Leading Saints Podcast

Monica Tanner, an RLT-trained relationship coach and host of the 'Secrets of Happily Ever After' podcast, shares powerful insights to transform marriages. She emphasizes the crucial role of communication, dispelling myths like 'happy couples never fight.' The conversation explores the stigma around seeking help, especially in the Latter-day Saint community, and challenges outdated marriage advice. Monica advocates for conflict resolution and understanding the dynamics of relationships, equipping couples with tools for greater connection and satisfaction.

This is a rebroadcast. The episode originally ran in September 2019. Frank Layden was a beloved basketball coach and executive best known for his time with the Utah Jazz. While he achieved tremendous professional success—earning NBA Coach of the Year, Executive of the Year, and the J. Walter Kennedy Citizenship Award all in 1984—it was his warmth, humor, and larger-than-life personality that truly defined him. Known for his self-deprecating wit and quick one-liners, Layden brought levity to the game and was deeply respected by players, colleagues, and fans alike. Beyond basketball, Layden was cherished for his kindness, community involvement, and ability to connect with people on a personal level. He had a gift for making others feel valued, often using laughter to lift those around him. Even in retirement, he remained a vibrant part of the Salt Lake City community. Frank Layden passed away on July 9, 2025, at the age of 93, leaving behind a legacy of leadership and compassion. Links Transcript available with the video in the Zion Lab community Highlights Early Experiences & Utah Transition 00:03:34 Involvement with the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints; reflections on what President Thomas S. Monson said about him 00:05:24 How he ended up in Utah with the Jazz 00:09:03 First knowledge of and interactions with members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints 00:10:15 Approach to sports and Utah’s culture: “What can we do to help here?” Focused on building relationships over highlighting differences. Personal and Professional Philosophy 00:12:44 How he became a coach – Belief that his family was meant to be in Utah – Building the Jazz from a losing team into a contender – Perspective on success: You won’t always succeed, and shouldn’t measure success by money. Prioritize doing what you love and service. 00:17:48 The Jazz’s efforts to help players and their families grow off the court: – Wives club activities: fashion shows, making Christmas trees, supporting education – Interfaith chapel service with Rev. France Davis and Pastor Jerry Lewis – Bonuses for players who finished college degrees Leadership & Team Management 00:20:10 When players feel coaches support them, they give their all. 00:22:37 Emphasis on making each player feel loved; daily question: “What can I do for you today?” 00:24:58 The importance of small things: punctuality, readiness, balancing authority and discipline 00:28:20 Players must believe in you, and you must believe in yourself. – Understanding who needs motivation vs. encouragement 00:32:47 Establishing leadership: the team must know who leads – “Winning is not a sometimes thing; it starts the first day of practice.” Relationship-Building & Daily Culture 00:39:42 Building one-on-one connections with players – Creating comfort for players to approach leadership – Listening to them (examples include book club and shared reading) – Encouraging professional appearance – Mutual respect and adult treatment fosters loyalty 00:42:50 Players can sense if you enjoy your job. Reflection on Faith & Community 00:48:22 How being part of Utah’s religious community enhanced his experience as a Catholic 00:53:04 Takeaways and Leadership Principles The award-winning Leading Saints Podcast is one of the top independent Latter-day Saints podcasts as part of nonprofit Leading Saints’ mission to help Latter-day Saints be better prepared to lead. Learn more and listen to any of the past episodes for free at LeadingSaints.org. Past guests include Emily Belle Freeman, David Butler, Hank Smith, John Bytheway, Reyna and Elena Aburto, Liz Wiseman, Stephen M. R. Covey, Elder Alvin F. Meredith III, Julie Beck, Brad Wilcox, Jody Moore, Tony Overbay, John H. Groberg, Elaine Dalton, Tad R. Callister, Lynn G. Robbins, J. Devn Cornish, Bonnie Oscarson, Dennis B. Neuenschwander, Kirby Heyborne, Taysom Hill, Coaches Jennifer Rockwood and Brandon Doman, Anthony Sweat, John Hilton III, Barbara Morgan Gardner, Blair Hodges, Whitney Johnson, Ryan Gottfredson, Greg McKeown, Ganel-Lyn Condie, Michael Goodman, Wendy Ulrich, Richard Ostler, and many more in over 800 episodes. Discover podcasts, articles, virtual conferences, and live events related to callings such as the bishopric, Relief Society, elders quorum, Primary, youth leadership, stake leadership, ward mission, ward council, young adults, ministering, and teaching.

Dan Duckworth, a leadership expert and author of the forthcoming book, 'The Leader in Chains', delves into the concept of Zion and its role in leadership within the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He challenges conventional views on authority, advocating for a leadership vocabulary rooted in scripture. Dan addresses the discomfort with transformational leadership among church members and emphasizes that Zion is not just a distant ideal but a community of unity that can be achieved today. His insights inspire listeners to rethink leadership dynamics and foster collaboration.

Angela Sturgeon, Indiana's Stake Primary president and a former flight attendant, shares her inspiring journey of leadership and resilience. She candidly discusses overcoming challenges in her role, emphasizing the importance of empathy and community support. Angela explores the significance of embracing diversity within church leadership and fostering connections through shared experiences. With a focus on empowering children, she highlights innovative initiatives that encourage young leaders and strengthen community ties, all while deepening her own spiritual connection.

