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Sometimes the most meaningful discoveries come when we venture beyond our usual preferences. Having just finished "Theo of Golden," by Allen Levi. a book far removed from my typical action-packed thrillers, I found myself profoundly moved in unexpected ways.

When Eric Rostad, host of Books of Titans podcast and a friend whose literary judgment I trust implicitly, recommended this book, I took notice despite my hesitation. Where Brad Thor novels offer adrenaline and espionage, "Theo of Golden" presents something entirely different—a slower, more contemplative journey filled with grace, mercy, love, and kindness. These qualities feel increasingly rare in our world of endless online anger and division.

What struck me most was how this book addressed our universal longing to be truly seen and acknowledged for who we are, not what we accomplish. It made me pause and consider: When was the last time you felt completely seen? How often do we overlook opportunities to extend kindness to others? These simple acts cost nothing yet mean everything. The enjoyment I derived wasn't from heart-racing suspense but from slowing down and letting the story's wisdom sink deep, leaving me with something thrillers rarely provide—genuine hope.

I encourage you to read "Theo of Golden" and give yourself permission to take it slowly. Don't rush through it; let it breathe and work on you. After finishing, I'd love to hear what resonated with you and whether it reminded you of times when someone showed you unexpected grace or kindness. Reach out and let's continue this conversation about the books that don't just entertain us, but transform us.

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Executive Producer: Ben Townsend
Creative Consultant: Matthew Blue Townsend

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Voice Actor: Britney McCullough
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We're celebrating a major milestone on the podcast with our 7,500th download after five years and 234 episodes. This achievement represents the longest project I've ever committed to outside of my professional career.

• Most new podcasts don't make it beyond 7 episodes
• The conversations with guests and their stories have been the driving force behind the show's longevity
• Sharing these insights with listeners has brought tremendous joy to the podcasting process
• This milestone provides renewed energy to continue creating and hosting meaningful conversations
• Looking forward to 7,500 more downloads and continuing to grow the show

Thanks for being part of this journey with me.

Support the show

I ♥ my podcast host @Buzzsprout. This link will get us both a $20 credit if you upgrade! https://www.buzzsprout.com/?referrer_id=1087190

The Scott Townsend Show Merchandise https://teespring.com/stores/tsts-2

Resources and Links
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My contact info:
LinkedIn https://bit.ly/2ZZ4qwe
Twitter https://bit.ly/3enLDQa
Facebook https://bit.ly/2Od4ItO
Instagram https://bit.ly/2ClncWl
Send me a text: 918-397-0327

Executive Producer: Ben Townsend
Creative Consultant: Matthew Blue Townsend

Shot with a 1080P Webcam with Microphone, https://amzn.to/32gfgAu

Samson Technologies Q2U USB/XLR Dynamic Microphone Recording and Podcasting Pack
https://amzn.to/3TIbACe

Voice Actor: Britney McCullough
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Send us a text

featuring:
Draven Hope
Ben Townsend

Ever caught yourself replaying a meeting or conversation days later, questioning your every word and action? You're not alone in this leadership struggle.

Our latest installment in the Leadership is Influence series tackles the complex relationship between reflection and effective leadership. Through an insightful conversation with Liz Draven Hope from Oklahoma Wesleyan University and the show's executive producer, Ben Townsend, we explore how self-reflection can either propel your leadership forward or become a paralyzing force of self-doubt.

• Excessive self-reflection can undermine confidence and create unnecessary anxiety
• Fear often drives overthinking and becomes a "destructive force right between your ears"
• After-action reviews are valuable when they lead to learning and concrete improvements
• Effective reflection includes evaluating both successes and failures to fine-tune leadership approach
• The goal is to balance thoughtful analysis with the ability to move forward without rumination
• Situational lack of confidence affects even experienced leaders in certain contexts
• Turning reflection into action distinguishes productive analysis from unproductive worry

Visit the Scott Townsend Show YouTube channel, listen on Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen to your favorite shows.

