Shows
Lead Stories PodcastSummer Sermon Intermission - Obedience to Jesus by Jo SaxtonWe 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 REGI...2024-07-2835 minLead Stories PodcastSummer Sermon Intermission - Apprenticing Jesus in Real Life by Pastor StephWe 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: Apprenticing Jesus in Real Life - Pastor Steph O'Brien 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 F...2024-07-2242 minLead Stories PodcastA Cup of Jo: June 2024 - "20 Years On"This is the monthly audio newsletter by Jo Saxton. To get the newsletter sent to your inbox you can subscribe at JoSaxton.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 2024-06-2108 minLead Stories PodcastSeason 16: Episode 12 - Interaction Between Leadership StagesConnect 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 Time We Never Knew - By Freya India Serena Williams Wants to Conquer Wall Street Aquired Podcast2024-05-271h 06Lead Stories PodcastS15 : Episode 2- New Beginnings - Steph's Summer!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? Co...2023-09-2551 minLead Stories PodcastS13 - Episode 1 Summer in Review - Steph's SummerConnect 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 www.leadstoriesmedia.com2022-09-1238 minLead Stories PodcastS10: Episode 17 - Moving In Step With The Spirit - Jo Saxton at Bethel UniversityThis week's episode features Jo at Bethel University speaking about Make a Move. Listen in on this engaging and practical talk about moving in step with the Spirit. Order a copy of Make a Move "Make a Move" is perfect for: -Anyone wanting to take next steps in listening to God -People in transition (I think that’s all of us!) -Graduates (high school, college, masters) -Those transitioning into retirement or an empty nest -Folks who have a big, or small decision or series of decisions to make. ...2021-05-2425 minLead Stories PodcastS10: Episode 9 - The Meaning of Ezer with Danielle StricklandLead Stories is doubling down with this special episode featuring Jo Saxton and Danielle Strickland which will air not only on the Lead Stories podcast, but on the Danielle Strickland Mind Blown Season on her podcast. Today Jo and Danielle engage in a powerful and engaging conversation unpacking the meaning of Ezer, a critical understanding of God's role for women in scripture. More information about Danielle Strickland. The Women's History Month series is sponsored by Jo Saxton Leadership Coaching. Visit her website and get information about a 30 day free trial. Connect with Lead Stori...2021-03-2248 minLead Stories PodcastS10: Episode 8 - The Equity ChallengeThe conversation continues in honor of Women's History month. Today Jo and Stephanie look at the question of equity and how we as individuals, as families, as organizations, as churches and as leaders can forge a more gender equal world. They'll look at some listener responses as well as offer some practicals ways we can respond to the "equity challenge". "Moxie" on Netflix The Women's History Month series is sponsored by Jo Saxton Leadership Coaching. Visit her website and get information about a 30 day free trial. Connect with Lead Stories, Jo and Steph I...2021-03-1547 minLead Stories PodcastS10: Episode 7 - Jo and Steph on International Women's DayStephanie and Jo kick off a new series celebrating Women's History Month talking about what it means to be empowered as women and what it means to empower women. Today's episode is broadcast on International Women's Day. The theme this year is "Choose to Challenge: How will you help forge a gender equal world?" The Women's History Month series is sponsored by Jo Saxton Leadership Coaching. Visit her website and get information about a 30 day free trial. Connect with Lead Stories, Jo and Steph Instagram & Facebook: @LeadStoriesPodcast Connect with Jo at www.josax...2021-03-0837 minLead Stories PodcastS10: Episode 5 - Agile Leadership in Times of Crisis and Change with Jo SaxtonJo's back! In this new episode, Stephanie and Jo continue with the Agile Leadership series. Jo shares her experiences and reflections on the times she's led through crisis and change. Don't miss this powerful and relevant conversation. Jo is an author and leadership coach. Her most recent book is Ready to Rise. Find more information at josaxton.com 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 Ste...2021-02-2241 min
Lead Stories PodcastS09: Episode 2 - The Necessity of Leadership // Jo Saxton, Pastor Steph and new co-host Pastor EdrinWelcome to the Lead Stories Podcast Pastor Edrin Williams. Pastor Edrin is joining as a bonus co-host this season! Listen in to get to know Pastor Edrin and hear him discuss the necessity of leadership along with Jo and Steph! 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 wee...2020-09-2149 minLead Stories PodcastS9 - Episode 1 - Big News from Jo and Steph!First episode of Season 9 starts here! Stephanie and Jo catch you up on what's been going on with them during this time of unprecedented uncertainty and change and talk about what it means for leadership, calling and ministry. PLUS, listen for some exciting news!! 