Advertise on podcast: Follow 2 Lead: A Christian Leaders Podcast

In Episode 452 of the Follow 2 Lead Podcast, Tony Miltenberger sits down with Dr. Matt Paden for a thoughtful and practical conversation on what it takes to lead with authenticity and intention. Dr. Paden, an academic turned entrepreneur and leadership coach, shares insights from his new book CORE: The 8 Principles for Building Strong, Authentic Leadership, co-authored with his mentor Ken Jones. Through a parable-style approach, Matt unpacks foundational leadership principles that help leaders grow, pivot, and lead others with clarity and purpose. Tony and Matt explore what it looks like to bridge theory and real-world leadership, how to lead people well in seasons of change, and why authenticity is at the heart of lasting influence. They also discuss the importance of self-awareness, growth, and applying leadership principles in everyday decisions. This episode is a practical guide for leaders who want to strengthen their foundation and lead with consistency, integrity, and impact. Coaching Question: Which of the eight principles do you need to focus on most right now? Connect with Dr. Matt Paden: • Website: https://greatdaysleadership.com • Instagram: @dr.mattpaden • Book: CORE: The 8 Principles for Building Strong, Authentic Leadership, https://a.co/d/000M9DiT Please check out our sponsors: EBEB Solutions https://www.ebebsolutions.com/ That Sounds Fun Network: https://thatsoundsfunnetwork.com/ Follow 2 Lead Coaching https://www.follow2leadbenchmark.com Tony on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/twmilt/ Check out our YouTube page https://www.youtube.com/@twmilt Be sure to leave us a review on Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/follow-2-lead-a-christian-leaders-podcast/id1429933082 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

#451: Procrastination-Proof Leadership: Jon Acuff on Action, Feedback, and Getting Unstuck In Episode 451 of the Follow 2 Lead Podcast, Tony Miltenberger sits down with bestselling author and speaker Jon Acuff for a high-energy, practical conversation about overcoming procrastination and stepping into action. Jon shares insights from his latest book Procrastination Proof, breaking down why we get stuck and how to build systems that keep us moving forward. From feedback and accountability to knowing when to say yes (and when to say no), this episode is packed with tools leaders can apply immediately. Tony and Jon explore how great leaders simplify complexity, create momentum, and stay consistent even when motivation fades. They also dive into the importance of feedback, surrounding yourself with the right people, and building rhythms that protect you from self-sabotage. This conversation is both encouraging and actionable—perfect for leaders who are ready to stop overthinking and start moving. Coaching Question: Where are you procrastinating—and what system do you need to put in place to protect you from you? Connect with Jon Acuff: • Website: https://acuff.me • Instagram: @jonacuff • Book: Procrastination Proof, https://a.co/d/0hfSu5uI Please check out our sponsors: EBEB Solutions https://www.ebebsolutions.com/ That Sounds Fun Network: https://thatsoundsfunnetwork.com/ Follow 2 Lead Coaching https://www.follow2leadbenchmark.com Tony on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/twmilt/ Check out our YouTube page https://www.youtube.com/@twmilt Be sure to leave us a review on Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/follow-2-lead-a-christian-leaders-podcast/id1429933082 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In Episode 450 of the Follow 2 Lead Podcast, Tony Miltenberger sits down with Jason VanRuler for a deeply practical conversation on how our internal patterns shape the way we lead. Jason brings powerful insight from his work at the intersection of leadership development, communication, and attachment theory, helping leaders understand why the same relational dynamics often show up both in the boardroom and at home. Together, Tony and Jason explore how leadership isn’t just about strategy or skill—but about awareness. They unpack how attachment patterns influence communication, decision-making, and relationships, and why unresolved patterns can quietly limit a leader’s effectiveness. They also discuss what it means to lead with vulnerability, the courage required to “go first,” and how creating safe, honest spaces can transform both teams and relationships. This conversation is filled with practical takeaways for leaders who want to grow not just in what they do—but in who they are. This episode is a powerful invitation to examine what you’re carrying, lead with greater self-awareness, and build deeper, more meaningful connections in every area of your life. Coaching Question: Who in your life has earned the right to hear what you’re really carrying—and when did you last let them in? Connect with Jason VanRuler: • Website: jasonvr.com • Instagram: @jason.vanruler • Book: Get Past Your Past https://www.amazon.com/Get-Past-Your-Past/dp/1400238060 Please check out our sponsors: EBEB Solutions https://www.ebebsolutions.com/ That Sounds Fun Network: https://thatsoundsfunnetwork.com/ Follow 2 Lead Coaching https://www.follow2leadbenchmark.com