Linch With A Leader

<p>In this episode of Linch with a Leader, Mike sits down with Pastor & Author Adam Weber.<br><br>Adam is the founder and lead pastor of Embrace, a multisite church based out of Sioux Falls, South Dakota, that was named by Outreach magazine as one of the fastest growing churches in the U.S. He also hosts a podcast called TheConversation and has written two books, including his latest, entitled, Love Has a Name: Learning to Love the Different, the Difficult, and Everyone Else. Adam is married to Becky and they have four children.</p>

<p>In this episode of Linch with a Leader Mike sits down with David Hodge. David Hodge is founder and president of Anchor Leadership, an organization dedicated to encouraging and equipping business and ministry leaders. For over 25 years, David has served as a trainer, consultant, coach, and mentor for both senior-level leaders and rising executives. David and his anchor leadership team have worked with some of America's most well known companies like: Chick-Fil-A, U.S. Air Force, Honeybaked Hams and the Salvation Army among many others. David also serves at Dogwood Church in South Atlanta as the Discipleship Pastor.<br><br>In this interview Mike not only talks to David about what he has learned in leadership through the years but also about David's new book Your Legacy. There is never a bad time to begin to look at not only the life you are living but the legacy you are leaving!</p>

<p>In Episode 84 Mike sits down with Jason Romano who was the very first guest back in 2017 of Linch with a Leader.<br><br>Jason Romano was born in Ravena, New York and graduated from the State University of New York in 1997. He began his professional career working for ESPN in Bristol Connecticut in the year of 2000. During his time there, he served as a senior manager and producer, working on television and radio programs such as SportsCenter, Monday Night Football, Sunday NFL Countdown, College Gameday, and Mike and Mike in the Morning. He has worked alongside some of the finest radio and television personalities that the sports world offers.<br><br>In February of 2017, Jason had the opportunity to step out in faith and become the host and producer of the Sports Spectrum Podcast. The podcast has become a go to for thousands to hear the faith stories of some of their favorite athletes! 2017 also found Jason releasing his first book "Live to Forgive" about his journey of forgiveness with his father!<br><br>In this episode, Mike Linch talks with Jason Romano about what the Lord is up to in his life and about his new book - The Uniform of Leadership! Buckle up for this fun interview!</p>

<p>In today's episode of Linch with a Leader, Mike sits down best selling author and dynamic speaker Jon Gordon to talk about his new book, The Garden. This powerful spiritual fable is an incredible bridge for the readers to learn about the heart of God and the plan of the enemy!<br><br>Jon's best-selling books and talks have inspired readers and audiences around the world. His principles have been put to the test by numerous Fortune 500 companies, professional and college sports teams, school districts, hospitals, and non-profits. He is the author of 20 books including 8 best-sellers: The Energy Bus, The Carpenter, Training Camp, You Win in the Locker Room First, The Power of Positive Leadership, The Power of a Positive Team, The Coffee Bean and his latest Stay Positive. Jon and his tips have been featured on The Today Show, CNN, CNBC, The Golf Channel, Fox and Friends and in numerous magazines and newspapers. His clients include The Los Angeles Dodgers, Campbell’s Soup, Dell, Publix, Southwest Airlines, Miami Heat, The Los Angeles Rams, Snapchat, BB&T Bank, Clemson Football, Northwestern Mutual, West Point Academy and more.<br><br>Jon is a graduate of Cornell University and holds a Masters in Teaching from Emory University. He and his training/consulting company are passionate about developing positive leaders, organizations and teams.</p>

<p>In episode 82 of the Linch with a Leader podcast, Mike sits down with Phyllis Hendry Halverson.<br><br>Phyllis serves as the inaugural President and CEO of Lead Like Jesus. Under her visionary leadership, the organization has grown exponentially since its founding in 1999, equipping and empowering thousands of people throughout the United States and around the world to lead as Jesus led. She is the co-author of Lead Like Jesus Revisited, along with Ken Blanchard and Phil Hodges.<br><br>The epitome of Southern charm, Phyllis radiates passion, warmth, authenticity and wit in every presentation. As a result, she is a highly sought after speaker, regularly travelling across the U.S. and around the world to deliver the hope-filled, love inspired, story laden, and deeply personal messages that pour straight from her heart. She has been featured as a keynote speaker for crowds of 5,000-plus – often simulcast to thousands more – sharing the stage with such well-known orators as Ken Blanchard, John Ortberg, Rosey Grier, Erwin McManus, Patrick Lencioni, Henry Blackaby and more. Firmly believing “there are no unimportant conversations,” Phyllis also finds great joy communicating in more intimate settings, such as for congregations, in small group retreats, and during one-on-one encounters.<br><br>Phyllis has enjoyed a fulfilling career in leadership positions within business, nonprofits, and ministry. Prior to joining Lead Like Jesus, she served for 11 years as President of the National Science Center, Inc., in Augusta, a partnership with the United States Army. In this role, she collaborated with top military and government officials.<br><br>Her heart’s greatest desire is to lead individuals into a deeper relationship with Jesus, so that their lives will be transformed and their leadership will have maximum influence. Through the ministry of Lead Like Jesus, Phyllis is helping equip and empower believers around the world to adopt Jesus as their leader role model, so that through them the world will be forever changed.</p>

