Notes from the Producer
Robert Netzly had it all – a high-paying job at one of the nation’s leading banks on the beautiful California coast. Then he discovered an unknown skeleton in the closet of his investment portfolio – he was profiting from industries that violated his values - trafficking, abortion and porn. Robert gave up everything to start an investment firm that excelled and innovated, and most importantly – aligned with biblically responsible values. Now with a couple dozen offices around the nation, Inspire Investing is the third fastest-growing investment firm in the country. Robert shares his story of risk and reward, and how you can find the skeletons in your portfolio. Robert Talks About
An article introduced him to the concept of Biblically Responsible Investing – evaluating investments on financial and moral returns.
The parts of his portfolio that rocked his world and inspired the biggest risk he has ever taken.
The story of Inspire Investing’s explosive growth.
Inspire Insight: a free tool that shows you if you are investing in industries that profit from human trafficking, abortion, porn, or anything else that goes against your values.
How the average financial advisor lacks the tools – and sometimes their company’s permission – to advise on values-aligned investing.
The drastic faith that it took for Robert to walk away from the perfect life into the unknown, and how God was there for him every step of the way.
How Inspire respectfully and successfully engages companies to impact how profits are used, and how you can have an impact with a simple call to your Investor Relations office.
Katie's Favorite Quotes
"I guarantee you, if you haven't been trying to invest aligned with your values, something in your portfolio is going to make your jaw drop, whether it's abortion, human trafficking, pornography - the list goes on and on."
"Most of these businesses really don't want to be woke...they just think they're doing the politically correct thing...pick up the phone and talk to investor relations, and say, ‘Hi I'm a conservative, I'm a person of faith’…you'd be surprised at how receptive many of these businesses are."
“So whatever it is – whether you’re called to leave and align your work hours with an endeavor that is going to support your values or whether it’s going to be staying where you’re at, use your influence where you’re at actively to advocate for change...just don’t do nothing.”
"That life lived by faith is worth it every time."
-Robert Netzly
Freedom Focus
Step 1: Go to Inspireinvesting.com and click on Inspire Insight. It’s free. Screen your ticker symbol and discover if you are profiting from a stock, mutual fund, ETF, 401K, or IRA that violates your values. If what you discover shocks you - realign your investments with a call to Inspire.
Step 2: Enlighten those around you. Ask your Alma Mater how your contributions to the endowment fund are being invested.
Step 3: Whatever you do, don’t do nothing. If you stay where you are – join employee resource groups, advocate for changes, and be a positive force.
Step 4: If you make a change, talk to your spouse and the people closest to you to get on the same page.
Step 5: Remember that when you are brave – you're not just being brave for yourself. You will inspire others to have courage too. That is how movements are made.
In this Episode
I hope you enjoyed Andrew’s conversation with Robert, and I hope you are able to take advantage of the free Inspire Insight tool to find out what values your money is supporting.
Take Action, and Take Heart,
Katie