Podcast
The Workmatters Podcast
Hosted by Workmatters · EN
The conversations on The Workmatters Podcast inspire, equip, and empower Christians to embrace work as one of the most fertile fields for spiritual transformation. You will hear powerful stories from practitioners on how they have been formed into the image of Christ in their work, at their work, and through their work.
12episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
How Faith Shaped Nike Shoes with Wilson W. Smith III
3w ago00:40:40Tap to summarizeSummaryWhat 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 Notes00:00 Wilson’s Career and Achievements03:17 Growing Up with Faith and Religion12:11 Wilson’s Early Career at Nike14:06 Designing for Michael Jordan17:00 Facing Self-Reflection and Identity Challenges21:40 Creating Music for Michael Jordan Sneakers27:12 How Design Philosophy and Ministry Intersect32:29 Serena Williams’ Design Crew40:14 Closing ThoughtsLinksWorkmattersInvite Brandon or Darrel to Speak Wilson W. Smith IIIWhat should we discuss next?
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Redemptive Business: Putting People Before Profit with Erin Kiefer
May 400:28:47Tap to summarizeSummaryWelcome 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 Notes00:00 Introduction04:56 Family Relocation and New Beginnings11:56 Balancing Career Growth and Family19:57 Faithful Leadership Through Struggles24:26 Supporting Employees with Compassion27:54 Closing ThoughtsLinksBrandon SwobodaDarrel HarveyWorkmattersErin KieferKiefer Sage*Jotto Desk has been rebranded to Tenhold.
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Faith Unleashed: How Bold Moves Can Turn Workplace Culture Upside Down with Steve Blair
Apr 2700:45:31Tap to summarizeSummaryWelcome 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 Notes00:00 Introduction03:42 Balancing Faith and Career14:10 Authentic Leadership Rooted in Faith18:52 The Journey to Meaningful Work Connections22:58 Aligning Personal and Company Values24:30 Making Decisions Prioritizing Company Values32:17 Understanding Company Values in Roles44:43 Closing ThoughtsLinksBrandon SwobodaDarrel HarveyWorkmattersSteve BlairFulcrum Collective
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She Prays with Customers: How Faith Can Transform Business with Jessica Uranga
Apr 2000:31:04Tap to summarizeSummaryWelcome 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 Notes00:00 Introduction04:10 How Jessica’s Father Modeled Faith in Business09:25 Jessica’s Entrepreneurial Mindset16:18 Creating a Welcoming Thrift Experience19:58 The Impact of Prayer and Testimonies21:08 Balancing Innovation with Faith30:37 Closing ThoughtsLinksBrandon SwobodaDarrel HarveyWorkmattersJessica UrangaPurpose Brands 414
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How One Bible Habit Changed Everything with John Rausch
Apr 1300:34:35Tap to summarizeSummaryWelcome 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 Notes00:00 Introduction03:26 Memorable Trips and Life Lessons06:43 Founding Rausch Coleman Homes12:51 Building a Strong and Supportive Team17:08 Faith-Driven Business Philosophy23:06 Focusing on Kingdom Impact26:20 Understanding Faith and Discernment31:34 Empowering Growth Across Generations33:41 Closing ThoughtsLinksBrandon SwobodaDarrel HarveyWorkmattersJohn RauschRausch Companies
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Connecting Faith and Work in Unexpected Ways with Ben Kirksey
Apr 600:35:54Tap to summarizeSummaryWelcome 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 Notes00:00 Introduction08:43 How Ben Found Purpose Through Justice Work13:38 Starting a Program for Students17:31 Explaining the Workmatters Institute Mission25:42 Balancing Time, Needs, and Priorities29:02 Bringing Your Best to Work34:02 Closing ThoughtsLinksBrandon SwobodaDarrel HarveyWorkmattersBen KirkseyWesche Company
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Transform Your Career and Faith Using This Mentoring Strategy with Henry Ho
Mar 3000:31:17Tap to summarizeSummaryWelcome 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 Notes00:00 Introduction03:59 Mentorship vs. Discipleship10:15 Prioritizing Faithful Discipleship18:35 Authentic Life-on-Life Interaction24:47 How Mentoring Leads to Discipleship30:05 Closing ThoughtsLinksBrandon SwobodaDarrel HarveyWorkmattersHenry HoStoresight
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Christians Are Missing This at Work with Dr. Joy Dahl
Mar 2300:35:49Tap to summarizeSummaryWelcome 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 Notes00:00 Introduction08:49 Christ’s Presence in Work11:06 Living Out Faith in Daily Work14:15 Sharing Your Story Fearlessly18:24 The Faith and Work Connection22:00 Seeking God’s Direction Daily25:23 Creating Healthy Rhythms27:36 Leadership Through Faith Practices30:07 Pause, Prepare, and Invite God34:55 Closing ThoughtsLinksBrandon SwobodaKeisha FowlerSimmons FoodsWorkmattersDr. Joy DahlDr. Dahl’s Website
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You’re Wasting Your Gifts at Work: The Truth About Stewardship with Steve Graves
Mar 1600:29:21Tap to summarizeSummaryWelcome 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 Notes00:00 Introduction04:29 Misunderstanding Stewardship and Parables10:58 Transferring and Multiplying Ownership21:06 Embracing Gifts with Purpose24:01 Season of Legacy and Stewardship27:18 Discovering God’s Gifts28:54 Closing ThoughtsLinksBrandon SwobodaDarrel HarveyWorkmattersSteve GravesRadical Stewardship BookSteve’s WebsiteCornerstone Coaching
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Is Vulnerability the Secret to Success at Work? with Sarah Schafer
Mar 900:31:54Tap to summarizeSummaryWelcome 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 Notes00:00 Introduction05:07 Sarah’s Path to Counseling and Faith07:00 EMDR and Trauma Therapy Insights12:17 Navigating Retirement and Finding Purpose16:52 Vulnerability While Facing Pressure25:56 Grace in Understanding Human Behavior31:27 Closing ThoughtsLinksBrandon SwobodaDarrel HarveyWorkmattersFellowship Counseling and Care Center
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