The L3 Leadership Podcast with Doug Smith

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451

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May 2026

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About the show

The L3 Leadership Podcast is focused on leadership development and personal growth. We are obsessed with helping you grow to your maximum potential and maximizing the impact of your leadership. We release a new episode every week to help you grow and develop as a leader. You will hear a mix of personal lessons from our Founder, Doug Smith, and conversations Doug has with world-class leaders from around the world. Doug interviews leaders like Pittsburgh Steelers Coach, Mike Tomlin, Pittsburgh Penguins Coach, Mike Sullivan, Tony Horton, Liz Wiseman, Brian Tome, John Mark Comer, Mark Batterson, Ryan Hawk, Nona Jones, Claude Silver, Ken Coleman, Christy Wright, Rachel Cruze, Mark Cole, and many more. Our hope is that you will not only learn great leadership lessons but that you will catch great leadership from the lives of the leaders that we expose you to.

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May 19, 2026Episode 4491 hr 10 min

How Great Leaders Accelerate the Next Generation with Pastor John Nuzzo

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of the L3 Leadership Podcast, Doug Smith sits down with Pastor John Nuzzo, founder of Victory Family Church and author of The Acceleration Mandate.Pastor John is also one of the most influential voices in my life — my pastor, mentor, and spiritual father.And honestly… this may be one of the most important conversations we’ve ever had on the podcast.We talked about:• Why most leaders accidentally limit the next generation• The difference between mentoring and true spiritual fathering• How to avoid becoming cynical, isolated, or judgmental as a leader• Why proximity matters more than information• What great leaders do to accelerate others instead of controlling them• How to finish your race with integrity, joy, and impact⏱️ Episode Breakdown00:00 – Introduction and The Acceleration Mandate01:00 – Lessons from Pastor John’s father and upbringing05:00 – Leadership after 30+ years of ministry06:00 – Accelerating the next generation08:00 – Spiritual fathers and mothers09:00 – The “2%” principle: finishing well12:00 – The danger of victim mentality in leadership14:00 – Why proximity matters in mentorship16:00 – What Pastor John looks for in younger leaders20:00 – Loving people through difficult seasons24:00 – Why the Church struggles with restoration27:00 – Pastor John’s conviction about judging leaders30:00 – Divorce, heartbreak, and restoration33:00 – The leader who helped relaunch Pastor John’s future36:00 – Practical ways to accelerate younger leaders39:00 – “Don’t ask me about the new wineskin”43:00 – How anyone can impact the next generation47:00 – David, Solomon, and succession leadership49:00 – Why churches shouldn’t stay known for their founders52:00 – The power of friendship in leadership55:00 – Accountability and lifelong relationships59:00 – Lessons learned from John C. Maxwell01:03:00 – Why leadership is about deeply engaging people01:05:00 – Final wisdom on acceleration and legacy01:06:00 – The three truths Pastor John hopes to leave behind🎙 GuestJohn Nuzzo – Founder of Victory Family Church and author of The Acceleration MandateShow Notes Links & ResourcesPeople MentionedJohn Nuzzo — Senior Pastor of Victory Family Church and author of The Acceleration MandateDoug SmithJohn C. MaxwellHenry CloudOrganizations & MinistriesVictory Family ChurchNorthway Christian CommunityBooks & Resources MentionedThe Acceleration Mandate by John Nuzzo🤝 SponsorAndocia Marketing Solutions – https://andocia.comThe L3 Leadership Podcast is sponsored by Andocia Marketing Solutions.Andocia exists to bring leaders’ visions to life. Learn more at www.andocia.com🎙️ LISTEN ON ALL PLATFORMS:https://www.buzzsprout.com/5082SUBSCRIBE TO:@l3leadership@dougsmithliveSupport the show

