ππ§THE JOY OF LEADERSHIP PODCAST
EXPLORING THE PASSION AND PURPOSE OF LEADERSHIP
Welcome to the Joy of Leadership Podcast, where we explore the passion and purpose of leadership by talking with recognized leaders who do not merely have jobs, but men and women who are called to their chosen sphere of influence.
Season 3
- Episode 1: Chasing God-Sized Dreams (Cassie Snow)
- Episode 2: Remembering God's Faithfulness (Cornel Potra)
- Episode 3: Advancing Christian Education (Dr. David Balik & Chuck Gilliam)
- Episode 4: Leading Through Seasons of Change (Jason Britt)
- Episode 5: The Legacy of the Atlanta Braves (Sam Wallace)
- Episode 6: From Growing a Church to Growing Pastors (Larry Wynn)
- Episode 7: Bringing Lacrosse to the South (Andy Arlotta)
- Episode 8: Ministry Through Medicine (Dr. David Palmer)
- Episode 9: Dangerously Soft-Hearted (Bernie Anderson)
- Episode 10: The Pursuit of Biblical Unity (Dr. Aaron Howard)
Episode 1: Chasing God-Sized Dreams (Cassie Snow)
Episode Details
In episode 1 of season 3 on the Joy of Leadership Podcast, Dr. James Taylor sits down with Cassie Snow, the Director of Academic Enrichment and Special Education at Hebron Christian Academy. She shares about her path to HCA, how Hebron is building an Enrichment program from the ground up, the challenges of starting a special needs school, and how HCA is praying for a God-sized miracle to build the Lions Learning Academy.
The Joy of Leadership Podcast can be found on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Music, Google Play, and Sound Cloud.
Episode Breakdown
- (0:00) Introduction
- (1:00) Cassie's path to HCA
- (17:10) Building HCA's Enrichment program
- (23:11) Redefining special education
- (29:00) Expanding the enrichment program
- (32:56) A $20 million God-sized dream
- (42:01) The challenges of building a special education school
- (44:51) Modeling an immersive environment
- (50:38) Impacting Christian education
- (56:46) Closing
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Episode 2: Remembering God's Faithfulness (Cornel Potra)
Episode Details
In episode 2 of season 3 on the Joy of Leadership Podcast, Dr. James Taylor sits down with Cornel Potra, the founding partner at Potra Law Firm, specializing in immigration law. He shares about God’s calling on his career, escaping from communist Romania, his passion for immigration law, and the importance of not forgetting the Lord’s faithfulness.
The Joy of Leadership Podcast can be found on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Music, Google Play, and Sound Cloud.
Episode Breakdown
- (0:00) Introduction
- (0:48) About Potra Law Firm
- (3:46) Cornel's family
- (4:54) God's calling on Cornel's vocation
- (8:45) Escape from communist Romania
- (18:57) Cornel's expectation of his career
- (21:31) Desire to live in the United States
- (26:48) Time between first escape attempt & successful escape
- (31:20) Beginning of his practice
- (32:50) Reason for his practice's focus
- (40:13) Focus on development of men
- (49:06) The impact of Cornel's immigrant story
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Episode 3: Advancing Christian Education (Dr. David Balik & Chuck Gilliam)
Episode Details
In episode 3 of season 3 on the Joy of Leadership Podcast, Dr. James Taylor sits down with Dr. David Balik & Chuck Gilliam. Both with the Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI), David is the Vice President of North America and Chuck is the Senior Director of the Eastern Division. They share about their roles at ACSI, the growth and challenges in private Christian education, the progression of school choice, keeping Christ at the center of education, and the future plans for ACSI.
The Joy of Leadership Podcast can be found on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Music, Google Play, and Sound Cloud.
Episode Breakdown
- (0:00) Introduction
- (1:06) Their career paths and roles at ACSI
- (9:18) The growth in Christian education
- (13:20) Progression of school choice
- (16:05) Keeping Christ at the center of education
- (25:13) Victories for Christian education
- (31:29) Battles for Christian education
- (38:32) Challenges towards leadership in Christian schools
- (50:02) What's next for ACSI
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Episode 4: Leading Through Seasons of Change (Jason Britt)
Episode Details
In episode 4 of season 3 on the Joy of Leadership Podcast, Dr. James Taylor sits down with Jason Britt, the Lead Pastor at Bethlehem Church. He shares about his background and path to being a senior pastor, the growth and future of Bethlehem church, and balancing family and ministry along the way.
