In this 177th episode of The Leadership Project podcast, we had the great honour of interviewing Gary Harpst, CEO and founder of Lead First—an organisation dedicated to transforming business environments by integrating faith-based principles. Gary is also a prolific author and esteemed thought leader in the field of business and personal development.
The Genesis of Lead First
Gary began by sharing his journey with us. Gary's humble beginnings on a farm in Northwestern Ohio shaped his firm belief in hard work and self-value. These early lessons, coupled with his interest in business and technology, set him on a path to pursue excellence in both personal and professional spheres. His analytical mind couldn't help but notice a pervasive pattern in human behaviour: people often say one thing but do another. This observation led him on a quest to understand why and how people could better align their intentions with their actions.
Discovering Faith
Gary's quest for answers led him to the works of C.S. Lewis and ultimately to the Bible. His transition into Christianity deeply shaped his worldview and eventually spilled over into his professional life. With a keen interest in business problems and biblical principles, Gary and his friends founded a business that grew rapidly and successfully. The sale of this business to a large competitor, which was subsequently sold to Microsoft, marked a pivotal moment in Gary's career.
The Foundation of Lead First
Gary discussed how Lead First is the culmination of his life's journey—marrying business processes with biblical principles. Lead First emphasizes healthy business practices, whole-person care (soul care), and spiritual growth. Realizing that not everyone shares the same beliefs, Gary ensures that Lead First remains inclusive and respectful of diverse worldviews.
Three Layers of Faith-Based Integration
Healthy Business Practices: This foundational layer emphasizes the importance of a robust and growing business that provides stability and opportunities for employees. An organization that is well-managed and free from chaos creates a conducive environment for productivity and job satisfaction.
Whole-Person Care (Soul Care): This layer addresses the broader needs of individuals, not just within the workplace but outside as well. It involves developing leaders who genuinely care about their employees' wellbeing and providing services that support their personal lives. At this level, caring for the whole person is akin to loving your neighbor as yourself—it's about seeing employees as valuable in and of themselves.
Spiritual Growth: The optional third layer involves spiritual care, allowing individuals to explore their faith at their discretion. Gary shared examples of corporate chaplaincy programs where chaplains provide soul care and, when invited, spiritual guidance. This layer integrates faith without imposing it, providing spiritual support for those who seek it.
Built to Beat Chaos
One of Gary's significant works, "Built to Beat Chaos," delves into the inherent human need to bring order out of chaos. Reflecting on the biblical narrative of creation, Gary emphasizes that we are wired to create, build, and solve problems. This profound realization highlights the role of leaders in empowering their teams to fulfill this intrinsic need.
Purpose-Driven Leadership
Gary believes that the core responsibility of leaders is to determine purpose and care for people. Effective leadership involves setting a clear purpose and nurturing an environment where employees feel valued and supported. In such an environment, individuals are motivated to contribute their unique talents toward achieving common goals.
The Importance of Trust
Trust is the cornerstone of any successful organization. Gary underscores that trust can only be built when people believe that their leaders genuinely care about them. Without trust, open communication and collaboration are impossible, and any attempt at co-creating solutions will fail.
A Reflection on Inclusivity
The conversation touched on the delicate balance of maintaining inclusivity in faith-based organizations. Gary and Mick both acknowledged the importance of creating a space where all beliefs are respected and valued. This inclusivity extends to recognizing and celebrating diverse religious practices within the workplace.
Final Thoughts
Gary's insights provide a powerful framework for integrating faith in business while maintaining inclusivity and diversity. By focusing on healthy business practices, whole-person care, and optional spiritual growth, organizations can create environments where employees feel valued and motivated. Leaders play a crucial role in setting the purpose and building trust, ultimately enabling a harmonious and synergistic workplace.
Gary Harpst's wisdom and approach offer a refreshing perspective on leading with faith and integrity.
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