This is what a flourishing workplace culture looks and feels like. Listen to inspiring stories told by actual Best Christian Workplace leaders and other experts. Each week, you will discover how you can build a flourishing workplace and a thriving organization. Hosted weekly by Al Lopus, Cofounder & Board Chair of Best Christian Workplaces. Learn more at www.workplaces.org.
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This show is a ministry of the Center for Christianity in Business at Houston Christian University. Christian Business Leader is the show for marketplace Christians seeking to explore and apply God’s will for business. If you want to learn more about how to do business for the glory of God and shape culture through discipling the business world, this show is for you. | Christian business | Entrepreneurship | Marketing | Nonprofit | Church | Author | Startups | Marketplace | Ministry | Busine ...
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435: Essential Traits of a Thriving Church Community // Steve Macchia, Leadership Transformations, Inc.
47:57
47:57
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47:57What if the key to a thriving church isn’t just great leadership, but a leader’s spiritual health? In this episode, Dr. Steve Macchia, founder and president of Leadership Transformations, Inc., shares insights from his book Becoming a Healthy Church on how soul care, deep community, and servant leadership lay the foundation for a truly flourishing …
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434: How Investing in Faculty and Staff Led to Record Enrollment and Giving // Michael Lindsay, Taylor University
26:41
26:41
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26:41What if the secret to lasting organizational success isn’t just strategy but a flourishing workplace culture? In this episode, Dr. Michael Lindsay, president of Taylor University, shares how faith-driven leadership, values-based decision-making, and investing in people have led to remarkable growth in both employee engagement and institutional impa…
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433: Building a High-Performance Culture: The Role of Leadership and Engagement // Mark Miller
36:52
36:52
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36:52Great workplace culture doesn’t happen by accident—it’s shaped by leaders who are intentional about fostering an environment where people can thrive. In this episode, leadership expert Mark Miller, and author of Culture Rules: The Leader's Guide to Creating the Ultimate Competitive Advantage, shares insights on building a high-performance culture, …
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432: 5 Key Salary and Compensation Trends in Large Churches and Ministries // Susan Griffith Byers, Church Compensation Services
41:32
41:32
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41:32Struggling to keep up with rising compensation demands while staying true to your mission? In this episode, we sit down with Susan Griffith Byers, Owner and Founder of Church Compensation Services, to explore key compensation trends, biblical principles, and practical strategies to help your church or ministry attract and retain top talent. Find fu…
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431 : How a Top 100 Church Transformed Its Culture from Unhealthy to Flourishing // Jesse DeYoung, Flatirons Community Church
44:54
44:54
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44:54Many leaders struggle with workplace dynamics that drain energy and hinder mission impact—but what if your culture could truly flourish? In this episode, Jesse DeYoung, Executive Pastor at Flatirons Community Church, shares practical steps to break free from dysfunction and build a thriving, Christ-centered organization. Find full show notes here: …
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430: Grit and Grace: Building a Thriving Mission Culture That Lasts // Scott Chin, Seattle's Union Gospel Mission
21:05
21:05
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21:05What does it take to lead a ministry that transforms lives while navigating the challenges of high-demand leadership? In this episode, Scott Chin, president of Seattle’s Union Gospel Mission, shares how grit and hope fuel lasting change—for both those overcoming homelessness and the teams that serve them. Find full show notes here: https://bit.ly/4…
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429: 5 Must-Know Principles for Effective Leadership Transitions // Steve Woodworth, Masterworks
38:18
38:18
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38:18Leadership transitions are inevitable—but will yours set your organization up for lasting success or unexpected challenges? In this episode, Steve Woodworth, CEO of Masterworks, shares key insights from his book Lost in Transition, offering practical steps for boards, CEOs, and senior leaders to navigate succession with wisdom and clarity. Find ful…
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428: 3 Reasons Why Leading with Peace Has Greater Impact Than Anxiety // Gem and Alan Fadling, Unhurried Living
48:17
48:17
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48:17Is anxiety running your leadership on empty? Discover how peace, rest, and soul care can offer a more fulfilling and impactful way to lead. In this episode, Gem and Alan Fadling share transformative insights from their work as founding partners of Unhurried Living, helping leaders shift from pressure to purpose with rhythms of renewal and deeper se…
