In this episode of the Follow 2 Lead Podcast, Tony Miltenberger sits down with Kristin Thomas Miller, co‑founder of Leadership Pathway, for an inspiring conversation about raising up the next generation of church leaders. Together, they unpack why intentional development, mentorship, and hands‑on ministry experiences are essential for the long‑term health of the church. Kristin shares her personal journey into leadership development and the vision behind launching Leadership Pathway—a residency‑based model designed to prepare young leaders for real‑world ministry. Tony and Kristin explore the challenges of bridging generational gaps, the importance of modeling healthy leadership, and why churches must move from hoping young leaders show up to actively building them. This episode casts a hopeful vision for the future of the church and offers practical guidance for pastors, mentors, and congregations who want to invest meaningfully in emerging leaders. ✅ Three Actionable Takeaways 1. Create intentional pathways for young leaders.Don’t wait for leaders to emerge—build structured residency or apprenticeship experiences that give young adults real responsibility and real support. 2. Bridge generational gaps through relationship, not assumption.Young leaders thrive when older leaders listen, mentor, and invite them into meaningful conversations rather than expecting them to adapt alone. 3. Invest early, often, and personally.The future of the church depends on today’s leaders prioritizing mentorship, modeling healthy leadership, and creating environments where emerging leaders can grow and belong. https://www.leadershippathway.org/ https://www.youtube.com/@leadershippathway8924/videos Connect with our sponsors: Please donate today at MercyShips.org/podcast Visit OmahaSteaks.com for 50% off sitewide during their Sizzle All the Way Sale. And for an extra $35 off, usepromo code FUN at checkout. Please check out our sponsors EBEB Solutions Greg Fay Insurance 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
In this episode of the Follow 2 Lead Podcast, Tony Miltenberger sits down with Joey Odom, co‑founder of a technology‑health company and a leading voice on digital wellness, to explore how technology shapes our relationships, parenting, and spiritual lives. Joey offers honest insight into the tension between a tech‑driven world and the desire to be fully present with the people who matter most. Together, Tony and Joey unpack the importance of modeling healthy tech habits for our children, cultivating meaningful daily disciplines, and creating memories that outlast any digital distraction. Joey shares the story behind launching a tech‑health company and reflects on redefining success—not by financial metrics, but by impact, transformation, and deeper relational connection. This conversation is both challenging and hopeful, offering parents, leaders, and communities practical guidance for building a healthier relationship with technology while strengthening the bonds that make life meaningful. https://reclaimwell.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/joeyodom/ Please support our partners! Please donate today at MercyShips.org/podcast Visit OmahaSteaks.com for 50% off sitewide during their Sizzle All the Way Sale. And for an extra $35 off, usepromo code FUN at checkout. Please check out our sponsors EBEB Solutions Greg Fay Insurance 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
In this episode of the Follow 2 Lead Podcast, Tony Miltenberger sits down with acclaimed audiobook narrator Tom Parks, whose journey from pastoring a church to narrating more than 800 audiobooks is as unexpected as it is inspiring. Tom opens up about how he stumbled into audiobook narration, what he’s learned from voicing hundreds of titles, and how strong communication and meaningful relationships have shaped every part of his life. Tom offers a behind‑the‑scenes look at the audiobook production process—from preparation and performance in the booth to the essential collaboration with editors and engineers. Beyond the technical side, he shares how narration has sharpened his leadership skills, especially the ability to adapt communication styles to different audiences. The conversation also touches on balancing demanding creative work with personal life, the joy of cruise‑ship lecturing, and the power of saying “yes” to unexpected opportunities. Tom reflects on the wisdom he’s gained from the books he’s narrated—not in the titles themselves, but in the timeless principles they’ve taught him. This episode is a warm and insightful conversation for leaders, creatives, communicators, and anyone navigating a career pivot or seeking to grow in relational leadership. ✅ Three Practical Takeaways Adapt your communication to your audience. Great leadership isn’t about speaking loudly—it’s about speaking clearly in a way others can receive. Value relationships more than self‑promotion. Whether in narration, ministry, or leadership, long-term success is built on trust, kindness, and collaboration. Trust the process and enjoy the journey. Tom’s career shift shows that unexpected paths often lead to meaningful work—if you stay curious, grateful, and willing to take the next step. Connect with our sponsors: Please donate today at MercyShips.org/podcast Visit OmahaSteaks.com for 50% off sitewide during their Sizzle All the Way Sale. And for an extra $35 off, usepromo code FUN at checkout. Please check out our sponsors: EBEB Solutions https://www.ebebsolutions.com/ Greg Fay Insurance: https://www.gregfayinsurance.com/ That Sounds Fun Network: https://thatsoundsfunnetwork.com/ Follow 2 Lead Coaching https://www.follow2leadcoaching.com/quiz Tony on Instagram / twmilt Check out our YouTube page / @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