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 de...2020-09-1437 minLead Stories Podcast#SummerReplay Lead Voices with Shawn MooreFirst aired in April 2018, this very timely episode features Shawn Moore, a Church pastor, teacher at Bethel Seminary and ironman competitor as he chats with Jo and Steph about greatness, cultural competency and how to grow in our understanding of others. Shawn desires to see education used to liberate people from bondage so that they can become great and he shares with Jo and Steph about what that looks like for him personally. GREAT: Gratitude Redeemed / reconciliation (removing barriers to authentic relationships) Excellence - A for effort, not perfection...2020-08-2457 minLead Stories Podcast#SummerReplay STIGMAS A conversation with Kathy Khang#Summer Replay In this conversation from 2017, Jo and Steph speak with Kathy Khang a writer and speaker about mental health and racial stigmas. Listen in to hear Kathy share her mental health journey struggling against depression and how Kathy is helping her children have positive attitudes towards mental health care. Discussion: 1) What are some healthy ways you can demonstrate mental health care in your family or with the people you live with? 2) Do you engage or disengage with racial issues? Why? How can you engage with them in positive way...2020-08-1756 minLead Stories Podcast#SummerReplay Managing the Changes #WhatGotYouHereWontGetYouThere#SummerReplay Steph and Jo wrap up this series, first broadcast in the fall of 2019, 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/ Conn...2020-08-1037 minLead Stories PodcastLead Voices with Osheta Moore #SummerReplayIn this Lead Voices Interview from 2017, writer and podcaster Osheta Moore is talking shalom with Jo and Steph today as they discuss what it means to be intentional about wholeness and peace in our relationship with God, others and the world and its broken systems. Listen in to here Osheta’s dramatic testimony and her manifesto to help women pursue shalom in their lives and make a difference in the world around them http://osheta.com/ http://shalomsistas.com/ Follow Lead Stories Podcast to interact with Steph and Jo: Tw...2020-08-0648 minLead Stories PodcastSTIGMAS - Lead Voices with Edrin Williams #SummerReplay#SummerReplay Jo and Steph have a conversation on stigmas and race today with Edrin Williams, who was born in South Carolina and now a pastor in The Sanctuary Covenant church in the Twin Cities. Listen in to hear how growing up in the South impacted Edrin’s childhood and raised early questions about race and how we can all become more inter-culturally competent as we lead others from different backgrounds and races. Sanctuarycov.org Www.edrinwilliams.com Also find Edrin on: Twitter, Instagram, Snapchat and Facebook! Connect wi...2020-07-3040 minLead Stories Podcast#SummerReplay When Breaking the Mold Breaks YouThe fallout of change is often 'breaking the mold' and 'breaking the mold' results in change. In this episode from the series first aired in 2018, Jo and Steph talk about the cost of 'breaking the mold'. Change is difficult and there can be costs to your family, your community, your job and even your heart. 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 Subs...2020-07-2745 minLead Stories PodcastBreaking the Mold #SummerReplayWhat 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...2020-07-2033 minLead Stories PodcastBreaking the Mold - Lead Voices with Lisa Sharon Harper #SummerReplayToday's #SummerReplay episode features a conversation with Lisa Harper who discusses how a failure to understand the context in which the Bible was written - by writers under oppression - has warped our understanding of what the Bible says and what Good News truly is. Join Jo and Steph as they chat to Lisa about how the Gospel can be good news to all people - not just those who are in positions of power. Discussion questions: 1) How does knowing that the Bible was written by individuals under oppression change how you see t...2020-07-1650 minLead Stories PodcastFacing the Realities of Anxiety and Stress in Leadership Part 2 #SummerReplayIn this #SummerReplay episode, Steph and Michelle Steffenhagen are talking about becoming more aware of where our thoughts automatically go when we are anxious or stressed and how to take greater control over our reactions. In this episode they discuss 5 types of self-defeating thoughts and how we can identify them and stop them in their tracks: 1) All or nothing thinking 2) Catastrophizing 3) Unrealistic thinking - oughts and shoulds. 4) Fortune telling 5) Mind reading Listen in to also hear why scheduling your worry and min...2020-07-1345 minLead Stories PodcastS08: Episode 18 What this means for your household #COVID19andCALLINGNobody thought they were called to this. Jo and Steph continue the conversation on Covid-19 and Calling and what this means for your household. Whether it's a family with kids, intergenerational or roommates, your household is your closest interpersonal relationships. 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 liste...2020-05-1842 minLead Stories PodcastS08: Episode 14 - The Battle in the Valley #leadershipinthevalleyToday in Part 3 of the "Leadership in the Valley" series, Jo and Steph continue to look at the Biblical theme of the movement of God in the valley through the lens of the story of David and Goliath. They pose the question - What are the battles we are facing and how can we navigate our way through them? Lead Stories is partnering with Abide, the #1 Christian meditation app. Go to the Abide website to receive 25% off your Abide premium subscription of meditation and bedtime stories, for being a Lead Stories listener! Pre order Jo's Book...2020-04-2050 minLead Stories PodcastSeason 08 - Episode 11 - How are you really? Leading Through a Crisis with Steph #COVID19Stephanie and Jo check in by asking the question "How Are You Really?" and share what's going on with her and her thoughts about leadership during this unprecedented time. Pre order Jo's Book - Ready To Rise and receive your free resource "Should I Stay or Should I Go?" https://www.