Lead Stories Podcast (Jo Saxton and Pastor Steph Williams O'Brien)

Meet Amy Boucher-Pye, an American writer and leader who lives in London, England.

This week Jo chats with Amy about what leadership looks like for her and why she has found it hard to see herself as a leader at times.  Amy shares about how God helped her to forgive a person who betrayed her, what she has learned about what forgiveness looked like in the Old and New Testament and some of the costs of leadership.

Amy also shares some of the practical exercises she uses on retreats to help people forgive and express grief (see discussion questions and exercises below).

Check out Amy’s website: http://www.amyboucherpye.com

Amy’s books:

Finding myself in Britain

The Living Cross

Discussion questions and exercises Amy shares:

1) Amy says: ‘We have to learn to forgive or it hurts us.’ Share a time when God helped you forgive someone who had hurt you.  What were some of the things that helped the forgiveness process?

2) Spend some time praying and asking God to show you if there is any one you need to forgive.  Take or make a cross and when you are ready place the name of that person on the cross.  Remembering that the cross was a place of exchange, so take some time to stay at the cross to receive what God wants to give to you.

3) Take some time to write down a lament - a grief or something you cannot change.  Be specific and then find a space (ideally a wall, but be creative!) where you can deposit your lament prayer as a way of releasing it.

  Follow Lead Stories Podcast to interact with Steph and Jo: Twitter: @LeadStoriesVox Instagram: @LeadStoriesPodcast Facebook: LeadStoriesPodcast Connect with Jo at: www.josaxton.com @josaxton Connect with Steph at: www.pastorsteph.com @pastorstephMPLS Subscribe on iTunes to have the podcast automatically download to your device every week or listen at www.leadstoriespodcast.com

Today, Jo and Stephanie ask perhaps hard, but important questions like "What does it mean to say Goodbye to 2020?"  "What does is look like to move on?"  "What has 2020 revealed and how do we respond?"  

Hello/Goodbye Event December 13 at 7:00pm CST on Facebook Live

Hello/Goodbye 2020-21 free registration HERE

Hello/Goodbye 2020-21 free resources HERE

Connect with Lead Stories, Jo, Steph and Edrin:

Instagram & Facebook: @LeadStoriesPodcast

Connect with Jo at www.josaxton.com @josaxton

Connect with Pastor Steph at www.pastorsteph.com @pastorsteph

Connect with Pastor Edrin at @edrinspeaks

Subscribe on iTunes to have the podcast automatically download to your device every week or listen at www.leadstoriespodcast.com

www.leadstoriesmedia.com

Lead Stories resources at: www.leadstoriesmedia.com/resources

Other podcasts produced by Lead Stories Media: www.leadstoriedmedia.com/podcasts

Learn more about the Ezer Collective! - February in Portland

Connect with Lead Stories and Jo and Steph: 

Instagram: @LeadStoriesPodcast

Facebook: LeadStoriesPodcast

Connect with Jo at www.josaxton.com @josaxton

Connect with Steph at www.pastorsteph.com 

Jo and Steph chat leadership and speaking with Nicole Bullock.

Nicole leads a church called ‘Blue Oaks Covenant church’ in the Twin Cities but she is originally from inner-city Chicago. 

Listen in to hear what life was like for Nicole growing up in Chicago, how she was influenced by Christians who served in her neighborhood. Find out how she came to lead a Gospel choir without knowing how to sing, how that lead to her going into ministry and how, despite having no desire to do so, she became a church planter and a foster mom!

Also listen in to hear her top-tips for women related to public speaking.

Discussion questions:

1) When you look back at your childhood, which people were influential in your life now that you didn’t realize at the time?

2) Nicole says: what you are doing right now, whether big or small, know that you are making a huge impact and God is watching you being faithful.  Where do you need to hear that encouragement in your life right now?

3) How do you feel about public speaking? Do you think it is a skill that is gender specific? Is it possible you could have assumed that you are not called to speaking? Are you open to God providing opportunities for you to learn how to speak in the next season?

Come and join us at Lead Stories Community at www.leadstoriesmedia.com/community 

Follow Lead Stories Podcast to interact with Steph and Jo:

Twitter: @LeadStoriesVox

Instagram: @LeadStoriesPodcast

Facebook: LeadStoriesPodcast

Connect with Jo at: www.josaxton.com @josaxton

Connect with Steph at: www.pastorsteph.com @pastorsteph

Subscribe on iTunes to have the podcast automatically download to your device every week or listen at www.leadstoriespodcast.com

Jo and Stephanie dig deeper into the #whatgotyouherewontgetyouthere conversation by looking at the things we can't do if we want to go from here to there.  The things that need to shift or stop.  Our tendencies that seem to get us to the next level, but actually prevent that from happening. 

For more information about Jo's once a month coaching forum, featuring an hour of content and an hour of questions and processing, beginning soon, go to josaxton.com

Connect with Lead Stories and Jo and Steph:

Twitter: @LeadStoriesVox

Instagram: @LeadStoriesPodcast

Facebook: LeadStoriesPodcast

Connect with Jo at www.josaxton.com @josaxton

Connect with Steph at www.pastorsteph.com @pastorsteph

Subscribe on iTunes to have the podcast automatically download to your device every week or listen at www.leadstoriespodcast.com

www.leadstoriesmedia.com

Don’t forget to check out Lead Stories Community at www.leadstoriesmedia.com/community

Lead Stories resources at: www.leadstoriesmedia.com/resources

Wecome to Season 17 of the Lead Stories Podcast!

Jo and Steph are talking about what it's like to "walk the tightrope" of being a woman in leadership. 

Connect with Lead Stories and Jo and Steph: 

Instagram: @LeadStoriesPodcast

Facebook: LeadStoriesPodcast

Connect with Jo at www.josaxton.com @josaxton

Connect with Steph at www.pastorsteph.com 

REGISTRATION IS OPEN FOR EZER MINNEAPOLIS NOV 7-9 2024: josaxton.com

Enjoy this new episode of Lead Voices, the companion podcast to Lead Stories, featuring our friends who will inspire, challenge, stretch and encourage you. Today's guest is Jessica Turner author and blogger who lives with her husband, Matthew in Nashville,  with their silly 6-year-old son Elias, spunky 3-year-old daughter, Adeline, and  newborn son, Ezra.  Jessica talks today with Jo and Stephanie about the challenges of juggling a full schedule of work, family, and friends.

Contact:  jessicanicoleturner@gmail.com

http://www.themomcreative.com/

Books:

Stretched Too Thin: How Working Moms Can Lose the Guilt, Work Smarter and Thrive

My Fringe Hours

The Fringe Hours 

The Mom Creative Blog

Follow Lead Stories Podcast to interact with Steph and Jo:
Twitter: @LeadStoriesVox
Instagram: @LeadStoriesPodcast
Facebook: LeadStoriesPodcast

Connect with Jo at www.josaxton.com @josaxton
Connect with Steph at www.pastorsteph.com @pastorsteph
Subscribe on iTunes to have the podcast automatically download to your device every week or listen at www.leadstoriespodcast.com
www.leadstoriesmedia.com

Don’t forget to check out Lead Stories Community at www.leadstoriesmedia.com/community

It’s Jo’s turn to talk about how her life has unintentionally and then over time, intentionally broken molds.  Jo discusses how her cultural background has meant she has always broken molds and caused her to question her identity. However, as she has become increasingly comfortable with being uncomfortable she has been able to accept the calling God has given her and accept God’s invitations to break molds.

Discussion questions:

- Do you feel comfortable in the armor that God has given you to wear or are you constantly trying to put someone else’s on?

- Which things, which felt very uncomfortable at the time, do you now recognize were God-given situations God used you in to break the mold and advance His kingdom?

- Where do you need to embrace the uncomfortableness of being salt and light right now?

Check out the following books:

Shonda Rhimes: Year of Yes.

Jo Saxton: Dream of You (out now!!)

Follow Lead Stories Podcast to interact with Steph and Jo:

Twitter: @LeadStoriesVox

Instagram: @LeadStoriesPodcast

Facebook: LeadStoriesPodcast

Connect with Jo at www.josaxton.com @josaxton

Connect with Steph at www.pastorsteph.com @pastorsteph

Subscribe on iTunes to have the podcast automatically download to your device every week or listen at www.leadstoriespodcast.com

www.leadstoriesmedia.com 

This week Steph chats to Chris Frank, a clinical counselor about mental illness, and the stigmas connected with them, especially within the church.  Both Steph and Chris talk from personal experience about struggling against mental illness and the different roles medical professionals have played in helping them and those close to them.

Listen in to find out the difference between primary and secondary emotions and how they impact our mental health; how stigmas from society and the church impact mental health freedom and how we, as leaders and individuals, can support ourselves and others towards better mental health.  

Discussion:

1) How does it help to state: ‘I am struggling against depression’ rather than ‘I am depressed.’ How can our language help tear down stigmas?

2) One of the definitions of shame is a feeling of not being enough. Where do you struggle with that and what lies are you believing that impact your mental health?

3) What positive things can you do to support your own mental health and the mental health of those who you lead?

Mental Health Resources:

https://www.mentalhealth.gov/get-help/immediate-help/

https://www.betterhelp.com/helpme/

https://www.breakthrough.com/

https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/

Follow Lead Stories Podcast to interact with Steph and Jo:

Twitter: @LeadStoriesVox

Instagram: @LeadStoriesPodcast

Facebook: LeadStoriesPodcast

Connect with Jo at: www.josaxton.com @josaxton

Connect with Steph at: www.pastorsteph.com @pastorsteph

Subscribe on iTunes to have the podcast automatically download to your device every week or listen at www.leadstoriespodcast.com

www.leadstoriesmedia.com

How can we access whether the feedback we get (and give) is worth investing time and energy in or not? That’s where the feedback assessment tool comes in.  Looking in depth at the 4 spectrums, Jo and Steph examine how we can filter our feedback and invest our energies where they should be - in growth and learning, no matter how the feedback is presented.  

The 4 spectrums:

1) Kind of feedback it is

2) Kind of person

3) Clarity of the feedback

4) Relevance to our call, context and community

If you do not see the free resource attached to the show notes you may use this link:

Feedback Assessment Tool

Discussion questions:

1) List 3 people you know who are trusted experts or mentors.  Do you respond well to and ask them for regular feedback?

2) Whose feedback do you find yourself spending more brain energy on than you should?

3) What have you learned in this podcast that can help you give good feedback to others?  

Check out Sacred Holidays for Advent resources.  

Www.sacredholidays.com

For 10% off use the code: LEADSTORIES   

Please note that this book is NOT written by our Lead Stories Jo Saxton: Snail Trail: In Search of a Modern Masterpiece.  It is a lovely book for your kids so you may want to check it out, but any positive feedback needs to be sent to the real author and not our Jo Saxton. Thank you.

