Follow 2 Lead: A Christian Leaders Podcast

#443: Kristen LaValley on Humility, Storytelling, and Leadership Growth Through Community

In this episode of the Follow 2 Lead Podcast, Tony Miltenberger sits down with Kristen LaValley for a meaningful conversation on leadership, humility, identity, and the power of storytelling. Kristen shares why one of the most important leadership skills isn’t confidence—but the willingness to be wrong, learn, and grow. Tony and Kristen explore how great leaders create safe spaces where people feel seen, heard, and valued. Through her work hosting retreats and writing, Kristen has witnessed firsthand how storytelling can bring healing, clarity, and deeper connection. They discuss how writing becomes a tool for personal growth, helping leaders better understand themselves and lead with authenticity. The conversation also dives into the role of community in shaping identity and leadership, and how spiritual storytelling can foster transformation in both the storyteller and the listener. Kristen reflects on her own writing journey, emphasizing that leadership is not about having everything figured out—but about showing up with humility, curiosity, and openness to growth. This episode is a powerful reminder that leadership is deeply human. It’s built through shared stories, honest reflection, and the courage to create environments where people can grow and belong. Coaching Question: “Where in your leadership might humility—specifically the willingness to be wrong—unlock deeper trust, growth, and connection?” Connect with Kristen LaValley: • Website: kristenlavalley.com  • Instagram: @kristen.lavalley  • Substack: kristenlavalley.substack.com  • Books & author info: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Kristen... 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   / twmilt   Check out our YouTube page    / @twmilt   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

#442: Communication, Culture, & Care: Kara on Thoughtful Leadership & Building Healthy Teams

In this episode of the Follow 2 Lead Podcast, Tony Miltenberger sits down with Kara for a meaningful conversation about the core skills that shape healthy leadership and thriving workplace culture. At the center of the discussion is one essential truth: the most important leadership skill is communication. Tony and Kara explore how thoughtful leadership requires leaders to consider not just what they say, but the impact their words have on people, culture, and community. Kara shares her personal journey of understanding workplace culture and how feedback—when normalized and modeled well—can become a powerful tool for growth rather than fear. The conversation also highlights the importance of discernment in leadership decisions, establishing clear non‑negotiables, and intentionally cultivating a positive culture instead of assuming it will develop on its own. Kara reflects on how podcasting helped clarify her message and build confidence, and why great leaders often show up as caregivers, mentors, and consistent presences in the lives of others. This episode is a practical and reflective guide for leaders who want to communicate more clearly, build healthier teams, and lead with thoughtfulness, care, and conviction. Coaching Question: “How intentionally are you shaping your culture through the way you communicate—and what feedback are you willing to invite that could make you a better leader?” Instagram:   / heykaralist   LinkedIn:   / heykaralist   Resources by topic: https://www.heykaralist.com/grow To connect or learn more about future cohorts, email mailto:Kara@karalist.co 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   / twmilt   Check out our YouTube page    / @twmilt   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

#441: Lydia’s Mission with Claire Kriel: Community, Empowerment & Kingdom‑Centered Impact

https://secure.givelively.org/donate/lydias-mission/lydia-s-mission-climb-4-kids/tony-miltenberger https://lydiasmission.org/ In this episode of the Follow 2 Lead Podcast, host Tony Miltenberger sits down with Claire Kriel, co‑founder of Lydia’s Mission, to explore what it means to build a community and mission that empowers women, supports families, and brings kingdom‑centered transformation to the world. Claire shares the inspiring story behind Lydia’s Mission — a ministry rooted in compassion, hospitality, and the belief that every person has inherent value and purpose. They dive into how intentional community, thoughtful discipleship, and practical support can help people navigate real‑world challenges and grow in faith, resilience, and leadership. The conversation also highlights how mission‑driven work flourishes when it’s anchored in relationships, humility, and a commitment to serving others well. Listeners will hear practical wisdom on the importance of mercy ministries, developing leaders through real engagement, and the role of collaborative networks in extending influence beyond a single setting. Whether you’re a ministry leader, pastor, business owner, or someone passionate about meaningful service, this dialogue offers encouragement and insight for stepping into impact with purpose and joy. ⁠⁠Please check out our sponsors EBEB Solutions⁠ ⁠That Sounds Fun Network: ⁠ ⁠Follow 2 Lead Coaching⁠ ⁠Tony on Instagram⁠ ⁠Check out our YouTube page⁠ ⁠Be sure to leave us a review on Apple Podcasts⁠ Interested in becoming a sponsor? Contact us here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

#440: Leadership Is Movement: Tony Miltenberger on Faithful Presence, Calling, and Taking the Next Step

Links mentioned in the episode: Give to Tony's Climb! Listen to Mitch on the podcast! In this solo episode of the Follow 2 Lead Podcast, Tony Miltenberger shares leadership lessons shaped by personal experience and reflections from a recent trip to South Africa. With clarity and conviction, Tony challenges the common assumption that leadership begins with a title—arguing instead that leadership starts with movement, responsibility, and faithful presence. Tony unpacks the real tensions leaders face between cultural realities and their kingdom calling, reminding listeners that the noise of the world can’t be allowed to drown out what God is asking of them. He emphasizes that some of the most meaningful leadership isn’t flashy—it’s the hard, consistent work of showing up, doing what needs to be done, and staying faithful even when results are slow. Throughout the episode, Tony encourages listeners to discern their calling, take responsibility for the needs around them, and commit to the next small (but significant) step forward. This is an invitation to lead with conviction, consistency, and courage—without waiting for permission. ⁠⁠Please check out our sponsors EBEB Solutions⁠ ⁠That Sounds Fun Network: ⁠ ⁠Follow 2 Lead Coaching⁠ ⁠Tony on Instagram⁠ ⁠Check out our YouTube page⁠ ⁠Be sure to leave us a review on Apple Podcasts⁠ Interested in becoming a sponsor? Contact us here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

#439: The Power of Creativity: Rebekah Scott on Self-Worth, Self-Expression, and Empowering Others to Create

Sign up for our monthly resource at twmilt.com! In this episode of the Follow 2 Lead Podcast, Tony Miltenberger sits down with Rebekah Scott for an inspiring conversation on the transformative power of creativity. Rebekah shares the personal moment that sparked her passion for creating spaces where people can experience the joy of making something—and in the process, rediscover their voice, value, and identity. Together, they explore how creativity isn’t just a hobby—it’s a powerful pathway to self-expression, personal growth, and community connection. Bekah unpacks why encouraging bravery in the creative process helps people step into unique, authentic expression, and how creating something can remind individuals they were made with purpose and worth. This conversation is a reminder that creativity can “light someone up,” build confidence, foster belonging, and ultimately make an impact far beyond the moment—pointing people toward kingdom-minded influence through everyday acts of creation. https://www.encouragerpodcast.com/ https://www.instagram.com/encouragerpodcast/ ⁠⁠Please check out our sponsors EBEB Solutions⁠ ⁠That Sounds Fun Network: ⁠ ⁠Follow 2 Lead Coaching⁠ ⁠Tony on Instagram⁠ ⁠Check out our YouTube page⁠ ⁠Be sure to leave us a review on Apple Podcasts⁠ Interested in becoming a sponsor? Contact us here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices