The Wow Factor

Brad Formsma
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The Wow Factor

Leading with excellence is not something that happens overnight. Join Brad Formsma, best-selling author and a Forbes top-rated leadership speaker, as he dives in to uncover the extraordinary stories of failures and triumphs of other successful leaders in business and beyond. The Wow Factor strives to empower the journey of business leaders through raw conversations and uncovered stories of today’s thought leaders. This podcast will also help you discover the words of wisdom to inspire a team of any size, spark a culture of generosity and innovation, and lead with excellence. For extended insights and podcast show notes, go to https://www.thewowfactorpodcast.com

  1. -3 ДН.

    Dave Donaldson | Co-Founder of CityServe and Convoy of Hope | Leading with Compassion and Action

    Dave Donaldson is a visionary leader dedicated to mobilizing churches and communities to serve those in need. As a co-founder of CityServe and Convoy of Hope, he has spent decades working on the front lines of disaster relief, social impact, and faith-driven community outreach. His journey was shaped by personal tragedy—losing his father and debilitating his mother in a devastating accident at the age of nine. The generosity and compassion he experienced from others in his time of need ignited a lifelong passion for helping vulnerable populations. Today, CityServe is transforming lives through initiatives addressing foster care, adoption, homelessness, human trafficking, and disaster response. In this episode of The Wow Factor, Dave shares his powerful story of resilience, faith, and service. From co-founding Convoy of Hope to leading CityServe, he reveals how the church can be a driving force in meeting tangible needs and strengthening communities. He also discusses the role of faith-based organizations in shaping public policy, how CityServe collaborates with churches, businesses and the government to maximize impact, and why generosity is at the core of lasting change. This conversation is packed with insights on responsible compassion, faith-driven leadership, and making a real difference in the world. "If God can get it through you, He’ll give it to you." – Dave Donaldson "Serving the poor is not just an act of obedience—it’s an act of faith. Give, and you will see how God multiplies." – Dave Donaldson “There is no greater infrastructure than Jesus and his Church.” - Dave Donaldson This Week on The Wow Factor: A Life Shaped by Generosity: How Dave’s childhood tragedy and the kindness of others inspired his mission to serve. The Birth of Convoy of Hope and CityServe: The journey from feeding families to creating a global network of churches engaged in transformative outreach. The Power of the Local Church: Why Dave believes that churches are the most effective organizations for meeting community needs. Faith in Action: How CityServe equips churches with resources like food, furniture, and mentorship programs to serve their neighbors. Competing for Influence: Why faith-based organizations should engage in public policy and funding opportunities to maximize their reach. Generosity as a Lifestyle: Dave’s firsthand experiences of how radical generosity leads to life-changing miracles. Overcoming Compassion Fatigue: How to stay engaged and continue making an impact despite the overwhelming needs in the world. Dave Donaldson’s Words of Wisdom: Generosity isn’t just about giving—it’s about transformation. When you step into the lives of others with compassion, you not only change their world, but you also change your own. True leadership is about action, and true faith is about serving. Connect with CityServe: CityServe Website CityServe Facebook The Influencers Podcast CityServe Instagram Connect with Convoy of Hope: Convoy of Hope Website Connect with The Wow Factor:  WOW Factor Website  Brad Formsma on LinkedIn   Brad Formsma on Instagram   Brad Formsma on Facebook   X (formerly Twitter)

    36 мин.

  2. 12 МАР.

    Britt Harris | CEO/Founder of On Eagles Wings Advisors | From Success To Significance | Part 2