We would however love feedback on the feedback assessment tool! You can let us know at:

Twitter: @LeadStoriesVox

Instagram: @LeadStoriesPodcast

Facebook: LeadStoriesPodcast

Connect with Jo at www.josaxton.com @josaxton

Connect with Steph at www.pastorsteph.com @pastorsteph

Subscribe on iTunes to have the podcast automatically download to your device every week or listen at www.leadstoriespodcast.com

Come and join us at Lead Stories Community at: www.leadstoriesmedia.com

Today Jo and Steph are talking to the Turquoise Table lady, Kristin Schell.  Listen in to hear how she unexpectedly found herself leading a movement of people around the world just by putting a turquoise table in her front yard!

http://www.kristinschell.com/

www.theturquoisetable.com

Buy the book: The Turquoise Table

Follow Lead Stories Podcast to interact with Steph and Jo:

Twitter: @LeadStoriesVox

Instagram: @LeadStoriesPodcast

Facebook: LeadStoriesPodcast

Connect with Jo at: www.josaxton.com @josaxton

Connect with Steph at: www.pastorsteph.com @pastorsteph

Subscribe on iTunes to have the podcast automatically download to your device every week or listen at www.leadstoriespodcast.com

www.leadstoriesmedia.com 

Connect with Lead Stories and Jo and Steph: 

Instagram: @LeadStoriesPodcast

Facebook: LeadStoriesPodcast

Connect with Jo at www.josaxton.com @josaxton

Connect with Steph at www.pastorsteph.com 

REGISTRATION IS OPEN FOR EZER MINNEAPOLIS NOV 7-9 2024: josaxton.com

Learn more and register for the Pre-Intensive 

CHECK IT OUT:

Invitation to Solitude and Silence - Ruth Haley Barton

Invitation to Retreat - Ruth Haley Barton

The Righteous Mind - Why Good People are Divided by Politics and Religion - Jonathan Haidt

If we want to be effective and holy leaders we need to be aware of the pitfalls in our way.  Beginning a new series, Jo and Steph start by defining some of the words connected with power.   

Power: The capacity or ability to direct or influence people, circumstances or events.

a) control and command

b) ability to act or to be able

Influence: The capacity to have an effect on the development, character or behavior of something or someone.

Authority: Permission, right, knowledge or role in which you bring influence.

a) confidence, commanding manner

b) author the story

Control: Regulation, domination, command, direction over others.

Empowerment: Resourcing people so that they become stronger and confident in who they are and who God made them to be, and to live that out.

Ambition: The desire, drive and determination to achieve.

a) self-ambition

b) mission and purpose ambition

Discussion questions:

1) Which of these words do you feel comfortable and uncomfortable with and why?

2) Would you define any of these words differently?

3) How do you engage with each of those words?

Follow Lead Stories Podcast to interact with Steph and Jo:

Twitter: @LeadStoriesVox

Instagram: @LeadStoriesPodcast

Facebook: LeadStoriesPodcast

Connect with Jo at www.josaxton.com @josaxton

Connect with Steph at www.pastorsteph.com @pastorsteph

Subscribe on iTunes to have the podcast automatically download to your device every week or listen at www.leadstoriespodcast.com

www.leadstoriesmedia.com 

Don’t forget to check out Lead Stories Community at www.leadstoriesmedia.com/community

Spring Break Replay during the month of March! Enjoy these previously published favorites! Also, check out this link to download a copy of "Lead On: A Resource for Leading in the Midst of Anxious Times" 

Last week Jo and Steph discussed the Imposter Syndrome and this week they show you how to overcome it!

Using the letter A (because Jo has loved Sesame Street since childhood) they are going to discuss 8 points which use the letter A.

1) Admit this a problem and begin to address it.

2) Assess your strengths and your weaknesses

3) Asking for feedback

4) Awareness of spiritual warfare

5) Accept an accurate view of yourself.

6) Acquiring a healthy community

7) Acknowledging that you are a work in progress

8) It is not about arriving - it never was.

Discussion questions:

1) Where can you identify the Imposter Syndrome influencing your ability to move forward?

2) Which of the steps above do you feel God is highlighting to you to focus on as you take Imposter Syndrome on?

3) Do you regularly take time to assess your strengths and weaknesses and make a plan moving forward? Is there someone else you can invite into this journey to do together?

Follow Lead Stories Podcast to interact with Steph and Jo:

Twitter: @LeadStoriesVox

Instagram: @LeadStoriesPodcast

Facebook: LeadStoriesPodcast

Connect with Jo at: www.josaxton.com @josaxton

Connect with Steph at: www.pastorsteph.com @pastorsteph

Subscribe on iTunes to have the podcast automatically download to your device every week or listen at www.leadstoriespodcast.com

www.leadstoriesmedia.com 

Don’t miss today’s podcast as Christine shares her journey into leading A21 an anti-trafficking organization which is dedicated to abolishing this century’s modern day slavery and ’holocaust’.  She also shares about her heart with the two other strands of her ministry - Propel and Equip and Empower Ministries.

In a passionate and profound conversation with Jo and Steph, Christine challenges us to live fully in the world as carriers of God’s Presence and to be leaders who seek Him and His Presence more than our platforms or pleasures.

Discussion questions:

1) Christine talked about feeling called but totally unequipped and under-resourced but walking by faith.  Where do you feel called but have yet stepped out in faith?

2) What practices do you have in place to get deep into His Word and allow it to penetrate your inner being in the midst of life’s storms?

3) What does it mean for you practically to be a leader who doesn’t minimize others’ pain and suffering but who continually points people to Jesus and His hope and redemption and healing?

Check out Christine’s New Book: Unshakeable, 365 devotions for finding unwavering strength in God’s Word.

http://christinecaine.com

Propel http://www.propelwomen.org/

A21 http://www.a21.org

Equip and Empower Ministries http://christinecaine.com/content/equip-empower-ministries/gjqe7s

Follow Lead Stories Podcast to interact with Steph and Jo:

Twitter: @LeadStoriesVox

Instagram: @LeadStoriesPodcast

Facebook: LeadStoriesPodcast

Connect with Jo at www.josaxton.com @josaxton

Connect with Steph at www.pastorsteph.com @pastorsteph

Subscribe on iTunes to have the podcast automatically download to your device every week or listen at www.leadstoriespodcast.com

www.leadstoriesmedia.com

This week on LEAD VOICES Jo and Steph interview Pastor Sandra Maria Van Opstal on the topic of multiethnic leadership and worship. 

She is a liturgist and activist who is passionate about re-imagining worship that mobilizes for reconciliation and justice.

Check her out at: http://www.sandravanopstal.com/

Also, get her new book The Next Worship here: http://www.sandravanopstal.com/the-next-worship/

https://twitter.com/sandravanopstal

https://www.instagram.com/sandravanopstal/

Follow Lead Stories Podcast to interact with Steph and Jo:

Twitter: @LeadStoriesVox

Instagram: @LeadStoriesPodcast

Facebook: LeadStoriesPodcast

Connect with Jo at: www.josaxton.com @josaxton

Connect with Steph at: www.pastorsteph.com @pastorsteph

Subscribe on iTunes to have the podcast automatically download to your device every week or listen at www.leadstoriespodcast.com

www.leadstoriesmedia.com 

Hello Goodbye Resource 2021-22 is available now! There are options to get the resource for individuals and for groups of different sizes. It's time to process the previous year and prepare for the year to come. Listen today as Jo and Stephanie continue the Hello Goodbye conversation!

leadstoriesmedia.com/hellogoodbye

Connect with Lead Stories and Jo and Steph:

Twitter: @LeadStoriesVox

Instagram: @LeadStoriesPodcast

Facebook: LeadStoriesPodcast

Connect with Jo at www.josaxton.com @josaxton

Connect with Steph at www.pastorsteph.com @pastorsteph 

Subscribe on iTunes to have the podcast automatically download to your device every week or listen at www.leadstoriespodcast.com

www.leadstoriesmedia.com

The SWOT Analysis is used by business leaders, as well as non-profit and faith based organizations. Our take on the anaysis, developed orignially by our friend Mike Breen, take a bit of a different spin on this important tool.

Listen to hear more about how we need to analyze where we are in our leadership if we want to take next steps and get where we want to go!

Head to www.leadstoriesmedia.com/swot for an image of the tool.

Get all your Ezer Collective Info at www.josaxton.com

Use code: LEADSTORIES for a discount and join us May 9-11 - Northern California

Connect with Lead Stories and Jo and Steph:

Twitter: @LeadStoriesVox

Instagram: @LeadStoriesPodcast

Facebook: LeadStoriesPodcast

Connect with Jo at www.josaxton.com @josaxton

Connect with Steph at www.pastorsteph.com @pastorsteph 

Subscribe on iTunes to have the podcast automatically download to your device every week or listen at www.leadstoriespodcast.com

www.leadstoriesmedia.com

Recognizing that division is real and a part of the brokenness of this world, Steph and Edrin talk today about how to manage dialogue in divisive times.   Listen in to this timely and timeless conversation. 

Connect with Lead Stories, Jo, Steph and Edrin:

Instagram & Facebook: @LeadStoriesPodcast

Connect with Jo at www.josaxton.com @josaxton

Connect with Pastor Steph at www.pastorsteph.com @pastorsteph

Connect with Pastor Edrin at @edrinspeaks

Subscribe on iTunes to have the podcast automatically download to your device every week or listen at www.leadstoriespodcast.com

www.leadstoriesmedia.com

Lead Stories resources at: www.leadstoriesmedia.com/resources

Other podcasts produced by Lead Stories Media: www.leadstoriedmedia.com/podcasts

This Lead Voices episode sees Jo and Steph interviewing Sharon Hodde Miller, a mom, speaker, writer and who also has a PhD!  

Listen in to hear all about Sharon’s research into why evangelical women go into ministry and the steps we can all be involved in to encourage and empower women to step into their callings. 

1)  One of the things Sharon often heard when interviewing women training for ministry is that they felt ‘selfish’ for pursuing training.  When have you felt selfish for using or being trained further in your areas of gifting? 

2) Men are often willing to give something a go without feeling 100% sure of their calling or gifting, whereas women are much more reluctant until they are totally sure.  Can you think of a time when you or women you know have been slow to embrace an opportunity because you/they haven’t felt sure? How important do you think it is to feel ‘sure’ before you step into something? 

3) ‘Your words create leaders’. What mentoring / group mentoring opportunities are there available for women in your church? Are women encouraged to step into their callings as much as men are? If not, are there steps that could be taken to encourage this further? 

Check out Sharon’s website: sheworships.com 

If you are interested in reading Sharon’s doctorate contact her via her website or on her author page on facebook - Sharon Hodde Miller. 

Also check out the new Lead Stories resource guide ‘Empowering Women in Leadership’ to help you be empowered and to empower women around you at www.leadstoriesmedia.com/resources. 

Follow Lead Stories Podcast to interact with Steph and Jo:

Twitter: @LeadStoriesVox

Instagram: @LeadStoriesPodcast

Facebook: LeadStoriesPodcast

Connect with Jo at: www.josaxton.com @josaxton

Connect with Steph at: www.pastorsteph.com @pastorsteph

Subscribe on iTunes to have the podcast automatically download to your device every week or listen at www.leadstoriespodcast.com

www.leadstoriesmedia.com 

The holidays are coming and that means we often have lots of opportunities to navigate conflict in testing times!

Jo and Steph share several practical ideas to empower us to manage tension, and to pursue healthy relationships with our loved ones.

In this episode they will discuss:

1) The importance of the preparation of prayer

2) Learning to listen well

3) How to ask good questions

4) Clarifying what you think you heard someone say

5) Taking a moment to pause before jumping into conversation

6) Managing areas where opinions are different in a positive way.

Discussion questions:

1) Which relationships do you particularly need to prepare for in prayer this season?

2) Where do you need to grieve and lament injustices and difficulties in your family relationships? Maybe take some time to write a lament that leads to praise.  Check out the Psalms to find some examples of laments.  

3) Are you more likely to avoid conflict or be hot-headed? Discuss what elements make up a healthy conversation where conflict, misunderstandings or disagreements are present. Take some time to pray for courage to communicate in healthy ways.

