Stephen Auth | EVP & CIO of Equities at Federated Hermes | The Missionary of Wall Street

Stephen Auth is the Executive Vice President and Chief Investment Officer of Equities at Federated Hermes in New York City, overseeing more than $85 billion in assets. A Princeton graduate with a lifelong interest in both finance and art, Stephen is known for his strategic leadership on Wall Street and his bold work as an author, missionary, and Catholic lay leader. Alongside his wife, Evelyn, he has written books including The Missionary of Wall Street and Pilgrimage to the Museum, blending faith, story, and culture to point people toward Christ. In this episode, Brad sits down with Stephen to talk about his journey from a working-class upbringing in Newark to Princeton, Wall Street, and ultimately to street-corner missionary work in New York City. Stephen shares how a near-death heart condition in 2002 became a turning point for his faith, leading him to deeper service and evangelization. He recounts dramatic stories from the streets of New York, the founding of the Lumen Institute, and how his eye for art became a tool for evangelization at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Along the way, Stephen offers insights on integrating faith and work, the importance of generosity, and the timeless values that anchor both investing and discipleship. “Humility at the highs, confidence at the lows, integrity always.” – Stephen Auth “If you got run over by a truck tonight, do you really think you’d be ready to meet the Lord? Whatever you’re doing, you don’t think you can go into the church with it—how can you go into heaven with it?” – Stephen Auth “My problem was simple: God had given me many talents, but I had been using them for my own purposes, not His.” – Stephen Auth This Week on The Wow Factor: Growing up in Newark, New Jersey, and earning a scholarship to Princeton University Balancing economics and art history, and how art became a lifelong passion Rising to Chief Investment Officer of Equities at Federated Hermes and navigating financial crises The heart condition in 2002 that became a spiritual wake-up call Confession after 20 years away and the moment of clarity: talents used for God, not self Founding the Lumen Institute to form Catholic business leaders Launching the Mission in New York City and encountering resistance, hostility, and surprising conversions Stories from The Missionary of Wall Street — including “Sox,” an ex-con on a drug run who stopped to pray the rosary Lessons from objections on the street: loneliness, unforgiveness, and the lie that “I’m not welcome back” Turning art tours into pilgrimages and discovering the search for God in the history of Western art Why faith integration makes him both a better investor and a more joyful leader Stephen Auth’s Word of Wisdom: Humility at the highs. Confidence at the lows. Integrity always. Those principles work on Wall Street and they work in faith and life, too. Connect With Stephen Auth: Federated Hermes Stephen Auth’s Website Stephen Auth’s Books Stephen’s Instagram Stephens Facebook Connect with The Wow Factor:    WOW Factor Website    Brad Formsma on LinkedIn     Brad Formsma on Instagram     Brad Formsma on Facebook     X (formerly Twitter)    

Father Robert J. Spitzer, S.J., is a Jesuit priest, philosopher, educator, author, and the President of the Magis Center of Reason and Faith. Born and raised in Honolulu, Hawaii, he went on to study at Gonzaga University, the Gregorian University in Rome, and the Catholic University of America, where he earned a PhD in philosophy. He later served as President of Gonzaga University, where he became known for blending academic excellence with faith formation. Today, Father Spitzer leads the Magis Center, which produces resources on the intersection of faith, science, and reason, and he continues to write and speak globally on subjects ranging from metaphysics to moral theology to spiritual warfare. In this episode, Brad sits down with Father Spitzer at Christ Cathedral in Garden Grove, California, for a candid conversation about his book Christ vs. Satan in Our Daily Lives and the reality of spiritual battle. Father Spitzer shares formative stories from his upbringing in Hawaii, his Jesuit formation, and the pivotal moments when challenges like vision loss became turning points for deeper faith. He unpacks the eight deadly sins, the tactics of the evil one, and the role of prayer, confession, and the Eucharist in resisting temptation. Along the way, he offers practical wisdom on discernment, the power of gratitude, and why the rosary remains one of the strongest weapons in spiritual life. “To live without thankfulness is the most self-centered way to live.” – Father Spitzer “Lord, you are the just judge. You take care of it.” – Father Spitzer “Nip temptation in the bud early. Don’t wait until it grows into something that can destroy you.” – Father Spitzer This Week on The Wow Factor Growing up in Honolulu and how his parents shaped his faith and