Business... As A Christian
I have been working on bringing God more into my business. I have been doing this with clients and have had many Christians on my Business Success & Coffee podcast. God has guided me on the next step and I have created a new podcast series on the topic of handling business actions and decisions, as a Christian. Many Christian business owners & entrepreneurs face the daily challenge of making decisions in business that are in conflict with our faith and the Scriptures. It may be the external environment, our team, our suppliers or our customers that put us at odds with our Christian journey. How do we handle these instances, it is not easy. Then we have the peer pressure, the potential stigma of being labelled ’crazy’ for our beliefs, words and actions. People see us different in the world but in business many of us struggle with this and I know that in my construction business I did not declare my faith & spent way too many years on the wrong side of handling business... as a Christian. In this podcast series I share my own experiences & my guests give insights into their own journeys too. We do not have the answers but pray that God will reveal something to you from our conversations that will enable to improve your very own experience with Jesus and in doing ’Business... As A Christian’! This podcast is for Christians wherever they are on their journey in faith. They may not even be Christians yet, but just want to find a better way of doing business. Wherever you are or someone you know is, this podcast is aimed at a level that can reach out to everyone in some way. I am not a theologian but just a business owner who has given my life to God and follow Jesus and face the challenge every day of how I carry out my business as Jesus would? I am also still looking for guests for this podcast and would like to invite you to join me in a recording and share some insights, lessons or just your own experience. To schedule a slot or find out more of the format please visit https://go.oncehub.com/BusinessAsAChristianPodcast Thank you for reading this and God Bless. Please subscribe to this podcast & share it with as many people as you can.
I have been working on bringing God more into my business. I have been doing this with clients and have had many Christians on my Business Success & Coffee podcast. God has guided me on the next step and I have created a new podcast series on the topic of handling business actions and decisions, as a Christian. Many Christian business owners & entrepreneurs face the daily challenge of making decisions in business that are in conflict with our faith and the Scriptures. It may be the external environment, our team, our suppliers or our customers that put us at odds with our Christian journey. How do we handle these instances, it is not easy. Then we have the peer pressure, the potential stigma of being labelled ’crazy’ for our beliefs, words and actions. People see us different in the world but in business many of us struggle with this and I know that in my construction business I did not declare my faith & spent way too many years on the wrong side of handling business... as a Christian. In this podcast series I share my own experiences & my guests give insights into their own journeys too. We do not have the answers but pray that God will reveal something to you from our conversations that will enable to improve your very own experience with Jesus and in doing ’Business... As A Christian’! This podcast is for Christians wherever they are on their journey in faith. They may not even be Christians yet, but just want to find a better way of doing business. Wherever you are or someone you know is, this podcast is aimed at a level that can reach out to everyone in some way. I am not a theologian but just a business owner who has given my life to God and follow Jesus and face the challenge every day of how I carry out my business as Jesus would? I am also still looking for guests for this podcast and would like to invite you to join me in a recording and share some insights, lessons or just your own experience. To schedule a slot or find out more of the format please visit https://go.oncehub.com/BusinessAsAChristianPodcast Thank you for reading this and God Bless. Please subscribe to this podcast & share it with as many people as you can.
Episodes

Tuesday May 14, 2024
The Pressure of Decision-Making as a Christian Entrepreneur with Neville Solomon
Tuesday May 14, 2024
Tuesday May 14, 2024
Christians are often pressured to make tough decisions, especially in business or corporate settings. Sometimes, these decisions may compromise the values of one's faith. As an entrepreneur, you have likely faced such dilemmas. Did you allow the Holy Spirit to guide your decision-making, or did you compromise to avoid losing a deal or missing out on an opportunity? Taking it to the Lord in prayer is always beneficial. During meetings, it is also important not to rush. Don't hesitate to request more time for reflection and prayer.
In this episode with Neville Solomon, we discuss our journeys as Christians and entrepreneurs and how the two blend for holistic living. Neville Solomon is a certified Business Coach with Ologycoaching and a certified DISC practitioner passionate about helping Christians understand their behavioural style through coaching. He has the skills to support SMMEs with various system tools to assist them in their KPIs and systems.
Let’s jump in!
