Higher Leading with Jay Meyer Tue, 29 Sep 2026 00:00:04 -0400 https://higherleadingwithjaymeyer.buzzsprout.com en-us © 2026 Higher Leading with Jay Meyer yes 2defc7d4-aa6e-5790-8315-5d7b432819cc Jay Meyer episodic false Jay has spent his life studying and practicing leadership. After leading a successful business for twenty-five years, Jay has spent the past couple of decades coaching leaders across nonprofits, businesses, and faith-driven organizations. 


Through all those experiences, one truth became undeniable: leadership is at its best when it’s anchored to a higher calling. 


That conviction fuels his Higher Leading podcast, where he helps leaders grow in character, courage, and purpose—so they can serve with impact that reaches far beyond themselves. 

]]> Buzzsprout (https://www.buzzsprout.com) Jay Meyer https://storage.buzzsprout.com/imdpe0kznht073gw5wd4pvphl3ho?.jpg Higher Leading with Jay Meyer https://higherleadingwithjaymeyer.buzzsprout.com Give Up. Clean Up. Grow Up. Live Up. Give Up. Clean Up. Grow Up. Live Up. Reflection

As National Recovery Month comes to a close, I’ve been thinking about what nearly four decades of recovery have taught me and summarized it in this podcast.

Recovery is an ever-evolving process that involves a focus on what I consider the four keys to recovery:

Give Up. Clean Up. Grow Up. Live Up.

Give Up. Recovery begins with surrender. I had to stop trying to run the whole show and admit that my way wasn’t working. Surrender wasn’t giving up on life—it was giving up the fight that was keeping me from life.

Clean Up. Getting sober didn’t erase the wreckage. Recovery required me to take responsibility, make amends, seek forgiveness, forgive others, and allow God to clean up things inside me that drugs and alcohol had helped me avoid.

Grow Up. Sobriety is more than not using. It’s learning how to live. Recovery has challenged me to become more self-aware, emotionally mature, humble, teachable, prayerful, and willing to admit when I’m wrong. Nearly forty years later, I’m still growing.

Live Up. Eventually, recovery turns outward. Step Twelve calls us to carry the message to others and practice these principles in our daily lives. God can take the parts of our stories we once wanted to hide and use them to help someone else. Our mess can become our message.

For me, the progression has looked something like this:

Help me.
Change me.
Use me.

That's the journey.

God didn't give me a second chance simply so I could survive. He gave me another shot at life so I could use my experiences—good and bad—to serve Him and others.

The scars remain, but their meaning changes. They serve as evidence that healing occurred there.

So, as we close this month, maybe recovery—and life itself—comes down to four questions:

What do I need to give up?
What do I need to clean up?
Where do I need to grow up?
How is God calling me to live up?

Recovery isn't perfection. It's progress.

It isn't arriving. It's becoming.

It isn't simply getting sober. It's getting free.

And ultimately, it isn't simply about living longer.

It's about living for Him.

]]> Reflection

As National Recovery Month comes to a close, I’ve been thinking about what nearly four decades of recovery have taught me and summarized it in this podcast.

Recovery is an ever-evolving process that involves a focus on what I consider the four keys to recovery:

Give Up. Clean Up. Grow Up. Live Up.

Give Up. Recovery begins with surrender. I had to stop trying to run the whole show and admit that my way wasn’t working. Surrender wasn’t giving up on life—it was giving up the fight that was keeping me from life.

Clean Up. Getting sober didn’t erase the wreckage. Recovery required me to take responsibility, make amends, seek forgiveness, forgive others, and allow God to clean up things inside me that drugs and alcohol had helped me avoid.

Grow Up. Sobriety is more than not using. It’s learning how to live. Recovery has challenged me to become more self-aware, emotionally mature, humble, teachable, prayerful, and willing to admit when I’m wrong. Nearly forty years later, I’m still growing.

Live Up. Eventually, recovery turns outward. Step Twelve calls us to carry the message to others and practice these principles in our daily lives. God can take the parts of our stories we once wanted to hide and use them to help someone else. Our mess can become our message.

For me, the progression has looked something like this:

Help me.
Change me.
Use me.

That's the journey.

God didn't give me a second chance simply so I could survive. He gave me another shot at life so I could use my experiences—good and bad—to serve Him and others.

The scars remain, but their meaning changes. They serve as evidence that healing occurred there.

So, as we close this month, maybe recovery—and life itself—comes down to four questions:

What do I need to give up?
What do I need to clean up?
Where do I need to grow up?
How is God calling me to live up?

Recovery isn't perfection. It's progress.

It isn't arriving. It's becoming.

It isn't simply getting sober. It's getting free.

And ultimately, it isn't simply about living longer.

It's about living for Him.

]]> Jay Meyer Buzzsprout-19857697 Tue, 29 Sep 2026 00:00:00 -0400 1856 5 60 full false Living Ready: What It Really Means to Optimize Your God-Given Gifts Living Ready: What It Really Means to Optimize Your God-Given Gifts What does it actually mean to live ready? In this episode, we unpack a simple but life-changing acrostic — R.E.A.D.Y. — that captures what it looks like to walk in daily faithfulness: Relinquish your self-will, Embrace obedience, Attend to others, Dwell on eternity, and Yield your gifts to purpose.

Drawing on Scripture and voices like C.S. Lewis, Oswald Chambers, Mother Teresa, and John Piper, we explore why dying to self comes first, why obedience flows from relationship rather than obligation, and why the gifts in your hand right now, not the ones you wish you had, are exactly what you're called to steward.

This isn't about arriving at a finished state. It's about choosing, one day at a time, to live ready. Grab a quiet moment, and let's walk through it together.

]]> What does it actually mean to live ready? In this episode, we unpack a simple but life-changing acrostic — R.E.A.D.Y. — that captures what it looks like to walk in daily faithfulness: Relinquish your self-will, Embrace obedience, Attend to others, Dwell on eternity, and Yield your gifts to purpose.

Drawing on Scripture and voices like C.S. Lewis, Oswald Chambers, Mother Teresa, and John Piper, we explore why dying to self comes first, why obedience flows from relationship rather than obligation, and why the gifts in your hand right now, not the ones you wish you had, are exactly what you're called to steward.

This isn't about arriving at a finished state. It's about choosing, one day at a time, to live ready. Grab a quiet moment, and let's walk through it together.

]]> Buzzsprout-19616714 Wed, 12 Aug 2026 00:00:00 -0400 2113 5 59 full false Resilience and Keeping Your Nose on the Ball Resilience and Keeping Your Nose on the Ball Every once in a while, you sit down with someone who reminds you what resilience really looks like. That's exactly what happened when I had the privilege of talking with my former Ohio Northern University teammate, Mark Ouwerkerk.

Kerk's story is extraordinary. He served our country in the Navy, survived a helicopter crash near the Strait of Hormuz, has lived with lymphoma for more than a decade, underwent open-heart surgery to repair a life-threatening aortic aneurysm, and is once again courageously battling lymphoma. 

Kerk is a devoted family man and closed out a successful business career a couple of years ago. Most importantly, he lives with an unwavering faith in God.

As we talked, five lessons continued to surface: stay calm under pressure, never underestimate the power of community, lead with bold humility, build a resilient faith, and remember that the little things really are the big things. 

Kerk closed our conversation with a phrase Coach drilled into us countless times at Ohio Northern: "Keep your nose on the ball." Focus on the fundamentals. Stay faithful to what matters most. Trust that the small, consistent choices shape the person you're becoming.

Kerk's life reminds us that resilience isn't built in comfort; it's forged through adversity. Storms will come to all of us. The question isn't whether we'll face them, but who we'll become because of them. 

Joshua 1:9, "Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”

]]> Every once in a while, you sit down with someone who reminds you what resilience really looks like. That's exactly what happened when I had the privilege of talking with my former Ohio Northern University teammate, Mark Ouwerkerk.

Kerk's story is extraordinary. He served our country in the Navy, survived a helicopter crash near the Strait of Hormuz, has lived with lymphoma for more than a decade, underwent open-heart surgery to repair a life-threatening aortic aneurysm, and is once again courageously battling lymphoma. 

Kerk is a devoted family man and closed out a successful business career a couple of years ago. Most importantly, he lives with an unwavering faith in God.

As we talked, five lessons continued to surface: stay calm under pressure, never underestimate the power of community, lead with bold humility, build a resilient faith, and remember that the little things really are the big things. 

Kerk closed our conversation with a phrase Coach drilled into us countless times at Ohio Northern: "Keep your nose on the ball." Focus on the fundamentals. Stay faithful to what matters most. Trust that the small, consistent choices shape the person you're becoming.

Kerk's life reminds us that resilience isn't built in comfort; it's forged through adversity. Storms will come to all of us. The question isn't whether we'll face them, but who we'll become because of them. 

Joshua 1:9, "Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”

]]> Jay Meyer Buzzsprout-19455305 Sun, 12 Jul 2026 00:00:00 -0400 3341 4 58 full false What's your N.E.X.T.? What's your N.E.X.T.? In Episode 57 of the Higher Leading Podcast, Jay Meyer explores the powerful truth that God isn't finished with you yet. 

Using the simple yet life-changing framework of N.E.X.T.—Name your THERE, Empty your backpack, Cross out the lies, and Take the next faithful step—Jay combines Scripture, personal stories, recovery, leadership, and life's hard-earned lessons to encourage anyone who feels stuck. 

Whether you're facing a setback, a transition, or simply wondering what's next, this episode will challenge you to believe your best days can still be ahead. 

God doesn't require perfection—He simply asks us to take the next faithful step.

"You were never meant to arrive. You were created to become. And God isn't finished with you yet."

]]> In Episode 57 of the Higher Leading Podcast, Jay Meyer explores the powerful truth that God isn't finished with you yet. 

Using the simple yet life-changing framework of N.E.X.T.—Name your THERE, Empty your backpack, Cross out the lies, and Take the next faithful step—Jay combines Scripture, personal stories, recovery, leadership, and life's hard-earned lessons to encourage anyone who feels stuck. 

Whether you're facing a setback, a transition, or simply wondering what's next, this episode will challenge you to believe your best days can still be ahead. 

God doesn't require perfection—He simply asks us to take the next faithful step.

"You were never meant to arrive. You were created to become. And God isn't finished with you yet."

]]> Buzzsprout-19309332 Fri, 12 Jun 2026 00:00:00 -0400 2133 4 57 full false The Joy Formula for Living Light The Joy Formula for Living Light The world feels heavy right now. Anxiety is loud, joy is scarce, and most of us are carrying burdens we were never meant to hold.

But what if living lightly — with deep, contagious, bone-level joy — isn't as far away as it feels?

In this episode, host Jay Meyer records from the peaceful setting of Serenity Acres outside Covington, Ohio, and delivers his five-pillar Joy Formula: Pray a lot. Move a lot. Laugh a lot. Rest enough. Eat protein. Five habits. No fluff. Radical results.

Drawing from his own walk through recovery, faith, family life, and playing competitive sports, Jay blends science, Scripture, and soul into something you can actually use. You'll discover why prayer builds a posture of trust that no productivity hack can touch, why movement is literal medicine for your brain, why laughter is a hard-won spiritual discipline, why rest is obedience — not laziness, and why protein belongs right alongside prayer at the top of your daily routine.

Joy isn't something that happens to you. It's something you build — brick by brick, habit by habit, choice by choice. And you have everything you need to start today.


]]> The world feels heavy right now. Anxiety is loud, joy is scarce, and most of us are carrying burdens we were never meant to hold.

But what if living lightly — with deep, contagious, bone-level joy — isn't as far away as it feels?

