

Linch with a Leader
Mike Linch
What if you were able to sit down with some of the greatest leaders in the world? What would you ask? What would they say? Welcome to the “Linch with a Leader” Podcast with Mike Linch, where you are invited to join us in learning the spiritual principles behind big success.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Jun 9, 2025 • 40min
Alicia Britt Chole: The Truth About Burnout, Faith, and Why Leaders Collapse | Episode 239
In this conversation, Alicia Britt Chole shares her journey from atheism to faith, highlighting the pivotal role of unlikely friendships and mentorship in her spiritual transformation. She discusses the importance of community, the challenges leaders face, and the significance of recognizing the shadows in leadership. Alicia emphasizes the value of presence in faith, the lessons learned during night seasons, and the nature of hope and despair in the spiritual journey. Her insights encourage listeners to embrace the complexities of faith and the transformative power of God's presence.Mike's Biggest Takeaway's Alicia wanted to be a lawyer and later a Secretary of State.She chose atheism at a young age due to unanswered questions.Unlikely friendships played a crucial role in her coming to faith.Authenticity and sincerity in relationships can inspire faith.The presence of God can be felt even in broken places.Leaders often neglect their inner health while focusing on external success.Satan's goal is to create distance between individuals and God.Faith is a duet, not a solo journey.The night seasons of life are normal and can be mentors.Despair often stems from misplaced hope.Welcome to the Linch with a Leader Podcast, where you're invited to join the spiritual principles behind big success, with host Mike Linch.Subscribe to the channel so you never miss an episode: Watch: @linchwithaleader Prefer just listening? SUBSCRIBE to the podcast here:Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0dJfeLbikJlKlBqAx6mDYW?si=6ffed84956cb4848Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/linch-with-a-leader/id1279929826Find show notes and more information at: www.mikelinch.comFollow for EVERYDAY leadership content and interaction:Follow on X: https://x.com/mikelinch?s=20Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mikelinch?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==https://www.instagram.com/mikelinch/?...JOIN Mike for a Sunday at NorthStar Church:www.northstarchurch.org Watch: @nsckennesaw#christianleadership #faithanddoubt #spiritualformation

May 26, 2025 • 44min
Jordan Raynor on the Lie Christians Believe About Work | Episode 238
In this engaging conversation, Mike Linch and Jordan Raynor explore the concept of 'mere Christians' and the significance of understanding one's role in the royal priesthood. They discuss the importance of connecting faith with work, using the example of Fred Rogers as a model of love and service. The dialogue emphasizes the need for practical examples in faith, the integration of work and ministry, and the responsibility of parents to instill values of service in their children. In this conversation, Jordan Raynor and Mike Linch explore the significance of work from a Christian perspective, emphasizing the importance of cultivating a positive work ethic in children, the legacies of influential figures like Fannie Lou Hamer and Ole Kirk Christiansen, and the transformative journey of C.S. Lewis. They discuss how to find purpose amidst adversity and the necessity of a relationship with Christ in achieving true fulfillment in work.Mike's Biggest Takeaway'sConnectedness is a gift that reflects heaven.Mere Christians are vital to the church's mission.Every occupation is part of the royal priesthood.Stories are more impactful than mere exposition.Fred Rogers exemplified love and service in his work.Combining work and ministry enhances spiritual impact.Life should be focused on service, not leisure.Parents play a crucial role in teaching service.Understanding our work as sacred is essential.Being fully alive attracts others to faith. Cultivating a positive work ethic in children is essential.God's word mentions work more than 800 times.Fannie Lou Hamer exemplified justice without hatred.Ole Kirk Christiansen's resilience led to the creation of Lego.C.S. Lewis's dark past highlights the need for Christ in our lives.Work is a gift from God, meant to be enjoyed.Welcome to the Linch with a Leader Podcast, where you're invited to join the spiritual principles behind big success, with host Mike Linch.Subscribe to the channel so you never miss an episode: Watch: @linchwithaleader Prefer just listening? SUBSCRIBE to the podcast here:Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0dJfeLbikJlKlBqAx6mDYW?si=6ffed84956cb4848Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/linch-with-a-leader/id1279929826Find show notes and more information at: www.mikelinch.comFollow for EVERYDAY leadership content and interaction:Follow on X: https://x.com/mikelinch?s=20Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mikelinch?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==https://www.instagram.com/mikelinch/?...JOIN Mike for a Sunday at NorthStar Church:www.northstarchurch.org Watch: @nsckennesaw

