— by Kathy Rushing

The Lone Ranger persona is a common attribute of an entrepreneur. But is it accurate? Or even helpful?

I will argue yes, and no.

Yes, most entrepreneurs acknowledge feeling alone with the weight of decisions when starting a new venture. Ultimately, they are pulling the trigger, if you will, on all the decisions until the venture grows enough to bring on other team members. Their shoulders carry the bulk of the weight.

No, I don’t believe it is helpful to maintain a Lone Ranger belief. There is an important stakeholder that is often undervalued or overlooked: the spouse of the entrepreneur. Sharing the journey can be life-giving, and a source of support that can provide resilience when the startup faces challenges.

You are “copreneurs”

Some will say they don’t want their spouse to worry or burden them with the challenges of the startup. Newsflash: one would have to be in a coma to miss the inevitable stress that comes with a startup. So better to be open and find ways to support each other, than to pretend it doesn’t impact the relationship.

Surprisingly little has been researched about the impact of the spouse, or “copreneur”, on the success of a new venture (see footnote). So I’ll share what I know, and let the researchers catch up.

Pushing the ball

In the early years of the business, Mark (my husband) often verbalized how alone he felt running the company. It was several years before he was able to hire team members to share the load.  He likened the effort of growing the company to pushing a huge ball, trying to get it to make one revolution that might lead to sustainability. 

While it was hard sometimes to hear the challenges he faced, I wanted him to know that he wasn’t entirely alone. I supported his decision to start the business and did my best to be a team player. When we couldn’t afford a gardener at the newest facility, I trimmed bushes myself. (Ended up injuring my rotator cuff–so much for good deeds!)

But, I’m human. Sometimes my need for security and some sense of control over our future got the best of me. Heated discussions (ok, arguments) when finances were tight left Mark feeling more alone, I’m sure. But we would find ways to get back on the same side of the line. This was our life and future, so we’d better be on the same team. 

I wish I could say that we always practiced what I’m about to preach, but much of what we know NOW was learned the hard way. I share these thoughts, hoping our experience will benefit your marriage and increase your resilience as “copreneurs”.

5 ways to stay on the same team

1. Create ways to make shared decisions—most spouses want to be included in the decision-making process, even if the final call is yours (the entrepreneur) to make. Ask for their thoughts and opinions. They may have a perspective you haven’t considered.

1. Regularly review financials together—quarterly and monthly catch-ups are a good way to stay on the same page financially. I know of situations where the spouse doesn’t want to know how the company is doing, only what’s in their bank account. That increases the isolation of the entrepreneur. You don’t necessarily need an in-depth company report, but updating at least quarterly helps to know how the company is doing. Is this a growth time, or are there some market factors impacting profits? If the family income is fluctuating, update more often so household obligations can remain current. No one likes surprises.

1. Resist blaming each other—startups are fraught with ups and downs. It’s our human nature to want to blame someone when things don’t turn out as we had hoped. Get on the same side of the line, and name the problem, then brainstorm together how to meet the challenge. If you have shared the decision-making process (see #2!), there’s little room for “I told you so”.

1. Focus on “us”, even as you pursue individual goals. Make your marriage a priority. Regular date nights, even if it’s just a walk and coffee, will go a long way in reminding you what you love about each other. Check-in with each other to see what support each of you needs. Contrary to popular belief, you don’t have to sacrifice your family to build your business.

2. Review family goals regularly. Remind each other why you’re doing this. There are goals you want to accomplish together. The business may take much longer or have more challenges than you anticipated, so celebrating small achievements allows you to maintain resilience as a couple.

Lean into each other as you build this life together. Even the Lone Ranger had Tonto. 

—

Footnote:

Danes, Sharon M.

Entrepreneurship Success: “The Lone Ranger” Versus “It Takes a Village” Approach?

