Episodes

  • From Nigeria to The White House - A Leadership Journey of Faith and Service

    From Nigeria to The White House - A Leadership Journey of Faith and Service
    Nov 21 2024
    Today's episode of The Beacon Show with hosts Chike Aguh. He shares his extraordinary journey with Tamara Jackson. He was the first American-born member of his Nigerian family to serve as a CIO in President Biden's Department of Labor. His story is not just about personal achievement. It is a testament to the power of faith, service, and purposeful leadership. It helps in creating meaningful impact at scale.Chike grew up in a parochial school environment. Aguh studied theology daily from first to twelfth grade. This shaped his belief that faith is best expressed through service. He believed that the truest expression of faith is through serving others. This foundation shaped his perspective on privilege and purpose. At age six, during his first visit to his family's village in Nigeria, he had an epiphany that would define his life's mission.Aguh's early understanding of privilege and purpose has shaped his career. It has guided him through education, technology, and public service. His journey exemplifies faith as a catalyst for meaningful leadership and social impact. Aguh overcame a major speech impediment to become a powerful voice in public service. His journey shows how challenges can be transformed into strengths. He compares his journey to biblical figures like Moses. They were chosen for important tasks despite their challenges. Aguh believes that "God will choose unlikely people to do things" throughout time.Aguh now leads at the intersection of technology, policy, and social impact. He believes true leadership is about empowering others and serving a greater purpose. His story shows that leadership isn't just about personal success. It's about creating opportunities for others. Aguh uses his position to drive positive change on a larger scale.Leadership Through ServiceAguh's leadership philosophy is influenced by General Stanley McChrystal's "Team of Teams" approach. He emphasizes the importance of leading like a gardener. "Your job is to pull up the weeds, pull out the rocks so the flowers can grow," he explains. This servant-leadership style has guided his work across various sectors. It has helped him with education as well as government service. Aguh draws on his faith background to connect servant leadership with Christian principles. He believes both emphasize serving others and leading with purpose. He notes how Christ chose to work through others rather than alone.At McChrystal Group, Aguh worked with military veterans from elite units. He learned that effective leadership is not about commanding from above. Instead, it's about enabling others to succeed. His approach focuses on pushing decision-making to the lowest level. It fosters trust among team members and ensures clear communication of goals. This helps everyone align on the mission. "Most leaders think my job is to come in and tell everyone what to do," he reflects. "That's not your job. Your job is to help them do the job.Navigating the Pandemic ResponseDuring the COVID-19 pandemic, Aguh and the Biden administration faced many challenges. His role was critical in navigating these unprecedented times. "That's when great things happen," he reflects. "Because that's the time when people are like, you know what, all that stuff we said we weren't going to do before, let's do it now." His role involved managing a crisis where 20 million American jobs were lost in one month. This was far worse than the 900,000 jobs lost during the 2008 recession. Aguh played a key part in addressing this unprecedented job loss.The administration's response focused on keeping Americans employed through innovative programs like PPP. These incentivized businesses to keep workers. "We paid every business in America to not fire people," Aguh explains. He notes that this approach helped prevent long-term unemployment seen in past recessions. The Child Tax Credit initiative reduced child poverty by almost 40 percent. The American Rescue Plan helped local governments stay afloat. These strategic decisions were shaped by lessons from the Great Recession. They helped speed up America's economic recovery. As a result, the U.S. outpaced other G20 nations in its recovery.The Future of Work and AIAguh shares critical insights about the impact of AI on the workforce. He draws from his experience as Chief Innovation Officer at the Department of Labor. "Don't use AI everywhere," he advises. Aguh suggests businesses focus on areas where "95 percent accuracy is good enough." His vision for AI enablement emphasizes human-machine collaboration rather than replacement. He notes that the costs of achieving perfect accuracy often outweigh the benefits. This practical approach encourages businesses, particularly small enterprises. It guides them to start experimenting with AI tools in specific areas. Especially the ones where they can create immediate value.Aguh points out that AI's impact on the workforce has defied early predictions. It was believed that routine and ...