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 Sub...2020-03-2643 minLead Stories PodcastS08 - Episode 10 - How To Build CourageCourage is one of the most fundamental traits a leader needs to live life fully, step into purpose and mission and embrace one's identity. Listen today as Steph and Jo continue the conversation with "How to Build Courage." Recorded a few weeks ago, this episode has become a timely message for today. 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 h...2020-03-2336 minLead Stories PodcastS08 - Episode 9 - Defining CourageCourage is one of the most fundamental traits a leader needs to live life fully, step into purpose and mission and embrace one's identity. Listen today as Steph and Jo begin a conversation about defining courage. 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.com2020-03-1624 minLead Stories PodcastS08 - Episode 8 - When You Hit Rock Bottom: Steph's StoryThe 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.lead...2020-03-0943 minLead Stories PodcastS08 - Episode 7 - When You Hit Rock Bottom: Jo's StoryWhat does the way up from rock bottom look like? Listen today as Stephanie and Jo start a powerful conversation about a time when Jo journeyed from rock bottom to rebuild her life and step into a new calling. 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...2020-03-0250 minLead Stories PodcastS08 - Episode 6 - You Don't know All That Went Wrong Till You're GoneJo and Stephanie continue the two-part conversation today by recognizing that you don't know all that went wrong until you're gone. 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 F...2020-02-2434 minLead Stories PodcastS08 - Episode 5 - You Don't Know What You Got Till It's GoneToday, Stephanie and Jo begin a two part conversation talking about regret. One of the things we can most deeply regret is not realizing what we had until it's not there anymore. 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 you...2020-02-1739 minLead Stories PodcastLEAD VOICES: Beth MooreListen in to hear Beth on the Lead Stories Podcast where Jo Saxton and Pastor Steph talk about life, leadership, and the legacy of a leader." Lead Stories is brought to you by Jo Saxton Leadership Coaching Links to more information on Beth Moore: Media Center page for Chasing Vines Beth's Website: https://www.lproof.org/welcome Beth on Twitter: @BethMooreLPM Beth on Instagram: bethmoorelpm Beth on FB: Living Proof Ministries with Beth Moore Connect with Lead Stories and Jo and Steph: Instagram: @LeadStorie...2020-02-1050 minLead Stories PodcastS08 - Episode 4 - How to Stay #ShouldIStayOrShouldIGoYou've asked the right questions, you've talked to the right people and you've decided to stay. Today Stephanie and Jo continue the series with an important conversation about "How to Stay". 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 de...2020-02-0322 min
Lead Stories Podcast1 MILLION DOWNLOADS - THANK YOU!Jo and Steph are celebrating 1 Million Downloads! They are looking back and reflecting on what is still important for today from the things they've seen and learned since launching Lead Stories. Listen as they share three things they've learned and their three favorite episodes!. They are also asking for three things from you: 1. TAG a friend on Instagram, Facebook or Twitter about Lead Stories. 2. SHARE your favorite Episode or one that has meant something to you. 3. REVIEW Lead Stories wherever you get your podcasts. Josaxtonleadershipcoaching.com Con...2019-11-2528 minLead Stories PodcastS07: Episode 14 - The Apostle #FiveFoldGifts#FiveFoldGifts This week's 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 P...2019-11-1144 minLead Stories PodcastS07: Episode 12 - The Teacher #FiveFoldGifts#FiveFoldGifts Today, Jo and Steph continue the #FiveFoldGifts series with an episode focusing on "The Teacher". 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 furth...2019-10-2832 minLead Stories PodcastS07: Episode 11 - The Shepherd #FiveFoldGifts#FiveFoldGifts Jo and Steph kick off a new series talking about what has come to be known as the Five Fold Gifts 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. Today's episode focuses on The Shepherd or Pastor gifting. To find out more about your own gifts go to FiveFoldsurvey.com or...2019-10-2137 minLead Stories PodcastSPECIAL EPISODE: Stay Curious - Jo's StoryThis 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 Ench...2019-10-1441 minLead Stories PodcastS07: Episode 10 - Managing The Changes #WhatGotYouHereWontGetYouThere 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...2019-10-0736 min
The Stay Curious PodcastThe Question "Why" and Grief with Jo SaxtonPastor 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 gr...2019-10-0300 minLead Stories PodcastS07: Episode 9 - Blindspots #WhatGotYouHere #WontGetYouThereJo and Steph continue this series by talking about blindspots or areas of our lives we are unaware of that are affecting our leadership in unhealthy or unhelpful ways. #whatgotyouhere #wontgetyouthere Johari Window Places to Look for blindspots. What are the top two for you? Character fallout Habits that lead to nowhere Ignoring money Unseen power dynamics Burnout Tyranny of the urgent For more information about Jo's once a month coaching forum, featuring an hour of content and a...2019-09-3038 minLead Stories PodcastINTRODUCING - The Stay Curious PodcastPastor Steph Williams O'Brien hosts The Stay Curious Podcast, alongside 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 first episode Steph talks with Janet Hagberg, author of The Critical Journey, a book that was foundational to Stay Curious. Janet is also the host of a podcast names after her book... The Critical Journey Podcast - produced by... you guessed it - LEAD STORIES MEDIA! 