Right-side Up Leadership Podcast

Alan Briggs sits down with Scott Cutlan—business leader, mountaineer, and author of Unreasonable: Seven Impactful Lessons Discovered Climbing the Seven Summits. Scott shares his journey from corporate executive to scaling the highest peaks in the world, and the deep leadership insights he uncovered along the way. They explore purpose, alignment, resilience, and the importance of saying "no" to stay focused on what truly matters. 1. The Call to Adventure Scott was led by faith to leave his high-powered corporate job, climb the Seven Summits, start a nonprofit, and self-fund it—all without any prior mountaineering experience. The initial challenge of stepping into the unknown and trusting the process. 2. Leadership & Mountain Analogies Scott describes himself as a “mountain guide for the leadership journey,” drawing parallels between climbing and business leadership. Alignment is key—leaders must be clear on their purpose to make the right decisions. 3. The “More” Concept Many people misunderstand "mor

Jonathan and Alan discuss the transformative power of sabbaticals, exploring how they can benefit both leaders and organizations. Alan shares his personal experiences with sabbaticals and how they led him to coaching others on the subject. They highlight the importance of demystifying sabbaticals, the organizational benefits they bring, and practical steps for implementing a healthy sabbatical program.    Takeaways Sabbaticals can be a powerful tool for personal and professional growth. Leaders often feel isolated during sabbaticals and need support. Sabbaticals can lead to increased leadership capacity within organizations. A well-structured sabbatical program can enhance organizational health. Younger generations prioritize workplace flexibility and purpose. Sabbaticals can help prevent burnout and promote longevity in leadership roles. Organizations that support sabbaticals can attract and retain talent. Sabbaticals can lead to clearer vision and innovation upon return. The process of planning for a sabba

Jenni Catron and Alan Briggs explore the complexities of leadership and organizational culture. They discuss the importance of open communication, feedback loops, and the need for leaders to be aware of the cultural dynamics within their teams. Jenni emphasizes the significance of patience and persistence when implementing change, as well as the responsibility leaders have in shaping the lives of their team members. The discussion highlights the need for clarity, emotional intelligence, and the impact of a positive culture on overall organizational success. About Jenni Catron Jenni Catron is a leadership coach, author and speaker. Her passion is to cultivate healthy leaders to lead thriving organizations. She speaks at conferences and events nationwide, seeking to help leaders develop the clarity and confidence to lead well. As Founder and CEO of The 4Sight Group, she consults organizations on leadership, team culture and organizational health. With over 20 years experience in corporate and non-profit organiz

Alan Briggs is joined by Brad Lomenick, leadership consultant, author, and connector of world-changing leaders, to discuss the art of building meaningful relationships, creating transformational gatherings, and leading with curiosity. Brad unpacks the difference between networkers vs. connectors, the importance of relational intelligence, and how leaders can curate experiences that foster true connection. They also dive into: Why curiosity is the bridge between knowledge and action How to read the room and pivot your leadership approach in real-time The power of invite-only, high-impact gatherings How faith, influence, and leadership intersect in today’s world Practical strategies to become a better connector and steward relationships wisely If you're a leader, entrepreneur, pastor, or someone who wants to level up their ability to connect and influence, this episode is packed with wisdom and practical takeaways. Coaching questions for you: What am I wired to do? – What are my natural strengths, skills, an

In this deeply moving and insightful conversation, Alan Briggs sits down with bestselling author and pastor John Ortberg to explore the profound relationship between pain, spiritual growth, and authentic community. Drawing from his own personal journey, the teachings of Jesus, and the wisdom of the AA movement, John shares how embracing our brokenness can lead to deep transformation. About John John Ortberg was born in Rockford, Illinois. He earned his undergraduate degree from Wheaton College, and his M.Div. and Ph.D. in clinical psychology from Fuller Theological Seminary. He has also studied at the University of Aberdeen, Scotland. From 1985 to 1990 he served as senior pastor at Simi Valley Community Church, and then from 1990 to 1994 at Horizons Community Church (now Baseline Community Church) in Claremont, California. He then moved from California to Illinois to serve as a teaching pastor at Willow Creek Community Church in South Barrington, Illinois until 2003, when he became the senior pastor at Menlo

 Alan and Jonathan explore the intersection of leadership and culture using the NFL as a case study, discussing how organizational culture impacts performance. They delve into the definitions of culture, the importance of health and impact in leadership, and share examples of NFL teams, particularly focusing on the Washington Commanders' recent turnaround. The discussion emphasizes the need for leaders to identify cultural issues, make necessary changes, and foster an environment where team members feel valued and respected.   Takeaways Culture is the atmosphere of an organization. Healthy cultures can still underperform, and unhealthy cultures can perform well temporarily. Identifying cultural issues requires honesty and clarity. Effective leadership involves creating a culture where people want to be involved. Total overhauls in culture often require hard decisions and new leadership. The Washington Commanders' turnaround showcases the impact of healthy leadership. Different leadership styles can lead to s

