The Workmatters Podcast

He swore he'd never come back to the family business. 34 years later, Dave Hataj — along with his sons Jason and Caleb — is running Edgerton Gear as a place where faith and work aren't separate at all.

In this episode of the Work Matters Podcast, Dave, Jason, and Caleb Hataj open up about generational dysfunction, burnout, a father-son surrender in the middle of the night, and what it actually looks like to bring God into a blue-collar machine shop every single day.

🔑 In this episode:
- Why Dave initially refused to return to the family business
- The 20-year wrestling match that finally broke in a moment of surrender
- How burnout and health struggles reshaped Dave's leadership
- Caleb and Jason's honest take on growing up in the shop
- Breaking generational cycles of dysfunction
- What "embracing the suck" really means
- Three practical ways to bring your faith into your workday

⏱️ TIMESTAMPS
00:41 – Meet Dave, Jason & Caleb Hataj
01:24 – Introducing Edgerton Gear & Craftsman with Character
02:23 – When faith and work first clicked for Dave
03:08 – Regent College and the calling he tried to run from
03:45 – The vocational test that sent him home
04:29 – Wrestling with God for 20 years
05:33 – The bedroom surrender that changed everything
06:54 – From "prison" to "happy place"
07:31 – Burnout, health issues & changing the culture
08:37 – Losing employees who wanted "the old Dave" back
10:34 – Caleb's winding path back to Edgerton Gear
12:23 – Jason's story & Dave's dinner-table faith lessons
13:56 – The Isle Royale trip and healing as a family
15:56 – Discipleship of work & breaking generational cycles
17:52 – "Embrace the suck": what stress reveals in us
19:46 – What it's really like working together as family
21:07 – Advice for young people starting their careers
22:11 – Why work itself is good — not just a means to an end
23:40 – Jason's honest struggle to keep God in focus daily
25:45 – Encouragement for every listener
26:17 – 3 practical ways to practice your faith at work
29:12 – Recap: awareness, brokenness, influence
29:46 – Where to find Edgerton Gear & Craftsman with Character
30:29 – Closing thoughts & final encouragement

🔗 CONNECT WITH DAVE, JASON & CALEB
Edgerton Gear: https://edgertongear.com
Craftsman with Character: https://www.cwcharacter.org/
Dave's book: "Good Work: How Blue Collar Business Can Change Lives, Communities, and the World"

🎓 TAKE THE NEXT STEP
Ready to connect your Sunday faith to your Monday work? Join the Work Matters Institute — a transformational 10-session course covering practical teaching, spiritual formation, leadership development, and workplace discipleship.
👉 Learn more: https://workmatters.org

🔔 Subscribe for more conversations on faith, leadership, and finding purpose in your work.

#WorkMattersPodcast #FaithAndWork #ChristianLeadership #BlueCollar #FamilyBusiness #EdgertonGear #CraftsmanWithCharacter #WorkplaceCulture #ChristianEntrepreneur #PurposeDrivenWork

Finding purpose at work — Idalia LeJune shares how a career plateau and season of burnout led her from a "check-the-box" faith to a genuine relationship with God that transformed how she shows up in the workplace every day.

A first-generation Mexican-American and senior relationship manager in the financial industry, Idalia spent over 25 years chasing achievement before discovering that true purpose at work isn't about the next title or paycheck. In this episode, she opens up about choosing obedience over optics when she stepped back in her career, the workplace conflict that cracked her open to a new way of leading, and how integrating faith at work became her personal mission field — no overseas trip required.

⏱️Chapters

[00:00] Intro
[00:45] Meet Idalia: Senior Relationship Manager & 2025 Rising Star 
[02:09] Her Dad's Work Ethic and What Drove Her Early Career 
[04:59] When Faith Was Just a "Check the Box" 
[05:55] The 2023 Breaking Point — Career Plateau, Unbalanced Life 
[07:03] The Trifecta: How She Reset Her Spirit, Body, and Mind 
[07:37] The Biggest Career Decision She Ever Made 
[09:36] How She Found Work Matters and Said Yes to the Conference 
[13:34] What Happened in the Parking Lot After the Conference 
[15:37] A Workplace Conflict That Changed Everything 
[17:16]Faith at Work Without Leaving Your Job 
[20:41] What God Is Doing in Her This Year: Obedience and Listening 
[22:07] The Airplane Story — When God Nudged Her Toward a Stranger 
[29:09] Advice for Anyone Feeling the Stirring Right Now

🔗Resources & Links

https://www.workmatters.org/

https://www.corebridgefinancial.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/brandonswoboda/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/darrel-harvey-80703a60/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/idalia-salazar-lejune-98352321/

If this episode encouraged you, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with your pastor or a coworker who needs to hear it.

