Grace and Grit: The Heart of Small Business

About Grace and Grit: The Heart of Small Business

Grace and Grit: The Heart of Small Business is where faith meets entrepreneurship. Hosted by realtor Ginger Cook and CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER Will Sumser, this podcast pulls back the curtain on the real journey of building a business — the wins, the struggles, and the moments that require both grace and grit. Launching April, 2026!

Publisher

Ginger Cook & Will Sumser

Category

business · religion & spirituality

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

14 Apr 2026

Latest episode

13 Oct 2026

Latest episodes

14 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   13 Oct 2026

   Personality Profiles and Spiritual Gifts

   Episode 12 Personality Profiles and Spiritual Gifts Ginger Cook and Will Sumser, CFP® talk about personality profiles, spiritual gifts, and how understanding the way we are wired can strengthen our businesses, relationships, and faith. They discuss communication styles, blind spots, practical uses for personality tests, and how God gives each person unique gifts to serve, encourage, lead, and build community. Episode Highlights This episode's God Wink: Ginger shares a story about praying for someone to help her become more comfortable praying out loud for others, only to discover that her friend had been praying for someone to mentor. Ginger and Will Flip the Script on personality tests and talk about why they are not just for hiring — they can be practical tools for communication, relationships, leadership, and personal growth. Ginger and Will discuss DISC, 16 Personalities, CliftonStrengths, Enneagram, spiritual gifts assessments, and how these tools can help reveal strengths, blind spots, and communication preferences. Rank It or Roast It: Pocket butter is ranked in today's Rank It or Roast It segment! Links Lifeway Spiritual Gifts Assessment 16 Personalities (https://www.16personalities.com/free-personality-test) Grace & Grit Facebook Page Credits Hosts: Ginger Cook and Will Sumser, CFP® Produced by: Jeremiah Isley — Crooked Path Productions

2. 

   29 Sept 2026

   Beyond the logo - Brand, mission, vision & values

   Beyond the Logo - Brand, Mission, Vision, and Values Ginger Cook and Will Sumser, CFP® kick off season two with a conversation about what truly makes a brand. They talk about why a logo is only one piece of the bigger picture, and how faith, integrity, honesty, positivity, connection, and service shape the way they show up in business and life. Episode Highlights This episode's God Wink: Will shares a story from the golf course, where a prayer with a friend became the start of a renewed faith journey and a reminder that God is always in the details. Ginger and Will Flip the Script on branding and talk about why the logo is not the brand — it is only a symbol of the mission, values, experience, and legacy behind it. Ginger and Will discuss the core values behind Grace & Grit and their businesses, including faith, integrity, honesty, positive attitude, and being a connector. The conversation touches on client experience, reputation, doing the right thing when no one is watching, and educating small business owners so they feel less alone. Rank It or Roast It: Buc-ee's is ranked — and roasted — in today's Rank It or Roast It segment! Links Ryan Serhant's HEART Method Grace & Grit Facebook Page Credits Hosts: Ginger Cook and Will Sumser, CFP® Produced by: Jeremiah Isley — Crooked Path Productions

3. 

   22 Sept 2026

   Season 1 Recap!

   Today Ginger and Will take a quick look back at season 1 as they prepare for season 2! It turns out, they've got a poem for you! Links Grace & Grit Facebook Page Credits Hosts: Ginger Cook and Will Sumser, CFP® Produced by: Jeremiah Isley — Crooked Path Productions

4. 

   2 Sept 2026

   Surviving Our First Year in Podcasting

   Surviving Our First Year in Podcasting Episode Summary Ginger Cook and Will Sumser, CFP® wrap up season one with special guest Cheryl Sumser, reflecting on what it took to launch and survive their first year of podcasting. They talk about the unexpected work behind the scenes, learning as they went, building a brand, staying obedient to the nudge, and realizing that podcasting is less like a hobby and more like running a business. Episode Highlights This episode's God Wink: Cheryl shares the powerful story of hearing the the voice of God, and how that moment has shaped the way she serves others during some of life's hardest seasons. Ginger, Will, and Cheryl Flip the Script on podcasting and talk about why it is not as easy as hitting record — it takes planning, patience, branding, feedback, and a whole lot of grace and grit. Ginger and Will share how Grace & Grit came to be, including the original nudge, the messy middle, the missed steps, and the goal of helping small business owners feel less alone. Rank It or Roast It: The YouVersion Bible App gets ranked in today's Rank It or Roast It segment! Links YouVersion Bible App Being Mortal Grace & Grit Facebook Page (https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61572089705654) Credits Hosts: Ginger Cook and Will Sumser, CFP® Guest: Cheryl Sumser Produced by: Jeremiah Isley — Crooked Path Productions

5. 

