IBAM- International Business As Mission Biblical Entrepreneurship

IBAM- International Business As Mission
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  • Entrepreneurship
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Welcome to the IBAM Biblical Entrepreneurship Show with your host, Steve Adams. This weekly show inspires and equips Christian entrepreneurs to build sustainable businesses that honor God and uplift impoverished communities. Join Steve for solo episodes and expert interviews as we advance the Great Commission by sharing insights, mentorship, and real-life stories of how biblical entrepreneurship is transforming lives and spreading the Gospel globally. Get ready to be inspired and empowered!​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​ Donate to the IBAM mission here- https://www.ibam.org

  1. EP 99: Excellence, Trust, and Everyday Mission, Part 2

    6d ago

    EP 99: Excellence, Trust, and Everyday Mission, Part 2

    What if the work you do every day is not separate from your faith, but one of the places God has already called you to serve? In this episode, Steve Adams and Jim Anthony explore the sacred/secular divide and why so many believers have felt that serving God only “counts” if they become a pastor, missionary, or go overseas. From Genesis 1:26–28 to everyday business leadership, the conversation reframes work as something God ordained and something that can advance human flourishing. You’ll hear how business owners can live out kingdom purpose by doing excellent work, caring genuinely for people, building trust, and staying open to the conversations God brings. Steve shares the story of Suryan in Indonesia, an IBAM student whose helmet and shoe-cleaning business became a simple pathway for serving students and sharing how God helped him with his own problems. Jim also reflects on leadership, employee care, the importance of getting out of the office, and why people often follow people—not just companies. The conversation then turns to how churches can see business as an extension of ministry, with structure, champions, and partnership. The episode closes with Jim’s powerful adoption story from Haiti after the 2010 earthquake, a moving picture of grace, family, and being welcomed home. It is heartfelt, practical, and deeply encouraging for anyone who wants their daily work to matter for the kingdom right where God has already placed them today, now. 00:00 Introduction00:58 Sacred Work02:37 Workplace Faith03:52 Inspiring Stories09:01 Leadership Lessons13:14 Business as Mission17:31 Personal Stories22:38 Conclusion 5 Takeaways 1. Work is not second-class ministry. The conversation reframes business and everyday work as sacred when seen through the lens of God’s design and human flourishing. 2. Excellence is part of the witness. Jim emphasizes that business owners should first be good at their business, because poor work can damage the testimony they hope to carry. 3. Trust often opens the door to faith conversations. Suryan’s story in Indonesia shows how kindness, consistency, and trust can lead people to share their problems and become open to hearing how God helped. 4. Leadership is deeply relational. The episode highlights caring for employees, knowing people by name, getting out of the office, and recognizing that people work for people. 5. Business as mission can work locally and globally. Jim and Steve discuss how churches can see business as an extension of ministry when they have structure, partnership, and a champion to help carry it forward. Watch full episode on YT - https://youtu.be/Mn296aVaG9U Join the free Third Fish Academy at ThirdFish.org Listen to Part 1 here: https://open.spotify.com/episode/7cP9yEdVVQ4YzAku3ehSYn?si=kEqhyDCLTxOTgJRYYiE-EQ

    25 min
  2. EP 98: How Christian Leaders Stay Grounded When Work Gets Heavy, Part 1

    May 25

    EP 98: How Christian Leaders Stay Grounded When Work Gets Heavy, Part 1

    In this conversation, Steve Adams sits down with Jim Batten to talk about faith, work, family, and the kind of leadership that gets tested in real life. Jim brings a deep business background, including leadership at O’Reilly Automotive, board service in banking, and years of experience carrying high-level responsibility. But the heart of this episode is not simply business success. It is about how a Christ follower leads when the demands of work, family, church, and calling all press in at the same time. Jim shares about his family, his faith journey, his marriage to Lorna, and the blessing of seeing his children serving the Lord. He also reflects on demanding seasons during his years at O’Reilly, when work required long hours and personal sacrifice. One of the strongest moments in the conversation is Jim’s picture of “holding the rock.” Sometimes the company needs more from you. Sometimes your family may carry extra weight for a season. But if you never come back and pick up what is yours to carry, things can break. Steve and Jim also discuss practical rhythms that helped Jim stay grounded, including staying involved in church, staying in the Word, spending faithful time with family, and creating a physical “switch gears” point on the way home from work. 00:00 Introduction00:57 Jim's Background01:56 Family Life03:46 Faith Journey06:02 Banking Experience09:54 Career Path13:13 Work-Life Balance16:34 Spiritual Disciplines20:34 Technology Impact22:54 Conclusion 5 Takeaways Faith and family are not side issues. Jim describes family as number one after his faith, and he views his children serving the Lord as a major measure of success. High-level leadership requires real sacrifice. During demanding seasons, Jim collapsed much of his personal time so he could work, spend time with family, and stay involved in church. Work-life balance is seasonal, not perfectly flat. Jim explains that there are seasons where work needs more, but that cannot become permanent without consequences. Leaders have to know who is “holding the rock.” Family may carry extra weight for a while, but leaders must return and pick up what is theirs to carry. Small rhythms can protect what matters. Jim used a physical point on his drive home to “switch gears” from work mode to home mode, helping him show up differently with his family. Source used: EP 98 Transcript. Watch full episode on YT - https://youtu.be/AdZWntBX9Ro Join the free Third Fish Academy at ThirdFish.org

