Reference

Luke 24:13-35 (The Road to Emmaus)

Every leader faces moments when hope feels lost and dreams seem crushed. In this powerful episode, we explore the biblical story of two disciples on the road to Emmaus who had lost all hope after Jesus's crucifixion. Their journey from "we had hoped" to renewed faith provides a practical blueprint for leaders navigating their darkest seasons. Ken shares three essential strategies for overcoming hopeless situations in leadership: honest communication with God, persistent forward movement despite discouragement, and maintaining openness to unexpected breakthroughs.

Want to become a better owner? Click here.

Connect with Ken

KenOtt.com | LinkedIn | Twitter/X | Instagram | Facebook | Metacake - An Ecommerce Growth Team | Dough - We own amazing DTC brands

About Kenneth Ott:

Kenneth Ott is an owner of multiple businesses, entrepreneur, husband, father, and Christian leader. Ken is the co-Founder of Metacake, an Ecommerce Growth Team and Dough Capital. Ken is an author, speaker, and business coach. 

Summary

Leadership inevitably brings seasons of crushing disappointment and lost hope. In this deeply personal episode, Ken examines the story of two disciples walking to Emmaus after Jesus's crucifixion, who uttered the heartbreaking words "but we had hoped." These men represent every leader who has watched their vision crumble and felt the weight of failed expectations.

Ken draws from his extensive experience working with hundreds of entrepreneurs to reveal that belief is the single biggest factor determining success in any venture - not resources, talent, or even good ideas. Yet even the most successful leaders face seasons where hope feels impossible to maintain.

The episode unpacks three crucial strategies for overcoming hopeless situations in leadership. First, we must be honest with God about our discouragement rather than offering polished prayers. Ken's pastor's advice to "pray what you got" reminds us that authentic communication includes our exhaustion, frustration, and anger.

Second, we must continue moving forward even when we're emotionally drained. The disciples literally kept walking despite their despair, and leaders must maintain forward momentum until God clearly closes one door and opens another. This persistence through pain distinguishes successful leaders from those who give up.

Third, we must stay open to possibilities and miracles. The disciples remained receptive to Jesus's teaching and presence, even in their discouragement. Many people close themselves off to breakthrough because they predetermine negative outcomes, but successful leaders understand that God's truth supersedes circumstances.

Ken emphasizes the critical difference between facts and truth, using David and Goliath as an example. David walked confidently toward seemingly impossible odds because he understood God's promise superseded the apparent facts. This same principle applies to modern leadership challenges.

The episode concludes with a reminder that even in our lowest moments, we must maintain openness to unexpected solutions. Jesus met the disciples where they were, not shaming their doubt but actively working to restore their hope. Similarly, God doesn't abandon leaders in their darkest seasons but provides pathways to breakthrough for those who remain open to His intervention.

Top 3 Growth Actions

• Be Honest About Your Discouragement - Don't offer polished prayers when you're struggling. Ken's pastor says "pray what you got" - be authentic with God about your exhaustion, frustration, and lost hope. This honesty creates space for genuine breakthrough rather than pretending everything is fine. [11:07]

• Keep Moving Forward Despite Pain - The disciples literally continued walking to Emmaus even while discouraged. As a leader, you must maintain forward momentum until God clearly closes one door and opens another. Don't stop just because you're discouraged - that's the hardest but most essential part of leadership. [14:07]

• Stay Open to Miracles and Breakthrough - The disciples remained receptive to Jesus's presence and teaching despite their despair. Many people close themselves off to possibilities by predetermining negative outcomes, but successful leaders understand that God's truth supersedes apparent circumstances. [21:43]

Show Highlights

[00:00] "But we had hoped."

[00:18] Ken introduces the central theme: "we're centering around this one verse, which I think is a verse that we can all relate to, if you have any desires in life, if you have any ambitions and you're chasing something great."

[02:03] "But we had hoped that it was he was going to redeem Israel indeed. Besides all this, today is the third day since these things happened."

[03:09] Ken shares personal experience: "maybe I'm even guaranteed it in some way, because I believe it's for me. Maybe there have been times where I've been literally shown something in a miraculous way from God, like this is the thing you're supposed to be doing, and it's going to be good."

[03:42] "we had hoped. It's not we we hope, or we still hope, we have hope. It's we had hoped. And so they're discouraged."

[08:19] "it's clearly okay to lose hope, right? It happens"

[08:33] Ken reveals a key insight: "belief is maybe the number one thing that determines success in any situation. And I've worked with hundreds and hundreds of entrepreneurs across all sorts of things"

[09:07] "it's actually their belief. It's the decision that they're going to actually go and do this thing"

[11:01] "Number one, they're honest with God."

[11:07] Ken's pastor's advice: "My pastor says, Pray what you got"

[11:39] "honestly to God and just tell him how you're feeling, like I had hoped, and now I'm disappointed and I'm upset about it, and I don't even know what to do."

[12:16] "Second thing is, what's interesting is they keep going literally, like they're actually walking to a place, they literally continue down the path."

[13:30] "One of the things is you just keep going unless the door closes. Like one of the prayers that I pray in that situation is like, Okay, I'm just gonna keep obeying and keep walking down this path until you tell me a different path to walk down."

[14:07] "Like, that's the number one thing about leadership, is you don't stop just because you're discouraged. That is one of the hardest things about leadership."

[15:00] Ken quotes Elon Musk: "business ownership, is like staring into the abyss while eating glass."

[16:28] "When David fought Goliath, he was staring down the face of, you know, one in a million odds, or whatever it is, but his belief and his mission allowed him to do that with confidence and win."

[17:36] "what's interesting is ...

Hosea 14:3-7 (God's Promise of Restoration)

Feeling exhausted and burned out as a leader? You're likely missing the one thing we can learn from plants about daily restoration. Ken shares how his unexpected physical challenges revealed the fragility of self-reliance and explores three powerful observations about dew from Hosea 14 that can transform how you approach daily renewal. Discover why stillness, early mornings, and consistent daily provision are essential for avoiding burnout and maintaining sustainable leadership energy.