2019-09-1953 minLead Stories PodcastJo Saxton - The Leadership Cs #SummerSermonSeriesFinal sermon for #summersermonseries! This is a second offering from our very own Jo Saxton teaching on "The Leadership C's" which looks at criteria and values for not only growing leaders, but choosing leaders. Listen as Jo gets to the heart of what's really important for leaders. 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...2019-08-0129 minLead Stories PodcastJo Saxton - Leaders Who Change The World #SummerSermonSeries#summersermonseries The first of two sermons by Lead Stories very own Jo Saxton. This one is "Leaders Who Change the World" where Jo reflects on the leadership foundations of the early church and other great leaders of the church, then challenges us to take on some of those principles, markers and practices as we respond to God's call in our lives. Connect with Lead Stories and Jo and Steph: Twitter: @LeadStoriesVox Instagram: @LeadStoriesPodcast Facebook: LeadStoriesPodcast Connect with Jo at www.josaxton.com @josaxton Con...2019-07-2935 minLead Stories PodcastPastor Edrin Williams - Jesus is Disruptive #SummerSermonSeriesToday'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 2019-07-0132 minLead Stories PodcastS06: Episode 17 - The End of Season 6 - Plan for summer and fall!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...2019-05-2029 minLead Stories PodcastS06: Episode 16 Maximizing Skills and TrainingWhat are your God-given talents and gifts and are you unwrapping them and maximizing them? Listen in to hear Jo and Steph practically discussing how we can faithfully invest in our gifts and see our skills grow to maximize kingdom growth. Passages mentioned: Matthew 25 / Luke 19 Discussion questions: How can you identify your gifts so that you can begin to maximize them? What are the things others have complimented you on, or is there a test you can take or friends and family you can ask? Do you need so...2019-05-1334 minLead Stories PodcastS06: Episode 12 - Maximizing Your TribeDo 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: Feeling you need to / should do something on your own Feeling we are in competition with others 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...2019-04-0842 minLead Stories PodcastSPECIAL EPISODE: Water Changes Everything - On location in Uganda with Pastor StephJourney with Pastor Steph and experience the moment when a community gets fresh water for the first time! To help the O'Briens fund a well for a community just like the one featured in this podcast head to: JDandSteph.com You can also see photos of what you are hearing! The group they traveled with is FieldsOfLife.org 2019-03-2227 minLead Stories PodcastSPRING BREAK REPLAY - Imposter Syndrome #LeadOnSpring 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" Jo and Steph discuss the ‘Imposter syndrome’ today, the feeling that many people have, even high achievers, that they just got lucky and are not as able as it appears. ‘Imposter syndrome’ is an internal insecurity and a fear that eventually they will be figured out and exposed for who they really are. It can cause anxiety, depression and fear. Listen...2019-03-111h 04Lead Stories PodcastS06: Episode 9 - Pastor Steph's Story #TheSacrificesOfLeadershipPastor Steph grew up with parents who understood the sacrifice of leadership in full-time ministry. Listen in as Jo interviews her about what her early understandings of leadership and sacrifice were and what being a leader has cost her as a woman and as someone who breaks many different stereotypes. Discussion questions: How are you different from other people? What is your leadership ‘flavor’? Where do you particularly find it difficult to disappoint others? What things have you had to give us as a leader? You can pre-order Steph’s book which rel...2019-02-2553 minLead Stories PodcastS06: Episode 7 - The Sacrifices of LeadershipWhat are some of the sacrifices of leadership that you can think of? Join Jo and Steph as they share some of the sometimes necessary sacrifices of leadership and also how we can approach them so that they don’t come as a surprise to us. Discussion questions: Which of the sacrifices that Jo and Steph mentioned can you most identify with? Did it come as a surprise to you? Where might you be sacrificing where God is not actually asking you to? Where might there be a reluctance to sacrifice where God is ask...2019-02-1129 min
Lead Stories PodcastS06: Episode 1 - Swot Analysis #ToolsOfTheTradeWelcome to season 6! In this series ‘Tools of the Trade’ - there will be some tools to help with the ‘how’ of leadership. Today’s tool: SWOT Analysis: which stands for Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats. It is a diagnostics tool to help us examine our lives and be intentional going forward. You can see this episode as a video (with whiteboard explanation) at: https://youtu.be/jCJ-O1nCYyk SWOT axis: Battles: Internal strength but external frustrations Failures: Internal and external weaknesses. Frustration...2019-01-0751 minLead Stories PodcastS05: Episode 12 - Winter Sermon Series // Pastor Steph O'BrienToday's episode is a re-broadcast of an Advent sermon Stephanie preached this December entitled "The Light of the World Orients". The entire Advent series from Mill City Church can be found HERE Going into 2019, Jo and Steph are looking to equip leaders of teams and give them tools for leadership through the podcast and the online resources at www.leadstoriesmedia.com/resources. 