In this episode, host Jay Meyer records from the peaceful setting of Serenity Acres outside Covington, Ohio, and delivers his five-pillar Joy Formula: Pray a lot. Move a lot. Laugh a lot. Rest enough. Eat protein. Five habits. No fluff. Radical results.

Drawing from his own walk through recovery, faith, family life, and playing competitive sports, Jay blends science, Scripture, and soul into something you can actually use. You'll discover why prayer builds a posture of trust that no productivity hack can touch, why movement is literal medicine for your brain, why laughter is a hard-won spiritual discipline, why rest is obedience — not laziness, and why protein belongs right alongside prayer at the top of your daily routine.

Joy isn't something that happens to you. It's something you build — brick by brick, habit by habit, choice by choice. And you have everything you need to start today.


]]> Buzzsprout-19146064 Tue, 12 May 2026 00:00:00 -0400 1747 4 56 full false Building a Culture That Wins at Work and at Home Building a Culture That Wins at Work and at Home What if the same principles that build a thriving organization could also transform your home? In this episode of Higher Leading, we take a deep dive into what it truly means to build a great culture—at work and around your kitchen table.

Culture doesn’t happen by accident. It’s built on purpose. It starts with knowing your True North—the guiding beliefs that shape decisions, behaviors, and priorities. From there, it’s about clearly naming your core values and, more importantly, bringing them to life. One of the most powerful ways to do that? Catch people in the act of living those values and celebrate it.

As Peter Drucker famously said, “Culture eats strategy for breakfast.” You can have the best plans in the world, but if your culture is off, execution will always fall short. The truth is simple: your people create your culture, and your culture ultimately becomes your brand.

In this episode, we explore how intentional leadership shapes environments where trust, accountability, and energy thrive. Whether you're leading a team or leading your family, culture is your greatest differentiator. It determines how people feel, how they perform, and how they grow.

If you want your organization to stand out—and your home to be a place people love to be—this conversation will challenge and equip you to lead at a higher level.

Because in the end, culture isn’t just something you talk about… it’s something you live every single day.

]]> What if the same principles that build a thriving organization could also transform your home? In this episode of Higher Leading, we take a deep dive into what it truly means to build a great culture—at work and around your kitchen table.

Culture doesn’t happen by accident. It’s built on purpose. It starts with knowing your True North—the guiding beliefs that shape decisions, behaviors, and priorities. From there, it’s about clearly naming your core values and, more importantly, bringing them to life. One of the most powerful ways to do that? Catch people in the act of living those values and celebrate it.

As Peter Drucker famously said, “Culture eats strategy for breakfast.” You can have the best plans in the world, but if your culture is off, execution will always fall short. The truth is simple: your people create your culture, and your culture ultimately becomes your brand.

In this episode, we explore how intentional leadership shapes environments where trust, accountability, and energy thrive. Whether you're leading a team or leading your family, culture is your greatest differentiator. It determines how people feel, how they perform, and how they grow.

If you want your organization to stand out—and your home to be a place people love to be—this conversation will challenge and equip you to lead at a higher level.

Because in the end, culture isn’t just something you talk about… it’s something you live every single day.

]]> Buzzsprout-19023774 Thu, 16 Apr 2026 20:00:00 -0400 2166 4 55 full false When Fear Knocks, Let Faith Answer When Fear Knocks, Let Faith Answer In this episode of the Higher Leading Podcast, host Jay Meyer delivers a powerful Chalk Talk on one of the most persistent obstacles in life and leadership: fear.

Drawing from his 2026 Lenten writing series on EagleLaunch, Jay explores the many ways fear quietly shapes our decisions—fear of losing control, financial insecurity, the unknown, change, rejection, aging, and the future. Through personal stories, leadership insights, and biblical wisdom, he unpacks how fear often disguises itself as caution or responsibility while quietly holding us back from the life God calls us to live.

Recorded at Serenity Acres near Covington, Ohio, this episode blends reflection, Faith, and practical guidance for confronting fear in everyday life. Jay shares lessons from recovery, career transitions, family challenges, and decades of leadership experience to show how courage is not found in dramatic moments, but in daily acts of Faith and obedience.

If fear has been holding you back—from purpose, leadership, or peace—this conversation will help you begin loosening its grip, one day at a time.

Topics Covered

  • Fear of losing control and the power of surrender
  • Financial insecurity and trusting God as Provider
  • Navigating the unknown with Faith and action
  • The courage required for change
  • Identity beyond titles and positions
  • Aging with purpose and finishing strong
  • Trusting God with an uncertain future

This episode is an invitation to slow down, reflect, and strengthen the daily habits of Faith that gradually replace fear with courage.

Fear may knock, but when it's answered with Faith, it loses its power.

]]> In this episode of the Higher Leading Podcast, host Jay Meyer delivers a powerful Chalk Talk on one of the most persistent obstacles in life and leadership: fear.

Drawing from his 2026 Lenten writing series on EagleLaunch, Jay explores the many ways fear quietly shapes our decisions—fear of losing control, financial insecurity, the unknown, change, rejection, aging, and the future. Through personal stories, leadership insights, and biblical wisdom, he unpacks how fear often disguises itself as caution or responsibility while quietly holding us back from the life God calls us to live.

Recorded at Serenity Acres near Covington, Ohio, this episode blends reflection, Faith, and practical guidance for confronting fear in everyday life. Jay shares lessons from recovery, career transitions, family challenges, and decades of leadership experience to show how courage is not found in dramatic moments, but in daily acts of Faith and obedience.

If fear has been holding you back—from purpose, leadership, or peace—this conversation will help you begin loosening its grip, one day at a time.

Topics Covered

  • Fear of losing control and the power of surrender
  • Financial insecurity and trusting God as Provider
  • Navigating the unknown with Faith and action
  • The courage required for change
  • Identity beyond titles and positions
  • Aging with purpose and finishing strong
  • Trusting God with an uncertain future

This episode is an invitation to slow down, reflect, and strengthen the daily habits of Faith that gradually replace fear with courage.

Fear may knock, but when it's answered with Faith, it loses its power.

]]> Jay Meyer Buzzsprout-18812193 Thu, 12 Mar 2026 00:00:00 -0400 2086 4 54 full false Mental Toughness: Becoming a Peaceful Warrior Mental Toughness: Becoming a Peaceful Warrior Mental toughness isn’t about being hard—it’s about being faithful. In this Chalk Talk, Jay unpacks mental toughness through the lens of faith, leadership, parenting, and life’s hardest seasons. Drawing from sports, sobriety, caregiving, and real-world leadership, he shares 6 practical keys to developing a resilient, focused, God-centered mind.

You’ll learn how to clarify your purpose, control the controllables, build daily disciplines, reframe pain as training, win the inner conversation, and take the next right step with God. This episode is for anyone navigating pressure, adversity, or uncertainty—and looking to stay in the game with strength and grace.

Grab a journal. This one will challenge you, steady you, and help you live like a mentally tough, peaceful warrior.

]]> Mental toughness isn’t about being hard—it’s about being faithful. In this Chalk Talk, Jay unpacks mental toughness through the lens of faith, leadership, parenting, and life’s hardest seasons. Drawing from sports, sobriety, caregiving, and real-world leadership, he shares 6 practical keys to developing a resilient, focused, God-centered mind.

You’ll learn how to clarify your purpose, control the controllables, build daily disciplines, reframe pain as training, win the inner conversation, and take the next right step with God. This episode is for anyone navigating pressure, adversity, or uncertainty—and looking to stay in the game with strength and grace.

Grab a journal. This one will challenge you, steady you, and help you live like a mentally tough, peaceful warrior.

]]> Buzzsprout-18652669 Thu, 12 Feb 2026 00:00:00 -0500 1959 4 53 full false Live by the CODE: The Four Keys to Leading Yourself Well Live by the CODE: The Four Keys to Leading Yourself Well Before you can lead anyone else, you have to lead yourself. In this episode, Jay unpacks a simple but powerful framework for personal leadership: CODE — Clarity, Ownership, Discipline, and Emotional Maturity.

You’ll learn why clarity gives your life focus and direction, why ownership creates a victor's mentality, why discipline beats motivation, and why emotional maturity is the difference between reacting and truly leading. 

Drawing from faith, life experience, and practical wisdom, this episode challenges you to stop drifting and start living on purpose.

If you’re ready to raise your standard, strengthen your habits, and lead your life at a higher level, it’s time to start living by the CODE.

]]> Before you can lead anyone else, you have to lead yourself. In this episode, Jay unpacks a simple but powerful framework for personal leadership: CODE — Clarity, Ownership, Discipline, and Emotional Maturity.

You’ll learn why clarity gives your life focus and direction, why ownership creates a victor's mentality, why discipline beats motivation, and why emotional maturity is the difference between reacting and truly leading. 

Drawing from faith, life experience, and practical wisdom, this episode challenges you to stop drifting and start living on purpose.

If you’re ready to raise your standard, strengthen your habits, and lead your life at a higher level, it’s time to start living by the CODE.

]]> Buzzsprout-18460993 Mon, 12 Jan 2026 00:00:00 -0500 2085 4 52 full false The Power of Gratitude The Power of Gratitude 🎙️ NEW EPISODE: The Power of Gratitude
In a world that pulls our attention toward chaos and comparison, gratitude brings us back to what truly matters. In this episode, I share practical ways to build your “gratitude muscle,” real-life stories that shaped my perspective, and the faith-filled principles that help anchor the heart—especially in tough seasons.

We talk about:
 ✨ Why gratitude is a choice, not a feeling
 ✨ How thankfulness strengthens your spirit
 ✨ The link between gratitude, peace, and trust
 ✨ Simple daily habits that change everything

If you’re looking for encouragement, perspective, or a fresh spark of hope, this episode will meet you right where you are. Give it a listen—and let’s grow stronger, steadier, and more grateful together.

#Gratitude #HigherLeading #Faith #Leadership #Mindset #EagleLaunch #Perspective #DailyHabits

]]> 🎙️ NEW EPISODE: The Power of Gratitude
In a world that pulls our attention toward chaos and comparison, gratitude brings us back to what truly matters. In this episode, I share practical ways to build your “gratitude muscle,” real-life stories that shaped my perspective, and the faith-filled principles that help anchor the heart—especially in tough seasons.

We talk about:
 ✨ Why gratitude is a choice, not a feeling
 ✨ How thankfulness strengthens your spirit
 ✨ The link between gratitude, peace, and trust
 ✨ Simple daily habits that change everything

If you’re looking for encouragement, perspective, or a fresh spark of hope, this episode will meet you right where you are. Give it a listen—and let’s grow stronger, steadier, and more grateful together.

#Gratitude #HigherLeading #Faith #Leadership #Mindset #EagleLaunch #Perspective #DailyHabits

]]> Jay Meyer Buzzsprout-18235024 Thu, 27 Nov 2025 00:00:00 -0500 1228 4 51 full false Stop Living in a Fog: The 5G Network for Clarity and Purpose Stop Living in a Fog: The 5G Network for Clarity and Purpose If your life has been drifting in the fog—unfocused, unmotivated, or weighed down—this episode will light a fire inside you. 

Jay Meyer breaks down the 5G Clarity & Purpose Framework, a practical roadmap to realign your life with discipline, purpose, and God’s direction. 

You’ll discover how to:

  • Build a Gameplan that gives your life intentional direction
  • Embrace the Grind required to move from vision to action
  • Develop Grit to face adversity without quitting
  • Lead and live with Graciousness, staying humble and strong
  • Stay Grounded in God, the true source of power, peace, and resilience. "Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and He will establish your plans.” (Proverbs 16:3)

This isn’t theory—it’s real, raw, and actionable. Whether you're rebuilding, redefining, or just getting started, this framework will help you reclaim clarity and momentum while staying aligned with God’s purpose for your life.

