Episodes

  • Coaching with Clarity: Navigating Coaching Challenges in Leadership
    Apr 24 2025

    Summary

    In this episode of the Faithful Podcast, Christopher Swing discusses the challenges leaders face when coaching employees who struggle to meet expectations. He emphasizes the importance of recognizing patterns in performance, providing clarity in communication, and fostering ownership among team members. The conversation also highlights the need for support without enabling, setting up wins to build confidence, and knowing when an employee may not be the right fit. Ultimately, the episode advocates for leading with truth and grace, focusing on the growth of individuals rather than just performance metrics.

    Takeaways

    Great leaders study patterns, not just moments.
    Clarity in expectations is a form of kindness.
    Asking questions before making assumptions is crucial.
    Coaching should encourage ownership of problems.
    Support should not enable dependency.
    Celebrating small wins builds confidence.
    Not every employee is a fit for their role.
    Hard conversations should be approached with grace.
    Correction is an investment in growth.
    Effective leadership shapes hearts and habits.

    Sound Bites

    "Clarity is kindness."
    "Ask before assuming."
    "Let's lead faithfully."

    Chapters

    00:00 Coaching with Integrity and Empathy
    02:08 The Importance of Clarity in Expectations
    04:52 Fostering Ownership and Problem Solving
    06:59 Supporting Without Enabling
    09:20 Recognizing Fit Issues
    11:16 Leading with Truth and Grace

    Send us a text

    Faithful - https://faithful.buzzsprout.com/
    Facebook -
    https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61571226598690

    Please feel free to check out the organizations that support us:

    Vantage Surgical Solutions - https://vantage.healthcare/
    Vantage Surgical Solutions Careers - https://vantage.healthcare/careers/
    Chris Contact Info - https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopherswing/

    And the ones we support:

    Missions:
    Developing Kids Ghana - https://developingkidsghana.com/
    Eastern Dominican Christian Mission - https://easterndominican.org/
    Broadway Christian Church - https://broadwaycc.churchcenter.com/home/
    57/70 Task Force: https://5770taskforce.org/

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    15 mins
  • Voices That Matter: Who to Listen to in Leadership by Christopher Swing
    Apr 10 2025

    Summary

    In this episode, Christopher Swing discusses the critical lesson for leaders on discerning who to take advice from and who to ignore. He emphasizes the importance of filtering voices into three categories: those who genuinely care and tell the truth, mentors who have experience, and those whose advice is rooted in God's word. He warns against the dangers of listening to negative voices that can distract from one's purpose and encourages leaders to seek wisdom and discernment in their decision-making.


    Takeaways

    • Leadership can be lonely and confusing.
    • Not every voice deserves your attention.
    • Opposition is a part of leadership.
    • Filter advice into three categories.
    • Wounds from a friend can be trusted.
    • Seek mentors who have walked the road ahead.
    • Avoid advice from those who want you to fail.
    • Advice should never contradict scripture.
    • Discernment is crucial in leadership.
    • Surround yourself with those who want to see you grow.


    Chapters

    00:00 Navigating Leadership Advice
    03:01 Identifying Wise Counsel
    05:09 The Importance of Discernment

    Send us a text

    Faithful - https://faithful.buzzsprout.com/
    Facebook -
    https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61571226598690

    Please feel free to check out the organizations that support us:

    Vantage Surgical Solutions - https://vantage.healthcare/
    Vantage Surgical Solutions Careers - https://vantage.healthcare/careers/
    Chris Contact Info - https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopherswing/

    And the ones we support:

    Missions:
    Developing Kids Ghana - https://developingkidsghana.com/
    Eastern Dominican Christian Mission - https://easterndominican.org/
    Broadway Christian Church - https://broadwaycc.churchcenter.com/home/
    57/70 Task Force: https://5770taskforce.org/

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    7 mins
  • Navigating the Leadership Spectrum: From Beginner to Advanced
    Apr 2 2025

    Summary

    In this conversation, Christopher Swing explores the intersection of leadership and faith, categorizing leaders into five distinct levels: beginner, emerging, established, and advanced. He emphasizes the importance of understanding where one fits on the leadership spectrum and encourages continuous personal growth. The discussion highlights the characteristics of each leadership level, the significance of mentorship, and the impact of leadership on organizational culture. Christopher invites listeners to engage and share their thoughts, reinforcing the podcast's purpose of providing valuable insights into leadership development.

