The Today Counts Show: Recent Episodes
Jim Piper
The Today Counts Show is a podcast about life and leadership. It recognizes the importance of both history and the future yet today is where we are and it deserves our very best. You will learn about faith, relationships, leadership, problem solving, and a host of subjects relevant to your daily life. Our format includes interviews, coaching segments, and new opportunities for our listeners.
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Genesis 34 is one of the most difficult and emotionally complex chapters in the entire Bible. In this episode of The Genesis Project, Jim Piper, Matt Martin, and Winston Harris walk through the story of Dinah, Shechem, Jacob, Simeon, and Levi to uncover powerful lessons about leadership, responsibility, justice, passivity, and the devastating ripple effects of sin.
Why does Jacob remain silent when his daughter is violated? Were Simeon and Levi justified in their response? What happens when leaders fail to act? And what can modern leaders learn from one of the darkest chapters in Scripture?
Throughout this conversation, the team explores the dangers of passive leadership, the consequences of revenge, the misuse of sacred things for personal agendas, and the importance of standing for what is right. Most importantly, they discuss how God continues to work through broken people and broken situations to accomplish His purposes.
Whether you're a business leader, ministry leader, parent, mentor, or someone seeking to grow in faith and character, this episode offers timeless biblical wisdom for navigating difficult decisions and leading with courage, integrity, and conviction.
In This Episode:
✅ Genesis 34 explained verse-by-verse
✅ Leadership lessons from Jacob's silence
✅ Dinah, Shechem, Simeon, and Levi analyzed
✅ The dangers of passivity and poor leadership
✅ How sin impacts families, communities, and future generations
✅ Biblical leadership principles for today's leaders
✅ Why character matters more than strategy
Key Takeaway:
"A leader's greatest failures often come not from what they do—but from what they refuse to do."
If this episode challenges or encourages you, be sure to like, subscribe, and share it with a friend. New episodes of The Genesis Project are released regularly as we journey through the book of Genesis and discover leadership, faith, and life lessons that still apply today.
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What does it mean to be a man in 2026?
In a culture filled with competing definitions of masculinity, many men are searching for clarity, purpose, and direction. Some voices equate manhood with power and dominance. Others encourage passivity and the avoidance of responsibility. But what does healthy, biblical masculinity actually look like?
In this episode, host Jim Piper and co-host Winston Harris explore one of the most important leadership conversations of our time: manhood, character, and purpose.
Together they discuss:
• Why masculinity has become such a debated topic in modern culture
• The growing challenges of loneliness, identity, and purpose among men
• How the decline of mentorship has impacted younger generations
• The influence of social media on expectations of masculinity
• Why healthy masculinity isn't found in aggression or passivity
• The difference between strength and intimidation
• The role of courage, integrity, and emotional maturity in leadership
• What servant leadership teaches us about becoming a trustworthy man
• Practical advice for young men, husbands, fathers, and older mentors
The conversation centers around five key characteristics of healthy masculinity:
✅ Responsibility
✅ Courage
✅ Integrity
✅ Emotional Maturity
✅ Servant Leadership
One of the most powerful insights from this episode:
"Masculinity isn't about proving you're a man. It's about becoming the kind of man others can trust."
Whether you're a young leader trying to find your footing, a husband seeking to lead your family well, a father shaping the next generation, or a mentor investing in others, this conversation offers practical wisdom rooted in biblical principles and real-world leadership.
The goal of this podcast is to equip leaders to grow in character, purpose, and impact while leading with integrity at work, at home, and in their communities.
Key Question:
When people experience your life, do they feel safer, stronger, and more encouraged because you were there?
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Could Islam overtake America?
It's a question that's increasingly discussed in the media, on social platforms, and in conversations about culture, religion, and the future of the United States. But is the concern rooted in reality—or in fear?
In this episode, host Jim Piper and co-host Winston Harris, explore the differences between Christianity and Islam, and discuss how Christians should respond with wisdom rather than panic.
Together they discuss:
• Why so many people are asking this question today
• Immigration, global conflicts, and changing religious landscapes
• What the demographic data actually says about Islam in America
• The rise of secularism, individualism, and spiritual apathy
• Why Christianity's greatest challenge may not be another religion
• Key worldview differences between Christianity and Islam
• The role of Jesus in Christianity and Islam• Salvation, Scripture, and foundational beliefs
• How Christians can engage people of other faiths with truth and love
• Why fear is a poor substitute for faithful discipleship
One of the most powerful insights from this conversation is that the future of Christianity in America may depend less on what other groups are doing and more on whether Christians remain committed to living out their faith.
As Jesus taught in Matthew 5, believers are called to be salt and light—preserving truth, demonstrating love, and influencing culture through faithful living.
Whether you're a business leader, ministry leader, student, or someone trying to understand the cultural and spiritual shifts happening around us, this episode offers a thoughtful and biblical framework for navigating these important questions.
Key Takeaway:The greatest threat to Christianity isn't necessarily opposition from the outside—it's apathy from within.
The goal of this podcast is to equip leaders with biblical principles, practical wisdom, and thoughtful conversations that help them grow in character, purpose, and impact while leading with integrity at work, at home, and in their communities.
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What happened to Esau?
After twenty years of separation, betrayal, anger, and broken trust, Genesis 33 records one of the most powerful reconciliation stories in Scripture. Jacob returns home expecting conflict, yet encounters something completely unexpected: grace.
In this episode of The Genesis Project, host Jim Piper, co-host Winston Harris, and guest Matt Martin walk through Genesis 33 and explore the reunion between Jacob and Esau.
Together they discuss:
• Why Esau's response is one of the most surprising moments in Genesis
• What may have happened during the twenty years between the brothers' separation
• The role forgiveness plays in restoring broken relationships
• How God works in people's lives even when we cannot see it
• Why understanding someone's story creates compassion and better leadership
• The connection between grace, reconciliation, and spiritual maturity
• How family conflict can be healed through humility and forgiveness
• Leadership lessons hidden within one of the Bible's most emotional reunions
One of the biggest takeaways from this conversation is that we often judge people based on a single chapter of their story while God is still writing the rest.
Just as Jacob was transformed through wrestling with God, Esau appears to have experienced a transformation of his own. The result is a powerful picture of forgiveness, reconciliation, and the kind of grace that changes generations.
Whether you're navigating conflict, leading a team, restoring a relationship, or seeking biblical wisdom for life and leadership, this conversation offers timeless insights on character, compassion, and redemption.
Key Question: If someone who hadn't seen you in ten years met you today, what would they say has changed?
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In this episode, host Jim Piper and co-host Winston Harris explore one of the most overlooked leadership skills: self-awareness.
Many leaders spend years trying to improve their influence, communication, and decision-making without first understanding themselves. But the reality is that leadership starts with self-leadership.
Using the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator, Jim and Winston discuss how understanding your personality can help you identify your strengths, recognize your blind spots, and become a more intentional leader.
In this episode, they discuss:
• Why self-awareness is the foundation of effective leadership
• How personality influences decision-making, conflict, and communication
• Common misconceptions about introverts, extroverts, thinkers, and feelers
• The difference between understanding your personality and being limited by it
• How strengths can become weaknesses when left unmanaged
• Why comparison creates confusion but self-awareness creates confidence
• Practical leadership applications for different personality types
• How understanding your wiring can improve your marriage, parenting, ministry, and leadership.
They also dive into their own personality types and reflect on lessons they've learned through years of leadership experience.
One of the most powerful ideas from this conversation:
You don't become a better leader by becoming someone else. You become a better leader by understanding who you are and stewarding it well.
Whether you're a business owner, entrepreneur, ministry leader, manager, or emerging leader, this episode will help you better understand how you're wired—and how to lead yourself more effectively.
The goal of this podcast is to equip leaders with practical wisdom and biblical principles that help them grow in character, purpose, and impact—so they can lead with integrity at work, at home, and in their communities.
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In this episode, host Jim Piper and co-host Winston Harris tackle one of the most important responsibilities of leadership: building the right team.
Whether you're leading a business, ministry, nonprofit, or growing organization, your success is ultimately limited by the people you surround yourself with. Great teams aren't built by accident—they're built through clarity, intentional hiring, strong culture, and purposeful development.
In this conversation, Jim and Winston discuss:
• Why leaders should start with mission and clarity before hiring
• The importance of defining outcomes before filling positions
• How to identify the right people for your team
• Why character, chemistry, and competency all matter
• Common red flags leaders should watch for during the hiring process
• How to avoid costly hiring mistakes
• Questions that reveal the true character of a candidate
• Why onboarding is one of the most overlooked leadership opportunities
• How culture is communicated during a team member's first 90 days
• The difference between simply managing people and truly developing them
They also unpack key leadership principles such as:
✅ Hiring for mission alignment
✅ Building healthy organizational culture
✅ Creating clarity around expectations
✅ Developing coachable team members
✅ Retaining great people through growth and purpose
One of the biggest takeaways from this episode:
Your leadership legacy won't be what you accomplished alone—it will be the people you developed and the team you built.
Whether you're a business owner, entrepreneur, ministry leader, manager, or aspiring leader, this conversation offers practical leadership wisdom you can apply immediately.
The goal of this podcast is to equip leaders with biblical principles, practical tools, and leadership insights that help them grow in character, purpose, and impact—so they can lead with integrity at work, at home, and in their communities.
👉 Subscribe for more conversations on leadership development, business growth, team building, and purpose-driven leadership.
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In this episode, host Jim Piper and co-host Winston Harris tackle one of the most important—and most avoided—skills in leadership: handling conflict and navigating difficult conversations.
Most people view conflict as something to avoid. But conflict isn't the problem. Poorly handled conflict is.
Whether you're leading a business, a team, a ministry, a family, or a relationship, your ability to navigate tension often determines the quality of your influence and the health of your relationships.
In this conversation, Jim and Winston discuss:
• Why leaders avoid difficult conversations
• How delaying conflict often turns small issues into major problems
• Why confrontation doesn't have to be negative
• The CARE framework for approaching difficult conversations
• How to challenge ideas without attacking people
• The difference between debate and discussion
• Why healthy teams disagree more openly than unhealthy teams
• How to create psychological safety in leadership environments
• The art of negotiation and finding win-win outcomes
• Why understanding interests matters more than arguing positions
They also unpack practical leadership principles for:
✅ Team conflict
✅ Workplace communication
✅ Marriage and family conversations
✅ Ministry leadership
✅ Peer-to-peer disagreements
✅ Negotiation and influence
One of the most powerful ideas from this episode is simple:
Conflict handled poorly destroys trust. Conflict handled well builds trust.
Great leaders don't avoid hard conversations. They learn how to have them with courage, humility, and clarity.
The goal of this podcast is to equip leaders with practical wisdom and biblical principles that help them grow in character, purpose, and impact—so they can lead with integrity at work, at home, and in their communities.
Whether you're a business leader, entrepreneur, manager, ministry leader, or emerging leader, this episode will help you communicate more effectively, build stronger relationships, and navigate conflict with confidence.
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In this episode, host Jim Piper sits down with author Gordon Goetsch to discuss his newly released book, A Long Way Home—the remarkable true story of his father, Clemence Goetsch, a teenage soldier who forged his father's signature to enlist in World War II and embarked on a journey that would change generations.
From the battlefields of North Africa to the brutal conditions of German prisoner-of-war camps, Clem endured unimaginable hardship, loss, and suffering. But as Gordon shares throughout this conversation, the most important battles weren't fought with weapons—they were fought in the heart.
Together, Jim and Gordon explore:
• The incredible true story behind A Long Way Home
• Leadership lessons forged through adversity and suffering
• The power of resilience when circumstances seem impossible
• How friendship, sacrifice, and loyalty can shape generations
• Why surviving a war doesn't necessarily end the struggle
• The spiritual battles that often follow life's greatest victories
• The role faith, grace, and redemption play in healing deep wounds
• How one man's story continues to impact leaders, families, and communities today
This conversation is about much more than World War II.
It's about courage in uncertainty.
Character under pressure.
Leadership through hardship.
And the redemptive power of God's grace.
Whether you're a business leader, entrepreneur, ministry leader, veteran, history enthusiast, or someone navigating your own difficult season, this episode offers timeless wisdom on perseverance, purpose, and faith.
If you've ever wondered how great leaders are formed—or how God can bring redemption from even the darkest chapters—this conversation is for you.
📖 Learn more about A Long Way Home and the incredible story behind it by reading it here: https://www.amazon.com/Long-Way-Home-Memoir-ebook/dp/B0GX2VPQ6V/ref=sr_1_1?crid=17BU3XJ97WS6D&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.OBjmlbOBdJhf7b-bsLeXNnoko4vv7k4fVOaokyTn64iV0NItlMJvldOJIiRDEQbDMV6VXKZG_kXzKnfBgJDaLjMaUQTw31QNB3LrzRF5LkPkUNzYg_d-K3D9Ac42u3tuRY2aNilGRQZsAMTj7b2PXk1U3eZfL8Rx8GmHj0M1mbo.dJpr2syZas6otIGMWdxqJ3qLnb5fZVnL-EUo5PWDtog&dib_tag=se&keywords=a+long+way+home+gordon+goetsch&qid=1781885745&sprefix=a+long+way+home+gordon+%2Caps%2C210&sr=8-1
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In this episode, host Jim Piper and co-host Winston Harris explore three unforgettable moments from sports history—and the timeless leadership lessons hidden within them.
From hockey to golf to football, this conversation reveals how great leaders are forged long before the spotlight arrives. Because whether you're leading a team, a business, a ministry, or a family, the principles that create success under pressure remain the same.
In this episode, they discuss:
• The 1980 "Miracle on Ice" and how great leaders build belief before results exist
• Why culture and identity matter more than talent alone
• How leaders can transform what a team believes is possible
• What Tiger Woods teaches about preparation, composure, and carrying pressure well
• Why confidence isn't built in the spotlight—but in the unseen work beforehand
• The leadership lessons behind Bill Belichick and decision-making under pressure
• How to make difficult decisions when the outcome isn't guaranteed
• Why trust, credibility, and process matter more than immediate results
• The difference between being liked and being effective as a leader
Throughout the conversation, three leadership qualities emerge:
Conviction. Composure. Clarity.
These aren't traits that appear overnight. They're developed through preparation, adversity, and the daily choices leaders make when nobody is watching.
Whether you're a business leader, entrepreneur, coach, ministry leader, or aspiring leader, this episode will challenge you to think differently about influence, preparation, and leadership under pressure.
The goal of this podcast is to equip leaders with practical wisdom and biblical principles that help them grow in character, purpose, and impact—so they can lead with integrity at work, at home, and in their communities.
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In this episode, host Jim Piper and co-host Winston Harris tackle one of the most important conversations happening in faith communities today: deconstruction, spiritual formation, and why people walk away from their faith.
This isn't a debate. It's a conversation.
Together, they explore how our beliefs are formed, what happens when those beliefs are challenged, and why so many people find themselves wrestling with questions they can no longer ignore. They discuss the difference between inherited faith and owned faith, the role of doubt in spiritual growth, and what leaders often misunderstand about people who are deconstructing.
In this episode, they discuss:
• What spiritual formation is and why it matters
• The difference between inherited faith, examined faith, and abandoned faith
• Common triggers that lead people to deconstruct their beliefs
• How legalism, performance-based belonging, and unprocessed doubt can create fragile faith foundations
• Why questions aren't necessarily the enemy of faith
• The impact of culture, technology, and institutional distrust on modern belief systems
• What leaders, churches, and communities often get wrong when someone begins questioning their faith
• How healthy reconstruction and resilient faith are possible after doubt and struggle
• Why relationships are often the key factor in helping people navigate difficult seasons of belief
One of the most powerful ideas from this conversation is that resilient faith is not faith without questions—it's faith that has been tested, wrestled with, and chosen again.
Whether you're personally wrestling with faith, love someone who is, or lead people navigating these questions, this episode offers a thoughtful and compassionate framework for understanding the journey.
The goal of this podcast is to equip leaders with biblical principles, practical wisdom, and meaningful conversations that help them lead with character, purpose, and integrity at work, at home, and in their communities.
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In this episode of The Genesis Project, host Jim Piper and co-host Winston Harris continue their journey through the Book of Genesis by unpacking the tension, fear, and transformation found in Genesis 32.
As Jacob prepares to reunite with Esau—the brother who once wanted to kill him—Jacob is overwhelmed with fear and uncertainty. In response, he sends gifts ahead, hoping to make peace, even if it costs him a significant portion of his wealth.
But this chapter goes far deeper than strategy and reconciliation.
In this conversation, they explore:
• Why Jacob reminds God of His promises in moments of fear
• The wisdom of valuing peace over possessions
• How even after encountering assurance from God, Jacob still wrestles with anxiety
• Why suffering often becomes the platform God uses to shape leaders
• The tension between wanting influence without enduring hardship
• The deeper meaning behind Jacob wrestling with God—and refusing to let go without a blessing
This episode highlights a powerful truth for leaders and believers alike:
Transformation often happens through wrestling.
Through tension.
Through surrender.
Because growth isn’t always found in comfort—it’s often found in the struggle that changes us.
The Genesis Project exists to equip leaders with biblical principles for life, leadership, and personal growth—helping you develop character, purpose, wisdom, and lasting impact.
Whether you're a business owner, entrepreneur, ministry leader, or emerging leader, this conversation offers insight into fear, faith, perseverance, and what it means to trust God in uncertain seasons.
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In this episode of The Genesis Project, host Jim Piper, co-host Winston Harris, and guests Matt Martin and Gary Harpst continue their deep dive through the Book of Genesis by unpacking the tension, leadership lessons, and spiritual themes found in Genesis 31.
This chapter marks a major turning point for Jacob. After years of manipulation, pressure, and changing agreements under Laban, God instructs Jacob to leave—and Jacob finally confronts the dysfunction he’s endured for years.
In this conversation, they explore:
• Why God sometimes calls leaders to leave unhealthy environments
• How Jacob’s history of deception unexpectedly becomes useful for survival
• The deeper meaning behind Rachel taking Laban’s gods
• Jacob’s emotional confrontation with Laban—and the courage it required
• The importance of integrity, stewardship, and honoring your word
• How Laban ultimately uses the fear of God and covenant principles to protect himself from future conflict.
They also discuss how Genesis 31 reveals the tension between self-preservation, justice, wisdom, and faith—especially when navigating difficult leadership relationships.
This episode challenges leaders to ask:
What do you do when the environment you’ve been faithful in becomes unhealthy?
And how do you leave without compromising your integrity?
The Genesis Project exists to equip leaders with biblical principles for life, business, and leadership—helping you grow in character, purpose, wisdom, and impact.
Whether you're a business owner, entrepreneur, ministry leader, or emerging leader, this conversation offers powerful insight into navigating conflict, leadership pressure, and personal conviction.
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In this episode, host Jim Piper and co-host Winston Harris unpack one of the most overlooked leadership skills in business and life: 360 Degree Leadership.
Most people think leadership only flows downward—to a team, employees, or people under your authority. But real influence works in every direction.
This conversation dives into what it means to lead:
• UP — influencing those above you
• ACROSS — building credibility and influence with peers
• DOWN — developing and empowering the people you lead
Together, they explore practical leadership principles for navigating organizations, building trust, handling difficult leaders, and creating influence even when you don’t have the title or authority.
In this episode, they discuss:
• Why leadership is more than just positional authority
• How to effectively “lead up” without threatening leadership
• The importance of bringing solutions, not just problems
• Why peer-to-peer influence is built on credibility and consistency
• How generosity and vulnerability strengthen leadership influence
• The difference between managing people and developing people
• Why helping people feel genuinely seen changes performance
• How to know when to redirect, release, or reposition someone with care
Whether you're a business owner, entrepreneur, manager, ministry leader, or emerging leader, this episode will challenge you to rethink how influence actually works.
Because leadership isn’t about controlling people—
It’s about creating impact in every direction you move.
The goal of this podcast is to equip leaders with biblical principles, practical wisdom, and purpose-driven leadership tools to help you grow in character, integrity, and influence at work, at home, and in your community.
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In this episode of The Genesis Project, host Jim Piper, co-host Winston Harris, and guest Matt Martin continue their deep dive through the Book of Genesis—exploring the tension, complexity, and leadership lessons found in Genesis 30.
This chapter reveals a unique contrast: emotional decision-making vs. strategic growth.
As Rachel and Leah name their children out of deep emotional expression, the family dynamic begins to shift. What was meant to be intimate becomes transactional—introducing competition, control, and human striving into the equation.
Meanwhile, Jacob steps into a different phase—leveraging knowledge, discipline, and opportunity to grow in wealth and influence, even under pressure from Laban.
In this conversation, they unpack:
• How emotional reactions can shape decisions—and outcomes
• The danger of turning meaningful relationships into transactions
• What leaders can learn about intentionality vs. reactionary living
• How Jacob used seemingly insignificant knowledge to create opportunity
• The intersection of God’s provision and personal stewardship
• Why growth often comes from what others overlook
This episode challenges leaders to think differently:
Are you reacting out of emotion—or building with intention?
The Genesis Project is designed to equip leaders with biblical principles for life and leadership—helping you grow in character, clarity, and impact.
Whether you're a business leader, entrepreneur, or emerging leader, this conversation offers insight into decision-making, strategy, and long-term growth.
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Starting and leading a business comes with opportunity—but also pressure. And for many leaders, the biggest mistake isn’t a lack of effort… it’s saying yes to too much.
In this episode, host Jim Piper and co-host Winston Harris take a deeper look at what it really means to lead well—especially when life and business both demand more of you.
This conversation unpacks the tension many leaders face: being stretched thin, constantly busy, and slowly drifting away from clarity, purpose, and sustainability.
In this episode, they discuss:
• Why saying “yes” to everything can leave leaders burned out and barely holding on
• The importance of learning to say no to the wrong things to protect the right things
• How different seasons of life and leadership require different priorities
• Navigating increased pressure from business, family, and personal responsibilities
• Why having a clear purpose and “why” acts as a compass for decision-making
• How to stay aligned with your mission and lead with intentionality and discipline
Whether you're an entrepreneur, business owner, or emerging leader, this episode will challenge you to lead with greater clarity—so you can build something sustainable without losing yourself in the process.
If you’re ready to lead with focus, purpose, and integrity, this conversation is for you.
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In this episode, host Jim Piper, co-host Winston Harris, and guest Carson Murphy dive into a powerful conversation on discipleship across generations—what’s changed, what hasn’t, and what truly matters.
As culture shifts and leadership evolves, the call to disciple others remains the same—but the approach often looks different. This episode unpacks how each generation has engaged discipleship, while emphasizing the timeless foundation found in the teachings of Jesus Christ.
In this conversation, they explore:
• How discipleship has shifted across generations—and what we can learn from it
• Why being intentional with your words is critical in leadership and influence
• The importance of staying rooted in the truth and commands of Jesus Christ
• How to effectively disciple others while continuing to grow yourself
• What it looks like to lead with clarity, purpose, and biblical conviction
Whether you're a business leader, pastor, mentor, or emerging leader, this episode offers practical insight into building a life of intentional influence and lasting impact.
If you want to lead others well, communicate with purpose, and stay grounded in truth—this conversation is for you.
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In this episode of The Genesis Project, host Jim Piper, co-host Winston Harris, and guest Matt Martin continue their deep dive through the Book of Genesis—unpacking the powerful leadership and life lessons found in Genesis 29.
This chapter follows Jacob as he steps into a new season—seeking a wife, building a future, and ultimately encountering the consequences of his past actions.
After meeting Rachel at the well, Jacob agrees to work for Laban in order to marry her. But in a dramatic turn, the deceiver is deceived—leading to years of additional labor, unexpected outcomes, and deeper lessons about character, integrity, and patience.
