The Today Counts Show

Jim Piper Jr.

The Today Counts Show is about leadership. It’s about shaping healthy leaders, relationships, and workplaces. It’s about re-imaging leadership within three dimensions: your person, your people, and your place. This triad of thought and life is informed by theology, psychology, biology, philosophy, sociology, and any discipline that contributes to the shaping of leadership character.

  1. 6d ago

    Surviving WWII: An Untold Story of Courage, Leadership & Faith | "A Long Way Home" Ep.218

    Send us Fan Mail In this episode, host Jim Piper sits down with author Gordon Goetsch to discuss his newly released book, A Long Way Home—the remarkable true story of his father, Clemence Goetsch, a teenage soldier who forged his father's signature to enlist in World War II and embarked on a journey that would change generations. From the battlefields of North Africa to the brutal conditions of German prisoner-of-war camps, Clem endured unimaginable hardship, loss, and suffering. But as Gordon shares throughout this conversation, the most important battles weren't fought with weapons—they were fought in the heart. Together, Jim and Gordon explore: • The incredible true story behind A Long Way Home • Leadership lessons forged through adversity and suffering • The power of resilience when circumstances seem impossible • How friendship, sacrifice, and loyalty can shape generations • Why surviving a war doesn't necessarily end the struggle • The spiritual battles that often follow life's greatest victories • The role faith, grace, and redemption play in healing deep wounds • How one man's story continues to impact leaders, families, and communities today This conversation is about much more than World War II. It's about courage in uncertainty. Character under pressure. Leadership through hardship. And the redemptive power of God's grace. Whether you're a business leader, entrepreneur, ministry leader, veteran, history enthusiast, or someone navigating your own difficult season, this episode offers timeless wisdom on perseverance, purpose, and faith. If you've ever wondered how great leaders are formed—or how God can bring redemption from even the darkest chapters—this conversation is for you. 📖 Learn more about A Long Way Home and the incredible story behind it by reading it here: https://www.amazon.com/Long-Way-Home-Memoir-ebook/dp/B0GX2VPQ6V/ref=sr_1_1?crid=17BU3XJ97WS6D&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.OBjmlbOBdJhf7b-bsLeXNnoko4vv7k4fVOaokyTn64iV0NItlMJvldOJIiRDEQbDMV6VXKZG_kXzKnfBgJDaLjMaUQTw31QNB3LrzRF5LkPkUNzYg_d-K3D9Ac42u3tuRY2aNilGRQZsAMTj7b2PXk1U3eZfL8Rx8GmHj0M1mbo.dJpr2syZas6otIGMWdxqJ3qLnb5fZVnL-EUo5PWDtog&dib_tag=se&keywords=a+long+way+home+gordon+goetsch&qid=1781885745&sprefix=a+long+way+home+gordon+%2Caps%2C210&sr=8-1 👉 Subscribe for more conversations that equip leaders to grow in character, purpose, integrity, and impact. Support the show

    42 min
  2. Jun 21

    Leadership Under Pressure: Lessons from Herb Brooks, Tiger Woods & Bill Belichick. Ep. 217

    Send us Fan Mail In this episode, host Jim Piper and co-host Winston Harris explore three unforgettable moments from sports history—and the timeless leadership lessons hidden within them. From hockey to golf to football, this conversation reveals how great leaders are forged long before the spotlight arrives. Because whether you're leading a team, a business, a ministry, or a family, the principles that create success under pressure remain the same. In this episode, they discuss: • The 1980 "Miracle on Ice" and how great leaders build belief before results exist • Why culture and identity matter more than talent alone • How leaders can transform what a team believes is possible • What Tiger Woods teaches about preparation, composure, and carrying pressure well • Why confidence isn't built in the spotlight—but in the unseen work beforehand • The leadership lessons behind Bill Belichick and decision-making under pressure • How to make difficult decisions when the outcome isn't guaranteed • Why trust, credibility, and process matter more than immediate results • The difference between being liked and being effective as a leader Throughout the conversation, three leadership qualities emerge: Conviction. Composure. Clarity. These aren't traits that appear overnight. They're developed through preparation, adversity, and the daily choices leaders make when nobody is watching. Whether you're a business leader, entrepreneur, coach, ministry leader, or aspiring leader, this episode will challenge you to think differently about influence, preparation, and leadership under pressure. The goal of this podcast is to equip leaders with practical wisdom and biblical principles that help them grow in character, purpose, and impact—so they can lead with integrity at work, at home, and in their communities. 👉 Subscribe for more conversations on leadership, personal growth, faith, and purpose-driven living. Support the show

    43 min
  3. Jun 8

    Why People Leave the Church | Faith, Doubt & Spiritual Formation Explained Ep.216

