The Workmatters Podcast

How to Pray When Work Hurts with Keisha Fowler & Darrel Harvey

Learn three practical ways to pray when your job is hurting you, and why God isn't offended by angry, confused, or desperate prayers. Hosts Keisha Fowler and Darrell Harvey get honest about what it feels like to be broken by work, whether it's a toxic workplace, burnout from emotionally heavy work, or a job that looked perfect on paper but wasn't. They share personal stories of prayer for problems at work, offer real strategies for prayer when overwhelmed, and walk through three prayer frameworks you can use the next time work hurts. ⏱️CHAPTERS [00:00] Intro [01:03] Welcome to the episode: how to pray when work hurts [01:33] When work breaks us [03:42] Darrell's story: the job that should have been perfect [04:10] Where do you even start praying in the pain? [05:00] Petition prayers: "Get me out of here, God" [08:14] The long road to healing [10:19] You're not alone: the power of community [13:18] Prayers that soothe you while you're still in it [14:13] The wall between two prisoners: pain as connection to God [16:19] Slowing down and bringing your body into prayer [21:51] Three frameworks for prayer [22:14] Framework 1: Praying through liturgy [23:47] Framework 2: Writing your own liturgy [25:05] Framework 3: Reminding God who He is [26:36] The Prayer of Unknowing (Thomas Merton) [27:44] Closing: Work Matters Institute --- 🎓 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. This episode is sponsored by Schuber Mitchell - https://www.schubermitchell.com/ #WorkMattersPodcast #FaithAndWork #ChristianLeadership #WorkplaceCulture #ChristianEntrepreneur #PurposeDrivenWork

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Does My Work Matter to God? with the Workmatters Team

We’re back with Season 3 of the Workmatters Podcast! In this first episode the Workmatter’s team answers the question every believer eventually asks about their job, purpose, and place in God's story. Whether you're behind a desk, on a job site, or between jobs right now, this conversation tackles the doubt that creeps in when work feels menial or disconnected from faith. Darrell, Brandon, and Keisha dig into what the Bible actually says about faith and work, why most of us start the story of work in the wrong chapter (curse, not calling), and how finding purpose at work starts with seeing your skill set as something God is genuinely proud of. ⏱️CHAPTERS [00:00] Intro [01:09] Does My Work Matter to God? [06:58] Why We Doubt Our Work Matters [08:46] The Real Story of Work (Genesis 1 vs. Genesis 3) [14:12] Exodus 31: God's Bragging Rights Over Your Skillset [19:20] Why Unemployment Wounds Our Humanity [24:49] Learning to Receive When You're Used to Giving [29:33] 3 Practical Ways to Remember Your Work Matters [33:16] Closing & Work Matters Institute --- 🎓 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 #WorkplaceCulture #ChristianEntrepreneur #PurposeDrivenWork

How to Live Out Your Faith at Work (Without Making It Weird) with Julia Oltmanns

Faith and Work - How to live out your faith at work with wisdom, legal clarity, and courage, without making it weird. HR and employment law expert Julia Oltmanns (Coca-Cola Consolidated, Zurich, Strategic People Partners) joins the Workmatters team to unpack what it actually means to be a disciple of Jesus at work - legally, practically, and relationally. From starting a Christian employee resource group to praying before your day even begins, Julia shares hard-won wisdom on discernment, workplace boundaries, and building trust-based relationships that naturally open the door to faith conversations at work. ⏱️ CHAPTERS [00:00] Intro [01:07] Meet Julia Oltmanns: HR, employment law & faith [03:31] Staying "neutral" vs. living out faith at work [04:54] Julia's awakening: what God really wanted from her at work [06:55] Starting a Christian employee resource group at Zurich [09:13] Whole-life discipleship and the faith-work gap [10:54] Practicing your faith at work — legally [12:18] Sharing your story without making it weird [14:01] Discernment: knowing when and how to engage [16:16] Demanding your rights vs. showing love [19:03] When your faith request gets denied [21:26] Persecution, blessing, and being a disciple at work [22:20] Case study: how Coca-Cola Consolidated shows up for employees [24:47] Living out love as a workplace pillar [25:58] How love opens doors to faith conversations [29:21] One thing to try tomorrow: start with prayer [31:14] Where to find Julia Oltmanns --- 🔗 CONNECT WITH JULIA LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/julia-oltmanns/ --- 🎓 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 #WorkplaceCulture #ChristianEntrepreneur #PurposeDrivenWork