<p>On this episode of Linch with a Leader, Mike sits down with Dr. Derwin Gray. <br>Derwin is a former defensive back, who played five seasons in the NFL with the Colts and Panthers. He’s now the pastor of Transformation Church near Charlotte, N.C.<br><br>Selected in the fourth round of the 1995 NFL Draft (92nd overall) by the Indianapolis Colts, Gray played five seasons with Indy from 1993-1997 and finished his career in Carolina with the Panthers in 1998.<br><br>He has authored five books, including his latest, “The Good Life: What Jesus Teaches about True Happiness,” which released everywhere at the beginning of June. Gray’s other books include “Limitless Life: You Are More Than Your Past When God Holds Your Future” (2013) and “The High-Definition Leader” (2015).<br><br>Gray is also the host of the “Marinate On That: The Dr. Derwin Gray Podcast,” and he releases a new episode on the first Monday of each month.</p>

<p>In this episode of Linch with a Leader, Mike sits down with author & motivational speaker Damon West. Damon West, M.S. Criminal Justice, is a motivational speaker and best-selling co-author (with best-selling author and motivational speaker Jon Gordon) of The Coffee Bean: A simple Lesson to Create Positive Change. His first book and autobiography, The Change Agent: How a Former College QB Sentenced to Life in Prison Transformed His World, was published just three years after his release from a Texas maximum-security prison.<br>Sentenced to sixty-five years in a Texas prison, Damon West once had it all. He came from a great family, in a home full of God, love, support, and opportunities to reach any goal. A natural born leader, an athlete with good looks and charm, he appeared to be the all-American kid pursuing his dreams.<br><br>Underneath this facade, however, was an addict in the early stages of disease. After suffering childhood sexual abuse by a babysitter at the age of nine, Damon began putting chemicals into his body to alter the way he felt.<br><br>Damon’s career as a Division 1 quarterback at the University of North Texas came to a premature end, after suffering an injury against Texas A&M. After graduation, he worked in the United States Congress, was a national fundraiser on a U.S. Presidential campaign and eventually trained to be a stock-broker for United Bank of Switzerland (UBS). One day at UBS, he was introduced to methamphetamines; he became instantly hooked—and the lives of so many innocent people would forever be changed by the choices he made in order to feed his insatiable meth habit.<br><br>After a fateful discussion during his incarceration with a seasoned convict, Damon had a spiritual awakening. He learned that, like a coffee bean changing with the application of heat and pressure, he was capable of changing the environment around him. Armed with a program of recovery, a renewed faith, and a miraculous second chance at life, Damon emerged from over seven years of prison a changed man. His story of redemption, grit and determination continues to inspire audiences today.<br><br>Today, Damon lives a life of recovery and service, going to meetings and sharing his story all over the country with schools, church's, athletic teams, corporations, conferences and inside correctional facilities. Over the past few years, he has been sharing the Coffee Bean lesson with dozens of college football teams such as Clemson, Alabama, Georgia, and Texas, and countless schools and businesses. His #coffeebeans message has inspired thousands, winning him the Service to Mankind Award in 2017. He works as a legal assistant for the Provost Umphrey Law Firm in Beaumont, Texas and recently earned his master’s degree, in Criminal Justice, from Lamar University.<br><br><br><br>Damon’s story has been featured both nationally and globally. His second book, The Coffee Bean, co-authored with best-selling author Jon Gordon, became an instant best-seller. Damon is passionate about the Coffee Bean message and loves sharing how it changed his life and how it can change yours, too. He is excited about the Coffee Bean Clubs that are being started by students at schools across the country.</p>

<p>In this episode Mike sits down with former professional baseball player and speaker Chris Singleton. Chris shares his story of not only his life in baseball but his journey through tragedy.<br><br>Chris is a former professional baseball player in the Chicago Cubs organization as well as an inspirational speaker who has traveled the country passionately speaking to over 60,000 students. Chris has also spread his message through various different media outlets and has been featured on ESPN’s E:60, Sports Illustrated magazine, CNN, and USA Today. His mother, Sharonda Coleman Singleton, was murdered along with eight other victims at Mother Emanuel AME church in Downtown Charleston, South Carolina on June 17th 2015 by a white male who wanted to start a race related war in the United States. Chris inspired his city and the nation by forgiving the man who murdered his mother and stating that “Love is stronger than hate.” Chris inspires his audiences through his personal experiences of adversity and his belief that God can guide you through any storm you will ever pass.<br><br>You are going to love this conversation!</p>

<p>In this episode of Linch with a Leader, Mike sits down with business leader and entrepreneur Earnest Davis. Earnest describes himself as a serial entrepreneur and a speaker. His passion is to use his story to challenge them to be the best version of themselves that they can possibly be. From growing up in a small town in Mississippi to today being the host of the "Real Money Real Talk" podcast & radio show, Earnest has been someone who knows his story was not meant for just him alone!<br><br>In this episode, Mike & Earnest talk about his time in radio and as a business leader and brand strategist! You are going to love this conversation!</p>

