The SECRET to Making Jesus the Pilot of Your Business!
John Marvin
President and CEO at TSO Network Of Independent Optometrists
In this episode of Anchoring Hope, David Mansilla sits down with John Marvin, President of TSO Network Of Independent Optometrists, to explore the intersection of faith and business. With over two decades of leadership at TSO, John shares how his faith guides his decisions, nurtures his company culture, and empowers him to lead with confidence and grace.
A Legacy of Vision and Values
Texas State Optical (TSO) is not just a business; it’s a legacy. Founded in 1936, TSO has weathered nearly 90 years of economic ups and downs while maintaining its commitment to serving the community.
As John Marvin explains, “We’re not technically a franchise, but we provide a unified brand for independent optometry practices. This unity under the TSO name has allowed us to maintain consistency, trust, and recognition in the market.”
John’s leadership since 2001 has been instrumental in revitalizing the organization, fostering a culture that combines professionalism with the values of faith, gratitude, and community impact.
Faith at the Helm: Making Jesus the Pilot
John’s faith journey began in high school when he accepted Christ as his Savior. “Since then, it’s been a relationship—a daily companionship where I walk with Jesus as my co-pilot,” he shared.
Faith is not just personal for John; it’s part of his professional ethos. Whether helping an employee make a tough decision or addressing challenges, he relies on prayer and God’s guidance.
“I had an employee facing a career decision due to her husband’s job transfer. I told her, ‘Let’s take 24 hours to pray about it. I’ll pray, and you pray, and let’s see where God leads us.’ It’s this kind of faith-driven approach that sets the tone for how we operate.”
Cultivating a Christ-Centered Workplace
John emphasizes the importance of creating an environment where faith can flourish.
Connecting with Employees: John is intentional about understanding the spiritual backgrounds of his team. For those who share his faith, he fosters open discussions and shared prayer. For others, he leads through actions, letting the Holy Spirit guide his interactions.
Leading by Example: “People would rather see a testimony than hear one,” John explained. This philosophy drives him to model Christ’s love and kindness in every decision.
Faith Over Fear: Building Boldness in Leadership
“Fear is simply an imagined outcome,” John remarked, “and the enemy uses fear to rob us of our faith and anticipation of God’s plans.”
Through his faith, John has learned to overcome fear and embrace boldness. He draws inspiration from Jesus’ example in the desert, where Scripture was the ultimate weapon against temptation.
“Every day, I ask God to guide me, whether it’s solving a problem or seizing an opportunity. It’s conversational—it’s walking with my Father in everything I do,” John shared.
A Grateful Heart: The Key to Joy
John believes that gratitude is the foundation of happiness.
“I wake up every day with a heart of gratitude,” he said. “It’s hard to be upset when you view the whole day as a gift. When someone asks me how I’m doing, I say, ‘I’m fantastic; it’s the best day of my life.’ Why? Because yesterday is gone, tomorrow isn’t promised, and today is a gift.”
This attitude permeates his leadership style, helping him navigate challenges with grace and optimism.
The Role of the Holy Spirit in Business
John shared profound insights about the power of the Holy Spirit in guiding decisions and providing wisdom.
“Jesus’ sacrifice was incredible, but it didn’t end there. He sent us the Holy Spirit as a helper, empowering us with God’s presence today,” he explained.
From handling difficult situations to making bold business moves, John credits the Holy Spirit with giving him clarity and confidence.
Conclusion
John Marvin’s journey as a business leader and believer offers a compelling example of how faith can transform not only personal life but also professional endeavors.
As John so eloquently put it, “The worst thing that can happen is dying—and for believers, that’s a one-way ticket to heaven. Why fear when we know our eternity is secure?”
Whether you’re a business leader, entrepreneur, or someone seeking to align your work with your faith, John’s story is a powerful reminder that when Jesus is the pilot, the destination is always victory.
Written by Dhan Ababa