What happens between Sunday morning and Monday morning? For most Christians, there's a significant gap, and it's costing them in the workplace. 

In this episode, we sit down with Matt Rusten, President of Made to Flourish and author of the new book Pastoring for Monday, to talk about one of the most overlooked areas of discipleship in the local church: work.

In this episode, you'll learn:

• The current state of faith and work discipleship in local churches — and the three most common gaps
• Why most pastors resist adding "one more thing" — and how to reframe the conversation
• How Made to Flourish comes alongside churches through ideas, training, and multiplying leaders
• And more!

⏱️Chapters

00:00 — The Sunday-to-Monday Gap: Why Most Christians Feel Alone at Work 

01:02 — Introducing Matt Rusten & Pastoring for Monday 

03:08 — The Current State of Faith & Work in the Local Church 

05:28 — Why Pastors Resist (And How to Change the Conversation) 

09:24 — What Is Made to Flourish? Ideas, Training & Multiplying Leaders 

14:20 — What Happens When a Church Says Yes to Workplace Discipleship 

18:29 — The "Missionary Elevation" Problem & How It Hurts Workers in the Pew

20:10 — How Work Spiritually Forms Us (Including Through Struggle) 

22:16 — Matt's Five S's: A Simple Commute Practice to Meet God at Work 

26:19 — How YOU Can Help Your Church Disciple People for the Workplace

🔗Resources & Links

• Pastoring for Monday by Matt Rusten — available on Amazon and major book retailers
• Made to Flourish: madetoflourish.org
• Common Good Magazine — subscribe at madetoflourish.org
• Connect with Matt - https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-rusten-95000940/

—

Want to go deeper? Take the Workmatters Institute Course — a 10-session online course connecting Sunday faith to Monday work. Visit https://www.workmatters.org/our-courses to get started.

If this episode encouraged you, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with your pastor or a coworker who needs to hear it.

Summary

What happens when creativity, faith, and purpose collide in a lifelong career? In this episode of The Workmatters podcast, listeners are invited into the rich, heartfelt journey of renowned designer Wilson W. Smith III, a man whose forty-one-year career at Nike was defined by more than just legendary footwear.

Guided by hosts Brandon Swoboda and Darrel Harvey, the conversation dives into the real stories behind Wilson’s path from aspiring architect to design director at Nike, his unexpected entry into footwear, and the early days of collaborating with icons like Michael Jordan and Serena Williams. But what truly sets this episode apart is how Wilson intertwines his creative challenges and breakthroughs with his evolving faith, sharing candidly about moments where doubt turned into inspiration through prayer, mentorship, and the belief of others.

Listeners will be inspired by the “Spark” acronym Wilson developed for encouraging students at Liberty University—story, passion, art, reflection, and knowledge that leads to action—all centered around living out one’s unique calling. Personal anecdotes, like his influential design of the Jordan 17 and the powerful impact of community projects such as the Doernbecher Freestyle Program, offer insights not just into the world of design, but into what it means to integrate faith, creativity, and work.

For anyone longing to see their professional life as a place of purpose and calling, this episode is a blueprint for letting creativity and faith work together in shaping not just products, but lives. 

Listen today!

Show Notes

00:00 Wilson’s Career and Achievements

03:17 Growing Up with Faith and Religion

12:11 Wilson’s Early Career at Nike

14:06 Designing for Michael Jordan

17:00 Facing Self-Reflection and Identity Challenges

21:40 Creating Music for Michael Jordan Sneakers

27:12 How Design Philosophy and Ministry Intersect

32:29 Serena Williams’ Design Crew

40:14 Closing Thoughts

Links

Workmatters

Invite Brandon or Darrel to Speak 

Wilson W. Smith III

What should we discuss next? 

Summary

Welcome to The Workmatters Podcast! In today’s episode, hosts Brandon Swoboda and Darrel Harvey sit down with Erin Kiefer, the chairman and owner of the Arkansas-based manufacturing company Kiefer Sage. Erin shares her journey of integrating faith and leadership in a family business, from her earliest memories growing up in a company that puts people first, to stepping into the CEO role during challenging times.

You’ll hear Erin open up about the redemptive side of business, where putting people over profit isn’t just a philosophy, but a lived value that shapes every decision. She discusses the legacy of innovation and care seeded by her father, the unique challenges of working with family, and the powerful lessons in humility, rest, and reliance on God during seasons of crisis and growth.

