Helping Youth & Adults Conquer Mortality | An Interview with Trevor Farnes

Leading Saints Podcast

Trevor Farnes is the author of The Conquer Code and the CEO and Co-Founder of MTN OPS, an energy and nutritional product company focused on the outdoor industry, in Fruit Heights, Utah. He has a Bachelor of Science degree from Full Sail University. Trevor’s focus and mission at MTN OPS is that of improving the lives of individuals and families through transformational products and a community built to inspire individuals to conquer more in life. MTN OPS was recently recognized as one of Utah’s Fastest Growing Companies, one of Utah’s Best Places to Work, and Trevor was recognized as Utah Business CEO of the Year.

After many years of facing hunger issues themselves, Trevor and his wife Jenna founded the MTN OPS initiative, Operation Conquer Hunger, to conquer hunger within the most vulnerable households in Utah, throughout the country, and Malawi, Africa. From every MTN OPS order the company donates a meal to a child or family in need. Within just a few short years, they have donated millions of meals and are committed to conquering hunger, one order, one meal, one child at a time.

Above all, Trevor is devoted to his faith, husband to his beautiful wife of over 20 years, and the proud father to their four incredible children. He currently serves in the Church as stake Young Men president and member of his stake high council. Trevor has previously served as a bishopric counselor, ward Young Men president, Young Men advisor, ward mission leader, and in his elders quorum presidency.

Links

The Conquer Code
MTN OPS
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Highlights

The discussion begins with an overview of Trevor’s leadership style, which is deeply rooted in his experiences of overcoming business failures and the importance of faith. Trevor emphasizes the significance of core values in both business and church leadership, sharing how MTN OPS has cultivated a culture of trust and connection through its core values, including the unique principle of recognizing God. He explains that these values serve as decision-making guardrails that guide the organization toward its mission of improving lives.

The conversation then shifts to the Children and Youth program of the Church, particularly focusing on the four goal quadrants: physical, spiritual, mental, and social. Trevor shares insights on how to effectively engage youth leaders in utilizing this quadrant to set meaningful goals without overwhelming the youth. He recounts a successful initiative where young men from his stake participated in a series of experiential activities designed to help them recognize their strengths and set personal goals. This approach not only fosters accountability but also creates a deeper connection between youth and their leaders.

Trevor also discusses his role as the stake Young Men president, detailing how he transformed the mission preparation process by moving it to a more engaging environment and incorporating interactive elements. By inviting returned missionaries to share their experiences and providing a supportive atmosphere, he has seen increased participation and enthusiasm among the youth. The episode concludes with Farnes encouraging leaders to live by their core values, celebrate successes, and create a culture of accountability that inspires youth to grow spiritually and personally. Overall, this episode is filled with practical ideas and inspiration for leaders looking to make a positive impact on the rising generation.

04:10 – The Conquer Code: Background and Purpose
06:09 – The Importance of Core Values in Leadership
10:03 – Building a Trustworthy Brand Culture
12:12 – Core Values as Decision-Making Guardrails
14:08 – Focusing on Core Values Monthly
20:30 – The Youth Quadrant: Engaging Youth Leaders
22:12 – Creating Meaningful Youth Experiences
29:10 – The Role of Accountability in Leadership
32:14 – Mission Preparation: Stake Young Men’s Program
35:33 – Adapting Mission Prep for Greater Engagement

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