In this episode of the Follow 2 Lead Podcast, Tony Miltenberger sits down with Peter Ostapko, founder of Kinsman, for a deep and insightful conversation on the evolving role of men in today’s culture. As societal expectations shift and confusion around masculinity grows, many men are searching for identity, purpose, and authentic connection. Peter shares how his own desire for meaningful community led to the creation of Kinsman—a ministry focused on helping men grow through faith, fatherhood, work, and intentional brotherhood. https://kinsmen.org/ Connect with our sponsors: Please donate today at MercyShips.org/podcast Visit OmahaSteaks.com for 50% off sitewide during their Sizzle All the Way Sale. And for an extra $35 off, usepromo code FUN at checkout. Please check out our sponsors EBEB Solutions Greg Fay Insurance Trent Barga - The Barga Team Real Estate 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
In this inspiring episode, Tony Miltenberger sits down with writer and creator Erica Gwynn to explore her journey of cultivating a community rooted in joy, authenticity, and emotional honesty. Erica opens up about her calling to uplift others, the values that anchor her life, and the intentional way she brings vulnerability into her work. Together, Tony and Erica unpack the creative process, the importance of telling the truth—even when it’s hard—and how content creation has shaped her personal growth. Erica shares the heart behind her latest book, including the dedication to her family, and reflects on how navigating truths and lies has influenced her leadership and spiritual maturity. This conversation offers encouragement for anyone who has ever struggled with consistency, feared the opinions of others, or wondered whether their voice matters. Erica reminds listeners that living authentically, embracing your journey, and showing up consistently can lead to profound impact over time. This episode will inspire you to lean into authenticity, reject comparison, and pursue the work God has placed on your heart. Please check out our sponsors EBEB Solutions Greg Fay Insurance Trent Barga - The Barga Team Real Estate 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
In this powerful episode, Tony Miltenberger sits down with award-winning Christian artist Evan Craft to talk about faith, purpose, and what truly matters beyond success. Evan opens up about his journey from chasing achievements to discovering the emptiness of accomplishment without obedience to God. He shares how serving others, forgiving quickly, and building a trusted team have shaped his leadership and spiritual maturity. Tony and Evan dig into the interruptions, detours, and “holy disruptions” that God uses to redirect our lives. Evan reflects on generosity, humility, and the importance of seeking God’s will over personal ambition. Whether you’re a leader, creative, or someone navigating a season of uncertainty, this conversation will encourage you to slow down, pay attention to God’s nudges, and pursue a life defined by purpose—not performance. Topics covered include: • Hearing and obeying God’s calling • How success without purpose leads to emptiness • The role of generosity in spiritual growth • Navigating interruption and redirection • Building a healthy, trustworthy team • Leading with kindness and forgiveness • Learning from mistakes and staying humble • Aligning ambition with God’s will This episode will challenge and inspire you to rethink what real success looks like through the lens of faith, service, and obedience. https://www.evancraftmusic.com/ https://www.instagram.com/evancraft/ Please check out our sponsors EBEB Solutions Greg Fay Insurance Trent Barga - The Barga Team Real Estate 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
In this powerful and inspiring episode, Tony Miltenberger sits down with Kenz Durham and Mac Bridges, the founders of Delight Ministries, to explore how a small college gathering turned into a nationwide movement impacting thousands of young women. They share how faith, friendship, and bold obedience to God led to the creation of a community that helps women grow together in Christ. The conversation dives deep into themes of leadership, partnership, and the importance of authentic community, as well as their newest Bible study, The Wild Invitation. Kenz and Mac offer wisdom on how to lead with courage, trust God through uncertainty, and build ministries rooted in real relationships. https://forthegirl.com/bible-studies https://www.instagram.com/forthegirl___/?hl=en Please check out our sponsors EBEB Solutions Greg Fay Insurance Trent Barga - The Barga Team Real Estate 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
