The Wow Factor

Hosted by Brad Formsma

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323

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Sep 2026

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About the show

Leading with excellence is not something that happens overnight. Join Brad Formsma, best-selling author and a Forbes top-rated leadership speaker, as he dives in to uncover the extraordinary stories of failures and triumphs of other successful leaders in business and beyond. The Wow Factor strives to empower the journey of business leaders through raw conversations and uncovered stories of today's thought leaders. This podcast will also help you discover the words of wisdom to inspire a team of any size, spark a culture of generosity and innovation, and lead with excellence. For extended insights and podcast show notes, go to https://www.thewowfactorpodcast.com

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September 2, 2026Episode 32127 min

Mike Anderson | Co-Founder of Kiierr | Entrepreneurship, Purpose, and Building a Business That Helps People

Mike Anderson is the co-founder of Kiierr , a company he launched with his wife, Jolene, after their own search for a better approach to hair loss. With a background in marketing and business growth, Mike initially built his career helping companies expand before deciding he wanted his work to have a more direct impact on people's lives. When Jolene experienced significant postpartum hair loss, their search for a solution introduced them to low-level laser therapy and ultimately inspired them to build a company around making the technology more accessible. Mike joins me today to share how his wife's experience with postpartum hair loss led them to take a leap of faith, sell their home, move into a family member's basement, and invest their savings into launching Kiierr. We discuss the early challenges of building the company, the importance of refusing to cut corners, and why Mike has intentionally kept his team small and closely connected. We also explore how Kiierr's technology works, what Mike has learned from serving more than 100,000 customers worldwide, the role family and faith have played in his entrepreneurial journey, and why understanding the people you lead is essential to becoming a better leader. "I don't care if you buy our product, but I care if you buy our product that it helps you." – Mike Anderson "We wanted a mission that actually helps people." – Mike Anderson "If you can take the time to have that sort of relationship with the people that work with you and under you, I think you'll understand them a lot better." – Mike Anderson This Week on The Wow Factor: How Mike's early ambitions in professional golf eventually led him into marketing, entrepreneurship, and business growth Why his wife's experience with postpartum hair loss inspired Mike and Jolene to search for a different kind of solution How Mike and Jolene sold their home, moved into a family member's basement, and invested their savings into building Kiierr Why Mike believes building a trustworthy business means refusing to cut corners, even as competitors enter the market How a small, closely connected team has helped Kiierr grow while maintaining a family-oriented company culture What serving more than 100,000 customers has taught Mike about building a business around solving a meaningful problem Why knowing your employees' individual goals, motivations, and personalities can help you coach, mentor, and lead them more effectively Mike Anderson's Words of Wisdom: Take the time to truly know the people you lead. Every person has different motivations, goals, challenges, and dreams, and understanding those differences allows you to coach and mentor people more effectively. When leaders build genuine relationships with their team, they become better equipped to help each person succeed. Connect with Mike Anderson: Kiierr Kiierr Facebook Kiierr Instagram Kiierr YouTube Connect With Brad Formsma: WOW Factor Website Brad Formsma on LinkedIn Brad Formsma on Instagram Brad Formsma on Facebook

August 19, 2026Episode 32047 min

Scott Wozniak | CEO of Swoz Consulting | Leadership, Legacy, and Building an Intentional Family

