In this episode of The Founder Collective Podcast, host Tamra Andress invites listeners into a refreshing conversation on what it really means to lead, build, and create from a place of play, rest, and excellence.

From scarecrows and fall festivals to deep revelations about faith and business, this episode challenges entrepreneurs to reflect on how and why they’re building — and whether the structures of their success are freeing them or trapping them.

Featuring rich discussion from community members including Chris, Bryant, Tamra, Lisette, and Eliyahu, the conversation moves from lighthearted stories to powerful spiritual truths about worship, work, and walking in excellence.

• The difference between perfectionism and excellence — and how one brings freedom while the other brings bondage.
  

• Why play is a prophetic act of trust — and how fun can unlock divine creativity.
  

• How to identify when your business is becoming a prison instead of a playground.
  

• The meaning of Avodah — the Hebrew word that connects work and worship — and what it reveals about God’s design for our labor.
  

• The connection between abiding in Christ and building with excellence.
  

• How to steward your calling like Solomon’s temple — with wholehearted excellence, not half-hearted effort.

“Are we building our prison, or are we building a playground?” – Tamra Andress

“When you do something wholeheartedly as if doing it for the Lord, that excellence becomes freedom.” – Chris

“Work and worship were never meant to be separate — in Hebrew, they’re the same word: Avodah.” – Eliyahu

“You can’t operate in the anointing if you’re not under the covering.” – Tamra Andress

• 05:40 – The story behind the scarecrow and the question that sparked today’s theme
  

• 09:18 – Tamra’s opening prayer for divine play and unity
  

• 12:16 – Lisette shares her new podcast and the joy of creative obedience
  

• 14:39 – The connection between rest, play, and divine strategy
  

• 18:13 – Tamra’s story: starting a retreat for firefighter wives
  

• 23:17 – Bryant on burnout, dependence, and the humility to rest
  

• 26:00 – Eliyahu introduces Working with God: The 10 Modes of Elevated Leadership
  

• 33:22 – Chris on excellence, perfectionism, and worship through work
  

• 40:09 – Bryant’s teaching on the three power banks: body, soul, and spirit
  

• 57:05 – The Hebrew revelation of Avodah: work as worship
  

• 59:53 – Tamra on maturing through excellence and the next iteration of your calling
  

• 01:07:32 – Closing prayer and free FounderCon ticket announcement
  

• The Giving Tree – YouTube Reading
  

• Working with God: The 10 Modes of Elevated Leadership by Eliyahu
  

• TheFounderCon.com – Use code URSPECIAL for 100% off conference tickets
  

• Website: thefoundercon.com
  

• Instagram: @tamra.andress
  

• Facebook Community: The Founder Collective
  

If this episode stirred something in you, take time this week to play with God. Step away from striving and start creating from rest. Then join us in person at FounderCon — where entrepreneurs meet heaven’s blueprint for excellence, impact, and freedom.

In this powerful and deeply personal episode of The Founder Collective, Tamra Andress and the community share how obedience to God’s prompting can transform the way we build, lead, and serve through business. What starts as a conversation about planning for FounderCon quickly unfolds into testimonies of surrender, provision, and unexpected Kingdom impact.

You’ll hear Tamra recount the miraculous moment when God filled every seat at the event after she released control, and how He continues to teach the team that stewardship often looks like letting go. Joined by Chris, Anthony, and other founders, the discussion explores what it means to run your business with open hands, trust God’s timing, and redefine success through eternal impact—not profit margins.

If you’ve ever wrestled with fear, control, or uncertainty in your entrepreneurial journey, this episode will remind you that faith is not passive—it’s the most strategic move you can make.

Key Takeaways:

• True stewardship means releasing control so God can multiply your impact.

• Obedience often precedes breakthrough—especially when it makes no logical sense.

• Faith-driven entrepreneurship invites us to measure success through souls, not sales.

• God refines us through discomfort, pruning, and surrender, preparing us for greater clarity of calling.