values Discovering proofs of God’s existence in philosophy and science during college How his mother’s prayers and wisdom steadied him in seasons of doubt The diagnosis of retinitis pigmentosa and how it reshaped his calling Discernment of spirits: learning to reject the “rhetoric of damaged goods” Why the devil’s greatest lie is convincing people he doesn’t exist The eight deadly sins, their tentacles in modern life, and how to resist them Practical tools for spiritual resilience: Eucharist, confession, daily prayer, and the rosary Why 90% of the fruit of prayer comes outside of prayer Encouragement for parents: the power of modeling prayer and faith for their children Father Spitzer’s Word of Wisdom Bring every temptation and struggle to God. Don’t fight it in your own strength. Dependence on Him, daily prayer, and trust in His unconditional love are the surest path to freedom and joy. Connect With Father Spitzer: Magis Center Instagram Magis Center YouTube Magis Center LinkedIn Magis Center Facebook Fr. Spitzer Facebook Connect with The Wow Factor:    WOW Factor Website    Brad Formsma on LinkedIn     Brad Formsma on Instagram     Brad Formsma on Facebook     X (formerly Twitter)    

Father Robert J. Spitzer, S.J., is a Jesuit priest, philosopher, educator, author, and the President of the Magis Center of Reason and Faith. Born and raised in Honolulu, Hawaii, he went on to study at Gonzaga University, the Gregorian University in Rome, and the Catholic University of America, where he earned a PhD in philosophy. He later served as President of Gonzaga University, where he became known for blending academic excellence with faith formation. Today, Father Spitzer leads the Magis Center, which produces resources on the intersection of faith, science, and reason, and he continues to write and speak globally on subjects ranging from metaphysics to moral theology to spiritual warfare. In this episode, Brad sits down with Father Spitzer at Christ Cathedral in Garden Grove, California, for a candid conversation about his book Christ vs. Satan in Our Daily Lives and the reality of spiritual battle. Father Spitzer shares formative stories from his upbringing in Hawaii, his Jesuit formation, and the pivotal moments when challenges like vision loss became turning points for deeper faith. He unpacks the eight deadly sins, the tactics of the evil one, and the role of prayer, confession, and the Eucharist in resisting temptation. Along the way, he offers practical wisdom on discernment, the power of gratitude, and why the rosary remains one of the strongest weapons in spiritual life. “To live without thankfulness is the most self-centered way to live.” – Father Spitzer “Lord, you are the just judge. You take care of it.” – Father Spitzer “Nip temptation in the bud early. Don’t wait until it grows into something that can destroy you.” – Father Spitzer This Week on The Wow Factor Growing up in Honolulu and how his parents shaped his faith and values Discovering proofs of God’s existence in philosophy and science during college How his mother’s prayers and wisdom steadied him in seasons of doubt The diagnosis of retinitis pigmentosa and how it reshaped his calling Discernment of spirits: learning to reject the “rhetoric of damaged goods” Why the devil’s greatest lie is convincing people he doesn’t exist The eight deadly sins, their tentacles in modern life, and how to resist them Practical tools for spiritual resilience: Eucharist, confession, daily prayer, and the rosary Why 90% of the fruit of prayer comes outside of prayer Encouragement for parents: the power of modeling prayer and faith for their children Father Spitzer’s Word of Wisdom Bring every temptation and struggle to God. Don’t fight it in your own strength. Dependence on Him, daily prayer, and trust in His unconditional love are the surest path to freedom and joy. Connect With Father Spitzer: Magis Center Instagram Magis Center YouTube Magis Center LinkedIn Magis Center Facebook Fr. Spitzer Facebook Connect with The Wow Factor:    WOW Factor Website    Brad Formsma on LinkedIn     Brad Formsma on Instagram     Brad Formsma on Facebook     X (formerly Twitter)    

Jimmy Mellado leads Compassion International, a global, church-driven ministry serving children in poverty across 29 countries. Born in El Salvador (full name: Santiago “Jimmy” Mellado), he grew up across Latin America and Asia, ran decathlon at SMU, and later represented El Salvador in the 1988 Seoul Olympics. His life and leadership are anchored in faith, family, and a deep conviction that true impact starts with who we’re becoming—then flows into what we do. In this episode, Brad sits down with Jimmy at Compassion’s global ministry center in Colorado Springs for a candid conversation about identity, calling, technology, and the local church. Jimmy shares formative stories from his childhood and athletic journey, the moment he sensed a calling to serve the church after the Olympics, and the identity wake-up that led him to embrace his heritage.  