The Joy of Leadership Podcast can be found on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Music, Google Play, and Sound Cloud.
Episode Breakdown
- (0:00) Introduction
- (0:44) Jason's background
- (13:42) Becoming a senior pastor
- (18:48) The growth of Bethlehem Church
- (29:31) Following God's direction in leadership
- (38:06) Plans for a new building
- (43:57) Balancing family and ministry
- (48:37) Book recommendations
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Episode 5: The Legacy of the Atlanta Braves (Sam Wallace)
Episode Details
In episode 5 of season 3 on the Joy of Leadership Podcast, Dr. James Taylor sits down with Sam Wallace, the historian for the Atlanta Braves. As the Braves are in the midst of a historic season riddled with new records, he shares about his journey to the Braves, the storied past of baseball’s oldest franchise, how the game is changing, and who the Braves are in the present.
The Joy of Leadership Podcast can be found on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Music, Google Play, and Sound Cloud.
Episode Breakdown
- (0:00) Introduction
- (0:53) Sam’s World Series Ring
- (2:15) Sam's background
- (13:42) Becoming the Braves historian
- (20:44) From Boston to Atlanta
- (23:20) Interactions with Braves players
- (28:09) The love of the game
- (32:02) Changing baseball
- (37:52) How the Battery Atlanta is changing sports venues
- (40:48) The 2023 Braves
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Episode 6: From Growing a Church to Growing Pastors (Larry Wynn)
Episode Details
In episode 6 of season 3 on the Joy of Leadership Podcast, Dr. James Taylor sits down with Larry Wynn, former Senior Pastor of Hebron Church. He shares about starting at Hebron, how the church began to grow, lasting in ministry, and his current role of developing pastors.
The Joy of Leadership Podcast can be found on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Music, Google Play, and Sound Cloud.
Episode Breakdown
- (0:00) Introduction
- (0:47) Larry's time at Hebron Church
- (7:27) When Hebron began to grow
- (19:07) Lasting in ministry
- (30:53) Balancing family & ministry
- (36:16) From hundreds to thousands
- (41:30) Lessons from Hebron's building
- (44:24) Calling in a career
- (48:25) Developing pastors
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Episode 7: Bringing Lacrosse to the South (Andy Arlotta)
Episode Details
In episode 7 of season 3 on the Joy of Leadership Podcast, Dr. James Taylor sits down with Andy Arlotta, Co-Owner & President of Georgia Swarm Lacrosse. He shares about bringing professional lacrosse to Georgia, the structure of Box Lacrosse and the National Lacrosse League, and the impact of his personal background and faith on his career.
The Joy of Leadership Podcast can be found on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Music, Google Play, and Sound Cloud.
Episode Breakdown
- (0:00) Introduction
- (0:37) About Georgia Swarm & LAX in Georgia
- (3:12) LAX in Andy's Family
- (5:30) Structure of the NLL
- (11:07) The Swarm's Involvement with Youth LAX
- (12:32) Field LAX vs. Box LAX
- (17:20) Andy's Business Experience
- (20:55) How to see the Swarm
- (21:25) Andy's path to the Swarm
- (23:38) Faith's impact on Andy's career
- (32:00) What's next for the Swarm
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Episode 8: Ministry Through Medicine (Dr. David Palmer)
Episode Details
In episode 8 of season 3 on the Joy of Leadership Podcast, Dr. James Taylor sits down with Dr. David Palmer, an orthopedic surgeon with Optim Orthopedics. He shares about his background and path to becoming a doctor and how his faith has affected his life and practice.
The Joy of Leadership Podcast can be found on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Music, Google Play, and Sound Cloud.
Episode Breakdown
- (0:00) Introduction
- (0:28) David's background
- (8:27) Path to being a doctor
- (14:42) Faith in practice in medicine
- (23:06) The turning point in David's faith
- (33:50) Closing
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Episode 9: Dangerously Soft-Hearted (Bernie Anderson)
Episode Details
In episode 9 of season 3 on the Joy of Leadership Podcast, Dr. James Taylor sits down with Bernie Anderson, a Senior Regional Manager at World Vision. He shares about what World Vision is and their calling to reach the world’s most vulnerable communities, his personal background and experiences in missions, how World Vision has changed child sponsorship, and the impact that partnering with World Vision has on organizations.
Do you feel called to sponsor a child through World Vision? You can get involved through HCA’s sponsored region in Honduras by clicking here.
