This episode is very personal. I recently asked someone I respect to join me on this podcast, and he replied, “That’s an interesting concept. I’ll pray about it.” That was over 45 days ago. During this silence, I wondered: Is this a gentle Christian way of saying no? And deeper still: does my work—my writing, my podcast—lack importance?

Today, I want to share some of my inner thoughts. Not seeking sympathy. No pity party here. But because I believe many of us face the same challenge: how to handle silence without letting it damage our sense of self.

Proverbs 26 warns us—flattery can be more dangerous than criticism.Because it doesn’t confront you… It keeps you comfortable.

And in the marketplace, your greatest enemy isn’t always the competition…It’s the status quo. I’ve lived it.

Visiting the same customers… having the same conversations… feeling productive—Slowing becoming a tolerated professional visitor quietly drifting into complacency.

Today, we’re talking about the comfort zone trap…and how what feels safe… might actually be holding you back.

But here’s the part that hit me…Sometimes, I’m the one doing the disappearing.

In business… in relationships… even spiritually.

What about you? Where have you replaced clarity with silence?

You’ve likely heard the phrase, 'Leadership is influence.' However, my experience has shown that not all influence is equal. Some individuals exert pressure or push, some rely on their position, but true influence comes from inspiring genuine followership.

Proverbs 22 reminds us of this kind of life. While force might produce quick results, it doesn’t create sustainable impact.

So, here’s the key question: Are you leading because people are compelled to follow, or because they genuinely trust you?

Proverbs 20 talks about dishonest scales—looking fair on the outside… but not on the inside.

So here’s the question: Is there alignment between what you say and why you’re saying it?

Proverbs 18 says our words don’t just reflect conflict, they create it.

And if we’re frank, we’ve all been on both sides of that.

So here’s the question: Are your words building clarity, or quietly creating tension you’ll have to deal with later?

“You are the average of the five people you spend the most time with.”—Jim Rohn

But what if it’s bigger than that? Proverbs 15 reminds us that plans succeed with many advisers. But here’s the catch: not all voices are equal. And some are louder than others. Family. Friends. Workplace. Faith. Media.They’re all speaking every day.

So here’s the real question: Are you choosing those voices intentionally or just letting them shape you by default?

Proverbs 14 makes it clear—how we treat people isn’t just business, it’s spiritual.

I remember reading Peter Drucker talk about “moral numbness.”And I thought… yeah, I’ve seen that. So here’s the question: Have you built a little bit of a hardshell to our shifting culture just to keep up?

Proverbs 13 says hope deferred makes the heart sick. And that doesn’t happen overnight. It’s subtle. Quiet. Gradual. I’ve seen it in the marketplace… and I’ve seen it in the guy in the mirror.

So here’s the question: Are you thriving right now or just learning how to function on empty? AKA surviving?

It’s more of a “by the way” conversation.I’m just going to bear my soul for a few minutes…hoping maybe something I’m walking throughmight bless you in something you’re walking through.

Have you ever asked yourself…What am I doing?Why am I doing it?

And maybe even wondered…Is this really from God… or is this just something I want to be true?

Proverbs 11:2 draws a clear line—Pride leads one way… humility leads another.

Today, my friend Ron Price joins me, and we don’t come to you as experts on humility. We come as students. Because humility isn’t something we achieve once—It’s something we choose over and over again. And that choice has everything to do with the kind of person we become.

I have. And I can tell you those decisions usually didn’t come from wisdom.They came from pressure or anxiety.

Proverbs 8 reminds us that wisdom isn’t automatic.It’s something we pursue and something we listen for. Because not every open door is meant for you to walk through. So maybe the better question is this: Are you chasing opportunity or are you seeking discernment?

Proverbs 7 doesn’t warn us about obvious failure.It warns us about subtle seduction.

“Stick close to my instruction, my son, and follow all my advice. If you do what I say you will live well. Guard your life with my revelation-truth, for my teaching is as precious as your eyesight. Treasure my instructions, and cherish them within your heart. Say to wisdom, “I love you,” and to understanding, “You’re my sweetheart.” “May the two of you protect me, and may we never be apart!” For they will keep you from the adulteress, with her smooth words meant to seduce your heart.” Proverbs 7:1-5 TPT (The Passion Translation)

In the marketplace, that can look like closing the deal at any cost, saying what needs to be said, and fixing it later. I’ve seen it. I’ve felt it.And if we’re frank and transparent, we’ve all been close to it.

So here’s the question: Are you building trust or just winning in the moment?

“When you’re feeling lazy, come and learn a lesson from this tale of the tiny ant. Yes, all you lazybones, come learn from the example of the ant and enter into wisdom. The ants have no chief, no boss, no manager— no one has to tell them what to do. You’ll see them working and toiling all summer long, stockpiling their food in preparation for winter.” Proverbs 6:6-8 TPT

No boss. No manager. No reminders. And yet it prepares, produces, and stays consistent. In today’s marketplace, it’s easy to stay busy but still be unprepared.

So here’s the question: Are you waiting to be managed or are you leading yourself first?

Not everything that sounds good… is good. In fact, some of the most dangerous decisions we make don’t feel wrong in the moment. They feel justified, deserved, and even feel productive.

Proverbs 5 talks about “honey” that turns bitter.

“The words of an immoral woman may be as sweet as honey and as smooth as olive oil. But all that you really get from being with her is bitter poison and pain. If you follow her, she will lead you down to the world of the dead. She has missed the path that leads to life and doesn't even know it. Proverbs 5:3-6 CEV

And in today’s marketplace, that honey shows up in a lot of ways—shortcuts, compromise, and the pursuit of the next win at any cost. I’ve been there… more than once. So here’s the real question…What are you slowly trading away…for something that won’t last?

Proverbs 4 says, “Let your eyes look straight ahead… give careful thought to the path for your feet.”

That’s leadership wisdom. Because success isn’t just about working harder — it’s about staying focused on the right direction.

Distractions, shortcuts, and noise will always try to pull you left or right.

But wise leaders keep their eyes forward, their steps steady, and their values aligned.

So today’s question is simple:

Are you walking with intention… or just drifting with the crowd?

My friend Ron Price—someone I’ve known and respected for years—openly shares that discipline doesn’t come easy for him. And yet… he’s learned something powerful from Proverbs 1: That wisdom isn’t about having it all together—It’s about being willing to grow… one decision at a time. Because discipline isn’t reserved for the naturally disciplined… It’s available to anyone willing to pursue it. And that changes the way we look at everything.

“Everything God says is true— and it’s a shield for all who come to him for safety. Don’t change what God has said! He will correct you and show that you are a liar.” – Proverbs 30:5–6 (CEV)

Today’s proverb reminds us that God’s Word doesn’t need our edits, enhancements, or spin. It’s already pure, complete, and powerful—capable of accomplishing exactly what God intends. In this episode, we’ll explore why a Gospel-Centered approach to communication means aligning our words with His Word, both in life and in the marketplace.

As Gospel-Centered Customer Success Masters™, we must ask ourselves: Do our words build trust, foster relationships, and bear fruit? Or do they create barriers and misrepresent God’s intent?

When we model our communication and presentations on the principles of God’s Word, we serve with integrity and create a ripple effect of influence—becoming faithful stewards of both the marketplace and the relationships entrusted to us.

That inner circle… the decision-makers… the people with influence.

There is s a warning in Proverbs 29:25: “The fear of man lays a snare, but whoever trusts in the Lord is safe.” ESV

The fear of missing out… can become a trap. Because when we start chasing approval…we can slowly trade away our integrity… one small decision at a time. I’ve been there. But here’s what I’ve learned in the marketplace:

Today, we’re talking about the trap of approval…and how real security comes from trusting God—not people.

In our personal lives and in the marketplace, it’s easy to justify getting even when we’ve been wronged, especially when a competitor moves into our space, undercuts our pricing, or makes bold promises that may be impossible to fulfill. Their actions had a potentially negative influence, prompting us to consider retaliation. And if we retaliate, we most likely claim “they did it first, they deserved it. It’s just how the game is played. But what if mercy is actually the stronger move?

Jesus said:

“How blessed you are when you demonstrate tender mercy! For tender mercy will be demonstrated to you.” Matthew 5:7 (TPT)

Notice, Jesus didn’t say the ones who win every argument, or the ones who get even. He clearly says, the ones who show mercy. Proverbs 24:29 warns against retaliation. The natural response is to match behavior. But mercy interrupts that cycle.

A parent overwhelmed with joy, not because of success…but because of character. And whether you’re a parent, a mentor, or someone investing in others in the marketplace, this one goes deeper than business. Because the greatest return on investment you’ll ever see… is a life you helped shape… walking in truth.

Today’s Proverb 22:24—and a simple story from Aesop—reminds us that in a chaotic culture, the leaders who last aren’t the loudest in the room…They’re the ones people choose to follow.

What matters more—getting the result… or doing what’s right?

Because in the marketplace, those two don’t always line up.

I’ve seen people hit their numbers—and lose their credibility.

And I’ve seen others choose integrity—and build something that lasts.

Today’s Proverb 21:3 challenges us to rethink success.

Not as what we achieve…but how we achieve it.

Proverbs 17 warns about judgment, restraint, and the costs of foolish choices. The verse highlights a recurring temptation: seeking quick results by bypassing wisdom and effort. In chaotic cultures, shortcuts seem like opportunities, confident, efficient, and innovative. Yet wisdom questions not if it works, but its long-term cost.

But what matters more to me than the brand… is the relationship. C.J. and I have been walking together in the marketplace for over 15 years. And today—on the 16th day of the month—he shares how Proverbs 16:9 has shaped not just his work… but his life at home. Because we can make our plans…but there’s a greater hand guiding our steps. And when you understand that… it changes everything.

"Whoever oppresses a poor man insults his Maker, but he who is generous to the needy honors him.” Proverbs 14:31 ESV

The Insight

In 2000, I had the privilege of meeting Mr. Peter Drucker at a NAMM Leadership event. In his book Landmarks of Tomorrow, Drucker offers a profound observation about contemporary culture. He notes that in an age of chaos and "terror," many people develop a "hard shell of moral callousness" to survive. We see this in the marketplace every day: the "dog-eat-dog" mentality where we stop seeing people as human beings and start seeing them as obstacles or opportunities to make the next transaction.

Mr. Drucker warns that this "moral numbness" is a disease of the soul. It leads us to believe that, to be productive, to achieve sales goals and win more transactions, we must be cold, or even "spiritually neutral," keeping our spiritual self separate from our "world" self. But he argues the opposite: society needs a return to spiritual values, not to replace material success, but to make that success fully productive.

Pride can make us deaf. Deaf to wise counsel. Deaf to warning signs. Deaf to the very people we’re called to serve. Humility, on the other hand, opens our ears, clears our vision, and builds bridges that pride would have burned. Today, our focus is Proverbs 13:10 because it’s the 13th day of the month.

Today, I am reading from chapter 13 of Marketplace Proverbs Vol 2, Micro to Macro the Ripple Effect of Influence, written by yours truly and Co-Author Jon Kluiter.

“Arrogant know-it-alls stir up discord, but wise men and women listen to each other’s counsel.”--Proverbs 13:10 MSG.

Arrogance is a dangerous root in any team, organization, or marketplace mission. By definition, arrogance is an exaggerated sense of one’s importance or abilities. It’s pride in disguise. Left unchecked, it stirs up discord, sows strife, and damages relationships.

In business, pride often shows up as an unwillingness to listen, a need to control outcomes, or a toxic culture that kills team harmony. When arrogance takes hold, division creeps in, and the mission to add significance to others fades into the background.

Today, we’re talking about the traps of trophies… and how to build a life—and a business—based on stewardship instead of status.

Today, I am reading from chapter 9 of Marketplace Proverbs Vol. 3: Ego, Humility, and the KPI that Matters the Most. Written by yours truly, Today, we discuss The Spiral of Progress Proverbs 9:9

“Instruct the wise, and they will be wiser still; teach the righteous, and they will add to their learning.” Proverbs 9:9

There are seasons when we feel stuck, even though we’re doing the work. We’re showing up, staying faithful, and giving our best, but the results we expect haven’t materialized yet. That’s when self-doubt creeps in. Slowly at first, then all at once. I’ve asked myself more than once, “What am I even doing?” And if I’m honest, I’ve sometimes questioned if my effort was making any difference. But that’s often the exact moment when God reminds me: what feels like going in circles is a quiet elevation. An upward spiral that happens to look like a loop from where I’m standing.

God’s instructions aren’t complicated. They’re clear: Listen. Obey. Seek wisdom daily. And in return? Blessing. Favor. Life.

I used to think God was distant—disconnected from the everyday reality of business and life. I believed in Him, I knew I was saved, but I still felt He was far away. Until one day…

In prayer, I apologized to God for viewing Him that way. And clear as day, I heard it in my spirit: “I’m not distant—you’ve been resistant.”

Today, we’re talking about why quality always beats quantity…and how one wrong relationship can quietly sabotage everything you’re trying to build.

“Riffraff and rascals talk out of both sides of their mouths. They wink at each other, they shuffle their feet, they cross their fingers behind their backs. Their perverse minds are always cooking up something nasty, always stirring up trouble. Catastrophe is just around the corner for them, a total smash-up, their lives ruined beyond repair.” Proverbs 6:12-15 MSG

I share a powerful message by S. M. Lockridge… “It’s Friday… but Sunday’s coming.”

That space between Friday and Sunday… That’s where a lot of us live.