Scott Wozniak is the CEO of Swoz Consulting , a leadership consultant, speaker, author, and former leader at the Chick-fil-A Support Center. For nearly a decade, Scott worked alongside Chick-fil-A's executive team, studying exceptional organizations around the world and turning those insights into improvements in customer experience and operations. Today, he advises leaders and multi-generational families on building strong organizations, creating meaningful legacies, and developing systems that turn their values into action. Scott joins me today to share how his early friendship with members of the Cathy family eventually led him to Chick-fil-A, what he learned working directly with founder Truett Cathy, and why intentionality matters just as much in families as it does in business. We discuss the value of reading and exposing yourself to better ideas, what successful multi-generational families do differently, why families need a compelling purpose that extends beyond wealth, and how annual gatherings can strengthen relationships across generations. Scott also explains why values are best passed down through consistent rhythms and experiences rather than lectures and how families can intentionally build a legacy that lasts. "If you get better inputs, you'll naturally end up with better outputs." – Scott Wozniak "What if we put the same amount of thought, strategy, and effort into our families that we do into our businesses and financial interests?" – Scott Wozniak "Take the things you value and then turn them into a rhythm." – Scott Wozniak This Week on The Wow Factor: How Scott's friendship with the Cathy family eventually led him to a unique leadership role at Chick-fil-A What working directly with Truett Cathy taught Scott about leadership, humility, family, and living out your values Why reading, audiobooks, podcasts, and better inputs can dramatically expand the way leaders think and solve problems What successful multi-generational families do differently to preserve their values, relationships, and sense of purpose Why Scott encourages families to develop a 100-year goal that gives future generations a compelling reason to stay connected How intentional family retreats and shared experiences can create stronger relationships and meaningful traditions across generations Why turning your family's values into consistent rhythms and practices is more powerful than simply talking about what matters Scott Wozniak's Words of Wisdom: Take the things you value and turn them into rhythms. Instead of relying on lectures to pass values to the next generation, create practices and experiences that allow your children and grandchildren to live those values. Over time, those rhythms become patterns that shape your family's identity and carry what matters most into future generations. Connect with Scott Wozniak: Scott Wozniak Website Scott Wozniak's Podcast – Play the Long Game Swoz Consulting Facebook Scott Wozniak's LinkedIn Connect With Brad Formsma: WOW Factor Website Brad Formsma on LinkedIn Brad Formsma on Instagram Brad Formsma on Facebook

August 5, 2026Episode 31933 min

Peter Palivos | Attorney, Philanthropist & Veterans Advocate | Honoring Those Who Served Through Gratitude, Service, and Action

Peter Palivos is an attorney, entrepreneur, and nationally recognized advocate for America's veterans. While building a successful legal career, Peter has dedicated decades to serving military families through philanthropy, veteran support initiatives, and large-scale community events. His passion for honoring those who have served recently culminated in bringing more than 40,000 people together at Allegiant Stadium for one of the nation's largest celebrations of veterans and military families. Peter joins me today to share how five generations of military service shaped his love for America, why gratitude should always be backed by action, and how one conversation with a Vietnam veteran forever changed the direction of his life. We discuss the importance of serving those who have sacrificed for our freedom, the growing impact of large-scale veteran appreciation events, the responsibility communities have to care for military families, and how faith, generosity, and leadership can inspire others to make a lasting difference. "It's important that we tell veterans, 'Thank you for your service,' but it's even more important that we back it up with deeds." – Peter Palivos "Veterans ask for nothing, but once they come home injured, we have an affirmative duty to take care of them." – Peter Palivos "We are not here as red Americans or blue Americans. We are here as red, white, and blue Americans because we love our country." – Peter Palivos This Week on The Wow Factor: How five generations of military service inspired Peter's lifelong commitment to serving veterans Why a Vietnam veteran's personal story became the catalyst for Peter's philanthropic mission The simple but powerful difference between thanking veterans and actively serving them How veteran appreciation events grew from small community dinners to a 40,000-person gathering at Allegiant Stadium Why Peter believes communities, businesses, and professional sports organizations can play a larger role in supporting military families How faith, patriotism, and generosity continue to guide Peter's work and vision for the future Peter Palivos' Words of Wisdom: Gratitude is most meaningful when it moves beyond words and becomes action. When we honor those who have served and use our gifts to serve others, we help strengthen our communities and remind people they are never forgotten. Connect with Peter Palivos: Peter Palivos Website Peter Palivos LinkedIn Connect With Brad Formsma: WOW Factor Website Brad Formsma on LinkedIn Brad Formsma on Instagram Brad Formsma on Facebook

July 22, 2026Episode 31831 min

Christine Dold | Owner of The Bakery on the Corner | Craftsmanship, Community, and the Joy of Meaningful Work