    Britt Harris is a legendary figure in finance, having served as CIO for top-five investment funds across Endowments, Public Funds, Private Funds, and Hedge Funds—an achievement unmatched in the industry. Currently, he leads On Eagles Wings Advisors and has previously served as CIO for UTIMCO, the largest endowment for public education in the U.S. He also led Bridgewater Associates and Verizon. Despite his remarkable career, Britt’s journey is defined by his commitment to significance over success, inspired by his faith and the mentorship of Bob Buford.  In this episode of The Wow Factor, Britt Harris shares his life story from his roots as a fourth-generation Aggie to becoming one of the most influential investors in the world. He discusses how Bob Buford’s teachings helped him see that life’s highest calling is significance, not just success. He also opens up about the importance of faith, family, and generosity, and how he and his wife, Julia, set a financial finish line that has guided their life of purpose and impact for over 43 years.  This conversation is filled with lessons on leadership, decision-making, and living a life of impact and purpose, making it a must-listen for anyone looking to balance career success with meaningful contributions to others.  “This is a generation that desperately wants to be taught. They want to be mentored. They're unmoored. They really want to be successful. They’ve got the technical parts down, but they don’t have the relational parts.” — Britt Harris  “Success is not the top of the ladder. Significance is.” — Britt Harris   “Every great company has a defined culture that is extreme. It’s not just something on the wall or something people hear about once a year. It permeates the company. When you walk in as an employee, you either love it or you don’t.” — Britt Harris  This Week on The Wow Factor:  Success vs. Significance: How Bob Buford’s mentorship taught Britt that life’s highest calling is significance, not just success.  Financial Finish Line: Why Britt and Julia set a financial finish line at age 45 and how it shaped their life of generosity and purpose.  The Titans of Investing: How Britt’s passion for teaching and mentorship led to the creation of a program that’s shaped over a thousand future leaders at Texas A&M and the University of Texas.  Leadership and Influence: Lessons from managing some of the world’s largest endowment funds and leading eight major companies.  Faith and Family: How Britt prioritizes his faith, family, and friendships, juggling the ‘glass and rubber balls’ of life to maintain balance and purpose.  Decision-Making Framework: The five Fs—Faith, Family, Friends, Fitness, and Finance—that guide Brit’s decisions in life and business.  Living Generously: Insights on why generosity is a discipline that needs to be developed early in life.  Work-Life Balance Myth: Why Britt believes true work-life balance doesn’t exist but living a life of purpose and passion does.  Britt Harris’s Words of Wisdom:  Life’s true purpose lies in pursuing significance over success by living generously, staying grounded in faith, and impacting others through leadership and mentorship. His philosophy centers on balancing faith, family, and purpose to create a meaningful legacy.  Connect with Britt Harris:  Email Britt  The Titans of Investing  Connect with The Wow Factor:   WOW Factor Website   Brad Formsma on LinkedIn    Brad Formsma on Instagram    Brad Formsma on Facebook    X (formerly Twitter)

    34 мин.

  3. 5 МАР.

    Britt Harris | CEO/Founder of On Eagles Wings Advisors | From Success To Significance | Part 1

    Britt Harris is a legendary figure in finance, having served as CIO for top-five investment funds across Endowments, Public Funds, Private Funds, and Hedge Funds—an achievement unmatched in the industry. Currently, he leads On Eagles Wings Advisors and has previously served as CIO for UTIMCO, the largest endowment for public education in the U.S. He also led Bridgewater Associates and Verizon. Despite his remarkable career, Britt’s journey is defined by his commitment to significance over success, inspired by his faith and the mentorship of Bob Buford. In this episode of The Wow Factor, Britt Harris shares his life story from his roots as a fourth-generation Aggie to becoming one of the most influential investors in the world. He discusses how Bob Buford’s teachings helped him see that life’s highest calling is significance, not just success. He also opens up about the importance of faith, family, and generosity, and how he and his wife, Julia, set a financial finish line that has guided their life of purpose and impact for over 43 years. This conversation is filled with lessons on leadership, decision-making, and living a life of impact and purpose, making it a must-listen for anyone looking to balance career success with meaningful contributions to others. “This is a generation that desperately wants to be taught. They want to be mentored. They're unmoored. They really want to be successful. They’ve got the technical parts down, but they don’t have the relational parts.” — Britt Harris “Success is not the top of the ladder. Significance is.” — Britt Harris “Every great company has a defined culture that is extreme. It’s not just something on the wall or something people hear about once a year. It permeates the company. When you walk in as an employee, you either love it or you don’t.” — Britt Harris This Week on The Wow Factor: Success vs. Significance: How Bob Buford’s mentorship taught Britt that life’s highest calling is significance, not just success. Financial Finish Line: Why Britt and Julia set a financial finish line at age 45 and how it shaped their life of generosity and purpose. The Titans of Investing: How Britt’s passion for teaching and mentorship led to the creation of a program that’s shaped over a thousand future leaders at Texas A&M and the University of Texas. Leadership and Influence: Lessons from managing some of the world’s largest endowment funds and leading eight major companies. Faith and Family: How Britt prioritizes his faith, family, and friendships, juggling the ‘glass and rubber balls’ of life to maintain balance and purpose. Decision-Making Framework: The five Fs—Faith, Family, Friends, Fitness, and Finance—that guide Brit’s decisions in life and business. Living Generously: Insights on why generosity is a discipline that needs to be developed early in life. Work-Life Balance Myth: Why Britt believes true work-life balance doesn’t exist but living a life of purpose and passion does. Britt Harris’s Words of Wisdom: Life’s true purpose lies in pursuing significance over success by living generously, staying grounded in faith, and impacting others through leadership and mentorship. His philosophy centers on balancing faith, family, and purpose to create a meaningful legacy. Connect with Britt Harris: Email Britt The Titans of Investing Connect with The Wow Factor:  WOW Factor Website  Brad Formsma on LinkedIn   Brad Formsma on Instagram   Brad Formsma on Facebook   X (formerly Twitter)

    42 мин.