Whether you’re a business leader, a family employee, or someone looking to bring more meaning to your work, Erin’s insights on leading with heart, loving your team, and trusting God with your calling are sure to inspire. Ready to dive in? Let’s get started!

Show Notes

00:00 Introduction

04:56 Family Relocation and New Beginnings

11:56 Balancing Career Growth and Family

19:57 Faithful Leadership Through Struggles

24:26 Supporting Employees with Compassion

27:54 Closing Thoughts

Links

Brandon Swoboda

Darrel Harvey

Workmatters

Erin Kiefer

Kiefer Sage

*Jotto Desk has been rebranded to Tenhold.

Summary

Welcome to another episode of The Workmatters Podcast, where we explore the intersection of faith and work through the real-life stories of everyday leaders. This week, hosts Brandon Swoboda and Darrel Harvey are joined by Steve Blair, the Chief People Officer at Fulcrum Collective, whose extensive background in leadership spans more than twenty-five years across renowned companies such as Procter & Gamble, Ghirardelli Chocolate, and Harvest Group. Not only is Steve a champion for creating work cultures people can love, but he is also a longtime chairman of the Workmatters board and the much-loved emcee of the organization’s annual conference.

In this conversation, Steve takes us on a journey from his early faith experience to his discovery of what it really means to be authentic—not compartmentalizing his faith, but weaving it into every aspect of his professional life. He tells candid stories of what it was like to navigate workplace culture shifts, and how leaders and managers can empower teams by living out company values in practical, meaningful ways.

Listeners will hear about the transformative power of values-based leadership, practical advice for influencing workplace culture at any level, and a simple yet profound framework for managers and teams: to see, know, meet, challenge, and celebrate the people around them. 

Whether you’re an executive or just starting, Steve offers encouragement and tangible steps to make your work matter and to live out your calling every day. Join us as we dive into how you can bring renewal to your workplace, partner with others in faith, and let your life and leadership become a visible testimony of what you believe!

Show Notes

00:00 Introduction

03:42 Balancing Faith and Career

14:10 Authentic Leadership Rooted in Faith

18:52 The Journey to Meaningful Work Connections

22:58 Aligning Personal and Company Values

24:30 Making Decisions Prioritizing Company Values

32:17 Understanding Company Values in Roles

44:43 Closing Thoughts

Links

Brandon Swoboda

Darrel Harvey

Workmatters

Steve Blair

Fulcrum Collective

Summary

Welcome to another episode of The Workmatters Podcast! Today, Brandon Swoboda and Keisha Fowler are joined by Jessica Uranga, founder and CEO of Purpose Brands 414, a missional nonprofit serving as a strategic parent organization for purpose-driven family brands and ministries, including the impactful Beautiful Lives Thrift Boutique.

Raised as a missionary kid, Jessica watched her parents give up the American dream for a life of service in Mexico, an experience that deeply shaped her view of what it means to serve God both inside and outside the church. Jessica recounts pivotal childhood memories, from helping in her family’s peanut mill to cleaning houses as a teenager, where she first learned to see every job as an act of worship. She explains how her upbringing and entrepreneurial spirit propelled her to create dignified, hope-filled environments in the workplace—a journey that now blesses women, families, and whole communities through Beautiful Lives Thrift Boutique.

Additionally, you’ll hear Jessica’s insights on leadership, the power of praying with and for customers, and the ways community and coaching help her teams thrive together. She offers practical steps for anyone wanting to infuse their everyday work with hope, prayer, and purpose, and reminds us that ministry isn’t confined to the walls of a church.

Join us for a conversation filled with authenticity, actionable wisdom, and encouragement for your own faith-at-work journey. Don’t miss this episode as we discover what it really looks like to know God and make Him known in the marketplace, at home, and everywhere in between!

Show Notes

00:00 Introduction

04:10 How Jessica’s Father Modeled Faith in Business

09:25 Jessica’s Entrepreneurial Mindset

16:18 Creating a Welcoming Thrift Experience

19:58 The Impact of Prayer and Testimonies

21:08 Balancing Innovation with Faith

30:37 Closing Thoughts

Links

Brandon Swoboda

Darrel Harvey

Workmatters

Jessica Uranga

Purpose Brands 414

Summary

Welcome to The Workmatters Podcast! In this episode, we dive into the story of John Rausch, native Arkansan, founder, chairman, and CEO of Rausch Companies. Raised in Fort Smith, John’s journey began under the deep mentorship of his grandfather, with hands-on lessons in construction and leadership that shaped both his faith and his business outlook. Together, Brandon Swoboda, Darrel Harvey, and John explore how John has integrated Biblical principles and values into building one of the region's most successful homebuilding companies and how the workplace can serve as a vital mission field.

