DO GOOD X

Ep. 45 From Idea to Impact: Lessons for Purpose-Driven Entrepreneurs

3/4/25

Welcome to the DO GOOD X podcast, where hosts Kimberly Daniel and Stephen Lewis explore building and maintaining resilient, purpose-driven ventures. In this episode, we’ll discuss key lessons from entrepreneurs— from past podcast conversations and our experience working with founders. Whether you're in the early stages of building your business or scaling an existing one, these insights will help you avoid common pitfalls, take action on your ideas, and embrace the mindset needed for success. We’ll cover why getting your idea out of your head and testing it is crucial, how the biggest risk is not taking a risk, and how entrepreneurship can drive meaningful change for future generations. If you’ve been waiting for the perfect time to start, this episode is for you—because done is better than perfect. Let’s dive in! Remember, you can access practical tools and tap into resources available in the DO GOOD X community.

In This Episode

(00:00) Building a purpose-driven business
(02:59) Testing your idea
(04:28) Striving for perfection and accepting risk
(12:13) Does my business address a market or social need
(18:26) The work of the DO GOOD X Community

Key Takeaways

Many great ideas never materialize due to fear, perfectionism, time constraints, or a lack of funding. The best way to validate an idea is to create a simple, tangible version—a sketch on a napkin or a basic prototype—and share it with potential customers and partners for feedback.
Entrepreneurship is inherently uncertain, but the real risk is never trying at all. By taking small steps—starting as a side hustle or testing an idea on a small scale—you can determine if entrepreneurship is right for you. Course correction is always possible, but you won’t know unless you take the first step.
Beyond personal success, entrepreneurship can shape future generations and create meaningful change. By building businesses that address real challenges, entrepreneurs contribute to a better world for their communities and future generations.

About The Hosts

Kimberly R. Daniel

Kimberly R. Daniel catalyzes entrepreneurs and organizations to do good. She is co-founder and project director of DO GOOD X, a community that provides programs and support for faith-driven social entrepreneurs whose businesses focus on positive change.

Kimberly also helps purpose-driven organizations clarify and design compelling brand and communication strategies. With over 15 years of experience developing and leading communications efforts, she is committed to producing effective processes and creating authentic, “sticky” brands that are community-centered.

In addition, Kimberly has nearly ten years of experience as a certified life coach. She has facilitated workshops, spoken to communities, and written about innovation and entrepreneurship centered on social impact. She co-authored A Way Out of No Way: An Approach to Christian Innovation (2021).

She is deeply passionate about purpose, meaning, and the common good in any aspect of her work.

Social Media to Connect:

Stephen Lewis

Stephen Lewis is the president of the Forum for Theological Exploration (FTE) and the creator and co-founder of DO GOOD X. This community provides programs and support for faith-driven social entrepreneurs whose businesses focus on positive change.

He is an organizational change strategies and leadership development specialist focused on inspiring the next generation of faith-inspired leaders and entrepreneurs to live and work purposefully. Stephen co-authored Another Way: Living and Leading Change on Purpose (2020) and A Way Out of No Way: An Approach to Christian Innovation (2021).