Dive into the unwritten principles of church leadership and the importance of teaching foundational concepts clearly. Explore how experiential learning enriches leadership dynamics and why understanding both written and unwritten doctrines is crucial. Discover the pivotal role of bishops in meetings and how maintaining order can inspire spiritual growth. The insights from seasoned leaders and the necessity of dignified conduct during gatherings will leave you reflecting on the power of community in guiding faith.

Kurt Francom dives into the intriguing concept of the 'unwritten order of things', highlighting its origins and influence on church leadership. He urges leaders to critically evaluate informal norms instead of blindly following them. The discussion navigates the historical context of these unwritten rules and their relevance today, prompting listeners to reconsider traditional practices. Kurt also stresses the need for clarity and local adaptation in leadership to foster a more effective and inclusive community.

Michael Goodman, a Brigham Young University professor specializing in eternal families and marriage, dives deep into the doctrines related to being single or married. He discusses how BYU teaches the significance of marriage and family within Latter-day Saint theology, blending eternal principles with practical life lessons. The conversation also addresses the emotional challenges faced by single adults in faith communities, highlighting the importance of understanding one's worth beyond marital status while fostering hope in relationships and the search for divine connections.

In this engaging conversation, Jeff Strong, a seasoned executive and educator with a passion for understanding church dynamics, delves into the often hidden tensions within faith communities. He shares insights from a comprehensive survey on why members are leaving the Church, exploring the balance between cherished traditions and the need for change. Jeff emphasizes the importance of creating safe spaces for discussions, understanding individual experiences, and cultivating a sense of belonging to foster growth and acceptance among members.

In this engaging conversation, John Bytheway, a renowned speaker and author with a master's degree in Religious Education, shares his extensive experience in youth education and church leadership. He discusses how writing often stems from his teaching experiences and emphasizes the importance of understanding community needs in his role as a bishop. Bytheway offers insightful strategies for addressing welfare challenges through mentorship rather than mere transactions. His approach highlights the significance of connection and personal growth in guiding youth effectively.

Patrick Sedivy is the Founder and CEO of Cumorah Academy, a non-profit private school dedicated to empowering individuals to follow Jesus Christ and positively impact their lives, careers, and communities. His commitment to service and leadership is rooted in his faith and family background—his parents defected from communist Czechoslovakia in 1969 in search of religious freedom, and he later served as a missionary in the Czech Republic. Patrick and his wife, Allyse, share a passion for inspiring and guiding young adults, which led them to establish Cumorah Academy. Patrick also serves as CEO of HYPE, a program dedicated to empowering youth and creating unforgettable experiences. Links CumorahAcademy.org GoHYPE.org Transcript available with the video in the Zion Lab community Highlights 00:03:39 – The Vision Behind Cumorah Academy 00:05:23 – Understanding the Structure of Cumorah Academy 00:06:30 – The Importance of Leadership Skills 00:08:00 – Who Can Attend Cumorah Academy? 00:09:49 – The International Reach of Cumorah Academy 00:10:34 – Tuition and Scholarships 00:12:26 – Language and Learning Environment 00:13:11 – Success Stories from Cumorah Academy 00:14:41 – Transformative Experiences of Students 00:16:25 – The Need for Continuous Learning 00:17:42 – Addressing the Transition Challenges for Young Adults 00:18:50 – Curriculum Overview and Key Principles 00:19:28 – Accountability and Personal Growth 00:20:34 – Conflict Resolution Skills 00:22:08 – Interactive Learning Methodology 00:23:40 – Balancing Workload and Downtime 00:25:57 – Creating Positive Connections Among Students 00:27:36 – The Role of Visiting Mentors 00:29:50 – Public Speaking and Presentation Skills 00:31:07 – Leadership Curriculum and Modules 00:32:54 – Holistic Approach to Student Well-being 00:34:37 – Measuring Emotional Resilience and Hopefulness 00:36:39 – The Importance of Human Connection 00:38:06 – Opportunities for Mentorship and Involvement 00:39:49 – Conclusion and Resources for Further Engagement 00:41:13 – Introducing Hype: Humanitarian Leadership Experience The award-winning Leading Saints Podcast is one of the top independent Latter-day Saints podcasts as part of nonprofit Leading Saints’ mission to help Latter-day Saints be better prepared to lead. Learn more and listen to any of the past episodes for free at LeadingSaints.org. Past guests include Emily Belle Freeman, David Butler, Hank Smith, John Bytheway, Reyna and Elena Aburto, Liz Wiseman, Stephen M. R. Covey, Elder Alvin F. Meredith III, Julie Beck, Brad Wilcox, Jody Moore, Tony Overbay, John H. Groberg, Elaine Dalton, Tad R. Callister, Lynn G. Robbins, J. Devn Cornish, Bonnie Oscarson, Dennis B. Neuenschwander, Kirby Heyborne, Taysom Hill, Coaches Jennifer Rockwood and Brandon Doman, Anthony Sweat, John Hilton III, Barbara Morgan Gardner, Blair Hodges, Whitney Johnson, Ryan Gottfredson, Greg McKeown, Ganel-Lyn Condie, Michael Goodman, Wendy Ulrich, Richard Ostler, and many more in over 800 episodes. Discover podcasts, articles, virtual conferences, and live events related to callings such as the bishopric, Relief Society, elders quorum, Primary, youth leadership, stake leadership, ward mission, ward council, young adults, ministering, and teaching.