The Joy of Leadership Podcast can be found on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Music, Google Play, and Sound Cloud.
Episode Breakdown
- (0:00) Introduction
- (0:32) What is World Vision?
- (5:20) Developing communities
- (9:24) Reaching the most vulnerable
- (13:44) Experiences with World Vision
- (20:41) Bernie's Background
- (24:20) Balancing family & missions
- (26:01) Flipping the script on child sponsorship
- (30:12) What's next for World Vision
- (31:23) Impacting organizations
- (37:32) Chosen Video
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Episode 10: The Pursuit of Biblical Unity (Dr. Aaron Howard)
Episode Details
In the 10th and final episode of season 3 on the Joy of Leadership Podcast, Dr. James Taylor sits down with Dr. Aaron Howard, an Assistant Professor of Ethics, Worship, and Reconciliation at Lipscomb University and the Founder & CEO of As One Christian Counseling. He shares about his current roles at Lipscomb and As One, his passion to speak at Christian schools, how God placed the call on his life to pursue unity, the method to raise kids to have a unity-based mindset, and his future plans, including writing a book.
The Joy of Leadership Podcast can be found on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Music, Google Play, and Sound Cloud.
Episode Breakdown
- (0:00) Introduction
- (0:30) Aaron's role at Lipscomb
- (4:47) Pursuing Biblical Unity
- (10:27) Passion for Christian education
- (16:27) The call on Aaron's life
- (26:00) Raising kids to seek unity
- (28:53) What's next for Aaron
- (31:50) Closing
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Season 2
- Episode 1: The Story of 12Stone Church (Pastor Kevin Myers)
- Episode 2: Telling Stories That Matter (Brittany Thoms)
- Episode 3: Growing Americaβs Agriculture (Arthur Tripp)
- Episode 4: Impacting Christian Education (Darrell Jones)
- Episode 5: The Pursuit of Godβs Calling (Derek Halvorson)
- Episode 6: Faith Through the Fire (Kelvin Cochran)
- Episode 7: From Military to Ministry (Kenny Grant)
- Episode 8: Faith, Family and World Famous Barbecue (Ryan Lane)
- Episode 9: Using Faith to Navigate the NFL (Kevin Shaffer)
- Episode 10: Letting God Have Sway (Dr. James Taylor)
Episode 1: The Story of 12Stone Church (Pastor Kevin Myers)
Episode Details
In episode No. 1 of season 2 on The Joy of Leadership Podcast, Dr. James Taylor sits down with 12Stone Church founding senior pastor Kevin Myers. He shares about moving to Gwinnett County to start the church, the tough times in the early years of 12Stone, and how he nearly closed the doors and walked away after three years. Through it all, PK relives the miraculous journey of someone gifting the church land for its first building, how he nearly bankrupted 12Stone, how the church has navigated multiple locations, what they are doing to cultivate their online audience, and how he plans to step down and hand the church over to the next generation.
The Joy of Leadership Podcast can be found on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Music, Google Play, and Sound Cloud.
Episode Breakdown
- (0:00) Introduction
- (0:27) Making the move to Gwinnett County
- (6:40) The beginning days of 12Stone Church (Crossroads)
- (10:07) Struggling through the early years
- (26:01) Finding a breakthrough after nearly closing the church
- (39:29) God provides the first piece of land for the church
- (47:50) The church nearly bankrupts over the next piece of land
- (58:20) The start of multiple 12Stone campuses
- (106:05) How 12Stone is cultivating its online audience
- (114:29) The pastoral succession plan at 12Stone
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Episode 2: Telling Stories That Matter (Brittany Thoms)
Episode Details
In episode No. 2 of season 2 on The Joy of Leadership Podcast, Dr. James Taylor sits down with Brittany Thoms, the president and co-founder of the marketing agency See.Spark.Go. She shares the process of building a multi-location marketing and PR firm from the ground up, how to cultivate a healthy work environment, the importance of the team you surround yourself with, and practical business advice for aspiring entrepreneurs.
The Joy of Leadership Podcast can be found on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Music, Google Play, and Sound Cloud.