2018-12-2434 minLead Stories PodcastS05: Episode 11 - Winter Sermon Series // Jo SaxtonToday's episode is a re-broadcast of an Advent sermon Jo preached this December entitled "The Light of the World Exposes". The entire Advent series from Mill City Church can be found HERE Going into 2019, Jo and Steph are looking to equip leaders of teams and give them tools for leadership through the podcast and the online resources at www.leadstoriesmedia.com/resources. 2018-12-1735 minLead Stories PodcastS5: Episode 10 - Sneak Preview of 2019!It’s the final episode of Season 5 and Jo and Steph are looking back over 2018 and into 2019. In this episode, they discuss some of the highlights of this year which include the ‘Breaking the mold’ series. They highlight episodes with Lisa Sharon Harper and Dominique Gilliard who wrote ‘Rethinking incarceration’ and the episode: ‘When breaking the mold breaks you’, as well as ‘Breaking the Mold as a Female Pastor’ with Mandy Smith (author of ‘The Vulnerable Pastor’). They also discussed the series on The Pitfalls of Power and the latest series on Coaching. 2018-12-1056 minLead Stories PodcastS05: Episode 9 - Get Ready for 2019 - Looking forward...This week Jo and Steph are talking about looking forward to 2019 and being intentional about the rhythms we put in place. Listen in to hear some of the things Jo and Steph are intentional about and be inspired to think about how you want to engage with 2019. Sign up for the Hello, Goodbye online event (not just for women!): Sunday Dec 2nd 4-6pm Central time. You can attend live and interact or get the download afterward. The updated and improved ‘Hello, Goodbye guide’ is included as part of the $25 online event fee. This year it also...2018-11-2628 minLead Stories PodcastS05: Episode 3 - The Value of Coaching with Claire Williams // Executive Leadership CoachJo 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.ne...2018-09-2434 minLead Stories PodcastS05: Episode 1 - We're baaaaaaaaack!Jo and Steph are back! Listen in to find out the inside stories of what they have been up to over the break. What exactly did God talk to Jo about in England? What are Steph’s tips for writers after she spent her summer finishing the first draft of her book? And what can you expect from this new Lead Stories season 5?! More new voices, more equipping, more inspiration and more practical tools to help you lead in your sphere. We’re looking forward to sharing this new season...2018-09-1041 minLead Stories PodcastSummer Sermon Series Ep. 13 - How I Learned About Race with Pastor Steph O'BrienIn this sermon Pastor Steph shares the story of her earliest memories learning about the concept of race in her life. She gives a vulnerable account of what it was like to grow up with "aunties and uncles" who didn't look like her, but were family nevertheless. She teaches from Acts 10 about the Peter being led to the gentiles. To connect with Pastor Steph, you can follower her @PastorSteph on all platforms. Also, head to her website: PastorSteph.com. To get on the list to be the first to hear about her upcoming book sign u...2018-08-2945 minLead Stories PodcastSummer Sermon Series Ep. 11 - Reconciliation with Pastor Edrin WilliamsEdrin 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. Bio excerpt: Beyond my work at Sanctuary, I am passionate about developing leaders of all ages who will impact society from their sphere of influence. I love writing and speaking! I am at my best when I’m using biblical teaching, humor, storytelling and my background in the humanities & social sciences...2018-08-1336 minLead Stories PodcastSummer Sermon Series Ep. 5 - Jesus Calls the Disciples by Jo SaxtonLead 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 previously given by Jo Saxton looking at Mark chapter 3 where Jesus calls His disciples. Jo speaks powerfully about this movement that started with a few ordinary, everyday people and how God calls us in the same way even today,2018-07-0232 minLead Stories PodcastSummer Sermon Series - Ep. 1 - Leading with Spiritual Authority by Jo SaxtonLead Stories Summer Sermon Series 2018 gives you an opportunity to hear some of the premiere voices from women in ministry and leadership today. In this episode, Jo Saxton brings a compassionate and inspired challenge to women to walk confidently into their leadership calling and understand their spiritual authority. This talk was originally from the She Leads Summit and is rebroadcasted with permission from Missio Alliance: Missio Alliance invites you to buy the whole bundle from this She Leads Conference at a special 40% off rate by using the code: leadstories at the following sites: AU...2018-06-0447 minLead Stories PodcastS04: Episode 12 - Breaking the Mold as a Female Pastor with Mandy SmithMandy Smith, the Lead Pastor of University Christian Church in Cincinnati is chatting with Steph today about what it looks like for her to be the only female Lead Pastor in her denomination. Discussing both the external and internal hurdles to stepping into leadership, Mandy and Steph share from their different perspectives as an introvert and extrovert. Mandy’s latest book is out now: The Vulnerable Pastor: How human limitations empower our ministry. Check out She Leads for resources on how women and men can partner together: http://www.missioalliance.org/shel...2018-03-1955 minLead Stories PodcastS04: Episode 6 Breaking The Mold - Jo's StoryIt’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 some...2018-02-0551 minLead Stories PodcastS04: Episode 5 - Breaking The Mold Steph's StorySteph 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 b...2018-01-2948 minLead Stories PodcastS04: Episode 2 - Hello/Goodbye Our StoriesWant 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 you...2018-01-0844 minLead Stories PodcastS03: Episode 22 - The Final Episode of the SeasonJo and Steph pull the curtain on Season 3 of Lead Stories by looking back over the past season and forward to the next one. Listen in to find out more! Check out the new hello-goodbye resource and the feedback tool: https://www.leadstoriesmedia.com/resources/ Steph’s article on Imposter Syndrome at Christianity Today: http://www.christianitytoday.com/women-leaders/2017/october/beat-imposter-syndrome.html Which has been your favorite podcast of the season? Let Jo or Steph know: Twitter: @LeadStoriesVox Instagram: @LeadSto...2017-12-1820 minLead Stories PodcastS03: Episode 15 - Lead On: Tactical and Practical on Getting FeedbackHow 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...2017-11-131h 05Lead Stories PodcastS03: Episode 12 - The 100th Episode!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: Jo, what is your favorite lip gloss color? Steph, what has been something about marriage that has surprised you? And what has been a challenge? Jo, what are you and Chris doing to prepare your girls for the future world they may face? Steph, how do you deal with people who are unsure how to respond to you as a P...2017-10-3052 minLead Stories PodcastS03: Episode 8 - Lead Voices with Steve WiensSteph 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 w...2017-10-1158 min
Lead Stories PodcastS03: Episode 4 - Lead On: Imposter SyndromeJo and Steph discuss the ‘Imposter syndrome’ today, the feeling that many people have, even high achievers, that they just got lucky and are not as able as it appears. ‘Imposter syndrome’ is an internal insecurity and a fear that eventually they will be figured out and exposed for who they really are. It can cause anxiety, depression and fear. Listen in to hear Jo and Steph share their personal struggles with the imposter syndrome, and how important language is to help us own the callings God has given us. Parable of the Sower...2017-09-251h 03
Lead Stories PodcastS03: Episode 3 - Lead OnJo and Steph present the new series: Lead On…Leading in the Midst of Anxious Times. In this series you will be equipped to step into the fray and keep moving when everything around you is telling you to stop and give up. Resources mentioned: Sarah Bessey www.sarahbessey.com Lead On resource guide - available free to new subscribers at www.leadstoriesmedia.com Pre-order: The Dream of You - Jo Saxton’s new book. You can sign up this week to be part of the launch team at www.jos...2017-09-1826 min
Lead Stories PodcastS03: Episode 1 - So... about this summer...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...2017-09-111h 04Lead Stories PodcastS02: Episode 35 - STIGMAS - Race with Edrin WilliamsJo and Steph continue the series on Stigmas and race today with Edrin Williams, who was born in South Carolina and now a pastor in The Sanctuary Covenant church in the Twin Cities. Listen in to hear how growing up in the South impacted Edrin’s childhood and raised early questions about race and how we can all become more inter-culturally competent as we lead others from different backgrounds and races. Sanctuarycov.org Www.edrinwilliams.com Also find Edrin on: Twitter, Instagram, Snapchat and Facebook! 2017-06-1239 minLead Stories PodcastS02: Episode 30 - STIGMAS - Mental IllnessThis 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 be...2017-05-221h 03Lead Stories PodcastS02: Episode 26 - STIGMAS - Strong WomenYou spoke up and Jo and Steph respond by discussing the stigmas there are against strong women. Why is it that ‘assertive’ and ‘confident’ are desirable traits for men, but women with those same characteristics are often seen as threatening and aggressive? Listen in to hear Jo and Steph’s personal stories alongside an exploration of how the Biblical word to refer to woman as Adam’s ‘helper’ in Genesis 2:18, did not mean his lesser servant, but something very different…surprisingly different! Discussion questions: 1) How does it change your perspective of women knowing what the...2017-05-0141 minLead Stories PodcastS02: Episode 24: STIGMAS: The Stigmas of Jesus' DayStigmas are things which mark people as inferior. Anything which disgraces, shames or brings disapproval on others is a stigma. It may be a stigma against a group of people, an individual or a circumstance, and it has alienating results. Jo and Steph take a look at life in Jesus’ day and the stigmas that were in place against certain groups of people, examining how Jesus walked deliberately over those imaginary lines to bring people into God’s kingdom. They also start exploring what it might look like practically to embrace stigmatized groups, using an exampl...2017-04-2438 minLead Stories PodcastS02: Episode 21: Responding to God: Resurrection LifeWelcome 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...2017-04-1034 min
Lead Stories PodcastS02: Episode 15: Wilderness Revisited- Purpose in the WildernessWhat does it look like to experience purpose in the wilderness? This week Jo and Steph look at key men and women in the Bible who were given a calling and a promise and then for an extended period of time they recieved the exact opposite to what God had promised. They also take time to look at Joshua and Caleb, faithful leaders who were ready to respond to God’s invitations to enter the Promised Land but who were held back by others. Who would have thought...2017-03-0629 min
