Join us in this episode of Encouragement for Work as Mark is joined by Vaughn Thurman, CEO of HighGear Software, a leader who has built his company around a set of core values that have come to define the organization and everything it does. Vaughn’s journey reminds us that hiring decisions do more than impact the bottom line — they shape culture, influence engagement, and define how work is experienced every day.

About Our Guest: Vaughn Thurman

Vaughn Thurman is a technology leader and entrepreneur passionate about building organizations where people thrive, and mission drives performance. As CEO of HighGear Software, Vaughn leads a team dedicated to helping organizations simplify complexity and work with greater purpose and clarity.

Throughout his career, Vaughn has emphasized values-based leadership, particularly the importance of hiring and developing people who align with an organization’s mission, vision, and values. His experience building and scaling teams and shaping cultures has reinforced a critical truth: mission-aligned hiring is essential to long-term success and healthy workplaces.

Vaughn brings practical insight to conversations at the intersection of leadership, culture, and performance, encouraging leaders to remain faithful to their mission while building strong, empowered teams. Vaughn’s leadership journey includes the unique experience of building two radically different companies, teams, and cultures under one roof and of observing and learning from the unexpected operational, financial, and relational impacts of having one team built on principles while the other was built on a top-candidate opportunistic hiring strategy. But most importantly, Vaughn is a follower of Christ and is not ashamed to share the message.

1. Hiring Against Your MVV — Why It Costs You More Than You Think

Hiring individuals who do not align with your mission, vision, and values can quietly erode culture, weaken engagement, and undermine long-term performance. Vaughn shares lessons from building HighGear — from early hiring decisions to scaling a values-driven organization — and how staying true to core values shaped the company’s identity and success.

You will learn: Hiring for culture and values isn’t a “nice to have” — it’s a strategic and sustainable business decision.

2. Leadership Lessons from a Mission-Driven CEO

Vaughn’s path — from the Air Force to serial entrepreneur to CEO — offers valuable insight into leading with integrity and purpose. He discusses how core values such as honesty, discipline, and commitment to service influence decision-making, recruitment, and team development, especially when leaders face pressure to compromise.

You will learn: Leading people well requires intentional value alignment, beginning with how and why you hire.

3. Building High-Performing Teams by Empowering People

Vaughn’s work with no-code workflow tools reflects a deeper leadership principle: equip people to do meaningful work. He explores how this mindset shapes recruitment, training, and culture-building — moving organizations beyond transactional hiring toward transformational development.

You will learn: Work becomes a place of growth when people are seen as contributors to purpose, not cogs in a machine.

Concerned about your organization’s as-is HR programs? The benefits of having a trusted partner guide you and your team toward excellence are invaluable. Contact us today. You — and your employees — will be glad you did.

Rise with us by implementing high-performance, remote human-resource programs designed to help you find great people. E-mail us here.

Mark A. Griffin is President and Founder of IHN HR. Connect with him on LinkedIn and Twitter.

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The good news? There is a better way and it starts with leading from purpose, encouragement, and faith-rooted clarity.

In this episode, we’re joined by Joanna C. Brown, Founder and Lead Consultant of Eden Beacon LLC. Joanna is a trusted advisor, executive coach, and leadership consultant who helps organizations and individuals grow with intention, integrity, and alignment. Through her work in business and human capital consulting, faith-based leadership development, and culture transformation, Joanna equips leaders to navigate change without losing their people or themselves. She is also the author of Don’t Die in the Desert, a devotional guiding individuals through difficult seasons with resilience and hope.

Together, we explore how leaders can transform seasons of disruption into moments of renewal.

Key insight: Change often disconnects people from why they do what they do and purpose is the first thing leaders must help restore.

We’ll explore:

• How leaders can revisit personal and organizational purpose during transition

• Using purpose as an anchor when roles, goals, and structures shift

• Practical questions leaders can ask to bring clarity back to their teams

Takeaway: When circumstances are unstable, purpose becomes your strongest stabilizer.

Key insight: In times of change, information alone isn’t enough people need reassurance, hope, and to feel seen.

We’ll explore:

• Why encouragement is a leadership skill anyone can learn

• Simple, daily practices that rebuild morale and trust

• How encouragement strengthens engagement, resilience, and retention

Takeaway: Encouragement fuels momentum when motivation runs low.

Key insight: Every transition carries the potential for transformation if leaders choose to lead with intention instead of fear.

