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  • What are you willing to sacrifice or concede for the goal of healthy family dynamics?

    In this episode, Jeff, Jeff, and Josh discuss:

    Your kids are watching what you say, what you do, what you proclaim, and how those align. Learning from our peers while in community. Encouraging vulnerability. Finding a shared common passion.

    Key Takeaways:

    The Gathering gives opportunities for kids and adults, alike, to connect with non-profit leaders and learn and make a difference with important services and programs. There are things that you are going to be assigned to do, have you made space to allow the next generation to carry forth something bigger than you?We don’t want to forget what is tried, true, and proven to work. But we also don’t want to forget to look at what might be, what ought to be, and what is coming next. Stewardship with family should be amazing and life-affirming. It should show you the goodness of God.

    "Sometimes there are generational differences in what strikes our hearts as worthy of God's resources - worthy of our attention, worthy of our family’s capital - and some of these, you can frame it as disagreements. You can also frame it as a search for what you find as a shared common passion." — Josh Kwan

    About Josh Kwan: Josh Kwan is the President of The Gathering, a learning community of philanthropists motivated by their Christian faith to give humbly and steward wisely all the resources God has entrusted to their care. Previously, he was a Co-Founder and Partner at Praxis, a creative engine for redemptive entrepreneurship whose mission is to build ventures, foster community, and create content for equipping Christian innovators, founders, and funders.

    Josh served as the Director of International Giving for the David Weekley Family Foundation, where he divided his time between conducting due diligence on innovative social enterprises and helping portfolio organizations scale their impact. He worked as a journalist and was published in The San Jose Mercury News, The Wall Street Journal, Newsweek, and Stanford Social Innovation Review. He also co-founded Abide, a mobile app for encouraging and enlivening the practice of prayer and meditation. He has an AB from Harvard College and an MBA from Northwestern’s Kellogg School of Management. He lives with his family near San Francisco.

    Connect with Josh Kwan:

    Website: https://www.thegathering.com/

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshkwan/

    Connect with Jeff Thomas:

    Website: https://www.arkosglobal.com/

    Podcast: https://www.generousbusinessowner.com/

    Book: https://www.arkosglobal.com/trading-up

    Email: [email protected]

    Twitter: https://twitter.com/ArkosGlobalAdv

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/arkosglobal/

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/arkosglobaladvisors

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/arkosglobaladvisors/

    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLUYpPwkHH7JrP6PrbHeBxw

  • Do you understand your relationship with God, with money, and with generosity?

    In this episode, Jeff and Jamie discuss:

    Understanding what it means to have a true relationship with Jesus Christ at every level of life.Recognizing God’s gift within to serve and bless others.Solving a problem for somebody versus having an impact on their change story. Are we looking for a reason to give or a reason to not give?

    Key Takeaways:

    Don’t underestimate the power of a personal invitation. As you feel the tug to do so, you may be surprised at who accepts.As long as they are breathing, people need encouragement. It is about more than just showing up. It is about what it takes to show up in the first place. If you are going to serve on a board, understand if you are there for the right reasons. You need to want to be there. Organizations can only go as high as the board allows.

    "I don't want to be successful, I want to be significant. I want to have a legacy that's built around whether I actually added value to someone. I get lots of awards and things like that, and it's wonderful and humbling that I get recognized at times, but at the end of the day, it doesn't matter if I haven't added value to a person." — Jamie Levy

    Episode References:

    Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance by Robert PirsigGiving for Impact by Jamie Levy

    About Jamie Levy: Jamie D. Levy is the Founder and Chief Vision Officer of JDLevy & Associates, founding partner of FiscAlign accounting and financial services and founder of Discover Philanthropy. Jamie is also a faculty member at Indiana University, where he teaches in the graduate and professional programs in not-for-profit management and development through the IU Lilly School of Philanthropy, The Fund Raising School, and O'Neil School of Public and Environmental Affairs. Additionally, Jamie has been recognized as a distinguished alum and appointed to the Indiana University O'Neil School of Public and Environmental Affairs Distinguished Alumni Council, a significant honor given to few alums. Jamie is a published author/writer and speaker. He has trained over 50,000 professionals from some 30 countries through his teaching and consulting. He has become recognized as an international expert in nonprofit organizational development and social impact. Jamie also serves on the product design and industry thought leader team at Bloomerang. He is an officially designated U.S. Department of Labor nonprofit industry field expert and was appointed to the Indiana University O'Neill School of Public and Environmental Affairs Distinguished Alumni Council and Alumni Board.

    Connect with Jamie Levy:

    Website: https://jdlevyassociates.com/

    Website: https://www.discoverphilanthropy.com/

    Website: https://www.fiscalign.net/

    Connect with Jeff Thomas:

    Website: https://www.arkosglobal.com/

    Podcast: https://www.generousbusinessowner.com/

    Book: https://www.arkosglobal.com/trading-up

    Email: [email protected]

    Twitter: https://twitter.com/ArkosGlobalAdv

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/arkosglobal/

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/arkosglobaladvisors

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/arkosglobaladvisors/

    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLUYpPwkHH7JrP6PrbHeBxw

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  • How are you balancing your attention to the callings God has given you?

    In this episode, Jeff and Jenny discuss:

    Finding what lights you up and lets you serve others.Serving your children to serve others.Scaling and growth with a seasonal product.Empowering mothers to help their families.

    Key Takeaways:

    Everyone has different paths in life. Parenthood is not a death sentence to your entrepreneurial or mission dreams. Inviting babysitters into your family intentionally can help you disciple your children and help you serve your mission. Be on the same page with your spouse about stewarding in your family. Your family is not an obstacle or an anchor holding you back. But don’t let your dreams hold you back from building your family.

    "The balance that we're going to experience as women, between our business and our family, is not a problem to be solved, it's attention to be managed." — Jenny Watson

    About Jenny Watson: As the owner of The Elderberry Co., Jenny is a devoted wife and mother to three children. Her entrepreneurial journey began in 2017, launching her small business from her home kitchen. Through her unwavering dedication, what started as a modest endeavor blossomed into a prosperous e-commerce venture, amassing over $10 million in sales and reaching customers across all 50 states. Apart from her business pursuits, she finds solace and joy in nature, frequently exploring and adventuring with her family. Whether immersed in the outdoors or enjoying quality time playing board games, she treasures moments of relaxation and bonding with her loved ones. Her ability to balance family life and entrepreneurial success serves as a testament to her determination and commitment to both her personal and professional pursuits.

