The Daily LEAD
A leadership podcast for any leader who is passionate about leadership development and self-care, and relationships. It consists of two segments a week: Mental Health Mondays, and Everyday Leaders on Thursdays.
Episodes
277 episodes
Episode 423 Grief and Ghosts: The People and Things We Still Carry
In this reflective episode, “Grief and Ghosts: The People and Things We Still Carry,” we explore how love, loss, and remembrance intertwine — reminding us that grief is not an ending, but a continuing bond that shapes how we heal and connect.
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Season 4
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Episode 423
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16:32
Episode 422 Lessons From the Field
In this special follow-up episode of The Daily LEAD, Brad Otto sits down with guest host Jessica Noonan for an honest and inspiring conversation about his mission work in Africa and the story behind Acts of Wisdom. Building on last week’s episo...
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Season 4
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Episode 422
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1:00:49
Episode 421 Behind the Mask: The Courage to Be Yourself
We all wear masks to get through the day — the “I’m fine” smile, the strong leader act, the calm parent face. In this episode, we explore why we hide, what it costs us, and how to find safety in being real again.
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Season 4
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Episode 421
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10:57
Episode 420 Rethinking Mission Work
In this episode we invite listeners to reimagine what “mission work” really means in the modern church. Drawing from years of experience leading Acts of Wisdom in Africa, Brad Otto challenges the traditional, short-term trip mindset and of...
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Season 4
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Episode 420
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22:56
Episode 419 Leading with Courage: Domestic Violence Awareness in Leadership
Domestic violence is a difficult but essential topic for every leader to understand. In this episode, we explore how to raise awareness with compassion and caution — recognizing warning signs, supporting others safely, and creating a culture wh...
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Season 4
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Episode 419
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19:22
Episode 418 The Gold Standard of Church Hospitality
In this episode, we build on last week’s Disney-inspired conversation by exploring The New Gold Standard by Joseph A. Michelli, which unpacks The Ritz-Carlton’s world-class service philosophy. Discover how the Ritz-Carlton’s five leade...
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Season 4
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Episode 418
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20:21
Episode 417: Women with ADHD:From Overwhelm to Awareness
In honor of ADHD Awareness Month, this episode explores how ADHD shows up in women — often hidden behind busyness, burnout, and perfectionism — and how understanding your brain can lead to healing and self-compassion.ADHD Resources:<...
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Season 4
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Episode 417
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26:43
Episode 416 Hospitality From the Happiest Place on Earth
As churches prepare for a season filled with guests and new faces during the fall and holidays, there’s no better time to revisit how we welcome people. In this episode, we explore lessons from Disney’s Be Our Guest: Perfecting the Art of C...
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Season 4
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Episode 416
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21:58
Episode 415 Mental Illness Awareness Week – Breaking the Silence
In this special Mental Illness Awareness Week episode, we break the silence around mental health. Learn why awareness matters, how stigma holds people back from healing, and what simple actions you can take to support yourself and othe...
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Season 4
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Episode 415
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17:00
Episode 414 Leading Through The In-Between
Transitions are some of the most challenging moments leaders face. Whether it’s a pastoral change, organizational restructuring, or shifting ministry priorities, the in-between season can feel uncertain and overwhelming. In this episode of ...
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Season 4
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Episode 414
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19:45
Episode 413 One Thing at a Time: Why Single-Tasking Boosts Mental Clarity & Mental Health
Multitasking doesn’t just drain productivity—it fuels stress and anxiety. In this episode, learn how single-tasking can clear your mind, lower overwhelm, and protect your mental health.
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Season 4
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Episode 413
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14:30
Episode 412 Reflections of a Bishop: A Conversation with Mike Rinehart
Join us for an honest and inspiring conversation with former Bishop Mike Rinehart as he reflects on his years of leadership in the church. From the moments he’s most proud of to the challenges and regrets along the way, Pastor Rinehart shares w...
