St. Louis Luncheon with Jeff Bramstedt, former Navy Seal, Stuntman and Owner of Skydive San Diego
2020-02-06 11:00 - 13:00 (America/Chicago) | The Ballroom at Doubletree Hotel & Convention Center, 16625 Swingley Ridge Road, Chesterfield, 63017
Jeff Bramstedt, former Navy SEAL, Stuntman and Owner of Skydive San Diego.
REGISTER for single tickets or a table of 10 HERE.
Jeff is a former US Navy SEAL who for the past 18 years, has been stuntman in feature films such as Transformers, Hancock, Lone Survivor, Deep Water Horizon and many others. You may also recognize him from commercials and select fitness magazines. Jeff also formed and successfully leads a skydiving team called VST or Valor Skydiving team. Today, they perform for children’s organizations, churches, the NFL and MLB, and other large events around nation. It is from this pro skydiving platform that Jeff ventured into the private sector as a business owner. He currently owns and operates Skydive San Diego along with his amazing team and staff.
A big part of who Jeff is, is his dedication to communicating the Word of God to men, building in them the foundations that won’t crack under the pressures placed on men by the world in which we live. Training and teaching men to be “real men” is the core of the ministry he founded, Life of Valor Ministries and Men’s Events. Beyond men’s ministry, Jeff is passionate to share the Gospel message, encouraging both men and women to live the life God has called them lead.
Download the event flyer.

UB Forum St. Louis, "Appreciating Others"
2020-02-11 07:00 - 08:30 (America/Chicago) | IA
Designed for business leaders—regardless of role—UB Forums are monthly, 1-1/2 hour leadership communities that include exclusive faith + work video training, a time for discussion, and networking. These groups are typically comprised of 10 to 30 business professionals meeting during an extended breakfast or lunch hour. Registration of $25 includes exclusive programming and breakfast or lunch fare.
Register HERE for our February 11th UB Forum Chesterfield

Launched October of 2019, this growing leadership community is learning practical ways to model faith in their work through exclusive video training, peer discussion, and the formation of meaningful marketplace relationships. We especially witness God at work during the discussion time. Here, participants transparently share the challenges they face and others reply with encouragement and wise counsel!
Don’t miss the opportunity to join us February 11th when our topic will be centered on “Appreciating Others,” including an exclusive 20 minute training video featuring UBN’s Rick Boxx, author of Unconventional Business.
Here’s an overview from Rick: “In the workplace business leaders have many different type of relationships from customers to employees to peers who are all hungry for respect and appreciation. In this video, I address 5 key constituents and how to best show each appreciation in a God-honoring way—designed to enhance your relationships and your business.”
Questions? Interested in starting your own UB Forum? contact Keith Mette, Business Development Director, St. Louis at keith@unconventionalbusiness.org

Winter Luncheon Event with First Liberty Institute's Kelly Shakelford
2020-02-13 11:00 - 13:00 (America/Chicago) | Embassy Suites Des Moines Downtown, 101 E. Locust St., Des Moines, IA, 50309, United States
REGISTER for single tickets ($49) or a table of 10 ($450) HERE
Kelly Shackelford, Esq., is President and CEO of First Liberty Institute, the largest legal firm in the nation dedicated exclusively to protecting religious freedom for all Americans. He has served in this role since 1997, leading First Liberty’s efforts to defend religious freedom in the courts and in the public arena. Under his leadership, First Liberty’s legal team has participated in cases before the United States Supreme Court, federal courts of appeals, federal district courts and various state courts, where they have won more than 90 percent of their cases.
Shackelford is a constitutional scholar who has argued before the United States Supreme Court, testified before the U.S. House and Senate, and has won a number of landmark First Amendment and religious liberty cases.
He was recently named one of the 25 greatest Texas lawyers of the past quarter-century by Texas Lawyer and is the recipient of the prestigious William Bentley Ball Award for Life and Religious Freedom Defense for pioneering work protecting religious freedom.
Shackelford is a highly sought-after speaker and frequent guest on national news and talk shows including Good Morning America, The Today Show, CNN, Fox and Friends, MSNBC, and Hannity. He also has been featured in the National Law Journal, Associated Press, The New York Times, The Washington Times, The Washington Post, and The L.A. Times, and many others.
Shackelford is on the Board of Trustees of the United States Supreme Court Historical Society and earned his law degree from Baylor University.
Download the event flyer.

UB Women St. Louis "Navigating with a Compass: Fact vs. Emotions"
2020-02-19 11:30 - 13:00 (America/Chicago) | The Lodge Des Peres, 1050 Des Peres Road, Des Peres, Missouri, 63131
UB Women is thrilled to host Faithforward Conversations (FFC) in St. Louis. These intimate monthly gatherings of faithforward business women address topics unique to women of faith, while fostering the growth of meaningful workplace relationships. Each FFC is facilitated by a professional woman in business and includes a healthful box lunch with gluten free options. Registration is $25 for lunch and program.
Click HERE to register for UBW’s February FFC.

You’re invited to our February 19th Faithforward Conversation, “Navigating with a Compass: Fact vs. Emotions” with Abbe Keen, Chiropractic Physician of Crossroad Family Chiropractic.
Abbe Keen began her professional journey in 2008 and knew that being a Christian would mean a different approach to traditional healthcare. Godly wisdom dictated that healing could only result from being whole. With this in mind, she developed her practice to be a place to disciple people to better health. The result? Patients that are growing to be better versions of the themselves—for service to their families, their communities and their God.
You won’t to miss hearing Abbe’s wise words as she facilitates our February Faithforward Conversation!

Luncheon with Mary Andringa | Vermeer Corp. Chair of the Board
2020-02-27 11:00 - 13:00 (America/Chicago) | Overland Park Convention Center, 6000 College Boulevard, Overland Park, KS, 66211, United States
Chair of the Board, Vermeer Corporation
REGISTER for single tickets ($49) or a table of 10 ($450) HERE. Download the Event Flyer.
Mary Vermeer Andringa is President, CEO and Chair of the Board at Vermeer Corporation, a global industrial and agricultural equipment company headquartered in Pella, Iowa.
Ms. Andringa is integral in continuing the family legacy of her father and company founder, Gary Vermeer. With humble beginnings, Vermeer Corporation has grown to become a global organization with more than 3,000 team members at Vermeer and affiliated organizations, serving the underground construction, surface mining, tree care, environmental and agricultural industries. Today, Vermeer facilities are found in Latin America, Asia Pacific, China, Europe and the U.S.
Due to her successful tenure at Vermeer, as well as her growing reputation as an expert ambassador for manufacturing, Ms. Andringa is sought after as a speaker and spokesperson. Ms. Andringa is a member of the B20, the private sector’s channel into the G20, providing leadership on small business and entrepreneurship with the intent to use her voice to remove obstacles and create a better business environment for small businesses to thrive. She also currently serves as the Vice Chair of the Iowa Business Council.
Throughout her career, Ms. Andringa has been an advocate of the manufacturing industry. Ms. Andringa was inducted into IndustryWeek’s Manufacturing Hall of Fame in 2013. She served a two-year term as chair of the National Association of Manufacturers (NAM), the nation’s largest manufacturing association and has recently been named Honorary Vice Chair. She also served as one of 18 private sector members of President Obama’s Export Council, where she represented manufacturing on important trade matters. Ms. Andringa is also a past member of the Export-Import Bank Advisory Committee.
Ms. Andringa credits her background in education for her inherent proficiency at leadership and inspiring team members to reach new heights in their personal and professional development. After receiving her degree from Calvin College in Grand Rapids, Michigan, she taught in the Iowa public school system and later in Omaha, Nebraska, for approximately six years. She has recently completed a two-year term as the co-chair of the Iowa Governor’s STEM Advisory Council and has been named one of the Top 100 CEOs in STEM by STEMconnector®.
Mary Andringa also is involved in the following boards: Member of the Vermeer Board of Directors; Director of the Vermeer Charitable Foundation; Director of the Herman Miller Company in Zeeland, Michigan; Director of the Milliken & Company in Spartanburg, South Carolina; Vice Chair of the Iowa Business Council; Trustee for the Fuller Theological Seminary in Pasadena, California; Trustee Emeritus at Central College; and Past Chair of the Iowa Association of Business and Industry.
Mary and her husband, Dr. Dale Andringa, have two children and six grandchildren.

