Faith Driven Entrepreneur

In this episode of the Faith Driven Entrepreneur podcast, hosts Justin Forman and William Norvell discuss the entrepreneurial journeys of William and guest Tom Patterson, founder of Tommy John. They explore themes of faith, resilience, and the importance of community support in navigating the challenges of entrepreneurship. Tom shares his unique story of starting his business during a recession, the lessons learned from early failures, and the role of faith in sustaining him through difficult times. The conversation highlights the significance of taking risks, being patient yet urgent, and the unexpected paths that entrepreneurship can take. In this conversation, Tom Patterson shares his journey of faith-driven entrepreneurship, emphasizing the importance of prayer, resilience, and partnership in business. He reflects on the challenges faced while building Tommy John, the underwear brand, and how faith has played a crucial role in navigating those challenges. Tom discusses the significance of working alongside his wife and the alignment of their values in both their personal and professional lives. The conversation highlights the integration of faith and business, the lessons learned through adversity, and the importance of intentionality in pursuing one's purpose. 

In this episode of the Faith Driven Entrepreneur Podcast, Justin Forman and Lara Casey Isaacson discuss the launch of Faith-Driven Students, an initiative aimed at empowering the next generation of entrepreneurs through faith. They explore Laura's entrepreneurial journey, the importance of pruning in business, and the significance of storytelling and imagination in shaping young minds. The conversation emphasizes the need for a supportive community and the role of parents in guiding their children towards their calling. They also highlight the changing landscape of entrepreneurship and the trust placed in business leaders by the younger generation.

• Faith-driven entrepreneurship is about aligning business with God's purpose.
• Pruning is essential for growth in both business and personal life.
• Building a supportive team is crucial for new initiatives.
• Empowering students to discover their gifts is a key focus.
• Imagination plays a vital role in learning and growth.
• Storytelling can inspire and change lives.
• Parents have a significant role in guiding their children's faith journey.
• The younger generation is increasingly interested in entrepreneurship.
• Trust in entrepreneurs is higher than in politicians or churches.
• Planting seeds of faith can lead to significant impact over time

In this episode of the Faith Driven Entrepreneur podcast, hosts Justin Forman and Dan Owolabi are joined by Chip Ingram to discuss the transformative intersection of pastoral ministry and entrepreneurship. Coming off their experiences at the recent Lausanne Conference in Seoul, they explore how the church landscape is changing and the unique opportunity this presents for deeper collaboration between pastors and entrepreneurs.

Key Topics Covered:

• The shift in church dynamics post-COVID and the need for new models
• Why traditional metrics of church success need to be reconsidered
• Recent Barna research showing 91% of entrepreneurs feel purposeful in their work
• The importance of long-term commitment in ministry and business
• How pastors can better engage and empower entrepreneurs in their congregations
• Practical steps for entrepreneurs to build bridges with their pastors
• Discussion of the upcoming Pastors & Entrepreneurs Conference (February 20th)

This episode delves into the critical issue of online sexual exploitation and human trafficking, exploring innovative approaches to combat these pervasive problems. Dr. Lisa Strohman, a clinical psychologist with FBI experience, and Wes Lyons, a venture capitalist, offer their expertise and insights into this complex challenge.

The discussion begins with Dr. Strohman shedding light on the alarming tactics used by the pornography industry to target children through seemingly innocuous platforms like educational apps and online games. She emphasizes the urgent need for better education and awareness to protect young minds from early exposure and potential addiction.

Wes Lyons then introduces a unique perspective on fighting human trafficking by treating it as an economic problem. He explains how his fund, Eagle Venture Fund, invests in technologies designed to disrupt the business model of trafficking networks. The conversation explores various innovative solutions, from AI-powered tools that detect suspicious activities to platforms that help businesses avoid inadvertently supporting trafficking operations.

The episode also addresses emerging challenges posed by artificial intelligence and deepfakes, highlighting real-world cases that demonstrate the evolving nature of online exploitation. Throughout the discussion, both guests stress the importance of collaboration between technology developers, businesses, and advocacy groups in creating effective solutions.

Despite the gravity of the subject matter, the conversation concludes on a note of cautious optimism. Our guests share encouraging developments in the fight against exploitation, including the power of educating youth and the potential for technology and business strategies to make a significant impact.

This episode offers listeners a comprehensive look at the intersection of technology, business, and social responsibility in addressing one of the most pressing issues of our time. It challenges us to consider how we can all play a part in protecting the vulnerable and creating a safer digital world.

In this episode of the Faith Driven Entrepreneur podcast, hosts Henry Kaestner and Justin Forman reflect on the recent Faith Driven Entrepreneur conference and introduce a powerful message from Derwin Gray, former NFL player and pastor.

Key points:

• Gray compares spiritual warfare to animal hunting tactics, warning entrepreneurs about the devil's strategies to isolate and weaken them.
• He outlines three common temptations entrepreneurs face: performance ("I am what I do"), possession ("I am what I have"), and popularity ("I am what others think").
• Gray emphasizes the importance of adopting a wartime mindset and utilizing the armor of God as described in Ephesians 6.
• The hosts discuss the relevance of Gray's message to entrepreneurial challenges and the importance of recognizing spiritual battles in business.
• An upcoming prayer series based on Gray's teachings is announced, designed to equip entrepreneurs with spiritual tools for success.