  4. 26 ФЕВР.

    Mark and Rabbi Erica Gerson | Generosity, Faith, and the Impact of African Mission Healthcare

    Mark and Rabbi Erica Gerson are a dynamic duo known for their deep commitment to generosity and their innovative approach to giving. Mark is a successful entrepreneur and co-founder of African Mission Healthcare, an organization dedicated to providing life-saving medical care in Africa. Rabbi Erica is a Jewish leader who brings profound wisdom and insight into the intersection of faith and generosity. Together, they have dedicated their lives to making a tangible impact by supporting missionary doctors and healthcare initiatives that serve those most in need. In this episode, Rabbi Erica and Mark share their journey of giving, how their faith informs their vision for generosity, and the incredible work being done through African Mission Healthcare. They discuss the importance of generosity at every stage of life, the strategic approach they take to giving, and why they believe business and faith should work hand in hand to create meaningful change. Their story is a powerful example of how anyone, regardless of financial status, can cultivate a generous mindset and make a lasting difference. "People who know how to give are those who’ve given for a long time. They give when they have a little, they give when they have a lot—they just give." - Mark Gerson "Giving should be a clarification of your values." - Rabbi Erica Gerson "If you say, ‘I’ll give after my next deal,’ you never will. There will always be another deal."  - Mark Gerson This Week on The Wow Factor: How Mark and Rabbi Erica met and built a life centered around faith and generosity The role that faith plays in their approach to giving and making a difference The founding of African Mission Healthcare and how it partners with missionary doctors to provide critical medical care Why giving isn’t just for the wealthy and how everyone can develop a spirit of generosity The strategic approach Mark and Rabbi Erica take to generosity, ensuring every dollar makes the greatest impact The importance of engaging children in giving from a young age and how they involve their own kids in generosity The power of long-term generosity vs. one-time giving How small financial contributions can have life-changing effects, such as funding surgeries for people in Africa Why business success and generosity should go hand in hand Rabbi Erica and Mark Gerson’s Words of Wisdom: Giving isn’t just about money—it’s about mindset. The most generous people aren’t just those with wealth; they’re those who build generosity into their everyday lives. Whether through financial giving, time, or influence, find ways to contribute and make a difference. Connect with African Mission Healthcare: African Mission Healthcare Website African Mission Healthcare Facebook African Mission Healthcare on X African Mission Healthcare Instagram Connect with Rabbi Erica and Mark Gerson: Mark’s LinkedIn Rabbi Erica Gerson Connect with The Wow Factor:  WOW Factor Website  Brad Formsma on LinkedIn   Brad Formsma on Instagram   Brad Formsma on Facebook   X (formerly Twitter)

    39 мин.

  5. 19 ФЕВР.

    Dr. Kenneth Cooper | Founder of The Cooper Institute | How To Live Longer and Prevent Disease