In this powerful episode of Follow 2 Lead, Tony Miltenberger sits down with Chris Freeman, pastor of City Church, one of the fastest-growing churches in America. Together they unpack the remarkable story behind the church’s explosive growth and the lessons learned along the way. Chris shares how empowering high-capacity leaders, protecting character, and cultivating accountability have been foundational in City Church’s success. He opens up about the creative methods used to keep young men engaged and responsible—yes, including pushups—and the daily disciplines that help leaders stay faithful to their calling. This conversation is a masterclass in leading through rapid growth without losing sight of humility, integrity, and God’s heart for diversity. Whether you’re a pastor, ministry leader, or entrepreneur, you’ll walk away inspired to dream bigger, lead better, and build teams rooted in faith and character. https://www.forthecity.com/about-us https://www.instagram.com/chris.s.freeman/ https://youtu.be/kwEqJOlsN04?si=Q9ryXTUE8i1sBMz1 Please check out our sponsors EBEB Solutions Greg Fay Insurance Trent Barga - The Barga Team Real Estate 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
In this inspiring conversation, Tony Miltenberger talks with Bobby Gruenewald, founder of the YouVersion Bible App, about the intersection of faith, innovation, and leadership. Bobby shares his remarkable journey from entrepreneur to pastor and app creator, highlighting how a simple idea turned into one of the most widely used Bible tools in the world. He discusses the importance of mission alignment, celebrating milestones, and embracing failure as part of growth. The conversation also explores how technology can be leveraged to serve God’s mission—and not the other way around. Bobby’s perspective on personal growth, team leadership, and the future of digital discipleship will encourage leaders to think big while staying grounded in faith. If you’re passionate about ministry, innovation, or the Bible’s role in modern culture, this episode will challenge and inspire you to keep growing and leading with purpose. https://www.instagram.com/bobbygwald/ https://www.bible.com/ https://www.bible.com/billion Please check out our sponsors EBEB Solutions Greg Fay Insurance Trent Barga - The Barga Team Real Estate 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
In this engaging conversation, Rory Nicol shares his journey from being a top recruit at Ohio State to facing life-altering challenges, including addiction and injury. He discusses the importance of mentorship, gratitude, and resilience, emphasizing how his experiences have shaped his mission to help others. Through his story, Rory illustrates the power of faith and the significance of holding onto hope, even in the darkest times. Takeaways Emerge is a vital resource for those struggling with addiction. Rory was a top recruit, showcasing the pressures of college sports. Coach Tressel emphasized gratitude and discipline in training. Injury led to a pivotal change in Rory's life. Addiction became a significant challenge during his college years. Rory found purpose in helping others after overcoming addiction. Gratitude plays a crucial role in maintaining a positive mindset. Rory's mission is to prevent others from making similar mistakes. The rope symbolizes connection and support in life. It's never too late to start a meaningful life. https://www.linkedin.com/in/rory-nicol-7b9a8b61/ https://www.emergerecoverytrade.com/ https://rorynicol.org/ Please check out our sponsors EBEB Solutions Greg Fay Insurance Trent Barga - The Barga Team Real Estate 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
In this engaging episode of Follow 2 Lead, Tony Miltenberger reconnects with Dillon Smith, founder of CMO.Church, to talk about leadership, communication, and the power of unity in the church. Dillon shares lessons learned in his journey as a new dad, insights into email marketing for churches, and why unity in the Big C Church begins with personal relationships. Together, they unpack how to balance business strategy and spiritual mission, the importance of hiring for both culture and competence, and the value of collaboration across ministries. If you’re a church leader, marketer, or simply someone passionate about seeing the church work together more effectively, this conversation offers practical wisdom for growing your influence and impact with purpose. Engagement Requires Strategy – Effective church communication starts with clarity and audience-specific engagement. Unity Starts Small – Building meaningful relationships across ministries and denominations fosters genuine church unity. Balance Spiritual and Strategic – Integrate business-minded tools like email marketing without losing sight of the Great Commission. https://cmochurch.replit.app/ https://www.instagram.com/dillon_m_smith/ Please check out our sponsors EBEB Solutions Greg Fay Insurance Trent Barga - The Barga Team Real Estate 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