    26 min
  3. E 97: The Leadership Lessons Behind the Museum of the Bible, Part 2

    May 18

    E 97: The Leadership Lessons Behind the Museum of the Bible, Part 2

    In this episode, Cary Summers shares the remarkable journey that led from operating major theme park organizations to helping create the Museum of the Bible in Washington, D.C. The conversation explores how a call from Bill Bright helped shape the vision behind the Nehemiah Group — building experiences designed to reach people who might never step foot inside a church. Cary walks through the early stages of projects like Nazareth Village, the Ark Encounter master plan, and the development of the Museum of the Bible itself. Along the way, he shares practical leadership insights for entrepreneurs and business leaders who want to pursue excellence while honoring God. From understanding “the five customers” every organization serves to learning how to ask better questions, this episode is filled with timeless business wisdom rooted in real-world experience. Cary also reflects on lessons learned from leaders like Jimmy Carter and discusses why listening carefully may be one of the most important skills a leader can develop. This conversation is both practical and encouraging for entrepreneurs, business owners, ministry leaders, and anyone interested in the intersection of faith, leadership, and long-term Kingdom impact. 5 Key Takeaways Excellence opens doors. Cary explains that creating high-quality, creative experiences helped attract people who might never normally engage with biblical content. Business principles still matter. The conversation emphasizes that honoring God in business does not remove the need for sound operations, margins, leadership, and accountability. Great leaders ask great questions. One of the strongest leadership lessons shared is the importance of learning how to listen well and ask better questions. Your organization serves more than one customer. Cary discusses the importance of understanding employees, communities, shareholders, suppliers, and guests as key stakeholders. Faith and business do not have to be separated. The episode challenges the idea that ministry and business belong in different worlds and highlights how business can become a platform for impact. Watch full episode on YT - https://youtu.be/h-8yVKmlMEA Join the free Third Fish Academy at ThirdFish.org Listen to Part 1 here: https://open.spotify.com/episode/6kI3PfDfBKY580Fo8RcRPH?si=Si-7LV95RES45ACteQ5Ljg

    20 min
  4. EP 96: Why Principles Never Change in Business and Leadership

    May 11

    EP 96: Why Principles Never Change in Business and Leadership

    In this episode, the conversation explores the intersection of faith, leadership, and timeless business principles through decades of real-world experience. From helping expand Abercrombie & Fitch and Bass Pro Shops to studying the Book of Nehemiah for over 40 years, this discussion uncovers how biblical principles continue to shape effective leadership and sustainable growth. One of the central themes is the idea that true principles never change. Strategies may evolve and trends may come and go, but foundational principles remain constant. The discussion highlights how these timeless truths can operate inside businesses, organizations, and even families — whether people recognize their biblical roots or not. The episode also tackles the long-standing “sacred vs secular” divide and challenges the belief that business and ministry belong in separate worlds. Instead, listeners hear how business can become a vehicle for stewardship, leadership, and impact when built on enduring values. You’ll also hear stories about teaching leadership principles internationally, implementing empowerment inside organizations, and why implementation matters more than simply collecting information. From multi-unit business expansion to leadership development rooted in Scripture, this conversation offers practical wisdom for entrepreneurs, leaders, and anyone passionate about Business as Mission. 00:00 Gary’s Journey01:42 Bass Pro Shops Growth04:15 Transition to Theme Parks06:02 Faith in Business12:21 Nehemiah Principles17:01 Lasting Impact19:05 Closing Reflections 5 Key Takeaways 1. Principles Never Change True principles are timeless. Trends, strategies, and tactics evolve, but foundational principles continue to work across generations and industries. 2. The Sacred vs Secular Divide Is False Business and faith are not separate worlds. Biblical principles can operate effectively inside organizations, leadership, and entrepreneurship. 3. Implementation Matters More Than Information Knowing principles is not enough. Real transformation happens when principles are implemented consistently in business, leadership, and life. 4. Empowerment Scales Organizations Empowering people with responsibility and trust creates stronger teams and allows organizations to grow effectively. 5. Timeless Principles Create Lasting Impact Whether in business, family, or leadership, enduring principles continue producing results because they are rooted in truths that do not change. 👉 Watch the full episode here: https://youtu.be/0-ngx6ntRg4 👉 Join the mission at IBAM.org