<p>On this episode of the Linch with a Leader podcast, Mike sits down with one of his heroes, Dr. Dwight "Ike" Reighard. Ike has pastored the great New Hope Baptist Church in Fayetteville, GA and helped oversee their growth from a small country church to the 2nd fastest growing church in the Southern Baptist Convention. After his time at New Hope, he was at FBC Atlanta and then founded NorthStar Church in Kennesaw, GA where he served for six years. Ike then went on to become the Chief People Officer of Homebanc Mortgage Company in Atlanta. The company was voted for four straight years as one of Fortune's Magazines Best Places to Work. <br><br>In 2006 Ike became the interim pastor of Piedmont Church where he still pastors today. Because of Ike's leadership, Piedmont went from a church in decline to a growing vital part of the East Cobb Community. In 2007 Ike became the President and CEO of Must Ministries, a non-profit ministry located in Marietta, GA. <br><br>Ike has written four books: Treasures from the Dark, Discovering Your NorthStar, Discovering Your NorthStar Journal and co-authored a devotional with Zig Ziglar called Daily Insights. Ike is married to Robin and has two daughters, Danielle & Abigail and is the proud grandfather of Addison Ruth.<br><br>Mike and Ike talk about Ike's story, his journey in leadership and how God has seen him through!</p>

<p>In Episode 76 of Linch with a Leader Mike sits down with author, speaker & leadership expert Jenni Catron. Jenni and her team at the 4Sight Group come alongside leaders to help them navigate the complex world that we live in. Jenni not only founded and leads the 4Sight Group but also has been the author several books including Clout:Discover and Unleash Your God-Given Influence and The 4 Dimensions of Extraordinary Leadership. <br><br>Mike & Jenni about not only talk about her extensive background in leadership but also her faith that drives her as she leads. Before her work at the 4Sight group, Jenni had been a founding member and Executive Director of Cross Point Church in Nashville, TN. She helped during the growth from 500 to 6000 and helped lead the expansion to five locations. She also served two years as the executive pastor at Menlo Park in California. She was recognized by Outreach Magazine as one of the thirty emerging influencing church leadership.</p>

<p>In this episode of Linch with a Leader, Mike sits down with a leader of leaders, Brad Lomenick. Brad made his name with the Catalyst movement and spent over 12 years helping to pour into this young generation of leaders. He interviewed such outstanding leaders such as Malcom Gladwell, Simon Sinek, Rick Warren, Dave Ramsey among many others! Prior to his time with Catalyst, Brad made his name with Life@Work Magazine and did management consulting for the Cornerstone Group. Currently Brad is still convening leaders and doing consulting through Blinc consulting! Brad has authored two books – The Catalyst Leader and H3 Leadership.<br><br>Mike & Brad talk about not only leadership now but where it is going in this coming generation! No matter what part of leadership you find yourself in, Mike’s conversation with Brad will help you become in becoming the leader that God created you to be!</p>

<p>In this episode of Linch with a Leader, Mike sits down with apologist, author, pastor & leader - Lee Strobel. Lee is known for his best selling books: The Case for Christ, The Case for Faith, The Case for Grace, The Case for Miracles among many others! They have sold over 14 million copies in total. The Case for Christ was made into a movie as well chronicling his journey from award winning legal editor from the Chicago Tribune to his accepting of Jesus as his savior! Lee was educated at the University of Missouri (journalism) and Yale Law School (Master of Studies in Law).<br><br>Mike and Lee talk not only about Lee's story but about what he wishes every Christian knew about what they believe!! Lee also shared about his newest endeavor with Colorado Christian University and their Lee Strobel Center of Evangelism and Applied Apologetics. <br><br>What a way to kick off Easter week with this conversation with one of the world's leading experts on the resurrection of Christ!!</p>

<p>In this episode of "Linch with a Leader' Mike sits down with former MLB manager and player, Clint Hurdle. Hurdle, a first round draft pick, was heralded at the age of 20 by Sports Illustrated as a "phenom". He went on to play 515 games at the major league level with: Kansas City Royals, Cincinnati Reds, New York Mets, and St. Louis Cardinals.<br><br>After retiring as a player, Hurdle went on to become a manager of the Colorado Rockies for eight season where he helped guide them to their first pennant in 2007. After his time with the Rockies, he managed the Pittsburgh Pirates for nine seasons. In 2013 he was named the NL Manager of the Year. During his time with the Rockies & Pirates he guided them to 1269 wins.<br><br>Mike talks to Coach Hurdle about not only his playing career and time as a manager but also about the work that Jesus has done and is doing in his life!</p>

<p>In this episode of Linch with a Leader, Mike sits down with legendary college baseball coach Keith Madison. While serving as the head coach of the University of Kentucky for 25 seasons, Coach Madison accumulated 737 wins before retiring in 2003. His incredible coaching achievements led to his being inducted into three prestigious Hall of Fames: University of Kentucky Athletic, Kentucky High School Baseball Coaches and the American Baseball Coaches Association. In 2013 Madison was awarded the prestigious Lefty Gomez Award for his contributions to amateur baseball.<br><br>Since 2006, Madison has served with Christian mission organization, SCORE International, and has helped to lead hundreds of baseball players and coaches on dozens of short term baseball mission trips to the Dominican Republic.<br><br>Madison is also the publisher of baseball magazine, Inside Pitch. Inside Pitch is the official magazine of the American Baseball Coaches Association. Coach Madison and his wife Sharon still reside in Kentucky.</p>

<p>In this episode of Linch with a Leader, Mike sits down with Pastor & Author Joshua Gagnon!! Josh pastors Next Level Church which has been recognized as one of America's fastest growing churches. Next Level Church exists to lead people to life in Christ by being loving, relevant, and life-giving. His new book, It's Not Over, releases today! Josh not only shares his story in this work but also shares with the readers how to overcome life's disappointments and learn how to dream again!!</p>