May 12, 2026Episode 44838 min

Take Control of Your Health: A Leader's Guide to Finishing Strong

Send us Fan MailOnly 2% of Christian leaders make it to their finish line with their families, faith, and calling intact — and Doug Smith believes your health is one of the biggest reasons why. In this powerful talk, Doug shares his personal journey from "Fat Dougie" to fit at 40, the wake-up call he got from his dad's triple bypass surgery, and the practical steps every leader can take to extend their life, energy, and impact.What You'll Learn in This EpisodeWhy only 2% of Christian leaders make it to their finish line — and how to be one of themThe two questions every leader needs to answer about their health visionDoug's transformation story from overweight kid to fit at 40 (and what finally clicked)Why nutrition is 80% of the battle — and the simple food swaps that make the biggest differenceHow to use ChatGPT as a free, world-class nutrition and health coachThe "one system away" principle and how to find workouts you'll actually doWhat Function Health blood testing revealed about Doug's heart — and why every leader over 40 should "look under the hood"The hidden home toxins (mold and radon) that could be silently destroying your healthWhy lipoprotein(a) is the genetic biomarker most doctors don't test for — but shouldHow day-to-day intensity and week-to-week consistency build championsResources & Links MentionedHealth Testing & BiomarkersFunction Health Outlive by Peter Attia Dr. Mark Hyman Workouts & FitnessBeachbody / BODi Peloton Nutrition & TrackingMyFitnessPal Yuka App ChatGPT Wearables & RecoveryBevel app Books & InfluencesToday Matters by John MaxwellGlobal Leadership Summit Book Doug for your next conference or event: DougSmithLive.com⏱️ Episode Breakdown00:00 – Why health matters for leaders02:00 – The “2%” vision: finishing well04:00 – Creating a vision for your health05:00 – Where your current habits are leading07:00 – Defining health and fitness08:00 – Longevity, legacy, and stewardship11:00 – Doug’s weight-loss and fitness journey14:00 – Discovering P90X16:00 – The hard conversation that changed everything17:00 – Why nutrition matters19:00 – Tracking food and using ChatGPT for accountability20:00 – Rethinking alcohol and drinks21:00 – Finding workouts you’ll actually do23:00 – Consistency and daily habits24:00 – Why accountability partners help26:00 – Health scares, anxiety, and unexpected weight gain27:00 – Discovering mold exposure28:00 – Looking under the hood with bloodwork30:00 – Genetic risks and heart health31:00 – Medicine 2.0 vs. Medicine 3.032:00 – Radon, toxins, and environmental health34:00 – Tools and resources for long-term health36:00 – Start now and create a new ending37:00 – Final challenge: Don’t leave your health to chanceSupport the show

April 21, 2026Episode 44727 min

Advice for the 60+ Crowd

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of the L3 Leadership Podcast, Doug Smith shares a powerful message titled Advice for the 60+ Crowd: How to Make the Most of the Final Season of Your Life.After speaking to a group of seniors at a local church in Pittsburgh, Doug realized this message applies to every leader—no matter their age. This episode is a call to live with intention, finish well, and invest your life into what matters most.Doug challenges listeners to think deeply about legacy, transitions, and the role they play in shaping future generations. Through personal stories and practical questions, he equips you to shift your priorities, strengthen your disciplines, and maximize your impact in the time you have left.⏱️ Episode Breakdown00:00 – Introduction and why this message matters02:00 – Honoring the generation that came before us04:00 – Doug’s story and the impact of mentorship07:00 – Your legacy is what you set into motion09:00 – The question: What do you want said at your funeral?10:30 – Why transitions can leave people stuck or bitter11:30 – What priorities need to shift in this season14:00 – Thinking in terms of multi-generational impact17:00 – Upgrading your spiritual disciplines19:00 – The power of prayer and investing in others22:00 – Why the next generation needs spiritual fathers and mothers24:00 – Guarding against the wrong temptations in this season25:00 – Reconciling relationships while there’s still time27:00 – Practicing gratitude for what God has already done28:00 – God is bigger than your last season29:00 – “It will be better than it’s ever been”30:00 – Final challenge: Will you spend your life or invest it?🎙 GuestDoug Smith – Host, L3 Leadership Podcast🤝 SponsorAndocia Marketing Solutions – https://andocia.comThe L3 Leadership Podcast is sponsored by Andocia Marketing Solutions.Andocia exists to bring leaders’ visions to life. Learn more at www.andocia.com🎙️ LISTEN ON ALL PLATFORMS:https://www.buzzsprout.com/5082SUBSCRIBE TO:@l3leadership@dougsmithliveSupport the show