Summary In this engaging conversation, Monica Tanner shares her journey from a happy childhood to becoming a relationship coach, emphasizing the importance of intentionality in marriages, especially for entrepreneurial couples. She discusses the skills necessary for effective communication, the significance of regular connection, and insights from her book 'Bad Marriage Advice'. Monica also touches on parenting and the challenges of giving advice to married children, ultimately encouraging couples to trust the process of growth and repair in their relationships. https://www.monicatanner.com/ Please check out our sponsors EBEB Solutions Greg Fay Insurance Trent Barga - The Barga Team Real Estate 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
In this engaging conversation, Trey Tucker and Tony Miltenberger explore the journey of finding one's calling, the importance of pivoting in careers, and the integration of faith and therapy. They discuss the challenges of navigating social media as a Christian, the significance of building internal habits for leadership, and the role of responsibility in masculinity. The conversation also touches on overcoming the fear of seeking help and embracing imperfection in leadership, providing valuable insights for personal growth and development. https://www.ruggedcounseling.com/?utm_source=hoobe&utm_medium=social https://www.instagram.com/ruggedcounseling/ Please check out our sponsors EBEB Solutions Greg Fay Insurance Trent Barga - The Barga Team Real Estate 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
In this engaging conversation, Tony Miltenberger discusses his new book 'Wisdom in the Wound' with Charles Causey. They explore the journey of writing the book, the impact of personal wounds, and the importance of vulnerability in leadership. Tony shares insights on how family dynamics shape our experiences and the significance of emotional exploration and journaling in healing. The discussion also touches on the challenges of writing during the COVID-19 pandemic and the transformative power of understanding one's wounds.takeaways. Wisdom is found in the intimacy with our wounds. Prolonged stress can magnify existing issues in relationships. Emotional triggers act as tripwires that can lead to reactions. Journaling or verbal processing is essential for emotional clarity. Leading with vulnerability fosters trust in relationships. Family dynamics play a crucial role in shaping our wounds. It's important to explore and understand our emotional responses. The journey of writing can be both burdensome and rewarding. Self-awareness is key to personal growth and healing. Everyone has a version of a wound, regardless of their background. Please check out our sponsors EBEB Solutions Greg Fay Insurance Trent Barga - The Barga Team Real Estate 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
In this episode of the Fodder League Podcast, Tony Miltenberger explores the theme of 'Wisdom in the Wound,' discussing how our wounds can lead to our greatest gifts. He emphasizes the importance of grace, humor, and self-acceptance in dealing with our wounds, and how Christ's redemption transforms our brokenness into strength. The conversation highlights the power of recognizing our vulnerabilities and using them to connect with others, ultimately encouraging listeners to embrace their gifts and the healing process. Takeaways Your greatest gift is on the other side of your wound. We must learn to respond with grace, humor, and love toward our wounds. Laughing at our wounds can liberate us from guilt and shame. Our brokenness is real, but through Christ, we are made new. The enemy uses our wounds to divide and discourage us. Christ steps into our brokenness and redeems it creatively. Recognizing patterns in others' wounds fosters compassion and connection. Your gift is needed in the world, so show up authentically. Love your wound as it is part of your journey. God wants to use your gifts in powerful ways. Please check out our sponsors EBEB Solutions Greg Fay Insurance Trent Barga - The Barga Team Real Estate 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
