At the heart of every thriving workplace is a culture—and John Beckett knows how to build one that honors God.
In this inspiring episode of The Intersection: Faith, Work, and Life, Bob Varney and Hugh Brandt sit down with John Beckett, chairman of the RW Beckett Corporation and author of Loving Monday. What unfolds is more than a business success story—it’s a testimony to how one man integrated faith into every layer of corporate leadership, shaping a kingdom culture in what many would call a secular space.
John recounts his unexpected entry into the family business after his father’s sudden passing, and how that pivotal moment, combined with a devastating factory fire, brought him to the end of himself—and into full surrender to Christ. “I had to draw on resources beyond myself,” he says. “That’s when I really thrust myself into the care of the Lord.”
Through the years, John embraced his calling to the marketplace, not as second-tier ministry, but as a sacred mission field. From 12 employees to 1,200 across multiple countries, Beckett’s company grew not only in size but in spiritual impact. Core values like “profound respect for the individual” and cultivating “freedom to be who you are” have created an environment where organic Bible studies flourish and long-term employees thrive with purpose.
One of the most powerful metaphors John shares is about a literal tree planted at the center of their corporate headquarters. Fed by an unseen underground stream, the tree has never needed watering in over 40 years. “Maybe in some ways, it’s a metaphor for what we’re talking about,” John says. “Its roots are down in the stream—just like our lives should be rooted in the living waters of Christ.”
Throughout the episode, Bob and Hugh explore themes of generational faith, workplace evangelism, and the importance of storytelling—pointing to how the Gospel is not just proclaimed in pulpits, but practiced in breakrooms, boardrooms, and business strategies.
As John puts it, “Everybody has a story. And everybody is going through challenges. But when we create space for people to bring their whole selves to work, including their faith, something transformational happens.”
Whether you’re a leader, entrepreneur, or employee longing for deeper meaning in your 9-to-5, this conversation offers not only encouragement—but a clear reminder: Your work matters to God.