From Mowing Lawns to Building a Franchise Empire
In the fast-paced world of business, success is often measured by profit.
But for me, it’s always been about more than that.
As the founder of Jim’s Mowing Group, my journey has been fueled not just by ambition but by faith.
With more than 5,500 franchisees and around $500 million in turnover, Jim’s Group has grown far beyond a simple lawn care business.
But behind the numbers lies a personal transformation—a journey from disbelief to faith, from frustration to purpose.
From Atheist to Believer
In my early years, I was an outspoken atheist.
I actively debated with Christians and even influenced others to turn away from faith.
But everything changed when I was 28.
One afternoon on campus, I met a group from the Christian Union.
That conversation altered my life.
I sat down as an atheist and stood up as a believer.
The moment was clear and powerful.
I didn’t fully understand it then, but I knew I was being called.
Becoming a Christian was the most joyful shift I’ve ever experienced.
It gave me a foundation that now shapes every part of my life, including how I run my business.
How Faith Shaped My Business
I never saw my business as separate from my beliefs.
From the start, I wanted Jim’s Mowing to reflect my values.
That meant caring deeply about the people who joined my franchise, not just accepting anyone who could pay the fee.
I screened potential franchisees carefully.
I needed to know they had the right mindset for customer service.
I sent them out with trusted staff to see how they worked, and I often turned people down, even if it meant slower growth.
Why? Because I didn’t want them to fail.
That mattered more to me than quick profits.
I also stayed connected with my franchisees.
I gave them access to successful peers so they could learn firsthand what it would take.
Supporting them was—and still is—central to everything I do.
From Anger to Servant Leadership
Early on, I struggled with anger.
I was intense and impatient, and it sometimes affected how I treated my team.
But as my faith deepened, so did my awareness of how I needed to grow.
One verse that stuck with me is, “Be angry, but do not sin.”
I’ve learned anger itself isn’t wrong, but how we use it matters.
Over time, I’ve focused more on mentoring, asking, “Is this going to help?” rather than reacting in frustration.
I haven’t slowed down, but I’ve changed.
I’m more intentional. More focused on helping others grow than just pushing outcomes.
My Perspective on Wealth
Despite the financial success of Jim’s Group, I live simply.
I don’t like waste.
I don’t splurge, except on two things—books and fruit.
I tithe to my church and invest in my research because that’s where I see true value.
I don’t spoil my kids either.
I want them to understand the importance of responsibility and the value of hard work.
For me, wealth is a tool for service, not status.
Building a Legacy That Lasts
Looking ahead, I’m focused on my research project—what I call “bio-history.”
I believe it could change how we understand character, society, and even history itself. It’s a huge part of my purpose.
I’m also thinking about the future of Jim’s Group.
I don’t want it to fall into the hands of a money-hungry multinational.
I want it to keep serving people.
That’s why I’m working on succession, training my sons-in-law and trusted people to lead with the same values I’ve built into the business.
Where Faith and Business Meet
I’ve come to see business as a calling—an extension of faith in action.
My mission isn’t just to grow, but to serve.
I want to build something that uplifts others, that honors God, and that continues to make a difference long after I’m gone.
True success, to me, isn’t about the bottom line.
It’s about the lives you change.
The legacy you leave.
The faith you live out every day.