The Everyday Apostle

What if integrating your faith into your professional life could lead to groundbreaking success? Join us as we sit down with Jay Pierce, a Wisconsin native and seasoned entrepreneur, whose story is a compelling blend of faith, innovation, and leadership. From his roots in Fond du Lac to his impactful roles at Johnson & Johnson and These Three Medical, Jay's journey is nothing short of inspiring. We discuss how his upbringing and Catholic faith have been the bedrock of his values and work ethic, setting the stage for his impressive career. Discover how his education at the University of Wisconsin catalyzed his path to transforming healthcare through technology, ultimately leading him to Miami.
Navigating the rocky transition from corporate roles to entrepreneurship, Jay shares the highs and lows of launching successful ventures like OrthoSensor. This episode delves into the complex balance of managing shareholder expectations, customer needs, and family responsibilities—all while staying true to his faith. Gain insights into Jay's daily spiritual practices, which have provided strength and guidance throughout his career. Listen to captivating stories of how faith-driven partnerships have been instrumental in driving business success, offering a unique perspective on combining spirituality with professional ambition. This episode is a treasure trove of wisdom for anyone looking to harmonize their personal beliefs with their professional endeavors.

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What if you could seamlessly blend faith, professional success, and personal fulfillment? Join us as we chat with Jorge Lazaro-Diaz, a seasoned expert in online courses and membership websites with a rich heritage as a Cuban immigrant's son. Jorge takes us on a journey from his early days in Miami to his academic pursuits at Columbus High School, FIU, and Purdue University, ignited by a high school teacher who sparked his passion for computers. This episode is a testament to how early interests can shape a thriving career in technology and marketing, offering valuable insights for anyone looking to merge their passions with professional aspirations.
Balancing a demanding career with personal spirituality can be a tightrope walk, but it’s absolutely achievable. Through stories of corporate life at IBM and Compaq, and my own decade-long entrepreneurial journey, we uncover the unique challenges and rewards of openly integrating faith into the workplace. Discover how servant leadership, community involvement, and consistent spiritual practices can not only sustain you through high-stress moments but also enrich your professional and personal life. Whether you're an entrepreneur, a corporate professional, or someone seeking a healthier work-life-faith balance, this episode offers practical strategies and heartfelt anecdotes to guide your journey.

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When you witness a shift that's powerful enough to pull someone from the corporate grind into a life of service, you can't help but pay attention. Jorge "Cheeky" Rodriguez joins us to recount such a transformation, tracing the roots from his father's life-altering retreat to Chiqui's own leap into the non-profit world with Blue Missions. His story isn't just one of personal change; it's a family saga of faith and a calling that couldn't be ignored, highlighting how deep convictions can lead to profound life choices.
The beauty of our latest conversation doesn't end with Chiqui's journey. It's magnified by the inspiring partnership between a father and son, where roles are reversed and a dad becomes an employee at his son's non-profit organization. The heartfelt decisions, the risks, and the spiritual motivations behind a career swap of this magnitude reveal the essence of a life aligned with service and purpose. We wrap up with a message of thanks, acknowledging the strength and support that fuel our podcast, and inviting listeners to find the same sense of fulfillment in their own paths. Join us and witness how a leap of faith can land you exactly where you're meant to be.

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What happens when a seasoned CPA with over 25 years of experience intertwines his professional life with his deeply personal journey of faith? Craig Armstrong, the Miami office managing partner of Hancock Askew, joins us for an eye-opening conversation about his path from founding CAPA CPA to leading a major merger. Craig's story doesn't just stop at numbers and audits; it extends to his profound involvement in charitable work, specifically with Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Miami, and how he balances this with a fulfilling family life. Craig and his high school sweetheart, Karla, navigate the challenges of raising children in today's fast-paced world, offering a unique perspective on maintaining family values amidst technological distractions.
Curious about how spirituality can redefine your professional and personal life? Craig opens up about his transformative journey from skepticism to embracing faith, significantly influenced by Karla’s unwavering spirituality. We explore how attending Mass and witnessing the Eucharist were pivotal moments in his life, leading him to integrate his faith into his business practices. This enriching episode highlights the importance of mental health, self-forgiveness, and creating a supportive community both at work and home. Learn how Craig manages to keep his integrity and authenticity intact while fostering an environment of unconditional love and understanding, even in the demanding corporate world.

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Ever felt lost and found your way back through faith and perseverance? Guillermo Barquero, a Miami native and cloud engineer at Lockheed Martin, takes us on his transformative journey from a Southern Baptist upbringing, through a disconnected phase, to rediscovering his Catholic roots. Raised in a diverse religious environment, Guillermo's persistent questioning and deep prayer led him back to his spiritual heritage in early 2023. His story is one of continual growth and the profound impact of faith on his daily life.
Guillermo shares his academic and professional journey, starting with an uncertain college path aimed at appearing smart and struggling with physics courses. The turning point came with his discovery of coding, which he compared to solving intricate puzzles. From early coding successes to the challenges of advanced math, Guillermo's perseverance landed him an opportunity to work on a Department of Defense project. This pivotal experience not only honed his skills but also set the stage for a rewarding career at Lockheed Martin. His narrative underscores the importance of mentorship and dedication in overcoming hurdles to achieve professional success.
Beyond his career, Guillermo talks about navigating the job market during the COVID-19 pandemic and reflecting on divine favor in his success. His profound conversion experience in early 2023, catalyzed by a spiritual crisis, led him back to Christianity and ultimately to Catholicism. Emphasizing the role of community and active service, Guillermo discusses the importance of surrounding oneself with supportive people and staying committed to faith. He highlights the significance of the Young Adult Group (YAG) at St. Augustine, where young individuals engage in meaningful faith-based discussions and build lasting relationships. Join us for an inspiring conversation about living and serving in faith amidst the challenges of everyday life.

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