    Connect with Jenny Watson:

    Website: https://theelderberryco.com/

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theelderberryco

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theelderberryco

    Connect with Jeff Thomas:

    Website: https://www.arkosglobal.com/

    Podcast: https://www.generousbusinessowner.com/

    Book: https://www.arkosglobal.com/trading-up

    Email: [email protected]

    Twitter: https://twitter.com/ArkosGlobalAdv

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/arkosglobal/

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/arkosglobaladvisors

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/arkosglobaladvisors/

    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLUYpPwkHH7JrP6PrbHeBxw

  • Have you written down the guidelines and guardrails for your family or organization’s mission?

    In this episode, Jeff, Jeff, and Becca discuss:

    Learning from her father how a tax preparation business can be part of a Christian mission from a young age.Entrepreneurship in the mission space.Engaging your children in your family’s mission. Discerning your mission with guidance and guardrails.

    Key Takeaways:

    Be willing to answer the call to opportunity. You never know what God has planned for you if you don’t take the leap. Encourage generosity with your children. This starts with helping them to understand what is in the world. Cater your family meetings to the age of your kids. It is possible to bring them in from a young age.Write down the guardrails. If you know what your mission is, it is easier to give and serve on alignment without tension and conflict.

    "We don't want to unnecessarily handcuff any organization, because we want them to change and innovate. We want to force the innovation within that to really go deeper with the mission to have a greater eternal impact, more so than we have today and in a context that we can't imagine today." — Becca Spradlin

    Episode References:

    HOPE International: https://www.hopeinternational.org/Mission Drift: The Unspoken Crisis Facing Leaders, Charities, and Churches by Peter Greer & Chris Horst: https://www.amazon.com/Mission-Drift-Unspoken-Charities-Churches/dp/0764211013

    About Becca Spradlin: Becca Spradlin, founder of On Mission Advisors, specializes in executive facilitation, organizational assessment, strategy design, execution, and change management. Becca started On Mission to help Christian business and nonprofit leaders define, protect, and champion what matters most in light of eternity.

    She has facilitated workshops, strategy design, and evaluations of businesses and nonprofits across five continents. She is certified in change management, adult learning, and human-centered design. She holds a master’s degree in applied economics from Johns Hopkins University and undergraduate degrees in business and communications from Grove City College.

    She is the author of Lead On Mission: Advance Faith at Work. Avoid Mission Drift. Build a Legacy of Eternal Impact. She also co-authored the Mission True Workbook with the authors of Mission Drift. She served as a research fellow at Seattle Pacific University’s Center for Faithful Business, researching faith cultivation and drift in Christian-led businesses. She writes and speaks on how companies can define and align their firms around faith and avoid drift. Becca lives in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, with her husband and three daughters.

    Connect with Becca Spradlin:

    Website: www.onmissionadvisors.com

    Lead On Mission. Advance Faith at Work. Avoid Mission Drift. Build a Legacy of Eternal Impact.: www.leadonmissionbook.com

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bspradlin/

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/on-mission-advisors/

    Connect with Jeff Thomas:

    Website: https://www.arkosglobal.com/

    Podcast: https://www.generousbusinessowner.com/

    Book: https://www.arkosglobal.com/trading-up

    Email: [email protected]

    Twitter: https://twitter.com/ArkosGlobalAdv

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/arkosglobal/

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/arkosglobaladvisors

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/arkosglobaladvisors/

    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLUYpPwkHH7JrP6PrbHeBxw

  • Are you building a culture of generosity and significance in your life and business?

    In this episode, Jeff, Jeff, and John discuss:

    Three things to do every day to be a great leader.Making a difference and living a significant life.Add value to people every day, believe in them, and love them. Understanding your personal, financial finish line. The relationship between generosity and gratitude.Building a healthy and generous culture in your business.

    Key Takeaways:

    Success is about you, significance is about others. If God gave you the gift to make money, He gave you the gift to make money to be generous. Generosity is the fruit of gratitude.We are rarely good at our first attempt. Life requires self-accountability, practice, and persistence. Move forward doing the right things, for the right reasons, with the right motives.Give now. Give while you’re alive so you know where the money is going. If it is in your net worth, it is not worth anything to anybody else.Generosity is not tied to finances. If you aren’t giving now, you won’t give when you’re older.

    "Be very careful that you give in the right places…I want to give money where people's lives are being beautifully, incredibly changed." — John Maxwell

    Episode References:

    High Road Leadership Book & Online Course: https://store.maxwellleadership.com/products/copy-of-high-road-leadership-bringing-people-together-in-a-world-that-divides-five-book-bundle-including-online-course

    About John Maxwell: John C. Maxwell is a #1 New York Times bestselling author, speaker, coach and leader who has sold more than 34 million books in fifty languages. He is the founder of Maxwell Leadership® — the leadership development organization created to expand the reach of his principles of helping people lead powerful, positive change. Maxwell’s books and programs have been translated into 70 languages and have been used to train tens of millions of leaders in every nation. His work also includes that of the Maxwell Leadership Foundation and EQUIP, non-profit organizations that have impacted millions of adults and youth across the globe through values-based, people-centric leadership training.

    John has been recognized as the #1 leader in business by the American Management Association and as the world’s most influential leadership expert by both Business Insider and Inc. Magazine. He is a recipient of the Horatio Alger Award and the Mother Teresa Prize for Global Peace and Leadership from the Luminary Leadership Network.

    Maxwell and the work of Maxwell Leadership continue to influence individuals and organizations worldwide—from Fortune 500 CEOs and national leaders to entrepreneurs and the leaders of tomorrow. For more information about him and Maxwell Leadership, visit maxwellleadership.com.

    Connect with John Maxwell:

    Website: https://www.maxwellleadership.com/

    Books: https://store.maxwellleadership.com/collections/all-books

    Connect with Jeff Thomas:

    Website: https://www.arkosglobal.com/

    Podcast: https://www.generousbusinessowner.com/

    Book: https://www.arkosglobal.com/trading-up

    Email: [email protected]

    Twitter: https://twitter.com/ArkosGlobalAdv

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/arkosglobal/

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/arkosglobaladvisors

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/arkosglobaladvisors/

    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLUYpPwkHH7JrP6PrbHeBxw

  • Do you know the influence your donations are having?

    In this episode, Jeff, Jeff, and Brad discuss:

    Lessons learned from growing up with four dads.Reaching communities through fundraising.The meeting of non-profit organizations and for-profit organizations.Developing a system that shows appreciation for your donors.Filtering the organizations you are giving to.

    Key Takeaways:

    Love God, love people, and treat them well. God will put miracles in your path.Donors are not ATMs, they are partners. Invite the donors into the ministry with you.Business owners have resources - that is a power. Use that power appropriately. Treat your charitable giving like it is your business.Don’t be afraid to ask more. Be accountable to help people communicate properly about what is being done with God’s money.

