Applied Leadership
Tools, reflections, and frameworks for leading with purpose and clarity.
1. Why this, why now?
For more than 30 years, I’ve been in leadership roles that have tested and refined my faith, character, and understanding of how people and organizations flourish. I’ve led in global mission organizations and local churches, worked in both ministry and the marketplace, and walked through seasons of raising five kids and navigating marriage—all while trying to integrate wisdom, faith, and practical leadership.
A few years ago, I took an assessment that labeled me a Contemplative Counselor. The irony? I wasn’t doing either. I wasn’t slowing down to be truly contemplative, and I wasn’t offering the kind of counsel that flows from reflection and time-earned wisdom. I was reacting—doing good work, but often out of responsibility rather than depth.
This Substack represents a turning point. It’s time to think again—to lead from reflection, not reaction. It’s time to help others become what I call Applied Thought Leaders—people who connect insight to action, reflection to leadership, faith to real-world practice. I believe deeper thought leads to better outcomes, and better practices create better results. Time spent in wisdom isn’t wasted—it’s redeemed.
So, this space is my way of sharing what I’ve learned, what I’m still learning, and what I hope to explore with others who want to live and lead with greater intentionality.
2. Community
This isn’t just a newsletter—it’s a gathering place for reflective practitioners. A space for those who want to slow down, think deeply, and lead wisely.
If you’re drawn to wisdom, if you want to integrate faith, leadership, and personal growth—not just talk about them—this is for you.
My hope is to cultivate a community of people who are:
Committed to living and leading intentionally.
Curious about how systems, people, and organizations flourish.
Hungry for wisdom that connects theology, leadership, and real life.
Willing to reflect, discuss, and grow together in pursuit of godly virtue and practical wisdom.
This is a community for leaders, thinkers, pastors, and everyday people who care about how we live and lead—not just what we do.
3. Expectations
Posting rhythm:
Bi-Weekly reflections on applied thought leadership—connecting timeless wisdom with today’s challenges.
Quarterly essays exploring a deeper theme or framework related to faith, leadership, and flourishing.
Occasional resources—tools, models, and questions for personal and organizational reflection.
For free subscribers:
Access to posts and reflections.
Occasional community threads for discussion and dialogue.
For paid subscribers:
Access to extended essays, frameworks, and tools for leadership and life application.
Early access to new resources and projects.
My goal is simple: to create a space that helps all of us think more deeply and live more wisely.
By the way I love the mountains. So, expect some of my favorite mountain pictures to show up along the way. This is the ultimate place for me to be contemplative!