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What is the Church in the Marketplace? (w/ Chuck Proudfit)
24:41
24:41
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24:41Discover the way ahead at Indiana Wesleyan University. Learn more here. On this episode, Chuck Proudfit explains what Jesus really meant by the term translated as “church” in Matthew 16. (Hint: For Jesus, “church” was about more than just three songs and a sermon on a Sunday morning.)By Darren Shearer: Christian Business | Entrepreneurship | Faith and Work | Leadership
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427: How Flourishing Culture Powers Biblically Responsible Investing // Cassie Laymon, Beacon Wealth Consultants
33:20
33:20
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33:20What if your investments could reflect your faith and make a Kingdom impact? In this episode, Cassie Laymon, president of Beacon Wealth Consultants and author of I Found Jesus in the Stock Market, shares how to cultivate a flourishing workplace culture through values-driven leadership, open communication, and strategies that inspire purpose and uni…
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426: Servant Leadership That Overflows: Creating a Culture of Impact // Gilbert Montez, Christian Community Action
28:47
28:47
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28:47Are you looking to create a workplace culture that overflows with servant leadership and Christ-centered values? In this episode, Gilbert Montez, president of Christian Community Action, shares how transparent communication, spiritual leadership, and a heart of surrender can transform not just your organization, but the lives you serve. Find full s…
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Do Christian-Led Companies Outperform the Rest? (w/ Al Lopus)
38:15
38:15
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38:15Discover the way ahead at Indiana Wesleyan University. Learn more here. On this episode, Al Lopus shares findings about corporate culture from Best Christian Workplaces’ in-depth research of more than 1500 Christian organizations. He reveals whether or not Christian-led companies outperform their industry peers and whether churches tend to have hea…
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425: Leading Like Christ: A Key to a Flourishing Business and Kingdom Impact // Mike Sharrow, C12
38:29
38:29
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38:29How can embodying the fruit of the Spirit transform your leadership and workplace culture? In this episode, Mike Sharrow, CEO of C12, shares powerful insights on leading with character, building trust, and modeling Christ in daily decisions to inspire Kingdom impact. Find full show notes here: https://bit.ly/425mikesharrow Share the love. If you en…
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Covenantal Corporate Culture (w Kurt and Kristen Luidhardt)
33:40
33:40
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33:40Discover the way ahead at Indiana Wesleyan University. Learn more here. Christianity in Business is the show that helps Christian business leaders to integrate biblical values into business. | Entrepreneurship | Marketing | Nonprofit | Church | Author | Startups | Marketplace | Ministry | Business as Mission | Faith and Work | Faith | Success | Lea…
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424: 7 Workplace Trends Christian Leaders Need to Watch in 2025 // Al Lopus, Jay Bransford, Robert Wachter, Best Christian Workplaces
29:58
29:58
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29:58How can your organization thrive in the rapidly evolving workplace of 2025? In this episode, Al Lopus (Cofounder & Board Chair), Jay Bransford (President and CEO), and Rob Wachter (Global Marketing Director) of Best Christian Workplaces explore seven key trends shaping the future of Christian-led organizations, offering practical strategies to buil…
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When 80 Employees Pray for Their Co-workers (w/ Sean Kouplen)
37:41
37:41
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37:41Discover the way ahead at Indiana Wesleyan University. Learn more here. On this episode, Sean Kouplen (CEO of Regent Bank) shares how one of America’s fastest growing banks also facilitates a prayer ministry among its employees. Sean also shares about a nationwide faith in work movement called 94X.By Darren Shearer: Christian Business | Entrepreneurship | Faith and Work | Leadership
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423: Values that Guide: Building a Healthy and Christ-Centered Nonprofit Culture // Kevin East, Mentoring Alliance
38:07
38:07
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38:07Is the key to transforming your organization's impact hidden within your staff and volunteers? In this episode, Kevin East, president of Mentoring Alliance, shares how clear values, intentional mentoring, and Christ-centered leadership can create thriving workplaces and multiply Kingdom impact. Find full show notes here: https://bit.ly/423kevineast…
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422: Christmas Isn't Perfect, and That's the Point: Finding Joy in the Mess // Elisa Morgan, Our Daily Bread Ministries
34:47
34:47
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34:47In this Christmas season, we’re exploring how the story of Jesus’ birth continues to offer fresh lessons and encouragement for our lives. Join us as Elisa Morgan of Our Daily Bread Ministries shares profound insights from her book, Christmas Changes Everything, and helps us reflect on the transformative power of the Christmas Story. Find full show …
