Ep 47: Good News: No $, But Got It Done Anyway!

In this Christmas special episode, Kevin and Donovan explore the profound journey of birthing something significant into the world, drawing inspiration from the Christmas story of Mary and Joseph. They discuss how God often calls us to step into countercultural roles, challenging societal norms and personal fears, to fulfill His divine purposes. Whether it's navigating seasons of waiting, trusting God's timing, or stewarding unique gifts, this episode encourages listeners to embrace faith as the foundation for their life's calling. Key Topics Discussed: The Christmas Story and Its Relevance Today Parallels between Mary's journey and modern challenges of birthing new ideas, projects, or missions. The significance of being willing to trust God's call despite societal perceptions. Overcoming Fear and Embracing Countercultural Faith How to prepare mentally and emotionally for God's calling. The importance of seeking guidance and support from others who've embraced big leaps of faith. God's Perspective on Reputation and Timing Letting go of human concerns about reputation and trusting God's plan. Stories of waiting and perseverance, including personal testimonies from Kevin and Donovan. The Power of Willingness Why God prioritizes a willing heart over perfect skillsets. Practical steps for taking one step of faith at a time, even when the task feels overwhelming. Trusting God's Process and Patience A reflection on how God uses time to refine and perfect what He’s birthing in us. Encouragement to trust His "slow-cooked" approach rather than seeking quick fixes. Memorable Quotes: “God doesn't care about reputation—He cares about the heart.” “When God calls us to birth something new, it’s not about our qualifications; it’s about our willingness.” “The world’s most canceled person—Jesus—became the most influential figure in history.” Call to Action:This Christmas season, consider what God is calling you to birth into the world. Lean into faith, seek His guidance, and trust His timing. Kevin and Donovan invite you to embrace this journey with boldness and humility. Closing Message:"Love transforms you, purpose defines you, and impact activates you by faith." Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays, and see you in the New Year!

Welcome back to Imagine Faith Talk, the podcast where we believe faith in God is the key to unlocking success! In this powerful conversation, we sit down with Esther Natasha Charles, financial advisor at Global Financial Impact, to dive deep into the biblical principles of investing. Esther shares actionable insights on navigating today's global economic climate with faith, wisdom, and long-term thinking. What You'll Learn in This Episode: Why investing is no longer optional but a necessity for generational well-being. Biblical foundations for financial stewardship and frugality. Strategies for diversifying your portfolio and understanding tax-free investment opportunities. The pitfalls and common mistakes high performers make when starting their investment journeys. The tension between social media-driven perceptions of wealth and wise financial decision-making. Key Highlights: Investing with Purpose: Esther emphasizes that faith-driven investing is not just about creating wealth but ensuring provision for future generations. Lessons from Frugality: Co-hosts share personal stories of living frugally despite financial success, navigating societal pressures, and staying true to long-term goals. Practical Tips: Esther breaks down critical investment strategies that align with biblical wisdom and help navigate post-COVID financial opportunities. Mindset Matters: Discover the importance of staying grounded in God’s will, even when facing challenges or setbacks in your financial journey. Memorable Quotes: “Investing isn’t optional anymore—it’s mandatory for those who want to thrive, not just survive.” – Esther Charles “Faith without works is dead. Combine your belief with action to secure not only your future but your legacy.” Connect with Esther Charles:Want to learn more from Esther or work with her directly? Follow her for masterclasses and personalized financial advice: 30 Min Consultation with Esther Instagram: @EstherCharlesOfficial LinkedIn: Esther Charles Join us next time as we continue to explore faith-driven success principles. Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review Imagine Faith Talk on your favorite podcast platform!