In this conversation, they explore:
• How deception comes full circle—and what leaders can learn about consequences
• The tension between cultural customs and personal integrity
• The role of Leah in the deception—and the complexity of human decisions
• How God draws near to the overlooked, rejected, and brokenhearted
• Leah’s transformation—from seeking validation to finding identity in God
• The significance of Judah—a shift from striving for approval to living in praise and purpose
This episode challenges leaders to reflect:
Are you building your life on validation from others—or on purpose from God?
The Genesis Project is designed to equip leaders with biblical principles for life and leadership—helping you grow in character, resilience, and impact, so you can lead with integrity in every area of life.
Whether you're a business leader, entrepreneur, or emerging leader, this conversation offers insight into handling setbacks, navigating consequences, and aligning your identity with purpose.
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Other episodes that might interest you:
“If You Bless Me…” — Jacob’s Conditional Faith & Leadership Lessons | Genesis 28 Study - Episode 207
https://youtu.be/uOhWqFrIJYY
The Power of a Blessing: Leadership, Deception & Consequences | Genesis 27 Study | Episode 204
https://youtu.be/ilHZMNNSrbU
Genesis 26 Explained: Isaac, Conflict, and God’s Blessing | Ep. 199 https://youtu.be/O4Gw5iRtFUI
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Starting a business sounds exciting—but most people underestimate what it actually takes to build something that lasts.
In this episode, host Jim Piper and co-host Winston Harris break down the real foundations of starting and sustaining a business—from avoiding common pitfalls to making wise decisions early on.
This conversation goes beyond surface-level advice and dives into the practical and leadership-driven principles that determine whether a business succeeds or fails.
In this episode, they cover:
• The most common reasons new businesses fail (and how to avoid them)
• What to focus on before you even start your business
• How to think about cash flow, sustainability, and growth
• When to expand your services—and when to stay focused
• The importance of building with intentionality, clarity, and long-term vision
• How biblical principles can shape ethical, impactful leadership in business
Whether you're an entrepreneur, business owner, or aspiring leader, this episode will help you approach business with wisdom, discipline, and purpose.
If you're serious about building something meaningful—and leading with integrity—this conversation is for you.
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In this episode of The Genesis Project, host Jim Piper, co-host Winston Harris, and guest Matt Martin continue their journey through the Book of Genesis—diving into the depth and leadership implications of Genesis 28.
This chapter captures a pivotal moment in the life of Jacob—from receiving the blessing of Isaac to stepping into the unknown, where he has a life-altering encounter with God.
In this conversation, they unpack:
• The contrast between Jacob and Esau—and how a victim mindset can lead to reactive, misaligned decisions
• Why environments aren’t what make moments sacred—God’s presence does
• How Jacob’s dream reflects a pattern of divine encounter seen through generations
• The leadership lesson behind recognizing value where God has already placed it
• A deep look at Jacob’s vow—and what it reveals about conditional faith vs. surrendered trust
As Jacob steps into uncertainty, this episode challenges leaders to evaluate their own journey:
Are you recognizing where God is already moving?
Or are you waiting for conditions to feel right before fully committing?
The Genesis Project is designed to equip leaders with biblical principles for life and leadership—helping you grow in character, purpose, and impact, and lead with integrity in every area of life.
Whether you're a business leader, entrepreneur, or an emerging leader, this conversation will sharpen your perspective on faith, mindset, and leadership under pressure.
👉 Subscribe for more episodes that help you lead with clarity, conviction, and purpose.
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Other episodes that might interest you:
The Power of a Blessing: Leadership, Deception & Consequences | Genesis 27 Study | Episode 204
https://youtu.be/ilHZMNNSrbU
How One Bad Decision Tore a Family Apart (Genesis 25 Study) | Ep. 198 https://youtu.be/4Ky9CcasI6Y
Genesis 26 Explained: Isaac, Conflict, and God’s Blessing | Ep. 199 https://youtu.be/O4Gw5iRtFUI
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Are you stuck between the desire to start your own business and the fear of losing stability? You’re not alone. In this episode of The Today Counts Show, Jim Piper Jr. and Winston Harris tackle one of the most life-altering questions aspiring entrepreneurs face: Should I finally start the business, or should I play it safe?
Together, they unpack the real tension between entrepreneurship and security, exploring what’s actually at stake—financial risk, personal growth, purpose, and long-term impact. If you’ve been waiting for the “right time” to launch your business, this conversation will challenge your thinking and give you the clarity you need to move forward with confidence.
In this episode, you’ll discover:
How to know if you’re truly ready to start a business
The biggest fears holding entrepreneurs back (and how to overcome them)
Practical steps to transition from idea to execution
Why playing it safe might be the riskiest move you can make
Faith-driven insights on calling, purpose, and taking bold action
Whether you're a side hustler, a leader feeling stuck, or someone with a dream you can’t shake, this episode will help you answer the question: Is today the day everything changes?
🎧 Tune in and start building the future you’ve been putting off.
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Leadership carries responsibility, pressure, and at times a heavy emotional weight. In this episode, host Jim Piper sits down with Jonathan Moore, Lead Pastor of Northrock Church, to have an honest conversation about what it really takes to lead well over the long haul.
Together they explore the real challenges leaders face behind the scenes—from avoiding burnout to navigating negative thoughts, handling loss, and carrying the weight of responsibility that comes with influence.
In this conversation, they discuss:
• How leaders maintain personal health and sustainability in demanding roles
• Why hearing life-changing stories fuels passion for ministry and leadership
• Practical ways to combat burnout and negative thought patterns
• Why people are searching for purpose and meaningful impact
• How great leaders create wins and resource others to succeed
• The emotional and spiritual weight that leadership and ministry can carry
Whether you’re a pastor, business leader, entrepreneur, or emerging leader, this episode offers powerful insight into how to lead with clarity, resilience, and purpose.
If you’re looking to grow in leadership, develop healthier rhythms, and lead people with greater impact, this conversation will challenge and encourage you.
Subscribe for more conversations focused on leadership development, character, and purpose-driven influence.
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In this episode of The Genesis Project, host Jim Piper is joined by co-hosts Winston Harris and Matt Martin as they continue their deep dive through the Book of Genesis.
This conversation centers on Genesis 27, one of the most complex and thought-provoking chapters in the story of Jacob, Esau, and their father Isaac.
Together they explore the moral tension, leadership implications, and generational impact of a moment that would permanently shape a family—and ultimately a nation.
In this discussion, they unpack:
• The character decisions made by Jacob and his mother
• The cost of deception and favoritism within leadership and family
• Why a spoken blessing carried irreversible weight in biblical culture
• What modern leaders can learn about integrity, influence, and responsibility
The Genesis Project exists to equip leaders with biblical principles for life and leadership. Through thoughtful conversation and scripture study, the goal is to help you grow in character, purpose, and impact—so you can lead with integrity at work, at home, and in your community.
If you're a business leader, entrepreneur, or emerging leader, these timeless lessons from Genesis offer powerful insight into decision-making, legacy, and leadership under pressure.
📌 Subscribe, share, and join the discussion—because every part counts.
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Other episodes that might interest you:
Episode 195: How to Make Wise Decisions: A Genesis 24 Blueprint - https://youtu.be/VnL3q2sM1BQ
How One Bad Decision Tore a Family Apart (Genesis 25 Study) | Ep. 198 https://youtu.be/4Ky9CcasI6Y
Genesis 26 Explained: Isaac, Conflict, and God’s Blessing | Ep. 199 https://youtu.be/O4Gw5iRtFUI
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Artificial Intelligence is no longer a future concept—it’s actively reshaping the workplace. From automation and machine learning to generative AI tools and data-driven decision-making, the future of work is being rewritten in real time. The question is: are leaders ready?
In this episode of The Today Counts Show, Jim Piper Jr. is joined by Preston Zeller to explore how artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming jobs, leadership strategy, company culture, and workforce development. Together, they unpack what AI-driven innovation means for executives, entrepreneurs, managers, and emerging leaders navigating rapid technological change.
This conversation tackles key questions around AI in the workplace, automation and job disruption, digital transformation, leadership in the age of AI, workforce reskilling, and the ethical implications of artificial intelligence. Rather than fear-based speculation, Jim and Preston provide practical insight into how leaders can leverage AI as a strategic advantage while maintaining integrity, accountability, and human-centered leadership.
If you’re interested in AI trends, business leadership, workplace innovation, technology strategy, and the evolving job market, this episode will equip you to lead confidently in a rapidly changing world.
Subscribe to The Today Counts Show for conversations at the intersection of leadership, faith, culture, and the future of business.
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Burnout isn’t just a personal problem—it’s a leadership, culture, and systems issue. In this episode of The Today Counts Show, Jim Piper Jr. and Winston Harris unpack why burnout has become so widespread across workplaces, and organizations—and why the common explanations often miss the real cause.
This conversation challenges the assumption that burnout is simply about weak boundaries or low resilience. Instead, Jim and Winston explore how broken systems, misaligned expectations, nonstop pressure, and unhealthy leadership cultures quietly drain energy, motivation, and purpose. They examine the difference between personal responsibility and organizational responsibility—and why leaders must address both to create sustainable environments.
Designed for executives, pastors, managers, and team leaders, this episode offers practical insight into burnout prevention, leadership health, workplace culture, emotional exhaustion, and sustainable leadership models. You’ll gain a clearer understanding of how to recognize burnout early, how systems contribute to chronic stress, and what it takes to build cultures where people can thrive long-term.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
-
How leadership decisions contribute to chronic exhaustion
-
The difference between resilience and responsibility
-
Signs your organization may be unintentionally fueling burnout
-
Practical steps leaders can take to create health in their organizations
If you’re leading people—or trying to survive the pressure yourself—this episode reframes burnout in a way that brings clarity, conviction, and hope for real change.
🎙️ Subscribe to The Today Counts Show for conversations at the intersection of faith, culture, leadership, artificial intelligence, and the issues shaping our world today.
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What if the most effective leadership model for today’s marketplace didn’t come from a business school—but from the life and teachings of Jesus?
In this episode of The Today Counts Show, we explore how Jesus’ leadership principles—servant leadership, integrity, humility, accountability, and purpose—can radically transform the way leaders operate in business, culture, and influence. This conversation challenges the assumption that faith and business must be separate, and instead reveals how kingdom values can produce measurable corporate impact.
Jim Piper Jr. is joined by Daniel Tataje, Author, Speaker, and Founder & CEO of Mercy Dental Group, who shares real-world insights on leading organizations with conviction, compassion, and clarity. Together, they discuss how Jesus’ model of leadership builds trust, strengthens culture, drives long-term success, and creates impact beyond profit.
Whether you’re a CEO, entrepreneur, executive, or emerging leader, this episode offers a fresh framework for faith-driven leadership, ethical decision-making, and aligning business success with eternal purpose.
Topics include:
- Servant leadership and its impact on company culture
- Leading with conviction in high-pressure business environments
- Aligning faith, values, and performance
- Why kingdom principles still outperform trendy leadership theories
If you’re asking how faith can meaningfully shape your leadership in business, this episode will challenge—and inspire—the way you lead today.
🎙️ Subscribe to The Today Counts Show for conversations at the intersection of faith, culture, leadership, artificial intelligence, and the issues shaping our world today.
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Is artificial intelligence helping society discover truth—or is it eroding trust at every level?
In this episode of The Today Counts Show, Jim Piper Jr. and co-host Winston Harris unpack the growing influence of artificial intelligence and algorithms on truth, trust, and integrity in today’s digital culture. As AI reshapes media, journalism, leadership, and communication, the question is no longer if it affects us—but how deeply.
This conversation explores:
- How AI algorithms shape news, social media feeds, and public opinion
- The impact of artificial intelligence on truth, misinformation, and trust
- Ethical challenges surrounding AI-generated content, deepfakes, and automation
- What integrity and accountability look like in an algorithm-driven world
- How leaders, churches, and organizations can engage AI with wisdom and discernment
Rather than reacting in fear or blind optimism, this episode offers a balanced, thoughtful discussion on AI ethics, digital trust, leadership responsibility, and cultural influence. Listeners will gain practical insight into navigating emerging technology while remaining grounded in truth, values, and faith.
If you’re interested in artificial intelligence ethics, media literacy, leadership in the digital age, or understanding how technology is reshaping culture and belief, this episode will challenge and equip you.
🎙️ Subscribe to The Today Counts Show for conversations at the intersection of faith, culture, leadership, artificial intelligence, and the issues shaping our world today.
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Genesis 26 is more than a Bible story—it’s a leadership case study.
In this episode of The Today Counts Show, Jim Piper Jr. is joined by Gary Harpst, Winston Harris, and Matt Martin for a roundtable conversation exploring the timeless lessons of Genesis 26, focusing on Isaac’s leadership, conflict, obedience, and trust in God.
As Isaac faces opposition, scarcity, and repeated conflict over wells, this discussion unpacks what it means to lead with humility, perseverance, and faith under pressure. The group examines how God’s blessing often attracts resistance—and why wisdom sometimes means knowing when to contend and when to move on.
Whether you’re a leader, pastor, entrepreneur, or Bible student, this episode connects biblical wisdom to modern leadership challenges, including:
Navigating conflict without losing character
Trusting God’s promises in seasons of resistance
Leading with integrity when success creates tension
Learning when persistence matters—and when peace matters more
If you’re searching for a Genesis 26 Bible study, Christian leadership insights, or practical lessons on faith, conflict resolution, and obedience, this episode offers clarity, depth, and real-world application.
🎙️ The Today Counts Show exists to help leaders think deeper, live wiser, and lead better—because today counts.
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In this episode of The Today Counts Show, host Jim Piper Jr. is joined by co-hosts Winston Harris and Gary Harpst for a powerful conversation through Genesis 25, uncovering how a single impulsive decision between two brothers—Jacob and Esau—ignited generations of conflict and reshaped an entire family legacy.
Together, they explore how family dysfunction, unchecked emotion, favoritism, and short-term thinking can lead to long-term consequences. Esau’s choice to trade his birthright for a temporary meal reveals how spiritual priorities, identity, and leadership responsibility can be lost in moments of pressure and weakness.
This episode connects ancient Scripture to modern life, showing how everyday choices impact families, marriages, siblings, leadership, and generational health. Jim, Winston, and Gary offer biblical insight and practical wisdom on decision-making, conflict resolution, and protecting what matters most when emotions run high.
Whether you’re navigating family tension, leadership challenges, or major life decisions, this conversation provides clarity, conviction, and hope for building a healthier future.
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In this episode of The Today Counts Show, host Jim Piper Jr. is joined by Robin Goad, author of Girl by Birth, Woman by Fire: The Get Real Guide to Becoming the Woman You Were Meant to Be, for a thoughtful and practical conversation on navigating gender dynamics in the workplace.
As teams become more diverse and expectations continue to evolve, leaders must learn how awareness, communication, and emotional intelligence shape healthy cultures. Jim and Robin explore common misunderstandings, unspoken tensions, and leadership blind spots that often emerge around gender dynamics. Drawing from Robin’s experience as an author, speaker, and leader, the conversation highlights how clarity, maturity, and respect can transform team dynamics.
This episode equips leaders to foster trust, strengthen collaboration, and lead with integrity—without fear, confusion, or unnecessary tension. Whether you lead a business, ministry, nonprofit, or team, this discussion offers practical insight for leading well in today’s workplace.
📌 Subscribe, share, and join the discussion—because every part counts.
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In this episode of The Today Counts Show, host Jim Piper Jr. sits down with Mason Moore, Worship Pastor at NorthRock Church, and Dr. Chris Juarez, Campus Pastor at NorthRock Church, to explore what it really means to lead the Church in a different world as a Gen Z leader.
As ministry continues to change at a rapid pace, Gen Z leaders are navigating new pressures while learning timeless lessons in real time. Mason and Chris share honest insights on learning from mistakes, embracing collaboration across generations, and leading with authenticity in a culture that quickly detects what isn’t real. They discuss how failure can become a formative teacher, why shared leadership is essential for sustainable ministry, and how authenticity builds trust with both teams and congregations.
This episode isn’t about having all the answers—it’s about growing through experience, leading with humility, and creating healthy ministry environments where people can thrive. Whether you’re a Gen Z leader, a pastor developing young leaders, or someone invested in the future of the Church, this conversation offers clarity, encouragement, and practical wisdom.
📌 Subscribe, share, and join the discussion—because today counts.
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In this episode of The Today Counts Show, host Jim Piper Jr. unpacks Genesis 24 to reveal a practical, faith-centered blueprint for making wise decisions in seasons of uncertainty, transition, and pressure. Through the story of Abraham’s servant seeking a wife for Isaac, this chapter offers timeless principles on prayer, preparation, patience, and discernment.
Jim walks through how having clear values, dependence on God, discernment, and active faith that shapes decisions that honor God and serve others well. Rather than rushing outcomes or relying on emotion alone, Genesis 24 shows us how wisdom is formed through obedience, humility, and trust in God’s guidance.
Whether you’re facing a major life choice, leadership decision, or everyday crossroads, this episode will equip you with biblical insight and practical tools to help you choose wisely and move forward with confidence.
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In this episode of The Today Counts Show, host Jim Piper Jr. sits down with Darryl Lyons, CEO of Pax Financial Group, to uncover one of the most overlooked forces in leadership: the hidden financial beliefs that shape how great (and bad) leaders think, decide, and influence others. Every leader—whether in business, ministry, or the public sector—operates from a philosophy of money, and that mindset impacts everything from budgeting and stewardship to generosity, risk tolerance, and organizational culture.
Jim and Darryl explore the difference between healthy financial beliefs that strengthen leadership and unhealthy money mindsets that quietly sabotage decision-making and credibility. Drawing from Darryl’s experience leading a national financial firm, this episode blends biblical wisdom, real-world leadership insights, and practical examples to help you recognize the financial assumptions shaping your leadership style.
If you’re ready to grow as a leader, steward resources wisely, and build a healthier relationship with money, this conversation will challenge your perspective and give you tools to lead with confidence and integrity.
📌 Subscribe, share, and join the discussion—because every part counts.
Connect with Darryl Lyons by clicking here!
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In this episode of The Today Counts Show, host Jim Piper Jr, Matt Martin, and Winston Harris walk through Genesis 23, one of the most emotional and significant chapters in Abraham’s life—the death of Sarah. This episode explores what happens when faith meets grief, and how Abraham models strength, honor, and clarity during one of the deepest losses a person can face.
The guys unpack the spiritual, cultural, and leadership implications of Abraham’s response: his intentional grieving, his integrity in securing a burial place, and the way he honors both God and Sarah in a moment of sorrow. This story invites us to consider how our own faith holds up in seasons of pain, transition, and decision-making.
Whether you’re navigating loss or leading others through difficult seasons, this conversation offers perspective, wisdom, and hope rooted in Scripture.
📌 Subscribe, share, and join the discussion as we face the hard parts of Scripture—because every part counts.
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In this episode of The Today Counts Show, host Jim Piper Jr. sits down with Brett Kunkle, founder of Maven and one of today’s leading voices on Christian worldview and apologetics, to tackle a foundational question: Can you really build your worldview on the Bible?
Together, Jim and Brett explore what makes the Bible historically reliable, philosophically sound, and personally trustworthy as the lens through which we understand life, truth, morality, and purpose. They break down common objections, cultural pressures, and the modern tendency to separate faith from everyday thinking.
This conversation will strengthen your confidence in Scripture, challenge how you see the world, and equip you to form a worldview that’s not just inspirational—but rooted, rational, and resilient.
If you’ve ever wrestled with how the Bible speaks into real life, leadership, culture, and decision-making, this episode will give you clarity and direction.
📌 Subscribe, share, and join the discussion as we face the hard parts of Scripture—because every part counts.
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In this episode of The Today Counts Show, host Jim Piper Jr. unpacks the 5 C’s of leadership—character, capacity, capital, collateral, and conditions—and explores how each one shapes a leader’s ability to influence, adapt, and thrive.
Most leadership conversations focus on vision and strategy, but few dig into the deeper frameworks that actually determine effectiveness. Jim breaks down why capacity matters as much as character, how leaders can steward their capital (relational, financial, and intellectual), and why understanding your conditions and collateral gives you a strategic advantage in decision-making.
Whether you lead a business, a team, a ministry, or a family, this conversation will help you rethink what effective leadership really requires—and how you can grow in all five areas starting today.
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In this episode of The Today Counts Show, hosts Jim Piper and Winston Harris unpack Genesis 21:22–34 to explore what Abraham’s treaty with Abimelek reveals about trust, integrity, and leadership in negotiations.
In a world where deals are often driven by pressure and self-interest, this ancient story offers timeless wisdom on how to build trust in every deal—whether in business, ministry, or everyday relationships. Jim and Winston discuss how Abraham’s example teaches us to lead with honesty, communicate clearly, and honor commitments even when it costs something.
Tune in to discover how faith principles can shape stronger partnerships, foster genuine trust, and help you lead with credibility in every situation.
📌 Subscribe, share, and join the discussion as we face the hard parts of Scripture—because every part counts.
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In Genesis 22, God asks Abraham to sacrifice his son Isaac—a command that defies logic, comfort, and human reasoning. Yet within this moment we discover one of the most powerful truths in Scripture: faith is proven through obedience.
In this episode of The Today Counts Show with Jim Piper Jr., we explore what it really means to trust God when life doesn’t make sense. Obedience isn’t always easy, but it is always worth it—and it always leads to God’s provision in His timing and His way.
In this episode, we discuss:
What Genesis 22 reveals about faith, obedience, and surrender
Why God allows seasons of testing and stretching
The connection between obedience and purpose
Leadership under pressure—what Abraham teaches us
How trust grows when obedience comes before understanding
If you're leading a family, a team, a business—or simply leading yourself—this episode will challenge and encourage you to follow God courageously, even when the path is unclear.
Because how you live today really does count.
📌 Subscribe, share, and join the discussion as we face the hard parts of Scripture—because every part counts.
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Find Gary's book, "Built to Beat Chaos: Biblical Wisdom for Leading Yourself" on Amazon
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In this episode of The Today Counts Show, hosts Jim Piper sits down with author and theologian Brian Crawford to explore one of the most controversial and world-shaping claims in history—the belief in a Divine Messiah. Drawing from his book, The Scandal of a Divine Messiah, Brian unpacks why the message of Jesus was considered radical and offensive in the first century and why it continues to confront cultural and religious assumptions today.
This episode digs into the historical context of messianic prophecy, the claims of Jesus, and the powerful implications of the incarnation—God becoming man. Is Jesus really who He said He was? Why does it matter for life, faith, and leadership today? Brian brings clarity, biblical depth, and unapologetic truth to this essential conversation.
If you care about theology, Christian leadership, apologetics, or understanding the foundations of the Christian faith, this episode will inform, challenge, and strengthen your worldview.
📌 Subscribe, share, and join the discussion as we face the hard parts of Scripture—because every part counts.
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In this episode of The Today Counts Show, Jim Piper Jr., Matt Martin, and Winston Harris dive deep into Genesis 21 to uncover powerful leadership lessons for today. When God fulfills His promises in His timing, leaders are revealed — not by force or haste, but by their faith, patience, and obedience.
Join us as we explore:
-
Why waiting is part of leadership growth
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How Abraham and Sarah’s story shows trust in God’s timing
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The role of obedience and discernment
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What to do when conflict or opposition arises
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Practical steps to lead faithfully while you wait
Whether you’re in a season of uncertainty, managing a team, or leading in your community, this episode helps you lean into God’s timing and lead with integrity, courage, and hope.
Tune in to be encouraged, challenged, and equipped — and discover how to lead through the wait with purpose and faith.
📌 Subscribe, share, and join the discussion as we face the hard parts of Scripture—because every part counts.
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In this episode of The Today Counts Show, host Jim Piper unpacks The President’s Briefing with Stephanie Sellers and explains what it really means for everyday citizens, leaders, and decision-makers. Presidential briefings are designed to shape policy, guide leadership choices, and inform the nation—but they can often feel complicated or unclear.