Christine Dold | Owner of The Bakery on the Corner | Craftsmanship, Community, and the Joy of Meaningful Work Christine Dold is the owner of The Bakery on the Corner in Hart, Michigan, a beloved small-town bakery that has been serving the community for generations. After an unexpected career path led her into the baking industry, Christine and her husband, Greg, purchased the historic bakery in 2017 and have continued its nearly century-long tradition of handcrafted donuts, fresh-baked bread, and exceptional customer service. Through countless overnight shifts, unwavering consistency, and a deep commitment to quality, Christine has become a cornerstone of the Hart community. Christine joins me today to share how an accounting degree and a love of horses unexpectedly led her into the bakery business, why preserving the legacy of a 90-year-old business is both an honor and a responsibility, and what it takes to produce fresh donuts while the rest of the world sleeps. We discuss the discipline behind mastering a craft, the importance of consistency in serving a community, the value of hard work , why small businesses thrive through authenticity, and how finding work you truly enjoy can lead to a fulfilling life. "Donuts are good for your mental health." – Christine Dold "If you don't love what you're doing, find something that you do love." – Christine Dold "I love handling the dough. I love making them. If you don't love it, find something that you love to do." – Christine Dold This Week on The Wow Factor: How an unexpected career change led Christine from accounting and horse management to owning a historic bakery What it takes to preserve and operate a nearly 90-year-old family bakery while maintaining its reputation for quality Why the overnight baking schedule requires precision, discipline, and a true passion for the craft The importance of consistency, authenticity, and community in building a successful small business Why Christine believes hard work, gratitude, and personal responsibility are still essential ingredients for success How finding work you genuinely enjoy can transform even the hardest days into meaningful ones Christine Dold's Words of Wisdom: Success starts with finding work you genuinely enjoy. When you're passionate about what you do, even the difficult days become worthwhile because you're creating something meaningful for others and taking pride in doing it well. Connect with Christine Dold: The Bakery On the Corner Connect With Brad Formsma: WOW Factor Website Brad Formsma on LinkedIn Brad Formsma on Instagram Brad Formsma on Facebook

July 8, 202632 min

Tim Eaton | Founder & CEO of NutraMedix | Stewardship, Natural Health, and Building a Business That Gives Back

Tim Eaton is the Founder and CEO of NutraMedix , a company dedicated to developing plant-based nutritional supplements while operating from a mission far greater than business success. A former missionary pilot in Peru, Tim's journey took him from flying supplies into remote villages to learning about medicinal plants from indigenous communities, ultimately leading him to build a company centered on helping people pursue better health while giving generously to ministries around the world. His story is one of faith, stewardship, and a lifelong commitment to serving others. Tim joins me today to share how growing up on a farm in Maine shaped his work ethic, why missionary aviation became his first calling, and how his experiences in Peru unexpectedly laid the foundation for NutraMedix. We discuss the philosophy behind whole-plant nutrition, why stewardship, not ownership, drives every business decision he makes, and how his desire to fund ministry has remained at the heart of the company for more than three decades. Tim also shares practical insights on health, purpose, and what it means to faithfully use the gifts God has entrusted to us. "We decided to start a business with the purpose of giving 50% of the profits away." – Tim Eaton "We are stewards of what God has entrusted to us, not owners." – Tim Eaton "We want to help people get well and stay well, fund ministries, and see people come to know Jesus." – Tim Eaton This Week on The Wow Factor: How growing up on a farm in rural Maine shaped Tim's work ethic and leadership Why God redirected Tim's dream from commercial aviation to missionary flying in Peru The experiences in Peru that introduced him to medicinal plants and changed his life's direction How NutraMedix was founded with a mission to give away 50% of its profits The difference between preserving whole-plant extracts and altering natural compounds Why Tim believes stewardship is a more powerful mindset than ownership How faith continues to influence NutraMedix's business decisions and long-term mission Why helping people improve their health is ultimately about serving others and advancing God's Kingdom Tim Eaton's Words of Wisdom: Everything we have belongs to God. When we stop thinking like owners and begin living as faithful stewards, our work, our resources, and our businesses become opportunities to serve others, strengthen God's Kingdom, and make an eternal impact. Connect with Tim Eaton: NutraMedix Website NutraMedix Instagram NutraMedix Facebook NutraMedix YouTube Tim Eaton LinkedIn Connect With Brad Formsma: WOW Factor Website Brad Formsma on LinkedIn Brad Formsma on Instagram Brad Formsma on Facebook