<p>In today's episode, Mike sits down with one of the Atlanta Braves all time greats - Sid Bream. Sid shares his journey of faith and his passion for the Lord and why it drove him to be the player that he was in the MLB.<br><br>Sid signed with the Los Angeles Dodgers in June of 1981. He was traded to the Pittsburgh Pirates in 1985. He became a Free Agent in 1991 and signed a 3-year contract with the Atlanta Braves. In 1994, he became a Free Agent again and signed with the Houston Astros. In 1995, he retired from baseball.<br><br>Sid played in four consecutive National League play-offs; one with Pittsburgh and three with the Braves. He has also played in 2 World Series, while playing with the Braves. One was against the Minnesota Twins and the other was against the Toronto Blue Jays. Sid had many memorable moments, but the one that meant the most was sliding home in the 1992 National League Championship Series against the Pittsburgh Pirates in the 7th game.<br><br>Sid was born in Carlisle, Pa. and raised in Mt. Holly Springs, Pa. He now resides in Zelienople, Pa., with his wife, Michele and his family. Sid is an avid outdoorsman and loves to talk about God's awesome handprint across this world. He attended Liberty University in Lynchburg, VA. He graduated with a Physical Education Major. Today, after baseball, Sid is spends most of his time speaking in churches, youth groups and schools all over America.</p>

<p>In this episode Mike sits down with Sam Collier to talk about his "greater story". Sam is a communicator at Northpoint Ministries (founded by Andy Stanley) as well as the Director of City Strategy for The reThink Group (founded by Reggie Joiner). He is also a nationally syndicated radio host. His radio show is in 45 cities across the country. Lastly, Sam is a top 20 Gospel Billboard producer and founder of No Losing, Inc. – In these roles, he has empowered over 80k young people to have a winning mindset in life to achieve their goals by creatively making education relevant to young people. Sam is an Atlanta, Georgia native! <br><br>You are going to love Sam's passion for leadership and for Jesus! His podcast "A Greater Story" is a must listen to for leaders!</p>

<p>In this episode of Linch with a Leader, Mike sits down with author, speaker & serial entrepreneur Jordan Raynor. Jordan has been starting and leading entrepreneurial endeavors his entire career. Prior to leading Threshold 360, which he is currently executive chairman, he was the co-founder of Citizinvestor, which at the time was the world’s largest crowdfunding platform for government projects. In 2011, his first company (a digital agency for political campaigns) was acquired by the mega-interactive agency, Engage.<br><br>Throughout his career, he has been invited to speak on faith, work, and entrepreneurship at some pretty amazing places, including Harvard University, SXSW, and TEDx. Twice he has been selected as a Google Fellow and had the incredible honor of serving in the White House under President George W. Bush.<br><br>His newest book is, The Master of One, which has as it's core premise is that we best glorify God and love our neighbors as ourselves when we find, focus on, and master the work we were created to do.</p>

<p>Episode 67 of Linch with a Leader features Mike's conversation with author, blogger & leader, Bob Tiede. Bob has worked for CRU (Campus Crusade for Christ) for over 48 years and is currently on the US Development Leadership Team. HIs passion for leadership has led him to become a thought leader in leading by asking questions. He is most known for his work - Now that's a great Question.<br><br>Mike and Bob talk about their faith and also how to lead by asking questions!</p>

<p>Mike kicks of 2020 with Episode 66 of the "Linch with a Leader" podcast by sitting down with business guru Dr. Blanchard. Mike & Dr. Blanchard talk about not only what he has learned about leadership in business but also about how his faith led him to pen the book and organization "Lead Like Jesus".<br><br>Few people have influenced the day-to-day management of people and companies more than Ken Blanchard. A prominent, sought-after author, speaker, and business consultant, Dr. Blanchard is respected for his lifetime of groundbreaking research and thought leadership that has influenced the day-to-day management and leadership of people and companies throughout the world.<br><br>With a passion to turn every leader into a servant leader, Ken Blanchard shares his insightful and powerful message with audiences around the world through speeches, consulting services, and bestselling books. When Ken speaks, he speaks from the heart with warmth and humor. No matter how large the audience, he is able to communicate with each person as if the two of them were alone and talking one on one. Ken is a sophisticated storyteller with a knack for making the seemingly complex easy to understand.<br><br>Ken’s impact as an author is far reaching. His iconic 1982 classic, The One Minute Manager, coauthored with Spencer Johnson, has sold more than 13 million copies and remains on bestseller lists today. In the past three decades he has authored or coauthored 60 books whose combined sales total more than 21 million copies. His groundbreaking works—including Raving Fans, The Secret, and Leading at a Higher Level, to name just a few—have been translated into more than 42 languages. In 2005 Ken was inducted into Amazon’s Hall of Fame as one of the top 25 bestselling authors of all time.<br><br>Dr. Ken Blanchard is the cofounder and Chief Spiritual Officer of The Ken Blanchard Companies, an international management training and consulting firm that he and his wife, Margie Blanchard, began in 1979 in San Diego, California. In addition to being a renowned speaker, author and consultant, Ken is a trustee emeritus of the Board of Trustees at his alma mater, Cornell University, and he also teaches students in the Master of Science in Executive Leadership Program at the University of San Diego.<br><br>Born in New Jersey and raised in New York, Ken received his master’s degree from Colgate University and his bachelor’s and doctorate degrees from Cornell University.</p>

