion of a live stream discussion that took place in Zion Lab, where we explored the dynamics of delegation within bishoprics and youth leadership. Zion Lab is a welcoming space to discuss what you’re learning in your calling, share best practices and helpful resources, connect with others, and strengthen your ministry. Everyone is invited. Whether you’re new to your calling or have years of experience, your insights and questions are welcome. Links Have a comment? 🏠🧑‍🤝‍🧑🤝🤗 Share your thoughts in the Leading Saints community. Read the transcript of this podcast Get 14-day access to the Zion Lab Library Highlights A key theme of the conversation is the unspoken pressure that bishops feel as the figureheads of their wards. We address the anxiety that arises when programs falter or activities do not meet expectations, and how this can lead to a reluctance to delegate responsibilities. The discussion emphasizes the importance of setting clear expectations when extending callings, ensuring that leaders understand not just their tasks but also the vision behind their roles. Listeners will hear insights from various participants who share their experiences and strategies for effective delegation. We also touch on the broader responsibilities of bishops beyond youth leadership, including the importance of collaboration with elders quorum and Relief Society presidents. The conversation reveals how effective delegation can alleviate the burden on bishops and enhance the overall functioning of the ward. We encourage bishops to give themselves grace, acknowledging that they cannot do everything and that the Lord will take care of His children. 00:02:18 - Delegation in Leadership Exploration of the dynamics of delegation within bishoprics and youth leadership. 00:03:25 - Setting Expectations for Callings The importance of clearly communicating expectations when extending callings to leaders. 00:04:46 - Meeting People Where They Are The value of personal check-ins and understanding individual stories in leadership. 00:06:33 - Focusing on the Rising Generation Discussion on the responsibilities of bishops towards the youth and the broader rising generation. 00:07:50 - Delegating to Elders Quorum and Relief Society Insights on how to effectively delegate responsibilities to adult leaders in the ward. 00:09:59 - Prioritizing Youth Responsibilities Bishops share their experiences and challenges in managing youth-related responsibilities. 00:10:30 - Understanding Repentance Discussion on the bishop's role in the repentance process and how it can be delegated. 00:12:39 - Positive Reinforcement in Leadership The impact of recognizing and reinforcing good behaviors among leaders and members. 00:13:25 - Parental Involvement in Teaching Conversations about the role of parents in teaching youth about important topics. 00:15:32 - Training Parents to Teach Efforts to equip parents with the skills to teach their children effectively. 00:17:27 - Bishop's Fireside Discussions Plans for bishop's firesides to address important topics with youth and parents. 00:19:57 - Youth Leading Discussions Empowering youth to lead discussions on sensitive topics during meetings. 00:21:07 - Encouragement for Overwhelmed Bishops Advice and encouragement for bishops feeling overwhelmed by their responsibilities. 00:27:03 - The Lord's Church and Grace Reminders that it is the Lord's church and that grace is sufficient for all 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. 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,

Skylar Haws has dedicated over a decade to serving youth in various church callings, including Young Men's President and Priest Quorum Advisor. He has also taught early morning seminary and worked as a youth Sunday School teacher. Skylar's passion for youth leadership stems from his own experiences and a desire to help young men grow spiritually and personally. He resides in Saratoga Springs with his family, where he balances his church responsibilities with work and family life. Links 🏠🧑‍🤝‍🧑🤝🤗 Join us to share your thoughts in the Leading Saints community Transcript coming soon Get 14-day access to the Zion Lab Library Highlights Skylar emphasizes the importance of meeting young men where they are. He discusses the value of building relationships and creating meaningful experiences through high adventure activities. Skylar highlights the significance of pushing youth to embrace challenges while connecting their experiences back to Christ. He also addresses the dynamics of planning activities, engaging parents, and fostering a supportive environment for all young men, regardless of their individual circumstances. 04:00 - Skylar's Background in Youth Leadership 05:00 - Advice for New Young Men's Leaders 06:00 - Meeting Youth Where They Are 08:00 - The Power of Sacrifice in Youth Leadership 11:00 - Creating Spiritual Impact in High Adventure Activities 13:00 - Planning High Adventure Activities 18:00 - Engaging Boys in Planning and Preparation 22:00 - Handling Low Attendance at Activities 25:00 - The Importance of Relationships in Leadership 30:00 - Balancing Leadership with Family and Work 32:00 - Thematic and Dramatic Elements in Activities 35:00 - Service Opportunities and Miracles 40:00 - Managing Challenges During 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. 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.