Episode Breakdown
- (0:00) Introduction
- (0:27) The making of See.Spark.Go
- (4:00) The risks of starting a business
- (8:05) How the name See.Spark.Go came about
- (9:02) Cultivating a healthy work environment
- (19:13) Starting a business with your spouse
- (21:22) How to build relationships with businesses
- (25:32) Giving back to businesses
- (28:11) Practical business advice
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Episode 3: Growing Americaβs Agriculture (Arthur Tripp)
Episode Details
In episode No. 3 of season 2 on The Joy of Leadership Podcast, Dr. James Taylor sits down with Arthur Tripp, the Executive Director of the USDA Farm Service Agency in the state of Georgia. He shares how Georgia is leading the way in agricultural imports and exports, how he followed God’s calling into the political arena, why he chooses unity over division in a divided world, what helping farmers thrive in Georgia looks like, and how he is helping develop the next generation of farmers.
The Joy of Leadership Podcast can be found on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Music, Google Play, and Sound Cloud.
Episode Breakdown
- (0:00) Introduction
- (0:57) Personal background and work history
- (10:00) Leading the USDA Farm Service Agency in Georgia
- (13:36) Georgia leading the way in agricultural imports and exports
- (16:49) Following God’s calling into the political arena
- (23:15) Trusting God in living in a season of “yes”
- (28:05) Choosing unity over division in a divided world
- (33:15) Helping farmers thrive in the state of Georgia
- (39:15) Developing the next generation of farmers
- (44:25) Leadership lessons through life
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Episode 4: Impacting Christian Education (Darrell Jones)
Episode Details
In episode No. 4 of season 2 on The Joy of Leadership Podcast, Dr. James Taylor sits down with Darrell Jones, the President of the Herzog Foundation. He shares about the founding and mission of the Herzog Foundation, how the organization is developing leaders in Christian education, the impact of school choice, and how the Herzog Foundation plans to impact Christian education for decades to come.
The Joy of Leadership Podcast can be found on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Music, Google Play, and Sound Cloud.
Episode Breakdown
- (0:00) Introduction
- (1:21) Background on the Herzog Foundation
- (6:55) COVID’s impact on Christian education
- (9:30) Developing leaders in Christian education
- (15:42) What school choice means for private schools
- (26:29) Personal background and career journey
- (33:59) Longevity in ministry
- (40:16) Next steps for the Herzog Foundation
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Episode 5: The Pursuit of Godβs Calling (Derek Halvorson)
Episode Details
In episode No. 5 of season 2 on The Joy of Leadership Podcast, Dr. James Taylor sits down with Dr. Derek Halvorson, the President of Covenant College. He shares about his path into higher education from being a student at Covenant College to becoming its president for over 10 years. He discusses the importance of Christian education and what it means to lead the next generation of students.
The Joy of Leadership Podcast can be found on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Music, Google Play, and Sound Cloud.
Episode Breakdown
- (0:00) Introduction
- (1:04) Moving from west coast to east coast
- (11:21) Derek Halvorson’s faith journey
- (16:00) Life after college
- (24:01) A calling vs. a job
- (34:08) Leading the next generation
- (37:44) The why behind Christian education
- (42:22) How COVID affected education
- (48:04) What’s next for Covenant College
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Episode 6: Faith Through the Fire (Kelvin Cochran)
Episode Details
In episode No. 6 of season 2 on The Joy of Leadership Podcast, Dr. James Taylor sits down with Kelvin Cochran, the former Fire Chief for the City of Atlanta. He shares about growing up in poverty, his path to becoming a firefighter, and how his faith led him through adversity. He now holds the position of senior vice president of human resources and faith initiatives at Alliance Defending Freedom, the same law firm that defended him in his case against the city of Atlanta after being fired for expressing his Christian beliefs.
The Joy of Leadership Podcast can be found on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Music, Google Play, and Sound Cloud.
Episode Breakdown
- (0:00) Introduction
- (1:04) Growing up in poverty
- (7:10) The path to becoming a firefighter
- (10:09) Climbing the ranks
- (14:00) Being fired from the Atlanta Fire Department
- (21:53) Proposing on the first date
- (28:38) Being bold in faith
- (46:23) Advice for leaders
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Episode 7: From Military to Ministry (Kenny Grant)
Episode Details
In episode No. 7 of season 2 on the Joy of Leadership Podcast, Dr. James Taylor sits down with Kenny Grant, the teaching pastor at St. Simon’s Island Community Church and founder of Kenny Grant Ministries. He shares about growing up in south Georgia, how his time in the Marine Corps led him into ministry and how he has followed God’s calling on his life.
The Joy of Leadership Podcast can be found on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Music, Google Play, and Sound Cloud.
