Testimonials

What People Are Saying

10x Catalyst Groups for CEOs and entrepreneurs were born out of a need for a Christian peer advisory board format and curriculum tailored to the immediate needs of Central Oregon business owners that became apparent after four years facilitating the nationally franchised C12 Cascades CEO Groups. We transitioned the three CEO groups into 10x CEO Groups and launched three 10x PRO Groups for entrepreneurs, professional practitioners and sole proprietors.

For a sense for some of the benefits and the ROI from participating in a 10x Peer Group, here is a sampling of testimonials from 10x Catalyst Group members.

“After less than one year of applying the biblical and business wisdom I learned in the 10x Catalyst Group my company's revenue increased by almost 75%. That in itself sells the power of 10x Catalyst. But it doesn't end there. 10x has changed my life and my business, giving me the courage and wisdom to be the CEO, husband, father, and leader that God wants me to be. I am one of the most skeptical, “show me the proof” kinds of people out there and I made the mistake of putting off joining 10x for almost 4 years. Call it God's timing, or better late than never, but joining 10x has been the best decision I have ever made in my 20+ years of leadership.”
— Robert W. Bennnington, CEO/Owner, Bennington Properties

“I am extremely grateful Michael Sipe invited me to 10x Catalyst Groups. We had met a couple of times to talk about 10x and I always had an excuse that I was too busy or too distracted. There was a time I even told him I was doing fine and didn’t need what 10x had to offer. I couldn’t have been more wrong. Since joining 10x I have seen results and felt peace in ways I didn’t think were possible. During our meetings Michael is always spot on. The wisdom and information he brings have been the topics for a great deal of positive meetings and conversations within my office. He always works within God’s guidance and heart for all the members. I have also greatly enjoyed the candor and experience of the other members. The heartfelt input and advice provided during our discussions in invaluable. As members we know that we can discuss a topic with full confidentiality, and we know that God will speak to us and guide our hearts and responses. My only regret is waiting as long as I did to join.”
— Mark D. Worthington General Manager Prime Lending

“When we first heard about 10x Catalyst Groups, my initial response was, ‘This sounds awesome, but we just can't afford the time and money.’ I told my wife that someday we'd do it but for now it had to be a ‘no.’ Later that day, I was driving to an appointment and I heard the Lord tell me that if we joined 10x, we would never even notice the investment. I took Him at His word, and we joined. Sure enough, because of things we applied from the very first 10x meeting, we closed a deal that week that covered the entire year's membership fees. We've never even thought about the monthly investment since, as the ROI has been so great. Mike has been an incredible business coach for us. I'm not sure how he does it, but every time our business gets stuck somewhere, he's able to give us a couple things to do immediately that get us over the hump. Last year alone, we made an additional $250,000 directly as a result of coaching he gave us. We didn't know what to expect when we joined 10x, but without a doubt, it's been the absolute best business decision we've ever made.”
— James Kramer, CEO Pneuma33 Creative Agency

“I am always pretty skeptical when it comes to joining a group, especially one you pay membership fees to. After much thought and consideration, I ended up joining 10X and could not be happier with my decision to join and be a part of the group. As a Christian business owner, I really enjoy getting to meet and talk with other like-minded people. The fellowship and comradery is great and it is very refreshing to hear from others that are going through the same things you are whether good or bad. I think that the membership fee is well worth what you get out of the class. I believe this class has helped to keep my focus on God and what really matters as well as providing solid Christian business teachings. I am a pretty busy person with an awesome family and a business to run, so time is very valuable to me and if I am going to take time out of my day to listen to someone it must be some one that I truly respect. Michal Sipe, the leader of the 10X group is that person and the type of leader, business owner, and biblical teacher that I am blessed to be able to learn from. I have also found the wisdom and insight from all the other 10x members to be of great help. I would recommend this class to any one as it has so much to offer. You will not find a better person and group of believers to work by your side and advise you than Michael Sipe and the 10x Group.
— Brody Baxter, CEO Baxter Builders LLC

"As the third-generation owner of our family business, I really had to ask God what my chapter in our legacy was supposed to look like. Over the last 61 years our company has provided facilities for seven church plants, countless bible studies and small groups and has seen numerous employees come to Christ. We have always viewed our work as a ministry but were lacking the proper business training to steward it wisely. God's provision over the years has been nothing short of miraculous, but I felt that God was calling us to step it up in the business department. Without any formal business training, I felt pretty inadequate for the task. I had the heart, but I needed the wisdom! I was invited to come and visit a 10x meeting and decided to give it a try. That first meeting was a bombshell to me and such an obvious answer to prayer that I never looked back. We have been 10x members for four years and I cannot begin to describe the richness and depth that we have experienced. Our business has been completely turned around and has been greatly impacted by the ministry principles and world class business coaching. It's not a small group or a seminar; it's God's way to do business!"
— Michael Summers, CEO, Summers Wood Flooring, Inc.