Follow Lead Stories Podcast to interact with Steph and Jo: Twitter: @LeadStoriesVox Instagram: @LeadStoriesPodcast Facebook: LeadStoriesPodcast Connect with Jo at: www.josaxton.com @josaxton Connect with Steph at: www.pastorsteph.com @pastorstephMPLS Subscribe on iTunes to have the podcast automatically download to your device every week or listen at www.leadstoriespodcast.com

God is pursuing the people around us and He invites us to join Him.  Using Jesus’ practical instructions in Luke 10:1-9 we can discover who our ‘people of peace’ are and how we should respond to them, pronouncing His wholeness and freedom into their lives.   What does it look like to go into our everyday lives with intention? How do we identify where God’s Spirit is already working amongst those we meet and have relationship with? Who are ‘People of Peace’ and how do we identify them? How does the Bible say we should we respond to them?   In this episode Jo and Steph discuss Luke 10:1-9 and the three spaces where ‘people of peace’ can be found: 1) passing relationships, 2) current, present relationships and 3) permanent relationships. Together they share encouraging testimonies and practical tips to help you intentionally bring Jesus to those different spaces.  

Discussion questions:   - Read Luke 10:1-9 together and discuss how you can apply Jesus’ instructions to your life. How do you feel about talking to strangers about Jesus / your faith journey? Share your struggles with one another and pray for opportunities and boldness to respond to them this week.   - Who are the people who are present in your life right now who are open to you, welcome you and serve you? How can you be more intentional in your relationship with them? Who else in your faith community could you introduce to them?   - Who are the permanent relationships who still need to know Jesus? Pray together about what it looks like to surround them with Jesus in this season.  Are they ripe and need more intentional discipleship or is this the season to sow prayers? What practical steps can you take to either intentionally disciple and / or remember to pray for them?   

Follow Lead Stories Podcast to interact with Steph and Jo:

Twitter: @LeadStoriesVox

Instagram: @LeadStoriesPodcast

Facebook: LeadStoriesPodcast

Connect with Jo at: www.josaxton.com @josaxton

Connect with Steph at: www.pastorsteph.com @pastorsteph

Subscribe on iTunes to have the podcast automatically download to your device every week or listen at www.leadstoriespodcast.com

www.leadstoriesmedia.com 

This is a brand new episode of Lead Voices, the companion podcast to Lead Stories, featuring our friends who will inspire, challenge, stretch and encourage you. Today's Lead Voice is Alli Worthington, business coach, author, speaker and podcast host.  Listen in as they discuss what the Bible says about true happiness and talk about Alli's newest book, "The Year of Living Happy: Finding Contentment and Connection in a Crazy World".

More about Alli can be found at alliworthington.com.  Look for free offers for devotionals, educational materials and more. 

Alli's PODCAST

Click HERE for a free copy 52 Ways to be happier, healthier and enjoy life more

Ali's books:

Breaking Busy: How to Find Peace and Purpose in a World of Crazy 

Fierce Faith: A Woman's Guide to Fighting Fear, Wrestling Worry and Overcoming Anxiety. 

The Year of Living Happy: Finding Contentment and Connection in a Crazy World

Follow Lead Stories Podcast to interact with Steph and Jo:

Twitter: @LeadStoriesVox

Instagram: @LeadStoriesPodcast

Facebook: LeadStoriesPodcast

Connect with Jo at www.josaxton.com @josaxton

Connect with Steph at www.pastorsteph.com @pastorsteph

Subscribe on iTunes to have the podcast automatically download to your device every week or listen at www.leadstoriespodcast.com

www.leadstoriesmedia.com

Don’t forget to check out Lead Stories Community at www.leadstoriesmedia.com/community

Jo and Steph talk with Claire Williams, an Executive Coach about what coaching looks like for her and how it is different from other types of leaders or advisors.  Discussing the value of some very pertinent questions, Claire shares how she uses her coaching skills in both work and home life (with her four-year-old son!) and what success looks like for her as a coach.

Check out CTI Co-active training Institute: (based worldwide) for 2-3 day and longer coaching programs:

https://www.coactive.com/why-cti/cti-international

Learning Journeys:

https://www.learningjourneys.net/

Claire's website: 

http://www.clairewilliamscoaching.com/

Discussion questions:

1) How would you define a coach? Is it different from the way Claire described it?

2) How would (or should) you define success in your leadership role?

3) What is holding you back from finding a coach?

Follow Lead Stories Podcast to interact with Steph and Jo:

Twitter: @LeadStoriesVox

Instagram: @LeadStoriesPodcast

Facebook: LeadStoriesPodcast

Connect with Jo at www.josaxton.com @josaxton

Connect with Steph at www.pastorsteph.com @pastorsteph

Subscribe on iTunes to have the podcast automatically download to your device every week or listen at www.leadstoriespodcast.com

www.leadstoriesmedia.com 

Don’t forget to check out Lead Stories Community at www.leadstoriesmedia.com/community

In this Lead Voices podcast Jo and Steph chat with Natasha Sistrunk Robinson, the author of Mentor for Life: Finding Purpose through Intentional Discipleship (Zondervan, 2016).

She intentionally serves as a credible witness of Christ’s leadership to engage, equip, and empower people to live and lead on purpose. She is the visionary founder of the 501(c)(3) organization, Leadership LINKS, Inc., a ministry that exists to connect people with purpose.

Leadership LINKS exists to educate and equip servant leaders who are committed to using their skills and resources for the greater good of humanity. We fulfill our vision by offering leadership education that facilitates impactful living, character and spiritual development.

Natasha serves as a Bible teacher, writer, mentor, anti-human trafficking advocate, and champion for education.

Natasha is a graduate of Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary Charlotte (cum laude, M.A. Christian Leadership) and the U.S. Naval Academy. A former Marine Corps officer, she has over 15 years of leadership and mentoring experience in the military, government, church, seminary, and nonprofit sectors.

She is a sought after leadership consultant, mentoring coach, and speaker. Connect via her official website www.natashaSrobinson.com, blog www.asistasjourney.com, Twitter @asistasjourney, Instagram nlsrobinson, orwww.facebook.com/NatashaSistrunkRobinson.

Come join us at: www.leadstoriesmedia.com/community

Follow Lead Stories Podcast to interact with Steph and Jo:

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Connect with Jo at: www.josaxton.com @josaxton

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Subscribe on iTunes to have the podcast automatically download to your device every week or listen at www.leadstoriespodcast.com

This episode is a conversation with author and leader Latasha Morrison. She is the founder of Be The Bridge and also the author of the book by the same name. Both the book and the online community are excellent growth tools for leaders of all spheres. Lead Stories Media offers Latasha's work as an important "tools Of the trade" of leadership.

To connect with Latasha: https://latashamorrison.com/

To engage Be The Bridge: https://bethebridge.com/

To get the book: https://latashamorrison.com/book/

Connect with Lead Stories and Jo and Steph: 

Instagram: @LeadStoriesPodcast

Facebook: LeadStoriesPodcast

Connect with Jo at www.josaxton.com @josaxton

Connect with Steph at www.pastorsteph.com 

REGISTRATION IS OPEN FOR EZER MINNEAPOLIS NOV 7-9 2024: josaxton.com

Steph is chatting to Steve Wiens about his new book Whole: Restoring What Is Broken in Me, You and The Entire World. 

Listen in to hear their conversations about 5 Biblical questions and what it means to engage with them as leaders:

‘Where are you?’

‘Am I my brother’s keeper?’

‘What are you seeking?’

‘Where are you going?

‘What will you bring?’

Should we embrace mystery or mastery as leaders? Is it possible to stay somewhere God has sent you for too long? Why was Bono unhappy with the song ‘Where the Streets have no name’? Listen in hear Steve and Steph discuss these questions and much more!

Check out Steve’s new book: ‘Whole: Restoring What Is Broken in Me, You and The Entire World’ at Indiebound or the other places you get books.

Www.stevewiens.com

Also look out for Steve’s podcast: This Good Word.

Also Recommended: Brian Zahnd - Sinners in the hand of a Loving God

Follow Lead Stories Podcast to interact with Steph and Jo:

Twitter: @LeadStoriesVox

Instagram: @LeadStoriesPodcast

Facebook: LeadStoriesPodcast

Connect with Jo at: www.josaxton.com @josaxton

Connect with Steph at: www.pastorsteph.com @pastorsteph

Subscribe on iTunes to have the podcast automatically download to your device every week or listen at www.leadstoriespodcast.com

www.leadstoriesmedia.com - Don't forget to sign up to Lead Stories Community to have a chance to win a copy of Steve's new book!

Many leaders are asking how they can empower women into their callings. Today Jo and Steph discuss 5 ways:

1) Look at the assumptions we already have

2) Ask, seek, knock

3) Consider viable vehicles of discipleship and training.

4) make it visible

5) give people several tangible opportunities (and let them fail / be mediocre).   

Discussion questions:

1) What assumptions do you have about women in leadership? What things have you consciously or subconsciously been taught about the spheres women / you can lead in?

2) Where are women underrepresented in areas of influence in your life? (Both secular and church settings)

3) Which women have made leadership visible for you?

4) How do you feel about giving people who are not very good at leading an opportunity to lead? Do you have a culture of discipleship where people can practice and make mistakes in a loving, encouraging environment?

Follow Lead Stories Podcast to interact with Steph and Jo:

Twitter: @LeadStoriesVox

Instagram: @LeadStoriesPodcast

Facebook: LeadStoriesPodcast

Connect with Jo at: www.josaxton.com @josaxton

Connect with Steph at: www.pastorsteph.com @pastorsteph

Subscribe on iTunes to have the podcast automatically download to your device every week or listen at www.leadstoriespodcast.com

www.leadstoriesmedia.com 

It’s September and the physical seasons are changing and so it is a great opportunity to look at how we can prepare for and embrace new seasons well.

In this podcast Jo and Steph discuss the 4 Rs of stepping into a new season:

1) Review

2) Release

3) Receive Revelation

4) Respond

Discussion questions:

1) Review: Do you have regular planned times to review the different areas of your life? Can you plan in some time this week and in the coming months to review?

2) Release: What things do you need to release from the last season? Which of those things are painful to release and which are celebrations? Are there any helpful rituals (journalling, photos, stone throwing etc.) that can help you engage with releasing those things?

3) Receive Revelation: How can you create some space in your life this week to spend some time thinking with God? When can you plan in a walk or some time with a journal, bible and pen or a whiteboard this week to think through the next season? Who can you discuss and be accountable with about the ideas you have?

4) Respond: What needs rearranging in your life right now to enable you to embrace the new things of this season well? What new things are on the horizon since the beginning of the year which mean you need adjustments in your plan?

Follow Lead Stories Podcast to interact with Steph and Jo:

Twitter: @LeadStoriesVox

Instagram: @LeadStoriesPodcast

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Connect with Jo at: www.josaxton.com @josaxton

Connect with Steph at: www.pastorsteph.com @pastorsteph

Subscribe on iTunes to have the podcast automatically download to your device every week or listen at www.leadstoriespodcast.com

www.leadstoriesmedia.com 

Lead Stories Summer Sermon Series 2018 gives you an opportunity to hear some of the premiere voices from women in ministry and leadership today.  This episode features a sermon recently given by Stephanie at Mill City Church as part of a series called Pick Your Battles.

Stephanie begins this important conversation by noting that we sometimes focus on picking the battles that are in front of our face -our personal lives, our work lives or political spheres - forgetting that what is really going on is a deep spiritual battle that is perhaps unseen but has deep and very real ramifications.  Listen as Stephanie brings clarity to some of  the mysteries of Spiritual Warfare.  

Do you have a tribe? Join Jo and Steph as they talk about the why and hows of maximising your tribe and the barriers to them.

Things that hinder us from being part of a tribe:

1. Feeling you need to / should do something on your own
2. Feeling we are in competition with others
3. Idolising the nuclear family

‘Now he's using you, fitting you in brick by brick, stone by stone, with Christ Jesus as the cornerstone.’ Ephesians 2:10 - Message translation.