Episode Breakdown
- (0:00) Introduction
- (4:09) Growing up in south Georgia
- (7:21) From Marines to ministry
- (12:29) Being aligned with your spouse
- (21:49) The concept of a calling
- (24:33) The start of Kenny Grant Ministries
- (31:13) Leading Calvary Baptist Temple
- (38:20) Trusting God’s Direction
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Episode 8: Faith, Family and World Famous Barbecue (Ryan Lane)
Episode Details
In episode No. 8 of season 2 on the Joy of Leadership Podcast, Dr. James Taylor sits down with Ryan Lane, the creator and owner of Lane’s Barbecue. He shares about his shift from the banking world to catering, how he turned rubs into a multi-million dollar business, and how he is taking Lane’s Barbecue worldwide.
The Joy of Leadership Podcast can be found on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Music, Google Play, and Sound Cloud.
Episode Breakdown
- (0:00) Introduction
- (3:52) Finding a work/life balance
- (8:33) From banking to BBQ
- (17:06) Scaling the business
- (25:35) Taking Lane’s BBQ worldwide
- (35:33) Choosing the right grill
- (37:50) Faith in family and business
- (49:36) What’s next for Lane’s BBQ
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Episode 9: Using Faith to Navigate the NFL (Kevin Shaffer)
Episode Details
In episode No. 9 of season 2 on the Joy of Leadership Podcast, Dr. James Taylor sits down with Kevin Shaffer, a former NFL player and the advancement officer at Hebron Christian Academy. He shares about growing up on the road, his path to the NFL, getting drafted by the Atlanta Falcons and signing a long-term contract with the Cleveland Browns. Through it all, he discusses the role faith played in his football career and what went into his decision to retire.
The Joy of Leadership Podcast can be found on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Music, Google Play, and Sound Cloud.
Episode Breakdown
- (0:00) Introduction
- (0:41) Growing up on the road
- (7:16) Kevin’s path to salvation
- (12:11) Getting recruited to the University of Tulsa
- (21:58) The process of getting into the NFL
- (31:57) Getting drafted to the Atlanta Falcons
- (49:58) Stories from the NFL
- (57:29) Signing with the Cleveland Brown
- (1:03:20) Deciding to call it quits
- (1:05:48) Coming to Hebron Christian Academy
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Episode 10: Letting God Have Sway (Dr. James Taylor)
Episode Details
In the 10th and final episode of season 2 on the Joy of Leadership Podcast, the tables have turned, as Dr. James Taylor is in the hot seat and interviewed by Scottie Johns, the chairman of the board at Hebron Christian Academy. He shares why he started a podcast, how a Toyota Tacoma brought him to HCA, how God called him into ministry and his path into Christian leadership. Now finishing up his third year as the Head of School at Hebron, Dr. Taylor talks about the challenges of Christian education, how he handles conflict and what he envisions for the future of HCA.
The Joy of Leadership Podcast can be found on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Music, Google Play, and Sound Cloud.
Episode Breakdown
- (0:00) The interviewer becomes the interviewee
- (1:11) The start of The Joy of Leadership Podcast
- (3:18) How a Toyota Tacoma brought James to Hebron
- (10:57) Growing up in Canada
- (15:00) Being called into ministry
- (21:04) Marrying his bride
- (24:03) The path to becoming a Head of School
- (27:23) The challenges in Christian education
- (35:04) How to be approachable and handle conflict
- (45:02) Envisioning the future of Hebron Christian Academy
- (55:33) How to support HCA
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Season 1
- Episode 1: Fighting for Faith in the Supreme Court (David Cortman)
- Episode 2: Iron Sharpens Iron (Jonathan Gess)
- Episode 3: Leading Together (Johnson & Summer Bowie)
- Episode 4: Christianity in the Acting World (Matt Mangum)
- Episode 5: How Mercedes Benz Stadium United Atlanta (Greg Beadles)
- Episode 6: It's My Pleasure (Nancy Easterling)
- Episode 7: Thriving in Ministry (Landon Dowden)
- Episode 8: Money isn't Everything (Joel Ferdinand)
- Episode 9: Godβs Calling to Neurosurgery (Dr. Matthew Hazzard)
- Episode 10: Becoming UGAβs most successful QB (David Greene)
- Episode 11: How The Elf on the Shelf Became an Empire (Chanda Bell)
- Episode 12: Impacting the Community Through Family Dentistry (Dr. Marty Mazzawi)
Episode 1: Fighting for Faith in the Supreme Court (David Cortman)
Episode Details
In episode #1 on the Joy of Leadership Podcast, Dr. James Taylor sits down with David Cortman, who serves as senior counsel and vice president of U.S. litigation with Alliance Defending Freedom. He has practiced law for over 25 years, and currently supervises attorneys and legal staff who specialize in constitutional law, focusing on religious freedom, free speech, and sanctity of life.
