Welcome to the Christian Business Growth Podcast where faith meets entrepreneurship. Each episode, we uncover the strategies, stories, and spirit-led insights that help Christian business owners align their goals with God’s call. From practical tips to real-life testimonies, we explore what it takes to build a business that honours Christ, serves others, and impacts the Kingdom.

In the latest episode of the Christian Business Growth Podcast, Rev. Lyle sits down with Andrew Wischmeyer, the Development Director at Proclaim Cuba. Together, they explore the profound intersection of business and ministry, emphasizing that both realms can coexist and enhance each other. Andrew shares his journey from the corporate world to full-time ministry, highlighting the lessons learned along the way.

Quotes from Andrew:

“Nothing in my workload changed, but God exchanged my burden for His, and He gave me rest and peace.” – Andrew Wischmeyer

“Your time, talent, treasure, and testimony are best spent serving in the way God created you.” – Andrew Wischmeyer

“In a world where everyone feels like a commodity, gratitude goes a long way when you make people feel seen and appreciated.” – Andrew Wischmeyer

Quotes from Rev. Lyle:

“Business is ministry and ministry is business. You do not need to separate those things.” – Rev. Lyle

“We ask God to catch up with us instead of stopping and saying, ‘God, what is that next step? Where do I go next?’” – Rev. Lyle

“Make sure your thanks is not a sales tool. People can feel the difference between a tactic and a genuine ‘thank you.’” – Rev. Lyle

“People want to be seen. In a world of digital disconnection, that personal connection matters more than ever.” – Rev. Lyle

 

Understanding the Journey from Business to Ministry
Andrew’s background is steeped in small business, particularly in the niche software sector. He spent 15 years in the teleprompting business, working closely with major companies like Merck. This experience taught him the importance of being helpful and customer-focused—traits that later became invaluable in his ministry work. After his previous employer faced challenges due to alcoholism, Andrew leveraged his network to find a new opportunity, emphasizing the power of connections in business.

Transitioning into Ministry
The transition from business to ministry was not without its challenges for Andrew. He describes the experience as akin to “drinking from a fire hose”, filled with new responsibilities and heightened stress. His calling to serve in Cuba became a significant burden, one that he learned to bring to God. In a pivotal moment during a sleepless night in Cuba, Andrew translated a verse from Matthew 11:28-30, which spoke profoundly to him about relinquishing burdens and finding peace in God’s plan. This realization was transformative, allowing him to embrace his ministry with renewed vigor and understanding.

The Role of Passion and Calling
Andrew emphasizes that God often leads individuals in ways that align with their unique creations. He encourages listeners to seek where they are meant to serve, understanding that sometimes the path involves trial and error. This concept mirrors the business principle of ensuring the right person is in the right role. The connection between one’s professional and spiritual life is crucial; Andrew insists that compartmentalizing these aspects does not serve anyone well.

Current Initiatives in Cuba
Recently, Andrew returned from Cuba, where he and his team responded to the aftermath of a hurricane. They provided emergency supplies and relief efforts to help the local community recover. He shares that their ministry is not just a sprint but a marathon, requiring long-term commitment and resource management. 205 home churches have been planted in the last two years, creating hubs of support and light within the communities. The focus on sustainability is paramount, with initiatives addressing power shortages through solar packages and providing basic necessities like refrigeration and phone charging stations.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways
Andrew Wischmeyer’s insights remind us that business is indeed ministry, and ministry is business. The lessons of networking, burden-sharing, and alignment with one’s calling are essential for success in both realms. As we navigate our professional and spiritual journeys, let us remain open to God’s guidance, ready to embrace the challenges that shape us into better servants and leaders.

Lyle Leads:
Hello and welcome to the Christian Business Growth Podcast. I’m here with Ed Anderson. He’s from New York Life. He’s got quite a story to share with us today. So, Ed, kick us off. What brought you into business? How did God get you there?

Ed Anderson:
Wow, well, that was a long, long story, but I’m gonna make it really short. First of all, Brother Lyle, thank you for this opportunity to be able to share. I don’t take it lightly. It’s an honor to be able to do this with you of all people because we haven’t known each other for a long period of time, but I know that you are anointed and you’re gifted to do what God has called you to do, so I really appreciate this.

How did I get here? It started with me being in ministry for a number of years. I’ve been in ministry now for just shy of 30 years and was pastoring for a while. I really enjoyed what I was doing, but I wanted to do something a little bit different. I wanted to get involved in some other things. The opportunity to help people walk through life is something I was already doing, but I also wanted to help them with the gaps in their finances to make sure their families were taken care of.

As a pastor, I saw that a lot—especially when people passed away and their families didn’t have anything in place. We had to go through the process of either the church helping the family or the family trying to get help from others, even doing GoFundMes. I thought there had to be a better way. So I prayed about it, and God opened up this opportunity. I learned more, gained experience, and now I’m able to help families protect what matters most.

Lyle Leads:
Awesome. I’m gonna ask you a hard question. Do you mind? When you meet someone new, how do you decide whether to have a conversation about finances or about Jesus?

Ed Anderson:
Very good question. For me, I always lean into Jesus first. Finances may come up later. I’m a very relational person—it starts with relationship. I get to know the individual, share who I am, and that breaks down walls. People tend to open up and share their stories with me. That gives me the chance to share Jesus, and then we can talk about finances later. My first job is always to share Christ. Anything else comes afterward.

Lyle Leads:
For someone balancing that same thing, talk us through what brought you from being in ministry to wanting to impact lives more holistically, not just spiritually.