    "As you take your kids to all these places, take them to visit the people that are transforming lives around the world, those are the adventures that will transform your family." — Brad Layland

    Episode References:

    A Spirituality of Fundraising by Henri Nouwen: henrinouwen.org/read/a-spirituality-of-fundraisingA Billion Bootstraps: businessasmission.com/resources/a-billion-bootstrapsThe Gathering: thegathering.com

    About Brad Layland: Brad Layland, Chief Executive Officer & Senior Consultant, first learned how to raise money as a college student in 1993, while seeking to raise personal support as a part-time staff member for Young Life. Over 20 years at Young Life, he developed his passion for and expertise in relational fundraising, to the point where he was asked to train other area directors around the country, and eventually became the Chief Development Officer for the entire organization.

    Brad joined The FOCUS Group in 2009 as a Senior Consultant and became the owner and CEO in 2010. In 2013, he launched the Taking Donors Seriously® e-learning and coaching program to make the firm’s expertise accessible to individuals and smaller nonprofits.

    Brad’s expertise providing high-level fundraising counsel to nonprofit organizations incorporates major donor strategies, training workshops, planned gift marketing, and capital campaign counsel. In recent years he has led capital campaigns for Dallas Theological Seminary, Intervarsity Christian Fellowship, Union Rescue Mission, The Bowery Mission, and Veritas School.

    Brad received his B.A. in Communications from the University of Florida and his M.A. in Theology from Fuller Theological Seminary. He and his wife, Wendy reside in St. Augustine, Florida and have four children. Brad enjoys running marathons, skiing, investing in real estate, entrepreneurship, and traveling with his family. Over the past 20 years, he has completed 50 marathons and recently completed two Ironman Triathlons.

    Brad is the founder of Endless Summer Realty, the largest residential real estate brokerage in St. Augustine, closing over $240 million in transactions in 2021. He is a founder and board member of Veritas Classical School, and launched an annual “Giving Day” in St. Augustine, which has become a platform for local nonprofits to raise hundreds of thousands of dollars and establish relationships with new donors. His entrepreneurial success has allowed Brad to experience the joy of generosity, and gain a special understanding of the mindset of a major donor.

    Connect with Brad Layland:

    Website: bradlayland.com

    The FOCUS Group: thefocusgroup.com

    Turning Donors Into Partners: donorsintopartners.com

    Podcast: podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/taking-donors-seriously-podcast/id769463284

    LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/bradlayland

    Connect with Jeff Thomas:

    Website: arkosglobal.com

    Podcast: generousbusinessowner.com

    Book: arkosglobal.com/trading-up

    Email: [email protected]

    X: x.com/ArkosGlobalAdv

    Facebook: facebook.com/arkosglobal

    LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/arkosglobaladvisors

    Instagram: instagram.com/arkosglobaladvisors

    YouTube: youtube.com/channel/UCLUYpPwkHH7JrP6PrbHeBxw

  • Are you willing to take an honest reevaluation of your life and business?

    In this episode, Jeff and Don discuss:

    Having mission at the heart of all of God’s people. Taking care of the Kingdom on Earth, not only in heaven.Changing your mindset to move beyond charity. Rewiring the household (economy) to distribute wealth to more people.

    Key Takeaways:

    To preach the gospel is to marry the fundamental challenges of the people you’re preaching to.You can’t have mission without church. If you are connected to God and His kingdom, you can view everything through innovation, abundance, and plenty, not scarcity and fear. You have the power to make a difference in your sphere. You do not need to leave business to have a Kingdom impact.

    "If you can fall in love with these new problems that you become aware of, that's pathways to innovation." — Don Golden

    About Don Golden: Don Golden is a humanitarian, pastor, and the founder of Just Capital Quotient (JCQ), a consultancy that helps thriving businesses become forces for good. After 30 years of working in the most challenging humanitarian contexts, Don is convinced that a new economy is what the world needs most. Don and JCQ are preaching this new economy, and their clients are listening and becoming more competitive and profitable.

    He is the co-author of Jesus Wants to Save Christians with Rob Bell. You may have

    seen him in the Huffington Post, the New York Times, CNN, or NPR. In addition to his

    work with JCQ, he is the chief impact officer at Threefold Private Equity.

    Connect with Don Golden:

    Website: https://www.justcapitalquotient.com/

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/just-capital-quotient/

    Connect with Jeff Thomas:

    Website: https://www.arkosglobal.com/

    Podcast: https://www.generousbusinessowner.com/

    Book: https://www.arkosglobal.com/trading-up

    Email: [email protected]

    Twitter: https://twitter.com/ArkosGlobalAdv

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/arkosglobal/

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/arkosglobaladvisors

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/arkosglobaladvisors/

    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLUYpPwkHH7JrP6PrbHeBxw

  • Where is your treasure? Where are your priorities? Are there any changes that need made to measure up to God’s priority?

    In this episode, Jeff and Joe discuss:

    Learning from a young age to organize life around the Kingdom of God.Helping Christians to think Christianly around work, wealth, and capital.Introducing God’s rest and peace into existence through our work.Using our wealth of restorative purposes for God’s purpose of reconciliation.Understanding the basic principle of tithing then experiencing the joy of radical generosity beyond that.

    Key Takeaways:

    The Earth and everything in it is the Lord's. We are stewards of His trust. We are administrators to advance His purposes by developing and cultivating the wealth that He has placed in creation through hard work and creativity.Love God and love your neighbor as yourself - the two great commandments. Are your financial priorities honoring those principles? Two of the Ten Commandments are dedicated to the issue of property and how we honor God and others with it.That begins to provide a basis and a foundation for thinking about property.You can only be disillusioned if you have illusions. If we make wealth an idol, it will be an empty promise and will never deliver.

    "We use our money, our wealth, for restorative purposes, to advance God's purpose of reconciling all things to Jesus Christ. That's bringing all things into obedience and submission." — Rev. Dr. Joseph Boot

    Episode References:

    Ezra Institute Podcast for Cultural Reformation: https://www.youtube.com/@ezrainstitutecc/podcasts

    About Joe Boot: Rev. Dr. Joseph Boot (M.A., Ph.D.) is a Christian thinker and cultural apologist, Founder and President of the Ezra Institute for Contemporary Christianity. He is an adjunct instructor for culture and apologetics at Bryan College, Tennessee. He also served as the founding pastor of Westminster Chapel, Toronto for 14 years.