Target image: 

Click here to get the target image that Steph mentioned

Discussion questions:

1. Do you desire to have an ‘oikos’ - an extended family that is committed to you? Have you prayed about it? What is God saying about the next step?
2. Do you feel a spirit of competition or a spirit of helping others when it comes to available opportunities?
3. What opportunities are available to you right now for building community that you could step towards courageously?

Connect with Lead Stories and Jo and Steph:

Twitter: @LeadStoriesVox

Instagram: @LeadStoriesPodcast

Facebook: LeadStoriesPodcast

Connect with Jo at www.josaxton.com @josaxton

Connect with Steph at www.pastorsteph.com @pastorsteph

Subscribe on iTunes to have the podcast automatically download to your device every week or listen at www.leadstoriespodcast.com

www.leadstoriesmedia.com

Don’t forget to check out Lead Stories Community at www.leadstoriesmedia.com/community

Lead Stories resources at: www.leadstoriesmedia.com/resources

The conversation continues around hitting rock bottom.  Today, Stephanie shares her story.

Lead Stories is brought to you by Jo Saxton Leadership Coaching

Connect with Lead Stories and Jo and Steph:

Twitter: @LeadStoriesVox

Instagram: @LeadStoriesPodcast

Facebook: LeadStoriesPodcast

Connect with Jo at www.josaxton.com @josaxton

Connect with Steph at www.pastorsteph.com @pastorsteph 

Subscribe on iTunes to have the podcast automatically download to your device every week or listen at www.leadstoriespodcast.com

For other resources and podcasts head to: www.leadstoriesmedia.com

Don’t forget to check out Lead Stories Community at www.leadstoriesmedia.com/community

In this weekly series Jo and Steph discuss a topic that we all want to avoid: BURNOUT

We are all susceptible to this reality. What is it and what do we do about it?

Connect with Lead Stories and Jo and Steph: 

Instagram: @LeadStoriesPodcast

Facebook: LeadStoriesPodcast

Connect with Jo at www.josaxton.com @josaxton

Connect with Steph at www.pastorsteph.com @pastorsteph 

Subscribe on iTunes to have the podcast automatically download to your device every week or listen at www.leadstoriespodcast.com

As they continue to look at the Rhythms of Re-entry, today Jo and Stephanie look specifically at Emotional rhythms using a practical framework that includes the process of Review, Respond and Re-engage.  

Information for the Ezer Collective with registration link. 

Connect with Lead Stories and Jo and Steph:

Twitter: @LeadStoriesVox

Instagram: @LeadStoriesPodcast

Facebook: LeadStoriesPodcast

Connect with Jo at www.josaxton.com @josaxton

Connect with Steph at www.pastorsteph.com @pastorsteph 

Subscribe on iTunes to have the podcast automatically download to your device every week or listen at www.leadstoriespodcast.com

www.leadstoriesmedia.com

Don’t forget to check out Lead Stories Community at www.leadstoriesmedia.com/community

Listen today as Stephanie talks with Brad and Heather Fox from HGTV's brand new show "Stay or Sell" 

Josaxtonleadershipcoaching.com 

Connect with Lead Stories and Jo and Steph:

Twitter: @LeadStoriesVox

Instagram: @LeadStoriesPodcast

Facebook: LeadStoriesPodcast

Connect with Jo at www.josaxton.com @josaxton

Connect with Steph at www.pastorsteph.com @pastorsteph 

Subscribe on iTunes to have the podcast automatically download to your device every week or listen at www.leadstoriespodcast.com

www.leadstoriesmedia.com

Don’t forget to check out Lead Stories Community at www.leadstoriesmedia.com/community

Lead Stories resources at: www.leadstoriesmedia.com/resources 

Today Stephanie speaks once again with Tod Bolsinger, Professor and Vice President for Vocation and Formation at Fuller Seminary.  A former pastor himself, Tod is a leader and equipper of pastors. Tod is the author of Canoeing the Mountains and Tempered Resilience. 

More information at Tod Bolsinger

The Agile Leadership series is sponsored by Bethel Seminary in conjunction with the seminary class of the same name.  For more information about Bethel go to www.bethel.edu/leadstories

Connect with Lead Stories, Jo and Steph

Instagram & Facebook: @LeadStoriesPodcast

Connect with Jo at www.josaxton.com @josaxton

Connect with Pastor Steph at www.pastorsteph.com @pastorsteph

Subscribe on iTunes to have the podcast automatically download to your device every week or listen at www.leadstoriespodcast.com

www.leadstoriesmedia.com

Lead Stories resources at: www.leadstoriesmedia.com/resources

Other podcasts produced by Lead Stories Media: www.leadstoriedmedia.com/podcasts

We've probably heard the word unprecedented more in the last year than ever before, but it true that we are living and leading in unprecedented times.  Today Steph and Edrin begin to tackle some important questions around what it means to be a leader in unprecedented times and what it means to be an unprecedented leader. 

Connect with Lead Stories, Jo, Steph and Edrin:

Instagram & Facebook: @LeadStoriesPodcast

Connect with Jo at www.josaxton.com @josaxton

Connect with Pastor Steph at www.pastorsteph.com @pastorsteph

Connect with Pastor Edrin at @edrinspeaks

Subscribe on iTunes to have the podcast automatically download to your device every week or listen at www.leadstoriespodcast.com

www.leadstoriesmedia.com

Lead Stories resources at: www.leadstoriesmedia.com/resources

Other podcasts produced by Lead Stories Media: www.leadstoriedmedia.com/podcasts

Welcome to Holy Week! Without the resurrection, all of Jesus’ life (and ours!) would be meaningless. Resurrection is the power of the kingdom of God and it is available for us today, not just in the kingdom to come. 

This week Jo and Steph look at Luke 24:36-49 and discuss what difference living in resurrection life can mean to us. 

Discussion questions:

1) What parts of your life need resurrection? Will you bring them to God and ask Him to work His resurrection power in them? (If it is not immediately clear, spend some time asking God to show you some areas He wants to restore.)

2) Where have you faced great disappointment or grief in the past? Did you ever ask God to bring resurrection into those situations? If yes, share your experience.  If no, spend some time asking Him to show you where He did or inviting Him to do so.

3) As leaders what could it look like for God to resurrect our failures? Where do you need His resurrection power as a leader?

JOIN IN!

Go to www.leadstoriesmedia.com/worldvision to find out more about the 6K for water and join Jo and Steph virtually or locally and take part!

Follow Lead Stories Podcast to interact with Steph and Jo:

Twitter: @LeadStoriesVox

Instagram: @LeadStoriesPodcast

Facebook: LeadStoriesPodcast

Connect with Jo at: www.josaxton.com @josaxton

Connect with Steph at: www.pastorsteph.com @pastorsteph

Subscribe on iTunes to have the podcast automatically download to your device every week or listen at www.leadstoriespodcast.com

www.leadstoriesmedia.com 

Today's summer sermon series features Pastor Edrin Williams, Lead Pastor at Sanctuary Covenant Church in Minneapolis.  His sermon "Jesus is Disruptive" is part of an 8 week sermon series entitled "Beautiful Outlaw" based on the book of the same name by John Eldridge.  

Sanctuary Covenant Church 

Beautiful Outlaw Sermon Series

Beautiful Outlaw by John Eldridge 

This a special cross-posted episode from the Stay Curious Podcast! Check out more conversations with like this anywhere you get your podcasts!

Pastor Steph Williams O'Brien hosts the The Stay Curious Podcast, adjacent to her book by the same name: Stay Curious - How Questions And Doubts Can Save Your Faith. Pastor Steph sits down with those who have experienced seasons of questions and doubts and their journey's from wandering to wondering.

In this episode Steph talks with Jo Saxton who is a speaker, author and leadership coach. Jo is the author of More Than Enchanting and The Dream of You. Jo shares about life growing up in the under resourced areas of London. She also shares about how grief led her to question God in significant ways in her adult life.

To connect with Pastor Steph head to:

StayCuriousMedia.com

PastorSteph.com

Instagram @PastorSteph

Twitter @PastorSteph

Facebook @PastorSteph

For more engaging content head to: LeadStoriesMedia.com

Holy Week for Leaders - How can we learn from Jesus' leadership in the most challenging week of his ministry?

Today - The Anointing

Get all your Ezer Collective Info at www.josaxton.com

Use code: LEADSTORIES for a discount and join us in California - April 21-23 - Southern California

May 9-11 - Northern California

Connect with Lead Stories and Jo and Steph:

Twitter: @LeadStoriesVox

Instagram: @LeadStoriesPodcast

Facebook: LeadStoriesPodcast

Connect with Jo at www.josaxton.com @josaxton

Connect with Steph at www.pastorsteph.com @pastorsteph 

Subscribe on iTunes to have the podcast automatically download to your device every week or listen at www.leadstoriespodcast.com

www.leadstoriesmedia.com

The SWOT Analysis is used by business leaders, as well as non-profit and faith based organizations. Our take on the anaysis, developed orignially by our friend Mike Breen, take a bit of a different spin on this important tool.

Today we dig into one of the four quadrants of the SWOT: Battle

Head to www.leadstoriesmedia.com/swot for an image of the tool.

EZER is back in Minneapolis in November! Get all your Ezer Collective Info at www.josaxton.com

Use code: LEADSTORIES for a discount! 

Facebook: LeadStoriesPodcast

Connect with Jo at www.josaxton.com @josaxton

Connect with Steph at www.pastorsteph.com @pastorsteph 

Subscribe on iTunes to have the podcast automatically download to your device every week or listen at www.leadstoriespodcast.com

www.leadstoriesmedia.com

This week's Summer Replay episode in the series #FiveFoldGifts, focuses on "The Evangelist".  What has come to be known as the Five Fold Gifts is outlined in Ephesians Chapter 4, listed for the purposes of building up the church.  Here and in other places in the Bible we see a delineation of gifts, talents and wiring. Follow this five part series for insights in how your gifts play into your calling and how to identify any pitfalls.  

To find out more about your own gifts go to FiveFoldsurvey.com

or study further in Alan Hirsch's "The Permanent Revolution: APEST for the People of God"

Information for the Ezer Collective with registration link. 

Connect with Lead Stories and Jo and Steph:

Twitter: @LeadStoriesVox

Instagram: @LeadStoriesPodcast

Facebook: LeadStoriesPodcast

Connect with Jo at www.josaxton.com @josaxton

Connect with Steph at www.pastorsteph.com @pastorsteph 

Subscribe on iTunes to have the podcast automatically download to your device every week or listen at www.leadstoriespodcast.com

www.leadstoriesmedia.com

Don’t forget to check out Lead Stories Community at www.leadstoriesmedia.com/community

What does the phrase ‘breaking the mold’ mean? Is it a good thing? In this introductory episode to a new series, Jo and Steph talk about the limitations of molds, how we can be blind to them and how they hold us back as leaders - both by keeping us from stepping into things and also stopping us from helping others to step into things.

Discussion questions:

1) What are ways which we are being held back because of the molds society, church etc has placed on us?

2) Which molds are we blind to because we fit the mold, and so we are blind to how that mold is holding other people back?

3) Who are some people or leaders in your life who you have seen break the mold in ways that have been really meaningful to you?

Don’t forget to check out Jo’s new book - The Dream of You - it’s out now!

And you are invited to the launch party on February 1^st in Minneapolis. Check out Jo’s social media to get the link code to sign up. It’s a free but ticketed event.

