Going Big in Business, Public Policy, and Philanthropy: The Art Pope Blueprint
Join host Kevin Gentry for an insightful conversation with Art Pope—a principled leader who has gone big in business, in state government, and in giving back.
As CEO of Variety Wholesalers, Art helped grow a 600-store retail network serving thousands of communities. He’s also served as North Carolina’s state budget director, spent years in the legislature, and leads major philanthropic efforts through the John William Pope Foundation and the Bradley Foundation.
In this episode, Art shares lessons from his Depression-era father, the bold moves behind his company’s recent Big Lots acquisition, and why real philanthropy is about investing in freedom and opportunity for future generations.
If you're aiming to lead with conviction, think long-term, and make a lasting impact—this conversation is for you.
--------
56:17
--------
56:17
Going Big with Rev. John Yates: Faith, Calling, and Transformational Leadership
Join host Kevin Gentry on the Going Big podcast as he sits down with Rev. John Yates, a visionary leader who transformed a struggling church into a thriving community hub with national impact. In this inspiring episode, Rev. Yates shares profound insights on discovering your calling, embracing bold leadership, and living a life dedicated to serving others. From founding innovative programs like the Fellows and Timothies initiatives to navigating the challenges of church renewal and legal battles, John’s story is a testament to resilience, faith, and going big in purpose.
Whether you’re seeking to deepen your leadership, answer a higher calling, or make a difference in your community, this conversation will encourage you to step out in faith, build meaningful relationships, and persist through adversity. Tune in for practical wisdom on mentorship, balancing family and ministry, and how to leverage your unique gifts for lasting impact.
Remember, going big isn’t just about scale—it’s about living boldly with intention and heart. Don’t miss this powerful episode full of hope, challenge, and encouragement to pursue your next big leap!
--------
1:34:31
--------
1:34:31
Going Big with Alan Smolinisky: From Immigrant Roots to Dodger Ownership and Beyond
In this inspiring episode of *Going Big!*, host Kevin Gentry sits down with Alan Smolinisky, a remarkable American entrepreneur, investor, and co-owner of the Los Angeles Dodgers. Alan shares his compelling immigrant family story—from his parents’ courageous journey from Argentina to building a successful garment business in Los Angeles, to his own unconventional path through entrepreneurship and value investing. He discusses the resilience and optimism that fuel his ventures, including his thriving real estate empire and his bold move into professional sports ownership.
Alan also opens up about his philanthropic work focused on poverty alleviation and immigration reform, and how hosting one of the largest naturalization ceremonies at Dodger Stadium became a powerful symbol of hope and patriotism. Reflecting on personal loss, the devastation of the Palisades fire, and the importance of community, Alan’s story is a testament to perseverance, visionary risk-taking, and giving back.
This episode offers invaluable lessons on going big by embracing passion, persistence, and purpose, making it a must-listen for entrepreneurs and dreamers alike.
--------
48:36
--------
48:36
Going Big: Political Revolutions, Fundraising, and Friendship Across the Aisle with Roger Craver and Richard Viguerie
On this episode of Going Big, host Kevin Gentry brings together two legends who have helped shape American politics and political fundraising from opposite ends of the spectrum: Roger Craver, the driving force behind progressive fundraising efforts for groups like the ACLU and Sierra Club, and Richard Viguerie, the conservative pioneer who transformed direct mail into a movement-building machine.
Despite their sharp political differences, Roger and Richard share something bigger: decades of leadership, innovation, and an enduring friendship built on respect and shared experience. In this conversation, they reflect on the early days of grassroots organizing, the evolution of political fundraising, and how their work empowered citizens to act boldly and shape the future of the country.
Kevin digs into the values that have kept both men grounded through decades of cultural and political change. Going big doesn't mean going-along-to-get-along. It means trendsetting, innovation, big new ideas, and a willingness and openness to lead from your convictions while learning from others.
Whether you're in politics, fundraising, or just looking to make a bigger difference in the world, this conversation will challenge you to think bigger, listen harder, and lead with principle.
--------
1:01:43
--------
1:01:43
Newt Gingrich on Going Big: Big Ideas, Bold Leadership, and a Vision for America’s Future
What does it look like to go big on the national stage, and change the course of history in the process? In this special episode of Going Big!, Kevin Gentry sits down with Newt Gingrich, former Speaker of the United States House of Representatives, to explore the power of bold ideas, strategic leadership, and relentless commitment to getting things done.
From engineering the Contract with America to balancing the federal budget four years in a row, Speaker Gingrich shares behind-the-scenes stories of the decades long effort to transform American politics. He discusses the importance of thinking beyond the status quo, leading with vision, learning every day, and surrounding yourself with people who can help make the impossible possible.
Gingrich also dives into today’s political landscape, offering insight into President Trump’s second term , the threats posed by unchecked bureaucracy, and why we may be on the edge of a new golden age, if we get leadership and innovation right.
This is an episode about thinking long, acting smart, and committing to something bigger than yourself. Whether you're building a movement, launching a business, or fighting for change, Gingrich’s message is clear: the future belongs to those who are willing to go big.
Be sure to check out his latest book, Trump’s Triumph: America’s Greatest Comeback, now available wherever books are sold.
Welcome to Going Big! — the podcast where we share the stories of people who have truly gone big in their own lives. Hosted by Kevin Gentry, Going Big! has consistently ranked as a top podcast on iTunes in its category and has earned multiple national honors, including the 2024 MarCom Gold Award for Non-Profit Podcast, the 2024 Viddy Gold Award for Non-Profit and Marketing Podcast, the 2025 Viddy Award, and the 2025 Communicator Award.
Each episode features in-depth conversations with business owners, entrepreneurs, nonprofit leaders, political figures, and other trailblazers who have achieved extraordinary impact in their work and communities. You’ll hear firsthand how they pursued bold ideas, took major risks, overcame challenges, and built something remarkable.
We no longer focus solely on fundraising and marketing. Instead, Going Big! explores the full spectrum of leadership, innovation, and personal drive — uncovering the lessons, values, and pivotal moments that propelled our guests to think bigger and push further.
Whether you are an aspiring entrepreneur, a nonprofit leader, a political changemaker, or simply someone inspired by real stories of ambition and achievement, Going Big! offers insights and inspiration to help you take your own next leap.
Listen on Spotify, iTunes, Amazon, iHeart Radio, Pandora, and YouTube. Follow us on social media and visit TenXStrategies.com for more great content and resources.
Polska