Going Big in Business, Public Policy, and Philanthropy: The Art Pope Blueprint

Join host Kevin Gentry for an insightful conversation with Art Pope—a principled leader who has gone big in business, in state government, and in giving back. As CEO of Variety Wholesalers, Art helped grow a 600-store retail network serving thousands of communities. He’s also served as North Carolina’s state budget director, spent years in the legislature, and leads major philanthropic efforts through the John William Pope Foundation and the Bradley Foundation. In this episode, Art shares lessons from his Depression-era father, the bold moves behind his company’s recent Big Lots acquisition, and why real philanthropy is about investing in freedom and opportunity for future generations. If you're aiming to lead with conviction, think long-term, and make a lasting impact—this conversation is for you.