Embracing Risk and Letting Go of Control: Mike Baer's Leadership Lessons

Have you ever wondered how understanding risk, relinquishing control, and embracing your calling can redefine success and leadership? In this thought-provoking episode, Tim Winders welcomes back Mike Baer, an experienced leader in the Business as Mission (BAM) movement. Five years after their last conversation, they delve into the profound lessons learned from navigating a pandemic, the evolving nature of the church, and the role of mature leaders in empowering the next generation. Join them for an insightful discussion that will challenge and inspire how you think about leadership, faith, and the unique journey of life.

"Risk is life. Life is risk. We cannot take a step without encountering it." - Mike Baer

Access all show and episode resources HERE

About Our Guest:

Mike Baer is a seasoned expert in the Business as Mission (BAM) movement, bringing extensive experience as a pastor, entrepreneur, theologian, and executive. With a rich history of leading and teaching BAM on nearly every continent, Mike is recognized for his significant contributions to integrating business pursuits with spiritual missions. He is the founder of the Third Path Initiative and a prolific author and speaker, making him a respected authority in business leadership and mission-driven enterprises.

Reasons to Listen:

1. Unique Insights on Leadership and Control: Discover how Mike Baer navigates his journey of relinquishing control and embracing childlike faith, offering a refreshing perspective on leading in uncertain times.
2. Transformation in Business as Mission: Learn about the evolution of the Business as Mission movement over the past five years and how it's reshaping global mission dynamics with increased diversity and digital innovation.
3. Rethinking Success and Legacy: Explore how success and leadership are being redefined in a post-pandemic world, focusing on nurturing future generations and the intriguing concept of "being" rather than "doing" as one matures.

Episode Resources & Action Steps:

Resources Mentioned:

1. Third Path Initiative - Founded by Mike Baer, this is an online education platform providing resources and courses for individuals interested in learning more about business as mission (BAM). It offers tools and teachings for those seeking to integrate their faith into business practices globally.
2. Business As Mission Podcast - Hosted by Mike Baer, this podcast provides a platform for sharing stories about business as mission. It focuses on real-life experiences and lessons learned from those involved in BAM globally.
3. Mike Baer on Seek Go Create - Episode from February 17, 2020
4. The Movie "The Intern" (referred to as "The Apprentice") - Mentioned as an illustrative example of the older generation providing wisdom and presence in a modern work environment. The film highlights intergenerational collaboration and value.

Action Steps:

1. Explore Business as Mission (BAM) Initiatives: Consider how you can integrate mission-driven objectives within your business or workplace. Visit websites like the Third Path Initiative to learn more about opportunities and education in this field.
2. Engage in Cross-Generational Learning: Find ways to either mentor a younger generation or seek wisdom from those more experienced. This could involve participating in podcasts, virtual meetings, or local gatherings focused on leadership and collaboration.
3. Develop a Practice of Letting Go of Control: Reflect on personal habits or areas where there is a desire to control outcomes. Practice letting go and trusting processes beyond your direct control, perhaps through prayer or other personal disciplines, to find peace and operate more effectively in various spheres of life.

Key Lessons:

1. Embracing Uncertainty and Risk Management: Mike expresses the importance of understanding that life inherently involves risk. Attempting to control or eliminate risk is not practical. Instead, relying on faith and making wise choices within the context of understanding divine guidance can help manage uncertainty effectively.
2. Control and Leadership: Mike highlights that relinquishing control can lead to greater peace and effectiveness in leadership. He emphasizes recognizing areas where we do not have control and adapting to that reality, which applies to both personal leadership and organizational leadership structures.
3. The Role of Business as Mission: The evolution of Business as Mission (BAM) is addressed, emphasizing its growth from a Western-centric initiative to a global, diverse movement. This highlights the potential for business to play a role in spiritual missions and development across different communities worldwide.
4. Redefining Success and Legacy: The discussion touches on shifting perceptions of success—from personal accolades and achievements to focusing on fulfilling one's purpose and impacting others' lives positively. This includes the legacy of supporting others to succeed even without direct recognition.
5. Transition of Leadership and Mentorship: The importance of transitioning leadership to younger generations is discussed, including the need for seasoned leaders to provide support and mentorship. Part of this transition involves balancing advisory roles with stepping back to allow new leaders to flourish independently.

Episode Highlights:

00:00 Introduction and Welcome Back

02:06 Reflecting on Past Episodes

03:44 Impact of COVID-19

06:10 Lessons Learned from the Pandemic

10:11 The Concept of Risk

14:18 Control and Leadership

24:24 Defining Success

28:09 Discovering Your Superpower

30:52 The Leadership Journey and Self-Awareness

31:40 The Kryptonite of Leadership

32:34 Reflections on Modern Church Dynamics

34:18 The Impact of COVID on Church Communities

35:45 A Return to Authentic Relationships

43:55 The Evolution of Business as Mission

47:35 The Role of Senior Leaders in Transition

56:21 Final Thoughts on Leadership and Legacy

Resources for Leaders from Tim Winders & SGC:

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