Leaders Who Create

How do you know when it's time to change something that's always worked? In this episode of Leaders Who Create, Jason Squires sits down with Mark MacDonald, founder of Be Known For Something, to talk about brand innovation, recognizing when it's time for a shift, and knowing the difference between a fresh idea and a change that's actually needed. Together, they explore how to know when to start over versus make a few adjustments, how to create room for new ideas without constantly changing direction, and how to keep things fresh without losing sight of what matters most. Whether you're leading a business, serving on a church staff, or navigating everyday life, this conversation will help you think differently about change, creativity, and leadership. Learn more about Mark and Be Known For Something at https://beknownforsomething.com/

What does it really take to innovate when the world around you keeps changing? This week on Leaders Who Create, Jason Squires sits down with Ryan Dahl, owner of PraiseCharts, to talk about what it looks like to recognize a need, take a risk, and create something that makes a difference. From the early days of paper charts and binders to the digital resources worship leaders use today, we’re talking about what it means to adapt, when it’s time to pivot, and the difference between simply improving something and truly innovating. We’ll also dive into the cost of innovation, the risk of trying something new, and the big question on everyone’s mind: How will AI change the future of worship ministry? Because innovation isn’t just about keeping up with change. It’s about recognizing opportunities to serve people better and being willing to take the next step.

What does it actually take to build something from the ground up?

This week on Leaders Who Create, Jason Squires sits down with Randy Sherwood, Church Planter & Lead Pastor of South Hills Church in Eagle, Idaho, to talk about what happens before the idea ever gets launched.

Who do you want around the table? How important is it for everyone to believe in the vision? And what’s the difference between building a team that simply works for you and building a team that feels like they own the vision with you?

Randy and Jason talk about creating culture before you have an organization, building teams that don’t become dependent on one person’s creativity, and what it looks like to give people ownership in something bigger than themselves.

And, of course, they answer the most important question: If you’re inviting people into a room to pitch the vision for a brand-new idea, what are you eating?

Join us for a conversation about vision, culture, ownership, and the people who help turn an idea into something real.

What happens after you have the idea?

In this episode of Leaders Who Create, Jason Squires sits down with Eric Stalter, the creator of String Translator, to talk about what it actually takes to get an idea off the ground. They talk about where String Translator started, what Eric saw when the idea first came together, and the moment he realized that having a great idea was only the beginning. Because innovation isn't always some huge lightning-bolt moment. Sometimes it's doing the work, figuring things out as you go, changing things, asking for help, and continuing to move forward when the excitement of the original idea wears off. The guys also talk about what he needed to hear from someone else to start moving on the idea, and what he wishes someone had told him before he started building. If you've ever had an idea that wouldn't leave your head, but you weren't sure what to do with it next, this conversation is for you.

And yes, we talk food too. Because of course we do.

Learn more about String Translator at https://stringtranslator.com/.

Legacy starts with when we connect with people.

Over the last couple of months, we’ve had conversations around the idea of creating connection and creating legacy. Two things that might not seem to go together, but are very much a part of each other.

In this episode, Jason Squires brings those two topics together in a short conversation and reflects on some of the conversations we’ve had over the last couple of months.

Our hope is that you’ll listen to all the conversations, find some people to connect with, and continue to create wherever you are.

What does it look like to take an idea that feels a little crazy and actually build it?

In 1974, Jack Hamlin founded Woodland Christian School in Woodland, CA. What started as an idea became something that would grow, impact generations of students and families, and eventually become something much bigger than any one person. In this conversation, Jason Squires sits down with Jack as he takes us back to those early days and shares what it was like to build something from the ground up, navigate the challenges people on the outside never see, and protect the values and culture that mattered along the way. They also talk about that moment when you realize, “This thing is bigger than me now,” and what it looks like to eventually hand something you've poured your life into over to someone else. And maybe the biggest question of all: What do you do when you have an idea but don't feel qualified or capable enough to actually start? This is a conversation about creating, building a legacy, letting go, and having the courage to start the thing that's been on your heart.

