Generous Business Owner

If you had to write your one paragraph, what would your paragraph say?In this episode, Jeff and Brent discuss: The structure and benefits of having a B Corp.Why you may want to run a B Corp business.The legal requirement of filing and displaying your public benefit.Finding growth in the process of writing and identifying your purpose.  Key Takeaways: The public benefit of a B Corp can be educational, social, environmental, or religious.One of the benefits of knowing you have a religious public benefit, you know what your purpose and products must all point back to, without question.The world is not shy about pushing its views on people. Don't be shy about showing the world what you believe.Wake up to the situations of the world, and stand up for what you believe.  "The least you can do is state your values and try to live them out." —  Brent Dusing About Brent Dusing: Brent Dusing is the CEO and founder of TruPlay, a gaming platform created to bring high-quality, fun, and biblically sound entertainment to audiences worldwide. An entrepreneur at heart, Dusing pioneered game creation with Christian content through Lightside Games, a Christian gaming studio reaching more than 7 million game players worldwide and resulting in 25,000 decisions for Christ. As the founder and CEO of Cellfire, Dusing created the nation's leading mobile coupon company, used today at grocers like Safeway and Kroger, and led Catalina Marketing to acquire Cellfire for $108 million. He began his career as a venture capitalist at Menlo Ventures, where he sourced multiple nine-figure exits and generated top-quartile returns. Over his career, Dusing has been featured on CNN, Fox News, ABC News, The Wall Street Journal, The New York Times, USA Today, Entertainment Weekly, and other news media. Dusing has a bachelor's degree in economics from Harvard University.About TruPlay: TruPlay is reaching families around the world with high-quality entertainment products that encompass God's Truth. TruPlay is building games, digital comics, video content, and Web 3.0 content to bring light to a world in need of God's love, hope, and truth. TruPlay's platform launches in 2023. TruPlay is a team of dozens of industry veterans with deep expertise in games, storytelling, animation, entertainment, and technology, who are committed to seeing the betterment of children around the world. For more information, visit truplaygames.com. Connect with TruPlay and Brent Dusing:Website: https://www.truplaygames.com/Discord: https://discord.com/invite/truplayYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCutwcoaalmdoIoxaZ2coQhALinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/truplay/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brentdusing/Twitter: https://twitter.com/TruplayGamesInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/truplaygames/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/truplaygames/  Connect with Jeff Thomas: Website: https://www.arkosglobal.com/Podcast: https://www.generousbusinessowner.com/Book: https://www.arkosglobal.com/trading-upEmail: jeff.thomas@arkosglobal.comTwitter: https://twitter.com/ArkosGlobalAdvFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/arkosglobal/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/arkosglobaladvisorsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/arkosglobaladvisors/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLUYpPwkHH7JrP6PrbHeBxw

Are you planning for the Kingdom or the world? In this episode, Jeff and Cale discuss: Thinking about your financial estate plan from a different angle.Planning your giving before you die.Generous giving as a family with a non-traditional framework of giving.The top five questions are frequently asked by generous business owners.  Key Takeaways: The three key questions: How much is enough for us? How much is enough for the kids? What do we do with the rest?There is value in community and in having like-minded advisors as you write your estate plans.You should have a financial finish line written down. You should also be on the same page as your spouse with that finish line and what is happening with any excess.It's not about the balance sheet or the barn, it is about what God tells you and your spouse to do.Write a blessing letter to your children - write why you love them, what sticks out to you about their lives, about seeing God's hand in their lives, and more. Update it over the years.  "God doesn't care about how many talents you have. What He cares is what you do with them." —  Cale Dowell About Cale Dowell: After diving deep into the hurdles clients face when picking a financial partner, Cale determined that financial advice should offer more than just managing a portfolio. He left Morgan Stanley to help launch Arkos and “Rebuild Wall Street” by creating a paradigm shift in the way the wealth management industry serves and impacts people. His passion is rooted in the mission to help families thrive across generations.Cale is a published thought leader in vulnerability analysis and risk mitigation. He is the creator of Wealth Languages™, a captivating public speaker, and has consulted with many of the world's largest corporations. His diverse experience spans technology, commercial real estate, O&G, private equity, and startups. Cale spends an inordinate amount of time igniting contagious, positive environments and investing in relationships… because culture devours strategy for breakfast. After graduating from Baylor University, Cale tied the knot with his Aggie sweetheart, Lynne, and now calls Houston home with their two little ones. They are actively involved in their church and Young Life, where Cale has served for over 15 years. He is a 40 under 40 recipient, actively contributes to several non-profit boards, and is a 7th-generation Texan. Not surprisingly, he is just as stubborn about Texas as you would imagine. Connect with Cale Dowell:Website: https://www.arkosglobal.com/Email: cale.dowell@arkosglobal.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/caledowell/  Connect with Jeff Thomas: Website: https://www.arkosglobal.com/Podcast: https://www.generousbusinessowner.com/Book: https://www.arkosglobal.com/trading-upEmail: jeff.thomas@arkosglobal.comTwitter: https://twitter.com/ArkosGlobalAdvFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/arkosglobal/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/arkosglobaladvisorsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/arkosglobaladvisors/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLUYpPwkHH7JrP6PrbHeBxw

How are you giving others the opportunity to participate in your journey of generosity? In this episode, Jeff, Jeff, and Matt discuss: Desiring to do more and seeing God's blessings in life's challenges.Being willing to take risks and do anything necessary. Balancing life priorities with growing a business. Encouraging employees and family to engage in generosity and giving. Doing the work with God, not on your own.  Key Takeaways: Growing your business is important, but not more important than your faith, your family, and your health. When those are going well, your business will grow.Get into peer groups and mentorships as soon as you can. Even when opportunities are given to you, they do require work. When you can give back, share opportunities with others. Look for opportunities to give that are unique to your business and position.   "Balance - work towards it as early on in your career as you possibly can. You won't regret it. The work, the customer relationships, it will all take care of itself if you can focus and get your priorities straight and work on your faith, your relationships with your family, and with your spouse in particular." —  Matthew Hiltz About Matthew Hiltz: Matthew Hiltz is the Founder/CEO of Hiltz Propane Systems, Inc. in Marietta, PA. They provide turnkey propane system solutions for bulk storage, commercial, industrial, and agricultural applications. Hailing from Nova Scotia, Canada, Matt Hiltz is a mechanical engineer with 20 years of experience in the propane industry. He started Hiltz Propane Systems in 2011 and has seen the company grow to 50 employees who primarily service the Eastern half of the U.S. with opportunities expanding across the country. Matt and his family are active members of LCBC Church and frequently support the community with their time and resources. Matt, his wife Margaret, and their 3 children live in Manheim, PA. Connect with Matthew Hiltz:Website: https://www.hiltzpropanesystems.com/   Connect with Jeff Thomas: Website: https://www.arkosglobal.com/Podcast: https://www.generousbusinessowner.com/Book: https://www.arkosglobal.com/trading-upEmail: jeff.thomas@arkosglobal.comTwitter: https://twitter.com/ArkosGlobalAdv Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/arkosglobal/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/arkosglobaladvisorsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/arkosglobaladvisors/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLUYpPwkHH7JrP6PrbHeBxw

Are you listening when God speaks? Are you going where He sends you? In this episode, Jeff and Terry discuss: Keeping in touch and maintaining lifetime friends.Seeing God's hand in the paths of our lives.Hearing God's voice and acting on our promises with Him.Business as a platform for faith.  Key Takeaways: If you listen and obey, everything God touches will turn to gold. It won't be through your power, it will be through Him.You don't need to be perfect. God will meet us where we are and work with who we are.God is the owner of everything - our time, our talent, and our treasures.Serve God and He will lead you where you need to go. Start with faith, act in obedience, and be amazed at where He takes you.  "Get into the habit of every day asking God for direction and obeying those instructions. Then watch what happens, because I'm telling you, everywhere He leads you will turn into gold." —  Terry Trayvick Episode References:When Dreams Are Disrupted: A Story of God's Faithfulness by Sandy Ramsey - https://www.amazon.com/When-Dreams-Are-Disrupted-Faithfulness-ebook/dp/B0D9DV4SGT About Terry Trayvick: Terry Trayvick is a seasoned business strategy and transformation leader with over 40 years of experience in the automotive, consumer goods, printing, housing, health care, food, and private funding industries. Terry has earned the respect of global leaders for his ability to align organizations to deliver exceptional results.Terry is the founder and leader of Level Five, LLC (a strategy and execution company focused on helping companies go from good to great) and 5th Level Capital (a private funding company focused on debt and equity investments in the real estate industry). He is co-owner, with his wife Sandy, of Trayvick Private Investments and Trayvick Model Homes. And Terry is co-owner, with his daughters, of Trayvick SFA (a company focused on building multi-family housing in the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex).Prior to becoming an entrepreneur, Terry spent 20 years in corporate America. In several executive positions.  Terry was the Global President of R.R. Donnelley Financial, a $1 billion business unit. Terry led a diverse team consisting of 5,000 people in 40 locations around the world and spearheaded a transformation that grew market share and improved profitability by $80MM in three years. Prior to the role of Global President, Terry was the Senior Vice President of Strategy for R.R. Donnelley's $5 billion Print Solutions Group. Earlier in his career, Terry held several executive finance positions at R.R. Donnelley, Sara Lee, and Procter and Gamble, and several operations roles at General Motors.Terry is Chairman of the board for Water.org, a board member of Emacx Systems, and Vice Chairman of the Board of Trustees for the 9000 member Christ Church in Montclair and Rockaway, New Jersey.  Terry's hobbies include playing golf, spending time with family and friends, traveling, and working out.  Terry grew up in Dayton, Ohio, lives in Montclair, NJ, has three adult children, and has been married to his wife, Sandy, for over 34 years. Terry has a B.S. in Industrial Management from the University of Cincinnati and an MBA in Finance and Marketing from Columbia Business School. Connect with Terry Trayvick:Website: https://www.5thlevelcapital.com/  Connect with Jeff Thomas: Website: https://www.arkosglobal.com/Podcast: https://www.generousbusinessowner.com/Book: https://www.arkosglobal.com/trading-upEmail: jeff.thomas@arkosglobal.comTwitter: https://twitter.com/ArkosGlobalAdvFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/arkosglobal/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/arkosglobaladvisorsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/arkosglobaladvisors/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLUYpPwkHH7JrP6PrbHeBxw