Follow Lead Stories Podcast to interact with Steph and Jo:

Twitter: @LeadStoriesVox

Instagram: @LeadStoriesPodcast

Facebook: LeadStoriesPodcast

Connect with Jo at www.josaxton.com @josaxton

Connect with Steph at www.pastorsteph.com @pastorsteph

Subscribe on iTunes to have the podcast automatically download to your device every week or listen at www.leadstoriespodcast.com

www.leadstoriesmedia.com 

Follow Lead Stories Podcast to interact with Steph and Jo:

Twitter: @LeadStoriesVox

Instagram: @LeadStoriesPodcast

Facebook: LeadStoriesPodcast

Connect with Jo at: www.josaxton.com @josaxton

Connect with Steph at: www.pastorsteph.com @pastorsteph

Subscribe on iTunes to have the podcast automatically download to your device every week or listen at www.leadstoriespodcast.com

www.leadstoriesmedia.com 

Lead Stories is Live at Awaken Community Church in St. Paul where listeners are getting a chance to ask their questions about leading in the midst of anxious times.  Listen in to hear how Jo and Steph answer the following questions:

1. As a leader in whatever space we may have influence, what does it look like to use our platform and privilege to elevate the voices that are not the same as ours?
2. We live in a culture where people are desperate for connection and much of that happens now in digital spheres.  How do you lead and love well on the internet?
3. As you grow in influence - how do you decide who to invest in and what sphere people should be in?
4. What does it look like as a young leader to lead along different generations and still walk along in integrity?
5. What does it look like for us to lead well within a corporate context?

Follow Lead Stories Podcast to interact with Steph and Jo:

Twitter: @LeadStoriesVox

Instagram: @LeadStoriesPodcast

Facebook: LeadStoriesPodcast

Connect with Jo at www.josaxton.com @josaxton

Connect with Steph at www.pastorsteph.com @pastorsteph

Subscribe on iTunes to have the podcast automatically download to your device every week or listen at www.leadstoriespodcast.com

www.leadstoriesmedia.com

Today we kick off a new addition to Lead Stories called Lead Voices featuring our friends who will inspire, challenge, stretch and encourage you. 

Bob Goff is an attorney, adjunct professor and the author of the New York Times Best-Selling book Love Does and Love Does for Kids.  The U.S. Department of State recognizes Bob as a diplomat and he is known as an Honorary Consul for the Republic of Uganda due to his work with Love Does, a non-profit organization he founded. 

Bob calls himself a "recovering lawyer" because after practicing law for 25 years, then becoming the Hon. Consul to Uganda, he gave up his law firm to pursue writing and speaking full time. The best part has been connecting with so many people who are on a terrific adventure as well.

Jo and Steph chat with Amena and Missi from the ‘Hear for the Donuts’ podcast about using their voices - Amena as a traveling recording artist and Missi as a blogger, homeschool mom and midwife.

Check out:

http://www.amenabrown.com/

Missi’s blog:

http://www.audacitermatris.com/

Find their podcast: ‘Here for the donuts’ at

https://soundcloud.com/here-for-the-donuts or on iTunes!

Remember to check out the Lead Stories community at www.leadstoriesmedia.com/community

Follow Lead Stories Podcast to interact with Steph and Jo:

Twitter: @LeadStoriesVox

Instagram: @LeadStoriesPodcast

Facebook: LeadStoriesPodcast

Connect with Jo at: www.josaxton.com @josaxton

Connect with Steph at: www.pastorsteph.com @pastorsteph

Subscribe on iTunes to have the podcast automatically download to your device every week or listen at www.leadstoriespodcast.com

Dominique Gilliard the director of racial righteousness and reconciliation shares ways that the church needs to rethink its attitude to the criminal justice system and incarceration. With some horrifying statistics and also some hope-filled testimonies and practical ways churches can make a change, this podcast will change the way you see those who are and have been incarcerated and equip you to be part of the change.   

Every church can and should be involved in one of 4 ways:

1) prevention: mentoring, tutoring, supporting underfunded schools, summer feeding programs

2) prison ministry: go behind the walls and see for ourselves.  

3) walk alongside those who have lost family members to incarceration.  

4) aid the reentry process: disciple, support and walk alongside those who have left prison and use networks to help find employment opportunities.

5) extend our definition of family to include foster care children who need care and love especially over the holiday seasons.

Check out Dominique’s new book: “Rethinking Incarceration: advocating for justice which restores”

https://dominiquegilliard.com/

Facebook: /dominique.dg.7

@DDGilliard - twitter

dominiquedgilliard - instagram

Discussion questions:

1) How does your attitude towards those who have been incarcerated change when you consider the number of key biblical characters who spent time behind bars?

2) Of the 5 practical ways mentioned that churches can get involved in change, is your church engaged in any? Which one could be the first step?

3) How has your perspective on the criminal justice system changed through listening to this podcast?

Steph and Jo wrap up this series with a conversation around managing change during the process of moving from here to there.  The discussion includes intentional management in five key areas: Time, Relationships, Financial, Expectations and Spirituality.  As an added exercise, they encourage you to choose one area of management along with the Spiritual management and take it into a time of prayer and reflection to see where the Lord is directing you on your journey from here to there. 

Gary Thomas book: 

http://www.garythomas.com/books/sacred-pathways/

For more information about Jo's once a month coaching forum, featuring an hour of content and an hour of questions and processing, beginning soon, go to Jo Saxton Coaching

http://josaxtonleadershipcoaching.com/

Connect with Lead Stories and Jo and Steph:

Twitter: @LeadStoriesVox

Instagram: @LeadStoriesPodcast

Facebook: LeadStoriesPodcast

Connect with Jo at www.josaxton.com @josaxton

Connect with Steph at www.pastorsteph.com @pastorsteph 

Subscribe on iTunes to have the podcast automatically download to your device every week or listen at www.leadstoriespodcast.com

www.leadstoriesmedia.com

Don’t forget to check out Lead Stories Community at www.leadstoriesmedia.com/community

Lead Stories resources at: www.leadstoriesmedia.com/resources 

Connect with Lead Stories and Jo and Steph: 

Instagram: @LeadStoriesPodcast

Facebook: LeadStoriesPodcast

Connect with Jo at www.josaxton.com @josaxton

Connect with Steph at www.pastorsteph.com 

REGISTRATION IS OPEN FOR EZER MINNEAPOLIS NOV 7-9 2024: josaxton.com

Learn more and register for the Pre-Intensive 

CHECK IT OUT:

The Olympic Trials

Dark Matter on Apple TV

Connect with Lead Stories and Jo and Steph: 

Instagram: @LeadStoriesPodcast

Facebook: LeadStoriesPodcast

Connect with Jo at www.josaxton.com @josaxton

Connect with Steph at www.pastorsteph.com 

REGISTRATION IS OPEN FOR EZER MINNEAPOLIS NOV 7-9 2024: josaxton.com

This week's Lead Voices Episode is an interview Beatrice Achieng Nas who is the founder and director of Pearl Community Empowerment - Foundation.

Beatrice was born in the Tororo district of Uganda where she grew up in a town with no access to clean water and needed to travel far to just go to school. She ended up becoming the first person from her town to graduate from college. After going on to become successful leader in humanitarian work in the UK, she returned to invest in her own village, starting a school, a mentorship program, agriculture and farming training program and much more.

Listen in as Pastor Steph interviews her as she is given a tour through Amor Village, Tororo, Uganda. 

Edrin Williams is the Formation Pastor at Sanctuary Church in Minneapolis, working to create spaces for adults to Connect, Grow, & Serve in ways that draw them closer to God and other people.  Today's episode features a powerful and engaging teaching from a recent sermon series entitled Mission Friends.  

Jo and Steph have two important things to share with you today - and they want your help!

Listen in to hear how you can join in with the 6K for water with or without coming to Minneapolis, and hear them announce their new series on ‘stigmas’ and how you can get involved.

Discussion questions & action points:

1) Who can you get together with and join in with the 6K for water or use your influence to join together with others to help others in need? Go to www.leadstoriesmedia.com/worldvision to find out more about how to take part virtually or locally in the 6K for water.

2) What stigmas are holding you or the people you lead back? Please let Jo and Steph know the answers (plus any other things you want to hear them talk about) by contacting them at one of the following mediums:

Twitter: @LeadStoriesVox

Instagram: @LeadStoriesPodcast

Facebook: LeadStoriesPodcast

Connect with Jo at: www.josaxton.com @josaxton

Connect with Steph at: www.pastorsteph.com @pastorsteph

Subscribe on iTunes to have the podcast automatically download to your device every week or listen at www.leadstoriespodcast.com

www.leadstoriesmedia.com 

Today Stephanie speaks with Tod Bolsinger, professor of leadership at Fuller Seminary and author of two books, on the timely topics of leading in uncharted territory and unprecedented change.     

Tod Bolsinger

Tempered Resilience: How Leaders are Formed in the Crucible of Change

Canoeing the Mountain: Christian Leadership in Uncharted Territory

Connect with Lead Stories, Jo, Steph and Edrin:

Instagram & Facebook: @LeadStoriesPodcast

Connect with Jo at www.josaxton.com @josaxton

Connect with Pastor Steph at www.pastorsteph.com @pastorsteph

Connect with Pastor Edrin at @edrinspeaks

Subscribe on iTunes to have the podcast automatically download to your device every week or listen at www.leadstoriespodcast.com

www.leadstoriesmedia.com

Lead Stories resources at: www.leadstoriesmedia.com/resources

Other podcasts produced by Lead Stories Media: www.leadstoriedmedia.com/podcasts

What does it look like to use power in a positive way to extend the Kingdom of God? This week Jo and Steph discuss what can happen when we use power in the ways God intended us to, and what can happen when we fail to use the power and authority we have been given.

Discussion questions:

1) Where has God given you authority to speak to a situation but you are afraid to do so? What might happen if you don’t?

2) Where do you have influence (aka authority or power) right now? In which spheres? How are you using that influence to raise up and encourage others?

3) Where do you need to remove some of the rocks and die to self in order for God’s Spirit to flow more freely in your life?

Let Jo and Steph know what you would like them to talk about next! You can let them know here:

Twitter: @LeadStoriesVox

Instagram: @LeadStoriesPodcast

Facebook: LeadStoriesPodcast

Connect with Jo at www.josaxton.com @josaxton

Connect with Steph at www.pastorsteph.com @pastorsteph

Subscribe on iTunes to have the podcast automatically download to your device every week or listen at www.leadstoriespodcast.com

www.leadstoriesmedia.com 

Don’t forget to check out Lead Stories Community at www.leadstoriesmedia.com/community

There is a take-over on Lead Stories today!

To celebrate the 100th Episode, Keisha Polonio and Sally Breen have taken over the mics and are quizzing Jo and Steph on some very important questions:

1. Jo, what is your favorite lip gloss color?
2. Steph, what has been something about marriage that has surprised you? And what has been a challenge?
3. Jo, what are you and Chris doing to prepare your girls for the future world they may face?
4. Steph, how do you deal with people who are unsure how to respond to you as a Pastor as a woman?
5. What do you do when you want to de-stress?
6. Jo, when you became a Christian at 9, what was the first thing you wanted to do after you became a Christian?
7. What was your first impression of each other?
8. Do you have any advice for people who are looking for mentors or who should be mentors?  How should you engage with people who say they are going to stalk you?!
9. Jo, What do you do when you get afraid?
10. Who has been the interviewee who has most impacted you personally?

Listen in to hear their answers and celebrate with Lead Stories Live the 100th episode!

Follow Lead Stories Podcast to interact with Steph and Jo:

Twitter: @LeadStoriesVox

Instagram: @LeadStoriesPodcast

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Connect with Jo at www.josaxton.com @josaxton

Connect with Steph at www.pastorsteph.com @pastorsteph

Subscribe on iTunes to have the podcast automatically download to your device every week or listen at www.leadstoriespodcast.com

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Come and join Lead Stories Community!

Racism is a curse, but diversity is a gift. How can we embrace that gift in the areas of influence that God has given us?