We often hear about "awareness" and "seasons" in leadership, but what if the key to making better decisions isn't about setting the right goals—but recognizing the season you're actually in?  In this episode, Jonathan and Alan dive deep into the overlooked yet powerful concept of leadership seasons. They discuss how understanding the phase you're in—whether it's one of pruning, growth, acceleration, or transition—can bring clarity, reduce overwhelm, and lead to more effective actions. Key Takeaways Your goals aren’t the problem—your season might be. Are you in a time of expansion or a period where slowing down is wiser? Seasons change, and so should your leadership strategy. You can’t hustle the same way at 40 as you did at 25. Naming your season brings clarity. Learn two powerful methods for identifying where you are. Leadership isn’t always about acceleration. Organizations, teams, and individuals go through rhythms of pruning and growth. Action follows awareness. Once you know your season, what courageous

In this episode, Alan sits down with author, pastor, and speaker Zach Meerkreebs to explore the journey of humility, pain, and redemption that led to his powerful new book, Lower. Zach shares how God shaped his life through challenges, failures, and moments of transformation. The conversation dives deep into themes like radical humility, the crushing seasons of life, and finding God's presence in unexpected places—whether it’s cleaning windows or working at a donut shop. Zach offers raw, heartfelt reflections on grief, leadership, and the power of embracing the low places to let God work in profound ways. Key Moments: Childhood & Faith Journey: Zach's unique story of growing up in a Jewish household and finding Jesus through authentic relationships with mentors like Alan. Lessons in Leadership: Insights from Zach's experiences at the Asbury revival and how 16 days transformed his understanding of humility and spiritual leadership. The Crushing & Formation: Zach shares candidly about personal failures

In the second half of this two-part series, Alan Briggs continues his conversation with Steve Cuss, diving deeper into the challenges leaders face in managing their inner critic, breaking predictable patterns, and finding freedom in their faith. Steve shares powerful tools to notice and navigate reactivity, align your beliefs with God’s truth, and relax into His presence. This episode is packed with practical strategies and wisdom to help leaders thrive emotionally, spiritually, and relationally. Highlights from Part 2: How reactivity blocks our awareness of God’s presence—and ways to overcome it. Strategies for quieting the inner critic and embracing God’s truth over self-condemnation. Why predictable patterns in leadership and faith keep us stuck—and how to break free. The importance of staying "human-sized" in leadership and relationships. Practical ways to trip over God’s love throughout your day. Resources Mentioned: Steve Cuss’s book: The Expectation Gap Steve Cuss’s Website Listen to Steve’s Podcast

In the first part of this two-part conversation, Alan Briggs sits down with Steve Cuss, author of The Expectation Gap, to explore the challenges of managing expectations, staying human-sized in overwhelming spaces, and starting the year with curiosity instead of pressure. Steve shares personal stories about imposter syndrome, the power of micro-habits, and practical tools to help you "stub your toe" on God's love throughout your day. This episode is packed with insight for leaders, parents, and anyone feeling the weight of expectations as the year begins. Highlights from Part 1: Why New Year’s resolutions often miss the mark and how to set achievable goals. The concept of staying “human-sized” in rooms that feel too big. Practical ways to manage the inner critic and reconnect with God’s love. Steve’s reflections on his own predictable patterns and how to break free. Resources Mentioned: Steve Cuss’s book: The Expectation Gap Demystifying Sabbaticals Webinar - January 29th (Register now!) Follow us on YouTu

It’s a new year, and we’re diving headfirst into 2025 with fresh perspectives, inspiring reflections, and a whole lot of excitement!

In this special Christmas edition of the Stay Forth Leadership Podcast, hosts Alan Briggs and Jonathan Collier invite you to take a deep breath, step back, and embrace the power of gratitude. As the year winds down, they share practical insights for leaders to close out the year with intentionality and step into the next chapter with clarity and focus. This episode is packed with reflections on: How gratitude rewires your brain and transforms your leadership approach. Two powerful year-end exercises: creating a gratitude list and embracing "necessary endings." Heartfelt shoutouts to the Stay Forth team, coaching clients, and loyal listeners. Alan and Jonathan also revisit some of the year's standout podcast episodes. Get ready to be inspired by their conversation with Patrick Lencioni on organizational health and leadership and an energizing chat with Tabitha Scott on aligning productivity with purpose. Whether you're cozying up with family this holiday season or finding solitude in nature, Alan and Jonatha

