Faith Driven Investor

Robin John had a problem. He looked at the biggest mutual funds in America and realized he couldn't invest in their top holdings without compromising his values. So he and co-founder Finny started asking a different question: if investing is just allocating capital, where should Christians actually put their money?What started as a simple conversation about avoiding "ill-gotten gain" evolved into something much bigger—a framework for investing as an act of neighborly love. Instead of just screening out tobacco and pornography, Eventide began hunting for companies that actively serve their customers, employees, and communities.The results speak for themselves. Robin shares stories of biotech companies getting kids out of wheelchairs, trucking firms that let 90% of drivers sleep at home every night, and businesses that prove you don't have to choose between doing good and doing well. The data backs it up too—19 years of research shows values-based investing performs just as well as traditional approaches.This i

The economic landscape is shifting beneath our feet, and this episode of Marks on the Markets delivers the clarity you need to navigate what's ahead.Richard Cunningham and John Coleman sits down with Matt Monson, Partner of Public Equity at Sovereign's Capital, to dissect the most pressing issues facing investors today. The conversation begins with Moody's recent downgrade of US creditworthiness and what it signals about America's unsustainable fiscal trajectory—a $36 trillion debt problem that's finally getting the attention it deserves.Market Concentration and Hidden Risks The hosts dive deep into the Magnificent Seven phenomenon, revealing why having 30% of the S&P 500 concentrated in seven companies creates more portfolio risk than most investors realize. Monson shares his framework for analyzing tariff impacts across revenue and supply chains, while Coleman explains why this isn't just about stock picking—it's about understanding correlated risk factors that could catch investors off guard.Tariffs: B

In this special episode recorded at SXSW in Austin, Texas, hosts Justin Forman and Richard Cunningham sit down with Brent Beshore, founder and CEO of Permanent Equity, to discuss what it means to take a long-term, cathedral-like perspective in business and investing.Brent shares his transformation from an achievement-driven atheist to a faith-focused entrepreneur, highlighting how his approach to private equity challenges industry norms with long-term capital, zero debt, and transparent fee structures. Throughout the conversation, Brent reveals how vulnerability and authentic relationships have been crucial both in his personal faith journey and in building a successful investment firm.Key Highlights:Brent's journey from atheism to faith and how it transformed his perspective on business, family, and achievementThe dangers of "acceptable sin" that starts small but eventually leads to devastating consequencesWhy living in the light through authentic relationships is essential for both personal healing and busi

In this May 2025 episode of Faith Driven Investor, hosts Richard Cunningham and John Coleman welcome Deirdre Gibson, ETF Specialist and National Sales Director at Praxis Investment Management, for a wide-ranging discussion on faith-driven investing and current market conditions.Episode Highlights:Understanding ETFs vs. Mutual Funds (2:31-4:42)Gibson explains the structural differences between ETFs and mutual fundsKey advantages of ETFs: tax benefits, liquidity, transparency, and lower minimum investmentsHow ETF structure makes diversified investing more accessible to everyday peopleJesus as a Model for Engagement (7:39-12:03)Gibson shares insights from her Kingdom Advisors conference presentationExamines how Jesus engaged with sinners rather than avoiding themApplies this model to faith-driven investing: avoid, seek, engage frameworkMakes the case for strategic engagement with companies rather than only screening them outThe "Sullivan Principles" and Christian Influence (12:03-15:19)Coleman discusses how the

Can you build a thriving business while facing back-to-back life-threatening crises? Travis Penfield did exactly that, transforming his brush with death from a brain tumor and his wife's cancer battle into clarity for scaling 49 Financial to 200+ advisors. His blueprint for bridging the trillion-dollar advisor succession gap prioritizes mentorship over metrics, revealing how personal trials became his greatest business advantage.Join us for this special joint episode of the Faith Driven Investor & Entrepreneur podcast. Key MomentsTravis shares his recent experience meeting Jack Nicklaus and John Maxwell, highlighting Nicklaus's emphasis on family over golf achievementsThe powerful story of Travis's brain tumor in 2016, requiring him to relearn basic functionsHis wife Jacqueline's cancer diagnosis and the emotional journey of shaving her head during chemotherapyThe doctor telling Travis to "prepare as if she's gone" and taking his daughters to San Diego while contemplating single fatherhoodHow these health