We’ll explore:

• Shifting from fear-based reactions to growth-based responses

• Helping teams see change as refinement rather than loss

• Leading with faith, values, and confidence through the unknown

Takeaway: When change is led well, it becomes a catalyst for lasting growth.

Change is inevitable but discouragement doesn’t have to be. Join us for this timely conversation with Joanna C. Brown and discover practical, faith-rooted leadership tools to help you reconnect to purpose, lead with encouragement, and guide your team through change with confidence and hope.

Listen & Learn

Discover how HR can be a bridge to healing, connection, and faith-driven support in the workplace. Tune in to gain valuable insights and tools for cultivating a culture of care in your organization.

Concerned about your organization’s as-is HR programs? The benefits of having a trusted partner guide you and your team to excellence are invaluable. Contact us today. You and your employees will be glad you did.

Rise with us by implementing our high-performance remote human-resource programs to help find great people! E-mail us here.

Mark A. Griffin is president and founder of IHN HR. Connect with him on LinkedIn and Twitter. 

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Join us as we sit down with Julie Garrett, Vice President of Employee Benefits at HUB International. Julie is a senior employee benefits consultant with extensive experience partnering with Finance and HR leaders to design and implement strategic, cost-effective benefits programs. She has spent her career helping organizations improve plan performance, manage healthcare costs, and strengthen total rewards strategies that support employee well-being and business goals. Julie is known for her collaborative approach and her ability to translate complex benefits data into actionable solutions for employers and their teams.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

What an ICHRA is and how it works, including who it’s best for and when it makes sense to use it instead of traditional health plans.

How to offer more choice without losing control of costs, giving individuals flexibility while protecting the organization’s budget.

How to build a benefits strategy that scales, from small teams to large, complex organizations, without adding unnecessary complexity or risk.

This episode is for leaders and HR decision-makers who want practical, clear guidance on building benefits that support both people and purpose.

Listen & Learn

Discover how HR can be a bridge to healing, connection, and faith-driven support in the workplace. Tune in to gain valuable insights and tools for cultivating a culture of care in your organization.

Concerned about your organization’s as-is HR programs? The benefits of having a trusted partner guide you and your team to excellence are invaluable. Contact us today. You and your employees will be glad you did.

Rise with us by implementing our high-performance remote human-resource programs to help find great people! E-mail us here.

Mark A. Griffin is president and founder of IHN HR. Connect with him on LinkedIn and Twitter. 

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In today’s fast-paced, digital-first world, employees are more connected than ever—yet many still feel deeply isolated. This phenomenon, known as relational poverty, occurs when individuals lack meaningful, supportive relationships in both their personal and professional lives. As organizational leaders, we have a responsibility to recognize and address this silent struggle.

Meet Our Guest: Patricia M. Wright, LCSW

In this episode, we welcome Patricia M. Wright, LCSW, Executive Director of Upward Call. Patricia holds a B.A. in Biblical and Theological Studies and a B.A. in Psychology from Regent University. She earned her Master’s in Social Work from Millersville University and is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. She is also completing her Doctor of Social Work (ABD) and pursuing a Doctor of Ministry in Leadership at Lancaster Bible College.

Key Discussion Points

Join Patricia and Mark as they navigate the complexities of relational poverty in today’s workplace. This episode covers:

• What relational poverty is and its impact on employee well-being and performance

• HR’s role in fostering a workplace culture that promotes connection and emotional support

• Practical strategies for integrating counseling services, mentorship programs, and faith-based support to help employees build meaningful relationships

Listen & Learn

Discover how HR can be a bridge to healing, connection, and faith-driven support in the workplace. Tune in to gain valuable insights and tools for cultivating a culture of care in your organization.

Concerned about your organization’s as-is HR programs? The benefits of having a trusted partner guide you and your team to excellence are invaluable. Contact us today. You and your employees will be glad you did.

Rise with us by implementing our high-performance remote human-resource programs to help find great people! E-mail us here.

Mark A. Griffin is president and founder of IHN HR. Connect with him on LinkedIn and Twitter.

“Where there is no vision, the people perish.” — Proverbs 29:18

Episode Overview:

Mission statements are more than just words on a wall—they’re the heartbeat of your organization. But are they being lived out in daily operations? Are your hiring practices, reviews, and leadership conversations aligned with your stated mission and values?

In this inspiring episode of Encouragement for Work, host Mark Griffin is joined by author and mission drift expert Becca Spradlin. Together, they unpack what it means to manage mission from the inside out—making it not just a message, but a measurable part of workplace culture in order to avoid drift.

What You'll Learn:

• Why addressing mission drift is not optional for Christian employers—it’s an organizational imperative, especially for HR.
• The critical role that leaders and HR professionals play in building organizations that cultivate and perpetuate a higher purpose.
• How to integrate mission into hiring, onboarding, and performance evaluations
• What it looks like to recognize and reward missional behaviors
• Practical ways to reignite your team’s connection to your mission

About Our Guest: Becca Spradlin

With nearly 20 years of global organizational development experience, Becca Spradlin is passionate about building cultures where people thrive and Christ is honored.  Becca helps leaders clarify their mission and align it with strategic execution. Her company, On Mission Advisors, equips faith-driven business and nonprofit leaders to build purpose-driven organizations that advance the Kingdom.  Connect with Becca on LinkedIn

Becca is the author of Lead On Mission: How Christian Business Leaders Advance Faith at Work and Leave a Legacy of Eternal Impact in a World of Mission Drift (www.LeadOnMissionBook.com). She also co-authored the Mission True Workbook with the authors of Mission Drift. She served as a research fellow at Seattle Pacific University’s Center for Faithful Business, where she researched faith cultivation and drift in Christian-led businesses. She writes and speaks on how companies can define and align their firms around faith and avoid drift.

Key Episode Quote 

“Mission Management means making sure people don’t just know the mission—they’re equipped and encouraged to live it. HR isn’t just about compliance—it’s about calling.” — Becca Spradlin

Concerned about your organization’s as-is HR programs? The benefits of having a trusted partner guide you and your team to excellence are invaluable. Contact us today. You and your employees will be glad you did.

Rise with us by implementing our high-performance remote human-resource programs to help find great people! E-mail us here.

Mark A. Griffin is president and founder of IHN HR. Connect with him on LinkedIn and Twitter.

But what if there were an opportunity to reconnect—with like-minded people, shared values, and a Christ-centered purpose? What if believers could be equipped and empowered to bring their faith boldly into the marketplace?

That’s the vision behind the Pennsylvania Christian Chamber of Commerce (PCCC)—launching in 2026.

Through strategic training, mentorship programs, and faith-integrated business resources, the Chamber is committed to equipping its members with the tools they need to thrive both professionally and spiritually. This includes:

• Business development rooted in biblical principles
• Workshops on ethical leadership and purpose-driven entrepreneurship
• Opportunities for prayer, worship, and prophetic insight in business planning

The PCCC will serve as a vital hub where business and faith intersect—creating an atmosphere where believers are not just permitted but encouraged to live out their faith boldly and unapologetically.

On this episode of the Encouragement for Work Podcast, you’ll learn how to support this exciting new movement and become part of what God is building not only across the state of Pennsylvania but nationally as well!

Meet Karl Diffenderfer, the visionary leader behind this initiative. Karl is spearheading the launch of this statewide organization—the Pennsylvania Christian Chamber. His leadership will empower Christian business leaders throughout Pennsylvania to grow, connect, and advance together.

At its core, the PCCC’s mission is clear and compelling:

Connecting business leaders to build enterprises that glorify God and advance His Kingdom.

Tune in to this episode to discover how the PCCC’s vision goes beyond business success—it’s about creating a connected network of Christian chambers across Pennsylvania, like tributaries feeding one great river. Together, these chambers will nurture businesses that flourish spiritually, personally, and professionally—setting a Christ-centered standard of excellence and influence throughout the marketplace.

Concerned about your organization’s as-is HR programs? The benefits of having a trusted partner guide you and your team to excellence are invaluable. Contact us today. You and your employees will be glad you did.

Rise with us by implementing our high-performance remote human-resource programs to help find great people! E-mail us here.

Mark A. Griffin is president and founder of IHN HR. Connect with him on LinkedIn and Twitter.

Whether you're managing a team of 5 or approaching 50 (or even 500), this conversation will equip you with key strategies to support your employees while protecting and strengthening your business.

Meet, David Hemm Owner & Benefits Advisor, Imago Dei Insurance Advisors In this episode learn from David   of HR and employee benefits. With a passion for supporting growing organizations, David partners with business owners to design benefits strategies that not only protect their teams but also fuel long-term growth. From compliance to culture, his mission is to fortify businesses with smart, scalable HR solutions.

