By Brad Formsma
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The podcast currently has 290 episodes available.
Mark Batterson is the lead pastor of National Community Church in Washington, D.C., a thriving congregation with multiple locations dedicated to fostering community and supporting Kingdom causes. The church operates various initiatives, including Ebenezers Coffeehouse, The Miracle Theatre, and the DC Dream Center, which serve as hubs for community engagement and generosity. Mark is also a bestselling author of 24 books, including The Circle Maker and his latest work, A Million Little Miracles, which explores how faith, prayer, and purpose reveal the miraculous in the mundane.
Mark joins me on the show to dive into the themes of his new book and share his perspective on living a life filled with purpose and gratitude. He emphasizes the importance of prayer, the power of faith in overcoming fear, and the value of leaving a legacy for future generations. We also discuss the significance of community, the idea that miracles often come through life’s challenges, and the beauty of embracing the unique gifts each person brings to the world.
This Week on The Wow Factor:
"There are no ordinary people. There are no ordinary things. There are no ordinary days. Everything is more miraculous than we can imagine."
"Sometimes God delivers from, but sometimes God delivers through."
"There is no expiration date on prayer. The prayers of my grandfather are being answered in my life right now."
Mark Batterson’s Words of Wisdom: Everything in life is a miracle, and recognizing the miraculous in the mundane is key to embracing purpose, faith, and gratitude in our daily lives.
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Kris Mauren is Co-Founder and President of Acton Institute, an international educational and public policy organization. The Institute publishes scholarship and film and organizes educational seminars worldwide for current and future religious leaders across denominations, promoting an understanding of the ethical dimensions of the free market economy. The Institute also works with business leaders, helping them to embrace their work as a worthy calling and to encourage their positive moral defense of a free society characterized by individual liberty and personal moral responsibility.
Kris joins me on the show to discuss the Acton Institute's mission to bridge the gap between religious and business leaders. He shares more about the importance of economic literacy among religious leaders and the need to be ethical in business. Kris stresses the importance of gratitude and values in leadership, and we dive into the role of policy in fostering generosity and the challenges of government overreach and secularization. Kris also explains the Institute's mission to promote the ideas of Lord Acton and the importance of protecting the space for religious values in a secularizing world.
“How do we create more miracles?” - Kris Mauren
“Policy needs to support [generosity] so that we can flourish.” - Kris Mauren
“Starting with gratitude is good for your soul.” - Kris Mauren
This Week on The Wow Factor:
Kris Mauren’s Words of Wisdom:
Starting with gratitude is good for your soul and your well-being. It also lets you live more intentionally and is the foundation for generosity.
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John Coleman is an investor, writer, and public speaker. A frequent contributor to Harvard Business Review, John and his work has been featured in Forbes, the Washington Post, the New York Times, the Financial Times, and the LA Times, among other publications. He previously published Passion & Purpose (HBP, 2011) and How to Argue Like Jesus (Crossway, 2009). John is a frequent public speaker who has addressed hundreds of audiences on college campuses, at conferences, and for corporations and non-profits.
I’m thrilled to have John with me on The Wow Factor to discuss his leadership philosophy and approach to helping his team flourish. John digs into his approach to focusing on excellence, aggressive delegation, and accountability. He emphasizes the importance of setting boundaries and finding a balance that works for individual needs and responsibilities. John also touches on the creative experience of writing his books and his plans for the future.
“Excellence is something we should all aspire to.” - John Coleman
“People learn by getting responsibilities that they're not yet equipped for.” - John Coleman
“People are often able to accomplish much greater things than we give them credit for.” - John Coleman
This Week on The Wow Factor:
John Coleman’s Words of Wisdom:
Do your job, but stretch yourself. Always ask questions if you don't know the answer to something, and don’t be afraid to raise your hand. Always ask the question. Never be afraid to look dumb.
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Tim has been a practicing attorney and CPA for nearly 40 years and is the Founder of The Busch Firm. He is also the Founder and CEO of Pacific Hospitality Group, a premier hotel development and management company with a portfolio of hotels and resorts throughout the United States. Tim and his wife Steph co-founded St. Anne School in California, where Tim served as Chairman and CEO for 17 years; they went on to co-found JSerra Catholic High School. Tim’s passion for wine led him to found Trinitas Cellars, LLC, in 2002, located in Napa, California. Tim and Steph are also active supporters of several prominent Catholic organizations and were instrumental in the Roman Catholic Diocese of Orange purchasing the Crystal Cathedral.
This week, I have the privilege of talking with Tim Bush about his early entrepreneurial ventures as a young man to build a successful law and tax advisory firm serving high net worth clients. Tim shares his heart for Catholic education and philanthropy and why he has been a driving force behind the founding of several private Catholic schools and the Napa Institute, which encourages Catholic education and fraternity. We also discuss the importance of charitable giving, the favorable tax laws in the United States for donations, and the joy of being generous.