<p>In this final episode of 2019, Mike sits down with world renowned business leader & author, Mark Sanborn. Mark Sanborn, CSP, CPAE, is president of Sanborn & Associates, Inc., an idea studio dedicated to developing leaders in business and in life. Mark is an international bestselling author and award winning keynote leadership speaker.<br>Mark has written 9 books, and The Fred Factor has sold over 2 million copies worldwide. His latest book is The Intention Imperative: Three Essential Changes That Will Make You a Successful Leader Today.<br><br>In 2019 he was ranked #5 leadership expert in the world by <a href="http://GlobalGurus.org" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">GlobalGurus.org</a><br><br>He is Leadership Expert in Residence at High Point University, the Premier Life Skills University.<br><br>Mark holds the Certified Speaking Professional designation from the National Speakers Association (NSA) and is a member of the Speaker Hall of Fame. He was honored with the Cavett Award, the highest honor the NSA bestows on its members, in recognition of his outstanding contributions to the speaking profession.<br><br>Mark’s ideas are taught in 90 counties by Crestcom and his<br>list of over 2600 clients includes Costco, FedEx, Harley-Davidson, Hewlett Packard, Cisco, KPMG, Morton’s of Chicago, New York Life, RE/MAX, ServiceMaster, ESPN, GM, IBM, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Sandvik and John Deere.<br><br>“Nobody can prevent you from choosing to be extraordinary in whatever you do.” Mark Sanborn challenges his audiences with this message and provides insights for extraordinary.</p>

<p>On this episode of Linch with a Leader finds Mike sitting down with Dave Ramsey Personality, Anthony O'Neal. Since 2003, Anthony has helped hundreds of thousands of students. He’s the national bestselling author of Graduate Survival Guide: 5 Mistakes You Can’t Afford to Make in College and travels the country spreading his encouraging message to help teens and young adults start their lives off right. His latest book, Debt-Free Degree, launched in October 2019.<br><br>During this episode, Mike talks to Anthony about his journey and his experiences that have shaped who he is today. Anthony is now using this story to inspire and instruct this next generation.</p>

<p>On this episode Mike sits down with Terence Chatmon who is President of Equip, part of the John Maxwell Company. Prior to his time with Equip, Terrance was in executive leadership with some of America's greatest companies including Johnson & Johnson and the Coca-Cola Company. <br><br>In this episode Mike talks to Terence about not only his vantage point on leadership from the positions that he has held but also he learns about the faith that drives him. Terence also shares his passion for families and the discipleship that takes place within the home. His curriculum has been used to train over 100,000 pastors & parents across the world! To learn more about Terrance book and ministry, please visit <a href="http://www.victoriousfamily.org" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">www.victoriousfamily.org</a></p>

<p>On this episode of Linch with a Leader, MIke sits down with Pastor & New York Times best-selling Author Mark Batterson to talk about his new book "Double Blessing". Mark is the Pastor of National Community Church in Washington, DC and has led them from a church start-up to now one church in seven locations. Mark also has authored such popular books such as In a Pit with a Lion on a Snowy Day, Circle Maker, Play the Man, Whisper among others.<br><br>Mark shares with Mike his heart by Double Blessing and how he has watched this happen in his own life!</p>

<p>On this week's episode of Linch with a Leader, Mike sits down with Pat Flood. Pat is the regional operating partner of Supreme Lending. In 2018 he was voted one of Atlanta's Most Admired CEO's by the Atlanta Business Chronicle. He has been a mainstay mortgage industry for his career and led Supreme Lending to be voted one of Atlanta's top places to work in 2017.<br><br>Pat shares with Mike what he believes is the calling that God has placed on his life and how he believes faith integrates with how he leads.</p>

<p>On this episode of Linch with a Leader, Mike sits down with the "Leadership Freak" Dan Rockwell. Dan has been recognized by Inc Magazine as Top 50 Leadership and Management Expert and Top 100 Leadership Speakers. His blog "Leadership Freak" is the most socially shared leadership blog on the internet according to Center for Management & Organization Effectiveness.<br><br>Dan has earned both MBA's and undergraduate degrees as well owing two of his own businesses. He currently coaches leaders across the world and consults with organizations and is a sought after communicator as well.<br><br>Mike talks to Dan about not only his background but also the role that faith has played in his journey!</p>

<p>On this episode of Linch with a Leader, Mike sits down with Dr. Gary Chapman. Dr. Chapman is the author of the best selling book “The Five Love Languages” which has sold more than 12 million copies worldwide along with translated into 50 languages. Along with traveling the country speaking on marriage and family, Dr. Chapman has served on staff at Calvary Baptist Church in Winston-Salem, NC. He has authored many other books including: Anger, The Family You’ve Always Wanted, The Marriage You’ve Always Wanted, Desperate Marriages, God Speaks Your Love Language, Parenting Your Adult Child, and Hope for the Separated.<br><br>Dr. Chapman and his wife Kathryn have two grown children and two grandchildren.</p>

