In this Grownlearn conversation, I sat down with John Knowlton, a former jail chaplain who went on to co-found and scale a wealth management firm to over $1 billion in assets—and then chose to walk away to pursue a deeper calling.

John shares some of the pivotal moments that shaped his path—from working with inmates in DuPage County Jail to leading a billion-dollar financial advisory firm, and now mentoring Christian CEOs through the C12 Group. We talk about how our thinking shapes our outcomes, what success really means, and how service can be a growth strategy—both in business and in life.

He also gives us a peek into his upcoming book, Thinking for Success, a collection of stories designed to spark better thinking and deeper purpose.

If you're building something meaningful—or trying to figure out what that even looks like—this one will speak to you.

👉 More from John at AbundantThoughtRevolution.com
Want to unlock the secrets of business growth and transformation?📺 Explore our curated playlist here: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLTJlaeHk03J0lwEsQYIZ1wpaqJrxJYa28
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About Grownlearn:
Welcome to GrowNLearn, where innovation meets expertise in business growth, business transformation, and leadership development. We empower entrepreneurs and business leaders with data-driven insights and tailored strategies that drive success. Whether you’re looking to scale your business, develop a success mindset, or learn how to grow a startup, GrowNLearn is your trusted partner in navigating today’s competitive market. 

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00:01:20-00:04:21: Jail Chaplain’s Life Impact Insights  
John shares how his time as a jail chaplain shaped his perspective on how personal thinking determines life outcomes—even for those from the same starting point.

00:04:22-00:08:48: Gifts, Service, and Success Pathways
00:08:49-00:12:50: Strategic Growth in Financial Advisory
00:12:51-00:16:01: Storytelling for Leadership Development
00:16:02-00:19:53: Christian Business Leadership Transition
00:19:54-00:23:14: True Greatness Through Selfless Service 
00:23:15-00:26:30: Christian Business Collaboration & Impact  
00:26:31-00:30:58: Josh’s Redemption Through the Trades  
00:30:59-00:34:58: Family Wealth and Shared Governance 
00:34:59-00:38:00: Books, Followership & Abundant Thought

Christian Values Built a $1B Firm John Knowlton’s Journey

Grownlearn is a dynamic and insightful podcast that delves deep into the world of business model transformation. Hosted by seasoned professionals with a passion for innovation, the podcast features engaging interviews with the foremost experts in the field. Each episode invites listeners to explore the strategies, challenges, and successes of businesses that have undergone significant transformations. From disruptive startups to established enterprises, Grownlearn provides a platform for the best minds in the industry to share their experiences, insights, and lessons learned. Whether you're an entrepreneur, business leader, or simply intrigued by the ever-evolving landscape of business, Grownlearn delivers thought-provoking conversations that inspire and inform. Tune in to stay ahead of the curve and discover the keys to unlocking growth and success through transformative business models.

Christian Values Built a $1B Firm John Knowlton’s Journey

Grownlearn Podcast