“I’ve been in business for 14 years and was always looking for an environment where I could openly discuss issues and challenges related to our operation. As a Christian, I was not able to find that confidant. When I was shown the model for 10x Catalyst Groups, I knew I’d found my answer. In this group, I trust each of the board members implicitly because I know where they stand and Who they believe in! What a great feeling! I’m free to both give and receive input into our businesses. The spirit of the group recognizes that we are simply put here to manage our businesses for the Lord. As long as we stay focused on that principle, our businesses flourish much better than when we grab the reins. I love the hearts of the people on the board. They’re genuine and they care about others like we only hope someone does. I am fed in all aspects of my life because of the day I spend with them and I can’t wait for that day to arrive each month! Best investment I’ve ever made in this engineering firm!”
— Charlie Rowles, President, CA Rowles Engineering

Prior to meeting Michael Sipe and becoming part of 10X I struggled with the reality that my walk with the Lord and my business life were at worst not connected and at best not aligned. 10X has allowed me to resolve this conflict with my priorities as it helps to create and reinforce a fully integrated life.

During my 30 plus years of senior management in the corporate world I had the benefit of a seasoned senior management team and a Board of Directors to guide and provide accountability. This new chapter of my life has me running a small business without that traditional corporate support system.

The 10X model is a vastly superior solution. 10X provides access to other Christian CEOs that share the calling to integrate our walk with the Lord in all aspects of our daily personal, family and work lives. The confidential bond we share with the other 10X members allows us to speak into all aspects of our lives. The collective knowledge and experience of the 10X members provides valuable insight and guidance from a Christian perspective. I have found this far superior to any other Board of Directors I have been associated with.

But most important 10X provides a tangible way for me to live a fully integrated life and finally begin to truly understand and strive to fulfill the great commission.
— Rick Hetherington CEO, Dana Sign / MC Smith Sign Group

10x Catalyst Groups Chairman Michael Sipe is a high achiever who clearly made the choice years ago to be a life-long learner who will not settle for second best. He has a passion to share what he has learned with others. Mike has the ability to make the sometimes hard to understand principles of business easy to grasp and apply. The fact that he is a successful, seasoned person from the world of business, yet has chosen to make Christ first in his life is very encouraging to me. I feel very privileged to have the opportunity to be a member of 10x and meet with other business leaders from the community that love the Lord and are trying to grow their business and their spiritual influence every day. 10x and Mike show us how to integrate proven Biblical practices into our business and our everyday life.
— Scott Houck, CEO, Structure Development NW

“When Michael Sipe approached me about joining 10x, I was extremely reluctant, because at the time I had many doubts about my faith. I was not excited about packing myself into a room full of ‘creepy’ Christians and risking being asked to pray or discuss my beliefs. However, Mike is a man of excellent character and brings a great deal of business knowledge, so I figured I could walk away with some value if I took a day to visit the group. I remember going home and telling my wife, ‘I wish this wasn’t a Christian business group because it was immensely valuable for our business, but I don’t know where I stand on Christianity.’ Shortly after, Mike invited me back again and I figured I should let him know where I stood in my faith before I wasted any more of his time. I was impressed by his response of openness and understanding. He listened intently and without selling me on God, he invited me to return to the group. And I did. I knew I wanted to be a part of this amazing group. I also knew I could not sit at that table a fraud. I had to let the group know where I stood. I opened up to them thinking I would be cast out. Instead, they loved me and welcomed me with open arms. They respected me and appreciated me where I stood in a season of disbelief. Since joining 10x, just six months ago our, revenue has increased by 29%. We have increased our customer experience immensely through the tools and training 10x has provided. We have reclaimed our purpose for the business and our staff is excited to be a part of our team and our vision 10x has renewed my hope, my passion and my confidence in who I am and who I was created to be. Good information can be found elsewhere. But the value of the group discussion, encouragement and prayer is not easily found outside of this incredible group of individuals. The 1-on-1 sessions with Mike and our peers gives us a chance to get to know each other on a deeper level and receive feedback and encouragement throughout the month. Visit 10x and see for yourself that this group is on fire. It ignites every bone in your body to be great, to do amazing things and to do it all for the glory of God. It has changed my life!”
— Michael Marshall, CEO, The Signal Spot

