“We’re doing OK.”  That’s a thought shared by thousands of executives I have encountered over the years. It also resides in the minds of the majority of B2B salespeople with whom I’ve worked. “OK” for a business often means that the company grows slowly, at least in most years.  It is marginally profitable in most  … Read more

“Sticks and Stones may break my bones, but words can never hurt me.”  Do you remember that from your childhood?  It was a response from our parents when we were verbally attacked, criticized, or otherwise made to feel bad by what someone said to us.  It was probably helpful in nudging us off our hurt  … Read more

As the year draws to a close, many small business leaders are wrapped up in the season’s busyness. Yet, this is precisely the time to pause, reflect, and start planning for 2025. Effective goal setting requires intention, alignment, and faith, and it’s crucial to begin before February. Below, we share insights from recent Round Table  … Read more

Work-Life Balance Strategies Work-life balance is a nuanced and deeply personal concept that varies for each individual. As our Round Tables gathered in November to discuss this topic, the business leaders offered perspectives both as individuals and organizational leaders. Their insights underscore the complexity of balance and highlight the challenges and responsibilities leaders face in  … Read more

Why Should You Invite God into Your Business or Career?  Benefits of Being a Kingdom Company – Peace in The Storm By Dave Kahle “I’m afraid of the price I’ll have to pay.”  That was a comment made by a friend when the conversation wandered to God and business.  Specifically, we were discussing what it meant  … Read more

Creating a strong workplace culture is essential for retaining top talent in today’s competitive market. Small businesses, in particular, have a unique advantage—they can offer employees a sense of purpose and belonging that larger corporations often can’t match. Through thoughtful leadership, fostering autonomy, and emphasizing the value of each team member, companies can cultivate what  … Read more

As a college student, I supported myself by working in a relatively expensive men’s clothing store. It was a small local chain, with five stores around town – one big headquarters store downtown, and four suburban stores in shopping centers. One of our premium clothing lines was named after the designer – Oleg Cassini.  He  … Read more

She walked into the dingy office with her everyday attitude. “Sara Simpson” (not her real name) was tired, grumpy, and ready to be the smartest person in every room that Thursday. Sara managed a small continuous improvement department at a large industrial company. She worked long hours and wanted applause as a valuable individual contributor.  … Read more

“But as for me and my household, we will serve the LORD.” —Joshua 24:15 This article is largely composed of the content of one of the most popular chapters of my book Fast-starting a Career of Consequence. While the book was largely written to provide Christian business advice, I view balancing of all phases of  … Read more

The leaders who shared their stories at our Round Tables this month agree on one thing: effective leadership is not about authority, but about service, reflection, and understanding. In September, we delved into the topic of Leadership Impact.  Leadership is an ongoing journey that requires continuous evaluation and, most importantly, love for the people you  … Read more