Listen in to this livestream conversation from the Leading Saints Zion Lab, and help build a stronger Sunday School community! Zion Lab is a welcoming space to discuss what you’re learning in your calling, share best practices and helpful resources, and connect with other presidencies and strengthen your ministry. Everyone is invited. Whether you’re new to your calling or have years of experience, your insights and questions are welcome. Links Creating a Transformational Sunday School | An Interview with Dan Duckworth Church News: "What to know about teacher council meetings for parents" Teaching General Conference Teaching Restored Maxwell Institute Come Follow Me resources Stimulating More Personal Revelation in Your Ward With the Gospel Library App | An Interview with Richard Bernard The Covenant Path podcast Involving Women in Sunday School Leadership | An Interview with Garret Shields & Monica Fell Read the transcript of this podcast Zion Lab Community: LeadingSaints.org/Zion Highlights This conversation comes from a recent Zion Lab community livestream focused on Sunday School presidencies. This informal gathering allowed participants to share their experiences, best practices, and challenges related to their callings. We discussed the purpose of Sunday School, the dynamics of teaching council meetings, and how to effectively engage parents and teachers in the learning process. We also explored the challenges of organizing teacher council meetings, with participants sharing their successes and struggles in getting attendance and fostering meaningful discussions. Join the Leading Saints community at LeadingSaints.org/Zion for the full, unedited conversation and to continue engaging in these important discussions. We recognize that leadership in the Church can be isolating, but through collaboration and shared experiences, we can uplift and support one another in our callings. Join us as we explore these vital topics and work together to enhance our leadership skills and strengthen our communities. 00:04:46 - Joshua's Experience as Bishop Joshua discusses his experience as a bishop and his feelings of uncertainty in his Sunday School presidency role. 00:05:59 - Martha's Transformation as a Teacher Martha shares how a podcast influenced her approach as a Gospel Doctrine teacher. 00:06:40 - Chris's Missionary Work and Goals Chris talks about his work in the addiction recovery program and his vision for church-led meetings. 00:08:48 - Teacher Council Meetings Discussion Participants discuss the effectiveness and challenges of teacher council meetings. 00:10:51 - DJ's Insights on Teacher Councils DJ shares strategies for making teacher council meetings more effective and engaging. 00:12:56 - Brent's Perspective on Sunday School Brent discusses the importance of Sunday School and the challenges of engagement. 00:16:21 - Jeff's Experience with Parent Councils Jeff shares his experience with parent councils and the feedback received from their first meeting. 00:19:25 - Matt's Thoughts on Transitioning Teaching Matt discusses the challenges of transitioning from traditional teaching methods to more interactive approaches. 00:23:16 - Brent's Approach to Teaching Nuggets Brent emphasizes the importance of providing memorable takeaways for students to discuss at home. 00:26:20 - DJ's Success with Parent Councils DJ shares insights on the success of parent councils in fostering open discussions among parents. The award-winning Leading Saints Podcast is one of the top independent Latter-day Saints podcasts as part of nonprofit Leading Saints' mission to help Latter-day Saints be better prepared to lead. Learn more and listen to any of the past episodes for free at LeadingSaints.org. Past guests include Emily Belle Freeman, David Butler, Hank Smith, John Bytheway, Reyna and Elena Aburto, Liz Wiseman, Stephen M. R. Covey, Benjamin Hardy, Elder Alvin F. Meredith III,

Allison Schreiber is entering her seventh year as an early morning seminary teacher in New Braunfels, Texas—an experience she describes as one of the most joyful and spiritually-rich callings of her life. Fluent in German and Russian, Allison served in the Russia Moscow Mission before earning a bachelor of Fine Arts in Interior Design from Brigham Young University, along with certification in International Color Consulting. Her dedication to sacred spaces led her to intern with the Temple Construction department, contributing to the designing of temples in Houston, Boston, and Nauvoo. A born leader and meticulous planner, Allison has worn many hats across decades of youth and community service, serving extensively in the Young Women organization. She’s chaired committees, organized record-breaking Boy Scouts of America district events, and served on BSA Woodbadge staff for three consecutive years after completing the prestigious leadership training herself. Whether designing a youth conference or directing a camporee, Allison brings creativity, discipline, and a touch of grace to every detail. In her seminary classroom, Allison blends her vast experience with a personal mission: to make early morning Seminary not just bearable but transformational. Through intentional