Are you spending quiet time every day in conversation with God? In this episode, Jeff and Marty discuss: Working as a cohesive leadership team.Prayer is a secret sauce for success.Stewarding what God has entrusted to us.Living life to honor your parents and prior generations.  Key Takeaways: You cannot have enough communication. Communication is at the heart of everything we do in life, business, and ministry.People are ambitious and driven and can handle more responsibility earlier than many think.We can make it through more than we think we can.We need to be generous because it's the right thing to do, not just because it is right for business or looks good or any other reason. It's about being a blessing to others.  "It's about helping people whom you know. There's nothing in it for you. It's just a blessing to be generous with people who you will never get anything from. The profound irony there is you actually do get a tremendous amount of blessings, but it's not calculated on a spreadsheet, per se. There's just so much more to the richness of life that comes from it." —  Marty Ozinga  Episode References: Lead With Prayer: https://www.leadwithprayer.com/ About Marty Ozinga: Marty Ozinga IV is the chief executive officer of Ozinga. Founded in 1928, Ozinga is a fifth-generation family enterprise best known for its red and white striped concrete mixer trucks. In 2012, Marty took the reins of running the family business as CEO from his father, Marty Ozinga III. Marty is joined by his five brothers and one cousin in the fourth generation of ownership, all of whom are currently working in the business. There are thirty-two family members in the fifth generation. Marty earned a BA in economics and business from Westmont College in Santa Barbara, CA, and an MS in communications from Northwestern University. He has served on numerous not-for-profit boards, including chairing the board of Daystar Academy in Chicago. He is currently serving on the board of the Luke Society. Marty and his wife Amy have six children. They reside in the Little Italy neighborhood of Chicago. Ozinga is a purpose-driven business whose purpose is to have a positive impact on individuals, their families, and the community for generations. This purpose is rooted in the Ozinga family's mission to first and foremost honor and glorify God and to serve the crown of His creation. In 2019, Ozinga received the Dean's Award from the Illinois Family Business of the Year Awards for excellence in social enterprise, supply chain management, or emerging markets. Ozinga has 2,000+ employees with operations primarily in Illinois, Indiana, Wisconsin, Michigan, and Florida. Connect with Marty Ozinga:Website: https://ozinga.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/martyozinga/  Connect with Jeff Thomas: Website: https://www.arkosglobal.com/Podcast: https://www.generousbusinessowner.com/Book: https://www.arkosglobal.com/trading-upEmail: jeff.thomas@arkosglobal.comTwitter: https://twitter.com/ArkosGlobalAdvFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/arkosglobal/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/arkosglobaladvisorsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/arkosglobaladvisors/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLUYpPwkHH7JrP6PrbHeBxw

Where can you leverage your social capital to serve and grow in a community of God's love? In this episode, Jeff, Jeff, and Michele discuss:Bringing the mountain top experiences back to your everyday life.Finding the moments of connection with all of God's children.Investing wisely and stewarding God's resources takes time and practice.Sharing what you know with others.Integrating children in the Lord's work. Key Takeaways: There is magic in working with people and talking. Social capital has power.You don't have to invest in the way the world invests. There is more to investing than just the stock market.Women like to be engaged. Most are not satisfied with just writing a check.Be generous with more than money. You can be generous with your resources, time, contacts, knowledge, and more.  "One thing that's been really important for me, and why I continue to go on these trips and also connect in my local community, is just being proximate to people who have different lived experiences than me." —  Michele Dudley Episode References: BraveWorks: https://www.braveworks.org/Women Doing Well: https://womendoingwell.org/Restoration Residences: https://resorationresidences.wordpress.com/Praxis Capital Fellowship: https://www.praxis.co/capital-fellowshipEntrepreneur's Organization: https://eonetwork.org/ About Michele Dudley: Michele is a serial social entrepreneur passionate about empowering transformation. She founded BraveWorks (formerly Fashion & Compassion), Restoration Residences and the Ignite Justice Conference, led Seeds of Hope and supported the launch of the Blessing School for the Visually Impaired in Rwanda. Michele served as the interim Chief Advancement Officer at Mesa Global (formerly United World Mission) and has directed her family's foundation for more than 25 years. Michele began her career as a CPA with KPMG and Bank of America and is a graduate of the University of Southern California. Michele lives in Charlotte, North Carolina, USA with her husband and fellow entrepreneur, Eric. Together they have 4 young adult children.Michele actively serves on boards including Mesa Global, Women Doing Well, Thrive Global Project, Be the Bridge, The Gathering, and Deeper Roots Soul Care. When Michele isn't with her family or following her passion to empower transformation, she can be found exercising, practicing yoga, or dancing. Connect with Michele Dudley:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michele-dudley-14997437/  Connect with Jeff Thomas:Website: https://www.arkosglobal.com/Podcast: https://www.generousbusinessowner.com/Book: https://www.arkosglobal.com/trading-upEmail: jeff.thomas@arkosglobal.comTwitter: https://twitter.com/ArkosGlobalAdvFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/arkosglobal/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/arkosglobaladvisorsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/arkosglobaladvisors/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLUYpPwkHH7JrP6PrbHeBxw

What need is calling to your soul? Where are you hungering to serve in God's Kingdom? In this episode, Jeff, Jeff, Pat, and Janel discuss: Surrendering to God's will and releasing our control. Keeping your word even when it isn't easy. Serving God and His kingdom no matter what industry you are in. Talking with your family about what is important to you in giving. The culture differentiator.   Key Takeaways: God gives us the desires of our heart, we can listen to them and still be following Him. Everything we have belongs to the Lord. As we make choices, we need to honor Him as it all belongs to Him. Now more than ever, people are separated from what they eat. If you have questions, ask them. Pass along wisdom to your family, not just assets. Build and invest in the next generation. Be mindful and present. If you don't slow down, you won't be able to hear where He is directing you.   "We're just trying to take that platform that God has given us and provided us, and trying to steward it the best way we know how." —  Pat Hord Episode References: Jim Gaffigan - “BACON!” - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RqFi0cZ4p1ENational Christian Foundation: https://www.ncfgiving.com/ About Pat & Janel Hord: Pat and Janel Hord are the owners of Hord Family Farms in Ohio. Connect with Pat & Janel Hord:Website: https://www.hordlivestock.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/hord-livestock-company/X: http://www.x.com/hordfamilyfarmsFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/HordFamilyFarms/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hordfamilyfarms  Connect with Jeff Thomas: Website: https://www.arkosglobal.com/Podcast: https://www.generousbusinessowner.com/Book: https://www.arkosglobal.com/trading-upEmail: jeff.thomas@arkosglobal.comTwitter: https://twitter.com/ArkosGlobalAdv Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/arkosglobal/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/arkosglobaladvisorsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/arkosglobaladvisors/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLUYpPwkHH7JrP6PrbHeBxw

How can you support the kids and families in need around you?In this episode, Jeff and Phil discuss: Building a business with spiritually aligned partners.  Utilizing a leveraged buyout with your employees so everyone has ownership. Being drawn into foster and orphan care with a Godly heart.Orphan care domestically and internationally. How God blesses a giving spirit.  Key Takeaways: Treat your employees generously. Your assets are your people. Treat people generously in a way that they would never want to leave.Take your skills and talents and apply them to kingdom work. It may be within business, it may be in advocacy. People have a need for your skills. Everybody can do something to help support kids in need. Making giving a priority - God keeps His promises and will care for you if you give in faith.  "We've been redeemed. And we're in the business of redemption. Foster care and adoption and caring for the moms and dads and the families is really a deep part of that." —  Phil Goad Episode References: Family Life: https://www.familylife.com/Every Child Arkansas: https://everychildarkansas.org/Restore Hope: https://www.restorehope.io/100 Families Initiative: https://www.restorehope.io/100families About Phil Goad: Dr. Goad and his wife, Starla, have three children and 10 grandchildren. Phil is a Court Appointed Special Advocate in the foster care program in Pulaski and Perry Counties, Arkansas. Dr. Goad also serves as Chair of the Every Child Arkansas (ECA) Executive Leadership Council. ECA is a state-wide network of advocates, agencies and other organizations working together in trust-building collaboration to fill the biggest gaps in foster care and adoption in Arkansas. Phil and Starla serve with organizations involved in care of orphans and vulnerable children in the US and around the world. They are actively involved in their church and love to teach and mentor others who share a desire to follow in the steps of Jesus Christ. They have a passion for marriage ministry and are long-time supporters of FamilyLife, previously headquartered in Little Rock, Arkansas. In 2021, Dr. Goad retired from CTEH, LLC, an environmental and public health consulting firm, where he served as Co-Founder, CEO and Principal Toxicologist. CTEH is a national leader in helping governments, businesses and communities prepare for, respond to, and recover from natural and man-made disasters. He received a Bachelor of Science degree in Chemistry from Harding College in Searcy, Arkansas (1977) and a Ph.D. degree in Interdisciplinary Toxicology from the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (1982). Starla received a bachelor's degree in Home Economics from Harding College (1976). Connect with Jeff Thomas: Website: https://www.arkosglobal.com/Podcast: https://www.generousbusinessowner.com/Book: https://www.arkosglobal.com/trading-upEmail: jeff.thomas@arkosglobal.comTwitter: https://twitter.com/ArkosGlobalAdv Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/arkosglobal/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/arkosglobaladvisorsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/arkosglobaladvisors/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLUYpPwkHH7JrP6PrbHeBxw

