The Wow Factor

Brad Formsma
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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

  1. DEC 17

    Jordan Raynor | Author, Entrepreneur & Executive Chairman at Threshold 360 | Why Your Work Matters for Eternity

    Jordan Raynor is a bestselling author, serial entrepreneur, and the Executive Chairman of Threshold 360, a venture-backed tech company. A sixth-generation Tampa native, Jordan has built and exited multiple startups, served in the political arena, and now devotes his life to helping Christians connect the gospel to their everyday work. Through his books, podcasts, and speaking, Jordan's mission is to equip believers to see their daily tasks, whether in tech, teaching, or making coffee as sacred and significant. In this rich and thought-provoking episode of The Wow Factor, Brad sits down with Jordan to explore the turning points of his life—from a teenage campaign manager to a tech founder, and ultimately, a writer and teacher helping others redeem their time and purpose. Jordan shares how a pivotal post-church conversation reframed his view of work, the journey behind his first book Called to Create, and why the gospel speaks to spreadsheets and startup culture just as much as sermons. They dive deep into time stewardship, distractions, work as ministry, and the countercultural freedom that comes when you stop chasing your bucket list and start living for eternal impact. "God cares about the work itself, not just the evangelism you're doing within it or funding through it." - Jordan Raynor "For the Christian, nothing is secular and everything is sacred." - Jordan Raynor "You are not the savior of the world, and neither am I, and that is terrifically freeing."  - Jordan Raynor This Week on The Wow Factor: Growing up in Tampa and discovering politics through a middle school teacher Why Jordan walked away from politics after a White House internship How a mentor's honest question redirected his entire career The biblical foundation for why all work matters to God Why the idea of "secular work" is a false divide The powerful message of Jordan's first book, Called to Create How Jesus' life as a carpenter reframes how we think about "sacred" work Jordan's framework for stewarding time based on Jesus' own rhythms Practical ways to reclaim your attention and avoid "infinity pools" of content Why Jordan completely cut out the news—and didn't miss a thing Insights from his bestselling book Redeeming Your Time How he and his family prioritize presence by setting phone boundaries The impact of internships on Jordan's early career trajectory Why bucket lists can become burdens—and what Jesus offers instead How Randy Alcorn and C.S. Lewis have influenced Jordan's theology of eternity Why Jordan's next book will focus on setting goals the way Jesus did Jordan Raynor's Word of Wisdom: If you don't have a relationship with Jesus, generosity won't make much sense. At best, it's PR or a feel-good move. But once you realize He gave everything for you, the only logical response is to spend your life giving your time, your money, your presence, everything in return. Connect with Jordan Raynor:   Jordan Raynors Website Mere Christians Podcast Jordans Courses Jordans Books Connect with The Wow Factor:   WOW Factor Website   Brad Formsma on LinkedIn   Brad Formsma on Instagram   Brad Formsma on Facebook   Brad Formsma on X

    53 min

  2. DEC 3

    Matt McPherson | Founder of Mathews Archery & McPherson Guitars | Building a Business That Funds the Kingdom

