In this episode of Founders Future, host Ammar Elm sits down with Gary Wilson, founder of Heads Up Leading, L.L.C., a leadership development organization helping businesses build thriving, human-centered cultures through a Christ-centered leadership framework. With decades of experience spanning military command, corporate leadership, and faith-based ministry, Gary shares his unique journey—from West Point to leading multimillion-dollar operations at the Salvation Army—and how it shaped his mission-driven approach to leadership. He unpacks his "5 C's Model" (Caring, Competence, Character, Culture, and Consistency) and explains why small to mid-sized businesses ($2M–$20M) are his ideal clients, offering practical strategies to bridge gaps in profit, team dynamics, and vision.

Gary also reflects on the challenges of transitioning from operator to coach, the importance of "releading" over reinventing, and his current focus on closing deals and targeting the right audiences. He candidly discusses his conservative growth goals, the value of a profit-accelerator system, and why he prioritizes serving others over self-promotion. Whether you're a founder, executive, or leadership coach, Gary’s blend of tactical wisdom and faith-centered principles offers a refreshing perspective on sustainable, people-first leadership.