In this timely market analysis, Crossmark Global Investments' Bob Doll joins Richard Cunningham and John Coleman to dissect the dramatic market correction of Q1 2025 and the economic uncertainty driving it.Key Topics Covered:The fifth fastest market correction since WWII and what caused itTrump administration's economic strategy: taking pain upfront for potential gains laterTariffs as revenue generators vs. inflation driversRising recession probability (now 35-40%) amid continued uncertaintyThe "Magnificent 7" tech stocks' slowing cash flow and what it means for portfoliosGeopolitical outlook for Russia/Ukraine, Middle East tensions, and China's vulnerabilitiesWhat could restore market confidence in coming monthsFuture of M&A activity and IPO markets amid regulatory changesFaith-driven investing insights and the need for patience in volatile timesBob shares his current recession probability assessment and what economic indicators he's watching closely. The discussion explores how the administration's aggr

In this episode of the Faith Driven Investor podcast, hosts Richard Cunningham and Luke Roush welcome Chris Morris and John Farris, founders of LandFund Partners, to discuss their journey from a college classroom to managing 50,000 acres of farmland in the Mid-South.Episode Highlights:The divine intervention that brought John and Chris together at Center College in KentuckyHow a single idea to buy 100 acres evolved into a strategy for acquiring thousands of acresWhy the Mississippi alluvial aquifer makes the Mid-South an attractive region for farmland investmentThe price convergence thesis between Mid-South and Midwest farmland (currently 8,000 vs 15,000 per acre)How LandFund Partners differentiates itself through regenerative farming practices on 100% of their propertiesThe implementation of cover crops and no-till farming to restore soil healthThe three-year timeframe to see results from regenerative practices in the Mid-SouthHow building regional "pods" of farmland creates greater value than the sum of ind

In this March "Marks on the Markets" episode, hosts Richard Cunningham and Luke Roush welcome Kingdom Advisors CEO Rob West to discuss the transformative impact of the recent Kingdom Advisors Annual Conference in Orlando.Key Points:About Kingdom Advisors:Founded in 2003 by Ron Blue and Larry Burkett to help Christians plan and manage finances with biblical principlesServes as the gathering place for the Christian financial industryOffers the Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA) designation - the only designation for biblically-wise financial advice accepted by most major Wall Street firmsConference grew 40% in past two years to 2,700 attendees, significantly outpacing industry normsIndustry Trends:Financial advice evolving from product-driven to values-driven approachesChristian investors increasingly want their faith reflected in every domain of life, including money decisionsMajor financial firms recognize that connecting with clients at a values level creates better outcomes for everyoneIndustry acceptance of f

In this episode of Faith Driven Investor, we dive deep with Brett Hagler, founder and CEO of New Story, a groundbreaking organization that's reimagining solutions to the global housing crisis. Brett shares his remarkable journey from a successful tech entrepreneur to launching New Story, which has become a pioneer in innovative housing solutions, including their revolutionary work with 3D-printed homes.The conversation explores how New Story is leveraging technology and entrepreneurial thinking to create sustainable housing solutions in developing nations. Brett discusses the challenges and opportunities of operating at the intersection of faith, innovation, and social impact, while sharing powerful stories of lives transformed through their work.Key topics include:The genesis of New Story and Brett's calling to tackle the global housing crisisHow faith informs New Story's approach to innovation and community developmentThe role of technology in creating scalable housing solutionsBuilding sustainable funding