    Takeaways

    Leadership is a journey, not a destination.
    Beginner leaders focus on completing tasks rather than leading.
    Emerging leaders take initiative and solve problems proactively.
    Established leaders delegate effectively and invest in mentoring others.
    Advanced leaders shape organizational culture and leave a lasting legacy.
    Understanding your position on the leadership spectrum is crucial for growth.
    Daily improvements in leadership can lead to significant changes over time.
    Engaging with your team can enhance leadership effectiveness.
    Long-term impact should be a focus for advanced leaders.
    Feedback from listeners is essential for the podcast's growth.

    Sound Bites

    "Beginner leaders focus on completing tasks."
    "Long-term impact is key for advanced leaders."
    "Leadership is a journey, not a destination."

    Chapters

    00:00 Understanding the Leadership Spectrum
    04:03 The Journey of Leadership Development
    08:25 Practical Steps for Leadership Growth


    Send us a text

    Faithful - https://faithful.buzzsprout.com/
    Facebook -
    https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61571226598690

    Please feel free to check out the organizations that support us:

    Vantage Surgical Solutions - https://vantage.healthcare/
    Vantage Surgical Solutions Careers - https://vantage.healthcare/careers/
    Chris Contact Info - https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopherswing/

    And the ones we support:

    Missions:
    Developing Kids Ghana - https://developingkidsghana.com/
    Eastern Dominican Christian Mission - https://easterndominican.org/
    Broadway Christian Church - https://broadwaycc.churchcenter.com/home/
    57/70 Task Force: https://5770taskforce.org/

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    11 mins
  • Leadership Lessons from Dr. Josh Bullock
    Mar 26 2025

    Summary

    In this conversation, Dr. Josh Bullock, president of Lakeland College, shares his insights on leadership, the importance of education, and the role of community engagement. He reflects on the influence of his father on his leadership style, emphasizing the need for inclusivity and respect in organizations. Dr. Bullock discusses the challenges faced by educational institutions and the significance of creating a supportive environment for students. He highlights the importance of making education accessible and shares success stories from Lakeland College. The conversation concludes with key lessons for future leaders, emphasizing authenticity and the value of community involvement.

    Takeaways

    Leadership is about helping others succeed.
    Creating safe spaces for communication is essential.
    Every role in an organization deserves respect.
    Education is a path to better opportunities.
    Community engagement is critical for leaders.
    Leaders should prioritize student growth and success.
    Inclusivity fosters a positive organizational culture.
    Personal stories can inspire and motivate others.
    Be yourself and don't take yourself too seriously.
    Surround yourself with diverse perspectives.

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction and Personal Connections
    02:35 Leadership Principles and Influences
    06:08 The Importance of Communication in Leadership
    07:26 New Chapter
    10:13 Navigating Challenges and Crisis Management
    13:56 The Family Dynamic in Leadership
    15:03 Essential Qualities for Leaders in Higher Education
    17:32 Making Education Accessible
    21:01 Prioritizing Student Growth and Success
    23:00 Success Stories and Impact of Education
    24:05 The Power of Words in Education
    26:06 Community Engagement and Leadership
    28:08 The Role of Community Colleges
    31:26 Engaging with Lakeland College
    33:47 Leadership Habits and Growth
    35:41 Influences on Leadership Style
    39:35 Key Lessons for Future Leaders
    44:24 Legacy and Impact at Lakeland College

    Sound Bites

    "Our words matter to students."
    "Be yourself as a leader."
    "Don't take yourself too seriously."


    Send us a text

    Faithful - https://faithful.buzzsprout.com/
    Facebook -
    https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61571226598690

    Please feel free to check out the organizations that support us:

    Vantage Surgical Solutions - https://vantage.healthcare/
    Vantage Surgical Solutions Careers - https://vantage.healthcare/careers/
    Chris Contact Info - https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopherswing/

    And the ones we support:

    Missions:
    Developing Kids Ghana - https://developingkidsghana.com/
    Eastern Dominican Christian Mission - https://easterndominican.org/
    Broadway Christian Church - https://broadwaycc.churchcenter.com/home/
    57/70 Task Force: https://5770taskforce.org/

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    49 mins
  • The True Nature of Leadership 2 with Christopher Swing
    Mar 20 2025

    Summary

    In this episode, Christopher Swing explores the multifaceted nature of leadership, emphasizing that it is more than just a position; it is a responsibility to serve, grow, and inspire others. He discusses the importance of influence in leadership, core leadership qualities, and practical steps to become a better leader, including self-reflection and mentorship. The conversation also touches on the intersection of leadership and faith, highlighting the significance of humility and transparency in effective leadership.