“Have no fear of sudden disaster or of the ruin that overtakes the wicked, for the Lord will be at your side and will keep your foot from being snared.”—Proverbs 3:25–26 (NIV)

Think about what Good Friday looked like in real time. It looked like a sudden disaster. It looked final. It looked like everything had fallen apart. The disciples didn’t see a plan. They saw an ending. Possibly Proverbs 3:25-26 gives us a different perspective: Don’t fear what looks final… when God is still present. Because we can stand in front of something that looks finished… and still misunderstand what God has already done.

“Follow the example of good people and live an honest life. If you are honest and innocent, you will keep your land; if you do wrong and can never be trusted, you will be rooted out.”—Proverbs 2:20-22 MSG

Jim Rohn, a renowned speaker and trainer, famously said: “We are the average of the five people we spend the most time with.”

His observation aligns closely with the wisdom of Proverbs 2:20-22. The company we keep and the voices we listen to profoundly influence us, shaping our actions, character, and direction.

Take a moment to reflect: Who are the five people you spend the most time with? Most of us have multiple “sets of five”—family, friends, Church, Social, and business colleagues. Whether we realize it or not, we tend to mirror these groups’ values, attitudes, and behaviors.

The same holds for the material we consume—the books we read, the podcasts we listen to, and the videos we watch.

In a world that rewards speed, pressure, and quick wins… wisdom calls us to something different:

* Slow down

* Listen first

* Choose peace over pressure

Because “running to evil” in today’s marketplace doesn’t look like crime…

It looks like:

* Rushing deals at any cost

* Overpromising to close, Reacting instead of responding

The peacemaker chooses a better way. And the result? Security. Clarity.

And the kind of trust that builds lasting relationships.

Customer Success Code™: Peacemakers don’t run to strife; they hold back their foot and let wisdom lead.

*

In sales, leadership, and the marketplace, we often think our biggest competition is the company two aisles over at the trade show. But for many of us, the real enemy is the status quo—and its parent, the comfort zone monster.

Proverbs 25 gives us a surprising piece of wisdom: “Don’t boast about yourself before the king… it is better for him to say, ‘Come up here,’ than to demote you in front of others.”

In other words, wisdom doesn’t chase recognition. It earns it.

“Do not envy the wicked, do not desire their company, for their hearts plot violence, and their lips talk about making trouble.” — Proverbs 24:1 NIV.

I share an experience that my friend and co-author, Jon Kluiter, had—one that taught us both what we now call gut-check wisdom.

I’ve been there. In meetings, I’ve spoken too soon—offering solutions I thought were brilliant—until I realized I was solving the wrong problem… because I hadn’t taken time to listen first. Today, we’re in Proverbs 18:13— because it’s the 18th day of the month.

Proverbs 17 says, “A truly wise person uses few words… even fools are thought wise when they keep silent.”

That’s a powerful reminder for leaders, sales professionals, and anyone serving customers.

Sometimes wisdom isn’t about saying more — it’s about listening more… pausing more… and responding with clarity instead of noise.

Today, my guest, Chris Shrader, and I are going to explore why restraint in our words can reveal the depth of our wisdom.

Proverbs 16:18 warns us: “Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall.”

That’s why one of the biggest leadership battles isn’t talent — it’s ego.

In Marketplace Proverbs, I often say the opposite of ego is humility.

And humility is what keeps success from becoming your downfall.

Proverbs 11:14 says, “For lack of guidance a nation falls, but victory is won through many advisers.”

Now, my guest, Neal Pomerantz, Executive VP of George's Music, makes an important distinction — this verse says nation, not company. But the principle still applies.

Isolation weakens leadership. Counsel strengthens it.

And when the stakes are high, wise leaders don’t guess — they gather guidance.

So the question is:

Who’s advising you before you decide?

Proverbs 4:14-16 says, “Don’t even step onto that path. Avoid it. Turn away. Pass on.”

That’s not subtle. Because some roads in business don’t just damage your reputation — they rob your peace. There are people who can’t sleep unless they’ve stirred up trouble.

So today, which path are you walking?

Our special guest Ken Fuente, a 40 year friend shares how he applies Proverbs 3:4-5 in his every day ordinary walking around life in and outside the marketplace

Every GPS system relies on a source.

Without satellite signals—and location services enabled—your map app is just a blank screen. It might look ready, but without a connection, it’s going nowhere.

The same principle applies in the marketplace.

We can have credentials, connections, and years of experience. But without staying connected to The Source, our wisdom will eventually fail us.

Proverbs 2:6 makes it clear:

True wisdom doesn’t originate from boardrooms, spreadsheets, or MBA programs. It comes from the mouth of the Lord—through Scripture, prayer, the Holy Spirit, and sometimes through the wise counsel of others He places in our lives.

Proverbs 27 reminds us to “know the condition of your flock,” and in this episode, I share how acting on the Holy Spirit’s promptings—whether through a call, a handwritten note, or a prayer—can transform relationships from transactional to truly celebrated.

“Know well the condition of your flock, and pay attention to your herds, for wealth is not forever; not even a crown lasts for all time. When hay is removed and new growth appears, and the grain from the hills is gathered in, lambs will provide your clothing, and goats, the price of a field; there will be enough goat’s milk for your food, food for your household, and nourishment for your female servants.” — Proverbs 27:23–27 CSB

This passage isn’t just about farming, it’s about stewardship. Just like flocks and herds need daily care, relationships require consistent attention. Neglect weakens them. Nurturing strengthens them.

When Flattery Hides Danger

“Your enemy shakes hands and greets you like an old friend, all the while conniving against you. When he speaks warmly to you, don’t believe him for a minute; he’s just waiting for the chance to rip you off.” — Proverbs 26:24–26 MSG

In this episode, I reveal how the comfort zone masquerades as progress, why it’s the status quo’s favorite disguise, and how breaking free leads to real growth.”

The comfort zone feels safe, but it’s quietly stealing your growth.

Proverbs 26 warns about the danger of flattering words, and in business, those words often come from the status quo itself. In this episode, I share how the comfort zone monster kept me visiting the same customers, chasing transactions instead of building relationships, and how breaking that cycle leads to deeper partnerships and greater influence in the marketplace.

Proverbs 24:27 reminds us to plant fields before building barns—to put the work of serving others ahead of building our own comfort. In this episode, I share why the sequence matters, how “shiny objects” can derail our mission, and how choosing significance over success changes everything in the marketplace.

You can have the best seed, the best tools, and the best intentions—but if the soil isn’t ready, nothing will grow. In business and in life, discernment saves you from wasting energy where it can’t produce a return.

In this episode, Ernie shares how to discern when to plant, when to move on, and how that choice can transform your relationships and protect your calling.

Today’s verse is Proverbs 20:29 in the NIV: “The glory of young men is their strength, gray hair the splendor of the old.”

Even the most gifted people must put in the work. Picasso’s genius wasn’t ego—it was effort.

My success metrics are simple: “Customer Success is my path, adding significance to others is my purpose, Celebrated Relationship is the goal™.”

Some might call that talent. I call it obedience to a calling, sustained by humility.

“Ability is what you’re capable of doing. Motivation determines what you do. Attitude determines how you do it.”—Lou Holtz

Let’s release ego, stop worshiping talent, and focus on purpose-driven effort.

Today, we’ll talk about why understanding perspectives is more than good manners—it’s a marketplace advantage with a ripple effect you can’t ignore.. Today, our focus is Proverbs 18:17 because it’s the 18th day of the month.

It can open doors, build trust, and keep you energized in ways talent alone never will.

Today, I’ll tell you why I believe happiness belongs on your business scoreboard.

Welcome to Marketplace Proverbs and Coffee with Ernie™ — where a Proverb a day keeps stinking thinking away.

I’m Ernie Lansford, here to help you connect biblical wisdom to everyday marketplace decisions so you can build relationships that outlast any transaction.

Here, we bring timeless biblical truth into the marketplace, where influence is real, choices are constant, and relationships matter more than results.

So grab your coffee, tea, latte, soda, or water… and let’s get started.

“A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones.”—(Proverbs 17:22)

“Whatever is true, noble, right, pure, lovely, admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.”—(Philippians 4:8)

Commit your activities to the Lord, and your plans will be established.”— Proverbs 16:3

Pride can make us deaf. Deaf to wise counsel. Deaf to warning signs. Deaf to the very people we’re called to serve. Humility, on the other hand, opens our ears, clears our vision, and builds bridges that pride would have burned. Today, our focus is Proverbs 13:10 because it’s the 13th day of the month.

Today, I am speaking from chapter 13 of Marketplace Proverbs Vol 2, Micro to Macro the Ripple Effect of Influence, written by yours truly and Co-Author Jon Kluiter.

“Arrogant know-it-alls stir up discord, but wise men and women listen to each other’s counsel.”—Proverbs 13:10 MSG

I’m Ernie Lansford, helping you connect biblical wisdom to everyday marketplace decisions so you can build relationships that outlast any transaction.

Here, we bring timeless biblical truth into the marketplace, where influence is real, choices are constant, and relationships matter more than results.

So grab your coffee, tea, latte, soda, or water… and hit play, let’s get started.. Today, I am reading from chapter 12 of Marketplace Proverbs Vol 1, A Sales Navigator’s Compass to Customer Success Mastery, written by yours truly and Co-Author Jon Kluiter.

“Diligent hands will rule, but laziness ends in forced labor.”—Proverbs 12:24 NIV.

That silent partner was the Spirit of Not Good Enough. It disguised itself as modesty, caution, servanthood, and even humility. However, the longer it remained, the more influence it exerted over my career, confidence, and willingness to add real value and significance to others. Worse yet, it transformed into the spirit of heaviness, as Isaiah talks about:

“The Spirit of the Lord God is upon Me... to give them beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness...” Isaiah 61:1–3 NKJV

This heaviness wasn’t just a mindset. It was spiritual. I had partnered with a spirit of heaviness AKA Spirit of Not Good Enough.

This spirit felt to me like walking through a door with clear plastic wrap stretched across the opening, the shrink wrap used on palletized shipments. I felt held back by an invisible force that slowed me down. Frankly, I had reached a point of significant frustration. I was discontent with my scarcity mindset and tired of feeling diminished, weary of fighting the invisible forces blocking my path. I was frustrated by wondering why I could not walk through the doors God seemed to open. Especially after praying often, “Lord, take me to people who need me and bring people to me you feel I need.” I frequently asked, “What am I doing wrong, Lord?”

And then I sensed it clearly, what I feel is a voice from the Holy Spirit:

“You didn’t just tolerate it, you elevated it. You granted trusted partnership status. If you want to move into overflow, you have to dissolve the partnership.”

That was one of my many defining moments, helping me move forward. If I were to step into overflow, I would have to dissolve the partnership with the spirit of heaviness.

Today’s lesson comes from a story my friend Jon used to tell, but it’s so relatable that I’ve adopted it as my own teaching example for leadership. It’s one of those stories that starts with family and ends up landing squarely in the workplace.

Jon grew up in a large, blended family—plenty of siblings, plenty of chores, and plenty of stories. And in that busy household, one of his sisters had a gift… not for doing chores, but for disappearing whenever they started. You could almost set your watch by it. Time to unload the dishwasher? Gone. Trash needs to be taken out? Nowhere to be found.

Her disappearing act became such a family legend that even decades later, they still laugh about it. And as Jon became a dad, history repeated itself. One of his daughters seemed to have inherited that same disappearing gift—especially when it came to unloading groceries or folding laundry.

Now, that kind of thing can be funny in a family setting. We tease, we laugh, we move on. But in the workplace, disappearing acts aren’t so harmless.

Every leader—whether you’re running a small team or leading an entire organization—has faced the challenge of balancing morale for the hard workers while addressing those who aren’t pulling their weight. And here’s the reality: your hard-working team members notice when laziness is tolerated. Over time, that tolerance chips away at their motivation. Some get resentful. Others quietly start lowering their own standards. And before you know it, your culture and productivity have eroded.

Proverbs 10:5 gives us a clear picture: the wise get to work when it’s time to work. They gather in the harvest season because they know it’s fleeting. But those who “sleep during harvest” aren’t just missing the opportunity—they’re causing shame. That word “shame” is important—it speaks to the loss of trust, respect, and credibility that comes when work is neglected.

As leaders, we have a responsibility to address this dynamic. And here’s the key: accountability and grace are not opposites. Accountability means setting clear expectations, providing measurable outcomes, and following through. Grace means doing it in a way that preserves dignity and opens the door for growth.

This isn’t just about getting the job done—it’s stewardship. God entrusts us with teams, resources, and opportunities. When we lead well, we protect the team's trust and create an environment where everyone has a chance to succeed.

And remember—accountability starts with us. We can’t expect from others what we’re not willing to model ourselves. Our example sets the tone for the culture we build.

🗝 CUSTOMER SUCCESS CODE

“Grace and accountability are not opposites — together, they create a culture where everyone can thrive.”

Action Points:

Today, think of one person in your workplace—or even in your circle—whose work habits are quietly affecting the rest of the team.

• First, pray for them by name.

• Then, look for one specific, constructive way you can start a conversation that brings both clarity and encouragement.

“Instruct the wise and they will be wiser still; teach the righteous and they will add to their learning.” Proverbs 9:9

There are seasons when we feel stuck, even though we’re doing the work. We’re showing up, staying faithful, and giving our best, but the results we expect haven’t materialized yet. That’s when self-doubt creeps in. Slowly at first, then all at once. I’ve asked myself more than once, “What am I even doing?” And if I’m honest, I’ve sometimes questioned if my effort was making any difference. But that’s often the exact moment when God reminds me: what feels like going in circles is a quiet elevation. An upward spiral that happens to look like a loop from where I’m standing.

