IBAM- International Business As Mission Biblical Entrepreneurship

In this episode, Cary Summers shares the remarkable journey that led from operating major theme park organizations to helping create the Museum of the Bible in Washington, D.C.

The conversation explores how a call from Bill Bright helped shape the vision behind the Nehemiah Group — building experiences designed to reach people who might never step foot inside a church. Cary walks through the early stages of projects like Nazareth Village, the Ark Encounter master plan, and the development of the Museum of the Bible itself.

Along the way, he shares practical leadership insights for entrepreneurs and business leaders who want to pursue excellence while honoring God. From understanding “the five customers” every organization serves to learning how to ask better questions, this episode is filled with timeless business wisdom rooted in real-world experience.

Cary also reflects on lessons learned from leaders like Jimmy Carter and discusses why listening carefully may be one of the most important skills a leader can develop.

This conversation is both practical and encouraging for entrepreneurs, business owners, ministry leaders, and anyone interested in the intersection of faith, leadership, and long-term Kingdom impact.

5 Key Takeaways

Excellence opens doors.

Cary explains that creating high-quality, creative experiences helped attract people who might never normally engage with biblical content.

Business principles still matter.

The conversation emphasizes that honoring God in business does not remove the need for sound operations, margins, leadership, and accountability.

Great leaders ask great questions.

One of the strongest leadership lessons shared is the importance of learning how to listen well and ask better questions.

Your organization serves more than one customer.

Cary discusses the importance of understanding employees, communities, shareholders, suppliers, and guests as key stakeholders.

Faith and business do not have to be separated.

The episode challenges the idea that ministry and business belong in different worlds and highlights how business can become a platform for impact.

Watch full episode on YT - https://youtu.be/h-8yVKmlMEA

Join the free Third Fish Academy at ThirdFish.org

Listen to Part 1 here: https://open.spotify.com/episode/6kI3PfDfBKY580Fo8RcRPH?si=Si-7LV95RES45ACteQ5Ljg

In this episode, the conversation explores the intersection of faith, leadership, and timeless business principles through decades of real-world experience. From helping expand Abercrombie & Fitch and Bass Pro Shops to studying the Book of Nehemiah for over 40 years, this discussion uncovers how biblical principles continue to shape effective leadership and sustainable growth.

One of the central themes is the idea that true principles never change. Strategies may evolve and trends may come and go, but foundational principles remain constant. The discussion highlights how these timeless truths can operate inside businesses, organizations, and even families — whether people recognize their biblical roots or not.

The episode also tackles the long-standing “sacred vs secular” divide and challenges the belief that business and ministry belong in separate worlds. Instead, listeners hear how business can become a vehicle for stewardship, leadership, and impact when built on enduring values.

You’ll also hear stories about teaching leadership principles internationally, implementing empowerment inside organizations, and why implementation matters more than simply collecting information. From multi-unit business expansion to leadership development rooted in Scripture, this conversation offers practical wisdom for entrepreneurs, leaders, and anyone passionate about Business as Mission.

• 00:00 Gary’s Journey
• 01:42 Bass Pro Shops Growth
• 04:15 Transition to Theme Parks
• 06:02 Faith in Business
• 12:21 Nehemiah Principles
• 17:01 Lasting Impact
• 19:05 Closing Reflections

5 Key Takeaways

1. Principles Never Change

True principles are timeless. Trends, strategies, and tactics evolve, but foundational principles continue to work across generations and industries.

2. The Sacred vs Secular Divide Is False

Business and faith are not separate worlds. Biblical principles can operate effectively inside organizations, leadership, and entrepreneurship.

3. Implementation Matters More Than Information

Knowing principles is not enough. Real transformation happens when principles are implemented consistently in business, leadership, and life.

4. Empowerment Scales Organizations

Empowering people with responsibility and trust creates stronger teams and allows organizations to grow effectively.

5. Timeless Principles Create Lasting Impact

Whether in business, family, or leadership, enduring principles continue producing results because they are rooted in truths that do not change.

👉 Watch the full episode here: https://youtu.be/0-ngx6ntRg4

👉 Join the mission at IBAM.org

What does it take to lead a business that truly matters—both now and for eternity?

In this episode, we continue unpacking key biblical leadership principles modeled by Jesus—principles that challenge leaders to think beyond short-term success and build something that lasts. From the law of sowing and reaping to believing in the impossible, this conversation calls leaders to examine the seeds they are planting and the vision they are pursuing.

You’ll hear why great leaders must think long-term—building not just for today, but for future generations—and how understanding the right order of priorities can bring clarity and effectiveness to leadership. The episode also highlights the importance of building a strong team, developing others, and recognizing that leadership was never meant to be a solo journey.

Through real examples, you’ll see how shifting from transactional business practices to intentional, people-centered impact can create lasting significance. This includes serving others in meaningful ways and aligning daily actions with eternal purpose.

The episode culminates in a powerful reminder: finishing well matters. Every leader desires to hear the words “well done,” and that requires intentional leadership, humility, and a commitment to the mission.

If you’re a CEO, entrepreneur, or leader looking to align your business with purpose, vision, and lasting impact, this episode will both challenge and inspire you.

• 00:00 Faithful Entrepreneurship
• 03:11 Trust and Vision
• 07:36 Generational Legacy
• 12:02 Divine Priorities
• 14:47 Building Strong Teams
• 16:33 Eternal Impact
• 22:20 Finish Well
• 27:46 Final Invitation

🔑 5 Key Takeaways

1. You reap what you sow—so plant intentionally.

Leaders must evaluate whether they are sowing generously or sparingly, knowing that results are directly tied to what is planted.

2. Great leaders believe in the impossible.

Vision starts with faith. Leaders are called to think bigger, ask “what if,” and believe beyond current limitations.

3. Build with a long-term, generational mindset.

Leadership is not just about immediate results—it’s about creating something that impacts future generations.

4. Strong organizations are built through strong teams.

Leadership is not a solo endeavor. Developing people and building relationships is essential for lasting success.

5. Finish well by staying aligned with your mission.

The ultimate goal is not just success—but significance. Leaders should strive to complete their work with excellence and purpose.

👉 Watch the full episode: https://youtu.be/fH-ICHmbDyg

👉 Join the free Third Fish Academy at ThirdFish.org

👉 Listen to Part 1 here: https://open.spotify.com/episode/23OaYpkcUds7IqNJHgSyJF?si=tuzUFfdHRaqUXPXIiWqgmg

What does it really mean to run a business that reflects God’s Kingdom?

In this episode, we explore foundational biblical business principles that guide how leaders think, decide, and operate in both business and life. These principles are drawn from the teachings of Jesus—through His proclamations, parables, and practices—and are designed to shape every area of leadership.

You’ll hear why business is not just about success, but about alignment—with purpose, stewardship, and eternal impact. From the call to “go the second mile,” to applying the Golden Rule in decision-making, these principles challenge the way leaders approach customers, teams, and growth.

This episode also unpacks the importance of building profit with purpose, understanding the power of clear “yes” and “no” decisions, and making the critical shift from thinking like an owner to living as a steward.

At the heart of it all is a deeper mission: not just building a successful business, but living a life that reflects God’s Kingdom and ultimately hears the words, “Well done, good and faithful servant.”

If you’re a leader, entrepreneur, or someone seeking to integrate faith into your work, this conversation will challenge and equip you to lead with clarity, purpose, and impact.

• 00:00 Biblical Business Roots
• 00:58 Principles Introduction
• 08:19 Key Business Principles
• 18:17 Profits with Purpose
• 21:39 Purposeful Impact
• 27:49 Call to Action

👉 Watch the full episode: https://youtu.be/Ah0XgHAGo_Y

👉 Join the free Third Fish Academy at ThirdFish.org

5 Key Takeaways

1. Go the Second MileSuccess in business and life comes from always taking the next step and going a little further, not just doing the minimum.

2. The Golden Rule Still WorksTreating others the way you want to be treated is a foundational principle for long-term business success and strong relationships.

3. Profit Must Have PurposeBusinesses are designed to generate profit, but lasting impact comes when profit is aligned with a greater purpose.

4. Clarity Comes from Yes and NoStrong leadership requires clear decisions—knowing what to pursue and what to avoid creates focus and trust.

5. You Are a Steward, Not an OwnerShifting from ownership to stewardship changes how leaders view responsibility, accountability, and their role in God’s work.