In this episode of Imagine Faith Talk, we continue our powerful conversation with Shiraz Siddique, founder of the Christian Business Harvest Network. Shiraz is passionate about helping entrepreneurs and business leaders discover the biblical principles that lead to true success. Join us for an inspiring discussion on how to live out your God-given purpose with intention, vision, and faith. Discovering Your Purpose: Shiraz shares his insights on how to identify the clues in life that point to your true calling. Whether you're good at math, sports, or leadership, God has placed unique talents within you to be used for His kingdom. Balancing the Now and the Future: The tension between focusing on your current responsibilities and keeping your eyes on future goals can be challenging. Shiraz discusses how to steward the present while maintaining vision for the future, drawing wisdom from biblical stories like Nehemiah and the life of David. Enduring Life’s Struggles: Life’s trials and challenges are inevitable, but Shiraz reminds us that they refine us and shape our character. Drawing from David's journey, he encourages listeners to embrace the tough seasons as part of God's plan. The Importance of Community: We emphasize the need to surround ourselves with a strong support system that will speak truth into our lives and help keep us accountable. Faith and the Test of God’s Will: Shiraz challenges us to test and approve God’s will for our lives, just as the Bible teaches in Romans 12:2. When we align ourselves with God’s purpose, we are empowered to achieve more than we can imagine. Shiraz Siddique: Founder of the Christian Business Harvest Network, Shiraz brings years of experience in guiding business leaders to operate according to biblical principles. Life’s purpose is not always a straight line. Embrace the process and trust in God’s providence as you move forward. The key to success is balancing faith, action, and the wisdom to know when to focus on the present and when to look ahead. Trials, tension, and even setbacks are part of God's refining process. Don't run from them; lean into them. Surround yourself with a community that challenges you, supports you, and holds you accountable to God’s calling on your life. If you’re inspired by this conversation, make sure to share the podcast with a friend who’s on their own journey to faith-based success. Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review on your favorite podcast platform! Thank you for tuning in to Imagine Faith Talk! Stay connected with us for more episodes that will help you operate in your highest nature with higher values, all rooted in faith.

In this episode of Imagine Faith Talk, we dive into an inspiring conversation with Shiraz Siddiq, founder of the Christian Business Harvest Network. Shiraz shares his journey of creating this impactful network and how it all began with prayer and the unexpected push to empower others. The discussion is packed with practical insights on combining faith, discipline, and entrepreneurship to achieve success while staying true to higher values. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: How the Christian Business Harvest Network was founded during the challenges of March 2020. The importance of "stacking your dailies" and giving God something to work with. Why faith without works is dead—and how entrepreneurs can embrace this mindset. The top three success indicators and skills Christian entrepreneurs need: activating your 5-to-9, working with what you have, and leaning into the process of progress. How to navigate the balance between public perception, market demands, and staying rooted in purpose. Key Moments: [00:00:40] Introduction to Shiraz Siddiq and his groundbreaking work with Christian entrepreneurs. [00:05:15] The origins of the Christian Business Harvest Network and the power of collective prayer and scripture. [00:12:30] Faith and discipline: Why "stacking your dailies" can lead to miraculous results. [00:20:45] Shiraz’s top three skills for entrepreneurial success, rooted in Ecclesiastes 11. [00:35:00] Authenticity and audacity: How Shiraz’s life experiences gave him freedom from shame and boldness in his faith. [00:45:10] Balancing market trends with purpose and faith-driven principles. Memorable Quotes: "Faith without works is dead. I don’t want a dead faith—I want to pay the full price for what God has in store for me." "Work with what you have, not what you wish you had. The tree lies where it lies." "The process of prosperity is leaning into progress, not perfection." Resources Mentioned: Christian Business Harvest Network Ecclesiastes 11: A biblical framework for success Connect with Us: https://www.cbhn.net/shirazsiddique https://www.instagram.com/cbhnetwork/ Closing Thoughts:Faith, discipline, and daily action can transform your entrepreneurial journey. Remember: love transforms you, purpose defines you, and impact activates you by faith. Tune in next time for part two of this incredible conversation!