Entrepreneurship Research Journal, Volume 3, Issue 3. Pages 277-286

This article was originally published here by Kathy Rushing

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[ Photo by Noah Silliman on Unsplash ]

— by Natasha Lambkin

When starting out in the fashion industry I had high hopes! My expectations of success and clout were fabricated with the idea, that once I became a Fashion Designer—everything will follow quickly. Crazy to think that these things will happen so easily. Take into account, that I am a black woman, with a faith-based lifestyle brand that promotes modesty in fashion. Promoting Christian values and modest fashion, is not the easiest method to practice in an industry that is saturated by the idea that, “Sex Sells.” However, I knew God called me to do this, and I decided to take that step anyways.  

Facing certain trials and tribulations throughout this industry due to my faith, race, and gender were challenging. Regardless of those episodes, having faith and seeing God move—has helped me to witness His true power. That is why it was so important for me to create a documentary to illustrate that. Who is NATASHA? Find out from the link below:

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— by Jason Trice

We’re living in a time of extremes that are testing our faith and testing our businesses. The COVID-19 pandemic has forced changes in how we operate on a daily basis. No longer can team members stand shoulder-to-shoulder. The supply chain was disrupted for months. Now, the protests erupting across the country have led us all to rethink how we treat other human beings. In a time like this, one thing is clear: we have to choose faith, not fear. 

Our family stewarded business, Jasco Products, has been through decades of change, as we have created thousands of innovative consumer electronics and sold them through many of the world’s largest retailers. We strive to honor God in all we do. My brother and co-CEO, Cameron, and I use our faith to guide every aspect of our personal lives and our business. For Jasco, that means serving others in the way we want to be served – a critical lesson for all business owners. As written in Proverbs 3:9-10, “Honor the Lord with your wealth and with the first fruits of all you produce; then your barns will be filled with plenty, and your vats will be bursting with wine.”

Providing Spiritual Guidance

Most companies provide things to meet basic earthly needs, but yet the team members’ spiritual needs go unfulfilled. Our investment in an on-site chaplain provides Jasco team members a resource to go to for counsel, direction and prayer during times of need. It helps meet their physical and spiritual needs, which in turn, makes them a better team member for Jasco.  

Through our chaplain, team members are provided with the opportunity to explore their relationship with God through voluntary bible studies. Our chaplain guides leadership development programs and provides resources for important areas like marriage counseling and finances. Through prayer, our employees can seek answers to problems making them a better team member, friend, husband, wife, etc. 

Spiritual wellness uplifts our team members, especially during times of crisis. “And let our people learn to devote themselves to good works, so as to help cases of urgent need, and not be unfruitful,” Titus 3:14. At the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, Jasco started a daily devotion led by our chaplain via video conference call each morning. Since then, it has grown to more than 100 team members each morning, with many who feel empowered to take turns leading the group. 

Through God, we are able to work through this difficult time together and to have an open dialogue that allows us to be thoughtful in every decision our company makes.

Valuing Our Team

Every day, our team members have to prove the value of our products to the consumer, but as a company, we must show our team members how we value them. By investing in our team members, there is a ripple effect that has far-reaching impacts beyond Jasco and throughout the entire community. 

In 2019, amidst the tariff increases, Jasco raised its hourly minimum wage to $15 per hour, which is more than double Oklahoma’s minimum wage. With monthly profit sharing, our lowest-wage workers can earn up to $17.25 per hour.  When we are successful in meeting our team members’ physical, mental and spiritual needs, it is because of God’s direction and guidance that we can spread His love for all. As written in Thessalonians 3:12: “And may the Lord make you increase and abound in love for one another and for all, as we do for you.”

We provide an on-site fitness center, comprehensive medical and dental benefits and allow flexible work hours for those furthering their education. Jasco puts an emphasis on education by offering flex hours and tuition assistance. The company provides 100 percent tuition assistance for accredited bachelor’s and master’s degree programs. We then get to celebrate the triumphs of our team members as they improve these important areas of their lives

Paid maternity and paternity leave are not just extended to those who have returned from the hospital, but also to those who open their hearts to adopted children. We believe in strong family bonds, since that is who we are as company. Jasco makes it a point to involve families in company outings and events. As Jasco strives to value its team members in many ways, it is our hope that their relationships, families and faith are impacted in a way that honors God. 

