Called to Build

Carl Willis

You weren’t called to compete… you were Called to Build. This is the show for faith-driven entrepreneurs, leaders, and Kingdom visionaries who know their business isn’t just about income—it’s about impact.

  1. MAR 13

    Faith-Based Goal Setting for Q2: How Christian Entrepreneurs Set Spirit-Led Business Goals

    Send us Fan Mail Are your goals Spirit-led or just SMART? In this episode of the Called to Build Podcast, we break down a practical, faith-based framework for setting powerful Q2 business goals — goals that reflect both divine purpose and strategic execution. If you're a Christian entrepreneur, business owner, or ministry leader who's ready to stop spinning your wheels and start building with intention, this episode is for you. 🔑 In this episode you'll learn: Why vision without a foundation becomes vanity How to do a 90-day spiritual and business review before Q2 The SPIRIT Goals Framework (and why it outperforms SMART goals for kingdom builders) How to build a daily battle plan that starts with God, not your to-do list Why accountability accelerates anointing Kingdom KPIs that measure impact, not just income 📖 Scriptures Referenced: Proverbs 29:18 | Isaiah 43:18-19 | Proverbs 21:5 | Proverbs 18:15 | Proverbs 27:17 | 1 Corinthians 10:31 | Proverbs 3:5-6 ⏱️ Timestamps: 00:00 – Are Your Goals Spirit-Led or Just SMART? 01:01 – Step 1: Revisit the Why Before You Plan the What 02:17 – Step 2: Take Inventory of Your Last 90 Days 04:33 – Step 3: Set SPIRIT Goals, Not Just SMART Goals 06:27 – Step 4: Develop a Daily Battle Plan 09:01 – Step 5: Build Community & Accountability 10:12 – Step 6: Align Your Metrics with Your Mission 11:24 – Next Steps & Your Q2 Kingdom Assignment #CalledToBuild #ChristianEntrepreneur #FaithAndBusiness #KingdomBusiness #ChristianBusinessOwner #GoalSetting #Q2Goals #SpiritLedBusiness #FaithBasedGoals #ChristianLeadership #BiblicalBusiness #MinistryLeader #PurposeDrivenBusiness #ChristianPodcast #BusinessWithPurpose #KingdomEntrepreneur #GodlyBusiness #FaithInBusiness #ChristianGoals #SPIRITGoals 🔗 Stay Connected & Keep Growing: 📘 Facebook: facebook.com/carlswillis 💼 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/carlwillis 📺 YouTube: @CarlWillis20 📷 Instagram: @nomorejob2 📝 Blog & Resources: carlwillis.com 📥 Download Free Guide – Faith Driven Success: biblicalgrowthstrategies.com

    15 min
  2. MAR 6

    Is Your Wilderness Season About to Become Your Breakthrough? | Lessons from Desolate Places

    Send us Fan Mail Are you in a dry season in your business or ministry? Feeling like God has gone silent while the bills pile up and your vision feels further away than ever? You're not alone — and this season is not wasted. In this episode of the Called to Build podcast, we dive deep into the powerful lessons found in desolate places — the wilderness seasons that every Christian entrepreneur, business owner, and ministry leader will face. Drawing from the book Desolate Places, this episode unpacks why your hardest season might actually be your most important one. In this episode, you'll discover: Why your wilderness is a setup, not a setback How God provides daily — even when the pipeline looks empty Why losing comfort can bring the clarity you've been searching for How silence and stillness can rebuild your foundation and restore your purpose Why your struggle will one day become someone else's lifeline Whether you're facing a revenue downturn, a failed launch, a payroll crisis, or simply a loss of direction — God is still in it. And He's using it. 📖 Get the book Desolate Places: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1974307069/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_ep_dp_TuDcAb04X20TR Learn more:  https://carlwillis.com/lessons-from-desolate-places-finding-strength-in-business-struggles/ #ChristianEntrepreneur #CalledToBuild #DesolatePlaces #FaithInBusiness #ChristianBusiness #WildernessSeason #BiblicalEntrepreneurship #ChristianLeadership #FaithAndBusiness #PurposeDrivenBusiness #ChristianPodcast #TrustingGod #BusinessBreakthrough #MinistryLeaders #FaithOverFear 🔗 Stay Connected & Keep Growing: 📘 Facebook: facebook.com/carlswillis 💼 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/carlwillis 📺 YouTube: @CarlWillis20 📷 Instagram: @nomorejob2 📝 Blog & Resources: carlwillis.com 📥 Download Free Guide – Faith Driven Success: biblicalgrowthstrategies.com