March 31, 2026Episode 44649 min

Most People Don’t Build a Great Life—They Accept One (Here’s How to Change That)

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of the L3 Leadership Podcast, Doug Smith shares a powerful talk he gave for Keller Williams titled How to Build a Great Life.Doug walks through the principles that have shaped his own journey—from a difficult upbringing to leading a nonprofit, raising a family, and developing leaders—and challenges listeners to stop simply “accepting” life and start intentionally building one that truly matters.This episode goes beyond career success and focuses on what it really means to win in life: strong relationships, purpose, growth, and intentional leadership. Doug provides practical frameworks and actionable steps to help you clarify your vision, grow daily, build meaningful connections, and become the leader you’re capable of being.If you’ve ever felt like you’re just going through the motions or unsure how to reach your full potential, this episode will challenge you to take ownership and start building a life you’re proud of.Doug Smith – Host, L3 Leadership PodcastWhat You’ll Learn Why most people accept life instead of leading it The difference between success vs. a great life How to create a life plan that actually works The “dream big + pay the price” framework How to become the obvious choice in your career The power of mentorship (and how to get it) A simple system to handle failure: Admit it. Quit it. Forget it. Why teachability is your ultimate competitive advantage 💡 Key Takeaways You don’t find a great life—you build one intentionally Big dreams require a clear price—and the willingness to pay it Your daily habits are campaigning for your future Feedback is uncomfortable—but it’s the fastest path to growth Who you surround yourself with will determine your trajectory📚 Resources & MentionsLiving ForwardToday MattersTuesdays with MorrieThe Ride of a LifetimeL3 LeadershipLight of Life Rescue Mission🤝 Connect & Learn More Speaking & Coaching: DougSmithLive.com Podcast: L3 Leadership Podcast🤝 SponsorAndocia Marketing Solutions – https://andocia.comThe L3 Leadership Podcast is sponsored by Andocia Marketing Solutions.Andocia exists to bring leaders’ visions to life. Learn more at www.andocia.com🎙️ LISTEN ON ALL PLATFORMS:https://www.buzzsprout.com/5082SUBSCRIBE TO:@l3leadership@dougsmithliveSupport the show

March 17, 2026Episode 44548 min

Why 90% of Leaders Plateau (And How to Break Out of It) | Chris Robinson

Send us Fan MailMost leaders think they’re growing—but in reality, they’re just repeating the same year over and over again.In this powerful conversation, Doug sits down with Chris Robinson, Executive Vice President of Maxwell Leadership, to unpack why over 90% of leaders plateau—and what it actually takes to reach your potential.Chris shares the mindset shift that changed his life from chasing success to developing others, how to become a “star maker” leader, and the hidden danger of complacency he calls “the secret place of satisfactory success.”If you want to get promoted, multiply your impact, and avoid drifting through your career, this episode is a must-listen.💡 What You’ll Learn:Why most leaders plateau (and don’t even realize it)The difference between being the star vs. creating starsThe question that will fast-track your promotionHow to respond when you get passed overWhy complacency is killing your potentialThe role of family, discipline, and intentional growth in leadershipHow top leaders invest in themselves to stay ahead⏱️ Episode Breakdown00:00 – Introduction to Chris Robinson and his leadership journey02:00 – Getting into personal growth for the wrong reasons03:30 – The Law of the Lid and becoming a “star maker”06:00 – The mindset shift required to truly develop others08:30 – What to do when you get passed over for a promotion11:00 – “The phrase that pays” for career growth12:30 – From Drift to Drive: Why Chris wrote the book13:30 – The danger of “satisfactory success”14:30 – Why most leaders plateau15:30 – Experience vs. repetition in leadership growth16:00 – Balancing leadership and raising six kids19:00 – Structuring your life around what matters most21:00 – Inside Maxwell Leadership and developing leaders23:00 – How to get out of the pile: results, service, and growth26:00 – Lessons learned from working with John Maxwell28:00 – Chris’s story: DUI, second chances, and transformation32:00 – Leadership and alcohol: influence and responsibility35:00 – The power of environment: people, places, and habits37:00 – Best advice: “You have to get on a lot of airplanes.”38:00 – How to read for growth (problems vs. passions)40:00 – Leadership philosophy: Treat people like people41:00 – Biggest pet peeve: inconsistent leadership43:00 – Parenting lessons and prioritizing family46:00 – Advice to his younger self47:00 – The legacy Chris hopes to leave🔗 Resources & Links:Chris Robinson Maxwell Leadership: https://maxwellleadership.comBook: From Drift to Drive by Chris RobinsonThe L3 Leadership Podcast is sponsored by Andocia Marketing Solutions.Andocia exists to bring leaders’ visions to life. Learn more at www.andocia.com🎥 WATCH ON YOUTUBE🎙️ LISTEN ON ALL PLATFORMS:https://www.buzzsprout.com/5082/episodes/18858838SUBSCRIBE TO:@l3leadership@dougsmithliveSupport the show