Want to become a better owner? Click here.

Connect with Ken

KenOtt.com | LinkedIn | Twitter/X | Instagram | Facebook | Metacake - An Ecommerce Growth Team | Dough - We own amazing DTC brands

About Kenneth Ott:

Kenneth Ott is an owner of multiple businesses, entrepreneur, husband, father, and Christian leader. Ken is the co-Founder of Metacake, an Ecommerce Growth Team and Dough Capital. Ken is an author, speaker, and business coach. 

Summary

In this powerful episode, Ken Ott dives deep into Hosea 14:3-7 to reveal God's promise to be "like the dew to Israel" and what this means for preventing burnout in leadership. After experiencing unexpected physical challenges that left him unable to walk on New Year's Day 2025, Ken gained a newfound understanding of human fragility and our dangerous illusion of self-reliance.

Drawing from Israel's worn-out condition and their need to surrender false saviors like Assyria, Ken explores how modern leaders often fall into the same trap of believing their strength, abilities, or external opportunities will save them. Through his personal struggle with sciatic nerve issues, he learned that physical ability can vanish overnight, reminding us that life is incredibly fragile.

The core teaching centers on three crucial observations about dew that directly apply to how we can avoid burnout. First, dew only comes in stillness—when the wind dies down and everything becomes quiet. For leaders, this means creating intentional times of stillness away from the chaos of daily operations. Second, dew comes in the early hours of the morning, before everything else begins. This principle suggests that restoration happens best before the demands of the day take over. Third, dew comes daily—plants need this restoration every single day to survive and thrive.

Ken challenges the common excuse of "not being a morning person," pointing out that nobody naturally loves getting up early, but the benefits of early morning stillness are undeniable. He emphasizes that just like plants need daily watering through dew, we need daily spiritual restoration to avoid the exponential negative effects of both increased energy drain and decreased restoration practices.

The episode concludes with practical applications for business owners and entrepreneurs, showing how these biblical principles aren't just spiritual concepts but natural laws that apply to every living thing. Ken reminds listeners that the purpose of his business devotionals is to provide daily restoration for other entrepreneurs, helping them find the "dew" they need to sustain high performance without burning out.

Top 3 Growth Tips

• Create Daily Stillness Rituals - Just like dew only forms in stillness when the wind dies down, we need intentional quiet time away from the chaos of leadership to receive restoration and avoid burnout. [15:54]
• Prioritize Early Morning Restoration - Dew comes before everything else begins, suggesting that our spiritual and mental restoration should happen in the early hours before the demands of the day take over. [18:26]
• Embrace Daily Dependence Over Self-Reliance - Recognizing that we need daily provision from God, just like plants need daily dew, protects us from the dangerous illusion that our strength and abilities alone can sustain us. [22:01]

Show Highlights

• [00:00] Ken introduces the episode: "If you're tired and worn out, you're likely missing out on this one thing that we literally learn from plants."
• [00:46] Setting context for Hosea: "I may be like, you are going through or and go through times, and am going through times where you get worn out, sometimes you feel inspired, sometimes you don't."
• [02:51] Reading Hosea 14:3-7: "Israel's worn out. They've fallen away from God, they've been oppressed and and they're paying the price for it."
• [03:45] On false beliefs about personal power: "This is like, you know, the false belief that you actually have a lot of power in your situation, and the giving it over, the yielding of it to God."
• [04:20] Ken shares his physical challenge: "I literally woke up New Year's Day 2025, and could not walk. It turned out to be this sciatic nerve issue, and it is so debilitating."
• [05:30] On human fragility: "And so all of a sudden, in one day, I realized, like, wow, my physical ability can be taken down in just one day."
• [06:15] Realizing life's fragility: "It created a level of awareness to me that you are so fragile, like life is so fragile. We think we just expect to, like, wake up tomorrow and be able to walk."
• [08:20] On false saviors: "The illusion that someone else is coming to save us, right? Maybe a government or maybe a opportunity, by the way, those things will not save you."
• [09:43] Recognizing our abilities as gods: "Like, how many of us who have a lot of skills, like, who know we can do something, who have a lot of confidence, maybe look at our ability, and those abilities are our gods."
• [10:17] Focusing on the dew metaphor: "I will be like the dew to Israel."
• [10:53] Explaining dew's significance: "Like, it's pretty amazing. Like, you've got all these plants across the world, you've got all of this life and vegetation and every single day, and obviously it all needs water to grow."
• [11:35] Daily restoration through dew: "You got that layer of dudes, that watering, of all these things every single day, the renewal of plants and the restoration and the the feeding of them."
• [12:57] The need for renewal: "If you're tired and worn out, and if you're a leader, like, there are times when you are period, like, probably daily, you're tired and worn out."
• [13:06] The daily provision principle: "Like you need do every day, if, if Part one is like, you cannot rely on yourself."
• [14:53] Learning from plants: "You just gotta apply it. You must realize that that's how this works. You. And be unwise for you to not realize that."
• [15:54] First observation - stillness: "Do only comes in stillness. So it's interesting, like at the beginning, you know, when dew doesn't come throughout the entire day, right? When the sun's at its peak, there's no dew, when there's when there's wind, when there's storms, there's no dew."
• [16:41] On trying spiritual practices: "Oh, well, I've, you know, I've tried that, but, y...

Reference:

Psalm 91 (A Prayer of Protection)

When facing seemingly impossible leadership challenges, Psalm 91 offers leaders a powerful prayer of protection that dispatches angelic forces and reminds us that God's truth transcends our circumstances. This ancient prayer, written by either Moses or David, provides specific promises of protection and deliverance to those who make God their dwelling place.

Want to become a better owner? Click here.