UB Forum St. Louis, "Tad Edwards on Appreciating Others"
2020-03-10 07:00 - 08:30 (America/Chicago) | IA
Interested in advancing your faith + work walk with other likeminded business men and women of faith?

Experience UB Forum Chesterfield
Designed for business leaders—regardless of role—UB Forums are monthly, 1-1/2 hour leadership communities that include exclusive faith + work video training, a time for discussion and networking. These groups are typically comprised of 10 to 30 business professionals meeting during an extended breakfast or lunch hour. Registration of $25 includes exclusive programming and breakfast or lunch fare.
Register HERE for our March 10th UB Forum Chesterfield | An Interview with Tad Edwards of Benjamin F. Edwards & Company

About UB Forum Chesterfield. Launched October of 2019, this growing leadership community is learning practical ways to model faith in their work through exclusive video training, peer discussion and the formation of meaningful marketplace relationships. We especially witness God at work during the discussion time. Here, participants transparently share the challenges they face and others reply with encouragement and wise counsel!
Unconventional Business Network invites you to our March 10th installment of Unconventional LEADING video series, when we will focus on “Appreciating Others: Building a Team of Talented People.”
Tad Edwards is careful about the people he adds to his 600-plus person organization. The Chairman, CEO and President of St. Louis-based Benjamin F. Edwards & Co. says he screens about 50 potential employees for every job opening. This obviously takes time and care that some of us might not have. How does Tad avoid the trap of adding “just another warm body” to his company?
This month, we’ll be viewing a video from UBN’S Unconventional Leadership library featuring Rick Boxx and Tad Edwards. Tad addresses hiring processes—finding new talent, bringing the right people on board, and keeping employees engaged and valued. You won’t want to miss this opportunity for networking, learning, and thought-provoking round table discussions.
Questions? Interested in starting your own UB Forum? contact Keith Mette, Business Development Director, St. Louis at keith@unconventionalbusiness.org

UB Women Kansas City "Leading with a Clear Mind"
2020-03-12 17:30 - 19:00 (America/Chicago) | UBN Offices, 10550 Barkley Street Suite 116, Overland Park, Kansas, 66212
UBW is thrilled to host Faithforward Conversations (FFC) in Kansas City. These intimate monthly gatherings of professional women consider topics unique to business women of faith, while fostering the growth of meaningful workplace relationships. Each FFC is facilitated by a woman in business and include light dinner fare with gluten free options. Registration is $25 for dinner and program.
Click HERE to register today!

You’re invited to our Thursday, March 12th Faithforward Conversation, Leading with a Clear Mind—with Edwina Glass, Owner and CPA of Glass Consulting.
In her professional role, Edwina helps small business owners focus on their passion and success—not on keeping books and filling out tax forms. When not helping business owners manage by their numbers, she enjoys running with her dog Dorie, visiting her daughters, and reading books. In addition, Edwina is active in her faith community, co-leads a small group VIBE for women in business and regularly serves on the production team.
You won’t to miss hearing Edwina’s wise words as she facilitates our March Faithforward Conversation!.

UB Women St. Louis "to be rescheduled"
2020-03-18 11:30 - 13:00 (America/Chicago) | The Lodge Des Peres, 1050 Des Peres Road, Des Peres, Missouri, 63131
UBW is thrilled to host Faithforward Conversations (FFC) in St. Louis. These intimate monthly gatherings of professional women consider topics unique to business women of faith, while fostering the growth of meaningful workplace relationships. Each FFC is facilitated by a woman in business and includes healthful lunch fare with gluten free options. Registration is $25 for lunch and program.
To be rescheduled

What does it look like to be a generous giver? Is there a bar or level of giving that means a person is generous? Is being generous more than just about giving monetarily but also about giving of time and talents? Generosity is a key attribute of Christ, he was constantly giving of himself. What does it look like for unconventional women in business to give as Christ gave to co-workers, to employees, and to customers? How would the impact on this earth change if each believer living generously in all three aspects of life: time, treasure and talent?
Please joins us Wednesday, March 18th, to tackle Faith + Work + Life together as we explore the topic Generous Giver: Time, Talents, Treasure—with Julie Wikoff. Julie lives, speaks and breathes generosity in all aspects of her life. She will share some of her journey and encourage and motivate us to develop and exercise the giving heart of Jesus in our businesses so that we can make a difference in every life that we touch!
About our guest speaker and conversation facilitator. Julie was born and raised in the Appalachian Mountains in Pennsylvania and moved to Missouri 24 years ago as a mission developer with her then husband. While she attended college to pursue her love for music and theatre, she began to raise a family that now includes six amazing adult children and 6 grandchildren. With a servant’s heart learned from mom, three of her sons are actively serving our country in the Army and United States Marine Corps.
Today, Julie is Vice President of Operations & Marketing at ALIGN Financial, a consulting firm where she focuses on providing solutions for business and for life.

UBN's Network Connect | This Thursday with Dee Ann Turner of Chick-fil-A
2020-04-02 12:00 - 13:00 (America/Chicago) | Virtual Zoom Event
UBN is thrilled to launch “NETWORK CONNECT” as a way for faithforward business leaders to stay connected and be encouraged during these extraordinary times.
Join Rick Boxx, UBN Founder and CEO, this Thursday— and every Thursday for the foreseeable future —at noon (CST) via zoom. This Thursday, April 2nd, Rick will be talking with Dee Ann Turner of Chick-fil-A on “Lessons Learned from 9/11.”
Register HERE

In the wake of 9/11, a disaster that forever changed our country’s financial and social landscape, Dee Ann Turner made some leadership missteps. On Thursday, April 2nd, she will dive into the valuable leadership lessons she learned during this crisis. Lessons we can apply today. Many of you may remember Dee Ann’s address at a recent Unconventional Business luncheon. She is engaging, honest and fully anchored to God.
“No one wants to constantly hear how bad it all is,” Dee Ann says. “Lead with a spirit of optimism and hope.”
Today, the former Vice President of Talent and Sustainability for Chick-fil-A heads her own organization, Dee Ann Turner, LLC. She is a writer and a speaker, addressing more than fifty audiences per year while consulting and coaching business leaders globally.

UB Forum St. Louis "Driven by a Higher Purpose"
2020-04-14 07:00 - 08:30 (America/Chicago) | IA
Interested in advancing your faith + work walk with other likeminded business men and women of faith?
Experience UB Forum Chesterfield
Designed for business leaders—regardless of role—UB Forums are monthly, 1-1/2 hour leadership communities that include exclusive faith + work video training, a time for discussion and networking. These groups are typically comprised of 10 to 30 business professionals meeting during an extended breakfast or lunch hour. Registration of $25 includes exclusive programming and breakfast or lunch fare.
Register HERE for our April 14th UB Forum Chesterfield | “Driven by a Higher Purpose with insights from Tracy Bouwens of Scooter’s Coffee”

About UB Forum Chesterfield. Launched October of 2019, this growing leadership community is learning practical ways to model faith in their work through exclusive video training, peer discussion and the formation of meaningful marketplace relationships. We especially witness God at work during the discussion time. Here, participants transparently share the challenges they face and others reply with encouragement and wise counsel!
Unconventional Business Network invites you to our April 14th installment of Unconventional LEADING video series, when we will focus on “Driven by a Higher Purpose.”
About this session. This month, we’ll be viewing a video from UBN’S Unconventional Leadership library featuring Rick Boxx and an inspiring story of “Driven by a Higher Purpose” from Tracy Bouwens of Scooter’s Coffee. Rick Boxx will begin the lesson by helping you identify what drives you and your decisions. He will also ask you to take an inventory of your God-given skills, abilities and knowledge. From this base, you will learn three critical steps to help you be driven by your God, for an appointed purpose. At the close, you will hear an incredible story of how God asked Tracy and her husband to take what they knew about successfully running 40+ coffee shops with excellence, to helping those seized into human trafficking escape.
Questions? Interested in starting your own UB Forum? contact Keith Mette, Business Development Director, St. Louis at keith@unconventionalbusiness.org

St. Louis Luncheon with Peter Demos, President and Attorney for Demos' Brands of Restaurants
2020-04-23 11:00 - 13:00 (America/Chicago) | The Ballroom at Doubletree Hotel & Convention Center, 16625 Swingley Ridge Road, Chesterfield, 63017
TO BE RESCHEDULED
Join us for UBN’s Spring Luncheon Event
Single tickets ($49) or a table of 10 ($450)

Restaurateur. Businessman. Lawyer. Servant of God. These words describe Peter Demos.
Peter is the president and CEO of Demos’ Brands and Peter D’s Seasonings. He is also the multi-generational owner of the Demos’ Restaurant chain. Combined, these companies employ more than 500 people. A handful of LLCs, including a real estate company, complete Peter’s business portfolio.
Faith and work merged for Peter later in life, when he answered an alter call and soon after, attended a seminar that challenged his new-found faith. “Before becoming a Christian, I had to be in control of things,” Demos recently told the Hendersonville Standard. “Business books tell you that’s what you must do to succeed.”
But, over time, he said, he changed his company into one that centered around God, and today, Demos considers God his managing director. Demos’ website displays his bold profession of faith.
At Demos’, we’ve always known that our purpose is larger than providing delicious food. We strive daily to live out our purpose through how we serve and care. Our purpose is to glorify God in all we do by serving others, serve and care for our customers, glorify God in all we do by loving our team, and to grow profitably.
Peter’s success has not been smooth sailing. He describes the failing of one of his restaurants, Peter D’s, in April 2018, as a turning point in his career and his faith. He said he learned that no matter how smart he is, he cannot thwart God’s plan. And that the opposite of fear is not courage; the opposite of fear is trust.
Peter is recognized by both secular and Christian organizations. The Nashville Business Journal acknowledged Peter in their list of top 40 under 40. Other achievements include the Christian Chamber of Commerce Chairman’s Award 2015. Currently, Peter sits on the NFIB Leadership Council, and C12 National Member advisory board. He is also the past chairman on the Board of Directors for the Rutherford County Chamber of Commerce and past president for the Tennessee Hospitality Association.
Not surprisingly, Peter is a sought-after speaker. He addresses restaurant groups, churches, businesses and Christian groups about the restaurant industry, his late journey to faith, and God’s desire for us to boldly live out our faith in every aspect of life, including work. We are delighted to have him share his “Unconventional Business” story with our St. Louis audience. You will not want to miss the opportunity to hear from Peter, or the opportunity to visit with him during the Meet & Greet time. He will be showcasing his newly released book (2019), Afraid to Trust: One Man’s Journey to the Love of God.
Peter, his wife and two children reside in the Nashville area.
Download the event flyer.

Dr. Richard Blackaby, International Speaker, Business Coach & Author
2020-06-04 12:00 - 13:00 (America/Chicago) | Virtual Zoom Event
Hear from renowned business coach, international speaker, and author, Richard Blackaby, as he speaks on “Leadership Lost” and “Leadership Found” in this two part Virtual Event presented by Faith at Work Iowa and Unconventional Business Network.
This virtual event will be hosted Thursday, June 4 and June 11, from noon to 1:00 p.m. CDT via Zoom Webinar. You will be registered for both sessions. Free registration is made possible by our Des Moines (June 4) and Kansas City (June 11) sponsors. We are so grateful for their generosity!

Dr. Richard Blackaby knows and understands business leaders and the challenges they face blending their faith with their work—especially during a time such as this. The international speaker, business coach and author of God in the Marketplace ministers directly to Fortune 100 and 500 CEOs. But, Blackaby insists, whether you’re working from the receptionist’s desk or from the executive suite, the same questions exist: Why has God placed me where he placed me, and how does God want to use me to make a difference? We are truly privileged to
June 4, “Leadership Lost“ ♦ Leaders regularly face tests. When you fail those tests, you lose influence with those you lead. We’ll look at how to pass those leadership tests so you move on to a higher level of leadership. Covid-19 has provided many tests to business leaders. What has it revealed to you?
June 11, “Leadership Found“ ♦ Christian leaders get their grounding, peace, and joy as leaders from the Holy Spirit. But when you are going 90 mph, you can easily miss His voice! Sometimes God needs to slow you down so you don’t miss the important lessons He has for you. Covid-19 has changed our world and for many of us, changed our schedules. Through it all, was God able to build into you what you will need for a post-Covid-19 world?
Richard has a Master’s of Divinity degree and a Ph.D. in church history from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, and an honorary doctorate from Dallas Baptist University. He has served as a senior pastor, and as president of the Canadian Southern Baptist Seminary in Cochran, Alberta Canada for 13 years. He continues to serve as the seminary’s Chancellor today, when he is not at the helm as president of Blackaby Ministries International.
Richard is perhaps best known for the book he co-authored with his father, Henry: Experiencing God: Revised Edition. The book sprang from experiences Henry and Marilynn Blackaby, along with their five children, experienced serving in, and planting, churches in Saskatchewan, Canada.
To date, Richard has co-authored or authored thirty-three books including Spiritual Leadership: Moving People on to God’s Agenda, God in the Marketplace, and Experiencing God: Day by Day.
Richard Blackaby has his wife, Lisa, have been married since 1983. They have three adult children and six grandchildren. The couple live in Jonesboro, Georgia.

Virtual Event with Dr. Richard Blackaby, International Speaker, Business Coach & Author
2020-06-11 00:00 - 2020-06-18 13:00 (America/Chicago) | Virtual Zoom Event
Hear from renowned business coach, international speaker, and author, Richard Blackaby, as he speaks on “Leadership Lost” and “Leadership Found” in this two part Virtual Event (June 4 and June 11) presented by Faith at Work Iowa (June 4) and Unconventional Business Network.
This virtual event will be hosted Thursday, June 4 and June 11, from noon to 1:00 p.m. CDT via Zoom Webinar. You will be registered for both sessions. Free registration is made possible by our Des Moines (June 4) and Kansas City (June 11) sponsors. We are so grateful for their generosity!

Dr. Richard Blackaby knows and understands business leaders and the challenges they face blending their faith with their work. The international speaker, business coach and author of God in the Marketplace ministers directly to Fortune 100 and 500 CEOs. But, Blackaby insists, whether you’re working from the receptionist’s desk or from the executive suite, the same questions exist: Why has God placed me where he placed me, and how does God want to use me to make a difference?
Richard has a Master’s of Divinity degree and a Ph.D. in church history from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, and an honorary doctorate from Dallas Baptist University. He has served as a senior pastor, and as president of the Canadian Southern Baptist Seminary in Cochran, Alberta Canada for 13 years. He continues to serve as the seminary’s Chancellor today, when he is not at the helm as president of Blackaby Ministries International.
Richard is perhaps best known for the book he co-authored with his father, Henry: Experiencing God: Revised Edition. The book sprang from experiences Henry and Marilynn Blackaby, along with their five children, experienced serving in, and planting, churches in Saskatchewan, Canada.
To date, Richard has co-authored or authored thirty-three books including Spiritual Leadership: Moving People on to God’s Agenda, God in the Marketplace, and Experiencing God: Day by Day.
Richard Blackaby has his wife, Lisa, have been married since 1983. They have three adult children and six grandchildren. The couple live in Jonesboro, Georgia.

Virtual Network Connect Event with Former Cardinals' Pitcher Kyle McClellan
2020-08-27 12:00 - 13:00 (America/Chicago) | Virtual Zoom Event
Kyle McClellan | former MLB pitcher for the Cardinals and Rangers | MLB World Series Champion | Out of Adversity: Hope and A Future
Register HERE. Your Zoom registration is free due to the generosity of our St. Louis sponsors.

Is it true that sometimes God sends storms not to cause destruction but to clear a path? Kyle McClellan would agree. From pitching in the major leagues to the minor leagues and back to the major leagues again, Kyle admits he learned the most about God when he experienced setbacks and disappointment. Join us for this VIP Network Connect as Kyle shares his “though-the-storm” journey and how it relates to the small business community. He will encourage us to never give up—even in the face of disappointments and setbacks. Join us for this inspiring Network Connect!

More about Kyle McClellan
Former MLB pitcher and World Series Champion Kyle McClellan was born in Florissant, Missouri and graduated from St. Louis county suburban high school Hazelwood West in 2002. While there, he was a three-sport athlete, lettering in football, basketball, and baseball. He also was a two-time All-State selection at both pitcher and first base.
Kyle played for most of his MLB career for the St. Louis Cardinals, but spent time with the Texas Rangers organization before retiring from the game in 2013. Between 2008, his first MLB appearance until 2013, Kyle also played in the minor leagues.
In 2014, after he and his wife went on a life-changing mission trip to Haiti with teammate Adam Wainwright and his wife, Kyle founded Brace for IMPACT46, a non-profit organization that supports quality of life in Haiti and purchases and renovates homes in North St. Louis for families in need.
“As a professional ballplayer, I’ve had the opportunity to meet some truly incredible people who have factored heavily in my success and helped to shape my character, both on and off the field,” Kyle says. “They have had a significant IMPACT on my life.”
Kyle and his wife, Bridget, make their home in Maryland Heights, Missouri. They have one daughter. In his free time, Kyle enjoys hunting and fishing.
You can learn more about Kyle’s organization by logging into www.braceforimpact46.com.

Peter Demos, Restauranteur, Businessman and Lawyer
2020-09-10 12:00 - 13:00 (America/Chicago) | Virtual Zoom Event
Join UBN and FAW Iowa for this VIP Virtual Event | “COVID and Other Crises: One Business’s Story”
REGISTER HERE for this virtual event
Registration is free due to the generosity of our Des Moines sponsors. We are so grateful!

Restauranteur. Businessman. Lawyer. Servant of God. These words describe Peter Demos.
Peter is the president and CEO of the multi-generational Demos Brand companies, which include the Demos’ Restaurant chain and PDK Southern Kitchen and Pantry. Combined, these companies employ more than 500 people. A handful of LLCs, including a real estate company, complete Peter’s business portfolio.
Faith and work merged for Peter later in life, when he answered an alter call and soon after, attended a seminar that challenged his new-found faith. “Before becoming a Christian, I had to be in control of things,” Demos recently told the Hendersonville Standard. “Business books tell you that’s what you must do to succeed.”
But, over time, he said, he changed his company into one that centered around God, and today, Demos considers God his managing director. Demos’ website displays his bold profession of faith.
At Demos’, we’ve always known that our purpose is larger than providing delicious food. We strive daily to live out our purpose through how we serve and care. Our purpose is to glorify God in all we do by serving others, serve and care for our customers, glorify God in all we do by loving our team, and to grow profitably.
Peter’s success has not been smooth sailing. He describes the failing of one of his restaurants, Peter D’s, in April 2018, as a turning point in his career and his faith. He said he learned that no matter how smart he is, he cannot thwart God’s plan. And that the opposite of fear is not courage; the opposite of fear is trust.
Peter is recognized by both secular and Christian organizations. The Nashville Business Journal acknowledged Peter in their list of top 40 under 40. Other achievements include the Christian Chamber of Commerce Chairman’s Award 2015. Currently, Peter sits on the NFIB Leadership Council, and C12 National Member advisory board. He is also the past chairman on the Board of Directors for the Rutherford County Chamber of Commerce and past president for the Tennessee Hospitality Association.
Not surprisingly, Peter is a sought-after speaker. He addresses restaurant groups, churches, businesses and Christian groups about the restaurant industry, his late journey to faith, and God’s desire for us to boldly live out our faith in every aspect of life, including work. We are delighted to have him share his “Unconventional Business” story at this virtual event. You will not want to miss the opportunity to hear from Peter, or the opportunity to submit your question for consideration during the Q&A time.
His 2019 book, Afraid to Trust: One Man’s Journey to the Love of God, is available on Amazon. You can find out more about Peter Demos and his Christ-centered approach to his restaurant chain by visiting www.afraidtotrust.com.
Peter, his wife and two children reside in the Middle Tennessee area.

Kansas City Luncheon with Jeff Bramstedt, former Navy SEAL and Owner of Skydive San Diego
2020-09-17 12:00 - 13:00 (America/Chicago) | Virtual Zoom Event
Jeff Bramstedt, former Navy SEAL, Stuntman and Owner of Skydive San Diego.