    9 min
  3. FEB 20

    The 3-Step System to Consistently Generate Leads for Your Online Business (Without Burning Out)

    Send us Fan Mail Struggling to generate consistent leads for your online business? You don't have a traffic problem — you have a system problem. In this episode, Carl Willis breaks down the exact 3-step lead generation framework he's used for over 15 years to help entrepreneurs and business owners build real momentum online. Whether you're just getting started or you're ready to scale, this simple, repeatable system will help you attract the right people, build trust automatically, and convert followers into paying customers — without being online 24/7. 🔑 THE 3-STEP LEAD GENERATION SYSTEM: Step 1 — Attract the Right Audience Stop trying to reach everyone. Define your ideal customer, understand what they're struggling with, and show up with intentional, targeted content across short-form video, blogs, podcasts, and social media. Step 2 — Capture & Nurture Your Leads Attention alone won't grow your business. You need a compelling lead magnet, a high-converting landing page, and an automated email follow-up sequence that builds trust and develops real relationships over time. Step 3 — Convert Leads Into Customers With the right audience and solid nurturing in place, conversion becomes natural. Make your offer crystal clear, reduce friction, use testimonials and case studies, and follow up consistently. Bonus Tip: Track what's working — and do more of that. Optimization is your growth multiplier. 🚀 READY TO BUILD YOUR ONLINE BUSINESS? The Home Business Academy gives you step-by-step training, done-for-you email sequences, lead generation tools, AI-powered systems, and a private community of like-minded entrepreneurs — plus live coaching and real-time support. 👉 Learn more at: carlwillis.net #OnlineBusinessTips #LeadGeneration #ChristianEntrepreneur #CalledToBuild #HomeBusinessAcademy #OnlineMarketing #ChristianBusiness #EmailMarketing #DigitalMarketing #EntrepreneurMindset #BusinessGrowth #WorkFromHome #OnlineBusiness #MarketingStrategy #SmallBusinessOwner 🔗 Stay Connected & Keep Growing: 📘 Facebook: facebook.com/carlswillis 💼 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/carlwillis 📺 YouTube: @CarlWillis20 📷 Instagram: @nomorejob2 📝 Blog & Resources: carlwillis.com 📥 Download Free Guide – Faith Driven Success: biblicalgrowthstrategies.com

    12 min
  4. FEB 13

    Faith-Based Financial Stewardship: Biblical Money Management for Christian Entrepreneurs