Connect with Ken

KenOtt.com | LinkedIn | Twitter/X | Instagram | Facebook | Metacake - An Ecommerce Growth Team | Dough - We own amazing DTC brands

About Kenneth Ott:

Kenneth Ott is an owner of multiple businesses, entrepreneur, husband, father, and Christian leader. Ken is the co-Founder of Metacake, an Ecommerce Growth Team and Dough Capital. Ken is an author, speaker, and business coach. 

Summary

In this episode of Grow Time Biz Devo, Kenneth Ott shares a powerful prayer of protection from Psalm 91 specifically designed for leaders facing challenges and battles in their personal and professional lives. Kenneth reveals how he's been experiencing his own set of challenging circumstances and how his father encouraged him to pray Psalm 91 daily as a source of protection, comfort, and strength.

Kenneth explores this ancient prayer, written by either Moses or David—both great leaders who faced and overcame seemingly impossible situations. He breaks down key concepts from the Psalm, including the importance of dwelling in God's presence, trusting God's truth over the facts of your situation, receiving angelic protection in all circumstances, and claiming God's specific promises of deliverance and honor.

This episode reminds leaders that they're engaged in spiritual warfare daily, and provides practical insights into how to activate divine protection through specific prayer. Kenneth emphasizes that when leaders make God their dwelling place and refuge, they receive supernatural protection even when destruction surrounds them. The prayer offers concrete promises from God including: "He shall call upon me and I will answer him," "I will deliver him and honor him," and "With long life I will satisfy him."

Whether you're feeling attacked, intimidated, or marching into battle as a leader, this episode offers a strategic prayer that has sustained great leaders for centuries and provides the spiritual armor needed to face today's leadership challenges with confidence and divine protection.

Top 3 Growth Tips

• Make God's Truth Your Shield, Not the Facts - When facing impossible leadership situations, don't be bound by limiting facts. God's truth supersedes circumstances, so speak truth into your situation regardless of appearances, just as Moses faced the Red Sea and David confronted Goliath. When you focus on God's truth over intimidating facts, you create the possibility for breakthrough. [24:30]
• Dispatch Angelic Protection Through Specific Prayer - Leaders who make God their refuge receive heavenly "secret service" protection. Pray specifically for angels to be dispatched over your family, business, team, and circumstances. The more specific your prayers for protection, the more effectively you engage spiritual warfare on your behalf. [35:40]
• Claim God's Promises of Deliverance Daily - Confidently claim the promises in Psalm 91, focusing on God's absolute declarations: "I will deliver him," "I will answer," "I will be with him," "I will honor him." These aren't maybes but certainties for those who dwell in God's presence. When you verbally claim these promises, you activate God's protection in your leadership. [43:25]

For more tips, discussion, and behind the scenes:

• Follow us on Instagram @iamKenOtt
• Watch us on https://www.youtube.com/@KenOtt 

Show Highlights

[00:19] Ken introduces the theme of needing protection as a leader. "Welcome to the Grow Time Biz Devo, where we explore God's principles for living a high performance life."

[03:19] Ken shares his personal struggles. "I've sort of shared a little bit about some of the challenges that I'm going through, some personal challenges, physical challenges, some business challenges."

[04:01] Ken describes the feeling of leadership fear. "There have been times where it's been kind of scary, or there have been times where you don't feel like pursuing it in the morning. You're questioning the thing that God told you is the thing."

[05:34] Ken introduces Psalm 91 as a prayer. "And he told me, 'Pray it. Just pray it every day.'"

[06:56] Ken explains his goal in sharing Psalm 91. "And so I want to share it with you and I want to pray it over you. And then I want to bring highlights to some of the things that I saw as important to me."

[09:00] Ken emphasizes dwelling in God's secret place. "Who you dwells in the secret place of the Most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty, abiding under the shadow of the Almighty, dwell and abide."

[12:50] Ken discusses the importance of speaking God's Word. "I will say to the Lord, it's important to speak these words. You know, it's something, it's one thing to read these words, but I was made aware of this and I already knew it. Like you gotta speak them."

[16:21] Ken explains that facts don't matter to God. "His truth shall be your shield and buckler. What's interesting about truth is the world has this concept of like my truth and thank God that's going away."

[19:14] Ken describes what it means for God's truth to be our shield. "The facts are subservient to the truth of the God of the universe who created everything, who runs those facts, who rule those facts."

[22:35] Ken shows how God's protection works in battle. "A thousand may fall at your side and 10,000 at your right hand. But it shall not come near you. Only with your eyes shall you look and see the reward of the wicked."

[24:39] Ken explains only looking with your eyes, not your heart. "Well, clearly looking has more than just the eyes attached to it. So you'll see something. Well, the way I read it is you'll see something, but you won't believe it."

[30:13] Ken highlights God's promise of protection. "Because you have made the Lord, who is my refuge, even the Most High, your dwelling place. No evil shall befall you, nor shall any plague come near your dwelling."

[32:34] Ken emphasizes the reality of spiritual warfare. "Everything is a spiritual battle. If you're going through something, it is clearly a spiritual battle. It's always a spiritual battle."

[36:30] Ken describes angels as our protection. "God will give his angels charge of you. This is an actual secret service for you. You're the president."

[38:00] Ken explains why protection is necessary for leade...

When Jay Myers' online business collapsed, leaving him unable to pay rent and down to his last $50, it seemed like complete failure. Yet this rock-bottom moment became the foundation for Bold Commerce, which now serves over 800,000 Shopify stores. His journey reveals how business failure often contains the hidden seeds of extraordinary success.

