In this episode, Scot Caley shares his journey from growing up on a farm with a Christian family to becoming a church leader focused on missional discipleship. Scot reflects on the impact of his early family life, where his parents instilled responsibility and trust, shaping him into a leader. He recounts significant mentorship from his youth pastor, Rick Smalling, and influential experiences in sports that helped develop his leadership skills. Scot discusses his transition from pursuing agriculture to ministry, influenced by mentors like Professor Michael Shannon, who encouraged his preaching gifts. He shares candid stories about the highs and lows of church leadership, including rapid church growth, unhealthy ambition, and conflicts within leadership teams. This relentless focus on success strained his family relationships, a lesson Scot learned the hard way. Now, Scot emphasizes a leadership model that empowers others, encouraging fellow church members to use their gifts and focusing on disciple-making rather than personal recognition. He also opens up about his personal battle with pornography addiction, sharing how confession, repentance, and accountability helped him overcome the struggle and heal his marriage. Scot encourages leaders to embrace a Christ-centered, selfless approach, focusing on serving others, living a surrendered life, and pouring themselves out for God's glory. He closes with advice on perseverance in ministry, trusting in God's leading, and finding contentment in obscurity, knowing that ultimate reward comes from God.

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