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Spiritual Warfare in Business (Interview w/ Wez Hone)
33:28
33:28
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33:28Discover the way ahead at Indiana Wesleyan University. Learn more here. On this episode, Wez Hone explains why business leaders must be aware of the spiritual forces we face in business every day so we can fight properly and experience victory in Christ. Wez Hone is a dedicated dad, husband, and a leading 'faith-in-business' thinker. Following a vi…
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421: How Men and Women Lead Better Together for Kingdom Impact // Tami Heim, Christian Leadership Alliance
53:53
53:53
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53:53What kind of leadership creates lasting Kingdom impact? In today’s episode, Tami Heim, president of the Christian Leadership Alliance, shares transformative insights on developing women leaders, fostering cross-gender collaboration, and embracing mentorship to inspire and empower others. Find full show notes here: https://bit.ly/421tamiheim Share t…
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Working from Your God-Given Strengths (w/ Brent O’Bannon)
47:23
47:23
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47:23Discover the way ahead at Indiana Wesleyan University. Learn more here. On this episode, Brent O’Bannon (the first Gallup-Certified Strengths Coach in the world) teaches how to do business with your God-given strengths and performs a live strengths-based coaching session with Darren.By Darren Shearer: Christian Business | Entrepreneurship | Faith and Work | Leadership
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420: A Leader's Complete Guide to Building Trust at Every Level // Dr. Rob McKenna, WiLD Leaders
55:56
55:56
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55:56Trust is the foundation of every thriving team, but how do you, as a leader, build and sustain it? In today’s episode, Dr. Rob McKenna, CEO of WiLD Leaders, shares actionable strategies and insights to help you strengthen trust within your team and lead with grace, resilience, and intentionality. Find full show notes here: https://bit.ly/420drrobmc…
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419: How to Stop Employee Disengagement with Clear Goals and Purpose // Kendra VanderMeulen, National Christian Foundation
28:27
28:27
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28:27Join us as we speak with Kendra VanderMeulen, CEO of the National Christian Foundation, about her transition from the corporate tech world to leading one of the largest Christian donor platforms. Discover the powerful strategies she used to elevate employee engagement, drive momentum, and cultivate a Christ-centered, healthy workplace culture. Find…
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Leading an Industry and Solving the World’s Problems (w/ Kurt Avery)
37:51
37:51
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37:51Discover the way ahead at Indiana Wesleyan University. Learn more here. On this episode, Kurt Avery shares how his industry-leading outdoor products company (Sawyer Products) is making a Christ-centered impact through Kingdom-class products and generosity.By Darren Shearer: Christian Business | Entrepreneurship | Faith and Work | Leadership
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418: Building a Flourishing Church Culture Through Trust and Transparency // Ashley Wooldridge, Jeff Osborne, Christ’s Church of the Valley
59:46
59:46
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59:46In this episode, Ashley Wooldridge, senior pastor, and Jeff Osborne, executive pastor, of Christ’s Church of the Valley reveal how they’ve built a thriving culture centered on operational excellence, trust, and transformational leadership. From engaging staff and volunteers to developing future leaders, you’ll gain practical insights to strengthen …
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Covenantal Corporate Culture (Interview w/ Russ Crosson)
25:27
25:27
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25:27Discover the way ahead at Indiana Wesleyan University. Learn more here. On this episode, Russ Crosson shares how he and the leaders at Blue Trust cultivate a covenantal culture in their company as they share Bible-based financial guidance with their clients. Russ Crosson is chief mission officer and senior partner of Blue Trust. Russ was hired in 1…
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417: 5 Keys to a Healthy, Engaged, and Purpose-Driven Team // Brad Carr, SonicAire
26:36
26:36
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26:36Are you striving to create a workplace where your team is truly inspired and engaged? In this episode, Brad Carr, president and founder of SonicAire, shares practical strategies to elevate your leadership, boost employee motivation, and achieve operational excellence—all while remaining faithful to your Christian values. Find full show notes here: …
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416: Listening to Lead: How Surveys Enhance Culture in Christian Higher Education // Robert Wachter, Cary Humphries, Best Christian Workplaces
35:49
35:49
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35:49In this special edition, Best Christian Workplaces' Robert Wachter and Cary Humphries join us for an in-depth discussion on the unique challenges facing Christian higher education. Tune in to gain valuable insights into employee engagement trends, strategies for fostering a flourishing culture, and an introduction to the new Adjunct Professor Engag…