Stephanie and Jim break down the key points in plain language, highlight what matters most right now, and discuss how this information impacts daily life, business, and leadership. Whether you follow politics closely or just want to understand how the President’s daily briefing affects the future, this episode gives you the clarity you need.
Listen in with Stephanie Sellers and Jim Piper to gain insight, context, and practical takeaways so you can stay informed, think critically, and lead with confidence.
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On this episode of The Today Counts Show, Jim, Winston, and Gary dive into Genesis 20 and uncover how Abraham’s story reveals the tension between faith and human flaws. Even God’s chosen leaders wrestled with fear, compromise, and imperfect decisions—yet His grace and protection remained constant. Join us as we draw out timeless leadership and life lessons for today, showing how God works through our weaknesses to accomplish His purposes.
📌 Subscribe, share, and join the discussion as we face the hard parts of Scripture—because every part counts.
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The headlines around Charlie Kirk’s death have sent shockwaves through social media feeds and Gen Z conversations. But beyond the headlines, what does this moment reveal about how young people process tragedy, politics, and information online?
In this episode of The Today Counts Show, Jim sits down with Micah Kunkle to unpack the digital fallout and cultural impact. Together, they explore:
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How social platforms amplify breaking news — both facts and misinformation
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What Gen Z’s online reactions say about their values
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Navigating Conspiracy Theories on Charlie Kirk's Death
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The need for critical thinking and emotional resilience for Gen Z on Social Media
Whether you’re a member of Gen Z, a parent, or a leader trying to understand today’s digital landscape, this conversation with Micah Kunkle offers insights and practical takeaways for staying grounded and informed in turbulent times.
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In today’s fast-paced world, it’s easy to get distracted by the urgent and overlook the important. In this episode of The Today Counts Show, we sit down with Matt Martin—author of Notice What Matters—to talk about the discipline of noticing and how it transforms both life and leadership.
Matt shares his personal journey of learning to slow down, pay attention, and identify the moments, values, and priorities that truly shape impact. Together, we explore:
- How leaders can practice the art of noticing to stay grounded and intentional
- Why paying attention to the details creates big influence in relationships and teams
- The connection between noticing and living with clarity, purpose, and joy
- Practical habits to help you focus on what matters most each day
If you’ve ever felt pulled in a hundred directions, this conversation will inspire you to pause, reflect, and lead with greater awareness. Because when you notice what matters, you can live—and lead—with purpose.
Get a copy of Matt Martin's book "Notice What Matters": CLICK HERE
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Great executive leadership doesn’t happen overnight—it’s developed over years of intentional growth, challenges, and key decisions. In this episode of Lead Today, we sit down with Zach McGuire, President of MasTec Power Delivery, to uncover how leadership development truly works at the executive level.
Zach shares his journey, the lessons learned along the way, and the strategies that help leaders move from potential to lasting impact. We’ll discuss why patience, resilience, and the right opportunities matter in leadership, and how executives can cultivate the mindset needed for long-term success.
Whether you’re an aspiring leader, a seasoned executive, or someone passionate about leadership development, this episode will give you practical insights and inspiration to play the long game in your own career.
Connect with Zach McGuire on LinkedIn: CLICK HERE
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What does it really take to grow a business from the ground up? In this episode of The Today Counts Show, we sit down with CEO of Lantern Learning Group, Geren Anderson as he shares the real story behind his journey—complete with wins, lessons, and the challenges that shaped his success.
You’ll hear:
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The biggest lessons Geren learned while building his business
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Key mistakes he made—and how he turned them into growth opportunities
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The habits and mindset shifts that helped him push through setbacks
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Actionable advice for new entrepreneurs looking to scale smarter, not just faster
Whether you're launching your first startup or growing an existing venture, Geren’s story offers practical insight and encouragement to help you take your next step with confidence.
Learn more about Pillars Learning Centers: https://thepillarsclc.com/our-leadership/
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https://www.amazon.com/Story-Art-Learning-Your-Past/dp/B0D1D5TBQ6/
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How does mental health impact student success? In this episode of The Today Counts Show, we uncover why prioritizing mental health in adolescent education is essential for better learning, stronger resilience, and healthier schools. We’re joined by three incredible guests: Rachel Starmer, a psychotherapist; Danny Fox, an education veteran with over 30 years of experience; and Dr. Brian Baddick, assistant superintendent in Pennsylvania.
You’ll learn:
- How academic pressure affects student mental health—and what schools can do about it
- Early warning signs of stress, anxiety, and burnout that parents and teachers often overlook
- Practical strategies for educators and parents to create mentally healthy classrooms
- Ways to balance academic achievement with emotional well-being
- Why investing in student mental health leads to long-term success
Whether you’re a teacher, parent, counselor, or leader in education, this episode gives you actionable insights to help students thrive—inside and outside the classroom.
Get a copy of Jim's book "Story: The Art Of Learning From Your Past": https://www.amazon.com/Story-Art-Learning-Your-Past/dp/B0D1D5TBQ6/
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Genesis 19 doesn’t end with fire falling on Sodom—it ends with a story so troubling that many Bible readers skip right past it. Lot, his daughters, a cave, and choices that leave us asking, Why is this even in the Bible?
In this episode, Jim and the guys tackle one of Scripture’s most uncomfortable passages head-on. Together, they’ll explore:
Why the Bible doesn’t shy away from humanity’s darkest moments
How cultural context helps us understand what happened
The ripple effects of broken choices—and God’s ability to redeem
What this story teaches us about leadership, legacy, and faith under pressure
If you’ve ever wrestled with hard-to-read Bible stories, this conversation will help you see that even in the most disturbing moments, God’s Word is still telling one big, redemptive story.
📌 Subscribe, share, and join the discussion as we face the hard parts of Scripture—because every part counts.
Follow Winston Harris on IG: @winstg
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Order Matt Martin's New Book "Notice What Matters":
https://a.co/d/4xMfkvj
Find Gary's book, "Built to Beat Chaos: Biblical Wisdom for Leading Yourself" on Amazon:
https://www.amazon.com/Built-Beat-Chaos-Biblical-Yourself/dp/1394158408
Get a copy of Jim's book "Story: The Art Of Learning From Your Past":
https://www.amazon.com/Story-Art-Learning-Your-Past/dp/B0D1D5TBQ6/
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Have you ever asked yourself, “Am I leading as well as I could be?” In this reflective and practical episode of The Today Counts Show, Jim explores how to take an honest, constructive look at your leadership—without slipping into self-criticism or complacency.
Join us as we break down:
Key markers of strong leadership: What traits and actions truly make a difference, and how to measure them in your own style.
Uncovering blind spots: Discover how everyday habits, team dynamics, and unforeseen gaps can hold you back—plus, what to do about them.
Feedback that fuels growth: Learn where to seek meaningful feedback—from peers, mentors, and direct reports—and how to act on it.
Building a personal leadership audit: Walk through a simple framework for evaluating yourself across ethics, empathy, strategy, and more.
Setting growth goals that stick: Define realistic, actionable steps that will accelerate your leadership impact—no overwhelm, just progress.
Whether you're stepping into a formal leadership role or already guiding teams, this episode gives you a trusted, compass-style approach to measuring—and leveling up—your leadership. Tune in to start leading with clarity and intention, because your influence starts with self-awareness.
Get a copy of Jim's book "Story: The Art Of Learning From Your Past":
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Genesis 19 is one of the most intense and controversial chapters in the Bible—but it’s also one of the most revealing. In this episode, Jim and Winston unpack the dramatic story of Sodom and Gomorrah, Lot’s desperate escape, and the tension between God's judgment and His mercy.
You'll discover:
Why God judged Sodom—and what it teaches us about His character
How Lot’s story shows both human compromise and divine rescue
What the angels' actions reveal about God's urgency and grace
Why God's mercy still makes a way even when we hesitate to obey
Whether you’ve read this chapter before or never studied it closely, you’ll walk away with a deeper understanding of a holy God who sees sin clearly—but still reaches in with grace to save.
🔥 It’s uncomfortable, it’s raw, and it’s real… but it matters.
📌 Subscribe and share with someone who’s wrestling with big questions about faith, judgment, and grace.
Get a copy of Jim's book "Story: The Art Of Learning From Your Past":
https://www.amazon.com/Story-Art-Learning-Your-Past/dp/B0D1D5TBQ6/
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Life doesn’t always play fair. There are moments when challenges pile up, clarity disappears, and the weight of circumstances can feel unbearable. In this episode of The Today Counts Show, Jim Piper takes a thoughtful look at what it means to respond when life hits hard.
Whether you're navigating personal setbacks, professional pressure, or emotional exhaustion, this conversation will help you find your footing. Jim unpacks timeless principles, shares practical tools, and offers a grounded perspective to help you stay strong, lead well, and make today count—even in the toughest seasons.
Because when life gets hard… how you respond matters more than ever.
Get a copy of Jim's book "Story: The Art Of Learning From Your Past":
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In one of the most daring and intimate moments in Scripture, Abraham steps into a bold back-and-forth with God Himself. But what’s really happening in Genesis 18? Is Abraham negotiating… or interceding? And can prayer actually influence the heart of God?
In this episode of The Today Counts Show, Jim, Gary, and Matt unpack Abraham’s powerful conversation with God over the fate of Sodom and Gomorrah. You'll explore the tension between God's justice and mercy—and how this ancient dialogue still shapes how we pray today.
You'll learn:
- What it means to approach God with both humility and boldness
- Why God's responses are always aligned with His nature
- And yes… whether prayer can really move the heart of heaven
If you’ve ever wondered whether your prayers matter, this episode will stir your faith and challenge your view of divine partnership.
🙏 Subscribe, share, and lean in—because bold prayer still counts.
Follow Matt Martin on IG: @m_martin96
Find Gary's book, "Built to Beat Chaos: Biblical Wisdom for Leading Yourself" on Amazon:
https://www.amazon.com/Built-Beat-Chaos-Biblical-Yourself/dp/1394158408
Get a copy of Jim's book "Story: The Art Of Learning From Your Past":
https://www.amazon.com/Story-Art-Learning-Your-Past/dp/B0D1D5TBQ6/
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In this episode of the Today Counts Show, we delve into the critical issue of mental health and its profound impact on student vulnerability.
Join us as we explore the challenges faced by today's youth, the pressures of modern education, and the role of families and communities in supporting mental well-being. Our guest, Dr. Brian Baddick, shares insights on the importance of open communication, the influence of social media, and the need for truth exploration during the vulnerable summer months.
Tune in to understand how we can better equip our students to navigate these turbulent times and foster a healthier, more supportive environment for their growth.
Get a copy of Jim's book "Story: The Art Of Learning From Your Past": https://www.amazon.com/Story-Art-Learning-Your-Past/dp/B0D1D5TBQ6/
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Growing old is inevitable—but growing apart doesn’t have to be.
In this honest and hope-filled episode of The Today Counts Show, Jim and Rhonda sit down as a seasoned married couple who have weathered decades of life together. From raising kids and navigating career changes to dealing with loss and shifting seasons, they share the real-life rhythms and intentional choices that have helped them stay close, even as the years passed.
You’ll hear:
The power of shared purpose and playful moments
How to stay emotionally connected through life’s changes
Why commitment matters more than compatibility
What they’d tell their younger selves—and every couple today
Whether you’re newly married or decades in, this conversation will encourage you to build a love that’s built to last.
💬 Share with a couple who inspires you.
🔔 Subscribe for more real-life leadership and relationship wisdom.
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Let’s face it—most leaders aren’t lacking in work ethic. But somewhere between the back-to-back meetings, never-ending to-do lists, and inbox overload… true leadership gets lost.
In this episode of The Today Counts Show, Jim, Winston, and friend of the podcast, Greyson Hanna get real about the hidden cost of being too busy. They unpack why being constantly occupied doesn’t mean you’re being effective—and how to shift from surviving your schedule to actually leading with clarity and purpose.
You’ll discover:
- The difference between activity and effectiveness
- How to identify what really matters each day
- The habits and mindset of time-wise leaders
- Practical tools to take control of your calendar and your calling
🎯 If your calendar is full but your leadership feels empty, this conversation is for you.
👉 Don’t forget to subscribe, comment, and share this episode with a leader who needs a time reset!
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What does it mean when God gives you a new name? And why does He renew His promise before it’s fulfilled?
In this episode of The Today Counts Show, Jim Piper Jr., Winston Harris, Gary Harpst, and Matt Martin unpack the powerful covenant moment in Genesis 17—where God changes Abram’s name to Abraham and confirms His everlasting promise.
You’ll discover:
Why name changes in Scripture are deeply spiritual
What God’s covenant meant for Abraham—and what it still means for us
The significance of circumcision in this passage
How God’s timing and faithfulness collide in this chapter
If you've ever felt delayed, overlooked, or stuck in the “in-between,” this episode will remind you: God hasn’t forgotten, and His promises are still alive.
👍 Like. 💬 Comment. 🔔 Subscribe for more faith-driven leadership content that counts.
Follow Winston Harris on IG: @winstg
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Pre-Order Matt Martin's New Book "Notice What Matters":
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Find Gary's book, "Built to Beat Chaos: Biblical Wisdom for Leading Yourself" on Amazon:
https://www.amazon.com/Built-Beat-Chaos-Biblical-Yourself/dp/1394158408
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Waiting on God is never easy—especially when His promises feel delayed and our plans seem more efficient. In this episode, Jim and Gary Harpst unpack the tension in Genesis 16, where Sarai and Abram take matters into their own hands… and the consequences that follow.
Through the story of Hagar, we explore:
What happens when we rush ahead of God
The emotional cost of impatience
How God meets us—even in our mess
Why He is still the God who sees us, even when we feel forgotten
If you've ever wrestled with waiting, doubted God's timeline, or tried to "help Him out," this conversation is for you. You’ll walk away with wisdom, hope, and a deeper trust in the God who always shows up—even when it seems too late.
📌 Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with someone who’s in a season of waiting.
Find Gary's book, "Built to Beat Chaos: Biblical Wisdom for Leading Yourself" on Amazon:
https://www.amazon.com/Built-Beat-Chaos-Biblical-Yourself/dp/1394158408
Get a copy of Jim's book "Story: The Art Of Learning From Your Past":
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What separates average leaders from great ones? It’s not talent, charisma, or even experience—it’s coachability. In this episode, Jim and Dr. Gary Rohrmayer unpack why being coachable is the most underrated leadership superpower and how it impacts your growth, your influence, and your legacy.
You’ll learn:
What coachability really looks like in action
Why some leaders resist feedback—and how to overcome it
How to cultivate a teachable spirit without losing your confidence
Practical steps to become more coachable starting today
If you want to grow, lead better, and build lasting impact, this episode is for you.
📌 Subscribe, share, and let us know: Are you truly coachable?
Learn more from Gary at his website:
https://www.garyrohrmayer.com
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What do a starry sky, a strange sacrifice, and a smoking firepot have to do with God's unshakable promise? In this episode, Jim and Winston dive deep into one of the most mysterious and foundational chapters of the Bible—Genesis 15.
You'll discover why this moment between God and Abram is more than just ancient history. It’s a turning point in the story of faith, trust, and covenant. Whether you’ve read this chapter before or it’s your first time hearing about it, you’ll walk away with a fresh understanding of God’s character—and how He still keeps His promises today.
Hit play, and let’s explore the moment God put His reputation on the line… for us.
Follow Winston Harris on IG: @winstg
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In this episode of The Today Counts Show, Jim Piper Jr. is joined by two dynamic leaders in education—Dr. Kristin Meyer and Dr. Brian Baddick—for a powerful conversation on the future of our schools. Together, they explore the challenges facing today's education system and offer practical, purpose-driven solutions rooted in leadership, innovation, and care for every student. Whether you’re a parent, teacher, policymaker, or community leader, this episode will inspire you to think differently about how we educate the next generation. Because when it comes to shaping the future—education counts, leadership counts, and today counts.
You can find out more about Dr. Kristin Meyer and her organization here:
https://thereachgroup.net/
Follow Dr. Kristin on Instagram:
@drkristinkmeyer
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Ever feel like you're just going through the motions—day after day, week after week—without really living? In this powerful episode, Jim Piper, Winston Harris, and Greyson Hanna, who is a Financial Advisor and friend of the podcast, tackle the silent drift so many people experience when life gets busy, noisy, and overwhelming. They unpack what it means to live with true intentionality, how to recognize when you've slipped into autopilot mode, and the practical steps you can take today to reclaim your purpose, passion, and direction. If you’re ready to stop coasting and start living purposefully, this one’s for you.
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In this episode of The Today Counts Show, we dive into the action-packed chapter 14 of Genesis. Genesis 14 reads like a blockbuster script—rival kings go to war, Abram launches a daring rescue mission, and out of nowhere, a mysterious priest named Melchizedek steps onto the scene.
In this episode, Jim and Winston break down the wild twists of this often-overlooked chapter. Why does Abram risk it all to save Lot? What’s the deal with these ancient coalitions? And seriously—who is Melchizedek, and why does he matter so much in the story of faith? If you like ancient drama, divine strategy, and spiritual gold hidden in plain sight, this one’s for you.
Follow Winston Harris on IG: @winstg
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In this episode of The Today Counts Show, we dive into the tension-packed story of Genesis 13 where Abram does something that still challenges leaders today—he lets Lot choose first. Was it wisdom… or weakness? Strategic leadership… or passive surrender?
Join us as we unpack the surprising power in stepping back, the faith it takes to not fight for position, and why true leadership sometimes looks like letting go. If you’ve ever wrestled with when to push forward and when to yield, this conversation is for you.
Follow Winston Harris on IG: @winstg
Follow Matt Martin on IG: @m_martin96
Pre-Order Matt Martin's New Book "Notice What Matters":
https://matt-martin.presale.manuscripts.com/registration/select?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaZqbZ3Pa2MS1WKV0AADab7zRyFaIDvnMatb5K5V314DdWHBh--0uy44U54_aem_eJbI_J5uoSVKhXz3KEKPnQ
Find Gary's book, "Built to Beat Chaos: Biblical Wisdom for Leading Yourself" on Amazon:
https://www.amazon.com/Built-Beat-Chaos-Biblical-Yourself/dp/1394158408
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In this eye-opening episode of The Today Counts Show, we uncover the mystery behind the little-known “Spirit of Ravashika” mentioned in biblical context. Could this ancient spirit still be at work in modern-day culture, relationships, and even the Church? You might be surprised at the signs and influences you’ve overlooked.
Join us as we dive into Scripture, explore the characteristics of this forgotten spirit, and learn how to recognize—and resist—its subtle influence in your daily life. If you’ve been feeling spiritual resistance, confusion, or emotional heaviness, this conversation might just bring the clarity you’ve been praying for.
Get a copy of the featured book: The Spirit of Rabshakeh is Alive and Well in America: The Devil's Strategies To Take Down A Nation:
https://a.co/d/8HQQqhs
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In this episode of The Today Counts Show, Jim dives deep into the life and leadership of one of Judah’s most remarkable kings—Hezekiah. What can a 2,700-year-old ruler teach today’s leaders navigating complexity, crisis, and culture? A lot more than you might think.
From bold reforms and strategic decision-making to humble prayer and unwavering faith, King Hezekiah's story offers a timeless blueprint for leading with integrity and courage. Whether you're leading a team, a business, a church, or your own family, these ancient lessons hold powerful relevance for today's challenges.
Join Jim as he unpacks Hezekiah’s leadership playbook—and discover how to lead with conviction when the stakes are high and the pressure is real.
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In this episode of The Today Counts Show, we continue a collection of conversations on the book of Genesis. Jim talks with Gary Harpst and Winston Harris as they dive into the powerful story of Genesis 12. God calls Abram to step out of his comfort zone and embark on a journey that will change the course of history.
They explore the challenges Abram faced, the faith required to leave behind his familiar surroundings, and the promises God made that propelled him forward.
Tune in as we reflect on how God's call to Abram parallels the ways He calls us today to trust, take risks, and follow His plan, even when it’s uncertain or uncomfortable. Whether you're in a season of change or just seeking encouragement, this episode will inspire you to step out in faith and embrace the adventure that God has for you.
Follow Winston Harris on IG: @winstg
Find Gary's book, "Built to Beat Chaos: Biblical Wisdom for Leading Yourself" on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Built-Beat-Chaos-Biblical-Yourself/dp/1394158408
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In this episode of The Today Counts Show, we continue a collection of conversations on the book of Genesis. Jim talks with Gary Harpst and Winston Harris as they dive into an overlooked portion of scripture in Genesis 11.
At first glance, Genesis 11:10–31 looks like just another list of names — a genealogy most people skim or skip altogether. But what if this so-called "boring" chapter holds the key to understanding the entire arc of the Bible?
In this episode, we take a deep dive into the family line from Shem to Abram and uncover how God was quietly setting the stage for a redemption story that would change the world. Join us as we explore hidden patterns, divine timing, and the powerful legacy behind the names you’ve probably never paid attention to — until now.
Follow Winston Harris on IG: @winstg
Find Gary's book, "Built to Beat Chaos: Biblical Wisdom for Leading Yourself" on Amazon:
https://www.amazon.com/Built-Beat-Chaos-Biblical-Yourself/dp/1394158408
Get a copy of Jim's new book "Story: The Art Of Learning From Your Past":
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In this episode of the Today Counts Show, Jim talks with Richard Mireles, a transformational leader, speaker, and advocate committed to empowering justice-impacted individuals to rebuild their lives with dignity, purpose, and success.
Richard is a sought-after public speaker, leadership coach, and consultant who has dedicated his life to creating pathways of opportunity for the formerly incarcerated.
Richard is a sought-after public speaker, leadership coach, and consultant who has dedicated his life to creating pathways of opportunity for the formerly incarcerated.
In this masterclass on leadership, Richard shares his transformative story about overcoming a limited mindset and making a new life outside of prison. He shares leadership principles that can transform your mindset when facing life's biggest challenges.
Learn more about Richard's work:
https://www.croporganization.org/
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In this episode of the Today Counts Show, Jim talks with David Yeager, PhD, a professor of psychology at the University of Texas at Austin and the cofounder of the Texas Behavioral Science and Policy Institute.
In this masterclass on leading younger generations, Yeager explains how to adopt what he terms the "mentor mindset", which is a leadership style that’s attuned to young people’s need for status and respect. Anyone can adopt the "mentor mindset" by following a few highly effective and easy-to-learn practices.
Learn how to empower younger generations and bridge the leadership gap in your world!
Get a copy of David's book "10 to 25":
https://a.co/d/iuEG0e1
Get a copy of Jim's book "Story: The Art Of Learning From Your Past": https://www.amazon.com/Story-Art-Learning-Your-Past/dp/B0D1D5TBQ6/
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In this episode of The Today Counts Show, Jim shares addresses the elephant in the room! How should we deal with difficult people in our lives? We all have them, but could we be missing the potential value there is for the jerks, jokers, and jackasses in our lives?
Jim helps us understand the secret to navigating difficult people, so we can have the peace and health we desire.
If you are looking to become a more mindful and intentional leader, lean in and listen up!
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In this episode of The Today Counts Show, we continue a collection of conversations on the book of Genesis. Jim talks with Gary Harpst and Winston Harris about the opening 9 verses of Genesis 11.
We see God's people disobey his command to fill the earth and they attempt to build a tower to get to heaven. Jim, Gary, and Winston explore the realities human innovation, God's response to disobedience, and how the spirit of disobedience has manifested itself through generations.
Tune in for a profound exploration of biblical wisdom and spiritual growth!
Follow Winston Harris on IG: @winstg
Find Gary's book, "Built to Beat Chaos: Biblical Wisdom for Leading Yourself" on Amazon:
https://www.amazon.com/Built-Beat-Chaos-Biblical-Yourself/dp/1394158408
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In this episode of the Today Counts Show, Jim talks with Britton Moore, a new music artist featured on NBC's "The Voice." Britton shares his experience auditioning for the national television music competition and his journey to launching a music career.