Key Highlights from the Episode;
[00:01] Episode intro and a quick bio of the guest, Neville Solomon
[01:22] Neville’s background and a bit of what he does in his space
[05:00] What Neville is grateful for from the previous week
[07:00] His exposure to God & Christianity before giving his life to Christ at the age of 48
[12:47] Why do believers always struggle & non-believers always have good things in life
[18:20] Something Neville has had to question recently from a Christian standpoint
[26:50] Golden takeaway Neville shares from his experience as a Christian entrepreneur
[30:47] Words of encouragement from Neville to other Christian entrepreneurs
[32:04] Wrap up and call to action
Notable Quotes
Christians are always pressured in business, especially when making decisions.
If you are not at peace in making a decision, always take it to God in prayer.
Business is tough, and it may never work out as you wanted it to, but keep going. Always involve the Holy Spirit in what you do.
Resources Mentioned
The 5 Second Rule by Mel Robbins: https://www.melrobbins.com/5secondrule
Let’s Connect
Neville Solomon
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/neville-solomon-b4b39929/

Tuesday May 14, 2024
Embracing Testing for Greater Blessings with Paul Aragones
Tuesday May 14, 2024
Tuesday May 14, 2024
Life is never linear, especially for believers. There will be ups and downs along the way. Jesus Himself told us that in this world, we will have trouble (John 16:33). Such tests, however, are necessary for our faith's growth and to show God that we are mature enough to be entrusted with greater blessings. Many believers, especially Christian entrepreneurs, are unaware that such testing can be a blessing prerequisite, opening more doors for business growth and networking. However, testing is only a blessing when you see yourself improving your character. You will never really know who you are, your level of happiness, or your maturity in your comfort area. Testing comes to expose yourself and let you gauge where you are. How you deal with those challenges and trust the Lord matters.
In this episode with Paul Aragones, we discuss trusting the Lord more during challenging times and using them to draw closer to Him and receive blessings. With over a decade of ministry and coaching experience, Paul Aragones shares insights. He spent eight years as a missionary and life coach for Cru, a campus ministry, mentoring young people about life and love for Jesus. Additionally, he served as a youth leader for four years in his church in the Philippines, guiding youth towards Jesus.
Recently, Paul transitioned into marriage coaching, specializing in mixed couples, aiding them in reducing stress and toxicity and nurturing more peaceful and intimate marriages. Paul, who is Asian, is married to Stephanie, who is Caucasian. Two of their children were born in China, while their daughter was born in Germany.
Let’s jump in!
Key Highlights from the Episode;
[00:01] Episode intro and a quick bio of the guest, Paul Kristian Aragones
[02:35] Paul’s completed eBook and a marriage masterclass that he is grateful for
[07:07] Paul’s journey of faith and his blend into business as a marriage coach
[12:02] Paul’s experience with God’s testing as a prerequisite for greater blessing
[17:34] Something Paul has recently had to do differently in business as a Christian
[28:17] Golden takeaways Paul shares from his experience in Christianity and business
[34:19] Words of encouragement from Paul that you can start implementing today
[36:38] Wrap up and call to action
Notable Quotes
The wheel of life is about testing and blessing.
Every testing you have as a believer gives you the grace for another level.
Sometimes, when you are being tested, you feel as if the test is a blessing.
Testing is only a blessing when you see yourself improving your character.
Let’s Connect
Paul Aragones
Booking a Clarity Call: https://calendly.com/p-aragones/clarity-call-with-paul
Seven Secrets to a Toxic-Free and Peaceful Marriage: https://www.canva.com/design/DAGBTw8tWSY/EjS3ddc9PSV2JfKR5bQgsQ/view?utm_content=DAGBTw8tWSY&utm_campaign=designshare&utm_medium=link&utm_source=editor

Tuesday May 14, 2024
How To Harness Your Faith and Business For Success with Jasen Arias
Tuesday May 14, 2024
Tuesday May 14, 2024
Sometimes, it may seem easy, but balancing faith and business can be very challenging, and navigating this intersection with wisdom is essential. Building your business on a solid foundation that reflects your values and principles is critical. Pursuing your entrepreneurial goals with dedication and diligence while staying true to your beliefs is important for every Christian business owner. However, it's equally important to draw a clear boundary between your faith and business pursuits. Avoid conflating the two to maintain integrity, focus, and success within each domain. Let your business thrive independently to create opportunities to help others and make a difference in line with your faith. By striking a balance between faith and business, you can navigate challenges with grace and achieve both professional success and personal fulfillment.
