Greg didn’t set out to start an agency — it found him when a sudden layoff forced a new chapter. With a background in theology and higher education, plus a knack for tech, Greg built Grace at Work into a business that blends purpose, service, and sustainability.
In this conversation, Greg talks about turning an unexpected setback into an opportunity, why recurring revenue changed everything, and how he’s built a life that balances entrepreneurship, ministry, and family.
What kind of work did you do before your current business and what did you bring with you into this career?
Before starting my agency, I was the director of a theological graduate school in NE Wisconsin. In this role, I gained a lot of Learning Management System experience as well as web design and dev knowledge while working with our marketing department to build a website that would serve our school.
What motivated you to start your own business, and what keeps you going when things get tough?
My motivation to start my business was sprung on me unexpectedly when I was laid off from the university. Another institution was acquiring the school, and I knew they wouldn’t need me because they already had an entire graduate school department. Still, they let me go about 6 months before I thought it would happen, and I was completely caught off guard and unprepared. I knew I wanted to work in a flexible/remote work environment, and through some mentoring with an entrepreneurial friend, Grace at Work was born.
I’m living the dream and rarely feel like I’m in a challenging situation. But I suppose if I were, I would remind myself of why I do what I do, my family. I’ve got a wife and daughter counting on me to be their rock, and I don’t want to ever let them down.
What’s a hard lesson you learned running your business that’s changed the way you operate?
It took me some years to figure out monthly recurring revenue. I would jump from project to project, looking for the next paycheck. Once I took a deep dive into hosting and gained the confidence to host client sites, the MRR really took off.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever gotten and how has it affected your business?
My business would not be what it is today had it not been for my entrepreneurial friend who helped me go for it. So go for it, don’t be afraid to fail, and learn from the failure.
As an entrepreneur, what’s your proudest accomplishment?
My proudest accomplishment is finding a good work/life balance where I don’t have to kill myself every week. Aside from running Grace at Work, I’m also a part-time pastor, so figuring out how to balance the agency, the church, and my family has been really rewarding.
What’s a book every agency owner should read?
Getting Things Done by David Allen
What’s your favorite podcast to listen to?
The Way I Heard It with Mike Rowe
What’s a WordPress plugin more people should know about?
What’s your favorite tool, accessory, or gadget on your desk?
Scarlett 2i2 connected to a Shure SM7B to make great-sounding videos for my clients.
What’s your favorite non-WordPress tool or software?