Lead Stories PodcastS02: Episode 11: Wilderness Revisited- Jesus in the WildernessJesus has two significant experiences before His ministry begins - first His baptism and then He is driven into the wilderness by the Holy Spirit to be tempted by Satan. First he receives a declaration of love and approval from His Father before He has done anything, and then He is driven into a harsh physical wilderness. In this episode Jo and Steph discuss Jesus’ wilderness journey in Matthew 3:13-4:11. They look at the three temptations Jesus faced from the enemy and discuss where the enemy has similarly tempted them in those areas: ...2017-02-2032 min
Lead Stories PodcastS02: Episode 10: Wilderness Revisited- Life in the WildernessRe-broadcast of Life in the Wilderness. 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...2017-02-1328 minLead Stories PodcastS2: Episode 8: The Wilderness RevisitedSo it turns out God had other plans! Although uncomfortable, going into the wilderness can be a place where we meet with God and are empowered by Him. Jo and Steph share why and how they felt God is leading them to revisit the wilderness and take us along too! In this podcast Jo and Steph share about the ‘desert fathers and mothers’ who deliberately embraced the wilderness as a withdrawal from consumerist ‘Christian’ society. They discuss how the desert fathers and mothers met with God in power and also led others who sought them out to enco...2017-02-0640 min
Lead Stories PodcastS2: Episode 6: Vision in Real Life - Our StoriesThis week Jo and Steph interview each other about vision. Find out how hauling a 250lb television fits in with leadership and getting along and how Jo and Steph answer these questions: - How has vision played a role in your leadership? - What does discerning vision look like for you? - When are some times that vision was crucial? - What does casting a vision look like as a leader in times of crisis? - When did your vision not work out? 2017-01-3051 min
Lead Stories PodcastS:02 Episode 4: Vision in Real LifeWhat is vision, how do we get it and how do we know if it is any good? Do you have vision for your life? After Steph shares some great, although unsolicited, dating advice, Jo and Steph share how vision is ‘a picture of what could be’ and how we embrace that in our lives. They share why vision is so important and what happens when vision isn’t present. Bible passages mentioned: Proverbs 29:18 (Check out the Message version) Habakkuk 2:1-3 John 5:19 ...2017-01-2343 min
Lead Stories PodcastSteph's Favorite Episode RebroadcastSteph's Favorite episode: Episode 36 - The Biggest Lies of Life on Mission 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...2016-12-2936 min
Lead Stories PodcastS01: Episode 56: Looking Back at Lead Stories Season OneIn this episode Jo and Steph review Lead Stories season 1. You may or may not hear them singing Mariah Carey as well as find out their favourite Christmas movies, favorite Lead Stories episodes this year and some ideas for Season 2. Also if you haven’t joined the mailing list yet to get your free ‘hello - goodbye’ workbook, and to be one of the first to find out about the forthcoming Lead Stories community, then go quickly to www.leadstoriesmedia.com to sign up and check out the new website! Discussion questions: 1...2016-12-1942 min
Lead Stories PodcastS01: Episode 54: Lead Stories Live from The Sheridan Story - Q & A about Leading Through ChangeJo and Steph are answering questions from a live audience on leadership and life. Questions include: - What key questions or conversations should I have when I start working with a new boss? - What tips do you have on finishing well? - Is there a common thread in the lives of those leaders you look up to? - How do you motivate or move on people you are leading who are not doing a role well? - How do you deal with toxic people as a...2016-12-0548 min
Lead Stories PodcastS01: Episode 53: Lead Stories Live from The Sheridan Story - Interview with Rob WilliamsThis week Jo and Steph are live from The Sheridan Story warehouse in Minneapolis, interviewing Rob Williams, the Executive director. After a call for help from a local school which had discovered children hoarding food on Fridays because of food insecurity over the weekends, The Sheridan Story began to provide Friday food packages to children in need. Working with local faith communities, The Sheridan Story enables them to partner with local schools providing the logistic know-how. They are now helping over 120 schools and 15,000 children in the Minneapolis area. In this inspiring in...2016-11-2853 min
Lead Stories PodcastS01: Episode 50: The Leader Behind the Scenes: Rituals and RoutinesWhether they are intentional or not, we all have routines and rituals in our lives. Positively or negatively, they shape our leadership, relationships and productivity. This week Jo and Steph discuss the rituals and routines they have found helpful to be intentional about in their lives, from prayer practices, retreat days, physical health, review and mentoring. Jo and Steph discuss questions such as: - How can we embrace helpful rituals without becoming legalistic? - What practices can help us be more aware of what God is doing?...2016-11-0746 min