In the Curiosity Chronicle newsletter, writer Sahil Bloom quoted Hermann Hesse and wrote: “We are not going in circles, we are going upwards. The path is a spiral; we have already climbed many steps… The spiral appears to be a circle to the one standing on it. But zoom out, and you see the reality: each circle exists on a slightly higher plane than the last. Sahil then described the quiet evidence of progress—those minor signs of spiritual maturity:

1—You stop chasing the approval of others.

2—You set boundaries that once felt impossible.

3—You stop complaining and start taking ownership.

4—You cringe (in a good way) at who you were six months ago.

5—You lean into the discomfort of being a beginner again.

In that moment, it clicked: I’m not stuck. I’ve grown.

“Instruct the wise and they will be wiser still…” Proverbs 9:9

This verse reminds us that growth is often a subtle process. The wise aren’t satisfied with maintaining—they keep learning, keep humbling themselves, keep climbing.

Progress in the Kingdom doesn’t always feel like progress. We serve. We give. We obey. And sometimes we wonder if it’s making a difference. But faithfulness is never wasted. It’s just that elevation happens quietly, like a seed growing beneath the surface.

Romans 12:2 speaks to this when it calls us to “be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” The world says success is about what others can see. But we know the more profound truth: what God sees is far more critical. And when we renew our minds with His Word, we start seeing the spiral for what it is—evidence of movement, not repetition.

You’re not chasing your tail. You’re building something. You’re not going in circles. You’re rising.

Customer Success Code

“What looks like a loop is often the spiral of obedience—and it’s raising you one step at a time.”

Action Points:

1—Zoom Out: Reflect on the last 6–12 months. What subtle signs reveal you’ve grown?

2—Name Your Spiral: Identify an area of life where you feel stuck. Ask God to reframe it as a growth-in-motion experience.

3—Encourage Someone Else: Send a word of encouragement to a friend who may feel like they’re spinning their wheels. Remind them they’re ascending.

4—Recommit to the Process: Choose one habit you’ve been tempted to quit. Keep going—progress is still happening.

5—Pray for Fresh Perspective: Ask God to help you recognize and celebrate the quiet gains in your life today

🔠 THE COMMITMENT ACROSTIC

C — Commit to the Lord – Psalm 143:10

O — One day at a time – Philippians 1:6

M — Make time to renew – Psalm 51:7–11

M — Make a list of actions – Luke 6:31

I — Integrity – Hebrews 1:9; Proverbs 10:9

T — Trust in the Lord – Proverbs 3:5–8

M — Morals – 2 Timothy 2:15–16

E — Ease the pain through confession – Psalm 32:1–5

N — New life in Christ – 2 Corinthians 5:16–20

T — Turn over your flaws to God – James 4:7–10

That’s what real, marketplace commitment looks like. It’s not about being perfect. It’s about being honest, faithful, and fully surrendered.

CUSTOMER SUCCESS CODE: Commitment isn’t proven by what you say—it’s revealed by what you consistently prioritize.

Feeling thirsty for direction? Maybe you’ve been standing in fresh water the whole time…

This episode unpacks Proverbs 4 and a powerful story about being surrounded by God’s wisdom but still thirsting for clarity. Don’t settle for shiny objects or temporary fixes. Let’s dip our buckets and drink deeply from the Word that never runs dry.

🎯 Customer Success Code:

Don’t chase the next shiny object—drink deeply from the stream that never runs dry.

Today’s passage is about correction—but not the kind that humiliates. It’s the kind that helps us grow. Today, it's Proverbs 3:11-12 because it’s the 3rd day of the month.

Proverbs 3:11-12

“My son, do not despise the Lord’s discipline, and do not resent his rebuke, because the Lord disciplines those he loves, As a father, the son he delights in.”—Proverbs 3:11–12 (NIV)

That’s strong. And it’s loving.

God disciplines us because He delights in us.

This reminds me of a story my co-author and dear friend Jon Kluiter once shared with me. He wrote about in chapter 3 of Marketplace Proverbs, Vol. 1, A Sales Navigator’s Compass to Customer Success Mastery.

“The one who sends a message by a fool’s hand cuts off his own feet and drinks violence.” Proverbs 26:6 (CSB)

“As a dog returns to its vomit, so also a fool repeats his foolishness.” Proverbs 26:11 (CSB)

🎙️Today’s proverb shows us the danger of trusting your mission to unwise messengers. If your message matters, so does your messenger.

Customer Success Code: “If your message matters, so does your messenger. Don’t send your legacy through foolish hands.”

Thanks for reading Marketplace Proverbs! This post is public, so feel free to share it.

Reputation Is the Echo of Integrity.

A good name isn’t built from branding or speeches; it’s shaped in quiet moments when no one’s watching. By choosing honesty, humility, and highlighting others over self-promotion, we build the foundation of trust.

In professional audio, clarity doesn’t start with what you hear — it starts with what’s true. To find the truth, engineers use a tool called a Real-Time Analyzer (RTA). Before any performance, they “shoot the room” by sending test tones through the system. Why? To see what’s really happening in the space, not what they think they hear.

The RTA shows them peaks, dips, reflections, and hidden issues the human ear often misses. But the RTA is only as accurate as the microphone feeding it. That’s why pros use what’s called a flat-response mic — it doesn’t sweeten or distort. It hears the truth, exactly as it is.

Proverbs 21:2 says we often think our own ways are right…

“But the Lord weighs the heart.”

God, in a sense, uses His own Real-Time Analyzer — not to judge harshly, but to calibrate lovingly. He sees past our intentions and hears what’s really in our hearts.

The problem? We use our internal emotional microphones— such as stress, ego, fear, fatigue, or insecurity—to evaluate ourselves. They color the truth. They distort the signal.

Thanks for listening to Marketplace Proverbs & Coffee With Ernie! This post is public, so feel free to share it.

“We may think we know what is right, but the Lord is the judge of our motives.”--Proverbs 16:2 CEV

The marketplace often values results, such as numbers on spreadsheets, growth charts, and quarterly achievements, as indicators of success. However, in God’s economy, the measuring stick is different: He considers our motives before our actions. We might work skillfully, speak eloquently, and serve energetically, but if our purpose is self-centered, we can still be misaligned. Proverbs reminds us that even our best ideas are subject to divine scrutiny, as God looks at the motivation behind our actions, not just the actions themselves. When our motives align with His purpose, success follows naturally. When they don’t, frustration becomes the by-product. Marketplace Proverbs Vol 4 is available as a free E-Book

Grab that mug and take a seat. It’s the 15th of the month, and you’re listening to Marketplace Proverbs & Coffee With Ernie.

Today, we’re talking about Voices. Proverbs 15:22 tells us that plans succeed with "many advisers." But here’s the catch: not all advisers are created equal.

In my book Dear Austin, I wrote to my grandson about the five groups that shape us: Family, Friends, Workplace, Faith, and Media. In our current culture, those voices are louder than ever. If you aren't careful, you’ll find yourself "ghosting" your own values just to fit into a group's "current."

As a Customer Success Master™, you have to be a curator. You wouldn't hang a piece of trash in a fine art gallery, so why let "stinking thinking" hang out in your head? Fred Smith used to say we are light bulbs looking for a socket. My question for you today is: What are you plugged into?

Is your workplace voice fostering excellence or mediocrity? Is your media intake giving you wisdom or just anxiety?

Take a look at your mental gallery today. If it’s looking a little cluttered and chaotic, it’s time to do some curation. Turn down the noise, turn up the truth, and let’s get to work.

Customer Success Code: “No one rises higher than the beauty and quality of the art hanging in the gallery of their mind.”

Thanks for listening to Marketplace Proverbs & Coffee with Ernie! This podcast is public, so feel free to share it.

Proverbs 14:15 warns that our messages or marketing presentations may seem wise or harmless but can still lead to disappointment or harm. I call this ‘perfuming the pig’. We must be careful not to compromise our Biblical principles of conducting business in a manner greater than expected in return, just to pursue a transaction. Many marketing presentations sparkle but lack substance, relying on the presenter's credibility and motivational language rather than truth. Faint distortions in claims can be dangerous, blending familiar but fundamentally flawed elements. I call this counterfeit clarity of compromise.

Proverbs advises wise listening: don’t trust impressive signals without verifying their source, core, and truth. Clear communication and genuine faith require us to avoid false clarity in our interactions; if it lacks Biblical truth, it’s a distortion, no matter how appealing.

Every GPS requires calibration; it can’t guide accurately unless it’s aligned with the correct signal. Relationships work the same way. Walk with the wise, and our route stays true. Walk with the wrong crowd, and the noise drowns out God’s signal.

All of us have role models - people we look up to, learn from, and sometimes even try to emulate. Some are well known, others are everyday heroes the world will never hear of. They might be family, friends, mentors, or even someone whose influence reaches you through their writing or example.

Throughout Scripture, we encounter role models who walked closely with God, including Abraham, Joseph, Elijah, Nehemiah, Daniel, and Barnabas, among others. None was perfect, but all lived with purpose. Their lives left a trail of faith for others to follow. If you pause and look back over your own life, you’ll likely see people who’ve done the same for you. They modeled how to walk with God in the real world, through long days, tight deadlines, and seasons that tested everything they believed.

This book, Marketplace Proverbs Vol 4: God's Perfect System for Purpose, The GPS That's Always Accurate, is an E-book available for FREE Download.

“Those who work their land will have abundant food, but those who chase fantasies have no sense.”--Proverbs 12-11

I doubt God defines success in the same terms we use to measure it in the world. I believe God values faithfulness over celebrity status and prefers humility to power. Faithfulness and humility are essential components in our inner GPS or guidance system. Perhaps these qualities are ingredients in our ‘magnetism’ that help keep our inner GPS in sync with true north.

On the night of His greatest miracle, God chose not to reveal Jesus' birth to kings, scholars, or influential figures. Instead, He sent an angel to a group of shepherds, ordinary men engaged in everyday work. Luke 2:8 describes them as “living in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night.”

These shepherds weren’t seeking fame; they were diligently caring for what God had entrusted to them. Because of their presence and faithfulness, they were the first to hear Heaven’s message and to see the Savior face-to-face. Faithfulness continues to operate in this manner today. In today's marketplace, salespeople and service professionals often feel like shepherds, overlooked, undervalued, and misunderstood. Yet, God still calls us to guard what has been given to us and to lead rather than manipulate. To add significance to all customers by recognizing them as brothers and sisters, God’s other creations from different mothers. Faithfulness is the core of stewardship. It may not be glamorous, but it’s powerful. If you feel unnoticed or discouraged today, remember: God sees everything. Excelling in small tasks prepares your heart for what’s ahead. God rewards the faithful, not the flashy.

So work your portion of the mission field. Make the calls. Serve with excellence. Be diligent in the details. The reward isn’t just promotion, it’s a partnership with the One who sees you.

Customer Success Code™-“Faithfulness in the small things today prepares you for significance in the big things tomorrow.”

Wisdom isn’t reserved for the elite—it’s a feast prepared for anyone hungry enough to ask.

In today’s episode, we explore the difference between textbook decisions and Spirit-led wisdom. I share how God has recalibrated my leadership over the years—from cold, calculated moves to kind, Spirit-guided ones that ripple far beyond the moment.

Customer Success Code: “Godly wisdom transforms decisions from transactions to testimonies.”

Proverbs 8 is written from the perspective of experience looking back, rather than from a young man’s anticipation. This view reflects my own approach to writing, coaching, and podcast hosting. Now in my 78th year of life and my 60th year in the marketplace, I reflect on a journey filled with missteps that I could have avoided if I had paused to seek God's wisdom.

Solomon isn’t simply chasing knowledge and wisdom; he’s encouraging us to value them early, pursue them intentionally, and hold them consistently. Knowledge and wisdom don’t come automatically with position or responsibility; they must be actively cultivated, not as a reward, but as a response. They’re developed through obedience and guarded through discernment, which matters greatly in today’s chaotic culture, especially for Customer Success Masters™ entrusted with influence.

When Responsibility Arrives Before Confidence

There’s a pivotal moment early in Solomon’s leadership that gives Proverbs 8 both weight and relevance. In 1 Kings 3, Solomon has just become king. He’s inherited authority he didn’t campaign for, and there were responsibilities he wasn’t fully prepared to carry. His prayer reveals a rare and refreshing humility:

“And now here I am: God, my God, you have made me, your servant, ruler of the kingdom in place of David my father. I’m too young for this, a mere child! I don’t know the ropes, hardly know the ‘ins’ and ‘outs’ of this job. And here I am, set down in the middle of the people you’ve chosen, a great people—far too many to ever count. “Here’s what I want: Give me a God-listening heart so I can lead your people well, discerning the difference between good and evil. For who on their own is capable of leading your glorious people?” 1 Kings 3:7–9 (MSG)

Solomon doesn’t ask for success, security, or longevity. He doesn’t ask for protection from enemies or for the admiration of others. Instead, he asks for wisdom and discernment, recognizing a truth many of us overlook: a perceived calling without discernment is dangerous.

“Keep my commands and live, and guard my teachings as the apple of your eye.” Proverbs 7:2, CSB

If you’ve ever missed an exit on the highway, you probably remember that brief wave of panic and that sudden jolt you feel when your GPS screen freezes for a moment before flickering with the word “Recalculating.” You glance around, a bit uncertain about which way to head, wishing you had paid closer attention to your surroundings. It happens to me sometimes, and the angst or panic is even more intense if I am running late for an appointment.

Throughout my life and business journey, I’ve had moments when I lost sight of what truly matters. I began with a sense of purpose and faith, constantly seeking guidance from the Holy Spirit. However, more often than not, I found myself drifting away or getting distracted by the tempting ‘big deal,’ which seemed like the natural choice or path at the time. As these distractions grew louder, I sometimes muted the wise voice inside me and listened more to my own thoughts, which I saw as opportunities, ambitions, or the promise of easy wins. Every time, I eventually realized I was losing sight of my true path: focusing on what genuinely matters and adding significance to others.

Proverbs 7 offers a heartfelt illustration of this idea. Solomon lovingly advises his son to “keep my commands and live,” emphasizing the importance of staying alert, focused, and resisting fleeting temptations that could divert us from our long-term goals. The enemy’s approach isn’t usually to push us off a cliff suddenly but rather to gently nudge us just enough to veer off course. What might seem like a slight misstep at first can, over time, lead us far away from our true destination.

Distractions aren’t always obvious and can often disguise themselves as success, new opportunities, or tempting offers. They may give us a quick feeling of achievement, but they can quietly disrupt our peace. The real challenge isn’t in chasing growth itself but in having the proper guidance. I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve asked God for blessings, for guidance, and favor, only to rush ahead without waiting for His clear instructions from the Holy Spirit. This often leads us to trade wisdom for speed, leaving us feeling spiritually drained and wondering, “Lord, how did I end up here?” When we ignore God’s Word and depend only on our own understanding, our internal GPS, the signals from me, myself, and I, are weak. Consequently, we become reactive rather than responsive. When our signal weakens, every voice feels like the truth.

Solomon’s advice to “guard my teachings as the apple of your eye” isn’t just poetic; it’s friendly advice that resonates with us all. Our eyes are like gentle guides; when we lose sight of them, we might find ourselves lost. Today, it’s about shielding our spiritual GPS from all those distractions. Just like drivers who get distracted by roadside sights and unintentionally drift off course, we too can stray from our path if we neglect our spiritual focus.

Distortion can significantly compromise the message. Even the most reliable system struggles to communicate effectively when distortion or interference enters the signal path. Proverbs 6 reminds us that deceitful speech or distorted integrity can introduce noise, conflict, confusion, and mistrust into our relationships and organizations.

In the marketplace, clarity and honesty in communication are vital because they build trust and credibility. While mistakes can be forgiven, manipulation leaves a lasting scar on relationships. When static or distortion creeps into the signal, it undermines listeners’ confidence in everything that follows, underscoring the importance of transparent and honest dialogue at all times of transmission.

God’s Intelligent Word truly deserves clear and understandable, intelligible audio, no confusing talk or distortion. When our words reflect the truth, they feel more powerful and carry absolute authority. However, if they stray into deceit, they lose their impact, no matter how loudly they speak.

“We must do the work of Him who sent me, as long as it is day.”—John 9:4

In the New Testament…Of the 132 public appearances that Jesus made, 122 were in the marketplace. Of the 52 parables that Jesus told, 45 had a workplace context. Of the 40 miracles in the Book of Acts, 39 were in the marketplace.

Our WORK isn’t just a J.O.B. (Just over Broke). Our WORK is sacred when we know who we work for.

Thanks for listening to Marketplace Proverbs & Coffee With Ernie! This podcast is public, so feel free to share it.

Proverbs 1 warns us about people who run toward trouble, manipulation, and quick-hit gains. Their feet “run to evil”—meaning they rush into conflict, deception, and shortcuts. But wisdom calls us to something very different: To hold back our foot. To decline the invitation to strife. To refuse the path of haste and pressure. To choose the way of peace. Wisdom promises that if we listen, really listen, we will “dwell securely and be at ease.” That’s the posture of a Peacemaker.

In this New Year’s episode, I share how Customer Success Masters avoid the shortcuts, drama, and emotional reactions that destroy trust and peace. Instead, we step into 2026 with clarity, discipline, and integrity.

You’ll learn:

* What “running to evil” looks like in modern marketplace culture

* How to slow down, think clearly, and protect your integrity

* Why Peacemakers consistently outperform strife-chasers

* How Proverbs 1:33 becomes a promise for your year: “You will dwell securely and be at ease.”

Customer Success Code: Peacemakers don’t run to strife—they hold back their foot and let wisdom lead.

Thanks for listening to Marketplace Proverbs & Coffee With Ernie: A Proverb Each Day Keeps Stinking Thinking At Bay! This podcast is public; please share it.

Let’s take that same concept to ourselves. All of us wear a sign. Some signs show stress, fatigue, fear, and anger. Some show happiness and peace. We can choose the message on our personal billboard. Does our sign say “I hear you, I am here to add significance to you or does it display “I’m all about the deal, let’s do a transaction so I can go to the next one”? Only we can decide the message our personal billboard displays.

Thanks for listening to Marketplace Proverbs & Coffee With Ernie. A Proverb Each Day Keeps Stinking Thinking At bay! This podcast is public; please share it.

(From Marketplace Proverbs Vol. 2: Micro to Macro — The Ripple Effect of Influence)

💬 Marketplace Proverbs & Coffee with Ernie™ — Episode 30 is live!

In a world full of filters, slogans, and AI-generated taglines, it’s tempting to tweak the truth — especially in business. But Proverbs 30 reminds us: God’s Word doesn’t need editing. It needs alignment. It’s already perfect, powerful, and purposeful. In this episode, I explain why Gospel-Centered Customer Success Masters™ must build their message on God’s truth—not trends.

✅ When you trust the Word, you don’t have to twist it.

✅ When you speak with integrity, your influence multiplies.

✅ When you align with God’s Word, you create ripple effects that last.

🎧 Listen now — and recalibrate your voice to reflect what’s already pure.

📬 Subscribe and catch every episode at:

When life turns foggy, the danger isn’t the road—it’s trusting your instincts instead of God’s direction.

Proverbs 29:18 (MSG) gives us a powerful picture of what happens when our spiritual visibility drops: “If people can’t see what God is doing, they stumble all over themselves; but when they attend to what He reveals, they are most blessed.”

Fog doesn’t mean the journey is over. Fog doesn’t mean God changed the direction. Fog simply means slow down, listen closer, and trust the instruments more than your instincts. In leadership — and in life — the fog often comes in the form of fatigue, frustration, pride, distraction, or even success. Yes… success can fog our vision too. The glare of our own accomplishments can blind us to God’s next instruction. In today’s episode, I share that pilots don’t fly through fog by feeling their way forward. They trust their instruments. They tune into the control tower. They follow the voice that sees what they cannot.

That’s God’s GPS —God’s Perfect System for Purpose.

It keeps us calibrated when visibility fades. And here’s an “Ernie-ism” that frames it: “If our message and mission map is fuzzy to the team, it’s foggy to our customers.”

Clarity begins with leadership — including spiritual leadership. When your message is clear, people move with confidence. When your communication is clean, confusion fades. When your heart is aligned with God’s direction, blessing follows. Fog is not failure. Fog is a signal:

Slow down. Listen up. Realign.

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Few passages in Proverbs sound more contradictory than this one. In one verse, Solomon says, “Don’t answer a fool.” In the very next, he says, “Do answer a fool.” At first glance, it appears to be sending mixed signals. But that tension is the lesson. In leadership, as in life, wisdom isn’t about having the correct answer every time; it’s about knowing when to answer and how to respond. There’s a kind of noise in today’s marketplace that didn’t exist in Solomon’s day. It lives in comment sections, meeting rooms, and social media feeds. The good news is that everyone has a microphone. The bad news is that everyone has a microphone. Everyone has an opinion. And not all opinions deserve our engagement. The “fool” in this proverb isn’t a person with low intelligence; it’s a person with limited understanding. A fool refuses correction, elevates ego over truth, and argues to win, not to learn.

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Merry Christmas to you and yours.

That’s what wealth does when it becomes the goal, not the byproduct.

Today, our focus is Proverbs 23:4-5 because it’s the 23rd day of the month.

Welcome to Marketplace Proverbs and Coffee with Ernie™ — where a Proverb a day keeps stinking thinking away.

Today, I am sharing from chapter 23 of Marketplace Proverbs Vol 1: A Sales Navigator’s Compass to Customer Success Mastery by your truly and my friend Jon Kluiter.

Here is a link in the show note to download the e-book free, no gotcha, no clickbait, no data mining. Just free, our gift to you for listening, with a prayer, it helps you add greater significance to your customers. ⁠GUMROAD⁠

“Give up trying so hard to get rich. Your money flies away before you know it. Just like an eagle suddenly taking off.”—Proverbs 23:4–5 CEV

In business, people often mistake meekness for weakness. But in God’s economy, meekness is one of the most powerful leadership traits we can have, because it’s power under control. Today, our focus is on Proverbs 22:4 because it’s the 22nd day of the month.

“The reward for humility and fear of the Lord is riches and honor and life.” — Proverbs 22:4 ESV

Proverbs 22:4 — Meekness Is Power

“The reward for humility and fear of the Lord is riches and honor and life.” — Proverbs 22:4 ESV

This verse links three truths: humility, reverence for God, and reward. In the marketplace, that path doesn’t run through ego or self-promotion—it runs through meekness.

But meekness is often misunderstood. It’s not passive. It’s not a pushover mentality. Biblical meekness is strength—your ability, authority, and confidence—submitted to God’s control. It’s the choice to lead with grace, even under pressure.

And I’ll be honest with you—there have been times I’ve failed at this.

In today’s fast-paced marketplace, we often confuse movement with momentum. But quick decisions made under pressure often come with long-term consequences.

In this episode, I share the biblical story of King Saul’s hasty choice, how it relates to modern leadership, and the marketplace lesson it taught me the hard way.

Here’s the big idea:

✅ Speed can win a moment. Patience wins the mission.

🎧 Listen now and recalibrate your GPS before making your next big decision.

Thanks for listening to Marketplace Proverbs & Coffee With Ernie! This podcast is public, so feel free to share it.

In today’s episode, we discuss the concept of keeping static out of our relationship with God and His other children, those we serve.

Thanks for listening to Marketplace Proverbs & Coffee With Ernie! This podcast is public, so feel free to share it.

It can open doors, build trust, and keep you energized in ways talent alone never will.

Today, I’ll tell you why I believe happiness belongs on your business scoreboard.

Welcome to Marketplace Proverbs and Coffee with Ernie™ — where a Proverb a day keeps stinking thinking away.

I’m Ernie Lansford, here to help you connect biblical wisdom to everyday marketplace decisions so you can build relationships that outlast any transaction.

Here, we bring timeless biblical truth into the marketplace, where influence is real, choices are constant, and relationships matter more than results.

So grab your coffee, tea, latte, soda, or water… and let’s get started.

“A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones—(Proverbs 17:22)

“Whatever is true, noble, right, pure, lovely, admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.”—(Philippians 4:8)

Thanks for listening to Marketplace Proverbs & Coffee With Ernie! This podcast is public, so feel free to share it.

Diligence isn’t hustle—it’s holy stewardship. It clears the clutter, opens doors, and builds trust in ways laziness never could.

In today’s episode of Marketplace Proverbs and Coffee with Ernie™, we look at the power of follow-up, the parable of the talents, and why setting calendar appointments might be the most spiritual thing you do today.

Today, I’m diving into “Under the Broom Tree: Elijah’s Lesson for Today” from Marketplace Proverbs Vol. 6. Explore how Elijah’s despair mirrors our cultural struggles—loneliness, performance pressure—and how God’s whisper guides us back. Tune in for wisdom to navigate shifts with resilience.

🌳 Ever hit a low after a big win? Elijah did—fire from heaven to sit under a tree. Today’s. episode unpacks this lesson for today’s marketplace, where doubt creeps in despite success.

Under the Broom Tree: Elijah’s Lesson for Today – Join me for a raw look at Elijah’s journey from victory to despair, reflecting today’s cultural shifts—loneliness, burnout, and the pressure to perform. Discover how God’s silent mercy and whisper offer a path forward, packed with Ernie’s hard-won wisdom and actionable steps. Perfect for Customer Success Masters navigating uncertainty.

Proverbs 11:10–11 paints a clear picture--When the righteous thrive, whole communities rejoice. But when integrity falls, the city crumbles from within.

In today's episode, I share an issue with the Great Wall of China. That wall didn’t fail in 1449 because the enemy scaled it. It failed because gatekeepers were bribed.

The U.S. marketplace is seeing similar cracks — not from external pressure, but from internal compromise:

• Integrity slips at times

• Humility appears to be fading

• Accountability sometimes is optional

• Moral courage is becoming rare

The solution isn’t loud preaching.

It’s living out the two commandments Jesus gave us:

Love God. Love your neighbor.

I’ve “Ernie-ized” it into one marketplace mission:

Conduct business and add significance to others in a manner greater than expected in return.

Every conversation is a gate.

Every decision is a gate.

Every compromise is a gate. We are stewards of influence.

The marketplace is the most fertile mission field I am aware of.

When we influence the marketplace for God, we influence the world for Him.

Customer Success Code™--“Our life as Gospel-Centric Customer Success Masters™ should make non-Christians question their disbelief.”

“The tongue of the righteous is choice silver, but the heart of the wicked is of little value.” Proverbs 10:20 NIV

Righteous words carry weight. Not because they’re fancy—but because they’re grounded in truth, humility, and integrity.

In today’s episode, I reflect on the difference between manipulative messaging and meaningful communication, using real-world examples from the COVID-19 marketplace and companies like In-N-Out Burger, where mission and message align.

We also unpack how the words we speak create ripples of trust or ripples of damage—one conversation at a time.

🎧 Listen in as we explore:

• Why righteous words are like choice silver

• How culture is shaped one sentence at a time

• Practical ways to align your communication with Kingdom values

If you’re a sales leader, entrepreneur, or marketplace missionary who wants to move from transaction to transformation, this one’s for you.

