I met Laci Friend a few years ago when we began attending the same church as her family.  Little did I know that God would take the dream that had inspired me for a number of years and birth a new dream through Laci.

Laci shares her journey of building a business that she wasn’t even looking for and how God has surrounded her with a team that has allowed her to see her dream become reality.

We also discuss the hangups with money that many Christians struggle with as they find success in their business endeavors.

Finally Laci shares how her 40th birthday created a movement of blessing and benevolence with her audience.

I know you’ll be inspired as you watch this interview.

Key Takeaways

• The Power of “Yes”
  Laci’s journey began with small, faithful “yeses” to God, which gradually led to larger responsibilities and opportunities, both spiritually and professionally.

• God-Sized Dreams and Divine Connections
  Laci’s dream to serve in Africa was realized through divine orchestration of people, resources, and circumstances — all made possible through her business success and community of support.

• Transforming Business into Ministry
  Her network marketing business became a platform not just for income, but for impact, enabling her to fund missions and support other God-inspired dreams.

• Overcoming Money Mindsets
  As a Christian entrepreneur, Laci had to overcome guilt and fear surrounding financial success. Through prayer and mentorship, she came to embrace abundance as a tool for Kingdom work.

• Living Generously
  Laci started the “Pay It 40 Plus One” movement, turning her birthdays into annual campaigns of kindness and generosity, inspiring many to follow suit.

• Leadership and Personal Growth
  Her business journey demanded leadership development, humility, and a commitment to helping others uncover their God-given potential.

• The Importance of Balance and Mentorship
  Laci highlighted the need for maintaining balance between business, family, and spiritual life, as well as the value of having a Christian mentor.

🙋‍♀️ Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: How did Laci transition from being a stay-at-home mom to a successful entrepreneur?
A1: Laci started with a reluctant “yes” to a network marketing opportunity that unexpectedly grew into a thriving business. Her growth was rooted in consistent faith, obedience, and learning.

Q2: What is “Our Hope” and how did it begin?
A2: “Our Hope” is a nonprofit that sponsors children in Africa and India, providing school uniforms, tuition, and meals. It was birthed from a God-given burden during Laci’s mission trip.

Q3: How did Laci handle feelings of guilt around financial success?
A3: Initially overwhelmed by guilt, Laci worked through it with prayer, pastoral counsel, and disciplined giving — ultimately recognizing her wealth as a tool for ministry.

Q4: What is the “Pay It 40 Plus One” movement?
A4: An annual birthday initiative started by Laci to perform 41 acts of kindness and invite others to do the same, spreading joy and compassion across communities.

Q5: What advice does Laci offer to aspiring Christian entrepreneurs?
A5: Stay deeply connected to God through daily prayer and Scripture, seek out godly mentors, be fearless, and trust that God uses every “yes” for His greater purpose.

📚 Recommended Reading

1. “Business as Mission: A Comprehensive Guide to Theory and Practice” by C. Neal Johnson
   Explore how business can serve as a powerful platform for advancing the Kingdom of God, blending mission and marketplace in practical, impactful ways.

2. “God Is My CEO: Following God’s Principles in a Bottom-Line World” by Larry Julian
   This book offers real-life stories and biblical insight to help Christian entrepreneurs align faith and leadership while navigating today’s business landscape.

3. “Faith Driven Entrepreneur” Blog & Podcast by Henry Kaestner, JD Greear, and Chip Ingram
   A resource hub for Christ-centered business owners seeking community, wisdom, and encouragement in honoring God through entrepreneurship.