    Send us Fan Mail In this episode, host Jim Piper and co-host Winston Harris tackle one of the most important conversations happening in faith communities today: deconstruction, spiritual formation, and why people walk away from their faith. This isn't a debate. It's a conversation. Together, they explore how our beliefs are formed, what happens when those beliefs are challenged, and why so many people find themselves wrestling with questions they can no longer ignore. They discuss the difference between inherited faith and owned faith, the role of doubt in spiritual growth, and what leaders often misunderstand about people who are deconstructing. In this episode, they discuss: • What spiritual formation is and why it matters • The difference between inherited faith, examined faith, and abandoned faith • Common triggers that lead people to deconstruct their beliefs • How legalism, performance-based belonging, and unprocessed doubt can create fragile faith foundations • Why questions aren't necessarily the enemy of faith • The impact of culture, technology, and institutional distrust on modern belief systems • What leaders, churches, and communities often get wrong when someone begins questioning their faith • How healthy reconstruction and resilient faith are possible after doubt and struggle • Why relationships are often the key factor in helping people navigate difficult seasons of belief One of the most powerful ideas from this conversation is that resilient faith is not faith without questions—it's faith that has been tested, wrestled with, and chosen again. Whether you're personally wrestling with faith, love someone who is, or lead people navigating these questions, this episode offers a thoughtful and compassionate framework for understanding the journey. The goal of this podcast is to equip leaders with biblical principles, practical wisdom, and meaningful conversations that help them lead with character, purpose, and integrity at work, at home, and in their communities. 👉 Subscribe for more conversations on leadership, faith, spiritual growth, and purposeful living. #Deconstruction #SpiritualFormation #ChristianLeadership #FaithAndLeadership #BiblicalWorldview Support the show

    56 min
  4. Jun 1

    Wrestling With God: Fear, Faith & the Cost of Growth | Genesis 32 Study. Ep. 215

    Send us Fan Mail In this episode of The Genesis Project, host Jim Piper and co-host Winston Harris continue their journey through the Book of Genesis by unpacking the tension, fear, and transformation found in Genesis 32. As Jacob prepares to reunite with Esau—the brother who once wanted to kill him—Jacob is overwhelmed with fear and uncertainty. In response, he sends gifts ahead, hoping to make peace, even if it costs him a significant portion of his wealth. But this chapter goes far deeper than strategy and reconciliation. In this conversation, they explore: • Why Jacob reminds God of His promises in moments of fear • The wisdom of valuing peace over possessions • How even after encountering assurance from God, Jacob still wrestles with anxiety • Why suffering often becomes the platform God uses to shape leaders • The tension between wanting influence without enduring hardship • The deeper meaning behind Jacob wrestling with God—and refusing to let go without a blessing This episode highlights a powerful truth for leaders and believers alike: Transformation often happens through wrestling. Through tension. Through surrender. Because growth isn’t always found in comfort—it’s often found in the struggle that changes us. The Genesis Project exists to equip leaders with biblical principles for life, leadership, and personal growth—helping you develop character, purpose, wisdom, and lasting impact. Whether you're a business owner, entrepreneur, ministry leader, or emerging leader, this conversation offers insight into fear, faith, perseverance, and what it means to trust God in uncertain seasons. 👉 Subscribe for more conversations focused on biblical leadership, purpose-driven growth, and faith in everyday life: https://linktr.ee/leadtodaycommunity Support the show

    47 min
  5. May 25

    Wisdom In Leaving: Jacob, Laban & Leadership Under Pressure (Genesis 31 Study) | Ep. 214

    Send us Fan Mail In this episode of The Genesis Project, host Jim Piper, co-host Winston Harris, and guests Matt Martin and Gary Harpst continue their deep dive through the Book of Genesis by unpacking the tension, leadership lessons, and spiritual themes found in Genesis 31. This chapter marks a major turning point for Jacob. After years of manipulation, pressure, and changing agreements under Laban, God instructs Jacob to leave—and Jacob finally confronts the dysfunction he’s endured for years. In this conversation, they explore: • Why God sometimes calls leaders to leave unhealthy environments • How Jacob’s history of deception unexpectedly becomes useful for survival • The deeper meaning behind Rachel taking Laban’s gods • Jacob’s emotional confrontation with Laban—and the courage it required • The importance of integrity, stewardship, and honoring your word • How Laban ultimately uses the fear of God and covenant principles to protect himself from future conflict. They also discuss how Genesis 31 reveals the tension between self-preservation, justice, wisdom, and faith—especially when navigating difficult leadership relationships. This episode challenges leaders to ask: What do you do when the environment you’ve been faithful in becomes unhealthy? And how do you leave without compromising your integrity? The Genesis Project exists to equip leaders with biblical principles for life, business, and leadership—helping you grow in character, purpose, wisdom, and impact. Whether you're a business owner, entrepreneur, ministry leader, or emerging leader, this conversation offers powerful insight into navigating conflict, leadership pressure, and personal conviction. 👉 Subscribe for more conversations focused on faith, leadership development, and purpose-driven growth. #Genesis31 #BiblicalLeadership #ChristianLeadership #FaithAndLeadership #LeadershipDevelopment Support the show