He talks about following Wess Stafford as CEO, why Compassion is first a church-equipping child discipleship organization (sponsorship is the funding mechanism, not the identity), and how the ministry is modernizing—moving to the cloud, piloting secure, real-time communication, and using AI to protect children online. Along the way, Jimmy offers grounded wisdom on leadership burdens, character, and doing God’s work without sacrificing God’s work in you. “Let’s not do God’s work in ways that hurt His work in us.” – Jimmy Mellado “His yoke is easy and His burden is light—so if it’s heavy, who made it heavy?” – Jimmy Mellado “Special gifts can take a leader places where the absence of character won’t let them stay.” – Jimmy Mellado This Week on The Wow Factor: Jimmy’s upbringing: born in El Salvador, moving 40+ times as his engineer father built infrastructure across the developing world Early faith formation: parents as his “first pastors,” family as his first church while on the move Track to the Olympics: SMU scholarship and competing for El Salvador at the 1988 Seoul Olympics A calling in Seoul: witnessing church revival in South Korea and returning with a mission to serve the church Identity moment: embracing “Santiago” and his Latino heritage after being told “you don’t count”—and how God used it to realign his calling Friendship with Wess Stafford and the path to leading Compassion What Compassion is: a church-equipping, child-discipleship ministry (sponsorship fuels the work but doesn’t define it) The need right now: millions registered, hundreds of thousands awaiting sponsors—why the gap matters at the child level Modernizing at scale: retiring custom code, moving to cloud platforms, and building for quality, security, and growth Pilots in Peru and Ghana: secure, real-time communication among sponsors, children, and local church leaders Safety by design: using AI to flag inappropriate content and grooming language to protect kids A pastor’s six-hour drive in Togo to make the plea: “Let me thank our sponsors and tell the story of impact.” Leadership and soul care: trading anxiety for gratitude, resisting the urge to carry what only God can carry Being vs. doing: why who you’re becoming is the most important contribution you’ll ever make Jimmy Mellado’s Word of Wisdom: Become first, then do. Stay rooted in Christ, invite trusted voices to speak truth, and steward your assignment without making it heavy. The most enduring impact isn’t what you accomplish—it’s the person you’re becoming as you walk with God. Connect With Compassion Compassion’s Website Compassion’s YouTube Compassion’s Facebook Compassion’s Instagram Compassion’s LinkedIn Jimmy’s LinkedIn Connect with The Wow Factor:   WOW Factor Website   Brad Formsma on LinkedIn    Brad Formsma on Instagram    Brad Formsma on Facebook    X (formerly Twitter)   

Ricky Dickson is the former President and CEO of Blue Bell Creameries, one of America’s most beloved ice cream brands. After 43 years with the company, Ricky's leadership legacy is steeped in faith, humility, and an unwavering commitment to people and product integrity. From a young territory manager trying to conquer a new market to leading the company through one of its biggest crises, Ricky’s story is a testament to servant leadership and doing business the right way—one scoop at a time. In this episode, Brad sits down with Ricky for a rich and honest conversation about faith, leadership, crisis, and of course… ice cream. Ricky reflects on his early days as a track runner and business student, shares the remarkable story of how a college paper led to a four-decade career at Blue Bell, and opens up about the company’s darkest hour—when a pathogen was discovered in the product and Blue Bell had to shut down all operations. Through it all, Ricky’s story is full of wisdom, warmth, and integrity. His commitment to people, product quality, and transparency has shaped not just a brand, but a culture. “Once you compromise on quality, what’s to stop you from compromising again?” – Ricky Dickson “Go humble, but go confident—and know that you are influencing those around you, whether you realize it or not.” – Ricky Dickson “We are in the people business. Both on the producing side and the enjoying side.” – Ricky Dickson This Week on The Wow Factor: Ricky’s upbringing in San Antonio, Texas, and the Christian foundation laid by his parents How a college paper on Blue Bell led to his first job—and ultimately a 43-year career The values that shaped Blue Bell’s culture and why people stayed with the company for decades What makes ice cream “premium”—a behind-the-scenes look at overrun, butterfat, and flavor design Why Blue Bell refused to shrink its carton size or skimp on ingredients—even when costs surged A leadership masterclass in how to love people well, even when it's time for them to move on The 2015 pathogen crisis: how it started, how Blue Bell responded, and how God showed up in the storm Rebuilding trust with customers, employees, and regulators—and doing it