Join UBN for this VIP Virtual Event | “Building High Performance Teams: Lessons from a Former Navy SEAL”
REGISTER HERE for this virtual event
Registration is free due to the generosity of our Kansas City sponsors. We are so grateful!

Jeff is a former US Navy SEAL who for the past 18 years, has been stuntman in feature films such as Transformers, Hancock, Lone Survivor, Deep Water Horizon and many others. You may also recognize him from commercials and select fitness magazines. Jeff also formed and successfully leads a skydiving team called VST or Valor Skydiving team. Today, they perform for children’s organizations, churches, the NFL and MLB, and other large events around nation. It is from this pro skydiving platform that Jeff ventured into the private sector as a business owner. He currently owns and operates Skydive San Diego along with his amazing team and staff.
A big part of who Jeff is, is his dedication to communicating the Word of God to men, building in them the foundations that won’t crack under the pressures placed on men by the world in which we live. Training and teaching men to be “real men” is the core of the ministry he founded, Life of Valor Ministries and Men’s Events. Beyond men’s ministry, Jeff is passionate to share the Gospel message, encouraging both men and women to live the life God has called them lead.

Dr. Randy Carlson | Author and Intentional Living Radio/Podcast Host
2021-02-18 12:00 - 13:00 (America/Chicago) | Virtual Zoom Event
Dr. Randy Carlson
Virtual City Connect | STL
Including live Q&A with Dr. Carlson
Register Here
This complimentary City Connect is made possible by our generous St. Louis sponsors. We are grateful! Look for a Gateway City, small business flavor throughout this virtual event.

What does it mean to lead intentionally? Why is intentional leadership important during difficult times? Join Dr. Randy Carlson, counselor and host of Intentional Living radio program and podcast, as he shares a transformational true story of one leader’s unconventional journey and how six intentional leadership moves changed his life and helped restore his nation while glorifying God.
More About Dr. Carlson.
Dr. Randy Carlson is the CEO and Chairman of Family Life Communications Incorporated and is the founder of Intentional Living (Parent Talk, Inc.). His passion is to help people experience life as God intended.
Dr. Carlson has written seven books including his most recent, Freedom from Hijacked Emotions – Overcoming Anxiety, Anger, and Fear. He shares wisdom, encouragement and comfort from God’s Word with people who call in—to his daily syndicated Intentional Living radio program and podcast, where he offers Biblical help for living an intentional life in Christ.
With a doctorate in Counseling Psychology and a research emphasis on the leadership traits of successful family business owners and leaders, Dr. Carlson has taught and consulted with hundreds of family business owners around the country.
For more information about Dr. Carlson, visit www.theintentionallife.com or www.myflr.org/about.
He and his wife, Donna, have three grown children, eight grandchildren, and reside in Tucson, Arizona.

Danita Bye | Executive Leadership Coach and Author of "Millennials Matter"
2021-03-18 12:00 - 13:00 (America/Chicago) | Virtual Zoom Event
Danita Bye
Virtual City Connect | Des Moines
Including live Q&A with Ms. Bye
Register Here
UBN and Faith@Work Iowa, along with our Iowa sponsors are thrilled to host this complimentary virtual event.

How do we lead a generation that seems to have a different set of priorities and perceptions? Psalm 145 tells us to commend God’s works one generation to another, but how? This is especially important in today’s tumultuous times. Join millennial expert Danita Bye as she speaks about three critical mindsets that will change the trajectory of your millennial’s life and strengthen your positive leadership legacy.
About Ms. Bye
DANITA BYE, M.A., is a speaker ad executive leadership coach. She has been a contributing author to the Forbes Coaches Council, sales coach for Harvard Business School MBA students, and a TEDx speaker on Millennial leadership.
Her latest book, Millennials Matter: Proven Strategies for Building Your Next-Gen Leader, is recognized as one of the best how-to books on motivate and manage Millennial leaders. She has been published in Forbes, Huffington Post, and CEO World.
In 2020, she keynoted for an Economic Summit in India, “5 Bold Predictions for a Post-Covid World.” She builds on that theme in her writing and speaking. Danita has a master’s degree in transformational leadership from Bethel Seminary.
The mother of three millennials and grandmother to five, Danita lives in The Triple T Ranch country in North Dakota. For more information on Danita visit her web site at www.danitabye.com.

Peter Demos | Lawyer & President of Demos' Brands and Restaurants
2021-04-22 11:00 - 13:00 (America/Chicago) | Overland Park Convention Center, 6000 College Boulevard, Overland Park, KS, 66211, United States
Peter Demos

$49 per in-person ticket | $270 per table of 6 | $29 per live stream ticket
Register Here
Download the Flyer

Peter Demos found his faith after becoming a successful business owner and leader, and it changed his perspective on success and purpose. Come hear the tangible ways Peter lives out his faith in the marketplace, and what God asks of him in the process. It’s definitely a narrow playing field with both victories and defeats. You will leave inspired by Peter’s transparency, tangible examples, and his fervent devotion to Christ through all circumstances. Or, as Peter would say, “Christ is my managing director”
Peter is a sought-after speaker and author. His 2019 book, Afraid to Trust: One Man’s Journey to the Love of God, is available on Amazon. Find out more about Peter and his Christ-centered approach to business by visiting www.demosfamilykitchen.com or www.afraidtotrust.com.

More About Mr. Demos
Peter Demos is the President and Attorney for Demos’ Brands of Restaurants which includes Demos’ Restaurant and PDK Southern Kitchen and Pantry. While his restaurant career is extensive and decades in the making, Peter entered into his journey of faith later in life. But once begun, he has lived it boldly. A visit to Demos’ website reflects this boldness.
At Demos’, we’ve always known that our purpose is larger than providing delicious food. We strive to daily live out our purpose through how we serve and care. ​Our purpose is to:

Glorify God in all we do by serving others
Serve and care for our customers
Glorify God in all we do by loving our team
Grow profitably

Highly accomplished as a leader in the hospitality industry, Peter is recognized by both secular and Christian organizations. The Nashville Business Journal acknowledged Peter in their list of top 40 under 40. Other achievements include: Leadership Rutherford Pinnacle Award 2010, Restaurateur of the Year award 2014, Christian Chamber of Commerce Chairman’s Award 2015, C12 Business Award 2015 and 2018, Living Sent Ministries Kingdom Award 2016.
Not surprisingly, Peter is a sought-after speaker who addresses God’s desire for us to “boldly live out your faith in every aspect of our life, including our work”. We are delighted to have him share his “Unconventional Business” story with our Kansas City audience. You will not want to miss the opportunity to hear from Peter or the opportunity to visit with him during the Networking (11:00 to 11:30). He will be showcasing his newly released book (2019), Afraid to Trust, One Man’s Journey to the Love of God.
Mr. Demos currently sits on the NFIB Leadership Council, and C12 National Member Advisory Board. He is also the past chair on the board the Board of Directors for the Rutherford County Chamber of Commerce and past president for the Tennessee Hospitality Association.
He and his wife and two children reside in the Nashville area.