    48 min
  6. May 18

    360 Degree Leadership: How to Lead Up, Across & Down | Business & Leadership Podcast

    Send us Fan Mail In this episode, host Jim Piper and co-host Winston Harris unpack one of the most overlooked leadership skills in business and life: 360 Degree Leadership. Most people think leadership only flows downward—to a team, employees, or people under your authority. But real influence works in every direction. This conversation dives into what it means to lead: • UP — influencing those above you • ACROSS — building credibility and influence with peers • DOWN — developing and empowering the people you lead Together, they explore practical leadership principles for navigating organizations, building trust, handling difficult leaders, and creating influence even when you don’t have the title or authority. In this episode, they discuss: • Why leadership is more than just positional authority • How to effectively “lead up” without threatening leadership • The importance of bringing solutions, not just problems • Why peer-to-peer influence is built on credibility and consistency • How generosity and vulnerability strengthen leadership influence • The difference between managing people and developing people • Why helping people feel genuinely seen changes performance • How to know when to redirect, release, or reposition someone with care Whether you're a business owner, entrepreneur, manager, ministry leader, or emerging leader, this episode will challenge you to rethink how influence actually works. Because leadership isn’t about controlling people— It’s about creating impact in every direction you move. The goal of this podcast is to equip leaders with biblical principles, practical wisdom, and purpose-driven leadership tools to help you grow in character, integrity, and influence at work, at home, and in your community. 👉 Subscribe for more conversations on leadership, business, personal growth, and faith-driven impact. #LeadershipDevelopment #BusinessLeadership #360Leadership #Entrepreneurship #FaithAndLeadership Support the show

    45 min
  7. May 4

    From Chaos to Strategy: Jacob’s Growth, Wealth & Hard Lessons | Genesis 30 | The Genesis Project

    Send us Fan Mail In this episode of The Genesis Project, host Jim Piper, co-host Winston Harris, and guest Matt Martin continue their deep dive through the Book of Genesis—exploring the tension, complexity, and leadership lessons found in Genesis 30. This chapter reveals a unique contrast: emotional decision-making vs. strategic growth. As Rachel and Leah name their children out of deep emotional expression, the family dynamic begins to shift. What was meant to be intimate becomes transactional—introducing competition, control, and human striving into the equation. Meanwhile, Jacob steps into a different phase—leveraging knowledge, discipline, and opportunity to grow in wealth and influence, even under pressure from Laban. In this conversation, they unpack: • How emotional reactions can shape decisions—and outcomes • The danger of turning meaningful relationships into transactions • What leaders can learn about intentionality vs. reactionary living • How Jacob used seemingly insignificant knowledge to create opportunity • The intersection of God’s provision and personal stewardship • Why growth often comes from what others overlook This episode challenges leaders to think differently: Are you reacting out of emotion—or building with intention? The Genesis Project is designed to equip leaders with biblical principles for life and leadership—helping you grow in character, clarity, and impact. Whether you're a business leader, entrepreneur, or emerging leader, this conversation offers insight into decision-making, strategy, and long-term growth. 👉 Subscribe for more conversations that help you lead with wisdom, purpose, and conviction. Support the show

    38 min
  8. Apr 27

    Saying Yes to Too Much? How Leaders Burn Out & Lose Direction | Business & Leadership

    Send us Fan Mail Starting and leading a business comes with opportunity—but also pressure. And for many leaders, the biggest mistake isn’t a lack of effort… it’s saying yes to too much. In this episode, host Jim Piper and co-host Winston Harris take a deeper look at what it really means to lead well—especially when life and business both demand more of you. This conversation unpacks the tension many leaders face: being stretched thin, constantly busy, and slowly drifting away from clarity, purpose, and sustainability. In this episode, they discuss: • Why saying “yes” to everything can leave leaders burned out and barely holding on • The importance of learning to say no to the wrong things to protect the right things • How different seasons of life and leadership require different priorities • Navigating increased pressure from business, family, and personal responsibilities • Why having a clear purpose and “why” acts as a compass for decision-making • How to stay aligned with your mission and lead with intentionality and discipline Whether you're an entrepreneur, business owner, or emerging leader, this episode will challenge you to lead with greater clarity—so you can build something sustainable without losing yourself in the process. If you’re ready to lead with focus, purpose, and integrity, this conversation is for you. 👉 Subscribe for more content focused on leadership development, business growth, and purpose-driven living. #LeadershipDevelopment #Entrepreneurship #BusinessLeadership #AvoidBurnout #PurposeDriven Support the show

    41 min

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
8 Ratings

About

The Today Counts Show is about leadership. It’s about shaping healthy leaders, relationships, and workplaces. It’s about re-imaging leadership within three dimensions: your person, your people, and your place. This triad of thought and life is informed by theology, psychology, biology, philosophy, sociology, and any discipline that contributes to the shaping of leadership character.