Follow 2 Lead: A Christian Leaders Podcast

That Sounds Fun Network
  • 5.0 (87)
  • Christianity
  • Updated Weekly

If you are a faith-driven entrepreneur or executive who wants to lead well without losing yourself in the process, you have found the right place. Follow 2 Lead is a Christian leadership podcast hosted by executive coach Tony Miltenberger, built around one conviction: that following Jesus is what makes you a better leader. Every week, Tony sits down with leaders who are navigating real pressure, building real teams, and bringing their faith into the spaces where it matters most — the boardroom, the staff meeting, the hard conversation you have been putting off. This is not a podcast about easy answers. It is honest conversations designed to help faith-driven entrepreneurs and executives lead with clarity, build cultures worth working in, and stay grounded in who God says they are — not just who their title says they are. New episodes every week. Built for Christian leaders who are serious about growth and ready to lead boldly. Learn more at Tony's Website or Follow 2 Lead Coaching.

  1. 2d ago

    #466: Tony Miltenberger on Culture Is an Inside Job — Why Great Leaders Don't Let Feelings Drive the Car

    What if your greatest leadership challenge isn't your strategy, your team, or your circumstances—but the story you're telling yourself? In this special episode of the Follow 2 Lead Podcast, we're sharing Tony Miltenberger's guest appearance on the Culture Is an Inside Job podcast. In this thought-provoking conversation, Tony joins the hosts to explore why emotional maturity is one of the greatest leadership advantages you can develop—and how doing the inner work changes the way you lead others. Drawing from his book Wisdom in the Wound, his executive coaching experience, and his own personal journey, Tony explains why feelings are meant to inform us, not lead us. He shares practical tools for recognizing emotional triggers, responding with intention instead of reaction, and building healthier relationships at work and at home. If you're leading a business, nonprofit, church, school, or executive team, this conversation will help you grow in self-awareness, strengthen your leadership, and create a culture where people feel seen, valued, and empowered to thrive. In this episode, you'll discover: Why great leaders don't let feelings drive the car. How unresolved wounds quietly shape your leadership and influence your decisions. Why feelings are decision points—not decision makers. How curiosity and empathy create healthier teams and stronger workplace cultures. Why emotional awareness is one of the greatest leadership advantages you can develop. A practical coaching question to help you lead with greater clarity, wisdom, and purpose. Coaching Question Where was the last time your emotional intensity spiked above a six—and what might that reaction reveal about you instead of the other person? Connect with Tony Miltenberger Tony Miltenberger is an executive coach, speaker, and founder of Follow 2 Lead Coaching. He helps Christian executives, business owners, and organizational leaders build healthier cultures, strengthen trust, and lead with greater clarity and purpose. Website: https://www.twmilt.com Executive Coaching: https://www.follow2leadbenchmark.com Instagram: @twmilt Substack: https://twmilt.substack.com/ Please check out our sponsors: EBEB Solutions https://www.ebebsolutions.com/ That Sounds Fun Network: https://thatsoundsfunnetwork.com/ Follow 2 Lead Coaching https://www.follow2leadbenchmark.com Tony on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/twmilt/ Check out our YouTube page https://www.youtube.com/@twmilt Be sure to leave us a review on Apple Podcasts Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

  2. Jul 21

    #465: Building Trust Before It's Tested with Tony Miltenberger

    How do great leaders build trust when their team has been through disappointment, uncertainty, or change? In this solo episode of the Follow 2 Lead Podcast, Tony Miltenberger shares a deeply personal story about a devastating ACL injury that sidelined him for years—and how finally running two miles again revealed one of the most important leadership lessons he's ever learned. The finish line wasn't the victory. The daily decisions, trusted coaches, and consistent investments along the way were. Tony explains why trust isn't built through authority, vision statements, or one-time team retreats. It's built one small, faithful decision at a time. If you're leading a business, nonprofit, church, school, or executive team, this episode offers practical coaching for creating a culture where people feel trusted, valued, and equipped to do their best work. In this episode, you'll discover: Why trust begins when leaders admit they don't have every answer. How vulnerability creates stronger executive leadership. Why healthy team culture is built through everyday conversations—not occasional events. The overlooked leadership habit that quietly strengthens (or weakens) trust. How consistent actions create lasting influence across your organization. One simple question every leader should ask their team this week. Coaching Question What would your team look like one year from now if you started doing the trust work today? Connect with Tony Miltenberger Tony Miltenberger is an executive coach, speaker, and founder of Follow 2 Lead Coaching. He helps Christian executives, business owners, and organizational leaders build healthier cultures, strengthen trust, and lead with greater clarity and purpose. Website: https://www.twmilt.com Executive Coaching: https://www.follow2leadbenchmark.com Instagram: @twmilt Substack: https://twmilt.substack.com/ Please check out our sponsors: EBEB Solutions https://www.ebebsolutions.com/ That Sounds Fun Network: https://thatsoundsfunnetwork.com/ Follow 2 Lead Coaching https://www.follow2leadbenchmark.com Tony on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/twmilt/ Check out our YouTube page https://www.youtube.com/@twmilt Be sure to leave us a review on Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/follow-2-lead-a-christian-leaders-podcast/id1429933082 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