In this episode with Jasen Arias, we discuss the powerful intersection of faith and business. Jasen shares insightful strategies on how business owners can effectively harness their faith to drive success in their business. With over a decade of entrepreneurial experience and a strong foundation rooted in his own faith, Jasen provides practical advice on maintaining integrity, setting boundaries, and navigating challenges while staying true to one's beliefs. Whether it's leveraging expertise, creating opportunities, building meaningful connections, or fostering a culture of innovation, Jasen's wisdom offers valuable insights for entrepreneurs seeking to align their faith with their business pursuits.
Jasen is an accomplished entrepreneur with over a decade of experience in operations, marketing, and product management. As a co-founder of Go Big Formula, he helps experts and entrepreneurs build their "Abundant Lifestyle" businesses by leveraging their expertise and voice. Passionate about generating leads, growing audiences, and increasing impact, Jasen is also an audience growth strategist, assisting clients in reaching and engaging their ideal customers across various platforms. Known for his visionary leadership and problem-solving skills, Jasen's journey showcases his ability to innovate and take calculated risks. From tripling sales averages at photography studios to coaching prominent figures like Lisa Nichols and Grant Cardone, Jasen continues to make a significant impact in the business world, inspiring aspiring entrepreneurs worldwide.
Let’s jump in!
Key Highlights from the Episode:
[00:01] Episode intro and a quick bio of the guest, Jasen Arias
[03:03] About Jasen's backstory and his pursuit of success
[09:43] The rule of 3 when rescuing a dog
[11:13] How to be an employer and set the right expectations
[13:38] What Jasen is grateful for from the past weeks
[15:58] How to create more opportunities as an entrepreneur
[19:02] What Jasen has found working with Christian speaker entrepreneurs
[22:41] Storytelling: How you can be a great speaker
[29:30] About Go Big Formular and what they offer
[33:43] What is lacking in coaching and how Jasen is bridging the gap
[36:30] Takeaways on how business owners can harness their faith and business
[40:20] How to reach out, connect, or learn more about Jasen
[41:06] Wrap up and call to action
Notable Quotes
Before you start your own podcast, be a guest on 100 other podcasts and promote your podcast.
As a business owner and entrepreneur, you have to create your own opportunities.
You have to create opportunities to find opportunities.
When starting any kind of small business, you have to identify who your ideal audience is and where they are in their journey.
Start your business and be successful with it to create the freedom you need to help others as much as you want; don’t tie them together.
Success is made from a lot more Nos than Yes.
Let’s Connect
Jasen Arias
Website: https://buildfreeoffers.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasenarias/

Tuesday May 14, 2024
Tuesday May 14, 2024
Living a life filled with joy through the spirit of God is like discovering a wellspring of happiness that never runs dry. When we serve the Lord, we find fulfilment beyond measure. Every act of kindness, every moment of service, brings a deep sense of joy, knowing that we are aligning ourselves with God's purpose for our lives. It is not just about what we do but the attitude with which we do it, knowing that we are spreading love and joy in the world.
In this episode, Troy Bravenboer and I discuss the power of living and doing business with the joy of God’s Spirit in us. Troy Bravenboer is the Founder, Chief Executive Officer, and president of Brave Freight. He previously worked as a Marketing rep at Vivint and attended River Bible Institute.
In the episode, you will understand that trusting in God and living for Him extends beyond the walls of our churches and into every facet of our lives, including our businesses. When we prioritise God in our dealings, we find that doors open, opportunities arise, and success follows. This is not just luck or coincidence but a direct result of God's favour and the guidance of the Holy Spirit. The joy of the Lord truly becomes our strength, and inner joy springs forth from a life lived in alignment with the spirit of God.
Let’s jump in!
Key Highlights from the Episode:
[00:01] Episode intro and a quick bio of the guest, Troy Bravenboer
[01:55] About Troy's backstory and what he does in his space
[03:13] Ministry and business breakthrough Troy is grateful for
[13:20] Troy’s outstanding times of spiritual growth
[21:47] The ripple effects of Troy relying on God to make decisions
[36:39] Scenarios that God has made Troy laugh
[49:06] Wrap up and call to action
Notable Quotes
Sometimes, the best way to make decisions is to use the word of God.
The joy of the Lord is our strength.
Inner joy comes from the inside, the spirit of God.
Over 70% of Americans are taking antidepressants or mental health medications in one form or another. It is the joy that comes from the Lord that can heal us.
