The Workmatters Podcast

Workmatters
  • 5.0 (13)
  • CHRISTIANITY

The conversations on The Workmatters Podcast inspire, equip, and empower Christians to embrace work as one of the most fertile fields for spiritual transformation. You will hear powerful stories from practitioners on how they have been formed into the image of Christ in their work, at their work, and through their work.

  1. DEC 18

    The Workmatters Podcast Season 1 Recap

    Thank you for listening to Season One of The Workmatters Podcast! We are incredibly thankful for each of our guests who faithfully shared their stories, wisdom, and testimonies, and for every listener who joined us along the way. It has been a true privilege to serve you. Throughout this season, we’ve explored the biblical truth that your work matters to God. From the very beginning of Scripture, we see that God is a worker, and He invites us to join Him in His work in the world. Whether your work takes place in an office, a classroom, a home, a church, or the community, it is not insignificant. When offered to God, our work becomes an act of worship and a way to love and serve others. Our conversations were designed to equip and encourage you with Christ-centered tools, Scripture-shaped perspectives, and real-life stories that affirm the sacredness of everyday work. We hope these episodes helped you see your vocation as a calling, reminded you that God is present in the ordinary rhythms of your workday, and strengthened your faith as you seek to glorify Him in all that you do. As we close Season One, we invite you to continue reflecting on these conversations, revisit past episodes, and share them with others who may need encouragement. Thank you for being part of this community!

    6 min

  2. DEC 11

    Partnering with Chaplains and Care Coaches to Build a Strong Culture

    Summary Welcome to The Workmatters Podcast! In this episode, hosts Brandon Swoboda and Darrel Harvey sit down with Larry Griffith, CEO of Corporate Chaplains of America, to explore how holistic care can transform workplace culture and fuel both individual and team resilience. With over three decades of leadership experience spanning the US Navy, Fortune 250 corporations, and the nonprofit sector, Larry shares his journey from command-and-control leadership to a focus on being fully present for others. Brandon, Darrel, and Larry discuss the challenges of leading people who are hurting, the value of meeting employees where they are, regardless of faith background, and the impact of Corporate Chaplains of America's work across thousands of business locations. Through heartfelt stories, Larry reveals why investing in people’s well-being pays dividends for both workplace performance and eternal purpose. Hear practical insights on what holistic care really looks like, how companies can partner with Corporate Chaplains of America, and what it takes to become a workplace chaplain. Whether you're a business owner, leader, or simply passionate about creating a healthy workplace culture, this conversation offers encouragement, real-world wisdom, and a glimpse into the power of compassionate leadership! Show Notes 00:00 Introduction 06:01 A Journey of Leadership and Compassion 09:42 Building Relationships Through Thoughtful Care 12:41 Servant Leadership and Brotherhood 18:49 Valuing Employees Beyond Work 25:57 The Impact of Frequent Turnover 33:17 Living Fully Through the Spirit 39:25 LEET Care: Personalized Support Coaches 41:04 Closing Thoughts Links Brandon Swoboda Darrel Harvey Workmatters Larry Griffith Corporate Chaplains Of America

    42 min

  3. DEC 4

    Work Hard, Trust God, and Invest in People with Dr. Crystal Steen

    Brandon Swoboda and Keisha Fowler are joined by industry leader Dr. Crystal Steen, Senior Vice President of Culture and Learning at Simmons Foods. In this compelling conversation, Crystal takes us on a journey spanning her upbringing on a Missouri family farm, her academic achievements, and her path through different industries, including agriculture, manufacturing, and leadership development. Together, they explore how faith and hard work have been central themes throughout Crystal’s life and career as she shares candid stories of navigating unexpected changes, trusting in God’s plans even when the next step isn’t clear, and witnessing the impact of living out faith in the workplace. You’ll hear how she avoided tying her identity to job titles and instead focused on being open to where God was leading her. This episode also provides an insider’s look at the culture at Simmons Foods, where putting people first and supporting holistic well-being are top priorities. Additionally, Crystal and Keisha discuss how workplace culture is shaped not just by leadership, but by everyone who shows up and cares for their teammates. Whether you’re a leader, team member, or just someone striving to integrate faith and purpose into your daily work, this conversation is packed with wisdom, encouragement, and practical advice for creating positive change within any organization. Tune in to hear honest reflections on resilience, leadership, and the purpose of work in our lives! Show Notes 00:00 Introduction 02:04 Crystal’s Background and Journey 09:36 Building Leadership Through Connection 16:36 Putting People First Holistically 21:31 Simmons Foods’ Culture of Caring 28:26 Closing Thoughts Links Brandon Swoboda Keisha Fowler Workmatters Dr. Crystal Steen Simmons Foods