    Send us Fan Mail Struggling to balance faith and finances? Discover biblical principles for money management that will transform how you view wealth, giving, and financial freedom. In this episode of the Called to Build podcast, we explore faith-based financial stewardship designed specifically for Christian entrepreneurs, business owners, and ministry leaders. Learn how to align your finances with God's purpose through tithing, wise investing, debt freedom, and radical generosity. 📖 WHAT YOU'LL LEARN: 0:00 - Introduction: The Battle Between Faith and Finances 1:15 - Kingdom Stewardship: From Ownership to Stewardship 3:07 - Biblical Tithing: Returning to God What is His 6:25 - Biblical Investing: Multiplying Resources for the Kingdom 8:50 - Avoiding the Debt Trap: Living in Financial Freedom 10:30 - Cultivating Generosity: The Overflow of Kingdom Wealth 12:09 - Faith-Driven Financial Planning: Aligning Money with Purpose 13:18 - Conclusion: Where is Your Heart? 💡 KEY PRINCIPLES COVERED: ✓ Understanding stewardship vs. ownership mindset ✓ The timeless principle of tithing and God's provision ✓ Making wise investments that honor kingdom priorities ✓ Breaking free from the bondage of debt ✓ Living generously and activating God's blessing cycle ✓ Creating a legacy that impacts future generations 📌 FEATURED SCRIPTURES: Psalm 24:1 - Everything belongs to God Malachi 3:10 - Testing God in tithing Matthew 25:14-29 - The Parable of the Talents Proverbs 22:7 - The borrower is slave to the lender Proverbs 11:24-25 - The power of generosity 🎯 FREE RESOURCES: 📥 Download the Purpose Driven Success Guide: https://biblicalgrowthstrategies.com 🌐 Visit: https://carlwillis.com Whether you're navigating financial hardship or seeking to multiply your resources for kingdom impact, this episode provides practical, biblical wisdom for managing money God's way. Remember: money is a test of trust, and true financial peace comes from seeking first the kingdom of God. DISCLAIMER: This content is for educational and inspirational purposes only. Please consult with a qualified financial advisor, CPA, or tax professional for advice specific to your financial situation. #ChristianEntrepreneur #BiblicalFinance #FaithBasedBusiness #ChristianStewardship #Tithing #BiblicalInvesting #DebtFreedom #ChristianGenerosity #KingdomBusiness #FaithAndFinances #ChristianBusiness #MinistryLeadership #BiblicalWealth #ChristianMoneyManagement #CalledToBuild #FaithDrivenEntrepreneur #KingdomStewardship #BiblicalPrinciples #ChristianLeadership #FinancialFreedom 🔗 Stay Connected & Keep Growing: 📘 Facebook: facebook.com/carlswillis 💼 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/carlwillis 📺 YouTube: @CarlWillis20 📷 Instagram: @nomorejob2 📝 Blog & Resources: carlwillis.com 📥 Download Free Guide – Faith Driven Success: biblicalgrowthstrategies.com

    15 min
  5. FEB 6

    Servant Leadership in Business: How Jesus Led & How Christian CEOs Can Too

    Send us Fan Mail Discover the transformative power of servant leadership in business through the ultimate example: Jesus Christ. In this episode, we explore how Christian entrepreneurs and business owners can lead like Jesus by embracing humility, service, and kingdom-minded purpose. What You'll Learn: The biblical foundation of servant leadership and why it matters in business How Jesus demonstrated servant-hearted leadership by washing his disciples' feet Practical ways to lead with humility in your company (Philippians 2:3-4) Building a kingdom-purpose vision for your business How to empower and develop your team like Jesus trained his disciples The critical role of integrity and trustworthiness in Christian business Real-world examples like Chick-fil-A's commitment to biblical principles Key Principles from This Episode: 1. The Heart of a Servant - Jesus modeled servant leadership in John 13:12-17 when he washed his disciples' feet. As Christian business owners, we're called to serve our employees, customers, and clients rather than viewing them as stepping stones to success. 2. Lead with Humility - True leadership means valuing others above yourself, being willing to listen, learn, and admit mistakes. Humble leadership fosters respect and collaboration. 3. Vision with Kingdom Purpose - Jesus was intentional about his mission (Luke 19:10). Your business should align with God's purposes, measuring success not just in revenue but in positive impact on employees, customers, and community. 4. Empower and Develop Others - Jesus equipped his disciples to lead and continue his work. Invest in mentoring, coaching, and developing your team's leadership abilities. 5. Demonstrate Integrity - Jesus lived with absolute integrity. As Proverbs 11:3 says, "The integrity of the upright guides them." Conduct business in a way that honors God through honesty and keeping your promises. Why Servant Leadership Matters: In a world that glorifies self-centered leadership, Christian business owners have a unique opportunity to shine by following Jesus' example. Servant leadership rooted in humility, integrity, and empowerment creates businesses that succeed while glorifying God. Take Action Today: Evaluate your leadership style. Are you prioritizing service over status? Are you building up those around you? By embracing Jesus' model of leadership, you can create lasting impact in your business and in the lives of those you serve. Free Resource: Download the Purpose Driven Success Guide to help align your business with biblical principles: https://biblicalgrowthstrategies.com Connect & Subscribe: 🎧 Subscribe to the Called to Build Podcast: https://calledtobuild.buzzsprout.com 🌐 Visit: https://carlwillis.com True success comes not from being served, but from serving others well. Remember, aligning your bu 🔗 Stay Connected & Keep Growing: 📘 Facebook: facebook.com/carlswillis 💼 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/carlwillis 📺 YouTube: @CarlWillis20 📷 Instagram: @nomorejob2 📝 Blog & Resources: carlwillis.com 📥 Download Free Guide – Faith Driven Success: biblicalgrowthstrategies.com