Tony on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/twmilt/ Check out our YouTube page https://www.youtube.com/@twmilt Be sure to leave us a review on Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/follow-2-lead-a-christian-leaders-podcast/id1429933082 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What does it look like to lead when no one has handed you permission? Willow Weston has been answering that question her whole life, and this conversation is one of the most honest and Spirit-filled we have had on the podcast. Willow is a speaker, podcaster, author, and ministry leader whose newest book, Collide, is already changing lives, and today she brought every bit of that gift to this conversation. We talked about what it really means to lead without title or authority, why God's power shows up most clearly in our weakness, and how faithfulness in the small things is always the path to more. Willow shares what it was like to be handed a microphone before she felt ready, and the word God gave her that changed everything: never say no to what I can do through you. We also go deep on pain. Willow walks through the framework behind Collide, why avoidance does not heal us, and what it actually looks like to create space for Jesus to meet us in the hard places. If you have been carrying something unresolved, this conversation is going to land somewhere important for you. Willow also talks about intergenerational ministry, the discipline of staying curious, and what seven years of podcasting has taught her about following the Spirit instead of the script. This one is worth a second listen. https://www.willowweston.com/ https://www.instagram.com/willowanneweston ⁠⁠Please check out our sponsors EBEB Solutions⁠ ⁠That Sounds Fun Network: ⁠ ⁠Follow 2 Lead Coaching⁠ ⁠Tony on Instagram⁠ ⁠Check out our YouTube page⁠ ⁠Be sure to leave us a review on Apple Podcasts⁠ Interested in becoming a sponsor? Contact us here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In Episode 448 of the Follow 2 Lead Podcast, Tony Miltenberger sits down with Mike Foster for a powerful conversation about how to lead effectively without a formal title or position of authority. Mike reframes leadership around influence rather than title, challenging listeners to stop waiting for permission and start creating impact where they already are. Together, Tony and Mike explore how curiosity, empathy, and strong questions help leaders influence others in a healthy way without forcing an agenda. The conversation also dives into Mike’s Seven Primal Questions framework and how understanding the deeper question driving your life can transform the way you lead, relate, and communicate. Mike explains why self-awareness matters, how primal questions shape marriages and team dynamics, and why great leaders learn to answer the deeper needs of the people around them. Tony and Mike also discuss the transition from ministry into executive coaching, discerning when it’s time to make a big change, and the simple but essential disciplines that keep leaders grounded: sleep, movement, hydration, and nourishment. This episode is a practical and deeply insightful guide for leaders who want to grow their influence, understand themselves better, and lead with clarity, health, and intention. https://www.primalquestion.com/ https://www.mikefoster.tv/ https://www.instagram.com/mikefoster2000/?hl=en ⁠⁠Please check out our sponsors EBEB Solutions⁠ ⁠That Sounds Fun Network: ⁠ ⁠Follow 2 Lead Coaching⁠ ⁠Tony on Instagram⁠ ⁠Check out our YouTube page⁠ ⁠Be sure to leave us a review on Apple Podcasts⁠ Interested in becoming a sponsor? Contact us here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In Episode 447 of the Follow 2 Lead Podcast, Tony Miltenberger sits down with Dr. Chris McKinney to explore the intersection of leadership, emotional health, and authentic community. Chris shares insights from his work helping individuals and leaders develop greater self-awareness, emotional resilience, and relational strength. Together, Tony and Chris discuss why healthy leadership begins internally—through emotional maturity, empathy, and a willingness to grow. The conversation explores how leaders can create cultures where people feel safe, supported, and empowered. Chris highlights the importance of intentional relationships, strong communication, and cultivating environments where honesty and care are valued. Listeners will also gain practical perspective on managing the emotional demands of leadership while staying grounded in purpose, identity, and community. This episode offers valuable wisdom for leaders who want to lead with clarity, compassion, and long‑term impact. Connect with Dr. Chris McKinney: Instagram: @crmckinney Please check out our sponsors: EBEB Solutions https://www.ebebsolutions.com/ That Sounds Fun Network: https://thatsoundsfunnetwork.com/ Follow 2 Lead Coaching https://www.follow2leadbenchmark.com Tony on Instagram   / twmilt   Check out our YouTube page    / @twmilt   Be sure to leave us a review on Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast... Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Follow 2 Lead Podcast, Tony Miltenberger sits down with Alli Patterson to explore how leaders can build meaningful influence—even without a formal title or position of authority. Alli shares how understanding our identity in Christ unlocks confidence and empowers leaders to serve, guide, and influence others authentically. Rather than striving for titles or recognition, she encourages leaders to embrace the gifts God has given them and step into leadership through service, humility, and courage. Tony and Alli also discuss the role of listening to the Holy Spirit in everyday leadership decisions, the importance of creating environments where people feel safe to be real, and how community spaces—like church camps and spiritual gatherings—can spark transformative moments of growth and connection. The conversation dives into practical ways leaders can discover their unique leadership presence, navigate imposter syndrome, and develop a Spirit‑led approach to engaging Scripture and leading others. Alli also highlights the power of low‑control environments where the Holy Spirit is free to move, reminding leaders that authentic leadership often looks less like control and more like trust. Whether you’re leading in ministry, business, or everyday life, this episode offers encouragement and practical insight for anyone who wants to lead with confidence, faith, and influence—even without a title. https://www.allipatterson.com/ ⁠⁠Please check out our sponsors EBEB Solutions⁠ ⁠That Sounds Fun Network: ⁠ ⁠Follow 2 Lead Coaching⁠ ⁠Tony on Instagram⁠ ⁠Check out our YouTube page⁠ ⁠Be sure to leave us a review on Apple Podcasts⁠ Interested in becoming a sponsor? Contact us here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Follow 2 Lead Podcast, Tony Miltenberger sits down with Doug Shaw to explore the power of servant leadership and what it means to lead effectively—even without formal authority. Doug shares how leadership begins not with a title, but with a commitment to serving others and building a culture rooted in care, trust, and shared values. Doug introduces the concept of creating a curative culture—an environment where people can grow, heal, and thrive. He explains how leaders shape culture through daily decisions, humility, and consistency. The conversation also highlights how values and faith can guide leadership in diverse environments, helping leaders remain grounded while navigating complex organizational challenges. As a nonprofit leader, Doug offers practical insight into fundraising as relationship‑building, emphasizing that generosity flows from genuine connection rather than transactional asks. He reframes fundraising as an invitation for people to participate in meaningful impact, rather than simply a financial exchange. Doug also reflects on the influence of family, mentorship, and learning from great leaders, reminding listeners that leadership is deeply relational. This episode is a powerful resource for nonprofit leaders, executives, pastors, and anyone seeking to lead with purpose, humility, and lasting influence. Coaching Question: “Where in your leadership are you waiting for authority instead of choosing to serve—and what would change if you led from service starting today?” Connect with Doug Shaw: • Website: douglasshaw.com Please check out our sponsors: EBEB Solutions https://www.ebebsolutions.com/ That Sounds Fun Network: https://thatsoundsfunnetwork.com/ Follow 2 Lead Coaching https://www.follow2leadbenchmark.com Tony on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/twmilt/ Check out our YouTube page https://www.youtube.com/@twmilt Be sure to leave us a review on Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast... Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Follow 2 Lead Podcast, Tony Miltenberger sits down with Trey Tucker for a powerful conversation about authentic leadership, emotional health, and the essential role of self‑care in sustaining long‑term influence. Tucker shares why leadership begins with care—both for others and for yourself. He emphasizes that leaders cannot give what they do not possess, and that cultivating emotional health, self‑acceptance, and community is foundational to leading effectively. Together, Tony and Trey explore how embracing imperfection allows leaders to build deeper trust, foster genuine relationships, and lead with authenticity. The conversation also tackles the realities of empathy fatigue, anxiety, and the internal pressure leaders often carry. Tucker offers practical insight into managing emotional strain, understanding how discomfort can lead to growth, and recognizing how anxiety—when understood properly—can be redirected into productive leadership energy. Listeners will gain practical leadership tools for building healthier teams, developing stronger personal resilience, and creating environments where people feel seen, supported, and empowered. This episode is especially valuable for executives, pastors, entrepreneurs, and leaders who want to lead with clarity, emotional strength, and authenticity. Coaching Question: “How well are you caring for yourself emotionally—and how might improving that care transform the way you lead others?” Connect with Trey Tucker: • Website: ruggedcounseling.com • Instagram: @ruggedcounseling • Instagram: @treytucker • X (Twitter): @TTuck10 • YouTube: Rugged Counseling