Giving Back to Our Community

Corinthians 9:7 states: “Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.” At Jasco, we give generously, and we give joyfully. 

As a company, we are blessed to donate 50 percent of net profits to ministries and charities, an initiative that started over two decades ago. To further this mindset, we’ve started to enable our customers to choose the cause that means the most to them through our “Give Your Way” campaign on our website. When consumers buy any product on byjasco.com, they can choose a charitable cause, with options for food assistance, clean water, shelter or disaster relief. We hope to create meaningful, lasting relationships with our customers, who know that every purchase makes a difference in someone’s life.

During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, we pledged $1 million to help faith-based organizations that provided relief to those impacted by it. Through deliveries of personal protective equipment to local fire stations, hospitals and other medical organizations, we were able to bring much-needed supplies during a time of need. Some of our donation was also able to go to great organizations like Samaritan’s Purse, Salvation Army, City Rescue Mission and other charities that provide food, shelter and medical care to some of the most vulnerable.

To live and breathe our mission, our team members are given incentives to make their own charitable contributions. Jasco’s “Dollar for Donors” program then matches charitable donations made by team members to their preferred charity. Similarly, Jasco’s “Dollars for Doers” program makes in-kind donations to preferred charities based on team members volunteering their time.

While many businesses in the country are struggling and searching for answers during these unprecedented times, we are able to find the answers to some of the toughest challenges we face through God’s Word. Hopefully, our story will encourage other business leaders to further support their team members and their communities through a spirit of generosity that benefits us all.

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[ Photo from Unsplash ]

— by Reuben Coulter

Almost 250 years ago, Europe and the United States were experiencing the beginnings of the First Industrial Revolution. Technological breakthroughs created new industries and produced rapid economic progress. Life for the ordinary person was extremely hard. In the UK, average life expectancy was 45 years, people worked seven days a week and children as young as four worked in the mines. 

In response to the crisis of their day, Christian business leaders, investors, and politicians came together to seek God and to lead a Moral Revolution, the legacy of which is still felt today. It began with a grassroots revival of faith, led by preachers such as John Wesley, Charles Whitfield, and Jonathan Edwards, which led to the normalization of the Christian values of hard work and integrity. In many places pubs and taverns shut due to lack of customers. Christians in positions of power, particularly those associated with William Wilberforce and the Clapham Circle, were appalled at working conditions and used their influence to abolish slavery, reduce child labour and legislate for health and safety standards. Christian business leaders were at the forefront of innovation and reform. Quaker businesses such as Cadbury’s and the Lever Brothers (now Unilever) provided healthcare and education for their employees and demonstrated that compassionate capitalism was possible. Many historians believe that the influence of Christianity was so profound in the UK and USA that it averted violent revolution as experienced in France. The church laid the foundations for the social and economical flourishing of the Western World.

At the dawn of the 4th Industrial Revolution, we are entering an analogous period. The growing utilization of new technologies such as artificial intelligence, cloud computing, robotics, 3D printing, the Internet of Things, advanced wireless technologies, and others has ushered in a new era of economic disruption with uncertain socio-economic consequences. 

Many of us have benefitted from the fruits of progress but in emerging and frontier markets, two-thirds of the world’s population still live on less than $10 per day. How can we respond to the challenges of our world, share the Gospel and see God’s kingdom advanced in our generation? 