Resources Mentioned
https://revivaltoday.com/
Six Steps to Excellence In Ministry by Kenneth Copeland: https://www.amazon.com/Steps-Excellence-Ministry-Kenneth-Copeland/dp/1575621045
The Practice of the Presence of God by Brother Lawrence: https://www.amazon.com/Practice-Presence-God-Brother-Lawrence/dp/0883681056/
Good Morning, Holy Spirit by Benny Hinn: https://www.amazon.com/Good-Morning-Holy-Spirit-Benny/dp/0785261265
Let’s Connect
Troy Bravenboer
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/troybrave/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/troybrave/

Wednesday Jan 29, 2025
You Should Come To Church?: Christian Business Insights from Wez Hone
Wednesday Jan 29, 2025
Wednesday Jan 29, 2025
In this episode of the 'Business As A Christian' podcast, host Simon Meadows speaks with Wez Hone, a leading Australian thinker on faith in business. Wez elaborates on his journey from building and selling nine companies to founding Kingdom Business Global, an organisation supporting Kingdom entrepreneurs.
The discussion highlights the importance of integrating faith into business practices, understanding spiritual warfare in the marketplace, and the concept of Christians in business acting as full-time ministers. Wez also shares the significance of the Kingdom Business Summit, emphasising the role of business in serving God's Kingdom beyond just financial contributions.
Finally, they explore practical steps listeners can take to align their business decisions with their faith.
Key Highlights from the Episode:
00:00 Introduction to the Podcast
00:19 Meet Wez Hone: A Leading Faith in Business Thinker
01:10 Wez's Journey and Vision for Kingdom Business
02:38 Personal Reflections and Christian Journey
03:46 The Birth of Kingdom Business Global
05:35 Simon’s Personal Story and Church Involvement
09:09 Wez's Early Life and Move to Australia
10:39 Discovering Faith and Starting a Training Academy
12:11 Challenges and Rewards of Following God's Plan
14:47 Integrating Faith and Business
22:57 The Spiritual Battle We Face
24:09 Understanding Dominion and Authority
24:59 Engaging in Spiritual Warfare
28:06 Practical Applications for Business
31:22 The Role of Business in God's Kingdom
35:28 Kingdom Business Summit in Nashville
39:34 Encouragement and Final Thoughts
44:57 Closing Prayer and Farewell
Let’s Connect:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wezhone/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wezhone
Website: https://kingdombusiness.global/

Friday Feb 06, 2026
Running Your Business According to the Holy Bible with Herbert Addison Burns
Friday Feb 06, 2026
Friday Feb 06, 2026
Guest
Herbert Addison Burns (Herb) - Faith-based business consultant and former prison chaplain from Northeast Ohio who helps business owners align their practices with biblical principles.
Episode Summary
In this episode, Simon welcomes Herb Burns to discuss how to run a business according to Holy Scripture. Herb shares practical wisdom on integrating biblical principles into everyday business decisions, from employee relations to financial practices. The conversation covers meditation on Scripture, dealing with grief through faith, breaking worldly business habits, and finding God's guidance in both personal and professional challenges.