Please check out our sponsors: EBEB Solutions https://www.ebebsolutions.com/ That Sounds Fun Network: https://thatsoundsfunnetwork.com/ Follow 2 Lead Coaching https://www.follow2leadbenchmark.com Tony on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/twmilt/ Check out our YouTube page https://www.youtube.com/@twmilt Be sure to leave us a review on Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/follow-2-lead-a-christian-leaders-podcast/id1429933082 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Follow 2 Lead Podcast, Tony Miltenberger sits down with Kristen LaValley for a meaningful conversation on leadership, humility, identity, and the power of storytelling. Kristen shares why one of the most important leadership skills isn’t confidence—but the willingness to be wrong, learn, and grow. Tony and Kristen explore how great leaders create safe spaces where people feel seen, heard, and valued. Through her work hosting retreats and writing, Kristen has witnessed firsthand how storytelling can bring healing, clarity, and deeper connection. They discuss how writing becomes a tool for personal growth, helping leaders better understand themselves and lead with authenticity. The conversation also dives into the role of community in shaping identity and leadership, and how spiritual storytelling can foster transformation in both the storyteller and the listener. Kristen reflects on her own writing journey, emphasizing that leadership is not about having everything figured out—but about showing up with humility, curiosity, and openness to growth. This episode is a powerful reminder that leadership is deeply human. It’s built through shared stories, honest reflection, and the courage to create environments where people can grow and belong. Coaching Question: “Where in your leadership might humility—specifically the willingness to be wrong—unlock deeper trust, growth, and connection?” Connect with Kristen LaValley: • Website: kristenlavalley.com  • Instagram: @kristen.lavalley  • Substack: kristenlavalley.substack.com  • Books & author info: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Kristen... Please check out our sponsors: EBEB Solutions https://www.ebebsolutions.com/ That Sounds Fun Network: https://thatsoundsfunnetwork.com/ Follow 2 Lead Coaching https://www.follow2leadbenchmark.com Tony on Instagram   / twmilt   Check out our YouTube page    / @twmilt   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Follow 2 Lead Podcast, Tony Miltenberger sits down with Kara for a meaningful conversation about the core skills that shape healthy leadership and thriving workplace culture. At the center of the discussion is one essential truth: the most important leadership skill is communication. Tony and Kara explore how thoughtful leadership requires leaders to consider not just what they say, but the impact their words have on people, culture, and community. Kara shares her personal journey of understanding workplace culture and how feedback—when normalized and modeled well—can become a powerful tool for growth rather than fear. The conversation also highlights the importance of discernment in leadership decisions, establishing clear non‑negotiables, and intentionally cultivating a positive culture instead of assuming it will develop on its own. Kara reflects on how podcasting helped clarify her message and build confidence, and why great leaders often show up as caregivers, mentors, and consistent presences in the lives of others. This episode is a practical and reflective guide for leaders who want to communicate more clearly, build healthier teams, and lead with thoughtfulness, care, and conviction. Coaching Question: “How intentionally are you shaping your culture through the way you communicate—and what feedback are you willing to invite that could make you a better leader?” Instagram:   / heykaralist   LinkedIn:   / heykaralist   Resources by topic: https://www.heykaralist.com/grow To connect or learn more about future cohorts, email mailto:[email protected] Please check out our sponsors: EBEB Solutions https://www.ebebsolutions.com/ That Sounds Fun Network: https://thatsoundsfunnetwork.com/ Follow 2 Lead Coaching https://www.follow2leadbenchmark.com Tony on Instagram   / twmilt   Check out our YouTube page    / @twmilt   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

https://secure.givelively.org/donate/lydias-mission/lydia-s-mission-climb-4-kids/tony-miltenberger https://lydiasmission.org/ In this episode of the Follow 2 Lead Podcast, host Tony Miltenberger sits down with Claire Kriel, co‑founder of Lydia’s Mission, to explore what it means to build a community and mission that empowers women, supports families, and brings kingdom‑centered transformation to the world. Claire shares the inspiring story behind Lydia’s Mission — a ministry rooted in compassion, hospitality, and the belief that every person has inherent value and purpose. They dive into how intentional community, thoughtful discipleship, and practical support can help people navigate real‑world challenges and grow in faith, resilience, and leadership. The conversation also highlights how mission‑driven work flourishes when it’s anchored in relationships, humility, and a commitment to serving others