    Matt McPherson is an inventor, entrepreneur, and passionate follower of Jesus Christ whose companies have reshaped two industries, archery and high-end guitar manufacturing. As the founder of Mathews Archery, one of the most respected names in hunting and bow technology, and McPherson Guitars, known for their unique design and pristine tone, Matt has spent decades building world-class products from the woods of Sparta, Wisconsin. But his bigger mission? Funding global ministry and sharing the Gospel with clarity and creativity. In this milestone 300th episode of The Wow Factor, Brad reconnects with his longtime friend Matt McPherson for a powerful conversation about calling, hearing from God, and stewarding business as a tool for impact. Matt shares how a childhood love for archery led to launching Mathews Archery, and how a prophetic word in his early 20s reshaped his view of work and ministry forever. They explore the story behind his breakthrough product Lost Camo, the founding of The Salvation Poem Foundation, and the journey to producing Light of the World, a full-length animated film on the life of Jesus. From financial risk during COVID shutdowns to watching a God-sized vision unfold on screen, Matt's story is full of practical faith, spiritual listening, and a relentless pursuit of simplicity—in both business and belief. "I heard God say, 'I'm going to prosper you in business so you can be self-sufficient in ministry.'"  - Matt McPherson "Let's make our homes an uncomfortable place for the enemy to hang out."  - Matt McPherson "The Gospel is simple: We broke it. God fixed it through Christ. And now we choose to receive it." - Matt McPherson This Week on The Wow Factor: How a childhood moment with a toy bow shaped Matt's entire future The prophetic word that redirected Matt's dreams and defined his mission Why Matt believes engineers are made to simplify—and how that applies to faith Founding Mathews Archery in Wisconsin and building a global brand How a request for camouflage sparked the creation of Lost Camo Practical stories of hearing from God—down to camera purchases and Walmart trips How Matt handled a full company shutdown during COVID without layoffs The surprising result: 2020 became Mathews' most profitable year ever What it means to trust God's timing (and not get ahead of Him) The backstory behind The Salvation Poem—and its reach to over 1 billion people Producing Light of the World: A $30M animated film sharing the story of Jesus How the movie distills the entire Gospel into one clear, beautiful arc Why Matt refuses to overcomplicate the message of Jesus The joy of giving, the power of obedience, and the impact of business-led ministry Matt McPherson's Word of Wisdom: If I'm going to eat the food and take up the space, I want to give back more than I take. Ask God to let you be part of what He's doing. Connect with Matthews Archery:  Matthews Archery Matthews Archery Instagram Matthews Archery YouTube Connect with McPherson Guitars:  McPherson Guitars McPherson Guitars Instagram McPherson Guitars YouTube Connect with The Wow Factor:  WOW Factor Website  Brad Formsma on LinkedIn  Brad Formsma on Instagram  Brad Formsma on Facebook  Brad Formsma on X

    44 min

  3. NOV 19

    Dr. Rick Lytle | President & CEO of CEO Forum | Shaping Spiritual Leaders in the Marketplace

    Dr. Rick Lytle is the President and CEO of the CEO Forum, a ministry organization that mentors and disciples Christian CEOs and senior executives leading companies with $100M+ in revenue. With a background in academia and a Ph.D. in marketing, Rick spent years as a professor and business school dean before stepping into his role at the CEO Forum. His mission? To support leaders in building lives and legacies marked by character, competence, and calling—both at work and at home.  In this episode of The Wow Factor, Brad sits down with Dr. Rick at the home studio in Irvine, California for an in-depth conversation about how faith intersects with leadership at the highest levels of business. Rick shares his personal journey from growing up in the Detroit suburbs to launching a nationally accredited business program at Abilene Christian University, where he served as dean. He opens up about the founding of the CEO Forum, his research on what shapes great leaders, and how he's equipping the next generation through programs like Entrust and the Leadership Summit. With warmth and candor, Dr. Rick unpacks what it means to live and lead with "higher intent"—and why the marketplace might just be the front line of spiritual renewal.  "Don't be cheap with God—because He's never been cheap with you." - Dr. Rick Lytle  "We've raised this generation to be exactly who they are. If we want something different, we've got to step up." - Dr. Rick Lytle  "You can't move with God and stay where you are."  - Dr. Rick Lytle  This Week on The Wow Factor:  How Rick's early career at Volkswagen led to a pivot into academia    What it took to transform ACU's business school into an accredited, nationally ranked program    Raising $35 million and recruiting top faculty in the face of skepticism    The vision behind CEO Forum and its mission to disciple Christian CEOs    How spiritual leadership looks different in the marketplace    What Rick's research reveals about the upbringing and values of top Christian leaders    The importance of family, faith, and hard work in shaping leadership    A deep dive into CEO Forum's flagship training programs: Spiritual Leadership Institute and Entrust    Preparing the next generation of leaders to steward influence and wealth with integrity    How retired CEOs are mentoring young executives through Encore    Why Rick believes revival isn't just for churches—it's happening in the marketplace  Rick Lytle's Word of Wisdom:  Live with higher intent. Ask not just what you want to do, but what God wants to do through you.  About CEO Forum:  CEO Forum is a membership community built to serve the distinct needs of Christ-following CEOs and senior executives leading major enterprises. Through trusted peer-based communities, personal pastoral care, and intentional spiritual formation, CEO Forum helps leaders live the way of Jesus in every sphere of life. Learn more at theceoforum.org or contact Mark Meador, VP of Member Advancement, at mark@theceoforum.org to explore membership or refer a leader.  CEO Forum also serves emerging leaders through the ENTRUST Summit, a next-generation mentoring gathering on February 26–27, 2026. WOW Factor podcast listeners are invited to nominate or register qualified participants.  Connect with CEO Forum:   CEO Forum  Dr. Rick Lytle's LinkedIn  Connect with The Wow Factor:   WOW Factor Website   Brad Formsma on LinkedIn   Brad Formsma on Instagram   Brad Formsma on Facebook   Brad Formsma on X

