#465: Tony on Building Trust Before It’s Tested

Written By Tony Miltenberger

How do great leaders build trust when their team has been through disappointment, uncertainty, or change?

In this solo episode of the Follow 2 Lead Podcast, Tony Miltenberger shares a deeply personal story about a devastating ACL injury that sidelined him for years—and how finally running two miles again revealed one of the most important leadership lessons he's ever learned.

The finish line wasn't the victory. The daily decisions, trusted coaches, and consistent investments along the way were.

Tony explains why trust isn't built through authority, vision statements, or one-time team retreats. It's built one small, faithful decision at a time.

If you're leading a business, nonprofit, church, school, or executive team, this episode offers practical coaching for creating a culture where people feel trusted, valued, and equipped to do their best work.

In this episode, you'll discover:

  • Why trust begins when leaders admit they don't have every answer.

  • How vulnerability creates stronger executive leadership.

  • Why healthy team culture is built through everyday conversations—not occasional events.

  • The overlooked leadership habit that quietly strengthens (or weakens) trust.

  • How consistent actions create lasting influence across your organization.

  • One simple question every leader should ask their team this week.

Coaching Question

What would your team look like one year from now if you started doing the trust work today?

Connect with Tony Miltenberger

Tony Miltenberger is an executive coach, speaker, and founder of Follow 2 Lead Coaching. He helps Christian executives, business owners, and organizational leaders build healthier cultures, strengthen trust, and lead with greater clarity and purpose.

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Tony Miltenberger
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#464: Why Presence Beats Authority Every Time with Scott Smith