“I’ve been challenged and deeply impacted by Mike and the 10x Group members. If the Spirit of God has been speaking to you to be in a community of Christians who hold positions of marketplace authority and influence - now is the time and 10x is the place. If you have a passion for learning, a servant leadership heart and are ready to stretch yourself in the context of an incredible and dynamic Christian leadership group, then step up to 10x and get ready for Jesus to rock your personal and professional world. I did, and 10x has been the best personal and professional investment I’ve made since moving to Bend.”
— David Knauss, President, Life Impact, Inc., Owner Knauss Executive Coaching

I can sincerely recommend Michael Sipe as a 10x leader, business mentor, and friend. Through the excellent 10x structure and Michael’s incredible leadership and business acumen, my business has grown more in the last year than it has in the previous 10. The Lord brought Michael and 10x into our company at what proved to be a critical juncture. I believe that our company avoided disaster on multiple levels because of their influence, guidance, wisdom, and prayers. I had no way to see what was coming when I joined 10x. Of course, our omniscient Lord did. In one of the most difficult, yet rewarding, years we have experienced in nearly 32 years in business, the challenges were great, but our God is greater!
— Arlene Custock, President, PAC Integrations

The other businesses in 10x all share our same values and DNA. When we meet with them, we feel like we're talking the same language. It's incredibly powerful to work alongside so many other kingdom-minded businesses that are unafraid to boldly carry Jesus in their business. It's very inspiring and encouraging and motivates us to keep being overt about our faith. The relationships we've formed within 10x have been incredible. We share meals with each other, go on couple’s dates and strategize business development together. Our 10x Group membership is always connecting us with people and opportunities, and we feel like our 10x colleagues are our best brand ambassadors in the marketplace.
— Anna Kramer, VP/Creative Director, Pneuma33 Creative Agency

I was just securing the new structure for our company when the invitation to audit 10x came. I had worked with Michael Sipe in the past and knew his brilliance in business and in coaching, but Mike blew me away at what he was able to deliver with the 10x Catalyst Group program. He allowed the Holy Spirit to lead us as he guided us through the materials, discussion, tools, goals and prayers. That day I was invited to have God be the CEO of our company and to change the world, as I allowed my company to be a marketplace ministry through excellence, discipleship and Christian brotherhood. I couldn't have been more excited to have peer advisory help in building our business, expanding our ministry and establishing our goals for the next four generations. We are serving world-changers and have the support, wisdom and guidance of our 10x peers as we implement our growth strategies. I travel to Bend once a month to meet with our 10x advisory board. The one-on-one times with Mike and each of the 10x members have been divine appointments of grace, wisdom, counsel, encouragement and accountability to propel us, as a God-sized dream is being made real. I am overjoyed!
— Shoshana Hermeling-Buckendorf, CEO, Real Estate Northwest

“In the past I have been in a few networking/business mentoring groups, but they always left me wanting something deeper and something more significant. As a businessman who is also a Christian I feel called to do more than just create profits. We are called to a higher purpose in a world that tells you there is only one; get all you can while you can. My 10x meeting each month keeps me grounded and reminds me of why I do what I do. The curriculum is outstanding, and it is great to go over it with other Christian business leaders as we work through the monthly principles. Business leaders have a different type of pressure that only other business leaders and owners can relate to. ‘It is lonely at the top’ but with 10x I don’t feel alone. Michael Sipe has created something unique and special in Central Oregon, something that I know will catch fire and spread. Business leaders are in a unique place to change their community and their world and 10x is the catalyst to bring about that change.”
— Darand Davies, CEO, Black Line Glazing

I have been multiple peer groups and have found the quality of the group varies highly based primarily on the skillset of the facilitator and the commitment of the members. 10x delivers above expectation on both of these areas. Mike is one of the best facilitators I have encountered, and the content of the materials is top notch. The group is centered on running our businesses as stewards of what God has entrusted us with vs. just owners trying to maximize profits for our own sake. This shift in viewpoint also emphasizes how important it us for us to be involved in the community and impact it in a positive way. Being the leader God is growing you to be takes an intentional investment of time and resources. 10x has been a great investment for me to become a better leader and a better steward of the business God has entrusted me with.
— Brock McFarlane, CEO, Weston Technology Solutions

It is truly refreshing and liberating to have a confidential group of leaders committed to building businesses with excellence and finding new ways to champion each other and lead in and serve our community. I don't have to show up at monthly meetings in my professional capacity, but rather in a posture to learn, be refined and grow with others. I don't have to perform or have all the answers. 10X PRO is a safe place to be transparent and seek help and support from others who understand your challenges.