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    1 hr and 29 mins
  • Building Community w/ Faith & Fundraising ft. Timothy Dockery

    Building Community w/ Faith & Fundraising ft. Timothy Dockery
    Nov 14 2024
    In today's inspiring episode of The Beacon Show, host Tamara Jackson has a profound conversation with Timothy Dockery. He shares insights on giving back to the community. He has had a remarkable journey in Catholic fundraising. He has a career that spans decades of transformative work. He was born into a family where fundraising and faith naturally intertwined. He was the son of a pioneering fundraising professional who helped codify the profession. "I grew up watching my father help turn fundraising into something people study and learn," Dockery reflects. His journey from humble beginnings to a leader in faith-based fundraising shows how personal calling and skills can align. This alignment has allowed him to make a significant impact in the community.Ministry of FundraisingDockery challenges the traditional view of fundraising as a business function. "Throughout scripture, Jesus teaches the importance of giving," he emphasizes. He positions fundraising as a crucial ministry. It aims to help people fulfil their spiritual calling to give and serve others. He highlights that generosity is a fundamental aspect of faith. Dockery transforms giving from a transaction into a meaningful expression of faith and community. He believes that people give not just to support a project, but to improve lives, stating, "People give to help improve people's lives." This philosophy views fundraising as a ministry. It nurtures the spiritual growth of both donors and the communities they support.The Abundance Mindset in GivingTimothy emphasizes the importance of adopting an abundance mindset when it comes to giving. This transforms the way individuals and communities approach philanthropy. He shares a powerful lesson from Father Larry Richards. He asks, "How much of your income belongs to the Lord? It's 100 percent. He lets you keep 90 percent." This perspective sees resources as gifts from God to share and support others. Dockery believes that understanding this principle helps people to give more freely and joyfully. It helps them to recognize that generosity is not just a duty. It is an opportunity to take part in God's work. Dockery hopes to inspire a culture where giving is seen as a privilege and key to one's faith journey.Building Lasting Donor RelationshipsTimothy believes building relationships starts with understanding donors' passions. Aligning with their priorities is key. "You listen your way to the gift," he advises. He highlights that the initial decision to give is often an emotional one, driven by a heartfelt desire to make a difference. This approach focuses on understanding donors' passions and priorities before making any asks. "People don't give to buildings; people give to help improve people's lives," he explains. This donor-centric approach has helped him raise millions for various causes. Dockery believes fundraisers can foster a deeper connection with donors. It helps to transform them from mere contributors into active participants in a shared mission. This approach ensures that the support aligns with causes that resonate deeply with their values.Success Stories in Faith-Based FundraisingDockery shares inspiring examples of successful campaigns. For example Rotary International's PolioPlus campaign. It has helped save an estimated 50 million children from polio. This monumental campaign aimed to immunize children worldwide against polio. It demonstrates the extraordinary outcomes that can be achieved when communities unite for a common cause. He also discusses the Lions Clubs International's sight programs. He demonstrates how faith-based fundraising can create a global impact. He reflects, "It was really powerful to see what we can do when we come together as a society." These stories show Dockery's belief that faith-driven fundraising can meet needs. It can inspire lasting hope worldwide.Overcoming Modern Fundraising ChallengesDockery stresses the importance of setting realistic, faith-based goals to tackle fundraising challenges. "While with God, all things are possible. Let's not put God to the test too hard," he advises. Dockery emphasizes the need to identify donors who align with the mission. These donors should also have the capacity to give significantly. He stresses the importance of understanding the community's financial landscape. His approach highlights the importance of thoughtful preparation. This includes creating an "elevator pitch" that conveys the initiative's impact and importance. Such a pitch helps engage and motivate potential supporters effectively.ConclusionTimothy Dockery's insights reveal that successful fundraising isn't just about raising money. It's about inspiring people to take part in something greater than themselves. Dockery emphasizes building relationships and understanding donors’ passions. This approach shows how philanthropy can become a shared journey toward common goals. His journey demonstrates how faith and finances can work together to strengthen...