   18 Aug 2026

   Surviving the Scaling and the Messy Middle

   Surviving the Scaling and the Messy Middle Episode Summary Ginger Cook and Will Sumser, CFP® talk about the messy middle of growth — the season where business is working, but scaling brings new challenges, pressure, and decisions. They discuss systems, delegation, technology, capacity, burnout, and how growth is not just about doing more, but learning how to do things differently. Episode Highlights This episode's God Wink: Ginger shares a story from serving at church, where a meaningful encounter reminded her that God is always working through the people and moments placed in our path. Ginger and Will Flip the Script on scaling and talk about why success is not always proven by constant expansion, bigger numbers, or doing everything yourself. Ginger and Will discuss the messy middle of business growth, including capacity, cash flow, delegation, hiring, and the pressure that comes with moving from surviving to scaling. The conversation touches on using systems, processes, technology, and tools like the Eisenhower Matrix to protect time, reduce burnout, and make better decisions. Rank It or Roast It: S'mores with Reese's are ranked in today's Rank It or Roast It segment! Links Eisenhower Matrix (https://www.eisenhowermatrix.com/) Grace & Grit Facebook Page (https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61572089705654) Credits Hosts: Ginger Cook and Will Sumser, CFP® Produced by: Jeremiah Isley — Crooked Path Productions

6. 

   4 Aug 2026

   Importance of an Accountability Partner

   Episode 8 The Importance of an Accountability Partner Ginger Cook and Will Sumser, CFP® talk about the importance of having accountability partners in business, faith, and life. They discuss honesty, encouragement, mentorship, hard conversations, and why the right accountability relationship does not always have to be perfectly 50/50. Episode Highlights This episode's God Wink: Will shares a story about a Hope Financial Group event, a phone call that happened at exactly the right time, and how God used that moment to show up in someone else's life. Ginger and Will Flip the Script on accountability and talk about why an accountability partnership does not have to be 50/50 to be meaningful, healthy, or effective. Ginger and Will discuss the importance of having people who can tell you the truth, help you see clearly, and have hard conversations with you when needed. Rank It or Roast It: Cousins Maine Lobster rolls are ranked in today's Rank It or Roast It segment! Links Grace & Grit Facebook Page (https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61572089705654) Credits Hosts: Ginger Cook and Will Sumser, CFP® Produced by: Jeremiah Isley — Crooked Path Productions

7. 

   21 Jul 2026

   Defining and Measuring Success

   Defining and Measuring Success Episode Summary Ginger Cook and Will Sumser, CFP® talk about defining success in a way that actually fits your business, your values, and your season of life. They discuss comparison, realistic goal setting, measuring progress, knowing your numbers, and remembering that success is not always found in someone else's scoreboard. Episode Highlights This episode's God Wink: Ginger shares a story from a women's retreat, where God placed her at the right table with the right people as she prayed about becoming more intentional in praying for others. Ginger and Will Flip the Script on comparison and talk about why business owners should not define success by measuring themselves against someone else's goals, pace, or platform. Ginger and Will discuss setting realistic goals, focusing on client experience, honoring rest, and remembering that productivity is not the same thing as identity. The conversation touches on measuring progress, knowing your numbers, tracking what matters, and using goals as a guide instead of a source of pressure. Rank It or Roast It: Dewey's Tito Santana pizza gets ranked in today's Rank It or Roast It segment! Links Tracking Metrics - Live Plan Grace & Grit Facebook Page (https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61572089705654) Credits Hosts: Ginger Cook and Will Sumser, CFP® Produced by: Jeremiah Isley — Crooked Path Productions

8. 