You’ll learn:

• When to introduce employee benefits — and how to decide on your first offering
• How pass-through coverages and buy-up programs can add flexibility and value
• Why every growing organization  needs an employee handbook (yes, even yours!) Document Referenced On Podcast 
• How to turn your benefits strategy into a powerful talent magnet

If you're in a startup situation whether a church, ministry, non profit or are a business startup scaling a small but mighty team, this episode is packed with practical insights to help you grow with confidence. No matter what stage you're in, the key to successful scaling lies in laying the right HR groundwork early. This episode will give you the tools to stay ahead of common pitfalls and create a benefits strategy that evolves with your team. Tune in to build a people-first foundation that sets your organization up for lasting success.

Concerned about your organization’s as-is HR programs? The benefits of having a trusted partner guide you and your team to excellence are invaluable. Contact us today. You and your employees will be glad you did.

Rise with us by implementing our high-performance remote human-resource programs to help find great people! E-mail us here.

Mark A. Griffin is president and founder of IHN HR. Connect with him on LinkedIn and Twitter.

In this powerful episode, we sit down with Mary Gazda, to explore a topic that resonates deeply with today’s Christian women: the sacred tension between professional ambition and spiritual conviction. Mary brings wisdom, authenticity, and grace as she speaks into the often unspoken challenges women face in pursuing purpose-driven careers while staying rooted in their faith.

Drawing from the lives of strong female figures in the Bible—leaders whose stories are too often overlooked—Mary sheds light on how their courage and calling still speak to us today. Together, we’ll unpack how their examples can shape our modern understanding of leadership, purpose, and God’s timing.

Why is this important? We know now more than ever the demand for faith-based career content, especially among millennial and Gen Z women, is at its great level of demand ever. This conversation is timely, honest, and full of hope. This episode also offers both practical guidance and spiritual encouragement—meeting listeners right in that sweet spot where career and calling intersect.

In this episode learn how to:

• Tackle Workplace Injustice through a Biblical Lens
• How to Navigate a Male-Dominated Spaces with Grace
• Mentoring the Next Generation of Faith-Driven Women
• The Power of Prayer in Professional Decisions

Learn how you can make a difference in the marketplace, with practical application for Christian women striving for excellence and purpose in modern work environments.

Whether you’re climbing the corporate ladder, launching a ministry, or simply navigating what’s next, this conversation will inspire you to trust God’s plan while boldly stepping into your calling.

Mary is a passionate leader committed to restoring sons and daughters to the King's table and shaping the future of the Church through relational discipleship, spiritual formation, and storytelling. As a curriculum developer and contributor to the Storehouse Movement, Mary equips believers with meaningful discipleship resources rooted in truth and connection. Learn more about Mary here.

Concerned about your organization’s as-is HR programs? The benefits of having a trusted partner guide you and your team to excellence are invaluable. Contact us today. You and your employees will be glad you did.

Rise with us by implementing our high-performance remote human-resource programs to help find great people! E-mail us here.

Mark A. Griffin is president and founder of IHN HR. Connect with him on LinkedIn and Twitter.

In this powerful episode, we dive deep into what it means to stand strong in your faith without losing your grace, dignity, or voice.

Featured Guest: Noah Nash

Counsel, Corporate Engagement at Alliance Defending Freedom

Noah Nash brings a wealth of experience in advocating for the rights of Christians in corporate environments. As part of Alliance Defending Freedom (ADF), one of the nation’s leading legal organizations defending religious liberty, Noah works closely with corporations, business leaders, and executives navigating complex religious freedom issues.

Key Topics Covered

1. The Erosion of Authenticity in the Workplace

• Many employees feel afraid to speak about their beliefs in the workplace.
• Noah explains how to be bold in your faith at work while being respectful of your colleagues and employer, even when the environment discourages you from living out your faith at work

2. Understanding Your Legal Rights

• Learn what protections you do have under federal law.
• Discover how ADF equips employers with tools and strategies to defend their freedom of belief.
• Learn how public companies must respect employee speech and free exercise of religion.

3. Charlene Carter v. Southwest Airlines: A Case Study

• Charlene, a Southwest flight attendant, was fired after expressing her pro-life views to her union president.
• A jury awarded her $800,000, recognizing the violation of her religious liberty.
• The employee was discriminated against for her religious activities in violation of Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964.  The jury verdict against Southwest on this claim was upheld on appeal. Noah unpacks the legal implications and what this means for Christian employees moving forward.

Encouragement for the Christian Employee

As a believer, you're called to be salt and light—even in challenging workplaces. This episode offers encouragement, clarity, and action steps for navigating professional life without compromising your faith.

“Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” — Matthew 5:10

Listen to the Full Episode (Insert Link)

About Alliance Defending Freedom

ADF is a legal organization committed to protecting religious freedom, free speech, the sanctity of life, parental rights, and marriage and family. Through corporate engagement and litigation, ADF equips Christians across the country to live out their faith without fear.

If your organization is facing religious liberty concerns or if you're navigating a difficult workplace dynamic, we encourage you to listen to this episode and share it with others who need hope and help.

Concerned about your organization’s as-is HR programs? The benefits of having a trusted partner guide you and your team to excellence are invaluable. Contact us today. You and your employees will be glad you did.

Rise with us by implementing our high-performance remote human-resource programs to help find great people! E-mail us here.

Mark A. Griffin is president and founder of IHN HR. Connect with him on LinkedIn and Twitter.

Podcast Overview:

In the current economic landscape, healthcare benefits can be one of the largest and most unpredictable costs for organizations. Unfortunately, many leadership teams approach healthcare management passively, leaving critical decisions solely in the hands of third-party vendors.

But what if your C-suite could lead the charge toward better care and smarter spending?

In this episode, Mark and Ben discuss how Christian employers can honor their people and their mission by being proactive, strategic, and collaborative in managing healthcare costs — all while maintaining a Christ-centered approach to employee care.

Meet Our Guest: Ben Conner

Ben Conner is a seasoned consultant helping employers across the country design health benefit strategies that prioritize both quality care and financial stewardship. With over 20 years of experience in benefits consulting and a passion for serving faith-based organizations, Ben empowers leadership teams to reclaim control over their healthcare plans through innovative, data-driven strategies. Connect with Ben: Ben Conner LinkedIn

Key Discussion Topics:

1. Ensuring Collaboration Between HR & Accounting and Finance

Ben explains why aligning HR with accounting and finance is critical. Too often, departments work in silos, leading to missed opportunities for creative solutions. Takeaway: When HR, finance, and senior leadership collaborate intentionally, organizations gain visibility into both the human and financial impacts of healthcare decisions.

2. Prioritizing the Quality of Healthcare vs. Cost

Focusing only on cost often results in lower-quality care for employees. Ben shares ways to identify plans that deliver better outcomes, not just cheaper premiums. Takeaway: Organizations must redefine success — not just spending less, but providing better health outcomes at a sustainable cost.

3. Creating Processes to Hold leaders Accountable (Developing Scorecards)

Ben introduces the concept of developing leadership scorecards that track healthcare spending, employee satisfaction, and provider performance. Takeaway: Accountability mechanisms like scorecards ensure that the leadership team remains actively engaged, making healthcare benefits a continual area of improvement rather than a once-a-year discussion.

Why This Matters for Faith-Driven Organizations

As stewards of the resources God has entrusted, Christian leaders are called to approach all areas of business with excellence and integrity — including how they care for employees through healthcare benefits. By involving the C-suite in healthcare leadership, organizations can make decisions that honor both fiscal responsibility and the dignity of their people.

Call to Action

Concerned about your organization’s as-is HR programs? The benefits of having a trusted partner guide you and your team to excellence are invaluable. Contact us today. You and your employees will be glad you did.

Rise with us by implementing our high-performance remote human-resource programs to help find great people! E-mail us here.

Mark A. Griffin is president and founder of IHN HR. Connect with him on LinkedIn and Twitter.

Many nonprofit organizations accumulate assets for long-term investments, such as endowments and portfolio funds. While these mission-driven organizations would never openly support businesses profiting from pornography, gambling, abortion pills, or other activities contrary to Christian values, they may unknowingly be investing in these very industries.

By deploying investment capital into broad index mutual funds or similar vehicles, ministries and nonprofits may see healthy returns. But should they be profiting from businesses that operate against their faith principles? If your nonprofit invests without considering the activities of the companies it supports, it may be time to reconsider.

Christian organizations can invest in ways that honor their values while still fulfilling fiduciary duties to maximize long-term, risk-adjusted returns. Faith-based investing allows ministries to express their mission not only in day-to-day operations but also in how they steward financial resources.

Meet Our Guest: Douglas R. MacGray. Doug is an experienced financial planner and passionate advocate for faith Driven investing. His journey began as a missionary in Micronesia, where he taught in a Christian boys' boarding school and supported local church outreach.