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[ Photo by Sebastien Gabriel on Unsplash ]

— by Christian Schnedler

I have spent the majority of my career innovating in the gap between the ever-more-sophisticated tactics used by criminals and terrorists and the staid methods employed by the government agencies charged with maintaining law and order. This journey has led to stints as an entrepreneur, international technology consultant, government employee, and now senior executive. Throughout I have been guided by a vision — my “Leaf by Niggle” (Tolkien, 1938), as it were — that in the life hereafter we will once again walk unclothed and unashamed, with neither the taint of sin nor the self-awareness that proceeded from it interfering with our revelation to one another and to God. Yet this life demands a balance between transparency and privacy; a balance in need of a solution facilitating a more robust, redemptive dialogue between the government and governed. My hope is that the result will be transparent conversations focused on the fundamental decisions that must be made and enforced by each society, rather than sensationalized examples and concepts taken out of context and without any real bearing on the true issues at hand. It is a solution that I have been advancing in the various vocations God has called me to, but one that remains in dire need of support from others willing and able to answer the call.

As a case in point: Americans are demanding greater transparency regarding the use of emerging technologies by the criminal justice community. This includes the use of facial recognition and artificial intelligence across surveillance cameras and other Internet of Things sensors. Most public debates result in polarizing conclusions and unverifiable accusations that such technology is facilitating the systemic oppression of at-risk communities. In the face of this public outcry, the criminal justice community’s adoption of such technologies has become unnecessarily opaque and erratic across jurisdictions (stagnant in some and growing unrestrained in others). Not only has this effect diminished the tangible benefit realized by law enforcement in its fight against crime and terrorism, but the private industry manufacturing this technology has been motivated to look elsewhere for guidance on how this technology should mature and evolve — including to countries that do not share the same societal norms as the United States.

In reality, the criminal justice community is naturally compelled to provide great care in the selection and operation of technical solutions to address threats posed by criminal and terrorist actors. Law enforcement budgets are limited and procurement is an arduous, Byzantine process. Leaders cannot afford (politically or financially) to make large bets on technology programs with a high risk of failure. This leads to a “late majority” adoption model, with expenditures directed towards technology platforms proven in the commercial sector. Due care is also taken to ensure any new innovations conform to the even more outdated expectations of the courts, including explicit or implicit policies that analogize the methods and work product to prior art in the law enforcement playbook. Yet this definition of appropriate use is often poorly communicated (e.g. lack of publicly-available policies), inconsistent (e.g. lack of standards spanning jurisdictions), and untimely (e.g. relying on common law decisions). This leads external observers, and especially those predisposed to question the earnestness of the government, to conclude that the criminal justice leaders are out of touch at best and hiding something at worst.

Moreover, this opaque and unregulated nature of the criminal justice system’s use of technology leads to needless waste, broken families, and lives lost. As I once explained to a panel reviewing law enforcement’s use of facial recognition: if a bomb goes off in Midtown Manhattan, it’s not like everyone near the incident won’t be investigated simply because there is no tool to aid in the process. Rather than relying on technology to help expedite the identification of suspects wishing to cause harm, dozens if not hundreds of law enforcement officials spanning multiple government agencies will be brought in to manually review everything they can leading up to the incident. Countless man hours will be spent poring over information, and with each passing second the likelihood of apprehending those responsible before they can do further harm is reduced. The families of those serving in the criminal justice system are likewise materially impacted, and the trauma that the officers experience reviewing the darkest parts of humanity can be lifelong.  

The solution I am advancing addresses issues such as this by refocusing and reframing the conversation on the fundamental topics that should be transparently reviewed and agreed to based on societal norms and in light of the brokenness of this world.  

This solution includes the notion of persons deliberately and authoritatively identifying themselves within a population of people. These persons have individual rights and histories, and these persons also form broader communities that exhibit emergent properties all their own. As an avowed believer in democracy and the freedoms engendered by the United States Constitution, I believe that the default state of these persons should be one of privacy as no government or commercial entity has the right to peer through a one-way mirror at its fancy. Yet as a Christian, I understand that the evil of this world perverts such freedoms and leads certain persons to commit unspeakable crimes under this same shroud of privacy.  

The solution I am advancing therefore also enables the government’s indisputable identification of individual persons within a population of people. The government, through its agents (whom are also persons), must follow transparent processes in order to obtain authority to remove the shroud of privacy in order to identify persons of interest. The shroud of privacy resumes for all other persons. To prevent abuse, the means by which the identification process was adhered to must be made transparent as part of the trial process. To prevent bias, an aggregated view of the identification process and determination by the courts must be made transparent once a verdict has been reached and investigation closed.