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    1 hr and 8 mins
  • Julius Tennon’s Leadership Mantra - Keep Moving, Keep Giving

    Julius Tennon’s Leadership Mantra - Keep Moving, Keep Giving
    Nov 7 2024
    On today’s episode of The Beacon Show, we have Julius Tennon. He is a renowned Hollywood actor, producer, and husband to Viola Davis. Today he brings a wealth of wisdom on leadership, faith, and family. He has a Hollywood career spanning over three decades. He does notable work as a champion for diversity and African American representation. Tennon speaks with Tamara Jackson on finding purpose and making a difference. Reflecting on the role of faith in his career, he shares, “Faith keeps me grounded… I know that when I ask God, that request is fulfilled.”Tennon offers a unique perspective on the entertainment industry. His experiences shed light on the challenges and nuances of their shared world. He emphasizes the importance of elevating diverse narratives, especially for Black artists. He notes, “We’re trying to level the playing field… to show people of color respected and seen as human.” Tennon shares his personal and professional strategies for leading with integrity. He discusses how he provides mentorship while staying true to his values.Leadership Through Faith and CareerTennon’s Hollywood journey is built on a foundation of faith, which he credits as his guiding force. His story includes not only the success he’s achieved in his career but also the challenges he’s faced and overcome. Leadership, he believes, starts with conviction and faith. “God’s not complicated,” he says, “we are. And that’s why I keep it simple.” He sees his career as a partnership with God, allowing him to navigate a high-stakes industry while staying grounded in his beliefs. For those balancing career and faith, Tennon’s advice is to 'keep moving'. He says, “Put one foot in front of the other… know what it is that you want to do, and how you want to do it.”Advocating for Diversity and Representation in the Entertainment IndustryAs the co-founder of JuVee Productions, Tennon is committed to using his platform to bring diverse stories to the screen. JuVee Productions seeks to highlight the richness of Black culture and experiences. Their core mission is African American representation in Hollywood. “It’s time out for the stereotypes,” he remarks. Julius aims to elevate and humanize roles for Black artists in a way that accurately reflects their lives and dreams. JuVee’s projects are born out of Tennon and Davis’s vision to shift Hollywood norms, offering films that inspire and uplift. The company’s commitment to diversity is both personal and strategic. It focuses on nurturing future leaders in the entertainment industry. Their upcoming project, “G20,” features Davis as the President of the United States. This film is designed to reflect their mission by showcasing strong, inspiring narratives. They aim to highlight meaningful stories through their work.Balancing Hollywood and Family LifeTennon speaks candidly about his marriage partnership with Viola Davis. For him, true leadership is supporting Davis while fostering a relationship rooted in respect and love. Together for over two decades, Tennon shares that one of their relationship’s foundations is mutual support. “Marriages aren’t perfect… but respect is key,” he explains. This support extends beyond the home. Both partners take pride in each other’s accomplishments and contributions to the industry. Tennon and Davis prove that family life can thrive amid a busy Hollywood career. There must be shared understanding, faith, and a commitment to open communication.Their partnership also plays a crucial role in their work with JuVee Productions. Working closely together, they ensure their projects and initiatives reflect their joint vision. Tennon’s advice to couples balancing similar commitments is clear: “It’s better to move together if you’re together.”Inspiring Future Generations Through Theater and FilmThe theatre has been at the heart of Tennon’s journey since his early years when he discovered a love for storytelling and the power of performance. He believes in the value of theatre as a tool for growth and understanding, and as a mentor, he encourages the next generation to embrace it. “Theater provides a sense of escape… it’s a way for people to feel less alone,” he shares. Tennon is passionate about creating content that serves as a bridge between cultures. He aims to offer relatable, uplifting stories that challenge stereotypes.Tennon sees his work not only as entertainment but as a way to bring people together, inspire young Black artists, and promote inclusivity. His parting advice to aspiring entertainers is timeless: “Persist until you succeed. Keep moving and stay true to your convictions.”ConclusionThrough this interview, Julius Tennon sheds light on the importance of leadership, faith, and purpose. He is a true advocate for change. He believes in the potential of film and theatre to unite communities. And provide a platform for stories that resonate across ...