May 12, 2025 • 43min
Jonathan Irons and Maya Moore on Love, Survival, and Starting Over | Episode 237
In this conversation, Mike Linch engages with Jonathan and Maya, exploring themes of parenthood, childhood experiences, and the journey through adversity. Jonathan shares his reflections on raising a son, the challenges of his upbringing, and the lessons learned from his basketball career. The discussion delves into the importance of gratitude, the impact of team dynamics, and the transformative power of faith in overcoming life's challenges. Jonathan's story of wrongful conviction and his journey towards hope and healing serves as a poignant reminder of resilience and the capacity for personal growth. In this conversation, Jonathan and Mike explore themes of love, resilience, and the importance of relationships. Jonathan shares his journey from a supportive childhood to advocating for justice for those wrongfully convicted. The discussion highlights the power of community, the struggle against systemic issues, and the significance of parenting and legacy in shaping the next generation.Mike's Biggest Takeaway's:Parenthood brings new perspectives on childhood experiences.Struggles are essential for growth and resilience.Preparation and intentionality lead to success.Winning cultures are built on connection and teamwork.Gratitude can shield us from bitterness and despair.Faith can guide us through the darkest times.Hope can be found even in the most challenging circumstances.Personal growth often comes from adversity and struggle.It's important to be present and engaged in the moment.God's love extends to everyone, regardless of their past. Love transcends differences and requires stepping outside comfort zones.Bitterness is a choice; one can choose to learn and grow instead.Holy discontent can drive individuals to take action for justice.Jonathan's family played a crucial role in his advocacy journey.The prison system often hides the realities of mass incarceration.Resilience is key in the face of repeated setbacks.Welcome to the Linch with a Leader Podcast, where you're invited to join the spiritual principles behind big success, with host Mike Linch.Subscribe to the channel so you never miss an episode: Watch: @linchwithaleader Prefer just listening? SUBSCRIBE to the podcast here:Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0dJfeLbikJlKlBqAx6mDYW?si=6ffed84956cb4848Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/linch-with-a-leader/id1279929826Find show notes and more information at: www.mikelinch.comFollow for EVERYDAY leadership content and interaction:Follow on X: https://x.com/mikelinch?s=20Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mikelinch?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==https://www.instagram.com/mikelinch/?...JOIN Mike for a Sunday at NorthStar Church:www.northstarchurch.org Watch: @nsckennesaw

Apr 28, 2025 • 35min
Elizabeth Dixon Breaks Down Success, Setbacks, and Staying True to You | Episode 236
In this engaging conversation, Mike Linch and Elizabeth discuss the evolution of personal growth, the importance of perspective gained through experience, and the lessons learned from influential leaders. They explore how to prioritize what truly matters in life, the significance of relationships and generosity, and the challenges of navigating change. Elizabeth shares her insights on making daunting tasks manageable and emphasizes the importance of living authentically while inspiring others to reach their full potential.Mike's Biggest Takeaway's:Life begins at 40, bringing new perspectives.Prioritizing what matters helps sift through life's noise.Saying no becomes crucial in your forties.Generosity and relationships are key to leadership.Excellence is found in the details of work.Comfort zones can hinder personal growth.Failure is a learning opportunity, not a setback.It's important to adapt systems as life changes.Living authentically invites others to be their best.Inspiring others is a powerful legacy.Welcome to the Linch with a Leader Podcast, where you're invited to join the spiritual principles behind big success, with host Mike Linch.Subscribe to the channel so you never miss an episode: Watch: @linchwithaleader Prefer just listening? SUBSCRIBE to the podcast here:Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0dJfeLbikJlKlBqAx6mDYW?si=6ffed84956cb4848Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/linch-with-a-leader/id1279929826Find show notes and more information at: www.mikelinch.comFollow for EVERYDAY leadership content and interaction:Follow on X: https://x.com/mikelinch?s=20Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mikelinch?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==https://www.instagram.com/mikelinch/?...JOIN Mike for a Sunday at NorthStar Church:www.northstarchurch.org Watch: @nsckennesaw