without compromising values The surprising legal “letter” from a law firm begging for the return of a discontinued flavor Ricky Dickson’s Word of Wisdom: Dream big. The day you stop dreaming is the day you start dying—and the day you find a God-given dream is the day you truly start living. Whether you're starting something new or leading a company, do it with humility, confidence, and gratitude. You're influencing people with how you live, not just what you say. Connect With Blue Bell Creameries: BlueBell.com Get Ricky's Book: One Scoop at a Time - Buy It Wherever Books Are Sold Connect With Ricky Dickson: Ricky’s Website Ricky’s LinkedIn Connect with The Wow Factor:   WOW Factor Website   Brad Formsma on LinkedIn    Brad Formsma on Instagram    Brad Formsma on Facebook    X (formerly Twitter)   

Ari Sacher has spent more than three decades working at Rafael Advanced Defense Systems, Israel’s premier developer of missile technology, where he played key roles in the creation of the Iron Dome and David’s Sling missile defense systems. Originally from Wilmington, Delaware, Ari’s journey took him from upstate New York and Toronto to Israel in 1982—and he never looked back. An electrical engineer educated at Israel’s Technion (often called “Israel’s MIT”), Ari has been at the forefront of developing systems that protect millions of lives, all while holding fast to his faith and deep love for family. In this episode of The Wow Factor, Brad sits down with Ari for a fascinating conversation about life in Israel, the realities of living under constant threat, and the powerful blend of faith, resilience, and technological ingenuity that keeps the country moving forward. Ari shares the story of his work on missile defense systems, the challenges of innovation in the face of failure, and how his faith has been a guiding force through wars, uncertainty, and the ever-present dangers his nation faces. From four generations of New York Giants fandom to raising children who now serve in the military, Ari’s story is one of commitment—to his people, his work, and his God. ​​“If you’re unwilling to fail, then you will find yourself locked in a room and you will go wherever you are taken. If we want to lead, we have to be unafraid of failing.” – Ari Sacher “When I see Iron Dome working, then I see godliness. Everything I see is godliness.” – Ari Sacher “We are a country that lives with traumatic stress disorder—that’s who we are, where we live, and our destiny.” – Ari Sacher This Week on The Wow Factor: Ari’s early years in the U.S., his move to Israel for a “gap year,” and how he never returned home Studying electrical engineering at Technion and turning down prestigious U.S. and Canadian universities Joining Rafael Advanced Defense Systems in 1991 and contributing to two of Israel’s most critical missile defense systems—Iron Dome and David’s Sling The unique “intercept chain” process behind missile defense and why not every incoming rocket is destroyed How failure is embraced in Israeli innovation and why it’s essential for breakthroughs The role of faith during high-threat moments—turning to Psalms in the middle of missile attacks Life in Israel during wartime, including cramming 15 family members and a dog into a 100-square-foot bomb shelter The spiritual parallels between God’s protection and a missile defense “dome” Ari Sacher’s Word of Wisdom: Live with an unwavering belief in God, and let that belief color how you see the world. When everything you see reinforces your faith, you gain comfort, strength, and a better way to lead your family through uncertainty. Connect with Ari Sacher: Ari’s LinkedIn Connect with The Wow Factor:   WOW Factor Website   Brad Formsma on LinkedIn    Brad Formsma on Instagram    Brad Formsma on Facebook    X (formerly Twitter)   

Jim Towey is the former lawyer for Mother Teresa and the founder of Aging with Dignity, a nonprofit based in Falls Church, Virginia. He is the creator of the widely used Five Wishes advance directive. His story is as unique as it is powerful—marked by a journey from Capitol Hill to Calcutta, from chasing influence in Washington to walking alongside Mother Teresa and advocating for those society often forgets. As a former lawyer to Mother Teresa, White House staffer, and spiritual seeker, Jim has seen the best and worst of power, and ultimately chose a path of service, faith, and purpose. In this episode of The Wow Factor, Brad sits down with Jim for a moving conversation about transformation—from a young man caught up in ambition and worldly success to a servant of the poor and advocate for dignified end-of-life care. Jim opens up about his early struggles, his encounters with the allure of political power, and the life-altering moment he met Mother Teresa. Through that relationship, Jim discovered a deeper faith and a calling to live a life not for himself, but for others. The conversation explores themes of spiritual poverty, humility, leadership, and what it truly means to be prepared for both life and death. “I