Connect with Jay

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasonnmyers/ 
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jasonnmyers/ 
• Bold Commerce: https://boldcommerce.com 
• The Shopify 1% Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ecommerce-is-just-math-lets-break-it-down-growth-on/id1785874734?i=1000691385152
• The Shopify 1% Podcast on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shopify1percent/ 

Summary

In this inspiring episode, Ken welcomes his first-ever Grow Time Biz Devo guest, Jay Myers, founder of Bold Commerce. Jay shares his powerful story of overcoming devastating business failure to build one of e-commerce's most successful companies. After his online archery supply business collapsed under mounting debt and logistical challenges, Jay found himself broke, unemployed, and unable to even pay rent. At his lowest point, with just $50 to his name, he had a profound conversation with God about his future that changed his perspective entirely.

This complete business failure became the turning point that led Jay to discover Shopify and identify the app marketplace opportunity that would become Bold Commerce. The company grew to employ 450 people, serve over 800,000 stores, and raise $60 million in funding. Throughout the conversation, Jay explains how his faith helped him navigate the crushing disappointment of business failure and remain open to the unexpected doors that opened when others closed.

The discussion explores crucial principles for entrepreneurs facing failure: understanding the difference between setbacks and defeat, recognizing that valleys are where growth happens, seeing business failure as preparation rather than conclusion, and knowing that our hardest challenges define who we truly are. Jay's journey powerfully demonstrates that overcoming business failure isn't just about persistence—it's about maintaining faith through the valley moments and recognizing the greater purpose being written through our struggles.

Top 3 Growth Tips

• Learn to See Business Failure as Growth: Jay uses the powerful valley metaphor to explain how failure provides essential growth. "What's in the valley? It's lush, it's green. That's where stuff grows. And when you're in the valley, know like, see it for what it is, it might be hard, but you're growing." Your biggest business growth happens in your most challenging seasons. (54:59)
• When One Business Fails, Look for New Doors Opening: Instead of fixating on the business that failed, be attentive to new opportunities emerging. "If a door closes in your life, just be really observant of what other doors are opening. And so many times we cover our eyes and all we can think about is the door that closed." Jay discovered Shopify and the app opportunity only after his previous business completely collapsed. (1:04:19)
• Build a Business, Not Just a Job: After overcoming his business failure, Jay understood the crucial difference between "owning a job" where income stops when you stop working, versus building a true business that can function without you. "With my eBay sales, the day I stopped listing things, I stopped making money. So I owned a really good job, but it wasn't a business." (21:16)

For more tips, discussion, and behind the scenes:

• Follow us on Instagram @iamKenOtt
• Watch us on https://www.youtube.com/@KenOtt 

About Ken Ott:

Kenneth Ott is an owner of multiple businesses, entrepreneur, husband, father, and Christian leader. Ken is the co-Founder of Metacake, an Ecommerce Growth Team and Dough Capital. Ken is an author, speaker, and business coach. To connect or learn more, visit: 

• KenOtt.com
• Ken on LinkedIn
• Ken on Twitter/X
• Ken on Instagram
• Ken on Facebook
• Metacake - An Ecommerce Growth Team
• Dough - We own amazing DTC brands
  
  

Show Highlights

[0:06] Ken introduces the first-ever guest on the Grow Time Biz Devo podcast, his friend Jay Myers.

[1:25] Ken shares that Jay founded Bold Commerce, one of the first and biggest Shopify app developers.

[2:10] Jay expresses humble gratitude for being invited as the first guest on the show.

[4:31] Jay explains that Bold has grown to around 450 employees and has had over 800,000 Shopify stores use their apps.

[5:05] Jay defines success not by revenue but by lives impacted: "I know that we've had four people who have met at Bold that have got married."

[7:05] Ken acknowledges Bold's tremendous marketplace success in the Shopify ecosystem.

[8:40] Jay discusses the responsibility of having employees relocate their lives to work for his company.

[11:25] Jay shares a profound insight about leadership: "Over-trying to help someone sometimes is actually hurting them."

[15:10] Jay discusses how faith helps release the pressure of leadership: "Every step of their journey, God's not done with you yet."

[16:50] Jay shares his background in competitive archery and starting a family archery business at age 13.

[21:16] Jay explains the key difference between owning a job versus owning a business: "With eBay, I had a job. The day I stopped listing, I stopped making money."

[24:51] Jay describes reaching a breaking point in his online archery business where he maxed out all credit lines.

[30:05] Jay recounts his lowest point: having no money, asking family to help pay rent, and keeping his last $50 bill as a security blanket.

[31:00] Jay shares a profound spiritual moment where God asked him: "How could you ever manage 100 people when you can't even manage yourself?"

[33:00] Ken asks what kept Jay going despite such devastating business failure and discouragement.

[34:32] Jay explains how his sports background taught him that losing a game doesn't make you a loser.

[37:53] Jay tells the story of going through his trophies with his son and then throwing them away: "The value has nothing to do with the trophy."

[41:46] Jay shares the profound metaphor of cross-stitch: what looks like random threads on one side is a beautiful picture on the other.

[46:30] Ken relates to Jay's story with his own current challenges, including a recent injury that has limited his physical capabilities.

[54:59] Jay shares the powerful valley metaphor: "Valleys don't last forever, but that's where your growth happens."

Reference

1 Kings 18:25-40 & 19:9-13 (Elijah's Contest and Cave Experience)

Subtitle

Discover why even the most successful leaders cycle between extreme confidence and crippling doubt. Through Elijah's dramatic story, learn how to recognize this natural pattern and emerge stronger from seasons of uncertainty.

Summary

Every entrepreneur knows the jarring shift from absolute confidence to crushing doubt - often without any change in circumstances. This episode dives deep into what we call "the perspective cycle," using the biblical account of Elijah's extraordinary journey from his greatest victory to his darkest valley. After orchestrating one of history's most dramatic public demonstrations of power, Elijah found himself hiding in a cave, paralyzed by fear. This isn't just ancient history; it's a blueprint for understanding our own entrepreneurial journey.

