The Calling and the Climb

Building A Multi Million Dollar Business From $600 | Ryan O'Neal Interview

In this episode of The Calling and the Climb, Phillip Hampton sits down with entrepreneur Ryan O’Neil, founder of Curate, to talk about the real journey of building a business from the ground up. Ryan shares how he went from failed startup experiences to launching Curate from a simple hackathon idea with only $600, eventually growing it into a multi-million dollar company. This conversation dives into the highs, lows, risks, lessons, and mindset shifts that come with entrepreneurship while you’re still “in the fight.” Philip and Ryan cover a lot of topics from Learning through failure, Bootstrapping a startup with limited resources,  Building before everything feels perfect, and staying grounded during the climb Learn more about Ryan and Curate:  https://curate.co

From Worm Farmer to Founder of a 120 Employee Business | John Darby Interview

In this episode of The Calling and the Climb, Phillip Hampton sits down with John Darby to explore what leadership looks like across multiple arenas—from public service to entrepreneurship to scaling mission-driven organizations. John shares insights from building businesses, leading teams of over 100 employees, and navigating the challenges of growth, culture, and responsibility. The conversation dives into what it really takes to lead well, how purpose and profitability intersect, and the lessons learned along the way.

The Biggest Surprise After Selling My Business | The Exit; Part 8

What happens the morning after you sell the business you spent 26 years building? In this episode of The Calling and the Climb, Phillip shares the unexpected journey that followed his exit—moving from relentless pressure and responsibility into a season of rest that transformed his perspective on work, faith, and purpose. From the surreal freedom of the first morning after the sale to the deeper realization that every season of life carries meaning, this conversation explores what comes after the climb and why your purpose doesn’t end just because one chapter closes.

How I Sold My Business And Walked Away | The Exit: Part 7

After 26 years of building his company from the ground up, Phillip Hampton walks through the real process of selling a business From finding advisors and hiring an investment banker to navigating valuations, due diligence, letters of intent, and the emotional roller coaster of negotiating a deal. In this episode of The Calling and the Climb, Phillip shares what founders should expect when preparing to sell their company and the lessons he learned along the way. The journey culminates in a powerful full-circle moment when he signs the final paperwork in the very place where his entrepreneurial journey first began, standing on the platform of his church.

When Personal Crisis Disrupts Your Ability To Lead | The Exit Part 6

In this episode of The Calling and the Climb, Phillip Hampton shares how the momentum toward his exit strategy was suddenly disrupted by COVID and personal loss. He reflects on navigating crisis, stepping away from the business during a critical season, and the importance of building loyal leaders who can carry the vision forward when life demands your attention elsewhere.