Unconventional Business Network

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.

UB Forum St. Louis "Driven by a Higher Purpose"
2020-04-14 07:00 - 08:30 | Kansas
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

UBN's Network Connect | This Thursday with Dee Ann Turner of Chick-fil-A
2020-04-02 12:00 - 13:00 | 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 Women St. Louis "to be rescheduled"
2020-03-18 11:30 - 13:00 | 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.

UB Women Kansas City "Leading with a Clear Mind"
2020-03-12 17:30 - 19:00 | 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 Forum St. Louis, "Tad Edwards on Appreciating Others"
2020-03-10 07:00 - 08:30 | Kansas
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

Luncheon with Mary Andringa | Vermeer Corp. Chair of the Board
2020-02-27 11:00 - 13:00 | 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 Women St. Louis "Navigating with a Compass: Fact vs. Emotions"
2020-02-19 11:30 - 13:00 | 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!

Winter Luncheon Event with First Liberty Institute's Kelly Shakelford
2020-02-13 11:00 - 13:00 | 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 Forum St. Louis, "Appreciating Others"
2020-02-11 07:00 - 08:30 | Kansas
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

St. Louis Luncheon with Jeff Bramstedt, former Navy Seal, Stuntman and Owner of Skydive San Diego
2020-02-06 11:00 - 13:00 | 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.

FaithForward Conversation | Lead with a Clear Mission
2019-12-18 11:30 - 13:00 | The Lodge Des Peres, 1050 Des Peres Road, Des Peres, Missouri, 63131
Please join UBW and Shannon Mette, St. Louis City Director, as she leads this conversation on “Lead with a Clear Mission” Registration of $25 includes program and a healthful lunch. Register here.

Kansas City Forum | Understanding Your Vocational Purpose and Calling
2019-12-17 11:30 - 13:00 | UBN Offices, 10550 Barkley Street Suite 116, Overland Park, Kansas, 66212
UB Forum Overland Park
This month’s topic is “Understanding Your Vocational Purpose and Calling”
Register here
Mark your calendar and connect with local business men and women of faith at our Overland Park UB Forum. Meeting the third Tuesday of each month, this vibrant group of business leaders gathers for 1 1/2 hours during the lunch hour to:

Network and fellowship
Learn from an exclusive UBN faith + work training video (20 minutes)
Participate in a facilitated discussion about the monthly topic

Details? UBN offices, the third Tuesday of each month, during the lunch hour from 11:30 am to 1:00 pm. Registration is $25 and includes the program and lunch. Questions? Contact David Hamilton, Business Development Director, Kansas City at david@unconventionalbusiness.org .
UBN Offices | 7171 West 95th Street, suite 501 | Overland Park, KS 66212

UB Forum, Chesterfield | Loving God
2019-12-10 07:00 - 08:30 | Kansas
UB Forum Chesterfield
This month’s topic is Loving God at work
Register here
Mark your calendar and connect with local business men and women of faith at our Chesterfield UB Forum. Meeting the second Tuesday of each month, this vibrant group of business leaders gathers for 1 1/2 hours during the breakfast hour to:

Network and fellowship
Learn from an exclusive UBN faith + work training video (20 minutes)
Participate in a facilitated discussion about the monthly topic

Details? Brand Asset Management Group conference space in Chesterfield, the second Tuesday of each month, during the breakfast hour from 7:00 am to 8:30 am. Registration is $25 and includes the program and breakfast. Questions? Contact Keith Mette, Business Development Director, St. Louis at keith@unconventionalbusiness.org.
UB Forum Chesterfield | Tuesday, December 10, 2019 from 7:00 to 8:30 am
Brand Asset Management Group Conference Space
16090 Swingley Ridge Rd, #400
Chesterfield, MO, 63017

FaithForward Conversation | Lead with a Clear Vision
2019-11-20 11:30 - 13:00 | The Lodge Des Peres, 1050 Des Peres Road, Des Peres, Missouri, 63131
Join us at the Lodge Des Peres as Beverly Jenkins leads our luncheon conversation on “Lead with a Clear Vision”.
Beverly Jenkins is a Pastor and Co-Founder of Refuge and Restoration Church as well as a Co-Founder of BIMR (Building Intimacy Marriage Retreats). She is responsible for strategic planning, organizational development, leadership development, & vision casting. She is adept at breaking barriers & inventive thinking. Beverly has trained and leads a staff of over 35 ministers, & a team of 15 executive leaders. She loves cultivating and empowering people. Her greatest successes are in motivating others to find their personal value proposition & go to after their God given dreams.
Registration of $25 includes program and healthful lunch Click here to register.

