Unconventional Business Network

Unconventional Business Lunch with Steve Graves
2017-11-02 11:30 - 13:00 (America/Chicago) | The Ballroom at Doubletree Hotel & Convention Center, 16625 Swingley Ridge Road, Chesterfield, 63017
Dr. Stephen R. Graves is a strategist, executive coach, and author. At any given time, he is working with a handful of remarkable executives leading large global organizations and young social entrepreneurs just starting out. This includes Fortune 100 public companies, all-sized family businesses, and world-changing Not-for-Profits. He is honored to be the go-to-guide for hundreds of CEOs across the globe over the last three decades.
Steve has authored over a dozen books aimed at teaching people how to flourish in their life and work, and he publishes a weekly article read by more than ten thousand leaders around the world. One of his most memorable projects was the launch and scale of the Life@Work Magazine, an award winning and trend-setting publication.
Steve tries to accept a few speaking engagements every quarter. Over the years he has spoken in such varied venues as an arena crammed with 75,000 men, conferences like TedX and Q, and simple but highly strategic round tables of executives.
Although coaching CEOs and writing consume most of his work world, Steve also owns a couple of small businesses and sits on two boards (Q and Praxis).
When Steve is not consulting or writing on strategy, leadership, or impact, you can find him back-casting in the cold clear rivers of northwest Arkansas. He is married, and he loves hanging out with his three adult children when they will tolerate him. To explore Steve’s content, visit stephenrgraves.com.
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Unconventional Business Luncheon with Phil Vischer
2017-11-09 11:00 - 13:00 | Embassy Suites Des Moines Downtown, 101 E. Locust St., Des Moines, IA, 50309, United States
We are partnering with Faith at Work Iowa to bring you this incredibly entertaining storyteller and creator of VeggieTales, Phil Vischer. He made his first animated film when he was nine years old; by the age of fourteen, he was convinced he would be a filmmaker when he grew up. After a brief stint at a Bible college, Phil struck out on his own, looking for a way to integrate his faith with his filmmaking.
This quest led him to a tomato and a cucumber. The year was 1991, and Phil was a newly married 25 year-old with no financial backing and no idea how his vegetables would ever see the light of day.
Today, almost 50 million VeggieTales videos have been purchased and Phil’s faith- filled stories can be found in one-third of all American homes with young children. Although Phil’s original company, Big Idea Productions, collapsed in bankruptcy in 2003, Phil continues his creative involvement with VeggieTales through its current owner.
Phil captured the breathtaking rise – and heartbreaking fall – of Big Idea Productions in the book Me, Myself & Bob, which was published by Thomas Nelson. He is also the author of the popular children’s books Sidney and Norman and 47 Beavers on the Big Blue Sea.
Phil’s latest project is a 13-DVD series called Buck Denver Asks What’s in the Bible? that will take families all the way through the Bible – Genesis to Revelation. He also started JellyTelly, an interactive, online “mini-network” for children.
Phil lives with his wife Lisa and their three kids in Wheaton, IL.

Luncheon with Major General (Retired) Robert F. Dees
2018-02-15 11:00 - 13:00 | Overland Park Convention Center, 6000 College Boulevard, Overland Park, KS, 66211, United States
Major General (Retired) Robert F. “Bob” Dees served for 31 years in the U.S. Army in a wide variety of command and staff positions culminating in his last three assignments as Assistant Division Commander for Operations, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault); Commander, Second Infantry Division, United States Forces Korea; and as Deputy Commanding General, V (US/GE) Corps in Europe, concurrently serving as Commander, US-Israeli Combined Task Force for Missile Defense. Commissioned a second lieutenant after graduating from West Point in 1972, he is also a graduate of the Naval Postgraduate School, the U.S. Army Command and General Staff College, the Industrial College of the Armed Forces, and Royal College of Defense Studies in London, England.
Following military retirement in January 2003, Bob served as Executive Director, Defense Strategies, Microsoft Corporation; followed by leadership of a non-profit outreach to the military. While authoring The Resilience Trilogy (Resilient Warriors, Resilient Leaders, and Resilient Nations), he pioneered resilience programs for the military and beyond as Associate Vice President for Military Outreach, Adjunct Professor, and Director of the nation’s first Institute for Military Resilience at Liberty University. Most recently Bob served as National Security Advisor and Campaign Chairman, Carson for President 2016. His primary endeavor now is pioneering a national “Resilience God Style” campaign to restore faith-based resilience at individual, leader, and national levels.
Bob speaks at numerous seminars and conferences, as well as commentary on national security and resilience in venues such as FOX Huckabee, FOX Business, Focus on the Family, Christian Broadcasting Network, American Family Radio, Wildfire Men’s Conferences, New Canaan Society, Pinnacle Forum, Wallbuilders Live, My Family Talk, Samaritans Purse, Family Research Council, Newsmax TV, and numerous churches, military bases, and business organizations across America. He was featured as one of 30 “Master Leaders” in America by noted author George Barna.
Bob is married to the former Kathleen Robinson of Houston, Texas. They have two children and seven grandchildren, and currently reside in Round Rock, Texas. General and Mrs. Dees are grateful for the privilege of serving God, Nation, and others during these critical times.
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Luncheon with Erik Dellenback
2018-03-01 11:00 - 13:00 | Embassy Suites Des Moines Downtown, 101 E. Locust St., Des Moines, IA, 50309, United States
Throughout his career, Erik Dellenback has had many titles including movie producer, business executive, college professor, speaker and entrepreneur, however he would rather simply be defined as husband, father and follower of Jesus.
For the past seven years, Erik served as the first President and Executive Director of the Tim Tebow Foundation. His primary responsibility was to implement Tim’s vision of bringing Faith, Hope and Love to children around the world. Erik was also responsible for overseeing all areas of the foundation including fundraising, ministry outreach initiatives, and operational management.
Prior to that role, Erik spent more than 11 years working in the business of college football with the Gator Bowl Association, most recently as Vice President/CMO.
A native Floridian, Erik graduated from the University of Florida and his favorite “favorite” is spending quality time with his wife, Elizabeth, and three children, Blake, Tyler and Emma.