• • Community matters—transformation happens when believers build together for Kingdom purpose.

  
  

  Timestamps:

• • [07:50] Tamra shares how God provided when she released control of FounderCon.

  • [16:00] A midnight moment in Scripture leads to divine strategy from Matthew 22.

  • [22:00] Chris reveals how God asked him to make his coaching course completely free.

  • [35:00] Anthony unpacks how perspective shifts unlock Kingdom vision.

  • [45:00] Frances shares her journey from professional restraint to prophetic freedom.

• • [58:00] The group reflects on the cost of following Jesus in business.
• 
  
• Quotables:
• • “Sometimes obedience looks illogical, but it’s always strategic in God’s economy.” – Tamra Andress
  • “Following God costs you everything that’s not for you.” – Chris
  • “The church isn’t just a building—it’s a movement of entrepreneurs willing to say yes.” – Anthony

  • 
    

  Resources:

  • FounderCon: Join the movement at TheFounderCollective.org

  
  

In this powerful Founder Collective conversation, the hosts and community share honest testimonies about what it really means to say yes to God—especially when it doesn’t make sense. From marathons to motherhood, finances to faith, this episode peels back the layers of what obedience looks like in real life.

Through authentic stories of loss, provision, miracles, and conviction, the group wrestles with how to discern God’s voice, navigate the tension between wise counsel and faith, and trust God’s timing even when the “no” feels confusing.

The reminder? Success in the Kingdom isn’t about what you achieve—it’s about your willingness to say yes when He calls.

Key Takeaways:

• Obedience is the highest form of success. Your “yes” to God matters more than the outcome or applause.

• God provides daily bread. Provision and peace come when we trust Him, not our paychecks.

• Your no is just as important as your yes. Discerning what’s not for you protects you from distraction and burnout.

• Wise counsel confirms, not replaces, God’s voice. The Word and the Holy Spirit remain your primary guides.

• One yes can change everything. Every act of obedience carries ripple effects far beyond what you can see.
  

Quotables:

“Your yes was the success. Obedience is the highest level of success.” – Chris

“Good things aren’t always God things. God is always good, but good isn’t always God.” – Anthony

“Sometimes nothing is enough when you’ve said yes to Him—because He’s already your provider.” – Kelly

“God doesn’t need our performance; He wants our presence.” – Francis

“We’ve taken God from being our King to being our consultant—and that doesn’t work.” – Chris

Timestamps:

• [06:00] – Chris shares how running a marathon became a lesson in obedience and humility

• [13:00] – Redefining success: your yes is the success

• [16:00] – Kelly’s story of financial surrender and trusting God’s provision

• [19:00] – Why your no matters just as much as your yes

• [27:00] – How to reconcile wise counsel with God’s personal direction

• [34:00] – Learning from the healing of the lame man and Lazarus—trusting timing

• [43:00] – Frances shares a testimony of her daughter’s healing and the miracle in the midst of chaos

• [52:00] – The importance of community and showing up in person

• [55:00] – The conviction of delayed obedience

• [01:01:00] – Chris’ powerful story of how a simple yes led to his mom’s salvation

• [01:10:00] – Final challenge: Ask God what He last told you to do—and go do it

Resources:

• The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry by John Mark Comer

• Founder Con – tickets available now at thefoundercollective.org
  

• Website: thefoundercollective.org
  

• Instagram: @thefoundercollective
  

• Join the Community: thefoundercollective.org/join
  

In this episode of The Founder Collective, the conversation takes us into the heart of God’s creation—exploring how the intricate details of nature reflect His character, creativity, and care for us. From tree rings that tell stories of storms and growth, to the quiet lessons found in ants, spiders, and even sunrises, our hosts and guests reflect on how slowing down to notice creation reveals deeper truths about who God is and how He designed us.