    Connect with Joe Boot:

    Website: https://www.ezrainstitute.com/

    Twitter: https://x.com/DrJoeBoot

    Connect with Jeff Thomas:

    Website: https://www.arkosglobal.com/

    Podcast: https://www.generousbusinessowner.com/

    Book: https://www.arkosglobal.com/trading-up

    Email: [email protected]

    Twitter: https://twitter.com/ArkosGlobalAdv

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/arkosglobal/

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/arkosglobaladvisors

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/arkosglobaladvisors/

    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLUYpPwkHH7JrP6PrbHeBxw

  • How are you giving back to your community in a way that matters and has purpose?

    In this episode, Jeff, Jeff, and Ed discuss:

    The top 3 lessons Ed learned from his parents.Standing out with a world-class point of difference.The 5 Cs of running a successful, people-focused organization.Benefits and challenges of running a family business.Building service and generosity into your company.

    Key Takeaways:

    Learn to enjoy hard work and the value of it. It is a gift that will continue to bless you for your entire life.The only thing that separates one company from another is its people and its culture. Make it count.Family business can be precious and can give you more freedom in the marketplace, but it is a lot of work and requires a lot of love.Find time to spend time with your family that isn’t just work. Keep the communication open. Keep love at the front.

    "Leadership comes down to loving people. That's the key to thriving family business is making sure you're loving each other." — Ed Herr

    About Ed Herr: Ed Herr grew up working in his family’s snack food business. The son of the Company’s founders – the late James S. and Miriam (Hershey) Herr – Ed learned the importance of hard work and valuing people at a very early age. As Chairman and CEO of Herr Foods Incorporated, Ed is focusing his time on strategy, vision casting, and culture, and is committed to upholding the Herr Family tradition of offering customers the very best products and service in the industry. The Herr’s culture is one that cultivates a spirit of collaboration and appreciation for every individual. With over 1,500 employees throughout the mid-Atlantic region, Ed seeks to steadily grow the family business, while remaining true to the Company’s founding principles of honoring God and promoting service to others.

    An active supporter of his local community and beyond, Ed is passionate about giving back to people through service and philanthropy. He serves on the Board of several local non-profit organizations, including the Lighthouse Youth Center, Oxford Senior Center, and Oxford Mainstreet, Inc. He is a founding member and Director of SILO (Serving, Inspiring, and Loving Others), based in Oxford, PA. Ed also serves as Chairman Emeritus of City Relief (based in NY city) and the Council of the Navigators Church Discipleship Ministry, based in Colorado Springs.

    A lifelong resident and supporter of Nottingham, Pennsylvania. He has seven children, sixteen grandchildren, and one great-grandson. In 2019, Ed married Diane Rowe, formerly from Wilmington, DE. Ed and Diane enjoy family and friends and being active. They enjoy working on being their best and are grateful for the opportunities to give back to the people in their lives.

    Connect with Ed Herr:

    Website: https://www.herrs.com/

    Connect with Jeff Thomas:

    Website: https://www.arkosglobal.com/

    Podcast: https://www.generousbusinessowner.com/

    Book: https://www.arkosglobal.com/trading-up

    Email: [email protected]

    Twitter: https://twitter.com/ArkosGlobalAdv

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/arkosglobal/

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/arkosglobaladvisors

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/arkosglobaladvisors/

    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLUYpPwkHH7JrP6PrbHeBxw

  • Who are you surrendering to?

    In this episode, Jeff, Jeff, and Barry discuss:

    The gift of having a marriage of partnership.Changing the paradigm of how you think about work and life.Living a life of significance and a life that matters.The three things to invest in as you live your life in unity under God.The process and art of surrendering to God.

    Key Takeaways:

    The greatest gift of your marriage will be to have a shared surrender to Jesus.Business is the only institution that creates economic value, every other institution distributes it.The role of business in contributing to a better society happens in four major ways: 1) Responsible value creation. 2) Creating an environment for employees that enables them to grow into the full expression of themselves. 3) Serving customers because when we're serving customers or serving God. 4) Being a good corporate citizen.If you believe that God has a better path for your life than you do, give up your claim to Him.

    "If we can find meaning in every moment, then we will live meaningful lives." — Barry Rowan

    Episode References:

    Abandonment to Divine Providence by Jean-Pierre de Caussade: https://www.amazon.com/Abandonment-Divine-Providence-Jean-Pierre-Caussade/dp/1420926586

    About Author, Barry Rowan: From a range of C-suite roles, Barry Rowan, a Harvard Business School graduate, has been instrumental in building and transforming eight businesses, primarily in the technology and communications space. In addition, he serves on corporate, university, and nonprofit boards. Rowan and his wife, Linda, have two adult sons and live in Denver.

    Connect with Barry Rowan:

    Website: https://www.barrylrowan.com/

    Book: The Spiritual Art of Business: Connecting the Daily with the Divine: https://www.ivpress.com/the-spiritual-art-of-business

    Excerpt from Book: https://www.ivpress.com/Media/Default/Downloads/Excerpts-and-Samples/A0762-excerpt.pdf

    Press Kit: https://ivpress.com/Media/Default/Press-Kits/A0762-press.pdf

    Connect with Jeff Thomas:

    Website: https://www.arkosglobal.com/

    Podcast: https://www.generousbusinessowner.com/

    Book: https://www.arkosglobal.com/trading-up

    Email: [email protected]

    Twitter: https://twitter.com/ArkosGlobalAdv

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/arkosglobal/

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/arkosglobaladvisors

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/arkosglobaladvisors/

    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLUYpPwkHH7JrP6PrbHeBxw

  • What can you do to wear Christ on your sleeve a little bit more in your life and business?

    In this episode, Jeff and Kip discuss:

    Ministry in business. Learning the lessons of perseverance and trust in God. Living by values to sustain your life and your business with a strong foundation. Building your brand as a brand that cares at its core - caring about the people within your company, your community, your country, and your culture.

    Key Takeaways:

    God will allow us to serve Him even in our work. We can be in ministry in our businesses. Have a plan in place for your business. You don’t know what is going to happen. Understanding your purpose will help you honor God in your business. When planning your succession and transition in your organization, keep the company culture in mind, keep the lines of communication open, and give everybody involved a safe space to have input.

    "Anytime you understand what your purpose is, then your antennas go up, and you start listening more, and you start looking more." — Kip Miller

    About Kip Miller: Kip, from Greenville, is the principal owner of Eastern Industrial Supplies, Inc., a distributor of industrial pipe, valves, fittings, engineered products, fabrication and commercial plumbing supplies. He holds degrees from Anderson University and the University of South Carolina. He serves on various nonprofit, business, and institutional boards. Kip has been married to his wife, Kim, for 46 years. They enjoy spending time with their three adult children, their spouses, and nine grandchildren.