Apr 14, 2025 • 40min
Barry Rowan on Living for Christ in the Marketplace | Episode 235
In this conversation, Barry Rowan shares his transformative journey of faith, exploring the deep turmoil and questions that led him to a surrendered life in Christ. He discusses the importance of understanding Jesus' integrity and the role of failure in personal growth. Barry emphasizes the significance of surrendering to God's will and how this surrender can lead to a fulfilling life. He connects his spiritual insights to the world of business, advocating for a life of service and purpose, and challenges the notion of ambition by highlighting the importance of abiding in Christ. Ultimately, Barry encourages listeners to embrace their unique purpose and the beauty of serving others.Mike's Biggest Takeaways:Barry's journey began with a crisis of meaning and work.The anguish of the soul can lead to deeper understanding.Surrendering to God is essential for transformation.Achievement can become an idol if not aligned with God.Failure can be a powerful teacher in our lives.Living an integrated life means connecting faith with daily actions.Surrender is an ongoing process, not a one-time event.Welcome to the Linch with a Leader Podcast, where you're invited to join the spiritual principles behind big success, with host Mike Linch.Subscribe to the channel so you never miss an episode: Watch: @linchwithaleader Prefer just listening? SUBSCRIBE to the podcast here:Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0dJfeLbikJlKlBqAx6mDYW?si=6ffed84956cb4848Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/linch-with-a-leader/id1279929826Find show notes and more information at: www.mikelinch.comFollow for EVERYDAY leadership content and interaction:Follow on X: https://x.com/mikelinch?s=20Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mikelinch?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==https://www.instagram.com/mikelinch/?...JOIN Mike for a Sunday at NorthStar Church:www.northstarchurch.org Watch: @nsckennesaw

Mar 31, 2025 • 47min
Steve Cuss on Unmasking Leadership Anxiety | Episode 234
In this engaging conversation, Mike Linch and Steve Cuss explore the intricacies of leadership, the challenges of managing anxiety, and the impact of expectations in relationships. Steve shares his journey from pastoring to leadership coaching, emphasizing the importance of naming feelings and experiences to foster personal growth. They delve into the complexities of faith, the process of deconstruction, and the pressures of spiritual growth, ultimately highlighting the need for grace and understanding in both personal and communal contexts. In this conversation, Steve Cuss and Mike Linch explore the complexities of faith, leadership, and personal growth. They discuss the importance of understanding mental expectation gaps, the significance of being a 'well self', and the impact of inner critics on self-perception. The dialogue emphasizes the need for leaders to recognize their limitations and the importance of God's presence in challenging situations, ultimately advocating for a more human-sized approach to faith and leadership.Mike's Biggest Takeaways:Steve Cuss emphasizes the importance of naming leadership anxiety to help others feel understood.The transition from pastoring to leadership coaching has allowed Steve to focus on leaders in ministry.Expectations in relationships can create anxiety and misunderstandings.Steve's journey of faith involved significant deconstruction and grappling with grief and suffering.Chaplaincy provided Steve with invaluable experiences that shaped his understanding of faith and leadership.Processing trauma is essential for personal growth and understanding in relationships.Steve's marriage has been a source of unconditional love and support throughout his journey.The pressure to grow spiritually can often lead to feelings of inadequacy.Understanding that expectations can be false is crucial for healthy relationships.Welcome to the Linch with a Leader Podcast, where you're invited to join the spiritual principles behind big success, with host Mike Linch.Subscribe to the channel so you never miss an episode: Watch: @linchwithaleader Prefer just listening? SUBSCRIBE to the podcast here:Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0dJfeLbikJlKlBqAx6mDYW?si=6ffed84956cb4848Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/linch-with-a-leader/id1279929826Find show notes and more information at: www.mikelinch.comFollow for EVERYDAY leadership content and interaction:Follow on X: https://x.com/mikelinch?s=20Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mikelinch?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==https://www.instagram.com/mikelinch/?...JOIN Mike for a Sunday at NorthStar Church:www.northstarchurch.org Watch: @nsckennesaw

Mar 26, 2025 • 9min
Takeaways: Julie Shaffner (Ep. 233)
In this episode, Mike Linch discusses his conversation with Julie Shaffner, focusing on her journey and the mission of Voices to Connect. They explore themes of perseverance, humility, and the importance of stewarding influence in leadership. Julie's organization plays a crucial role in amplifying the voices of leaders, helping them share their stories and impact a wider audience. The conversation emphasizes the significance of building genuine relationships over transactional ones in leadership.