How do I give my kids a leg up, but not two legs up on the couch?In this episode, Jeff and Kate discuss: Being all-in for the Kingdom, even when in secular spaces. Creating positive investing and generosity experiences from a young age. Avoiding Sudden Wealth Syndrome. Believing in your children and giving them agency. Fostering healthy money communication.   Key Takeaways: God can work in all places - not just holy places. Our brains are literally not built to take in large amounts of money at one time or handle the overwhelm of options that comes along with it. You need to understand that God owns it all. Your investments are a work that you do to steward the Lord's resources. There is blessing and struggle in empowerment. Deliver that to your children. Healthy family stewardship is built out of healthy communication.   "I really encourage families to think about giving their kids sums of money and not just controlled, restricted family foundation board seats or trust payments every year. For me, I've wrestled with it; I've been through hard things with it, but I have grown so much in having the stewardship agency that I do." —  Kate Gardner Episode References: UTMA & UGMA Accounts - https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/investing/utma-ugmaThe Gathering: https://www.thegathering.com/Gospel Patrons: https://www.gospelpatrons.org/ About Kate Gardner: Kate Gardner is next-generation philanthropist with a passion for holistic stewardship and community-building. Coming from a family business legacy, she focuses on ministry, investing, and helping other Next-Gens through a faith-based community called Magnify and running a podcast called Ascendants (with a book now as well!). She seeks to encourage other inheritors and business families to seek relational health, creativity, and purpose in the way they both wrestle with and embrace stewarding resources and "living a legacy.”  Connect with Kate Gardner:Website: https://www.magnifygeneration.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gratefullykate/Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ascendants/id1600096737Book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DHC9ZDVY   Connect with Jeff Thomas: Website: https://www.arkosglobal.com/Podcast: https://www.generousbusinessowner.com/Book: https://www.arkosglobal.com/trading-upEmail: jeff.thomas@arkosglobal.comTwitter: https://twitter.com/ArkosGlobalAdv Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/arkosglobal/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/arkosglobaladvisorsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/arkosglobaladvisors/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLUYpPwkHH7JrP6PrbHeBxw

How can you start being a better listener within your home and family? In this episode, Jeff, Jeff, and Bill discuss: Finding independence at the age of 12.Careful listening - the key to success.Attention and listening as a form of generosity.Seek first the Kingdom.  Key Takeaways: True listening is not waiting for your turn to speak. It is trying to see the world through their eyes.The only way you can understand another person's reality is to really, truly listen.The greatest gift you can give anyone is your time. The only way they know you're giving your time is by listening and paying attention.See people as an individual who needs help, not as a dollar sign.  "Being listened to is so much like being loved that I can't tell the difference." —  Dr. Bill Hall Episode References: The Power of a Positive No by William Ury: https://www.amazon.com/Power-Positive-No-Relationship-Still/dp/0553384260 About Dr. Bill Hall: My Priority One objective is to help clients accomplish their key financial goals. Priority Two is to ensure the client has a will, trust, term insurance (if needed), and plans for passing wealth to spouse and children. Priority Three is to develop a custom investment plan. Dr. Bill Hall has been active as a Certified Financial Planner since 1985 and with Securities America, Inc. since 1991. He is now with OSAIC Wealth Inc., which acquired SAI in 2023. He manages money primarily for senior executives and their families. Bill's academic credentials include a Doctor of Business Administration from the University of Southern California as a Ford Foundation Fellow, an MBA from San Diego State University, and a Degree in Mechanical Engineering from Georgia Tech.Bill co-founded The Executive Committee, TEC (now Vistage), on the West Coast in 1969. Vistage is now a worldwide CEO organization with over 46,000 members. He has held positions as Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer with Vedax Corporation, the former parent of Vistage. Bill was a Registered Professional Engineer who worked offshore for Shell Oil and in marketing operations with Mobil Oil. He served as a first lieutenant in the Seventh Army in Germany and was a Professor at California State University, Fullerton, and Pepperdine University.Bill's past activities with nonprofit organizations include serving as Chairman and Vice Chairman of two Foundations and Chairman of the Board of a University. He frequently advises nonprofit organization CEOs and has served on several Advisory Boards for California Companies. He serves on the Mission Hospital Foundation Board Finance Committee and the Haggai International Board.His company manages $158,000,000 for 94 families.  Connect with Dr. Bill Hall:Website: https://osaicwealth.com/  Connect with Jeff Thomas: Website: https://www.arkosglobal.com/Podcast: https://www.generousbusinessowner.com/Book: https://www.arkosglobal.com/trading-upEmail: jeff.thomas@arkosglobal.comTwitter: https://twitter.com/ArkosGlobalAdvFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/arkosglobal/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/arkosglobaladvisorsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/arkosglobaladvisors/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLUYpPwkHH7JrP6PrbHeBxw

How are you taking care of your people at all levels?In this episode, Jeff and Dan discuss: No act of generosity is too small.Taking care of your people, no matter what their job is.Ensuring a people-first culture.The 7 Cs of good culture.  Key Takeaways: Enjoy your job, enjoy the product, but most importantly, enjoy the people.In your organization, you're all on the same team and working towards the same win. No matter the role, every person is important and good in their role.It takes a commitment and everybody bought in to perpetuate and thrive with a great culture.More than anything, people want to feel needed, wanted, and appreciated.  "My philosophy is that people matter so much that you have to care about each and every one and the job that they do. And as you do that, you'll get some great success across the organization." —  Dan Fachner About Dan Fachner: Dan Fachner is the Chairman, President and CEO of J&J Snack Foods Corp., a leading snack food company providing innovative branded snack foods and beverages to food service and retail channels. Dan started his career at the ICEE company, rose rapidly through the ranks and led the company as President and CEO for 25 years during which he took ICEE from a regional business to a nationally known brand, distributed broadly across a wide-ranging customer base and loved by devoted brand fans across the U.S.As the parent company of the ICEE brand, J&J Snack Foods appointed Dan President of the company in 2020 and then subsequently, CEO and Chairman of the Board. In this role, Dan has taken his broad command of strategic selling, operations, finance, and marketing and applied it to J&J's larger platform of brands including SUPERPRETZEL, ICEE, LUIGI'S, and the recently acquired Dippin' Dots brand. As he leads the organization into its next era of growth, he and his executive leadership team are driving strong and visible progress in J&J culture, operational capability and efficiency, brand development, and profitable growth.Dan resides in Franklin, TN with his wife, two married daughters and nine grandchildren. He was named to the Best of the Best Top Entrepreneur List by Spirit of the Entrepreneur in 2018 and was the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society of Nashville's Man of the Year in 2022. He has served on various collegiate and nonprofit boards and is currently the Chairman of the Board for J & J Snack Foods. Board member of Consumer Brands Association, Azusa Pacific University and” In His Grip.” Connect with Dan Fachner:Website: https://www.jjsnack.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dan-fachner-5671146b   Connect with Jeff Thomas: Website: https://www.arkosglobal.com/Podcast: https://www.generousbusinessowner.com/Book: https://www.arkosglobal.com/trading-upEmail: jeff.thomas@arkosglobal.comTwitter: https://twitter.com/ArkosGlobalAdvFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/arkosglobal/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/arkosglobaladvisorsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/arkosglobaladvisors/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLUYpPwkHH7JrP6PrbHeBxw

Have you and your family set your compass - vision, mission, values - for future family success? In this episode, Jeff, Jeff, and Bill discuss: Trusting God's plan and seeing others' generosity in those plans.The breaks and acceleration of our money and our generosity. Successful succession planning in business and family.Making a world view shift in regards to raising our children.  Key Takeaways: Generosity is a powerful tool to change lives. Family was the first human institution established by which He's going to make the world more beautiful and creative, and within which we can see God's generous nature.Most failures within families are the result of poor communication. Start bringing your kids into your family giving when your children are young. If you didn't, start now.   "I find that when the upper generations define their values, including their giving values, that those younger generations become more willing to accept those guidelines, and they will honor them, even if they disagree with them, and so it's all about having clarity, because clarity brings unity, and that's what they want." —  Bill High Episode References: Navigators: https://www.navigators.org/Hillbilly Elegy by J.D. Vance: https://www.amazon.com/Hillbilly-Elegy-Memoir-Family-Culture/dp/0062300547Upcoming Book - October 2025: The Legacy Life: How to Build Generations of Influence and Impact - https://www.bakerpublishinggroup.com/books/the-legacy-life/423762 Check Out Bill's Other Books: https://billhigh.com/shop/ About Bill High: Bill is synonymous with three core values: Family, Legacy, and Generosity. He's facilitated workshops nationwide, focusing on the essence of family legacy and redefining its biblical meaning. Initially practicing law at a prominent Kansas City firm, Bill later founded one of the U.S.'s largest Christian foundations. He then pivoted to specialize in family legacy consulting. An accomplished author, one of his notable works is "Leadership NOT by the Book," co-written with David Green. At 7 Generation Legacy, Bill is renowned for assisting families in crafting enduring multi-generational legacy plans. Bill High was brought up in a low-income family in rural Missouri and came to know Jesus at a young age. His generosity journey began as a teenager, faithfully tithing on everything he earned. Bill started the first half of his career in law before leaving to launch what would later become The Signatry, a donor-advised fund platform that connects “donors with doers” tackling some of the world's biggest problems. Through his work with The Signatry, Bill developed a passion for seeing individual families united by a clear and driving mission and vision that reflects God's particular calling for them. In recent years, Bill has focused much of his efforts on consulting for and guiding families stewarding wealth through some of these considerations, and he had many practical considerations to share.  Connect with Bill High:Website: https://billhigh.com/Website: https://legacystone.com/7th Gen Consulting: https://7thgenconsulting.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/williamfhigh/ Connect with Jeff Thomas: Website: https://www.arkosglobal.com/Podcast: https://www.generousbusinessowner.com/Book: https://www.arkosglobal.com/trading-upEmail: jeff.thomas@arkosglobal.comTwitter: https://twitter.com/ArkosGlobalAdv Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/arkosglobal/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/arkosglobaladvisorsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/arkosglobaladvisors/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLUYpPwkHH7JrP6PrbHeBxw