    Takeaways

    • Leadership is more than a position; it's a responsibility.
    • Influence is the essence of leadership.
    • Core leadership qualities include integrity, communication, and commitment.
    • Creativity and innovation are essential for problem-solving.
    • Self-reflection helps identify personal leadership strengths and weaknesses.
    • Mentorship is crucial for personal and professional growth.
    • Daily habits can significantly improve leadership skills.
    • Faith impacts leadership decisions and interactions.
    • Transparency is vital but must be balanced with clarity.
    • Leadership is a continuous journey of improvement.


    Sound Bites

    • "You can be a leader."
    • "We do what we say we're gonna do."
    • "We need to find someone to learn from."

    Chapters

    00:00 The Essence of Leadership
    08:38 Core Leadership Qualities
    11:41 Becoming a Better Leader
    15:10 Engaging with Leadership Experiences

    Send us a text

    Faithful - https://faithful.buzzsprout.com/
    Facebook -
    https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61571226598690

    Please feel free to check out the organizations that support us:

    Vantage Surgical Solutions - https://vantage.healthcare/
    Vantage Surgical Solutions Careers - https://vantage.healthcare/careers/
    Chris Contact Info - https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopherswing/

    And the ones we support:

    Missions:
    Developing Kids Ghana - https://developingkidsghana.com/
    Eastern Dominican Christian Mission - https://easterndominican.org/
    Broadway Christian Church - https://broadwaycc.churchcenter.com/home/
    57/70 Task Force: https://5770taskforce.org/

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    10 mins
  • The True Nature of Leadership with Christopher Swing
    Mar 13 2025

    Summary

    In this episode, Christopher Swing explores the multifaceted nature of leadership, emphasizing that it is more than just a position; it is a responsibility to serve, grow, and inspire others. He discusses the importance of influence in leadership, core leadership qualities, and practical steps to become a better leader, including self-reflection and mentorship. The conversation also touches on the intersection of leadership and faith, highlighting the significance of humility and transparency in effective leadership.

    Takeaways

    Leadership is more than a position; it's a responsibility.
    Influence is the essence of leadership.
    Core leadership qualities include integrity, communication, and commitment.
    Creativity and innovation are essential for problem-solving.
    Self-reflection helps identify personal leadership strengths and weaknesses.
    Mentorship is crucial for personal and professional growth.
    Daily habits can significantly improve leadership skills.
    Faith impacts leadership decisions and interactions.
    Transparency is vital but must be balanced with clarity.
    Leadership is a continuous journey of improvement.

    Sound Bites

    "You can be a leader."
    "We do what we say we're gonna do."
    "We need to find someone to learn from."

    Chapters

    00:00 The Essence of Leadership
    08:38 Core Leadership Qualities
    11:41 Becoming a Better Leader
    15:10 Engaging with Leadership Experiences

    Send us a text

    Faithful - https://faithful.buzzsprout.com/
    Facebook -
    https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61571226598690

    Please feel free to check out the organizations that support us:

    Vantage Surgical Solutions - https://vantage.healthcare/
    Vantage Surgical Solutions Careers - https://vantage.healthcare/careers/
    Chris Contact Info - https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopherswing/

    And the ones we support:

    Missions:
    Developing Kids Ghana - https://developingkidsghana.com/
    Eastern Dominican Christian Mission - https://easterndominican.org/
    Broadway Christian Church - https://broadwaycc.churchcenter.com/home/
    57/70 Task Force: https://5770taskforce.org/

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    12 mins
  • Learning from Experience: The Good and the Bad with Joe Dively
    Mar 6 2025