learned that a life not lived for others is not worth living.” – Jim Towey “Mother Teresa saw Jesus in his distressing disguise of the poor.” – Jim Towey “She used to say that If you're too busy to pray, you're too busy.” – Jim Towey This Week on The Wow Factor: Jim’s early years in Jacksonville, Florida, and how basketball, ambition, and family challenges shaped his character The emotional spiral after achieving “success” on Capitol Hill—and how it left him feeling empty and morally lost His first encounter with Mother Teresa and the moment that changed everything at her Home for the Dying What it means to move from “gathering” to “giving,” and how Mother Teresa invited him into a life of self-sacrifice Why even Mother Teresa needed a lawyer—and how Jim helped her open AIDS homes, fend off fraud, and navigate immigration issues The spiritual darkness Mother Teresa experienced and what it taught Jim about faith, suffering, and perseverance Jim’s creation of Five Wishes and how it helps millions of families plan for end-of-life care with dignity, clarity, and compassion Why acknowledging mortality and spiritual legacy is one of the most generous things you can do for loved ones Jim Towey’s Word of Wisdom: Look at what you have—and be grateful. Gratitude is a choice. You can focus on what you’re missing, or you can give thanks for the opportunities you've been given to enrich the lives of others. Leaders are led, and the greatest leaders live with humility and gratitude at the center. Connect With Aging with Dignity: Aging With Dignity Website Aging With Dignity YouTube Aging With Dignity Facebook Aging With Dignity LinkedIn The Five Wishes To Love and Be Loved: A Personal Portrait of Mother Teresa (Simon and Schuster 2022) Connect with The Wow Factor:   WOW Factor Website   Brad Formsma on LinkedIn    Brad Formsma on Instagram    Brad Formsma on Facebook    X (formerly Twitter)   

Ralph Stayer, is the founder of Johnsonville Sausage, one of America's most beloved family-owned food companies. From humble beginnings in a small Wisconsin town of just 65 people, Ralph helped grow Johnsonville from an 8-person operation into a global brand by radically rethinking leadership, purpose, Capitalism, and what it means to build a business with heart. In this episode, Brad sits down with Ralph in sunny Naples, Florida, for a deep conversation about faith, capitalism, giving, and legacy. Ralph shares how his own leadership transformation began in frustration and burnout, eventually leading him to create a company culture grounded in empowerment, service, and stewardship. From mentoring his team to consulting for hospitals and leading charitable initiatives that raise tens of millions for children, Ralph’s life is a masterclass in purpose-driven leadership. “You’re not building sausage. You’re building people who make sausage.” - Ralph Stayer “Capitalism isn’t a tool of the rich—it’s God’s gift to the poor.” - Ralph Stayer “There’s only one real measure of success: hearing, ‘Well done, my good and faithful servant.’” - Ralph Stayer This Week on the Wow Factor: Ralph’s early life working summers in the Johnsonville factory and walking the riverbanks with a .22 The pivotal leadership shift that came after a frustrating period of rapid growth and employee disengagement How consultant Lee Thayer helped Ralph see that the real value of a company is its people The transformation from being a boss to building a culture of empowerment and trust Why Ralph believes businesses must talk openly about God and purpose at work The revelation that led Ralph to embrace giving not just money, but time and wisdom Why the phrase “give back” needs to be rethought—and how capitalism enables human flourishing Ralph’s involvement in raising over $33 million in a single afternoon for children’s charities through the Naples Winter Wine Festival Ralph’s Word of Wisdom: There’s really only one measure of real success—and that’s whether you hear, ‘Well done, my good and faithful servant.’ That’s what I’m working toward. Not money. Not fame. Not status. Just that. Connect With Johnsonville Sausage: Johnsonville Facebook Johnsonville Pinterest Johnsonville Instagram Johnsonville TikTok Ralph C. Stayers Books Connect with The Wow Factor:   WOW Factor Website   Brad Formsma on LinkedIn    Brad Formsma on Instagram    Brad Formsma on Facebook    X (formerly Twitter)   

