The Solomon Foundation has a new CEO, who we introduced in our live TSF Broadcast on April 3. We’ve shared a lot about his professional qualifications, but we want to help our investors get to know Joshua Means on a more personal level. We sat down with him for a fun, informal Q&A to learn more about his story, his faith, and how he looks at life.
What inspired you to take on the role of CEO at TSF?
I can’t preach or sing or play an instrument, but I’ve had great mentors in banking and I want to use my knowledge to help build the Kingdom. I still believe the local church is the best way to fulfill the Great Commission.
How would you describe your leadership style?
I played soccer and basketball in college, so I’m a team guy. I believe every person on the team has a role to fill, and I want every person to be a star in their role.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
The first was from my dad, who taught me that even though I wasn’t the fastest, tallest, or best athlete, that I should hustle and work hard every day and to live like I’ve never arrived. The second is from Nazarene minister and author Stan Toler, who said that if you treat every person you meet like they’re hurting, you’re going to be right 99 percent of the time. This approach helps me see people through the eyes of Jesus.
If you had to describe yourself in three words, what would they be?
Optimistic, encouraging, driven.
What excites you the most about being part of the TSF team?
Everyone I’ve met at TSF has a passion for people in the local church. At the end of the day, if we’re not adding souls to the Kingdom, it’s all just noise. Every time I see my mom, she gives me a hug and reminds me, “We all have to make it.” That’s her favorite quote, and I love seeing that mentality at TSF.
“We all have to make it.”
If you weren’t in this career, what would you be doing?
I love coaching basketball at Summit Christian Academy in Lee’s Summit, MO. I think I’d be a full-time coach.
What was your favorite concert of all time?
Garth Brooks.
What’s one personality trait from your childhood that you wish was more prevalent in your adult self?
As a child, I assumed everything was great and looked at life without skepticism, which becomes harder to do the more life you experience. My heart is to be like Jesus and see the best in people.
What’s one thing you hope to accomplish in your first year at TSF?
I want to build great relationships with investors and teammates while focusing on things that have meaning in eternity, and to stay centered on advice given to me by John Maxwell: “Nobody knows how much you know until they know how much you care.”
What is saving your life right now?
Date nights and setting aside consistent one-on-one time with my wife, Erin. We have five kids: Caleb, 20; Callie, 19; Carly, 18; Iestyn, 15; and Giovanni, 2, so we have to be intentional and prioritize making time to connect with one another.
What’s your stance on money according to biblical principles?
Earn all you can, give all you can, save all you can, and do all these things as the Holy Spirit leads you.
What’s a word or phrase you hope best reflects who you are and the way you lived your life after you’re gone?
I want to be remembered as a servant leader. We need more people who are willing to serve selflessly like Jonathan did in the story of David.
What do you want people to know about you as you take on this role?
I want people to know that I’m for them, I’m on their team. I just want everyone to make it.
