In this episode of the L3 Leadership Podcast, Doug Smith shares Part 2 of his annual reflection series, unpacking the final ten lessons he learned in 2025 and how they are shaping his leadership moving into 2026. Drawing from real conversations, leadership challenges, faith, and personal growth, Doug challenges leaders to rethink success, create margin, embrace hard seasons, and recognize the significance of the work God is doing in and through them.

⏱️ Episode Breakdown

00:00 – Why Doug shares his annual lessons and how they’re selected
01:45 – Lesson 11: You can have everything and still have nothing
03:30 – Lesson 12: In leadership, there are things only you can do
05:00 – Lesson 13: The necessity of people who challenge your perceptions
07:45 – Lesson 14: Follow a proven path when you don’t know what to do
08:45 – Lesson 15: Why AI can be a powerful personal and leadership coach
10:30 – Lesson 16: Margin matters—create it with time and finances
11:45 – Lesson 17: You’re always campaigning, whether you realize it or not
13:30 – Lesson 18: The gospel comes with a house key
15:15 – Lesson 19: Lessons learned in one season prepare you for the next
17:30 – Lesson 20: Don’t minimize the work God is doing in and through you
18:45 – Final encouragement: Don’t quit—your leadership matters more than you think

Resources Mentioned:

The Ride of a Lifetime by Bob Iger
The Gospel Comes with a House Key by Rosaria Butterfield
“Good” Leadership Mindset – Jocko Willink (Video)

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

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5 Hard Leadership Lessons 2025 Taught Me