Thank you for listening to Marketplace Proverbs & Coffee with Ernie! This post is public, so feel free to share it.

I’m not casting blame. I’m sharing it as a reminder that wisdom without integrity leads to erosion, not excellence.

🎯 True Customer Success Mastery™ multiplies when we lead

and walk in righteousness.

In today’s episode, I share a hard-earned lesson from a last-minute sales push that exposed more panic than preparation. It taught me something I never forgot: wisdom builds deeper than the deadline.

🛠 Learn how to serve from wisdom—not ego—and raise your Key Partnerships Indicator with faithfulness over flash.

At first, the sound seemed delightful, like a sweet melody. But soon, the distortion crept in, reminding us gently of how deception can slip in unnoticed. Proverbs 5 isn’t just about adultery; it’s about being tempted by what appears clear and true. Usually, the enemy doesn’t come with outright lies; he subtly tweaks the truth just enough to seem right, yet enough to distort the message. Audio engineers call it ‘sweetening the mix,’ which can eventually lead to audio fatigue, a helpful analogy for recognizing how small deceptions can wear us down.

Thank you for listening to Marketplace Proverbs & Coffee with Ernie! This post is public, so feel free to share it.

“The path of the righteous is like the morning sun, shining ever brighter till the full light of day.” Proverbs 4:18 (NIV)

Today, I am sharing from Marketplace Proverbs, Vol. 4. God’s Perfect System for Purpose: The GPS That Is Always on Target. There is a link in the show notes to download the e-book: FREE OF CHARGE! No clickbait, no follow-up offers, no hidden gotcha offers, just free to all, with a prayer that my e-books add significance to readers. The path of the righteous is always changing and growing. Think of the morning sun: it doesn’t suddenly burst into full brightness but gently rises, slowly pushing away shadows as everything becomes clearer. Just like that, walking in harmony with God means our journey doesn’t just become easier; it also continues to grow and shine brighter.

Marketplace culture often emphasizes quick solutions like “Instant results. Overnight success. One big deal to solve it all,” but Proverbs remind us that righteousness develops in a different way. It grows gradually, much like a sunrise: steady, reliable, and unmistakable.

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“Never let loyalty and kindness leave you! Tie them around your neck as a reminder. Write them deep within your heart. Then you will find favor with both God and people.” Proverbs 3:3-4 (NLT)

Today, I am sharing from Marketplace Proverbs, Vol. 5. God’s Intelligent Word Deserves Intelligible Audio. The subtitle is an old ‘ernie-ism’ or customer success code I coined many years ago when I led a highly dialed-in sales team at Mackie, EAW, and Martin-Audio. God’s Intelligent Word deserves Intelligible Audio. And frankly, we, as customer success masters, are like professionals in audio systems. People listen and observe us in everything we say and do. Therefore, it's essential, just like a professional audio system, that we are ‘dialed in,’ as system integrators like to say. Every system has tone controls and EQ adjustments that help make the sound pleasant or harsh. We set the tone and EQ of our message.

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Each episode follows the S.O.A.P. Concept: Scripture, Observation, Application, and Prayer.

📡 “For the LORD gives wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge and understanding.” — Proverbs 2:6

In today’s episode, we explore what it really means to stay connected to the Source. Your credentials and experience matter—but without daily alignment to God’s wisdom, you’ll drift. Just like a GPS without a signal.

In today’s episode, I reflect on the marketplace power of listening, learning, and seeking counsel before taking action. The best leaders I’ve known didn’t talk first—they listened first.

🚦 When you start with humility and teachability, your path to significance becomes clear. We never graduate from gaining wisdom. Markets change. People change. Seasons change. If we’re still doing things the same way we did five years ago, we may be following an outdated map. "If nothing changes, future-you will be an exaggerated version of present-you."--Levi Lusko. Are you pleased with the present you?

But I’ve learned that gratitude isn’t meant to be seasonal. It’s not something we pull out like a casserole dish once a year. It’s more like a muscle. The more we use it, the stronger it gets. The less we use it, the weaker it becomes.

Author Scott Savage compared gratitude to caffeine. Caffeine gives a quick boost—gratitude gives lasting strength. You can rely on caffeine to wake you up, but gratitude can lift you up.

Proverbs 15:15 “For the despondent, every day brings trouble; for the happy heart, life is a continual feast.”

A heart that practices daily gratitude doesn’t need a calendar reminder to be thankful. It feasts every day—on grace, growth, and goodness. So here’s a Thanksgiving challenge: Don’t stop giving thanks when the dishes are done. Start building your gratitude muscle every day after. Write down three things—big or small—you’re thankful for. Let’s make gratitude our daily workout, not our annual holiday.

Customer Success Code: Gratitude isn’t a caffeine rush; it’s a muscle that grows stronger every day you use it.

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📖 “A person who promises a gift but doesn’t give it is like clouds and wind that bring no rain.” Proverbs 25:14

James Brown, the Godfather of Soul, said it best: “Just talking loud and saying nothing.”

Proverbs 25 reminds us: Don’t be the cloud that promises rain but delivers nothing. Let your words carry empathy, follow-through, and value.

Customer Success Code: "Empty promises are like thunder without rain. Love, follow-through, and empathy make your voice matter."

A house is built by wisdom, and it is established by understanding; by knowledge, the rooms are filled with every precious and beautiful treasure.” Proverbs 24:3-4 CSB

On a recent walk around the small Village where we live, I saw this sign in front of a dress shop:

“I spend all of my money on food, lattes, and clothes, and yet I’m still hungry, thirsty, and have nothing to wear.”

In 1999, I met Peter Drucker, a brief encounter that left a lasting imprint. I still remember one of his quotes from his talk to our group:

“I see no point in being the richest man in the cemetery.”

That line made me rethink my path. When I started my career, I used the wrong tools to guide me, measuring success by appearance instead of aligning with God’s Word. I was, in a way, like the dress shop quote, surrounded by things but still hungry.

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“It’s not the will to win that matters—everyone has that. It’s the will to prepare to win that matters.” Paul “Bear” Bryant, University of Alabama Football Coach

Over the years, I’ve set many goals. Honestly, I’ve achieved far fewer than I intended—not because the goals were wrong, but because I lacked the will to prepare to accomplish them. I wrote some in journals and jotted others on scrap paper. But that’s where the journey ended—not in failure, but in abandonment due to lack of preparation.

Looking back, especially as I near birthday number 78, I realize something: much of the potential I had early in life was left untapped—not because I didn’t want to succeed, but because I didn’t consistently prepare for it. I’m learning that wanting something and working toward it are not the same.

Oddly, as a sales professional, I’ve always been a stickler for pre-call planning. I’d never waste my time—or a customer’s time—by going into a meeting unprepared. Having a clearly defined objective was always part of the process. Why? because I cared deeply about helping my customers thrive and prosper. When I prepared thoroughly, the goals were often met.

So here’s the painful question I had to ask myself: Do I take my career-level responsibilities more seriously than my dreams and God-given goals?

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This passage relates “children” to the teams and customers we lead. Strong evidence of God-loyal behavior and genuine character earns us credibility, making customer success mastery easier for us and everyone in our sphere of influence.

Proverbs 20:5 reminds us that.

“Knowing what is right is like a deep well.”

A familiar farmer’s adage says,

“What’s in the well comes up in the bucket.”

This prompts a personal and professional question: What’s in our bucket?

What’s in Your Bucket?

The wellspring of our actions should reflect God-loyal values, good character, and a consistent effort to add value to others. Credibility isn’t a gift handed to us; it’s a victory we earn through consistency in our actions, decisions, and how we treat others.

Credibility grows when we give credit where it’s due rather than seeking the spotlight for ourselves. As leaders, teammates, or service providers, we earn the opportunity to draw from the well of credibility by demonstrating integrity every day.

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Thanks for listening to Marketplace Proverbs & Coffee With Ernie! Subscribe for free to receive new posts and support my work.

We reflect on the cost of impulsive decisions—and the peace that comes when we invite God into the process first.

“Desire without knowledge is not good—how much more will hasty feet miss the way!”Proverbs 19:2—NIV

If you’re facing a decision today—big or small—this one’s for you.

Customer Success Code: “Speed without wisdom is expensive. Pause, pray, and proceed with peace.”

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Gossip feels good in the moment—but it costs you more than you think.

In today’s episode, I share a personal story about how gossip once impacted my sales career and what I learned from it. If you’ve ever felt tempted to “bark” about your competitors or tear down others to build yourself up, this episode will bring both conviction and clarity.

Customer Success Code: "Gossip is cheap candy—sweet for a second, destructive for a season."

There’s a difference between being tested and being punished. Punishment looks backward; testing looks forward. Punishment condemns. Testing refines.

Just as silver and gold require intense heat to reveal their purity, God uses life’s pressures to refine our motives, attitudes, and reactions. Refinement isn’t about destruction, it’s about distinction. The impurities, known as dross rise to the surface so we can see what doesn’t belong and choose to release it.

In the marketplace, these refining fires come in many forms: the lost sale, the missed opportunity, the rejected proposal, the difficult customer or overlooked for a promotion. Each moment tests more than our skill; it tests our spirit.

When I think back over my career, the most valuable lessons didn’t come from awards or promotions, they came from the fires. Times when I was overlooked, misunderstood, or forced to start again. Looking back, those moments were classrooms disguised as crises

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Not all decisions that feel right lead to significance. Some just lead to survival… and others lead to burnout.

In today’s episode of Marketplace Proverbs and Coffee with Ernie™, we explore the modern-day “Moloch” that demands we sacrifice integrity to stay competitive—and how to follow God’s GPS instead.

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Thanks for listening to Marketplace Proverbs & Coffee With Ernie! Subscribe for free to receive new posts and support my work.

Want deeper influence? It starts with smaller acts.

In today’s episode, I share a story my co-author Jon Kluiter told me—about how polishing helmets led to a major account. But it wasn’t the polish. It was the posture of humility that made the difference.

Let’s talk about how simple, selfless actions can plant seeds that grow into relationships—and relationships that, in turn, grow influence.

Customer Success Code: “It is in our best interest to forget our self-interest.” — August Turak

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“Where there is no counsel, the people fall… but in the multitude of counselors there is safety.” Proverbs 11:14

Even the strongest leaders need guidance. The question is—are you choosing your counselors wisely?

In today’s episode, I walk through 8 essential qualities of a righteous counselor and show you how to prayerfully identify the right people to speak into your leadership, your business, and your legacy.

Customer Success Code: "Counsel multiplies clarity. The right voices lead to the right vision."

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Life and business drop rocks in our path—misunderstandings, betrayals, missed opportunities. We pick them up to protect ourselves… but end up weighed down.

In today’s episode, I share how holding onto emotional “rocks” clouds our clarity, slows our progress, and blocks the wisdom of God’s GPS.

🎯 Let love lighten your load—so grace can guide your next turn.

In today’s longer episode, we explore how Gospel-Centered Customer Success Mastery™ equips us to stay anchored in truth—despite all the noise and temptation of modern leadership.

📖 Discover the GOSPEL acrostic and how it reframes your purpose:

Gracious. Obedient. Steward. Prayerful. Engaged. Level.

In today’s episode, we contrast the destructive habits God despises with the steward leadership He honors.

I walk you through Peter’s four roles of a Gospel-centered leader and share a personal prayer of repentance, legacy, and significance.

📖 Shepherd. Coach. Steward. Example. That’s the life of a Customer Success

In today’s episode, we contrast the destructive habits God despises with the steward leadership He honors.

I walk you through Peter’s four roles of a Gospel-centered leader and share a personal prayer of repentance, legacy, and significance.

📖 Shepherd. Coach. Steward. Example. That’s the life of a Customer Success Master.

Marketplace Proverbs and Coffee with Ernie™

📌 “How I hated discipline… and I was soon in serious trouble.” — Proverbs 5:12–14

Let’s be frank and transparent: correction doesn’t feel good. Discipline is uncomfortable. But as Proverbs 5 shows us, it’s far more painful to ignore correction and discipline.

This passage describes someone looking back with regret. Not because they didn’t get the promotion, or didn’t close the deal, but because they rejected correction. And that rejection cost them dearly.

🎙️ (Proverbs 4:23–27)

In today’s episode, we explore how biblical principles function as the spiritual dashboard for Customer Success Masters. They don’t change with seasons, headlines, or market trends—because they’re not hype. They’re holy.

💡 “Keep your heart with all diligence, for out of it spring the issues of life.” — Proverbs 4:23

🧭 Discover how to use principles like humility, love, forgiveness, and truth as your internal compass in business and leadership

🧭 “In all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” — Proverbs 3:6

Most of us want a straight path in business. But few want the submission that keeps us from drifting off course.

🎯 Learn how to filter your decisions, pause for clarity, and re-center your day on God’s direction.

True customer success doesn’t end at the transaction—it begins with who your customer is trying to serve.

CUSTOMER SUCCESS CODE: "Know Your Customer’s Customer: Serve Through vs. Sell To."

Gossip doesn’t make you look smarter—it just reveals what you’re afraid to admit about yourself.

Today’s Proverb reminds us to remove the log from our eye before calling out a teammate’s splinter.

Customer Success Code:" Stewardship starts with seeing the log in your own eye."

Today’s episode reminds us that fairness in business isn’t about discounts—it’s about inclusion. Even the smallest voices deserve thoughtful, customized service.

Customer Success Code: "Fairness isn’t about giving everyone the same—it’s about giving everyone what they truly need to succeed."