From the stages of Broadway to school classrooms and men's ministries, J. Mark McVey’s journey is one of persistence, transformation, and service. Best known for his role as Jean Valjean in Les Misérables, J. Mark brings not only vocal talent but also deep wisdom on living a life with purpose and impact. In this episode, J. Mark shares how his upbringing in Huntington, West Virginia, shaped his love of music and gratitude. He reflects on the grind of New York theater life, how faith transformed his approach to performance, and why leading from a place of humility—not ego—is his guiding principle. You’ll hear about the unexpected audition that changed his career, a powerful 22-year collaboration with legendary composer Marvin Hamlisch, and how he's now channeling his talents into helping the next generation discover their gifts. Through music, mentorship, and ministry, J. Mark shows what it means to perform for an audience of one—and how living with intention creates lasting ripple effects far beyond the spotlight. “You’re either going to step on people on the way up—or you’re going to help them climb.” – J. Mark McVey “At the end of my life, I want to hear ‘Well done, good and faithful servant.’ That’s the only audience I’m focused on.” – J. Mark McVey “A great leader doesn’t end up on the mountaintop alone. That’s not a leader—that’s a hiker.” – J. Mark McVey This Week on The Wow Factor: How a childhood filled with song and gratitude shaped J. Mark’s artistic identity The six-year college journey that led to a bold move to New York City What it’s really like to perform on Broadway under constant pressure Why storytelling at a 12-year-old’s level is J. Mark’s secret to audience connection The pivotal moment that transformed his faith and redirected his career Behind-the-scenes stories from Les Misérables and singing for presidents The unlikely invitation that led to decades of collaboration with Marvin Hamlisch How J. Mark uses performance and prayer to lead with love backstage His new mission: helping students identify their gifts and find confidence early in life J. Mark McVey’s Word of Wisdom: A great leader is always in a supportive role. Leadership isn’t about being at the front—it’s about listening well, serving others, and keeping your hand out to help the next person up the ladder. You don’t climb alone, and you don’t perform alone. The best impact comes from giving, not taking. Connect with J. Mark McVey:Visit jmarkmcvey.com to learn more about upcoming concerts, speaking events, and his work with schools and ministries. Connect with The Wow Factor:  WOW Factor Website  Brad Formsma on LinkedIn   Brad Formsma on Instagram   Brad Formsma on Facebook   X (formerly Twitter)  

From a humble start in South Louisiana to building restaurant empires across America, Paul Fleming’s journey is a story of grit, hospitality, and vision. As the founder and force behind beloved brands like Ruth’s Chris (West Coast expansion), PF Chang’s, Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse, Paul Martin’s, Lake Park Diner, and Paulita’s Tacos—Paul has helped define American dining for over three decades. In this episode, Paul reflects on how growing up with strong family values and working in every position in the restaurant world prepared him for a life of entrepreneurship. He shares how his oil business pivoted into hospitality, why working alongside people he respects keeps him energized, and how staying close to the customer is still his greatest advantage.  From building cultures of generosity to investing in the next generation of food innovators, Paul’s insights are equal parts practical and inspiring. You’ll hear how he chooses the right time to exit a business, why he’s never looked back, and how values-based leadership has shaped his lasting impact. “People are everything—and they’re expensive when you get them wrong.” – Paul Fleming “We pay our vendors like slot machines—and we get the best product because of it.” – Paul Fleming “I’ve never looked back on a business I sold. The timing was right, and there’s always another great concept to build.” – Paul Fleming This Week on The Wow Factor: How a “poor Cajun boy” from South Louisiana built multiple billion-dollar restaurant brands The early days of PF Chang’s—and the lettuce wrap that changed everything Why Paul believes the restaurant industry and soccer have more in common than you think How great hiring, vendor respect, and intentional generosity build lasting businesses The legacy of Ruth’s Chris and the lessons Paul learned from Ruth herself How his wife Jody is leading the charge on new concepts like Paulita’s Tacos and PJK Chinese Paul’s insights on staying positive, working hard, and building brands with purpose Why private equity isn’t just about money—it’s about people, timing, and culture What makes Lake Park Diner in Naples a local go-to and a tribute to a visionary partner Paul Fleming’s Word of Wisdom: You’ve got to work your butt off in a business you’re good at and enjoy—for 25 years. Focus, commit, and trust that effort over time creates impact. The real legacy is built when you invest in people, treat vendors with respect, and lead with consistency. There’s no shortcut—just sustained effort, community, and doing what’s right. Connect with Paul Fleming: You can experience Paul’s legacy at restaurants across the country including: Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar PF Chang’s Paul Martin’s American Grill Lake Park Diner PJK Neighborhood Chinese Paulita’s Tacos Connect with The Wow Factor:  WOW Factor Website  Brad Formsma on LinkedIn   Brad Formsma on Instagram   Brad Formsma on Facebook   X (formerly Twitter)