Jim and Britton discuss navigating broken dreams, life lessons from sports, and the future for this young artist.
Listen to Britton's new single "Harmony" : https://music.apple.com/sa/album/harmony-single/1790978781
Get a copy of Jim's new book "Story: The Art Of Learning From Your Past": https://www.amazon.com/Story-Art-Learning-Your-Past/dp/B0D1D5TBQ6/
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In this episode of The Today Counts Show, we continue a collection of conversations on the book of Genesis. Jim talks with Matt Martin and Winston Harris about Chapter 10 of Genesis.
This chapter is known as the "Table of Nations" and we learn the origin of the world nations. The guys unpack God's redemptive love, appreciation for diversity, and faithfulness through generations.
Tune in for a profound exploration of biblical wisdom and spiritual growth!
Follow Winston Harris on IG: @winstg
Follow Matt Martin on IG: @m_martin96
Pre-Order Matt Martin's New Book "Notice What Matters":
https://matt-martin.presale.manuscripts.com/registration/select?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaZqbZ3Pa2MS1WKV0AADab7zRyFaIDvnMatb5K5V314DdWHBh--0uy44U54_aem_eJbI_J5uoSVKhXz3KEKPnQ
Get a copy of Jim's new book "Story: The Art Of Learning From Your Past":
https://www.amazon.com/Story-Art-Learning-Your-Past/dp/B0D1D5TBQ6/
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In this episode of The Today Counts Show, we continue a collection of conversations on the book of Genesis. Jim talks with Gary Harpst about the new world we find in Chapter 9 of Genesis.
Is Capital Punishment a form of justice from God? Culture has hijacked the meaning of the rainbow, but what does God say about this natural phenomenon? What does it take to experience a whole and healthy relationship?
Tune in for answers to these questions and more!
Find Gary's book, "Built to Beat Chaos: Biblical Wisdom for Leading Yourself" on Amazon:
https://www.amazon.com/Built-Beat-Chaos-Biblical-Yourself/dp/1394158408
Get a copy of Jim's new book "Story: The Art Of Learning From Your Past":
https://www.amazon.com/Story-Art-Learning-Your-Past/dp/B0D1D5TBQ6/
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In this episode of the Today Counts Show, Jim talks with Dr. Kristin Meyer, a special education consultant and co-founder of Reach Educational Advocates. She is on a mission to open doors to high-quality education for students with disabilities and empower their families with the knowledge and support they need. Dr. Brian Baddick, an Assistant Superintendent in Pennsylvania, joins them.
Jim, Dr. Kristin, and Dr. Brian unpack the challenges leaders in the education system are facing, the impact of cyber education in public schools, global models of education we can learn from, and potential solutions for the future of education.
You can find out more about Dr. Kristin Meyer and her organization here:
https://thereachgroup.net/
Follow Dr. Kristin on Instagram:
@drkristinkmeyer
Get a copy of Jim's new book "Story: The Art Of Learning From Your Past": https://www.amazon.com/Story-Art-Learning-Your-Past/dp/B0D1D5TBQ6/
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In this episode of The Today Counts Show, we continue a collection of conversations on the book of Genesis. Jim talks with Gary Harpst, Matt Martin, and Winston Harris about the end of the world as we see it in Chapter 8 of Genesis.
Hidden in the ancient scriptures are modern-day truths about surviving extreme circumstances through worship, sacrifice, and obedience.
We finally see Noah and his family endure the flood, which was longer than most people realize! How did they do it?
Tune in for a profound exploration of biblical wisdom and spiritual growth!
Follow Winston Harris on IG: @winstg
Follow Matt Martin on IG: @m_martin96
Pre-Order Matt Martin's New Book "Notice What Matters":
https://matt-martin.presale.manuscripts.com/registration/select?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaZqbZ3Pa2MS1WKV0AADab7zRyFaIDvnMatb5K5V314DdWHBh--0uy44U54_aem_eJbI_J5uoSVKhXz3KEKPnQ
Get a copy of Jim's new book "Story: The Art Of Learning From Your Past":
https://www.amazon.com/Story-Art-Learning-Your-Past/dp/B0D1D5TBQ6/
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In this episode of the Today Counts Show, Jim talks with his best friend, partner, and wife, Rhonda Piper, about the principles and pitfalls of marriage. They cover the communication framework of 'Love Languages' and how this has impacted their marriage of over 40 years.
Jim and Rhonda get real about the challenges and joys of marriage. No matter where you find yourself in marriage, this conversation will help you make your marriage work.
Get a copy of Jim's new book "Story: The Art Of Learning From Your Past": https://www.amazon.com/Story-Art-Learning-Your-Past/dp/B0D1D5TBQ6/
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In this episode of the Today Counts Show, Jim talks with Dr. Kristin Meyer who is a special education consultant and co-founder of Reach Educational Advocates. She is on a mission to open doors to high-quality education for students with disabilities and empower their families with the knowledge and support they need.
Jim and Dr. Kristin unpack the challenges our society is facing with the current state of education. They address the urgent need to support students with disabilities, the tensions of students, teachers, and parents, and how to expand support for families.
You can find out more about Dr. Kristin Meyer and her organization here:
https://thereachgroup.net/
Follow Dr. Kristin on Instagram:
@drkristinkmeyer
Get a copy of Jim's new book "Story: The Art Of Learning From Your Past": https://www.amazon.com/Story-Art-Learning-Your-Past/dp/B0D1D5TBQ6/
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In this episode of The Today Counts Show, we continue a collection of conversations on the book of Genesis. Jim talks with Gary Harpst and Winston Harris about the very debated ancient story of "The Flood."
Our world looks very different than the time of this story, but Jesus said the end times would look like the days of Noah and the flood. Are we in the last days?
The guys discuss this and unpack the truths hidden in Chapter 7 of Genesis.
Tune in for a profound exploration of biblical wisdom and spiritual growth!
Follow Winston Harris on IG: @winstg
Get a copy of Jim's new book "Story: The Art Of Learning From Your Past":
https://www.amazon.com/Story-Art-Learning-Your-Past/dp/B0D1D5TBQ6/
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In this episode of The Today Counts Show, Jim shares a timeless truth about the afterlife that will help you consider the value of your time.
He also helps us understand the secret to setting and crushing your goals.
If you are looking to become a more mindful and intentional person this year, lean in and listen up!
Get a copy of Jim's new book "Story: The Art Of Learning From Your Past":
https://www.amazon.com/Story-Art-Learning-Your-Past/dp/B0D1D5TBQ6/
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In this episode of the Today Counts Show, Jim talks with friend, content creator, & church leader, Winston Harris. Jim and Winston continue a conversation they started recently on the dangers of parenting.
Jim introduces the "5 P's of Parenting" which are principles that every parent can use to make a lasting impact on their family. Within this framework, Jim and Winston tackle nepotism, entitlement, prophetic parenting, and more!
If you are a parent or know a parent, share this helpful podcast on how to raise kids in a practical yet powerful way!
Follow Winston Harris on IG: @winstg
Get a copy of Jim's new book "Story: The Art Of Learning From Your Past": https://www.amazon.com/Story-Art-Learning-Your-Past/dp/B0D1D5TBQ6/
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In this episode of The Today Counts Show, we continue a collection of conversations on the book of Genesis. Jim talks with Gary Harpst, Matt Martin and Winston Harris about Chapter 6 of Genesis.
They revisit the "Nephilim" conversation that was introduced in a recent podcast. Jim invites us all to consider why we may not enjoy the type of God we see in Genesis 6 and helps us wrestle with the reality of a judgmental God.
Tune in for a profound exploration of biblical wisdom and spiritual growth!
Follow Winston Harris on IG: @winstg
Follow Matt Martin on IG: @m_martin96
Pre-Order Matt Martin's New Book "Notice What Matters":
https://matt-martin.presale.manuscripts.com/registration/select?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaZqbZ3Pa2MS1WKV0AADab7zRyFaIDvnMatb5K5V314DdWHBh--0uy44U54_aem_eJbI_J5uoSVKhXz3KEKPnQ
Get a copy of Jim's new book "Story: The Art Of Learning From Your Past":
https://www.amazon.com/Story-Art-Learning-Your-Past/dp/B0D1D5TBQ6/
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In this episode of the Today Counts Show, Jim talks with friend, content creator, & church leader, Winston Harris. Jim and Winston address the Surgeon General's recent warning about the health hazard of "parenting."
They share practical ways to navigate the tensions parents are facing in our culture today and explore the current trend of parenting known as "gentle parenting."
If you are a parent or know a parent, share this helpful podcast on how to raise kids the right way!
Follow Winston Harris on IG: @winstg
Get a copy of Jim's new book "Story: The Art Of Learning From Your Past": https://www.amazon.com/Story-Art-Learning-Your-Past/dp/B0D1D5TBQ6/
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In this episode of The Today Counts Show, we continue a collection of conversations on the book of Genesis. Jim talks with Gary Harpst, Matt Martin and Winston Harris on a really weird Bible story that leaves us with more questions than answers.
They dive into the beginning of Genesis 6 where these highly polarizing creatures called the "Nephilim" are introduced. In this rich conversation about the brokenness of humanity and the supernatural occurrences of the ancient world, we explore the warnings of Genesis 6 and it's implications for us today.
Tune in for a profound exploration of biblical wisdom and spiritual growth!
Follow Winston Harris on IG: @winstg
Follow Matt Martin on IG: @m_martin96
Pre-Order Matt Martin's New Book "Notice What Matters":
https://matt-martin.presale.manuscripts.com/registration/select?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaZqbZ3Pa2MS1WKV0AADab7zRyFaIDvnMatb5K5V314DdWHBh--0uy44U54_aem_eJbI_J5uoSVKhXz3KEKPnQ
Get a copy of Jim's new book "Story: The Art Of Learning From Your Past":
https://www.amazon.com/Story-Art-Learning-Your-Past/dp/B0D1D5TBQ6/
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In this episode of the Today Counts Show, Jim talks with author, speaker, & church leader, Dave Rich. He shares his compelling and raw experience with addiction, surviving tragedy, and encountering God in a way that changed him forever.
Dave and Jim unpack inspirational realities about faith, calling, legacy and how your life can truly matter.
Discover Dave's book:
https://www.amazon.com/You-Were-Meant-Climb-Summit-ebook/dp/B0CB79JKSJ
Get a copy of Jim's new book "Story: The Art Of Learning From Your Past": https://www.amazon.com/Story-Art-Learning-Your-Past/dp/B0D1D5TBQ6/
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In this episode of The Today Counts Show, we continue a collection of conversations on the book of Genesis. Jim talks with Gary Harpst and Winston Harris on the urgency we all should have about leading our families according to God's word.
They dive into Genesis 5 and reveal the value behind the genealogies of scripture. We get a picture of why our legacies matter and how we should approach our life with a generational lense.
Tune in for a profound exploration of biblical wisdom and spiritual growth!
Follow Winston Harris on IG: @winstg
Get a copy of Jim's new book "Story: The Art Of Learning From Your Past":
https://www.amazon.com/Story-Art-Learning-Your-Past/dp/B0D1D5TBQ6/
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In this episode of The Today Counts Show, we continue a collection of conversations on the book of Genesis. Jim talks with Matt Martin on the consequences of humanism as a religion, how sin passes through generations, and the power of worship in the early accounts of scripture.
For listeners interested in deepening their understanding of biblical doctrine and a biblical perspective on the fall of humanity, this episode provides insightful discussions on these ideas and more. Tune in for a profound exploration of biblical wisdom and spiritual growth
Follow Matt Martin on IG: @m_martin96
Get a copy of Jim's new book "Story: The Art Of Learning From Your Past":
https://www.amazon.com/Story-Art-Learning-Your-Past/dp/B0D1D5TBQ6/
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In this episode of the Today Counts Show, Jim talks with Michael Anthony who is an award-winning speaker, author, and mindset mentor. Michael shows people how to stop limiting themselves, so they become unstoppable.
In this masterclass on self-mastery, they discuss the power of being held accountable for your decisions, how to practically master your mind, and growing through slowing your life down.
You can reach Michael Anthony through his website: https://couragematters.com/
Or through his YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@MichaelAnthonyOfficial/videos
Get a copy of Jim's new book "Story: The Art Of Learning From Your Past": https://www.amazon.com/Story-Art-Learning-Your-Past/dp/B0D1D5TBQ6/
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In this episode of the Today Counts Show, Jim talks with Jon Chasteen who is the author of the book, "ReLeader: How To Fix What You Didn't Break". Jon Chasteen has been the Lead Pastor of Victory Church, a multicampus church with campuses in both Oklahoma and Texas, since 2014. Jon was also President of The King's University from 2018 to 2023.
In this masterclass on leadership, they discuss the real, raw, and unfiltered truth most won't share on leadership. Jon talks about the dangers of leading with talent over character, leading with an orphan heart, and the value in saying "No" as a leader.
Tune in to discover how to level up your leadership capacity and lead yourself well.
You can reach Jon Chasteen through the Victory Church website - https://victory.church/
Or, through his website - releader.co
You can find Jon's Book, "ReLeader: How To Fix What You Didn't Break" on Amazon, as well as his other book, "Half the Battle: Healing Your Hidden Hurts".
Get a copy of Jim's new book "Story: The Art Of Learning From Your Past": https://www.amazon.com/Story-Art-Learning-Your-Past/dp/B0D1D5TBQ6/
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In this episode of The Today Counts Show, we continue a collection of conversations on the book of Genesis. Jim talks with Gary Harpst, Matt Martin & Winston Harris. Gary is the founder and CEO of LeadFirst and author. His most recent book is titled "Built to Beat Chaos: Biblical Wisdom for Leading Yourself". Matt and Winston are Pastors and friends of Jim that share a passion for God's word.
In this episode, they unpack the Genesis 4 and look at the story of Cain and Abel. They discuss self-mastery according to scripture, our issues with obeying God, how the gospel shows up in the old testament, and more!
For listeners interested in deepening their understanding of biblical doctrine and a biblical perspective on the fall of humanity, this episode provides insightful discussions on these ideas and more. Tune in for a profound exploration of biblical wisdom and spiritual growth.
Find Gary's book, "Built to Beat Chaos: Biblical Wisdom for Leading Yourself" on Amazon:
https://www.amazon.com/Built-Beat-Chaos-Biblical-Yourself/dp/1394158408
Gary's most recent podcast:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=44CaaRIaYhM
Follow Matt Martin on IG: @m_martin96
Follow Winston Harris on IG: @winstg
Get a copy of Jim's new book "Story: The Art Of Learning From Your Past":
https://www.amazon.com/Story-Art-Learning-Your-Past/dp/B0D1D5TBQ6/
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In this episode of The Today Counts Show, we continue a collection of conversations on the book of Genesis. Jim talks with Matt Martin & Winston Harris. Winston and Matt are Pastors and friends of Jim who share a passion for God's word.
They dive into the fall of humanity. The consequences of sin are unpacked and we learn how our propensity to hide from God started in the garden of Eden. Discover the hope we have to look forward to in the new Eden to come.
Follow Matt Martin on IG: @m_martin96
Follow Winston Harris on IG: @winstg
Get a copy of Jim's new book "Story: The Art Of Learning From Your Past":
https://www.amazon.com/Story-Art-Learning-Your-Past/dp/B0D1D5TBQ6/
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In this episode of The Today Counts Show, we continue a collection of conversations on the book of Genesis. Jim talks with Gary Harpst & Winston Harris. Gary is the founder and CEO of LeadFirst and author. His most recent book is titled "Built to Beat Chaos: Biblical Wisdom for Leading Yourself." Winston is a Pastor and friend of Jim that shares a passion for God's word.
They unpack the fall in the garden of Eden and how our relationships between me and women changed forever. What role do men and women play in a relationship? We also learn why work can be challenging and how we are to respond when life gets hard.
For listeners interested in deepening their understanding of biblical doctrine and a biblical perspective on the fall of humanity, this episode provides insightful discussions on these ideas and more. Tune in for a profound exploration of biblical wisdom and spiritual growth.
Find Gary's book, "Built to Beat Chaos: Biblical Wisdom for Leading Yourself" on Amazon:
https://www.amazon.com/Built-Beat-Chaos-Biblical-Yourself/dp/1394158408
Follow Winston Harris on IG: @winstg
Get a copy of Jim's new book "Story: The Art Of Learning From Your Past":
https://www.amazon.com/Story-Art-Learning-Your-Past/dp/B0D1D5TBQ6/
Follow for more content on IG:
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In this episode of The Today Counts Show, we continue a collection of conversations on the book of Genesis. Jim talks with Gary Harpst & Winston Harris. Gary is the founder and CEO of LeadFirst and author. His most recent book is titled "Built to Beat Chaos: Biblical Wisdom for Leading Yourself." Winston is a Pastor and friend of Jim that shares a passion for God's word.
They unpack the fall in the garden of Eden and how our relationship with God changed forever. What does this mean for us? We see a characteristic of God that is revealed for the first time and learn that God accepts people when they come to him with their brokenness.
For listeners interested in deepening their understanding of biblical doctrine and a biblical perspective on the fall of humanity, this episode provides insightful discussions on these ideas and more. Tune in for a profound exploration of biblical wisdom and spiritual growth.
Find Gary's book, "Built to Beat Chaos: Biblical Wisdom for Leading Yourself" on Amazon:
https://www.amazon.com/Built-Beat-Chaos-Biblical-Yourself/dp/1394158408
Follow Winston Harris on IG: @winstg
Get a copy of Jim's new book "Story: The Art Of Learning From Your Past":
https://www.amazon.com/Story-Art-Learning-Your-Past/dp/B0D1D5TBQ6/
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In this episode of the Today Counts Show, Jim talks with actress, model, essayist, editor, and writer of fiction, Anika Pavel. She shares her experience growing up in Czechoslovakia under political distress.
Anika and Jim unpack inspirational realities about faith, freedom, and the impact of a nation's government on our lives. Anika reveals some powerful lessons about life that she covers in her newest book "Encounter With The Future."
Discover Anika's book:
https://www.amazon.com/encounter-future-Anika-Pavel/dp/B0D1PKKMW5
Get a copy of Jim's new book "Story: The Art Of Learning From Your Past": https://www.amazon.com/Story-Art-Learning-Your-Past/dp/B0D1D5TBQ6/
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In this episode of The Today Counts Show, Jim unloads some gems about customer service that will 10x your business.
If you are looking to level up your sales and engage customers like never before, lean in and listen up! If this podcast, impacts you in any way, be sure to share the link with someone!
Get a copy of Jim's new book "Story: The Art Of Learning From Your Past":
https://www.amazon.com/Story-Art-Learning-Your-Past/dp/B0D1D5TBQ6/
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In this episode of the Today Counts Show, Jim talks with Financial Advisor and author Tim Rosen. Tim is the Founder and Principal of Financial Compass, a registered Investment Advisory Firm based in Central Tennessee.
In this masterclass on investing, they discuss how to invest, asset allocation, stocks, retirement planning, and more!
Tune in to discover how to level up your financial literacy by implementing practical strategies for increased wealth.
Learn more about Tim:
www.FinCompass.org
Books:
Against The Grain: Avoiding the Financial Pitfalls of Conventional Wisdom
Faith and Finances:Eternal Promises for Today’s Resources
Faith and Finances for Kids
Multiply: What the Bible Teaches About Saving, Investing, and Planning for your Future
Bible Steps: A Pathway to God’s Financial Promises and Peace
Click here for the Author’s Page on Amazon:
Get a copy of Jim's new book "Story: The Art Of Learning From Your Past": https://www.amazon.com/Story-Art-Learning-Your-Past/dp/B0D1D5TBQ6/
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In this episode of the Today Counts Show, Jim talks with
Keynote Speaker, 2x Best-Selling Author, Former Tech Entrepreneur, Turnaround Strategist and C-Suite Exec Penny Zenker. She is know as "the Focusologist". In this masterclass on leadership, they discuss the power of visualization, resetting your mindset, executive ownership, and how to avoid burnout.
Discover how to level up your influence by implementing practical strategies for leadership growth. Tune in to learn how to elevate your leadership skills and make a lasting impact in your personal and professional life.
Connect with Penny Zenker:
https://pennyzenker360.com/
Discover Penny's books:
https://pennyzenker360.com/productivityzone-focus-and-attention/
Get a copy of Jim's new book "Story: The Art Of Learning From Your Past": https://www.amazon.com/Story-Art-Learning-Your-Past/dp/B0D1D5TBQ6/
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In this episode of The Today Counts Show, we continue a collection of conversations on the book of Genesis. Jim talks with Gary Harpst, Matt Martin & Winston Harris. Gary is the founder and CEO of LeadFirst and author. His most recent book is titled "Built to Beat Chaos: Biblical Wisdom for Leading Yourself". Matt and Winston are Pastors and friends of Jim that share a passion for God's word.
They unpack the sovereignty of God, spiritual leadership in our homes, our response to shame and an overlooked truth in Genesis 3!
For listeners interested in deepening their understanding of biblical doctrine and a biblical perspective on the fall of humanity, this episode provides insightful discussions on these ideas and more. Tune in for a profound exploration of biblical wisdom and spiritual growth.
Find Gary's book, "Built to Beat Chaos: Biblical Wisdom for Leading Yourself" on Amazon:
https://www.amazon.com/Built-Beat-Chaos-Biblical-Yourself/dp/1394158408
Follow Matt Martin on IG: @m_martin96
Follow Winston Harris on IG: @winstg
Get a copy of Jim's new book "Story: The Art Of Learning From Your Past":
https://www.amazon.com/Story-Art-Learning-Your-Past/dp/B0D1D5TBQ6/
Follow for more content on IG:
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In this episode of The Today Counts Show, we continue a collection of conversations on the book of Genesis. Jim talks with Gary Harpst, Matt Martin & Winston Harris. Gary is the founder and CEO of LeadFirst and author. His most recent book is titled "Built to Beat Chaos: Biblical Wisdom for Leading Yourself". Matt and Winston are Pastors and friends of Jim that share a passion for God's word.
They unpack the ability of angels to obey or disobey God, how Satan fell from heaven, how these views impact our faith and more!
For listeners interested in deepening their understanding of biblical doctrine and a biblical view on angels, this episode provides insightful discussions on these ideas and more. Tune in for a profound exploration of biblical wisdom and spiritual growth.
Find Gary's book, "Built to Beat Chaos: Biblical Wisdom for Leading Yourself" on Amazon:
https://www.amazon.com/Built-Beat-Chaos-Biblical-Yourself/dp/1394158408
Follow Matt Martin on IG: @m_martin96
Follow Winston Harris on IG: @winstg
Get a copy of Jim's new book "Story: The Art Of Learning From Your Past":
https://www.amazon.com/Story-Art-Learning-Your-Past/dp/B0D1D5TBQ6/
Follow for more content on IG:
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Support the Show.
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In this episode of The Today Counts Show, we continue a collection of conversations on the book of Genesis. Jim talks with Matt Martin & Winston Harris. Matt and Winston are Pastors and friends of Jim that share a passion for God's word.
They started on Genesis 2:4-25 in the last podcast and they continue to discuss the second creation account. In this episode, they explore the idea that God is a God of relationship. When we understand the relational aspect of God, then we see the Garden of Eden and our lives in a different way.
For listeners interested in deepening their understanding of how God created humanity, this episode provides insightful discussions on Genesis 2. Tune in for a profound exploration of biblical wisdom and spiritual growth.