You’ll hear personal stories of divine encounters in unexpected places—a dolphin dancing alongside worship on the shoreline, a child’s unexpected act of tenderness, or simply pausing to see the fingerprints of God in the smallest details of life. Through it all, this episode reminds us that God is intentional in every detail, and His creation invites us into deeper intimacy, trust, and worship.

Key Takeaways

• How God’s design in nature mirrors the seasons, storms, and growth in our own lives.

• Why slowing down to notice creation deepens our awareness of God’s presence.

• Lessons from the book of Job on humility, restoration, and God’s power.

• Practical ways to integrate nature into your rhythms for spiritual renewal.

• • Why community and testimony are essential in sharing God’s story through our lives.
    

  Timestamps

• • 00:56 – Opening reflections: hospital visits, school teaching, and starting the call.

  • 02:40 – The story written in tree rings and how it parallels our lives.

  • 06:34 – Ephesians 1 reminder: God takes pleasure in planning our lives.

  • 12:17 – Testimony, community, and the beauty of shared differences.

  • 17:06 – Encountering God through nature and childlike wonder.

  • 28:09 – Worship, dolphins, and a whale sighting—creation as worship partner.

  • 36:28 – Designing retreats that mirror intimacy, trust, and renewal.

  • 39:27 – From bugs to bumblebees: the intricacy of God’s smallest creations.

  • 50:20 – Volcanoes, renewal, and restoration after destruction.

  • 55:40 – Walk-and-talk meetings: integrating nature into daily work rhythms.

• • 58:17 – Closing prayer and challenge: see God in every detail of creation.
    

  Quotables

• • “The rings of a tree tell its story—storms, seasons, and growth. Our lives are no different.”

  • “It’s impossible to doubt God when you’re walking in His creation.”

  • “God took pleasure in planning our lives—every detail is intentional.”

  • “Nature is our cheat code—it grounds us and brings us back to God.”

• • “Restoration often comes after what looks like destruction. Just like volcano soil, God brings beauty from ashes.”
    

  Resources

• • Book of Job (Old Testament reflection)

  • Man’s Search for Meaning by Viktor Frankl

  • Ephesians 1:3–6 (Message translation)

• • Proverbs 6 (Lessons from the ant)
    

  
  

  Connect with us

• • Visit Foundercollective.com

  • 🎙️ Subscribe to The Founder Collective on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast app.

  • 💬 Share this episode with a friend and join the conversation online.
    

In this episode of The Founder Collective Podcast, we unpack what it really means to lead, build, and serve from a place of faith. From navigating difficult conversations with grace, to creating tables of belonging for the next generation, to developing God-given frameworks that clarify your calling—this discussion is rich with wisdom for entrepreneurs, leaders, and kingdom builders.

You’ll hear stories of transformation from live events, reflections on technology and faith, and a powerful reminder that rest is not wasted time but fertile ground for God’s best work. If you’re a founder, leader, or creative who longs to integrate faith with impact, this episode will inspire you to walk boldly in your calling while making room for rest and renewal.

What You'll Learn:

• Why grace and discernment are essential in conversations where perspectives clash.

• How creating “tables” of belonging opens doors for revival in the next generation.

• The power of frameworks in clarifying your God-given calling and equipping others.

• Lessons from the Bloom Again Kansas City event and the importance of intergenerational discipleship.

• Technology, faith, and the challenge of dependence—how to reset and hear God more clearly.

• • Why rest is a leadership strategy and not a sign of weakness.

  
  

  Timestamps:

• • 00:05 – Opening reflections: adjectives for Wednesday and navigating tough conversations with grace

  • 10:32 – Testimonies from the Bloom Again Kansas City event and lessons on creating tables of belonging

  • 27:40 – Discovering frameworks as a God-given strategy to clarify calling and set others free

  • 42:15 – Technology, AI, and faith: separation, discernment, and opportunities for the gospel

• • 59:03 – The importance of rest in leadership and how letting go makes space for God to move

  
  

  Quotables:

• • “The Bible talks about us all being a collective body…we each have a very specific purpose in the body.”