<p>This week's episode features guest , Daniel Jeremiah of the NFL network. Daniel is a former scout for three different NFL teams. Most recently, he was the West Coast scout for the Philadelphia Eagles from 2010 to 2012. He previously worked as a national scout with the Cleveland Browns (2007-08) and a West Coast scout for the Baltimore Ravens (2005-06), after initially joining the team as a personnel assistant from 2003 to 2004. Jeremiah graduated in 2000 from Appalachian State, where he started at quarterback for three seasons.<br><br>Jeremiah is currently the host of the "Moving the Sticks" podcast and is an analyst for the NFL network and a writer for <a href="http://NFL.com" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">NFL.com</a>. He also does color commentary for the San Diego Chargers on KFI radio. He is married and has four children.<br><br>In today's episode, Mike talks to Daniel about his experiences in life and football and how faith has played such a huge role in his journey.</p>

<p>On this weeks episode of Linch with a Leader, Mike sits down with Jack Easterby of the Houston Texans. Prior to his role with the Texans where he currently serves as the executive vice president of team development, he served with the New England Patriots from 2013-2018 as the team chaplain and character coach. Easterby was lauded by the Patriots players for the incredible role he played during that time. Prior to that he had served with the Kansas City Chiefs and some time at the University of South Carolina.<br><br>Mike spends time talking with Easterby about his years as a college athlete and how his passion developed into helping athletes be a real champion. At the recording of this episode, Easterby had just left his role with the Patriots and had not yet joined the Texans. There are so many great nuggets of wisdom from this great leader!</p>

<p>On this episode of Linch with a Leader, Mike sits down with speaker/leader Shep Shepherd to talk about his story from adversity to one of the most inspiring leaders of today. Shep travels the country now inspiring hope in this generation. His presentations are as relevant as they are timeless. He is one of the leading authorities today on Hope and Transformation. His influence is global. His philosophy is simple: Tough times do not last, Tough people do! He was born in the hood, but he is now reaching the world.<br><br>As CEO of Shep Inspires LLC, he has been unmatched in his ability to deliver real, relevant, and relatable content from the platform for over 12 years now. In 2010 he also founded Keep The Change Inc. a non-profit devoted to empowering pro and college athletes through chaplaincy and mentoring.<br><br>For more information on Shep visit him at:<br><a href="http://www.shepinspires.com" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">www.shepinspires.com</a></p>

<p>Rodney Bullard currently serves as the Vice President of Corporate Social Responsibility for Chick-fil-A, Inc. and Executive Director of the Chick-fil-A Foundation. He leads the company in their community engagement, philanthropic efforts and the sustainability strategy. Before beginning with Chick-fil-A, he served as an Assistant United States Attorney prosecuting difficult criminal cases. Due to his work, he was awarded by the United States Attorney General with the Department of Justice Director’s Award. He’s been selected as a White House Fellow, which is the nation’s highest public service Fellowship. As a Fellow, he was placed at NASA working for the NASA Administrator. He is an alumnus of the Air Force Academy, Duke Law School, the University of Georgia’s Terry College of Business and Harvard Business School’s Advanced Management Program. Rodney has also authored a book entitled Heroes Wanted: Why the World Needs You to Live Your Heart Out.<br><br>In this episode, Mike Linch talks with Rodney Bullard about his impressive background, his work at Chick-fil-A, his book and how his faith has played such an important role in his life.</p>

<p>Rachel is a graduate of the Auburn University Broadcast Journalism program and has become a master at her craft. She has been featured on national broadcast such as Fox Sports, ESPN, CBS Sports, Yahoo and Sirius XM. Whether a field reporter and host of the College Football National Playoff game or working NASCAR, Rachel bring passage and energy! She is known by many as the “SEC-ologist” for her vast knowledge of SEC football and was the first female host of SiriusXM ESPNU.<br><br>Her most recent work away is called “Changing the Narrative”. Since August of 2016, she has visited 35+ institutions talking to young athletes about being Kings and Queens through purpose. <br><br>In this episode, Mike explores not only Rachel’s life journey but also her faith that has been her sustaining force!</p>

<p>Kevin Scott is an entrepreneur and author from Kennesaw, Georgia and is a graduate of the University of Georgia. He has spoken in over 100 countries, and co-founded ADDO in 2011 with the mission and goal of inspiring people today to impact tomorrow. ADDO is a leadership consultancy that partners with Chick-fil-A and Coca-Cola. Prior to founding ADDO, Kevin was involved with non-profit charitable work, business ventures, and politics. <br><br>Kevin has been named to the “40 under 40” lists for Georgia Trend and the Atlanta Business Chronicle. He has also authored three books, The Lens of Leadership, 8 Essential Exchanges, and The Lepers’ Lessons</p>

<p>Chris Norton is a motivational speaker and has a non-profit foundation. Chris was a collegiate football player who’s career ended in 2010 after becoming paralyzed after making a tackle. Although he was told he would never be able to move again, Chris had defied the odds and walked across the stage at graduation and walked down the aisle with the assistance of his wife Emily. His story was seen online hundreds of thousands of times online. Now he is sharing his story with people all over the country, and through the Chris Norton Foundation, helping others with neuromuscular injuries overcome their obstacles.</p>

<p>Dr. Sam Chand is a former pastor, college president and chancellor, speaker, and author. He lives with the singular vision for his life of “help others succeed.” He climbed the ranks at Beulah Heights Bible College beginning as a janitor, and finishing up as the president of the school. He continues to develop leaders through the Sam Chand Leadership Institute working with ministries, governments, and social organizations. <br><br>In this episode, Mike Linch and Dr. Sam Chand discuss his background, his passions for leadership, new material he has just released, and how his faith has played a key role in who he is today.</p>

