In this compelling episode of Faith Driven Investor, Nick Bonner shares his transformative journey in Christian real estate investment and the innovative solutions he's developing to address inefficiencies in church property usage.Key Topics Discussed:The Great Opportunity Report's findings on church growth and the critical role of real estateAnalysis revealing that churches typically only utilize their buildings 5% of the weekThe stark contrast between business and church property ownership (12% vs 84%)Development of the Open Doors model for shared church spacesThe concept of transforming church buildings into community hubs with multiple revenue streamsThe vision for democratizing faith-driven real estate investment through a Christian impact REITPersonal testimony of surrendering business plans and experiencing God's redirectionNotable Insights:Approximately $1 trillion in equity is locked in church buildings aloneCurrent church property models often burden pastors with responsibilities outside their core missionThe potential for shared spaces to create "divine collisions" and new ministry opportunitiesHow investment capital (150x larger than donation capital) can be leveraged for kingdom impactThe importance of maintaining Jesus as the central focus rather than the dream itselfFeatured Guest: Nick Bonner brings extensive experience from CBRE, the Pine Tops Foundation, and various real estate ventures. His unique perspective bridges commercial real estate expertise with faith-driven investment strategies.

In this episode of the Faith Driven Investor podcast, hosts Richard Cunningham and John Coleman welcome special guest Ross Roggensack to break down the 2024 U.S. election results and explore their potential impact on the economy and markets. As President Trump begins his second term, the discussion delves into the implications of his policies on various sectors, from venture capital and private equity to foreign conflicts and inflation. The conversation also takes a introspective turn as the hosts reflect on the importance of humility and seeking God's guidance in both personal and professional life. Join us for a thought-provoking discussion that combines faith, finance, and the ever-changing political landscape. Please note that the views expressed by the hosts and guests are their own and do not necessarily represent the opinions of Faith Driven Investor.

This episode delves into the critical issue of online sexual exploitation and human trafficking, exploring innovative approaches to combat these pervasive problems. Dr. Lisa Strohman, a clinical psychologist with FBI experience, and Wes Lyons, a venture capitalist, offer their expertise and insights into this complex challenge.The discussion begins with Dr. Strohman shedding light on the alarming tactics used by the pornography industry to target children through seemingly innocuous platforms like educational apps and online games. She emphasizes the urgent need for better education and awareness to protect young minds from early exposure and potential addiction.Wes Lyons then introduces a unique perspective on fighting human trafficking by treating it as an economic problem. He explains how his fund, Eagle Venture Fund, invests in technologies designed to disrupt the business model of trafficking networks. The conversation explores various innovative solutions, from AI-powered tools that detect suspicious activities to platforms that help businesses avoid inadvertently supporting trafficking operations.The episode also addresses emerging challenges posed by artificial intelligence and deepfakes, highlighting real-world cases that demonstrate the evolving nature of online exploitation. Throughout the discussion, both guests stress the importance of collaboration between technology developers, businesses, and advocacy groups in creating effective solutions.Despite the gravity of the subject matter, the conversation concludes on a note of cautious optimism. Our guests share encouraging developments in the fight against exploitation, including the power of educating youth and the potential for technology and business strategies to make a significant impact.This episode offers listeners a comprehensive look at the intersection of technology, business, and social responsibility in addressing one of the most pressing issues of our time. It challenges us to consider how we can all play a part in protecting the vulnerable and creating a safer digital world.

Join Richard Cunningham and John Coleman as they examine frontier markets and the 2024 Pramga Investment Market Study alongside Patrick Lowndes, Andrew Winker, and Tamanno HodjihanovaThe Genesis Story: How Patrick Lowndes' software exit led to pioneering research in frontier marketKey Research Findings: Deep dive into Pragma's 2024 Investment Market Study examining over 100 fundsBeyond Charity: Understanding the crucial shift from aid to sustainable business developmentThe Local Edge: Why having boots on the ground and local leadership matters in frontier marketsStrategic Deployment: Creative ways to use DAF assets and philanthropic capital for kingdom impactFeatured Organizations: Transformational SME, Angel Investment Network, and other pioneering fundsResource Highlight: Download the complete 2024 Pragma Investment Market StudyScripture Focus: The team shares insights from Exodus, Matthew, and the Sermon on the Moun