As an attorney, Doug practiced law in Delaware for over a decade, specializing in estate planning and advising nonprofit organizations. He later transitioned into financial planning, obtaining his Certified Financial Planner (CFP) designation and acquiring a financial planning company. Today, he is the sole owner of Stonecrop Wealth Advisors, a fee-only Registered Investment Advisor.

Doug works with nearly 200 families and individuals, with about 20% of his business dedicated to nonprofit ministries, including Christian higher education institutions, churches, and other faith-based organizations.

Faith, Service and Health

• Board member at Gordon College, a Christian institution in Massachusetts
• Former board member at a Christian seminary and K-12 school
• Volunteer supporter of Edify, an international nonprofit supporting Christian K-12 schools in Latin America and Africa
• Has traveled to Uganda, the Dominican Republic, and Panama to support faith-based education initiatives
• Training to run two marathons in 2025

Join host Mark Griffin as he navigates the following key discussion points with his guest Doug MacGray.

1. Hidden Risks in Traditional Investments
   • Many nonprofits unknowingly invest in companies engaging in activities that contradict their faith.
   • Understanding how mutual funds allocate capital is crucial for aligning investments with Christian values.
2. Faith-Based Investing: A Responsible Alternative
   • Nonprofits can structure their investment strategies to uphold Christian principles.
   • Strategies exist to ensure strong financial returns while honoring faith commitments.
3. Practical Steps to Align Investments with Mission
   • How organizations can conduct an investment audit.
   • Resources and advisors available to help nonprofits transition to faith-aligned investing.

Call to Action

If you serve on the board of a nonprofit, work in Christian higher education, or manage a ministry’s finances, now is the time to assess your organization’s investment strategy. Faith-based investing is a powerful way to ensure that your financial resources reflect your values.

Concerned about your organization’s as-is HR programs? The benefits of having a trusted partner guide you and your team to excellence are invaluable. Contact us today. You and your employees will be glad you did.

Rise with us by implementing our high-performance remote human-resource programs to help find great people! E-mail us here.

Mark A. Griffin is president and founder of IHN HR. Connect with him on LinkedIn and Twitter.

Join us for a special edition of the Encouragement For Work Podcast as we go live from Lancaster, PA, at WJTL for the official launch of Faith Driven HR! This isn’t just a book—it’s a transformational resource designed to bring faith, purpose, and integrity into the workplace.

Faith Driven HR is more than an HR manual—it’s a movement. This book empowers HR professionals, business owners, and leaders to align their workplace culture with biblical principles. If you’re looking for practical tools and insights to integrate faith into leadership, this is the guide you need.

Take your leadership to the next level and bring faith into the heart of your workplace. Listen as the Morning Show team at WJTL Lancaster, PA, dives into the Faith Driven HR book launch—unpacking how this resource can equip and inspire faith-driven professionals.

Get your copy, meet the author, and be part of a growing community!

 For more details, visit FaithDrivenHR.com.

Being a  Faith-Driven leader means you act with humility, but also promote accountability.  Tune and learn how accountability is paramount to individual and organizational success.

With decades of experience guiding companies through both growth and adversity, Ford offers a wealth of insights on how leaders can foster resilience, build high-performing teams, and make courageous decisions when the pressure is on.

We’ll dive deep into the core principles of Transformational Leadership, discussing practical strategies for maintaining unity at the top, creating a culture of trust, and developing the emotional intelligence necessary for effective leadership. Ford will share real-world examples of leaders who have successfully navigated organizational turbulence, offering a blueprint for C-suite executives looking to inspire and empower their teams in the face of uncertainty.

Whether you’re a CEO, college president, church leader, senior executive, or an aspiring leader, this conversation will equip you with the energy, a positive mindset, and tools needed to thrive in tumultuous times. Join us as we uncover the leadership strategies that separate those who merely survive from those who rise above the storm to create lasting impact.

If you are looking for leadership intervention at the C-suite level, contact Ford; he has the resources and experiences to help.

Concerned about your organization’s as-is HR programs? The benefits of having a trusted partner guide you and your team to excellence are invaluable. Contact us today. You and your employees will be glad you did. Rise with us by implementing our high-performance remote human-resource programs to help find great people! E-mail us here.

Mark A. Griffin is president and founder of IHN HR. Connect with him on LinkedIn and Twitter.

Josh unpacks how businesses can align their employee benefits with justice-driven principles that protect the most vulnerable—children. From evaluating family-building policies to identifying practices that may unintentionally harm kids, this episode is a deep dive into how companies can elevate their HR strategies to support employees while safeguarding future generations.

