Townsend Institute Podcast Series
093 | Rev. Dr. Steve Mueller: Leading with Mission
Leading on Mission: The Power of Organizational Alignment. In a rapidly growing organization, how do you prevent mission drift? It’s easy for departments to become silos, focusing so intently on their specific tasks that they lose sight of the big picture. True leadership isn't just about hitting targets; it’s about ensuring that every member of the team—from the front-line staff to the executive suite—is a living embodiment of the organization’s core values. In this episode of TIPS, hosts Ashlie and Gilbert sit down with Reverend Dr. Steven Mueller—Chief Mission Officer at Concordia University Irvine and recipient of the 2026 Servant Leadership Award. Dr. Mueller shares his journey from student to senior leader, offering a masterclass on how to weave mission, vision, and values into the very fabric of an institution. You’ll discover: Mission Fit vs. Culture Fit: Why hiring for alignment is critical, and how to avoid using culture as a mask for lack of diversity. The Front Line Philosophy: Why the person unloading a car or serving in the cafeteria is the organization to the outside world. Leading with Humility: The importance of owning mistakes and knowing your boundaries within the organizational hierarchy The Unbreakables: Practical rhythms for spiritual and physical health that prevent leadership burnout. Whether you are a new manager or a seasoned executive, this conversation provides the tools to lead with clarity, humility, and a relentless focus on what matters most. Perfect for: Organizational leaders, HR professionals, educators, and anyone seeking to align their professional vocation with a deeper sense of mission. ------- The Townsend Institute at Concordia University Irvine offers fully accredited online graduate degrees and professional certificates in three content areas: Organizational Leadership, Executive Coaching and Consulting, and Counseling. Experience transformational education that operates at the crossroads of competence, character, and connection through the Townsend Institute’s life-changing counseling and leadership programs. To find out more, visit our website at www.cui.edu/townsend . Enjoying the podcast? We want your input! Please email us at tipodcast@cui.edu for any feedback or ideas you have on topics or guests you would like to learn from! ------- Episode music is "Psalm 1 (That Man)" featuring Tommy Walker, Ben Lange, & Kip Fox, produced by The Songwriter Initiative of The Center for Worship Leadership at Concordia University Irvine.