We explore how this cycle isn't just normal - it's necessary for growth. Through Elijah's story, we uncover three critical principles for navigating these cycles: understanding that situations don't change (only our perspective does), remembering our true identity during dark times, and learning to recognize that cycles are predictable and temporary. Most importantly, we discover how these valleys become opportunities for exponential growth when we learn to listen for the "still small voice" guiding us forward.

This episode offers practical insights for recognizing these patterns in your own leadership journey and provides tactical approaches for maintaining perspective when doubt creeps in. Whether you're riding high on success or questioning everything, you'll learn why this cycle is actually a gift and how to use it as a catalyst for your next breakthrough.

Top 3 Growth Tips

• Recognize the Perspective Pattern: Your circumstances rarely change as dramatically as your perspective of them. When feeling doubtful, remember that your situation hasn't changed - only your view has. This awareness alone can help break the grip of doubt. [12:45]
• Listen in the Silence: The most powerful guidance often comes not through dramatic events but through the "still small voice." Create intentional space for quiet reflection, especially during times of doubt. Resist the urge to fill every moment with distraction. [32:18]
• Use the Valley for Vision: Periods of doubt aren't just obstacles to endure - they're opportunities to rebuild stronger. Use these times to reassess, reimagine, and establish a more solid foundation for your next phase of growth. [28:54]

For more tips, discussion, and behind the scenes:

• Follow us on Instagram @iamKenOtt
• Watch us on https://www.youtube.com/@KenOtt 

About Ken Ott:

Kenneth Ott is an owner of multiple businesses, entrepreneur, husband, father, and Christian leader. Ken is the co-Founder of Metacake, an Ecommerce Growth Team and Dough Capital. Ken is an author, speaker, and business coach. To connect or learn more, visit: 

• KenOtt.com
• Ken on LinkedIn
• Ken on Twitter/X
• Ken on Instagram
• Ken on Facebook
• Metacake - An Ecommerce Growth Team
• Dough - We own amazing DTC brands
  
  

Show Highlights

[00:00] "Have you ever gone from extreme confidence to absolute discouragement in just a short period of time? Maybe you're there right now."

[03:15] Ken shares how he is amazed at how quickly perspective can shift without circumstances changing

[07:42] The setup of Elijah's contest with the prophets of Baal

[12:30] "He has this absolute belief...that he's going to be able to bring fire from heaven to this altar"

[15:45] Discussion of how Elijah mocks the prophets of Baal during their failed attempts

[18:20] The dramatic moment when fire consumes the water-soaked altar

[22:35] Elijah's shift from victory to fear after Jezebel's threat

[25:40] "God asks him twice: 'What are you doing here, Elijah?' It's about identity."

[28:15] The importance of listening for the still small voice rather than dramatic signs

[31:20] How the perspective cycle is actually an opportunity for growth

[33:45] The value of "blank space" and avoiding constant distraction

[35:10] Ken explains why boredom can be a gift for creativity and hearing God's voice

[37:25] Final thoughts on using cycles of doubt as launching pads for growth

Reference

Acts 16:6-10 (Paul's Journey to Macedonia)

Subtitle

Discover why closed doors in business aren't failures, but divine redirections. Through Paul's journey in Acts 16, we explore how apparent setbacks often lead to unexpected opportunities. Learn how to discern between obstacles to overcome and doors God has purposefully closed, transforming your perspective on business challenges.

Summary

In this powerful episode, we dive deep into one of the most challenging aspects of business leadership - dealing with closed doors and setbacks. Through the lens of Paul's journey in Acts 16, we uncover why these moments of apparent failure are often divine redirections toward better opportunities. We explore three critical types of closed doors: perceived failures, disappointments, and attacks, and how to navigate each one with wisdom and discernment.

Using real-world examples, including our recent experience with purchasing a new business facility, we demonstrate how what initially seems like a devastating setback can lead to unprecedented opportunities. We address the crucial difference between barriers that need to be overcome and doors that should remain closed, providing practical wisdom for leaders facing tough decisions.

The episode challenges conventional business thinking about persistence and "pushing through," offering a nuanced perspective on when to press forward and when to pivot. We discuss the delicate balance between having the patience to wait for God's timing and the courage to act immediately when direction becomes clear. Through personal stories and biblical insights, we provide practical strategies for discerning whether you're facing a closed door or just a temporary obstacle, helping you make better decisions in your business journey.

Top 3 Growth Tips

• Learn to Recognize Closed Doors: Understanding the difference between a closed door and a barrier to overcome is crucial for business success. Look for patterns of resistance and seek divine wisdom in your decision-making process. [08:45]
• Embrace the Waiting Period: Sometimes the period between closed doors and new opportunities requires active patience. Keep moving forward while remaining attentive to divine guidance. [18:30]
• Act Decisively When Doors Open: When you receive clear direction after a period of closed doors, act immediately and decisively. Don't let hesitation or fear hold you back from new opportunities. [25:15]

For more tips, discussion, and behind the scenes:

• Follow us on Instagram @iamKenOtt
• Watch us on https://www.youtube.com/@KenOtt 

About Ken Ott:

Kenneth Ott is an owner of multiple businesses, entrepreneur, husband, father, and Christian leader. Ken is the co-Founder of Metacake, an Ecommerce Growth Team and Dough Capital. Ken is an author, speaker, and business coach. To connect or learn more, visit: 

• KenOtt.com
• Ken on LinkedIn
• Ken on Twitter/X
• Ken on Instagram
• Ken on Facebook
• Metacake - An Ecommerce Growth Team
• Dough - We own amazing DTC brands
  
  