June 17, 2026Episode 31732 min

Lee Greenwood | Grammy Award-Winning Artist and Creator of "God Bless the USA" | How Faith, Hard Work, and Gratitude Shape a Life of Purpose

Lee Greenwood is an award-winning recording artist, songwriter, and American icon best known for writing and performing " God Bless the USA ," one of the most recognized patriotic songs in American history. With a career spanning decades, Lee has earned numerous industry honors, including multiple Male Vocalist of the Year awards, while using his platform to celebrate faith, family, freedom, and service. From his early days growing up on a sharecropper's farm to performing for presidents and supporting America's military families, Lee's journey is a testament to perseverance, gratitude, and the power of staying faithful to your calling. Lee joins me today to discuss his early years growing up in California, finding his passion for music, and the hard work that eventually led him to Nashville. He shares the story behind writing "God Bless the USA," how his faith became a guiding force in his life, and why he believes America continues to be a place of opportunity and redemption. Lee also reflects on the importance of giving back, supporting veterans, and living in a way that positively influences others. "You'll never be disappointed in hard work." - Lee Greenwood "When you live life as a Christian, I believe you influence others even if they didn't ask for it. It's how you live, not how you tell people you live." - Lee Greenwood "I wasn't about the money. I wasn't about fame. I was about existing. And this is a free country." - Lee Greenwood This week on The Wow Factor: How Lee's childhood on a sharecropper's farm shaped his work ethic Why faith and music became such important parts of Lee's life The journey from playing piano in Las Vegas to becoming a Nashville recording artist The divine appointments that helped guide Lee's career The story behind writing "God Bless the USA" and why the message continues to resonate Lee's experiences performing for and building relationships with U.S. presidents Why generosity, service, and supporting others remain central to Lee's mission Lee Greenwood's Words of Wisdom: You'll never be disappointed by hard work. Use your gifts, stay productive, be wise with what you've been given, and always look for opportunities to help others. Connect with Lee Greenwood: Lee Greenwood's Website Lee Greenwood's Tour Schedule Lee Greenwood's YouTube Lee Greenwood's Music on Spotify God Bless The USA Bibles Connect With Brad Formsma: WOW Factor Website Brad Formsma on LinkedIn Brad Formsma on Instagram Brad Formsma on Facebook

June 10, 2026Episode 31648 min

Bob Woodson | Founder and President of The Woodson Center and 1776 Unites | How To Focus on Solutions Instead of Fixating on Problems

In honor of the life and legacy of Bob Woodson, we are re-airing this special conversation. Bob, Founder and President of the Woodson Center and 1776 Unites , dedicated his life to poverty alleviation and empowering disadvantaged communities to become agents of their own uplift. His decades of service, wisdom, and commitment to helping communities discover their own solutions left a lasting impact on countless lives. Bob Woodson was an influential leader on issues of poverty alleviation and empowering disadvantaged communities to become agents of their own uplift. Woodson was a frequent advisor to local, state and federal government officials as well as business and philanthropic organizations. His social activism dated back to the 1960s, when as a young civil rights activist he developed and coordinated national and local community revitalization programs. During the 1970's he directed the National Urban League's Administration of Justice division. Later he served as a Resident Fellow at the American Enterprise Institute. As Founder and President of The Woodson Center, Bob was on a mission to help residents of low-income neighborhoods address the problems of their communities. Bob joins me today to discuss his approach to dealing with race relations in America and what he believes is a huge problem; the disconnection between work and income, in underserved communities. "People are inspired to change and improve and cooperate when you can show them examples of victories that are possible, not always reminding them of injuries to be avoided." - Bob Woodson One of the most powerful metaphors about that makes a difference is that to some on the left, Hank Aaron was the strikeout king. But to some of us who look at the glass as being half full, he was the home run king. It depends upon what your perspective is. - Bob Woodson "You should always look for antibodies. Even in the worst communities, there are healthy elements that I call community antibodies. If you say that 70% of the people in that community are raising children that are dysfunctional, it means 30% or not. You can learn nothing from studying failure except how to create failure." - Bob Woodson This week on The Wow Factor: How Bob's upbringing inspired him to work in Civil Rights The breakdown of the traditional American Family Why you can't define Black America by slavery The importance of looking for the solution to every problem Why you can't judge people by their past When you give freely, don't give with the expectation that you will be thanked Why you must stay faithful to what you do and not be so attached to the outcome of what you're doing Why America is a country of redemption Bob Woodson's Words of Wisdom: When you give freely, don't give with the expectation that you're going to be thanked. Give out of Godly responsibility, rather than compassion. Connect with Bob Woodson: The Woodson Center The Woodson Center Facebook The Woodson Center LinkedIn The Woodson Center Instagram The Woodson Center YouTube 1776 Unites Connect With Brad Formsma: WOW Factor Website Brad Formsma on LinkedIn Brad Formsma on Instagram Brad Formsma on Facebook

