Faith, Leadership, and the Transformative Power of Business as Ministry
Scott Bleich
CEO at HRTLND - Heartland Companies
In the latest episode of Anchoring Hope, David Mansilla sits down with Scott Bleich, CEO of Heartland Companies, to discuss the powerful intersection of faith, leadership, and business. This thought-provoking conversation explores how Scott’s journey with God shaped his approach to leadership, the innovative ESOP model his company embraced, and how businesses can become platforms for ministry. Their dialogue illuminates the beauty of surrendering to God’s plan and using business as a tool to serve others. Let’s delve into the key insights from this inspiring episode.
Understanding the ESOP Model: Empowering Employees
The foundation of ESOP: Scott explained the Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) and how it enables employees to become partial owners of the company. By transferring ownership to employees through a trust, companies can grow tax-free, benefiting both employees and the organization’s long-term stability.
Benefits for employees and growth: This model ensures employees see tangible benefits from their hard work. Scott’s company recently closed its first acquisition under the ESOP framework, bringing more employees into this growth-driven ownership structure.
A tool for stewardship: For Scott, ESOP represents more than just a business model—it’s a way to steward God’s blessings by empowering others. “It’s about caring for the people God has entrusted to us,” Scott shared.
Faith as the Foundation of Leadership
Early influences: Growing up in a family of 10, Scott’s mother laid the groundwork for his faith by instilling strong values and a belief in God’s guidance. These early lessons shaped Scott’s identity and approach to challenges.
Rediscovering faith through family: Scott’s marriage and journey into parenthood deepened his relationship with God. He credits his wife, Angie, and their children for guiding him back to his spiritual roots and aligning his priorities with God’s will.
Finding purpose in business: A pivotal moment for Scott came when he joined C12, a Christian business group. This experience reshaped his understanding of business as a ministry, helping him view his leadership role as a calling to care for others in God’s name.
Using Business as a Ministry
Caring for employees holistically: Heartland Companies implemented a marketplace chaplain program, offering employees and their families a safe space to address mental health and spiritual concerns. This initiative reflects Scott’s commitment to supporting employees beyond the workplace.
Building a culture of accountability and love: Scott emphasized that love in leadership involves both compassion and discipline. “Love without accountability is enabling,” he noted, illustrating how setting clear expectations fosters growth and respect.
Flipping the pyramid: Scott views leadership as serving from the bottom up. His “inverted pyramid” approach ensures that frontline employees feel supported and valued, empowering them to deliver their best for clients and the company.
Overcoming Idolatry in Business
Work as an idol: Like many leaders, Scott admitted that he once placed his identity in his work. “I was a workaholic,” he shared, acknowledging how this mindset became an idol that distracted him from God’s purpose.
Surrendering to God’s plan: Through reflection and prayer, Scott realized that his business was not his own but a tool entrusted to him by God. This shift in perspective brought peace and clarity, even amidst challenges like inflation and workforce shortages.
Leading with trust: Scott now asks God daily for wisdom and discernment, trusting that God will provide the resources and guidance needed to navigate any obstacles.
The Transformative Power of Discipline and Truth
Discipline as an expression of love: Scott highlighted the importance of discipline in both parenting and leadership. He believes holding others accountable—whether employees or children—is an act of love that fosters growth and resilience.
The liberating nature of truth: Quoting Scripture, Scott reflected on how truth can set people free, even when it’s difficult to hear. “The Lord wants you to grow,” he said, emphasizing that challenges are opportunities for spiritual and personal development.
Lessons for the next generation: Scott’s parenting philosophy mirrors his leadership style: “If you start something, finish it.” This principle instills perseverance and accountability, values he strives to uphold in all areas of life.
Conclusion
Scott Bleich’s journey is a testament to the power of faith, discipline, and servant leadership. By surrendering his business and life to God, Scott has found a deeper purpose in his work and a renewed sense of peace. His story reminds us that true success comes not from earthly achievements but from serving others and fulfilling God’s plan. As Scott aptly stated, “When you care for God’s people, He will provide everything you need.”
Written by Dhan Ababa
“Love without accountability is enabling. To truly care for others, we must hold ourselves and those around us to the standards God has called us to.”