Follow Matt Martin on IG: @m_martin96
Follow Winston Harris on IG: @winstg
Get a copy of Jim's new book "Story: The Art Of Learning From Your Past":
https://www.amazon.com/Story-Art-Learning-Your-Past/dp/B0D1D5TBQ6/
Follow for more content on IG:
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In this episode of The Today Counts Show, we continue a collection of conversations on the book of Genesis. Jim talks with Matt Martin & Winston Harris. Matt and Winston are Pastors and friends of Jim that share a passion for God's word.
They cover Genesis 2:4-25 and discuss the second creation account, the character of God, why humanity is eternal, the design of the garden of eden, and more!
For listeners interested in deepening their understanding of how God created humanity, this episode provides insightful discussions on Genesis 2. Tune in for a profound exploration of biblical wisdom and spiritual growth.
Follow Matt Martin on IG: @m_martin96
Follow Winston Harris on IG: @winstg
Get a copy of Jim's new book "Story: The Art Of Learning From Your Past":
https://www.amazon.com/Story-Art-Learning-Your-Past/dp/B0D1D5TBQ6/
Follow for more content on IG:
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Support the Show.
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In this episode of the Today Counts Show, Jim talks with Financial Advisor and author Tim Rosen. Tim is the Founder and Principal of Financial Compass, a registered Investment Advisory Firm based in Central Tennessee.
He is passionate about teaching financial literacy, having written 4 books on the subject, and he travels regularly teaching his curriculum.
Tim and his wife have been married for over 36 years with a son and daughter, and grandson and granddaughter.
In this masterclass on finance, they discuss parenting with financial literacy as a focus, biblical financial principles, purpose-driven wealth and more!
Tune in to discover how to level up your financial literacy by implementing practical strategies for generational wealth.
Learn more about Tim:
www.FinCompass.org
Books:
Against The Grain: Avoiding the Financial Pitfalls of Conventional Wisdom
Faith and Finances:Eternal Promises for Today’s Resources
Faith and Finances for Kids
Multiply: What the Bible Teaches About Saving, Investing, and Planning for your Future
Bible Steps: A Pathway to God’s Financial Promises and Peace
Author’s Page Amazon:
https://www.amazon.com/stores/Tim-Rosen/author/B005Y5UH6I?ref=ap_rdr&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true
Get a copy of Jim's new book "Story: The Art Of Learning From Your Past": https://www.amazon.com/Story-Art-Learning-Your-Past/dp/B0D1D5TBQ6/
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@jimpiper_jr
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In this episode of The Today Counts Show, we continue a collection of conversations on the book of Genesis. Jim talks with Gary Harpst & Winston Harris. Gary is the founder and CEO of LeadFirst and author. His most recent book is titled "Built to Beat Chaos: Biblical Wisdom for Leading Yourself". Winston is a Pastor and friend of Jim who shares a passion for God's word.
They cover Genesis 2:1-3 and discuss Self-Care Culture, the Sabbath being a symbol in scripture, and the Benefits of Sabbath in our lives.
For listeners interested in growing in their theology, gaining a deeper understanding of biblical rest and the sabbath, and how to grow in spiritual health, this episode provide insightful discussions on rest and trusting God practically through the sabbath practice.
Find Gary's book, "Built to Beat Chaos: Biblical Wisdom for Leading Yourself" on Amazon:
https://www.amazon.com/Built-Beat-Chaos-Biblical-Yourself/dp/1394158408
Follow Winston Harris on IG: @winstg
Get a copy of Jim's new book "Story: The Art Of Learning From Your Past":
https://www.amazon.com/Story-Art-Learning-Your-Past/dp/B0D1D5TBQ6/
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@leadtodaycommunity
@jimpiper_jr
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In this episode of The Today Counts Show, Jim releases some profound insights that can help us upgrade our habits and our life.
If you are looking to improve your productivity, improve your mental health, and level up your overall perspective, lean in and listen up! If this podcast, impacts you in any way, be sure to share the link with someone!
Get a copy of Jim's new book "Story: The Art Of Learning From Your Past":
https://www.amazon.com/Story-Art-Learning-Your-Past/dp/B0D1D5TBQ6/
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In this episode of The Today Counts Show, we continue a collection of conversations on the book of Genesis. Jim talks with Gary Harpst, Matt Martin & Winston Harris. Gary is the founder and CEO of LeadFirst and author. His most recent book is titled "Built to Beat Chaos: Biblical Wisdom for Leading Yourself". Matt and Winston are Pastors and friends of Jim that share a passion for God's word.
They cover Genesis 1:26-31 and discuss the image of God, gender, identity, dominion, and more!
For listeners interested in deepening their understanding of how God created humanity, this episode provides insightful discussions on how what biblical dominion looks like from a Godly perspective.
Find Gary's book, "Built to Beat Chaos: Biblical Wisdom for Leading Yourself" on Amazon:
https://www.amazon.com/Built-Beat-Chaos-Biblical-Yourself/dp/1394158408
Follow Matt Martin on IG: @m_martin96
Follow Winston Harris on IG: @winstg
Get a copy of Jim's new book "Story: The Art Of Learning From Your Past":
https://www.amazon.com/Story-Art-Learning-Your-Past/dp/B0D1D5TBQ6/
Follow for more content on IG:
@leadtodaycommunity
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In this episode of The Today Counts Show, we continue a collection of conversations on the book of Genesis. Jim talks with Gary Harpst, Matt Martin & Winston Harris. Gary is the founder and CEO of LeadFirst and author. His most recent book is titled "Built to Beat Chaos: Biblical Wisdom for Leading Yourself". Matt and Winston are Pastors and friends of Jim that share a passion for God's word.
They cover Genesis 1:26-31 and discuss the image of God, gender, identity, dominion, and more!
For listeners interested in deepening their understanding of how God created humanity, this episode provides insightful discussions on how to love ourselves and love others. Tune in for a profound exploration of biblical wisdom and spiritual growth.
Find Gary's book, "Built to Beat Chaos: Biblical Wisdom for Leading Yourself" on Amazon:
https://www.amazon.com/Built-Beat-Chaos-Biblical-Yourself/dp/1394158408
Follow Matt Martin on IG: @m_martin96
Follow Winston Harris on IG: @winstg
Get a copy of Jim's new book "Story: The Art Of Learning From Your Past":
https://www.amazon.com/Story-Art-Learning-Your-Past/dp/B0D1D5TBQ6/
Follow for more content on IG:
@leadtodaycommunity
@jimpiper_jr
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In this episode of the Today Counts Show, Jim talks with author, personal and corporate performance coach and international speaker Dave Anderson. In this masterclass on leadership, they discuss personal and team accountability, becoming better at what you're gifted in, and the keys to a mindset for life changing success.
Connect with Dave Anderson:
https://www.learntolead.com/
Discover Dave's books:
https://store.learntolead.com/
Get a copy of Jim's new book "Story: The Art Of Learning From Your Past":
https://www.amazon.com/Story-Art-Learning-Your-Past/dp/B0D1D5TBQ6/
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In this episode of The Today Counts Show, Jim talks with author, teacher, and mentor Shae Bynes. They discuss her desire to help those who are called to entrepreneurship, so they can experience God's best and have a greater Kingdom impact in the marketplace. If you are considering entrepreneurship, learn how to hear God and move towards Biblical entrepreneurship.
Follow Shae on IG:
@shaebynes
Connect with Shae and Kingdom Driven Entrepreneurs:
https://kingdomdrivenentrepreneur.com/
Discover Shae's books:
https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B00A41YM3Q/allbooks?ingress=0&visitId=672ef740-3058-47d5-8901-e475fdc9493f
Get a copy of Jim's new book "Story: The Art Of Learning From Your Past":
https://www.amazon.com/Story-Art-Learning-Your-Past/dp/B0D1D5TBQ6/
Follow for more content on IG:
@leadtodaycommunity
@jimpiper_jr
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In this episode of The Today Counts Show, we continue a collection of conversations on the book of Genesis. Jim talks with Gary Harpst, Matt Martin & Winston Harris. Gary is the founder and CEO of LeadFirst and author. His most recent book is titled "Built to Beat Chaos: Biblical Wisdom for Leading Yourself". Matt and Winston are Pastors and friends of Jim that share a passion for God's word.
They explore the gap theory, how God speaks, what happened during the creation of the earth, and more!
For listeners interested in deepening their understanding of how God speaks, this episode provides insightful discussions on divine communication, scriptural interpretations, and the significance of hearing God's voice in today's world. Tune in for a profound exploration of biblical wisdom and spiritual growth.
Find Gary's book, "Built to Beat Chaos: Biblical Wisdom for Leading Yourself" on Amazon:
https://www.amazon.com/Built-Beat-Chaos-Biblical-Yourself/dp/1394158408
Follow Matt Martin on IG: @m_martin96
Follow Winston Harris on IG: @winstg
Get a copy of Jim's new book "Story: The Art Of Learning From Your Past":
https://www.amazon.com/Story-Art-Learning-Your-Past/dp/B0D1D5TBQ6/
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@leadtodaycommunity
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In this episode of The Today Counts Show, Jim talks with author and coach, Kim Avery about her book "The Prayer Powered Entrepreneur." They discuss the mindset it takes to change your circumstances, to grow personally, and the power of God's principles when used in your business.
Follow Kim on IG:
@coachkimavery
Follow Kim on Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/KimAveryCoaching/
Get a copy of her book "The Prayer Powered Entrepreneur":
https://www.prayerpowered.com/
Learn more about Kim's Coaching:
kimaverycoaching.com
Get a copy of Jim's new book "Story: The Art Of Learning From Your Past":
https://www.amazon.com/Story-Art-Learning-Your-Past/dp/B0D1D5TBQ6/
Follow for more content on IG:
@leadtodaycommunity
@jimpiper_jr
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In this episode of The Today Counts Show, we continue a collection of conversations on the book of Genesis. Jim talks with friends and Pastors Matt Martin & Winston Harris about the profound wisdom found in Genesis 1:1 . They explore ideas around God before creation, who wrote Genesis, how we can find the gospel in Genesis and more!
Follow Matt Martin on IG:
@m_martin96
Follow Winston Harris on IG:
@winstg
Get a copy of Jim's new book "Story: The Art Of Learning From Your Past":
https://www.amazon.com/Story-Art-Learning-Your-Past/dp/B0D1D5TBQ6/
Follow for more content on IG:
@leadtodaycommunity
@jimpiper_jr
Support the Today Counts Show
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In this episode of The Today Counts Show, we start a collection of conversations on the book of Genesis. Jim talks with friends and Pastors Matt Martin & Winston Harris about the profound wisdom found in Genesis 1:1 . They explore ideas around God before creation, who wrote Genesis, how we can find the gospel in Genesis and more!
Follow Matt Martin on IG:
@m_martin96
Follow Winston Harris on IG:
@winstg
Get a copy of Jim's new book "Story: The Art Of Learning From Your Past":
https://www.amazon.com/Story-Art-Learning-Your-Past/dp/B0D1D5TBQ6/
Follow for more content on IG:
@leadtodaycommunity
@jimpiper_jr
Support the Today Counts Show
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In this episode of The Today Counts Show, Jim talks with journalist and author, Whitney Pipken about her book "We Shall All Be Changed." They discuss the "theology of death" and what it takes to cope with the grief of losing a loved one. This conversation is for anyone needing hope in the face of loss.
Follow Whitney on IG:
@whitneykpipken
Get a copy of her book "We Shall All Be Changed":
https://www.whitneykpipkin.com/new-book
Get a copy of Jim's new book "Story: The Art Of Learning From Your Past":
https://www.amazon.com/Story-Art-Learning-Your-Past/dp/B0D1D5TBQ6/
Follow for more content on IG:
@leadtodaycommunity
@jimpiper_jr
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In this episode of The Today Counts Show, Jim talks with Ministry Leaders, Brett and Erin Kunkle about winning as a parent in 2024. They address the hard conversations around mental health, social media addictions, and family issues. A lifetime of wisdom is shared on how to improve the health of your family.
You can follow Brett and Erin Kunkle online at: https://maventruth.com/about/
Get a copy of Brett Kunkle's Book:
A Practical Guide To Culture: Helping The Next Generation Navigate Today's World
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In this episode of The Today Counts Show, Jim talks with Darren Shearer on what it means to build a business God's way. Darren is the founder and director of the Theology of Business Institute, which helps marketplace Christians explore and apply God’s will for business. With this conversation, you will get a unique insight to building a successful business.
Follow Darren:
https://www.instagram.com/darren_shearer_?igsh=MWxodmthbTJ4ZDcxag==
https://www.theologyofbusiness.com/
https://www.highbridgemedia.com/
https://www.highbridgebooks.com/
Darren's Books:
https://www.theologyofbusiness.com/shop/
Follow Jim:
https://www.instagram.com/jimpiper_jr?igsh=MWcxc2J2dTVkaXUwcg==
https://leadtodaycommunity.com/
https://www.youtube.com/@leadtodaycommunity
Jim's Newest Book:
Story: The Art of Learning From Your Past is available on Amazon.
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Winston Harris is guest host today and interviewing Jim Piper about his new book, "Story: The Art of Learning From Your Past". Jim explains that in his opinion God "co-authors" our life story. The key is to properly interpret the story that God is laying out for us. The book is not so much about looking back on our lives but more about taking an inventory to help us become better people and better leaders.
Jim explains that the style of the book is not an instruction manual for life and leadership. His approach to coaching is more about learning a person's story and helping them learn from it or telling a relatable story. What's good that can be a building block to better things? What are the weaknesses or old wounds that need to be addressed to make way for improvement? Reading the book is like hearing Jim tell stories that illustrate life's journey. It's not always happy endings and good feelings. As Jim would say, "it's about the good, the bad and the ugly". Make Jim's book the next addition to your personal library. Learn something new today!
Jim Piper is the founder and leader of the Lead Today Community. His new book, Story: The Art of Learning From Your Past is available on Amazon.
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Jim Piper welcomes Dr. Joe Martin to the Today Counts Show. Dr. Joe Martin is the founder of Real Men Connect. The goal of Real Men Connect is to help GOOD men become GREAT men, God’s way. "Dr. Joe" has a contagious passion for helping men become great men.
Jim and Dr. Joe are kindred spirits in their belief that strong, masculine men are needed more than ever in today's world. Many societal problems can be traced back to the lack of a positive, male role model in the lives of children. That factor alone can have a long-term, negative impact on a child's life. Dr. Joe was able to overcome his difficult, sometimes tragic, childhood but only after a roller coaster ride of success and failure as an adult. By sharing his personal failures he is able to connect with fathers who are struggling to become better men. Jim and Dr. Joe both emphasize the importance of having mentors in your life. At least one mentor, if not multiple mentors, that will help guide and educate you in different areas of your life.
Dr. Joe also teaches that many, if not most, men have or will have an identity problem. This is because most men base their identity on what they do. Dr. Joe describes this as the "ations". For example, your occup-"ation", your compens-"ation", your intimid-"ation", etc. These are all faulty assumptions because there are more important things in life on which men should base their identity. Things like relationships, maturity and purpose, just to name a few. The message is clear: it's not about accolades or achievements; it's about being present, taking responsibility and being a rock for your family.
You can find out more about Dr. Joe Martin and Real Men Connect by visiting RealMenConnect.com. All of Dr. Joe Martin's books are also available on the website and if his message resonates with you, a personal "Breakthrough Call" can be scheduled with Dr. Joe himself.
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What is a ReLeader? Jon Chasteen is Jim Piper's guest today and author of the book, "ReLeader: How To Fix What You Didn't Break". In this podcast Jon defines the term "ReLeader" and also shares his thoughts on leadership in general. A quick explanation of a ReLeader is someone who comes into an existing company or organization to assume the leadership role. That may sound easier than building something new from the ground up but is it? To be a successful ReLeader requires a willingness to research the original vision and mission. If things have drifted away from that vision or mission, how do you correct that, should you correct that, should you steer the ship in a new direction? Most importantly, once you know what should be done, when do you do it and how do you do it? Was the previous leader a great leader or a terrible leader? How will you gain the trust of the people you are tasked with leading? Hmmm.... maybe this ReLeader thing isn't so easy!
This episode of The Today Counts is really packed with information and advice that leaders can put to good use in the real world. The scenarios Jim and Jon discuss are based on their personal experiences and those of their mentors. These are not hypothetical theories, these are stories based on living life as leaders. The best part is it's free! All you have to do is listen and learn.
Jon Chasteen has been the Lead Pastor of Victory Church, a multicampus church with campuses in both Oklahoma and Texas, since 2014. Jon was also President of The King's University from 2018 to 2023.
You can reach Jon Chasteen through the Victory Church website - https://victory.church/
Or, through his website - releader.co
You can find Jon's Book, "ReLeader: How To Fix What You Didn't Break" on Amazon, as well as his other book, "Half the Battle: Healing Your Hidden Hurts".
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Jim's guest on this episode of the Today Counts Show is Damon Nailer. Damon is the Family Resource Center Program Director for the Children’s Coalition for Northeast Louisiana. The organization is located in Monroe, Louisiana and offers many community services ranging from Early Head Start programs and teacher training to Parenting Education for individuals and groups. Damon works with families that have lost custody of their child, or children, and connects them with the resources they need to work towards putting their families back together. This may involve first helping a parent get through a substance abuse program or providing mental healthcare services. Most importantly, Damon teaches and coaches these parents, especially fathers, about parenting. Unfortunately, many of these parents grew up in broken families so they did not have a model to reference the role of a parent in a child's life. Damon also grew up in a fatherless home. That is what drives him to educate and break the cycle of broken families. It is important work.
Jim and Damon also take on the topic of communication. Damon shares a great, common sense tip on communicating with people. "Commonalities connect but differences divide". Work on training yourself to first look for things you have in common with someone instead of what is different. It is a simple concept but one that could really change how you approach communication.
Jim and Damon spend a lot of time on communication and how decisions concerning how much information to share can affect person communication, business communication and even media communication. Media communication and the public trust, or the lack thereof, sparks a whole discussion in itself!
You can find Damon Nailer on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/damon-nailer-78932b17
Find out more about Children’s Coalition for Northeast Louisiana and how you can support their mission at: https://www.childrenscoalition.org/
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Angie Taylor started what would become Valor Global Foundation by holding what she thought would be a small meeting with about 10 parents to talk about her vision of a new model for educating our children. It turned into a meeting with about 300 people, many of whom paid deposits that night to enroll their children in a school that did not exist yet! That is the power of laying out a clear vision and the way forward to achieve that vision. Valor Global Foundation now has several brick and mortar schools in the US, several international campus locations and an online school.
Jim and Angie spend an hour or so talking about Angie's background and experience, the things that are wrong with the current education model and what motivated her to leave her job and start the foundation. She explains how the Standardized Testing Industry and the emphasis on test scores is driving a system that is not teaching our children to think, or to be creative, or to understand the connection between what they are learning and how it applies to the real world. Angie knew there was a better way. There is so much information presented in this podcast that these show notes could become a text book! But who wants to read pages of notes when you can get the information straight from the source.
Speaking of books, Angie Taylor has written a book titled, "The Way of Valor" that's all about the new movement in education. Most agree the current system is broken. This book lays out a new way forward that better educates and prepares children for the real world and life as a productive, responsible adult. The book is available on Amazon.
You can reach Angie Taylor on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/angie-taylor-7a213712a
or through the Valor Global Foundation website: https://valorglobalfoundation.org/
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Jim's guest on this episode of the Today Counts Show is Ken Cochrum. Ken is the Executive Vice President of Field Ministries at East-West. The first words you see on the EastWest.org homepage are, "Shining God's light into the spiritually darkest places of the world". The mission of East-West is to mobilize the Body of Christ to evangelize the lost and equip local believers to multiply disciples and churches among the unreached. East-West deploys teams of missionaries and works with national partners in 44 countries across 10 major world regions. In his role at East-West Ken works with hundreds of staff and strategic global partners as well as, thousands of volunteers.
Ken and Jim have a great discussion that keeps coming back to how some of the finest examples of leadership theory and methods can be found in the bible. After all, Jesus is the most successful organizational leader in the history of mankind! Ken has a real passion for preparing the next generation of leaders. Helping young leaders become more confident and helping them get the knowledge and support they need to be successful. Also, Ken talks about all leaders learning to be more adaptive in their leadership roles. Ken believes in the concept of "commanders intent" when it comes to overall leadership philosophy. It's an idea that comes out of military leadership training. The guiding principle is this, "plan all you want, and it is necessary to plan, but once you hit the ground in the fog of war all plans change". Therefore, leaders involved in the mission must understand the objective of the mission, the parameters they are allowed to work within to achieve the objective and most importantly, be prepared to adapt and change the plan to achieve that objective when necessary. Being a leader who is able to adapt to changing conditions is more important than ever in today's world!
You can reach Ken Cochrum on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kencochrum/
Find out more about East-West and how to support this global ministry at: EastWest.org
Bonus book reference:
Jim and Ken both recommend...
The Master Plan of Evangelism by Robert E. Coleman available on Amazon.
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The Today Counts Show is about a lot of things. Leadership, faith and knowing your purpose, just to name a few. Today's podcast, with guest Kyle Duford, covers a lot of ground in under an hour. Kyle is President and ECD of The Brand Leader, a branding, strategy and advertising firm with a national and international footprint. He is also a public speaker and author of the book "Twice Found".
Kyle teaches Jim, and all of us, about some of the terminology used in branding. Is your company culture part of your brand? Is marketing the same as advertising? Kyle presents a mental exercise for everyone to prove the power of a well established brand. Can you imagine what it would look like, or be like, if Nike started an airline? As crazy as that example may seem, I'll bet you can picture it in our mind! Nike has spent decades building their brand image and this exercise proves it works.
On the topic of leadership, Jim and Kyle have a lengthy discussion about the importance of adapting to the needs of the changing work force. Millennials were the first generation to make waves in the business world but Gen Z has really thrown many of the old-school management methods out the window. The interests and needs of Gen Z are simply not the same as previous generations. As a business leader, you still have to run your business and align your team but you may have to take a different road to get there. The bottom line here is that leaders should always be growing.
In the last segment of today's show, Kyle shares some of his story found in his book, "Twice Found". The subtitle of the book is "Getting a Second Chance at Life, Love, and Understanding God". It all started after losing his job, a failed marriage and thoughts of suicide. He took a trip to Maui to clear his head and find "whatever" higher power might be calling him. Almost every person, even complete strangers, that he meet in Maui seemed to be pointing him to Jesus. That lead him to reflect and realize that his whole life had been full of people doing the same thing. But there is another beautiful twist to this story. You'll have to listen to the podcast to find out what happened next!
You can find Kyle Duford online at:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/kyleduford/ or...
https://thebrandleader.com/team/kyle-duford/
His book "Twice Found" can be found on Amazon or through ComingBackToGod.com
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Are you concerned about where your money is invested? Does it matter to you if a company you have invested in is supporting social and political agendas that don't line up with your personal values? Darryl Lyons, Jim's guest today, is an expert in the field of financial planning and investing. More specifically, he is an expert in investing from a Christian world view. Darryl is co-founder and CEO of Pax Financial Group in San Antonio, TX. He is also an author. His most recent book is titled, "Biblical Responsible Investing".
Jim and Darryl discuss many areas of personal finances and how important it is to have a strategy for your financial future. They talk about the difference between retirement and "pivoting", they talk about alternatives to traditional health insurance, they talk about figuring out how much is enough money for your future plans. They even discuss strategies for charitable giving. That subject really leads to some surprising insight from Darryl that you have probably never heard before. This information alone makes it worth your time to listen to this episode of the Today Counts Show!You can reach Darryl Lyons through the Pax Financial Group website: paxfinancialgroup.com
His book, "Biblical Responsible Investing" is available on Amazon.
Darryl also hosts the podcast, Retire in Texas. You can find it here: https://paxfinancialgroup.com/podcasts/
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This podcast is certified organic human. No AI was used in the recording or editing of this show. As funny as that declaration may sound, according to Titus Blair this might be a requirement in the future to verify you are hearing and/or seeing real humans that are not AI generated!