  • “Your framework and your calling—this is your disciple-making machine.”

  • “Sometimes rest is the very space where God raises up other warriors into generals.”

• • “Technology can be a tool of distraction or a tool for the gospel—it’s how we steward it that matters.”

  
  

  Resources Mentioned:

• • Bloom Again Kansas City Event – reflections on intergenerational discipleship and revival

  • Lisa Harper’s Teaching on Spiritual Disciplines (tables and the presence of Jesus)

• • Freedom Farm Mission – cultivating spaces of reset and renewal
  • FounderCon - Get registered today. TheFounderCollective.org

  
  

• If this episode encouraged you, share it with a fellow entrepreneur or leader who’s walking out their calling.

  Subscribe to The Founder Collective Podcast for more conversations at the intersection of faith and entrepreneurship.

In this week’s Founder Collective conversation, the table opened wide to powerful stories of humility, surrender, and discerning God’s voice in the middle of life’s toughest seasons. From fasting through hard decisions, to caring for aging parents, to navigating provision and calling, each voice brought wisdom on what it means to live fully dependent on God.

Together, we unpack what it looks like to pause instead of react, wait with expectancy instead of passivity, and recognize the ways we sometimes “falsify” God’s peace or provision by moving ahead in our own strength. You’ll walk away encouraged to release control, lean into community, and step boldly into the unique calling God has placed on your life.

If you’ve ever struggled with waiting, discernment, or feeling “unworthy” at the table, this episode will remind you that you are called, not because you’re qualified, but because He has invited you.

What's In The Podcast:

• Why humility is the only posture that unlocks God’s direction.

• The difference between waiting on God and passively waiting.

• How to discern if it’s God’s voice, your own desires, or outside noise.

• Stories of caregiving, fasting, and trusting God in uncertainty.

• What it means to falsify peace, provision, or love—and how to avoid it.

• Why discipleship and community matter more than ever.

• • How to step into your calling even when you don’t feel worthy.

  
  

  Quotables:

• • “Humility dictates that if God opened the door and prepared me, who am I to say I’m not ready?”

  • “We don’t give God our prayers because He needs them—we release them so we can let go of control.”

• • “You’re not here because you’re worthy. You’re here because you’re called.”

  
  

  Scriptures:

• • Philippians 2:3

  • Philippians 1:27

  • John 15 (remaining connected to the vine)

• • The story of Mary & Martha (Luke 10:38–42)

  
  

  Resoruces:

• • Connect with The Founder Collective on Instagram and LinkedIn.

  • Subscribe to The Founder Collective Podcast on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

  • Share this episode with a friend who needs encouragement in their waiting season.

  
  

In this powerful roundtable conversation, the Founder Collective community leans into one of the most universal challenges for entrepreneurs and leaders—navigating seasons of transition. From homeschooling shifts to business pivots, health battles, and spiritual renewal, this episode offers real stories and raw insights about how to remain present, obedient, and aligned with God’s calling.

You’ll hear how leaders are discerning between good opportunities and God opportunities, how to manage competing priorities without burning out, and how accountability and community make all the difference. This is an honest look at what it means to be both faith-driven and business-minded—without losing sight of what matters most.

If you’ve ever felt stretched between family, calling, and career, this conversation will encourage you to slow down, recalibrate, and step boldly into what God is asking of you in this season.

What You'll Learn:

• How to recognize the difference between doing good things and doing the God thing

• Why accountability and community fuel momentum in your calling

• The tension between family responsibilities and entrepreneurial drive—and how to find peace in the overlap

• Real stories of overcoming procrastination, imposter syndrome, and self-sabotage in creative work

• The importance of rest, health, and presence for sustaining long-term leadership impact

• • How to steward transitions without fear, trusting God as the Provider rather than relying on provision

  
  

  Quotables:

• • “Seeds can’t grow unless something happens—sharing, writing, watering—that’s what honors God with the gift He’s given you.”