In this episode, Tony Miltenberger discusses the importance of understanding and processing emotions in leadership and personal growth. He emphasizes that feelings are real but not always truthful, and that leaders must learn to sit with their emotions rather than suppress them. The conversation explores the emotional intensity scale, the difference between intentional responses and emotional reactions, and the significance of emotional awareness in making sound decisions.takeaways Emotions are signals to be understood, not problems to be solved. Sitting in your feelings allows for intentional responses. The emotional intensity scale helps identify when to slow down. Leaders should create space for their emotions to process them effectively. Emotional reactions can lead to inaccurate conclusions. Spiritual maturity involves managing emotions intentionally. Good disciplines can protect against emotional outbursts. Understanding your feelings can lead to personal growth. Emotions should not dictate your decisions. Creating space for feelings can improve relationships and leadership. Please check out our sponsors EBEB Solutions Greg Fay Insurance Trent Barga - The Barga Team Real Estate 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
In this episode of the Follow the Lead podcast, Tony Miltenberger introduces his mini-series based on his book 'Wisdom in the Wound.' He discusses the concept of personal wounds, their origins, and their impact on our lives and relationships. The episode emphasizes the importance of understanding and acknowledging our wounds to foster personal growth and emotional intelligence. Tony encourages listeners to engage in self-reflection and dialogue about their experiences with wounds, setting the stage for deeper exploration in future episodes. Takeaways Understanding your wound is crucial for personal growth. Wounds are a universal part of the human experience. Emotional reactions often stem from unresolved wounds. Self-awareness is key to navigating relationships. Grace and forgiveness are essential in healing. Wounds can shape our perceptions and interactions. Courage is required to confront and understand our wounds. Intentional responses are preferable to emotional reactions. Naming your wound is the beginning of wisdom. Engaging in dialogue about wounds fosters healing. Please check out our sponsors EBEB Solutions Greg Fay Insurance Trent Barga - The Barga Team Real Estate 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
In this heartfelt conversation, Tony Miltenberger sits down with Toni Collier to explore the power of vulnerability, healing, and community. Toni shares her personal journey of embracing brokenness, the role of accountability in leadership, and why strong relationships are essential for growth. Together, they discuss the importance of personal disciplines to sustain hope and emotional health, the challenges and healing found in the church, and the creative process behind Toni’s book. Toni also opens up about what she would tell her younger self—learning to trust her instincts and lean on the wisdom passed down from her father. Whether you’re navigating leadership, recovering from hurt, or seeking to build healthier rhythms in your life, this episode will inspire you to embrace healing and find strength in community. Please check out our sponsors EBEB Solutions Greg Fay Insurance Trent Barga - The Barga Team Real Estate 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
In this engaging conversation, Tony Miltenberger reconnects with Natalie Runion to explore the intersection of faith, leadership, and holistic well-being. Natalie shares her journey from worship leader to women’s pastor and reflects on the lessons she’s learned from experiencing the global church in action. Together, they dive into the importance of physical health for spiritual growth, the dynamics of women in leadership, and the transformative power of community. The discussion also highlights why simply liking each other in church is just as vital as loving one another, the role of fathers in empowering daughters, and how obedience and sacrifice open doors for deeper encounters with the Holy Spirit. If you’ve ever wrestled with faith, leadership, or how to support the next generation of women in ministry, this episode is packed with wisdom and encouragement. Sign up for Natalie's email! Follow Natalie on Instagram Please check out our sponsors EBEB Solutions Greg Fay Insurance Trent Barga - The Barga Team Real Estate 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
In this powerful episode, Tony Miltenberger talks with Davey Blackburn about calling, discernment, and finding healing through pain. Davey shares how his journey through loss has shaped his ministry and personal life, offering wisdom on the difference between calling and assignment, the role of community, and how God’s Word speaks uniquely in different seasons of life. The conversation explores how comparison robs us of healing, why pain can never truly be measured against someone else’s, and the vital role that sharing our stories plays in recovery. Davey also emphasizes the importance of building strong marriages rooted in a personal relationship with God and reflects on the power of being fully present in our relationships. If you’ve ever wrestled with purpose, endured hardship, or struggled to discern God’s direction, this conversation will give you both encouragement and clarity. Nothing is Wasted Ministries Follow Davey on Instagram Please check out our sponsors EBEB Solutions Greg Fay Insurance Trent Barga - The Barga Team Real Estate 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