Show Highlights

• [00:00] "Have you ever had failure after failure and thought about giving up?"
• [02:15] How Paul and his companions faced multiple closed doors in their ministry journey
• [03:45] The importance of recognizing when God is redirecting your path
• [05:30] Ken shares personal experience with closed doors in business decisions
• [07:20] "Closed doors are unexpected, and they don't often make sense"
• [09:45] Discussion of the three ways closed doors manifest: failures, disappointments, and attacks
• [12:30] Story of purchasing the new business facility and initial disappointment
• [15:20] "In the moment, I was so disappointed, nothing could be better than this"
• [17:40] How the better opportunity emerged after accepting the closed door
• [19:55] The challenge of discerning between closed doors and barriers to overcome
• [21:30] "I know when I'm forcing the situation. I can feel it"
• [22:45] The importance of having conviction in your decisions as a leader
• [23:50] Dealing with opposing voices and maintaining clear direction
• [24:30] The balance between patience and immediate action
• [25:15] How Paul demonstrated both patience and decisive action
• [26:20] "They weren't just sitting around, but they were patient"
• [27:00] The power of acting immediately when direction becomes clear
• [27:45] Final thoughts on living a high-performance life while following divine guidance
• [28:10] Invitation to connect and learn more about business growth
• [28:23] Closing encouragement to never stop growing

Reference 

John 15:1-8 (Jesus teaches about the Vine and Branches)

Subtitle 

Discover why some people seem to flow effortlessly in their calling while others struggle to find their way. Through Jesus's powerful analogy of the vine and branches, we uncover the biblical secret to not just finding your calling, but thriving in it. Learn why staying comfortable might be the very thing keeping you from your true purpose.

Summary

In this transformative episode, we dive deep into John 15:1-8, where Jesus reveals profound truths about finding and fulfilling your calling through the analogy of the vine and branches. We discover that success isn't about comfort – it's about bearing much fruit. Many believers struggle to integrate their faith with their ambition, often separating their "church life" from their business life. But through this powerful teaching, we learn that God actually wants us to be ambitious and productive, creating "much fruit" rather than settling for comfort.

The episode challenges the common mindset that playing small is somehow more spiritual. Instead, we learn that God's design is for extraordinary growth and impact. Through the metaphor of pruning, we understand that seasons of challenge aren't setbacks but setups for greater growth. Just as a gardener prunes thriving plants to produce more fruit, God's pruning in our lives – while uncomfortable – leads to discovering and maximizing our true calling.

Most importantly, we learn that finding your calling isn't about following a formula – it's about staying connected to the source. When we remain in the vine (Christ) and His words remain in us, we naturally discover and fulfill our unique purpose. This episode offers practical insights for entrepreneurs and leaders who want to stop wandering and start thriving in their God-given calling.

Top 3 Growth Tips

• Understanding Pruning Seasons: Hard times and setbacks aren't failures – they're preparation for greater growth. Just like a pruned plant grows back stronger, challenges position you for expansion in your calling. [4:17]
• The Danger of Comfort: Playing small and staying comfortable isn't godly – it's actually dishonoring. God calls us to bear "much fruit," not just enough to get by. Your calling always pushes beyond your comfort zone. [31:20]
• Connection Before Production: Success in your calling flows from remaining connected to the source. When you stay connected to the vine and let His words guide you, clarity about your purpose naturally follows. [20:53]

For more tips, discussion, and behind the scenes:

• Follow us on Instagram @iamKenOtt
• Watch us on https://www.youtube.com/@KenOtt 

About Ken Ott:

Kenneth Ott is an owner of multiple businesses, entrepreneur, husband, father, and Christian leader. Ken is the co-Founder of Metacake, an Ecommerce Growth Team and Dough Capital. Ken is an author, speaker, and business coach. To connect or learn more, visit: 

• KenOtt.com
• Ken on LinkedIn
• Ken on Twitter/X
• Ken on Instagram
• Ken on Facebook
• Metacake - An Ecommerce Growth Team
• Dough - We own amazing DTC brands
  
  

Show Highlights

[00:00] "Do you ever wonder how things seem easy for some people but painfully hard for other people?"

[00:15] Introduction to the GrowTime business devotional

[02:10] The profound connection between farming principles and success

[04:17] "He cuts off every branch that bears no fruit, while every branch that does bear fruit, he prunes."

[06:26] The sobering truth about those who don't bear fruit

[09:47] Understanding how different roles produce different types of fruit

[14:26] Why entrepreneurs and leaders can feel lonely in their calling

[17:21] "If you want to be successful, remain in the vine."

[20:19] The power of God's words remaining in you

[22:23] The importance of investigating your true purpose

[25:00] Why wanting "big things" aligns with God's heart

[26:56] "Everything you do is for His glory"

[28:20] The connection between success and godly ambition

[29:16] The danger of staying comfortable in business

[30:19] The powerful story about "enough" versus growth

[31:20] Why comfort shouldn't be our goal

[32:01] The hydrangea analogy - growth through pruning

[32:58] The cycle of pruning and explosive growth

[34:20] Final call to action and growth encouragement

Reference

Hebrews 6:10-13 (Framework for Inheriting God's Promises)

Subtitle

Discover the powerful four-part framework from Hebrews that unlocks God's promises for entrepreneurs. Move beyond quick wins and silver bullet solutions to build lasting success through biblical principles of diligence, imitation, faith, and patience. Learn why most entrepreneurs struggle to achieve their vision and how God's framework provides the missing piece.

Summary

In this transformative episode, we unpack a game-changing biblical framework for entrepreneurs seeking to achieve God's promises in their business and life. Drawing from Hebrews 6, we reveal four essential components that most business leaders miss when pursuing their vision: diligence, imitation, faith, and patience.

We dive deep into why traditional entrepreneurial approaches often fall short, challenging common misconceptions about "overnight success" and the "move fast and break things" mentality. Instead, we explore how true entrepreneurial success requires more than just hustle – it demands strategic patience and unwavering faith.

This framework revolutionizes our understanding of business building by revealing that God's promises are actually divine laws with specific inputs and requirements. We examine how many entrepreneurs inadvertently sabotage their success by avoiding the hard work in the dark, chasing quick wins, and misunderstanding the role of patience in achievement.