   7 Jul 2026

   Gratitude

   Gratitude Episode Summary Ginger Cook and Will Sumser, CFP® talk about gratitude in business, faith, and life. They discuss celebrating wins and failures, looking back with perspective, and thanking the people who have helped, supported, encouraged, and walked alongside them throughout the journey. Episode Highlights This episode's God Wink: Will shares a story about a client recognizing the cardinal in the Hope Financial Group logo as the same cardinal stamped into their concrete patio — a small but meaningful reminder that God is in the details. Ginger and Will Flip the Script on celebrating success by talking about why failures are worth celebrating too, especially when they become moments of growth. Ginger and Will talk about zooming out, giving yourself grace, staying patient, and recognizing the progress that can be hard to see when you're in the middle of it. The conversation includes giving their "Grammy acceptance speech" and thanking all the people who have helped shape their faith, businesses, relationships, and communities. Rank It or Roast It: Jolly Ranchers are up for debate in today's Rank It or Roast It segment! Links The Let Them Theory by Mel Robbins (https://amzn.to/4vfinCJ) Grace & Grit Facebook Page (https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61572089705654) Credits Hosts: Ginger Cook and Will Sumser, CFP® Produced by: Jeremiah Isley — Crooked Path Productions

9. 

   23 Jun 2026

   Saying No!

   Episode 5 Saying No Ginger Cook and Will Sumser, CFP® talk about why saying no is an important part of business ownership, relationships, and protecting your time. They discuss boundaries, expectations, people-pleasing, communication, and how learning to say no can actually create healthier relationships and a healthier business. Episode Highlights This episode's God Wink: Ginger shares a story from her Bowling Green graduation weekend, where a perfectly placed sign reminded her that her Aunt Deb and loved ones in heaven were with her. Ginger and Will Flip the Script on saying no and talk about why "no" is not rude — sometimes it is necessary, healthy, and wise. Ginger and Will discuss setting boundaries around time, communication, client expectations, and the difference between being available and being constantly accessible. Rank It or Roast It: Road trip snacks are up for debate in today's Rank It or Roast It segment! Links Redemption Chapel Sermon Therapy and Theology Podcast Grace & Grit Facebook Page Credits Hosts: Ginger Cook and Will Sumser, CFP® Produced by: Jeremiah Isley — Crooked Path Productions

10. 

    9 Jun 2026

    Working With Friends and Family

    Episode 4 Working with Friends and Family Episode Summary Ginger Cook and Will Sumser, CFP® talk about the rewards and risks of working with friends and family in business. They discuss expectations, personal relationships, asking for help, and how the people closest to you may not always become your clients, but can still be some of your biggest cheerleaders. Episode Highlights This episode's God Wink: Will shares a story about a client's "God winks" email address, a book recommendation, and a perfectly timed reminder that God is always in the details. Ginger and Will Flip the Script on working with friends and family by talking about how loved ones may not always be your biggest clients, but they can still be your biggest supporters. Ginger and Will discuss the importance of personal relationships, counseling, community, collaboration, and having people you can be honest with in business and life. The conversation touches on risk versus reward, boundaries, communication, and what it takes to protect both the relationship and the business. Rank It or Roast It: Scalloped potatoes are up for debate in today's Rank It or Roast It segment! Links God Winks book Grace & Grit Facebook Page (https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61572089705654) Credits Hosts: Ginger Cook and Will Sumser, CFP® Produced by: Jeremiah Isley — Crooked Path Productions

11. 

    26 May 2026

    Difficult Conversations: Asking for Help with Grace

    Episode 3 - Difficult Conversations: Asking for Help with Grace Episode Summary Ginger Cook and Will Sumser, CFP® talk about having difficult conversations in business, faith, and life. They discuss why asking for help is not a weakness, how to handle sensitive moments with grace, and how inviting Jesus into the conversation can bring peace, clarity, and direction. Episode Highlights This episode's God Wink: Ginger shares a powerful story about her husband Jay, John 16:33, and how God showed up in real time through prayer, scripture, and community. Ginger and Will Flip the Script on asking for help and talk about why reaching out sooner can be a sign of strength, not weakness. Ginger and Will talk about handling sensitive conversations with grace, including the importance of listening well and meeting people where they are. Rank It or Roast It: Monthly car wash memberships are up for scrutiny in today's Rank It or Roast It segment! Links Abide App Bible App (https://www.youversion.com/bible-app) Redemption Chapel (https://redemptionchapel.com/) Credits Hosts: Ginger Cook and Will Sumser, CFP® Produced by: Jeremiah Isley — Crooked Path Productions

12. 