In this episode Jo and Steph discuss how we can seek out and pursue cultural diversity and the richness of perspectives that accompany it as individuals, churches and society as a whole.

First steps to grow in intercultural competence:

1. Seek relationships with people who are different from you.

2. Read, Listen, Learn - grow in knowledge and experience of diversity.

3. Be mentored by people who are different than you and mentor others.

The Underground Network, Tampa, Florida - http://tampaunderground.com/

Read Listen Learn: Resources on Diversity:

The Global Church Project - www.theglobalchurchproject.com

Latasha Morrison - Be the Bridge - www.beabridgebuilder.com

Dr. John Perkins & Christian Community Development Association - http://www.ccda.org/

Disunity in Christ by Dr. Christena Cleveland - http://www.christenacleveland.com/

The Next Worship by Sandra Van Opstal - http://www.sandravanopstal.com/

Austin Channing Brown - http://austinchanning.com/

Dr. Brenda Salter McNeil - www.saltermcneil.com/

Questions for discussion:

1. Is there cultural diversity in your daily face-to-face relationships? How can you further embrace culturally diverse relationships in your local community?

2. Think about the books you read, the podcasts and music you listen to - are they culturally diverse? How can you seek different cultural perspectives in those areas?

3. Who are the people who are mentoring / influencing you right now and who you are mentoring / influencing? How can you grow in diversity in those areas?

Follow Lead Stories Podcast to interact with Steph and Jo:

Twitter: @LeadStoriesVox

Instagram: @LeadStoriesPodcast

Facebook: LeadStoriesPodcast

Connect with Jo at: www.josaxton.com @josaxton

Connect with Steph at: www.pastorsteph.com @pastorsteph

Subscribe on iTunes to have the podcast automatically download to your device every week or listen at www.leadstoriespodcast.com

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Today Stephanie speaks with Angela Yee, Chief Ministry Officer of the National Office of the Evangelical Covenant Church.  Her leadership there involves breaking down silos and creating collaboration and places where people can work together, as well as overall strategy.  Listen as Stephanie and Angela talk about leading a major organization through the current crisis. 

The Agile Leadership series is sponsored by Bethel Seminary in conjunction with the seminary class of the same name.  For more information about Bethel go to www.bethel.edu/leadstories

Connect with Lead Stories, Jo and Steph

Instagram & Facebook: @LeadStoriesPodcast

Connect with Jo at www.josaxton.com @josaxton

Connect with Pastor Steph at www.pastorsteph.com @pastorsteph

Subscribe on iTunes to have the podcast automatically download to your device every week or listen at www.leadstoriespodcast.com

www.leadstoriesmedia.com

Lead Stories resources at: www.leadstoriesmedia.com/resources

Other podcasts produced by Lead Stories Media: www.leadstoriedmedia.com/podcasts

This episode originally aired in the Lead On series in November 2017.

When you lead you will be criticized. So how can we lead on in the midst of criticism? Jo and Steph talk from personal experience about how they have received criticism and how to filter negative feedback without getting bitter or discouraged.  

Discussion questions:

1. What have you not done for the Kingdom because of the fear of rejection or criticism?  

2. What inner critique do you have of other leaders that you haven’t processed yet?

3. What is at stake if you don’t lead on in the midst of criticism or potential criticism?

Follow Lead Stories Podcast to interact with Steph and Jo:

Twitter: @LeadStoriesVox

Instagram: @LeadStoriesPodcast

Facebook: LeadStoriesPodcast

Connect with Jo at www.josaxton.com @josaxton

Connect with Steph at www.pastorsteph.com @pastorsteph

Subscribe on iTunes to have the podcast automatically download to your device every week or listen at www.leadstoriespodcast.com

www.leadstoriesmedia.com

Read more at http://leadstoriespodcast.com/2017/11#bi0ZxOyFRZ2rtSj1.99

Get your copy of the 2019-2020 Hello / Goodbye digital workbook here!

LeadStoriesMedia.com/resources

Connect with Lead Stories and Jo and Steph:

Twitter: @LeadStoriesVox

Instagram: @LeadStoriesPodcast

Facebook: LeadStoriesPodcast

Connect with Jo at www.josaxton.com @josaxton

Connect with Steph at www.pastorsteph.com @pastorsteph 

Subscribe on iTunes to have the podcast automatically download to your device every week or listen at www.leadstoriespodcast.com

For other resources and podcasts head to: www.leadstoriesmedia.com

Don’t forget to check out Lead Stories Community at www.leadstoriesmedia.com/community

This week's Summer Replay episode in the series #FiveFoldGifts, focuses on "The Apostle".  What has come to be known as the Five Fold Gifts is outlined in Ephesians Chapter 4, listed for the purposes of building up the church.  Here and in other places in the Bible we see a delineation of gifts, talents and wiring. Follow this five part series for insights in how your gifts play into your calling and how to identify any pitfalls.  

To find out more about your own gifts go to FiveFoldsurvey.com

or study further in Alan Hirsch's "The Permanent Revolution: APEST for the People of God"

Season 11 kicks off today!!  Stephanie and Jo begin a new series entitled "Rhythms of Re-Entry" which starts a conversation around what it means to recalibrate and step into something new after the last 18 months of COVID and all the changes and different rhythms we may have been experiencing as a result. 

Information for the Ezer Collective with registration link. 

Connect with Lead Stories and Jo and Steph:

Twitter: @LeadStoriesVox

Instagram: @LeadStoriesPodcast

Facebook: LeadStoriesPodcast

Connect with Jo at www.josaxton.com @josaxton

Connect with Steph at www.pastorsteph.com @pastorsteph 

Subscribe on iTunes to have the podcast automatically download to your device every week or listen at www.leadstoriespodcast.com

www.leadstoriesmedia.com

Don’t forget to check out Lead Stories Community at www.leadstoriesmedia.com/community

Want a sneak peek into Jo and Steph’s hello/goodbye process? Listen in to hear Jo talking about what last year’s word ‘flourish’ ended up looking life for her and why she feels that ‘focus’ is the word for 2018.  Find out what saying goodbye to other people’s expectations looked like for Steph and what she thinks God may be saying to her through the phrases: ‘Keys of the Kingdom’ and ‘Break the Mold.’

Discussion questions:

1) Where are you at in your goodbye/hello process? When can you separate some time this week to work on your goodbyes and hellos? (Don’t forget to download the workbook - link below)

2) How does it make you feel to know that God’s word is often like a seed? How can you practically water the seed of the word God is giving you for this year?

Check out the new 7-episodes of The Dream of You podcast. They will all be out on January 10^th!

Get your hello/goodbye workbook at:

www.leadstoriesmedia.com/resources

Follow Lead Stories Podcast to interact with Steph and Jo:

Twitter: @LeadStoriesVox

Instagram: @LeadStoriesPodcast

Facebook: LeadStoriesPodcast

Connect with Jo at www.josaxton.com @josaxton

Connect with Steph at www.pastorsteph.com @pastorsteph

Subscribe on iTunes to have the podcast automatically download to your device every week or listen at www.leadstoriespodcast.com

www.leadstoriesmedia.com 

Follow Lead Stories Podcast to interact with Steph and Jo:

Twitter: @LeadStoriesVox

Instagram: @LeadStoriesPodcast

Facebook: LeadStoriesPodcast

Connect with Jo at: www.josaxton.com @josaxton

Connect with Steph at: www.pastorsteph.com @pastorsteph

Subscribe on iTunes to have the podcast automatically download to your device every week or listen at www.leadstoriespodcast.com

www.leadstoriesmedia.com 

Recorded prior to the Coronovirus quarantine, Jo and Stephanie are pleased to release a series of conversations around Jo's newest book "Ready to Rise: Own Your Voice, Gather Your Community, Step into Your Influence".  Ready to Rise tackles the real-life issues—from harassment and sexism to self-doubt and loneliness—that can discourage and derail women from leading in the areas God has called them to.

Order Jo's Book "Ready to Rise" HERE 

Connect with Lead Stories and Jo and Steph:

Twitter: @LeadStoriesVox

Instagram: @LeadStoriesPodcast

Facebook: LeadStoriesPodcast

Connect with Jo at www.josaxton.com @josaxton

Connect with Steph at www.pastorsteph.com @pastorsteph 

Subscribe on iTunes to have the podcast automatically download to your device every week or listen at www.leadstoriespodcast.com

For other resources and podcasts head to: www.leadstoriesmedia.com

Don’t forget to check out Lead Stories Community at www.leadstoriesmedia.com/community

We are going to take a few weeks off mid-summer and share sermons we have preached this summer!

We will be back soon with more leader labs!

If you want to watch this sermon on YouTube you can do so here:

If you want to watch Jo's sermon you YouTube you can do so here.

Connect with Lead Stories and Jo and Steph: 

Instagram: @LeadStoriesPodcast

Facebook: LeadStoriesPodcast

Connect with Jo at www.josaxton.com @josaxton

Connect with Steph at www.pastorsteph.com 

REGISTRATION IS OPEN FOR EZER MINNEAPOLIS NOV 7-9 2024: josaxton.com

Learn more and register for the Pre-Intensive 

Where have you been coached in life? Did you ever find yourself in a season where you weren’t being coached? Where would you like to be coached right now?

In this episode Jo and Steph discuss various ways they have been coached and how they have found them. They also discuss the importance of the ‘intentional process-orientated relationship’, and how important it is that we embrace a process and not a silver-bullet response to change.

Discussion questions:

1) Where would you like to be coached right now? What is holding you back?

2) Where are you tempted to look for quick-fixes rather than embrace a process?

3) Think back over the different times you have been coached in life.  What things did you learn during that process?

Follow Lead Stories Podcast to interact with Steph and Jo:

Twitter: @LeadStoriesVox

Instagram: @LeadStoriesPodcast

Facebook: LeadStoriesPodcast

Connect with Jo at www.josaxton.com @josaxton

Connect with Steph at www.pastorsteph.com @pastorsteph

Subscribe on iTunes to have the podcast automatically download to your device every week or listen at www.leadstoriespodcast.com

www.leadstoriesmedia.com

Don’t forget to check out Lead Stories Community at www.leadstoriesmedia.com/community

Continuing to answer your questions on life in the wilderness, Jo and Steph discuss the diversity of different wilderness seasons, from becoming parents to infertility, singleness, unemployment, sickness and church discord.

• What are ways to cope in the wilderness without community?
• When you see a wilderness season coming how can you be prepared?

Zephaniah 3:17 - God desires to quiet you with His love.

Discussion questions:

1) Describe a wilderness season where you have felt suddenly isolated from a person or people who have previously been part of your core community. How did God use that time to draw you closer to Him?

2) If you knew you were about to step into a wilderness season in six months time, which areas of your spiritual life would need focusing on now to strengthen your trust in the Lord? Are there any spiritual disciplines you could embrace or books you could read to strengthen those weaknesses?

3) Throne or phone? Which one do you head to first in times of difficulty? Is it just habit or are there trust issues (with God or others) that send you there first? Do you allow both God and others to speak into your wilderness times?

Follow Lead Stories Podcast to interact with Steph and Jo:

Twitter: @LeadStoriesVox

Instagram: @LeadStoriesPodcast

Facebook: LeadStoriesPodcast

Connect with Jo at: www.josaxton.com @josaxton

Connect with Steph at: www.pastorsteph.com @pastorsteph

Subscribe on iTunes to have the podcast automatically download to your device every week or listen at www.leadstoriespodcast.com

www.leadstoriesmedia.com 

Follow Lead Stories Podcast to interact with Steph and Jo:

Twitter: @LeadStoriesVox

Instagram: @LeadStoriesPodcast

Facebook: LeadStoriesPodcast

Connect with Jo at: www.josaxton.com @josaxton

Connect with Steph at: www.pastorsteph.com @pastorsteph

Subscribe on iTunes to have the podcast automatically download to your device every week or listen at www.leadstoriespodcast.com

www.leadstoriesmedia.com 

Pastor Steph shares the story of a unexpected Hello and Goodbye she is experiencing in her leadership. Listen in!