    Connect with Kip Miller:

    Website: https://www.easternfirst.com/

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kip-miller/

    Connect with Jeff Thomas:

    Website: https://www.arkosglobal.com/

    Podcast: https://www.generousbusinessowner.com/

    Book: https://www.arkosglobal.com/trading-up

    Email: [email protected]

    Twitter: https://twitter.com/ArkosGlobalAdv

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/arkosglobal/

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/arkosglobaladvisors

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/arkosglobaladvisors/

    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLUYpPwkHH7JrP6PrbHeBxw

  • What are you doing with God’s whispers?

    In this episode, Jeff, Jeff, and Bob discuss:

    Growing up in the family business from greenhouses to fragrance.Willing to try, willing to fail. Integrating business, family, and faith. Building your business with a pastor’s heart.

    Key Takeaways:

    Growth never occurs in a straight line. It is easy to write a check. It is harder to be deeply engaged and enter into the story of another. God has called us to be salt and light - in our businesses, we can create opportunities for our employees, supplies, and customers to taste and see the goodness of God. God is guiding our steps even when we can’t see where he is leading us. The greatest thing you’ll ever steward is God’s whispers.

    "As someone is kind of struggling through, ‘how do I shape culture’ and wanting to do it in a very gospel-centered way, I'd lean into those three principles: How do I intentionally foster a sense of dependence? How do I practice gleaning in a modern sense in my business? How do I listen and what do I do with those whispers?" — Bob Caldwell Jr.

    Episode References:

    Practicing the King’s Economy: Honoring Jesus in How We Work, Earn, Spend, Save, and Give by Michael Rhodes, Robby Holt, and Brian Fikkert: https://www.amazon.com/Practicing-Kings-Economy-Honoring-Jesus/dp/0801075742Strong and Weak: Embracing a Life of Love, Risk and True Flourishing by Andy Crouch: https://www.amazon.com/Strong-Weak-Embracing-Life-Flourishing/dp/0830844430

    About Bob Caldwell Jr.: Bob Caldwell, Jr. is President of Grace Management Group, a family owned business founded in 1975. Grace Management Group operates a portfolio of brands and vertically integrated businesses within the fragrance and home décor industries, including Greenleaf, Votivo, Bridgewater Candle Company, The WillowBrook Company, BMC Manufacturing, Notes Candles, Aroma Creations, and Audrey’s. The company operates in Spartanburg, South Carolina; Lebanon, Pennsylvania; and an Asia sourcing office in mainland China.

    Bob is a graduate of Wheaton College. He currently serves on the boards of the Greenleaf Foundation and Grace Cares Foundation. He is actively involved in international orphan care, adoption, and foster care efforts; anti-human trafficking efforts; and fostering a redemptive entrepreneurial perspective.

    Bob and his wife, Sarah, have six children, and one grandchild. They live in Spartanburg, South Carolina.

    Connect with Bob Caldwell Jr.:

    Website: https://www.gracemg.com/

    Website: https://votivo.com/

    Website: https://bridgewatercandles.com/

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bob-caldwell-jr-42b99157

    Connect with Jeff Thomas:

    Website: https://www.arkosglobal.com/

    Podcast: https://www.generousbusinessowner.com/

    Book: https://www.arkosglobal.com/trading-up

    Email: [email protected]

    Twitter: https://twitter.com/ArkosGlobalAdv

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/arkosglobal/

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/arkosglobaladvisors

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/arkosglobaladvisors/

    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLUYpPwkHH7JrP6PrbHeBxw

  • How can you minimize the regrets in your life in God’s kingdom?

    In this episode, Jeff, Jeff, and Isaiah discuss:

    Lessons learned from youthful entrepreneurial endeavors.Creating a spiritually healthy work environment.Hiring the right people for the job.Giving generously while still building your company to better help others.

    Key Takeaways:

    When you hire, hire the right person for the job, remain humble, and learn from those who know more than you do. You cannot know everything.Earn as much as you can, save as much as you can, and give as much as you can.Live your life in a way that you have no regrets when you meet God on the other side.Continue to learn. You’re nothing without God.

    "My number one motivation is to be in God's perfect will. And so that when I get to the other side, I can say, I have the minimum amount of regrets in my life, and say that I did my best to serve God to the best of my ability, and also be able to help as many other people along his life journey." — Isaiah Fritz

    Episode References:

    EOS: https://www.eosworldwide.com/Voice of God Recordings: https://branham.org/home

    About Isaiah Fritz: Founder of KGF Homes & more recently JubileeHomes.com

    Building starter homes with my grandpa here in Indiana. We are doing all we can to help the Kingdom of God through our lives and business!

    Connect with Isaiah Fritz:

    Website: https://jubileehomes.com/

    Website: https://kgfhomes.com/

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/isaiah-fritz/

    Connect with Jeff Thomas:

    Website: https://www.arkosglobal.com/

    Podcast: https://www.generousbusinessowner.com/

    Book: https://www.arkosglobal.com/trading-up

    Email: [email protected]

    Twitter: https://twitter.com/ArkosGlobalAdv

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/arkosglobal/

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/arkosglobaladvisors

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/arkosglobaladvisors/

    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLUYpPwkHH7JrP6PrbHeBxw

  • How are you growing in intimacy with Christ as an individual, family, and community?

    In this episode, Jeff, Jeff, Mart, and Tyler discuss:

    The generosity of women in the family.The privilege of traveling and experiencing other cultures and peoples. Collaboration to go faster and further together. Power in unity, person-to-person, life-to-life connections.

    Key Takeaways:

    Work is more than just what you do, it's who you are and applying that.Invite your children along the journey to be on mission as a family. Encourage them to also find their passions, make connections, and open relationships to them so they can see different pathways for their gifts to bless others.As you get closer to your city, your calling gets larger and larger. Satan always attacks at the point of unity. It is a hard battle, but it is worth fighting for.

    "I can't just be a gospel patron. I also have to be a gospel proclaimer, and I expect the gospel proclaimers to be gospel patrons and be generous themselves." — Mart Green

    Episode References:

    Rooting for Rivals by Peter Greer: https://www.peterkgreer.com/rooting-for-rivals/He Gets Us: https://hegetsus.com/

    About Mart Green: Mart Green is the Ministry Investment Officer for Hobby Lobby and the founder of Mardel Christian and Education Supply stores. His retail career began with his parents, who founded Hobby Lobby in their home. They now have over 1000 stores in 48 states. Mart is the Board Chair of Come and See, a foundation whose goal is to increase the impact of The Chosen by expanding its reach to the largest 600 languages in the world. Mart and his wife, Diana, are also leading champions of illumiNations, an alliance of Bible Translation partners, working to eradicate Bible poverty by 2033. Mart and Diana live in Oklahoma. They have four children and thirteen grandchildren.