In this episode, Steve Adams shares a powerful true story that captures the heart of business as mission.

You’ll hear the journey of “R”, a former senior intelligence officer in Assad’s army who came to faith in Christ—and immediately faced life-altering consequences. Forced to flee his country, separated from his family, and dropped into Ukraine without language or direction, he found himself in a place of deep crisis.

What happened next is remarkable.

After encountering IBAM training, R made a bold decision: return and share the Gospel, even if it cost him his life. He survived—and came back with a renewed vision.

From there, he developed a business idea, built relationships, launched successfully, and repaid his loan within 10 months. Along the way, he became a leader in his church, created jobs, and met real needs in his community.

But what impacted him most wasn’t just the business training—it was the realization that business itself is a gift from God, a calling that can glorify Him while serving others.

This episode isn’t just a story. It’s a window into what’s possible when faith and business are fully integrated.

👉 Listen now and discover how one life can multiply into lasting impact.

• 00:00 Welcome & Vision
• 01:43 R's Introduction
• 04:12 Crossing Borders
• 06:23 Business Transformation
• 08:28 Faith in Action
• 10:20 Empowerment & Invitation
• 12:37 Closing Thoughts

5 Takeaways

1. Faith Can Redefine Everything

R’s encounter with Christ created a clear turning point that reshaped his entire life direction.

2. Obedience Often Requires Risk

He chose to return and share the Gospel despite the real possibility of death.

3. Business Can Be a Tool for Impact

Through his business, he created jobs, met needs, and served his community.

4. Biblical Understanding Unlocks Purpose

Learning that business is a God-ordained calling gave him freedom and motivation to pursue it fully.

5. Multiplication Is the Goal

This story represents a model being replicated globally to create lasting spiritual and economic impact.

Watch full episode on YT -  https://youtu.be/JO3qnS6SkUU

Join the free Third Fish Academy at ThirdFish.org 

What does it really look like to integrate faith into business?

In this episode, we go beyond surface-level ideas and explore the deeper transformation that happens when Christian entrepreneurs begin to align not just their why, but their how with God.

Many leaders start with the desire to glorify God through their business. But as discussed here, the real challenge begins when that conviction meets reality. Integrating faith into business decisions, leadership, and daily operations often raises the standard—and makes things harder.

Through the lens of C12, this conversation highlights how leaders are challenged to rethink everything—from how they view people (as souls to steward, not resources to manage) to how they define success.

You’ll hear how business can actually disciple you, shaping your character, exposing blind spots, and calling you to greater personal holiness. And while strategy and growth matter, the deeper work is what God is doing in the leader first.

This episode also confronts the cultural narrative of hustle and sacrifice. Instead of trading family, health, and spiritual life for success, leaders are invited into a different way—one marked by stewardship, submission, and trust.

At its core, this is a conversation about identity, purpose, and transformation.

• 00:00 C12 Explained
• 03:45 Faith Integration
• 08:41 Transformation Insights
• 13:23 Order vs Chaos
• 16:44 Redefining Success
• 21:23 Leadership Purpose
• 24:46 Discipleship Focus
• 28:04 Closing Thoughts

🔑 5 Key Takeaways

1. Changing the “why” isn’t enough—you must transform the “how.”

Many leaders dedicate their business to God, but still operate the same way.

2. Integrating faith into business raises the standard—and the difficulty.

Following Christ in business often requires harder decisions and higher accountability.

3. Business doesn’t just grow your company—it disciples you.

The deeper transformation happens in the leader, not just the strategy.

4. Success must be redefined through stewardship, not just profit.

It’s not just about outcomes—it’s about how and why those outcomes are pursued.

5. True leadership begins with submission, not striving.

The shift from “doing for God” to “being with God” changes everything.

Watch full episode on YT -  https://youtu.be/tS5mIWOIero

Join the free Third Fish Academy at ThirdFish.org

What if the way you’ve been viewing your work… is incomplete?

In this episode, Steve sits down with Sean Yates to explore a powerful shift in perspective around faith and work. For many, faith has been something added onto work—through prayer, Bible studies, or intentional “ministry moments.” But as Sean shares, that was only part of the picture.