Connect with Lead Stories and Jo and Steph: 

Instagram: @LeadStoriesPodcast

Facebook: LeadStoriesPodcast

Connect with Jo at www.josaxton.com @josaxton

Connect with Steph at www.pastorsteph.com @pastorsteph 

Subscribe on iTunes to have the podcast automatically download to your device every week or listen at www.leadstoriespodcast.com

Identity is one of the areas God often puts a finger on during our wilderness seasons. We may suddenly find ourselves stripped of our identities or taking on an identity in an unhealthy way. Often wilderness seasons lead us back to the question: ‘who am I actually?’ and hopefully then onto finding out who God says we are: His masterpieces. Before Jesus starts ministry His identity is declared: This is my son, who I love, with whom I am well pleased. He is then driven into the desert to face temptation. If He had forgotten who He was, He would not have been able to face those temptations. This week Jo and Steph share about how the enemy has attacked them in the area of identity and how they have practically taken a stand against those attacks.

Discussion questions:

1) Who are you really in God? Take a moment to discuss or write a list of what God says about you as a child of God and the gifts and callings God has spoken over you. Where is the enemy trying to get you to deny your true identity?

2) We can be tempted to try and earn God’s love, thinking that we can only be His children if we are perfect.  Where have you been tempted to earn your identity as God’s masterpiece and His love?

3) Read Psalm 139: v1-18 & v23-24 out loud . Do you feel you are too much or not enough? Why? What does God say about you? Where do those feelings hold you back?

4) Jo mentioned reading Psalm 139 over herself in the mirror during times when her identity was attacked. How can you practically embrace God’s truth about your identity? (Have a verse written in a prominent place, paint or write out your identity, memorize scriptures…)  

Myers-Briggs Personality Test: http://www.humanmetrics.com/cgi-win/jtypes1.htm  

Follow Lead Stories Podcast to interact with Steph and Jo:

Twitter: @LeadStoriesVox

Instagram: @LeadStoriesPodcast

Facebook: LeadStoriesPodcast

Connect with Jo at: www.josaxton.com @josaxton

Connect with Steph at: www.pastorsteph.com @pastorsteph

Subscribe on iTunes to have the podcast automatically download to your device every week or listen at www.leadstoriespodcast.com

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We all have a contribution to make to society and to the kingdom of God - let’s use that as our definition of ‘work’ as we explore what Mission looks like in our everyday work.   In Genesis 1:26-31 we see that God made the world and put us in it to take care of with Him.  That was the first work, God said it was good and it was before the fall.  God desires us to bring His kingdom into our work spaces as part of His plan for redemption. How can we do that?   4 frameworks for what mission looks like at work:  1)  Looking for People of Peace at work (Check out more about People of Peace in Ep. 37)   2) Being a person of Godly ethics in the workplace   3) Spiritual formation opportunities for you through your work (E.g. David in Psalm 78:70-72; Joseph)   4) What is the inherent kingdom value of the work you are doing?   Resources: Kingdom calling - Amy Sherman Visions of Vocation - Steve Garber Work Matters: Connecting Sunday Worship to Monday Work - Tom Nelson Every Good Endeavor: Connecting Your Work to God’s Work - Timothy Keller Ordinary Mum, Extraordinary Mission — Anna France-Williams and Joy French (note the British spelling of Mum here!) Check out http://www.faithandwork.com/   Discussion questions:   1) Read Genesis 1:26-31 - how does it change your attitude to your work knowing that work was part of our original design for life with God?   2) Who are the People of Peace in your workplace? Are there people who aren’t but who you would like to be? Spend some time praying together for your work relationships.   3) What are the difficulties in your work right now? What might God be forming in you and preparing you for through them?   4) What is the inherent kingdom value of the work you are doing right now?      

Follow Lead Stories Podcast to interact with Steph and Jo:

Twitter: @LeadStoriesVox

Instagram: @LeadStoriesPodcast

Facebook: LeadStoriesPodcast

Connect with Jo at: www.josaxton.com @josaxton

Connect with Steph at: www.pastorsteph.com @pastorsteph

Subscribe on iTunes to have the podcast automatically download to your device every week or listen at www.leadstoriespodcast.com

www.leadstoriesmedia.com 

It is the end of Season 2! Jo and Steph reflect over the different series which have been part of this past season and the podcasts that have impacted them personally.  They also discuss what life looks like for them right now as Summer begins - from horse camp to baseball and book writing.

Make sure you don’t miss out on new updates with Jo and Steph by signing up to their personal websites: www.josaxton.com and www.pastorsteph.com

Join Steph’s Author page on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pastorsteph/

We would love it if you could support Lead Stories Podcast by rating our podcast on iTunes!

Finally… don’t miss out on the Lead Stories resources, Hello Goodbye, Life in the Wilderness and Empowering Women study guides.  Find them at: www.leadstoriesmedia.com/resources

Stephanie continues the Agile Leadership series with a conversation with Dr. Donna Harris, superintendent of Minnehaha Academy in Minneapolis.  In 2017,  a gas leak caused an explosion that killed two employees and destroyed major portions of the school.  Listen to her powerful story about leading after this devastating crisis. 

The Agile Leadership series is sponsored by Bethel Seminary in conjunction with the seminary class of the same name.  For more information about Bethel go to www.bethel.edu/leadstories

Connect with Lead Stories, Jo and Steph

Instagram & Facebook: @LeadStoriesPodcast

Connect with Jo at www.josaxton.com @josaxton

Connect with Pastor Steph at www.pastorsteph.com @pastorsteph

Subscribe on iTunes to have the podcast automatically download to your device every week or listen at www.leadstoriespodcast.com

www.leadstoriesmedia.com

Lead Stories resources at: www.leadstoriesmedia.com/resources

Other podcasts produced by Lead Stories Media: www.leadstoriedmedia.com/podcasts

Season 3 is here!

Jo and Steph are back and are sharing what they have been doing over the summer, including some exciting news!

In this episode Jo and Steph discuss what they have been up to personally over the summer, and also reflect on the cultural implications of the big news events, in particular Charlottesville, and what it means to respond as leaders in changing times.

Jo is looking for people to help her launch her book next year - if you are interested in being part of the launch team please go to www.josaxton.com and join the mailing list to keep up to date in the coming months!

Check out the new resource guide: Lead On - Leading in Anxious Times - available as a free download to Lead Stories subscribers and for a small cost at www.leadstoriesmedia.com/resources.

Questions to consider:

1) Are you ready to respond to whatever God is doing, especially when things happen that you don’t expect? What practical things can you do to build spiritual strength in this season?

2) One ex-extremist said that all extremists are looking for three things: purpose, community and identity.  Does this help you to understand the church’s role (and need) to address these three areas in their local communities?

3) Look back on your summer (or winter if you are southern hemisphere) - what things have you learned? What has impacted you?

Follow Lead Stories Podcast to interact with Steph and Jo:

Twitter: @LeadStoriesVox

Instagram: @LeadStoriesPodcast

Facebook: LeadStoriesPodcast

Connect with Jo at: www.josaxton.com @josaxton

Connect with Steph at: www.pastorsteph.com @pastorsteph

Subscribe on iTunes to have the podcast automatically download to your device every week or listen at www.leadstoriespodcast.com

www.leadstoriesmedia.com 

Jo and Steph are revisiting a critical conversation that they first explored two years ago - Should I stay or should I go?

In this episode they discuss what it looks like to consider this quesiton when it comes to vocation.

How do you know?

How do you go?

How do you stay?

Connect with Lead Stories and Jo and Steph:

Twitter: @LeadStoriesVox

Instagram: @LeadStoriesPodcast

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Connect with Jo at www.josaxton.com @josaxton

Connect with Steph at www.pastorsteph.com @pastorsteph 

Subscribe on iTunes to have the podcast automatically download to your device every week or listen at www.leadstoriespodcast.com

www.leadstoriesmedia.com

Lead Stories is back with a brand new series!  Stephanie will be interviewing expert leaders to help you learn how to respond with agility rather than simply react to change and crisis.  Today she speaks with Dr. Dwight Zscheile, Vice President of Innovation for Luther Seminary and author of "Agile Church: Spirit-Led Innovation in an Uncertain Age

The Agile Leadership series is sponsored by Bethel Seminary in conjunction with the seminary class of the same name.  For more information about Bethel go to www.bethel.edu/leadstories

Connect with Lead Stories, Jo and Steph

Instagram & Facebook: @LeadStoriesPodcast

Connect with Jo at www.josaxton.com @josaxton

Connect with Pastor Steph at www.pastorsteph.com @pastorsteph

Subscribe on iTunes to have the podcast automatically download to your device every week or listen at www.leadstoriespodcast.com

www.leadstoriesmedia.com

Lead Stories resources at: www.leadstoriesmedia.com/resources

Other podcasts produced by Lead Stories Media: www.leadstoriedmedia.com/podcasts

In this episode they discuss what it looks like to consider this quesiton when it comes to relationships.

How do you know?

How do you go?

How do you stay?

Connect with Lead Stories and Jo and Steph:

Twitter: @LeadStoriesVox

Instagram: @LeadStoriesPodcast

Facebook: LeadStoriesPodcast

Connect with Jo at www.josaxton.com @josaxton

Connect with Steph at www.pastorsteph.com @pastorsteph 

Subscribe on iTunes to have the podcast automatically download to your device every week or listen at www.leadstoriespodcast.com

www.leadstoriesmedia.com

It is the beginning of Lent, a season where the church has traditionally laid aside things in order to create space for God.

The start of a new series of Life in the Wilderness, Jo and Steph discuss those times we all face but all would prefer not to - those desert times.

They discuss what the wilderness may look like and has looked like for them: times where we feel spiritually dry, where our faith has been tested or where God has used difficult circumstances to form our character.  Jo shares about adapting to a new life in the US after a fruitful season in the UK, and Steph shares about her journey with singleness and dating.

Looking at the story of the Israelites leaving Egypt, we learn the the distance between slavery and the Promised Land is the wilderness, and how God uses that time to correct the wrong mindsets the Israelites had in terms of their identity, purpose and relationship with God.

God sees you, He is with you in it and He wants to walk with you. You are not forgotten.

Discussion questions:

1. Describe a desert time in your life that has now passed and you have now seen breakthrough.  What did it feel like physically, emotionally and spiritually during that desert time? How did God meet you in that desert time and form your character?

2. Where in your life are you still in the wilderness? Where are you seeing the opposite to what you believe God has promised right now? The Israelites were given truth in the wilderness.  What truths do you need to remind yourself of and how can you do that practically? (Have a verse in a prominent place, set a timer weekly to re-read words spoken over you, have a time to meet regularly with someone to pray about the wilderness season).

3. Where are you wrestling against God’s purposes for you in the wilderness? Where do you need to surrender and trust that God sees you and is with you and wants to meet you in the midst of this wilderness?