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How Hobby Lobby Reflects God’s Character (w/ Mart Green)
42:08
42:08
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42:08Discover the way ahead at Indiana Wesleyan University. Learn more here. On this episode, Mart Green shares how he and the Green family aim to reflect God’s character and ways through the culture and operations of Hobby Lobby and Mardel.By Darren Shearer: Christian Business | Entrepreneurship | Faith and Work | Leadership
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415: Beyond the Expected: Leadership Lessons on Trust and Change // Vonna Laue, TEAM
45:28
45:28
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45:28In today’s episode, we’re thrilled to bring you powerful leadership insights from Vonna Laue, Executive Director of Global Services and CFO of TEAM. Join us as Vonna shares how self-leadership, spiritual vitality, and intentional stewardship can transform your leadership journey and help your organization thrive. Find full show notes here: https://…
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414: Mission-Focused Leadership: Insights for Keeping Your Organization on Track // Becca Spradlin, On Mission
41:46
41:46
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41:46Are you leading your organization with clarity and purpose, or is mission drift slowly creeping in? In today's episode, we're diving deep with Becca Spradlin, founder of On Mission, an expert on helping leaders stay mission true, as she shares how faith-driven leadership can foster flourishing workplaces and build a lasting legacy. Find full show n…
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Adversity in Business Points Us to God (Interview w/ Brian Slipka)
36:02
36:02
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36:02Discover the way ahead at Indiana Wesleyan University. Learn more here. On this episode, investor and CEO Brian Slipka explains how adverse conditions in business can make it easier for us to recognize God’s presence and power.By Darren Shearer: Christian Business | Entrepreneurship | Faith and Work | Leadership
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413: How Core Values and Leadership Development Strengthen Teams in Christian Schools // Dr. Jason Rachels, Calvary Christian Academy
26:57
26:57
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26:57In this episode, Dr. Jason Rachels, president of Calvary Christian Academy, shares his insights on leading a thriving Christian educational institution while staying true to core values. From leadership development to fostering a vibrant spiritual life, Jason offers practical wisdom for leaders looking to make a lasting impact in their organization…
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Risk-Taking for Kingdom Advancement (Interview w/ Mike Thakur)
28:15
28:15
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28:15Discover the way ahead at Indiana Wesleyan University. Learn more here. On this episode, Mike Thakur (author of Mike Drop) shares how he has taken risks in business with the goal of producing profit for the advancement of God's Kingdom. Mike Thakur is one of Houston's "Most Admired CEOs" as founder of WorkLodge, been part of two Guinness World Reco…
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412: The 5 Critical Leadership Moves You're Probably Ignoring // Dr. Steve Graves, Cornerstone
43:41
43:41
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43:41In today’s episode, we’re diving deep into the essential tasks every senior leader should focus on, helping you prioritize what matters most in your role. Dr. Steve Graves is the founding partner of Cornerstone, an executive coach, and a seasoned advisor. He shares his insights on how leaders can integrate faith and strategy to lead with impact and…
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Discrimination and Christians in the Workplace (w/ Lucas Asper)
38:44
38:44
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38:44Discover the way ahead at Indiana Wesleyan University. Learn more here. On this episode, labor/employment attorney Lucas Asper shares tips to help Christians minimize the risk of getting into legal trouble for faith expressions in the workplace.By Darren Shearer: Christian Business | Entrepreneurship | Faith and Work | Leadership
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411: Building Trust Through Accountability: Lessons from a Global Workforce // Jos Snoep, Bible League International
39:49
39:49
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39:49Are you ready to discover the keys to leadership that can elevate your organization? In today’s episode, we’re speaking with Jos Snoep, CEO of Bible League International, who shares how integrating core values and building trust can create a flourishing workplace culture in a global workforce. Find full show notes here: https://bit.ly/411jossnoep S…
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Does Undercharging Make You a Better Christian? (Interview w/ Judy Weber)
36:07
36:07
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36:07Discover the way ahead at Indiana Wesleyan University. Learn more here. On this episode, Judy Weber shares why you might be charging too little for your products and services and why undercharging isn't a biblical business practice. Judy Weber Esq. is a renowned Business Expansion Expert. Her years of judicial trial experience and entrepreneurial g…
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