  3. Jul 14

    #464: Why Presence Beats Authority Every Time with Scott Smith, Superintendent of Troy Christian Schools

    What earns trust when you're leading people who aren't sure they should follow you? In Episode 464 of the Follow 2 Lead Podcast, Tony Miltenberger sits down with Scott Smith, Superintendent of Troy Christian Schools, to explore one of the most overlooked principles of Christian executive leadership: people don't trust leaders because of their title—they trust leaders because of their presence. Scott shares the lessons he learned stepping into leadership over former teachers, navigating the loss of a mentor, casting vision through organizational change, and building a culture rooted in faith, trust, and clear expectations. Together, Tony and Scott discuss: Why faithful presence builds trust faster than authority Leading through grief, uncertainty, and organizational transition Developing future leaders before you need them Creating healthy team culture through clear expectations Why servant leadership begins with showing up consistently Whether you lead a business, nonprofit, church, school, or executive team, this conversation offers practical coaching for building influence that lasts. Coaching Question: Where do you need to be more present as a leader? Connect with Scott Smith Scott SmithSuperintendent, Troy Christian Schools Website: Troy Christian Schools — https://www.troychristianschools.org Instagram: @smithjscott Please check out our sponsors: EBEB Solutions https://www.ebebsolutions.com/ That Sounds Fun Network: https://thatsoundsfunnetwork.com/ Follow 2 Lead Coaching https://www.follow2leadbenchmark.com Tony on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/twmilt/ Check out our YouTube page https://www.youtube.com/@twmilt Be sure to leave us a review on Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/follow-2-lead-a-christian-leaders-podcast/id1429933082 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

  4. Jul 7

    #463: How to Lead Before You *Feel* Ready with Laura Hope Whitaker

    In Episode 463 of the Follow 2 Lead Podcast, Tony Miltenberger sits down with Laura Hope Whitaker, CEO of Extra Special People (ESP), for a powerful conversation about leading before you feel qualified. Laura shares how God often calls leaders before they feel ready, why embracing uncomfortable moments leads to unexpected growth, and how investing in the next generation creates lasting influence. Drawing from her experience leading one of the nation's most impactful organizations serving individuals with disabilities, Laura offers practical wisdom for Christian executives navigating calling, uncertainty, and leadership development. Tony and Laura explore courageous leadership, communication, mentoring emerging leaders, and why following God's calling often requires stepping into situations that feel bigger than you. This episode is an encouraging reminder that God isn't looking for perfect leaders—He's looking for leaders willing to lean in. Coaching Question:Where do you need to lean in? Connect with Laura Hope Whitaker Website: https://www.laurahopewhitaker.com/ Extra Special People: https://espyouandme.org/ Please check out our sponsors: EBEB Solutions https://www.ebebsolutions.com/ That Sounds Fun Network: https://thatsoundsfunnetwork.com/ The Wonder Project: Subscriber support makes more great content like I Gotta Ask with Annie F. Downs possible. The Wonder Project subscription on Prime Video is available in the U.S. for $8.99/month or $89.99/year after a 7-day free trial.Visit ⁠IGottaAsk.com⁠ to learn more! https://tinyurl.com/F2LIGottaAsk Follow 2 Lead Coaching https://www.follow2leadbenchmark.com Tony on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/twmilt/ Check out our YouTube page https://www.youtube.com/@twmilt Be sure to leave us a review on Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/follow-2-lead-a-christian-leaders-podcast/id1429933082 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