In this impactful episode of Imagine Faith Talk, we continue our conversation with Oscar Williams Jr., the Pastor of Music and Performing Arts at The Potter's House Church and Dean of Worship and Arts at Jakes Divinity School. Oscar shares his personal journey of faith, resilience, and leadership, diving into topics like navigating transitions, the power of words, and trusting God in the gray areas of life. Through his insights, Oscar inspires us to embrace our struggles, trust in divine timing, and communicate with purpose. He shares practical wisdom for high performers striving for excellence while navigating life’s uncertainties. Whether you’re managing relationships, chasing dreams, or finding clarity in chaos, this episode is a masterclass in faith-driven success. What You'll Learn in This Episode: - Oscar’s story of overcoming challenges, including losing his father and finding spiritual guidance. - How to cultivate clarity and meaningful relationships in uncertain times. - The transformative power of words and how they shape our world. - Insights into managing transitions in life, careers, and relationships without leaving "carnage on the ground." - Practical steps to trust God when the outcome is unclear. - Leadership lessons on meeting others where they are and encouraging excellence. Memorable Quotes: - "Your words create your world." - "How much can you prepare for what you don’t see?" - "Success is in the execution, not the outcome." **About Our Guest:** Oscar Williams Jr. is a multifaceted leader passionate about music, education, and faith. As the Dean of Worship and Arts at Jakes Divinity School, he is committed to developing the next generation of faith-driven leaders. His mantra, “Speak Life,” underscores his mission to inspire and empower others through intentional communication and purposeful living. --- Scripture Mentioned: - Proverbs 18:21 – *"The tongue has the power of life and death." - The story of Job – Lessons on trusting God during trials. - Oscar’s mantra: “Your words create your world.” Call to Action: - Follow Imagine Faith Talk for more inspiring conversations. - Connect with Oscar Williams Jr. and his initiatives on social media. Connect with Dr Oscar Williams Jr: ⁠⁠www.oscarworldwide⁠⁠.com IG: ⁠⁠@oscarworldwide)⁠⁠ X:⁠⁠@oscarworldwide)⁠ - Share this episode with someone who needs encouragement to navigate their own gray areas of life.

Navigating Faith, Purpose, and Capacity with Dr. Oscar Williams Jr.  Episode Summary:    In this episode of *Imagine Faith Talk*, we’re thrilled to welcome Oscar Williams Jr., the Pastor of Music and Performing Arts at Potter's House Church and the Dean of Worship and Arts at Jake's Divinity School. Oscar brings profound insights into faith, mentorship, and navigating life’s challenges with purpose. Through a blend of humor, wisdom, and vulnerability, he shares his journey of faith, his experiences with spiritual and father figures, and the importance of balancing relationships and capacity. Connect with Dr Oscar Williams Jr: www.oscarworldwide.com IG: @oscarworldwide) X:@oscarworldwide)  Key Topics Covered:  1.  Faith and Mentorship:       - Oscar discusses how his relationship with Bishop T.D. Jakes helped him fill the void left by his late father. Bishop Jakes not only served as a spiritual father but also provided guidance that propelled Oscar forward in his faith journey and personal development. 2.  Healing and Redemption in Relationships:       - A significant portion of the episode dives into Oscar's journey of healing his relationship with his biological father before his passing. He shares how this personal story shapes his perspective on faith, forgiveness, and building supportive relationships. 3.  Managing Capacity and Relationships:       - Oscar shares his evolving approach to setting boundaries and recognizing his own limitations, using the powerful phrase, “I have reached my capacity.” He encourages listeners to assess the value and impact of their relationships honestly and to communicate openly about capacity constraints. 4.  The Role of Purpose in High-Performance Lifestyles:       - For the high-achievers in the audience, Oscar discusses the tension between constantly striving for more and ensuring that relationships and personal integrity remain strong. He emphasizes that being “purpose-driven” means building meaningful relationships, not just achieving goals. 5.  Balancing Truth and Grace in Leadership:       - Drawing on his experiences as a mentor and leader, Oscar explains the delicate balance of truth and grace. He reveals how he asks others, “At what level do you want me to engage with you here?”—a question that allows him to communicate with clarity and respect while encouraging growth in those he leads. 6.  A Reflection on Jesus as the Great Relationship Cultivator:       - Oscar presents a thoughtful analogy of Jesus’ ministry, explaining how Jesus was able to fulfill His purpose through intentional relationship-building, discerning support, and navigating relationships with grace and honesty.  Key Quotes:  - “Capacity is king, and intentions mean little if they don't align with what we can truly handle in our lives and relationships.” - “Real relationships allow you the space to be honest without fear of losing the connection.” - “If a relationship doesn’t allow you the capacity to grow, it may have lasted past its expiration date.”  Additional Resources:  - Visit Oscar Williams Jr.'s page to watch his powerful December 2019 service recap with T.D. Jakes. - Learn more about Potter's House Church and Jake’s Divinity School for faith-based resources and community.  Call to Action:    If you’re looking to find balance in faith and performance, share this episode with a friend or join our *Imagine Faith Talk* community to continue the conversation. Remember:  Love transforms you, purpose defines you, and impact activates your faith.  --- Tune in next time for Part 2 as we continue this inspiring conversation with Dr. Oscar Williams Jr.