How are you aligning your money to bring glory to God?In this episode, Jeff, Bill, and Dana discuss: Start your marriage on the same financial page, and let God lead it.Nothing in life has a sacred and secular divide.Stories of successful stewards.Understanding your finish line and approaching it with joy.   Key Takeaways: If you want to be a good giver and be most effective, there is work to be done to find the most impactful organizations and needs. You may not be called to give it all away, you may be called to work so that others might live.Keep seeking God's face, and let Him adjust. Just start somewhere, find alignment, and start being generous now.   "I just encourage business owners who also have capital and investment to think about their investments as business ownership, too, and how that can be applied for the Kingdom." —  Dana Wichterman Episode References: Rich Christians in the Age of Hunger by Ronald J. Sider: https://www.amazon.com/Rich-Christians-Age-Hunger-Generosity/dp/0718037049HOPE International - https://www.hopeinternational.org/The Culture: Upstream from Politics - https://www.oaktonfoundation.com/post/culture-upstream-from-politicsDying to Live: Finding Joy in Giving Yourself to God - https://www.amazon.com/Dying-Live-Finding-Giving-Yourself/dp/0615990762 About Bill and Dana Wichterman:Dana Wichterman spent her career as an international economic development professional at the US Agency for International Development. She currently works at Impact Foundation, helping Christians deploy their charitable capital for impact investing. She serves on the boards of Talanton, Five Talents, and Faith Driven Movements. She is the founder of the Faith Driven Entrepreneur and Investor network in Washington, DC. Dana holds an M.A. in International Affairs from Columbia University.Bill Wichterman has spent his career in law and politics, including as Special Assistant to the President in the White House. Bill is the author of the book, Dying to Live: Finding Joy In Giving Yourself to God, and the influential essay, "The Culture: Upstream from Politics." He is co-founder of Wedgwood Circle and Board President of Faith and Law. Bill holds an M.A. in Political Theory from The Catholic University of America. Connect with Bill and Dana Wichterman:Website: http://stewardsnotowners.com/Book: Stewards Not Owners: The Joy of Aligning Your Money with Your Faith - https://www.amazon.com/Stewards-Not-Owners-Aligning-Money/dp/1637633750YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCixnP4QW_IBGI-fsM7Yt2wALinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/thewichtermans/posts/?feedView=allTwitter: https://x.com/thewichtermansFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/thewichtermansInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/thewichtermans/   Connect with Jeff Thomas: Website: https://www.arkosglobal.com/Podcast: https://www.generousbusinessowner.com/Book: https://www.arkosglobal.com/trading-upEmail: jeff.thomas@arkosglobal.comTwitter: https://twitter.com/ArkosGlobalAdv Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/arkosglobal/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/arkosglobaladvisorsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/arkosglobaladvisors/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLUYpPwkHH7JrP6PrbHeBxw

How are you helping to crack open hearts and mend the frayed community we live in?  In this episode, Jeff and Kelly discuss: Kelly's transformational experience in South Africa in her early 20s. The beauty of meeting new people and learning from them. Identifying your superpower. The need for engaging, values-based entertainment and programming.   Key Takeaways: We are all different. If you are curious and kind, you can always find something that connects you to someone else. One of the biggest risks to success and happiness is allowing the day to take us through without spending our time intentionally.Be willing to take risks. Ask yourself at every juncture, do I want to go left or right? It will free you from the machine. God's time and path may not be what we expect, but it is guided by Him. Only in retrospect can we see that path.  "Our job is not to preach. Our job is to crack open hearts. And you crack open hearts with high emotional stakes, with the realization that people can find themselves and their stories on the screen." —  Kelly Merryman Hoogstraten Episode References: The Spiritual Art of Business by Barry L. Rowan: amazon.com/Spiritual-Art-Business-Connecting-Divine/dp/1514007622House of David - Coming February 27, 2025: https://www.primevideo.com/detail/House-of-David/0PGUBDIDXTNZZ0JDLMRZWK608MWall Street Journal: Religious Movies Are Sweeping Hollywood. Rich Investors Are Pouring In Millions. By John Jurgensen - https://www.wsj.com/style/house-of-david-jon-erwin-wonder-project-angel-studios-d31ac703 About Kelly Merryman Hoogstraten, Chief Executive Officer, Wonder Project:For the last 20 years, Kelly has been at the forefront of innovation in digital media and technology, holding senior leadership roles at Netflix, YouTube, and Aura.Most recently, Kelly was President & COO at Aura where she spearheaded the company's product and go-to-market strategy and oversaw the product, sales, marketing, and operations teams. From 2015-2021 Kelly served as Vice President of Content Partnerships at YouTube, where she led the global partnership strategy and management of content creators and media companies across the Americas. Prior to YouTube, Kelly was Vice President of content Acquisition at Netflix from 2007 to 2014, driving the company's international expansion across markets in Western Europe, Canada, and Latin America. Kelly also held positions at Sony Pictures, Bain & Company, and Audax Group. Connect with Kelly Merryman Hoogstraten:Website: https://www.thewonderproject.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kellymerryman/    Connect with Jeff Thomas: Website: https://www.arkosglobal.com/Podcast: https://www.generousbusinessowner.com/Book: https://www.arkosglobal.com/trading-upEmail: jeff.thomas@arkosglobal.comTwitter: https://twitter.com/ArkosGlobalAdv Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/arkosglobal/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/arkosglobaladvisorsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/arkosglobaladvisors/YouTube:  https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLUYpPwkHH7JrP6PrbHeBxw

What small things can you do to enrich the lives of those around you?  In this episode, Jeff, Jeff, and Thomas discuss: Learning to save and give generously from a young age. Encouraging generosity in our children. Giving back to our abundant God. Understanding different giving models.   Key Takeaways: Involve your kids in your giving, from small gifts to neighbors during the holidays to mission trips. They will learn through your example and experience. Be a good steward of giving - ensure the funds are going to worthwhile organizations and causes.Cash is the most expensive way to give. A very small portion of most people's balance sheet is cash - look deeper for better giving. There are more ways to give than just cash. You can give in small ways that will make a big impact on people's lives.   "If we've been given the most, we need to be the most generous people of all." —  Thomas Talbott Episode References: Sticky Faith: Everyday Ideas to Build Lasting Faith in Your Kids by Kara E Powell - https://www.amazon.com/Sticky-Faith-Everyday-Ideas-Lasting/dp/0310329329 About Thomas Talbott: Thomas Talbott, a CFP®, CKA®, and CAP® Professional, joined Stewardship Advisors, LLC, a fee-only independent Registered Investment Advisor in Mount Joy, Pennsylvania, as a Financial Advisor in 2014 and became a partner of the firm in January of 2017.  As a Financial Advisor, Thomas thoroughly enjoys helping people plan, manage, and distribute their assets. He has been in the financial services industry for over 30 years and seeks to serve others by integrating his faith and experience. He incorporates his five core values of integrity, others-oriented, service, godliness, and quality delivery into his advice and encourages others to be good stewards of their resources. He enjoys the relationships he has built with his clients and desires to help them have clarity, security, and confidence in their financial futures. Thomas earned his BA from Messiah University (Grantham, PA) and his MA from Columbia International University (Columbia, SC). Thomas was awarded his CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ designation in 2012 and his Chartered Advisor in Philanthropy® in 2020. He is a member of Kingdom Advisors and earned his Certified Kingdom Advisor® designation in 2016. What's important to Thomas is his faith and family. As a devoted follower of Jesus Christ, he has been active with his church, various ministries, and in his community for years. Thomas has raised funds, served on non-profit leadership teams, promoted local candidates, mentored students and engaged couples, and led Sunday School classes, mission trips, and small groups. He loves to serve and influence others.Having lived in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania since the mid-1980s, Thomas and his wife of four decades, Cindy, have five daughters, four sons-in-law, and twelve grandchildren. He relishes the time he spends with his family and enjoys it when they join him in his outdoor interests, among which are wilderness adventures, fly fishing, bicycling, and skiing. He has run several marathons and bicycled across the United States in 2007 with just his daughters.  Connect with Thomas Talbott:Website: https://www.mystewardshipadvisor.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomas-talbott-9a6036a3   Connect with Jeff Thomas: Website: https://www.arkosglobal.com/Podcast: https://www.generousbusinessowner.com/Book: https://www.arkosglobal.com/trading-upEmail: jeff.thomas@arkosglobal.comTwitter: https://twitter.com/ArkosGlobalAdv Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/arkosglobal/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/arkosglobaladvisorsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/arkosglobaladvisors/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLUYpPwkHH7JrP6PrbHeBxw

Are you spending time every day with God?In this episode, Jeff, Jeff, and Jay discuss: Learning the perils of debt early.Succeeding in real estate without debt leverage.Living intentionally.Pray first, do second.  Key Takeaways: Grow slowly, invest in portfolios, and work with partners - these are some ways you can continue to grow your business using Biblical principles to stay out of debt.Walk by faith, not by sight.Pick the one or two things you feel God wants you to do, complete those, and then you can pick something else. But pick something and implement that to glorify God. If you're going to give anyway, give before tax and you can give more.  "Start somewhere, even if it's small." —  Jay Fechtel Episode References: Business by the Book by Larry Burkett: amazon.com/Business-Book-Complete-Principles-Workplace/dp/0785287973C12: https://www.joinc12.com/Lead with Prayer by Ryan Skoog, Peter Greer, and Cameron Doolittle: https://www.amazon.com/Lead-Prayer-Spiritual-World-Changing-Leaders-ebook/dp/B0C3ZR4HR5NCF: https://www.ncfgiving.com/ About Jay Fechtel: Jay Fechtel and his wife, Terri, have shared 35 years of marriage and are grateful parents of four children and three grandchildren. Jay is committed to integrating his faith with his professional life, focusing on practicing business as a ministry. He's also highly motivated to care for those who can't care for themselves, innovate in church practices/disciple-making, and advocate for religious and other freedoms. With over 35 years of experience in entrepreneurial business development and ownership, Jay has made significant contributions to the design, construction, real estate, and energy efficiency industries. He began his career as a CPA in the public accounting field before founding a design-build firm that specializes in custom residential and light commercial construction. His firm is renowned for its innovative designs and energy-efficient technologies, earning over 25 national and regional architectural and environmental design awards. Jay has also developed several residential and commercial real estate projects and is the founder and CEO of Olive Tree Energy, which developed the ZeroEnergy heat recovery water heating system. Jay is a graduate of Washington and Lee University and has served on several boards, including the National Christian Foundation Tampa Bay, the Pocket Testament League, and Abe Brown Ministries. Currently, he and Terri serve as leaders of 1 Body Church, part of a church planting and disciple-making movement in the U.S. and overseas. Jay also serves as a board member of The C12 Group, which currently equips over 4,300 Christian business owners and executives globally to build great businesses with the greater purpose of advancing the gospel in the marketplace. Connect with Jay Fechtel:Website: https://thefechtelcompany.com/Website: https://olivetreeenergy.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jay-fechtel-53b471a   Connect with Jeff Thomas: Website: https://www.arkosglobal.com/Podcast: https://www.generousbusinessowner.com/Book: https://www.arkosglobal.com/trading-upEmail: jeff.thomas@arkosglobal.comTwitter: https://twitter.com/ArkosGlobalAdv Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/arkosglobal/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/arkosglobaladvisorsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/arkosglobaladvisors/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLUYpPwkHH7JrP6PrbHeBxw