Rev. Johnnie Moore | Author, Businessman and Founder of KAIROS Co.
2021-05-20 11:00 - 13:00 (America/Chicago) | DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel St. Louis – Chesterfield, 16625 Swingley Ridge Rd, Chesterfield, MO, 63017, United States
Rev. Johnnie Moore

$49 per in-person ticket | $450 per Table of 10 | $29 per live stream ticket

In-person Tickets & Tables Register Here
Live Stream Tickets Register Here Download the event flyer.

“Maximizing Your Impact as a Christian In the Marketplace”
What can every businessperson have in common with the Apostle Paul? Paul was a businessman—he made tents—yet he was also a spiritual leader. Come hear Reverend Johnnie Moore, one of the top 10 influential religious leaders in the country, talk practically about the connection between faith and work.
Rev. Moore is founder of The KAIROS Company, one of America’s leading boutique public relations and communications consulting company, the youngest recipient of the “medal of valor” for his efforts in rescuing Christians from ISIS in 2015, and a seven-times author. Johnnie will both challenge and inspire as he reveals his unconventional business story.

About Rev. Moore
Rev. Johnnie Moore, 37, has been called one of America’s most influential evangelical leaders and is especially known for his multi-faith work at the intersection of faith and foreign policy. He is the author of seven books including Defying ISIS: Preserving Christianity in the Place of Its Birth and (along with Rabbi Abraham Cooper) The Next Jihad: Stop the Christian Genocide in Africa.

Moore is also a businessperson who founded one of America’s leading, boutique public relations and communications consultancies, The KAIROS Company. He has worked with every major print, digital and broadcast outlet in North America and has extensive experience in more than 50 countries worldwide.

Moore has worked in higher education (senior vice president of communications for Liberty University), the entertainment industry (Chief of staff for mega-producer Mark Burnett), and politics (commissioner for the United States Commission on International Religious Freedom appointed by the President of the United States). As a clergy member, Moore is the youngest ever recipient of the Simon Wiesenthal Center’s prestigious “medal of valor” for his efforts rescuing Christians from ISIS in 2015.

Reverend Moore will speak at UBN’s St. Louis City Connect on Thursday, May 20th, from 11:00 a.m. until 1 p.m. CST, at the Doubletree Hotel in Chesterfield. UBN will simulcast his talk, beginning at noon CST, for those unable to attend the event in person. Capacity is limited depending upon COVID guidelines.

Tommy Bowden | Renowned College Football Coach, ESPN and FOX Sports Host, Sought-after Speaker
2021-07-15 11:00 - 13:00 (America/Chicago) | Overland Park Convention Center, 6000 College Boulevard, Overland Park, KS, 66211, United States
$49 per in-person ticket | $450 per table of 10 | $29 per live stream ticket

Download the event flyer
Click HERE to Register for In-person Tickets and TablesClick HERE to Register for Live Stream Tickets
“A Game Plan for Success is in the C.A.R.D.S.”
What does a former renowned college football coach have in common with you, a Christian businessperson? A winning strategy. Whether your playing field is in in the football arena or boardroom, It’s all in the C.A.R.D.S. – commitment, accountability, responsibility, discipline and sacrifice. Hear Tommy Bowden challenge each one of us to be businesspeople of character and integrity.
About Mr. Bowden
Tommy Bowden is an unabashed evangelical Christian who openly confesses that he used his Christianity as a recruiting tool during his long and successful career coaching college football. His father, Bobby Bowden, the former Florida State football coach, helped create chaplaincies at schools across the South. One might say linking football with Christianity was a family endeavor.
From an outstanding student-athlete at West Virginia University, to the two-time ACC Coach of the Year at Clemson University, to widely sought-after motivational speaker, Tommy Bowden has dedicated his life to making a difference in others’ lives.
After spending several years as an assistant football coach at Florida State, Duke, Alabama, Kentucky, and Auburn Universities, Tommy Bowden became the head coach at Tulane University in 1997. In just his second season with Tulane, he led his team to an undefeated season, a Conference USA Championship and a win in the Liberty Bowl. Tommy was also named Conference USA Coach of the year.
In 1999, Tommy took the head coaching position at Clemson University. In that first season, the Tigers set or tied 41 school records, including 26 on offense. He was named Conference Coach of the Year in 1998, and ACC Coach of the year in both 1999 and 2003.
In 2006, Tommy received the Fellowship of Christian Athletes Coach of the Year Award.
Since retiring from Clemson in 2008, Tommy has become one of the nation’s most sought-after motivational speakers. He has appeared as an expert college football analyst on ESPN television and radio, as well as, co-hosted two football television shows, one with FOX Sports and one with the ACC Football Network.
Tommy is the author of the book “Winning Character” and speaks frequently about leadership and recruiting outstanding teams.
Married to his high school sweetheart, Linda, for more than 40 years, Tommy and Linda have two children and four grandsons.

Ambassador Terry E. Branstad | U.S. Ambassador to China (2017-2020), Longest Serving Governor in U.S. History - Iowa
2021-07-22 11:00 - 13:00 (America/Chicago) | Embassy Suites Des Moines Downtown, 101 E. Locust St., Des Moines, IA, 50309, United States
In-person Tickets $49 | Tables $450
For in-person tickets and tables register HERE | Download the event flyer.
Terry Branstad DM FlyerA Legacy of Faithful Service
“Tough times never last, but tough people do,” says Ambassador Terry Branstad. The Ambassador should know. Nominated by President-elect Donald J. Trump to serve in China during one of the most challenging periods in recent U.S. – China history, and before that, earning the distinction of being the longest-serving governor in U.S. history, which included a time when Iowa weathered some of that state’s worst economic turmoil, Ambassador Branstad has built a legacy of faithful service by leading during difficult circumstances. He has done so through faith, hard work and integrity.
Unconventional Business Network and Faith at Work Iowa are honored to have Ambassador Branstad share his unconventional faith + work story. Whether you are a native Iowan or reside anywhere else in the world, Ambassador Branstad will inspire you with his stories of navigating through challenging situations with Godly patience and wisdom.
About This Speaker
Born and raised on a northcentral Iowa farm, Ambassador Terry Branstad learned early the values of honesty, hard work and the importance of public service.
Ambassador Branstad was elected three times to the Iowa House of Representatives, as Iowa’s lieutenant governor in 1978, and as Iowa’s youngest governor in 1983. As the state’s chief executive and longest serving governor (1983-2017, nonconsecutive) then Governor Branstad weathered some of Iowa’s worst economic turmoil during the farm crisis of the 1980s, while helping lead the state’s resurgence of a booming economy in the 1990s.
On December 7, 2016, Governor Branstad announced that he had accepted the nomination from President-Elect Donald Trump to serve as Ambassador of the United States to the People’s Republic of China.
Ambassador Branstad served as U.S. Ambassador to China during one of the most challenging periods in U.S.-China history since the two countries re-established diplomatic relations in 1979. Two of his greatest achievements were the signing of the historic Phase One Trade Agreement between the U.S. and China in January of 2020, and successfully lobbying the Chinese government to stem the flow of fentanyl into America.
Ambassador Branstad has received recognition from many U.S. presidents. Prior to serving as U.S. Ambassador after President Trump’s nomination, Branstad also served as the Co-Chair of the Council of Governors appointed by President Barack Obama, as Commissioner and Chairman respectively of the White House Fellows Program and Commission for Excellence in Special Education appointed by George W. Bush, and as Trustee of the Harry S. Truman Scholarship Foundation appointed by Ronald Regan.
Ambassador Branstad earned a B.A. from the University of Iowa and a J.D. from Drake University Law School.
He, and his wife, Chris, have been married since 1972 and have three children and eight grandchildren.