Key Topics Discussed
Scripture Retention & Meditation
Practical tip: Cut out distractions (turn off the radio) to focus on the Holy Spirit
Psalm 1:2
The power of meditating on God's word day and night
Don't just read Scripture—digest it and allow it to enter your inner being
Meditation removes anxiety, stress, and lower emotions
Personal Journey: Faith Through Loss
Herb shares his experience losing his youngest son nearly three years ago
Joshua 1:9
God's promise of strength and courage through challenges
The story of the Prodigal Son (Luke 5) and remembering the positive
Turning to God for strength in both personal life AND business
Common Business Pitfalls
Habits and Traditions vs. Biblical Principles:
"At-will" employment contracts and biblical oppression
Ephesians
No respect of persons (treating all employees equally)
The "good old boy network" and partial treatment
Leaning on your own understanding vs. seeking God's wisdom
Biblical Business Practices
Pull underperforming employees aside privately (show mercy like Christ)
Give people a chance to improve before reprimanding
Pray for the wisdom of Solomon when facing difficult decisions
Recognize when God's voice comes through others as an act of mercy
The Danger of Pride in Business
Proverbs 3:5
"Lean not on your own understanding"
Proverbs 28:25-26
Trusting your own heart makes you a fool
Ego = self-interest, which is the quality of Satan
Putting God first in decision-making honors the first commandment
Discernment in Business Decisions
Confusion is a sign you're leaning on your own understanding, not God's
Seek knowledge from those who understand Scripture (like seeking a bishop)
1 Timothy 3
Not everyone can be a captain; seek those with biblical knowledge
Find business advisors who have both scriptural AND business expertise
Words of Encouragement
Always seek help and discern between man's tradition and biblical principles
Colossians 2:8
Don't get caught up in man's traditions and philosophies
Listen to that "little voice" inside you (the Holy Spirit)
1 John 1:9
Admit when you've sinned, humble yourself, and ask for help
Repent, ask for help, and seek knowledge
Key Scripture References
Psalm 1:2 - Meditation on God's word
Joshua 1:9 - Strength and courage through challenges
Luke 5 - The Prodigal Son
Ephesians - No respect of persons
Proverbs 3:5 - Lean not on your own understanding
Proverbs 28:25-26 - Trusting your own heart
1 Timothy 3 - Qualifications for church officers
Colossians 2:8 - Beware of man's traditions
1 John 1:9 - Confession and forgiveness
Jeremiah - God's warnings to rulers
Practical Takeaways
Turn off distractions to meditate on Scripture and hear from God
Pray for wisdom (like Solomon) when facing business challenges
Treat all employees equally regardless of personal relationships
Address performance issues privately with mercy and a chance to improve
Seek advisors who combine biblical knowledge with business expertise
Put God first in all business decisions, not just personal life
Listen to the Holy Spirit
confusion means you're relying on yourself
Repent quickly when you realize you're violating biblical principles
Closing Prayer
Herb closes with a powerful prayer asking God to help business owners conduct their affairs according to His word, cleanse their hearts and minds, and allow the Holy Spirit to flow through them in all aspects of life—including business.
Connect & Subscribe
Subscribe to hear more episodes about integrating faith and business. Share your feedback on how this podcast has touched you through God's word.
Next Episode: Stay tuned for more conversations with Christian business leaders!
"Your word touches every part of our life, not just on Sunday, but it influences every part of our life, and that includes our business." - Herb Burns

Friday Feb 06, 2026
Trusting God Through Dark Seasons in Business with Claudine McDaniel
Friday Feb 06, 2026
Friday Feb 06, 2026
Guest
Claudine McDaniel - Founder of Beyond Conquerors, Inc., author of More Than Conquerors, and immigrant from Togo who came to the United States with only $13. She empowers women through education, training, and employment opportunities while serving her community through faith-based nonprofit work.
Episode Summary
In this episode, Simon welcomes Claudine McDaniel to discuss trusting God through the darkest seasons of business. Claudine shares her powerful journey from immigrating with $13 to founding a nonprofit that has fed 9,000 meals to families in need. The conversation covers surrendering control to God, recognizing spiritual attacks during breakthrough moments, discerning true opportunities from distractions, and the critical importance of prayer as a business strategy.
Key Topics Discussed
Surrendering Control to the Holy Spirit
The challenge of letting go when you want to control your business
Discerning between your own voice and God's leading
God's plans are often different than what we envision
The importance of spending time in prayer before each week begins
Putting your business plans into God's hands daily
Navigating Dark Seasons in Business
The Peter Principle: Keeping your eyes on Jesus, not the storm
When Peter looked at Jesus, he walked on water
When he focused on the storm, he began to sink
Dark places are often preparation for God's breakthrough
The enemy attacks hardest when you're closest to your destiny
God does His best work in the darkness
Stay in prayer until you hear from Him—even when it's difficult
Personal Journey: From $13 to Beyond Conquerors
Receiving Christ at age 13 as a sick child in Togo
Trusting God completely when immigrating with only $13
Spending 7 years earning a bachelor's degree in accounting
God's call to start a nonprofit instead of a lucrative accounting business
Operating from personal savings for 4 years without pay
Receiving prophetic word: "You are pregnant" → giving birth to the education program
The Enemy's Strategy Against Business Owners
Satan wants to make God's people liabilities, not blessings
He attacks to prevent you from being respected and effective
He wants to delay your breakthrough and make you give up
Your business is designed to bless others—that's why it's under attack
Never give up, even when things seem impossible
Discerning Opportunities vs. Distractions
Not all opportunities are from God—even attractive ones
Shiny opportunities can be compromises disguised as success
The Convention Story: Computer broke down to keep Claudine in God's presence
Take every opportunity to God in prayer before accepting
Some opportunities demand time away from prayer—red flag
Ask God HOW to move with an opportunity, not just whether to take it
Prayer as Your Primary Business Strategy
Multiply prayer time during difficult seasons, don't get busier
Stay in God's presence until you hear from Him
What He tells you will be different than what you think or see
Spend time in prayer before making any business decision
Get down on your knees and dig deep into prayer
Faith Over Finances
God said "nonprofit" when Claudine wanted to make money
Trusting God's direction even when it doesn't make financial sense
The divinity plus the humanity work together
God needs our collaboration to do His work on earth
He gives us talents, but we must develop them through education
Beyond Conquerors Impact
9,000 meals provided to the community since inception
50 families fed every Friday for 3+ years
Comprehensive education program:
Emotional healing courses for those who've lost time to hardship
Strength Finder course to discover God-given talents
3,000+ career courses (cybersecurity, nursing, business analysis, accounting, etc.)