Where do you need to let your faith trump your fear? In this episode, Jeff, Jeff, and Bob discuss: Growing up with an attitude of abundance and risk-taking.Trusting where the Lord is leading you. Intersecting faith and business. The value of mentorship in business, ministry, and marriage. Listening when the Holy Spirit speaks.  Key Takeaways: God has been faithful and will always be faithful. How are you living in a way that is faithful to Him?Love as Christ does - love the church, love God, love God's people. Be willing to learn whatever God puts in your path - you don't know where He is going to use those skills to serve His Kingdom. Forget what has happened behind you, surrender and strain toward God with an eternal perspective.  "Listen for His voice, and trust Him. Sometimes we have to go through such a hard spot to get there, to trust Him in a way that He wants us to trust Him." —  Bob Wright Episode References: Mere Christianity by C.S. Lewis: https://www.amazon.com/Mere-Christianity-C-S-Lewis/dp/0060652926Generous Giving: https://generousgiving.org/Journey of Generosity Retreat (JOG): https://generousgiving.org/events/jog/ About Bob Wright: Bob Wright is managing member of Wright Multifamily LLC with 25 employees stewarding 11 affordable or workforce apartment communities totaling 970 units in Delaware, Pennsylvania, and Maryland. Wright Multifamily converts integrity, knowledge, and service into value for our residents, our professional team, and our financial partners. Our mission is to provide quality affordable housing opportunities for our residents. With best management practices we generate dependable income for our team, our investors, and our lenders. Bob began his real estate career in 1974 working for a real estate appraiser while enrolled at the American University in Washington, D.C. In the late 1970's he also acted as a consultant to tenant organizations that were attempting to purchase their apartment buildings for conversion to cooperative or condominium ownership. By 1981 he opened his own firm specializing in the appraisal of multifamily properties and earned the designation of MAI with the Appraisal Institute in 1982. Expansion of the geographic reach of the practice coincided with a move back to the Philadelphia area in 1984 after 12 years in the Washington, D.C. area. Over 2500 multi-family appraisal assignments were performed until he retired in 2016 in order to devote more time to owning and managing a growing portfolio of multifamily properties.  Connect with Bob Wright:Website: https://www.wrightmultifamily.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robert-wright-a1a96315/   Connect with Jeff Thomas: Website: https://www.arkosglobal.com/Podcast: https://www.generousbusinessowner.com/Book: https://www.arkosglobal.com/trading-upEmail: jeff.thomas@arkosglobal.comTwitter: https://twitter.com/ArkosGlobalAdv Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/arkosglobal/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/arkosglobaladvisorsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/arkosglobaladvisors/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLUYpPwkHH7JrP6PrbHeBxw

What is your one right next step? In this episode, Jeff, Jeff, and Jeanna discuss: Lessons on humility and overcoming pride. Meeting the Lord through business.Transitioning from soaking in the Spirit to seeking the Lord.Building a unified team even among diverse people.Living intentionally and honoring legacy.  Key Takeaways: People need to have a safe place. They need connection and real community in every aspect of their lives. Giving and generosity can begin with one person. It will grow and multiply from even one spark.God gives and He takes away - it is all His to begin with. Generously steward what He has given you. Love can happen in the middle of business - for employees, trade partners, customers, and more.  "That is how you will know that God's Kingdom is bigger and better than yours - He will do it in real ways if you'll surrender." — Jeanna Roach  Episode References:Kingdom at Work: https://kingdomatwork.com/ About Jeanna Roach: Jeanna Roach grew up in Wichita Falls, Texas before graduating from Texas Tech University and beginning her career in public relations/marketing. She joined Betenbough Homes in 2006 and has led various roles emphasizing her strategic lens for sales and marketing. In December 2023, Jeanna was appointed by Rick Betenbough as CEO of Betenbough Companies. Jeanna leads the Board of Directors and specializes in the growth and development of new enterprises such as an event center, a café and title company. She is a champion of the Betenbough Companies culture and defends it daily. Jeanna and her husband, Andrew, have three children, Olivia, Liam and Collin, and spend their time travelling, shooting hoops and watching volleyball.  Connect with Jeanna Roach:Website: https://www.betenbough.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeannaroach Connect with Jeff Thomas: Website: https://www.arkosglobal.com/Podcast: https://www.generousbusinessowner.com/Book: https://www.arkosglobal.com/trading-upEmail: jeff.thomas@arkosglobal.comTwitter: https://twitter.com/ArkosGlobalAdv Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/arkosglobal/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/arkosglobaladvisorsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/arkosglobaladvisors/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLUYpPwkHH7JrP6PrbHeBxw

How are you using your business as a vehicle for Kingdom impact? In this episode, Jeff, Jeff, and Mike discuss: Successfully bridging the worlds between tech, business, and faith. Building the Kingdom and a burned-down mansion.  Having a faith walk that includes God in your business.Returning to the true and important messages in the world of the wrong messages on social media.   Key Takeaways: Follow the favor. Where do you see success in your life? Serve God and His Kingdom there. The primary way that God designed impact in the world was not through organized religion but through business and entrepreneurship. The call to ministry does not need to be within the four walls of a church or in a non-profit organization.Our activities are the outward, visible proof of our faith in Jesus.   "If you can get to a place where you see the business as a vehicle for Kingdom impact, and then allow the business to be used for Kingdom impact, which means you're going to make less money because Jesus is going to make more, what actually happens is that's when you live your best life." —  Mike Thakur Episode References: Burned Down Mansion Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/homedetails/5603-Winslow-Rd-LOT-107-Franklin-TN-37064/2054800169_zpid/ About Mike Thakur: Mike Thakur is an award-winning CEO, adventurous entrepreneur, and content creator who's built a career at the intersection of business, purpose, and impact. From co-founding an internet company in the UK before Google was a household name, to leading $100 million sales teams and running operations for the secret service for billionaires, his journey is marked by bold decisions and innovative thinking. Now based in Tennessee, after nearly 20 years in Texas, Mike is passionate about blending business and tech to create meaningful change in communities. He's one of Houston's ‘Most Admired CEOs,' a two-time Guinness World Record participant, and author of ‘Mike Drop', where he shows how entrepreneurship can be a powerful tool for making a real difference. Whether it's a keynote talk or a podcast conversation, Mike offers inspiring stories, practical insights, and a clear vision for how purpose-driven business can change lives. Connect with Mike Thakur:Website: https://www.mikethakur.com/ Email: info@mikethakur.comBook: Mike Drop: https://www.mikethakur.com/mike-drop-bookInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/realmikethakur YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@realmikethakurLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikethakur/The Mike Thakur Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/2s1Pu9y2VAl7GSvHUPFzCL    Connect with Jeff Thomas: Website: https://www.arkosglobal.com/Podcast: https://www.generousbusinessowner.com/Book: https://www.arkosglobal.com/trading-upEmail: jeff.thomas@arkosglobal.comTwitter: https://twitter.com/ArkosGlobalAdv Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/arkosglobal/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/arkosglobaladvisorsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/arkosglobaladvisors/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLUYpPwkHH7JrP6PrbHeBxw

Have you started thinking about your business or ministry transition? In this episode, Jeff, Jeff, and Steve discuss: How Steve found Jesus with his wife at 21, turning his life around in the process.Losing focus in college and then finding success with a business career in marketing, which has become his ministry career.Building a cushion of wealth and being deliberate about both saving and giving.Combining business and ministry for successful giving. The five principles to follow for a successful succession. Key Takeaways: If you allow God to move through you and you open the door to allow Him in, you'll be amazed at what can happen in your life.  Praying parents, don't give up. God hears your prayers. Boards need to involve senior staff in selecting a new CEO. They don't have enough information on their own. Transitions of any kind should happen with respect for all parties, humility, and clear, continuous communication. Transitions are hard, it is an emotionally charged time and requires a lot of learning on both sides.  "That possibility of giving away part or all of your company does require you to build wealth on the side, and so you need to be doing that at the same time. I was late in getting started on that, and so there's nothing wrong with building a cushion of wealth, or potential retirement, or whatever might happen." —  Steve Woodworth Episode References: Born Again by Charles W Colson: https://www.amazon.com/Born-Again-Charles-W-Colson/dp/0800794591 About Steve Woodworth: With over forty years devoted to advancing Christian organizations, Steve Woodworth brings a wealth of expertise in marketing, management, and organizational development. He steered World Vision's direct marketing and donor services through a decade of annual double-digit growth in the 1980s and 1990s. Since joining Masterworks in 1992, Steve has been instrumental in establishing it as the premier marketing agency dedicated to aiding hundreds of Christian organizations in achieving their mission. Steve also gives back as a volunteer on boards, as a convener of industry leaders, and continues to lead the Communications Working Group for The Lausanne Movement. Connect with Steve Woodworth:Website: https://www.masterworks.agency/Book: Lost in Transition: https://www.masterworks.agency/succession   Connect with Jeff Thomas: Website: https://www.arkosglobal.com/Podcast: https://www.generousbusinessowner.com/Book: https://www.arkosglobal.com/trading-upEmail: jeff.thomas@arkosglobal.comTwitter: https://twitter.com/ArkosGlobalAdv Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/arkosglobal/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/arkosglobaladvisorsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/arkosglobaladvisors/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLUYpPwkHH7JrP6PrbHeBxw

Are you looking for a greater purpose that will allow your assets to live on beyond you?In this episode, Jeff, Tim, and Pete discuss: What a purpose trust is and how it may benefit your generosity beyond your lifetime.  How Farmer's Organic Market and Patagonia are leading the way with purpose trusts. Comparing a traditional trust with a perpetual purpose trust.Minimizing conflict and maximizing impact.  Key Takeaways: Every trust must have a beneficiary. Until a few years ago, that had to be a person, pet, or cemetery plot. Now, there is a 4th beneficiary - a purpose.Traditional trusts can be revocable or non-revocable. Perpetual purpose trusts are non-revocable.Purpose trusts may be new to the US but have been functioning in Europe for much longer.There are many ways to negotiate ownership and shares with a trust, organization, or family. These purpose trusts can be structured in many ways to help promote your chosen purpose.  "As long as you have a purpose, you can begin putting assets into the trust. These assets that are there need to promote the purpose." —  Pete Ochs About Pete Ochs: Pete Ochs is an author, investor, entrepreneur, and chief steward of Capital III and Enterprise Stewardship: two companies dedicated to being a catalyst for flourishing. Pete's passion in life is to educate, equip, and empower business leaders worldwide to live for something greater than themselves by using their business platform to impact the world for Christ. To further this end, Pete has written two books, High Impact LIFE and High Impact Business, providing personal and business transformation frameworks. More information can be found at enterprisestewardship.com. Connect with Pete Ochs:Website: https://www.enterprisestewardship.com/Book: https://www.enterprisestewardship.com/high-impact-lifeYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@enterprisestewardship3695LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pete-ochs/Twitter: https://twitter.com/EStewardship3Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EnterpriseStewardship/  Connect with Jeff Thomas: Website: https://www.arkosglobal.com/Podcast: https://www.generousbusinessowner.com/Book: https://www.arkosglobal.com/trading-upEmail: jeff.thomas@arkosglobal.comTwitter: https://twitter.com/ArkosGlobalAdv Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/arkosglobal/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/arkosglobaladvisorsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/arkosglobaladvisors/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLUYpPwkHH7JrP6PrbHeBxw