March 3, 2026Episode 44426 min

7 Leadership Lessons I Learned at the Most Powerful Memorial Service I’ve Ever Attended

Send us Fan MailWhat would people say about your life at your memorial service?In this deeply personal episode of the L3 Leadership Podcast, Doug Smith shares the powerful leadership lessons he learned after attending the memorial service of legendary pastor and leader Jeff Leake.For over two hours, story after story was shared about a man who finished his race with his faith, family, character, and calling intact. The experience forced Doug to ask a question every leader must wrestle with:Am I living in a way that will lead to a life well lived?⏱️ Episode Breakdown00:00 – Why this memorial service deeply moved Doug02:00 – Doug’s relationship with Jeff and the impact of mentorship04:00 – The 2% principle: Finishing with family, character, and calling intact08:00 – “Nobody has a dad like my dad” — intentional parenting that lasts12:00 – Why family must come before success14:30 – The urgency of spiritual fathers and mothers18:00 – Becoming a spiritual parent to the next generation20:30 – “Calm always wins” — emotional steadiness in leadership25:00 – Teaching leadership lessons at home27:00 – First Samuel 20 friendships: Anything, anytime, anywhere31:00 – Your legacy is not what you do, but what you set into motion35:00 – Resume building vs. people building38:00 – Why documenting your content is a gift to your family42:00 – One day it will be your memorial service45:00 – What are you doing with your life?48:00 – Long obedience in the same direction50:00 – Don’t quit. Finish well.In this episode, Doug breaks down the leadership principles he took away from that unforgettable service and how they can help you lead with greater purpose, clarity, and legacy.If you want to become a leader who finishes well, this conversation will challenge and inspire you.In This Episode You'll Learn:• Why only 2% of leaders finish their race with their faith, family, and character intact • The parenting goal every leader should pursue: “Nobody has a dad like my dad.” • Why great leaders learn to live by the principle “Calm always wins.” • The importance of spiritual fathers, mentors, and leadership relationships • The powerful legacy principle: Your legacy is not what you do, but what you set into motion • Why documenting your life and leadership content is a gift to future generations • How reflecting on your own mortality can help you lead a more intentional lifeIt's finishing well.Resources Mentioned• Jeff Leek Memorial Service • Jeff Leek – Allison Park Church • L3 Leadership PodcastConnect with Doug SmithFollow Doug Smith for leadership content and resources to help you grow to your maximum potential and maximize the impact of your leadership.Subscribe to the PodcastIf this episode added value to your life, please subscribe and leave a review. Your support helps us reach and develop more leaders around the world.👥 Leaders ReferencedHenry Cloud – https://drcloud.comEugene Peterson – https://www.navpress.comJeff Leake (Legacy referenced throughout episode)🤝 SponsorAndocia Marketing Solutions. Andocia exists to bring leaders’ visions to life. Learn more at www.andocia.com🎥 WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLrF93uIEB9BusYfpXUPIriU3evdBXjqaL🎙️ LISTEN ON ALL PLATFORMS:https://www.buzzsprout.com/5082SUBSCRIBE TO:@l3leadership@dougsmithliveSupport the show

February 18, 2026Episode 44355 min

How to Lead Generation Z: 9 Strategies Every Leader Needs to Know | Dr. Tim Elmore