  • “The strength of your ministry will be determined by the strength of your family.”

  • “God doesn’t just call us to do for Him—He calls us to walk with Him.”

• • “Sometimes the thing you think will hinder your flow is actually what unlocks it.”

  
  

  Resources and Links:

• • Learn more about the Founder Collective Podcast and upcoming events at Founder Collective Website

  • Register for FounderCon, November 5–7 in Norfolk, Virginia – use code FRIEND for $300 off your ticket

  
  

  STAY CONNECTED:

  Want to be part of our conversation? The Founder Collective Table is a great opportunity for you to get plugged in and start seeing where God will lead you! Wednesdays at 12 Noon EST. We have room for you at the table! ⁠

  https://thefoundercollective.org/foundertable

  
  

  Thank you for listening! To hear more from us, visit us at:

  Tamra's Podcast, The Messenger Movement

  Anthony's Podcast, In the Red

  Share the love! If this episode resonated with you, share it with a friend and leave a review on your favorite podcast platform. Let’s grow together in faith and purpose!

In this powerful Founder Collective Table conversation, the focus turns to overcoming timidity and stepping boldly into the calling God has placed on your life. Through Scripture, coaching insights, and raw stories from the community, we unpack how hesitation holds us back and how obedience opens the door to fruitfulness.

From Hebrews 10 to Gideon’s story, this episode challenges us to stop shrinking back, to recognize timidity for what it is, and to respond with faith, courage, and action. You’ll hear personal testimonies, real struggles, and life-changing encouragement that will inspire you to trade fear for boldness and comfort for obedience.

Key Takeaways

• Why timidity is one of the greatest obstacles to fruitfulness in life and business

• What Scripture reveals about shrinking back vs. living by faith

• How hesitation is a form of double-mindedness that keeps us stuck

• Encouragement to “go in the strength you have” and stop waiting for perfect conditions

• Real stories from the community on obedience, writing, and publishing as acts of faith

• • Why boldness is a state of being, not just a momentary action
    

  
  

• • 05:06 – Setting the stage: boldness vs. timidity

  • 09:17 – Called to live boldly in business and faith

  • 12:14 – From atheist to believer: a testimony of transformation

  • 17:24 – Hebrews 10:38-39 and the danger of shrinking back

  • 20:05 – Where are you hesitating in your calling?

  • 23:09 – Coaching breakthrough: obedience vs. excuses

  • 29:01 – One step at a time: from fear to action

  • 33:53 – Why obedience matters more than resources

  • 46:48 – Testimonies of publishing, writing, and saying yes

  • 55:46 – Faith without action is powerless

• • 57:26 – Walking in a state of boldness that brings reward
    

  
  

• • “Hesitation is a form of double-mindedness, and God takes no pleasure in those who shrink back.”

  • “You are not just an author with a book—you are a warrior with a weapon God has given you.”

  • “Our job is obedience. God’s job is the results.”

  • “Don’t treat God like a consultant. He is King.”

• • “Faith without works is dead. Action is the highest form of faith.”
    

  
  

• • Hebrews 10:38-39, Hebrews 10:35

  • Philippians 4:6-7

  • The story of Gideon (Judges 6–7)

• • John Bevere’s testimony and ministry
    

  
  

  STAY CONNECTED:

  Want to be part of our conversation? The Founder Collective Table is a great opportunity for you to get plugged in and start seeing where God will lead you! Wednesdays at 12 Noon EST. We have room for you at the table! ⁠

  https://thefoundercollective.org/foundertable

  
  

  Thank you for listening! To hear more from us, visit us at:

  Tamra's Podcast, The Messenger Movement

  Anthony's Podcast, In the Red

  Share the love! If this episode resonated with you, share it with a friend and leave a review on your favorite podcast platform. Let’s grow together in faith and purpose!

  
  

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