In this enlightening episode of Imagine Faith Talk, co-hosts Kevin Little and Donovan Dunn dive deep into a heartfelt discussion with Ashton Owens, CEO of Triple Threat, a branding and design agency working with renowned athletes. Ashton shares profound insights on redefining success, balancing faith, family, and work, and staying aligned with God’s purpose in a fast-paced world. Together, they explore the impact of prioritizing relationships, being intentional with time, and making value-driven decisions in business and life. Episode Highlights: Redefining Success Beyond Wealth: Ashton discusses how he defines true success, valuing relationships, faith, and a healthy family life over financial achievements. Balancing Business with Faith and Family: Ashton explains how he integrates faith and family into his life, using techniques like "airplane mode" time to connect with God and loved ones. Authenticity and Purpose in Business: Ashton shares his journey of leaving projects and clients that didn’t align with his values, emphasizing the importance of being true to his calling. Intentional Relationships and Mentorship: The importance of building relationships that nurture faith and growth, and how his connections have shaped his journey. Finding Joy in the Journey: Ashton reflects on the challenges and rewards of being an entrepreneur, a father, and a man of faith, and why he feels grateful for every step of his journey. Click here for you skincare routine https://tinyurl.com/iftalk Listener Takeaways: Redefine Your Metrics of Success: True success isn’t just financial but relational and spiritual. Focus on what matters to you. Make Time for What’s Important: “Airplane mode” time allows you to disconnect from the world and connect with God and loved ones. Build Intentional Connections: Surround yourself with people who inspire growth, faith, and purpose. Quotes to Reflect On: “If I have a billion dollars but lose my family, is that success? Success is being true to who God called you to be in all areas.” – Ashton Owens “Take time to disconnect from the world and connect to what matters, like going into ‘airplane mode’ with God.” – Ashton Owens Call to Action:Tune in to this impactful conversation to gain wisdom on aligning success with faith and values. Don’t forget to subscribe, share, and join the conversation on social media! Connect with Us:Follow Ashton Owens and Imagine Faith Talk on Instagram for more stories on faith-driven success and purpose.

Imagine Faith Talk - Interview with Ashton Owens (Part 1) Episode Overview In this episode, we sit down with Ashton Owens, CEO of Triple Threat, a branding and design agency that specializes in telling stories for professional athletes. Ashton shares insights on leadership, entrepreneurship, and authentic storytelling in the sports industry. Key Topics - Introduction to Ashton Owens and Triple Threat's work - Leadership philosophy and team building strategies - The journey from Oklahoma City to Springfield, Missouri - Managing creative teams and ego in the industry - The intersection of faith and business - Brand storytelling in sports and athletics - Current trends in the athletic wear industry Get your select beauty products here: https://tinyurl.com/iftalk Key Insights 1. **Team Building Philosophy** - Uses 6-month contract periods to assess team fit - Emphasizes personality alignment over just talent - Creates collaborative culture without rigid titles - Values long-term relationships with team members 2. **Leadership Development** - Started entrepreneurial ventures in early teens - Views leadership as an ongoing refinement process - Balances leading and following in different seasons - Emphasizes humility in leadership positions 3. **Brand Storytelling** - Creates authentic connections with audiences - Focuses on purpose-driven projects - Understanding the power of personal narrative - Builds genuine community engagement 4. **Business Culture** - Prioritizes team success over individual recognition - Implements a "no-titles" approach to foster collaboration - Values long-term partnerships over short-term gains - Builds culture based on shared purpose Notable Quotes - "The moment that you think that you like have it all figured out, right? Like you're your dead in the water." - "I believe in failing fast." - "Where does my joy and my validation come from?" - "It really comes down to truly understanding what do you stand for?" Industry Insights - Analysis of Nike's recent market challenges - Evolution of consumer behavior in athletic wear - Impact of social media on brand storytelling - Rise of individual creators challenging major brands - Importance of authentic storytelling in modern marketing Personal Background - Founded first company at age 20 - Relocated from Oklahoma City to Springfield, Missouri - Background in music and church leadership - Currently age 33, approaching 34 - Experience in sneaker culture and sports branding Faith and Business Integration - Emphasis on finding validation through faith rather than social media - Integration of Christian values in business decisions - Focus on serving others in leadership - Building business relationships with purpose *Note: This is Part 1 of the conversation with Ashton Owens.*