June 3, 2026Episode 31546 min

Reigniting the American Dream Through Faith, Family, and Leadership | Governor Kevin Stitt on Hope, Service, and Building a Stronger Future

Governor Kevin Stitt is the 28th Governor of Oklahoma, entrepreneur, business leader, husband, and father of six. Before entering public service, Governor Stitt founded Gateway Mortgage with just $1,000 and a computer, growing it into a nationwide financial services company with more than 1,000 employees. Guided by his faith, commitment to family, and belief in the American Dream, Governor Stitt has focused his leadership on creating opportunity, strengthening communities, and encouraging the next generation to pursue their God-given potential. In this episode, Brad and Governor Kevin Stitt explore the connection between faith, leadership, generosity, and creating lasting change. Governor Stitt shares his journey from building a business to stepping into public service, the role prayer played in his decision to run for governor, and the lessons he has learned while leading Oklahoma. The conversation dives into family values, fostering hope in young people, the importance of gratitude and generosity, restoring opportunity through community involvement, and why strong families and personal responsibility are foundational to a thriving culture. "When God puts a dream or desire in your heart, I think it was there from a long time ago." – Governor Kevin Stitt "Your future can be better than your present because we can get you with mentors and we can say, 'Hey, here's how you step forward." – Governor Kevin Stitt "If you set out to be the best version you can, that's success. I think everybody can be successful in whatever God has put in front of them." – Governor Kevin Stitt This Week on The Wow Factor: Governor Stitt's upbringing in Oklahoma and the faith foundation that shaped his leadership How he started a company with $1,000 and grew it into a national business The role prayer, calling, and courage played in his decision to run for governor Why hope is a powerful tool for helping young people create a better future The importance of faith, family, churches, and communities working together How gratitude and generosity shift our focus away from ourselves and toward others Why Governor Stitt believes the American Dream is still alive for the next generation Governor Kevin Stitt's Word of Wisdom: Do not underestimate the dreams and opportunities God places in front of you. Your circumstances do not define your future, and success is not measured only by wealth, status, or recognition. Connect With Governor Kevin Stitt: Governor Kevin Stitt Official Website Governor Kevin Stitt Facebook Governor Kevin Stitt X Account Governor Kevin Stitt YouTube Connect With Brad Formsma: WOW Factor Website Brad Formsma on LinkedIn Brad Formsma on Instagram Brad Formsma on Facebook

May 27, 2026Episode 31440 min

From Brokenness to Blessing in a Blended Family | Ines Franklin on Healing, Grace, and Redemption