Discussion Questions: 

• How have you experienced the three temptations (performance, possession, popularity) in your entrepreneurial journey? Which one challenges you the most?
• In what ways can adopting a "wartime mindset" change how you approach challenges in your business?
• Derwin Gray emphasizes the importance of putting on the "armor of God." How can you practically incorporate this spiritual discipline into your daily routine as an entrepreneur?
• How can recognizing spiritual warfare in business help you make better decisions and maintain a stronger faith?
• What steps can you take to build a support network of fellow entrepreneurs to combat isolation and strengthen your spiritual defenses?

"We're not just creating a job. We're creating a way that people have security and sustainability for them and for their family." - Keren Pybus
 

• Job creation and upskilling have a significant impact on individuals, families, and communities, providing stability, security, and opportunities for growth.
• Donor agencies have shifted their focus from pure aid to trade facilitation and capacity building, creating more opportunities for job creation.
• Collaboration and partnership among competitors and different stakeholders are essential in addressing global challenges and creating sustainable solutions.
• Investors and entrepreneurs can make a positive impact by aligning their passion and skills, seeking God's wisdom, and connecting with like-minded individuals and organizations.
• Having faith-driven investors on board can provide support, encouragement, and prayer during the entrepreneurial journey.

00:00 Introduction and Purpose of the Joint Release

04:03 Introducing Solving the World's Greatest Problems

05:09 Guest Introductions and Backgrounds

07:00 The Importance of Job Creation and Upskilling

16:25 Changing Perspectives and Collaborative Approaches

23:36 Impact Stories: Transformation through Job Creation and Upskilling

28:40 Advice for Investors and Entrepreneurs

35:59 The Power of Faith-Driven Investors

38:00 Conclusion

Join us for an inspiring discussion with Mark Batterson, Bill Job, and Justin Forman as they unpack the concept of "holy curiosity" in entrepreneurship. This episode takes listeners on a journey from the coffeehouse-turned-church in Washington D.C. to the factory floors of China, revealing how faith can drive innovation and risk-taking in business. Batterson introduces his new book on rediscovering everyday miracles, while Job shares powerful anecdotes about finding joy and purpose in unexpected places. Together, they challenge the notion of "safe" Christianity and encourage entrepreneurs to embrace the adventure of faith-driven business. This conversation is a must-listen for anyone seeking to integrate their spiritual life with their entrepreneurial pursuits.

Notable Quotes:

"Faith is spelled R-I-S-K." - Mark Batterson

"Never lose a holy curiosity." - Mark Batterson (quoting Albert Einstein)

"Joy isn't getting what you want. It's appreciating what you have." - Mark Batterson

"We aren't content with good ideas. We want God ideas." - Mark Batterson

In this episode of the Faith Driven Entrepreneur podcast, hosts Henry and Justin discuss the recent conference and share a thought-provoking message from David Platt. Key topics include:

 

1. The idea that entrepreneurs are positioned "for such a time as this"
2. How current technological and economic trends create unprecedented opportunities
3. David Platt's perspective on the unique role of entrepreneurs in today's world
4. The importance of seeking God's guidance in business decisions
5. Balancing professional success with spiritual growth and purpose
6. The potential for long-term impact beyond an entrepreneur's lifetime

Listeners will be inspired to view their entrepreneurial journey through a lens of divine timing and purpose, encouraging them to make the most of their unique skills and opportunities.

"God has sovereignly ordained your life and this time to play a unique part in the accomplishment of His purpose. Entrepreneur, God has not saved you to sideline you on this mission."

In this episode of the Faith Driven Investor Podcast, join Justin Forman as he honors the life and legacy of Richard Garnett, a faith-driven entrepreneur and actor who recently passed away after a courageous decade-long battle with cancer.

This poignant episode features a powerful teaching from Richard himself, focusing on investing in what truly matters. As we reflect on Richard's recent passing, his message takes on new depth and urgency. Tune in for an inspiring exploration of intentional living, generosity, and the art of cherishing each moment.

Join Grammy-nominated artist Lecrae Moore, along with Faith Driven Movement co-founders Justin Forman and Henry Kaestner, as they delve into the challenging yet crucial topic of handling criticism. In this insightful episode, our guests share:

• Lecrae's personal experiences with criticism in the music industry
• Biblical perspectives on receiving and processing feedback
• Strategies for distinguishing between constructive criticism and unproductive negativity
• The importance of knowing your true audience and purpose
• How to use criticism as a tool for growth and refining your entrepreneurial vision

Whether you're a seasoned business leader or just starting your entrepreneurial journey, this conversation offers valuable wisdom on turning criticism into a catalyst for personal and professional development. Tune in to learn how faith can guide you through the challenges of leadership and innovation.