Join Richard Cunningham and John Coleman as they unpack all the excitement and insights from the 2025 Global Faith Driven Investor conference. Fresh off the gathering, they share how faith-driven investors are making an incredible impact across every corner of the investment world while pursuing excellence in all they do.Richard and John walk through the amazing transformation happening in public markets, where Christians are moving beyond just avoiding harmful companies to actively engaging and building positive cultures. They share their enthusiasm for what's happening in faith-driven entertainment, including the much-anticipated House of David, and discuss how Christians are reclaiming their legacy of cultural excellence. You'll hear about exciting innovations in real estate investment through Apartment Life's powerful ministry model, and learn how venture capital firms like Eagle Venture Fund are tackling human trafficking head-on.The conversation wraps up with John sharing his perspective on today's mark

Register for the 2025 FDI Conference at: faithdriveninvestorconference.org/Introduction to guests Suzanne Daniel (Pilgrim Foundation) and Dana Wichterman (Impact Foundation), both speakers at the upcoming Global Faith Driven Investor Conference on February 7th, 2025Discussion of their personal journeys: Suzanne's transformation from traditional grant-making to impact investing, sparked by a pivotal experience with a Haiti-based enterpriseDana's initial resistance to faith-aligned investing and her eventual embrace of integrating faith with investment decisionsExploration of the three key approaches to solving world problems: building, investing, and giving How Pilgrim Foundation balances all three approachesThe role of charitable capital in catalyzing transformational businessesInsights on family stewardship: Suzanne's experience discussing money and inheritance with transparencyThe upcoming book "Stewards Not Owners: The Joy of Aligning Your Money with Your Faith" by Dana and Bill WichtermanCurrent state of

In this premiere 2025 episode of Faith Driven Investor, host Richard Cunningham welcomes David Bahnsen, founder and CIO of the Bahnsen Group, alongside regular contributor John Coleman. The conversation begins with a comprehensive review of 2024's market performance, examining how corporate profits exceeded expectations despite earlier recession fears. Bahnsen provides detailed analysis of current market valuations, particularly focusing on the concentration risk in the top 10 companies of the S&P 500 and potential opportunities in small-cap stocks.The discussion shifts to the implications of Trump's upcoming presidency, with particular focus on deregulation, M&A activity, and trade policy. Bahnsen offers a detailed critique of protectionist positions on the Nippon Steel deal, while Coleman provides perspective on global security implications. The episode also features insights from Coleman's recent piece on Pax Americana and the enduring strength of American innovation and economic leadership.The con

Show Notes:The evolution and impact of Faith Driven Investor's first standalone conference in 2024Why wealth isolates and how FDI is creating safe spaces for high-capacity investorsInside look at FDI+ launch weekends and the movement's expansion plans for 2025The three personas showing up to FDI: the intimidated, the scaling entrepreneurs, and the teachersKey partnerships forming with Next and Blue TrustDetails on the upcoming February 7th, 2025 global conference themed "The Riskiest Thing is to Do Nothing"How watch parties have spread from Chicago to Ukraine, building unexpected communitiesBehind-the-scenes look at how FDI's leadership team is structuredClosing reflections on obedience and seeing the Holy Spirit's movement in unexpected places

In this compelling episode of Faith Driven Investor, Nick Bonner shares his transformative journey in Christian real estate investment and the innovative solutions he's developing to address inefficiencies in church property usage.Key Topics Discussed:The Great Opportunity Report's findings on church growth and the critical role of real estateAnalysis revealing that churches typically only utilize their buildings 5% of the weekThe stark contrast between business and church property ownership (12% vs 84%)Development of the Open Doors model for shared church spacesThe concept of transforming church buildings into community hubs with multiple revenue streamsThe vision for democratizing faith-driven real estate investment through a Christian impact REITPersonal testimony of surrendering business plans and experiencing God's redirectionNotable Insights:Approximately $1 trillion in equity is locked in church buildings aloneCurrent church property models often burden pastors with responsibilities outside their core

In this episode of the Faith Driven Investor podcast, hosts Richard Cunningham and John Coleman welcome special guest Ross Roggensack to break down the 2024 U.S. election results and explore their potential impact on the economy and markets. As President Trump begins his second term, the discussion delves into the implications of his policies on various sectors, from venture capital and private equity to foreign conflicts and inflation. The conversation also takes a introspective turn as the hosts reflect on the importance of humility and seeking God's guidance in both personal and professional life. Join us for a thought-provoking discussion that combines faith, finance, and the ever-changing political landscape. Please note that the views expressed by the hosts and guests are their own and do not necessarily represent the opinions of Faith Driven Investor.