<p>Ira Blumenthal is a speaker, consultant, author, branding expert, and a motivator based out of Atlanta, Georgia; he is often considered the modern day “Renaissance Man.” He is the founder and president of Co-Opportunities Inc., which a consulting company that has worked with some of the largest companies in the world including: Coca-Cola, Nestle, Kroger, Disney, and many more. Ira has the honor and notable distinction of being the single longest continually retained consultant in The Coca-Cola Company’s history. Ira is also a published author with his works, Ready, Blame, Fire! (Myths and Misses in Marketing) andManaging Brand You are just two of the books he has published that have gained notoriety. On top of everything else he does, Ira Blumenthal has spoken to well over 1-million people throughout his career on five different continents. <br> <br>In this episode, Mike Linch and Ira Blumenthal discuss their friendship, Ira’s impressive background and career successes, lessons that he has learned, and the role his faith has played in his life.</p>

<p>The Miles’ are the CEO’s and Co-Founders of Belay. Belay is a virtual assistant company that has the mission to, “glorify God by providing solutions that equip our clients with the confidence to climb higher.” Bryan and Shannon felt a calling from the Lord to start their own business, and in 2010 they began the step by founding the Miles Advisory Group. That group expanded into a multitude of areas and roles of providing those solutions to their clients all across the country, and in 2017 all of their Miles AG suite came under the name of Belay. Belay was recently awarded the number one spot in Entrepreneur Magazine’s Best Company Culture and has been in INC. 500 four times. Bryan and Shannon both have authored books as well. <br><br>In this episode, Mike Linch and Bryan and Shannon Miles discuss their backgrounds, how they got into what they’re doing and how God has played a role in their leadership and company.</p>

<p>Dan Reiland is the Executive Pastor at 12Stone Church in Lawrenceville, Georgia. He first partnered with the legendary John Maxwell for 20 years, as the Executive Pastor at Skyline Wesleyan Church located in San Diego. He then moved on to become the Vice President of Leadership and Church Development at Injoy. Dan also writes a blog to help encourage and pass on leadership insights that he has learned and acquired from his time in ministry. He has a passion for seeing leaders grow and become empowered in what God has called them too. <br><br>In this episode, Mike Linch and Dan Reiland discuss his passion for developing leaders, things that he learned from working for John Maxwell, leadership lessons that he has learned along the way, and all the things that God is doing through him.</p>

<p>Darleen Santore, also known as “Coach Dar” is a Board Certified Occupational Therapist, business executive, author and speaker. She started out as an occupational therapist working with a variety of different clients. While she was working her way up in the management world living in Nashville, she suffered a stroke at the age of 25. It changed her world and her own faith, as she then stepped out and began her own practice. She now helps individuals, corporate executives, and professional teams and athletes become the best that she can be. She has also made a stamp in the game of basketball, as she was awarded the “Most Inspiring Woman from WNBA.” <br><br>In this episode, Mike Linch and Darleen Santore talk about her background and how she got into her career, the setback she faced, dealing with adversity.</p>

<p>Brian Dodd currently serves as the Director of New Ministry Relationships for Injoy Stewardship Solutions, where he helps churches fully-fund their mission and vision for their church. Brian also has a leadership website entitled Brian Dodd on Leadership. Brian states the goal for the site is “to take everyday life experiences we all have and process them in the light of leadership.” He is constantly updating the site with blog posts and e-books that are all leadership focused. Brian’s site is consistently viewed by some of the greatest leaders in the industry, and was ranked the number one Christian Leadership blog in 2012 by Theology Degrees Online. Brian has also authored a book recently entitled Timeless: 10 Enduring Practices of Apex Leaders, which gives some insight on what great leaders have done to achieve success. <br><br>In this episode, Mike Linch and Brian Dodd dive into not only his background, how Brian’s faith has played a role, the intricacies of spiritual leadership, and the qualities some of the greatest leaders.</p>

<p>Dave is a graduate of Middle Tennessee University with a degree in recording management. While a student there he began writing songs for others but was later encouraged to begin to perform himself. He has now released eight albums, his most recent being, Who Knew It Would Be So Hard To Be MySelf,which released in 2018. He gained huge notoriety when Blake Shelton recorded and released his song, God Gave Me You, in 2011. The song became his fifth number one song and led to his nomination for a Grammy Award for Best Country Song.<br><br>Today, Mike talks to Dave about his journey into music and how he handles the stresses and strains of the road. Dave shares his story of growing up as a “preachers kid” but how his parents lived out their faith in front of him helping him to have a faith that works.</p>

<p>Mark Cole is the CEO of all John Maxwell Companies and has been in the world of leadership for over 25 years. He has gained experience in both the non-profit and for-profit sectors, and has been with companies through economic challenges and difficult team dynamics. Today, Mark works closely with John Maxwell and brings access to John’s real time principles to the rest of the John Maxwell Team.<br><br>In this episode, Mike Linch talks with Mark Cole about his upbringing, what he’s learned from his time with the John Maxwell Team, the difficult transition in his work life, how his view of leadership has changed, the importance of leadership, and what he has learned from working with John Maxwell.</p>