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    59 mins
  • How One Mom’s Leadership Beat Childhood Cancer ft. Kristin Connor

    How One Mom’s Leadership Beat Childhood Cancer ft. Kristin Connor
    Oct 31 2024
    Kristin Connor's journey as an advocate for pediatric cancer began unexpectedly. It evolved into a life's mission driven by faith and passion. Speaking on The Beacon Show, Kristin recounts her transition from a career in law to cancer advocacy. It happened after her son Brandon's miraculous recovery from neuroblastoma. It is a rare form of cancer in children. "When my heart was broken, I had to respond," she says, describing the profound impact her son’s battle had on her. Kristin's story reflects a calling beyond personal achievement. It is marked by significant challenges, including burnout, and finding strength through faith. Her leadership grew a small nonprofit into a $13 million organization supporting children with cancer.Navigating Burnout with Faith-Based LeadershipKristin's advocacy work began after she faced personal hardship. Her son was diagnosed with cancer before birth. "I was devastated," she recalls. "I had to do something, and that something became fighting for all children facing cancer." She felt a calling to serve others and left her successful legal career. Now, she leads a nonprofit organization. Her new mission had high demands and constant emotional strain. As a result, burnout became a recurring struggle.She explains, "Burnout is a risk we must recognize, especially when work is a mission close to your heart." Kristin emphasizes balancing professional duties with personal well-being. She notes that "even when you're called to a cause, you can't pour from an empty cup." She sets boundaries and seeks counsel during difficult times. She also trusts God to guide her through emotionally draining moments.Evolution of Cancer Advocacy and Nonprofit GrowthWhen Kristin joined CURE Childhood Cancer, she took on the challenge of transforming a small nonprofit. Her goal was to make it a national leader in cancer research and funding. The organization grew from an annual budget of $800,000 to $13 million under her leadership. This success, she attributes, comes from focusing on the mission and maintaining transparency."I insisted that the board needed to be more than just names on paper. We needed a working board," she shares. She emphasizes that board members who actively participate and donate set a strong example. This encourages others to get involved as well. The organization prioritized its branding and marketing efforts. This aimed to project professionalism and seriousness. "If we didn’t look serious, no one would take us seriously."Balancing Family Support and Cancer ResearchThe support of families battling childhood cancer remains a core aspect of CURE's mission. Kristin has often found herself in hospitals, offering comfort to parents and children. She acknowledges the emotional toll this takes, stating, "I've had to step back from attending every service and funeral. It’s essential to take care of your emotional health to be effective."She believes that supporting families is essential besides conducting research. This approach is vital for combating pediatric cancer. Fundraising efforts go beyond research to offer financial help and counselling. They also support community programs for families. "We fight for every child facing cancer and for the families who walk this journey with them," Kristin explains.Fundraising Success Through Strategic PartnershipsA key factor in CURE's financial growth has been forming partnerships with major corporations. Organizations such as Chicken Salad Chick and Jersey Mike's have become prominent supporters. Kristin credits this success to gradually building credibility. "It took years, but we consistently showed that we were making an impact. Now, big organizations want to partner with us."Kristin advises nonprofit leaders to build credibility. She suggests sharing stories of people affected by the organization's mission. "It is not just about asking for money. It’s about showing the change you’re making and inviting others to be a part of that journey."Role of Faith in LeadershipFaith remains a guiding force for Kristin, especially when faced with difficult decisions. Kristin reflects on her journey. She says, "There were times when I felt I couldn’t continue, but God always provided a sign to keep going." Her faith is personal and integrated into the organization’s culture. She focuses on fostering a supportive environment for staff and families alike.ConclusionKristin Connor leads and advocates at CURE Childhood Cancer. Her work demonstrates the significant impact one can have when motivated by faith and compassion. She has faced burnout while guiding a nonprofit through growth. Kristin also offers hope to families in crisis. Her experiences serve as an inspiration to others. Despite challenges and triumphs, she remains dedicated to pediatric cancer advocacy. Kristin's commitment continues to make a meaningful difference.About Kristin ConnorKristin Connor is the Executive Director of CURE Childhood Cancer. This nonprofit ...