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of the L3 Leadership Podcast, Doug Smith sits down with Dr. Tim Elmore, founder of Growing Leaders and bestselling author of The Future Begins with Z: 9 Strategies to Lead Generation Z as They Disrupt the Workplace.After following Tim’s work for nearly two decades, Doug finally gets to have a conversation that every leader needs to hear. Together, they unpack the realities of leading Generation Z, why three out of four managers say Gen Z is the toughest generation to manage, and how leaders can shift from frustration to opportunity.⏱️ Episode Breakdown00:00 – Why Tim wrote The Future Begins with Z02:00 – The alarming stats about managing Generation Z03:45 – The “Peter Pan Paradox”: Age of authority ↓, age of maturity ↑07:00 – Artificial maturity: Overexposed to information, underexposed to experience12:00 – Parenting the next generation: Risk, responsibility, and resilience17:00 – Why leaders must mentor—not just manage20:00 – The onboarding mistake costing companies Gen Z talent21:30 – “Everyone has a voice. Not everyone has a vote.”24:00 – Why Gen Z decides whether to stay on Day One26:00 – Mental health realities leaders must understand27:00 – The A.L.E.G. framework for difficult conversations33:00 – Reverse mentoring: What older leaders must learn from Gen Z36:00 – Lessons Tim learned from John Maxwell41:00 – Advice for aspiring authors and speakers48:00 – Begin with belief: Let people start with an “A”51:00 – Don’t stereotype—listen before confronting53:00 – Tim’s life sentence: The legacy he hopes to leave🎙 GuestDr. Tim Elmore – https://www.timelmore.comThe Future Begins with Z – https://www.timelmore.com/booksA Book in a Weekend – https://www.abookinaweekend.com📚 Books MentionedThe Future Begins with Z – https://www.timelmore.com/booksLeadership and Self-Deception – https://arbinger.comFrom Strength to Strength – https://arthurbrooks.com/books👥 Leaders ReferencedJohn C. Maxwell – https://johnmaxwell.comHenry Cloud – https://drcloud.comArthur C. Brooks – https://arthurbrooks.com🤝 SponsorAndocia Marketing Solutions – https://andocia.comThe L3 Leadership Podcast is sponsored by Andocia Marketing Solutions.Andocia exists to bring leaders’ visions to life. Learn more at www.andocia.com🎥 WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLrF93uIEB9BusYfpXUPIriU3evdBXjqaL🎙️ LISTEN ON ALL PLATFORMS:https://www.buzzsprout.com/5082SUBSCRIBE TO:@l3leadership@dougsmithliveSupport the show

February 3, 2026Episode 44220 min

5 Hard Leadership Lessons 2025 Taught Me

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of the L3 Leadership Podcast, Doug Smith shares Part 2 of his annual reflection series, unpacking the final ten lessons he learned in 2025 and how they are shaping his leadership moving into 2026. Drawing from real conversations, leadership challenges, faith, and personal growth, Doug challenges leaders to rethink success, create margin, embrace hard seasons, and recognize the significance of the work God is doing in and through them.⏱️ Episode Breakdown00:00 – Why Doug shares his annual lessons and how they’re selected 01:45 – Lesson 11: You can have everything and still have nothing 03:30 – Lesson 12: In leadership, there are things only you can do 05:00 – Lesson 13: The necessity of people who challenge your perceptions 07:45 – Lesson 14: Follow a proven path when you don’t know what to do 08:45 – Lesson 15: Why AI can be a powerful personal and leadership coach 10:30 – Lesson 16: Margin matters—create it with time and finances 11:45 – Lesson 17: You’re always campaigning, whether you realize it or not 13:30 – Lesson 18: The gospel comes with a house key 15:15 – Lesson 19: Lessons learned in one season prepare you for the next 17:30 – Lesson 20: Don’t minimize the work God is doing in and through you 18:45 – Final encouragement: Don’t quit—your leadership matters more than you thinkResources Mentioned:The Ride of a Lifetime by Bob IgerThe Gospel Comes with a House Key by Rosaria Butterfield“Good” Leadership Mindset – Jocko Willink (Video)The L3 Leadership Podcast is sponsored by Andocia Marketing Solutions. Andocia exists to bring leaders’ visions to life. Learn more at www.andocia.com🎧 LISTEN ON SPOTIFY: https://open.spotify.com/show/3CBHbRL6rJtSXwpKBaamNo?si=ee120ef86cf243ba🎧 LISTEN ON APPLE PODCASTS: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-l3-leadership-podcast-with-doug-smith/id495751888🎙️ LISTEN ON ALL PLATFORMS: https://www.buzzsprout.com/5082SUBSCRIBE TO: @l3leadership @dougsmithliveSupport the show