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Finding Purpose at Work: Stop Building Your Own Kingdom with Jennifer Cristofaro

Finding Purpose at Work - Realtor and nonprofit founder Jennifer Cristofaro shares how a near-fatal heart attack rewired the way she saw success, calling, and business as a mission field. Jennifer, co-founder of Mission House Real Estate and the food-truck ministry For the Love, unpacks what it looks like when your vocation and your mission stop competing and start working together. Darrell and Brandon dig into faith and work integration, Christian leadership in business, and what it actually costs to build a company around generosity instead of gain. ⏱️ CHAPTERS [00:59] Meet Jennifer Cristofaro [02:52] "I stopped dreaming for myself and started dreaming for others" [04:00] Her favorite quote on committed, thoughtful action [06:37] The origin story of the For the Love food truck [07:51] Living on "the edge of yikes" [09:11] What Neighbor Night is really about [10:14] Lives changed around the table [13:09] Growing to 4 locations, 1,400 people fed weekly [14:18] Why real estate is kingdom work [16:41] Navigating hard ethical moments in business [17:27] "People are the purpose. Work is the mission field." [18:11] Discerning the Holy Spirit's voice in daily decisions [19:51] Building a Christ-centered team culture [20:34] The heart attack that changed everything [23:11] 3 things you can do right now to rethink your work [26:19] Where to find Mission House Real Estate & For the Love --- 🔗 CONNECT WITH JENNIFER Mission House: https://missionhouserealestate.com/ For the Love: https://www.forthelovenwa.com/ --- 🎓 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 #WorkplaceCulture #ChristianEntrepreneur #PurposeDrivenWork

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What AI Reveals About How You Really See Your Team with Matt Randerson

Faith and work integration means wrestling honestly with how fast the world is changing, including AI, without losing sight of who we are. In this episode, you'll learn why every leader is headed toward a defining moment: will you treat people as a cost to manage, or as true image bearers of Christ entrusted to your stewardship? Darrell sits down with Matt Randerson, Founder & CEO of Human Culture, to explore christian leadership in business through the lens of AI adoption. Matt shares why efficiency isn't the whole story, how leaders can redeploy human capital instead of cutting it, and why using AI doesn't make you "less human" it can actually reconnect you with your calling to create as an image bearer of God. ⏱️ CHAPTERS 0:23 – Welcome to the Workmatters Podcast 1:00 – Meet Matt Randerson, Founder & CEO of Human Culture 2:28 – Family update: baby #2 on the way 3:20 – Matt's faith story and how he landed in business, not ministry 4:49 – Why Matt started Human Culture: protecting the human element 6:19 – What Human Culture actually does for organizations 7:41 – How leaders and companies are really responding to AI 8:54 – Why AI's rapid rise triggers identity questions 10:06 – The moment every leader will face: commodity or image bearer? 12:09 – Jensen Huang's quote on imagination vs. layoffs 13:56 – Redeploying human capital instead of cutting it 17:16 – AI, distraction, and our relationship with God 17:55 – Rewiring the narratives we tell ourselves about AI 20:39 – Is using AI "cheating"? Wrestling with integrity 22:50 – Reintroducing friction: Matt's practice for staying human 26:03 – Two practical steps: engage your narrative, go create 28:39 – Rapid-fire: unplugging, stargazing, and country music 30:15 – How to connect with Matt and Human Culture ---- 🔗 CONNECT WITH MATT Human Culture: https://www.humanculture.ai/ Connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-randerson/ ---- 🎓 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

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From Prison to Purpose: How Faith Transformed a Family Business with Dave Hataj and sons

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

Why I Quit Chasing Success: The Surprising Secret to Authentic Faith at Work with Idalia LeJune

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.

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Pastoring for Monday: Discipling Your Church for the Workplace with Matt Rusten

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.

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How Faith Shaped Nike Shoes with Wilson W. Smith III

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?

Redemptive Business: Putting People Before Profit with Erin Kiefer

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.