“We need to stop educating kids the same because they're not the same. They never have been the same, and they need different attention and different motivation.” - Tim Busch
“If you do not focus on the spiritual component of your education, you will not be successful.” - Tim Busch
“When you focus on faith, everything else takes care of itself.” - Tim Busch
This Week on The Wow Factor:
Tim Busch’s Words of Wisdom:
Like all good habits, faith comes from example, not preaching; leaders should remember that.
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Scott Hanson is the host of NFL RedZone; he is also the host for NFL Network's on-location coverage of events such as the Super Bowl, NFL Scouting Combine, NFL Draft, free agency, and more. Scott joined NFL Media in 2006 as a national reporter covering all 32 teams. He transitioned into studio hosting in 2008 and was named the host of NFL RedZone during its inaugural season in 2009. He graduated Cum Laude from the prestigious Newhouse School of Public Communications at Syracuse University while playing football for the Orangemen.
You’re going to love my conversation with Scott; he shares his remarkable journey from a passionate football player to becoming one of the most recognizable voices in sports broadcasting. In our discussion, Scott provides a glimpse into his meticulous preparation routine, his unwavering commitment to excellence, and the deep sense of joy and purpose he finds in his work. He shares his faith-driven perspective on servant leadership and the importance of living a generous life.
“Care about the people with whom you work.” - Scott Hanson
“The joy in my life comes through my relationship with God” - Scott Hanson
“You lead best when you serve.” - Scott Hanson
This Week on The Wow Factor:
Scott Hanson’s Words of Wisdom:
You lead best when you serve—focus on serving, building into people's lives, and adding value.
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Dr. Tyler Groves is the current Head of School at Valor Christian Academy in Alpharetta, Georgia. With a background in Christian education, Tyler has brought his expertise in integrating faith-based learning into the school’s academic programs. Tyler has also co-authored "Growing with One Another: A Christian Approach to Social and Emotional Learning," which combines contemporary educational research with a Christian perspective to address the growing need for social and emotional learning (SEL) in schools. It serves as a resource for educators seeking to integrate faith-based principles into SEL programs, equipping students with the skills needed to navigate relationships and mental well-being effectively.
I’m thrilled to have Tyler on the show with me today to discuss Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) and how it can help students develop essential life skills. He shares examples of how SEL can be integrated into the classroom and how it can impact students' behavior and attitudes. Tyler also digs into the five core competencies of SEL and explains how these competencies can be grounded in biblical principles and how they differ from secular approaches. In our conversation, we also discuss the powerful role of mentors and how they can help you create significant personal and professional growth.
“As parents, is that it starts with us.” - Tyler Groves
“The very best way to live life is in accordance with how God has designed you.” - Tyler Groves
“God designed you to live generously.” - Tyler Grove
This Week on The Wow Factor:
The value of mentorship and how it can lead to significant personal and professional growth
Tyler explains Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) 's origins and core competencies, emphasizing the need for a Christian perspective
Tyler outlines the five core competencies of SEL: self-awareness, self-management, responsible decision-making, relationship skills, and social awareness
Challenges of integrating SEL into Christian schools and the importance of addressing preconceived notions
Why it’s so important for Christian educators to model the behaviors they want to see in their students
How educators can start implementing SEL in their classrooms and how to address administrative concerns
The importance of partnership between schools and parents in fostering a culture of generosity and SEL
How Tyler and his team are working to develop and refine the program to meet the needs of students and educators
Broader implications of their work and its potential to create a generation of generous students
Tyler Groves’ Words of Wisdom:
As Christian educators, it starts with us. Take the lead and live the biblical truths of self-awareness, self-management, and responsible decision-making out. By practicing these biblical, social, and emotional truths, you can set an example and create a culture of generosity.
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Dr. Tyler Groves on LinkedIn
Growing with One Another: Social AND Emotional Learning in Christian Perspective by Tyler Groves and Kenneth Coley
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The WOW Factor Website
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Jonathan Carr is the President of Vehicle Reman, a premier fleet vehicle remanufacturing company based in Jarrell, Texas. Jonathan has driven the company’s growth by transforming old fleet vehicles into like-new condition, offering a cost-effective and eco-friendly alternative to buying new. Influenced by the teachings of C.S. Lewis, particularly on prayer, Jonathan integrates his faith into his leadership style, fostering a company culture of integrity and respect.
Mark Carr is the visionary founder of Christian Brothers Automotive (CBA), a company with nearly 300 locations that stands out for its excellent automotive services and strong foundation in Christian faith. This outlook has led CBA to win the JD Power Award for Best Customer Service for the past four years. Since its inception, Mark has been dedicated to creating a business that operates with integrity, honesty, and a commitment to serving others, reflecting his deep faith and values.
