In this episode of the L3 Leadership Podcast, Doug Smith talks with Peter Ostapko, co-founder of Kinsman Journal and leader of the growing Kinsman community in Springfield, Missouri. Peter shares his journey from a career in banking to launching gatherings designed to help men find authentic brotherhood, friendship, and faith-driven connection.
Together they discuss the loneliness epidemic among leaders, why local community is essential, and how intentional gatherings can transform lives. Peter also opens up about parenting, navigating career transitions, and the importance of slowing down and creating space for what matters most.
Whether you’re a leader longing for deeper friendships, a father seeking wisdom, or someone discerning your next step, this conversation will challenge and inspire you.
Episode Highlights:
00:00 Introduction and Peter’s passion for community
02:00 How Kinsman gatherings began and why men said, “I didn’t know how much I needed this”
06:00 The power of local connection vs. national networks
09:00 Structuring meaningful gatherings with intentionality
13:00 Friendship, brotherhood, and why men struggle to connect
17:00 Moving beyond transactional relationships
20:00 The annual Kinsman Summit and why environment matters
22:00 Publishing Kinsman Journal and the story behind it
25:00 Fatherhood lessons: being intentional, dealing with your stuff, and prioritizing your marriage
30:00 Discerning career transitions and leaning into curiosity
35:00 Why Kinsman became a nonprofit and Peter’s approach to fundraising
40:00 The importance of slowing down and creating space to rest
42:00 Best advice Peter has ever received
47:00 Bucket list dreams: Italy and visiting every MLB stadium with his kids
48:00 What Peter would tell his younger self
49:00 Legacy: being remembered as a faithful servant, husband, and father
🌐 https://kinsmen.org/ – A high-quality publication for men exploring themes of faith, fatherhood, and work.
🌐 https://kinsmen.org/gatherings – Community events and annual summit hosted by Kinsman to foster brotherhood and authentic friendships.
The L3 Leadership Podcast is sponsored by Andocia Marketing Solutions. Andocia exists to bring leaders’ visions to life. Visit https://andocia.com
to learn more.
WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://youtu.be/e4o5TLH87yE?si=ur3Ph7a40XzOQFv7
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SUBSCRIBE TO: @l3leadership @dougsmithlive
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