Values Based Business

On this episode, John Blocher, a Colonel in the United States Air Force, shares a story few leaders talk about openly: being kicked out of the Air Force Academy—and how that moment nearly ended his dream of serving.Instead, it became the turning point that shaped him into the leader he is today.John walks listeners through his remarkable journey from rejection to redemption, revealing how faith, family, and uncompromising integrity became the foundation of his leadership. Drawing from real-world combat experience, he speaks candidly about fear, resilience, and the moments where trusting God wasn’t optional—it was essential.The conversation dives deep into what ethical leadership looks like when the stakes are high, why a consistent personal walk with God matters more than public success, and how prayer doesn’t just strengthen faith—it transforms relationships and leadership effectiveness.This episode is raw, honest, and deeply encouraging—a powerful reminder that God’s purpose often unfolds through our hardest moments.If you’ve ever wondered whether your past disqualifies you from your calling, this is a conversation you don’t want to miss.

Steve sits down with Chad Daugherty, a financial advisor with Edward Jones, whose career path is anything but conventional.Chad shares his journey from working at Valdosta State University to stepping into the fast-paced world of financial advising—an unexpected transition shaped by relationships, trust, and a deep sense of calling. Rather than chasing numbers alone, Chad explains how his work is grounded in integrity and long-term relationships, believing that who you are matters just as much as what you produce.The conversation dives into Chad’s desire to become a Certified Kingdom Advisor, a step that reflects his commitment to aligning financial stewardship with biblical principles. He speaks candidly about the tension many professionals feel—meeting performance expectations while remaining faithful to deeply held values—and why authenticity and humility are non-negotiable in both business and life.This episode offers an honest look at what it means to succeed without compromising your faith, and how values-driven leadership can make a lasting impact far beyond the balance sheet.

Miles Hannan, partner at Smith, Hannan, Parker & Bowden, joined the show with a powerful testimony of how God has shaped his life from his early days in law enforcement to becoming one of the region’s most respected trial attorneys. Miles shared how his legal career has been anchored not just in skill, but in conviction — a commitment to ethical leadership, integrity, and living out Christian values in a profession where those principles are often tested.He opened up about his work in criminal defense and drew a striking comparison to the trials of Jesus, highlighting the serious procedural violations that occurred and how they underline the biblical importance of defending the rights of the accused. For Miles, every client — guilty or innocent — is a person created in God’s image, deserving of due process and compassion.Miles also spoke about integrating faith into business, explaining that Christian leadership is not just about quoting Scripture but making Christ-centered decisions in the everyday pressures of a law firm. He didn’t shy away from the challenges either — from maintaining spiritual integrity in a secular environment to navigating the way media shapes public opinion about justice and morality.In the end, Miles encouraged listeners to lean fully on God’s provision and to boldly live out their faith at work, reminding us that the marketplace is one of the greatest mission fields we have. His message was clear: when we follow Christ in our professional lives, we don’t just influence the people around us — we build legacies that honor God.

Jeff Fitch—Air Force veteran, firefighter, and the owner of Dirty Dozen Coffee Company—joined us to share a story that’s equal parts service, faith, and a really good cup of coffee. After a 20-year career in the U.S. Air Force, Jeff stepped into a new kind of calling as a firefighter, and along the way, a simple firehouse habit turned into something bigger: Dirty Dozen Coffee.What started as conversations and encouragement from the guys around the station grew into a business built on the kind of values you can actually feel—integrity, transparency, and taking care of people. Since launching in 2020, Dirty Dozen Coffee has seen steady growth, and Jeff says the goal has stayed the same from day one: treat customers right and deliver a full pound of great coffee—no gimmicks.But the heart of the story wasn’t just entrepreneurship—it was purpose. Jeff talked openly about how faith shapes his decision-making, why community service is more than a slogan, and how Dirty Dozen Coffee is meant to be something that adds value to Valdosta and beyond. Looking ahead, he shared exciting possibilities, including plans that could lead to a brick-and-mortar shop in Valdosta.And maybe the best takeaway of the whole conversation: Jeff reminded us that in business—and in life—sometimes the most important move isn’t the next hustle. It’s learning to be still, listen, and let God direct the steps.

In this episode, we sit down with Charlie Barnes, CEO of Barnes Healthcare, to talk about leading a multi-generational family business with a simple but powerful heartbeat: “We take care of people.” You’ll hear how faith shapes leadership when it’s more than a slogan—when prayer, Scripture, and service show up in the everyday decisions that affect real families.But this conversation goes deeper. Charlie speaks honestly about healing and growth, the hard work of building healthy teams, and what happens when people resist the uncomfortable process of change. And as he looks ahead, he pulls back the curtain on a broken healthcare system—high costs, inefficiencies, and medication challenges—while sharing a hopeful vision for the future rooted in relationships, community, and strategic partnerships. If you care about faith, leadership, and what healthcare could become, you’re going to want to hear this.

Brett Thomas brought the heat—and the heart—when he told the story of how Church Street Café came to life in the small town of Hahira, Georgia. After decades in the restaurant world, Brett finally took the leap to create a place of his own… and he built it with purpose.For Brett, every cup of coffee and every plate served is more than a transaction—it’s an opportunity to treat people like family. He shared how his café operates on faith-based values, from the way he greets customers to the bold decision not to serve alcohol, even when it meant turning down easy revenue.Balancing faith and business isn’t always simple, but Brett makes it look joyful. His customers feel the difference. His staff feels the difference. And the community feels the difference—especially when he uses his business to help fund mission trips and local outreach.His advice for other business owners?Stay rooted. Don’t compromise. Build something that reflects who you really are. Because when your business is anchored in faith, the rewards go way beyond the cash register.

Charlie Banks lit up the studio as he shared the incredible journey behind the Young Minds Podcast. Born prematurely, Charlie has been beating the odds since day one—and he’s brought that same grit and passion into the world of podcasting.He told the story of how God grabbed hold of his life: saved in April, baptized in November 2022, and now boldly living out his faith on and off the mic. Three years later, the podcast has dropped 160 episodes (and counting!), building a community that’s real, raw, and rooted in authenticity.Charlie kept it honest—consistency is tough, spiritual attacks are real, and creating content week after week isn’t always glamorous. But he’s learned to push through with the help of a solid community and the calling God placed on his life.Charlie’s message was simple but powerful: you don’t have to be perfect to start—just willing, authentic, and surrounded by the right people. He can be reached at :[email protected]

Scott Willis, owner of Elite Hearing Care, shared his journey from being downsized from a corporate job to becoming a hearing instrument specialist. He recounted a pivotal moment when he witnessed the transformative impact of hearing aids on a 92-year-old woman, solidifying his career choice. Scott emphasized the importance of integrating faith into business practices, treating patients with care, and maintaining authenticity. He also discussed his role as a coach and mentor, highlighting the long-term impact of his relationships with young athletes. Scott's business philosophy centers on providing quality service and fostering genuine connections with his patients and community.

This week’s episode featured the dynamic Kenyetta Simmons — HR consultant, speaker, and founder of Simmons HR & Talent Advisory. Kenyetta took us on a heartfelt journey from her early days as a psychology major to becoming a trusted voice in human resources and organizational leadership.She unpacked what it means to see work as worship, challenging listeners to bring faith into every meeting, decision, and workplace conversation. With her signature mix of humor and honesty, Kenyetta shared the real-life tension between job security and entrepreneurship — reminding us that true success begins with stewardship, not status.The conversation flowed naturally into the themes of family, ministry, and obedience. Kenyetta spoke candidly about the art of surrender — learning when to hold structure and when to let God lead. Her insights resonated deeply, painting a picture of leadership that’s firm in purpose yet flexible in faith.We wrapped up the episode reflecting on how faith shapes business, how structure and surrender can coexist, and how honoring people honors God. It was equal parts practical wisdom and spiritual encouragement — a reminder that leadership, done God’s way, is holy ground.

This show features a discussion with Dr. Leah McMillan and Travis Sparks about their efforts to support first responders' mental health. Leah's Enspire Counseling and Wellness specializes in trauma-informed care, while Travis's Project 5:9 offers peer support. They highlight the increasing suicide rate among first responders, emphasizing the need for cultural and peer support. The conversation touches on the importance of self-care, the role of faith, and the challenges of building trust. They also discuss the upcoming launch of Project 5:9 and the importance of integrating spirituality in mental health services.

Shaun Eilders, Resident Director at the Georgia Sheriff's Boys Ranch, discussed his 25-year tenure and the ranch's focus on strong moral values and spiritual awareness. He emphasized the importance of building trust with traumatized children, creating a family-like environment, and integrating faith into daily life. Shaun highlighted the ranch's efforts to provide consistent care, including transporting children to school and involving church groups. He plans to retire but will continue counseling and teaching at Georgia Christian School. Shaun stressed the need for patience, availability, and genuine faith in both personal and professional settings.

Mitchell and Brittany Bell, owners of the Offseason Training Facility, discussed their journey and mission to create a Christian-based gym. Mitchell, a former football player, and Brittany, a Hall of Famer at VSU, emphasized the importance of consistency and discipline in both fitness and faith, referencing Galatians 6:9. They highlighted their efforts to cultivate a family-friendly environment, integrating faith and fitness. Mitchell shared his experience of starting from scratch, overcoming initial apprehensions, and the overwhelming community support. They also discussed the importance of setting time for prayer and devotion, and their future goals to expand their impact through health and wellness.

The show discussed the Walk to End Alzheimer's with Mallory Thompson, the walk manager for Tifton, Valdosta, Bainbridge, and Albany. Alzheimer's disease, the most common type of dementia, was explained as a progressive brain disorder affecting memory and thinking skills. Raising awareness is crucial for early detection and better management. The walk is a year-long fundraising campaign, with 70% of funds going to research and less than 5% to administration. Dougherty County has a high prevalence of Alzheimer's, with 15% of the elderly population affected. The Valdosta walk is on October 18 at Valdosta Middle School, with registration starting at 9 am.

Tim Craig, Director of Business Development for the Valdosta Lowndes Chamber of Commerce, discussed his journey from the Air Force to his current role, emphasizing the importance of faith in business. He highlighted the SEED Center's role in supporting entrepreneurship and business growth, offering free classes and resources. Craig stressed the significance of servant leadership, ethical practices, and integrating faith into business operations. He shared strategies for overcoming challenges, the importance of mentorship, and the impact of Christian values on community and marketplace success. Craig also mentioned initiatives like FLEX to inspire young entrepreneurs and the need for interdependence in business.

Mendi Griner, owner of JTTW Trucking and Faith Driven Entrepreneur (FDE) facilitator, shared her journey from Insta Lube to the trucking industry, emphasizing the importance of faith in business. She highlighted the role of FDE in fostering community and ethical practices, with monthly meetings featuring diverse speakers. Mindy discussed the challenges of balancing business with family life and the importance of humility and prayer in decision-making. She encouraged listeners to seek faith-based communities and to integrate their faith into their business practices, aiming to create a positive impact on employees and the community.

Lee Henry, CEO of Golden Shield Business Brokers, shared his journey, emphasizing faith, work ethic, and the importance of ethical business practices. He discussed his platform for increasing the valuation of small businesses to enhance their sale value.

Patrick Carlson, a cartoonist and illustrator, discussed his journey from creating his first comic strip at age 11 to his current work, including Georgia football cartoons and children's books. Patrick shares the importance of faith in his career, noting that trust in God is crucial during challenging times. Patrick also highlighted his family's role in his life, including his wife Jennifer and twin sons. He shared his experiences of integrating faith into his work, such as creating cartoons for churches and schools. Patrick's advice for others is to start with God and use their gifts to glorify Him in all aspects of life.

Luke Voight, a financial advisor and community leader, discussed his journey integrating faith and business. He emphasized the importance of discernment in financial planning and personal growth, drawing parallels to spiritual discernment. Luke highlighted his involvement in various community organizations, including the Valdosta Latino Association, where he uses his bilingual skills to bridge cultural gaps. He stressed the significance of small, consistent actions in both personal and professional development. Luke also shared his commitment to family, balancing work with time spent with his children, and the importance of surrounding oneself with supportive communities.

Bill Holt, the Southeast Georgia Area Director for the Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA), discussed his career journey from the YMCA to the Boys and Girls Club and now to FCA. He emphasized the importance of early Christian influence on youth, noting FCA's efforts to engage coaches and athletes in spiritual growth. Bill highlighted upcoming events, including a sporting clay shoot to raise funds for Bibles and other resources. He stressed the need for mentors and volunteers to support FCA's mission of empowering young people through faith and character development. Bill also shared personal anecdotes about the impact of faith in challenging situations.