The Joy of Leadership Podcast can be found on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Music, Google Play, and Sound Cloud.
Episode Breakdown
- (1:30) Personal background and journey
- (7:05) Career change / Law School
- (11:30) Mentoring the next generation
- (14:35) US Supreme Court ruling on Maine’s ban of using public funds at religious schools
- (16:35) Future impact in ruling of Maine’s case for the Establishment Clause
- (21:05) Separation of Church and State
- (24:30) Supreme Court ruling’s impact on Georgia GOAL
- (29:58) Freedom of religion for every faith
- (32:30) Social and political division in the United States
- (35:58) Cortman argues and wins religious liberties case in front of US Supreme Court
- (41:00) Importance of standing up for religious liberties in today’s culture
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Episode 2: Iron Sharpens Iron (Jonathan Gess)
Episode Details
In episode No. 2 on The Joy of Leadership Podcast, Dr. James Taylor sits down with first-year Hebron football head coach Jonathan Gess. Prior to making the move to HCA, Gess won six GHSA State Championships at Eagles Landing Christian Academy and became the first head coach in the state of Georgia to win five consecutive state championships.
In this episode, Gess outlines his hallmarks for a successful program, looks back on his playing career and journey into coaching, and the role of sports and family in today’s culture. Before he led Hebron to a 5-0 record and the best start in school history, Gess shared his vision for HCA and what he thought the team could accomplish during his inaugural season at Hebron.
The Joy of Leadership Podcast can be found on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Music, Google Play, and Sound Cloud.
Episode Breakdown
- (0:46) Expectations coming to Hebron
- (3:30) The hallmarks of a great program
- (6:05) Quality over quantity - Advice from Chip Kelly and Gus Malzahn
- (10:39) Building a staff through belief and relationships
- (13:16) Playing background at The Citadel
- (17:05) The long journey into coaching
- (22:55) The process to six GHSA State Championships at ELCA
- (27:38) The role of sports in family
- (30:58) Previewing the 2022 season and HCA’s jump to Region 8-AAA
- (41:35) Creating a brotherhood at Hebron
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The Joy of Leadership · Iron Sharpens Iron (Episode #2 with Jonathan Gess)
Episode 3: Leading Together (Johnson & Summer Bowie)
Episode Details
In episode No. 3 on The Joy of Leadership Podcast, Dr. James Taylor sits down with Johnson and Summer Bowie, who serve together as the senior pastors at Victory Church. As a husband and wife who share the role of senior pastor, the couple breaks down how the dynamic works for them, developing community in an online world, and intentional diversity within Victory Church.
The Joy of Leadership Podcast can be found on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Music, Google Play, and Sound Cloud.
Episode Breakdown
- (0:00) Introduction
- (2:07) Personal background and leadership journey
- (6:10) The model of husband and wife teams at work
- (10:30) Dynamic of working with a spouse
- (15:57) Mentoring future leaders at Victory Church
- (20:50) Developing community in the church in an online world
- (24:20) Intentional diversity within the church
- (30:04) A trip to the Holy Land
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Episode 4: Christianity in the Acting World (Matt Mangum)
Episode Details
In episode No. 4 on The Joy of Leadership Podcast, Dr. James Taylor sits down with actor Matt Mangum, who talks about his career on The Walking Dead, how his faith plays a role in Hollywood, and where his rollercoaster journey in acting has taken him.
The Joy of Leadership Podcast can be found on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Music, Google Play, and Sound Cloud.
Episode Breakdown
- (0:00) Introduction
- (0:49) Background and start of acting career
- (4:37) Making the move to Los Angeles
- (7:36) Stepping away from the acting industry
- (10:30) Taking faith into the workplace
- (16:50) Role on the Walking Dead
- (20:08) Taking on a persona in acting
- (21:45) Future acting roles
- (22:50) Family dynamic at home
- (26:45) God’s perfect timing
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The Joy of Leadership · Christianity in the Acting World (Episode #4 with Matt Mangum)
Episode 5: How Mercedes Benz Stadium United Atlanta (Greg Beadles)
Episode Details
In episode No. 5 on The Joy of Leadership Podcast, Dr. James Taylor sits down with Greg Beadles, who serves as the Chief Operating Officer for the Atlanta Falcons and the Chief Financial Officer for Arthur Blank’s family of businesses. In this episode, he talks about the 10-year journey to create Mercedes Benz Stadium, how Atlanta United FC was built into a global powerhouse, Arthur Blank being in the people business, and what fans can expect in Atlanta for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The Joy of Leadership Podcast can be found on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Music, Google Play, and Sound Cloud.