    29 min

  4. NOV 20

    How Work Can Be Worship with Manuel Barrantes

    This week on The Workmatters Podcast we are joined by Manuel Barrantes, director of Spark Shopper Experience at Walmart, a United Nations Resolution Fellow, and a dedicated storyteller for the Workmatters Institute. Growing up in Nicaragua, he was shaped by hardship and the belief that education and hard work could unlock a better future. Winning the Walton Family Scholarship changed everything, bringing him to the U.S. with zero English and opening the door to new opportunities and a transformative way of seeing faith. For Manuel, faith wasn’t just a set of rules; it evolved into a relationship, influencing how he leads at work and supports his family. In this episode, Manuel talks about overcoming language barriers, adapting to new cultures, and the immense challenge of bringing his extended family to the States. He shares how launching multiple family businesses helped his loved ones find dignity and purpose in their new home, and how his experiences at Harding University helped re-frame his view of spirituality. Moreover, you’ll hear candid discussions on balancing ambition with authenticity, learning from adversity, and stewarding resources to be a blessing to others. Whether you’re an aspiring leader, an established professional, or simply seeking inspiration, Manuel’s story is a testament to resilience, generosity, and transforming work into worship! Show Notes 00:00 Introduction 05:42 Growing Up in Church of Christ 07:22 Finding Faith in New Perspectives 13:40 Supporting His Sister with a Food Truck 17:22 Growth Through Trusted Leadership 22:53 Why Energy Matters in Relationships Links Brandon Swoboda Darrel Harvey Workmatters Manuel Barrantes Workmatters Institute Walmart

    24 min

  5. NOV 13

    Work is the Proving Ground of Faith, Make the Most of it! With Donnie Smith

    Welcome to The Workmatters Podcast! Our host Brandon Swoboda is joined by Donnie Smith, a longtime friend, mentor, and the former CEO of Tyson Foods, now leading impactful work as the chairman of the African Sustainable Agricultural Project. Donnie’s story is one of authentic faith in action, from his early career days on chicken farms to leading one of America’s largest food companies, and now empowering communities in Rwanda. In this conversation, Donnie opens up about how faith became real in his work life, learning to lead with integrity and compassion, and the deeply practical ways he lived out his beliefs, like having a Bible on his desk and taking time to know and care for the people he worked with. Together, Brandon and Donnie talk about what it’s really like for your faith to be tested, not just in church, but in the rough and tumble of daily work, business setbacks, and high-stakes leadership. Donnie also shares his passion for Africa, where he’s building sustainable food systems that bring hope and dignity to those living on less than a dollar a day. Whether you’re new to your career or a seasoned leader wondering how your faith can shape your work, Donnie’s insights into honoring God with excellence, building up others, and blooming where you’re planted are sure to inspire and challenge you! Show Notes 00:00 Introduction 04:57 Leadership and Responsibility in the Workplace 11:56 Faith Challenges in Leadership Transitions 16:55 Experiencing Faith Being Challenged at Church 20:22 God’s New Assignment for You 26:59 Building Food Systems and Leaders 31:16 Closing Thoughts Links Brandon Swoboda Workmatters Donnie Smith African Sustainable Agriculture Project