Stay until the end for a powerful call to action—the step most people never take, but the one that changes everything.

If you know deep down you were created for more—and you’re ready to step into it—this episode is for you.

]]> If your life has been drifting in the fog—unfocused, unmotivated, or weighed down—this episode will light a fire inside you. 

Jay Meyer breaks down the 5G Clarity & Purpose Framework, a practical roadmap to realign your life with discipline, purpose, and God’s direction. 

You’ll discover how to:

  • Build a Gameplan that gives your life intentional direction
  • Embrace the Grind required to move from vision to action
  • Develop Grit to face adversity without quitting
  • Lead and live with Graciousness, staying humble and strong
  • Stay Grounded in God, the true source of power, peace, and resilience. "Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and He will establish your plans.” (Proverbs 16:3)

This isn’t theory—it’s real, raw, and actionable. Whether you're rebuilding, redefining, or just getting started, this framework will help you reclaim clarity and momentum while staying aligned with God’s purpose for your life.

Stay until the end for a powerful call to action—the step most people never take, but the one that changes everything.

If you know deep down you were created for more—and you’re ready to step into it—this episode is for you.

]]> Buzzsprout-18003294 Fri, 17 Oct 2025 21:00:00 -0400 3760 4 50 full false Taking a Walk and Solidifying Your Path Taking a Walk and Solidifying Your Path Sometimes the best way to hear God’s voice is to lace up your shoes and start walking. 

Recently, I set out on a 6-hour Via Nova walk—Via Nova meaning “new path” or “new way.” 

Each hour, I walked and paused to journal what I was hearing from God. 

I asked Him to speak not only about my future but also about my past journey—the lessons, the blessings, my family, and the people who’ve shaped me along the way. 

Each hour, I paused to journal what the Good Lord was telling me. 

During the last third of the walk, I asked God what He wanted from me in the next 18 months. The answer wasn’t a dramatic new assignment, which surprised me—it was simple: keep going...stay faithful to my purpose and what I stand for, while keeping the main things the main things. 

That Via Nova walk reminded me how powerful it is to pause, reflect, and let God ground, focus, and inspire your heart.

Because sometimes the best new path forward is simply walking the one He’s already placed beneath your feet.


]]> Sometimes the best way to hear God’s voice is to lace up your shoes and start walking. 

Recently, I set out on a 6-hour Via Nova walk—Via Nova meaning “new path” or “new way.” 

Each hour, I walked and paused to journal what I was hearing from God. 

I asked Him to speak not only about my future but also about my past journey—the lessons, the blessings, my family, and the people who’ve shaped me along the way. 

Each hour, I paused to journal what the Good Lord was telling me. 

During the last third of the walk, I asked God what He wanted from me in the next 18 months. The answer wasn’t a dramatic new assignment, which surprised me—it was simple: keep going...stay faithful to my purpose and what I stand for, while keeping the main things the main things. 

That Via Nova walk reminded me how powerful it is to pause, reflect, and let God ground, focus, and inspire your heart.

Because sometimes the best new path forward is simply walking the one He’s already placed beneath your feet.


]]> Buzzsprout-17863877 Wed, 17 Sep 2025 20:00:00 -0400 1345 4 49 full false Why We Stay Stuck: The Fear Behind Necessary Change. Why We Stay Stuck: The Fear Behind Necessary Change. We all have something we know we need to change—

So why do we resist it?

In this powerful episode of the Higher Leading podcast, Jay Meyer breaks down:

  •  The psychology behind fear
  •  Faith-based truths about change
  •  Practical steps to get unstuck

 It’s time to stop circling the same mountain. The change starts now.

 Listen now on Apple, Spotify, or your favorite podcast platform.

#HigherLeading #FaithAndLeadership #CourageousChange #OvercomingFear #LeadershipPodcast #JayMeyer

]]> We all have something we know we need to change—

So why do we resist it?

In this powerful episode of the Higher Leading podcast, Jay Meyer breaks down:

  •  The psychology behind fear
  •  Faith-based truths about change
  •  Practical steps to get unstuck

 It’s time to stop circling the same mountain. The change starts now.

 Listen now on Apple, Spotify, or your favorite podcast platform.

#HigherLeading #FaithAndLeadership #CourageousChange #OvercomingFear #LeadershipPodcast #JayMeyer

]]> Buzzsprout-17713654 Sun, 24 Aug 2025 21:00:00 -0400 1500 4 48 full false FOCUS: Five Keys to Finishing the Year Strong FOCUS: Five Keys to Finishing the Year Strong It's halftime in the year--and the perfect moment for a reset. In this "Chalk Talk" episode of the Higher Leading podcast, Jay Meyer dives deep into the power of FOCUS with a timely and transformative message built around his acrostic:

Find clarity in your purpose

Own your time and attention

Cut out what doesn't move you forward

Unleash your potential through action

Simplify to amplify

Recorded at his studio at Serenity Acres, Jay weaves together personal stories, biblical wisdom, and practical leadership tools to help you realign with your purpose and finish the year with conviction. 

Whether you're feeling distracted, burned out, or need a little spark, this episode will equip you to move forward with clarity, courage, and momentum.

Grab your journal, take some notes, and let's reset together.

]]> It's halftime in the year--and the perfect moment for a reset. In this "Chalk Talk" episode of the Higher Leading podcast, Jay Meyer dives deep into the power of FOCUS with a timely and transformative message built around his acrostic:

Find clarity in your purpose

Own your time and attention

Cut out what doesn't move you forward

Unleash your potential through action

Simplify to amplify

Recorded at his studio at Serenity Acres, Jay weaves together personal stories, biblical wisdom, and practical leadership tools to help you realign with your purpose and finish the year with conviction. 

Whether you're feeling distracted, burned out, or need a little spark, this episode will equip you to move forward with clarity, courage, and momentum.

Grab your journal, take some notes, and let's reset together.

]]> Jay Meyer Buzzsprout-17595173 Thu, 31 Jul 2025 16:00:00 -0400 2480 3 47 full false GRIT: The Grind Behind the Glory GRIT: The Grind Behind the Glory "Grit is staying in the game when your body wants to quit and your soul whispers, ‘Not yet.’” Jay Meyer

In this month's podcast, we are leaning into the kind of strength that doesn’t shout, but shows up. We’re talking about GRIT—that Grounded, Resilient, Intentional, and Tenacious spirit that keeps pressing forward when everything in you wants to quit.

GRIT separates the good from the great.

Scripture says in Galatians 6:9, “Let us not grow weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” 

That’s the heartbeat of grit—it’s not about perfection; it’s about persistence.

Over the next several minutes, I’ll share stories from my own journey, reflections from our recent EagleLaunch devotional series, and leadership insights to remind you that grit isn’t glamorous—but it’s essential when trying to maximize your talents and optimize your purpose.

Whether you're facing resistance in your business, relationships, or faith, this conversation is for you. 

]]> "Grit is staying in the game when your body wants to quit and your soul whispers, ‘Not yet.’” Jay Meyer

In this month's podcast, we are leaning into the kind of strength that doesn’t shout, but shows up. We’re talking about GRIT—that Grounded, Resilient, Intentional, and Tenacious spirit that keeps pressing forward when everything in you wants to quit.

GRIT separates the good from the great.

Scripture says in Galatians 6:9, “Let us not grow weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” 

That’s the heartbeat of grit—it’s not about perfection; it’s about persistence.

Over the next several minutes, I’ll share stories from my own journey, reflections from our recent EagleLaunch devotional series, and leadership insights to remind you that grit isn’t glamorous—but it’s essential when trying to maximize your talents and optimize your purpose.

Whether you're facing resistance in your business, relationships, or faith, this conversation is for you. 

]]> Jay Meyer Buzzsprout-17393311 Tue, 24 Jun 2025 19:00:00 -0400 2346 3 46 full false Rightsize Your Thinking in an Unbalanced World Rightsize Your Thinking in an Unbalanced World In today’s world, social media and mainstream media have an uncanny ability to shape our thoughts, often in ways we don’t even realize. The constant stream of information, opinions, and curated content can subtly distort our perception of reality, making us feel like we’re always behind, lacking, or missing out. Algorithms feed us what is most engaging—not necessarily what is true or beneficial—creating echo chambers that reinforce biases or trigger emotional reactions. 

The result? A skewed perspective that breeds comparison, anxiety, and an unstable foundation for decision-making.

To counter this, we must take intentional steps to guard our minds. 

First, we need to be aware of the influence media has on our thinking and be willing to question the narratives we consume. Developing a habit of critical thinking—asking, Is this true? Is this helpful? Who benefits from me believing this?—can help us break free from manipulation. 

Second, we should balance our intake by seeking diverse perspectives, prioritizing truth over trend, and spending more time in real-world connections rather than digital distractions. 

Most importantly, grounding ourselves in timeless wisdom—through faith, scripture, and reflection—keeps our thoughts aligned with truth rather than being tossed by the waves of public opinion. In a noisy world, protecting our mental and spiritual clarity isn’t just wise—it’s necessary.

This month’s Higher Leading Podcast will discuss how to remain focused on keeping the main thing the main thing through a five-step FOCUS method I created to help you navigate these most interesting times.

The FOCUS Framework

  1. F – Filter Your Thoughts → Don’t overreact; align thoughts with truth (2 Corinthians 10:5)
  2. O – Overcome Limitations → Challenge self-doubt and believe in God’s power (Philippians 4:13)
  3. C – Clarify Priorities → Focus on what truly matters (Matthew 6:33)
  4. U – Uplift Your Perspective → Balance faith and wisdom (2 Corinthians 5:7)
  5. S – Step Forward with Wisdom → Take action in faith (James 1:22)

I hope you have a couple of takeaways from this episode that will help you lead your life at a higher level!

]]> In today’s world, social media and mainstream media have an uncanny ability to shape our thoughts, often in ways we don’t even realize. The constant stream of information, opinions, and curated content can subtly distort our perception of reality, making us feel like we’re always behind, lacking, or missing out. Algorithms feed us what is most engaging—not necessarily what is true or beneficial—creating echo chambers that reinforce biases or trigger emotional reactions. 

The result? A skewed perspective that breeds comparison, anxiety, and an unstable foundation for decision-making.

To counter this, we must take intentional steps to guard our minds. 

First, we need to be aware of the influence media has on our thinking and be willing to question the narratives we consume. Developing a habit of critical thinking—asking, Is this true? Is this helpful? Who benefits from me believing this?—can help us break free from manipulation. 

Second, we should balance our intake by seeking diverse perspectives, prioritizing truth over trend, and spending more time in real-world connections rather than digital distractions. 

Most importantly, grounding ourselves in timeless wisdom—through faith, scripture, and reflection—keeps our thoughts aligned with truth rather than being tossed by the waves of public opinion. In a noisy world, protecting our mental and spiritual clarity isn’t just wise—it’s necessary.

This month’s Higher Leading Podcast will discuss how to remain focused on keeping the main thing the main thing through a five-step FOCUS method I created to help you navigate these most interesting times.

The FOCUS Framework

  1. F – Filter Your Thoughts → Don’t overreact; align thoughts with truth (2 Corinthians 10:5)
  2. O – Overcome Limitations → Challenge self-doubt and believe in God’s power (Philippians 4:13)
  3. C – Clarify Priorities → Focus on what truly matters (Matthew 6:33)
  4. U – Uplift Your Perspective → Balance faith and wisdom (2 Corinthians 5:7)
  5. S – Step Forward with Wisdom → Take action in faith (James 1:22)

I hope you have a couple of takeaways from this episode that will help you lead your life at a higher level!