  5. Jun 30

    #462: Before They Misunderstand You: with William Lutz, Executive Director of New Path Ministries

    #462: Before They Misunderstand You with William Lutz In Episode 462 of the Follow 2 Lead Podcast, Tony Miltenberger sits down with William Lutz, Executive Director of a faith-based Ohio nonprofit, leadership consultant, and author of the growing Civic Capacity Substack. Bill shares practical wisdom on one of the greatest challenges Christian executives face: communicating with clarity before assumptions become conflict. Drawing from his experience leading nonprofits, serving his community, and running for mayor, Bill explains why clear expectations are one of the most overlooked tools in healthy leadership. Tony and Bill discuss executive communication, servant leadership, navigating public criticism, and how closed doors often become God's invitation to something greater. Whether you're leading a business, nonprofit, church, or team, this conversation will help you build trust through intentional communication and values-based leadership. This episode is a practical masterclass for Christian executives who want to lead with greater clarity, healthier expectations, and stronger influence. Coaching Question: Where in your life do you need to get clear with someone about expectations? Connect with William Lutz • Civic Capacity: https://www.civiccapacity.com/ • Pinnacle Strategies: https://pinnaclestrategies.substack.com/ - New Path Ministries https://www.newpathserves.org/ Please check out our sponsors: EBEB Solutions https://www.ebebsolutions.com/ That Sounds Fun Network: https://thatsoundsfunnetwork.com/ The Wonder Project: Subscriber support makes more great content like I Gotta Ask with Annie F. Downs possible. The Wonder Project subscription on Prime Video is available in the U.S. for $8.99/month or $89.99/year after a 7-day free trial.Visit ⁠IGottaAsk.com⁠ (http://igottaask.com/) to learn more! https://tinyurl.com/F2LIGottaAsk Follow 2 Lead Coaching https://www.follow2leadbenchmark.com (https://www.follow2leadbenchmark.com/) Tony on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/twmilt/ Check out our YouTube page https://www.youtube.com/@twmilt Be sure to leave us a review on Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/follow-2-lead-a-christian-leaders-podcast/id1429933082 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit http://megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

  6. Jun 23

    #461: Before You Miss Your Calling with Stacey Baxter

    In Episode 461 of the Follow2Lead Podcast, Tony Miltenberger sits down with Stacey Baxter, Senior Marketing and Growth Engagement Officer for the Come and See Foundation, the organization helping bring The Chosen to audiences around the world. Stacey shares her journey of stepping into a new season of leadership, learning to trust God's calling, and embracing opportunities that require faith over certainty. She offers powerful insights on discerning God's direction, building intentional prayer rhythms, and making decisions that align with purpose rather than comfort. Tony and Stacey discuss the mission behind The Chosen, the vision of reaching one billion people in 600 languages, and what it looks like to lead faithfully while navigating growth, change, and uncertainty. This conversation is an encouraging reminder that the most important leadership decisions aren't always about titles, promotions, or prestige—they're about obedience to where God is calling you next. Coaching Question: Where is God calling you in this next season? Connect with Stacey Baxter: • Come and See Foundation: https://www.comeandseefoundation.org ⁨@ComeandSeeFoundation⁩ • The Chosen: https://www.thechosen.tv ⁨@TheChosenSeries⁩ Please check out our sponsors: EBEB Solutions https://www.ebebsolutions.com/ That Sounds Fun Network: https://thatsoundsfunnetwork.com/ The Wonder Project: Subscriber support makes more great content like I Gotta Ask with Annie F. Downs possible. The Wonder Project subscription on Prime Video is available in the U.S. for $8.99/month or $89.99/year after a 7-day free trial.Visit ⁠IGottaAsk.com⁠ to learn more! https://tinyurl.com/F2LIGottaAsk Follow 2 Lead Coaching https://www.follow2leadbenchmark.com Tony on Instagram   / twmilt   Check out our YouTube page    / @twmilt   Be sure to leave us a review on Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast... Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

  7. Jun 16

    #460: Communication in Leadership: The Story You’re Supposed to Be Telling with Jodi Cowles