Support the show

I ♥ my podcast host @Buzzsprout. This link will get us both a $20 credit if you upgrade! https://www.buzzsprout.com/?referrer_id=1087190

The Scott Townsend Show Merchandise https://teespring.com/stores/tsts-2

Resources and Links
--------------------------------------------
My contact info:
LinkedIn https://bit.ly/2ZZ4qwe
Twitter https://bit.ly/3enLDQa
Facebook https://bit.ly/2Od4ItO
Instagram https://bit.ly/2ClncWl
Send me a text: 918-397-0327

Executive Producer: Ben Townsend
Creative Consultant: Matthew Blue Townsend

Shot with a 1080P Webcam with Microphone, https://amzn.to/32gfgAu

Samson Technologies Q2U USB/XLR Dynamic Microphone Recording and Podcasting Pack
https://amzn.to/3TIbACe

Voice Actor: Britney McCullough
Logo by Angie Jordan https://blog.angiejordan.com/contact/
Theme Song by Androzguitar https://www.fiverr.com/inbox/androzguitar

Send us a text

Leadership isn't about pursuing titles but developing others to reach their potential. Our conversation explores how leadership perspectives evolve from seeking positions to focusing on creating meaningful impact and building capable teams.

• Shifting from wanting leadership positions to prioritizing good work and social influence
• How leadership positions naturally attract narcissistic personalities
• The distinction between self-serving leaders and those who develop others
• John Maxwell's philosophy of leadership as creating more leaders
• Leadership as a "talent pipeline" that transforms organizations over time
• Application of leadership principles in coaching contexts
• The challenges and rewards of leadership in various settings

Support the show

I ♥ my podcast host @Buzzsprout. This link will get us both a $20 credit if you upgrade! https://www.buzzsprout.com/?referrer_id=1087190

The Scott Townsend Show Merchandise https://teespring.com/stores/tsts-2

Resources and Links
--------------------------------------------
My contact info:
LinkedIn https://bit.ly/2ZZ4qwe
Twitter https://bit.ly/3enLDQa
Facebook https://bit.ly/2Od4ItO
Instagram https://bit.ly/2ClncWl
Send me a text: 918-397-0327

Executive Producer: Ben Townsend
Creative Consultant: Matthew Blue Townsend

Shot with a 1080P Webcam with Microphone, https://amzn.to/32gfgAu

Samson Technologies Q2U USB/XLR Dynamic Microphone Recording and Podcasting Pack
https://amzn.to/3TIbACe

Voice Actor: Britney McCullough
Logo by Angie Jordan https://blog.angiejordan.com/contact/
Theme Song by Androzguitar https://www.fiverr.com/inbox/androzguitar

Send us a text

Leadership is fundamentally about influence and returning more value than the resources invested. Our views on leadership evolve over time, often shifting from purely analytical approaches to recognizing the crucial importance of emotional connections.

• Leadership defined as the ability to influence others toward fulfilling the company's mission
• Effective leaders connect organizational goals to individual roles
• Leaders have a moral obligation to understand and support employees' career goals
• "Emotional resonance is more compelling than fact" - analytical leaders often must learn this truth
• The "Jaws effect" demonstrates how stories create stronger impact than simple facts
• Relationships matter in organizations - performance alone doesn't guarantee recognition
• Understanding human nature is essential for leadership effectiveness
• Building good relationships isn't compromising integrity, it's recognizing reality

Support the show

I ♥ my podcast host @Buzzsprout. This link will get us both a $20 credit if you upgrade! https://www.buzzsprout.com/?referrer_id=1087190

The Scott Townsend Show Merchandise https://teespring.com/stores/tsts-2

Resources and Links
--------------------------------------------
My contact info:
LinkedIn https://bit.ly/2ZZ4qwe
Twitter https://bit.ly/3enLDQa
Facebook https://bit.ly/2Od4ItO
Instagram https://bit.ly/2ClncWl
Send me a text: 918-397-0327

Executive Producer: Ben Townsend
Creative Consultant: Matthew Blue Townsend

Shot with a 1080P Webcam with Microphone, https://amzn.to/32gfgAu

Samson Technologies Q2U USB/XLR Dynamic Microphone Recording and Podcasting Pack
https://amzn.to/3TIbACe

Voice Actor: Britney McCullough
Logo by Angie Jordan https://blog.angiejordan.com/contact/
Theme Song by Androzguitar https://www.fiverr.com/inbox/androzguitar

Send us a text

Leadership is about influence and aligning people to goals while serving them empathetically and helping them develop to reach their full potential.