Luncheon with former CIA officer, Michele Rigby Assad
2018-05-03 11:00 - 13:00 | The Ballroom at Doubletree Hotel & Convention Center, 16625 Swingley Ridge Road, Chesterfield, 63017
Michele Rigby Assad is a former undercover officer in the U.S. Central Intelligence Agency’s Directorate of Operations. Trained as a counterterrorism specialist, Michele served her country for ten years, working in Iraq and other secret Middle Eastern locations.
Upon retirement from active service, Michele and her husband Joseph (also a former agent) joined a group of Americans who wished to aid persecuted Christians. Their efforts resulted in the evacuation of a group from northern Iraq that was featured on ABC’s 20/20 in December 2015.
Michele holds a master’s degree in Contemporary Arab Studies from Georgetown University. Today she serves as an international security consultant, splitting her time between the Middle East, Florida, and Washington, D.C.

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SOLD OUT Luncheon with VeggieTales Creator, Phil Vischer
2018-05-10 11:00 - 13:00 | Overland Park Convention Center, 6000 College Boulevard, Overland Park, KS, 66211, United States
Phil Vischer made his first animated film when he was nine years old; by the age of fourteen, he was convinced he would be a filmmaker when he grew up. After a brief stint at a Bible college, Phil struck out on his own, looking for a way to integrate his faith with his filmmaking.
This quest led him to a tomato and a cucumber. The year was 1991, and Phil was a newly married 25 year-old with no financial backing and no idea how his vegetables would ever see the light of day.
Today, almost 50 million VeggieTales videos have been purchased and Phil’s faith- filled stories can be found in one-third of all American homes with young children. Although Phil’s original company, Big Idea Productions, collapsed in bankruptcy in 2003, Phil continues his creative involvement with VeggieTales through its current owner.
Phil captured the breathtaking rise – and heartbreaking fall – of Big Idea Productions in the book Me, Myself & Bob, which was published by Thomas Nelson. He is also the author of the popular children’s books Sidney and Norman and 47 Beavers on the Big Blue Sea.
Phil’s latest project is a 13-DVD series called Buck Denver Asks What’s in the Bible? that will take families all the way through the Bible – Genesis to Revelation. He also started JellyTelly, an interactive, online “mini-network” for children.
Phil lives with his wife Lisa and their three kids in Wheaton, IL.
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UB Women Gathering with Kim Plank
2018-05-14 17:30 - 19:45 | Silver Oaks Chateau, 1168 Highway 100, Pacific, MO, 63069, United States
Kim’s unconventional business story begins with her family’s motorcycle business in Southeastern Ohio, where her passion for entrepreneurship ignited. Since then Kim has launched multiple small businesses, including mystery shopping, advertising, domestic cleaning services, and more. She has also served the St Louis Regional Chamber as a seasoned economic developer—recruiting Health Science and Services & Biosciences business to the region. Her faith-filled compassion is witnessed in her ongoing involvement with North St Louis ministries that foster sustainable economic advancement and racial reconciliation. Today, she leads CIC St Louis which connects about 270 innovative entrepreneurs to programming, venture capital and a vibrant community of collaboration.
Meet and greet from 5:30- 6p.m. Heavy appetizers and refreshments included.
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Registration is closed for this event.

Luncheon with Former Quarterback, Neal Jeffrey
2018-06-07 11:00 - 13:00 | Embassy Suites Des Moines Downtown, 101 E. Locust St., Des Moines, IA, 50309, United States
NEAL JEFFREY, former All-American quarterback at Baylor University and quarterback for the San Diego chargers, learned the meaning of overcoming early in life. A stutterer since childhood, Neal had to find a way to “get through what he couldn’t get over” to achieve his lifelong dreams. Today, he is one of America’s most powerful and passionate communicators, speaking for corporate conferences, national conventions, sales organizations, sports teams – twice for the New York Yankees – school districts, student groups and churches from coast to coast. Everywhere he goes he inspires audiences to go “higher, swifter, stronger” in the critical areas of life. In addition to a busy speaking schedule, Neal serves as a speaking/teaching minister at the 28,000-member Prestonwood Church of Dallas, Texas, where he has served for over 25 years. He and his wife Sheila live in the Dallas area and have three grown children. His new book, If I Can, Y-Y-You Can! is available nationwide