Ines Franklin is a teaching pastor, speaker, and author of Blended and Blessed and Uncharted: Navigating Your Unique Journey of Faith. Originally from Puerto Rico, Ines has experienced firsthand the complexities of brokenness, blended family life, redemption, and restoration. Through her writing and ministry, she helps families navigate difficult seasons with honesty, grace, and a faith-centered perspective rooted in the teachings of Jesus. In this episode, Brad and Ines Franklin explore the realities of blended family life, the emotional weight of divorce and rebuilding trust, and the ways God brings healing through vulnerability, empathy, and perseverance. Ines shares her personal story of abuse, addiction, divorce, and restoration, along with how she and her husband Jim built a unified family rooted in grace and faith. The conversation dives into the Beatitudes, emotional healing, family dynamics, forgiveness, leadership within the home, and how blended families can become powerful examples of redemption and hope. "Jesus does not turn away from messy situations. He steps into them with grace and redemption." – Ines Franklin "Blended families are not second-class families. God can bring healing, unity, and purpose even through brokenness." – Ines Franklin "Every family has dysfunction somewhere. The goal is not perfection. The goal is movement toward healing, wholeness, and unity." – Ines Franklin This Week on The Wow Factor: Ines' journey from Puerto Rico to California and learning English as a teenager Her experiences with abuse, divorce, addiction, and hitting rock bottom How faith and church became the turning point in her healing journey The meaning behind blended families and the hidden grief many families carry Why the Beatitudes became the framework for Blended and Blessed The importance of vulnerability, empathy, and keeping short accounts in family relationships How blended families can reflect God's redemption and become a light for others Ines Franklin's Word of Wisdom: Do not let shame, brokenness, or past mistakes convince you that your family cannot heal. God works through imperfect people and messy situations. Healing often happens one step at a time through honesty, grace, forgiveness, and a willingness to keep moving toward unity even when it feels difficult. Connect With Ines Franklin: Ines Franklin Website Ines Franklin on Instagram Ines Franklin on Facebook Ines Franklin on LinkedIn Buy Ines Franklins Books The Journey We Share | Faith and Life Uncharted Podcast Connect With Brad Formsma: WOW Factor Website Brad Formsma on LinkedIn Brad Formsma on Instagram Brad Formsma on Facebook Brad Formsma on X

May 13, 202638 min

Leading With Grace Through Prison Fellowship | Heather Rice-Minus on Justice, Purpose, and Restoring Hope

Heather Rice-Minus is the President and CEO of Prison Fellowship , the nation's largest ministry serving those impacted by incarceration. With a background in law, public policy, and justice reform, Heather has dedicated her career to helping people encounter hope, dignity, and restoration through faith and community. Through her leadership, Prison Fellowship continues to expand its mission of supporting incarcerated individuals, their families, and the churches and volunteers who walk alongside them. In this episode, Brad and Heather Rice-Minus explore the mission and impact of Prison Fellowship, the organization founded by Chuck Colson after his experience in prison following Watergate. Heather shares her journey from seeing herself as a secondary leader to stepping into the role of CEO, along with the importance of mentorship, vision, and empowering others. The conversation dives into prison ministry, Angel Tree, justice reform, leadership development, generosity, and the powerful ways lives can be transformed through faith, presence, and purpose. "Sometimes the people you least expect to teach you about grace are the very people who understand it most deeply." – Heather Rice-Minus "Leadership is not about doing everything yourself. It is about equipping others to thrive and succeed." – Heather Rice-Minus "We are not just serving people impacted by incarceration. We are witnessing God transform lives both inside and outside prison walls." – Heather Rice-Minus This Week on The Wow Factor: Heather's journey from policy work and law school to leading Prison Fellowship How mentorship and encouragement helped Heather step into leadership The origin story of Prison Fellowship and Chuck Colson's transformation after Watergate The impact of Angel Tree and supporting children with incarcerated parents Why prison ministry is about presence, dignity, and restoration The role churches play in serving families impacted by incarceration Heather's vision for the future of Prison Fellowship and the next generation of leaders Heather Rice-Minus' Word of Wisdom: Do not underestimate the power of vision, encouragement, and showing up consistently for people. Leadership is about helping others discover their purpose, staying faithful to the mission in front of you, and continuing to point people toward hope, restoration, and lasting impact. Connect With Prison Fellowship: Prison Fellowship Website Prison Fellowship Facebook Prison Fellowship Instagram Prison Fellowship YouTube Connect With Heather Rice-Minus: Heather Rice-Minus on LinkedIn Connect With Brad Formsma: WOW Factor Website Brad Formsma on LinkedIn Brad Formsma on Instagram Brad Formsma on Facebook Brad Formsma on X