Lead Stories PodcastS01: Episode 49: The Leader Behind the Scenes - Emotional IntelligenceWhen you meet a leader who is positive and patient you are meeting someone who has learned to be self-aware and manage their frustrations in a healthy way. This doesn’t happen automatically for most people - it is part of the work that goes on behind the scenes for a leader. This week Jo and Steph talk emotional intelligence and the importance of self awareness and social awareness in order to lead effectively without those negative emotions getting in the way of our relationships. 1) Self-awareness is being aware of what you’...2016-10-3145 min
Lead Stories PodcastS01: Episode 46: The Leader Behind the Scenes- What Those I Lead Don't Know: Part 1Life as a leader is like an I-phone running lots of different apps: many things are going on but only one thing is seen at a time. Unfortunately (or sometimes fortunately?!) most people around us only get to see one or two of the things we have going on and fail to see the greater perspective of our lives. This episode is a chance to find out more of life behind the scenes for Steph as she is in the hot seat this week being grilled by Jo. Steph shares about feeling misunderstood, how her personality can make people as...2016-10-1049 min
Lead Stories PodcastS01: Episode 43: Stepping Into A New Season- Accepting the NormalWhen God’s people were dragged to Babylon as exiles, God told them to accept the new normal and prosper within it. (Jeremiah 29). ‘New normals’ mean that something has changed, whether good or bad, big or small. New normals are not always new ideals, but God still desires us to accept them and prosper within them. In this episode, Jo and Steph discuss how to fully step into the new normal. Steph shares a testimony about an unexpected new season in her life and how she adjusted to it. 3 tips for navigating...2016-09-1930 min
Lead Stories PodcastS01: Episode 42: Stepping Into A New Season- Embracing TransitionLove it or hate it, transition happens to all of us - sometimes we are ready and waiting and at other times we struggle to embrace it. In this episode, Jo and Steph look at the story of Martha and Mary in Luke 10:38-42 and discuss how Mary put aside the cultural expectations on her to embrace her calling. Martha embraced the oughts whereas Mary embraced what was needed. Jo shares her testimony of a two-year-long embrace of a calling into a new season she was resistant to. Discussion questions: 1) Can you think of a time wh...2016-09-0528 min
Lead Stories PodcastS01: Episode 40: Why Get Married?In this episode Jo interrogates Steph and her new fiancé, JD, on your behalf, to find out all the things you want to know about their relationship and engagement! Tune in to find out LeadStories exclusives such as: Which online dating site helped them get together? What about Steph made the first impression on JD? Who is JD? Were there any deal-breakers in their relationship? How did they know that they had found the right marriage fit? How did JD plan his marriage proposal to Steph? How did they each individually decide they were ready for marriage? Why ar...2016-08-2945 min
Lead Stories PodcastS1: Episode 20: Growing In LeadershipHow can we grow in our leadership? What things can take us to the next level and how can we intentionally engage with them? In this episode, Jo and Steph discuss things that have enhanced and grown their leadership, from specific people, learning about their own personalities, resources they have read and people they have observed. They also share how God has been growing them recently in leadership and what He has been highlighting to them. Being led by others is also an opportunity to learn about lea...2016-04-1833 min
Lead Stories PodcastS01: Episode 19: Defining LeadershipIn this episode Jo and Steph discuss leadership, starting with the definition of leadership being influence. Sharing from their own journeys into leadership, Jo and Steph highlight signposts on the way to realizing they were leaders and look at prominent biblical characters and the ways they lead others even before they came into their calling. Being a leader is also about recognizing our own limitations as well as our giftings. Steph and Jo both share about their ‘shadow sides’ - their weaknesses and areas where they intentionally seek out help and support...2016-04-1142 min
Lead Stories PodcastS01: Episode 12: Purpose in the WildernessWhat does it look like to experience purpose in the wilderness? This week Jo and Steph look at key men and women in the Bible who were given a calling and a promise and then for an extended period of time they recieved the exact opposite to what God had promised. They also take time to look at Joshua and Caleb, faithful leaders who were ready to respond to God’s invitations to enter the Promised Land but who were held back by others. Who would have thoug...2016-02-2928 min
Lead Stories PodcastS01: Episode 9: Jesus in The WildernessJesus has two significant experiences before His ministry begins - first His baptism and then He is driven into the wilderness by the Holy Spirit to be tempted by Satan. First he receives a declaration of love and approval from His Father before He has done anything, and then He is driven into a harsh physical wilderness. In this episode Jo and Steph discuss Jesus’ wilderness journey in Matthew 3:13-4:11. They look at the three temptations Jesus faced from the enemy and discuss where the enemy has similarly tempted them in those areas: 1) Appetite 2) Approval 3) Ambition After facing those tempt...2016-02-2232 min
Lead Stories PodcastS01: Episode 8: Life in the WildernessIt 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 ad...2016-02-0926 min