Luncheon with Franchise Executives, Mark & Mary Kay Liston
2018-07-26 11:00 - 13:00 | Overland Park Convention Center, 6000 College Boulevard, Overland Park, KS, 66211, United States
Mark and Mary Kay Liston are a power couple with valuable franchise experience and training in the Dwyer Group’s® Code of Values.
Mary Kay was named president of Five Star Painting and ProTect Painters when Dwyer Group® acquired them in 2015. This is the third franchise brand with Dwyer Group for Mary Kay. For the past three years she has served as vice president of operations at Mr. Appliance®, where the network grew from 155 franchises to over 185. Working with a team of talented franchise consultants, the company realized double-digit growth each year. She first came to Dwyer Group with Mr. Electric®, where she started their national sales program.
Mary Kay’s career in franchising began in 2003 when she joined the Valpak Direct Marketing Systems. During her six years there, Mary Kay led the company’s largest operation and turned it from having a negative cash flow to a highly profitable entity. In just her second year as general manager in Los Angeles, she and her team of 100 associates received the coveted Chairman’s Cup, Valpak’s highest award for sales and operations excellence. She cultivated relationships with franchisees to foster best practices across the network.
Mark joined Glass Doctor as the vice president of operations in April 2010. Mark’s experience in franchising began in 1981 when he joined Kinetico Incorporated and worked with Kinetico dealers throughout the world. After 18 years in the water treatment field, on both the corporate and franchise level, Mark joined Batteries Plus to lead their franchise development effort. Later, Mark joined Midas International in franchise development, where he awarded franchises throughout 27 states and western Canada.

Mark is also very involved in the International Franchise Association (IFA), where he currently sits on the Board of Directors. He is past chairman of the Board of Governors for the Institute of Certified Franchise Executives having earned his CFE in 2005. He is also on the IFA’s Educational Foundation Board of Trustees. Previously, Mark was a member of the VetFran Committee and IFA’s Public Relations Committee.
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Luncheon with Hobby Lobby President, Steve Green
2018-08-09 11:00 - 13:00 | The Ballroom at Doubletree Hotel & Convention Center, 16625 Swingley Ridge Road, Chesterfield, 63017
Steve Green is the president of Hobby Lobby, the world’s largest privately owned arts and crafts retailer. Founded in 1972 by his father, David, in 300 square feet of retail space, the chain has grown to more than 700 stores. Along with its affiliated companies, Hobby Lobby employs more than 32,000 people companywide.
Green also serves as chairman of the board of Museum of the Bible and is the visionary leader in establishing one of the world’s largest private collections of rare biblical artifacts, known as the Green Collection.
Green authored his first book—Faith in America—in 2011. His latest book, The Bible in America (2013), explores the history and impact of the Bible on U.S. history and in today’s world.
Green and his wife, Jackie, have been married for more than 30 years and reside in Oklahoma City, where Hobby Lobby is headquartered. Their family includes a son, five daughters, a daughter-in-law, a son-in-law and four grandchildren.
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UB Women Gathering with Denise Mills- SOLD OUT
2018-08-23 17:30 - 19:30 | The Venue, 4800 W. 135th St. #108, Leawood, KS, 66224, United States
This event is SOLD OUT. No tickets are currently available.
Join us for a UB Women Gathering with Denise Mills! Denise is Founder and Chief Mindset Officer of The LeaderFuel Center, a global leadership development consulting organization. Her title fits her well as she challenges mindset and perspectives with leadership teams for greater effectiveness.
Denise works with leaders in local organizations such as Honeywell, Sprint, Compass Minerals, KCP&L, UMB, and CommunityAmerica Credit Union; non-profits such as Comprehensive Mental Health Services, Tri-County Mental Health Services, Mattie Rhodes Center, Johnson County Library, Ronald McDonald House, Boys and Girls Club and many Catholic parishes; government agencies such as the US State Department, the Government Accountability Office and United Nations NGOs; and global organizations such as Dupont International, Service Management Group, and Toyota to name a few.
Denise is an Iowa farm girl, comes from large family and deeply values her Catholic upbringing, however, her Religious life and spirituality were kept very separate from her work and her work was distinctly separate from her Faith. Several years ago Denise felt called to bring her Faith Forward in all aspects of her life, including in business and with her clients. Galatians 2:20 I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God,who loved me and gave himself for me. Join us to hear her “Unconventional Business” story of her journey from “obligatory Catholic” to good and faithful servant to how she strives to put God first in all aspects of her life.
Heavy appetizers and refreshments included.
Meet & Greet with Denise from 5:30-6 p.m.
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Luncheon with Chick-fil-A Culture Expert, Dee Ann Turner
2018-09-25 11:00 - 13:00 | Embassy Suites Des Moines Downtown, 101 E. Locust St., Des Moines, IA, 50309, United States
Dee Ann Turner is a business leader, best-selling author and speaker.
She started her career at Chick-fil-A in 1985 as an administrator in the Human Resources department. Selected as Chick-fil-A’s first female officer in 2001, Dee Ann has led various areas of the business including Human Resources, Franchisee Selection, Culture, Learning and Development, Talent Management and Talent Acquisition. She currently serves as the Vice President, Enterprise Social Responsibility.
In 2015, Dee Ann’s first book, It’s My Pleasure, The Impact of Extraordinary Talent and a Compelling Culture was released and became a best-seller. She speaks all over the United States and internationally for both business and non-profit organizations on the topics of leading culture, talent selection and talent development among others. During her tenure at Chick-fil-A, Chick-fil-A has grown from 319 restaurants with $164,000,000 in sales to over 2100 restaurants in 46 states and the District of Columbia with annual sales of over $8 billion.
Married to her husband, Ashley for over 30 years, they are the parents of three grown sons, Trenton, Trevor and Trey and daughter-in-love, Katie. She is an avid sports enthusiast and she and Ashley enjoy traveling and active adventures. Together they serve their local church and Dee Ann has served on the boards of a number of ministries that support initiatives for women and children.
You can connect with Dee Ann on twitter @deeannturner or Instagram @itsmy.pleasure of on Facebook: Dee Ann Turner Author.

