E 97: The Leadership Lessons Behind the Museum of the Bible, Part 2

In this episode, Cary Summers shares the remarkable journey that led from operating major theme park organizations to helping create the Museum of the Bible in Washington, D.C.

The conversation explores how a call from Bill Bright helped shape the vision behind the Nehemiah Group — building experiences designed to reach people who might never step foot inside a church. Cary walks through the early stages of projects like Nazareth Village, the Ark Encounter master plan, and the development of the Museum of the Bible itself.

Along the way, he shares practical leadership insights for entrepreneurs and business leaders who want to pursue excellence while honoring God. From understanding “the five customers” every organization serves to learning how to ask better questions, this episode is filled with timeless business wisdom rooted in real-world experience.

Cary also reflects on lessons learned from leaders like Jimmy Carter and discusses why listening carefully may be one of the most important skills a leader can develop.

This conversation is both practical and encouraging for entrepreneurs, business owners, ministry leaders, and anyone interested in the intersection of faith, leadership, and long-term Kingdom impact.

5 Key Takeaways

Excellence opens doors.

Cary explains that creating high-quality, creative experiences helped attract people who might never normally engage with biblical content.

Business principles still matter.

The conversation emphasizes that honoring God in business does not remove the need for sound operations, margins, leadership, and accountability.

Great leaders ask great questions.

One of the strongest leadership lessons shared is the importance of learning how to listen well and ask better questions.

Your organization serves more than one customer.

Cary discusses the importance of understanding employees, communities, shareholders, suppliers, and guests as key stakeholders.

Faith and business do not have to be separated.

The episode challenges the idea that ministry and business belong in different worlds and highlights how business can become a platform for impact.

Watch full episode on YT - https://youtu.be/h-8yVKmlMEA

Join the free Third Fish Academy at ThirdFish.org

Listen to Part 1 here: https://open.spotify.com/episode/6kI3PfDfBKY580Fo8RcRPH?si=Si-7LV95RES45ACteQ5Ljg