What is God leading you to do?In this episode, Jeff and Scott discuss: Obedience over outcome.Generosity doesn't happen organically.Blessings of Christian education.Creating a personal board of directors.   Key Takeaways: God's plan is different than yours. Ultimately, it is better than you could know. God calls us to show up, no matter the outcome. The outcome has nothing to do with you, even when you bring your A-game every day. Everybody has a broader network than they think they do. People are almost always willing to give of themselves when asked.   "My job is to do my best work always, to show up and bring a Christ-centered, Kingdom-centered focus to the workplace, to my co-workers, to my partners, and do the best I possibly can. And He will ordain that outcome, and I will be the beneficiary one way or the other." —  Scott Pomeroy About Scott Pomeroy: Scott Pomeroy is the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of XTI Aerospace. Scott brings over 35 years of executive experience to XTI. He previously served as the CFO of Dex Media, overseeing equity and debt capital raises of more than $10 billion, and was CEO and founder of Local Insight Media. He also co-founded Gen3 Financial Services, a boutique merchant bank providing capital raising and business advisory services to clients in a variety of industries including aerospace. He has served on several boards, including the Board of Directors of AVX Aircraft Company since 2009, a U.S. military defense contractor and a leading-edge aviation research and engineering company with particular expertise in vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) aircraft and unmanned aircraft development. Scott began his career at KPMG Peat Marwick. He has a BBA in Accounting and is a Certified Public Accountant. Connect with Scott Pomeroy:Website: https://xtiaerospace.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottpomeroy/Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/xti-aerospaceTwitter: https://x.com/XTIAerospaceFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/p/XTI-Aerospace-100095440081309/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/xtiaerospace/   Connect with Jeff Thomas: Website: https://www.arkosglobal.com/Podcast: https://www.generousbusinessowner.com/Book: https://www.arkosglobal.com/trading-upEmail: jeff.thomas@arkosglobal.comTwitter: https://twitter.com/ArkosGlobalAdv Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/arkosglobal/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/arkosglobaladvisorsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/arkosglobaladvisors/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLUYpPwkHH7JrP6PrbHeBxw

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-upEmail: jeff.thomas@arkosglobal.comTwitter: https://twitter.com/ArkosGlobalAdv Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/arkosglobal/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/arkosglobaladvisorsInstagram: 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-upEmail: jeff.thomas@arkosglobal.comTwitter: https://twitter.com/ArkosGlobalAdv Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/arkosglobal/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/arkosglobaladvisorsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/arkosglobaladvisors/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLUYpPwkHH7JrP6PrbHeBxw

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/theelderberrycoInstagram: 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-upEmail: jeff.thomas@arkosglobal.comTwitter: https://twitter.com/ArkosGlobalAdv Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/arkosglobal/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/arkosglobaladvisorsInstagram: 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.comLead On Mission. Advance Faith at Work. Avoid Mission Drift. Build a Legacy of Eternal Impact.: www.leadonmissionbook.comLinkedIn: 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-upEmail: jeff.thomas@arkosglobal.comTwitter: https://twitter.com/ArkosGlobalAdv Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/arkosglobal/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/arkosglobaladvisorsInstagram: 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-upEmail: jeff.thomas@arkosglobal.comTwitter: https://twitter.com/ArkosGlobalAdv Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/arkosglobal/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/arkosglobaladvisorsInstagram: 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.comThe FOCUS Group: thefocusgroup.comTurning Donors Into Partners: donorsintopartners.comPodcast: podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/taking-donors-seriously-podcast/id769463284  LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/bradlayland   Connect with Jeff Thomas: Website: arkosglobal.comPodcast: generousbusinessowner.comBook: arkosglobal.com/trading-upEmail: jeff.thomas@arkosglobal.comX: x.com/ArkosGlobalAdv Facebook: facebook.com/arkosglobalLinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/arkosglobaladvisorsInstagram: instagram.com/arkosglobaladvisorsYouTube: 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 haveseen him in the Huffington Post, the New York Times, CNN, or NPR. In addition to hiswork 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-upEmail: jeff.thomas@arkosglobal.comTwitter: https://twitter.com/ArkosGlobalAdv Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/arkosglobal/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/arkosglobaladvisorsInstagram: 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-upEmail: jeff.thomas@arkosglobal.comTwitter: https://twitter.com/ArkosGlobalAdv Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/arkosglobal/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/arkosglobaladvisorsInstagram: 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, Alan, 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-upEmail: jeff.thomas@arkosglobal.comTwitter: https://twitter.com/ArkosGlobalAdv Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/arkosglobal/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/arkosglobaladvisorsInstagram: 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-businessExcerpt from Book: https://www.ivpress.com/Media/Default/Downloads/Excerpts-and-Samples/A0762-excerpt.pdfPress 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-upEmail: jeff.thomas@arkosglobal.comTwitter: https://twitter.com/ArkosGlobalAdvFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/arkosglobal/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/arkosglobaladvisorsInstagram: 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-upEmail: jeff.thomas@arkosglobal.comTwitter: https://twitter.com/ArkosGlobalAdv Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/arkosglobal/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/arkosglobaladvisorsInstagram: 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-upEmail: jeff.thomas@arkosglobal.comTwitter: https://twitter.com/ArkosGlobalAdv Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/arkosglobal/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/arkosglobaladvisorsInstagram: 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-upEmail: jeff.thomas@arkosglobal.comTwitter: https://twitter.com/ArkosGlobalAdvFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/arkosglobal/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/arkosglobaladvisorsInstagram: 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-upEmail: jeff.thomas@arkosglobal.comTwitter: https://twitter.com/ArkosGlobalAdv Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/arkosglobal/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/arkosglobaladvisorsInstagram: 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-upEmail: jeff.thomas@arkosglobal.comTwitter: https://twitter.com/ArkosGlobalAdv Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/arkosglobal/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/arkosglobaladvisorsInstagram: 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-upEmail: jeff.thomas@arkosglobal.comTwitter: https://twitter.com/ArkosGlobalAdv Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/arkosglobal/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/arkosglobaladvisorsInstagram: 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 GarberAbout 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: rgarber@northgroupconsultants.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/garberroger/Work: 717-299-9800 ext 2010Mobile: 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-upEmail: jeff.thomas@arkosglobal.comTwitter: https://twitter.com/ArkosGlobalAdv Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/arkosglobal/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/arkosglobaladvisorsInstagram: 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-upEmail: jeff.thomas@arkosglobal.comTwitter: https://twitter.com/ArkosGlobalAdv Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/arkosglobal/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/arkosglobaladvisorsInstagram: 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 TowersAbout 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/gsmindustrialLinkedIn: 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-upEmail: jeff.thomas@arkosglobal.comTwitter: https://twitter.com/ArkosGlobalAdv Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/arkosglobal/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/arkosglobaladvisorsInstagram: 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/@rreafholdingsVimeo: https://vimeo.com/rreafholdings  Connect with Jeff Thomas: Website: https://www.arkosglobal.com/Podcast: https://www.generousbusinessowner.com/Book: https://www.arkosglobal.com/trading-upEmail: jeff.thomas@arkosglobal.comTwitter: https://twitter.com/ArkosGlobalAdv Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/arkosglobal/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/arkosglobaladvisorsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/arkosglobaladvisors/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLUYpPwkHH7JrP6PrbHeBxw

Where can you give God time and space in your day, your plans, and in your life? In this episode, Jeff and PJ discuss: What PJ learned while following The Grateful Dead around the country during college.Seeking Godly counsel in every aspect of your life.Finding hope even in hopeless circumstances.The importance of being equally yoked.Embracing the tension of the unknown with thankfulness and trust in God.  Key Takeaways: Be willing to go wherever God takes you, even if it doesn't feel like it is your plan for your life. He has a greater perspective than you do.You won't know Jesus is all you need until He is all you have.When things are hard, don't give up. He is pruning you and shaping you for the next blessing in life.The options will become clearer and easier when you're all working in the same direction towards the same goals under God's direction.If you focus on your faith, family, fitness, and finances you will find success.  "When He gives us a promise, there's a space between promise and fulfillment of the promise where we become the person responsible enough to handle that promise." —  PJ Nardy About PJ Nardy: I joined Southeast Lineman Training Center as a Partner with my brother-in-law in 2011 after relocating our family from Delray Beach, FL. We had a successful golf sales company and owned a restaurant but decided that we wanted a change. The lineman school was growing steadily and changing young men and women's lives since its beginning in 1999 and the mountains of Chattanooga, TN seemed like a great place to raise our boys. Since 2011 we have continued to grow our electric lineworker program, started a film and design company, filmed and produced a reality television show, started a retail company, added a communication lineworker program, and expanded our advanced industry training throughout the world.God has blessed us with an incredible business that offers amazing opportunities to all of the students who attend, and we are just trying to be faithful stewards of all He has entrusted to us.When I'm not working our family can usually be found on a beach with good surf or looking for a new place to travel to and culture to experience. Connect with PJ Nardy:Website: https://www.lineworker.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pj-nardy-09708488/  Connect with Jeff Thomas: Website: https://www.arkosglobal.com/Podcast: https://www.generousbusinessowner.com/Book: https://www.arkosglobal.com/trading-upEmail: jeff.thomas@arkosglobal.comTwitter: https://twitter.com/ArkosGlobalAdvFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/arkosglobal/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/arkosglobaladvisorsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/arkosglobaladvisors/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLUYpPwkHH7JrP6PrbHeBxw