Episode Breakdown
- (0:00) Introduction
- (0:17) Current position with AMB Sports & Entertainment
- (3:36) Career progression
- (10:30) The importance of mentors
- (12:33) Named CFO of the Year by The Atlanta Business Chronicle
- (15:00) The building of Mercedes Benz Stadium
- (19:35) Creating Atlanta United FC
- (24:40) Bringing the 2026 FIFA World Cup to Atlanta
- (26:53) Long-standing relationship with Arthur Blank
- (30:56) Leadership and operation roles
- (32:52) Implementing faith in a corporate setting
- (35:46) Making a difference in the community
- (40:50) The Body of Christ on display at work
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The Joy of Leadership · How Mercedes Benz Stadium United Atlanta (Episode #5 with Greg Beadles)
Episode 6: It's My Pleasure (Nancy Easterling)
Episode Details
In episode No. 6 on The Joy of Leadership Podcast, Dr. James Taylor sits down with Nancy Easterling, who spent 24 years in financial services as a senior vice president for Bank of America and Fifth Third Bank, before becoming a senior principal operations lead at Chick-Fil-A. As a leader at one of the most popular fast food restaurants in the country, she outlines how Chick-Fil-A shifted focus during the pandemic, how the company invests in the community, and the challenges she faced immigrating from Seoul, South Korea.
The Joy of Leadership Podcast can be found on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Music, Google Play, and Sound Cloud.
Episode Breakdown
- (0:00) Introduction
- (0:35) Background and leadership roles
- (2:20) Leadership position Chick-Fil-A
- (3:45) How Chick-Fil-A maneuvered COVID-19
- (8:19) CFA’s transition from dine-in to curbside
- (12:00) Employee training – It’s my pleasure!
- (17:17) A faith-based organization in the corporate world
- (21:14) CFA making a difference in the community
- (24:07) Management and leadership principles
- (31:08) Personal and family background
- (37:30) Facing gender and racial challenges during career
- (42:04) Navigating career options in college
- (45:25) Living in the center of God’s will
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Episode 7: Thriving in Ministry (Landon Dowden)
Episode Details
In episode No. 7 on The Joy of Leadership Podcast, Dr. James Taylor sits down with Landon Dowden, who serves as the Lead Pastor at Hebron Church. With nearly two decades of experience as a lead pastor, Landon talks about the challenges of pastoral leadership, how he creates and casts a vision as a leader, and what balance looks like between his family and ministry.
The Joy of Leadership Podcast can be found on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Music, Google Play, and Sound Cloud.
Episode Breakdown
- (0:00) Introduction
- (0:28) Challenges of pastoral leadership
- (5:00) Embracing God’s calling
- (9:40) Surrendering to the Lord’s path
- (14:35) Creating and casting a vision as a leader
- (20:43) Passions within senior pastoral role
- (25:24) Balance between family and ministry
- (29:10) Living a role vs. being a real person
- (37:06) Tips on studying God’s word
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The Joy of Leadership · Thriving in Ministry (Episode #7 with Landon Dowden)
Episode 8: Money isn't Everything (Joel Ferdinand)
Episode Details
In episode No. 8 on The Joy of Leadership Podcast, Dr. James Taylor sits down with Joel Ferdinand, who serves as the Managing Partner for Litigation & Global General Counsel at FisherBroyles Law Firm. He shares his experience of learning his calling into law at a young age, how he strives to be genuine, authentic, and honest with his finances, and opens up about his faith journey.
The Joy of Leadership Podcast can be found on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Music, Google Play, and Sound Cloud.