📖 “Those who trust in themselves are fools, but those who walk in wisdom are kept safe.”— Proverbs 28:26

We’ve all tried to solve things ourselves. But today’s proverb reminds us:

Pride is expensive. Humility pays.

Learn to ask for directions—not just from people, but from God.

Customer Success Code: "Wise leaders ask for directions. Foolish ones wait until they crash."

📖 “Know well the condition of your flocks, and give attention to your herds.” Proverbs 27:23

🎙️ We often chase Key Performance Indicators—sales, margin, and metrics. But today’s proverb reminds us: You can’t lead from a spreadsheet. You lead by caring for people.

Customer Success Code: "Performance matters—but people matter more. The real KPI of leadership is how you treat them."

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Neglect doesn’t scream. It whispers. And by the time you realize what’s happened, the weeds have taken over.

Today’s episode explores how intentional attention prevents relational erosion—and how every customer is a vineyard worth tending.

Customer Success Code: "Neglect opens the gate to competitors, but consistent service nourishes the partnerships that produce lasting fruit."

Hope isn’t a luxury—it’s a building block of our foundation. Today’s Proverb reminds us that when our hope is in God, it won’t be cut off.

We explore how to anchor your hope, shape your focus, and spread light in a marketplace that desperately needs it.

Customer Success Code: "Hope multiplies when you plant it in others. "

Encourage someone today—and watch it return to you.

In today’s episode, I share a story from my co-author, Jon Kluiter, about his early business journey—how top-line growth turned into bottom-line stress.

This Proverb calls us to rethink what real success looks like.

If you’re carrying the weight of business debt or chasing expansion without peace, this one’s for you.

Customer Success Code: "Don’t confuse top-line noise with bottom-line wisdom. Growth without margin is just glorified debt."

Proverbs 21:9 offers a well-known reminder about the difficulties of living with a nagging spouse; however, in the business world, those same dynamics often appear with customers at lower levels of the relationship.

In today’s Marketplace Proverbs and Coffee with Ernie™, I introduce you to the Five Levels of Relationship—and why the loudest complaints often come from the shallowest connections.

This episode will help you understand:

• Why some customers complain constantly

• What “nagging” really indicates about trust

• How to improve the relationship—or respectfully walk away

Customer Success Code: “The lower the relationship level, the louder the nagging. Serve through it.”

Leadership rooted in love and truth builds legacy, not just loyalty. Today’s episode dives into how emotional capital—relationship equity—shapes our influence and drives results.

Customer Success Code: "Relationship equity is invisible capital that pays visible dividends."

Ever worked under poor leadership?

This episode is for you.

We talk about how Gospel-Centric Customer Success Masters™ can quietly carry influence—even when they’re not in charge. The reward doesn’t always come immediately, but the inheritance of trust, peace, and long-term impact is real.

Customer Success Code: “Leadership isn’t a title—it’s the ripple effect of quiet integrity in tough environments.”

“Commit your actions to the Lord, and your plans will succeed.”—Proverbs 16:1–3

Busyness doesn’t guarantee a breakthrough.

In today’s episode, I reflect on the lesson of Proverbs 16—and how the most successful events (and customer calls) in my career were the ones I committed to God before I ever put a plan on paper.

Customer Success Code: "Activity is not necessarily a sign of life—commitment is."

“A simple life in the Fear-of-God is better than a rich life with a ton of headaches.”--Proverbs 15:16 MSG:

In today’s marketplace, righteous leadership isn’t outdated; it’s desperately needed.

In this episode, we talk about how Gospel-Centered Customer Success Mastery™ impacts not just your reputation, but your results. Learn how to pray, praise, lead with purpose, and boldly proclaim God’s authority over your activities in the marketplace.

Customer Success Code: "Righteousness isn’t just a virtue—it’s a value multiplier in the marketplace."

Who you walk with shapes where you end up.

In today’s episode, I reflect on a brief conversation in a parking lot with a seasoned sales representative that radically reshaped my journey, from chasing numbers to building significance. Wisdom doesn’t always shout. Sometimes it just walks beside you.

Customer Success Code: "Your future is shaped by who you walk with—choose wisdom over charisma, and significance will follow."

We often think of compounding in terms of money. But time, relationships, and daily decisions compound too—either toward growth or erosion.

In today’s episode, I unpack how diligence—just 90 minutes a day—can transform your future, your influence, and your ability to serve. Don’t underestimate the ripple effect of one faithful choice at a time.

Customer Success Code:—“Small acts of diligence, repeated daily, compound into a harvest of influence and significance.”

“Instruct the wise and they will be wiser still; teach the righteous and they will add to their learning.” Proverbs 9:9

There are seasons when we feel stuck, even though we’re doing the work. We’re showing up, staying faithful, and giving our best, but the results we expect haven’t materialized yet. That’s when self-doubt creeps in. Slowly at first, then all at once. I’ve asked myself more than once, “What am I even doing?” And if I’m honest, I’ve sometimes questioned if my effort was making any difference. But that’s often the exact moment when God reminds me: what feels like going in circles is a quiet elevation. An upward spiral that happens to look like a loop from where I’m standing.

In the Curiosity Chronicle newsletter, writer Sahil Bloom quoted Hermann Hesse and wrote: “We are not going in circles, we are going upwards. The path is a spiral; we have already climbed many steps… The spiral appears to be a circle to the one standing on it. But zoom out, and you see the reality: each circle exists on a slightly higher plane than the last. Sahil then described the quiet evidence of progress—those minor signs of spiritual maturity:

1—You stop chasing the approval of others.

2—You set boundaries that once felt impossible.

3—You stop complaining and start taking ownership.

4—You cringe (in a good way) at who you were six months ago.

5—You lean into the discomfort of being a beginner again.

In that moment, it clicked: I’m not stuck. I’ve grown.

“Instruct the wise and they will be wiser still…” Proverbs 9:9

This verse reminds us that growth is often a subtle process. The wise aren’t satisfied with maintaining—they keep learning, keep humbling themselves, keep climbing.

Progress in the Kingdom doesn’t always feel like progress. We serve. We give. We obey. And sometimes we wonder if it’s making a difference. But faithfulness is never wasted. It’s just that elevation happens quietly, like a seed growing beneath the surface.

Romans 12:2 speaks to this when it calls us to “be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” The world says success is about what others can see. But we know the more profound truth: what God sees is far more critical. And when we renew our minds with His Word, we start seeing the spiral for what it is—evidence of movement, not repetition.

You’re not chasing your tail. You’re building something. You’re not going in circles. You’re rising.

Customer Success Code

“What looks like a loop is often the spiral of obedience—and it’s raising you one step at a time.”

Action Points:

1—Zoom Out: Reflect on the last 6–12 months. What subtle signs reveal you’ve grown?

2—Name Your Spiral: Identify an area of life where you feel stuck. Ask God to reframe it as a growth-in-motion experience.

3—Encourage Someone Else: Send a word of encouragement to a friend who may feel like they’re spinning their wheels. Remind them they’re ascending.

4—Recommit to the Process: Choose one habit you’ve been tempted to quit. Keep going—progress is still happening.

5—Pray for Fresh Perspective: Ask God to help you recognize and celebrate the quiet gains in your life today

Thanks for joining me for today’s episode of Marketplace Proverbs and Coffee with Ernie™. I speak Numbers 6:24-26 over you: “May the Lord bless you and protect you; may the Lord make his face shine on you and be gracious to you; may the Lord look with favor on you and give you peace.”—Numbers 6:24-26 CSB

“Blessed is the one who listens to Me… whoever finds Me finds life and obtains favor from the Lord.” 📖 Proverbs 8:32–36

Ever feel like God is distant?

In today’s episode, I share a deeply personal moment when the Holy Spirit corrected my thinking—and it changed everything. We explore what happens when we stop resisting and truly listen to God’s voice.

CUSTOMER SUCCESS CODE "When you stop resisting God’s voice, you start receiving His favor."

Ever chased a shiny object in the name of success?

In today’s episode, I get personal about a purchase I made to look successful—only to realize it cost more than just a monthly payment.

This Proverb isn’t just about moral traps—it’s also about marketplace traps, too. The ones that pull us away from service, purpose, and trust.

In today’s episode, I explore how the discipline of the ant mirrors the kind of faith-driven diligence we’re called to bring to the marketplace and to our walk with God. This short message will challenge you to shift from short bursts of effort to small, daily disciplines that lead to lasting influence.-- Proverbs 6:6-11 (NIV)

CUSTOMER SUCCESS CODE—What we ignore now, in the short term, will ignore us later, in the long term.

My son, if you listen closely to my wisdom and good sense, you will have sound judgment…” Proverbs 5:1-2(CEV)

🔠 THE COMMITMENT ACROSTIC

C — Commit to the Lord – Psalm 143:10

O — One day at a time – Philippians 1:6

M — Make time to renew – Psalm 51:7–11

M — Make a list of actions – Luke 6:31

I — Integrity – Hebrews 1:9; Proverbs 10:9

T — Trust in the Lord – Proverbs 3:5–8

M — Morals – 2 Timothy 2:15–16

E — Ease the pain through confession – Psalm 32:1–5

N — New life in Christ – 2 Corinthians 5:16–20

T — Turn over your flaws to God – James 4:7–10

That’s what real, marketplace commitment looks like. It’s not about being perfect. It’s about being honest, faithful, and fully surrendered.

CUSTOMER SUCCESS CODE: Commitment isn’t proven by what you say—it’s revealed by what you consistently prioritize.

Marketplace Proverbs Vol 1, A Sales Navigator's Compass to Customer Success Mastery⁠⁠ here⁠

Download a PDF of C.O.M.M.I.T.M.E.N.T Acrostic Here

There’s a difference between using what you’ve learned and depending on it.

In today’s episode, I share a personal story from early in my sales career—where I leaned more on training than trust. It worked for a while… until it didn’t.

If you’ve ever relied on certifications, programs, or talent alone, this one will challenge you to reframe how you use your skills to serve others through the lens of Proverbs 3:5-7

Customer Success Code: "Training gives us tools. Trust gives us direction."

📖 Proverbs 2:11 “Discretion will protect you, and understanding will guard you.”

What do a business deal and a spiritual checklist have in common?

In today’s episode, I share a powerful story from my former co-author Jon Kluiter about how chasing short-term wins—without discretion—can actually work against you. It’s a lesson that applies in the boardroom and in your walk with the Lord.

Most KPIs measure activity. But what if the real measure of influence is how well you serve?

Today’s episode examines the distinction between pursuing transactions and cultivating relationships founded on wisdom, humility, and lasting value. I share the turning point in my career when I shifted from performance-driven thinking to purpose-driven impact.

Whether you’re in sales, leadership, or just navigating the marketplace with integrity—this one’s for you.

Customer Success Code: What you believe will show up in how you serve—not just what you sell.

“Everything God says is true— and it’s a shield for all who come to him for safety. Don’t change what God has said! He will correct you and show that you are a liar.” – Proverbs 30:5–6 (CEV)

Today’s proverb reminds us that God’s Word doesn’t need our edits, enhancements, or spin. It’s already pure, complete, and powerful—capable of accomplishing exactly what God intends. In this episode, we’ll explore why a Gospel-Centered approach to communication means aligning our words with His Word, both in life and in the marketplace.

As Gospel-Centered Customer Success Masters™, we must ask ourselves: Do our words build trust, foster relationships, and bear fruit? Or do they create barriers and misrepresent God’s intent?

When we model our communication and presentations on the principles of God’s Word, we serve with integrity and create a ripple effect of influence—becoming faithful stewards of both the marketplace and the relationships entrusted to us.

POWER – A Blueprint for Godly Leadership

P – Pray First

“The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.” — James 5:16

Before a meeting, negotiation, or decision—pause and pray. Prayer doesn’t slow momentum; it sets direction.

O – Obey God’s Word

“Be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves.” — James 1:22

Obedience isn’t weakness—it’s authority under alignment. God’s Word must shape how we think, speak, and act.

W – Walk in Humility

“Pride brings a person low, but the lowly in spirit gain honor.” — Proverbs 29:23

Humility is the doorway to influence. Ego demands control, but humility earns respect and multiplies impact.

E – Empower Others

“Encourage one another and build each other up…” — 1 Thessalonians 5:11

Power is for building, not hoarding. Authentic leadership lifts others up, helping them grow in confidence, competence, and their sense of calling.

R – Reflect Christ

“Let your light shine before others, so they may see your good works and give glory to your Father in heaven.” — Matthew 5:16

When we walk in godly power, people don’t just see us—they see Him. That’s what true leadership looks like.

Whether you’re leading a team, running a business, or serving on the front line, remember: power doesn’t come from within. It comes from above.

Customer Success Code: "True power isn’t about control—it’s about character under God’s authority."

“Wicked people run away when no one chases them, but those who live right are as brave as lions.” — Proverbs 28:1 CEV

Customer Success Code: "Bold leadership isn’t about ego—it’s about Gospel-centered confidence that serves others with integrity and love."

🎙️ Join me at the table for some coffee, Scripture, and marketplace leadership insight.

We’ve all worked with difficult people—but Proverbs 26 reminds us that foolishness isn’t just “out there.” Sometimes it’s in us when we resist correction. In today’s episode, I share lessons from my own leadership journey and principles from Dr. John Maxwell, as outlined in the Maxwell Leadership Bible published by Thomas Nelson, on how wisdom—not ego (edging God out)—turns conflict into an opportunity for growth.

