Beyond Borders: Building Faith, Integrity, and People in Business

In a world where business often prioritizes profit above all else, Brian Remsburg, founder of Beyond Borders Fences and Decks, offers a refreshing and transformative approach. His journey from a 20-year career in education and international living to building a thriving construction business is a testament to the power of intentionally living out one's faith in every aspect of life, especially in the marketplace.

Brian's story is not one of a linear path but a divinely guided adventure. After years as an educator and principal, including significant time overseas, he and his wife transitioned into life coaching, even co-authoring a book. While passionate about helping people achieve their goals, the financial realities of coaching led Brian to leverage his lifelong building skills. What started as handyman work quickly evolved into Beyond Borders Fences and Decks, a company now experiencing significant growth.

Faith as the Foundation of Business

For Brian, faith isn't a separate compartment of his life; it's the bedrock of his business. He intentionally weaves his Christian values into the very fabric of Beyond Borders, starting with its core principles. While not explicitly religious, values like communication, reliability, excellence, humility, and a willingness to learn are deeply rooted in his faith. These aren't just words on a wall; they are actively discussed and modeled within the company, guiding interactions with customers and employees alike.

The company's mission statement, "more than just a fence and deck company... we go beyond that to build and build up people," clearly articulates this faith-driven purpose. Brian sees his work as an opportunity to invest in the lives of his team and to serve his community, not just construct physical barriers. This extends to fostering unity among neighbors, even mediating disputes, reflecting the biblical call to "love our neighbors as ourselves."

Transparency and Vulnerability in Leadership

Brian's leadership style is marked by transparency and vulnerability. He openly shares his faith journey with his team, making it clear that his values are integral to the business's operation. While respecting boundaries as a boss, he strives to be "real" with his employees, sharing both successes and struggles. This approach fosters an environment where authenticity is valued, and team members can see their leader navigate challenges with integrity and faith.

Decision-Making Guided by Conviction

One of the most profound ways Brian's faith influences his business is in his decision-making, particularly when faced with ethical dilemmas. He recounts instances where mistakes were made, or work wasn't perfectly executed. In these moments, the tension between business realities (like profit margins) and faith-based values (like integrity and service) becomes palpable. However, Brian's commitment to doing what's right, even when it costs him financially, is unwavering.

He rejects the common contractor stereotype of cutting corners or demanding more money for fixes. Instead, he commits to always going back to rectify errors, honoring the initial agreement. This commitment stems from a deep conviction that integrity is paramount, even if it means a temporary financial setback. We're gonna serve our customers, and we're gonna do what's right, and what we agreed upon, he states, emphasizing that this principle holds true "even when no one sees."

Stewardship: Beyond Finances

Brian views his role as a business owner through the lens of stewardship, believing that Beyond Borders is ultimately "the Lord's business." This perspective extends beyond financial management to encompass the careful oversight of all resources, especially people. He meticulously calculates pricing to ensure fairness for both customers and employees, demonstrating a commitment to equitable practices.

Crucially, stewardship for Brian means prioritizing the well-being of his team. He shared a powerful anecdote about realizing he hadn't paid an employee for transportation. Despite the employee not mentioning it, Brian proactively corrected the oversight, communicating a profound message: I'm looking out for you. This act of integrity builds trust and demonstrates genuine care.

Beyond his team, Brian extends his stewardship to customers, always seeking opportunities to go "above and beyond." Whether it's fixing a gate that wasn't part of the original scope or offering extra help to widows, he looks for ways to serve without expectation of immediate return, embodying the spirit of generosity and compassion.

Practical Encouragement for Christian Business Leaders

For aspiring and established Christian business leaders, Brian offers invaluable advice:

• Set the Tone Early: Establish your core values and mission statement from the outset. These foundational documents will shape your company culture and are difficult to alter later.
• Be Upfront About Your Faith: Let people know that faith is an integral part of your business. This transparency allows employees and clients to understand your operating principles from the beginning.
• Steward All Resources: Recognize that your business, finances, and especially your people, are entrusted to you. Manage them with integrity, fairness, and care.
• Operate from Your Gifts: Avoid burnout by focusing your time and energy on activities that align with your passions and strengths. As Brian learned from his contrasting experiences driving refugees, true fulfillment comes from serving in areas where your gifts can flourish.

Brian Remsburg's journey with Beyond Borders Fences and Decks is a powerful example of how faith can transform a business from a mere profit-generating entity into a vehicle for positive impact, building not just structures, but also people and communities, one intentional decision at a time.