Through powerful examples from biblical figures like Abraham and Joseph, we demonstrate how this framework has been the hidden key behind history's greatest success stories. We challenge the modern startup culture's emphasis on constant pivoting and short-term thinking, offering instead a proven path to sustainable, God-aligned success.

Whether you're struggling with discouragement, facing seemingly insurmountable challenges, or simply seeking a more meaningful approach to business growth, this framework provides the missing piece you've been searching for. Learn how to move beyond superficial "hacks" and build something truly lasting by aligning with God's principles for achievement.

Top 3 Growth Tips

• Redefine Patience as Active Waiting: Stop viewing patience as passive or weak. True entrepreneurial patience means working diligently in the dark, maintaining consistency even without visible results. [17:01]
• Embrace Foundational Work: Avoid the temptation of chasing silver bullets and quick wins. Focus on building strong foundations through committed daily action habits that align with your mission. [19:34]
• Model Biblical Success Stories: Study and imitate successful examples from scripture, like Joseph's empire-building strategy in Egypt, to understand how God's promises unfold through strategic action. [10:27]

For more tips, discussion, and behind the scenes:

• Follow us on Instagram @iamKenOtt
• Watch us on https://www.youtube.com/@KenOtt 

About Ken Ott:

Kenneth Ott is an owner of multiple businesses, entrepreneur, husband, father, and Christian leader. Ken is the co-Founder of Metacake, an Ecommerce Growth Team and Dough Capital. Ken is an author, speaker, and business coach. To connect or learn more, visit: 

• KenOtt.com
• Ken on LinkedIn
• Ken on Twitter/X
• Ken on Instagram
• Ken on Facebook
• Metacake - An Ecommerce Growth Team
• Dough - We own amazing DTC brands
  
  

Show Highlights

[00:00] "Do you ever feel like you should have something that you can't seem to achieve? You know the idea of the struggle bus? You know why it's a bus? It's because almost everyone's on it."

[02:29] Ken introduces the four-part framework from Hebrews for achieving God's promises, a system most entrepreneurs aren't aware of.

[04:02] "Diligence is the first piece of achieving the promises of God. The promises of God are actually laws of God."

[05:29] "You didn't utilize the framework for getting the promise. If you started, you hit a failure and then you just stopped. Diligence is this idea of persistence."

[07:54] Ken explains the power of imitation: "Find someone who knows what to do, who has done it, who has achieved a thing, and imitate them."

[10:12] "If you are interested in how you massively expand your life, wealth and business, go listen to the Devo on Joseph."

[12:21] "Faith is believing without doubt. Everyone has faith, or you don't know what's going to happen."

[15:04] Discussion of Abraham's 70-year journey to achieve his promise, demonstrating the framework in action.

[17:01] "Patience is not inactive, it is not lazy, it is not being passive, it is not being indifferent. It is not being timid."

[19:34] Warning against building businesses based on "hack after hack after hack" instead of proper foundation.

[21:24] "Patience is calculated, but not timid. It's being smart. It's not ready fire aim, it's not reckless."

[22:06] Ken shares a cautionary tale about startup culture and reckless business practices.

[23:27] "Patience keeps you from doing that. Patience is valuing the process of winning."

[25:11] Discussion of elite athletes and their years of unseen work before "overnight" success.

[26:42] Final challenge to examine if you're following all four parts of the framework to achieve God's promises.

Reference

Isaiah 49:1-6 (Isaiah's Calling and Mission)

Subtitle

Feel like you're working harder than everyone else but seeing fewer results? You're not alone. Using Isaiah's powerful story of waiting and preparation, we unpack why some of the most talented leaders face seasons of hiding - and how this protection might be the very thing preparing you for something greater than you imagined. Discover why your current frustration could be setting you up for unprecedented success.

Summary

When you're pouring everything into your business or calling but not seeing the results you expected, it's easy to feel like you're laboring in vain. This episode dives deep into Isaiah 49:1-6, revealing a powerful framework for understanding seasons of waiting and apparent failure in your journey. Through Isaiah's story, we discover how what feels like being "hidden in the shadows" might actually be divine protection and necessary preparation for greater impact.

We explore four critical phases in every leader's journey: calling, gifts, preparation, and protection. The fascinating paradox is that what feels like delay or denial might be the very thing preventing premature success from becoming your worst nightmare. Using real-world examples from sports, entertainment, and business, we illustrate how timing is everything - and how rushing to success without proper preparation often leads to catastrophic failure.

Most importantly, we unpack the counterintuitive truth that your current frustration might be protecting you from a success you're not yet equipped to handle. Through Isaiah's example, we learn the delicate balance of owning your greatness while remaining humble, and why maintaining belief during waiting seasons is crucial for eventual breakthrough. If you're questioning whether your time will ever come or feeling discouraged by others' faster progress, this episode provides both practical wisdom and spiritual encouragement for your journey.

Top 3 Growth Tips

• Own Your Greatness Without Fear - Don't confuse false humility with godliness. Acknowledging and developing your God-given talents isn't pride - it's stewardship. Honest self-awareness of your gifts is crucial for fulfilling your mission. [23:15]
• The Protection of Waiting - What feels like delay might actually be divine protection. Just like Isaiah being "hidden in the quiver," your season of waiting could be preventing premature success from becoming a catastrophic failure. [35:42]
• All Work Works - Every effort either produces results or produces growth in you - usually both. Stay diligent in your waiting season, focusing on maturing your skills and character rather than just rushing to the outcome. [48:30]

For more tips, discussion, and behind the scenes:

• Follow us on Instagram @iamKenOtt
• Watch us on https://www.youtube.com/@KenOtt 

About Ken Ott:

Kenneth Ott is an owner of multiple businesses, entrepreneur, husband, father, and Christian leader. Ken is the co-Founder of Metacake, an Ecommerce Growth Team and Dough Capital. Ken is an author, speaker, and business coach. To connect or learn more, visit: 

• KenOtt.com
• Ken on LinkedIn
• Ken on Twitter/X
• Ken on Instagram
• Ken on Facebook
• Metacake - An Ecommerce Growth Team
• Dough - We own amazing DTC brands
  
  

Show Highlights

[00:45] Welcome to the Business Devo where we explore God's principles for living a high performance life

[02:30] "The challenge is when you have those qualities, especially at an early age, it can be kind of a discouraging road because you're always waiting for it to happen."