1. Use the 101% Principle – Find the 1% you agree on and give it 100% of your attention.

2. Love people more than policies—but love truth more than people.

3. Give others the benefit of the doubt.

4. Be flexible where you can.

5. Check your attitude first.

6. Don’t overreact to conflict.

7. View conflict as a learning opportunity.

8. Provide an escape route—let them maintain dignity.

9. Take a risk—give them a second chance.

10. Take the high road. Be generous. Choose to believe the best in people.

Customer Success Code: “Wisdom is the KPI that turns conflict into growth and difficult people into disciples.”

Learn the powerful metaphor of a snakebite and a tourniquet—and how it applies to your business relationships.

We’ll discuss what Proverbs 25:21-22 says about how to treat “enemies” in the marketplace—and why generosity and integrity always beat retaliation.

“If your enemies are hungry, give them something to eat. And if they are thirsty, give them something to drink. This will be the same as piling burning coals on their heads. And the Lord will reward you.”-- Proverbs 25:21-22 CEV

Customer Success Code: "Competitors are not enemies; they are God's other children offering different solutions to mutual customers."

🎙️ Join me at the table for some coffee, Scripture, and marketplace leadership insight.

Have you ever done business with someone who looked perfect on paper—yet gave you an uneasy feeling deep down?

In today’s episode, I share a real story from my co-author Jon Kluiter about navigating a rocky business relationship, learning to trust your gut, and understanding that discernment is sometimes more valuable than a spreadsheet.

Customer Success Code: If peace isn’t part of the partnership, you’re probably partnering with the wrong entity.

🎙️ Join me at the table for some coffee, Scripture, and marketplace leadership insights.

You can have the best seed, the best tools, and the best intentions—but if the soil isn’t ready, nothing will grow. In business and in life, discernment saves you from wasting energy where it can’t produce a return.

In this episode, Ernie shares how to discern when to plant, when to move on, and how that choice can transform your relationships and protect your calling.

Would the people you lead today still be living out your example 10 years from now?

That’s the power of training up a child in the way they should go—and it applies far beyond parenting.

In this episode of Marketplace Proverbs and Coffee with Ernie, we delve into how leadership, character, and consistency leave a lasting impact in the marketplace. Whether you’re leading a team or guiding customers, your example speaks louder than any presentation.

Customer Success Code: Leadership that lasts is built on integrity that’s lived, not just taught.

Tune in now and let Proverbs 22 guide you toward a legacy of significance.

“The Lord despises the offerings of wicked people with evil motives. If you tell lies in court, you are done for; only a reliable witness can do the job. Wicked people bluff their way, but God's people think before they take a step. No matter how much you know or what plans you make, you can't defeat the Lord. Even if your army has horses ready for battle, the Lord will always win.”—Proverbs 21:27-31 CEV

Per the attached graphic, let’s live in the yellow! Awaken the silent majority to make shape the voice of our country!

In today’s Marketplace Proverbs and Coffee with Ernie™, I share why it’s vital to glean up, reach across, and teach down—and how my worst decisions came when I listened only to the “trinity of me, myself, and I.”

This episode is for anyone who wants to grow their impact without growing their ego. Pull up a seat. Let’s get wiser—together.

Customer Success Code: ''Wise leaders listen deeply, grow continually, and raise the tide for others."

“If one gives an answer before he hears, it is his folly and shame.”—Proverbs 18:13 (ESV)

Today’s podcast reminds us why listening before reacting is one of the most overlooked KPI indicators in marketplace leadership. I’ll share:

• What happens when we lead with ego instead of humility

• A powerful lesson from Jesus in John 8

• Why we judge others by their actions but excuse ourselves by our intentions

• How to track Key Praise Indicators instead of just performance metrics

Listen and learn how humility builds trust—and ego wrecks it

and the father of a fool has no joy.” —Proverbs 17:21 (NKJV)

Or as The Message puts it:

“Having a fool for a child is misery; it’s no fun being the parent of a dolt.”-- Proverbs 17:21 MSG

Not every customer is worth the chase. Proverbs 17:21 reminds us that raising up fools—whether children or customers—leads to sorrow. In today’s episode, we discuss the importance of chasing transactions versus building relationships, and why serving the end user well always prevails.

🎯 Customer Success Code: Stop chasing black ops transactions—invest in partners who add value to the actual user.

📨 Want to share your story or thoughts? ernie@ernie.coach

📤 Share this episode with someone navigating the B2B2C world—it might help them choose the right relationships to invest in.

Commit your activities to the Lord, and your plans will be established.”— Proverbs 16:3

Today’s episode comes from Marketplace Proverbs Vol 2, Micro to Macro The Ripple Effects of Influence.

Please join us.

Today’s Marketplace Proverb reminds us that “light in the eyes brings joy to the heart.” Whether it’s a kind word, a handwritten note, or simply using someone’s name,your gratitude speaks louder than your brand. Your actions are your billboard.

🎯 Customer Success Code: "Gratitude is one of the most potent forms of marketing—it turns moments into memories and customers into partners."

📨 Questions or feedback? ernie@ernie.coach

📤 Share this with someone who consistently shows up with joy—you might just return the favor.

One moment of unchecked anger can damage a lifetime of leadership credibility.

In today’s episode, we reflect on a real-life story of public confrontation, personal humility, and the long-lasting lessons learned about restraint, respect, and responsibility.

🎯 Customer Success Code: Wrath may feel powerful in the moment—but restraint is what leaves a legacy.

Today’s Marketplace Proverb reminds us that reckless words pierce like swords, but wise speech brings restoration. Whether leading a team or caring for family, your words create ripple effects. So let’s pause, plant carefully, and speak life into others today.

🎯 Customer Success Code:

Words are seeds—plant carefully, because they will grow something.

September 11 | Proverbs 11:17–18 (NIV) “Those who are kind benefit themselves but the cruel bring ruin on themselves. A wicked person earns deceptive wages, but the one who sows righteousness reaps a sure reward.”

This is a passage about legacy—about what lasts and what doesn’t.

What kind of ripples are your actions creating?

Today, we unpack the connection between kindness, integrity, and long-term influence. Whether in ministry or business, short-term gains built on manipulation or pride always collapse. But those who lead with righteousness plant seeds that will bear fruit—far beyond what they can see.

🎯 Customer Success Code: Let your kindness speak louder than your pitch—and your integrity shine brighter than your brand.

Today’s lesson comes from a story my friend Jon used to tell, but it’s so relatable that I’ve adopted it as my own teaching example for leadership. It’s one of those stories that starts with family and ends up landing squarely in the workplace.

Jon grew up in a large, blended family—plenty of siblings, plenty of chores, and plenty of stories. And in that busy household, one of his sisters had a gift… not for doing chores, but for disappearing whenever they started. You could almost set your watch by it. Time to unload the dishwasher? Gone. Trash needs to be taken out? Nowhere to be found.

Her disappearing act became such a family legend that even decades later, they still laugh about it. And as Jon became a dad, history repeated itself. One of his daughters seemed to have inherited that same disappearing gift—especially when it came to unloading groceries or folding laundry.

Now, that kind of thing can be funny in a family setting. We tease, we laugh, we move on. But in the workplace, disappearing acts aren’t so harmless.

Every leader—whether you’re running a small team or leading an entire organization—has faced the challenge of balancing morale for the hard workers while addressing those who aren’t pulling their weight. And here’s the reality: your hard-working team members notice when laziness is tolerated. Over time, that tolerance chips away at their motivation. Some get resentful. Others quietly start lowering their own standards. And before you know it, your culture and productivity have eroded.

Proverbs 10:5 gives us a clear picture: the wise get to work when it’s time to work. They gather in the harvest season because they know it’s fleeting. But those who “sleep during harvest” aren’t just missing the opportunity—they’re causing shame. That word “shame” is important—it speaks to the loss of trust, respect, and credibility that comes when work is neglected.

As leaders, we have a responsibility to address this dynamic. And here’s the key: accountability and grace are not opposites. Accountability means setting clear expectations, providing measurable outcomes, and following through. Grace means doing it in a way that preserves dignity and opens the door for growth.

This isn’t just about getting the job done—it’s stewardship. God entrusts us with teams, resources, and opportunities. When we lead well, we protect the trust of the team and create an environment where everyone has a chance to succeed.

And remember—accountability starts with us. We can’t expect from others what we’re not willing to model ourselves. Our example sets the tone for the culture we build.

🗝 CUSTOMER SUCCESS CODE

“Grace and accountability are not opposites — together, they create a culture where everyone can thrive.”

Action Points:

Today, think of one person in your workplace—or even in your circle—whose work habits are quietly affecting the rest of the team.

• First, pray for them by name.

• Then, look for one specific, constructive way you can start a conversation that brings both clarity and encouragement.

Wisdom isn’t reserved for the elite—it’s a feast prepared for anyone hungry enough to ask.

In today’s episode, we explore the difference between textbook decisions and Spirit-led wisdom. I share how God has recalibrated my leadership over the years—from cold, calculated moves to kind, Spirit-guided ones that ripple far beyond the moment.

Customer Success Code: "Godly wisdom transforms decisions from transactions to testimonies."

Today’s episode invites you to hear that call and respond—not with a big platform, but with small daily actions that create macro influence in the marketplace.

🎯 Customer Success Code:

The influence that matters most is the kind people don’t always see—but always feel.

📨 Thoughts or feedback? ernie@ernie.coach

📤 Share it with someone who serves quietly but faithfully—you might just encourage them more than you know.

Proverbs 7 warns us about seduction, but not just in the physical sense.

Today, we explore how promiscuous business practices—discounts, shortcuts, and rogue customers—can destroy credibility and loyalty faster than you think.

🎯 Customer Success Code:

Promiscuous business is transactional adultery—guard your pricing, your process, and your partnerships like your legacy depends on it… because it does.

📨 Reach out: ernie@ernie.coach

📤 Share this with someone who’s leading a team, pricing products, or navigating customer relationships.

🎯 Customer Success Code:

A moment of moral failure can ruin a lifetime of credibility—protect your heart as if your legacy depends on it… because it does.

📨 Email: ernie@ernie.coach

📤 Share this with someone in leadership who needs a reminder: guardrails are wisdom, not weakness.

Feeling thirsty for direction? Maybe you’ve been standing in fresh water the whole time…

This episode unpacks Proverbs 4 and a powerful story about being surrounded by God’s wisdom but still thirsting for clarity. Don’t settle for shiny objects or temporary fixes. Let’s dip our buckets and drink deeply from the Word that never runs dry.

🎯 Customer Success Code:

Don’t chase the next shiny object—drink deeply from the stream that never runs dry.

📨 Thoughts or feedback? ernie@ernie.coach

📤 Share with a fellow leader trying to find clarity in the noise.

“My son, do not despise the Lord’s discipline, and do not resent his rebuke, because the Lord disciplines those he loves, as a father the son he delights in.”—Proverbs 3:11-12 (NIV)

When’s the last time you were corrected—really corrected?

This episode tells the story of an 18-year-old receiving grace-filled discipline from a Christian business owner and the life-long lessons that followed. Whether you’re giving or receiving correction, this Marketplace Proverb reminds us: rebuke done right builds character.

🎯 Customer Success Code:

Correction from someone who cares is confirmation that you matter.

📨 Email thoughts, stories, or feedback to: ernie@ernie.coach

📤 Share it with a mentor—or someone you’re mentoring today.

Join me for a powerful shift—from negative thoughts to righteous thinking. I’ll share lessons from Zig Ziglar, a message from Pastor Chan Mitchell in Morganton, GA, and the Proverbs that continue to guide how we lead, live, and serve.

🎯 Customer Success Code:

Values without virtues are barren—and they won’t pass the audit of eternity.

✍️ Apply the “Righteous Thinking Audit” and reset your mindset for the week ahead.

📨 Email thoughts, questions, or corrections to: ernie@ernie.coach

📲 Share it with someone who needs marketplace wisdom today.

What would change if you started with God today?

This episode kicks off the month with wisdom from Proverbs 1:7 and a reminder that micro decisions—rooted in God’s wisdom—can lead to macro influence. We’ll unpack the power of a God-listening heart, and I’ll share how my daily T.A.P. List keeps me anchored in purpose and service.

Customer Success Code:

Start with God. Serve with a God-listening heart. Influence through obedience.

Listen now on Spotify or Substack.

Got thoughts or encouragement to share? Email me: ernie@ernie.coach

Forward this to a friend who could use a dose of Marketplace Wisdom today.

Success is temporal. Adding significance to others is infinite.

We’re all wearing a sign today—whether we realize it or not. The question is: does it invite people in, or push them away?

Billboards don’t just sit along the roadside anymore—they flash, rotate, and compete for our attention. But in a way, we’re all walking billboards, silently communicating who we are and what we value. In this episode, we’ll talk about the signs we wear in business and life—and how they can either draw people toward us or send them running the other way.

“Do you see someone who speaks in haste? There is more hope for a fool than for them.” — Proverbs 29:20 NIV

Jon’s Experience

Early in his career, my co-author and friend Jon Klutier struggled to read the room. Once he started his pitch, he kept rolling—ignoring body language and burning through air like a train with no brakes.

Then he traveled with a new supervisor and watched a pro at work—a few words, strong questions, a real connection, and signed orders. Between calls, Jon asked a thousand questions. By week’s end, he was running the pitch with a new rhythm. It became his busiest order-writing week ever.

The key lesson he carried home? Respect the uncomfortable silence.

Not “he who talks first loses.” That’s too shallow. It’s this: the pause is where the customer thinks, weighs value, and moves toward a decision. Jump in too soon and you break their concentration—and possibly the deal.