    10 min
  6. JAN 30

    The AI Question Every Christian Entrepreneur Must Answer (Before It's Too Late)

    Send us Fan Mail Is AI a blessing or a threat to your faith-based business? As Christian entrepreneurs, we face a critical choice: harness AI wisely or risk losing the personal touch that makes our businesses truly kingdom-minded. In this episode, we explore the ethical use of AI automation for Christian entrepreneurs who want to work smarter without sacrificing the relationships and integrity that define faith-driven leadership. 📖 What You'll Discover: ✅ Biblical principles for integrating AI into your business ✅ 4 key areas where AI can bless your entrepreneurship ✅ How to avoid replacing personal relationships with automation ✅ Ethical guardrails every Christian business owner needs ✅ Practical steps to implement AI with integrity today ⏱️ Timestamps: 0:00 - Introduction: The AI Crossroads for Christian Entrepreneurs 0:46 - Ethical Concerns: Is AI Dehumanizing Business? 2:08 - Biblical Principles for AI Integration 3:13 - Stewardship: Using Technology Wisely (Matthew 25:23) 3:48 - Integrity: Keeping Ethics at the Forefront (Proverbs 11:3) 5:00 - Human Connection: AI Should Enhance, Not Replace (Romans 12:10) 5:43 - Area 1: Marketing & Customer Engagement 6:49 - Area 2: Business Operations & Productivity 7:29 - Area 3: Financial & Investment Strategies 7:58 - Area 4: Ministry & Outreach Opportunities 9:14 - Ethical Considerations for Christian Entrepreneurs 11:40 - Protecting Privacy & Data Security 12:41 - Practical Action Steps to Implement AI Today 14:50 - Final Wisdom: Pray Before You Implement 🎯 Key Takeaway: AI is a tool, not a replacement. When anchored in faith, integrity, and authentic engagement, AI can help you serve better, work smarter, and advance God's kingdom in the marketplace. 📥 FREE RESOURCE: Download the Purpose Driven Success Guide: https://biblicalgrowthstrategies.com Learn More: https://carlwillis.com/leveraging-ai-automation-for-christian-entrepreneurs-work-smarter-not-harder/ 💡 Action Steps: Identify one repetitive task to automate this week Set a "human-first" rule for your business Pray for wisdom before implementing any AI tools If this episode helped you navigate the AI question with biblical wisdom, hit that SUBSCRIBE button and share this with a fellow Christian entrepreneur who needs to hear this message! #ChristianEntrepreneur #AIForBusiness #FaithDrivenBusiness #ChristianBusiness #BiblicalBusiness #KingdomBusiness #ChristianLeadership #AIEthics #FaithAndBusiness #ChristianMinistry #BusinessAutomation #FaithBasedEntrepreneur #ChristianBusinessOwner #CalledToBuild #PurposeDrivenBusiness 🔗 Stay Connected & Keep Growing: 📘 Facebook: facebook.com/carlswillis 💼 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/carlwillis 📺 YouTube: @CarlWillis20 📷 Instagram: @nomorejob2 📝 Blog & Resources: carlwillis.com 📥 Download Free Guide – Faith Driven Success: biblicalgrowthstrategies.com

    17 min
  7. JAN 23

    How to Share Your Business Testimony: Storytelling Strategies for Christian Entrepreneurs