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    1 hr and 14 mins
  • Exploring Non-Profit Leadership w/ Keith Overholt

    Exploring Non-Profit Leadership w/ Keith Overholt
    Oct 24 2024
    In the latest episode of The Beacon Show, Tamara Jackson sits down with Keith Overholt. He is the CEO of a non-profit organization in North Alabama. It is called the Downtown Rescue Mission. He has 25 years of experience in Christian leadership. Keith's journey is a profound testament to the impact of faith. It shows his resilience and dedication. His introduction to rescue work began at just 16 years old when a life-changing encounter occurred at his father's rescue mission. "I saw a friend from high school standing in the food line," Keith recalls. "It was then that I realized homelessness could happen to anyone, and I felt called to help." This pivotal moment set Keith on a path that would lead him to become a prominent figure in non-profit work. He is dedicated to serving the homeless. He focuses on addressing critical issues such as mental health and addiction.At the Downtown Rescue Mission, Keith provides more than just temporary relief. The mission aims to offer lasting transformation. It is done through the combination of faith-based programs, mental health support, and social services. "Our goal isn’t just to offer a bed and a meal," Keith emphasizes. "We want to provide a pathway to spiritual growth and lasting life change." Through his leadership, the mission has expanded to meet the growing needs of the community. It served hundreds of individuals every night. Keith shares invaluable insights on the realities of running a non-profit. His story is not just about leading an organization; it's about living a life committed to making a difference.Heart of a Non-profit: More Than Just a Homeless ShelterThe Downtown Rescue Mission serves a unique approach to addressing homelessness. Keith explains that their mission extends far beyond offering food and shelter. “People think of a rescue mission as just soup, soap, and salvation,” he says. "But we are much more than that. We focus on transforming lives by addressing mental health issues, and addiction recovery. And providing practical skills to help individuals reintegrate into society."Keith shares that the non-profit organization is currently accommodating around 300 to 350 individuals each night. This includes not just single adults, but also women and children who have experienced domestic abuse or other crises. Their comprehensive one-year program called the Life Transformation Program, focuses on holistic recovery. “We teach our residents about spiritual growth and provide job training,” he notes. He emphasizes that spiritual and practical needs are met in tandem.Addressing Mental Health in the Christian ContextA significant part of the Downtown Rescue Mission's work involves providing mental health support. According to Keith, nearly 40% of their residents struggle with mental health conditions. It highlights a gap in social services following the closure of many government-run facilities. "There is still a stigma surrounding mental health within the faith community," Keith acknowledges. "But we approach it with the same compassion and commitment as any other issue."Tamara Jackson points out that mental health challenges are often overlooked. Especially in Christian communities where faith is sometimes seen as a cure-all. Keith emphasizes the need to combine spiritual growth with mental health care. He believes that integrating biblical teachings with professional support provides comprehensive help. "We integrate biblical teachings with mental health care. We do this to ensure that those we serve receive comprehensive support," he says.Role of Philanthropy in Supporting Non-ProfitsFinancial support is crucial for any non-profit. Philanthropy plays a pivotal role in the sustainability of the Downtown Rescue Mission. Keith explains that donations and thrift store revenue fund the mission's programs. These funds enable the organization to provide essential services. "The community’s generosity allows us to provide the services that we do," he shares. Their thrift stores not only generate income. They also offer job training opportunities for program participants.Tamara and Keith also explore the role of faith-based philanthropy. Keith explains that every dollar donated is a step towards transforming lives. "People often think that small contributions don’t matter," Keith says, "but even $30 can cover the cost of one person’s daily essentials."Challenges and Rewards of Christian Leadership in a Non-Profit SettingLeading a non-profit like the Downtown Rescue Mission involves navigating unique challenges. From funding constraints to addressing complex social issues like homelessness and addiction. Keith stresses that his Christian faith is central to his approach to leadership. "I pray for wisdom daily," he tells Tamara. "Being a leader in a rescue mission is about more than just making decisions. It's about embodying Christ's love in everything we do."Keith also highlights the importance of community support. He praises the ...
