What does it take to go from a small-town kid carrying golf bags to becoming a serial entrepreneur, CEO, and faith-driven leader impacting entire communities?

In this powerful episode of the Catholic Founders Podcast, Silas Mähner sits down with Chris Farls, a Pittsburgh-based entrepreneur, investor, mentor, and retired CEO who has bought, built, and sold multiple businesses — all while staying grounded in his Catholic faith.

Confidence isn’t inherited, it’s built through intentionality.
Business isn’t just about profit, it’s about people.
Faith and leadership go hand in hand.
True success is measured by impact, not just income.

Chris opens up about:
-Growing up in the Rust Belt and learning early lessons about business and resilience
-His military background and how leadership shaped his entrepreneurial journey
-The risks and rewards of entrepreneurship through acquisition (buying and turning around struggling businesses)
-Why confidence is built through action
-How to negotiate business deals with integrity and respect for all parties involved
-Balancing profitability with the dignity of the human person — employees, families, and community
-The hidden responsibilities of being a business owner (to employees, creditors, vendors, customers, and community)
-Why humility, discernment, and prayer are essential for making the hard decisions in business
-The evolution of his faith: from chasing financial outcomes to aligning his life with God’s will

This isn’t just another business story. It’s a testimony of vocation, stewardship, and service. Chris proves that you can lead with faith and still win in business. If you own a business, your legacy is more than numbers — it’s the lives you touch.

Chris’ story is a masterclass in how entrepreneurship isn’t just about money — it’s about calling, mission, and responsibility. Whether you’re a Catholic entrepreneur, a business student, or someone discerning how faith can guide your career, this conversation will challenge you to rethink your own path.

If you’ve ever wondered how to integrate faith with business success, this episode is for you.

📌 Timestamps:
00:00 Intro
01:16 Chris’ backstory – from caddie to entrepreneur
05:36 Military leadership lessons
09:42 Cold calling, confidence, and early business deals
14:57 Turning around failing businesses
20:00 Responsibilities of a business owner
27:23 Serving your local community
34:21 Respecting employees’ dignity
44:55 Faith, humility & business decisions
57:30 Developing identity as a Catholic entrepreneur

Don’t forget to subscribe to Catholic Founders for more inspiring stories of Catholic entrepreneurs and leaders who are building businesses rooted in faith and mission.

Go to www.catholicfounders.com
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