leadership moments and peer-supported learning, she cultivates a classroom culture where students feel empowered to plan, lead, and strengthen one another in faith. Links 🏠🧑‍🤝‍🧑🤝🤗 Join us to watch the video and share your thoughts in the Leading Saints community Transcript coming soon Get 14-day access to the Core Leader Library Highlights Allison shares effective teaching strategies and principles that can enhance youth engagement in a seminary setting. She shares proven methods to encourage participation and create a lively learning environment. The conversation highlights the importance of making gospel connections and how thoughtful planning can help youth see the relevance of gospel teachings in their everyday lives. Allison shares her approach to teaching, emphasizing the need to mix up learning methods to keep students engaged. She discusses the use of games, interactive activities, and creative resources, such as movie clips, to make lessons more relatable and exciting. She also touches on the significance of recognizing each student's voice and ensuring that everyone feels valued and included in the class. Allison introduces the "EDGE" method—Explain, Demonstrate, Guide, and Enable—as a framework for teaching leadership skills to youth. She explains how this method empowers students to take charge of their learning and prepares them for future leadership roles. Allison shares practical examples of how she sets her students up for success, including organizing activities that foster teamwork and collaboration. She emphasizes the importance of loving and supporting youth, encouraging leaders to create an environment where students feel safe and motivated to participate. 03:15 - Allison's Background and Experience 04:29 - Seminary Class Structure and Student Engagement 05:20 - Testing Different Teaching Methods 06:45 - Balancing Fun and Gospel Learning 07:06 - Creating Meaningful Connections in Lessons 08:15 - Using Treats and Activities Purposefully 09:27 - Engaging All Students in Class 11:03 - Recognizing Individual Contributions 12:16 - Encouraging Participation from Reluctant Students 13:28 - Preparing for Youth Events like Trek 14:50 - Coordinating with Stake Leaders 16:05 - Advice for Future Leaders 18:12 - Making Gospel Connections in Daily Life 19:14 - Youth Epiphanies and Insights 20:21 - Mixing Up Learning Approaches 22:19 - Using Creative Resources for Lessons 25:07 - Incorporating Movie Clips for Engagement 26:43 - Setting Youth Up for Success 27:23 - Leadership Skills Development 29:29 - Model Ward Council Activity 31:40 - Final Thoughts on Youth Leadership

This is a follow-up conversation. Listen to the first episode here. Jeff Strong worked nearly 30 years in the consumer products industry as a senior executive at Procter & Gamble and global president and chief customer officer at Johnson & Johnson. He then taught in the Marriott School of Business at Brigham Young University and worked as an advisor to the Church before serving as a mission leader in the Arkansas Bentonville Mission. Jeff has since spent several years doing research on why people are leaving the Church. While not a professional researcher, his career involved a large amount of research and the research he shares in this podcast was done with the help of some of the top Latter-day Saint researchers in the world. Today, Jeff lives in Midway, Utah, and stays busy with a little lavender farm, some business consulting, and enjoying family. Links Slides: Tension From Our Differences When Clapping Happens at Church | A How I Lead Interview with Devin Pope Share your thoughts in the Leading Saints community Transcript coming soon Get 14-day access to the Core Leader Library Highlights Jeff Strong dives deeper into the complexities of faith and community. He explores the idea that while many church leaders may come from a similar mindset, the diversity of perspectives within the congregation is essential for a healthy community. Jeff shares insights from a comprehensive study on disaffiliation and church experiences, highlighting the strengths and weaknesses of the church culture. He notes that while many members appreciate the community, service, and spiritual growth offered by the church, there are significant concerns about judgment, conformity, and exclusivity that can alienate individuals with differing beliefs or backgrounds. Jeff and Kurt talk about the tension caused by differences, and Jeff illustrates how the natural human response to perceived threats often leads to conformity and exclusion. He discusses the importance of yielding to the Holy Spirit to navigate these tensions, rather than allowing fear to dictate responses. A key part of the episode is the introduction of a segmentation model that categorizes Latter-day Saints into six belief mindsets: Seekers, Cultivators, Protectors, Avoiders, Connectors, and Explorers. Each segment is defined by its unique values and priorities, with Protectors making up a significant portion of church leadership. Jeff and Kurt discuss the implications of this model, emphasizing that a church comprised solely of one segment would lack the richness and diversity necessary for a thriving community. Understanding these different mindsets can help church leaders foster a more inclusive environment that accommodates a broader range of beliefs and experiences. Jeff encourages listeners to embrace the complexities of faith and community, recognizing that the presence of tension can lead to growth and deeper understanding. 