This episode delves into the critical issue of online sexual exploitation and human trafficking, exploring innovative approaches to combat these pervasive problems. Dr. Lisa Strohman, a clinical psychologist with FBI experience, and Wes Lyons, a venture capitalist, offer their expertise and insights into this complex challenge.The discussion begins with Dr. Strohman shedding light on the alarming tactics used by the pornography industry to target children through seemingly innocuous platforms like educational apps and online games. She emphasizes the urgent need for better education and awareness to protect young minds from early exposure and potential addiction.Wes Lyons then introduces a unique perspective on fighting human trafficking by treating it as an economic problem. He explains how his fund, Eagle Venture Fund, invests in technologies designed to disrupt the business model of trafficking networks. The conversation explores various innovative solutions, from AI-powered tools that detect suspicious ac

Join Richard Cunningham and John Coleman as they examine frontier markets and the 2024 Pramga Investment Market Study alongside Patrick Lowndes, Andrew Winker, and Tamanno HodjihanovaThe Genesis Story: How Patrick Lowndes' software exit led to pioneering research in frontier marketKey Research Findings: Deep dive into Pragma's 2024 Investment Market Study examining over 100 fundsBeyond Charity: Understanding the crucial shift from aid to sustainable business developmentThe Local Edge: Why having boots on the ground and local leadership matters in frontier marketsStrategic Deployment: Creative ways to use DAF assets and philanthropic capital for kingdom impactFeatured Organizations: Transformational SME, Angel Investment Network, and other pioneering fundsResource Highlight: Download the complete 2024 Pragma Investment Market StudyScripture Focus: The team shares insights from Exodus, Matthew, and the Sermon on the Moun

"We're not just creating a job. We're creating a way that people have security and sustainability for them and for their family." - Keren Pybus Job creation and upskilling have a significant impact on individuals, families, and communities, providing stability, security, and opportunities for growth.Donor agencies have shifted their focus from pure aid to trade facilitation and capacity building, creating more opportunities for job creation.Collaboration and partnership among competitors and different stakeholders are essential in addressing global challenges and creating sustainable solutions.Investors and entrepreneurs can make a positive impact by aligning their passion and skills, seeking God's wisdom, and connecting with like-minded individuals and organizations.Having faith-driven investors on board can provide support, encouragement, and prayer during the entrepreneurial journey.00:00 Introduction and Purpose of the Joint Release04:03 Introducing Solving the World's Greatest Problems05:09 Guest Introdu

Join us as we delve into the intricacies of today's economic landscape, from the Fed's recent rate cuts to the performance of the 'Magnificent Seven' stocks. John Coleman alongside Richard Cunningham offers valuable insights on private equity, venture capital, and real estate markets, while also addressing the potential impact of the upcoming U.S. election on the economy. Learn how to navigate these complex times with both financial acumen and spiritual wisdom.Takeaways: The Fed's recent rate cut is a significant shift after a long period of high rates.Historically, rate cuts can correlate with recession, but the current economic indicators are mixed.The S&P 500's performance is heavily influenced by a few large-cap stocks, known as the Magnificent Seven.Private markets are experiencing sluggishness due to fewer exits and challenges in fundraising.Real estate markets are facing unique challenges, particularly in the office and residential sectors.The upcoming election is expected to bring volatility, with

Join Justin Forman as he honors the life and legacy of Richard Garnett, a faith-driven entrepreneur, investor, and actor who recently passed away after a courageous decade-long battle with cancer. This poignant episode features a powerful teaching from Richard himself, focusing on investing in what truly matters. As we reflect on Richard's recent passing, his message takes on new depth and urgency. Tune in for an inspiring exploration of intentional living, generosity, and the art of cherishing each moment.