    Connect with Mart Green:

    Website: https://www.comeandseefoundation.org/

    Website: https://illuminations.bible/

    Website: https://www.mardel.com/

    Website: https://www.hobbylobby.com/

    About Tyler Green: Tyler is an intentional creator of opportunities leading to communion and community. He is a builder of relational networks, focused on people-centered and community-formed co-creation. He works to help people move from isolation into togetherness and from competition into cooperation.

    He is a co-founder of Flourish OKC, a collaborative/creative platform, guided by a desire to see Oklahoma City realized as a city where all flourish.

    As a true community connector, Tyler has had the privilege of serving and living with an urban missional community in downtown OKC, working abroad for a year with International Justice Mission in Cambodia, and continues to engage as a community catalyst alongside his extended family, representing Hobby Lobby in the areas of culture and community engagement.

    Tyler finds life being outdoors, exploring, and finding new cultural spaces, both as an individual adventurer and amidst his family and friends. He is joyfully married to his wife, Kristin, and celebrates his five amazing children, Asher, Isla, Juniper, Jed, and Greyson.

    Connect with Tyler Green:

    Website: https://www.flourishokc.com/

    Connect with Jeff Thomas:

    Website: https://www.arkosglobal.com/

    Podcast: https://www.generousbusinessowner.com/

    Book: https://www.arkosglobal.com/trading-up

    Email: [email protected]

    Twitter: https://twitter.com/ArkosGlobalAdv

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/arkosglobal/

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/arkosglobaladvisors

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/arkosglobaladvisors/

    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLUYpPwkHH7JrP6PrbHeBxw

  • Are you giving time in your life to listen to God speak to you and share His love with others?

    In this episode, Jeff and Lin discuss:

    Growing up a stone’s throw from the family business and learning the business from a young age. Seeing God’s hand in the twists and turns of your life. Maintaining and preserving company culture at 800 employees. Handling the ups and downs of running a smorgasbord during recessions and global pandemics. Leaning on your community in times of struggle.

    Key Takeaways:

    Everyone has different talents, dreams, and passions that God has given them. Support your children, family, and friends as they find their way in God’s path for them. Know how to do every job in your company - this will allow you to better hire and better lead. Protect your culture at all costs, especially as it grows. Not everyone needs to have the same faith, but they should have the same values when at work. Use the hard times to focus on those things you do well and have the courage to release that which isn’t doing well for your business.

    "No matter how good we are, we're gonna make mistakes…just learn from it, excel from it, and put your faith in God and somehow it’s going to bless others, or turn out well. We might not see it in our lifetime, but it will happen." — Linford Weaver

    Episode References:

    High Performance Habits by Brendan Burchard: https://www.amazon.com/High-Performance-Habits-Extraordinary-People/dp/1401952852

    About Linford Weaver: Lin Weaver and his wife, Bernice, along with their four children, Lindsey, Collin, Branson, and Aubrey, live in East Earl PA. Lin is a son of Marvin and Miriam.

    Lin is an Owner and CEO at Shady Maple Companies. These business interests include a Farmers Market/Supermarket, Smorgasbord/gift shop, RV dealership, Houston Run Development, and Weaver Realty Investment Properties. He has over 35 years of experience working and growing the businesses at Shady Maple in all the different entities. He has been part of the Shady Maple team that grew the company into the largest Supermarket in Pa. and the largest buffet in the USA. Lastly, he is an entrepreneur at heart and enjoys involvement in many personal investments, and startup businesses alongside his daily full-time involvement in Shady Maple.

    Lin grew up in Lancaster PA, graduated from a private high school, and has participated in yearly educational academic classes, seminars, and trade shows in congruency with his learning culture.

    Lin’s drive and success in business is fueled by his passion to serve. He serves on school, church, and missionary boards. He has a deep desire to help people by adding value to them. He has a strong desire to influence culture through church, school, business, and politics. He believes true joy comes from a generous heart.

    On a personal note, Lin loves spending time with his family. He has been married to Bernice for 26 years. His family is active in Church, community, and sports. Skiing, racquetball, traveling, and spearfishing are some things he enjoys. He has been blessed with the incredible opportunity to take missionary trips to many different parts of the world. His goal is that each day is purposeful and the kingdom of heaven is advanced.

    Connect with Linford Weaver:

    Website: https://www.shady-maple.com/

    Connect with Jeff Thomas:

    Website: https://www.arkosglobal.com/

    Podcast: https://www.generousbusinessowner.com/

    Book: https://www.arkosglobal.com/trading-up

    Email: [email protected]

    Twitter: https://twitter.com/ArkosGlobalAdv

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/arkosglobal/

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/arkosglobaladvisors

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/arkosglobaladvisors/

    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLUYpPwkHH7JrP6PrbHeBxw

  • Are you saying ‘yes’ to the right things or the wrong things?

    In this episode, Jeff, Jeff, and Nate discuss:

    Nate’s transition from growing up in Indiana to building waterfront homes in Florida. Leading in business and leading in ministry. Diving roles and bringing in outsiders in a family business. Separating leadership from ownership.

    Key Takeaways:

    Be open to all opportunities - you never know the connections God will put in your life when you are open to serving, especially in the intersection of business and ministry. Consider your company’s mission as a statement that everyone can live by, such as Potter Home’s tagline: A Potter Home is built by our family, for your family, for the good of families in need.You cannot do it all alone. The yeses you say outside of the home, are nos that you say inside the home.

    Keep it simple, focused, and relational.

    "If you have a heart for the Lord and heart for Jesus, hopefully, it's oozing out and influencing that you do." — Nate Johnson

    Episode References:

    Lifesong for Orphans: https://lifesong.org/Harbor Network: https://www.harbornetwork.com/

    About Nate Johnson: Nate Johnson is the President & CEO of Potter Homes and has been deeply connected with Southwest Florida and its growth for over the last 15 years. Potter Homes is a high-end waterfront real estate developer with a portfolio of work all through the coast of Southwest Florida.

    Although Nate officially started his professional career in real estate development and construction management while attending Ball State University in Muncie, Indiana, his involvement in the industry began much earlier. Growing up with his father working in the construction industry, they’d frequently visit job sites together and Nate quickly learned that he thoroughly enjoyed the components of design and creation that go into real estate and development.

    Nate cares deeply about the local church and has been involved in ministry efforts with Lifesong for Orphans, Harbor Network, and his local church Summit Church for over 15 years.

    Nate’s goal is to have an integrated life, seeing all of his relationships, work, and service bring Glory to God while leading his family and seeing his kids flourish.

