From CEO to Calling: Finding God's Purpose

From CEO to Calling: Finding God's Purpose

From Holy Business by Candice Hilse

January 14, 2026 · 57 min · Season 5 · Episode 1

About this episode

Candice Hilse interviews Steve McKenzie about his journey from CEO to finding God's purpose in his work and life.

In thisepisode, Candice sits down with renowned Atlanta interior designer and former Fortune-level CEO Steve McKenzie for an honest conversation about faith, leadership, loss, and calling. Steve shares his journey from corporate executive leadership—to an unexpected career pivot. What followed was a season of grief and spiritual reckoning that ultimately led him into entrepreneurship, creativity, and the work he believes God uniquely prepared him to do. Together, they explore what it means to lead with integrity when outcomes feel unfair, how faith sustains leaders through uncertainty, and why servant leadership, values-based decision-making, and long-term vision matter more than ever. Steve also reflects on marriage, hard conversations, vocational transitions, and how honoring people of all beliefs has shaped both his business and his witness. This episode is a powerful reminder that God's providence is often clearer in hindsight—and that our deepest setbacks may be the very things that position us for our truest work. McKenzie Design LLC

People in this episode

Host: Candice Hilse

Guest: Steve McKenzie

Topics covered

  • faith
  • leadership
  • entrepreneurship
  • spirituality
  • calling
  • servant leadership

Keywords

  • CEO
  • faith
  • leadership
  • entrepreneurship
  • spirituality
  • calling
  • values-based decision-making

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: McKenzie Design LLC

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