Welcome to In this second part of our conversation with NBA Champion Festus Ezeli, we dive deeper into his inspiring journey of faith, resilience, and personal transformation. Festus discusses the pivotal moments in his life after sustaining a career-changing injury, the internal struggles of identity beyond basketball, and how his faith in God has been central in guiding him through both success and setbacks. Key Highlights: The Aftermath of Injury: Festus reflects on how his major injury led him to reevaluate his life beyond basketball and focus on discovering his deeper purpose. The Principle of Non-Possessiveness: A key topic discussed is the spiritual principle of non-possessiveness, allowing Festus to release past achievements and trust that God has greater plans for the future. Redefining Success Through Faith: The hosts explore how success is not defined solely by career accomplishments but by one’s alignment with God’s will and purpose. Community and Mentorship: Festus shares the importance of his support system and the role that mentorship has played in keeping him grounded throughout his career and post-NBA life. Life Beyond the Game: Festus talks about transitioning from professional sports to new ventures and how his faith continues to influence his new path. Try Donovan's Skincare Routine Here: https://shorturl.at/dwgEr Memorable Quotes: "Non-possessiveness is about honoring the purpose of a season and releasing it when necessary to make room for God’s next move." "Faith isn’t about holding onto past victories—it’s about trusting that what’s coming is even greater." Next Episode Teaser:In the next episode, we will delve further into the concept of high performance aligned with faith, exploring how other athletes and entrepreneurs have embraced their uniqueness to live out their God-given purposes.

Welcome to Imagine Faith Talk! In this episode, we sit down with NBA Champion Festus Ezeli to explore his journey from Nigeria to the NBA, and how his faith and resilience played a key role in his success. From starting basketball at the age of 14 to overcoming injuries that challenged his career, Festus offers insights on maintaining purpose through faith and staying aligned with God’s vision. Key Highlights: Festus’ Journey to the NBA: Festus shares his unique path, including the challenges of transitioning from Nigeria to the United States and how he picked up basketball late in his youth but quickly rose to stardom. Finding Purpose Beyond Success: Festus talks about navigating the highs and lows of being a professional athlete and how faith played a central role in grounding him, especially after a career-altering injury. Non-Possessiveness and Faith: The hosts discuss the spiritual principle of non-possessiveness, drawing parallels to how Festus learned to release past seasons and trust God’s plan for the future. Mentorship and Brotherhood: Festus opens up about his relationships with key mentors and how brotherhood has been a driving force in keeping him aligned with his goals. Balancing High Performance and Faith: The conversation delves into how high achievers can avoid the trap of self-centered success and instead embrace a model of leadership rooted in humility and service. Check out Donovan's Incellderm Skincare routine here: https://shorturl.at/dwgEr Memorable Quotes: "It’s about trusting that God’s next breath will be even better than the last." "We have to stop using the past to define our future—release it and trust in the process." Next Episode Teaser:In Part 2, Festus will dive deeper into his post-NBA career, the lessons he learned about identity beyond the game, and how he's now empowering the next generation to pursue their purpose.