Discover why influential organizations like the Colson Center are teaming up with Them Before Us to reimagine corporate benefits through a pro-child lens. Packed with actionable insights and practical steps, this conversation will inspire you to view HR not just as a tool for enhancing productivity, but as a force for societal good.

What You’ll Learn:

1. What it truly means to be a "pro-child" organization and how this mindset challenges current HR trends in corporate America.
2. Why children’s rights should matter when shaping HR benefits and organizational policies.
3. The surprising forms of resistance companies face when rethinking benefits—and how to overcome them effectively.

About Our Guest:

Josh Wood brings a wealth of experience in nonprofit leadership, disaster response, and organizational growth. He has spearheaded multimillion-dollar fundraising campaigns, managed large-scale grant programs, and collaborated with organizations to deliver critical resources to communities worldwide. Josh’s expertise extends to directing global volunteer networks, executing impactful disaster relief efforts, and helping nonprofits with initiatives like capital campaigns, book publishing, and model legislation.

Mark A. Griffin brings a wealth of experience as an HR and organizational development professional, coach, consultant, author, and national speaker.

Mark’s passion for fostering engaging and prosperous workplace environments is the driving force behind this podcast series.

Don’t miss this thought-provoking episode that challenges traditional ideas of workplace benefits and redefines what it means to be a family-friendly organization. Tune in now!

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Concerned about your organization’s as-is HR programs? The benefits of having a trusted partner guide you and your team to excellence are invaluable.

Contact us today. You and your employees will be glad you did. Rise with us by implementing our high-performance remote human-resource programs to help find great people! E-mail us here.

Mark A. Griffin is president and founder of IHN HR. Connect with him on LinkedIn and Twitter.

It’s time to break the cycle. Together, we can encourage employees to reengage in their workplaces, homes, and communities. Enter Kristoffer Popovitch, whose passion for workplace chaplaincy offers a pathway to overcoming isolation and fostering thriving environments.

In this episode, Mark and Kristoffer explore strategies to reenergize workplaces by focusing on three transformative areas:

1. Building a Positive Culture Workplace chaplains demonstrate that employees matter beyond their productivity. This creates an atmosphere where people feel valued and cared for.
2. Prioritizing Employee Mental Health With mental health reaching crisis levels nationwide, chaplain services provide much-needed support, addressing emotional and spiritual well-being.
3. Creating Ripple Effects Through Faith When employees come to know the Lord, the impact extends beyond the workplace—transforming families, coworkers, and entire communities. It’s a win-win for everyone.

Kristoffer Popovitch is the Vice President of Operations at Rissinger Resource Group and a dedicated workplace chaplain. With over 33 years of clinical healthcare experience, including 23 years in executive hospital leadership, Kris brings a wealth of knowledge to the table. An ordained minister and lead pastor, Kris also serves on the boards of Knox Theological Seminary and Love Inc. He is a proud husband and father of two adult children who recently married.

Join us as we delve into this meaningful conversation about the power of workplace chaplaincy and its potential to transform lives.

Concerned about your organization’s as-is HR programs? The benefits of having a trusted partner guide you and your team to excellence are invaluable. Contact us today. You and your employees will be glad you did. Rise with us by implementing our high-performance remote human-resource programs to help find great people! E-mail us here.

Mark A. Griffin is president and founder of IHN HR. Connect with him on LinkedIn and Twitter.

It doesn’t have to be that way. Meet Deb Brown Maher. Deb assists organizations' HR departments by offering training and development opportunities to those who significantly contribute to your bottom line. Your salespeople. Whether you're a for-profit organization or a ministry, Deb is an expert to learn from.

Feel positive about selling and getting the results you deserve. Deb's sales training packages equip your sales team to make more sales without being pushy.

Join host Mark Griffin and Deb as they explore the complexities of training the sales team, all while maintaining financial stability and moral integrity. It is possible to find a plan that works for you, despite past difficulties!

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Concerned about your organization’s as-is HR programs? The benefits of having a trusted partner guide you and your team to excellence are invaluable.

Contact us today. You and your employees will be glad you did. Rise with us by implementing our high-performance remote human-resource programs to help find great people! E-mail us here.

Mark A. Griffin is president and founder of IHN HR. Connect with him on LinkedIn and Twitter.

Let’s break the cycle and encourage our employees to get reengaged at work, home, and in their communities. Meet Eric Bents. Through workplace engagement, Eric believes we can help people overcome isolation.

