If Not Me, Then Who: Ryan Manion on Service, Sacrifice, and Going Big On this Veterans Day edition of the Going Big podcast, Kevin Gentry sits down with Ryan Manion, president of the Travis Manion Foundation, to explore how one family’s loss turned into a nationwide movement rooted in service, character, and civic leadership. From Tragedy to Purpose Ryan’s brother, 1st Lt. Travis Manion, was killed in action in Iraq in 2007. In the wake of that devastating loss, Ryan and

From Rock Bottom to Cultivating Hope: Daron Babcock's Journey with Bonton Farms Few people embody transformation quite like Daron Babcock. Once a successful entrepreneur in private equity, Daron's life took a dramatic turn following the death of his first wife, which spiraled into addiction and despair. But from the depths of that darkness emerged a story of healing, redemption, and an urban farm movement that is revitalizing a South Dallas neighborhood and inspiring communi

Every once in a while, a leader emerges who does more than respond to the world around them. They shape it. Greg Lukianoff is one of those leaders. His story is a masterclass in what it means to Go Big: to pursue truth with courage, to build lasting institutions, and to devote your energy to a mission greater than yourself. As president of the Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression, Greg has made it his life’s work to protect and promote the core freedoms that make

Answering a Higher Calling Rev. John Yates’s life is a remarkable example of going big—not for personal gain, but to make a lasting difference in the community and the nation. Raised in a strong Christian family, John felt early on that God must be central in his life. Though initially uncertain about his path, he embraced the concept of calling, trusting that God would lead him to serve in a way uniquely suited to his gifts. Choosing ministry over a family business, John com

From Immigrant Roots to Entrepreneurial Success Alan Smolinisky’s story begins with his parents’ courageous journey from Argentina to the United States. His father arrived at 17 with little education, facing prejudice and hardship, yet driven by a dream of opportunity. Starting as a janitor in Los Angeles’ garment district, his father worked tirelessly to build a small business, embodying the immigrant spirit of hard work and perseverance. Alan’s mother also immigrated under

James Piereson: The Quiet Architect Who Went Big When most people think of going big, they imagine center-stage moments—cameras flashing, crowds roaring, headlines blazing. But some of the boldest visionaries in modern history made their greatest impact behind the scenes, choosing strategy over spotlight, long-term change over instant recognition. James Piereson is one of those visionaries. A political scientist by training, a philanthropist by calling, and a builder by in