    24 min
  5. EP 95: How to Lead, Build, and Finish Well as a Christian Business Leader, Part 2

    May 4

    EP 95: How to Lead, Build, and Finish Well as a Christian Business Leader, Part 2

    What does it take to lead a business that truly matters—both now and for eternity? In this episode, we continue unpacking key biblical leadership principles modeled by Jesus—principles that challenge leaders to think beyond short-term success and build something that lasts. From the law of sowing and reaping to believing in the impossible, this conversation calls leaders to examine the seeds they are planting and the vision they are pursuing. You’ll hear why great leaders must think long-term—building not just for today, but for future generations—and how understanding the right order of priorities can bring clarity and effectiveness to leadership. The episode also highlights the importance of building a strong team, developing others, and recognizing that leadership was never meant to be a solo journey. Through real examples, you’ll see how shifting from transactional business practices to intentional, people-centered impact can create lasting significance. This includes serving others in meaningful ways and aligning daily actions with eternal purpose. The episode culminates in a powerful reminder: finishing well matters. Every leader desires to hear the words “well done,” and that requires intentional leadership, humility, and a commitment to the mission. If you’re a CEO, entrepreneur, or leader looking to align your business with purpose, vision, and lasting impact, this episode will both challenge and inspire you. 00:00 Faithful Entrepreneurship03:11 Trust and Vision07:36 Generational Legacy12:02 Divine Priorities14:47 Building Strong Teams16:33 Eternal Impact22:20 Finish Well27:46 Final Invitation 🔑 5 Key Takeaways 1. You reap what you sow—so plant intentionally. Leaders must evaluate whether they are sowing generously or sparingly, knowing that results are directly tied to what is planted. 2. Great leaders believe in the impossible. Vision starts with faith. Leaders are called to think bigger, ask “what if,” and believe beyond current limitations. 3. Build with a long-term, generational mindset. Leadership is not just about immediate results—it’s about creating something that impacts future generations. 4. Strong organizations are built through strong teams. Leadership is not a solo endeavor. Developing people and building relationships is essential for lasting success. 5. Finish well by staying aligned with your mission. The ultimate goal is not just success—but significance. Leaders should strive to complete their work with excellence and purpose. 👉 Watch the full episode: https://youtu.be/fH-ICHmbDyg 👉 Join the free Third Fish Academy at ThirdFish.org 👉 Listen to Part 1 here: https://open.spotify.com/episode/23OaYpkcUds7IqNJHgSyJF?si=tuzUFfdHRaqUXPXIiWqgmg

    32 min
  6. EP 94: How to Build a Business That Honors God, Part 1

    Apr 27

    EP 94: How to Build a Business That Honors God, Part 1

    What does it really mean to run a business that reflects God’s Kingdom? In this episode, we explore foundational biblical business principles that guide how leaders think, decide, and operate in both business and life. These principles are drawn from the teachings of Jesus—through His proclamations, parables, and practices—and are designed to shape every area of leadership. You’ll hear why business is not just about success, but about alignment—with purpose, stewardship, and eternal impact. From the call to “go the second mile,” to applying the Golden Rule in decision-making, these principles challenge the way leaders approach customers, teams, and growth. This episode also unpacks the importance of building profit with purpose, understanding the power of clear “yes” and “no” decisions, and making the critical shift from thinking like an owner to living as a steward. At the heart of it all is a deeper mission: not just building a successful business, but living a life that reflects God’s Kingdom and ultimately hears the words, “Well done, good and faithful servant.” If you’re a leader, entrepreneur, or someone seeking to integrate faith into your work, this conversation will challenge and equip you to lead with clarity, purpose, and impact. 00:00 Biblical Business Roots00:58 Principles Introduction08:19 Key Business Principles18:17 Profits with Purpose21:39 Purposeful Impact27:49 Call to Action 👉 Watch the full episode: https://youtu.be/Ah0XgHAGo_Y 👉 Join the free Third Fish Academy at ThirdFish.org 5 Key Takeaways Go the Second MileSuccess in business and life comes from always taking the next step and going a little further, not just doing the minimum. The Golden Rule Still WorksTreating others the way you want to be treated is a foundational principle for long-term business success and strong relationships. Profit Must Have PurposeBusinesses are designed to generate profit, but lasting impact comes when profit is aligned with a greater purpose. Clarity Comes from Yes and NoStrong leadership requires clear decisions—knowing what to pursue and what to avoid creates focus and trust. You Are a Steward, Not an OwnerShifting from ownership to stewardship changes how leaders view responsibility, accountability, and their role in God’s work.