UB Women Gathering with Stacy Washington
2018-10-15 17:30 - 19:30 | Silver Oaks Chateau, 1168 Highway 100, Pacific, MO, 63069, United States
Stacy Washington is the host of the nationally syndicated Stacy on the Right Show, broadcast on Urban Family Talk and American Family Radio weekdays from 2 – 4 p.m. central time, from St. Louis.
She is also the co-chairwoman of the Project 21 National Advisory Council of the National Center for Public Policy Research. She is an Emmy Nominated TV personality and Air Force Veteran.
Stacy has appeared on Fox News, Fox Business, NRATV, CNN, The Blaze, PBS, RT TV, Al Jazeera, HuffPost Live, Donnybrook on PBS, Fox5 DC and a host of network tv stations. Stacy was a regular fill in host for The Wilkow Majority, the Bill Plante Show and the Larry O’Connor Show. Stacy has guest hosted for Cam and Company, The Wilkow Majority, Mornings on the Mall on WMAL, The Allman in the Morning Show, The Marc Cox Show and The Dana Show.
A married mom of three teens, Stacy enjoys the beach and time spent with her family on vacation.
Heavy appetizers and refreshments included.
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Luncheon with Chick-fil-A Company Culture Expert, Dee Ann Turner
2018-10-18 11:00 - 13:00 | Overland Park Convention Center, 6000 College Boulevard, Overland Park, KS, 66211, United States
Dee Ann Turner is a business leader, best-selling author and speaker.
She started her career at Chick-fil-A in 1985 as an administrator in the Human Resources department. Selected as Chick-fil-A’s first female officer in 2001, Dee Ann has led various areas of the business including Human Resources, Franchisee Selection, Culture, Learning and Development, Talent Management and Talent Acquisition. She currently serves as the Vice President, Enterprise Social Responsibility.
In 2015, Dee Ann’s first book, It’s My Pleasure, The Impact of Extraordinary Talent and a Compelling Culture was released and became a best-seller. She speaks all over the United States and internationally for both business and non-profit organizations on the topics of leading culture, talent selection and talent development among others. During her tenure at Chick-fil-A, Chick-fil-A has grown from 319 restaurants with $164,000,000 in sales to over 2100 restaurants in 46 states and the District of Columbia with annual sales of over $8 billion.
Married to her husband, Ashley for over 30 years, they are the parents of three grown sons, Trenton, Trevor and Trey and daughter-in-love, Katie. She is an avid sports enthusiast and she and Ashley enjoy traveling and active adventures. Together they serve their local church and Dee Ann has served on the boards of a number of ministries that support initiatives for women and children.
You can connect with Dee Ann on twitter @deeannturner or Instagram @itsmy.pleasure or on Facebook: Dee Ann Turner Author.
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UB Women Gathering with Marquita Miller
2018-11-08 17:30 - 19:45 | The Venue, 4800 W. 135th St. #108, Leawood, KS, 66224, United States
Marquita Miller owns and operates Five Star Tax and Business Solutions from her headquarters in Kansas City, MO—offering full service accounting & business consultation. KC Business magazine named Miller as one of Kansas City’s top Rising Stars (2010), most Influential Women (2011), and top Women Who Mean Business in 2014.
In addition to her entrepreneurial duties, Marquita is a prominent guest speaker and regular segment host on CBS & FOX morning shows. She is also a contributing writer for Black Enterprise Magazine and President for the National Speakers Association’s KC Chapter.
You won’t want to miss Marquita’s Unconventional Business story of her move from Fortune 500 corporate accountant to small business owner. She will share how the trials and tribulations of beginning a small business moved her to become what she calls a “Faithpreneur, a person who follows the path to entrepreneurship by first following the path of God.” Today, Marquita continues to be faithforward in the marketplace and is the co-author of Faithpreneur: God is not an agent for your failure but for your success and author of four additional titles.
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Luncheon with former CIA Operative, Michele Rigby Assad
2019-01-31 11:00 - 13:00 | Overland Park Convention Center, 6000 College Boulevard, Overland Park, KS, 66211, United States