    44 min

  4. NOV 5

    Brent and Tracey McKee | Founders of McKee & Company | Designing a Business That Feels Like Home

    Brent and Tracey McKee are the visionary founders behind McKee & Company, a luxury furniture and interior design business that's been redefining the Southern California design landscape for over 26 years. Known for their thoughtful, timeless style and deep commitment to quality and service, the McKees have built more than a business, they've built a trusted, relationship-driven brand. Now, they're stepping into a new chapter with a reimagined space that blends elevated design, hands-on collaboration, and a curated client experience like no other. In this episode of The Wow Factor, Brad visits Brent and Tracey at their new location in Costa Mesa to unpack the remarkable story behind McKee & Company and their custom furniture line, Sparrow & Sage. From a career pivot sparked by an unexpected exit from a family business, to weathering the 2008 recession with grit and faith, the McKees share candid lessons from their journey. Tracey opens up about what it means to design spaces that truly transform how people feel in their homes, while Brent offers business insights on scaling with purpose and resilience. Together, they reflect on leading a values-driven company and the joy of passing their knowledge on to the next generation. "I think what I've always felt my gift is helping people come home, feel energized, and go do what they're meant to do." — Tracey McKee "We inspire and we guide—and when you put inspiration in front of people and help them get there, they're generally appreciative." — Brent McKee This Week on The Wow Factor: How a career setback with family launched McKee & Company Lessons from surviving the 2008 recession with a 70% revenue drop Why McKee & Company pivoted to a new showroom model that's by design—not just design How Tracey's deep furniture knowledge and retail roots shaped their curated design approach What inspired the couple to launch their own line: Sparrow & Sage Behind the scenes of furniture design: from kitchen table sketches to national sales How McKee & Company serves professional designers and trades in their new space Building a brand that's high-touch, faith-infused, and made to last Brent and Tracey McKee's Word of Wisdom: Tracey: "Just keep showing up and keep asking the Lord for what you need." Brent: "Do what you love and build something where people enjoy the journey." Connect with McKee & Company: McKee & Company Website Sparrow and Sage Website McKee & Company on Instagram Sparrow & Sage on Instagram McKee & Company on Facebook Connect with The Wow Factor: WOW Factor Website Brad Formsma on LinkedIn Brad Formsma on Instagram Brad Formsma on Facebook Brad Formsma on X

    48 min

  5. OCT 29

    Tia Newcomer | CEO of CaringBridge | Leading with Heart in the For-Impact World

    Tia Newcomer is the CEO of CaringBridge, a nonprofit providing a vital digital platform where families can communicate, receive support, and rally their communities during health journeys. With a career that spans Revlon, PepsiCo., Hewlett-Packard, and multiple health tech ventures, Tia brings a rich background from the for-profit world into the heart of the nonprofit sector, or as she prefers to call it, the for-impact space.  In this episode of The Wow Factor, Brad sits down with Tia to unpack her career journey across four pivotal pillars, from consumer goods to tech, healthcare, and now mission-driven leadership. She shares how personal experiences, including her husband's fight with cancer and her own sense of purpose, led her to take a surprising leap into nonprofit leadership. Tia discusses the real-world impact of CaringBridge on hundreds of thousands of families every day, the technology powering it, and how "ministry pace" just won't cut it when the stakes are this high. She also dives deep into why entrepreneurial thinking, business rigor, and cross-sector collaboration are essential in the nonprofit space.  "The difference between nonprofit and for-profit is a tax status. The skillset? It's the same." – Tia Newcomer  "In moments of crisis, people don't need 'let me know how I can help.' They need tangible action." – Tia Newcomer  "If I'm spending the majority of my time working, it better be fulfilling. That's the leap I made." – Tia Newcomer  This Week on The Wow Factor:  Tia's four career pillars: Consumer Goods, Technology, Women's Health, and Nonprofit    Why leaving HP was her wake-up call to find purpose in her work    Her perspective on for-impact vs. nonprofit leadership    How CaringBridge grew to 300,000 daily users with only 40 employees    The real story behind the CaringBridge platform and its founder    Why technology for good is more essential than ever    The burden of "just let me know how I can help" and what to say instead    The power of one person raising their hand to share updates and mobilize care    Partnering with GoFundMe to raise over $10M directly for patients and families    The role of generosity, from emotional support to meals, transportation, and funds  Tia Newcomer's Word of Wisdom:  Leadership is about building something that matters and having the courage to follow the nudge, even when it's outside your comfort zone.  Connect With CaringBridge: Tia Newcomer  CaringBridge Website  CaringBridge LinkedIn  CaringBridge on Facebook  CaringBridge on Instagram  Connect with The Wow Factor:     WOW Factor Website  Brad Formsma on LinkedIn  Brad Formsma on Instagram  Brad Formsma on Facebook  Brad Formsma on X