    Send us Fan Mail Discover the power of storytelling in marketing and learn how to craft a compelling business testimony that connects with your audience and grows your faith-based business. In today's crowded digital marketplace, facts and figures alone won't win customers. People crave connection, authenticity, and meaning. That's why the most successful brands don't just sell—they tell stories. For Christian entrepreneurs and ministry leaders, your business testimony is a powerful tool to communicate your mission, values, and purpose while building lasting relationships with your audience. In this episode, you'll learn: ✅ Why storytelling matters in Christian business marketing ✅ How to craft your compelling business testimony ✅ The key elements of effective brand storytelling ✅ How Jesus used parables to communicate deep truths ✅ Practical ways to share your story through video, blogging, and social media ✅ How to position your customer as the hero of their journey ✅ Best practices for SEO-optimized storytelling strategies Your business testimony is more than just a marketing tool—it's a ministry. Every challenge you've faced, every victory you've experienced, and every life you've impacted is part of the bigger narrative God is weaving through your business. 📥 FREE RESOURCE: Download the Purpose Driven Success Guide at https://biblicalgrowthstrategies.com 🎙️ SUBSCRIBE TO THE PODCAST: Listen to Called to Build on all major podcast platforms at https://calledtobuild.buzzsprout.com/ 🌐 CONNECT WITH US: Visit https://carlwillis.com for more resources #ChristianEntrepreneur #BusinessTestimony #StorytellingMarketing #FaithBasedBusiness #ChristianBusiness #KingdomBusiness #BrandStorytelling #ChristianMarketing #FaithDrivenEntrepreneur #BusinessMinistry #ChristianLeadership #EntrepreneurialJourney #MarketingStrategies #ChristianBusinessOwner #MinistryLeaders #CalledToBuild #PurposeDrivenBusiness #BiblicalBusiness #FaithAndBusiness #ChristianContentCreator 🔗 Stay Connected & Keep Growing: 📘 Facebook: facebook.com/carlswillis 💼 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/carlwillis 📺 YouTube: @CarlWillis20 📷 Instagram: @nomorejob2 📝 Blog & Resources: carlwillis.com 📥 Download Free Guide – Faith Driven Success: biblicalgrowthstrategies.com

    9 min
  8. JAN 16

    The Fine Line Between Faith and Stupidity in Business (And How to Know Which Side You're On)

    Send us Fan Mail Making business decisions as a Christian entrepreneur shouldn't feel like a guessing game. Should you take that risk? Expand your company? Or wait on God's timing? There's a fine line between faith and stupidity—and knowing which side you're on is often the biggest challenge. In this episode, I'm sharing practical guidance on trusting God in business decisions, from surrendering control to hearing His voice in your entrepreneurship journey. Whether you're struggling with fear, seeking divine direction, or trying to balance faith with strategy, this message is for you. What You'll Learn: Why faith matters more than data in business success How to surrender your business plans to God (and actually mean it) Practical ways to hear God's voice in major decisions The 5-Day Seeking God in Business Challenge How to overcome fear and make bold, faith-driven choices Daily habits every Christian entrepreneur needs Featured Biblical Examples: Joseph's divine wisdom in managing Egypt's economy Nehemiah's prayer and fasting before leadership decisions Peter walking on water (and what happens when we look at the storm) Chick-fil-A's faith-based business model True success comes when we seek God first and align ourselves with His plans. While market trends and analytics have their place, divine wisdom exceeds human understanding every time. Ready to grow your faith-driven business? 🎙️ Subscribe to the Called to Build Podcast for more episodes Join the Challenge: Try the 5-Day Seeking God in Business Challenge mentioned in this episode and watch how God transforms your entrepreneurial journey. Proverbs 3:5-6 - "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight." #ChristianEntrepreneur #FaithBasedBusiness #TrustingGod #ChristianBusiness #FaithDrivenEntrepreneur #BiblicalBusiness #KingdomBusiness #ChristianLeadership #BusinessMinistry #CalledToBuild #EntrepreneurialFaith #GodlyBusiness #ChristianBusinessOwner #FaithOverFear #DivineGuidance 🔗 Stay Connected & Keep Growing: 📘 Facebook: facebook.com/carlswillis 💼 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/carlwillis 📺 YouTube: @CarlWillis20 📷 Instagram: @nomorejob2 📝 Blog & Resources: carlwillis.com 📥 Download Free Guide – Faith Driven Success: biblicalgrowthstrategies.com

    10 min

About

You weren’t called to compete… you were Called to Build. This is the show for faith-driven entrepreneurs, leaders, and Kingdom visionaries who know their business isn’t just about income—it’s about impact.