In this episode of the Unseen Leadership Podcast, Chandler Vannoy and Dan Iten are joined by Mark Gauthier, the Vice President of Cru, and Director of its U.S. operations. They discuss the mission and vision of Cru as a worldwide Christian ministry and Gauthier shares how Cru focuses on leadership and personal growth, encouraging young leaders to step out in faith and trust in God’s provision. He also touches on his own experiences and pivotal moments in his life, highlighting upcoming opportunities for Cru at the World Cup in 2026 and the Open Window Partnership in the Middle East.

QUOTES FROM EPISODE 81

“Readiness is important. Yes, we want to keep developing our skills, but I don’t think it’s ever a prerequisite for leadership.” – Mark Gauthier

“God isn’t necessarily asking you to take a job for the rest of your life. Just take the next right step.” – Mark Gauthier

“Our leadership, wherever we are contributing, comes from within, and we lead out of who we are. I think the most significant person you must lead is yourself.” – Mark Gauthier

“Sometimes the best indicator that you’re doing the right thing is that it’s going to cause your faith to grow.” – Mark Gauthier

“There are 8 billion people in the world and every one of us is made uniquely in the image of God. That means that He knows that we all have a specific way that we connect with Him, and we’re not all the same.” – Mark Gauthier

“Note-taking is a form of me just expressing humility in that I want to learn.” – Mark Gauthier

“Ask for feedback, it’s so important. It’s easy for our confidence to outstrip our character.” – Mark Gauthier

“Leadership is going to be a walk of faith. Give yourself grace. Give yourself patience. God has got you, and He’s going to give you what you need when you need it.” – Mark Gauthier

RECOMMENDED RESOURCES

God’s Smuggler by Brother Andrew and John and Elizabeth Sherrill

The Splendid and the Vile: A Saga of Churchill, Family, and Defiance During the Blitz by Erik Larson

Boundaries: When to Say Yes, How to Say No to Take Control of Your Life by Henry Cloud and John Townsend

Life Without Lack: Living in the Fullness of Psalm 23 by Dallas Willard

Jesus Film Project