    Dr. Kenneth Cooper is the Chairman Emeritus of the Board of Trustees that oversees The Cooper Institute's strategic direction and educational and research initiatives. He founded The Cooper Institute, a nonprofit foundation, in 1970 and later established the Cooper Clinic, Cooper Fitness Center, Cooper Hotel & Conference Center, Cooper Spa, Cooper Wellness, Cooper Consulting Partners, and Cooper Complete. Dr. Cooper is the author of the best-selling book, Aerobics and has written several subsequent health and fitness books.  Dr. Cooper  joins me on the Wow Factor to share how the work and research that the Cooper Clinic does helps people to live longer, more active lives and square off the curve in terms of physical capacity and longevity. He discusses the importance of eating a balanced diet and taking the appropriate vitamins in addition to exercising to protect your future health. Dr. Cooper also gives his perspective on the health benefits of living a generous life and focusing on others.  "Preventive medicine is the Cinderella of the medical specialties because there's no profit in health.”  - Kenneth Cooper “People that are coming back to us regularly are living these longer lives. And they're not just living longer lives, but they're squaring off the curve, living a long life to the fullest.” - Kenneth Cooper “Our whole goal here with our research is to look at things physiologically. What can we do for ourselves that can prolong lives?” - Kenneth Cooper This Week on The Wow Factor: Why Dr. Cooper is still working 10-12 hours a day and seeing patients at the age of 90 How Dr. Cooper spent his 13 years in the military  The moment that Dr. Cooper realized he was out of shape and desperately needed to do something about it What the research at the Cooper Clinic focuses on Dr. Cooper’s opinion on the COVID-19 vaccination The problems of the worldwide obesity epidemic Dr. Cooper’s relationship with God and why he wrote Faith Based Fitness Dr. Kenneth Cooper’s Words of Wisdom: You don't solve problems by changing the government. You solve problems by changing the people. Connect with Dr. Kenneth Cooper: The Cooper Institute Website The Cooper Institute on Facebook The Cooper Institute on Instagram The Cooper Institute on X (formerly Twitter) Connect with The Wow Factor: WOW Factor Website   Brad Formsma on LinkedIn    Brad Formsma on Instagram    Brad Formsma on Facebook    X (formerly Twitter)

    55 мин.

  6. 12 ФЕВР.

    Susan Flippen | CEO of The Flippen Group | Transforming Education Through Leadership and Generosity

    Susan Flippen is the CEO of The Flippen Group, a company dedicated to improving leadership, education, and personal development through research-backed strategies. Under her leadership, The Flippen Group has impacted thousands of educators and students across the country, helping to build stronger school cultures and improve student outcomes. Susan’s passion for creating environments where individuals can thrive has made her a leading voice in the education and leadership space. In this episode, Susan shares the story behind The Flippen Group, from its humble beginnings to becoming a transformative force in education and leadership. She discusses the importance of building relational capacity in schools, how Capturing Kids’ Hearts is helping teachers reconnect with their passion, and the power of generosity in leadership. Susan also reveals how she and her husband, Flip, built an organization focused on developing people, equipping teachers, and inspiring future generations. "The most important person in the world is the one right in front of you." – Susan Flippen "Love well, and build the kind of relationships that create real change." – Susan Flippen "Forgiveness is the greatest gift you can give—whether the other person asks for it or not." – Susan Flippen This Week on The Wow Factor: How Susan and Flip Flippen founded The Flippen Group and grew it into a nationwide leader in education and leadership development The impact of Capturing Kids’ Hearts and how it’s transforming classrooms by equipping teachers with the tools to build stronger relationships with students Why relational capacity is key to student success and school culture How The Flippen Group has maintained a strong, mission-driven organization with over 650 employees across the U.S. The power of generosity in leadership and why serving others is the foundation of a thriving organization Why Susan believes that businesses and communities must step up to support teachers and schools The role of faith, vision, and persistence in building a company that makes a lasting difference Susan Flippen’s Words of Wisdom: "Forgiveness is one of the greatest gifts you can give—whether or not it’s asked for. True leadership starts with looking inward, learning from challenges, and moving forward with love and grace." Connect with Susan Flippen and The Flippen Group: The Flippen Group Website Susan Flippen's Profile Capturing Kids' Hearts The Flippen Group on Facebook The Flippen Group on Instagram The Flippen Group on LinkedIn The Flippen Group on YouTube Connect with The Wow Factor: WOW Factor Website Brad Formsma on LinkedIn  Brad Formsma on Instagram  Brad Formsma on Facebook  X (formerly Twitter)

    32 мин.

  7. 5 ФЕВР.

    Noah Elias | Artist, Author, and Coach | Stewardship as a Lifestyle

    On today’s episode of The Wow Factor, we’re joined by creative entrepreneur, mentor, and author Noah Elias. At just nine years old, Noah made a life-changing decision to give his life to Christ, a choice that fueled his passion for both art and entrepreneurship. Long before the rise of social media and modern digital tools, Noah built his brand from the ground up, combining artistic talent with business acumen. His work has been featured by major brands like Disney and Costco, and he has collaborated with top artists such as Pink and ZZ Top. However, Noah’s greatest mission extends beyond business—his true success is measured not in financial gains, but in his relentless commitment to spreading the Gospel and using his gifts to serve others. In this episode, Brad and Noah discuss the importance of staying hungry to learn new skills, embracing technology in business, and how passion fuels perseverance through tough times. They also explore why collaboration can accelerate success and why, at the end of the day, all business achievements pale in comparison to living out your true purpose in faith. “I had a self-awareness at a young age and later on, I realized in life it was a superhero power or a gift that God gave.” - Noah Elias “If your dreams aren't big enough, if your dreams don't scare you, they're most likely insulting to God. They gotta be flippin’ huge, man.” - Noah Elias “It's not about building my empire. I want to build His.” - Noah Elias This Week on The Wow Factor: “The Pucker Factor” The journey from infancy to mastery in life and business Transforming earthly wealth into Kingdom impact From salvation to sacrifice to eternal rewards Noah’s Master’s Program and the pursuit of excellence Identifying and embracing your unique gifts Serving orphans diagnosed with AIDS overseas Living a life of stewardship and purpose The importance of going all in on your business and calling Noah Elias’ Words of Wisdom: Use the gift given to you by God to help the world around you. Connect with Noah Elias: Noah's Website  Noah’s Facebook  Noah’sInstagram  Noah’s X Support Acres of Love: Acres of Love Connect with The Wow Factor: WOW Factor Website  Brad Formsma on LinkedIn  Brad Formsma on Instagram  Brad Formsma on Facebook  X (formerly Twitter)

    1 ч. 6 мин.

  8. 29 ЯНВ.

    Kurt Avery | Author and Founder of Sawyer Products | Insights on Pricing, Packaging, Promotion, and Success

    Kurt Avery is the founder of Sawyer Products, a company dedicated to developing advanced solutions for outdoor protection, water filtration, and first aid. He is also the author of Sawyer Think: How a Small Company Disrupts Markets and Changes the World, where he shares key lessons from building a business that prioritizes innovation and global impact. Over the years, Kurt’s passion for creating products that save lives and improve health has led Sawyer to provide clean water for over 28 million people worldwide. In this episode, Kurt shares the story behind Sawyer Products, from launching with a snakebite kit to developing groundbreaking water filtration systems that deliver safe drinking water for pennies per person. He offers insights into marketing strategies, product innovation, and his company’s remarkable commitment to giving away more than 90% of its profits to charitable causes. Kurt’s journey is a testament to what’s possible when business, faith, and generosity align to make a lasting difference.  You don't always have to go for the big market. You can go for fringe markets, as long as you can have a sustainable business, because you have something people want.  - Kurt Avery  How big is your God? If He's big, you'll do big things. - Kurt Avery We lost money 23 of the first 25 years, until we became an overnight success.  - Kurt Avery This Week on The Wow Factor: How Kurt founded Sawyer Products with a snakebite kit and scaled it into a global brand The power of product innovation: Why never doing “me too” products has been a core principle for Sawyer Lessons from winning a federal contract during Operation Desert Storm and scaling production overnight How Sawyer’s water filters are transforming lives globally, reducing waterborne illnesses by 95% in communities The impact of giving: How Kurt and his wife, Barbara, give away more than 90% of Sawyer’s profits to help those in need Practical advice for entrepreneurs, including pricing strategies, packaging insights, and why you should embrace risk Why a focus on God and a willingness to think big has driven Sawyer’s success Kurt Avery’s Words of Wisdom: Don’t put God in a small box. If He’s big, you’ll do big things. Have sound strategies, but don’t be afraid to take risks and aim high—especially when it’s for a greater purpose. Connect with Kurt Avery and Sawyer Products: Sawyer Products Website Buy Sawyer Think: How a Small Company Disrupts Markets and Changes the World Sawyer on Instagram Sawyer on Facebook Sawyer on LinkedIn Sawyer on YouTube Connect with The Wow Factor: WOW Factor Website  Brad Formsma on LinkedIn  Brad Formsma on Instagram  Brad Formsma on Facebook  X (formerly Twitter)

    50 мин.
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Leading with excellence is not something that happens overnight. Join Brad Formsma, best-selling author and a Forbes top-rated leadership speaker, as he dives in to uncover the extraordinary stories of failures and triumphs of other successful leaders in business and beyond. The Wow Factor strives to empower the journey of business leaders through raw conversations and uncovered stories of today’s thought leaders. This podcast will also help you discover the words of wisdom to inspire a team of any size, spark a culture of generosity and innovation, and lead with excellence. For extended insights and podcast show notes, go to https://www.thewowfactorpodcast.com

Информация

  • Автор
    Brad Formsma
  • Годы выхода
    2019 - 2025
  • Выпуски
    273
  • Ограничения
    Без ненормативной лексики
  • Сайт подкаста
    The Wow Factor

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