Luncheon with Vermeer's Chair of the Board, Mary Vermeer Andringa
2019-02-14 11:00 - 13:00 | Embassy Suites Des Moines Downtown, 101 E. Locust St., Des Moines, IA, 50309, United States
On Thursday, July 19th, 2018, an F3 tornado ripped through the Vermeer plant, leaving a large path of destruction. It has been hailed as a true miracle that no one was killed. You won’t want to miss Mary Vermeer Andringa’s unconventional business story of Vermeer’s commitment to place Christ at the center of their business, and how God performed a miracle during this deadly storm.
Mary Vermeer Andringa is Chair of the Board at Vermeer Corporation, a global industrial and agricultural equipment company headquartered in Pella, Iowa. Prior to assuming her current role in November 2015, she was CEO and Chair of the Board for one year and President and CEO for five years. Her earlier roles at Vermeer have included Co-CEO and COO, focusing on her passion for continuous improvement and innovation.
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.
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Luncheon with Former Mob Boss, Michael Franzese
2019-02-21 11:00 - 13:00 | The Ballroom at Doubletree Hotel & Convention Center, 16625 Swingley Ridge Road, Chesterfield, 63017
Michael Franzese grew up as the son of the notorious Underboss of New York’s violent and feared Colombo crime family. At his most affluent, he generated an estimated $5 to $8 million per week from legal and illegal businesses. It was a life filled with power, luxury…and deadly violence.
In 1986, mafia boss, Michael Franzese was named by Vanity Fair as one of the biggest money earners the mob had seen since Al Capone. At the age of 35, Fortune Magazine listed him as number 18 on its list of the “Fifty Most Wealthy and Powerful Mafia Bosses,” just 5 behind John Gotti. Avoiding traditional mob domains, Michael masterminded brilliant scams on the edge of the legitimate business world. From auto dealerships and union kickbacks, to financial services and the sports and entertainment industries, to a multi-billion dollar gasoline tax scheme, he earned millions in cash every week at his peak. Not surprisingly, Michael quickly became the target of Manhattan’s famed federal prosecutor, Rudy Guiliani. After promising Michael 100 years behind bars after indicting him on racketeering charges, Rudy only came up empty handed. Escaping four more indictments, it seemed Michael Franzese truly was invincible.
While producing “Knights of the City,” a break dance movie filmed in Florida, Michael met a beautiful dancer from Anaheim, California, named Camille Garcia, whose innocent beauty and faith turned his world upside down. After falling in love and eventually marrying Cammy, Michael took the rap on racketeering charges. Michael pled guilty, accepted a 10 year prison sentence and vowed to do the unthinkable – walk away from the mob. Nobody of his rank had ever just walked away – and lived. Until now.
Michael Franzese is the only high ranking official of a major crime family to ever walk away, without protective custodies, and survive.
Determined to use the compelling experiences of his former life for the benefit of corporate executives, professional and student athletes, at-risk youth, church audiences, and for anyone seeking the inspiration to beat the odds and make positive changes in their lives, he has become a highly regarded motivator and a source of invaluable information. Franzese candidly describes how he survived dozens of grand jury appearances, 5 major racketeering indictments, 5 criminal trials, 7 years in prison and a Mafia death sentence. He tells how he engaged bankers, corporate executives, union officials and professional and student athletes in a wide variety of financial scams. His open and honest presentations are fresh and unique. Audiences are captivated by stories of his personal experiences in organized crime and genuinely affected by his powerful anti-crime messages and eye opening revelations.
In his autobiography, Blood Covenant, Michael reveals answers to many mysteries surrounding his incredible journey. Walk the streets with him to find out how he has done what no one else has managed to do.
His latest book, I’ll Make You An Offer You Can’t Refuse, was recently released by Thomas Nelson, and contains insider business tips from the former mob boss.

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UB Women's Gathering with Tracy Bouwens of Scooter's Coffee
2019-04-25 17:30 | The Venue, 4800 W. 135th St. #108, Leawood, KS, 66224, United States
Tracy and her husband, Shawn opened their first Scooter’s Coffee in Omaha, Nebraska in 2004, ultimately moving their family to Kansas City as Area Developers. From these roots, Tracy transitioned to Scooter’s corporate team in 2010, overseeing the operations of 29 corporately owned locations.
During her tenure at corporate, she worked on the oversight and development of operational and training systems. Ms. Bouwens also served as lead in establishing Scooter’s University, a comprehensive online training website, and formed the manager in training (MIT) program—both of which are actively utilized today throughout the Scooter’s Coffee franchise system.