Over time, his understanding evolved from a task-based approach to something far more integrated. Instead of separating spiritual activities from everyday responsibilities, he began to see that doing his work with excellence—and loving the people in front of him—was itself an expression of the gospel.

The conversation highlights how people don’t truly compartmentalize their lives. What happens personally shows up professionally, and leadership becomes an opportunity to meet people where they are. This opens the door not just for better work—but for real growth in both professional and spiritual life.

They also unpack the tension many feel between striving and joy in work. When work is viewed as separate from faith, it often feels heavy. But when it’s approached as something done with God, it becomes lighter, more purposeful, and even life-giving.

If you’ve ever felt like your job is just a means to an end—or disconnected from your calling—this conversation will challenge and encourage you in a meaningful way.

• 00:00 Welcome & Intro
• 01:06 Journey to Waco
• 03:20 Family Focus
• 05:07 Leadership Path
• 07:21 Faith at Work
• 09:07 Business as Ministry
• 14:35 Work's True Value
• 20:01 With God Living
• 22:50 Closing Insights

✅ 5 KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Work is not separate from faith

The idea of “sacred vs secular” work is a false divide—everything we do can be shaped by the gospel.

• People don’t compartmentalize their lives

What’s happening personally shows up at work, making leadership an opportunity to meet people where they are.

• Doing work with excellence is part of gospel impact

It’s not just about spiritual activities—how you do your work matters.

• Striving comes from the wrong perspective

When work is seen as separate from God, it feels heavy. Integration leads to greater joy.

• The goal is to work with God, not just for Him

A relational approach to work changes everything—from pressure to partnership.

👉 Watch full episode on YT - https://youtu.be/RAYfkibVrV8

👉 Join the free Third Fish Academy at ThirdFish.org

What if the way you think about work is incomplete?

In this episode, Steve Adams begins a two-part series unpacking the idea of the First Commission and why it matters deeply for entrepreneurs and believers in the marketplace.

Many Christians unknowingly operate with a “sacred vs. secular” mindset—believing that ministry work matters to God, but everyday jobs do not. But as Steve explains, this is a false divide.

If you are indwelt by the Holy Spirit, then God is with you wherever you go—including your workplace. That means your work is not “without God.” It is sacred.

Steve introduces the concept of the instrumental value of work—the idea that work matters because it can be used to share the gospel. While this is true, it can also lead to discouragement. Why? Because most workplaces are not always receptive, and most of your time is spent doing your job—not directly sharing your faith.

So where does that leave us?

This episode offers a powerful reframing: your work has value beyond just what it produces or how often you share the gospel. The way you show up, the environment you create, and the integrity you bring all matter.

Steve also begins to introduce a deeper concept—the intrinsic value of work—which will be expanded in the next episode.

If you’ve ever questioned whether your work really matters to God, this episode will challenge and encourage you.

• 00:00 Podcast Introduction
• 00:56 Faith at Work
• 03:12 Sacred vs. Secular
• 06:00 Work's True Value
• 11:14 Intrinsic Work Value
• 13:59 Key Takeaways

5 Key Takeaways

1. The sacred vs. secular divide is a false distinction—your work is not “without God.”
2. Because believers are indwelt by the Holy Spirit, all work becomes sacred the moment you step into it.
3. The instrumental value of work (sharing the gospel through your job) is real—but it’s not the full picture.
4. Most of your time at work is spent doing your job, not directly sharing your faith—and that’s okay.
5. Your work shapes you, creates impact, and carries eternal significance—even when it’s not explicitly evangelistic.

Watch full episode on YT - https://youtu.be/141IUYuihl4

Join the free Third Fish Academy at ThirdFish.org

What if your work is more than just work?

In this episode, Steve Adams sits down with Michael to unpack the real story behind Business as Mission—and how it led to the creation of IBAM.

It started with a mission trip in Thailand. A businessman handing out medication, wondering where he fit in. Then came a book, a training, and a realization: business wasn’t separate from mission—it was central to it.

From there, the journey expanded into Kyrgyzstan, where business became a tool for transformation in a nation facing massive unemployment. What began as simple training turned into something much bigger—entrepreneurs starting businesses, building relationships, sharing the gospel, and planting churches in places with no prior witness.