]]> Jay Meyer Buzzsprout-16772386 Wed, 12 Mar 2025 00:00:00 -0400 2570 3 45 full false Scott McGohan and One Morning - Where Deep Gladness and the World's Hunger Meet Scott McGohan and One Morning - Where Deep Gladness and the World's Hunger Meet Frederick Buechner once said, "The place God calls you to is the place where your deep gladness and the world's hunger meet."

Scott McGohan’s passion for helping others in recovery has led him to create One Morning, a business dedicated to providing support for those struggling with mental health challenges and substance use disorders in the workplace. 

This initiative is a living embodiment of Frederick Buechner’s words, as One Morning stands at the crossroads of Scott’s deep passion born from overcoming his own struggles and the pressing hunger of individuals seeking hope and healing. 

By partnering with businesses, One Morning ensures that employees don’t have to struggle in silence but instead have access to resources, encouragement, and a path toward recovery. Scott understands that healing is not just an individual journey but a communal one, and through One Morning, he is helping organizations create cultures of care, compassion, and second chances. 

His work reinforces the truth that when we follow God’s call to serve in the spaces where our passion meets the world’s needs, we not only transform lives—we build stronger, more hopeful communities. 

You are going to enjoy this conversation I had with Scott!

]]> Frederick Buechner once said, "The place God calls you to is the place where your deep gladness and the world's hunger meet."

Scott McGohan’s passion for helping others in recovery has led him to create One Morning, a business dedicated to providing support for those struggling with mental health challenges and substance use disorders in the workplace. 

This initiative is a living embodiment of Frederick Buechner’s words, as One Morning stands at the crossroads of Scott’s deep passion born from overcoming his own struggles and the pressing hunger of individuals seeking hope and healing. 

By partnering with businesses, One Morning ensures that employees don’t have to struggle in silence but instead have access to resources, encouragement, and a path toward recovery. Scott understands that healing is not just an individual journey but a communal one, and through One Morning, he is helping organizations create cultures of care, compassion, and second chances. 

His work reinforces the truth that when we follow God’s call to serve in the spaces where our passion meets the world’s needs, we not only transform lives—we build stronger, more hopeful communities. 

You are going to enjoy this conversation I had with Scott!

]]> Jay Meyer Buzzsprout-16599599 Wed, 12 Feb 2025 00:00:00 -0500 2270 3 44 full false Winning is an Inside Job Winning is an Inside Job Happy 2025! I hope it has started well for you.

I'm kicking off the New Year with a chalk talk discussing the importance of building your life from the inside out.

About four decades ago, I was living from the outside in and darn near lost it all, including my life. After finally reaching the bottom of my downhill journey of drug addiction and alcoholism, I started digging out, and the digging began with trusting in a power greater than me and seeking His help in figuring out who I was, what I stood for, and why I even existed.

In this episode, I share four key components in building a life from the inside out, which can be remembered as the four Ps.

1. Power-Do you depend on a power greater than you?
2. Priorities-What are your life priorities? Are they in the proper order?
3. Guiding Principles-What principles guide your behavior and decision making?
4. Purpose-What is your why?

Capturing your four Ps and living into them a day at a time is living from the inside out and winning at life the right way.

Scripture for Episode 44: 1 Samuel 16:6-7, "When they arrived, Samuel looked at Eliab and thought, 'Surely this is the Lord's anointed.' But the Lord told Samuel, 'Don't judge by his appearance or height, for I have rejected him. The Lord doesn't see things the way you see them. People judge by outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.'"

]]> Happy 2025! I hope it has started well for you.

I'm kicking off the New Year with a chalk talk discussing the importance of building your life from the inside out.

About four decades ago, I was living from the outside in and darn near lost it all, including my life. After finally reaching the bottom of my downhill journey of drug addiction and alcoholism, I started digging out, and the digging began with trusting in a power greater than me and seeking His help in figuring out who I was, what I stood for, and why I even existed.

In this episode, I share four key components in building a life from the inside out, which can be remembered as the four Ps.

1. Power-Do you depend on a power greater than you?
2. Priorities-What are your life priorities? Are they in the proper order?
3. Guiding Principles-What principles guide your behavior and decision making?
4. Purpose-What is your why?

Capturing your four Ps and living into them a day at a time is living from the inside out and winning at life the right way.

Scripture for Episode 44: 1 Samuel 16:6-7, "When they arrived, Samuel looked at Eliab and thought, 'Surely this is the Lord's anointed.' But the Lord told Samuel, 'Don't judge by his appearance or height, for I have rejected him. The Lord doesn't see things the way you see them. People judge by outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.'"

]]> Buzzsprout-16425675 Sun, 12 Jan 2025 20:00:00 -0500 1505 3 43 full false "For Such a Time as This" "For Such a Time as This" I am blessed to have my friend Chris Sexton, the Executive Director of The Dayton Dream Center, with me today. Chris is a living example of what it means to be a servant leader.

If you are interested in knowing more about or helping The Dayton Dream Center, check out their website, Dayton Dream Center.

]]> I am blessed to have my friend Chris Sexton, the Executive Director of The Dayton Dream Center, with me today. Chris is a living example of what it means to be a servant leader.

If you are interested in knowing more about or helping The Dayton Dream Center, check out their website, Dayton Dream Center.

]]> Jay Meyer Buzzsprout-16237240 Sat, 07 Dec 2024 11:00:00 -0500 2438 3 42 full false Wolverines Know Things Too Wolverines Know Things Too I’m honored to have my cousin, Dr. Ashley Gearhardt, on the podcast today. Ashley is a professor at the University of Michigan (as a Buckeye, I try not to hold that against her), and she is also one of the world’s leading experts on food addiction. I was so surprised to learn from Ashley that by technical definition, the same percentage of people in the U.S. who are addicted to drugs and alcohol are addicted to processed foods! To me that’s an incredible statistic, and Ashley shares her knowledge about why that is and what it means. A passion for this subject and a desire to help people better understand their relationship with food certainly makes Ashley a higher leader in my book. I hope you enjoy and appreciate her insight as much as I did!

]]> I’m honored to have my cousin, Dr. Ashley Gearhardt, on the podcast today. Ashley is a professor at the University of Michigan (as a Buckeye, I try not to hold that against her), and she is also one of the world’s leading experts on food addiction. I was so surprised to learn from Ashley that by technical definition, the same percentage of people in the U.S. who are addicted to drugs and alcohol are addicted to processed foods! To me that’s an incredible statistic, and Ashley shares her knowledge about why that is and what it means. A passion for this subject and a desire to help people better understand their relationship with food certainly makes Ashley a higher leader in my book. I hope you enjoy and appreciate her insight as much as I did!

]]> Jay Meyer Buzzsprout-15306019 Mon, 24 Jun 2024 20:00:00 -0400 2818 2 41 full false Jay-Pa, Juce and Mich Jay-Pa, Juce and Mich It’s a special Father’s Day edition of Higher Leading! I’m joined today by my oldest (Jason) and youngest (Michelle) children, and we’re talking about all-the-things… what participating in college athletics taught them, how their lives and careers were affected by the pandemic, how having a special needs brother (our middle dude, Jordan) has helped shape their character and perspective on life… and so much more. I am so very proud of these two and their brother, and being their dad is the best job I’ve ever had. I hope you enjoy this conversation as much as I did!

]]> It’s a special Father’s Day edition of Higher Leading! I’m joined today by my oldest (Jason) and youngest (Michelle) children, and we’re talking about all-the-things… what participating in college athletics taught them, how their lives and careers were affected by the pandemic, how having a special needs brother (our middle dude, Jordan) has helped shape their character and perspective on life… and so much more. I am so very proud of these two and their brother, and being their dad is the best job I’ve ever had. I hope you enjoy this conversation as much as I did!

]]> Jay Meyer Buzzsprout-15223820 Tue, 11 Jun 2024 01:00:00 -0400 3685 2 40 full false Start Somewhere Start Somewhere This is the second episode of Higher Leading dedicated to bringing attention to and reducing the stigma around mental health. My guest today is John Jung, a licensed clinical counselor with over 50 years of professional experience. John’s wisdom and gentle voice have provided strength, guidance and comfort to me many times during our friendship, and I feel blessed to share just a bit of that experience with my listeners. 

Anxiety is such a common struggle, and shedding light on it by talking about it, sharing it, or at the very least, recognizing that it is simply part of being human, is a good first step to gaining some control over it.  I love John’s advice to just “start somewhere”, and his Do-Then Feel concept is so simple, but so effective.

If you want to read more from John after this episode, be sure to check out his blog at www.reflectionsofacounselor.com.

]]> This is the second episode of Higher Leading dedicated to bringing attention to and reducing the stigma around mental health. My guest today is John Jung, a licensed clinical counselor with over 50 years of professional experience. John’s wisdom and gentle voice have provided strength, guidance and comfort to me many times during our friendship, and I feel blessed to share just a bit of that experience with my listeners. 

Anxiety is such a common struggle, and shedding light on it by talking about it, sharing it, or at the very least, recognizing that it is simply part of being human, is a good first step to gaining some control over it.  I love John’s advice to just “start somewhere”, and his Do-Then Feel concept is so simple, but so effective.

If you want to read more from John after this episode, be sure to check out his blog at www.reflectionsofacounselor.com.

]]> Jay Meyer Buzzsprout-15146949 Tue, 28 May 2024 01:00:00 -0400 2926 2 39 full false Moving Forward Moving Forward According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, 1 out of every 5 adults in America experiences some sort of mental health illness every year. During this Mental Health Awareness month, I’m dedicating two episodes of Higher Leading to bringing much-needed attention to this growing epidemic. 

My first guest, Tara Hagan, is a licensed clinical counselor, owner of Hagen Counseling Services and co-founder of the Therapy Collaborative. She is also a family friend whose wisdom on this subject is one I respect and appreciate, and one that I feel fortunate to help share. Our conversation serves as an important reminder that there is hope and help for those struggling to move forward through grief, anxiety and depression.

https://www.hagancounselingservices.com/
https://www.therapycollabohio.com/

]]> According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, 1 out of every 5 adults in America experiences some sort of mental health illness every year. During this Mental Health Awareness month, I’m dedicating two episodes of Higher Leading to bringing much-needed attention to this growing epidemic. 

My first guest, Tara Hagan, is a licensed clinical counselor, owner of Hagen Counseling Services and co-founder of the Therapy Collaborative. She is also a family friend whose wisdom on this subject is one I respect and appreciate, and one that I feel fortunate to help share. Our conversation serves as an important reminder that there is hope and help for those struggling to move forward through grief, anxiety and depression.

https://www.hagancounselingservices.com/
https://www.therapycollabohio.com/

]]> Jay Meyer Buzzsprout-15059125 Tue, 14 May 2024 01:00:00 -0400 2645 2 38 full false Called to Do (Pink Ribbon) Good Called to Do (Pink Ribbon) Good If you ever needed proof that blind faith paired with passionate action can change the world, then I have it in spades for you today! Heather Salazar, CEO and President of Pink Ribbon Good (PRG), joins me on this episode to share her incredible story of showing up when God called and trusting His plan. It all started when Heather’s path crossed with another young mother struggling through breast cancer treatment. In an amazing leap of courage and faith, Heather showed up in a BIG way to support a stranger in need, and the series of events that followed can only be explained as divine intervention. Today, Heather leads an organization that provides meals, rides to treatment, house cleaning and peer support to cancer patients across the entire nation. This one will give you goosebumps!

Learn more about PRG here: www.pinkribbongood.org. 

]]> If you ever needed proof that blind faith paired with passionate action can change the world, then I have it in spades for you today! Heather Salazar, CEO and President of Pink Ribbon Good (PRG), joins me on this episode to share her incredible story of showing up when God called and trusting His plan. It all started when Heather’s path crossed with another young mother struggling through breast cancer treatment. In an amazing leap of courage and faith, Heather showed up in a BIG way to support a stranger in need, and the series of events that followed can only be explained as divine intervention. Today, Heather leads an organization that provides meals, rides to treatment, house cleaning and peer support to cancer patients across the entire nation. This one will give you goosebumps!

Learn more about PRG here: www.pinkribbongood.org. 

]]> Jay Meyer Buzzsprout-14934731 Tue, 23 Apr 2024 01:00:00 -0400 4172 2 37 full false T.R.U.S.T. T.R.U.S.T. Leadership seems to be considered and discussed most often in the context of one’s work or occupation. But being a Higher Leader doesn’t just mean that we lead our employees or our organizations well -- it also requires that we lead ourselves well!  On today’s Chalk Talk with Jay, I’m sharing what I define as the 5 Stages of Optimal Self-Leadership. As you listen, I challenge you to think deeply about how you can grow from simply having a title to having absolute trust. 

***

Here's a list of books that I reference in this episode -- all great reading!
Trust and Inspire,  Stephen M. R. Covey
The Leadership Challenge, Barry Posner and James M. Kouzes
Man's Search for Meaning,  Viktor E. Frankl

]]> Leadership seems to be considered and discussed most often in the context of one’s work or occupation. But being a Higher Leader doesn’t just mean that we lead our employees or our organizations well -- it also requires that we lead ourselves well!  On today’s Chalk Talk with Jay, I’m sharing what I define as the 5 Stages of Optimal Self-Leadership. As you listen, I challenge you to think deeply about how you can grow from simply having a title to having absolute trust. 

***

Here's a list of books that I reference in this episode -- all great reading!
Trust and Inspire,  Stephen M. R. Covey
The Leadership Challenge, Barry Posner and James M. Kouzes
Man's Search for Meaning,  Viktor E. Frankl

]]> Jay Meyer Buzzsprout-14853632 Tue, 09 Apr 2024 01:00:00 -0400 2480 2 36 full false Brotherly Love Brotherly Love Jim Meyer is one of the first Higher Leaders I followed and learned from. He is my mentor and friend and one of my biggest supporters; he is also my big brother! I sat down with Jim on his birthday to talk about family, leadership, service, and of course, basketball.  Like me, Jim was a college athlete, and later became a very successful high school girls’ basketball coach who taught the importance of relationships and preparation. Today, Jim continues to serve as a role model for me and others with his bold faith and humble heart. 

]]> Jim Meyer is one of the first Higher Leaders I followed and learned from. He is my mentor and friend and one of my biggest supporters; he is also my big brother! I sat down with Jim on his birthday to talk about family, leadership, service, and of course, basketball.  Like me, Jim was a college athlete, and later became a very successful high school girls’ basketball coach who taught the importance of relationships and preparation. Today, Jim continues to serve as a role model for me and others with his bold faith and humble heart. 

]]> Jay Meyer Buzzsprout-14762443 Tue, 26 Mar 2024 01:00:00 -0400 3290 2 35 full false Great Morning! Great Morning! Mary Tyler is a force, and God certainly blessed me when he caused our paths to cross. As principal of her own consulting firm, Mary is influencing the greater Dayton region in the areas of diversity, inclusion and equity in a big, big way.  I’m proud to be walking alongside her currently, as we endeavor to build the capacity of African-American, non-profit leaders in our community. In this episode of Higher Leading, Mary and I talk about the people in her life who helped shape her into the person she is today, and we learn the secret to her seemingly infinite energy!  

]]> Mary Tyler is a force, and God certainly blessed me when he caused our paths to cross. As principal of her own consulting firm, Mary is influencing the greater Dayton region in the areas of diversity, inclusion and equity in a big, big way.  I’m proud to be walking alongside her currently, as we endeavor to build the capacity of African-American, non-profit leaders in our community. In this episode of Higher Leading, Mary and I talk about the people in her life who helped shape her into the person she is today, and we learn the secret to her seemingly infinite energy!  

]]> Jay Meyer Buzzsprout-14670747 Tue, 12 Mar 2024 01:00:00 -0400 2852 2 34 full false Taking Flyght Taking Flyght Former NBA player and University of Dayton standout, Chris Wright, is giving back to his north Dayton hometown with a mission to stabilize communities through sports. Through his Wright Way Foundation and the Flyght Academy, Chris and his team are preparing youth to use their God-given talents to positively impact the world both on and off the court. His concept of preparing well for 2 + 22 hours of every day is so unique and inspiring, and I'm certain his efforts will be felt in the Dayton community for years to come. 

Learn more about the Flyght Academy and the sports center they are building to support their goals at www.theflyghtacademy.com.

]]> Former NBA player and University of Dayton standout, Chris Wright, is giving back to his north Dayton hometown with a mission to stabilize communities through sports. Through his Wright Way Foundation and the Flyght Academy, Chris and his team are preparing youth to use their God-given talents to positively impact the world both on and off the court. His concept of preparing well for 2 + 22 hours of every day is so unique and inspiring, and I'm certain his efforts will be felt in the Dayton community for years to come. 

Learn more about the Flyght Academy and the sports center they are building to support their goals at www.theflyghtacademy.com.

]]> Jay Meyer Buzzsprout-14581069 Tue, 27 Feb 2024 01:00:00 -0500 3952 2 33 full false Living "Thy Will Be Done" Living "Thy Will Be Done" Most of us are familiar with the phrase “Thy will be done” from the Lord’s Prayer, and today, I want to share the story of a man whose life is one of the most perfect examples of living that phrase that I can think of.  As a professional basketball player, Dick Steineman traveled the world playing the game he loved. During his career, an experience on a hillside in Venezuela opened Dick's eyes to a need that he felt God was calling him to fulfill. Upon retirement, Dick returned to his home state of Ohio and founded St. Patrick’s Soup Kitchen, among several other ministries, and he has been serving the less fortunate now for almost 30 years. His faith that the Lord will provide has proven itself in so many incredible stories that inspire me (and hopefully you too!) to believe in the notion that it is in fact, in giving, that we receive. 

To learn more about St. Patrick’s Soup Kitchen in Troy, Ohio, please visit www.soupkitchen.org.

Related Scripture:
Matthew 25:40
Matthew 6: 9-13

]]> Most of us are familiar with the phrase “Thy will be done” from the Lord’s Prayer, and today, I want to share the story of a man whose life is one of the most perfect examples of living that phrase that I can think of.  As a professional basketball player, Dick Steineman traveled the world playing the game he loved. During his career, an experience on a hillside in Venezuela opened Dick's eyes to a need that he felt God was calling him to fulfill. Upon retirement, Dick returned to his home state of Ohio and founded St. Patrick’s Soup Kitchen, among several other ministries, and he has been serving the less fortunate now for almost 30 years. His faith that the Lord will provide has proven itself in so many incredible stories that inspire me (and hopefully you too!) to believe in the notion that it is in fact, in giving, that we receive. 

To learn more about St. Patrick’s Soup Kitchen in Troy, Ohio, please visit www.soupkitchen.org.

Related Scripture:
Matthew 25:40
Matthew 6: 9-13

]]> Jay Meyer Buzzsprout-14488237 Tue, 13 Feb 2024 01:00:00 -0500 2083 2 32 full false Encore Encore For this episode, I invited my friend, Doug Meyer (CEO of Brixey and Meyer), back to the podcast for a well-deserved encore. The December 19, 2022, episode of Higher Leading with Doug is my second most downloaded episode to-date, so you know this guy is saying something you should probably hear! From faith and football to family and business, Doug and I share so many values and interests, and I learn a new nugget of life-tested wisdom from him every time we talk. I invite you to listen and learn from the calm and humbly confident voice of a man who epitomizes Higher Leading, and yet, continues to challenge himself daily to grow into the best version of himself he can be for God, his family, his organization, and the world.

]]> For this episode, I invited my friend, Doug Meyer (CEO of Brixey and Meyer), back to the podcast for a well-deserved encore. The December 19, 2022, episode of Higher Leading with Doug is my second most downloaded episode to-date, so you know this guy is saying something you should probably hear! From faith and football to family and business, Doug and I share so many values and interests, and I learn a new nugget of life-tested wisdom from him every time we talk. I invite you to listen and learn from the calm and humbly confident voice of a man who epitomizes Higher Leading, and yet, continues to challenge himself daily to grow into the best version of himself he can be for God, his family, his organization, and the world.

]]> Jay Meyer Buzzsprout-14354495 Tue, 23 Jan 2024 01:00:00 -0500 3091 2 31 full false Be More in 2024 Be More in 2024 The first Higher Leading podcast of 2024 is all about setting yourself up to be a better version of yourself this year than you were last year. God gave us all the ability to imagine ourselves as something more, and He also gave us the capacity to design our lives in any manner that we want. Yet, many of us are simply living by default and spending lots of mental and emotional energy longing for something different. If you find yourself experiencing that there-has-got-to-be-something-more feeling, then this ChalkTalk is for you. Join me as I walk you through how to set up some B.I.G. goals for the new year. 

Relevant Scripture:
John 10:10

]]> The first Higher Leading podcast of 2024 is all about setting yourself up to be a better version of yourself this year than you were last year. God gave us all the ability to imagine ourselves as something more, and He also gave us the capacity to design our lives in any manner that we want. Yet, many of us are simply living by default and spending lots of mental and emotional energy longing for something different. If you find yourself experiencing that there-has-got-to-be-something-more feeling, then this ChalkTalk is for you. Join me as I walk you through how to set up some B.I.G. goals for the new year. 

Relevant Scripture:
John 10:10

]]> Jay Meyer Buzzsprout-14271680 Tue, 09 Jan 2024 01:00:00 -0500 1812 2 30 full false Straight From The Heart Straight From The Heart I was recently asked a question that encouraged me to think deeper about why I publish this podcast. The very first thing that came to mind was that I want to share the leadership lessons I’ve learned (sometimes the hard way!) on my life’s journey. A less obvious goal, perhaps, is that I’d like to inspire young leaders to be good stewards of their God-given gifts, to find the purpose that drives them, and to give more to the world than they take.

As we close out 2023 and prepare for new year, there is no better time to reflect about the kind of leader you want to be in 2024. I hope listening to this episode is thought-provoking!

]]> I was recently asked a question that encouraged me to think deeper about why I publish this podcast. The very first thing that came to mind was that I want to share the leadership lessons I’ve learned (sometimes the hard way!) on my life’s journey. A less obvious goal, perhaps, is that I’d like to inspire young leaders to be good stewards of their God-given gifts, to find the purpose that drives them, and to give more to the world than they take.

As we close out 2023 and prepare for new year, there is no better time to reflect about the kind of leader you want to be in 2024. I hope listening to this episode is thought-provoking!

]]> Jay Meyer Buzzsprout-14166638 Tue, 19 Dec 2023 01:00:00 -0500 1495 2 29 full false Shoes Speak Louder Than Words Shoes Speak Louder Than Words On this episode, I want you to meet one of the most focused and purpose-driven people I have ever met. Kris Horlacher is the Executive Director of Shoes 4 the Shoeless, a non-profit she founded that provides new, properly fitting gym shoes and socks to children in need. Kris’s journey from R.N. to Executive Director of this very efficient and effective non-profit is a true testament to following God’s call and having faith that He will guide and provide. Learn with me as Kris shares how she and her team -- only 3 staff and 500+ volunteers! -- are easing both the physical and emotional suffering of kids in poverty by gifting dignity and hope in a shoebox.

 www.shoes4theshoeless.com

]]> On this episode, I want you to meet one of the most focused and purpose-driven people I have ever met. Kris Horlacher is the Executive Director of Shoes 4 the Shoeless, a non-profit she founded that provides new, properly fitting gym shoes and socks to children in need. Kris’s journey from R.N. to Executive Director of this very efficient and effective non-profit is a true testament to following God’s call and having faith that He will guide and provide. Learn with me as Kris shares how she and her team -- only 3 staff and 500+ volunteers! -- are easing both the physical and emotional suffering of kids in poverty by gifting dignity and hope in a shoebox.

 www.shoes4theshoeless.com

]]> Jay Meyer Buzzsprout-14089099 Tue, 05 Dec 2023 01:00:00 -0500 2896 2 28 full false The Champion Life The Champion Life The tables have turned Higher Leading friends, and this week’s ChalkTalk with Jay is an interview… with me!  Earlier this month, I was honored to be a guest on my friend Curt Tucker’s podcast, The Champion Life.  Curt's podcast takes a deep dive into what he has defined as his 5 key pillars of Faith, Fitness, Family, Finances and Fun, and how upping your game in these areas can help you start living life like a champion. Listen to hear a little more about my personal story, as well as my thoughts on what it takes to be the champion God intended you to be. 

]]> The tables have turned Higher Leading friends, and this week’s ChalkTalk with Jay is an interview… with me!  Earlier this month, I was honored to be a guest on my friend Curt Tucker’s podcast, The Champion Life.  Curt's podcast takes a deep dive into what he has defined as his 5 key pillars of Faith, Fitness, Family, Finances and Fun, and how upping your game in these areas can help you start living life like a champion. Listen to hear a little more about my personal story, as well as my thoughts on what it takes to be the champion God intended you to be. 

]]> Jay Meyer Buzzsprout-14041893 Tue, 28 Nov 2023 01:00:00 -0500 2721 2 27 full false Man Behind the Milkshake Man Behind the Milkshake One of the most compelling cultures in the world of business today is that of Chick-fil-A, and I can’t tell you how excited I’ve been to publish this episode featuring one of the fast-food giant’s former directors. Dan Reep is a dear friend from my college basketball days at Ohio Northern University, and on this episode, he provides an insider’s look at Chick-fil-A’s remarkable way of doing business. I struggled to write a summary for this episode because there are SO MANY incredibly good nuggets of wisdom shared and discussed. You’ll just have to listen to hear them all! You won’t regret the time, and you might just learn a little something to put to work in your own life or business from the man behind the milkshake. 

]]> One of the most compelling cultures in the world of business today is that of Chick-fil-A, and I can’t tell you how excited I’ve been to publish this episode featuring one of the fast-food giant’s former directors. Dan Reep is a dear friend from my college basketball days at Ohio Northern University, and on this episode, he provides an insider’s look at Chick-fil-A’s remarkable way of doing business. I struggled to write a summary for this episode because there are SO MANY incredibly good nuggets of wisdom shared and discussed. You’ll just have to listen to hear them all! You won’t regret the time, and you might just learn a little something to put to work in your own life or business from the man behind the milkshake. 

]]> Jay Meyer Buzzsprout-13960771 Tue, 14 Nov 2023 01:00:00 -0500 3311 2 26 full false On the Vine On the Vine Chances are you have seen or heard the Serenity Prayer somewhere and sometime in your life. It goes like this... "God, grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, the courage to change the things I can, and the wisdom to know the difference."

There is no such thing as a trouble-free life, so learning to accept and live life on life's terms is the fastest route to peace. That sounds simple, but we all know it's not easy, so today I'm sharing how I practice putting the Serenity Prayer to work.  And you guessed it, He is at the center of it all. Learn how staying tethered to God's vine (John 15:5) can bring you serenity on today's ChalkTalk. 

]]> Chances are you have seen or heard the Serenity Prayer somewhere and sometime in your life. It goes like this... "God, grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, the courage to change the things I can, and the wisdom to know the difference."

There is no such thing as a trouble-free life, so learning to accept and live life on life's terms is the fastest route to peace. That sounds simple, but we all know it's not easy, so today I'm sharing how I practice putting the Serenity Prayer to work.  And you guessed it, He is at the center of it all. Learn how staying tethered to God's vine (John 15:5) can bring you serenity on today's ChalkTalk. 

]]> Jay Meyer Buzzsprout-13828584 Tue, 24 Oct 2023 01:00:00 -0400 1657 2 25 full false Recruiting Hearts Recruiting Hearts As a young college student working at a youth detention center, Alisha Murray was moved by an encounter with a 10-year-old boy who was caught stealing food.  It was in that moment that Alisha started to hear God calling her heart to help youth who struggled to have their very basic needs met. Now, as CEO of Daybreak Dayton, Alisha is living out her purpose by leading the region’s only emergency shelter and enrichment services agency for homeless youth.  By intentionally recruiting and hiring a staff with a heart for Daybreak’s mission, Alisha is following God’s perfect example and changing lives in the process. 

]]> As a young college student working at a youth detention center, Alisha Murray was moved by an encounter with a 10-year-old boy who was caught stealing food.  It was in that moment that Alisha started to hear God calling her heart to help youth who struggled to have their very basic needs met. Now, as CEO of Daybreak Dayton, Alisha is living out her purpose by leading the region’s only emergency shelter and enrichment services agency for homeless youth.  By intentionally recruiting and hiring a staff with a heart for Daybreak’s mission, Alisha is following God’s perfect example and changing lives in the process. 

]]> Jay Meyer Buzzsprout-13745497 Tue, 10 Oct 2023 01:00:00 -0400 2945 2 24 full false Following God's Lead Following God's Lead The month of September is quickly winding down and so is National Recovery Month. This is my last of 3 episodes dedicated solely to the subject of recovery, and today, Elaine Bonner (Director of Philanthropy) and Chris Adams (Co-Founder) from the Emerge Recovery and Trade Initiative have joined me to share their story of faithfully following God’s lead, as they support men and women in recovery, as well as emancipated youth (those aging out of foster care). At Emerge, FAITH is highest on the value list, but it’s followed closely behind by a belief in second chances and a commitment to effecting lasting change in our community and beyond. 

For more information on Emerge and the incredible work they are doing, please visit https://www.emergerecoverytrade.com/.

]]> The month of September is quickly winding down and so is National Recovery Month. This is my last of 3 episodes dedicated solely to the subject of recovery, and today, Elaine Bonner (Director of Philanthropy) and Chris Adams (Co-Founder) from the Emerge Recovery and Trade Initiative have joined me to share their story of faithfully following God’s lead, as they support men and women in recovery, as well as emancipated youth (those aging out of foster care). At Emerge, FAITH is highest on the value list, but it’s followed closely behind by a belief in second chances and a commitment to effecting lasting change in our community and beyond. 

For more information on Emerge and the incredible work they are doing, please visit https://www.emergerecoverytrade.com/.

]]> Jay Meyer Buzzsprout-13655543 Tue, 26 Sep 2023 01:00:00 -0400 3134 2 23 full false Jesus Empire Jesus Empire This is the second episode of my series dedicated to National Recovery Month, and today I’m talking to Jessica Zwayer, the Executive Director of Joshua Recovery Ministries. This faith-based organization offers housing for men, women and most notably, pregnant women and new mothers, who are 30-days sober and in need of a residential environment that will support them in their continuing recovery journey. As a former gambling addict, Jessica has the unique ability to personally relate to the isolation of addiction and the challenge of lasting recovery, and she feels it a true God-calling to help others build the skills and a community that will ensure lasting freedom from addiction. Jessica playfully calls it her personal mission to build a “Jesus Empire”, one person at a time, and I have no doubt that this Higher Leader is well on her way to achieving just that. 

For more information on Joshua Recovery Ministries, visit www.joshualife.org.  

]]> This is the second episode of my series dedicated to National Recovery Month, and today I’m talking to Jessica Zwayer, the Executive Director of Joshua Recovery Ministries. This faith-based organization offers housing for men, women and most notably, pregnant women and new mothers, who are 30-days sober and in need of a residential environment that will support them in their continuing recovery journey. As a former gambling addict, Jessica has the unique ability to personally relate to the isolation of addiction and the challenge of lasting recovery, and she feels it a true God-calling to help others build the skills and a community that will ensure lasting freedom from addiction. Jessica playfully calls it her personal mission to build a “Jesus Empire”, one person at a time, and I have no doubt that this Higher Leader is well on her way to achieving just that. 

For more information on Joshua Recovery Ministries, visit www.joshualife.org.  

]]> Jay Meyer Buzzsprout-13612874 Tue, 19 Sep 2023 01:00:00 -0400 2501 2 22 full false With God As My Refuge With God As My Refuge September is National Recovery Month, and for those of you who know my story, you can understand why the month holds special meaning for me. I’m dedicating all three episodes of Higher Leading this month -- yes, there’s a bonus episode! -- to the recovery community by highlighting some Higher Leaders and their organizations who are doing incredible work to make recovery possible.

My first guest is Tom Thompson, founder, former CEO and current Chairman of the Board of The Refuge Ohio, a faith-based, non-profit addiction recovery ministry. Listen as Tom and I discuss how The Refuge has grown from a vision on the interstate to a program that has helped more than 3000 men find hope, love and freedom from addiction. Tom’s belief that recovery is rooted in relationships weaves through our entire conversation, and I left this interview feeling inspired to have a relationship with God that rules not only my head, but also my heart.

If you are struggling with addiction or want to learn more about The Refuge, please visit www.therefugeohio.org. The program is free.

]]> September is National Recovery Month, and for those of you who know my story, you can understand why the month holds special meaning for me. I’m dedicating all three episodes of Higher Leading this month -- yes, there’s a bonus episode! -- to the recovery community by highlighting some Higher Leaders and their organizations who are doing incredible work to make recovery possible.

My first guest is Tom Thompson, founder, former CEO and current Chairman of the Board of The Refuge Ohio, a faith-based, non-profit addiction recovery ministry. Listen as Tom and I discuss how The Refuge has grown from a vision on the interstate to a program that has helped more than 3000 men find hope, love and freedom from addiction. Tom’s belief that recovery is rooted in relationships weaves through our entire conversation, and I left this interview feeling inspired to have a relationship with God that rules not only my head, but also my heart.

If you are struggling with addiction or want to learn more about The Refuge, please visit www.therefugeohio.org. The program is free.

]]> Jay Meyer Buzzsprout-13568627 Tue, 12 Sep 2023 01:00:00 -0400 3007 2 21 full false Name It, Claim It, Dump It Name It, Claim It, Dump It Living in the past is the quickest way to having a miserable present and future. If there is something from your past that seems to be holding you back, it’s time to let go and let God. He wants you to live a full and joyful life, but you’ve got to be willing to name and claim the thoughts that are inhibiting you from living in the present and seeing a better future. Then, you must dump those thoughts and learn to resist picking them back up again.  Listen to today’s ChalkTalk for my thoughts on letting go of the past. 

]]> Living in the past is the quickest way to having a miserable present and future. If there is something from your past that seems to be holding you back, it’s time to let go and let God. He wants you to live a full and joyful life, but you’ve got to be willing to name and claim the thoughts that are inhibiting you from living in the present and seeing a better future. Then, you must dump those thoughts and learn to resist picking them back up again.  Listen to today’s ChalkTalk for my thoughts on letting go of the past. 

]]> Jay Meyer Buzzsprout-13443849 Tue, 22 Aug 2023 01:00:00 -0400 1543 2 20 full false One Year! One Year! It’s hard to believe, but this week marks the one-year anniversary of the Higher Leading podcast! To celebrate, I brought back my very first guest, Scott McGohan, former CEO and Co-Chairman of McGohan Brabender. In the episode, we discuss our recovery journeys, and how finally getting vulnerable and truly working on ourselves from the inside out has shaped our leadership styles. We also talk about Scott’s newly published book “Culture Is an Inside Job” (available on Amazon), and I get an update on his succession experience, as he prepares to turn McGohan Brabender over to others who are ready to lead. 

]]> It’s hard to believe, but this week marks the one-year anniversary of the Higher Leading podcast! To celebrate, I brought back my very first guest, Scott McGohan, former CEO and Co-Chairman of McGohan Brabender. In the episode, we discuss our recovery journeys, and how finally getting vulnerable and truly working on ourselves from the inside out has shaped our leadership styles. We also talk about Scott’s newly published book “Culture Is an Inside Job” (available on Amazon), and I get an update on his succession experience, as he prepares to turn McGohan Brabender over to others who are ready to lead. 

]]> Jay Meyer Buzzsprout-13363992 Tue, 08 Aug 2023 01:00:00 -0400 2483 2 19 full false Why Not Me? Why Not Me? When you’re faced with a difficult problem or experience a major setback, do you immediately think, “Why me?” What if you flipped the script and asked yourself, “Why not me?” instead?  One simple word added to this simple question will change your life. Don’t be a victim. Don’t be the devil’s prey. Know that you’ve been chosen not for the pain and struggle, but for the growth and wisdom that comes as a result.  Join me on today’s ChalkTalk for my thoughts on living with a VICTOR mentality.  

]]> When you’re faced with a difficult problem or experience a major setback, do you immediately think, “Why me?” What if you flipped the script and asked yourself, “Why not me?” instead?  One simple word added to this simple question will change your life. Don’t be a victim. Don’t be the devil’s prey. Know that you’ve been chosen not for the pain and struggle, but for the growth and wisdom that comes as a result.  Join me on today’s ChalkTalk for my thoughts on living with a VICTOR mentality.  

]]> Jay Meyer Buzzsprout-13281193 Tue, 25 Jul 2023 01:00:00 -0400 2399 1 18 full false For-Purpose For-Purpose The Dakota Center is a for-purpose organization that seeks to awaken the whole human potential of youth and seniors in inner-west Dayton, Ohio. Mike Miller is the Executive Director, and on this episode of Higher Leading, he and I discuss the maelstrom caused by the COVID pandemic and how the Dakota Center’s mission, vision, values and strategic plan served as the organization’s anchor during that time.  Their clearly articulated and understood framework of operating provided a valuable decision-making filter for Mike and his team during an unprecedented time. 

]]> The Dakota Center is a for-purpose organization that seeks to awaken the whole human potential of youth and seniors in inner-west Dayton, Ohio. Mike Miller is the Executive Director, and on this episode of Higher Leading, he and I discuss the maelstrom caused by the COVID pandemic and how the Dakota Center’s mission, vision, values and strategic plan served as the organization’s anchor during that time.  Their clearly articulated and understood framework of operating provided a valuable decision-making filter for Mike and his team during an unprecedented time. 

]]> Jay Meyer Buzzsprout-13210733 Wed, 12 Jul 2023 13:00:00 -0400 3129 1 17 full false Go and Grow Go and Grow Whether you are leading a team at work, leading your family at home, or simply leading yourself through life, it's important to recognize the importance  -- even imperativeness -- of personal growth.  On today's ChalkTalk, we're talking about how growing as an individual can exponentially affect the growth of the people around us, and I encourage my listeners to take on the 90-90 Challenge!

]]> Whether you are leading a team at work, leading your family at home, or simply leading yourself through life, it's important to recognize the importance  -- even imperativeness -- of personal growth.  On today's ChalkTalk, we're talking about how growing as an individual can exponentially affect the growth of the people around us, and I encourage my listeners to take on the 90-90 Challenge!

]]> Jay Meyer Buzzsprout-13108688 Tue, 27 Jun 2023 01:00:00 -0400 1379 1 16 full false Calm Confidence Calm Confidence Betsy Westhafer is the CEO and founder of The Congruity Group, an organization that is helping C-Level managers engage with their customers at a strategic level, building trust and gaining critical insights to ensure growth and success. In this episode of Higher Leading, Betsy and I discuss our shared passion for building customer and culture focused organizations, and the author and entrepreneur shares her advice for living life with calm confidence, instead of frantic desperation. From focusing on the things that she can control to ending her day with a positive thought, Betsy’s wise words are certain to inspire. 

]]> Betsy Westhafer is the CEO and founder of The Congruity Group, an organization that is helping C-Level managers engage with their customers at a strategic level, building trust and gaining critical insights to ensure growth and success. In this episode of Higher Leading, Betsy and I discuss our shared passion for building customer and culture focused organizations, and the author and entrepreneur shares her advice for living life with calm confidence, instead of frantic desperation. From focusing on the things that she can control to ending her day with a positive thought, Betsy’s wise words are certain to inspire. 

]]> Jay Meyer Buzzsprout-13023132 Tue, 13 Jun 2023 01:00:00 -0400 3292 1 15 full false Steady Ground Steady Ground Our world feels like it is on shaky ground these days. Anxiety, fear and discord are all around us, and sometimes it feels like a very heavy, ominous storm is brewing. I empathize… but I also have good news. There is a way to feel more balance, harmony and contentment, and it all starts with building a rock-solid foundation in Him. On this episode of ChalkTalk, I’m sharing a self-tested and proven formula of prayer, priorities and P.A.C.E. that has helped me weather some of my life’s most difficult storms. I hope you find something in today’s episode that puts you on the path to more peace. 

]]> Our world feels like it is on shaky ground these days. Anxiety, fear and discord are all around us, and sometimes it feels like a very heavy, ominous storm is brewing. I empathize… but I also have good news. There is a way to feel more balance, harmony and contentment, and it all starts with building a rock-solid foundation in Him. On this episode of ChalkTalk, I’m sharing a self-tested and proven formula of prayer, priorities and P.A.C.E. that has helped me weather some of my life’s most difficult storms. I hope you find something in today’s episode that puts you on the path to more peace. 

]]> Jay Meyer Buzzsprout-12873457 Tue, 23 May 2023 01:00:00 -0400 2356 1 14 full false Victory Victory As a police officer, Monnie Bush witnessed first-hand the challenges that our society faces in terms of at-risk youth.  Kids who came from single parent homes or who were being raised by their grandparents simply could not break the cycle of poverty, and behavioral issues at home soon became criminal issues on the streets. As a faith-filled and family-centered man, Monnie felt God nudging him to find an alternative for these kids.  So in 2009, he founded the Victory Project, an organization that is empowering America's youth to rediscover the life God intended for them. Monnie is an inspirational example of higher leading, and I can’t wait for you to hear about the incredible impact the Victory Project is having on our world. 

]]> As a police officer, Monnie Bush witnessed first-hand the challenges that our society faces in terms of at-risk youth.  Kids who came from single parent homes or who were being raised by their grandparents simply could not break the cycle of poverty, and behavioral issues at home soon became criminal issues on the streets. As a faith-filled and family-centered man, Monnie felt God nudging him to find an alternative for these kids.  So in 2009, he founded the Victory Project, an organization that is empowering America's youth to rediscover the life God intended for them. Monnie is an inspirational example of higher leading, and I can’t wait for you to hear about the incredible impact the Victory Project is having on our world. 

]]> Jay Meyer Buzzsprout-12809055 Tue, 09 May 2023 01:00:00 -0400 2392 1 13 full false R.I.S.E. and Live Well R.I.S.E. and Live Well Living well takes effort, but it isn’t rocket science.  If you want to make positive change in your life, you must simply get up and start walking in the right direction.  I learned this truth from some hard, personal experiences, but also from the example set by two of the most influential people in my life - my parents. I’ve had extra cause to reflect on this, as mom recently passed into the eternal, and it's been both comforting and inspiring to recognize how the decisions she and my dad made to live well, continue to affect and influence me today. By the end of this episode of ChalkTalk, my hope is that you realize how positive change, no matter how small, can alter the trajectory of your life and those that follow you in ways unimaginable. 

]]> Living well takes effort, but it isn’t rocket science.  If you want to make positive change in your life, you must simply get up and start walking in the right direction.  I learned this truth from some hard, personal experiences, but also from the example set by two of the most influential people in my life - my parents. I’ve had extra cause to reflect on this, as mom recently passed into the eternal, and it's been both comforting and inspiring to recognize how the decisions she and my dad made to live well, continue to affect and influence me today. By the end of this episode of ChalkTalk, my hope is that you realize how positive change, no matter how small, can alter the trajectory of your life and those that follow you in ways unimaginable. 

]]> Jay Meyer Buzzsprout-12711351 Tue, 25 Apr 2023 01:00:00 -0400 2087 1 12 full false The Power of a Broken Shoe The Power of a Broken Shoe Sometimes what we view as an inconvenience is simply God’s way of putting us back on the right path. In today’s episode of Higher Leading, Crystal Allen shares the story of how a broken shoe on the way to an important meeting led her to the Boys & Girls Club of Dayton.  As the current CEO, Crystal is extremely clear on her vision to become the premiere youth development organization in the region. Some of the topics Crystal and I discuss include the importance of mentorship, pouring ourselves into the development of others, and leading ourselves well so that we can lead others well.  I challenge anyone who listens to this episode to resist being inspired by Crystal’s intensely palpable passion for her work!  

]]> Sometimes what we view as an inconvenience is simply God’s way of putting us back on the right path. In today’s episode of Higher Leading, Crystal Allen shares the story of how a broken shoe on the way to an important meeting led her to the Boys & Girls Club of Dayton.  As the current CEO, Crystal is extremely clear on her vision to become the premiere youth development organization in the region. Some of the topics Crystal and I discuss include the importance of mentorship, pouring ourselves into the development of others, and leading ourselves well so that we can lead others well.  I challenge anyone who listens to this episode to resist being inspired by Crystal’s intensely palpable passion for her work!  

]]> Jay Meyer Buzzsprout-12623905 Tue, 11 Apr 2023 01:00:00 -0400 3588 1 11 full false Renewing Our Minds Renewing Our Minds One of the biggest challenges leaders face today is conquering negative thinking. Researchers say that 80% of our daily thoughts are negative!  That means that the majority of our daily thoughts are lies that the devil feeds us to prevent us from being our very best selves. Higher Leaders fight back every single day to check those thoughts, recognize their harm and renew their minds. Join me on today’s ChalkTalk with Jay, as I share some scripture that backs up this belief, as well as the tools I use regularly to make sure my thoughts are TOVO – Thoughts Of Value Only.   

]]> One of the biggest challenges leaders face today is conquering negative thinking. Researchers say that 80% of our daily thoughts are negative!  That means that the majority of our daily thoughts are lies that the devil feeds us to prevent us from being our very best selves. Higher Leaders fight back every single day to check those thoughts, recognize their harm and renew their minds. Join me on today’s ChalkTalk with Jay, as I share some scripture that backs up this belief, as well as the tools I use regularly to make sure my thoughts are TOVO – Thoughts Of Value Only.   

