In this incredible episode, Chris Lambert, founder and CEO of Life Remodeled, shares how his organization transforms Detroit neighborhoods by repurposing vacant school buildings into community hubs. Chris discusses his journey from aspiring real estate developer to nonprofit leader, revealing key principles for building effective nonprofit organizations.Chris Lambert's path to nonprofit leadership began with a radical encounter with God during his college years in Australia. After abandoning plans for real estate development and attending seminary, he founded Life Remodeled in Detroit. Under his leadership, the organization has invested $51 million in Detroit neighborhoods, mobilized 82,000 volunteers, and transformed communities through strategic neighborhood revitalization.Key TakeawaysTeam Unity is Foundation: Building a leadership team that reflects the community served is crucial for organizational successVision Requires Strategy: Effective nonprofits need both ambitious vision and practical implementation plansRelationships Drive Impact: Authentic community relationships and cultural understanding are essential for meaningful changeTopics CoveredPersonal transformation and calling to ministryBuilding diverse, effective leadership teamsStrategic planning for nonprofitsCommunity-first approach to urban renewalNonprofit organizational developmentNotable Quotes"Detroit residents have all the talent they need, but many don't have access to all the opportunities they deserve.""I'm a follower of Jesus because I am first and always first a follower before I'm a leader."Leadership Lesson Chris emphasizes the importance of understanding how God has uniquely wired each leader and organization for specific purposes while maintaining the humility to learn and grow continuously.Faith and Service Insights Chris demonstrates how faith-driven work can create a broader community impact through secular organizations, showing that ministry can take many forms beyond traditional church settings.Featured Resources"Next Level Nonprofit" book by Chris LambertLife Remodeled's community development model"Traction" book by Geno Wickman (mentioned as an influence)About Chris LambertChris Lambert is the founder and CEO of Life Remodeled, a Detroit-based nonprofit that transforms vacant schools into thriving community hubs. After experiencing a spiritual awakening during his college years at Indiana University, Chris redirected his path from real estate development to community service, starting with seven months in a Liberian village where he helped secure resources for essential infrastructure. Since founding Life Remodeled in 2010, Chris has led the organization to invest over $51 million in Detroit neighborhoods, mobilize 82,000 volunteers, and create sustainable community transformation. His innovative approach to nonprofit leadership and commitment to building diverse, community-reflective teams has earned him recognition, including Building Design + Construction's 40 under 40 and Crain's Detroit 40 under 40. Chris lives in Detroit with his wife and two sons, where he continues to embody servant leadership while helping other nonprofits achieve greater impact through his book "Next Level Nonprofit" and organizational coaching.
MEET YOUR HOST: TAMARA M. JACKSONTamara M. Jackson, author of "Unlocking Christian Leadership" and Founder of Beaconship, has dedicated over two decades to empowering Christian leaders to make a deep impact on the world. Her vision for The Beacon Show stems from her unwavering belief that every Christian leader has the potential to become a beacon of guidance, hope, and inspiration. Through this podcast, Tamara aims to bridge the gap between spiritual goals and the practical realities of leadership, equipping leaders with the wisdom and strategies to navigate their paths with integrity, purpose, and a heart aligned with Christ's teachings. Join Tamara on this transformative journey of self-discovery, empowerment, and spiritual growth as she nurtures wise, compassionate, and resilient beacons of faith who inspire, transform, and illuminate the world with their God-given purpose. ACCELERATE YOUR SUCCESSReady to embrace the journey of transformation? Download Tamara's exclusive ebook at https://beaconship.co/book/ and empower yourself to lead with purpose and passion. JOIN THE BEACONSHIP COMMUNITYBeaconship is dedicated to empowering and uniting Christian leaders through mentorship and collaboration, enhancing their influence and potential. We are committed to molding visionary leaders equipped to redefine what it means to be a change agent in today’s digital landscape. To learn more, visit https://beaconship.co/CONNECT WITH TAMARAFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/thebeaconshipInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebeaconshipLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/coachtam/

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