    32 min

  6. NOV 6

    The Power of Joining God Where He is at Work with Cheryl Bachelder

    Welcome to another episode of The Workmatters Podcast! This week, hosts Darrel Harvey and Brandon Swoboda sit down with Cheryl Bachelder, former CEO of Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen and a leader with a remarkable track record across several iconic brands, including Chick-fil-A and Domino’s Pizza. Cheryl shares her journey from passionate leadership to discovering how deeply work matters to God, and how faith can fully integrate with professional life, no matter what industry you’re in. She brings powerful insights on servant leadership, the importance of listening and caring, and the simple yet profound practice of joining God in the work right where you are. Whether you’re a seasoned executive, a mentor, or just starting your career, Cheryl’s wisdom on purpose, calling, and creating a kingdom impact through everyday work will leave you inspired. Plus, she touches on mentoring younger generations, the role of courage and humility, and why, no matter the cultural moment, our hope rests in God’s continuing work. Get ready for an uplifting and practical conversation about finding meaning, serving well, and flourishing at work! Show Notes 00:00 Introduction 04:27 Exploring Work as a Divine Trust 08:36 Transforming Leadership Through Listening 11:12 Life’s Purpose: It’s Not About You 15:07 Faithful Action in Familiar Places 18:35 Mentoring Leaders Across Generations 21:36 Soul Health in Modern Times 28:25 Closing Thoughts Links Brandon Swoboda Darrel Harvey Workmatters Cheryl Bachelder US Foods, Chick fil A Corporate

    29 min

  7. OCT 30

    Exploring Work as an Opportunity for Discipleship and Worship with Dr. Libin Abraham

    Hosts Keisha Fowler and Brandon Swoboda sit down with Dr. Libin Abraham, lead pastor of Bent Tree Bible Fellowship in Carrollton, Texas, for an inspiring conversation about how faith comes alive in the workplace. Drawing on his own journey from Kerala, India, to Texas and his deep experience in pastoral ministry, Dr. Abraham shares powerful insights into why our jobs are more than just places of employment; they are mission fields where faith is truly activated. Together, they explore the shift from viewing work as simply a means to an end to understanding it as an opportunity for discipleship and worship. Dr. Abraham discusses the biblical foundation for marketplace ministry, the importance of seeing ourselves as sacred carriers of God’s presence at work, and the practical ways anyone can live out faith—even in places that feel more like Athens than Jerusalem. Whether you’re in an office, on a job site, or working from home, this episode is filled with real encouragement and practical wisdom for making every space sacred. Tune in to discover how embracing holy discontent, listening well, and showing genuine care to those around you can transform your daily work into meaningful ministry! Show Notes 00:00 Introduction 04:48 Representing Church Beyond Sundays 07:47 How Discipleship Includes Mission 11:27 Analyzing Workplace Brokenness and Hope 14:04 An Athens vs. Jerusalem Mentality 19:15 Embracing an Exilic Identity 26:11 Viewing the Workplace as a Mission Field 30:36 Closing Thoughts Links Brandon Swoboda Keisha Fowler Workmatters Dr. Libin Abraham Bent Tree Bible Fellowship

    32 min

  8. OCT 23

    The Why and How of Bringing Your Whole Self to Work with Alex Fittin

    Welcome to another episode of The Workmatters Podcast! In this episode, Brandon Swoboda and Darrel Harvey sit down with Alex Fittin, an Enneagram coach and trainer whose passion is helping individuals, teams, and organizations thrive by understanding the core motivations that drive us. Drawing from her trauma-informed practice, Alex shares how the Enneagram goes below the surface of what we do to uncover why we do it, and how this deeper self-awareness can foster more effective, resilient, and faith-anchored workplaces. Alex opens up about her journey from being a people person to becoming an expert in interpersonal communication, adoption advocacy, and trauma support. She unpacks the holistic approach of the Enneagram, how it differs from other personality systems, and why understanding your true self is essential for both personal growth and organizational health.  Whether you’re new to the Enneagram or a seasoned enthusiast, Alex offers practical insights on integrating faith and work, embracing your unique God-given design, and building sustainable, purpose-driven teams. Tune in to discover how the Enneagram can transform the way you see yourself and those around you—at work, at home, and in your community! Show Notes 00:00 Introduction 04:36 Enneagram Coaching for Healing Trauma 06:26 Embracing Unique Strength with the Enneagram 12:43 A Holistic Approach to Personal Growth 22:27 Embracing the Peacemaker’s Journey 29:53 Closing Thoughts Links Brandon Swoboda Darrel Harvey Workmatters Alex Fittin Gap Relief

    30 min
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About

The conversations on The Workmatters Podcast inspire, equip, and empower Christians to embrace work as one of the most fertile fields for spiritual transformation. You will hear powerful stories from practitioners on how they have been formed into the image of Christ in their work, at their work, and through their work.

Information

  • Creator
    Workmatters
  • Years Active
    2K
  • Episodes
    17
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2025 Go Rogue X, LLC
  • Show Website
    The Workmatters Podcast

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