Mark Carr and Jonathan Carr are on The Wow Factor this week to share a fascinating look into the origins and growth of Christian Brothers Automotive. Mark shares the inspiring story of how he started the business through a divine calling, overcoming early financial challenges to grow it into a successful franchise model. We spend time discussing the company's charitable initiatives, such as the Hub Garage program that provides free car repairs for single mothers. Jonathan also discusses Vehicle Reman and how it gives new life to fleet vehicles sustainably and cost-effectively.
“Honesty is everything.” - Mark Carr
“Treating customers as I want to be treated is everything.” - Mark Carr
“The reason for our success is 100% the fruits of the Spirit.” - Jonathan Carr
This Week on The Wow Factor:
Mark Carr’s Words of Wisdom:
Be honest with yourself, examine yourself, look at your weaknesses, and surround yourself with people who are good in the areas that you're not.
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Terry Williams is the CEO of City of Faith, a nationally respected, non-profit reentry center for federal offenders. She is dedicated to successfully assisting offenders with transitioning back into their communities by providing housing, preparing them for the workforce, helping them reestablish ties with family, counseling, and much more. A passionate believer in prison reform, locally, Williams was the first to establish a community relations board to increase communication between Residential Reentry and the Little Rock community.
Terry Williams joins me on the show this week to share the inspiring story of how her family's spiritual transformation led to the founding of City of Faith by her sister Kathy in 1983. She discusses City of Faith's innovative use of electronic monitoring technology to help inmates reintegrate into society with more dignity and freedom. Terry also shares her personal leadership philosophy, the importance of servant leadership, continuous learning, and making the most of every opportunity to positively impact the lives of the people you serve.
“I want to be a servant leader.” - Terry Williams
“The most successful people that we have are those who have the strongest family ties.” - Terry Williams
“Live your life wisely and make the most of every opportunity.” - Terry Williams
This Week on The Wow Factor:
Terry Williams’ Words of Wisdom:
Live your life wisely and make the most of every opportunity.
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John Ruhlin is the late founder of The Ruhlin Group, a gift logistics company that helps clients like the Chicago Cubs, Wells Fargo, Caesar’s Entertainment, Miami Dolphins, Morgan Stanley, and The John Maxwell Company execute year-round gifting strategies. John’s unique approach to relationships led him to become the #1 salesman for a $250 Million direct sales company by the time he was 23 (out of 1.5 Million reps). Prior to his passing, he spoke widely about strategic gifting and relationship building and helps CEOs and sales teams drive referrals and open doors to elusive decision-makers.
I’m so honored to share my conversation with the late John Ruhlin with you this week; our discussion is all about the importance of generosity and relationship-building in business. John started by sharing his experiences growing up in a small town, how he came to pursue entrepreneurship, and shares stories of a mentor he had as a young man who taught him the value of building genuine relationships with clients, employees, and their families, and how it led to his business success. He also dives into the importance of giving without expectations and being thoughtful and intentional to foster meaningful connections.
“Show up generously in all areas.” - John Ruhlin
“A physical gift is a representation of the value you place on a relationship.” - John Ruhlin
“It's so unusual for somebody to send something to another person, not because they wanted something needed something did something but just to based upon the relationship.” - John Ruhlin
This Week on The Wow Factor:
John Ruhlin’s Words of Wisdom:
Always give more than is reasonable without the expectation of receiving anything in return.
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Dr. John Stahl-Wert is the Founder of the Center for Serving Leadership. He has pioneered training solutions for thirty years, working with organizations worldwide that want to produce outstanding results by investing in their people. He has written eight books, including the international best-sellers The Serving Leader and Ten Thousand Horses. John has coached executives in hundreds of other businesses in the U.S., Singapore, and Hong Kong. John has been married to Milonica, his business partner, for 44 years. They enjoy designing and building things, traveling, going to church, and loving and being with their family, friends, neighbors, and Serving Leader colleagues from around the world.
This week on the show, John and I discuss the concept of servant leadership and how John’s strategic thinking and activator personality still guide his approach to problem-solving and decision-making. He shares the significance of clear values for leaders, why learning from failures is important, and how to practice effective delegation so the next generation can take over. John also discusses the traits of successful leaders and the importance of humility and vulnerability in leadership.
“The serving leader is the only kind of leader.” - Dr. John Stahl-Wert
“You need to lead by values.” - Dr. John Stahl-Wert
“Suffering builds perseverance; perseverance builds character. We have to be willing, as leaders, to hurt.” - Dr. John Stahl-Wert
This Week on The Wow Factor:
Dr. John Stahl-Wert’s Words of Wisdom:
In servant leadership, we serve our people, standards, and values. If we serve ourselves primarily, we destroy value. Laying yourself down for something more important than yourself is not an easy path, but it’s worth it.
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