    41 min

  6. OCT 22

    John O'Leary | Speaker and Coach| Inspiring Change Through Personal Struggle

    In 1987, John O'Leary was a curious nine-year-old boy. Playing with fire and gasoline, John created a massive explosion in his home and was burned on 100% of his body. He was given a 1% chance to live. This epic story of survival was first showcased in his parents' book, Overwhelming Odds, in 2006. It was this book that first invited John to embrace his miraculous recovery and share it with the world. John inspires nearly 75,000 people at 100+ events each year. John's first book, ON FIRE: The 7 Choices to Ignite a Radically Inspired Life, was an instant #1 National Bestseller; his Live Inspired Podcast is a top 20 for business on iTunes & Inc. Magazine. His online community is 200,000 strong. John considers his greatest success to be his marriage to his wife, Beth, their four children, and his relationships with friends and family. I'm so honored to welcome John to the show to share his journey from near death to striving to multiply his talents and repay the generosity of others. He discusses his path to becoming a speaker and how saying yes to opportunities led to speaking in 50 states, dozens of countries, and at over 2,500 events. John also shares lessons from his own life to encourage leaders to be grounded and not worry too much about life's setbacks, as they will inevitably pass. "Generosity is not only about money. It's about time and attention." - John O'Leary "Seeds are taking deeper root, the right next steps are happening, and God's Will be lived out." - John O'Leary "The cool thing about generosity is it's never one plus one is two, it's a multiple." -  John O'Leary This Week on The Wow Factor: The shocking fire that burned 100% of 9-year-old John's body and his long process of recovery John's memory of lying in a hospital bed wrapped in bandages and hearing the voice of his hero Jack Buck and how his daily visits inspired John in his recovery How Jack, by speaking life and challenge over John, helped support his wider family  How John managed to earn 60 signed baseballs and learn how to write again from his hospital bed The importance of being interruptible in life and making time for people who need us How John became a speaker, and he shares his experience of his first speaking engagement for an audience of three Girl Scouts John discusses the upcoming movie production for the film inspired by his story, with director Sean McNamara How John was able to finally help his parents in return when they suffered a second fire in their home John O'Leary's Words of Wisdom: My reminder to you is that this too shall pass.  Almost everything on this side of eternity, the good and the bad, will eventually pass.   Connect with John O'Leary:  John O' Leary Website John O' Leary YouTube John O' Leary Instagram John O' Leary LinkedIn John O' Leary Facebook Connect with The WOW Factor: The WOW Factor Website Connect with Brad Formsma via email Brad Formsma on LinkedIn Brad Formsma on Instagram Brad Formsma on Facebook Brad Formsma on Twitter

    52 min

  7. OCT 15

    Bill Johnson | Pastor and Senior Leader at Bethel Church | Living a Lifestyle of Generosity | Part 2