Follow Lead Stories Podcast to interact with Steph and Jo:

Twitter: @LeadStoriesVox

Instagram: @LeadStoriesPodcast

Facebook: LeadStoriesPodcast

Connect with Jo at: www.josaxton.com @josaxton

Connect with Steph at: www.pastorsteph.com @pastorsteph

Subscribe on iTunes to have the podcast automatically download to your device every week or listen at www.leadstoriespodcast.com

www.leadstoriesmedia.com 

Connect with Lead Stories and Jo and Steph: 

Instagram: @LeadStoriesPodcast

Facebook: LeadStoriesPodcast

Connect with Jo at www.josaxton.com @josaxton

Connect with Steph at www.pastorsteph.com 

REGISTRATION IS OPEN FOR EZER MINNEAPOLIS NOV 7-9 2024: josaxton.com

Learn more and register for the Pre-Intensive 

Surely with a black family living in the White House for so many years, America is now in a post-racism era, right?! This week Jo and Steph chat race and stigmas with Deidra Riggs, a missionary to the white evangelical church.

Listen in to find out:

- What is white-privilege and does it still exist?

- How can change be brought to the white evangelical church regarding race stigmas?

- How can you be proactive in supporting diversity in your spheres of influence?

Check out Deidra Riggs website (and sign up for her newsletter!) at www.deidrariggs.com and also check out her new book: ‘One’.

Discussion questions:

1) What is white-privilege and where have you experienced it?

2) What practical steps can you take to encourage diversity in race and culture in your spheres?

Follow Lead Stories Podcast to interact with Steph and Jo:

Twitter: @LeadStoriesVox

Instagram: @LeadStoriesPodcast

Facebook: LeadStoriesPodcast

Connect with Jo at: www.josaxton.com @josaxton

Connect with Steph at: www.pastorsteph.com @pastorsteph

Subscribe on iTunes to have the podcast automatically download to your device every week or listen at www.leadstoriespodcast.com

www.leadstoriesmedia.com 

What does the phrase ‘breaking the mold’ mean? Is it a good thing? In this introductory episode to a new series, Jo and Steph talk about the limitations of molds, how we can be blind to them and how they hold us back as leaders - both by keeping us from stepping into things and also stopping us from helping others to step into things.

Discussion questions:

1) What are ways which we are being held back because of the molds society, church etc has placed on us?

2) Which molds are we blind to because we fit the mold, and so we are blind to how that mold is holding other people back?

3) Who are some people or leaders in your life who you have seen break the mold in ways that have been really meaningful to you?

Connect with Lead Stories and Jo and Steph:

Twitter: @LeadStoriesVox

Instagram: @LeadStoriesPodcast

Facebook: LeadStoriesPodcast

Connect with Jo at www.josaxton.com @josaxton

Connect with Steph at www.pastorsteph.com @pastorsteph 

Subscribe on iTunes to have the podcast automatically download to your device every week or listen at www.leadstoriespodcast.com

For other resources and podcasts head to: www.leadstoriesmedia.com

Don’t forget to check out Lead Stories Community at www.leadstoriesmedia.com/community

Courageous leaders lead with their whole hearts.  Listen in as Jo and Steph answer questions live from Bethel Seminary. 

Questions include: 

1) How do I authentically implement my own leadership style whilst also accommodating the needs and styles of those I am leading?

2) How can I, as a male leader, empower the women around me without being patronizing?

3) How do you lead in the midst of segregation and divided political lines?

4) What does it look to lead your leaders when you don’t like the tone or leadership? How do you lead up?

5) What qualities do you see in courageous leaders?

Discussion questions:

1) How would you define courageous leadership? Can you think of any examples in your own life and from the Bible of people who demonstrated courageous leadership to you?

2) What does it look like for you to be a courageous leader in the next season? What are the uncomfortable spaces God may be calling you into?

3) How is your inner life - your core - where courage flows from? Where do you need to make courageous decisions to deal with your junk? (Unhelpful habits, debt, emotional hurts etc.)

Check out and come join us at: www.leadstoriesmedia.com/community

Follow Lead Stories Podcast to interact with Steph and Jo:

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Subscribe on iTunes to have the podcast automatically download to your device every week or listen at www.leadstoriespodcast.com

God is doing things all around us and is inviting us to be on mission with Him on a daily basis in our everyday lives. There are, however, many lies we believe which hold us back from joining Him.   Jo and Steph discuss 10 lies about life on mission: 1. It is going to take a lot of extra time (which I don’t have!) 2. A life on mission is somewhere else, preferably abroad. 3. You have to be a professional missionary to be sent on mission 4. You have to have a certain personality type - one that is fearless and chatty! 5. You have to have professional training to do mission - until then I can’t do mission. 6. Assumption that real mission will be the exact opposite of anywhere you want to go and anything you want to do. 7. It’s all about what you say. 8. It’s all about what you do. You don’t need to say anything. 9. You have to go it alone! 10. You have to do it for God.  

Discussion questions:  

1) Read John 5:19.  Where is God already working in the lives of people around you? In which contexts is God inviting you to be on mission with Him in your every day life?

2) Are you an introvert or extrovert? How can you do mission within your personality type? Where are the challenge to embrace?

3) Who are your team? Who is praying with you about your mission opportunities?  

Neighborhood crawl: In your everyday life here are 8 things you can be intentional about: (Go to www.leadstoriespodcast.com to see visual)  

Follow Lead Stories Podcast to interact with Steph and Jo:

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Subscribe on iTunes to have the podcast automatically download to your device every week or listen at www.leadstoriespodcast.com

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Connect with Jo at www.josaxton.com @josaxton

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Identity is one of the areas God often puts a finger on during our wilderness seasons. We may suddenly find ourselves stripped of our identities or taking on an identity in an unhealthy way. Often wilderness seasons lead us back to the question: ‘who am I actually?’ and hopefully then onto finding out who God says we are: His masterpieces.

Before Jesus starts ministry His identity is declared: This is my son, who I love, with whom I am well pleased.

He is then driven into the desert to face temptation. If He had forgotten who He was, He would not have been able to face those temptations.

Discussion questions:

1) Who are you really in God? Take a moment to discuss or write a list of what God says about you as a child of God and the gifts and callings God has spoken over you. Where is the enemy trying to get you to deny your true identity?

2) We can be tempted to try and earn God’s love, thinking that we can only be His children if we are perfect.  Where have you been tempted to earn your identity as God’s masterpiece and His love?

3) Read Psalm 139: v1-18 & v23-24 out loud . Do you feel you are too much or not enough? Why? What does God say about you? Where do those feelings hold you back?

4) Jo mentioned reading Psalm 139 over herself in the mirror during times when her identity was attacked. How can you practically embrace God’s truth about your identity? (Have a verse written in a prominent place, paint or write out your identity, memorize scriptures…)

Follow Lead Stories Podcast to interact with Steph and Jo:

Twitter: @LeadStoriesVox

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Connect with Jo at: www.josaxton.com @josaxton

Connect with Steph at: www.pastorsteph.com @pastorsteph

Subscribe on iTunes to have the podcast automatically download to your device every week or listen at www.leadstoriespodcast.com

Steph shares stories from her life about how she has unintentionally broken the mold on many occasions by standing up for what she feels is right or following God’s calling.

Listen in to hear how not to stand up to a gym teacher like teenage Steph did, but how God used it to grow her capacity and for God's truth to be proclaimed. Steph also shares how being a female pastor (and previously a single one) also unintentionally broke molds and brought conflict but also breakthrough. 

Discussion questions:

1) Where have you broken the mold in your life without intentionally setting out to do so?

2) Where have you been afraid to do something right or stand up for someone because you fear breaking a mold?

3) Think of some specific situations where Jesus broke the mold. 

Follow Lead Stories Podcast to interact with Steph and Jo:

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Connect with Jo at www.josaxton.com @josaxton

Connect with Steph at www.pastorsteph.com @pastorsteph

Subscribe on iTunes to have the podcast automatically download to your device every week or listen at www.leadstoriespodcast.com

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River Retreat Experience - www.riverretreatexperience.com

Hello Goodbye Event

Hello Goodbye Resource

Connect with Lead Stories and Jo and Steph: 

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Connect with Jo at www.josaxton.com @josaxton

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Jo and Steph look back at Season 6. Listen in to hear which ones you missed and reflect on the ones you did hear!  AND… find out what is going on on the podcast over the summer and into the fall…

We would love you to pre-order Steph’s book! It’s called ‘Stay Curious: How questions and doubts can save your faith’. Steph is also available to speak at your church/group about her book! Check out the contact details below!

Want to see some intentional, measurable growth? Check out some summer coaching:

www.craftedcoachingandconsulting.com

Let Jo and Steph know what you want to hear on the podcast in future seasons!

Connect with Jo and Steph:

Twitter: @LeadStoriesVox

Instagram: @LeadStoriesPodcast

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Connect with Jo at www.josaxton.com @josaxton

Connect with Steph at www.pastorsteph.com @pastorsteph

Subscribe on iTunes to have the podcast automatically download to your device every week or listen at www.leadstoriespodcast.com

www.leadstoriesmedia.com

Don’t forget to check out Lead Stories Community at www.leadstoriesmedia.com/community

Lead Stories resources at: www.leadstoriesmedia.com/resources

Get your copy of Hello Goodbye 2023-2024 at: LeadStoriesMedia.com

Learn more about the Ezer Collective! - February in Portland

Connect with Lead Stories and Jo and Steph: 

Instagram: @LeadStoriesPodcast

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Connect with Jo at www.josaxton.com @josaxton

Connect with Steph at www.pastorsteph.com 

Learn more about the Ezer Collective!

Use the discount code: PODCAST - for $50 off the November Minneapolis dates!

February in Portland is Early Bird ($100 off) for a little while longer!

It's been an interesting summer for both Jo and Steph - but this fall is going to be even MORE interesting! 

We are kicking off this season talking about new beginnings - what is the anatomy of a new beginning? What happens when it's unexpected? What if a new beginning is what you hope for, but not your reality?

Connect with Lead Stories and Jo and Steph: 

Instagram: @LeadStoriesPodcast

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Connect with Jo at www.josaxton.com @josaxton

Connect with Steph at www.pastorsteph.com @pastorsteph

Today Stephanie and Jo  focus on the "goodbye" part as they continue with the Hello/Goodbye series.  We have to learn how to say goodbye to the old if we're going to say hello to the new! 

Get your copy of the 2019-2020 Hello / Goodbye digital workbook here!

LeadStoriesMedia.com/resources

Connect with Lead Stories and Jo and Steph:

Twitter: @LeadStoriesVox

Instagram: @LeadStoriesPodcast

Facebook: LeadStoriesPodcast

Connect with Jo at www.josaxton.com @josaxton

Connect with Steph at www.pastorsteph.com @pastorsteph 

Subscribe on iTunes to have the podcast automatically download to your device every week or listen at www.leadstoriespodcast.com

For other resources and podcasts head to: www.leadstoriesmedia.com

Don’t forget to check out Lead Stories Community at www.leadstoriesmedia.com/community

The SWOT Analysis is used by business leaders, as well as non-profit and faith based organizations. Our take on the anaysis, developed orignially by our friend Mike Breen, take a bit of a different spin on this important tool.

Today we dig into one of the four quadrants of the SWOT: Failure

Head to www.leadstoriesmedia.com/swot for an image of the tool.

EZER is back in Minneapolis in November! Get all your Ezer Collective Info at www.josaxton.com

Use code: LEADSTORIES for a discount! 

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Connect with Jo at www.josaxton.com @josaxton

Connect with Steph at www.pastorsteph.com @pastorsteph 

Subscribe on iTunes to have the podcast automatically download to your device every week or listen at www.leadstoriespodcast.com

www.leadstoriesmedia.com

Connect with Lead Stories and Jo and Steph: 

Instagram: @LeadStoriesPodcast

Facebook: LeadStoriesPodcast

Connect with Jo at www.josaxton.com @josaxton

Connect with Steph at www.pastorsteph.com 

REGISTRATION IS OPEN FOR EZER MINNEAPOLIS NOV 7-9 2024: josaxton.com

EARLY BIRD ENDS JULY 31st

Learn more and register for the Pre-Intensive