After a transformative six-week sabbatical, Alan Briggs returns to the Stay Forth and the Stay Forth Leadership Podcast to unpack his experience. Join co-host Jonathan Collier as he dives deep with Alan into the why, how, and unexpected joys of stepping back to recharge and recalibrate. In this episode, Alan reveals: The pivotal reasons behind his sabbatical decision after seven years. How "place, pace, and perspective" reshaped his vision for work and life. The unexpected clarity and creativity that emerged from intentional rest. Practical tips for leaders contemplating a sabbatical of their own. Discover how intentional rest isn't just a luxury but a necessity for sustainable impact. Whether you're a visionary leader, coach, or someone feeling the weight of burnout, this episode will inspire you to explore your own rhythms of rest and renewal. Highlights:

Alan dives deep into the world of creativity and team dynamics with author, international speaker, and consultant, Todd Henry. His seven books have been translated into more than a dozen languages.

In this heartfelt episode, Alan Briggs sits down with Lantz Howard, a coach, mentor, and advocate for wholehearted living. Together, they unpack the journey from burnout to living with purpose and intention. Lantz shares his story of leaving the corporate grind of ministry, embracing an 18-month wilderness season, and rediscovering his identity as a husband, father, and leader. Key topics include: The danger of "quiet resignation" and living half-heartedly. The transformative power of risk, adventure, and community. Practical ways men can reconnect with their purpose, strengthen their marriages, and cultivate meaningful friendships. The importance of mentorship—both giving and receiving—and how it can change your life. Lantz also shares his passion for guiding men through spiritual leadership expeditions and marriage adventures, offering insights into how taking intentional time away can lead to breakthroughs in every area of life. Featured Advertisement: Magic Mind Struggling with focus and mental clarity

Happy Thanksgiving from the Stay Forth Leadership Podcast!

Business futurist Tabitha Scott shares her expertise on the fascinating concept of organizations as living organisms and the importance of energy dynamics in effective leadership. Tabitha challenges traditional models of change management, advocating for a more adaptive and fluid approach. She also highlights the profound value of sabbaticals for re-centering leaders, the essential link between productivity and purpose, and her predictions for the evolving future of leadership and organizations. Listeners will gain actionable insights on how to align personal energy with organizational goals, unlock the potential of their teams, and embrace a mindset of empowerment in the face of constant change. Key Takeaways: Organizations, like living organisms, must innovate to thrive. Change management is outdated; leaders need to learn how to flow with change. Energy management is critical for avoiding burnout and sustaining leadership impact. Sabbaticals are an essential tool for leaders to gain perspective and re-ene

Ever wonder why some leaders consistently rise above challenges and achieve extraordinary results? In this episode, we dive into the 3 surprising habits that set the most effective leaders apart. Discover how seizing even the smallest opportunities, facing obstacles head-on, and having a clear outcome can transform your leadership journey. Get focused energy and sharper clarity without the caffeine crash! Use code BRIGGS at checkout for a discount. Check it out here!

In this special cross-podcast episode, Alan Briggs, host of the Stay Forth Leadership Podcast, joins Roger and Amanda Joy on the Come to Listen Podcast. Together, they dive into Alan’s journey in leadership, coaching, and entrepreneurship, discussing his passion for empowering others, tackling burnout, and building sustainable impact. They also explore Alan’s new book, Anti-Burnout: A Lighter Way to Live and Lead in a Heavy World, packed with actionable insights for leaders committed to making a meaningful difference. Listeners will hear about: The importance of community in combating burnout Alan’s “mountain guide” approach to leadership coaching His unique take on balancing health, growth, and impact How leaders can reframe success for sustainable influence About Alan Briggs Alan Briggs is the founder of Stay Forth Designs, a leadership coaching organization focused on supporting leaders and teams to thrive without burnout. A former pastor turned entrepreneur, Alan brings a deep understanding of meaningful

In this insightful episode, Alan sits down with Dan Rockwell, acclaimed author of The Vagrant, seasoned leadership coach, and consultant. Together, they dive into the ways we often stand in our own way, the personal growth practices that can elevate us, and the essential qualities leaders need to embody now more than ever. Packed with practical wisdom, this conversation hits close to home for us at Stay Forth and speaks directly to the heart of meaningful leadership. About Dan Rockwell Dan Rockwell delivered his first presentation at sixteen and has been captivating audiences with his insights and workshops ever since. In 2010, his passion for leadership inspired him to start the Leadership Freak blog, now read in nearly every country and followed by almost 500,000 people across social media. Named among Inc. Magazine’s "Top Fifty Leadership and Management Experts" and one of the “Top 100 Great Leadership Speakers,” Dan’s work has been widely recognized. The Center for Management and Organization Effectivenes