    Connect with Nate Johnson:

    Website: https://potter-homes.com/

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/potter.homes/

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nate-johnson-1642628b/

    Connect with Jeff Thomas:

    Website: https://www.arkosglobal.com/

    Podcast: https://www.generousbusinessowner.com/

    Book: https://www.arkosglobal.com/trading-up

    Email: [email protected]

    Twitter: https://twitter.com/ArkosGlobalAdv

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/arkosglobal/

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/arkosglobaladvisors

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/arkosglobaladvisors/

    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLUYpPwkHH7JrP6PrbHeBxw

  • Who are the unseen individuals in your life? How can they be acknowledged or encouraged?

    In this episode, Jeff and Roger discuss:

    Learning from parents as they invited others into their home and cared for people from a young age.Coming out of a struggle with self-confidence. Starting and exiting family businesses, then using that experience to help others. Broadening the generosity and capital pallet.

    Key Takeaways:

    God always answers our prayers, but He doesn’t always answer them in the way we are expecting Him to. When we are frustrated with others, it is often us that is the problem, not the other person. Transitions are not running from something, they are running towards something new. Let God lead as you’re making those transitions. There are many different forms of generosity. God has put different skills, talents, and resources into each of our hands. Don’t let the bad thoughts make nests in your mind.

    "I don't ever regret leaving. I know God's in it, and I know God has me right where I'm supposed to be." — Roger Garber

    About Roger Garber: Roger grew up on a family farm in Lancaster County, PA where faith and family were an integral part of his childhood. He became a partner with his father and brother in the family’s agriculture business in 1988. Over the next 20+ years, Roger, alongside his brother and nephew, transformed the company from an enterprise that raised animals, crops and manufactured feed, to a thriving bulk transportation company with storage facilities, and a joint venture truck and trailer consignment auction. Roger recognizes his father as influential in shaping his view of faith, generosity, and leadership.

    Upon leaving the family businesses in 2012, Roger joined North Group Consultants, an organizational health and leadership development company. His 25+ years of experience in his family’s businesses have contributed to his wealth of knowledge in finance, IT, agriculture, transportation, storage, consignment auctions, and family business dynamics.

    Roger is an avid networker, bicycling enthusiast, follower of Jesus Christ, and church volunteer. One of Roger’s greatest joys is spending time with his wife, Patti, and their four children, and eight grandchildren, soon to be 10 grandchildren with twins due to arrive in January.

    Roger’s life mission and purpose:

    To strengthen marriages, families, organizations & friendships by showing Christ’s love in my relationships and life.

    “Helping the unseen to be seen” with the Holy Spirit’s direction and help.

    Connect with Roger Garber:

    Website: https://northgroupconsultants.com/

    Email: [email protected]

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/garberroger/

    Work: 717-299-9800 ext 2010

    Mobile: 717-587-2112

    Find out more about LifeCycles:

    Using bicycles to point boys and girls to Jesus Christ"Building Young Men and Women of Character" for the last 10 yearshttps://www.lifecyclesteam.org/Contact LifeCycles Executive Director: Dr. Lee DeRemer at 717-586-2711 for more info.

    Roger traveled with six other leaders and eight boys ages 15-17 on an 8-day 350-mile adventure from July 27 to August 3, 2024. On our final day, everyone rode up White Face Mountain in the Adirondacks.

    Read the Blog of their trip here: https://findpenguins.com/12nq91f9cy9dv/trip/lifecycles-adk-2024-ride?sort=ASC

    Connect with Jeff Thomas:

    Website: https://www.arkosglobal.com/

    Podcast: https://www.generousbusinessowner.com/

    Book: https://www.arkosglobal.com/trading-up

    Email: [email protected]

    Twitter: https://twitter.com/ArkosGlobalAdv

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/arkosglobal/

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/arkosglobaladvisors

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/arkosglobaladvisors/

    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLUYpPwkHH7JrP6PrbHeBxw

  • Where do you turn when you have been knocked to your knees?

    In this episode, Jeff, Jeff, Bob, and Peter discuss:

    Beginning an entrepreneurial journey as a 5th-grade loan shark and a middle school bookie.How parents and grandparents inform family values. Planting the seeds of giving back from a young age. Painful honesty in times of feast and famine.

    Key Takeaways:

    You can learn anything that you put your mind to. Don’t be afraid to take big risks, lean into your support community, and take a chance. Make mistakes. Learn from those mistakes. Keep pushing forward. Often, failure sets you up for something even greater.Everything you learn is worthwhile. You never know what you’re going to be able to use in the future. Giving is about more than writing a check. Find something that matters to you and give of your time, talent, and love.

    "Start paying attention to what brings you joy. I would guarantee just writing checks to a big charitable organization without seeing the impact is not going to bring you joy." — Peter Fioretti

    Episode References:

    HOPE International: https://www.hopeinternational.org/

    About Peter Fioretti: Peter Fioretti is the Founder and CEO of Mountain Funding, as well as The Fioretti Family Foundation. He has 35+ years of owning and managing several real estate investment and development companies, investing over $3B equity. Mountain invests equity, and shares relationships, strategies, and advice with these companies over a long-term horizon, to significantly increase their growth and success.

    Peter leads The Fioretti Family Foundation, using his entrepreneurial vision, relationships, and capital to support sustainable programs striving to make a significant social impact. This Foundation primarily serves underprivileged kids in education, jobs, healthcare & housing; it also supercharges careers for real estate and entrepreneurial students and young leaders. Mr. Fioretti started his career as a developer of urban properties in Hoboken, NJ.

    Peter enjoys extreme adventures including mountain climbing, hiking, diving, and biking. Peter recently married his love, Heidi, and they live in Charlotte, NC, and Miami, FL. His two children, Peter Jr. and Arianna, are young adults starting their careers in Charlotte and NYC.

    About Bob Fioretti: Bob co-founded Mountain Funding with brother Peter in 1993 and has been investing with him for 35 years. Together they have started 9 companies. In addition to being a real estate investor, Bob has been a “Business/Success Coach,” author, keynote speaker, and owner of Infinite Possibilities. In 2009 Bob’s wisdom around success gave him the opportunity to co-author a book with Stephen Covey, Brian Tracy, and Ken Blanchard called, Discovering Your Inner Strength.

    Since 2012, Bob has consulted with the Mountain team on their national expansion, and corporate culture of excellence, sharing best practices amongst their regional offices and partners, networking with the industry’s top professionals along with the family’s philanthropic giving.