You’ll hear how mentorship, daily disciplines, and intentional company culture laid the foundation for Rausch Coleman Homes’ remarkable expansion into seven states, and why faith remains at the center of every decision, from daily routines to major business transactions. John also shares insights into the recent sale of his company, the discernment process behind it, and what’s next on his journey—continuing to influence the marketplace, invest in new ventures, and lead with purpose.

Whether you’re wrestling with leadership, considering big career decisions, or seeking to integrate your faith into your work, this episode offers both inspiration and practical wisdom straight from a leader passionate about eternal impact!

Show Notes

00:00 Introduction

03:26 Memorable Trips and Life Lessons

06:43 Founding Rausch Coleman Homes

12:51 Building a Strong and Supportive Team

17:08 Faith-Driven Business Philosophy

23:06 Focusing on Kingdom Impact

26:20 Understanding Faith and Discernment

31:34 Empowering Growth Across Generations

33:41 Closing Thoughts

Links

Brandon Swoboda

Darrel Harvey

Workmatters

John Rausch

Rausch Companies

Summary

Welcome to The Workmatters Podcast! In this episode, we’re joined by Ben Kirksey, co-founder of the Workmatters Institute, long-time leader at Workmatters, and now general manager at the Wesche Company. Ben brings a wealth of experience, having shaped Workmatters initiatives and worked across ministry, education, market research, and commercial construction.

Together with our hosts, Ben unpacks his journey from a moral upbringing in Arkansas, through pivotal moments of faith during high school and college, to wrestling with life's toughest challenges. He shares how convictions about justice and proximity to those on the margins shaped his career, including his time with Teach For America and his pursuit of purposeful work.

Listeners will hear Ben’s reflections on the false divide between faith and vocation, his role in creating the Workmatters Institute to help others unite their calling and walk with Jesus, and practical wisdom for connecting belief to everyday work. Ben also tackles real challenges in diverse industries, offering actionable steps for anyone starting to integrate faith at work.

This episode is packed with honesty, practical guidance, and encouragement for those seeking to honor God wherever they work. Tune in for a compelling conversation with Ben that will challenge and inspire you to bring your best, care deeply for others, and experience communion with God through your daily work!

Show Notes

00:00 Introduction

08:43 How Ben Found Purpose Through Justice Work

13:38 Starting a Program for Students

17:31 Explaining the Workmatters Institute Mission

25:42 Balancing Time, Needs, and Priorities

29:02 Bringing Your Best to Work

34:02 Closing Thoughts

Links

Brandon Swoboda

Darrel Harvey

Workmatters

Ben Kirksey

Wesche Company

Summary

Welcome back to The Workmatters Podcast! In this episode, co-hosts Brandon Swoboda and Darrel Harvey sit down once again with Henry Ho, co-founder and chief strategy officer of Storesight. Building off their previous conversation about redemptive work and entrepreneurship, this episode dives deep into the heart of mentorship and discipleship, two principles that Henry lives and breathes both in the workplace and beyond.

You’ll hear real stories and practical wisdom as Henry unpacks his journey from being mentored himself to becoming a “chronic mentor” to others. He shares his thoughtful approach to the difference between mentoring and discipleship, memorable moments from mentoring young entrepreneurs in Africa, and the essential qualities he looks for in those he invests in — faithfulness, availability, and teachability (FAT).

The conversation also explores how mentorship plays out in different spheres of life, the messy but meaningful realities of life-on-life discipleship, and the importance of being vulnerable and accessible as a leader and friend. Whether it’s prayer-walking with peers, wrestling with the non-glamorous moments of discipleship, or learning to prioritize availability in a busy world, this episode is packed with encouragement for anyone seeking to integrate their faith with everyday work, leadership, and community.

Tune in for an honest, relatable, and hope-filled conversation that will challenge and inspire you to seek out meaningful relationships and step into the calling of mentorship and discipleship, wherever you work and live!

Show Notes

00:00 Introduction

03:59 Mentorship vs. Discipleship

10:15 Prioritizing Faithful Discipleship

18:35 Authentic Life-on-Life Interaction

24:47 How Mentoring Leads to Discipleship

30:05 Closing Thoughts

Links

Brandon Swoboda

Darrel Harvey

Workmatters

Henry Ho

Storesight