In 2014, Tracy, along with 3 business partners, formed Freedom Enterprises. As the president of Freedom Enterprises, Tracy manages the daily operations of the company and leads a team of 450+ employees. Freedom Enterprises is currently the largest franchisee in the Scooter’s Coffee system with 35 operating locations in a 4-state region and 5+ locations in various stages of development.
After more than a decade of learning many lessons in the business arena, Tracy realized that this journey has not as much to do with management, business philosophy, or even coffee, but about taking the lessons learned and using them to advance Kingdom purposes. Come hear her unconventional business story of how she pursues her deepest passion—helping women, from all walks of life, to rise up and become all that God has designed them to be and to pursue their God-given calling.
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UBW Gathering | Millennial Panel
2019-05-06 17:30 - 19:45 | The Ballroom at Doubletree Hotel & Convention Center, 16625 Swingley Ridge Road, Chesterfield, 63017
Single Tickets are $35 Table of 8 is $250
Click Here to Register
Join us for an evening of celebrating the uniqueness of our generations … and our call to unity in Christ!
UBW is thrilled to present a faithforward millennial panel of four of our own talented and accomplished business professionals. At this Gathering, each panel member will share their insights into best practices for a successful cross-generational workforcep. Their overarching focus will be on God-honoring team building insight–important to all generations.
Our Panel Members and Moderator
Paige Clark, Senior Manager, Accenture. Paige is a Senior Manager at Accenture aligned to their Products-Retail consulting practice. She specializes in organizational change management, helping companies navigate large transformations and organizational changes. She lives in St. Louis with her husband Adam and enjoys shopping for a good bargain, attempting to craft and summer nights that end at Ted Drewes. She is on a daily pursuit of Christ and expecting her first baby in June seeking to love like Him. Paige is and is anxious to see where this new journey leads her.
Sophia Marcum, Client Operations Advocate, Krause Basler Network. Sophia fell in love with God through the Catholic faith and over time He broke down her boxes of what “church” could look like through some Mennonites, time backpacking through Europe, and dear friends who gathered around dinner tables to share meals and pray for one another. She believes wherever two or more are gathered in His name – church manifests. She also believes ministry is not an event or an organization, but a lifestyle. Having moved to St. Louis in August of 2018 after graduating with a bachelor’s degree in Human Capital Management, she serves as a Client Operations Advocate for the Krause Basler Network at Keller Williams Realty Chesterfield. In her free time she also partners with the visions of Divulge Ministries International, Gateway House of Prayer, Gateway 61, and Living Hope.
Brittany Starks, Entrepreneur. Brittany Starks is a corporate climber, turned social entrepreneur, passionate about empowering and advancing women and girls of color, as well as doing meaningful work to level the social and economic playing field for marginalized groups. Former owner of award-winning event planning company, Build A Wedding, Brittany Starks has planned and directed everything from small intimate weddings to large scale events featuring Grammy-nominated artists. Grateful for every success and specifically every failure, Brittany is reminded that she is a product of God’s extraordinary grace and unfailing love. When Brittany isn’t working on a new business venture, you’ will find her still falling head over heels for her husband, Kevin, or tending to her new passion as a vegetable gardener.
Evangeline Sutton, Co-Founder & COO, Regenerative Marketing, LLC. Evangeline is the happy wife to her husband, Nicholas. She is a strong woman of faith that believes that true religion is first to show love and care to those who need family. And to keep faith no matter what life throws our way. In 2016, Evangeline co-founded a St. Louis-based marketing firm specializing in digital marketing and marketing technologies. While they are still a boutique firm, they currently reach more than 650 people per second via their client’s digital platforms. Together, she and her co-founder have rapidly grown their clientele to include U.S., Canada, Australia, Ireland, and Italy. They are truly serving the world through the hands of their clients. For fun, Evangeline contributes to publications such as the Christian Examiner and Forbes Magazine. She also sits on several local boards including Junior Achievement of Greater St. Louis, Wings of Hope, Women in Tech – St Louis, and Unconventional Business Women. Evangeline was humbled to be included in the 2018 nomination for Forbes 30 Under 30, and attended the Global Summit as a Forbes 30U30 semi-finalist in April of 2019.
Our Moderator Beverly Jenkins is a native Missourian with a wonderful husband, four kids and a dog. Together they pastor Refuge and Restoration Church, which she calls the mecca of millennials. Beverly has a Masters degree in Organizational Leadership and Management from Regent University. She is a missionary, friend to crabby people and happy people alike, speaks at multiple conferences and workshops on leadership as well as various other topics, & host a marriage podcast on iHeartRadio as well as iDisciple.</p