Ed Anderson:
It was a combination of things. I’ve always had a heart to help people—helping them through challenges, protecting their families, things like that. But I also wanted to take care of my own family. Anyone who’s been in ministry knows ministry doesn’t always pay well, and you don’t go into it for the pay—you do it to further God’s Kingdom.

So I needed and desired something that would help take care of my family financially. This was the vehicle that God brought to me. Once I studied, researched, and got involved, I realized it was a perfect fit.

Lyle Leads:
The Bible talks a lot about money. Give us a couple of insights into how the Bible impacts what you’re currently doing.

Ed Anderson:
Absolutely. The Bible says that the love of money is the root of all evil—not money itself. There’s nothing wrong with having money; the issue is when we love it more than we love God or people. Money is a tool that God gives us to do good things, to further His Kingdom, and to support others. But when money becomes our god, that’s when problems arise. We have to be intentional about our motives and priorities.

Lyle Leads:
You’re a minister, so you’re always in the Word. What’s God currently teaching you, both personally and in your business life?

Ed Anderson:
God continues to teach me faith and trust. I’ve always had to rely on Him completely. A friend once told me that I truly have the gift of faith because of the situations I’ve walked through. God constantly teaches me to trust Him even more. Even after decades of walking with God, I’m still learning. We’re all disciples—learners—and He keeps teaching me to walk by faith.

Lyle Leads:
Can you share an example of one of those faith moments you’ve had to overcome?

Ed Anderson:
Sure. When I first gave my life to God, I told Him, “If you’re real and you reveal yourself to me, I’ll do whatever you want, say whatever you want, and go wherever you want me to go.” And He’s held me to that.

One example: God gave me an assignment to pray in every U.S. state capital within a year. I pastored a small church at the time and asked God if I could just cross the border and pray, but He said, “No, go to the capital. That’s where the laws are made.” So I did it.

Later, He told me to go to the nations. Since 2007, I’ve ministered in over 60 countries. Each step required deeper faith and obedience.

Lyle Leads:
A lot of Christians deal with financial issues. It’s not the love of money, but confusion about their relationship with money. How do you see that relationship?

Ed Anderson:
Many believers see money as evil or believe they should live in poverty to be humble. There’s nothing wrong with being content, but God wants us to prosper—in our health, relationships, and finances. The key is stewardship.

We must learn to steward money well—budget, save, and invest wisely. When we steward well, we can bless others and support the Kingdom. Money can fund ministry, bless our families, and even allow rest and enjoyment. Stewardship makes that possible.

Lyle Leads:
That’s good. Our audience is business owners. What are three quick tips for being a good financial steward?

Ed Anderson:
First, position yourself to hear what God is saying—and have the courage to obey. That’s not always easy, but it’s vital.
Second, ask questions. Ask God for wisdom and strategy.
Third, follow through. Many hear God or gain strategy but fail to take action. As Christian business owners, we must execute what God reveals.

Lyle Leads:
Let’s talk about tithing. There’s a lot of confusion about gross versus net, tax returns, and what to tithe on. What’s your take?

Ed Anderson:
When my wife and I first married, I didn’t fully understand tithing. I thought I could “make an arrangement” with God. My wife corrected me and said, “You’re my covering now. What you do affects us both. You can’t make deals with God about obedience.” That was a life lesson I never forgot.

I’ve learned that tithing is foundational—it’s obedience. But giving goes beyond that. God calls us to be givers, not just tithers. When we give above the tithe with the right heart, we experience blessing.

For business owners, your success is often tied to how willing you are to honor God’s principles. If you’re faithful in tithing and giving, God blesses that.

Lyle Leads:
That’s a great word. People are often afraid of tithing, but it’s just about honoring God. Money’s a tool—put it to work for good.

What are some things you’re currently doing to grow your business that might help others?

Ed Anderson:
I’m connecting with other believers and business owners. That’s actually how we met! Find Christian business networking groups in your area.

Also, be willing to make new friends. Don’t lead with a sales pitch—just connect with people. Build relationships first, and the business conversation can come later. Authenticity builds trust.

Lyle Leads:
Exactly. If you lead with the sale, you miss the relationship. Sometimes it takes multiple conversations before someone decides to work with you. For those who are nervous about starting conversations, what advice would you give?

Ed Anderson:
Ask the Holy Spirit to be with you. It sounds simple, but it’s powerful. You’re not alone—He’ll lead and guide you. The worst thing someone can say is “no,” and most won’t even say that. Keep it light, keep it simple, and trust God.

Lyle Leads:
Right, and don’t focus on yourself. Focus on the other person. When you do that, the fear fades.

Ed Anderson:
Exactly. And be an active listener. Don’t think about your next line—listen to what they’re saying. Ask questions to show you care. That builds real connection.

Lyle Leads:
Amen to that. Active listening is a skill everyone should learn. So as we wrap up, what’s one piece of wisdom you want to leave us with?

Ed Anderson:
God has called you and equipped you. If He’s called you into business, trust that He’s given you everything you need. Lean into your relationship with Him and follow His lead.

Lyle Leads:
Amen. Thank you for that, brother. How can people get in touch with you?

Ed Anderson:
You can reach me by phone at 214-551-3759 or by email at EAnderson09@ft.nyl.com
.

Lyle Leads:
Great. Thank you for your time today, brother. I look forward to getting to know you even more. Have a great day!

Ed Anderson:
You too, same here.