    In Episode 460 of the Follow 2 Lead Podcast, Tony Miltenberger sits down with Jodi Cowles, COO of Blue Hat Publishing and author of Then Came Joy, for a meaningful conversation about storytelling, leadership, and the importance of remembering God's faithfulness.  Jodi shares why stories matter so deeply and how leaders, communicators, and authors can become more intentional about the messages they share. Together, Tony and Jodi explore the role of Ebenezers—those markers of remembrance that help us celebrate where God has moved in our lives—and why forgetting those moments can rob us of joy and perspective. They also discuss communication, writing, and the discipline of keeping the reader or listener in mind. Whether you're leading a team, speaking from a stage, writing a book, or simply trying to communicate more effectively, this conversation offers practical wisdom and encouragement. This episode is a reminder that the stories God is writing in your life are worth noticing, remembering, and sharing. Coaching Question:Are you keeping your reader in mind? Are you keeping your listener in mind? Connect with Jodi Cowles Website + new book, Then Came Joy: https://jodicowles.com/ Instagram: @jodicowles Please check out our sponsors: EBEB Solutions https://www.ebebsolutions.com/ That Sounds Fun Network: https://thatsoundsfunnetwork.com/ The Wonder Project: Subscriber support makes more great content like I Gotta Ask with Annie F. Downs possible. The Wonder Project subscription on Prime Video is available in the U.S. for $8.99/month or $89.99/year after a 7-day free trial.Visit ⁠IGottaAsk.com⁠ to learn more! https://tinyurl.com/F2LIGottaAsk Follow 2 Lead Coaching https://www.follow2leadbenchmark.com Tony on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/twmilt/ Check out our YouTube page https://www.youtube.com/@twmilt Be sure to leave us a review on Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/follow-2-lead-a-christian-leaders-podcast/id1429933082 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

  8. Jun 9

    #459: Tony Talks On: Why the Biggest Issue in the Conflict Might Be You

    In Episode 459 of the Follow2Lead Podcast, Tony Miltenberger tackles one of the most searched leadership questions on the internet: How do effective leaders handle conflict? Drawing from Matthew 18 and his own coaching experience, Tony explores why most leaders develop a conflict style long before they ever become leaders. Whether you naturally run toward conflict or avoid it at all costs, your approach is often shaped by past experiences, relationships, and learned behaviors. Tony challenges leaders to examine what they bring into difficult conversations and explains why avoiding conflict isn't kindness—it's often self-protection disguised as consideration. He also introduces the Emotional Intensity Scale, a practical tool for determining whether you're emotionally ready to have a productive conversation. Leaders who handle conflict well aren't necessarily the ones who enjoy it; they're the ones who do the internal work before the external conversation. This episode provides a practical, biblical framework for addressing conflict with honesty, wisdom, and a commitment to restoration. Coaching Question:Is there a hard conversation you've been waiting to have? What is it costing the other person because you haven't had it yet? Please check out our sponsors: EBEB Solutions https://www.ebebsolutions.com/ That Sounds Fun Network: https://thatsoundsfunnetwork.com/ The Wonder Project: Subscriber support makes more great content like I Gotta Ask with Annie F. Downs possible. The Wonder Project subscription on Prime Video is available in the U.S. for $8.99/month or $89.99/year after a 7-day free trial.Visit ⁠IGottaAsk.com⁠ to learn more! https://tinyurl.com/F2LIGottaAsk Follow 2 Lead Coaching https://www.follow2leadbenchmark.com Tony on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/twmilt/ Check out our YouTube page https://www.youtube.com/@twmilt Be sure to leave us a review on Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/follow-2-lead-a-christian-leaders-podcast/id1429933082 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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If you are a faith-driven entrepreneur or executive who wants to lead well without losing yourself in the process, you have found the right place. Follow 2 Lead is a Christian leadership podcast hosted by executive coach Tony Miltenberger, built around one conviction: that following Jesus is what makes you a better leader. Every week, Tony sits down with leaders who are navigating real pressure, building real teams, and bringing their faith into the spaces where it matters most — the boardroom, the staff meeting, the hard conversation you have been putting off. This is not a podcast about easy answers. It is honest conversations designed to help faith-driven entrepreneurs and executives lead with clarity, build cultures worth working in, and stay grounded in who God says they are — not just who their title says they are. New episodes every week. Built for Christian leaders who are serious about growth and ready to lead boldly. Learn more at Tony's Website or Follow 2 Lead Coaching.

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