Resume writing and job placement assistance
Designed to help people catch up on lost time and chase their dreams
Key Scripture References
Genesis 1-2
God spoke creation into existence, but formed humans with His hands in His image
Matthew 14:22-33
Peter walking on water (keeping eyes on Jesus)
Luke 15:11-32
The Prodigal Son
Exodus 34
God writing the Ten Commandments (collaboration with Moses)
Practical Takeaways
Start each week in prayer
Put the coming week in God's hands before it begins
Hold loosely to your plans
God's way is often different than yours
Recognize dark seasons as preparation
Breakthrough is coming
Don't mistake attacks for failure
Vicious attacks mean you're close to destiny
Test every opportunity in prayer
Even good opportunities need God's approval
Multiply prayer during crisis
Don't get busier, get closer to God
Combine faith with education
God speaks in secret, but you need knowledge to execute
Never give up
The enemy wants you to quit; that's why he's attacking
Keep learning in dark seasons
What you learn now, God will use when He launches you
Trust God completely
Like coming to America with $13, put everything in His hands
Powerful Quotes
"When you find yourself in a dark place in your business, you think that things should go this way and they are not going that way—hold on to the Lord." - Claudine
"The enemy knows that your business that you are in is to bless other people. So he is gonna come after that business, but never give up." - Claudine
"God does his best work in the darkness." - Simon
"The divinity plus the humanity get together and work things to happen." - Claudine
"Even if opportunities come your way, take that opportunity to the presence of the Lord." - Claudine
"When you trust Him and Him alone, He comes through for us." - Claudine
"The supernatural power, the powerful God, He has His own way." - Claudine
Words of Encouragement
Never give up on your dreams
Keep moving forward one step at a time
The Lord is with you
Even when you can't see the way forward
Keep growing and learning
Get education to match what God speaks in secret
You are created in God's image
You have access to His attributes and talents
Dark places are temporary
God is working on you for something greater
Stay with the Lord
Even if He doesn't answer immediately, stay anyway
You are not a liability
God designed you to be a blessing and contributor
Closing Prayer
Claudine closes with a heartfelt prayer asking God to empower business owners, ministry leaders, and nonprofit workers. She prays for God's presence and power to go with them, for help to accomplish what He's placed in their hearts, for angels to assist with difficult tasks, and for strength to reach their destinies despite the heavy work.
Resources & Support
Book: More Than Conquerors: From Struggles to Forgiveness, From Forgiveness to Blessings by Claudine McDaniel
Website: www.beyondconquerors.org
Support the Ministry: Beyond Conquerors operates on donations. The organization has been funded by Claudine's personal savings for 4 years. Your support helps feed families and provide life-changing education opportunities.
Connect & Subscribe
Subscribe to hear more episodes about integrating faith and business. Share your feedback on how this podcast has touched you through God's word.
Next Episode: Stay tuned for more conversations with Christian business leaders!
"If God was able to do amazing things in my life and has changed my life in the past, I'm still waiting on Him to do it now. And even if He doesn't do it, I'm gonna stay with Him anyway because He's a God who never lies." - Claudine McDaniel

Friday Feb 06, 2026
Friday Feb 06, 2026
Guest
Kerry O'Neill - Sports Ministry Leader & Faith in the Marketplace Advocate
Episode Overview
A powerful conversation exploring the intersection of faith, fear, and influence in everyday life. Kerry shares his journey from a broken home to finding faith through sports ministry, and how that shaped his understanding of living out Christian values in secular spaces.