How can God use your beautiful scars to do His work when you stop keeping them a secret?In this episode, Jeff, Jeff,  and Mickey discuss: The detriment of leading a secret life. God will lead you through anything - let Him make you into a wounded healer.  Giving it all to God and serving His kingdom with our beautiful scars.Be willing to connect and find God in groups of men.   Key Takeaways: It is your choice if you take the circumstances of your life and let them turn you bitter, or use them to become better. We are not meant to live in isolation. Vulnerability and community are our strengths. Be honest and be real and you can get through anything with God. The secrets are where the danger is at. Combine the science and the spiritual. One without the other is not going to be as successful in healing.  "As much as you think you have all the tools and levers and resources, the deeply quiet, they will come out. And the sooner you out yourself, the better. That's always the thing is the sooner you out yourself, the better. The longer you wait, it only gets worse." —  Mickey Peters Episode References: Halftime Institute: https://halftimeinstitute.org/C12: https://www.joinc12.com/Vistage: https://www.vistage.com/ Mickey's Book References: Henri J.M. Nouwen - The Return of the Prodigal Son and Wounded HealerBrennan Manning - Abba's Child and Ragamuffin GospelJohn Eldredge - Wild at Heart and Sacred RomanceDallas Willard - Divine Conspiracy and Renovation of the HeartSøren Kierkegaard - Purity of Heart is to Will One ThingDonald Miller - Blue like JazzRob Bell - Sex GodPhillip Yancey - Where is God When it Hurts and The Jesus I Never KnewRichard Rohr - Falling Upward and Breathing Under WaterMarc Brackett - Permission to FeelBrene Brown - The Gifts of Imperfection and Atlas of the HeartKelly McGonigal - The Upside of Stress - also TED talkPatrick Carnes - Out of the Shadows and Don't Call it Love - on sex addiction and recoveryGary Thomas - Cherish About Mickey Peters: I have been a CEO for over 15 years in the power generation sector for 10 years at Duke Energy based in Peru and Brazil and more recently for Enfragen based in Houston, managing hydro generation assets located in Panama. I have been a business development consultant for various clients and started my own successful spa franchise business together with my wife, Stephanie, here in Houston.  Stephanie and I have 3 children - Zach, who graduated from A&M and is working here in Houston, Emma, who is studying to be a family and marriage therapist at Mary Hardin Baylor, and Luke, a junior at Oklahoma. We are very active in our community through our church, Memorial Drive Presbyterian Church and also enjoy serving others through organizations involved in healing and recovery of individuals and marriages such as Affair Recovery. We enjoy trying new restaurants, watching movies, and traveling, and we are both very active working out, playing tennis, and pickleball. Connect with Mickey Peters:Email: mickeyjpeters@gmail.comPhone: 713-213-9837 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mickeypeters/   Connect with Jeff Thomas: Website: https://www.arkosglobal.com/Podcast: https://www.generousbusinessowner.com/Book: https://www.arkosglobal.com/trading-upEmail: jeff.thomas@arkosglobal.comTwitter: https://twitter.com/ArkosGlobalAdv Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/arkosglobal/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/arkosglobaladvisorsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/arkosglobaladvisors/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLUYpPwkHH7JrP6PrbHeBxw

Are you trying to draft God to your team or are you on His team and following His plans?In this episode, Jeff and Kenny discuss: The importance of fathers, earthly and heavenly, no matter your age. Powerful mentors and giving focus to the youth.Committing to your focus on what you can do for others. Seek first the kingdom - God delights in superseding our expectations.  Key Takeaways: Exposure is a powerful tool. If you don't know it exists, you can't know how you can grow. If you give young people attention, you can direct them for good or for bad. Make sure you're pointing them in a Godly direction. God will put people in your path to pour into you even as you pour into others. Be open to those people and lean into what He is giving you through others. It is all about obedience over outcome - just follow what God is directing and He will handle the outcome of the fruit on His time.   "If you take the focus off yourself and find out what you can do for somebody else, God has promised that he will take care of you." —  Kenny Hill About Kenny Hill: Kenny is a natural leader who has always had a passion for helping people.  He worked at the Home Depot to pay his way through college and received his Bachelor of Arts in Economics from the University of California, San Diego.  During his thirty-year career, Kenny experienced fifteen years of trial accompanied by personal crises.  The balance of his career reflected promotion, recognition, and increasing levels of influence. Kenny is a licensed minister and an author. He passionately promotes the application of biblical principles into everyday life and business. In 2014, he and his wife founded The Launch Pad Foundation.  This nonprofit provides transitional housing and life skills training for homeless single parents. Kenny currently serves as the chief supply chain officer at The Atlanta Community Food Bank. He and his wife have two daughters and live in Atlanta, Georgia. Connect with Kenny Hill:Website: https://launchpadatl.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kenneth-hill-32ab9614/  Connect with Jeff Thomas: Website: https://www.arkosglobal.com/Podcast: https://www.generousbusinessowner.com/Book: https://www.arkosglobal.com/trading-upEmail: jeff.thomas@arkosglobal.comTwitter: https://twitter.com/ArkosGlobalAdv Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/arkosglobal/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/arkosglobaladvisorsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/arkosglobaladvisors/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLUYpPwkHH7JrP6PrbHeBxw

How are you prioritizing God in your business?In this episode, Jeff, Jeff, Doug, and Matthew discuss: Doug's journey from growing up on the fragile fringe to building his own business, allowing him to serve others.Listening when God directs your steps. The joy that comes with hard work. Expressing the love of God to your employees and clients.   Key Takeaways: God will stretch us and strengthen us. As we steward His resources, He will lead and direct. It's about honoring God in all things and building His kingdom. Let God lead you in all things. Start your day with faith and turn to Him. Put Him first every single morning, even when you're running late to work. Align your company values to God's kingdom and bring everyone in. He will lead you to places you could never consider.   "If God could be for you, what can stand against? If you feel like God is leading you into something, you have to be faithful in that. There's really no other way to live life." —  Doug Bragg Episode References: Homes For HOPE: https://homes4hope.org/Sticky Faith: Everyday Ideas to Build Lasting Faith in Your Kids by Dr. Kara E Powell & Dr. Chap Clark - https://www.amazon.com/Sticky-Faith-Everyday-Ideas-Lasting/dp/0310329329 About Doug Bragg: I am a dedicated husband and a father to six children, cherishing every moment spent coaching them in soccer. My deep-rooted faith in Jesus is a cornerstone of my life, I find immense fulfillment in serving the Lord. Embracing the beauty of nature, I actively seek outdoor adventures and strive to live each day to its fullest. In addition to my family and personal interests, I am deeply committed to my role as the owner of Living Stones Masonry. This business serves as a platform to integrate biblical principles into my work, reflecting on my belief that success in life often requires a willingness to endure financial setbacks and surrender your situations to Jesus. This principle extends beyond business decisions and permeates my approach to life's challenges.Through my actions and words, I teach my children and others the importance of not merely reacting to life's trials based on societal norms but rather, responding in accordance with the teachings of the Bible. This fundamental approach shapes my interactions with others, my business practices, and my parenting, instilling in my children a strong moral compass and a deep-seated faith that guides them through life's journey. About Matthew Baehr: Matthew Baehr brings nearly two decades of experience in disaster relief, humanitarian aid procurement, and ministry to his role as executive director of Homes for HOPE. An experienced speaker, networker, and fundraiser, he enjoys growing organizations through strategic planning and leadership development. Matt serves as an elder at his church and loves spending time with his amazing wife, Heather, and their four great kids. Connect with Doug Bragg:Website: https://livingstonesmasonry.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/livingstonesmasonry/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/living.stones.masonry/  Connect with Matthew Baehr:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-baehr-2725b3113/  Connect with Jeff Thomas: Website: https://www.arkosglobal.com/Podcast: https://www.generousbusinessowner.com/Book: https://www.arkosglobal.com/trading-upEmail: jeff.thomas@arkosglobal.comTwitter: https://twitter.com/ArkosGlobalAdv Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/arkosglobal/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/arkosglobaladvisorsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/arkosglobaladvisors/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLUYpPwkHH7JrP6PrbHeBxw

How are you going to be present in the moment with Jesus?In this episode, Jeff, Jeff, and Kristen discuss: Gratitude is born at the crossroads of perspective.Living life with a grateful heart. Finding your life of purpose. The key to raising grateful kids. Capturing the moments and the audience that matter most. Staying present in the moment, looking up, looking around, and slowing down.   Key Takeaways: Jesus is all we need. There is no need for comparison with our neighbors because He is all we need (either those with more or those with less). We all have the opportunity to respond to what we are experiencing. Doing nothing is a response, but is it working? If not, what can you do to make a change? Kids can sniff out hypocrisy. They know when you're not doing what you tell them to do. If you want to raise children who follow Jesus, then you must follow Jesus. There are opportunities to live the gospel every day in the making of the beds and the peanut butter sandwiches. Have dinner with your family, slow down, take a walk, and connect.   "Jesus is enough. He is more than enough. Giving our life away is a beautiful way to live." —  Kristen Welch About Kristen Welch: Kristen Welch is a compassionate leader and accomplished author dedicated to making a meaningful impact on vulnerable families. She is the Founder and CEO of Mercy House Global, a nonprofit organization, whose mission is to empower marginalized communities with life-changing opportunities that create hope.With many years of experience, Kristen has tirelessly worked to address critical issues facing disadvantaged families around the world. Through Mercy House Global, her team has created innovative solutions that provide sustainable support, allowing families to break free from cycles of poverty and adversity.Beyond her philanthropic endeavors, Kristen Welch is author to six books, including the bestseller "Raising Grateful Kids in an Entitled World,” and authored the well-known blog, We are THAT family.Kristen has been married for 28 years and has 3 children.  Connect with Kristen Welch:Blog: https://wearethatfamily.com/ Mercy House Global: https://shop.mercyhouseglobal.org/ Raising Grateful Kids in an Entitled World: https://www.tyndale.com/sites/raisinggratefulkids/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wearethatfamily/  Connect with Jeff Thomas: Website: https://www.arkosglobal.com/Podcast: https://www.generousbusinessowner.com/Book: https://www.arkosglobal.com/trading-upEmail: jeff.thomas@arkosglobal.comTwitter: https://twitter.com/ArkosGlobalAdv Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/arkosglobal/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/arkosglobaladvisorsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/arkosglobaladvisors/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLUYpPwkHH7JrP6PrbHeBxw