Luncheon with Pete Ochs of Enterprise Stewardship
2019-05-09 11:00 - 13:00 | The Ballroom at Doubletree Hotel & Convention Center, 16625 Swingley Ridge Road, Chesterfield, 63017
Come hear Pete Ochs’ unconventional business story of how he reached material success early in his career, but wasn’t satisfied with just a large bank account. From this place, he founded Capital III Impact Investment and initiated Enterprise Stewardship to promote and teach the foundational principle that the purpose of business is to not just maximize shareholder value but to be a creative engine to foster human flourishing. Hear about his journey to operate a business inside a maximum-security prison and understand how his philosophy is not only economically profitable, but socially and spiritually transforming lives.
Pete Ochs is founder and chairman of Capital III, an impact investment company with investments in the US and Central America. Enterprise Stewardship is an initiative of Capital III that equips marketplace leaders with resources to transform their personal LIFE and business enterprises. He is also the author of, A High Impact LIFE.
During his four decades in business he has invested and operated companies in the energy, manufacturing, banking, and education sectors, often times focusing on places devoid of human flourishing such as prisons and poverty-stricken countries. Pete’s passion in life is to educate, equip, and empower business leaders around the world to live for something greater than themselves by using their business platform to impact the world for Christ.
Before launching his impact investment company Capital III, Pete spent 8 years in the commercial banking industry. Pete and his wife Debbie have been instrumental in founding and growing several nonprofit enterprises. They have 2 children and 8 grandchildren.
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Luncheon with Tad Edwards, Chairman and CEO of Benjamin F. Edwards & Co.
2019-05-23 11:00 - 13:00 | Overland Park Convention Center, 6000 College Boulevard, Overland Park, KS, 66211, United States
You won’t want to miss hearing from Tad Edwards, a 39-year veteran of the financial services industry, as he reveals his unconventional business story of how, through faith and principled leadership, his company overcame a challenging season in which long-time corporate names in the financial industry were disappearing or being absorbed by banks.
Today, Mr. Edwards is the Chairman, Chief Executive Officer and President of Benjamin F. Edwards & Co which was founded at the height of this financial crisis in 2008. While many viewed the events during this time with fear, Tad saw a competitive opportunity. He recognized in the midst of the turmoil, the industry was losing sight of what mattered most— putting their clients’ interests first and building a great culture based on trust, integrity and respect.
To fill this void, Tad envisioned a private, entrepreneurial firm, dedicated to providing informed investment advice, in a high-touch, service-oriented atmosphere, focused on clients and helping them meet their financial goals. He named the firm for his father, Benjamin F. Edwards.
Before founding Benjamin F. Edwards & Co., Tad worked his way up the corporate ladder at A.G. Edwards, a firm founded by his great-great-grandfather. He started out in the company’s Personnel Department in 1977 and later worked with clients as an advisor and eventually a branch manager. After about 20-years at the firm, Tad moved to the firm’s corporate headquarters as a regional manager, and later as the director of the Sales and Marketing division. As division director, he assumed responsibility for a number of core functions including the fixed income and NASDAQ trading desks; equity research; private client services; investment advisory programs and services; syndicate; and corporate communications.
He also served on the boards of directors for A.G. Edwards, Inc., and its brokerage subsidiary, A.G. Edwards & Sons, Inc. In 1998, he was named vice chairman of the holding company board and appointed president of the brokerage in 2001. He was also a member of the firm’s executive committee. In 2002, he returned to branch management and remained on the brokerage board.
A graduate of Trinity University in Chicago, Tad also completed the Securities Industry Institute at the Wharton School of Business (1983), the Graduate Management Program at Washington University (1983), and the Executive Leadership Development Program at the Harvard Business School (2011).
He is married with two children and enjoys reading and golf.
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Luncheon with Tractor Supply's Jim Wright
2019-06-06 11:00 - 13:00 | Embassy Suites Des Moines Downtown, 101 E. Locust St., Des Moines, IA, 50309, United States
Jim Wright, Executive Chairman of the Board and CEO of Tractor Supply, retired, will share his amazing story of an unconventional culture that grew Tractor Supply to become the largest operator of rural lifestyle retail stores in the U.S, with more than 1700 Tractor Supply stores operating today in 49 states.
During his tenure, he instilled a mission and values that fostered the company’s growth, even through the recession of 2008. At that time, Jim Wright made a pledge to all Tractor Supply team members: “If you are with us now and continue to contribute, you will have a job with us at the end of the recession or I will have failed in my job.” The effect was powerful. In 2008 and 2009, Tractor Supply added 165 stores, created over 1,600 jobs and achieved record sales and earnings both years.
According to Mr. Wright, “The culture of a company is like the sand on a beach, wind and water are always eroding it. It’s the job of leadership to replenish the culture one grain at a time, all the time.”
That attitude is apparent in the tools that Wright used to instill the culture. He required all employees to carry a card listing 10 corporate values at all times. First on the list? Ethics: “Do the right thing and always encourage others to do the right, honest and ethical thing.” The other values? Respect, balance, winning attitude, communication, development, teamwork, change, initiative, accountability. The back of the card enumerated the elements of Tractor Supply’s mission: “To work hard, have fun and make money by providing legendary service and great products at everyday low prices.” These same values and mission remain with the company today.
Join us on June 6th to hear Jim’s highly engaging story of growing an “unconventional business” culture!
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Faithforward Conversations I Be Present
2019-06-19 11:30 - 13:00 | The Lodge Des Peres, 1050 Des Peres Road, Des Peres, Missouri, 63131
UBW presents Faithforward Conversations, an intimate lunchtime gathering of faithforward business women. These facilitated conversations address topics unique to business women of faith and foster the growth of meaningful workplace relationships. They are held during an extended lunch period and include a box lunch. We hope you can join us for our June discussion: “Be Present”.
About our June FFC: Do you find is hard to live in the moment? Do you find it a challenge to focus on and enjoy what is right in front of you? Are you always on the quest for what’s next and forget the blessings of today? If any or all these statements apply to you, you are not alone! Join us for the this Faithforward Conversation where Sophia Marcum , Client Operations Advocate for Krause Basler Network will share her insights on how to truly live in the present.
Register
$25 per person
Includes healthful lunch