Key Topics Discussed
Kerry's Background & Faith Journey
Grew up in small-town Iowa as the youngest of 10 children
Father left after 10 kids, creating a "father hunger" that influenced his spiritual journey
Found faith through Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) in public high school
Initially attended for "free donuts and girls" but encountered personal, relational faith
Played college basketball on full scholarship
Spent 9 years in sports ministry with FCA in Houston, Texas
Faith in Education vs. The Workplace
Kerry's faith began in public school context, making it easier to see "church" outside traditional walls
Discussion of declining faith presence in UK schools (Church of England schools vs. modern secular education)
Universities offer more faith fellowship opportunities than high schools
The challenge of blending faith and work when not explicitly encouraged
Gratitude & Personal Reflections
Kerry: Reconnecting with a friend after two years - the blessing of deep, lasting relationships
Simon: Trip to Florence, Italy with his wife Angela (who is questioning faith) - exposure to crucifixion imagery sparked conversation about Christ's personal sacrifice
Wrestling with Fear
Kerry's ongoing battle with fear and the question: "What would you do if you weren't afraid?"
Reading Mark Batterson's In a Pit with a Lion on a Snowy Day
Most deathbed regrets are about what people didn't do, not what they did
Key insight: Courage only exists in the presence of fear - it's not fearlessness, but acting despite fear
Healthy vs. unhealthy fear: protection mechanism vs. controlling grip
Overcoming Fear Through Faith
Biblical examples: David vs. Goliath, Moses overcoming speech impediment, Daniel in the lion's den
Reference to Casting Crowns song "Crazy People" - those who do "crazy things" overcome fear through faith
The three Cs: Compassion → Courage → Confidence
Ministry & Influence in the Marketplace
Truett Cathy's encouragement test: "If they're breathing, they need encouragement"
Wealth doesn't solve relational or parenting challenges
Approaching every interaction with value to add - through encouragement or service
Embracing identity as "Christ's ambassador" (2 Corinthians 5:20)
Imposter Syndrome & Comparison
Teddy Roosevelt: "Comparison is the thief of joy"
Oscar Wilde: "Be yourself. Everyone else is taken"
God designed each person uniquely - don't try to mimic others
Simon's grandfather (Assemblies of God pastor): "I'm not a mini Billy Graham - God is using ME"
Words of Encouragement
You're influencing more people than you realize
some can identify with you who couldn't with "bigger" names
Business IS ministry
unexpected acts of service from "secular" professionals often have greater impact
Martin Luther quote: "It is not the job of the shoemaker to put little crosses on the shoes, but to make quality shoes because God cares about craftsmanship"
Excellence in your work IS witness - don't feel pressure to "preach" at every interaction
Being a Christ-follower means: Following a servant, majoring in love, embracing the marginalized
The Power of Small Moments
Kim's forgotten Zoom background revealed crosses on his bookshelf → conversation about faith → Kerry invited to podcast → hundreds of listeners impacted
One small, unintentional moment can create ripple effects
Key Quotes
"Courage can only exist in the presence of fear. It doesn't take any courage for me to eat an ice cream cone." - Kerry O'Neill
"Be yourself. Everyone else is taken." - Oscar Wilde (quoted by Kerry)
"Comparison is the thief of joy." - Teddy Roosevelt (quoted by Kerry)
"It is not the job of the shoemaker to put little crosses on the shoes, but to make quality shoes because God cares about craftsmanship." - Martin Luther (quoted by Kerry)
"You are influencing way more people than you know." - Kerry O'Neill
"I'm not a mini version of Billy Graham. What I am is me. And God is using me." - Simon's grandfather
Resources Mentioned
Book: In a Pit with a Lion on a Snowy Day by Mark Batterson
Organization: Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA)
Music: "Crazy People" by Casting Crowns
Business: Chick-fil-A (founded by Truett Cathy)
Closing Prayer (Kerry O'Neill)
A prayer for listeners to be doers of the word, to lead with love, to receive opportunities for ministry and encouragement, and to know they are making a difference through small acts that add up to huge impact.
Connect
Subscribe, like, and share this podcast to help spread encouragement to Christians navigating faith in the marketplace.