Join Mark and Eric as they discuss overcoming relational poverty in your workplace, focusing on three (3) key areas:

• Get employees to focus outward (volunteer, mission work).
• Organize events that will win the affection of your employees' families.
• Create career development programs that bless your people.

Eric is committed to ending relational poverty. As a strategy coach and leadership development expert, Eric assists individuals and organizations in resolving their most pressing issues.

Eric is a great American. During his 30 years in the United States Air Force (20 years active, 10 reserve), Eric deployed to Afghanistan and Bosnia, serving in a wide range of combat and non-combat capacities before retiring as a colonel. His duties covered almost every military mission area, including conventional combat support, nuclear, cyberspace, space, peacekeeping, counterinsurgency, and counterterrorism.

Through his non-profit The Storehouse Movement and his company Win Your Wars, Eric uses his hard-won knowledge of military tactics and strategy in his role as Storehouse Movement leader to offer a framework for anybody to address their most difficult personal, professional, or social issues.

When Eric isn't "warring to win," he enjoys spending time with his wife, Marnie, five [largely] grown children, and one grandson. He also enjoys hunting and being outside.

Concerned about the HR programs at your organization? The benefits of having a trusted partner to guide you and your team to excellence are invaluable. Contact us today. You—and your employees—will be glad you did.

Rise with us by implementing our high-performance remote human-resource programs to help find great people! E-mailus here.

Mark A. Griffin is president and founder of In HIS Name HR LLC. Connect with him on LinkedIn and Twitter

We are in tumultuous times when Christians can't even speak to each other regarding certain topics. We miss incredible opportunities to love each other and learn from each other when we don't speak opening with each other regarding our views. But, what if we were all comfortable with our political views and could speak openly?

Meet Pastor Joel L. Rissinger. He believes we have an obligation to speak openly with one another in every aspect of our walks with the Lord, especially politics.  Pastor Joel L. Rissinger and his wife Karen have been married for almost 40 years and have two adult children, a marvelous son-in-law, two foster grandsons, and two gorgeous granddaughters.

Pastor Joel is a shepherd as part of Standing Stone Ministry (www.standingstoneministry.org) and an interim pastor with IPM (www.interimpastors.org).

He is co-founding Pastor Emeritus of LifeWay Church in Newington, Connecticut, and he has been in full-time ministry since 1992. In this capacity, he has led several congregations through major transitions prior to planting.

He and his wife Karen, a school psychologist, have helped hundreds of couples through counseling, their popular “Marriage Timeout” retreats, Iron Sharpens Iron Seminars, and other public ministry.

Tune in and listen as Mark and Pastor Joel give you encouragement for work!

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Concerned about the HR programs at your organization? The benefits of having a trusted partner to guide you and your team to excellence are invaluable. Contact us today. You—and your employees—will be glad you did.

Rise with us by implementing our high-performance remote human-resource programs to help find great people! E-mailus here.

Mark A. Griffin is president and founder of In HIS Name HR LLC. Connect with him on LinkedIn and Twitter

But what if they do?

Meet Ericka McPherson, Esq., executive director of Covenant Choice. Her organization offers a transformative alternative that gives even small-sized employers the same control, transparency, and cost-containment strategies enjoyed by larger corporations. These innovative healthcare plans allow for:

1. Tailored benefits that align with Christian values, ensuring that one's business supports what matters most
2. National health plans, including PPO, HDHP, and HSA options
3. Transparent structure and costs
4. Multiple choices for individual company flexibility and member-owned status.

Covenant Choice for Small Groups specifically provides a unique opportunity to offer employees a health insurance plan that reflects commitment to faith and values. Exclusively available through the Christian Employers Alliance, this self-insured product provides protection against large claims with various options for deductibles, drug cards, and stop-loss insurance.

Join host Mark Griffin as he and Ericka discuss the intricacies of running smaller businesses while properly insuring their employees – without breaking the bank or one’s morals. As challenging as it may have felt in the past, it really is possible to find a plan that works for you!

Want to contact Erika or meet with a member of her team? Simply text "Broker" or "Employer" to 28323.

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Concerned about your organization’s as-is HR programs? The benefits of having a trusted partner guide you and your team to excellence are invaluable.

Contact us today. You and your employees will be glad you did. Rise with us by implementing our high-performance remote human-resource programs to help find great people! E-mail us here.

Mark A. Griffin is president and founder of In HIS Name HR LLC. Connect with him on LinkedIn and Twitter.