well. Listeners will hear practical wisdom on the importance of mercy ministries, developing leaders through real engagement, and the role of collaborative networks in extending influence beyond a single setting. Whether you’re a ministry leader, pastor, business owner, or someone passionate about meaningful service, this dialogue offers encouragement and insight for stepping into impact with purpose and joy. ⁠⁠Please check out our sponsors EBEB Solutions⁠ ⁠That Sounds Fun Network: ⁠ ⁠Follow 2 Lead Coaching⁠ ⁠Tony on Instagram⁠ ⁠Check out our YouTube page⁠ ⁠Be sure to leave us a review on Apple Podcasts⁠ Interested in becoming a sponsor? Contact us here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Links mentioned in the episode: Give to Tony's Climb! Listen to Mitch on the podcast! In this solo episode of the Follow 2 Lead Podcast, Tony Miltenberger shares leadership lessons shaped by personal experience and reflections from a recent trip to South Africa. With clarity and conviction, Tony challenges the common assumption that leadership begins with a title—arguing instead that leadership starts with movement, responsibility, and faithful presence. Tony unpacks the real tensions leaders face between cultural realities and their kingdom calling, reminding listeners that the noise of the world can’t be allowed to drown out what God is asking of them. He emphasizes that some of the most meaningful leadership isn’t flashy—it’s the hard, consistent work of showing up, doing what needs to be done, and staying faithful even when results are slow. Throughout the episode, Tony encourages listeners to discern their calling, take responsibility for the needs around them, and commit to the next small (but significant) step forward. This is an invitation to lead with conviction, consistency, and courage—without waiting for permission. ⁠⁠Please check out our sponsors EBEB Solutions⁠ ⁠That Sounds Fun Network: ⁠ ⁠Follow 2 Lead Coaching⁠ ⁠Tony on Instagram⁠ ⁠Check out our YouTube page⁠ ⁠Be sure to leave us a review on Apple Podcasts⁠ Interested in becoming a sponsor? Contact us here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sign up for our monthly resource at twmilt.com! In this episode of the Follow 2 Lead Podcast, Tony Miltenberger sits down with Rebekah Scott for an inspiring conversation on the transformative power of creativity. Rebekah shares the personal moment that sparked her passion for creating spaces where people can experience the joy of making something—and in the process, rediscover their voice, value, and identity. Together, they explore how creativity isn’t just a hobby—it’s a powerful pathway to self-expression, personal growth, and community connection. Bekah unpacks why encouraging bravery in the creative process helps people step into unique, authentic expression, and how creating something can remind individuals they were made with purpose and worth. This conversation is a reminder that creativity can “light someone up,” build confidence, foster belonging, and ultimately make an impact far beyond the moment—pointing people toward kingdom-minded influence through everyday acts of creation. https://www.encouragerpodcast.com/ https://www.instagram.com/encouragerpodcast/ ⁠⁠Please check out our sponsors EBEB Solutions⁠ ⁠That Sounds Fun Network: ⁠ ⁠Follow 2 Lead Coaching⁠ ⁠Tony on Instagram⁠ ⁠Check out our YouTube page⁠ ⁠Be sure to leave us a review on Apple Podcasts⁠ Interested in becoming a sponsor? Contact us here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Follow 2 Lead Podcast, Tony Miltenberger sits down with Fallon Klug for a thoughtful conversation on leadership, influence, and personal growth. Fallon shares her journey of recognizing herself as a leader—not through a title, but through influence, care, and presence in the lives of others. Together, Tony and Fallon explore why many people resist calling themselves leaders, even when they clearly have influence. Fallon reframes leadership through the lens of caregiving, emphasizing that showing up with empathy, curiosity, and love is often the most powerful form of leadership. The conversation highlights how curiosity fosters kindness, deepens understanding, and strengthens relationships—especially in creative and collaborative environments. Fallon also reflects on how improv has shaped her leadership and life, teaching her to embrace discomfort, stay present, and adapt with confidence. They discuss navigating career pivots, working with creative personalities, and the importance of having wise counsel when making bold decisions. The episode closes with a meaningful reflection on a youth pastor who modeled humility, honesty, and care—leaving a lasting imprint of what leadership can and should look like. This conversation is an encouraging reminder that leadership is less about position and more about presence, listening, and serving others well. https://thatsoundsfunnetwork.com/ https://www.instagram.com/tsfnetwork/ ⁠⁠Please check out our sponsors EBEB Solutions⁠ ⁠That Sounds Fun Network: ⁠ ⁠Follow 2 Lead Coaching⁠ ⁠Tony on Instagram⁠ ⁠Check out our YouTube page⁠ ⁠Be sure to leave us a review on Apple Podcasts⁠ Interested in becoming a sponsor? Contact us here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices