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In this episode of the L3 Leadership Podcast, Doug Smith kicks off part one of his annual reflection series, sharing the most significant lessons he learned in 2025 and how they’re shaping his leadership in 2026. Drawing from his year-end review process, Doug offers honest insights on health, family, leadership presence, fatherhood, faith, and the unseen weight leaders carry.

⏱️ Episode Breakdown

00:00 – Why Doug does a year-end review every year
02:00 – Lesson 1: Taking ownership of your health before it’s too late
05:00 – Lesson 2: Big families are a gift worth fighting for
08:30 – Lesson 3: Your presence as a leader matters more than you think
11:00 – Lesson 4: The lifelong impact of being an intentional parent
14:00 – Lesson 5: The tension between progress and preservation
16:00 – Lesson 6: One day you’ll become a king—but not for the reasons you think
18:30 – Lesson 7: Not every battle deserves your energy
21:00 – Lesson 8: Want more *for* people than you want *from* them
23:00 – Lesson 9: Being the voice of leadership, not just the position
24:00 – Lesson 10: Leading well when life isn’t fair

Resources Mentioned:

• Fathered by God: Learning What Your Dad Could Never Teach You by John Eldredge
• Experience Jesus. Really: Finding Refuge, Strength, and Wonder Through Everyday Encounters with God by John Eldredge
• Why Do Black Christians Vote Democrat? – Phil Vischer (Video)
• Family Teams
• Gerald Brooks Leadership Podcast
• 🔗 Connect with Doug
  • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dougsmithlive
    
    

The L3 Leadership Podcast is sponsored by Andocia Marketing Solutions. Andocia exists to bring leaders’ visions to life. Visit www.andocia.com to learn more.

WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsF0cVdRu2oELJGpaHma7Ag

SUBSCRIBE TO: @l3leadership @dougsmithlive