On this episode of the Today Counts Show Jim discusses the current state of AI and where it seems to be headed in the future. His expert guest on the subject is Titus Blair. Titus is, first and foremost, a Jesus follower who wants to spread the Good News to the world. He is also a serial entrepreneur who has started many successful companies and is author of the book, "AI to the Rescue". Some of the information Titus brings to the discussion about the possible future of AI is disturbing. It sounds like a science fiction movie yet it's getting closer and closer to reality.
Titus also shares some of his personal story including how he moved to New Zealand to work with a church and found many of the people there in desperate need of hope. The society has been so stripped of God and faith that many believe the Bible is nothing more than fairy tales.
You can reach Titus Blair at his website: TitusBlair.com
His book, "AI to the Rescue" is available on Amazon.
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This episode of the Today Counts Show is really fascinating and sad at the same time. Jim welcomes Peter Young to the podcast. Peter played college basketball at George Washington University and briefly coached basketball before embarking on a career as a sports broadcaster. He is the author of two books, "The Blue Team" and "Stop The Tall Man, Save The Tiger".
That "micro" bio sounds normal and to most of Peter's friends and co-workers, his life with his wife and five children was normal. However, it was anything but normal. Jim and Peter discuss Peter's book, "Stop The Tall Man, Save The Tiger". The book is not fiction it is a memoir. It is the story of his journey in and out of a cult. Even more bizarre is the cult itself. A small family cult led by the strange and ultimately manipulative Uncle Robert (of no actual family relation) that Peter's wife had know her entire life. When Jim asks Peter how he let himself get involved Peter says that, like all cult leaders, Uncle Robert didn't seem radical at first. Cult leaders lure you in with normal, reasonable ideas at first and then slowly twist scripture and teachings and manipulate you over time. As Peter says, "You never know you are in a cult; you only know you were in a one."
You have to listen and hear this story straight from the man who lived it. It will seem like an unbelievable movie plot but unfortunately for Peter and his now broken family, it is true.
You can reach Peter Young through his website: authorpeteryoung.com
You can buy his books "The Blue Team" and "Stop The Tall Man, Save The Tiger" on Amazon.
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Today's episode is a one-on-one session with you and Jim. The topic is, what do you believe? At first glance you might think this podcast is all about faith and religion. Well, you would be partially right but the concept is much broader. Jim directs the question to your work life and your home life, as well as, your faith. At work do you believe in the competency of your leaders, the direction of your company, the way operations are run? At home do you believe in the importance of family, having a good marriage? All of those things may be influenced by your faith. Is faith the most important question about belief? It's all connected and determines your behavior, your decisions, your priorities. Definitely a question worth thinking about!
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This is a very special episode of the Today Counts Show. Today Jim Piper celebrates his milestone 100th podcast! It's a big commitment to consistently produce a weekly podcast and stick with it long enough to reach 100 episodes. About 44% percent of podcasters never get past 3 episodes and only about 4 % produce a weekly podcast! If you listen to this podcast, know Jim or have ever meet Jim, the fact that he has reached "overachiever" status is no surprise.
Jim welcomes Justin Irving back for this 100th episode of the Today Counts Show to talk about some of the ideas in Justin's latest book, "Healthy Leadership for Thriving Organizations". Over 200 executive leaders were surveyed as part for the research for this book. This provided real world data about the challenges and priorities of today's leaders. While many concepts of leadership are evergreen and as applicable now as they were 20 or 30 years ago, some concepts do require adaptation or modification to be effective in today's world. For example; Justin shares some thoughts on the differences in the need for affirmation between generations of employees. A seasoned 50-something employee might be fine with a little recognition every 6 months while a 20-something employee who's new to the workplace might need attention weekly or even daily. These kinds of situations require a leader to be more aware and in touch with his organization.
The theme of self-leadership is a topic that both Jim and Justin keep revisiting in their discussion. While a specific percentage of time a leader should spend in this area might be up for debate, there is no doubt that it is critical for leaders to set aside time to work on themselves. Mentally, physically and spiritually. You can't achieve healthy leadership without it.
You can reach Justin Irving on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jairving
His book, Healthy Leadership for Thriving Organizations is available on Amazon.
If you missed Justin Irving's first appearance on the Today Counts Show, you can find it here: Ep. 65 - Dr. Justin Irving: Leadership in Christian Perspective
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Today Jim is joined by co-host Chase Stinson (his assistant producer). Together they welcome Allison Eide to the Today Counts Show. Allison is an amazing, up and coming Christian artist who is not afraid to write songs about the struggles of real life. Her song "Love Who I Am" went viral and reached over a million people in just a few weeks! Allison has a heart for people that struggle with mental illness and hopes to use her music to help lift them out of isolation. She shares stories about how she started her music career performing with her dad Peder Eide (a nationally known songwriter and worship artist for 25+ years) and how she put her music career on hold for four years while she played college basketball.
Allison also talks about her own struggles with mental illness and how debilitating it can be to deal with intrusive thoughts that distort reality even when you know they are not real. All the while, to the outside world, all seems normal. This is the weight of mental illness in many people's lives. It attacks you when you are alone and vulnerable.
Allison also has a ministry called "Moment Ministries". Moment Ministries mission is to inspire and equip young women to live in their Christ-centered Identity. Their camps for Middle School and High School girls are packed with conversation, team-building, one-on-one discipleship, and emotional and spiritual healing. The goal is for each girl to walk away with a freedom and confidence that cannot be shaken by the world.
You can reach out to Allison Eide and find out more about her and her ministry at: https://www.allisoneide.com/
Check out her songs on YouTube:
"Love Who I Am"
"Real Life"
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Jim Piper continues his theme of bringing in new people to share their knowledge and wisdom with the Today Counts Show family. Today's guest is Adam Mabry. Adam is a scholar, teacher, author, pastor and church planter, just to name of few of his many skills and talents! Adam is the founding Senior Pastor of Aletheia Church in Boston, MA — a multi-site, diverse church passionately committed to bringing the truth, grace, and the changing power of the Gospel for the glory of God and the good of all people.
Jim and Adam talk about Aletheia Church as well as Adam's new book, "When God Seems Gone". Adam shares that he wrote the book because of his own struggles with the pain of knowing that God is always there but at times not feeling his presences. Feeling as though there's no connection. With all of the constant, never ending distractions of our modern world, plus the ups and downs of relationships and work stress, it's easy for people to lose hope and give up on faith. If you know someone who's struggling with life and feeling hopeless and alone, this book could be their saving grace.
You can buy Adam Mabry's most recent book, "When God Seems Gone" on Amazon.
You can reach Adam though his website - AdamMabry.org
Find out more about Alethea Church and how you can support the ministry at - Aletheia.org
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Blake Coffee is Jim's guest on this episode of the Today Counts Show. Blake is founder and Executive Director of One Another Project. One Another Project aims to be an organization where people, families, churches and entire communities discover pathways to healing, togetherness and peace in a fractured world. Blake Coffee is also an attorney/mediator and author.
Jim and Blake discuss the importance of relationships in all aspects of life. Your personal life, church life and business life all work better with good relationships. It's the foundation of trust and hope. If you are a leader who wants to learn more about developing good relationships, Blake offers a program called "Five Conversations" for free that will guide you through the process! This is a full program supported with videos and written guides designed for small group meetings. As Blake describes it, building relationships is an ongoing journey. It's like working out to develop your physical health. You don't go once and your done. You work at it over time consistently. What a great resource for anyone who wants to learn and grow as a person.
Of course Blake Coffee is available to work with churches and organizations large or small to help develop or heal relationships and build a culture based on Biblical principles.
You can find out more about One Another Project at: https://www.oneanotherproject.com/
You can reach Blake directly at: blake@oneanotherproject.com
or on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blakecoffee/
Blake Coffee's books, "Trusting God’s People… Again" and "Five Principles of Unity" are available here: https://www.oneanotherproject.com/store/
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Jim Piper welcomes a new friend and colleague to the show today. His name is Gary Harpst. Gary is the founder and CEO of LeadFirst. The website describes LeadFirst as a faith-driven leadership platform that equips leaders to integrate faith, business management, and whole-person care. (Those should be familiar concepts to regular listeners of the Today Counts Show.) Gary is also an author. His most recent book is titled "Built to Beat Chaos: Biblical Wisdom for Leading Yourself".
The similarities in philosophy and faith are apparent throughout this thoughtful, spontaneous conversation. Even though Jim and Gary just meet, they sound like old friends talking about their shared passions and experiences. Gary shares some of the wisdom from his book "Built To Beat Chaos" and explains how his own experience of building his first business from one employee to hundreds gave him the first hand knowledge of what it's like for the business leader, or owner, going through the growing pains expansion. His years of experience have also led him to believe that leaders who have a clear purpose and learn to work with and care for their employees based on Biblical principles will succeed. These leaders will learn not to fear chaos but to expect it and control it.
If you would like to reach out to Gary Harpst or learn more about LeadFirst, go to:
LeadFirst.ai (https://www.leadfirst.ai/)
His book, "Built to Beat Chaos: Biblical Wisdom for Leading Yourself" is available on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Built-Beat-Chaos-Biblical-Yourself/dp/1394158408
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Jim is flying solo on this episode of the Today Counts Show. This is another one-on-one coaching session where Jim Piper is speaking directly to you! Here's a quick overview of what to expect:
Everybody likes winning, right? Well guess what trait most successful, consistent winners share? They are resilient. Good or bad, up or down they don't quit. They are resilient. So today Jim is sharing a model, a method, a roadmap to help you build a resilient, winning perspective in your life. Imagine a target with 3 layered rings representing 3 areas in your life...
The inner ring represents your Person, you, yourself. This where it all starts. Working on yourself. Here you consider things like:
· What is your life's vision, your purpose?
· If nothing else gets done this year (or this month or this quarter), what is the one goal, the one thing that you will get done?
· What kind of person do you need to become to accomplish this one goal, this vision?
The second ring, surrounding the inner ring, represents your People. This is where you focus on choosing the people in your life. You must learn that you have limitations in the amount of time and energies you have available. Choose wisely and consider this advice:
· Choose people who will help you and support you.
· Consciously choose your family. Make the commitment to be in their lives.
· Choose someone you can help.
The third outer ring, represents your Place. Your season in life, your job, your physical location. Remember these points:
· Embrace your place. Good or bad identify it. This process will lead to a place where you can visualize another place and how to get there.
· Remember that your place is temporary. Nothing in this world is forever. Some things will be under your control and some things not but they will change.
There's a lot of great information here distilled down to less than 30 minutes. Start working on your Person today!
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Winston Harris returns as guest host for this episode of the Today Counts Show. He leads Jim Piper in a discussion of the Principles of Success. Success means many different things to different people but how you arrive at that "definition of success" leads right into the first topic. Here's an overview of four main topics:
· The most difficult person to lead is yourself. Know who you want to be, what you want to do to support that and why. Everything else really depends on that foundation.
· The power of one... focus on one thing at a time. One goal, one person, one battle, etc... That mindset will help filter out the distractions. It will make it easier to say no to the things that lead you away from your intended destination.
· Have a teachable spirit. Be willing to admit that you don't know everything, be willing to learn from anybody or any situation. Remember that people like humble people.
· Talent alone is not enough. Without interpersonal skills at some point you will hit the glass ceiling. If you don't work on your ability to work with difficult people, if you don't learn to navigate compromise and differing opinions, you will be limited no matter how valuable your talents might be.
Of course those are only the broad topics. Each of those is fleshed out with much discussion and many real-world examples. As always this time of year, many of us think about what we want to accomplish in the new year. Use these Principles of Success as a guide to help you plan and execute an amazing year filled with learning and new challenges!
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Today's episode is a total role reversal for Jim Piper. Our special guest host, Winston Harris, interviews Jim on his journey in 2023 as the host of the Today Count Show. When you get the opportunity to talk one-on-one with many successful, fascinating people, you're bound to learn something! Together, Winston and Jim expand on some of the biggest take-away moments that really left an impression on Jim in 2023.
Here's the list of episodes mentioned:
EPISODE 58: JOHNNY SIRPILLA ON LEADERSHIP
EPISODE 90: DEALING WITH DIFFICULT PEOPLE: INSIGHTS FROM CLINT PIES
EPISODE 69: HALL OF FAME LEADERSHIP – SHERRI COALE
EPISODE 89: RESILIENCY AND REFLECTION: MENTAL HEALTH TALK W/ROBIN FINNEY
EPISODE 68: THE AFTERLIFE – DR. MARK STRAUSS
EPISODE 38: LEADERSHIP IN THE POST-PANDEMIC WORLD WITH ERIN PORTEOUS
EPISODE 53: MATT & JENNIFER MARTIN – SECOND CHAIR LEADERSHIP
EPISODE 66: LIFE CHANGE STORY: ELIJAH & CARRIE
EPISODE 70: WHAT IS A WORLDVIEW: DR. GLEN SCHULTZ
EPISODE 75: RAISING KIDS WHO WIN! You'll have to listen to the podcast to find out what made each of these episodes so special!Join the Lead Today Community and get our Monday Moments email!
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This episode of the Today Counts Show is all about leadership training. Jim talks us through the core competencies of a high capacity leader. This coaching session is divided into 6 topics:
· Clear and consistent communication
· Time and energy management
· Intentional personal and professional growth
· People development
· Commitment to the enterprise
· Decisiveness
Learn the difference between delegation and empowerment. Why is one better than the other? As a leader, how do you focus your employees on the bigger vision and make them feel like an important member of the team? Be totally committed to the enterprise but don't neglect your own health and well being. Intentionally working on yourself is essential. How can you coach other people to work on their skills if you aren't working on your own. Lead by example! Listen to this podcast and share it with your team.
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John Hewitt is Jim's guest this week! It's hard to know where to start to introduce John but let's just say if you have ever used a tax preparation company to do your income taxes, there's a good chance you have done business with one of his companies. John Hewitt co-founded Jackson Hewitt, founded Liberty Tax Service and founded Loyalty Brands. He is a master at building and growing businesses through franchising. The two tax companies he founded represent two out of three of the largest tax service companies! He is also author of the book "iCompete: How My Extraordinary Strategy for Winning Can Be Yours" in which he shares many of his mistakes and successes throughout his long successful career as an entrepreneur.
John tells Jim about his "not so normal" personality and how he can't relate to people who aren't willing to take risks and go for big hairy audacious goals! John thinks of it like this, "Not everyone that sets high goals is a high achiever but no one that sets low goals is high achiever". A statement everyone will agree with but only a few have the determination to follow through.
The conversation between Jim and John covers everything from sports to business strategies to faith. How often do you get the opportunity to hear a one on one conversation with a business leader who has built not one... but two nationally branded companies and sold them for hundreds of millions of dollars? Don't miss out on this entertaining, educational free resource.
You can find out more about the franchise opportunities offered by John's company Loyalty Brands here: https://loyaltybrands.com/
You can reach out to John Hewitt on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-t-hewitt-9917b7149
Also, speaking of resources, John Hewitt's book "iCompete: How My Extraordinary Strategy for Winning Can Be Yours" is available on Amazon:
https://www.amazon.com/iCompete-Extraordinary-Strategy-Winning-Yours/dp/1682610063or...
Email John Hewitt at John@Loyaltybrands.com and he'll send you a copy of the book for free!
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We can all think of situations in our lives where we were faced with dealing with a difficult person. At work or in our personal lives. Some situations created by difficult people are low risk/low stakes while others can have a significant negative impact on team dynamics at work or even our family relationships.
This episode of the Today Counts Show is all about dealing with difficult people. To guide us through this very challenging topic, Jim welcomes Clint Pies. Clint Pies is currently the Chief People Officer for MasTec Power Delivery. MasTec is a large, publicly traded, energy infrastructure company. Clint has decades of experience dealing with personnel at all levels in some very large Fortune 500 corporations.
Early on in the conversation Clint drops this catchy bit of wisdom, "What you ignore becomes more. What you address becomes less". That is the sometimes uncomfortable truth! Clint explains that unresolved conflict can drain the mind and body of energy. Life is better lived when problems are resolved. Working in a positive way to find a resolution not only means good outcomes but a more positive journey to achieve them.
Jim and Clint talk about the traits that might get someone labeled as difficult, looking deeper to possibly find the cause of difficult behavior, and how to approach the hard conversations to resolve conflicts.
Another valuable piece of the puzzle that comes out of this exchange of ideas between Jim and Clint... The difficult person might be you! Self examination is key to growth as a leader. Work on yourself so you can better serve others.
You can find Clint Pies on LinkedIn at:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/clint-pies
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Jim Piper welcomes his sister, Robin Finney, to the Today Counts Show. Robin is a psychiatric nurse practitioner. She and her husband Micah Finney are co-owners of Compass Rose Psychiatry. Jim and Robin have a lengthy discussion about mental health in today's culture and why it seems to be so front of mind in our society.
For example; why are so many people today so easily offended and so quick to share that experience with everyone or even demand retribution against the perceived offender? Do we feel entitled to never be offended? Is shielding our children from ever losing in a competition the best way to prepare them for life in the real world? Is our society losing its ability to be resilient and overcome the hardships of life? Is self-reflection the key to maintaining our mental health? So many questions and only an hour or so to get the answers! This is a fantastic conversation that will leave you wanting to know more!
You can find out more about Robin Finney and her company Compass Rose Psychiatry here:
https://www.compassrosepsych.com/
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This episode of the Today Counts Show is about something important to all of us... how to devise and execute a plan for our financial future. In today's uncertain economic times this can be a stressful, difficult task. To help educate us on this subject Jim welcomes Wes Bridel. Wes is a financial planner in Austin, Texas and founder of Kingdom Calling. At the top of the home page on the KingdomCalling.com website it says, "The Biblical Pathway To Financial Freedom". The goal is to apply Biblical principles to financial decisions through the "Your Fruitful Tree" program and one-on-one coaching and counseling.
Listen to today's podcast and learn about the "4 rules of banks", Wall Street's "hoard and hope method" and how these things can work against your financial future. Learn about the importance of understanding and preparing for the historical cycles of inflation and interest rates. Get tips like investing in short term treasury bills directly through TreasuryDirect.gov.
Wes offers a great free mini course called "7 Biblical Principles to Protect Your Money Even When the Market is Down and Inflation is Up". You can contact Wes Bridel and download the free mini course at KingdomCalling.com.
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Jim Piper's topic on this episode of the Today Counts Show is about self-reflection and gauging yourself. It's about understanding when you are emotionally spent and taking action to correct it.
Here are a few symptoms that you are not emotionally healthy:
· You are easily and often offended
· You are embracing a victim mentality, you feel like you're being used
· You have no tolerance whatsoever for others or yourself
· You're taking shortcuts in whatever you do
Jim points to the Bible in Proverbs chapter 3, verses 5 and 6 for guidance and inspiration to help you find emotional balance. It says, " Trust in the LORD with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Seek his will in all you do, and he will show you which path to take."
Here are three questions to ask yourself:
· What things are most important to you? (Things you need to protect and continue to do.)
· What are the things you need to stop doing?
· What do you need to start doing that you're not doing? (Answering this question requires that you have answered the first two questions. If not, you will not have the time to start something new.)
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What is the Communication Triangle? Is it a mysterious location somewhere on the globe where a communication goes in and is lost forever? Is it Elon Musk's latest project? Luckily, neither of those are true. The Communication Triangle is a method or process (newly named on today's podcast) that Jim shares to help leaders quickly compile and outline information to deliver a talk on any subject or idea. This is a very low-tech, pen and paper concept. Something you can do on a napkin in a restaurant This is valuable information you can learn and apply quickly in the real world. After explaining the process, Jim delivers an unscripted talk based on only the fictitious information that was used to illustrate the Communication Triangle concept.
If you want to watch the full "visual aid" version of this episode of The Today Counts Show, you can watch it on the Lead Today Community YouTube channel!
https://www.youtube.com/@leadtodaycommunity/featured
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Special guest General Jerry Boykin talks with Jim about the attack on Israel, their ongoing response to the attack and the reactions of Americans to these events. It's hard for most of us to imagine what happened in Israel or to know what it's like to live in a nation like Israel that is constantly under attack from hostile enemies. Even on our worst days here in the United States we have an easy life compared to many parts of the world like Israel.
General Boykin shares his wealth of knowledge about the history of the nation of Israel, as well as his knowledge of the history of Islamic terrorism in the middle east. It's important to learn this history to understand the turmoil surrounding Israel today. Without context, outsiders will never understand the positions Israel takes to defend itself against an entire region of the world that wants to destroy their nation and all its people.
Don't depend on network news outlets for a true, unbiased source of information. If you are struggling with the stories you are seeing or hearing about the war in Israel, please take the time to listen to this podcast and educate yourself. Then, share this episode of the Today Counts Show with your friends and family!Share link:
https://leadtodaycommunity.com/podcast/episode-85-understanding-the-history-of-israel-general-jerry-boykin/
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Near the end of this podcast Jim says this, "When you work on your life, good things come from it." How does this relate to having convictions? Jim uses the examples of his own convictions to illustrate how they inform or influence your calendar. Now, that may not mean an actual calendar with every minute of every day pre-planned, though for many people (like Jim) that is what it means, but still... your convictions influence what is most important to you and, therefore, you will prioritize and commit more time to things related to those convictions.
For example; the first conviction Jim shares is holistic health. It's important to him because it relates to his ability to perform and help and serve others. Being committed to this conviction requires time to work on it. Time to exercise, time to eat proper meals, quiet time to read and learn, time to rest and recharge and time to practice his faith.
Now here's the assignment; if you don't know what your top 5 or 10 convictions are, take the time to find out. Commit some quiet time to pray, meditate, consider, reflect. Come up with your own list!
Don't hesitate to reach out to Jim Piper if you need resources or advice.
Jim@leadtodaycommunity.com
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While reflecting on the impact his grandfather had on his life, Jim created a list of ideas, or concepts, he wants to pass along to his grandchildren and his family. He condenses this wealth of knowledge about leading a good and productive life into 10 points to share with you on this episode of The Today Counts Show. This information can apply to anyone in any stage of life. Here's a partial list:
Life is not fair but it's filled with opportunities!
Life makes you strong when you take responsibility for your mistakes!
Life will teach you to be a good leader by first becoming a good follower!
Life teaches that delayed gratification is a super power!
Listen to this short 22 minute podcast to hear the complete list and explanations of each idea. Which one of the 10 points sticks out to you the most? Email Jim (Jim@leadtodaycommunity.com) and let him know. He'd love to hear from you.
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Jim Piper delivers a personal message today about the how and why of spiritual growth and maturity. What is there to gain? Your life will change for the better! In contemporary terms, you'll become more self-aware, more compassionate and epithetic, more purposeful in serving others, more grateful and more content just to name a few things. The Bible describes it like this, Galatians chapter 5 verses 22-23:
"But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. There is no law against these things!"
Who doesn't want those things in their life? Now, how do you begin this journey of growth and maturity? Jim offers a few simple ways to begin.
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Acknowledge that God is with you and spend time with Him. He is omnipresent so God is everywhere you are. You can talk to him and feel his presence anywhere.
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Read the Bible. The Bible is God's word. If you are new to the Bible it doesn't matter. Read the book of Genesis, read Proverbs, read the Gospel of John in the New Testament.
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Spend time with people that will support and help you grow. Maybe that is a traditional church, maybe not but make an intentional effort to be around people who also want to learn and believe in God.
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Spiritual growth is not a straight line. There will be ups and downs, twists and turns, good days and bad days. There are no shortcuts. In order to grow and mature it takes time and intentional commitment. It is something we can all achieve if we choose.
If you don't own a physical Bible, the Bible Jim referenced is available on Amazon.
Holy Bible : New Living TranslationJoin the Lead Today Community and get our Monday Moments email!