    29 min
  7. EP 93: The Story of “R”: From Intelligence Officer to Kingdom Impact

    Apr 20

    EP 93: The Story of “R”: From Intelligence Officer to Kingdom Impact

    In this episode, Steve Adams shares a powerful true story that captures the heart of business as mission. You’ll hear the journey of “R”, a former senior intelligence officer in Assad’s army who came to faith in Christ—and immediately faced life-altering consequences. Forced to flee his country, separated from his family, and dropped into Ukraine without language or direction, he found himself in a place of deep crisis. What happened next is remarkable. After encountering IBAM training, R made a bold decision: return and share the Gospel, even if it cost him his life. He survived—and came back with a renewed vision. From there, he developed a business idea, built relationships, launched successfully, and repaid his loan within 10 months. Along the way, he became a leader in his church, created jobs, and met real needs in his community. But what impacted him most wasn’t just the business training—it was the realization that business itself is a gift from God, a calling that can glorify Him while serving others. This episode isn’t just a story. It’s a window into what’s possible when faith and business are fully integrated. 👉 Listen now and discover how one life can multiply into lasting impact. 00:00 Welcome & Vision01:43 R's Introduction04:12 Crossing Borders06:23 Business Transformation08:28 Faith in Action10:20 Empowerment & Invitation12:37 Closing Thoughts 5 Takeaways 1. Faith Can Redefine Everything R’s encounter with Christ created a clear turning point that reshaped his entire life direction. 2. Obedience Often Requires Risk He chose to return and share the Gospel despite the real possibility of death. 3. Business Can Be a Tool for Impact Through his business, he created jobs, met needs, and served his community. 4. Biblical Understanding Unlocks Purpose Learning that business is a God-ordained calling gave him freedom and motivation to pursue it fully. 5. Multiplication Is the Goal This story represents a model being replicated globally to create lasting spiritual and economic impact. Watch full episode on YT -  https://youtu.be/JO3qnS6SkUU Join the free Third Fish Academy at ThirdFish.org

    14 min
  8. EP 92: Stop Doing for God—Start Being With God with Shawn Yates, Part 2

    Apr 13

    EP 92: Stop Doing for God—Start Being With God with Shawn Yates, Part 2

    What does it really look like to integrate faith into business? In this episode, we go beyond surface-level ideas and explore the deeper transformation that happens when Christian entrepreneurs begin to align not just their why, but their how with God. Many leaders start with the desire to glorify God through their business. But as discussed here, the real challenge begins when that conviction meets reality. Integrating faith into business decisions, leadership, and daily operations often raises the standard—and makes things harder. Through the lens of C12, this conversation highlights how leaders are challenged to rethink everything—from how they view people (as souls to steward, not resources to manage) to how they define success. You’ll hear how business can actually disciple you, shaping your character, exposing blind spots, and calling you to greater personal holiness. And while strategy and growth matter, the deeper work is what God is doing in the leader first. This episode also confronts the cultural narrative of hustle and sacrifice. Instead of trading family, health, and spiritual life for success, leaders are invited into a different way—one marked by stewardship, submission, and trust. At its core, this is a conversation about identity, purpose, and transformation. 00:00 C12 Explained03:45 Faith Integration08:41 Transformation Insights13:23 Order vs Chaos16:44 Redefining Success21:23 Leadership Purpose24:46 Discipleship Focus28:04 Closing Thoughts 🔑 5 Key Takeaways 1. Changing the “why” isn’t enough—you must transform the “how.” Many leaders dedicate their business to God, but still operate the same way. 2. Integrating faith into business raises the standard—and the difficulty. Following Christ in business often requires harder decisions and higher accountability. 3. Business doesn’t just grow your company—it disciples you. The deeper transformation happens in the leader, not just the strategy. 4. Success must be redefined through stewardship, not just profit. It’s not just about outcomes—it’s about how and why those outcomes are pursued. 5. True leadership begins with submission, not striving. The shift from “doing for God” to “being with God” changes everything. Watch full episode on YT -  https://youtu.be/tS5mIWOIero Join the free Third Fish Academy at ThirdFish.org

    31 min
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About

Welcome to the IBAM Biblical Entrepreneurship Show with your host, Steve Adams. This weekly show inspires and equips Christian entrepreneurs to build sustainable businesses that honor God and uplift impoverished communities. Join Steve for solo episodes and expert interviews as we advance the Great Commission by sharing insights, mentorship, and real-life stories of how biblical entrepreneurship is transforming lives and spreading the Gospel globally. Get ready to be inspired and empowered!​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​ Donate to the IBAM mission here- https://www.ibam.org

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