Proverbs 28:26 — When the Trinity of Me, Myself, and I Takes Over

“Whoever trusts in his own mind is a fool, but he who walks in wisdom will be delivered.” — Proverbs 28:26

This verse stings because I’ve lived it. And the cost wasn’t just professional—it was relational. Proverbs 28:26 warns against trusting in our own mind, and in this episode, I share a leadership decision I wish I could take back, the damage it caused, and how God’s wisdom—not ego—is the only true path to integrity.

Proverbs 27 reminds us to “know the condition of your flock,” and in this episode, I share how acting on the Holy Spirit’s promptings—whether through a call, a handwritten note, or a prayer—can transform relationships from transactional to truly celebrated.

“Know well the condition of your flock, and pay attention to your herds, for wealth is not forever; not even a crown lasts for all time. When hay is removed and new growth appears, and the grain from the hills is gathered in, lambs will provide your clothing, and goats, the price of a field; there will be enough goat’s milk for your food, food for your household and nourishment for your female servants.” — Proverbs 27:23–27 CSB

This passage isn’t just about farming, it’s about stewardship. Just like flocks and herds need daily care, relationships require consistent attention. Neglect weakens them. Nurturing strengthens them.

In sales, leadership, and the marketplace, we often think our biggest competition is the company down the street. But for many of us, the real enemy is the status quo—and its parent, the comfort zone monster.

When Flattery Hides Danger

“Your enemy shakes hands and greets you like an old friend, all the while conniving against you. When he speaks warmly to you, don’t believe him for a minute; he’s just waiting for the chance to rip you off.” — Proverbs 26:24–26 MSG

In this episode, I reveal how the comfort zone masquerades as progress, why it’s the status quo’s favorite disguise, and how breaking free leads to real growth.”

The comfort zone feels safe, but it’s quietly stealing your growth.

Proverbs 26 warns about the danger of flattering words, and in business, those words often come from the status quo itself. In this episode, I share how the comfort zone monster kept me visiting the same customers, chasing transactions instead of building relationships, and how breaking that cycle leads to deeper partnerships and greater influence in the marketplace.

Proverbs 24:27 reminds us to plant fields before building barns—to put the work of serving others ahead of building our own comfort. In this episode, I share why the sequence matters, how “shiny objects” can derail our mission, and how choosing significance over success changes everything in the marketplace.

But meekness is often misunderstood. It’s not passive. It’s not a pushover mentality. Biblical meekness is strength—your ability, authority, and confidence—submitted to God’s control. It’s the choice to lead with grace, even under pressure.

And I’ll be honest with you—there have been times I’ve failed at this.

In business, people often mistake meekness for weakness. But in God’s economy, meekness is one of the most powerful leadership traits we can have—because it’s power under control.

“The reward for humility and fear of the Lord is riches and honor and life.” — Proverbs 22:4 ESV

Ernie learned that lesson the hard way during a customer visit that didn’t go as planned. Proverbs 22:4 reminds us that humility and reverence lead to life, honor, and riches—but in that moment, Ernie let pride take the wheel. In today’s episode, Ernie shares the story, the fallout, and the shift that taught me what meekness really looks like in the marketplace.

Today’s Scripture focus: “Careful planning puts you ahead in the long run; hurry and scurry puts you further behind.” — Proverbs 21:5 MSG

In this episode, Ernie unpacks the power of intentional, God-aligned planning using the PLAN acrostic to turn micro actions into macro impact in the marketplace.

Today’s verse is Proverbs 20:29 in the NIV: “The glory of young men is their strength, gray hair the splendor of the old.”

Even the most gifted people must put in the work. Picasso’s genius wasn’t ego—it was effort.

My success metrics are simple: “Customer Success is my path, adding significance to others is my purpose, Celebrated Relationship is the goal™.”

Some might call that talent. I call it obedience to a calling, sustained by humility.

“Ability is what you’re capable of doing. Motivation determines what you do. Attitude determines how you do it.”—Lou Holtz

Let’s release ego, stop worshiping talent, and focus on purpose-driven effort.

Today, we’ll talk about why understanding perspectives is more than good manners—it’s a marketplace advantage with a ripple effect you can’t ignore.. Today, our focus is Proverbs 18:17 because it’s the 18th day of the month.

It can open doors, build trust, and keep you energized in ways talent alone never will.

Today, I’ll tell you why I believe happiness belongs on your business scoreboard.

Welcome to Marketplace Proverbs and Coffee with Ernie™ — where a Proverb a day keeps stinking thinking away.

I’m Ernie Lansford, here to help you connect biblical wisdom to everyday marketplace decisions so you can build relationships that outlast any transaction.

Here, we bring timeless biblical truth into the marketplace, where influence is real, choices are constant, and relationships matter more than results.

So grab your coffee, tea, latte, soda, or water… and let’s get started.

“A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones.”

(Proverbs 17:22)

“Whatever is true, noble, right, pure, lovely, admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.”

(Philippians 4:8)

Please list to the podcast for my explanation.

Today’s Podcast Episode comes from Marketplace Proverbs Vol 1, A Sales Navigator’s Compass to Customer Success Mastery, written by yours truly and Co-Author Jon Kluiter.

When we dwell on past offenses, we throw fuel onto smoldering coals. Eventually, those coals flare into a fire that scorches not only our hearts but also the relationships, opportunities, and clarity around us.

Harboring anger is like playing a bad song on repeat. But consider this: we can change the song. The choice is ours. And forgiveness is the switch.

Please listen to the podcast to learn more.

Today’s episode is from Marketplace Proverbs Vol 3: Ego, Humility and Partnership, the KPI that Matters Most.

Pride can make us deaf. Deaf to wise counsel. Deaf to warning signs. Deaf to the very people we’re called to serve. Humility, on the other hand, opens our ears, clears our vision, and builds bridges that pride would have burned. Today, our focus is Proverbs 13:10 because it’s the 13th day of the month.

Today, I am speaking from chapter 13 of Marketplace Proverbs Vol 2, Micro to Macro the Ripple Effect of Influence, written by yours truly and Co-Author Jon Kluiter.

“Arrogant know-it-alls stir up discord, but wise men and women listen to each other’s counsel.”—Proverbs 13:10 MSG

Please consider purchasing our book on Amazon

I’m Ernie Lansford, helping you connect biblical wisdom to everyday marketplace decisions so you can build relationships that outlast any transaction.

Here, we bring timeless biblical truth into the marketplace, where influence is real, choices are constant, and relationships matter more than results.

So grab your coffee, tea, latte, soda, or water… and hit play, let’s get started.. Today, I am reading from chapter 12 of Marketplace Proverbs Vol 1, A Sales Navigator’s Compass to Customer Success Mastery, written by yours truly and Co-Author Jon Kluiter.

“Diligent hands will rule, but laziness ends in forced labor.”—Proverbs 12:24 NIV.

That silent partner was the Spirit of Not Good Enough. It disguised itself as modesty, caution, servanthood, and even humility. However, the longer it remained, the more influence it exerted over my career, confidence, and willingness to add real value and significance to others. Worse yet, it transformed into the spirit of heaviness, as Isaiah talks about:

“The Spirit of the Lord God is upon Me... to give them beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness...” Isaiah 61:1–3 NKJV

This heaviness wasn’t just a mindset. It was spiritual. I had partnered with a spirit of heaviness AKA Spirit of Not Good Enough.

This spirit felt to me like walking through a door with clear plastic wrap stretched across the opening, the shrink wrap used on palletized shipments. I felt held back by an invisible force that slowed me down. Frankly, I had reached a point of significant frustration. I was discontent with my scarcity mindset and tired of feeling diminished, weary of fighting the invisible forces blocking my path. I was frustrated by wondering why I could not walk through the doors God seemed to open. Especially after praying often, “Lord, take me to people who need me and bring people to me you feel I need.” I frequently asked, “What am I doing wrong, Lord?”

And then I sensed it clearly, what I feel is a voice from the Holy Spirit:

“You didn’t just tolerate it, you elevated it. You granted trusted partnership status. If you want to move into overflow, you have to dissolve the partnership.”

That was one of my many defining moments that helped me move forward. If I were to step into overflow, I would have to dissolve the partnership with the spirit of heaviness.

Listen to the podcast for the rest of this story.

Wisdom’s Call to Influence from Proverbs 8:1-8

“Does not wisdom call out? Does not understanding raise her voice? At the highest point along the way, where the paths meet, she takes her stand; beside the gate leading into the city, at the entrance, she cries aloud: “To you, O people, I call out; I raise my voice to all mankind. You who are simple, gain prudence; you who are foolish, set your hearts on it. Listen, for I have trustworthy things to say; I open my lips to speak what is right. My mouth speaks what is true, for my lips detest wickedness. All the words of my mouth are just; none of them is crooked or perverse.”—Proverbs 8:1-8 ESV (English Standard Version)

Proverbs 8 vividly depicts wisdom calling out from the city's gates, inviting everyone —simple and wise alike—to embrace understanding and truth. This imageryreflects our micro-to-macro principle: small, individual choices to seek wisdom create ripples of influence that extend to more significant relationships, teams, and organizations. Every interaction we have in the marketplace holds the potential to be a moment of influence. Have you ever paused to think about the person sitting across from you in a meeting? What struggles might they be carrying? Did their day start with a messy house, a rushed school drop-off, or an empty fuel tank in the car? Did they leave home with unresolved tensions or burdens weighing on their heart?

When we see others through a Kingdom-focused lens, we shift from transactions to relationships. We begin to recognize the shared humanity in those we meet and the opportunity to serve them in ways that reflect God’s love.

A Macro Vision Through Micro Actions

Proverbs 8 reminds us that wisdom is not reserved for the elite but offered to everyone.

“To you, O people, I call out; I raise my voice to all mankind.”

Wisdom equips us with prudence, temperance, and patience, enabling us to approach each interaction with humility and grace. Our role in the marketplace is critical. Even when we feel frustrated or unfulfilled, we are called to be Christ’s hands and feet. How we respond to others in small, seemingly insignificant moments creates ripples that can profoundly impact the broader culture of our workplace and marketplace mission field. St. Francis of Assisi is credited with saying:

“Preach the Gospel at all times, and when

necessary, use words.”

This wisdom challenges us to embody the Gospel in our actions, ensuring that our lives speak louder than our words. Even the smallest gestures can create lasting influence when we show up with a heart of service.

Building Relationships That Ripple

It’s easy to focus on tasks and miss the opportunities for connection God places in our path. However, every moment is an opportunity to plant seeds of influence. A simple act of kindness, a word of encouragement, or even a silent, faithful prayer for a colleague can create a ripple effect far beyond the immediate moment. When rooted in wisdom and love, these micro-actions build into macro influence. They prepare us to serve others well and reflect Christ’s light in the marketplace. Wisdom calls us to be ready for significant opportunities and the small, daily interactions that shape our relationships and impact.

Action Points: Micro Steps Toward Macro Influence

1. Start a Prayer Journal: If you don’t already have one, create a list of people you interact with regularly.

2. Pray for them: Ask God to bless and guide them in serving them well.

3. Check-In: Follow up with these individuals to show you care.

4. Observe the Ripple Effect: Reflect on how your prayers and actions impact their

lives—and your own.

Listen to the podcast to hear more!

Business is serious, but enjoyable at the same time. Playing loose with pricing, procedures, and processes to secure a transaction, in my opinion, is akin to displaying wanton behavior. Making a ‘deal’ with new or temporary customers outside stated pricing with loyal, committed existing customers is like adultery, once again, from my perspective.

Think on this: In the B2B2C marketplace, a producer selects resellers that uphold the product's value by serving the end user in a professional manner. Excellent resellers are catalysts that add tremendous customer service pre- and post-sale, creating high perceived value for the product/service or brand. The result is Momentum AKA sell-through. Everyone from the designer to the reseller, the end user, to fans in the stands enjoys the benefits of an excellent relationship by association. This momentum attracts the attention of rogue or unscrupulous, non-desirable resellers. These resellers seduce the producer with huge purchase orders, paying in cash. They offer the end user customer very little support. These resellers do not pioneer new brands, concepts, or campaigns to expand market share. They only “Click ’n Ship” established brands/products. Unfortunately, I speak from experience when I chased transactions to make quota.

Allowing ourselves and our organization to be seduced by the appearance of promiscuous behavior by rogue or unscrupulous resellers is like being with a w***e. Avoid it

!

The marketplace reflects human decisions, motives, and discipline. Proverbs 5 reminds us that the Lord sees our paths every step we take, in full view. He examines not only our outcomes but also the heart behind our decisions. This truth applies not only to individuals but also to businesses.

Today I am reading from chapter 4 of Marketplace Proverbs Vol 1, A Sales Navigator’s Compass to Customer Success Mastery™ Through The Wisdom of Proverbs, written by me and co-author Jon Kluiter.

"The path of the righteous is like the morning sun, shining ever brighter till the full light of day. But the way of the wicked is like deep darkness; they do not know what makes them stumble.”--Proverbs 4:18-19 ESV

“For the Lord detests the perverse but takes the upright into his confidence. The Lord’s curse is on the house of the wicked, but he blesses the home of the righteous. He mocks proud mockers but shows favor to the humble and oppressed. The wise inherit honor, but fools get only shame.”

A Proverb each day keeps stinking thinking away. This podcast is about bringing timeless biblical wisdom into the marketplace, where influence is real, choices are constant, and relationships matter more than results. So grab your coffee, tea, latte, soda, or water… and let’s get started. Today I am reading from chapter 2 from Marketplace Proverbs Vol 2, Micro to Macro: The Ripple Effect of Influence. By myself and co-author Jon Kluiter.

“Follow the example of good people and live an honest life. If you are honest and innocent, you will keep your land; if you do wrong and can never be trusted, you will be rooted out.”

Proverbs 2:20-22 MSG