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The topic for today's show is a tricky one. Conflicts and difficult conversations. Probably an area most people would rather not think about but if you are a leader, there are many skills you must learn and this one is crucial.
Jim's guest today is here to teach her proven methods. Heather Celaya is an executive pastor at a large, multi-campus church in San Antonio, TX. The process she uses there to manage a diverse staff across multiple areas is based on four simple guiding principles:
- Set clear expectations
- Give consistent feedback
- Be willing to receive feedback
- Address conflict quickly
That sounds easy enough, right? Not so much. As Heather will tell you, "people are messy". Establishing clear expectations is required but not always understood by both parties, feedback is a great way to affirm and praise a job well done but not all feedback you need to deliver is positive. How do you approach that in a way that doesn't sound like a criticism? Are you really receptive to feedback from all sides? The people under your leadership and above you? And that brings us to the big, big elephant in the room... addressing conflict between staff members. Or, maybe between you and a staff member! How do you take on these very tricky situations without collecting resignation letters as the final resolution. That is what Jim Piper and Heather Celaya are discussing today. Practical, necessary leadership skills!
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Today Jim brings another fantastic guest to the Today Count's Show. Cameron Davies is a serial entrepreneur. He is founder and CEO of Cruising Kitchens, founder and CEO of Davies Entertainment and creator of the Built For Business TV series. That is really just a surface level description of Cameron's business activities! He is also a proud family man and a man of faith.
The idea that eventually lead Cameron to start Cruising Kitchens was simple; build an outdoor food court for food trucks to lease space. That concept was hugely successful and very educational. Through the operation of the food court business Cameron observed that many of the food trucks were poorly constructed and not properly equipped to operate as mobile kitchens. That is when he decided he could build them better and the rest, as they say, is history. Cruising Kitchens is now by far the largest builder of custom food trucks and mobile kitchens. We're not talking about any old "run-of-mill" food truck here. They have built some of the largest, most creative, unique mobile kitchens in the world and lots of them!
This conversation between Jim and Cameron covers a lot of ground including a few very unexpected twists and turns. By the end you'll know that Cameron is a husband, a father, a believer and a fighter who works hard to make the lives of his employees and those around him better.
It's not hard to find Cameron Davies online but here are a few links to get you started:
Cameron Davies on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrcamerondavies)
Cruising Kitchens (https://cruisingkitchens.com/)
Davies Entertainment (https://daviesentertainment.com/)
Built for Business TV show (https://daviesentertainment.com/tv-shows/)
PrintIt (https://justprintitsa.com/)
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In this episode of the Today Counts Show, Jim welcomes his friend and colleague, Winston Harris. Winston is a pastor at NorthRock Church in San Antonio, Texas. For those of you who don't know, Jim Piper is also a licensed and ordained minister. This sets up some clear differences in perspective since Jim is a pastor from the Baby Boomer generation and Winston is a pastor from the Millennial generation. When the subject of "work-life balance" comes up it gets pretty interesting!
Winston shares the story of his journey through life that started with a dream of playing professional basketball and eventually leads him to a fulfilling life as a husband, pastor and father. As you can imagine it wasn't exactly a straight line from point A to point B. Like many of us have learned, the things that happen to you throughout your life (good and bad) seem to prepare you for what is to come. (Hmmm... that sounds like the theme of some parable you'd read in the bible? Maybe Pastor Jim or Pastor Winston could answer that question.)
Listen in as two friends talk about life, changes in society, faith and leadership. Be curious. You just might learn something!
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Welcome to the sixth and final episode of our six part series focusing on the practical lessons to be learned from the wisdom of Paul in 1 Timothy in the New Testament. Jim Piper's commentary will guide you through the application of this biblical wisdom and help put it into context for today's leaders. If you are not a Christian don't be turned off by the Bible's use as "source material". Keep your mind and your heart open.
Jim has given this episode the subtitle: "Let's Talk About Money". In 1 Timothy chapter 6, Paul writes to Timothy about many things but Jim's focus is on the message of generosity. Paul says to command the wealthy "to do good, to be rich in good deeds, and to be generous and willing to share". This chapter also contains the very famous line, "the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil". Don't let your pursuit of success turn into a love of money. Stay generous and grateful and remember where your gifts and talents came from. As Paul reminds us, "we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it".
If you don't have a Bible and you would like to read 1 Timothy 6, you can read it online here: https://www.biblestudytools.com/1-timothy/6.html
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September 7, 2023
San Antonio, TX
Leadership Conference: God And Country
Keynote speaker: General Jerry Boykin
Tickets available at: Leadtodaycommunity.com/events
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This is the fifth episode of our six part series focusing on the practical lessons to be learned from the wisdom of Paul in 1 Timothy in the New Testament. Jim Piper's commentary will guide you through the application of this biblical wisdom and help put it into context for today's leaders. If you are not a Christian don't be turned off by the Bible's use as "source material". Keep your mind and your heart open.
In 1 Timothy chapter 5, Paul writes to Timothy about what Jim describes as culture. Important values that contribute to creating a good and healthy culture. They are mostly things that anyone would agree are good and positive yet we don't see these values that often out there in the real world. Honor, care and protection; Jim reads Paul's words on each of these topics and discusses them in great detail. There is so much to learn from this timeless wisdom.
If you don't have a Bible and you would like to read 1 Timothy 5, you can read it online here: https://www.biblestudytools.com/1-timothy/5.html
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Save The Date!
September 7, 2023
San Antonio, TX
Leadership Conference: God And Country
Keynote speaker: General Jerry Boykin
Tickets available at: Leadtodaycommunity.com/events
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This is the forth episode of our six part series focusing on the practical lessons to be learned from the wisdom of Paul in 1 Timothy in the New Testament. Jim Piper's commentary will guide you through the application of this biblical wisdom and help put it into context for today's leaders. If you are not a Christian don't be turned off by the Bible's use as "source material". Keep your mind and your heart open.
Within 1 Timothy chapter 4 there are 3 principles of leadership that Paul is using to teach and encourage Timothy to become a better leader. Jim talks about each principle and expands on how they relate to today's world. Train yourself to be more godly, be an example to the people you lead and throw yourself completely into your work. Concepts from a 2000 year old letter that could have just as easily been written yesterday.
If you don't have a Bible and you would like to read 1 Timothy 4, you can read it online here: https://www.biblestudytools.com/1-timothy/4.html
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Save The Date!
September 7, 2023
San Antonio, TX
Leadership Conference: God And Country
Keynote speaker: General Jerry Boykin
Tickets available at: Leadtodaycommunity.com/events
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Jim's topic today is parenting. One of the most challenging, most important and most rewarding things a person can do in their life. Don't let the title of this podcast fool you, when Jim talks about "raising kids who win", he's not talking about grooming kids to be great athletes. He is talking about raising kids who win in life! Kids who grow up to be responsible, successful, morally strong, faithful, compassionate human beings that contribute to their communities and the world around them. Do not let forces in the culture and society shape the way your kids think and develop, that is your responsibility as a parent. Jim lays out a simple guide based on the five P's; pray for your kids, protect your kids, prepare your kids, praise your kids appropriately and participate in your kids lives.
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Save The Date!
September 7, 2023
San Antonio, TX
Leadership Conference: God And Country
Keynote speaker: General Jerry Boykin
Tickets available at: Leadtodaycommunity.com/events
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This is the third episode of our six part series focusing on the practical lessons to be learned from the wisdom of Paul in 1 Timothy in the New Testament. Jim Piper's commentary will guide you through the application of this biblical wisdom and help put it into context for today's leaders. If you are not a Christian don't be turned off by the Bible's use as "source material". Keep your mind and your heart open.
Today Jim focuses on the leadership qualities listed in 1 Timothy chapter 3. The list of qualifications expected of church leaders as listed in Paul's letter to Timothy sets a very high bar. Even though this is a biblical reference, the ideas and principles described are as applicable to today's business leader as they were to the early church leaders. Who wouldn't want their leaders to have outstanding character and reputations above reproach, be wise and even tempered, be great teachers, be good hosts, the list goes on but you get the idea. Would the world not be a better place if political leaders, business leaders, church leaders could live up to these high standards? Or... even better... what if we all could! Timeless wisdom indeed.
If you don't have a Bible and you would like to read 1 Timothy 3, you can read it online here: https://www.biblestudytools.com/1-timothy/3.html
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September 7, 2023
San Antonio, TX
Leadership Conference: God And Country
Keynote speaker: General Jerry Boykin
Tickets available at: Leadtodaycommunity.com/events
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Welcome to the second episode of our six part series focusing on the practical lessons to be learned from the wisdom of Paul in 1 Timothy in the New Testament. Jim Piper's commentary will guide you through the application of this biblical wisdom and help put it into context for today's leaders. If you are not a Christian don't be turned off by the Bible's use as "source material". Keep your mind and your heart open.
This episode of the Today Counts Show is based on 1 Timothy 2. In this second chapter Paul talks a lot about proper behavior for men and women. Jim focuses on the underlying theme of the proper use of power. This an important lesson for all leaders. If you are in a position of authority with power over others, whether that be in personal relationships or large organizations, don't abuse it. Use your power with thoughtfulness and right intentions. Be a diligent leader who leads by example not by intimidation!
If you don't have a Bible and you would like to read 1 Timothy 2, you can read it online here: https://www.biblestudytools.com/1-timothy/2.html
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September 7, 2023
San Antonio, TX
Leadership Conference: God And Country
Keynote speaker: General Jerry Boykin
Tickets available at: Leadtodaycommunity.com/events
Support the show
This podcast is the first in a series of six episodes of the Today Counts Show that will focus on the practical lessons to be learned from the wisdom of Paul in the book of 1 Timothy in the New Testament. Jim Piper's commentary will guide you through the application of this biblical wisdom and help put it into context for today's leaders. If you are not a Christian don't be turned off by the Bible's use as "source material". Keep your mind and your heart open.
This episode is based on 1 Timothy 1. In this first chapter we see many examples of leadership in Paul's letter to Timothy; know your purpose and don't be distracted by things that aren't important, have genuine concern and affection for the people that work under your direction, give clear instruction on what is to be done. Take a few minutes to listen and be diligent in your education as a leader.
If you don't have a Bible and you would like to read 1 Timothy 1, you can read it online here: https://www.biblestudytools.com/1-timothy/1.html
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September 7, 2023
San Antonio, TX
Leadership Conference: God And Country
Keynote speaker: General Jerry Boykin
Tickets available at: Leadtodaycommunity.com/events
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The journey was on... that's how Jim's guest describes his life after a trip to Africa and a vision from God lead him to quit college and live in his car for 8 months while he started the non-profit organization that became Vapor Ministries. As inspiring as that sounds, it doesn't come close to describing his whole life's journey.
Today Jim Piper has an in-depth conversation with Micah McElveen. Micah is the founder and CEO of Vapor Ministries. On the show today he shares his faith, his passion for lifting some of the poorest people in the world out of poverty and his own near death experience that shaped the way he would come to view the world around him. Jim and Micah also discuss leadership skills and what it takes to run a large organization and still take time to care for yourself and your family. After 50 minutes or so of listening to Micah it still feels like this interview only scratches the surface of what there is to learn from Micah McElveen!
Micah has also written a book that tells his amazing life story. The book is titled - Dying for Purpose. It's available on Amazon. You can learn more about Micah McElveen and his ministry at www.vaporministries.org or www.micahmcelveen.com.
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September 7, 2023
San Antonio, TX
Leadership Conference: God And Country
Keynote speaker: General Jerry Boykin
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Jim Piper welcomes Dr. Glen Schultz to the Today Counts Show. Dr. Schultz defines what a worldview is and how your worldview is what guides you through life even if you don't consciously realize that you have one. He then skillfully explains why a Biblical worldview is the only worldview that stands up to reality. Jim and Dr. Schultz delve into some very serious subjects including how a worldview touches all aspects of one's life and the people in your life. That includes family, work, education, church...everything! This podcast will certainly lead you to examining your own worldview and why you have it.
Dr. Schultz is beginning his 54th year of educating future generations according to God’s plan. He began his involvement in education as a chemistry teacher and coach at Gowanda Central School in New York. After 5 years of teaching in public school, Glen entered the field of Christian school education, where he has served the Lord ever since. He has been a teacher, coach, high school principal and superintendent during his tenure in Christian schools.
Dr. Schultz is the founder and director of Kingdom Education Ministries. He has also written several books. You can find more information about Dr. Schultz, his services and his books on his website - kingdomeducationministries.com
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September 7, 2023
San Antonio, TX
Leadership Conference: God And Country
Keynote speaker: General Jerry Boykin
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Today's podcast is a special one for sure. It's not often that Jim welcomes a Women's Basketball Hall Of Fame coach to the show. Jim's guest today is Sherri Coale! Sherri was the head coach of the University of Oklahoma women’s basketball team for 25 years. Her accomplishments there are impressive to say the least. She led her program to three Final Fours, won six Big 12 Regular Season Championships and four Big 12 Tournament Championships, had nineteen straight NCAA Tournament appearances, and made nine Sweet 16 appearances.
In her post-basketball life, Sherri is still coaching in a new way with a much broader audience. She authored the book Rooted to Rise, a book filled with inspiring stories to encourage anyone in any walk of life or profession. She's a speaker who loves to develop targeted messages for each specific audiences needs. Jim and Sherri touch on many of the things she writes about in her book. Don't miss this great conversation. After listening to this podcast, Sherri would want you to leave "wanting to be a better you"!
You can read more about Sherri Coale on her website - https://www.sherricoale.com/
Her book Rooted to Rise is available on Amazon.
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September 7, 2023
San Antonio, TX
Leadership Conference: God And Country
Keynote speaker: General Jerry Boykin
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Dr. Mark Strauss joins Jim Piper today to discuss a huge topic, the Afterlife. Heaven and Hell. As Believers, we believe in these concepts but the details are a little unclear. What happens to our soul after we die? Does it stay with our physical body until the resurrection? What if our body was cremated or destroyed in an accident? If the soul does not stay with the body then where does it go and when does it go there? Those are just a few of the questions discussed in today's podcast. Regardless of where you are in your faith, the interaction and exchange of ideas between Jim and Dr. Strauss will be fascinating to anyone with an open mind who wants to learn.
Dr. Mark Strauss is an American biblical scholar and professor of the New Testament at Bethel Seminary San Diego. He also serves on the Committee on Bible Translation for the NIV Bible. Mark has authored more than a dozen books and written many articles and papers on various biblical topics. His website, MarkLStrauss.com, is great resource for biblical and theological knowledge.
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September 7, 2023
San Antonio, TX
Leadership Conference: God And Country
Keynote speaker: General Jerry Boykin
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Jim's special guest today is Evan Owens. Evan and his wife, Dr. Jenny Owens, are co-founders of the non-profit organization REBOOT Recovery. The vision for REBOOT is to mobilize the largest peer-led response to trauma and suicide ever built! Mental health is a serious and growing problem and traditional providers just can't keep up with demand. REBOOT offers a peer-led, faith-based, group solution that is available to everyone. No insurance companies involved, only a caring community of people who want to help and provide hope and support.
Jim and Evan talk about the path that led to what would eventually become REBOOT. According to Evan, it all started with 2 dudes named Matt and a lady named Darlene meeting in their living room in 2011. They also break out into some leadership tips and advice. Evan gets a little fired up on the topic of Church leaders often not taking on the mental health needs of their own communities. The whole podcast is a lively discussion of the state of mental health in today's culture. You will definitely learn something. Don't miss it!
Evan and Dr. Jenny Owens have also written a book called, "Healing What's Hidden: Practical Steps to Overcoming Trauma". It is available on Amazon.
If you are interested in finding out more about REBOOT Recovery, or you are interested in supporting their mission, the website is: REBOOTRecovery.com
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September 7, 2023
San Antonio, TX
Leadership Conference: God And Country
Keynote speaker: General Jerry Boykin
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Does one-on-one professional career coaching and mentoring really work? If you ask Elijah Camara (the student) and Carrie Esker (the coach), the answer is a resounding yes! In this episode of The Today Counts Show Jim talks with Elijah and Carrie about their story.
Elijah spent most of his childhood in Africa until he moved to the United States to live with his sister when he was in the fifth grade. After playing football in high school and college, his dream of becoming a professional athlete began to fade in college. After graduation, he began his post-college career working in sales at a car dealership. Little did Elijah know that a chance meeting between his boss and Carrie Esker would lead him to Carrie for some career coaching. Carrie's coaching and mentoring soon changed Elijah's life in more ways than he would have ever imagined.
Listen to Elijah and Carrie's inspiring story of hard work, growth and faith!
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September 7, 2023
San Antonio, TX
Leadership Conference: God And Country
Keynote speaker: General Jerry Boykin
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Today Jim Piper "returns to the classroom" to discuss leadership with Dr. Justin Irving. Dr. Irving was one of the professors Jim studied under while pursuing his Master of Divinity degree at Bethel University. Dr. Irving is currently Chair of the Department of Leadership and Discipleship at the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary.
The outline for today's talk is centered around the book, "Leadership in Christian Perspective" authored by Justin Irving and Mark Straus. This book brings the best of leadership theory and research together with biblical reflection and examples of leadership in action. It is an important resource for all Christian students of leadership. Jim and Justin touch on topics related to the nine empowering practices described in the book and the importance of servant leadership.
You can find Dr. Justin Irving on LinkedIn.
His book, "Leadership in Christian Perspective" is available on Amazon.
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September 7, 2023
San Antonio, TX
Leadership Conference: God And Country
Keynote speaker: General Jerry Boykin
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This is a topic that Jim has discussed in a previous podcast but he believes so strongly in the impact of the message that he felt it was worth revisiting it. Jim shares the six principles that can put you on the path to becoming the leader you need to be.
- Do what needs to done
- Live Christianly
- Choose multiple mentors/coaches
- Learn the leadership context
- Beware of the cutting edge
- Trust God for the long term
A key takeaway is this: becoming a better leader improves the lives of everyone around you! This version of Jim's message is more focused and concise. The full coaching segment clocks in at around 16 minutes. Make time in your schedule for learning!
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September 7, 2023
San Antonio, TX
Leadership Conference: God And Country
Keynote speaker: General Jerry Boykin
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In today's episode, Jim goes deeper into his life experiences that he began sharing in Episode 62 - The Authentic Leader. This time Jim is focused on the lessons learned during his 12 1/2 years of planting churches in and around the Denver, Colorado area. Some of those lessons are distilled down to these five fundamentals for successful leadership:
- It's a three-legged race
2. Financial stress will sink your ship
3. Get a coach
4. You've got to be self-aware
5. Begin with the end in mind
You can learn a lot from your mistakes. We all make them but wouldn't it be great to learn from someone else's mistakes? Listen and take note as Jim talks through these fundamentals. Hear the good, the bad and the ugly of what shaped them. You'll also get some next level principles to apply after you get beyond the five fundamentals. This is a mini master class in under 37 minutes!
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In this short coaching podcast, Jim starts off by walking us through the story of David and Goliath. He points out that David chose to do battle with Goliath without the king's armor. He chose to be authentic and fight with his own weapons and use his God given skill and talent. How does this relate to leadership in today's world? Jim explains that real, authentic leadership requires someone who is not afraid to step out from the conventional and be bold. Someone who leads with their heart and is not swayed by the people in the stands that criticize. Use your uniqueness. Be authentic. More to come in next week's show!
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Today Jim Piper's guest represents two of his favorite things; high school sports and specifically, wrestling. Randy Gallegos is the head wrestling coach at Denver East High School in Denver Colorado. Even though Randy was a state champion high school wrestler and a nationally ranked college wrestler, he had never considered coaching until his pastor "persuaded" him to help out the wrestling coach at Denver East High School. That was over 23 years ago and he is still there today coaching young men and young women. In Coach Randy's world it's not only about wrestling. It's also about taking what you learn through success on the mat and applying it to your life and your faith. Randy shares a couple of amazing stories about athletes that have passed through his program and his life. This is an inspirational episode that will lift your spirits and remind you that sometimes you are where you're supposed be in your life, even when you may have doubts.
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Today's episode of The Today Counts Show will be a special treat for sports fans and athletes. Jim's guest is James Ford. James is an NCAA D1 men's basketball referee! One of those guys in the striped shirts you see on TV while you're watching your favorite college games. How do you get that cool job? Well, like most things in life, you get there through hard work, dedication to your craft, and commitment. And... once you get there it's a year round effort to stay there! Oh, and if you're like most NCAA refs (like James) you will be working a full time day job as well. James talks with Jim about the challenges of juggling his family life, traveling for his NCAA work, his full time day job and of course, just how cool it is to be there in the middle of the game.
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Jim Piper welcomes a new friend to the Today Counts Show. His name is Tom Carlson. Tom is the CEO and Executive Director of ECatalyst, an organization whose purpose is to transform developing communities through their entrepreneurs. Tom believes that by helping these entrepreneurs, they will build a sustainable, locally owned ecosystem that will help lift people out of poverty. This may sound like a lofty, complicated theory but Tom and his team at ECatalyst are already working and succeeding in Rwanda and Ethiopia. Tom does a great job of explaining the process they use to shepherd new entrepreneurs through developing their ideas, all the way through to running sustainable, profitable businesses. It is an inspiring mission that may lead you to question your beliefs of how charity should work to truly be effective.
If you would like to donate, invest or get involved with ECatalyst, you can find them online at: https://ecatalyst.org/
You can find Tom Carlson on Linkedin at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomas-f-carlson
Tom suggests reading the book, "When Helping Hurts" by Steve Corbett & Brian Fikkert
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Today Jim welcomes back one of his favorite guests, Johnny Sirpilla. The topic is leadership and Johnny is a goldmine of knowledge and insight. Jim and Johnny share a lengthy conversation about the responsibilities that should be top of mind for leaders at all levels.
About twenty seven minutes or so into this episode of the Today Counts Show, Johnny Sirpilla drops this golden nugget of leadership wisdom into the conversation; "insecurity is the root of all workplace conflict". Wow, that is the kind of statement that not everyone is going to want to hear... which means it must be true! What could be harder than taking a long, hard look at yourself in the mirror to find your own insecurities? Uh... we'll let you consider that for yourself. Do you know why there is not an abundance of great leaders? Because it's hard.
Check out Episode 30 to learn more about Johnny Sirpilla and his book "Life Is Hard But I'll Be OK":
https://leadtodaycommunity.com/podcast/episode-30-life-is-hard-but-ill-be-ok-johnny-sirpilla/
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No, this is not a Halloween episode but the subject can be a scary one if you are responsible for hiring in your organization. Jim has a lot to say about hiring. He talks about the hiring process, what questions to ask in an interview to get the right kind of responses and the consequences of hiring for the wrong reasons (that's where the horror part come in). According to Peter Drucker, the chances of hiring the right person for the job is only about 33%! Wow, no pressure! The moral of the story is take your time, go through the process thoroughly and your odds are much better.
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How does charisma relate to customer service and hospitality? Well... think about it for a minute. People with truly charismatic personalities make you feel like they are interested in and focused on what you have to say, they make you feel at easy and welcomed and they just generally make the people around them feel good. Anybody thinking that type of person might be a fantastic fit in a customer service or hospitality role?
Jim tells us a "Tale of Two Restaurants" to illustrate the difference between a customer service/hospitality focused experience and one that is not too concerned with customer experience. We know what you're thinking... where will you find all of these naturally gifted, charismatic people! Here's a big take away from this episode; people can learn the skill of charisma. Listen and learn something new today!
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Do you look back at the end of the week or the month and wonder why you're no closer to accomplishing your projects or goals? Or... do you look back at the end of the week or the month and see a clear picture of what you've done to move your projects or goals forward on the path to completion? Maybe you fall somewhere between the two examples. Maybe it's just not a subject you've given any thought. Maybe today is the day to start.