Mallory Thompson, Walk Manager for Walk to End Alzheimer's,discussed her role and personal experiences, including caring for her paralyzeddog, Archie. She highlighted the importance of early detection, noting a recentFDA approval for a blood test to detect amyloid plaque protein. Malloryemphasized the need for community support and resources, such as theAlzheimer's Association's 24/7 helpline (1-800-272-3900) and online resources.She also detailed the upcoming Walk to End Alzheimer's event in Valdosta onOctober 18, encouraging participation and fundraising. Chad Daugherty, afinancial advisor, supported the cause and discussed the challenges ofvolunteer engagement and community support.

Mike Davis, senior pastor at Hayhira Community Church and chaplain at Lowndes County Sheriff's Office, shared his journey from law enforcement to ministry. He detailed his transition from insurance fraud investigations to bi-vocational pastoring, influenced by his wife's heart failure and recovery. Davis discussed his roles, including life coaching and running Ace Handyman Services, which he started with a friend. He highlighted the church's community outreach, such as food ministries and community meals, and the church's disaffiliation from the United Methodist Church. Davis emphasized the importance of practical theology and integrating faith into all aspects of life.

Kelly Yates, CEO of Options Now, a life choice clinic,shared her faith journey inspired by her father's pro-life ministry. Shediscussed the clinic's impact, averaging 240 Red Rose babies annually, and theimportance of providing non-judgmental support. Kelly emphasized the need forchurches to speak truth about life and support the ministry financially andthrough volunteering. She highlighted the significance of the Men's Ministryand the abortion recovery program.  Kellyalso mentions the challenges of the abortion pill and the importance of earlyultrasounds to show the heartbeat.

Santiago Iturralde and Langdon Root discussed their experiences at Semper Tek, a company with a strong Christian and family-oriented culture. Santiago shared his journey to his current role, emphasizing the importance of faith and community connections. Langdon highlighted the company's values of competence, trust, respect, and humor, noting the high retention rate of employees. They both underscored the significance of saying "yes" to opportunities and trusting God's timing. Santiago's leadership and the company's ethical practices, including hiring veterans, were key factors in maintaining a positive work environment.

Joel Hunt, a local business man and Christian musician, discussed his new album "Shell Cracker Band Album Seven" with hosts Steve Jaramillo and Chad Daugherty. The album, set to release this week, features entirely Christian music, including songs from the 1990s. Joel and his twin brother Eric have been writing music together since college. The album includes tracks like "Glory," "Depth of Your Love," and "All Things Wonderful," which Joel explained were inspired by their faith and personal experiences. Joel emphasized the importance of recognizing God's love and the value of life, encouraging listeners to find the album on various platforms.

Steven Hall, a singer-songwriter and insurance professional, shared his journey from country music to Christian music, inspired by his faith and the loss of a close family friend, James Eunice. James's note, "The Clock is Ticking," inspired Steven to write a song entitled Love Someone. The song, produced by Sam Hart, aims to encourage faith and action. Steven's involvement with the James Eunice Foundation, which raised significant funds through a golf tournament, highlights the impact of James's legacy. The song is available on streaming platforms under Steven Lynnwood Hall.

Chad Daugherty, a financial advisor with Edward Jones, discussed his journey and success in integrating faith with business practices. Over six months, he has seen significant growth in his client base and business, emphasizing the importance of building trust and relationships. Chad measures success not just by assets under management but by the impact he has on clients' lives, such as simplifying financial processes. He highlighted the challenges of time management and the importance of spiritual resilience and community support. Chad also shared his involvement in the Walk to End Alzheimer's, aiming to raise awareness and support for caretakers.

Jody Allen, owner of Azalea City Creamery, shared his faith journey, starting with his father's transformation from an alcoholic to a preacher. Jody discussed the origins of his businesses, including Snowpocalypse and Azalea City Creamery, emphasizing the importance of treating employees and customers with love and integrity. He highlighted the challenges faced, such as health issues and family commitments, and the decision to sell Snowpocalypse. Jody advised aspiring business owners to plan thoroughly, pray, and live out their faith consistently. He also talks about the importance of community involvement.

4/28/2025 - Chad May Interview 2

S2E13 - Michael McCartney - 4/21/2025

S2E12 - 04-07-2025 - Donnie Warren

S2E11 - Wendell Stockton - 03/31/2025

S2E10 - Jammie Wilbanks - 03/25/2025

S2E9 - Brad Lawson - 03/17/2025

S2E8 - Joel Hunt - 03/11/2025

S2E7 - Eric Bolesta - 02/24/2025

S2E6 - Langdon Root - -2/18/2025