Faith Unleashed: How Bold Moves Can Turn Workplace Culture Upside Down with Steve Blair

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

She Prays with Customers: How Faith Can Transform Business with Jessica Uranga

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

How One Bible Habit Changed Everything with John Rausch

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

Connecting Faith and Work in Unexpected Ways with Ben Kirksey

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

Transform Your Career and Faith Using This Mentoring Strategy with Henry Ho

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

Christians Are Missing This at Work with Dr. Joy Dahl

Summary Welcome to this episode of The Workmatters Podcast, where we dive deep into the incredible intersection of faith and work. Our guest, Dr. Joy Dahl, shares her inspiring journey from corporate success to becoming a passionate advocate for integrating faith in the workplace. With over thirty years of experience as a business strategist and fractional CFO, Dr. Dahl reveals how God is already at work in our offices and invites us to respond and shine his light wherever we’re placed. Dr. Dahl, along with hosts Brandon Swoboda and Keisha Fowler, explores practical ways to embrace your calling as Christ’s ambassador—no matter your role or industry. Together, they unpack common challenges like fear and the secular-sacred divide, discuss the importance of spiritual boundaries and rhythms, and share real stories about living out faith authentically at work. Whether you’re seeking to thrive professionally, grow spiritually, or are simply curious about what it means to make your work matter to God, this conversation offers encouragement, actionable insights, and genuine wisdom for your everyday workplace. Tune in to discover how you can start seeing your job as a place where God shapes you, uses your unique gifts, and calls you to make a meaningful impact right where you are! Show Notes 00:00 Introduction 08:49 Christ’s Presence in Work 11:06 Living Out Faith in Daily Work 14:15 Sharing Your Story Fearlessly 18:24 The Faith and Work Connection 22:00 Seeking God’s Direction Daily 25:23 Creating Healthy Rhythms 27:36 Leadership Through Faith Practices 30:07 Pause, Prepare, and Invite God 34:55 Closing Thoughts Links Brandon Swoboda Keisha Fowler Simmons Foods Workmatters Dr. Joy Dahl Dr. Dahl’s Website

You’re Wasting Your Gifts at Work: The Truth About Stewardship with Steve Graves

Summary Welcome to The Workmatters Podcast! In today’s episode, hosts Brandon Swoboda and Keisha Fowler welcome back Steve Graves, author, business owner, and veteran leader who has invested decades in helping others navigate the challenges and rewards of integrating faith into everyday work life. This episode centers around Steve’s newest book, Radical Stewardship: Partnering with the Master in Everyday Life, and dives into what stewardship really means, not just from a financial perspective, but as a holistic approach to life. You’ll hear the story of how his previous work, The Gospel Goes to Work, made a global impact all the way to Africa, and how the principles of stewardship continue to resonate across cultures and generations. Additionally, Steve shares thought-provoking insights about the Parable of the Talents, the dangers of practical atheism, and the four key steps to faithful stewardship: recognizing our gifts, transferring ownership back to God, multiplying what’s been given, and being accountable for its use. The discussion also touches on the pitfalls and traps that keep many of us in a “third steward” mentality—clinging tightly out of fear or mindlessly wasting the opportunities we’ve been given. For parents, leaders, and anyone wrestling with comparison or calling, Steve offers advice on how to help the next generation celebrate their unique gifts and trust the thoughtful allocation of those gifts from God. He also opens up about his own spiritual formation, revealing how writing the book challenged and shaped him in this legacy season of his career. Whether you’re new to the concept of stewardship or looking for fresh encouragement to live out your faith in the workplace, this episode is packed with wisdom, vulnerability, and practical encouragement. Join us and discover how “partnering with the Master” can transform not only your work, but your whole life! Show Notes 00:00 Introduction 04:29 Misunderstanding Stewardship and Parables 10:58 Transferring and Multiplying Ownership 21:06 Embracing Gifts with Purpose 24:01 Season of Legacy and Stewardship 27:18 Discovering God’s Gifts 28:54 Closing Thoughts Links Brandon Swoboda Darrel Harvey Workmatters Steve Graves Radical Stewardship Book Steve’s Website Cornerstone Coaching