"We're not just creating a job. We're creating a way that people have security and sustainability for them and for their family." - Keren Pybus Job creation and upskilling have a significant impact on individuals, families, and communities, providing stability, security, and opportunities for growth.Donor agencies have shifted their focus from pure aid to trade facilitation and capacity building, creating more opportunities for job creation.Collaboration and partnership among competitors and different stakeholders are essential in addressing global challenges and creating sustainable solutions.Investors and entrepreneurs can make a positive impact by aligning their passion and skills, seeking God's wisdom, and connecting with like-minded individuals and organizations.Having faith-driven investors on board can provide support, encouragement, and prayer during the entrepreneurial journey.00:00 Introduction and Purpose of the Joint Release04:03 Introducing Solving the World's Greatest Problems05:09 Guest Introductions and Backgrounds07:00 The Importance of Job Creation and Upskilling16:25 Changing Perspectives and Collaborative Approaches23:36 Impact Stories: Transformation through Job Creation and Upskilling28:40 Advice for Investors and Entrepreneurs35:59 The Power of Faith-Driven Investors38:00 Conclusion

Join us as we delve into the intricacies of today's economic landscape, from the Fed's recent rate cuts to the performance of the 'Magnificent Seven' stocks. John Coleman alongside Richard Cunningham offers valuable insights on private equity, venture capital, and real estate markets, while also addressing the potential impact of the upcoming U.S. election on the economy. Learn how to navigate these complex times with both financial acumen and spiritual wisdom.Takeaways: The Fed's recent rate cut is a significant shift after a long period of high rates.Historically, rate cuts can correlate with recession, but the current economic indicators are mixed.The S&P 500's performance is heavily influenced by a few large-cap stocks, known as the Magnificent Seven.Private markets are experiencing sluggishness due to fewer exits and challenges in fundraising.Real estate markets are facing unique challenges, particularly in the office and residential sectors.The upcoming election is expected to bring volatility, with differing impacts on the economy depending on the outcome.Government spending inefficiencies are a pressing issue that needs addressing.Wisdom and discernment are crucial in managing financial resources effectively.Power and money should be viewed as tools for good, not ends in themselves.Praying for wisdom in financial decisions is essential for stewardship.Chapters:00:00Introduction and Overview of Q3 202402:55The Federal Reserve's Rate Cuts and Economic Implications10:25Market Reactions and Predictions14:18Public vs. Private Markets: Trends and Challenges22:19Real Estate Market Dynamics27:23Election Year Insights and Economic Commentary43:05Wisdom and Stewardship in Financial Matters

In a heartfelt tribute to Richard Garnett, a faith-driven entrepreneur and actor who recently passed away after battling cancer, listeners are inspired by his reflections on living a life of purpose. Richard shares his journey from a struggling actor to a successful investor, emphasizing the importance of money management while maintaining values. He advocates for generosity as a transformative force, especially in adversity, and highlights how faith-driven giving can impact global missions, ultimately urging us to treasure what lasts.

In this episode of the Faith Driven Investor Podcast, Richard Cunningham, Andrew Behrman, and Chris Kim discuss the private equity world and the secondary market. They explain that private markets offer unique benefits such as diversification and active involvement but also come with trade-offs like limited access and illiquidity. The conversation focuses on the secondary market, which allows investors to offload their positions in private funds. They discuss the recent growth of the secondary market and its importance in providing liquidity in a time of lower distributions. 

Jason Illian, founder of Highmount Capital, discusses his recent investment in Dude Perfect, a family-friendly sports entertainment group. He shares insights on balancing family values with career ambitions, emphasizing authenticity in content creation. The conversation highlights Dude Perfect's community trust and potential for growth, while exploring the impact of faith-driven investing on culture. Illian also reflects on humility and identity, stressing that true value lies in faith rather than mere achievements.

In this episode of the Faith Driven Investor podcast, Richard Cunningham and John Coleman interview Brandon Pizzurro, Chief Investment Officer at Guidestone, to discuss the state of the US markets. They cover topics such as the performance of the S&P 500, the dominance of big tech companies, the potential for a small cap rotation, the impact of artificial intelligence on the market, and the possibility of rate cuts and inflation. The conversation also provides insights into the current trends and dynamics in the US markets and discusses the possibility of a soft landing for the economy, with declining rates and inflation reaching a more normalized level.Brandon Pizzurro leads the investment-related lines of business within GuideStone. In this capacity, he serves as President and Chief Investment Officer of GuideStone Capital Management, LLC, the investment adviser to GuideStone Funds, and President of GuideStone Investment Services, which provides investment advisory services to nonprofit institutions. He is also an Interested Director of the Board of Directors of GuideStone Funds. Mr. Pizzurro is a member of the executive leadership team for the parent company, GuideStone, and chairs both the organization’s Committee on Faith-Based Investing, which directs GuideStone’s faith-based research efforts, and the Investment Management, Allocation and Risk Committee, which approves all new investments for use on the GuideStone platform. He is also a voting member of GuideStone’s Institutional Portfolio Committee.