    12 May 2026

    Surviving Your First Year

    Ginger Cook and Will Sumser, CFP® talk about surviving the first year of business ownership, the expectations that come with stepping out on your own, and the lessons that are learned when things do not go exactly according to plan. They discuss mindset, boundaries, cash flow, community, and the importance of giving yourself grace while still showing up with grit. Episode Highlights Ginger and Will talk about the difference between being busy and being effective, and why success is not always measured by a full calendar. This episode's God Wink: Ginger shares how Zach Williams' song "Walls Fall Down" showed up at exactly the moment she needed encouragement and peace. Ginger and Will Flip the Script on first-year business struggles by focusing on mindset, realistic expectations, and celebrating small wins along the way. The conversation touches on cash flow, business planning, networking, roundtables, and finding trusted people to help guide your business. Rank It or Roast It: Reese's Easter Eggs are up for scrutiny in today's Rank It or Roast It segment! Links Zach Williams — "When These Walls Fall Down" Credits Hosts: Ginger Cook and Will Sumser, CFP® Produced by: Jeremiah Isley — Crooked Path Productions Hope Financial Group is a DBA of OneSeven, an investment adviser in Ohio. OneSeven is registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC"). Registration of an investment adviser does not imply any specific level of skill or training and does not constitute an endorsement of the firm by the Commission. OneSeven only transacts business in states in which it is properly registered or is excluded or exempted from registration. A copy of OneSeven's current written disclosure brochure filed with the SEC, which discusses OneSeven's business practices, services, and fees, is available through the SEC's website at: www.adviserinfo.sec.gov. All titles listed for Individuals associated with Hope Financial Group represent the individual's role with Hope Financial Group.

13. 

    28 Apr 2026

    Our Story: Led by Grace, Back by Grit

    Episode 1: Our Story: Led by Grace, Backed by Grit Episode Summary Ginger Cook and Will Sumser, CFP® introduce Grace & Grit: The Heart of Small Business with a conversation about faith, small business, and the unexpected paths that led them to where they are today. They discuss why grace and grit are both essential in business ownership, and how God continues to show up in the details. Episode Highlights The heart behind the name Grace & Grit is rooted in faith, humility, perseverance, and small business ownership. This episode's God Wink: Ginger shares how the song "You Are My Sunshine" became a powerful reminder of her father's love and presence. Ginger and Will talk about the realities of owning a small business, including consistency, humility, and continuing forward when things get hard. Rank It or Roast It: "Safe Words" are up for scrutiny in today's Rank it or Roast it segment! Links Ohio Business Search US Bureau of Labor Statistics Credits Hosts: Ginger Cook and Will Sumser, CFP® Produced by: Jeremiah Isley — Crooked Path Productions Hope Financial Group is a DBA of OneSeven, an investment adviser in Ohio. OneSeven is registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC"). Registration of an investment adviser does not imply any specific level of skill or training and does not constitute an endorsement of the firm by the Commission. OneSeven only transacts business in states in which it is properly registered or is excluded or exempted from registration. A copy of OneSeven's current written disclosure brochure filed with the SEC, which discusses OneSeven's business practices, services, and fees, is available through the SEC's website at: www.adviserinfo.sec.gov. All titles listed for Individuals associated with Hope Financial Group represent the individual's role with Hope Financial Group.

14. 

    14 Apr 2026

    Coming Soon!

    Grace and Grit: The Heart of Small Business is where faith meets entrepreneurship. Hosted by realtor Ginger Cook and CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER Will Sumser, this podcast pulls back the curtain on the real journey of building a business — the wins, the struggles, and the moments that require both grace and grit. Launching April, 2026! Be sure to subscribe today, wherever you listen to podcasts! Hope Financial Group is a DBA of OneSeven, an investment adviser in Ohio. OneSeven is registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC"). Registration of an investment adviser does not imply any specific level of skill or training and does not constitute an endorsement of the firm by the Commission. OneSeven only transacts business in states in which it is properly registered or is excluded or exempted from registration. A copy of OneSeven's current written disclosure brochure filed with the SEC, which discusses OneSeven's business practices, services, and fees, is available through the SEC's website at: www.adviserinfo.sec.gov. All titles listed for Individuals associated with Hope Financial Group represent the individual's role with Hope Financial Group.

Reach and audience

Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.

Apple Podcasts (US)

5.0 / 5

6 ratings

Spotify

5.0 / 5

5 ratings