Is Vulnerability the Secret to Success at Work? with Sarah Schafer

Summary Welcome to The Workmatters Podcast! In today’s episode, hosts Brandon Swoboda and Darrel Harvey are honored to welcome Sarah Schafer, a licensed professional counselor and consultant whose life and work are rooted deeply in faith, compassion, and an honest embrace of humanity’s messiness. Sarah opens up about her own journey, describing how early exposure to the gospel, personal struggles with an eating disorder, and the challenges of raising a child with chronic health issues led her to a place of deep dependence on Jesus. Furthermore, Sarah explores how she integrates her faith into her counseling practice, guiding clients through trauma, relationships, and career transitions. Plus, she shares how trauma therapy requires a willingness to sit in the messy and trust God to lead the healing process. Lastly, Sarah addresses the challenge many face of masking vulnerability at work and the importance of appropriate vulnerability, both with God and in trusted relationships. This episode is full of wisdom and encouragement for anyone wrestling with the intersection of faith, work, and mental well-being. If you’ve ever felt the tension between achievement and authenticity, or wondered how to invite God into the real-life challenges of your work, you’ll find Sarah’s story both relatable and inspiring! Show Notes 00:00 Introduction 05:07 Sarah’s Path to Counseling and Faith 07:00 EMDR and Trauma Therapy Insights 12:17 Navigating Retirement and Finding Purpose 16:52 Vulnerability While Facing Pressure 25:56 Grace in Understanding Human Behavior 31:27 Closing Thoughts Links Brandon Swoboda Darrel Harvey Workmatters Fellowship Counseling and Care Center

He Risked Everything and Won—A Journey of Faith, Service, and Redemption with Nick Morgan

Summary Welcome to The Workmatters Podcast! In this episode, hosts Brandon Swoboda and Keisha Fowler sit down with Nick Morgan, a dynamic leader, entrepreneur, and combat veteran whose journey is marked by resilience, faith, and a deep commitment to serving others. From humble beginnings and financial struggles in his childhood to serving in Operation Iraqi Freedom, Nick shares how early life challenges sparked his heart for compassion and advocacy. Listeners will be inspired by Nick’s transition from military life to the corporate world, and then into business ownership as the operator of multiple Jersey Mike’s Subs locations. Discover how he integrates his faith in practical, tangible ways—mentoring employees, offering innovative benefits like paid maternity leave, and even helping a former military translator and his family find a new life in America. Throughout the conversation, Nick highlights the power of community, risk-taking, and the transformative impact of leading with generosity and vision. Whether you’re seeking encouragement to live out your faith at work or looking for real-life examples of redemptive business practices, this episode is full of practical wisdom, uplifting stories, and reminders that every role, no matter the industry, has the potential to make a difference. Join us as we explore how work can become a place of purpose, dignity, and hope! Show Notes 00:00 Introduction 03:32 Childhood Struggles and Practicing Gratefulness 11:45 Nick’s Military Experience Overseas 17:58 How Risk-Taking Shaped Nick’s Path 24:10 Perseverance Amid Rejection 27:54 Encouraging Paid Maternity Policies 30:43 Developing Leaders Through Organizational Initiatives 35:53 Empowering Through Redemptive Work 37:39 Closing Thoughts Links Brandon Swoboda Darrel Harvey Workmatters Jersey Mike’s Subs Africa Renewal

Unlocking Hidden Potential: Transform Your Work Into a Place of Healing

Summary Welcome to the first episode of Season 2 of The Workmatters Podcast! In this episode, hosts Brandon Swoboda, Keisha Fowler, and Darrel Harvey kick off Season 2 with an honest, timely conversation about the realities facing today’s workforce. Drawing from their own experiences and recent insights from Brené Brown, the team opens up about the struggles so many employees and leaders are carrying with them to work every day. Additionally, the conversation goes deeper than just identifying challenges. Keisha suggests that workplaces have the potential to become sanctuaries where people can truly bring their whole selves, imagining a shift where work serves as a space for connection, healing, and being seen as fully human. Darrel highlights the importance of lament as a neglected but powerful practice in Christian life and work, providing a step-by-step guide to naming pain, affirming trust in God, and rooting ourselves in gratitude. The trio tackles questions such as: How can leaders regulate themselves before caring for their teams? How do we invite vulnerability and hope into the workplace? And what does it look like to create community, even in high-pressure environments? If you’ve ever felt alone, overwhelmed, or unsure how to integrate your faith with your daily work, this episode is packed with wisdom, empathy, and practical ideas. Discover how to see work as more than just a job, it’s a space where God meets you, shapes you, and empowers you to make a difference! Show Notes 00:00 Introduction 03:15 Work as a Healing Sanctuary 10:16 Being Christian at Work 15:02 Rediscovering the Art of Lament 23:04 Practical Steps for Emotional Regulation 26:17 Daily Reflection with Examen 27:32 Exploring Work as Spiritual Formation 31:39 Closing Thoughts Links Brandon Swoboda Darrel Harvey Workmatters Keisha Fowler Simmons Foods