• Leadership develops through experience, just like learning to walk—you fall down, get up, and improve as long as you're paying attention
• The ability to influence is the essence of leadership, which can be wielded ethically or unethically
• Emotional resonance is more compelling than facts alone when trying to lead and influence others
• One-on-one meetings are crucial in leadership to connect with team members and understand their needs
• Everyone has influence whether they realize it or not, making everyone effectively a leader in some capacity
• Leadership skills are largely transferable between different fields and industries
• Good leaders acknowledge their mistakes openly and create environments where innovation can flourish
• Self-reflection is valuable for leadership growth but can become counterproductive if excessive
• Finding mentors who exemplify great leadership can accelerate your development as a leader
• Assessing the ethics of an organization's leadership culture is essential when deciding where to invest your career

The Scott Townsend Show is a Dietz-O-Man production. For more episodes, visit the Scott Townsend Show YouTube channel, listen on Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen to your favorite shows.

Support the show

I ♥ my podcast host @Buzzsprout. This link will get us both a $20 credit if you upgrade! https://www.buzzsprout.com/?referrer_id=1087190

The Scott Townsend Show Merchandise https://teespring.com/stores/tsts-2

Resources and Links
--------------------------------------------
My contact info:
LinkedIn https://bit.ly/2ZZ4qwe
Twitter https://bit.ly/3enLDQa
Facebook https://bit.ly/2Od4ItO
Instagram https://bit.ly/2ClncWl
Send me a text: 918-397-0327

Executive Producer: Ben Townsend
Creative Consultant: Matthew Blue Townsend

Shot with a 1080P Webcam with Microphone, https://amzn.to/32gfgAu

Samson Technologies Q2U USB/XLR Dynamic Microphone Recording and Podcasting Pack
https://amzn.to/3TIbACe

Voice Actor: Britney McCullough
Logo by Angie Jordan https://blog.angiejordan.com/contact/
Theme Song by Androzguitar https://www.fiverr.com/inbox/androzguitar

Send us a text

Support the show

I ♥ my podcast host @Buzzsprout. This link will get us both a $20 credit if you upgrade! https://www.buzzsprout.com/?referrer_id=1087190

The Scott Townsend Show Merchandise https://teespring.com/stores/tsts-2

Resources and Links
--------------------------------------------
My contact info:
LinkedIn https://bit.ly/2ZZ4qwe
Twitter https://bit.ly/3enLDQa
Facebook https://bit.ly/2Od4ItO
Instagram https://bit.ly/2ClncWl
Send me a text: 918-397-0327

Executive Producer: Ben Townsend
Creative Consultant: Matthew Blue Townsend

Shot with a 1080P Webcam with Microphone, https://amzn.to/32gfgAu

Samson Technologies Q2U USB/XLR Dynamic Microphone Recording and Podcasting Pack
https://amzn.to/3TIbACe

Voice Actor: Britney McCullough
Logo by Angie Jordan https://blog.angiejordan.com/contact/
Theme Song by Androzguitar https://www.fiverr.com/inbox/androzguitar

Send us a text

We explore the emotional and mental challenges of decluttering during life transitions and how our attachment to possessions can hold us back from moving forward.

• Moving reveals the overwhelming accumulation of possessions that often go unused for years
• The emotional challenge of parting with items tied to significant memories and life events
• How digital alternatives can preserve memories while reducing physical clutter
• The mental clarity and reduced anxiety that comes from simplified surroundings
• Starting small and celebrating incremental progress when tackling overwhelming projects
• Finding balance between honoring the past and making space for new experiences
• Learning from the movie "Up" about the freedom that comes from letting go
• The importance of being intentional with possessions moving forward

Send us an email at scott@scotttownsend.info and let us know what you thought about this episode. We'd love to connect with our listeners!

Support the show

I ♥ my podcast host @Buzzsprout. This link will get us both a $20 credit if you upgrade! https://www.buzzsprout.com/?referrer_id=1087190

The Scott Townsend Show Merchandise https://teespring.com/stores/tsts-2

Resources and Links
--------------------------------------------
My contact info:
LinkedIn https://bit.ly/2ZZ4qwe
Twitter https://bit.ly/3enLDQa
Facebook https://bit.ly/2Od4ItO
Instagram https://bit.ly/2ClncWl
Send me a text: 918-397-0327

Executive Producer: Ben Townsend
Creative Consultant: Matthew Blue Townsend

Shot with a 1080P Webcam with Microphone, https://amzn.to/32gfgAu

Samson Technologies Q2U USB/XLR Dynamic Microphone Recording and Podcasting Pack
https://amzn.to/3TIbACe

Voice Actor: Britney McCullough
Logo by Angie Jordan https://blog.angiejordan.com/contact/
Theme Song by Androzguitar https://www.fiverr.com/inbox/androzguitar