Mar 17, 2025 • 31min
Julie Shaffner on Harnessing Faith & Leadership to Connect the Voices of the World | Episode 233
In this conversation, Mike Linch interviews Julie Shaffner, exploring her journey from a sports-loving child to a successful entrepreneur and leader in the field of influence and connections. Julie shares insights about her family background, the importance of faith in her life, and how her business, Voices to Connect, was born out of a desire to help others amplify their messages. The discussion delves into the traits she values from her upbringing, the challenges she faced in her career, and her vision for the future, emphasizing the significance of stewardship, perseverance, and purpose in leadership.Mike's Biggest Takeaways:Trusting the Lord and not giving up are key traits she learned from her parents.Julie's faith journey began at a church camp when she was 14.Julie believes in using God's gifts to serve others and glorify Him.Voices to Connect was born out of a desire to help leaders amplify their messages.Stewarding influence is a significant responsibility for Julie and her team.Great leaders focus on building genuine relationships rather than transactional ones.Welcome to the Linch with a Leader Podcast, where you're invited to join the spiritual principles behind big success, with host Mike Linch.Subscribe to the channel so you never miss an episode: Watch: @linchwithaleader Prefer just listening? SUBSCRIBE to the podcast here:Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0dJfeLbikJlKlBqAx6mDYW?si=6ffed84956cb4848Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/linch-with-a-leader/id1279929826Find show notes and more information at: www.mikelinch.comFollow for EVERYDAY leadership content and interaction:Follow on X: https://x.com/mikelinch?s=20Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mikelinch?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==https://www.instagram.com/mikelinch/?...JOIN Mike for a Sunday at NorthStar Church:www.northstarchurch.org Watch: @nsckennesaw

Mar 12, 2025 • 16min
Takeaways: Dan Reiland (Ep. 232)
In this episode, Mike Linch discusses the leadership insights of Dan Reiland, focusing on adapting to cultural shifts, balancing simplicity and complexity in organizations, achieving team alignment, and distinguishing between good ideas and God ideas.

Mar 3, 2025 • 41min
Dan Reiland on Avoiding These Common Mistakes for Leadership Success | Episode 232
In this conversation, Mike Linch and Dan Reiland explore the evolution of leadership, emphasizing the importance of adapting to cultural changes, the complexities that arise with growth, and the necessity of maintaining simplicity in leadership practices. They discuss the significance of alignment within teams, the role of mutual voluntary submission, and the dangers of distractions. The conversation also delves into the differences between good ideas, smart ideas, and God ideas, highlighting the importance of execution and the need to address toxic behaviors within organizational culture. Finally, they offer encouragement for leaders facing challenges in their journey.Mike's Biggest Takeaways:Change is a constant in leadership.Young leaders must learn to interpret culture.Simplicity is essential for effective leadership.Growth creates complexity that can hinder progress.Alignment within teams is crucial for success.Mutual voluntary submission fosters collaboration.Distractions can derail focus and productivity.Welcome to the Linch with a Leader Podcast, where you're invited to join the spiritual principles behind big success, with host Mike Linch.Subscribe to the channel so you never miss an episode: Watch: @linchwithaleader Prefer just listening? SUBSCRIBE to the podcast here:Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0dJfeLbikJlKlBqAx6mDYW?si=6ffed84956cb4848Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/linch-with-a-leader/id1279929826Find show notes and more information at: www.mikelinch.comFollow for EVERYDAY leadership content and interaction:Follow on X: https://x.com/mikelinch?s=20Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mikelinch?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==https://www.instagram.com/mikelinch/?...JOIN Mike for a Sunday at NorthStar Church:www.northstarchurch.org Watch: @nsckennesaw#leadershipdevelopment #christianleadership #churchleaders