00:02:00 - Discussion on disaffiliation from the church 00:02:00 - Tension caused by differences 00:09:00 - Story of the kingfisher and magpies 00:12:00 - Strengths of church culture 00:14:00 - Weaknesses of church culture 00:21:00 - The concept of the "natural man" 00:26:00 - The role of a leader in navigating tension 00:30:00 - Introduction of six mindsets or "segments" 00:36:00 - The "Seekers" segment 00:37:00 - The "Cultivators" segment 00:38:00 - The "Protectors" segment 00:39:00 - The "Avoiders" segment 00:40:00 - The "Connectors" segment 00:42:00 - The "Explorers" segment 00:44:00 - The value of different segments 00:46:00 - Disconnect in leadership 00:48:00 - Historical context of leadership 00:52:00 - Blending leadership styles 01:04:00 - Jesus and Joseph Smith as examples of different mindsets 01:13:00 - Discussion of the Body of Christ from 1 Corinthians 12 01:23:00 - Story of a 100-year-old runner 01:33:00 - Concluding thoughts on a thriving church

James Fletcher is the founder and chief investment officer of Ethos Investment Management, and has been investing professionally in emerging markets for 20 years. He is also the founder of the global non-profit Young Investors Society, which provides lessons to teens on investing and financial literacy in over 3,000 high schools and 80 countries around the world. James has a bachelor's degree in Finance from Brigham Young University and also teaches as a BYU adjunct professor in Finance. He has lived in a variety of places, from Boston to Brazil and Los Angeles to Hong Kong, and currently lives in Springville, Utah, with his wife and five children, where he serves as a bishop in the Hobble Creek Springville Utah Stake. Links Young Investors Society: YIS.org Share your thoughts in the Leading Saints community Transcript coming soon Get 14-day access to the Core Leader Library Highlights James Fletcher shares his insights and experiences as a bishop and youth leader. He shares his approach to engaging with youth, highlighting the advice he received to focus on them while allowing other leaders to manage adult responsibilities. He discusses his passion for working with young people, which has been shaped by his background in youth mentorship and his founding of the Young Investor Society, an organization that teaches financial literacy and investment principles to high school students. James emphasizes the importance of setting high expectations for youth while providing the necessary support and mentorship. He also discusses the significance of creating engaging and interactive experiences for youth, rather than simply delivering lessons. He shares how challenging youth with high expectations can lead to remarkable growth and engagement, citing examples from both his church leadership and his work with the Young Investor Society. 00:04:04 - First Impressions of Being a Bishop James shares his experiences and feelings during the first months of his calling as bishop. 00:05:16 - Unique Ward Dynamics Discussion about the unique characteristics of James's ward in Springville, Utah, including its diverse community. 00:06:57 - Approach to Engaging Youth James explains his focus on youth and how he prioritizes their needs in his leadership role. 00:07:54 - Background in Youth Engagement James discusses his history of working with youth and the founding of the Young Investor Society. 00:09:37 - Weekly Engagement with Youth Insights into James's weekly activities and how he applies principles of mentorship and engagement with youth. 00:11:06 - Measuring Success as a Bishop James shares advice on how to judge success in his role, emphasizing spiritual guidance. 00:12:00 - Personal Story of Mentorship James recounts a meaningful experience with a young man named Zach and the impact of mentorship. 00:14:23 - Principles for Working with Youth James discusses key principles for engaging and inspiring youth, including setting high expectations. 00:18:47 - Interactive Learning Experiences The importance of interactive and challenging experiences for youth to keep them engaged. 00:21:10 - High Expectations and Support James elaborates on the balance of high expectations and providing support to youth. 00:23:01 - Recognizing and Nurturing Gifts The significance of helping youth recognize their gifts and potential. 00:30:54 - Real Love and Genuine Support James emphasizes the importance of showing genuine love and support to youth in leadership. 00:36:21 - Young Investor Society Overview Information about the Young Investor Society and how it supports youth in financial literacy. The award-winning Leading Saints Podcast is one of the top independent Latter-day Saints podcasts as part of nonprofit Leading Saints' mission to help Latter-day Saints be better prepared to lead. Learn more and listen to any of the past episodes for free at LeadingSaints.org.