Luncheon Forum | God's View of Work
2019-11-19 11:30 - 13:00 | UBN Offices, 10550 Barkley Street Suite 116, Overland Park, Kansas, 66212
Register Today!
Interested in meeting with other business men and women of faith? Join us for our monthly, luncheon Forum, a 1 and 1/2 hour monthly meeting that includes networking, an exclusive UBN faith + work training video (20 minutes), and discussion. Located at UBN’s conference space in Overland Park and offered the third Thursday of each month, Forums are a great opportunity to connect with other like-minded business men and women that desire to integrate their faith with their work!
Registration is $25 and includes the program and lunch. Questions? Contact David Hamilton, Business Development Director, Kansas City at david@unconventionalbusiness.org
KC Luncheon Forum | God’s View of Work | November 19 • 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
Unconventional Business Network Offices
7171 West 95th Street, suite 501
Overland Park, KS, 66212
Register

Breakfast Forum | Purpose & Calling
2019-11-12 07:00 - 08:30 | Kansas
Register Today!
Please join us for our November Breakfast Forum. This 1 1/2 hour monthly meeting includes time for networking, an exclusive UBN faith + work training video (20 minutes), and discussion component that will address a faith + work topic. Forums are a great opportunity to connect with other like-minded business men and women of faith that desire to integrate their faith with their work!
Register today and connect with us at Brand Asset Management Group conference space in Chesterfield as we focus on the topic, “Understanding Your Purpose and Calling in Your Work.” Registration is $25 and includes breakfast. Questions? Contact Keith Mette, Business Development Director, St. Louis at keith@unconventionalbusiness.org
STL Breakfast Forum | Understanding Your Purpose and Calling | November 12 • 7:00 a.m. to 8:30 a.m.
Brand Asset Management Group Conference Space
16090 Swingley Ridge Rd, #400
Chesterfield, MO, 63017
Register

UB Women KC Gathering with GateWay of Hope's Dacia Moore
2019-11-07 17:30 - 19:45 | The Venue, 4800 W. 135th St. #108, Leawood, KS, 66224, United States
Dacia Moore has come to appreciate the little accomplishments in her life. The national speaker, trainer, author, business owner and now Executive Director of GateWay of Hope Women’s Center has made quite a few of them during her life and career. And while she has experienced some restlessness in her “small” accomplishments, Dacia knows that they are paving the way to her bigger purpose: glorifying God in her life, faith, and career. Join us as Dacia shares her unconventional career journey, and how trusting in God as a faithforward businesswoman has helped her appreciate that small accomplishments are rich in purpose.
Dacia’s career at GateWay of Hope began in 2015, after running a successful small business for ten years, Second Wind Counseling and Consulting, in Kansas City, Missouri. She has served as an adjunct professor at the Metropolitan Community Colleges and Webster University. She is also a National Board Certified Counselor and a Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri.
“As women, we want to accomplish big things in our careers,” Dacia says. “We have to recognize that it’s the small accomplishments that matter.”
Once recruited by GateWay of Hope to take the organization to its next level of growth, Dacia experienced many challenges and changes, which she faced with prayer, fasting, discernment and scripture meditation. “I trusted God with the small stuff. He placed me in this role. And I knew He was going to achieve His purposes.”
GateWay of Hope is a non-profit, Christian based counseling center, where licensed counselors and life coaches provide a safe, caring, healing environment for women experiencing mental health issues including depression, anxiety and relationship issues.
What Dacia likes most about her job is strengthening women in their faith so that they can be better mothers, spouses and stronger women. “I believe we are all Christian warriors and have to learn how to fight against the attack of the enemy in our minds. The battlefield truly is the mind.”
Join us on Thursday, November 7th at 5:30 p.m. to hear Dacia discuss walking your career path with confidence and trust in God. You’ll be inspired by her unconventional story!

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!

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!

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.

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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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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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“.
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$25 per person
Includes healthful lunch

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.
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$25 per person
Includes healthful lunch

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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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 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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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
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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

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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