Faith Driven Investor

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.

Join Richard Cunningham and John Coleman as they examine frontier markets and the 2024 Pramga Investment Market Study alongside Patrick Lowndes, Andrew Winker, and Tamanno Hodjihanova

• The Genesis Story: How Patrick Lowndes' software exit led to pioneering research in frontier market
• Key Research Findings: Deep dive into Pragma's 2024 Investment Market Study examining over 100 funds
• Beyond Charity: Understanding the crucial shift from aid to sustainable business development
• The Local Edge: Why having boots on the ground and local leadership matters in frontier markets
• Strategic Deployment: Creative ways to use DAF assets and philanthropic capital for kingdom impact
• Featured Organizations: Transformational SME, Angel Investment Network, and other pioneering funds
• Resource Highlight: Download the complete 2024 Pragma Investment Market Study
• Scripture Focus: The team shares insights from Exodus, Matthew, and the Sermon on the Moun

"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 as we delve into the intricacies of today's economic landscape, from the Fed's recent rate cuts to the performance of the 'Magnificent Seven' stocks. John Coleman alongside Richard Cunningham offers valuable insights on private equity, venture capital, and real estate markets, while also addressing the potential impact of the upcoming U.S. election on the economy. Learn how to navigate these complex times with both financial acumen and spiritual wisdom.

Takeaways: 

• The Fed's recent rate cut is a significant shift after a long period of high rates.
• Historically, rate cuts can correlate with recession, but the current economic indicators are mixed.
• The S&P 500's performance is heavily influenced by a few large-cap stocks, known as the Magnificent Seven.
• Private markets are experiencing sluggishness due to fewer exits and challenges in fundraising.
• Real estate markets are facing unique challenges, particularly in the office and residential sectors.
• The upcoming election is expected to bring volatility, with differing impacts on the economy depending on the outcome.
• Government spending inefficiencies are a pressing issue that needs addressing.
• Wisdom and discernment are crucial in managing financial resources effectively.
• Power and money should be viewed as tools for good, not ends in themselves.
• Praying for wisdom in financial decisions is essential for stewardship.

Chapters:

00:00Introduction and Overview of Q3 2024

02:55The Federal Reserve's Rate Cuts and Economic Implications

10:25Market Reactions and Predictions

14:18Public vs. Private Markets: Trends and Challenges

22:19Real Estate Market Dynamics

27:23Election Year Insights and Economic Commentary

43:05Wisdom and Stewardship in Financial Matters

Join Justin Forman as he honors the life and legacy of Richard Garnett, a faith-driven entrepreneur, investor, 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.

In this episode of the Faith Driven Investor Podcast, Richard Cunningham, Andrew Behrman, and Chris Kim discuss the private equity world and the secondary market. They explain that private markets offer unique benefits such as diversification and active involvement but also come with trade-offs like limited access and illiquidity. The conversation focuses on the secondary market, which allows investors to offload their positions in private funds. They discuss the recent growth of the secondary market and its importance in providing liquidity in a time of lower distributions.
 

In this episode of the Faith Driven Investor Podcast, Richard Cunningham and Luke Roush interview Jason Illian, the founder of Highmount Capital. 

They discuss Highmount's recent investment in Dude Perfect, a popular content creation group known for their Youtube channel and live shows. 

Jason shares his background and the importance of family in his life. He also highlights the trust and influence that Dude Perfect has built with families and the potential for future growth and expansion. The conversation explores the business model of content creation and the impact that faith-driven investors can have on culture through their capital.

In this episode of the Faith Driven Investor podcast, Richard Cunningham and John Coleman interview Brandon Pizzurro, Chief Investment Officer at Guidestone, to discuss the state of the US markets. 

They cover topics such as the performance of the S&P 500, the dominance of big tech companies, the potential for a small cap rotation, the impact of artificial intelligence on the market, and the possibility of rate cuts and inflation. 

The conversation also provides insights into the current trends and dynamics in the US markets and discusses the possibility of a soft landing for the economy, with declining rates and inflation reaching a more normalized level.

Brandon Pizzurro leads the investment-related lines of business within GuideStone. In this capacity, he serves as President and Chief Investment Officer of GuideStone Capital Management, LLC, the investment adviser to GuideStone Funds, and President of GuideStone Investment Services, which provides investment advisory services to nonprofit institutions. He is also an Interested Director of the Board of Directors of GuideStone Funds. Mr. Pizzurro is a member of the executive leadership team for the parent company, GuideStone, and chairs both the organization’s Committee on Faith-Based Investing, which directs GuideStone’s faith-based research efforts, and the Investment Management, Allocation and Risk Committee, which approves all new investments for use on the GuideStone platform. He is also a voting member of GuideStone’s Institutional Portfolio Committee. 

Richard and John check in on two of the key trailblazers of the Faith Driven Investor Movement, Aimee Minnich & Jeff Johns of The Impact Foundation, to learn how Donor Advised Funds (DAFs) can help investors who want to use their capital for God’s Kingdom.

The four of them discuss the power and necessity of impact investing, the history and mission of Impact Foundation, and the importance of innovation and entrepreneurship in the charitable sector. 

Aimee also shares her recent experience testifying in front of legislators about rules surrounding donor-advised funds and gives practical next steps for those who want to get in the game with impact investing. 

In this episode of the Faith Driven Investor podcast, Richard sits down with Henry Kaestner and Andrew Firman about the returns, rewards, and risks involved in investing in Africa. 

They discuss the opportunities and challenges of investing in the continent, the importance of spiritual integration in business, and the potential for economic development in Africa. 

They also highlight specific examples of innovative solutions being developed by African entrepreneurs to address real problems in the region. The conversation emphasizes the need for mentorship and support for African founders and encourages faith-driven investors to consider investing in Africa.