Dr. Benjamin Hardy is an organizational psychologist, author, and speaker known for his work on the psychology of exponential growth and transformation. He has mastered a highly unique form of strategic psychology and is known for his ability to rapidly scale companies to seemingly impossible levels. The author of several books and cofounder of his rigorous scaling company, Scaling.com, Benjamin helps companies scale 10x or more within three years. His innovative psychological and strategic frameworks are unlike anything else in business right now and are seeking to disrupt both the fields of psychology and business. Benjamin and his wife Lauren have seven children and live in Orlando. Links The Science of Scaling: Grow Your Business Bigger and Faster Than You Think Possible Scaling.com/Audiobook Share your thoughts in the Leading Saints community Transcript coming soon Get 14-day access to the Core Leader Library Highlights Benjamin introduces the idea that setting ambitious goals can lead to more effective pathways for growth. He explains that when organizations aim for significantly higher targets—such as a tenfold increase in growth—they are compelled to streamline their efforts and eliminate unnecessary complexities. This principle is particularly relevant for church leaders who may feel constrained by traditional metrics of success. Benjamin emphasizes the importance of aligning daily actions with a higher purpose. He discusses the concept of "raising the floor," which refers to the necessity of letting go of lower standards and practices that no longer serve the organization's goals. By doing so, leaders can create a more focused and effective environment for achieving their objectives. The conversation also delves into the psychological aspects of goal-setting, highlighting how the future should shape present actions rather than being dictated by past performance. He shares a compelling story about an audacious missionary baptism goal and how adjusting adjusting and filtering ultimately achieved the goal—illustrating the power of high aspirations and the need for leaders to be willing to say no to less-impactful activities. Benjamin explores the challenges church leaders face in maintaining focus amidst competing priorities and discusses the tendency to add more initiatives rather than simplifying and prioritizing efforts. He encourages leaders to define clear, measurable goals that can guide their actions and decision-making processes, along with a call to embrace ambitious goals. By focusing on fewer, higher goals and raising their standards, leaders can unlock the potential within their wards and organizations, ultimately leading to greater success in their missions. 00:04:00 - Applying Scaling Principles to the Church 00:05:20 - The Goal Shapes the Path and System 00:05:50 - The Power of 10x Goals and Short Timelines 00:08:40 - Missionary Work as an Example of Scaling 00:10:50 - The Past and Future as Lenses for the Present 00:14:10 - Operating From the Goal, Not Toward It 00:14:40 - Raising the Floor and Saying No 00:15:30 - Blake's Missionary Experience and Filtering 00:19:40 - Overcoming the Influence of the Past in Organizations 00:21:50 - Simplicity vs. Complexity 00:23:10 - The Challenge of Too Many Goals in Church Councils 00:24:50 - Focusing on Key Priorities in Leadership 00:28:00 - Defining and Owning Roles in Church Leadership 00:28:50 - Understanding and Raising the Floor 00:31:30 - The Floor as a Standard of Accountability 00:33:30 - Avoiding Guilt from Too Many To-Dos 00:36:10 - Setting Clear, Numeric Goals 00:40:20 - The Future Shapes the Present 00:42:50 - Repentance and Reorienting Towards the Future 00:44:50 - Distancing from Past Self and Growth Mindset 00:48:50 - Measuring Impact and Qualitative vs. Quantitative Goals 00:53:00 - Accountability in Systems and Leadership