Jo Saxton | Author, Sought-after Speaker, Podcast Host and Leadership Coach
2021-08-19 11:00 - 13:00 (America/Chicago) | DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel St. Louis – Chesterfield, 16625 Swingley Ridge Rd, Chesterfield, MO, 63017, United States
Jo Saxton

$49 per in-person ticket | $450 per table of 10 | $29 per live stream ticket
Download the event flyer.
Purchase In-Person Tickets and Tables HEREPurchase Livestream Tickets HERE
About Jo Saxton
Author, sought-after speaker, podcast host and leadership coach, Jo Saxton has dedicated her career to growing leadership teams around the world and empowering others—especially women—to find their purpose in their personal lives and in leadership.
Born in London to parents who immigrated from Nigeria, Jo credits her family’s unrelenting work ethic and the grace of God for the bold, tenacious approach she takes to sharing her wisdom on identity, influence, and living an authentic life. She is characterized by her effervescent honesty and warm approachability, leaving audiences with practical next steps in areas that are usually a bit ambiguous.
Jo has authored several books, including More Than Enchanting, which explores the subject of women in leadership. Her podcasts are heard regularly on Right Now Media.
Before leaving the United Kingdom in 2004, Jo earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Biblical studies from the University of Sheffield and served as college pastor at St. Thomas Church, Sheffield, England.
In addition to writing and speaking, Jo coaches women around the world through Jo Saxton Coaching — an online group coaching program helping women grow their leadership skills.
Jo loves running, good music, reading, and laughing loudly with family and friends over a great meal. Jo, Chris and their two daughters live in Minneapolis.
Jo will be speaking at UBN’s St. Louis City Connect on Thursday, August 19th, from 11:00 a.m. – 1 p.m. CST at the Doubletree Hotel in Chesterfield. UBN will simulcast the event, beginning at noon CST, for those who can not attend the in-person gathering.
For more information about Jo Saxton, visit www.josaxton.com.

Dr. Mark Whitacre | Corp. Business Exec., FBI Whistleblower, Portrayed by Matt Damon in "The Informant"
2021-09-23 11:00 - 13:00 (America/Chicago) | Embassy Suites Des Moines Downtown, 101 E. Locust St., Des Moines, IA, 50309, United States
Doors open at 11 a.m. for networking and program begins at 11:30 a.m.
$49 per in-person ticket | $450 per table of 10 | $29 per live stream ticket
Click HERE to register for in-person tickets and tables
Click HERE to register for live stream tickets
Click HERE for a printable flyer on this event

When Good Leaders Lose Their Way
“The story about Mark Whitacre’s redemption and second chance is one of the most inspirational stories of our time,” says Douglas Burris, retired Chief of U.S. Federal Probation in the Eastern District of Missouri. That’s because Dr. Mark Whitacre, the highest-level executive to turn whistleblower in U.S. history, let his addiction to greed and power lead to his self-destruction in the early 1990s. Through Mark’s brokenness, federal imprisonment, and jailhouse conversion, God turned his defeat into triumph.
Mark’s story is about redemption and second chances, and about a family surviving against all odds.

About the Speaker
Mark Whitacre is an Ivy League Ph.D. and the highest-ranked executive of any Fortune 500 company to become a whistleblower in US history. He is responsible for uncovering the ADM price-fixing scandal in the early 1990’s. Mark wore a wire for the FBI every day for three years. His wife Ginger forced him to turn himself into the FBI, which then started the ADM price-fixing case. Then, in a bizarre twist, Whitacre was sentenced to 9 years in federal prison for embezzling $9.5 million from ADM at the same time he was assisting the federal price-fixing investigation.
Today, Mark is Executive Director at Coca-Cola Consolidated. His undercover work with the FBI during the ADM scandal was the inspiration for the major motion picture, “The Informant,” starring Matt Damon as Mark Whitacre, and the 2010 Discovery Channel Documentary, “UNDERCOVER“. Drawing from his unique history and Christian faith, Mark provides one-of-a-kind insight into corporate ethics, corporate greed, and the warning signs of a flawed corporate leadership.
After completing B.S. and M.S. degrees at Ohio State University, Mark then earned his PhD. degree at Cornell University in Biochemistry. Mark then worked for multiple Fortune 500 companies including Ralston Purina, Degussa (Evonik), and Archer Daniels Midland (ADM). Mark was hired at ADM, a $70 billion company, when he was 32, and as the president of the BioProducts Division from its launch, was the youngest Divisional President in the history of the company. In just six years, their fermentation complex became one of the largest in the world. At age 35, he became a Corporate Vice President of ADM and was the leading candidate to become the next company president.
Today, the FBI publicly refer to Mark Whitacre as a national hero. As Douglas Burris, Chief of U.S. Federal Probation in the Eastern District of Missouri has stated publicly, “The story about Mark Whitacre’s redemption and second chance is one of the most inspirational stories of our time.” Since his jail-house conversion and prison release in 2006, Mark has been a sought-after speaker for the Christian Community.
Married to his wife for more than 41 years, Mark and Ginger have three adult children.

Dr. Tim Elmore | Founder and President of Growing Leaders, Generational Expert, Leadership Coach
2021-10-21 11:00 - 13:00 (America/Chicago) | Sheraton Overland Park Hotel at the Convention Center, 6100 College Blvd.,, Overland Park, 66211, Andorra
$49 per in-person ticket | $450 per table of 10 | $29 per live stream ticket

Click HERE to register for in-person tickets and tables of 10
Click HERE to register for live stream tickets
Click HERE for a printable flyer on this event

““A New Kind of Diversity: Making the Different Generations on Your Team Your Competitive Advantage””
Want to ensure that you are leaving a legacy of change? Invest in the lives of young adults and encourage the adults who guide them, says generational expect Dr. Tim Elmore. Leadership guru and collaborator Dr. John Maxwell says, “No one teaches leadership better than Tim Elmore.” Join us for an inspiring City Connect.

About Dr. Elmore
Dr. Tim Elmore is the founder and president of Growing Leaders, an Atlanta-based nonprofit organization created to develop emerging leaders. Since founding Growing Leaders in 2003, Elmore has spoken to more than 300,000 students, faculty and staff on hundreds of campuses across the country, including the University of Oklahoma, Stanford University, Duke University, Rutgers University, the University of South Carolina, and Louisiana State University. Elmore has also provided leadership training and resources for multiple athletic programs, including the University of Texas football team, the University of Miami football team, the University of Alabama athletic department, and the Kansas City Royals baseball club. In addition, a number of government offices in Washington, D.C. have used Mr. Elmore’s curriculum.
From the classroom to the boardroom, Elmore is a dynamic communicator who uses principles, images and stories to strengthen leaders. He has taught leadership to Click-fil-A, Inc., The Home Depot, HomeBanc, and GoldKist, Inc., among others. He has also taught courses on leadership and mentoring at nine universities and graduate schools across the U.S. Committed to developing young leaders on every continent of the world, Elmore also has shared his insights in more than forty countries – including India, Russia, China and Australia.
Elmore has written more than 25 books, including the best-selling Habitudes: Images that Form Leadership Habits and Attitudes, Life Giving Mentors, and Nurturing the Leader Within Your Child. His newest book, Generation iY: Out Last Chance to Save Their Future, was released in August 2010. In addition, he has appeared on the ABC Family Channel. Elmore has worked alongside internationally recognized leadership expert Dr. John Maxwell for the past 25 years. According to Maxwell, “No one teaches leadership better than Tim Elmore.”
Elmore lives in Atlanta with his wife, Pam, and his two children, Bethany and Jonathan.

