By Rich Sanders
As a “super-connector of people”, Chris Cumby loves hosting the Level Up Emerald Coast conference every Fall, inspiring business leaders to deepen their faith and improve their businesses. After last year’s conference, however, Chris felt like something more was needed… something more than just an annual meeting.
The answer he developed is a weekly get-together at Stock & Brew in Santa Rosa Beach called Networking with a Cause! Chris describes this new gathering as “more than a networking event. It’s an opportunity to invest in yourself.”
After just a few short months, the event is really gaining traction and developing a community of entrepreneurs on the Emerald Coast, just as Chris envisioned. “Every great business, partnership, friendship, or breakthrough begins with one conversation. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, business owner, professional, or simply someone who enjoys meeting great people, you’ll find a room full of encouragement, opportunity, and authentic connections.”
Every Tuesday from 4-6:30 p.m., Chris utilizes hot coffee, warm cookies and an inviting space to create valuable insights and meaningful relationships. It is free of charge, and everyone is welcome. Chris gives special thanks to Michael Carey, owner of Stock & Brew, for his gracious hospitality.
At a recent meeting of Networking with a Cause, Chris invited me to speak about my new book, “Tools of the Bible”. After attending this gathering, it is clear to me that the community he is developing on Tuesdays is full of energy and entrepreneurial spirit, and the chocolate chip cookies are outstanding!
As Chris likes to say: “Come for the coffee. Stay for the conversations. Leave with new relationships that could change your business—and maybe even your life!” Especially with the development of artificial intelligence, Chris notes that this event is much different because it is analog (the opposite of digital).
Speaking of life-changing developments, Chris also recently launched a new non-profit, 501(c)(3) corporation focused on helping children realize their goals: Level Up Emerald Coast. With a focus on education and business training for young people, this is exactly the kind of charity that will help change lives. It is also a great example of a Christian Capitalist: Chris employs his business activities to help others and bring real impact to the Emerald Coast.
Chris is once again hosting the Level Up Emerald Coast conference for business leaders later this Fall. He aims for it to be the biggest one yet, with an anticipated attendance of 500 people! You can find out more information about the conference at https://levelupemeraldcoast.com.
Chris recently appeared on the Christian Capitalist podcast, and you can listen to the entire episode on SOWAL Life’s website! We are excited to share inspirational stories of hard work and generous giving to the poor and needy in the name of Jesus Christ, like Chris Cumby and the Level Up Conference!
Rich Sanders is a pastor, small business owner, retired healthcare attorney and adjunct professor at Emory University, and former intelligence officer in the U.S. Navy. He and his wife, Rebekah, met at church in 1996, and have been blessed with three children (James, William and Caroline). They live in Destin with their large golden retriever, Cowboy.