[05:15] Ken shares personal experiences with people questioning his constant drive for more

[08:45] "Your desires are your calling. Like that feeling that you have is the calling."

[12:20] Breaking down Isaiah's bold declaration and what it means for modern leaders

[15:30] "Those desires are indications of calling. All talents are indications of calling."

[18:45] The importance of making space for silence and reflection

[22:10] Discussion of false humility versus genuine confidence

[25:30] "Owning your greatness, I've talked about this concept before, Isaiah owns his greatness to a great degree."

[28:15] The challenging but necessary process of preparation

[31:45] "Maybe being in the shadow of God's hand was a good thing at the time."

[35:20] Real-world examples of premature success leading to failure

[38:45] The Groupon restaurant analogy and lessons about scaling too quickly

[42:10] "When the time is right, the result is better than you could have imagined."

[45:30] The principle that "all work works" and its implications

[48:15] Ken shares the story about the new building acquisition

[51:30] "What I think is the best is not the best. And what I think is right is not necessarily right."

[54:20] The importance of rest while waiting

[57:45] "You can't allow discouragement and waiting in vain to make you question the promise."

[59:30] Final thoughts on accelerating the plan through wisdom and maturity

Reference

Reference: Psalm 1:1-3

Subtitle

Discover the divine formula for entrepreneurial success and peace of mind in this powerful Business Devotional. Learn how to overcome anxiety and worry by aligning your inputs and relationships with God's principles, setting the stage for unprecedented business growth and personal fulfillment.

Summary

In this eye-opening episode of the Grow Time Business Devotional, we delve into the root causes of anxiety among entrepreneurs and business owners, offering a powerful biblical solution from Psalm 1. Despite record levels of unhappiness in America, including among high performers, we uncover two key factors that can dramatically shift your entrepreneurial journey from stress to success.

We explore how the content you consume and the company you keep are crucial determinants of your business outcomes and personal well-being. By carefully curating your inputs - from social media to mentors - and aligning yourself with godly principles, you can transform your entrepreneurial experience.

The episode breaks down Psalm 1, revealing it as God's success formula for business owners. We discuss the progression from casual influence to deep-seated habits, and how to avoid the pitfalls of ungodly counsel, sinful behaviors, and scornful attitudes. Instead, we offer practical advice on surrounding yourself with high-quality, successful individuals who embody both wealth and character.

Ultimately, this Business Devotional promises that by managing these two critical aspects - content and company - entrepreneurs can position themselves for prosperity in all their endeavors. It's not just about spiritual growth, but tangible, real-world success. Whether you're battling anxiety about the economy, your business decisions, or the future, this episode provides a roadmap to peace, fulfillment, and unparalleled business growth.

Top 3 Growth Tips

• 
  Curate Your Content Consumption: Intentionally choose inputs that align with godly principles and foster positivity. Limit exposure to anxiety-inducing media and focus on content that is "true, noble, right, pure, lovely, and admirable." [Timestamp: 7:45]
• Elevate Your Inner Circle: Surround yourself with high-character, successful individuals who embody both spiritual and business excellence. Seek mentors and join mastermind groups that challenge you to grow. [Timestamp: 18:30]
• Align Your Business with God's Ways: Ensure your business practices and products are in harmony with biblical principles. This alignment is key to sustainable success and peace of mind in entrepreneurship. [Timestamp: 14:15]

For more tips, discussion, and behind the scenes:

• Follow us on Instagram @iamKenOtt
• Watch us on https://www.youtube.com/@KenOtt 

About Ken Ott:

Kenneth Ott is an owner of multiple businesses, entrepreneur, husband, father, and Christian leader. Ken is the co-Founder of Metacake, an Ecommerce Growth Team and Dough Capital. Ken is an author, speaker, and business coach. To connect or learn more, visit: 

• KenOtt.com
• Ken on LinkedIn
• Ken on Twitter/X
• Ken on Instagram
• Ken on Facebook
• Metacake - An Ecommerce Growth Team
• Dough - We own amazing DTC brands
  
  

Show Highlights

[1:05] Ken introduces Psalm 1 as God's success formula for entrepreneurs.

[2:30] "Americans are the most unhappy since that time in recorded history. And this includes high performers and business owners."

[3:45] Ken reveals the two key insights from Psalm 1 about overcoming anxiety in entrepreneurship.

[5:20] "Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor stands in the path of sinners, nor sits in the seat of the scornful."

[7:15] Ken discusses the importance of carefully selecting your inputs and content consumption.

[9:30] "Whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, these are not boring things."

[11:00] "You get what you focus on, not what you deserve."

[12:45] Ken explains the progression of negative influence: from the ungodly to sinners to the scornful.

[14:30] "If you fight against the ways things work in the universe, then you're going to hit a lot of walls."

[16:15] Ken shares personal experiences of choosing winning influences over losing ones.

[18:45] "I want to be in rooms, generally speaking, where I am the least intelligent person there, where I'm bringing the average down because I want to learn."

[20:30] Ken interprets the metaphor of being "like a tree planted by the rivers of water."

[22:00] "Whatever he does shall prosper. It doesn't mean whatever good thing you do or noble thing you do or charity thing you do... This says, whatever you do."

[23:45] Ken emphasizes the importance of both eliminating negative influences and actively seeking positive ones.

[25:00] Ken introduces the Grow Time Business Devo as a resource for entrepreneurs seeking biblical business wisdom.