Do you want to have more than 18 summers with your kids? In this episode, Jeff, Jeff, and Jim discuss: How money can create freedoms and allow you to accentuate your values.Reading and discussing books with your kids. Bringing your children into generosity through active service and contributions. The power of intentional one-on-one time with each member of your family.   Key Takeaways: Do the right thing, even when it's not an easy thing. Don't quit and just keep doing the next right thing. Have the hard conversations - when the storms hit, don't hide. Communication will open up possibilities. Real estate can become passive income - like a playground merry-go-round it takes momentum to get going, but once it is going it only requires small amounts of effort to keep it up. Being an entrepreneur or running a business (or a family) does not give you immunity to needing to give sincere apologies or compliments.   "Sometimes the solution doesn't have to be as complicated as we make the problem - for family, office, people, and family in business. An authentic compliment or sincere apology goes a long way." —  Jim Sheils Episode References: How to Win Friends and Influence People by Dale CarnegieThe Richest Man in Babylon by George S. ClasonRich Dad Poor Dad by Robert T. KiyosakiPatrick Lencioni Books: https://www.tablegroup.com/books/ About Jim Sheils: Jim Sheils is a full-time real estate investor for over twenty-two years, completing over 2,000 acquisitions and rehabs. After his start in Bakersfield CA, he came to Florida to follow the long-term growth patterns he was seeing predicted for the southeastern United States.Post 2008, his company focused on bulk foreclosure acquisitions for several years until creating a joint venture with Carter and Chris Funk to focus on the emerging “Build To Rent” model. His expertise in sales, marketing and capital raising were a perfect blend to support Florida's growing niche. He was also a principal owner of the Island Oak RV Resort, playing a key role in the development and design of this company project.In 2022, after over $300 million in deals together, Jim came on as a full partner in SI Homes. This dynamic partnership has enabled him to better develop key initiatives and relationships with both clients and strategic partners.“Passive income real estate has changed the direction of my life and so many of our clients' lives. I have every intention to keep doing it and on an even larger scale for all involved.”Jim's own real estate investments have allowed him to travel the world with his beautiful wife and five children. It gave him the space and ability to donate a kidney to his father and enjoy his favorite pastime of surfing. He is also active in many charities and service organizations.In addition to real estate, Jim is co-founder of the company 18 Summers and #1 Wall Street Journal best-selling author of the popular book “The Family Board Meeting”. His family talks have been delivered on stages worldwide and are a matching core value for our team and many of our clients. Connect with Jim Sheils:Website: https://southernimpressionhomes.com/ 18 Summers: https://www.18summers.com/Book: https://jjplaybook.com/  Connect with Jeff Thomas: Website: https://www.arkosglobal.com/Podcast: https://www.generousbusinessowner.com/Book: https://www.arkosglobal.com/trading-upEmail: jeff.thomas@arkosglobal.comTwitter: https://twitter.com/ArkosGlobalAdv Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/arkosglobal/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/arkosglobaladvisorsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/arkosglobaladvisors/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLUYpPwkHH7JrP6PrbHeBxw

Who is pulling you up? Who are your peers? Who are you pulling up? In this episode, Jeff, Jeff, and Bryan discuss: Learning discipline and self-control from a young age through wrestling and motorcycles. Setting goals and learning from others. Advice for going through succession and recession.Having a mentor, being a mentee, being a mentor.   Key Takeaways: Lean into your holy discontent, identify it, and make a change. You can impact God's Kingdom through the things that you feel deeply about. Through God, you can accomplish big visions one man at a time. Get a mentor who you trust and who can help you through things you don't feel you can do alone. The core five areas of mentorship are faith, family, fitness, finance, and friends.  "Read Proverbs. Read the Proverb of the day and keep doing that every week. It's God's wisdom." —  Bryan Zeamer Episode References: The High Center: https://thehighcenter.com/The Richest Man Who Ever Lived: King Solomon's Secrets to Success, Wealth, and Happiness by Steven K. Scott: https://www.amazon.com/Richest-Man-Who-Ever-Lived/dp/1400071976 About Bryan Zeamer: Bryan Zeamer has been coaching, mentoring, and leading for two decades. With a strong sense of discipline and a drive to see the world made better, Zeamer is dedicating his life's purpose to helping others win. When God is first, we can achieve balanced success in all areas of life. • President/Owner, Utility-Keystone Trailer Sales, Inc. (2008 – Present) • Founder/President/Partner of several regional investment initiatives; PennStro Leasing (2014), PennStro Ventures, LLC, a venture capital firm (2011) • Founder/Chairman, Men of Iron, a Biblically based non-profit organization that has impacted thousands since its 2006 launch. • Wrestling Coach; Elizabethtown College, Millersville University and Manheim Central High School (1996-2001) • Graduate, Elizabethtown College, BS Business Management, 1995; earned All-American status as a wrestler, 1995. Bryan and his wife, Heather, live in Manheim, PA, where they raised their three sons. In his free time, Bryan enjoys hunting, trips to the family cabin, and watching wrestling. His favorite spot to hang out is around the kitchen island, laughing at his boys' antics and stories.  Connect with Bryan Zeamer:UKTS - Website: www.utilitykeystone.comPennStro Leasing - Website: www.pennstroleasing.comMen of Iron - Website: www.menofiron.org  Connect with Jeff Thomas: Website: https://www.arkosglobal.com/Podcast: https://www.generousbusinessowner.com/Book: https://www.arkosglobal.com/trading-upEmail: jeff.thomas@arkosglobal.comTwitter: https://twitter.com/ArkosGlobalAdv Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/arkosglobal/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/arkosglobaladvisorsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/arkosglobaladvisors/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLUYpPwkHH7JrP6PrbHeBxw

Would you contract God as a partner in your business? In this episode, Jeff and David discuss: How David found appreciation for energy security in Baghdad. Using the OODA Loop in business and life.Increasing influence in foreign lands. Partnering with God in the ventures of your life.   Key Takeaways: Understanding history and embracing other cultures can allow you to see where God may be leading you to do the work in His kingdom. Set God in the foundation of your biggest visions and dreams. Pray along the way, honor Him, and don't take Him for granted.Wake up, have faith, and take the first step. Let God lead you. Critique yourself and question if you're doing the right thing. Ask God, let Him lead, and make the adjustments when needed.    "All I can say is you got to dig deep and turn over to God. And each day, find one thing you can count on that it takes you to the next day." —  David Lewis Episode References: God Owns My Business by Stanley TamThe Ruthless Elimination of Hurry by John Mark Comer 'About David Lewis: Mr. Lewis has spent 23 years focused on energy, policy, and global security issues with a concentration on strategy development, risk management and value creation. Mr. Lewis founded Energy Capital Vietnam in 2015 with a vision to leverage the transitioning global energy landscape and create an investment platform focused on responsible energy and infrastructure development within Vietnam to strengthen energy security and improve bilateral relations.Previously, Mr. Lewis co-founded a US upstream oil and gas company in 2008 that originated $200 million in mergers and acquisition value where he led deal origination, strategy, and operations. He consulted on operational efficiency improvements across $4 billion in upstream assets for Marathon Oil Company (NYSE: MRO). Prior to the energy industry, he developed a $100 million nationwide portfolio of US Federal Government commercial real estate leasing contracts. Mr. Lewis acquired Capitol Hill experience in the US Senate where he worked on national security and defense issues.Mr. Lewis is a former Marine Corps Infantry Officer and Purple Heart recipient and was twice recognized for combat valor. He holds a BBA in Management from Texas A&M University. His initial exposure to controlled economic culture began during a 1991 summer program with the first US led oil and gas venture in the former Soviet Union. Connect with David Lewis:Website: https://ecvholdings.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-lewis-5723775/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/15226170/admin/feed/posts/  Connect with Jeff Thomas: Website: https://www.arkosglobal.com/Podcast: https://www.generousbusinessowner.com/Book: https://www.arkosglobal.com/trading-upEmail: jeff.thomas@arkosglobal.comTwitter: https://twitter.com/ArkosGlobalAdv Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/arkosglobal/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/arkosglobaladvisorsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/arkosglobaladvisors/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLUYpPwkHH7JrP6PrbHeBxw

How can you better serve those around you by going deeper and meeting them where they are, one-on-one? In this episode, Jeff, Jeff, and Jeff discuss: Understanding your spiritual gifts and stepping out of your comfort zone. The Buying Formula and the power of “Tell me more.”Meeting the unexpected challenges of life head-on - God has orchestrated them from behind the scenes. Staying focused on The One.Giving isn't Godly unless there is a sacrifice.    Key Takeaways: There are times we don't step forward because we feel underequipped. But there is something about stepping out of your comfort and dramatically lurching forward. You will be amazed at what you can do. Generosity in business begins with those within your organization but does not stop there.Writing a check is great, but generosity can also come in the form of giving your time. There is something tactical and practical in meeting people where they are at. Set goals, think bravely, and write it down. You'll be amazed at what will show up.   "In any area of influence, we have to be able to go deeper, and I am convinced that people want to share more, they're just not convinced that the people they are talking to want to know more. That's the idea of ‘Tell me more, let's go deeper on that.' It's not just a good sales skill - it's a good life skill." —  Jeff Shore About Jeff Shore: Jeff Shore is a contemporary expert in residential sales and sales leadership with over three decades of experience in selling, consulting, speaking, and teaching. Jeff has spoken to thousands of real estate sales professionals from San Francisco to New York, from Alberta to Abu Dhabi. He is the author of 11 sales books. Tens of thousands of sales professionals watch his weekly Five Minute Sales Training on YouTube. Jeff is a Certified Speaking Professional through the National Speaker's Association, and a fellow in the NSA's Million Dollar Speaker's Group, comprised of the NSA's most successful members.When Jeff is not on an airplane he enjoys playing hockey, reading a book a week, playing bass guitar, serving as a part-time pastor at his church, working with The Gathering Inn homeless coalition, and hanging out with Karen, his wife of 37 years, and their seven grandkids.  Connect with Jeff Shore:Website: https://www.jeffshore.com/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/JeffShoreTrainingLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffshoreTwitter: https://twitter.com/jeffshoreFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/JeffShoreCommunityInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeffshoreconsulting/Check out Jeff's Books Here: https://shop.jeffshore.com/collections/books    Connect with Jeff Thomas: Website: https://www.arkosglobal.com/Podcast: https://www.generousbusinessowner.com/Book: https://www.arkosglobal.com/trading-upEmail: jeff.thomas@arkosglobal.comTwitter: https://twitter.com/ArkosGlobalAdv Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/arkosglobal/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/arkosglobaladvisorsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/arkosglobaladvisors/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLUYpPwkHH7JrP6PrbHeBxw