This conversation reveals how God brings together experience, calling, and opportunity in ways we don’t always expect. It challenges the idea that only pastors or missionaries are “in ministry” and reframes business as a powerful, God-ordained platform for impact.

You’ll also hear how this model has scaled across nations, why excellence matters, and what it truly means to be called into business.

If you’ve ever felt the tension between faith and work… this episode will help you see your role differently.

• 00:00 Life-Changing Missions
• 03:00 Kyrgyzstan Beginnings
• 06:09 Gospel Through Business
• 11:17 Scaling Impact
• 16:19 Next Generation Leaders
• 21:18 Real Business Values
• 24:12 Final Encouragement
• 25:12 Lasting Impact

👉 Listen now, then watch the full episode: [LINK]

👉 Join the mission: www.ibam.org

5 Key Takeaways

• Business is a calling, not a backup plan

Business is described as “a divine call as high and holy as any other.”

• The sacred vs. secular divide is false

The conversation emphasizes that business is “totally spiritual” and part of God’s strategy for reaching the world.

• Business creates natural opportunities for discipleship

Through relationships formed in business, people hear the gospel, come to faith, and begin gathering as churches.

• Scaling requires empowerment, not control

The model shifted from sending teams to equipping local partners to run training, make decisions, and lead.

• You don’t need to wait to get started

The closing challenge is simple: stop sitting in the stands and get in the game—God will meet you there.

Watch full episode on YT - https://youtu.be/hvlOW89p1PM

Join the free Third Fish Academy at ThirdFish.org

Listen to Part 1 here: https://creators.spotify.com/pod/profile/ibamtoday/episodes/EP88-Why-Business-Might-Be-the-Best-Mission-Field-e3ggto3

What if your work is more than a career — what if it’s a calling?

In this episode from the Kingdom Impact Summit, Steve Adams sits down with Michael Baer, widely recognized as a pioneer in the modern Business as Mission movement.

Mike shares the story of how his journey began with a group of college students meeting to read the Bible and pray at the University of Tennessee. What started as four young believers eventually grew into a gathering of over a hundred students.

After attending missionary training school and planting a church in Hilton Head, South Carolina, Mike faced a difficult reality: most people in the community were not coming to church. Even in what many assume to be the “Bible Belt,” only a small percentage of the population attended church.

Through prayer and reflection, he sensed God calling him to leave the formal pastorate and enter the business world in order to reach people who would never step into a church building.

That decision opened doors to influence people around the world through business relationships.

In this conversation, Mike and Steve explore:

Why business can become a powerful platform for ministry

How excellence and character in business reflect Christ

The biblical story of Daniel as a model of excellence

The Hebrew concept “Avoda,” meaning work, worship, and service together

Why meaningful work and purpose are deeply connected to how humans were created

• 00:00 Meet Mike Baer
• 01:11 Family & Origins
• 02:27 Early Ministry
• 04:26 Shift to Business
• 09:25 Faith in Business
• 11:51 Pursuing Excellence
• 13:33 Avoda Concept
• 15:06 Value of Work
• 16:53 Retirement Myths
• 19:39 Final Reflections

This conversation will challenge how you think about work, calling, and purpose — and why the marketplace can be one of the most powerful places to live out your faith.

5 Key Takeaways

1. Business Can Reach People Churches Often Cannot

Michael Baer explains that entering the business world allowed him to build relationships with people who would never attend church, creating opportunities to share the gospel naturally.

2. Excellence in Work Reflects Christ

Drawing from the story of Daniel, the conversation highlights how excellence in character and work can make a powerful witness that even critics cannot deny.

3. Work Is Intrinsically Valuable

Work is not simply a means to support ministry. According to the discussion, work itself has inherent value and was part of God’s design before the fall.

4. “Avoda”: Work, Worship, and Service Are Connected

The Hebrew word “Avoda” captures the idea that work, worship, and service to humanity are deeply connected and happen simultaneously.

5. Purposeful Work Is Essential for Human Flourishing

The discussion explores how meaningful work contributes to purpose in life and why a complete stop to work can lead to loss of direction and purpose.

Watch full episode on YT - https://youtu.be/fQhNMdT5se4

Join the free Third Fish Academy at ThirdFish.org