What happens when something you’ve spent your life doing becomes something your whole family gets to experience together? In this episode, Jason Squires sits down with John Waller to talk about music, family, and the legacy we leave behind. John shares what led him to make music with his family, what he’s learned about communication and giving each other space, and how he creates room for his kids to bring their own creativity to the table. They also talk about something bigger than music: what we hope our kids carry forward from us, even if they choose a completely different path. Because sometimes the greatest thing we create isn’t the thing we’re known for. It’s what we build into the people coming after us. Check out Waller and Co at https://www.wallerandco.com.

Legacy isn't always about what we build. Sometimes it's about what we pour into people and what they go on to do with it. In this conversation, Jason Squires sits down with Mike Sexton from Awana to talk about the power of investing in leaders and the incredible ripple effect that can happen when those leaders pour into kids. Together they talk about creating an environment where kids know they are seen, believed in, and capable of making a difference, and what it looks like to invest in people even when you may never get to see the full impact of that investment.

Mike has spent years helping leaders develop and lead the next generation, and this conversation is a reminder that some of the most significant things we create may never have our name on them. They live on through the people we choose to invest in. And, of course, we talk about food because every good conversation eventually gets there.

What does it look like to build something that can outlast you? Join Jason Squires and Jeremy Willet, founder of The Million Movement, as he shares what inspired him to launch a vision bigger than himself. He also shares what he's learning about building for the future. Jeremy and Jason sit down to talk about developing others to carry the vision, staying faithful when the results may be years away, and what it means to “plant trees you will never sit in the shade of.” And of course, we talk about his favorite food stops on tour. Join the Million Movement at https://themillionmovement.com/.

What does it take to create a place where the next generation feels truly connected? Justin Knowles, Lead Next Gen Pastor at VantagePoint Church in Eastvale, CA , joins Jason Squires to talk about what it looks like to create a culture where students are known, valued, and connected to others. As his ministry grows to the point of separating Junior High and High School, Justin shares how meaningful relationships, intentional leadership, and a strong culture can help students move from simply showing up to truly belonging. Because creating connection isn't just about getting people in the room. It's about creating a place where they want to stay. Connect with Justin and learn more about his coaching at https://www.youngpastornetwork.com/ or catch him on his podcast called Youth Ministry Hacks.

What happens when the people on your team have to trust each other with their lives? In this conversation, Jason Squires sits down with Eric Zane, Fire Chief of the Woodland California Fire Department, to talk about the power of connection within a team. For firefighters, trust and communication aren't just important leadership principles, they can be the difference between life and death. Eric shares what he's learned about building trust, creating opportunities for connection, navigating conflict, and developing a culture where people genuinely have each other's backs. Whether you lead a fire department, a business, a church, or simply a team of people, this conversation is a reminder that strong teams don't happen by accident. Connection has to be created, protected, and intentionally cultivated.

Music has a unique way of bringing people together. A single song can transport us back to a moment in time, spark a conversation, or create a memory that lasts a lifetime. Join Jason Squires as he sits down with composer, producer, and longtime musical director Jim Daneker to explore the power of connection through music.

After spending nearly three decades touring with Michael W. Smith, Jim launched Arcade Orchestra, a one-of-a-kind concert experience that reimagines the iconic songs of the '80s with the power of a live orchestra. Together, Jason and Jim talk about honoring the music people love while creating something fresh, why audiences are craving shared experiences more than ever, and how timeless songs have the ability to connect generations. They also dive into the value of building lasting relationships in a creative industry that's often driven by networking, and why genuine connection has been one of the defining themes of Jim's remarkable career. Whether you're a musician, leader, or creative, this conversation will remind you that the most meaningful work isn't just about what you create. Learn more about Arcade Orchestra at https://arcadeorchestra.com/.

Leaders Who Create Connection: Stories have a way of connecting with us that facts alone never can. Whether it's through a sermon, a song, or a simple conversation, the stories we share often become the moments people remember most. Join Jason Squires as he sits down with pastor, songwriter, and military veteran Luke Eldredge to explore the power of story. Together they discuss why stories help people connect, how vulnerability builds trust, and what it looks like to faithfully steward your own story without oversharing. If you've ever wondered whether your experiences could encourage someone else, this conversation is a reminder that God often uses the stories we're willing to share to help others feel seen, understood, and pointed toward Him. Learn more about Luke at https://lukeeldredge.com/.

