In this premiere 2025 episode of Faith Driven Investor, host Richard Cunningham welcomes David Bahnsen, founder and CIO of the Bahnsen Group, alongside regular contributor John Coleman. The conversation begins with a comprehensive review of 2024's market performance, examining how corporate profits exceeded expectations despite earlier recession fears. Bahnsen provides detailed analysis of current market valuations, particularly focusing on the concentration risk in the top 10 companies of the S&P 500 and potential opportunities in small-cap stocks.

The discussion shifts to the implications of Trump's upcoming presidency, with particular focus on deregulation, M&A activity, and trade policy. Bahnsen offers a detailed critique of protectionist positions on the Nippon Steel deal, while Coleman provides perspective on global security implications. The episode also features insights from Coleman's recent piece on Pax Americana and the enduring strength of American innovation and economic leadership.

The conversation concludes with deeper reflection on purpose and meaning, drawing from Bahnsen's 2024 book "Full Time Work and The Meaning of Life," and exploring Christian perspectives on work as a divine calling rather than a curse. Both guests share powerful closing thoughts on God's work in history and the promise of new beginnings in 2025.

Time Stamps: 00:00 - Introduction and holiday reflections 09:45 - 2024 market review 18:30 - Current market valuations and concerns 27:15 - Trump administration and economic policy 35:40 - Discussion of Nippon Steel deal 42:20 - Global security and Pax Americana 48:15 - Work and meaning 53:30 - Closing reflections

Show Notes:

• The evolution and impact of Faith Driven Investor's first standalone conference in 2024
• Why wealth isolates and how FDI is creating safe spaces for high-capacity investors
• Inside look at FDI+ launch weekends and the movement's expansion plans for 2025
• The three personas showing up to FDI: the intimidated, the scaling entrepreneurs, and the teachers
• Key partnerships forming with Next and Blue Trust
• Details on the upcoming February 7th, 2025 global conference themed "The Riskiest Thing is to Do Nothing"
• How watch parties have spread from Chicago to Ukraine, building unexpected communities
• Behind-the-scenes look at how FDI's leadership team is structured
• Closing reflections on obedience and seeing the Holy Spirit's movement in unexpected places

In this compelling episode of Faith Driven Investor, Nick Bonner shares his transformative journey in Christian real estate investment and the innovative solutions he's developing to address inefficiencies in church property usage.

Key Topics Discussed:

• The Great Opportunity Report's findings on church growth and the critical role of real estate
• Analysis revealing that churches typically only utilize their buildings 5% of the week
• The stark contrast between business and church property ownership (12% vs 84%)
• Development of the Open Doors model for shared church spaces
• The concept of transforming church buildings into community hubs with multiple revenue streams
• The vision for democratizing faith-driven real estate investment through a Christian impact REIT
• Personal testimony of surrendering business plans and experiencing God's redirection

Notable Insights:

• Approximately $1 trillion in equity is locked in church buildings alone
• Current church property models often burden pastors with responsibilities outside their core mission
• The potential for shared spaces to create "divine collisions" and new ministry opportunities
• How investment capital (150x larger than donation capital) can be leveraged for kingdom impact
• The importance of maintaining Jesus as the central focus rather than the dream itself

Featured Guest: Nick Bonner brings extensive experience from CBRE, the Pine Tops Foundation, and various real estate ventures. His unique perspective bridges commercial real estate expertise with faith-driven investment strategies.

In this episode of the Faith Driven Investor podcast, hosts Richard Cunningham and John Coleman welcome special guest Ross Roggensack to break down the 2024 U.S. election results and explore their potential impact on the economy and markets. As President Trump begins his second term, the discussion delves into the implications of his policies on various sectors, from venture capital and private equity to foreign conflicts and inflation. The conversation also takes a introspective turn as the hosts reflect on the importance of humility and seeking God's guidance in both personal and professional life. Join us for a thought-provoking discussion that combines faith, finance, and the ever-changing political landscape. 

Please note that the views expressed by the hosts and guests are their own and do not necessarily represent the opinions of 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.