<p>Rachel Cruze is currently a member of the Dave Ramsey Speaker’s Group, and a New York Time Best-Selling author. She learned the idea of handling money properly at an early age and began to share that message and those principles with teenagers and young adults all across the country. She authored a book entitled, Smart Money Smart Kids, that was co-authored with her father, Dave Ramsey, and achieved the top spot on the 2014 New York Times Best Seller list. She also wrote a book in 2016, called Love Your Life, Not Theirs: 7 Money Habits for Living the Life You Want. She is also the host of the online web show, The Rachel Cruze Show.<br><br>In this episode, Mike Linch talks with Rachel Cruze, about what she thought she’d do as a kid, the things that her parents did right, the way her relationship with Christ has influenced her life, what she wished every person knew about their money, and being content.</p>

<p>Dansby Swanson is the current shortstop for the Atlanta Braves. Swanson was born and raised in Marietta, Georgia and was a two-sport star at Marietta High School. He went on to play at Vanderbilt University where he began to become a household name. In 2014, he led the Commodores to win the College World Series, where he was named the College World Series Most Outstanding Player. In 2015, he was the number one pick in the MLB Draft to the Arizona Diamondbacks. Later that winter, he was traded back to his hometown team and became a member of the Atlanta Braves. He made his MLB debut in August of 2016, and became the starting shortstop in Atlanta. In 2018, he launched a company called ‘All Things Loyal’ to help him give back to the city of Atlanta and make an impact on the community he is a part of.<br><br>In this episode, Mike Linch talks with Dansby Swanson about living out his dream, the things that professional athletes deal with, the role basketball played in his development, his time at Vanderbilt, the role his parents played in his life, his views on leadership, the role his faith plays in how he lives his life.</p>

<p>Coach Thompson is the head coach at Auburn University, and has been a staple in collegiate baseball since the 1990’s. He has a record of 103-82 (.557) as the head coach of Auburn, where he took over in 2015. Before he arrived, he was an assistant at many stops along the way, most notably at Mississippi State University where he served as the pitching coach. In 2014, Baseball America and American Baseball Coaches Association National Assistant Coach of the Year. Eight of his former pitchers have made it in Major League Baseball since 2014, and he coached the number one pick in the 2018 MLB Draft in Casey Mize. As a player, he played at Itawamba Community College and is a member of the ICC Athletic Hall of Fame; he later transferred to Birmingham Southern University.<br><br>In this episode, Mike Linch talks with Coach Thompson about the excitement of the spring, the impact his former coach had on his life, Brian Shoop, the lessons he has learned from coaching, what God’s taught him through waiting, how he carved his niche in pitching.</p>

<p>Patty is entering her 25th season as the head softball coach at the University of Oklahoma. She is widely thought of as one of the most successful softball coaches in NCAA history, as she is already a member of the NFCA Hall of Fame. Gasso has seen the Sooners win four national championships since she has been at the helm in 2000, 2013, 2016 and most recently in 2017. She has completed 28 seasons as a head coach, compiling a collegiate coaching record of 1364-386-3, which equates to a 77.9% winning percentage. Patty Gasso has also joined the coaching staff of Team USA Softball, leading the women who compete against other countries representing the United States of America. <br><br>In this episode, Mike Linch talks with Patty Gasso, about her background and upbringing, success at the coaching level, and the impact her faith has had on her life and her coaching.</p>

<p>Dondi is an international speaker, who is known for delivering high-energy presentations all over the globe. She’s made a name for herself in the industry becoming a sought-after consultant about the keys that made her so successful in business. She is also a best-selling author for some of her work, such as Designed for Success: The 10 Commandments for Women in the Workplace.<br><br>In this episode, Mike Linch talks with Dondi Scumaci about what led her to have so much success in the business world, some of her writings, and the role her faith has played in all of it along the way.</p>

<p>This week’s podcast features Chris Hogan, who is a part of the Dave Ramsey team.<br>Chris Hogan received his undergraduate degree from Georgetown College in Georgetown, Kentucky, where he was a star on the football team as he became an All-American. After graduating from college, he transitioned to the coaching side of football while completing his graduate degree. Chris found lots of success in the business world, as he climbed the ladder becoming the vice president of a prestigious company. However, Chris felt the call to do more than sit behind his desk, and watch clients struggle with their finances. Shortly thereafter, he connected with Dave Ramsey and a new career opportunity emerged. Now, Chris helps spread the message of financial hope to audiences all over the country. He is an expert on subjects like mortgages, healthcare, and investing. Chris Hogan is also considered one of America’s leading voices regarding retirement, and has authored the book Retire Inspired.<br><br>In this episode, our host, Mike Linch, has his second discussion with Chris Hogan. In this episode, Chris and Mike talk about his new book Everyday Millionaire.</p>

<p>Steve is the former Executive Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer of Chick-fil-A. He now serves as a counsel for leadership development and continues community involvement on behalf of the company. He began his career with Chick-fil-A as director of marketing, but went on to work his way all the way to chief marketing officer. In that position, he was responsible for overseeing marketing, advertising, brand development management, menu development, and hospitality strategies. Before joining Chick-fil-A, Steve served as the director of marketing for Six Flags Over Georgia. He also spent time at Texas Instruments in a marketing role. <br><br>In this episode, Mike Linch talks with Steve Robinson about his life growing up, his career track, experiences at Chick-fil-A, and what the Lord has taught him at each stop of his journey.</p>