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    1 hr and 6 mins
  • Journey Into Couples Therapy With God

    Journey Into Couples Therapy With God
    Oct 17 2024
    Gregg and Shelly Dedrick are founders of Iron Bell Ministries. They have a powerful story of marriage restoration that has inspired countless couples. In today's episode of The Beacon Show, the Dedricks shared their journey from the brink of divorce to a thriving ministry. It focused on helping others cultivate intimacy with God and each other.Gregg is a former corporate executive who once served as president of KFC. He recalls the moment their marriage hit rock bottom: "We went through a deep, dark tunnel in our marriage. Every day we had to say, are we going to stay in this? And we're 25 years into it." This crisis led them to seek intensive couples therapy. They committed to weekly sessions despite Gregg's demanding career.Their story is not just about overcoming marital challenges. It is also about discovering a deeper relationship with God in the process. Shelly shares, "The Lord took me on a journey, which as we all know is a process, but I just literally cried out to him." This cry for help became the catalyst for profound personal and spiritual growth.Watch or listen to Jean’s full interview on YouTube and Apple Podcasts!*Insert image here*Power of Vulnerability in Christian MarriageGregg emphasizes the importance of being vulnerable in the healing process. He says, "There are some things in there that I'd love to take a whiteboard and erase and write something that makes me look a little better. But it was really that vulnerability that opened up the healing for me."Vulnerability is often seen as a weakness, especially in the context of Christian leadership. Yet, Dedrick's experience demonstrates that it's a crucial element in rebuilding trust and fostering genuine intimacy. By embracing vulnerability, couples can create a safe space for honest communication and mutual understanding.*Insert image here*Cultivating Spiritual IntimacyThe Dedricks discovered that true intimacy with God goes beyond religious practices. Gregg explains, "The Lord was saying, no, the most important command is to love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, strength. So, Lord, how do I do that?"This realization led them to explore new ways of connecting with God. It helped them to move beyond traditional devotional practices. They found that adoration prayer and worship became powerful tools for deepening their relationship with God and each other. By prioritizing spiritual intimacy, couples can strengthen their bond and find renewed purpose in their marriage.*Insert image here*Discovering God's PurposeThrough their journey, Gregg and Shelly learned to see their lives as part of God's greater plan. Gregg shares, "Ephesians 2:10 says we're God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which he's prepared in advance for us to do."This shift in perspective allowed them to view their marriage struggles as an opportunity for growth and ministry. By aligning their lives with God's purpose, couples can find renewed meaning and direction, even during challenges.*Insert image here*Partnering with God in Faith and WorkThe Dedricks emphasize the importance of partnering with God in all aspects of life. Gregg illustrates this with a powerful analogy: "I grab your hand and say, let's go get them champ. I'm not on the sidelines. I'm on the field with you."This concept of active partnership with God challenges the notion of compartmentalizing faith and work. By inviting God into every area of life, including career decisions and daily activities, couples can experience His guidance and provision in tangible ways.*Insert image here*Overcoming Spiritual Warfare in MarriageGregg points out how the enemy often attacks marriages: "The enemy likes to kill things in its infancy, right? And marriage is a reflection of the image of God." He encourages couples to be aware of spiritual warfare and to stand firm in their faith.Recognizing the spiritual dimension of marital challenges can help couples approach their problems with a renewed perspective. By understanding the tactics of the enemy and relying on God's strength, couples can build resilience and overcome obstacles together.ConclusionGregg and Shelly Dedrick's story is a testament to the transformative power of couples therapy. It is rooted in Christian principles. Their journey began with a struggling marriage. Through deepening their intimacy with God, they found healing and restoration in their relationship. This ultimately led to a thriving ministry and a renewed sense of purpose.For couples facing similar challenges, the Dedrick offers hope and practical advice. They encourage cultivating a teachable spirit. And seeking God's presence in everyday moments, and committing to the journey of growth together. As Gregg puts it, "It's not always easy. It rarely is easy, but what I've found is that it's very fruitful and it oftentimes is the launching pad for what God wants you to do."By embracing vulnerability, Christian couples can open their hearts to one another. ...