    Bill Johnson serves as the Senior Leader of Bethel Church in Redding, California. Known globally for his teaching on revival, faith, and the Kingdom of God, Bill's ministry has been marked by a consistent focus on gratitude, generosity, and living a life shaped by God's presence. Through decades of leadership, he has taught that generosity is more than financial giving—it's a lifestyle of humility, kindness, and service that reflects God's design for humanity. In this episode, Brad sits down with Bill to talk about gratitude, generosity, and why the two are inseparably linked. Bill shares stories from his own journey and ministry, including how generosity builds cultures, changes atmospheres, and even serves as a "weapon" against division and despair. He also unpacks why generosity is evidence of repentance, how repeated acts form culture, and why we are never more like Christ than when we are generous. Along the way, Bill offers practical wisdom on cultivating a grateful heart, modeling generosity across generations, and trusting God even in seasons of delay. "To live without thankfulness is the most self-centered way to live." – Bill Johnson "If you're actually giving, you're not trying to get a response. If you're trying to get a response, you're buying—you're not giving." – Bill Johnson "You're no more like Jesus than when you're generous." – Bill Johnson This Week on The Wow Factor: Gratitude as the foundation for humility, mental health, and healthy relationships Why generosity is more than money—it's a posture of life and service The story of "Generous Students" and teaching gratitude with no carry-forwards Why repeated acts of giving form a true culture of generosity The three kinds of givers: no giver, grumpy giver, cheerful giver How small, intentional acts—like tipping hotel staff or thanking baristas—shift atmospheres Why generosity is evidence of repentance and a renewed mind How encouraging words can be one of the most powerful forms of giving Modeling generosity across generations and why Bill gives gifts on his own birthday The importance of living in trust when God's answers are delayed Serving communities quietly: Bethel's behind-the-scenes generosity toward their city Why generosity must move from an action to a lifestyle that can't be switched off Bill Johnson's Word of Wisdom: Faith is spelled R-I-S-K. Start somewhere, even if it's small. Sacrifice means going one step beyond comfort, and that's where growth begins. Yesterday's sacrifice is today's convenience—so keep pressing into new steps of generosity. Connect With Bill Johnson: Bethel Church Website Bethel Church Facebook Bethel Church Instagram Bethel Church YouTube Bethel Church Podcasts Pastor Bill Johnson Facebook Pastor Bill Johnson's Books Connect with The Wow Factor:   WOW Factor Website   Brad Formsma on LinkedIn    Brad Formsma on Instagram    Brad Formsma on Facebook    X (formerly Twitter)

    37 min

  8. OCT 8

    Bill Johnson | Pastor and Senior Leader at Bethel Church | Living a Lifestyle of Generosity | Part 1

    Bill Johnson serves as the Senior Leader of Bethel Church in Redding, California. Known globally for his teaching on revival, faith, and the Kingdom of God, Bill's ministry has been marked by a consistent focus on gratitude, generosity, and living a life shaped by God's presence. Through decades of leadership, he has taught that generosity is more than financial giving—it's a lifestyle of humility, kindness, and service that reflects God's design for humanity. In this episode, Brad sits down with Bill to talk about gratitude, generosity, and why the two are inseparably linked. Bill shares stories from his own journey and ministry, including how generosity builds cultures, changes atmospheres, and even serves as a "weapon" against division and despair. He also unpacks why generosity is evidence of repentance, how repeated acts form culture, and why we are never more like Christ than when we are generous. Along the way, Bill offers practical wisdom on cultivating a grateful heart, modeling generosity across generations, and trusting God even in seasons of delay. "To live without thankfulness is the most self-centered way to live." – Bill Johnson "If you're actually giving, you're not trying to get a response. If you're trying to get a response, you're buying—you're not giving." – Bill Johnson "You're no more like Jesus than when you're generous." – Bill Johnson This Week on The Wow Factor: Gratitude as the foundation for humility, mental health, and healthy relationships Why generosity is more than money—it's a posture of life and service The story of "Generous Students" and teaching gratitude with no carry-forwards Why repeated acts of giving form a true culture of generosity The three kinds of givers: no giver, grumpy giver, cheerful giver How small, intentional acts—like tipping hotel staff or thanking baristas—shift atmospheres Why generosity is evidence of repentance and a renewed mind How encouraging words can be one of the most powerful forms of giving Modeling generosity across generations and why Bill gives gifts on his own birthday The importance of living in trust when God's answers are delayed Serving communities quietly: Bethel's behind-the-scenes generosity toward their city Why generosity must move from an action to a lifestyle that can't be switched off Bill Johnson's Word of Wisdom: Faith is spelled R-I-S-K. Start somewhere, even if it's small. Sacrifice means going one step beyond comfort, and that's where growth begins. Yesterday's sacrifice is today's convenience—so keep pressing into new steps of generosity. Connect With Bill Johnson: Bethel Church Website Bethel Church Facebook Bethel Church Instagram Bethel Church YouTube Bethel Church Podcasts Pastor Bill Johnson Facebook Pastor Bill Johnson's Books Connect with The Wow Factor:   WOW Factor Website   Brad Formsma on LinkedIn    Brad Formsma on Instagram    Brad Formsma on Facebook    X (formerly Twitter)

    34 min
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About

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

Information

  • Creator
    Brad Formsma
  • Years Active
    2019 - 2025
  • Episodes
    302
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Show Website
    The Wow Factor

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