Dadville with Dave Barnes and Jon McLaughlin Stephen James: Leadership and Scented Candles
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Jan 13, 2026 Stephen James, founder of Council Leadership and an expert in leadership and psychology, joins the conversation to redefine leadership as a lived experience. He highlights the importance of stillness and presence, moving away from the hustle culture. Stephen shares insights on parenting, stressing the need for parents to recognize their own worries as personal responsibilities. He discusses his personal evolution, including creating meaningful rituals and the joy of embracing one's 'weirdness' while fostering community through his signature candle.
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I Am-Ness Over Labels
- Identity is layered: the temporary labels change, but the underlying I am-ness remains.
- Tuning to that permanent awareness reduces the need for constant productivity or control.
Publishing Private Poems For Friends
- For his 50th, Stephen published private poems and gave them to friends, fearing exposure but finding meaningful intimacy.
- Drew Holcomb later set one poem to song, surprising Stephen and amplifying its reach.
The Candle That Became A Hit
- Stephen created a custom scent and candle for his Hardison House meeting space, which unexpectedly became a beloved product.
- The candle's popularity surprised him and highlighted his emerging identity as a creative.