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    1 hr and 5 mins
  • How to be a Successful God-Centric Leader with Jean Symons

    How to be a Successful God-Centric Leader with Jean Symons
    Oct 10 2024
    Jean Symons is the visionary leader of Doxa Deo. Today, he sits down with Tamara Jackson on The Beacon Show, to share his inspiring journey of faith, leadership, and personal growth. Jean's journey began in apartheid-era South Africa, where he faced many challenges. Through his commitment, he rose to lead a global ministry. His story highlights the transformative power of Christian leadership."I grew up as one of the privileged white people in South Africa," Jean reflects. He acknowledges the complex history that shaped his early years. "But at the age of 13 and 14, God became a personal reality for me. The personal understanding of God's presence and the revelation of Christ revolutionized my life."This pivotal moment set Jean on a path that would lead him to become a worship pastor. Jean started as a campus leader and later became the successor to Doxa Deo's founder, Alan Platt. His dedication to serving God's mission has been constant throughout his journey. This commitment continues to shape his leadership today. Jean's role reflects his deep faith and dedication to his community. His journey is a testament to his enduring commitment to God's work.Art of Committed LeadershipFor Jean Symons, leadership is more than a set of skills—it's an art form rooted in faith and purpose. "Leading is very personal," he explains. "It's influenced by your personality." This perspective has shaped his approach to guiding Doxa Deo. He emphasizes the importance of authenticity and personal growth in leadership.Jean's commitment to leadership is linked to his faith. "Commitment is the byproduct of a genuine love for God," he asserts. "If you wake up in the morning and you know what I'm doing today. It is either going to honor Him or not, that changes the way that you make decisions." This unwavering commitment has been crucial in Jean's journey. Especially as he stepped into the role of visionary leader at Doxa Deo.Watch or listen to Jean’s full interview on YouTube and Apple Podcasts!Humility: The Cornerstone of Effective LeadershipA key part of Jean's leadership philosophy is his focus on humility. "If you are confident when you step up to a new plate, then you shouldn't be there," he admits. Jean believes leadership should be approached with reverence and reliance on God. This perspective emphasizes humility and trust in divine guidance.Jean believes that humility is not just a virtue. It is a necessity for effective leadership. It keeps leaders open to guidance, willing to learn, and able to build strong teams. "Humility is a gift in leadership," he emphasizes. He explains how it allows leaders to remain teachable and collaborative.Overcoming ObstaclesLike many Christian leaders, Jean has faced his share of challenges. The most dominant one includes spiritual burnout. "The human side of it got to a point where I realized what this is asking of me is more than I'm not just willing. It's more than I actually can give," he recalls.Yet, Jean views these obstacles as opportunities for growth and renewal. "If you come to the end of yourself, it's a great place to be," he advises. "When you get to a point of frustration, ask the Lord, what is the new thing that he wants to do there?" This perspective has allowed Jean to turn moments of crisis into catalysts for personal and spiritual growth.The Vision for Doxa DeoUnder Jean's leadership, Doxa Deo continues to pursue its vision of influencing cities with the presence of God. "We want to be instruments in seeing His kingdom come on earth as it is in heaven," Jean explains. This ambitious goal is realized through three key areas:Building individuals to be city changersDeveloping organizations that serve Christ's missionCreating missional ecosystems that transform communitiesJean envisions Doxa Deo shaping Christ-centered leaders across different sectors of society. He aims to establish kingdom-focused organizations. His goal is to create collaborative ecosystems that bring positive change to cities globally.Advice for Aspiring Leaders: Consistency and PerseveranceFor leaders facing seemingly impossible missions, Jean offers this encouragement. He says, "Little things done in a single direction will always achieve greatness." He emphasizes the importance of consistency and perseverance. He urges leaders to "make sure you're doing the right things, do it in the right direction and keep on doing it."Jean's advice is inspired by the flywheel effect from Jim Collins' "Good to Great." It emphasizes the power of steady, sustained effort for long-term success. Jean believes that applying the right principles consistently builds momentum over time. This momentum leads to lasting impact. For him, persistence and consistency are key to effective leadership.ConclusionJean Symons' journey shows the power of committed Christian leadership. His story highlights the power of commitment. Jean's leadership is a testament to faith and transformation. His insights on humility, perseverance...
