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This month, our focus at the GLN is on leaving a leadership legacy and today podcast host (and GLN VP of Marketing), Whitney Putnam interviews GLN President and CEO David Ashcraft on his experience with organizational transitions and successions. David shares gems from his 30 years of local church leadership, including how to get started planning a legacy, and the one thing that can absolutely derail a positive transition. Every leader should be thinking about what (or who) will follow them, and this episode is a great starting point for your plans.
SUMMARY
This month, our focus at the GLN is on leaving a leadership legacy and today podcast host (and GLN VP of Marketing), Whitney Putnam interviews GLN President and CEO David Ashcraft on his experience with organizational transitions and successions. David shares gems from his 30 years of local church leadership, including how to get started planning a legacy, and the one thing that can absolutely derail a positive transition. Every leader should be thinking about what (or who) will follow them, and this episode is a great starting point for your plans.
IN THIS EPISODE
0:00 Intro
02:00 Why legacy matters
04:30 The work to become a “Level 5” leader
07:30 How anyone can develop a plan to leave a legacy
11:10 What people really remember about a leader
18:10 Outro
LISTEN
Apple Podcasts | Spotify | YouTube
STANDOUTS AND TAKEAWAYS
- To be a top-level leader, your organization needs to better after you leave than it was when you were still around.
- When planning for a transition, time can be your best friend or your worst enemy, depending on when you start the process.
- You don’t always need a completely detailed plan; sometimes, a rough, one-page plan is enough.
- Start with the question, “Where would I like to go?” as opposed, “Where am I now?”
- Beware of pride, selfishness and self-centered thinking. It’s always about stewardship.
- People will forget your name, but legacy lives on in phrases, ideas and the heart that you instill in the organization.
- If you think it’s about you, you can blow up a potentially successful transition.
- You’re lucky if you can be remembered for two generations.
- No one is perfect: try to “lean” in the direction of being humble and others focused.
LINKS MENTIONED
- Website: Team365
- Website: Global Leadership Summit 2025
- Website: Global Leadership Network
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Team365 isn’t just a platform. It’s a commitment to grow, lead and live with purpose — every single day. Whether you’re here for content, community or clarity, you’re in the right place. Your leadership matters. Let’s keep going.