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Season 4
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Episode 412
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42:01
Episode 411 Untangling Cognitive Distortions: Seeing Thoughts More Clearly
Don’t believe everything you think. In this episode, we uncover the brain’s biggest thought traps—why they happen, how they hold you back, and simple tools to see life more clearly.
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Season 4
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Episode 411
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18:03
Episode 410 Leading with Conviction in a Divided Culture
In today’s polarized culture, every word a pastor speaks can feel like walking through a minefield. Yet church leaders are called to proclaim the gospel, confront injustice, and shepherd people through turbulent times. How do you lead with cour...
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Season 4
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Episode 410
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22:19
Episode 409 Decision Fatigue: Why Leaders Run Out of Mental Energy
Leadership is full of choices, big and small. In this episode, we explore decision fatigue—why your brain feels drained—and how simple routines can protect your energy for the decisions that matter most.
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Season 4
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Episode 409
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25:56
Episode 408 From Good to Great: Lessons for Church Leaders
Why do some churches grow in impact while others plateau? In this episode, we explore timeless leadership insights from Jim Collins’ Good to Great—applied directly to ministry. Learn how Level 5 leadership, focusing on the right people...
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Season 4
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Episode 408
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25:14
Episode 407 Guiding Others Without Losing Yourself
Leaders often carry the weight of others’ pain—but you don’t have to lose yourself in the process. This episode shares practical ways to set boundaries, release what isn’t yours to hold, and lead with empathy without burning out.
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Season 4
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Episode 407
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26:31
Episode 406 Faith That Fuels Change
In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Rev. Dr. Amy Butler, founder of Invested Faith, to explore the intersection of faith, justice, and entrepreneurship. Amy shares the story behind the creation of Invested Faith and how it has ...
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Season 4
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Episode 406
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25:23
Episode 405 Decisions, Distractions, and Leadership with ADHD
ADHD can make decision-making tough—but it can also fuel creativity and bold leadership. In this episode, we’ll explore practical tools to help you lead with clarity and confidence.
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Season 4
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Episode 405
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26:36
Episode 404: When Theology Meets Ministry
What happens when we confuse what never changes with what must always change? In this episode, we unpack Andy Stanley’s insight that “Jesus never let theology get in the way of ministry.” Discover how distinguishing between what we believe (the...
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Season 4
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Episode 404
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20:13
Episode 403 The Power of Pause
Rest isn’t a luxury—it’s essential. In this episode, we explore why taking breaks and embracing time off protects your mental health, fuels creativity, and prevents burnout. Learn the science behind rest, why we resist it, and practical ways to...
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Season 4
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Episode 403
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22:39
Episode 402: Beats and Theology: Hip-Hop As Ministry with David Scherer
We’re kicking off Season Four with a powerful conversation featuring David Scherer, better known as AGAPE. From his journey into hip-hop to transforming the art form into a ministry, David shares how music can break barriers and bring theology ...
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Season 4
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Episode 402
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34:18
Episode 401 Evolution of Leadership Identity
Leadership changes more than your title—it reshapes your identity and your mental health needs. In this episode, we explore the hidden challenges of leadership, from burnout to loneliness, and share practical strategies to stay grounded, authen...
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Season 4
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Episode 401
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25:14
Episode 355: The Season Three Finale with Shariq Abdul Ghani
In our final episode of Season Three of The Daily LEAD, we celebrate Throwback Thursday with an old conversation with Shariq Abdul Ghani, Director of the Minaret Foundation. Together we discuss his journey of faith and what led him to begin the...
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Season 3
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Episode 355
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54:21
Episode 354 Inside the Narcissist’s Web: How It Hurts—and How You Heal
Have you ever questioned your reality, lost your sense of self, or felt trapped in a toxic relationship? You’re not alone. Today’s episode explores how to recognize narcissistic behavior, understand its emotional impact, and start your healing ...
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Season 3
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Episode 354
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26:09