Over the last twelve episodes, we've had conversations about growth, belonging, and healthy rhythms with leaders from a wide variety of creative backgrounds. While every guest brought a unique perspective, we kept hearing the same themes come up again and again. In this solo episode, join Jason Squires as he steps back to reflect on what we've learned together. We'll talk about why talent alone isn't enough, how healthy cultures are built, why belonging matters more than performance, and how the rhythms we choose today shape the leaders we become tomorrow. If you've missed a few episodes, this is a great place to catch up. We want to encourage you to go back and listen to episodes you've missed. If you've been listening all along, we hope this conversation helps connect the dots and encourages you to keep growing, create places where people belong, and build a life that's sustainable for the long haul.

Leaders Who Create Healthy Rhythms: Healthy rhythms sound great in theory, but living them out is a different story. Join Jason Squires as he sits down with John Cassetto to talk about what it really looks like to lead well without running yourself into the ground. They discuss how to recognize when a rhythm that once served you is no longer healthy, how to create margin in a world that expects constant access, and why so many leaders wrestle with guilt when they finally slow down.

John also shares honestly about the tension of seasons when your work is thriving but your soul isn't. If you've ever felt like you're constantly pouring into others while neglecting your own health, this conversation will encourage you to rethink what sustainable leadership really looks like. Connect with John on Instagram @JohnCassetto

Leaders Who Create Healthy Rhythms: Join Jason Squires as he sits down with Brian Taylor for an honest conversation about creating healthy rhythms that last. They discuss why so many leaders feel guilty when they slow down, the difference between being busy and being fruitful, and how to protect your family while faithfully carrying the responsibilities of leadership. If you've ever struggled to find the balance between leading well at work and being fully present at home, this conversation will encourage and challenge you to rethink what success looks like. Brian shares practical wisdom from years of coaching leaders and reminds us that healthy leadership isn't about doing more it's about becoming the kind of leader who can faithfully serve for the long haul. Plus, Brian shares the one restaurant that's always worth the detour. Learn more about Brian Taylor at www.briantaylor.co

Leaders Who Create Healthy Rhythms: Join Jason Squires as he sits down with Dr. Heather Penny to talk about why so many leaders are great at carrying responsibility but struggle to care for themselves. They discuss the rhythms she's learned to protect, how to build healthy habits without becoming legalistic, and why creativity needs margin to flourish. They also have an honest conversation about a culture that often confuses availability with value. If you've ever felt like you have to be "on" all the time just to prove your worth, I think this part of the conversation will really resonate with you. Whether you're leading a team, creating every week, or simply trying to build a healthier pace of life, I hope this episode encourages you to create rhythms that help you last. Learn more about Heather Penny at www.heatherpenny.com.

Leaders Who Create Healthy Rhythms: Join Jason Squires as he sits down with Rory Noland to talk about something every leader needs but few of us do well, creating healthy rhythms. After decades of serving artists and worship leaders, Rory has learned that longevity isn't about talent. It's about building a life that can actually sustain the calling God has given you. We talk about why so many creatives struggle to rest, how to recognize burnout before it takes over, and what separates leaders who fade out from those who continue creating with joy for decades. Rory also shares one simple rhythm he believes every creative leader should build into their life. If you've been running on empty or just want to lead from a healthier place, I think this conversation will encourage you.

Leaders Who Create Belonging: Join Jason Squires as he sits down with Bryan Taylor, Executive Director of Tommy Walker Ministries, to talk about the kind of leadership that often happens behind the scenes but leaves a lasting impact. Bryan shares lessons learned from years of serving alongside Tommy, how leaders can help people feel valued even when their contributions aren't visible, and why healthy teams choose celebration over competition.

If you're a leader who wants to build a culture where people feel seen, valued, and connected, this conversation will encourage and challenge you to lead with greater intentionality.

Join Jason Squires as he sits down with Alex Holcomb (@alexonthekeyz) to explore how creative leaders can build environments where people feel seen, valued, and encouraged. Alex shares how navigating seasons of feeling overlooked shaped her leadership, why encouragement is essential for long-term creative health, and how she helps younger creatives develop confidence without tying their worth to performance or platform. They also discuss the importance of continuing to grow as a leader, creating space for others to flourish, and what Alex would say to the creative who feels unseen right now. If you've ever questioned your value, struggled with comparison, or wondered how to create a culture of belonging, this conversation is for you.