EXPERT CONNEXIONS: Startups and Community: Purpose-Driven Leadership
EXPERT CONNEXIONS: Startups and Community: Purpose-Driven Leadership
What if the secret to breakthrough innovation lies in embracing failure as your greatest teacher?
In this episode from Startup Grind Conference 2025, host Julie Holton Smith sits down with Pastor Tom Arthur of Sycamore Creek Church, a leader who’s revolutionizing how we think about community building, risk-taking, and sustainable growth.
From launching church campuses to running food business incubators, Tom shares unconventional wisdom that will transform how you approach your next venture.
What You’ll Discover:
✅ Why “failing fast” isn’t just for tech startups, it’s essential for any growing organization
✅ The power of cross-industry networking
✅ How to apply billion-dollar acquisition strategies to potential partnerships
✅ Why global networking matters even in your local community initiatives
Tom’s journey from divinity school to becoming a startup ecosystem co-founder proves that innovation knows no industry boundaries. His insights on building platforms for others to succeed will give you fresh perspectives on leadership, community engagement, and sustainable business growth.
About Our Host:
Julie Holton Smith is a 3x Emmy Award winner, marketing strategist, and an entrepreneur. As the founder of mConnexions and host of Expert Connexions, she brings insightful conversations with purpose-driven leaders to help you grow and lead with intention.
About Our Guest:
Tom Arthur is a Pastor at Sycamore Creek Church. He specializes in church adoptions, community incubation, and bridging the gap between faith-based initiatives and startup innovation. His work includes launching multiple church campuses and operating food business incubators.
📢 Don’t miss our special mini-series featuring leaders from the Startup Grind Conference 2025!
Special thanks to Foster Swift, LEAP & the Lansing Regional SmartZone for supporting this series.