]]> Jay Meyer Buzzsprout-12526243 Tue, 28 Mar 2023 01:00:00 -0400 1903 1 10 full false Planting Seeds Planting Seeds In today’s episode of Higher Leading, Gina McFarlane-El and I talk about the importance of communication in leadership, and how making communication easy between all members of a group or organization should be on every leader’s priority list. We also discuss how “planting seeds” in the minds and hearts of those we lead can yield incredible results! As a college student, the idea of earning a master’s degree was planted in Gina’s mind, and she went on to earn TWO in Public Health and Business Administration. Currently, Gina is the CEO of Five Rivers Health Center where she manages one of the largest Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHC) in Ohio.

]]> In today’s episode of Higher Leading, Gina McFarlane-El and I talk about the importance of communication in leadership, and how making communication easy between all members of a group or organization should be on every leader’s priority list. We also discuss how “planting seeds” in the minds and hearts of those we lead can yield incredible results! As a college student, the idea of earning a master’s degree was planted in Gina’s mind, and she went on to earn TWO in Public Health and Business Administration. Currently, Gina is the CEO of Five Rivers Health Center where she manages one of the largest Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHC) in Ohio.

]]> Jay Meyer Buzzsprout-12432118 Tue, 14 Mar 2023 01:00:00 -0400 3035 1 9 full false Leading Others to Hope Leading Others to Hope The word visionary can be defined as “a person who thinks about or plans for the future with imagination and wisdom”. I cannot think of a person I know who embodies that definition better than Vanessa Ward. She is the current President of the Omega Community Development Corporation, and a leader behind the new Hope Center in Dayton, Ohio. There are so many insightful and inspiring moments in my discussion with Vanessa. If you want to lead higher, and you need another example of how to do it with incredible success, you will not be disappointed with this episode!

]]> The word visionary can be defined as “a person who thinks about or plans for the future with imagination and wisdom”. I cannot think of a person I know who embodies that definition better than Vanessa Ward. She is the current President of the Omega Community Development Corporation, and a leader behind the new Hope Center in Dayton, Ohio. There are so many insightful and inspiring moments in my discussion with Vanessa. If you want to lead higher, and you need another example of how to do it with incredible success, you will not be disappointed with this episode!

]]> Jay Meyer Buzzsprout-12326717 Tue, 28 Feb 2023 01:00:00 -0500 3560 1 8 full false A Humble Servant A Humble Servant February is Black History month, so I thought it would be the perfect time to speak about servant leadership with a friend from the African-American community.  I met Dr. Edmund Moore less than a year ago, but in that short amount of time, I have been so impressed with his wisdom, humility and faith. Edmund is an accomplished engineer who holds multiple degrees.  He is also the author of several books and serves as Co-Chair of Parity, Inc., a non-profit organization serving and advocating for social and economic equity within the African-American community. In this episode of Higher Leading, Edmund and I talk about everything from racism, to education, to golf, to God!

]]> February is Black History month, so I thought it would be the perfect time to speak about servant leadership with a friend from the African-American community.  I met Dr. Edmund Moore less than a year ago, but in that short amount of time, I have been so impressed with his wisdom, humility and faith. Edmund is an accomplished engineer who holds multiple degrees.  He is also the author of several books and serves as Co-Chair of Parity, Inc., a non-profit organization serving and advocating for social and economic equity within the African-American community. In this episode of Higher Leading, Edmund and I talk about everything from racism, to education, to golf, to God!

]]> Jay Meyer Buzzsprout-12241612 Tue, 14 Feb 2023 01:00:00 -0500 2892 1 7 full false Living from the Inside Out Living from the Inside Out Today, I am introducing the first of many "ChalkTalks with Jay."  I love interviewing other Higher Leaders, because I learn something truly valuable with each discussion.  But I also have some personal thoughts on leading to the beat of a higher purpose, and so about once-a-month on "ChalkTalk," I want to speak directly with my listeners on some lessons and reflections from my own journey as a Higher Leader. 

In this inaugural episode, I tell a bit of my personal story.  Since 1987, I have been in recovery from drug and alcohol addiction.  The one thing that really pulled me back from this lowest point in my life (and frankly, has also sustained me for the 35+ years since) has been learning to live each and every day from the inside out.  Find out what that -- and my favorite acronym, P.E.A.C.E. -- means in this episode of Higher Leading. 

]]> Today, I am introducing the first of many "ChalkTalks with Jay."  I love interviewing other Higher Leaders, because I learn something truly valuable with each discussion.  But I also have some personal thoughts on leading to the beat of a higher purpose, and so about once-a-month on "ChalkTalk," I want to speak directly with my listeners on some lessons and reflections from my own journey as a Higher Leader. 

In this inaugural episode, I tell a bit of my personal story.  Since 1987, I have been in recovery from drug and alcohol addiction.  The one thing that really pulled me back from this lowest point in my life (and frankly, has also sustained me for the 35+ years since) has been learning to live each and every day from the inside out.  Find out what that -- and my favorite acronym, P.E.A.C.E. -- means in this episode of Higher Leading. 

]]> Jay Meyer Buzzsprout-12071467 Mon, 23 Jan 2023 12:00:00 -0500 2478 1 6 full false Following God is a Team Sport Following God is a Team Sport My friend, Tony Miltenberger, is the host of the Reclamation Podcast and the current Director of Leadership and Discipleship at Spirit & Truth.  In this episode of Higher Leading, Tony shares his deeply rooted belief that we are all made by God to live life in intentional community, creating disciples along the way and proving that following God really is a team sport!  Take special care to listen for a creative concept that Tony calls “spiritual grandparenting.”  It’s a theory that really got me thinking about the ripple effect of positively influencing others through higher leading.    

]]> My friend, Tony Miltenberger, is the host of the Reclamation Podcast and the current Director of Leadership and Discipleship at Spirit & Truth.  In this episode of Higher Leading, Tony shares his deeply rooted belief that we are all made by God to live life in intentional community, creating disciples along the way and proving that following God really is a team sport!  Take special care to listen for a creative concept that Tony calls “spiritual grandparenting.”  It’s a theory that really got me thinking about the ripple effect of positively influencing others through higher leading.    

]]> Jay Meyer Buzzsprout-12007793 Tue, 10 Jan 2023 01:00:00 -0500 3090 1 5 full false Come, Lord Jesus Come, Lord Jesus In this episode, I speak with Doug Meyer, CEO of accounting firm, Brixey & Meyer.  It’s no wonder Doug’s organization has been honored multiple times as one of the area’s “Best Places to Work”.  The culture at Brixey & Meyer is extremely employee-centered, and Doug explains how genuine and intentional effort was required to build it.  Doug also shares how striving daily to exhibit his firm’s founding values from the very top, as well as being a vulnerable leader, has helped him create an elite organization with little client turnover.  Keep your ears open for a phrase that self-described, “impatient Doug” whispers to himself multiple times a day, as he relies on his faith to get him through hard times and hard decisions.  Like me, you’re going to find both humor and wisdom in it.  Enjoy!

]]> In this episode, I speak with Doug Meyer, CEO of accounting firm, Brixey & Meyer.  It’s no wonder Doug’s organization has been honored multiple times as one of the area’s “Best Places to Work”.  The culture at Brixey & Meyer is extremely employee-centered, and Doug explains how genuine and intentional effort was required to build it.  Doug also shares how striving daily to exhibit his firm’s founding values from the very top, as well as being a vulnerable leader, has helped him create an elite organization with little client turnover.  Keep your ears open for a phrase that self-described, “impatient Doug” whispers to himself multiple times a day, as he relies on his faith to get him through hard times and hard decisions.  Like me, you’re going to find both humor and wisdom in it.  Enjoy!

]]> Jay Meyer Buzzsprout-11900687 Mon, 19 Dec 2022 16:00:00 -0500 3286 1 4 full false Second Chances Second Chances From the ashes of addiction, Doug Van Dyke found a second chance and built a small business (Van Martin Roofing) that quickly grew into much more than just a professional endeavor. In this episode of the podcast, Doug discusses his mission of providing others in need of a second chance a place to learn, grow and belong.  He explains how waking up every day to focus on the world God desires versus the world he desires allows him to take on the important responsibility of making a positive difference in the lives of others.  Doug’s newest venture, the Emerge Recovery and Trade Initiative, is an exciting new model for substance abuse recovery and workforce development.  (To learn more, visit www.emergerecoverytrade.com). You're going to find Doug and his aspiration to exemplify Jesus in his own daily walk extremely inspiring.

]]> From the ashes of addiction, Doug Van Dyke found a second chance and built a small business (Van Martin Roofing) that quickly grew into much more than just a professional endeavor. In this episode of the podcast, Doug discusses his mission of providing others in need of a second chance a place to learn, grow and belong.  He explains how waking up every day to focus on the world God desires versus the world he desires allows him to take on the important responsibility of making a positive difference in the lives of others.  Doug’s newest venture, the Emerge Recovery and Trade Initiative, is an exciting new model for substance abuse recovery and workforce development.  (To learn more, visit www.emergerecoverytrade.com). You're going to find Doug and his aspiration to exemplify Jesus in his own daily walk extremely inspiring.

]]> Jay Meyer Buzzsprout-11816540 Mon, 05 Dec 2022 11:00:00 -0500 3001 1 3 full false Bringing Ministry to Business Bringing Ministry to Business In this episode, Tim Beatty, President of Bullen Ultrasonics, talks about his unwavering faith in Jesus and how it has guided him throughout his personal and professional journeys.

Tim metaphorically describes the importance of utilizing "fertile soil" to create the best product (harvest) possible at his business and shares the importance of having a non-anxious presence as a leader.

Tim also talks in-depth about his focus on building a healthy culture at Bullen Ultrasonics and how Bullen's core values guided his decision-making throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.

Finally, Tim's practice of Silence, Solitude, and Sabbath keeps him grounded as he attempts to lead his life and business in a pleasing way to his Maker.

]]> In this episode, Tim Beatty, President of Bullen Ultrasonics, talks about his unwavering faith in Jesus and how it has guided him throughout his personal and professional journeys.

Tim metaphorically describes the importance of utilizing "fertile soil" to create the best product (harvest) possible at his business and shares the importance of having a non-anxious presence as a leader.

Tim also talks in-depth about his focus on building a healthy culture at Bullen Ultrasonics and how Bullen's core values guided his decision-making throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.

Finally, Tim's practice of Silence, Solitude, and Sabbath keeps him grounded as he attempts to lead his life and business in a pleasing way to his Maker.

]]> Jay Meyer Buzzsprout-11655547 Tue, 08 Nov 2022 11:00:00 -0500 3829 1 2 full false Building a "People First" Culture Building a "People First" Culture In this episode, Jay talks about company culture and leadership philosophy with McGohan Brabender (MB) CEO, Scott McGohan.  

Scott has been instrumental in not only developing a highly successful benefits administration company but also in creating an environment for the team members of MB to thrive and grow.  

Scott is an excellent storyteller, and you are going to enjoy the many heartfelt stories in this episode of Higher Leading.

]]> In this episode, Jay talks about company culture and leadership philosophy with McGohan Brabender (MB) CEO, Scott McGohan.  

Scott has been instrumental in not only developing a highly successful benefits administration company but also in creating an environment for the team members of MB to thrive and grow.  

Scott is an excellent storyteller, and you are going to enjoy the many heartfelt stories in this episode of Higher Leading.

]]> Jay Meyer Buzzsprout-11106920 Tue, 09 Aug 2022 11:00:00 -0400 3481 1 1 full false