In other words, the solution I am advancing represents the reconciliation of the subpoena process employed by the criminal justice system in the United States with the reality of today’s technology-driven world. Technology has lowered the barrier to achieving both true anonymity and complete transparency. Yet the solutions that achieve these ends are themselves shrouded in technical jargon and secrecy that creates an impenetrable definition and unregulated existence. The solution must take the form of something easy to understand and manage. However, the solution must also understand the fundamental forces at play dating back to the time of Adam and Eve.

Here’s a glimpse of how the solution I am advancing could work, using the same lightning rod example of facial recognition cited before: 

In the future, we should all go about our ways in complete anonymity to both the governments we are governed by and businesses we patronize. Our governing bodies should have a transparent rubric that defines criminal behavior and that has been translated into technical rules. When a crime occurs that justifies the identification of the otherwise-anonymous actors, law enforcement can request a subpoena from the courts that de-anonymizes only those actors in close proximity to the event. As the investigation narrows, anonymity returns to those whose proximity was mere happenstance. Once the case has been presented to a jury and the verdict rendered, the anonymity of those involved also returns as before — albeit with the guilty receiving an indicator in their anonymized profile. The anonymized records of the population are generally available, encouraging privacy advocates and academia to continuously vet the efficacy of the system and provide feedback for continuous improvement.  

Scenarios such as the above where humans are on the technology loop guiding the criminal justice system in a transparent manner is no longer mere science fiction. The identities of persons within entire populations are routinely exploited by commercial ads, tech companies, and authoritative regimes around the world. What is missing in Western societies is a commitment to have the tough conversations required to establish a regulatory framework that balances the desire for privacy with the reality of the brokenness in this world. These conversations, implicitly or explicitly, must acknowledge our carnal desire to control which portions of our identity we reveal to God and to our fellow man.  They must likewise acknowledge the reality of evil and its propensity for deception. This evil resides in each of us and its temptations increase with our worldly influence. Those placed in positions of authority must therefore be held especially accountable in grace and love.

Personally, I am grateful for the Christian community that has supported me on this journey as I strive to strike this balance and innovate solutions that can bring about a more redemptive criminal justice system. Though I harbor no illusion that I will succeed in crafting a perfect solution to such a foundational problem in this imperfect world, I pray daily for guidance and forgiveness as the world marches closer to striking a new balance between transparency and privacy. Through it all, I cling to hope in the revelation God has given me that in the life hereafter we shall once again walk naked and unafraid in the cool light of grace.

This is one of the 2020 CEF Whitepapers. For more information on the Christian Economic Forum, please visit their website here.

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[ Photo by Stephan Bechert on Unsplash ]

CEO | SAAD Investment Holdings

Johan du Preez spent his first 15 years in business primarily as a CEO responsible for the turnaround of various non-performing businesses. These include: Sanlam Health, a health insurance company (CEO, 1999–2001); Innofin, a retail investment platform – subsequently rebranded Glacier by Sanlam (CEO 2002–2004); and Quince Capital (start-up), a holding company investing in companies offering niche financing solutions (CEO, 2006–2009).

He acted as the CEO of the then JSE-listed pharmaceutical company Cipla Medpro South Africa (August 2012–June 2013) and during this time concluded a $450 million transaction with Cipla India that saw the delisting of Cipla Medpro.
Johan founded the private equity firm SAAD Investment Holdings (www.saad.co.za) in 2006. In 2007 he began the Tree of Life Foundation (www.tol.org.za), a Christian not-for-profit, that now owns SAAD 100%. He devotes his time to furthering these organizations. He also serves on various boards and is often consulted by CEOs of medium-sized companies.
He is happily married to Leentjie, founder of Grace Photography (www.gracephotography.co.za). They have three children – Benjamin (24), Nina (23), and Petrus (19) – and reside in Cape Town.

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