Sean Kouplen | Creating a Purpose Driven Organization
2022-02-03 12:00 - 12:30 (America/Chicago) | Virtual Zoom Event
Sean Kouplen
Virtual Network Connect
Register Here

How can you create a faith-based organization without making your employees feel uncomfortable or forced? Join Rick Boxx, founder and CEO of Unconventional Business Network, as he interviews Sean about bringing a Biblical perspective to the marketplace. Sean has authored two books, The Abundance Mentality and The Priority Promise. He also has served as the past Secretary of Commerce and Workforce Development for the state of Oklahoma.
About Sean Kouplen
Sean Kouplen is the CEO of Regent Bank and former Secretary of Commerce & Workforce Development for the state of Oklahoma. He believes purpose is critical to being an effective leader.
Sean has authored two books: The Abundance Mentality and The Priority Promise, both available on Amazon. He also is the podcast host of a weekly program, The Purpose Driven CEO (purposedriven.ceo).
Sean encourages audiences with his account of how he has integrated faith and love into his leadership style and the remarkable results his organization has experienced. He also shares leadership and personal development tips.
Married to Angela for 23 years, Sean and Angela have three children.

Dr. Caroline Leaf | Expert on Mental Health
2022-02-10 18:00 - 20:00 (America/Chicago) | Sheraton Overland Park Hotel at the Convention Center, 6100 College Blvd.,, Overland Park, 66211, Andorra
$49 per in-person ticket | $450 per table of 10 | $29 per live stream ticket
Download the event flyer.
Purchase In-Person Tickets and Tables HEREPurchase Livestream Tickets HERE
About Caroline Leaf
“The most powerful weapon against the toxic effects of stress is our mind. When we learn to harness the power of our thinking, we can deal with and overcome whatever life throws our way,” says Dr. Caroline Leaf, a world-renowned cognitive neuroscientist, bestselling author, and meatal health and mind expert.
Since the early 1980s, Dr. Leaf has researched the mind-brain connection, the nature of mental health, and the formation of memory. She was one of the first in her field to study how the brain can change. Her passion is to help people see how the power of the mind can change the brain and how the link between science and spirituality can help them control their thoughts and emotions, learn how to think and learn, and find their sense of purpose in life.
Dr. Leaf has written several bestsellers, including Switch on Your Brain, Think and Eat Yourself Smart, The Perfect You, and Cleaning Up Your Mental Mess. Her books, journal articles, videos, podcasts and TV episodes have reached millions globally.
She teaches at academic, medical and neuroscience conferences as well as churches around the world. Dr. Leaf and her husband, Mac, live with their four children in Dallas and Los Angeles.

Nicole Unice | Expert on Tough Conversations
2022-02-24 11:00 - 13:00 (America/Chicago) | Hilton Garden Inn West Des Moines, 205 S. 64th Street, West Des Moines, IA, 50266, United States
$49 per in-person ticket | $450 per table of 10 | $29 per live stream ticket
Download the event flyer.
Purchase In-Person Tickets and Tables HEREPurchase Livestream Tickets HERE
About Nicole Unice
Nicole Unice is an author, international speaker, podcast host and leadership coach who is passionate about facilitating environments of safety and vulnerability so that individuals and communities can courageously identify obstacles keeping them from maximum potential.
In her books, videos, and “Let’s Be Real” podcasts, Nicole makes transformation attainable and accessible to people in all stages of life. As a coach, Nicole brings clarity and courage for individuals and teams as they pursue a preferred future. Nicole brings both wit and wisdom to the speaker’s platform, with an honest and vulnerable approach that appeals to both faith and leadership environments.
Nicole Unice is also a Bible teacher who has a passion for bringing God’s Word to life in a personal and relevant way. Her training as a counselor informs her work, as she emphasizes the importance of facing our own reality and embracing the transforming power of God’s grace.
Invitations to speak have taken Nicole around the world, and her books come to life through her popular video curriculum series found on RightNow Media. Nicole is a teaching elder in the Evangelical Presbyterian Church and serves in various capacities helping lead churches and organizations into greater health.
Her latest book, The Miracle Moment: How Tough Conversations Can Actually Transform Your Most Important Relationships invites readers into the practical steps to creating miracle moments within all their relationships and includes a bible study and video series featured on Right Now Media.
Nicole works internationally but lives in Richmond, Virginia, with her husband and three children. She graduated from the College of William and Mary and Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary. Find out more about Nicole Unice by visiting her website at nicoleunice.com.

Frank Kelly | Living and Working with Purpose and Power
2022-03-03 12:00 - 12:30 (America/Chicago) | Virtual Zoom Event
REGISTER HERE
About Frank Kelly
Frank Kelly III serves as CEO of Kelly & Associates Insurance Group, Kelly & Associates Financial Services (Kelly Benefits Payroll) and Kelly Integral Solutions – collectively known as Kelly Benefits. As a group insurance administrator, broker and consultant specializing in health care, Kelly & Associates Insurance group has been recognized as the largest employee benefits administrator in Maryland and one of the largest in the mid-Atlantic region.
Frank is involved in many community and civic activities including the Fellowship of Christian Athletes at both the national and local levels. Since 2018, he and his wife, Gayle, have served as co-chairs for Helping Up Mission’s $61 million Inspiring Hope campaign to build a new Center for Women & Children in East Baltimore.
Frank’s interest in lacrosse continued after college and he played several seasons of professional box lacrosse for the Baltimore Thunder of the Major Indoor Lacrosse League and many years with the Maryland Lacrosse Club.
Frank and Gayle live in Lutherville, Maryland, and have four grown children.

Network Connect: Caleb & Abby Howard
2022-04-07 12:00 - 12:30 UTC | Virtual Zoom Event
Register HERE
Abby and Caleb Howard are a married entrepreneurial couple based out of Kansas City, MO. Both Abby and Caleb graduated from the University of Missouri with degrees in Business Marketing and Management. During Abby’s senior year of college, she launched Bolt Boutique, an ecommerce women’s clothing boutique. As Bolt has grown, Abby has used the platform to glorify God and be generous with His resources. Bolt donates monthly to Hope For Justice, an organization that fights to end human trafficking, and partners with two overseas missionaries. Caleb quit his job in data analytics consulting to team up with Abby full time, and grow Bolt to the next level. Together, with Abby’s passion for fashion, Caleb’s data mindset, and their love for the Lord, their goal is to continue to Honor God and point others back to Him through their work.