    Summary

    In this conversation, Joe shares his journey from college to becoming the CEO of a publicly traded company. He discusses the importance of confidence, leadership skills, and the balance between doing your job well and seeking advancement. Joe reflects on his experiences at Caterpillar and IBM, emphasizing the lessons learned from both good and bad leaders. He highlights the value of failure in shaping his career and the importance of seizing opportunities, even when feeling unprepared. The discussion also touches on the transition from telecom to banking, navigating challenges, and the critical balance between strategy and opportunism. Joe shares valuable mentorship lessons and the influence of faith and values in his career decisions. In this conversation, Christopher Swing reflects on the foundational values instilled in him by his family, the importance of navigating career uncertainties, and how his definition of success has evolved over time. He shares advice for young professionals, emphasizing the significance of effort and attitude, and discusses the future of leadership and business, particularly in relation to community involvement and mentoring future leaders. Throughout, he highlights the reciprocal nature of giving back to the community and the personal growth that comes from such involvement.

    Takeaways

    Confidence is built through upbringing and expectations.
    Effective leaders possess strong interpersonal and communication skills.
    Doing your job well creates opportunities for advancement.
    Avoid keeping score of promotions; focus on performance.
    Coaching is essential for addressing team detractors.
    Learning from both good and bad leadership experiences is crucial.
    Failure often teaches more than success.
    Seizing opportunities can lead to unexpected leadership roles.
    Strategy is important, but flexibility is key to success.
    Faith and values play a significant role in career decisions. Luck started July 23rd, 1959 for me.
    Values that are directly attributable or define how you behave.
    I found that I stuck to what I was doing.
    Greatness from a leadership standpoint is achieved through others.
    Pedigree doesn't mean much.
    Effort and attitude are key qualities.
    We need to embrace institutional investors.
    I want to be remembered as authentic.
    I always got more than what I gave.
    I appreciate your passion for Eastern as well.

    Sound Bites

    "Put your head down and do your job."
    "Strategy is critical."
    "We'll make it right."
    "Faith was the center of our family."
    "Pedigree doesn't m

    Send us a text

    Faithful - https://faithful.buzzsprout.com/
    Facebook -
    https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61571226598690

    Please feel free to check out the organizations that support us:

    Vantage Surgical Solutions - https://vantage.healthcare/
    Vantage Surgical Solutions Careers - https://vantage.healthcare/careers/
    Chris Contact Info - https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopherswing/

    And the ones we support:

    Missions:
    Developing Kids Ghana - https://developingkidsghana.com/
    Eastern Dominican Christian Mission - https://easterndominican.org/
    Broadway Christian Church - https://broadwaycc.churchcenter.com/home/
    57/70 Task Force: https://5770taskforce.org/

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    53 mins
  • Faithful Podcast – Solo Episode: The Art of Mastery & Experience
    Feb 26 2025

    Summary

    In this episode, Christopher Swing discusses two inspiring individuals: a James Beard nominated chef and a former Walker Cup champion turned elite golf coach. He explores their philosophies on excellence, mental resilience, and the importance of creating compelling experiences that attract the right people. The conversation emphasizes that success is not just about skill but also about mindset, attention to detail, and the ability to seize opportunities.

    Takeaways

    The best players want to be part of something great.
    It's not about chasing people to fit your vision.
    Success is built in the small moments.
    The best don't chase, they attract.
    Are you building something worth being a part of?
    Be willing to go outside of your comfort zone.
    Mastering any field follows a pattern.
    Focus on getting better, not just getting in.
    Create something compelling that attracts the right people.
    Taking chances can make all the difference.

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to Inspiring Individuals
    01:32 The Elite Golf Coach's Philosophy
    03:37 The James Beard Nominated Chef's Experience
    04:54 Connecting Excellence in Different Fields
    06:23 Opportunities and Leadership

    Send us a text

    Faithful - https://faithful.buzzsprout.com/
    Facebook -
    https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61571226598690

    Please feel free to check out the organizations that support us:

    Vantage Surgical Solutions - https://vantage.healthcare/
    Vantage Surgical Solutions Careers - https://vantage.healthcare/careers/
    Chris Contact Info - https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopherswing/

    And the ones we support:

    Missions:
    Developing Kids Ghana - https://developingkidsghana.com/
    Eastern Dominican Christian Mission - https://easterndominican.org/
    Broadway Christian Church - https://broadwaycc.churchcenter.com/home/
    57/70 Task Force: https://5770taskforce.org/

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    9 mins