    Bob lives in Napa, CA with his soulmate, Tina of 24 years. Bob enjoys traveling, winemaking, tequila, learning, laughing, staying healthy, and living life to the fullest. In 2018, he and Pete became one of the first 500+/- people in the world to trek to the North Pole and the first ones to arrive that year.

    Connect with Bob & Peter Fioretti:

    Website: https://www.mountainfunding.com/

    Connect with Jeff Thomas:

    Website: https://www.arkosglobal.com/

    Podcast: https://www.generousbusinessowner.com/

    Book: https://www.arkosglobal.com/trading-up

    Email: [email protected]

    Twitter: https://twitter.com/ArkosGlobalAdv

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/arkosglobal/

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/arkosglobaladvisors

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/arkosglobaladvisors/

    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLUYpPwkHH7JrP6PrbHeBxw

  • How are you embracing your current situation to learn and lift where you are?

    In this episode, Jeff and Mike discuss:

    Trying different things while searching for your calling. Taking time while away to evaluate priorities and values. Turning to God in the windfalls of our life. Your work in business is a high calling.

    Key Takeaways:

    Run your business with a stewardship mentality. Everything belongs to God, He is there in the highs and the lows of business. Business is about the people, not the product. Hold on loosely, value people, and give them opportunities to advance even if they don’t stay. If you’re doing what’s best for your people, ultimately, you’re doing what’s best for your business. Ministry is not the only high calling in life. Your high calling may be in business and helping others reach their high callings. Embrace where you are at and invest in those around you.

    "Those of us who have faith in Christ know that our finances aren't our own. Sometimes we don't translate that, and I've been guilty of this, over to the business side of things." — Mike Towers

    About Mike Towers: Mike Towers is a dedicated professional, community leader, and servant-hearted individual who is committed to making a positive impact in the lives of his employees and the Lancaster community. As an owner and operator of GSM Industrial, a local steel fabrication and mechanical contracting business, Mike has earned a reputation for his integrity, leadership, and unwavering dedication.

    A proud resident of Lancaster, Pennsylvania, Mike's journey began by working during the summers for his dad, Jim Towers, founder of GSM Industrial. Not intending to be involved long term with the family business he pursued an education in Industrial Design at Thomas Jefferson University. This foundation has propelled him into various leadership roles inside and outside of GSM, where he has consistently demonstrated his ability to inspire others and drive meaningful change.

    Mike's commitment to the community extends beyond his professional endeavors. As an elder and respected leader at Community Fellowship Church, he plays a vital role in guiding and nurturing the spiritual well-being of his fellow congregants. His wisdom, compassion, and strong moral compass make him a trusted advisor and mentor within the church community.

    In addition to his service at the church, he is a DIY home renovation project enthusiast, a fan of Philly sports, and most of all a grateful husband and father. His family finds joy in outdoor adventures and excursions. Whether with his kids, in the boardroom, or within the community, Mike's mentoring philosophy emphasizes teamwork, compassion, and the pursuit of excellence.

    Connect with Mike Towers:

    Website: https://www.gsmindustrial.com/

    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/gsmindustrial

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/gsm-industrial/

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gsm_industrial/

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063637358864

    Connect with Jeff Thomas:

    Website: https://www.arkosglobal.com/

    Podcast: https://www.generousbusinessowner.com/

    Book: https://www.arkosglobal.com/trading-up

    Email: [email protected]

    Twitter: https://twitter.com/ArkosGlobalAdv

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/arkosglobal/

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/arkosglobaladvisors

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/arkosglobaladvisors/

    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLUYpPwkHH7JrP6PrbHeBxw

  • Do you know where your giving is going? Is it going somewhere where it can be 100Xed?

    In this episode, Jeff, Jeff, and Kip discuss:

    Kip’s earliest entrepreneurial ventures in bubble gum sales and water skiing and how they impacted his professional career. Building a mission of faith and family. Using food to help your team connect and show support. Giving with impact and intentionality.

    Key Takeaways:

    Surround yourself with more talent. Everyone has different strengths and will lend their expertise to your gold medal performances. Life is about more than a 7 to 7 grind. Build a work culture around faith and family and you attract those who believe in that same culture. In any endeavor, if you’re doing it right, being thoughtful, and you’re doing what you say you’re going to do, it has a way of growing.Business is easier than the strategy of giving - you’ll want to be thoughtful, intentional, and focused on doing it the right way.Nothing is more important than having an open mind and heart and being open to continued education.

    "For me, I like to measure results. You want to make certain that however you're giving, that you have tangible evidence that it is doing good and, ideally, it's 100xing, and that you're helping people that help other people or organizations." — Kip Sowden

    Episode References:

    Halftime Institute: https://halftimeinstitute.org/A Billion Bootstraps by Phil Smith and Eric Thurman: https://www.amazon.com/Billion-Bootstraps-Microcredit-Barefoot-Business/dp/0071489975

    About Kip Sowden: Mr. Sowden has over 37 years of experience in commercial real estate with a strong background in real estate brokerage and mortgage banking, acquisition, development, and asset management. He has been active in sales of more than 20 million square feet of commercial real estate and over 50,000 apartment units throughout the United States.

    Mr. Sowden has also been involved in the financing of over $8 Billion in commercial real estate loans. He has brokered the sale of over $10 billion in commercial real estate transactions on behalf of some of the largest institutional owners in the United States. Mr. Sowden has acquired, developed, and renovated over 5 billion in commercial real estate to include retail, office, multi-family, and hospitality throughout the Southwestern and the Southeastern United States.

    Mr. Sowden is responsible for the overall direction of RREAF Holdings and RREAF’s subsidiary companies including strategic planning for all growth areas of the Company to include but not be limited to, its development, acquisitions, property, and asset management programs as well as the development and implementation of commercial real estate funds.

    Mr. Sowden graduated in 1985 with a degree in Economics from the University of Texas at Austin. Mr. Sowden served more than 10 years on The Chancellor’s Council Executive Committee at The University of Texas at Austin. He has maintained an active Texas Real Estate Brokers License for the past 39 years.

    Connect with Kip Sowden & RREAF Holdings:

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kip-sowden-08503319/

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sowdenkip/

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kip.sowden/

    Website: https://rreaf.com/

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rreaf_holdings/

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063856672606

    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@rreafholdings

    Vimeo: https://vimeo.com/rreafholdings

    Connect with Jeff Thomas:

    Website: https://www.arkosglobal.com/

    Podcast: https://www.generousbusinessowner.com/

    Book: https://www.arkosglobal.com/trading-up

    Email: [email protected]

    Twitter: https://twitter.com/ArkosGlobalAdv

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/arkosglobal/

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/arkosglobaladvisors

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/arkosglobaladvisors/

    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLUYpPwkHH7JrP6PrbHeBxw