Faithforward Conversations | Rest in His Sufficiency
2019-07-17 11:30 - 13:00 | The Lodge Des Peres, 1050 Des Peres Road, Des Peres, Missouri, 63131
UBW presents Faithforward Conversations, an intimate lunchtime gathering of faithforward business women. These facilitated conversations address topics unique to business women of faith and foster the growth of meaningful workplace relationships. They are held during an extended lunch period and include a box lunch. We hope you can join us for our July discussion: “Rest in His Sufficiency“.
Register
$25 per person
Includes healthful lunch

Luncheon with Former CIA Operative, Michele Rigby Assad
2019-09-10 11:00 - 13:00 | Embassy Suites Des Moines Downtown, 101 E. Locust St., Des Moines, IA, 50309, United States
Michele Rigby Assad is a former undercover officer in the U.S. Central Intelligence Agency’s Directorate of Operations. Trained as a counterterrorism specialist, Michele served her country for ten years, working in Iraq and other secret Middle Eastern locations.
Upon retirement from active service, Michele and her husband Joseph (also a former agent) joined a group of Americans who wished to aid persecuted Christians. Their efforts resulted in the evacuation of a group from northern Iraq that was featured on ABC’s 20/20 in December 2015.
Michele holds a master’s degree in Contemporary Arab Studies from Georgetown University. Today she serves as an international security consultant, splitting her time between the Middle East, Florida, and Washington, D.C.
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Luncheon with Chick-fil-A's Culture Expert, Dee Ann Turner
2019-09-19 11:00 - 13:00 | The Ballroom at Doubletree Hotel & Convention Center, 16625 Swingley Ridge Road, Chesterfield, 63017
Dee Ann Turner is a 33-year veteran of Chick-fil-A, Inc. Prior to retirement in 2018, she was Vice President, Talent and Vice President, Sustainability. Selected as the company’s first female officer in 2001, she was instrumental in building and growing Chick-fil-A’s well-known culture and talent systems.
During her long career, she worked closely with Chick-fil-A’s founder, S. Truett Cathy, and other key leaders as an architect of their organizational culture. Turner was responsible for thousands of selections of Chick-fil-A Franchisees and corporate staff members. Additionally, she led Talent Management, Staff Learning and Development, Diversity and Inclusion, Culture and Engagement. Most recently, Dee Ann launched and led the Sustainability function focusing on Chick-fil-A’s strategy to implement sustainable practices at the $11 billion company.
Today, she leads her own organization, Dee Ann Turner, LLC, writing books, speaking to over 50 audiences per year and consulting and coaching leaders globally. She is the author of the best seller, It’s My Pleasure: The Impact of Extraordinary Talent and a Compelling Culture. Her latest book, Bet on Talent: How to Create a Remarkable Culture and Win the Hearts of Customers, will be released in September 2019.
She is a graduate of Clayton State University with a degree in Management. She also completed executive education courses at Emory University, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and the University of Virginia’s Darden Business School. She is a 2009 alumnus of the prestigious Harvard Business School Advanced Management Program.
Dee Ann has been married her husband, Ashley for 35 years and they are the parents of three grown sons. She has served numerous non-profit boards in the past including The Kenya Project, Eagle Ranch and Proverbs 31 Ministries. She has also served on the board of advisors for Lubbock Christian University and First Care Clinics. When she is not traveling, she can often be found on her Peloton bike in her home outside of Atlanta or on her stand up paddleboard at Lake Hartwell in northeast Georgia.
You can connect with Dee Ann on twitter @deeannturner or Instagram @itsmy.pleasure or on Facebook: Dee Ann Turner Author.
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VIP Women's Event: Simulcast of St. Louis keynote: Chick-fil-A's Culture Expert, Dee Ann Turner
2019-09-19 11:30 - 13:00 | Kansas
Held at our UBN offices, 7171 W. 95th Street, OPKS 66212 from 11:30 to 1:00; tickets are $25 and include a healthy boxed lunch.
Register Today
Dee Ann Turner is a 33-year veteran of Chick-fil-A, Inc. Prior to retirement in 2018, she was Vice President, Talent and Vice President, Sustainability. Selected as the company’s first female officer in 2001, she was instrumental in building and growing Chick-fil-A’s well-known culture and talent systems.
During her long career, she worked closely with Chick-fil-A’s founder, S. Truett Cathy, and other key leaders as an architect of their organizational culture. Turner was responsible for thousands of selections of Chick-fil-A Franchisees and corporate staff members. Additionally, she led Talent Management, Staff Learning and Development, Diversity and Inclusion, Culture and Engagement. Most recently, Dee Ann launched and led the Sustainability function focusing on Chick-fil-A’s strategy to implement sustainable practices at the $11 billion company.
Today, she leads her own organization, Dee Ann Turner, LLC, writing books, speaking to over 50 audiences per year and consulting and coaching leaders globally. She is the author of the best seller, It’s My Pleasure: The Impact of Extraordinary Talent and a Compelling Culture. Her latest book, Bet on Talent: How to Create a Remarkable Culture and Win the Hearts of Customers, will be released in September 2019.
She is a graduate of Clayton State University with a degree in Management. She also completed executive education courses at Emory University, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and the University of Virginia’s Darden Business School. She is a 2009 alumnus of the prestigious Harvard Business School Advanced Management Program.
Dee Ann has been married her husband, Ashley for 35 years and they are the parents of three grown sons. She has served numerous non-profit boards in the past including The Kenya Project, Eagle Ranch and Proverbs 31 Ministries. She has also served on the board of advisors for Lubbock Christian University and First Care Clinics. When she is not traveling, she can often be found on her Peloton bike in her home outside of Atlanta or on her stand up paddleboard at Lake Hartwell in northeast Georgia.
You can connect with Dee Ann on twitter @deeannturner or Instagram @itsmy.pleasure or on Facebook: Dee Ann Turner Author.

Unconventional Business Summit
2019-10-24 18:00 - 2019-10-25 16:00 | Kansas City, Overland Park, KS
Unconventional Business Network is thrilled to host a national, two-day Christian business leader summit!
We will kick off the conference with a Thursday evening Dinner Event with keynote, Mr. Horst H. Schulze, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer at Capella Hotels and Resorts and Solis Hotels & Resorts–and the co-founder of the Ritz-Carlton.
Friday will include five keynote speakers, including Megan Alexander of Inside Edition and Thursday Night Football. A variety of break-out sessions will be offered throughout the day, along with chef-inspired breakfast, lunch and dinner faire.
Find out more HERE or purchase your UB Summit conference pass HERE
We hope you can join us for this can’t miss two-day event!

UB Women St. Louis Gathering with Cindy Erickson of the Red Cross
2019-11-04 17:30 - 19:45 | The Ballroom at Doubletree Hotel & Convention Center, 16625 Swingley Ridge Road, Chesterfield, 63017
Cindy Erickson is no stranger to adversity. As Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the American Red Cross of Missouri and Arkansas, floods, fires, tornados and natural disasters are realities she faces on the job. Join us as Cindy shares how she takes adversity – her own and others’ — and weaves it with her strong Christian faith to forge work ethics and principles that are truly unconventional.
Cindy’s career at the Red Cross began in 2009, as the CEO of the St. Louis Chapter. During her tenure, she has helped navigate organizational restructurings, mergers, and regional realignments. Today, Cindy oversees a $28 million budget, one of the largest Red Cross organizations in the country and is responsible for Red Cross services in the city of St. Louis and 199 surrounding Missouri and Arkansas counties.
“Part of our job at the American Red Cross is to provide hope and help to people who have lost everything,” Cindy says. She credits her upbringing with giving her the compassion necessary to face these types of challenges. “I was raised in a family where service for others was really a part of the fabric of my family.”
Providing opportunities for people to help other people in times of crisis also gives Cindy great joy. One of her favorite memories is of keeping her office open all night and responding to a fire call with her Disaster Action Team during a major snowstorm. Fortunately, all were safe and her crew was able to provide much welcomed assistance and shelter to the families.
Join us on Monday, November 4th, to hear Cindy talk about facing adversity – in the workplace and in life – with trust, courage and compassion. You’ll be inspired by her unconventional story!