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    52 mins
  • Fulfilling God's Plan w/ Oliver Asher

    Fulfilling God's Plan w/ Oliver Asher
    Oct 3 2024
    In today's episode of The Beacon show, we have Oliver Asher with us. He is the president of Advancing Native Missionslife (ANM). It is a Christian organization dedicated to supporting native missionaries to spread God's testament. Oliver's efforts reflect God's plan and the impact of faithful servant leadership. Oliver's journey began with humble beginnings in a small Appalachian town. He rose to lead a global missionary organization. His story embodies the essence of Christian outreach. It shows his unwavering faith in God's plan.Born in Tampa, Florida, Oliver's early life was marked by adversity. His father was in prison when he was born, and Oliver spent his first 13 days in an oxygen tent due to severe asthma. A turning point came when Oliver's grandmother shared the gospel with his mother. She then passed it on to Oliver and his siblings."I just knew even as a seven-year-old, I knew that I was a sinner," Oliver recalls. "When my mom told me about this sweet savior who was God himself. Born of the Virgin Mary, lived a sinless life, died a horrible death on the cross for me, for my sins, I just believed."This early encounter with faith set the foundation for Oliver's lifelong commitment to spreading the gospel. Despite personal struggles, including living in a shack as a teenager, Oliver's faith stayed strong. His belief never wavered through the hardships. Oliver's journey took him from playing college football at the University of Virginia to leading a global mission. He became the President and CEO of Advancing Native Missions (ANM). The organization supports native missionaries around the world.Global Mission ChallengeOliver sheds light on a startling reality. He highlights, "Approximately 3 billion people worldwide have never heard a clear presentation of the gospel". He explains the complexities that contribute to this situation. He focuses on cultural and linguistic diversity. "In India, they have probably at least 2,500 different people groups," Oliver notes. This diversity in language and culture creates significant barriers to widespread gospel dissemination.ANM highlights the geographical challenges faced by the missionaries in the old days. Reaching certain populations has been difficult. It is due to mountainous regions, remote islands, and poor infrastructure. These challenges have historically limited access to these areas. For nearly 1900 years, limited travel and communication technology slowed the spread of the gospel.The ANM ApproachAdvancing Native Missions tackles these challenges through a unique approach.It focuses on supporting local missionaries. ANM works with native missionaries who know the local language and culture. They use effective strategies to reach their people.It emphasizes leveraging technology. Modern communication tools like WhatsApp have revolutionized how ANM coordinates with missionaries globally.ANM focuses on strategic resource allocation. Supporting local missionaries allows ANM to be more cost-effective. This approach also makes their outreach efforts more culturally relevant.Power of SupportOliver emphasizes the impact of financial support. "Even many times, 50, 100 dollars a month in some of these countries will pay the electric bill. Put some food on the table, and allow the pastor or church planter to do his work."ConclusionOliver Asher's journey began with a challenging childhood. It led to him leading a global missionary organization. His story shows the transformative power of faith and success. It highlights the importance of answering God's call. Through ANM's work, countless lives are being touched by the gospel in some of the world's most unreached areas. As Oliver puts it, "God loves to take small things and just use them for his glory."About Oliver AsherOliver Asher is the President and CEO of Advancing Native Missions (ANM). It is a Christian organization. It supports native missionaries in reaching unreached people worldwide. Oliver has a background in environmental engineering and a passion for spreading the gospel. He has led ANM for over two decades. During this time, he has overseen partnerships with hundreds of ministries in more than 120 countries.Oliver's journey began with humble beginnings in Appalachia. He has risen to lead a global missionary organization. His story is a testament to his unwavering faith and commitment to God's calling. His leadership style is characterized by Christian leadership. It focuses on empowering local missionaries. It has been instrumental in ANM's success in reaching some of the world's most remote and unreached populations with the message of Christ.Resources Mentioned"Invincible Joy: Chasing God's Dreams for Your Life" by Oliver AsherJoshua Project (for mission research)ANMConnect with Oliver on:WebsiteLinkedInInstagramFacebook MEET YOUR HOST: TAMARA M. JACKSONTamara M. Jackson, author of "Unlocking Christian Leadership" and Founder of Beaconship, has dedicated over two decades to empowering ...
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    59 mins