In this coaching segment, Jim Piper talks about using a calendar to schedule your time in order to more effectively work towards your vision and purpose. It's not as simple as filling up time slots all day long. In order to schedule your time to get the right things done, you have to be in control of what goes on your calendar, properly assess what should go on your calendar and evaluate the effectiveness of past events on your calendar.
The process can be as simple or as complicated as you chose to make it but one thing is clear; Happenstance will quietly consume your time, your days, your weeks and your months... if you don't take control.
Jim recommends that leaders read this article published by the Harvard Business Review:
Who's Got The Monkey?
https://hbr.org/1999/11/management-time-whos-got-the-monkey
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Jim Tomberlin is a rock star in the world of church mergers and MultiSite churches. He is the author of three books about related subjects and an encyclopedia (for those of you who remember what those are) of knowledge on the world of church growth and planning. Jim Piper has a lengthy discussion with Jim Tomberlin (this could get confusing) about the "good old days" of one church service on Sunday morning, why a church merger can be a win-win for all involved if done properly and why the MultiSite concept is designed to help healthy, growing churches make more disciples.
If you'd like to get in touch with Jim Tomberlin about helping your church, you can email him at: Jim@theunstuckgroup.com.
Or... go to theunstuckgroup.com and read about Jim and all the services offered by The Unstuck Group.
Books authored by Jim Tomberlin available on Amazon:
Better Together: Making Church Mergers Work
125 Tips for MultiSite Churches
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In this episode of "The Today Counts Show" Jim introduces us to his friends and colleagues, Matt and Jennifer Martin. Matt and Jennifer both serve as executive pastors at NorthRock Church in San Antonio Texas. The subject today is "second chair leadership". If this is a term you're not familiar with don't worry, by the end of this podcast you'll have a clear understanding of the definition and the role of a second chair leader! Jennifer shares a perfect, easy to understand analogy. On a football team there is only one quarterback on the field (running the offense) but... there are several receivers and running backs on the field executing the plays under the leadership of the quarterback. Matt reinforces this idea by pointing out that the receivers and running backs are the players who get the ball across the goal line much more often than the quarterback. The lesson to be learned here is this; know your role on the team, accept it and be all in to support your leader and your team.
Jim, Matt and Jennifer share an honest, educational, fun conversation between friends about their lives and professions. All are welcome to listen and learn.
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Today Jim Piper welcomes a very, special guest to the show... Ryan Hawk! Ryan is a writer, advisor, entrepreneur and host of the hugely successful podcast "The Learning Leader Show". His second book "The Pursuit of Excellence" is a must-have resource for anyone who is serious about learning and improving their leadership skills.
Ryan tells Jim that his motivation for starting his podcast (which now has over 500 episodes) was to create his own leadership PHD program. A program filled with wise, successful leaders willing to share their hard earned knowledge for free! Along the way his business grew into other areas organically without any grand plans. Opportunities presented themselves after a lot of hard work stacking up good, productive days focused on his core values. Ryan also talks about growing up and living a very "sports centered" life. A path that lead him to coaches and trainers that shaped the man he is today. There's a great story involving a very famous NFL quarterback and how competing with him in college lead to an important life lesson. This barely scratches the surface of the massive amount of information to be found in this episode of "The Today Counts Show". Don't miss it!
You can find out more about Ryan Hawk, his podcast, his books and his coaching and speaking services at: https://learningleader.com/
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Jim is back with part two of today's topic; the sin of unforgiveness. If you missed Ep. 50 - The Sin of Unforgiveness - Part 1, you might want to give that one a listen and then return to this episode.
Get ready for some truthful, possibly hard to hear, teaching about sin and the messy business of forgiveness. There are two people involved in every sin; the person who commits the sin and the person who was sinned against. In order for this to be resolved it requires effort and commitment by both parties involved. Repentance AND forgiveness are required! There are no sugar coated, societal, political, alternative solutions. Repentance AND forgiveness are required or darkness will spread in the lives of all involved. Yeah... it could get messy.
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Jim Piper wants you to think about sin. Probably not in the way you might imagine. It could even be a completely new way for you to think about sin and the importance of forgiveness. Do children and adolescences sin the same as adults? If you are a believer you know that we all sin but are there different levels of sin? So many questions. How does all of this relate to personal and even business relationships? Today's episode lays the groundwork for a deeper discussion to be continued in Part 2!
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As this year comes close to an end, Jim Piper continues with an underlying theme of reflection. It may sound cliché but remembering the events and the people in your past will help you understand what shaped you. The good and the bad all add up to what you are today. If you want to change or improve something about yourself in the future, it helps to understand what got you to this point in your life. Jim lets loose a stream of consciousness highlighting a few key moments in his life that shaped the man he is today. Use this podcast as inspiration and encouragement. Here's a little something to think about in the new year, "Easy is so boring".
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Reflection can be a good thing and a hard thing if you are honest with yourself. Today Jim shares some personal reflections in order to illustrate how to use this process to learn from weaknesses. It could be a personal flaw that is creating a weakness in your thinking or a flaw in your business decisions or a problem in your family life. Where ever this exercise might lead you there will also be solutions if you slow down and look for them. Don't let your mind run wild. It may not sound hard but it takes focus and commitment to find a weakness, learn from it and execute a plan to change it.
If you need coaching and encouragement on how to approach goals and executing a plan, listen to Episode 44 (Goals – Why & How) and Episode 42 (Executing Results!).
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Jim Piper uses the opening line of Rick Warren's book, "The Purpose Driven Life", to expand on the importance of learning and understanding your purpose. Purpose creates energy and drive and motivation. Jim shares some ideas about how to define your natural talents and abilities. What gifts did God give you and how should you use them to live out your purpose? Don't give in to pop culture society. Be strong and remember, "It's not about you".
Episode 41 of the Today Counts Show (The Power and Reality of Faith) is an excellent companion to this episode's topics of God given talents and purpose.
If you are not familiar with "The Purpose Driven Life", you can find the book on Amazon.
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It's not very often that we discourage people from listening to The Today Counts Show, but... if you just show up at work to get a paycheck while you're waiting to win the lottery... this is probably not the podcast for you, but then again, it might be exactly what you need to hear. Jim Piper is in "tough love" mode today as he prompts you to evaluate your work life. Do you work like a professional athlete who's trained and prepared to execute a plan for the game this week or, do you show up for work Monday morning undertrained and unprepared like an amateur? Even if everyone around you works like an amateur you can work like a professional and influence those around you by example. The choice is yours.
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The Today Counts Show has not shied away from the topic of abortion (Episode 37) or adoption (Episode 39). Today Jim Piper welcomes Kim Barton, director of The Share Center, to continue the discussion of both topics from a different perspective. The Share Center is located in the Bulverde/Spring Branch area in south-central Texas. The center's mission is to educate, support and empower women and men facing unplanned pregnancies or other sexual health related issues with professional medical care. The hope is that their clients will chose life for their unborn child. Kim shares her insights from seven years of working at the center and working with people struggling with unexpected pregnancies. Life changing decisions are made and the staff at The Sharing Center do their best to supportively explain that there are options to abortion. They will also continue to support new parents with training on parenting and other life skills. Jim also asks Kim to share some thoughts on her journey as the leader of a non-profit organization.
If you would like to find out more about The Share Center or support this amazing organization, they can be found at: https://bulverdepregnancy.com/
Kim mentions a ministry called Surrender the Secret. This a program is designed to help women and men heal from the hurt of abortion. You can connect with a team leader in their national network from their website: https://surrenderingthesecret.com/find-help/
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Why have goals? How many goals should you have? How do you determine what your goals are? What does faith have to do with your goals? In this short coaching session, Jim will walk you through techniques that will help you answer these questions in a way that fits your life. These concepts will work regardless of where you are in your life's journey. It's not rocket science but the possible applications are endless. One simple take-away from this podcast is this: even one goal can help give your life purpose and build your confidence!
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It seems unlikely that most of us have a family friend who is a decorated General with decades of experience in the military, who worked his way through the most elite special forces teams, who commanded the Delta Force, who worked in the CIA and who served as Deputy Under Secretary of Defense in the Bush administration. Luckily, Jim Piper is friends with such a person. Today Jim welcomes back retired Lieutenant General Jerry Boykin to discuss a wide range of topics. Everything from issues on our southern border to military preparedness, to the looming threat of China attacking Taiwan and more. What you won't hear are carefully crafted sound bites with no real substance or information. Consider this a casual chat with a friend who tells it to you straight and has the real world knowledge and life experiences to back it up! You definitely want to make time to listen to this one!
You can follow Lieutenant General Jerry Boykin on Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/generalboykin/
Or... find one of his many books on Amazon.
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Don't be stuck in neutral! Take the next 16 minutes to listen and learn some proven strategies for executing results. Jim Piper passes along four key principles that leaders should use to create a playbook for achieving important goals. These are proven, real-world methods used in businesses and organizations around the world. Here's a hint ... don't have a laundry list of goals! Focus your planning and efforts on that "wildly important" goal. If you're wondering where Jim learned these strategies, they can be found in the book, "The Four Disciplines of Execution" by Chris McChesney, Sean Covey and Jim Huling. Consider this podcast an introduction to the 4DX way of thinking. Read the book for yourself and add it to your personal resource library!
If you like the coaching and teaching in this episode you might want to listen to (or revisit) Episode 33: The Leadership Value of Presence.
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What is faith and how can it affect your everyday life? Jim talks us through a thoughtful progression of how a foundation of faith in God can lead to faith in yourself and your abilities. Your thoughts and beliefs will eventually become actions so make them positive! Have faith that you can move forward, overcome obstacles, learn the new skills you need to reach your goals. Have faith that God has given you your specific talents and abilities for a reason.
Jim's reading recommendations this week are:
"The God Question" by J. P. Moreland
and...
"I Don't Have Enough Faith to Be an Atheist" by Norman Geisler and Frank Turek
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In this short coaching podcast, Jim Piper walks us through the keys points of what makes a decision actually become an actionable directive. Regardless of how the decision was made, it will affect and it will likely involve the cooperation of other people. That is what links decision making to communication. Listen and learn the most effective principles to communicate your decisions and turn them into cooperative action.
The basics of what Jim is teaching today come from the book, "The Effective Executive" by Peter Drucker which is available on Amazon.
Check out The Today Counts Show - Episode 35 to hear more leadership coaching based on the "The Effective Executive" by Peter Drucker.
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Jim Piper welcomes Beau and Johnny Sirpilla to the show to talk about adoption. You might remember Johnny Sirpilla from Episode 30 of The Today Counts Show where he talked about his book "Life Is Hard But I'll Be OK" and shares his family's amazing journey. Today, Johnny and his adopted son, Beau, share their personal stories of a family with an adopted child and biological children. Beau talks very openly about what it was like growing up as an adopted child and how, as an adopted child, you sometimes feel like an "outsider" even in a loving family. Johnny and Beau both talk about what a great gift Beau's adoption was to Beau and the Sirpilla family. To sum it up, this episode is an inspiring story of the power of adoption to change the lives of everyone involved for the better!
If you'd like to talk to Beau or Johnny about adoption,
Johnny Sirpilla can be reached at:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnny-sirpilla-45385253
Beau Sirpilla can be reached at:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/beausirpilla
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Jim welcomes back Erin Porteous to continue the discussion about leadership. Erin is the CEO of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Denver. Since Erin led the Boys & Girls club through the pandemic and is now able to look back from the other side, the talk soon turns to new challenges faced by leaders in the post-pandemic world. A strong leader has to determine what needs to be done and how to adapt to the situation. Erin shares her views on moving forward and her personal work culture philosophy based on "the four H's". Jim lets the cat out of the bag on Erin's bold goal for the Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Denver. Also, you'll find out why she is all done with fish and cold weather for the year 2022!
If you'd like to know more about Erin Porteous and her impressive business career you can find her on LinkedIn @ https://www.linkedin.com/in/erinporteous
If you'd like to donate to the Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Denver you can do so here:
https://www.bgcmd.org/donate/
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Erin Kunkle is back on the show to discuss one of, if not the most, serious issues in our society. Abortion is a heavily debated, divisive subject in today's culture. Jim Piper talks with Erin about Christian beliefs, biblical principles and the increasing lack of personal responsibility in our country. It is serious talk about life and death. Erin boils the whole debate down to one question, "Who counts as one of us?". That's a chilling, sobering thought but the answer to that question is basically what divides the Pro Life side from the Pro Choice side. Leaders , including Pastors, should not be afraid to take on the hard subjects and it doesn't get much harder than this one. Erin and Jim share a huge amount of information to support the Christian Worldview on abortion and the value of human life at any stage. Jim challenges listeners to be engaged and don't be silent. You don't want to miss this one!
Erin Kunkle is co-founder of Maven, an organization that exists to help the next generation know truth, pursue goodness and create beauty, all for the cause of Christ. If you want to know more about Maven or contact Erin, just go to https://maventruth.com/.
Erin references a great book titled, The Moral Question of Abortion by Stephen Schwarz. Check it out and learn about SLED.
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John Ramsey is Jim Piper's guest on the show today. John is the founder and director of Tarrant County Hands of Hope. Hands of Hope is a homeless outreach ministry that is focused on those living in locations unsuitable for human habitation, whether that be in a vacant structure, a vehicle, or a tent in a remote wooded area. They search for those who are often forgotten and hidden away. Once they locate an individual, they work to develop a relationship of trust and to provide their basic necessities. The goal is to get an individual into the system and help them through the process of getting housing assistance and leaving the street. John shares some great stories with Jim about one on one encounters on the streets and how they have changed people's lives through their work. John also tells about the experience that convinced him that Hands of Hope was indeed his ministry and not just an organization helping people.
If you would like to contact John Ramsey or just find out more about Tarrant County Hand of Hope, the website is https://www.hohtx.com. Tarrant County Hands of Hope is an approved 501(c)(3) charity that relies on private funding and donations for support.
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Becoming The Leaders We Need To Be
Jim presents another coaching session for leaders who want to learn and grow. Specifically, this show is all about becoming the leaders we need to be. Jim walks you through six important areas to consider in order to grow and become a better leader. One of the things that stands out is Jim's passionate belief that leaders READ! Leaders are always learning and reading is a powerful tool to help build knowledge. Podcasts (like this one of course) can be a great source of information and knowledge but don't let that be your only source. You could start by reading one of the great books Jim referenced in the show today. "The Effective Executive" by Peter Drucker is available on Amazon.
If you enjoy Jim Piper's coaching podcasts, you might want to check out this recent episode:
EPISODE 33: THE LEADERSHIP VALUE OF PRESENCE
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Overcoming Perfectionism with Bella Sirpilla
Today Jim Piper not only welcomes his guest Bella Sirpilla to the show but also his guest co-host Erin Porteous! Bella shares how her drive and obsession to be perfect eventually became too much to handle. Ultimately leading to struggles with depression and self doubt. Her struggles with mental health eventually led her to a better understanding of herself and a new direction for her life. Bella now works as the marketing director and buyer for Laura of Pembroke, a home furnishings and interior design company. She is also a public speaker sharing her message of positivity and self awareness.
If you'd like to talk to Bella about speaking at an event you can find her on LinkedIn at:
www.linkedin.com/in/bella-sirpilla
You might remember today's co-host, Erin Porteous, from Episode 8 of The Today Counts Show. Erin is CEO of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Denver and a recent recipient of the Denver Business Journal's Outstanding Woman in Business award.
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Jim Piper talks about the importance of presence in leadership. He teaches the importance of being "all in" and totally present in the situation at hand, simplifying your focus to be more effect in all areas of life and tracking your own effectiveness to be more productive. Effective leaders plan, evaluate and learn, all of which take presence and focus.
Jim references "Good to Great" by Jim Collins and "The Advantage" by Patrick M. Lencioni in this episode. Both books are a great resources for growth and reference found in many a successful leader's personal library.
If you'd like to hear more of Jim's short, coaching and teaching episodes check out:
Episode 17: Targets, Circles And People
or...
Episode 26: Advice For Young Leaders
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With recent school shootings like the one in Uvalde, Texas still fresh in our minds, it's hard to believe that it's been more than 20 years since the shooting at Columbine High School in Littleton, Colorado in 1999. Jim's guest today is Kacey Johnson. Kacey is a survivor of the Columbine shooting and author of the book, Over My Shoulder. She wrote the book to "provide a message of hope to a world full of bad news". Her story is a roller coaster of events and emotions that started before the tragic events at Columbine and continued long after. Kacey shares with Jim how for many years she shied away from telling her story but finally came to realize that God was working through her to help and inspire others.
To learn more about Kacey Johnson, her services as a speaker and her book, Over My Shoulder, you can find her online at - kaceyruegseggerjohnson.com
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Today Jim Piper talks with Andy Herod, the CEO of San Marcos Treatment Center. San Marcos Treatment Center is a psychiatric residential treatment facility specializing in treatment programs for children and adolescents. Mental health issues are difficult for anyone of any age but especially for children and adolescents. Andy tells Jim about the need to teach some patients the most basic of life skills to help build them up on their road to recovery. Working in the mental health field is a tough and challenging profession. A profession that takes a special kind of person. Andy's story, starting with a childhood lived mostly in Guatemala with his missionary parents, is both unique and interesting.
You can visit sanmarcostc.com to learn more about the San Marcos Treatment Center.
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Successful business leader, entrepreneur, public speaker, teacher, author, board member for several non-profit and for profit companies and, most importantly, Dad... all of these titles describe Johnny Sirpilla but none of them come close to describing his life's journey. The more you hear about events in the life of Johnny Sirpilla, the more understated the title of his book seems to the average person. "Life is Hard But I'll Be OK" tells a life story that seems too traumatic to be true, yet true it is. Even more amazingly, the journey leads to hope and gratitude!
In this episode, Jim Piper has an in depth conversation with Johnny Sirpilla, founder of Encourage LLC, about some of the highs and lows in his family life as well as discussing Johnny's belief in a positive, supportive leadership culture. They also talk about faith in the workplace, fathers emotions and refocusing your thinking to find positive meaning. You don't want to miss a minute of this show!
If you'd like to buy Johnny's book, "Life Is Hard But I'll Be OK" or find out more about his company, Encourage, go to Encourage33.com.
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Today Jim Piper talks with his long time friend, Brett Kunkle. Brett is the founder and leader of MAVEN. The first thing you see when you visit the MAVEN website are three words; TRUTH + GOODNESS + BEAUTY. Their stated mission is "to help the next generation know truth, pursue goodness and create beauty, all for the cause of Christ, and to equip those who teach and train them—parents, grandparents, youth workers, pastors and educators—to do the same". Jim and Brett discuss the need to teach, guide and lead youth in today's world more than ever and many other related topics. Brett also shares how a negative experience with one of his college professors lead him down a path to learn more about his faith and Christianity. To learn more about MAVEN or to contact Brett go to: https://maventruth.com
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Would you make a commitment that involved moving your family to the worst neighborhood in the inner city to serve your community and start a new ministry? If you are Jude and Cindy Del Hierro of Denver, Colorado... the answer is yes! On the home page of ConfluenceMinistries.org it says, in big bold letters, "Confluence Ministries exists to bring positive change through meaningful connections." Jude talks with Jim about when he and Cindy first moved their family to the crime ridden inner city area of Denver, how they would hear gunshots every day and gangs ran the streets. Jude shares an amazing story with Jim about how they received a building to start their new ministry before they even knew what God's new assignment was or, what the name of this new ministry would be! You will also learn the meaning of a new term, "Common Grace". Listen along with Jim to this truly inspiring story.
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Jim Piper's guest today is Kenny Alonzo, the Executive Director of Rocketown. Rocketown is a ministry founded by contemporary Christian music artist Michael W. Smith and located in Nashville Tennessee. The ministry engages youth through attraction-based facilities and programs like the Sixth Avenue Skatepark, live music and event venue, dance classes, recording studios and a coffee shop just to name a few of their offerings. Jim and Kenny discuss the mission of Rocketown, what it's like to lead a youth ministry, how a non-profit organization like this is funded and future plans to bring Rocketown to a city near you!
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This short coaching episode is a goldmine of information for young people starting their careers in the real world. For that matter, it's applicable to anyone of any age! Sometimes we all need to realign our thinking and perspective. Jim Piper shares his advice and personal experiences to help you grow as an employee and a leader. Don't just show up for work and do your job. Learn to think like an owner and go beyond what is expected!
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In this episode Jim talks with Chris Dobkins founder of Njevity. Njevity provides Cloud and On Premises Accounting and Customer Relationship Management solutions to mid-market customers all over the world. Chris started the company as a one man operation in 2001 and has grown the company to a team of over 40 employees with 10 million dollars in revenue. He shares his thoughts and experiences as an entrepreneur, why he intentionally held back on growing the company in the early years and how as the owner of a company he feels a weight of responsibility for his employees. It's a very open story of an entrepreneur building a business from the ground up.
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Patrice Light-Mabary shares her incredible near death experience. Surviving eight cardiac arrests! What it was like to not be able to communicate while still knowing what was going on around her. How her family and her faith helped her survive and have the will to live. Why she's thankful and lives life with a positive outlook even after losing both hands, half of one foot and toes on the other foot as a result of the treatment that kept her alive. It's an amazing story of determination and hope!
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Jim's guest today is coach Mandy Martinez. Mandy is a highly successful cheer coach whose teams have won multiple state and regional championships. Mandy has been named the Continental Cheer Coach of the Year, Colorado High School Sports and Activities Cheer Coach of the Year and National Federation of High School Sports Cheer Coach of the Year, just to name a few of her achievements! Mandy shares with Jim her thoughts on building a winning team, the importance of trust between team mates and the realities of highs and lows in sports and life.
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What is "The God Factor"? It sounds like the title to some new thriller, action movie or the final level of a virtual reality game doesn't it? But... in reality, it is something much more attainable than saving the world in a blaze of explosions! Jim Piper talks about real world examples and the choices we make that can lead us away from or closer to God.
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Bad things do happen. They happen in our daily lives, our families, our communities and around the world. Jim Piper shares his biblical views on this age old question. Why does God let bad things happen?
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Jim's special guests today are Sarah Stonestreet and Erin Kunkle hosts of the Strong Women podcast. Together they discuss feminism, gender confusion, the need for leaders to speak the truth and more! And guys... whatever you're thinking this podcast is about, you're probably wrong. Listen!
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This week Jim Piper talks with B2B sales professional Justin Boggess. Justin shares his insight on what to look for in potential new sales staff, cultivating culture through leadership training and... why it's important to make time for personal activities like hockey!
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Do today's leaders need a little more theology in their psychology? Jim Piper lays out the biblical foundation for humility and courage in the role of a leader. Humility is powerful. Listen and learn!
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Jim Piper shares how to organize our thinking lives around three key targets. This philosophy adds focus, boundaries, health, and intentionality.
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Leif Jacobson is a new born baby boy. He is Jim Piper's 2nd nephew and he is fighting for his life. This is an intimate podcast about HLHS, family, faith, and the little hand that squeezes fingers and provides hope.
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Your soul is the real you. It's not as mysterious as you might think. Jim discusses how our emotions, intellect and free will work together to shape our soul.
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Tom Ziglar and Jim Piper, Jr. discuss Tom’s new book and the leadership virtues for disruptive times.
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LT General (retired) Jerry Boykin discusses Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, China, and more.
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As great as life can be it can also be tough. Over time people shape into three types. One type becomes a blessing to others because they have discovered the "Special Sauce".
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Jim talks about the true meaning of leadership.
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Jim interviews Melissa and Geren Andersons, Founders of The Pillars Christian Learning Centers.
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Jim interviews James Simmons III and Robin Finney.
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In this week's episode, Jim interviews Erin Porteous, CEO of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Denver.
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Jim interviews David Kolar, Managing Partner at StrongTower Investment Partners.
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An interview with Brett and Erin Kunkle, Founders of Maven.
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