Episode Breakdown
- (0:00) Introduction
- (0:17) Professional background
- (1:58) Business as usual during COVID-19
- (3:55) Career calling into law
- (7:52) Finding a passion at work
- (10:46) Following God’s plan from a young age
- (14:25) Being genuine, authentic, and honest with finances
- (27:18) Faith journey and parental influence
- (35:54) Management style at work and home
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Episode 9: Godβs Calling to Neurosurgery (Dr. Matthew Hazzard)
Episode Details
In episode No. 9 on The Joy of Leadership Podcast, Dr. James Taylor sits down with Dr. Matthew Hazzard, a board-certiο¬ed neurosurgeon with Advanced Neurosurgery Associates. He shares his journey to becoming a neurosurgeon, how his faith takes center stage in pre-op with his patients, and how healthcare in the United States could work better for more people.
The Joy of Leadership Podcast can be found on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Music, Google Play, and Sound Cloud.
Episode Breakdown
- (0:00) Introduction
- (0:30) Professional background
- (1:22) Journey to becoming a neurosurgeon
- (9:31) The formative years at Spring Arbor University
- (11:08) First round of medical school applications
- (15:37) Duke bound during medical school match day
- (17:37) Sleepless nights completing residency
- (20:48) Typical work week of a neurosurgeon
- (23:09) Incorporating faith into daily routine
- (28:49) Balancing personal life with career
- (31:57) Healthcare in the United States
- (35:40) Experiencing medical miracles
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Episode 10: Becoming UGAβs most successful QB (David Greene)
Episode Details
In episode No. 10 on The Joy of Leadership Podcast, Dr. James Taylor sits down with David Greene, the most successful quarterback in UGA history. He shares his journey to UGA, his favorite moments in Athens, the impact of Mark Richt on his life, transitioning to life in the NFL, and how his priorities have changed following his playing career.
The Joy of Leadership Podcast can be found on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Music, Google Play, and Sound Cloud.
Episode Breakdown
- (0:00) Introduction
- (0:50) The competitive switch is flipped at 7 years old
- (4:04) Facing adversity in high school
- (5:47) The college offers start rolling in
- (7:35) The commercialization of high school football
- (9:38) Adjusting to the bright lights at UGA
- (14:27) Developing as a leader under Mark Richt
- (19:07) The impact of Mark Richt on young men
- (23:09) The moments that defined his career at Georgia
- (27:10) Transitioning from college to the NFL
- (34:09) The brutal business of professional football
- (42:06) Going from UGA legend to backup QB
- (45:56) Changing priorities following playing career
- (51:57) Applying faith to everyday life
- (55:04) Lessons from dad
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Episode 11: How The Elf on the Shelf Became an Empire (Chanda Bell)
Episode Details
In a special holiday episode of The Joy of Leadership Podcast, Dr. James Taylor sits down with Chanda Bell, who co-authored The Elf on the Shelf book, which is the fourth-best selling children’s book of all time. She shares how her family turned a simple Christmas tradition into a worldwide phenomenon, the early struggles of self publishing the book, the future of The Lumistella Company, and how she incorporates faith into her company.
The Joy of Leadership Podcast can be found on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Music, Google Play, and Sound Cloud.
Episode Breakdown
- (0:00) Introduction
- (0:38) A look back to the inception of The Elf on the Shelf
- (4:14) The struggles of publishing the original book
- (7:58) Going all in on self publishing
- (9:35) Hot off the press - selling one copy at a time
- (12:18) Turning a book into a business
- (16:25) The first big breakthrough thanks to Jennifer Garner
- (18:48) Living out the mission, vision, and purpose of The Lumistella Company
- (26:39) Building partnerships and looking to the future
- (35:12) Incorporating faith into her leadership role
- (40:47) How The Lumistella Company uses its platform to give back
- (45:46) How the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade balloon came to be
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Episode 12: Impacting the Community Through Family Dentistry (Dr. Marty Mazzawi)
Episode Details
In a special season one bonus episode on The Joy of Leadership Podcast, Dr. James Taylor sits down with Dr. Marty Mazzawi from Mazzawi Family Dentistry and the owner of Slow Pour Brewing Company. He shares about the joy of doing business with family, how his faith journey has shaped his life, and what giving back to the community looks like in his role as a business owner.
The Joy of Leadership Podcast can be found on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Music, Google Play, and Sound Cloud.
Episode Breakdown
- (0:00) Introduction
- (0:25) The history of Mazzawi Family Dentistry
- (5:00) The challenges and advantages of a family business
- (8:03) How his faith journey has shaped his life
- (10:28) His wife (Zoe) serving as the rock for the family
- (12:17) Incorporating faith and community into his career
- (16:16) Raising children to love the Lord
- (20:55) How Slow Pour Brewing is evolving and growing
- (23:23) What impacting lives looks like at his breweries
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