January 27, 2026Episode 44126 min

15 Leadership Lessons I Learned in 2025 (That Will Change How I Lead in 2026) Part I

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of the L3 Leadership Podcast, Doug Smith kicks off part one of his annual reflection series, sharing the most significant lessons he learned in 2025 and how they’re shaping his leadership in 2026. Drawing from his year-end review process, Doug offers honest insights on health, family, leadership presence, fatherhood, faith, and the unseen weight leaders carry.⏱️ Episode Breakdown00:00 – Why Doug does a year-end review every year02:00 – Lesson 1: Taking ownership of your health before it’s too late05:00 – Lesson 2: Big families are a gift worth fighting for08:30 – Lesson 3: Your presence as a leader matters more than you think11:00 – Lesson 4: The lifelong impact of being an intentional parent14:00 – Lesson 5: The tension between progress and preservation16:00 – Lesson 6: One day you’ll become a king—but not for the reasons you think18:30 – Lesson 7: Not every battle deserves your energy21:00 – Lesson 8: Want more *for* people than you want *from* them23:00 – Lesson 9: Being the voice of leadership, not just the position24:00 – Lesson 10: Leading well when life isn’t fairResources Mentioned:Fathered by God: Learning What Your Dad Could Never Teach You by John EldredgeExperience Jesus. Really: Finding Refuge, Strength, and Wonder Through Everyday Encounters with God by John EldredgeWhy Do Black Christians Vote Democrat? – Phil Vischer (Video)Family TeamsGerald Brooks Leadership Podcast🔗 Connect with DougLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dougsmithliveThe L3 Leadership Podcast is sponsored by Andocia Marketing Solutions. Andocia exists to bring leaders’ visions to life. Visit www.andocia.com to learn more.WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsF0cVdRu2oELJGpaHma7AgSUBSCRIBE TO: @l3leadership @dougsmithliveSupport the show

January 13, 2026Episode 4401 hr 5 min

How to Build a Family That Rules for Generations | Jeremy Pryor

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of the L3 Leadership Podcast, host Doug Smith sits down with returning guest Jeremy Pryor, founder of Family Teams, for a wide-ranging conversation on leadership, family, faith, and legacy. Jeremy shares how viewing the family as a team—not a temporary stage of life—can reshape how leaders think about generational impact.00:00 – Welcome to the L3 Leadership Podcast01:00 – Introducing Jeremy Pryor and Family Teams04:00 – Multi-generational families and shared rhythms09:00 – Sabbath dinners, hospitality, and family culture17:00 – The biblical vision for a ruling household26:00 – Generational leadership, wealth, and stewardship36:00 – Why traditional discipleship models struggle45:00 – Making disciples who make disciples55:00 – Church, family, and leadership sustainability1:03:00 – Final thoughts on legacy and long-term impactLinks:🔹 PeopleJeremy Pryor – https://www.jeremypryor.comDoug Smith – https://l3leadership.org🔹 Organizations & ProgramsFamily Teams – https://www.familyteams.com1000 Houses – https://www.1000houses.orgFamily Teams Accelerator – https://www.familyteams.com/accelerator🔹 Books & Concepts MentionedThe Gospel Comes with a House Key Ruling Household (book in progress) – Jeremy Pryor The L3 Leadership Podcast is sponsored by Andocia Marketing Solutions. Andocia exists to bring leaders' visions to life. Visit https://andocia.com to learn more.To find more leadership resources and helpful content for your leadership journey, check out our website at https://l3leadership.org/ today.Support the show