Episodes

  • #446: Alli Patterson on Leading Without Authority and Finding Influence Through Identity in Christ

    #446: Alli Patterson on Leading Without Authority and Finding Influence Through Identity in Christ
    Mar 10 2026
    In this episode of the Follow 2 Lead Podcast, Tony Miltenberger sits down with Alli Patterson to explore how leaders can build meaningful influence—even without a formal title or position of authority. Alli shares how understanding our identity in Christ unlocks confidence and empowers leaders to serve, guide, and influence others authentically. Rather than striving for titles or recognition, she encourages leaders to embrace the gifts God has given them and step into leadership through service, humility, and courage. Tony and Alli also discuss the role of listening to the Holy Spirit in everyday leadership decisions, the importance of creating environments where people feel safe to be real, and how community spaces—like church camps and spiritual gatherings—can spark transformative moments of growth and connection. The conversation dives into practical ways leaders can discover their unique leadership presence, navigate imposter syndrome, and develop a Spirit‑led approach to engaging Scripture and leading others. Alli also highlights the power of low‑control environments where the Holy Spirit is free to move, reminding leaders that authentic leadership often looks less like control and more like trust. Whether you’re leading in ministry, business, or everyday life, this episode offers encouragement and practical insight for anyone who wants to lead with confidence, faith, and influence—even without a title. https://www.allipatterson.com/ ⁠⁠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
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    54 mins
  • #445: Doug Shaw on Servant Leadership, Curative Culture, and Leading Without Authority

    #445: Doug Shaw on Servant Leadership, Curative Culture, and Leading Without Authority
    Mar 3 2026
    In this episode of the Follow 2 Lead Podcast, Tony Miltenberger sits down with Doug Shaw to explore the power of servant leadership and what it means to lead effectively—even without formal authority. Doug shares how leadership begins not with a title, but with a commitment to serving others and building a culture rooted in care, trust, and shared values. Doug introduces the concept of creating a curative culture—an environment where people can grow, heal, and thrive. He explains how leaders shape culture through daily decisions, humility, and consistency. The conversation also highlights how values and faith can guide leadership in diverse environments, helping leaders remain grounded while navigating complex organizational challenges. As a nonprofit leader, Doug offers practical insight into fundraising as relationship‑building, emphasizing that generosity flows from genuine connection rather than transactional asks. He reframes fundraising as an invitation for people to participate in meaningful impact, rather than simply a financial exchange. Doug also reflects on the influence of family, mentorship, and learning from great leaders, reminding listeners that leadership is deeply relational. This episode is a powerful resource for nonprofit leaders, executives, pastors, and anyone seeking to lead with purpose, humility, and lasting influence. Coaching Question: “Where in your leadership are you waiting for authority instead of choosing to serve—and what would change if you led from service starting today?” Connect with Doug Shaw: • Website: douglasshaw.com 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 https://www.instagram.com/twmilt/ Check out our YouTube page https://www.youtube.com/@twmilt Be sure to leave us a review on Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast... Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    44 mins
  • #444: Trey Tucker on Authentic Leadership, Self‑Care, and Building Strong Community

    #444: Trey Tucker on Authentic Leadership, Self‑Care, and Building Strong Community
    Feb 24 2026
    In this episode of the Follow 2 Lead Podcast, Tony Miltenberger sits down with Trey Tucker for a powerful conversation about authentic leadership, emotional health, and the essential role of self‑care in sustaining long‑term influence. Tucker shares why leadership begins with care—both for others and for yourself. He emphasizes that leaders cannot give what they do not possess, and that cultivating emotional health, self‑acceptance, and community is foundational to leading effectively. Together, Tony and Trey explore how embracing imperfection allows leaders to build deeper trust, foster genuine relationships, and lead with authenticity. The conversation also tackles the realities of empathy fatigue, anxiety, and the internal pressure leaders often carry. Tucker offers practical insight into managing emotional strain, understanding how discomfort can lead to growth, and recognizing how anxiety—when understood properly—can be redirected into productive leadership energy. Listeners will gain practical leadership tools for building healthier teams, developing stronger personal resilience, and creating environments where people feel seen, supported, and empowered. This episode is especially valuable for executives, pastors, entrepreneurs, and leaders who want to lead with clarity, emotional strength, and authenticity. Coaching Question: “How well are you caring for yourself emotionally—and how might improving that care transform the way you lead others?” Connect with Trey Tucker: • Website: ruggedcounseling.com • Instagram: @ruggedcounseling • Instagram: @treytucker • X (Twitter): @TTuck10 • YouTube: Rugged Counseling 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 https://www.instagram.com/twmilt/ Check out our YouTube page https://www.youtube.com/@twmilt Be sure to leave us a review on Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/follow-2-lead-a-christian-leaders-podcast/id1429933082 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    42 mins
  • #443: Kristen LaValley on Humility, Storytelling, and Leadership Growth Through Community

    #443: Kristen LaValley on Humility, Storytelling, and Leadership Growth Through Community
    Feb 17 2026
    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
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    47 mins
  • #442: Communication, Culture, & Care: Kara on Thoughtful Leadership & Building Healthy Teams

    #442: Communication, Culture, & Care: Kara on Thoughtful Leadership & Building Healthy Teams
    Feb 10 2026
    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
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    46 mins
  • #441: Lydia’s Mission with Claire Kriel: Community, Empowerment & Kingdom‑Centered Impact

    #441: Lydia’s Mission with Claire Kriel: Community, Empowerment & Kingdom‑Centered Impact
    Feb 3 2026
    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
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    42 mins
  • #440: Leadership Is Movement: Tony Miltenberger on Faithful Presence, Calling, and Taking the Next Step

    #440: Leadership Is Movement: Tony Miltenberger on Faithful Presence, Calling, and Taking the Next Step
    Jan 27 2026
    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
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    16 mins
  • #439: The Power of Creativity: Rebekah Scott on Self-Worth, Self-Expression, and Empowering Others to Create

    #439: The Power of Creativity: Rebekah Scott on Self-Worth, Self-Expression, and Empowering Others to Create
    Jan 19 2026
    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
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    41 mins