I have experienced huge breakthrough in my business. I struggled with investing the monthly membership dues, and the founder of the group, Michael Sipe, asked if I would be willing to review my business model with him to discover what was holding back greater financial success. During our 90-minute meeting Michael asked me several refining questions and I walked away with the most precise niche I've ever pursued, along with a new service model. I revised the approach I had been using for over a decade in business and got to work moving forward!

Using the new model, I immediately landed a new consulting contract at a rate that was five-times larger than any business contract I had previously written. The monthly 10x PRO dues were no longer a challenge, and I received an extraordinary promotion not only in my business but in my leadership. 2019 has been a year of leaving “business as usual,” and stepping into what only God could lead me into. I've never felt so fully integrated in my identity as a Christ follower, entrepreneur and community leader.
— Layla Fay McGlone, Life and Leadership Coach

Being introduced to 10x Catalyst Groups was a such a timely answer to much prayer. After 15 years in Merchant Service sales/consulting I was asking God for new opportunities for growth and maturity in my professional and personal life. I had just moved the family to Bend from Portland a couple months before meeting Michael Sipe. Once we had coffee and I sat in on a 10x meeting I knew this was the Lord answering my prayers. It's an honor and privilege each month to fellowship with other Christian professionals who are committed to bettering themselves and their businesses with the collective goal of bringing Glory to God the Father. I really wasn’t all that concerned with any immediate or earthly ROI, given I was new to town and simply enjoyed meeting other like-minded professionals, but when I applied the action steps of the curriculum the financial return was significant. In just 6 months I’ve added over $50,000 in additional annual residual revenue. All this to say, I highly recommend the 10x meetings and curriculum.
— Chad Hughes, Executive Account Specialist, Axia Payments / HK Consulting, LLC

My time with Michael Sipe and the 10X Groups has fundamentally developed my understanding of God at work. I've seen businesses grow, expand, and develop at an exponential rate. More importantly I've seen business owners understand the work of God in their lives and how that impacts the work they do, growing in love and community. People in 10X groups challenge each other to see their work the way God sees it and develop excellence in all they do. It is in that process that challenge becomes change and change creates impact. Do you want your business to do more than provide an income for you and your family? Join 10X and find out how to change the world. Because quite simply you were never made to do this alone, you were designed to grow, to succeed, to prosper in community.
— Dr. Alice DeWittie, Summit High School Principle (Retired)

“When I was first introduced to the concept of the 10X Catalyst Groups, I was “all in,” until I found out what it was going to cost. I run a small business with 2-5 employees. I just couldn’t “afford” the additional expense each month. Michael never gave up on me. He knew that what he had to offer was something I needed. Michael invited me to come sit in on one of his meetings about a year ago (for the second time, as I had attended several years before). God’s timing is never wrong. What I saw, in this group, was an awesome mass of likeminded people trying to serve God and grow their businesses. When we began our discussions, I found that, not only did Michael have a ton of experience that I was looking for, but so did many of the members of the group. I was sold. Once again, I asked, “how am I going to afford this?” I knew that God had pointed me to this group. So, I stepped out in faith that the funds would be there. I have never looked back on that decision. The strength of the group is so amazing.

Michael has set up the curriculum in a format that glorifies our Lord and Savior first. We get to find out what God’s plan is based on what we will be studying(all according to His word). Due to Michael’s background and education, we hit the mark every time. We then go into practical business application of the lessons that we are learning, with appropriate homework to help anchor the lessons. The biggest advantage to this group, that I have not experienced with other groups, is the peer meetings. We meet each month, outside of our regular meetings, with someone in our group to go over what we have learned, and to pray for each other, our families, and our businesses. I know of no other forum where God’s people get to interact in this kind of business setting. Thank you, Michael, for following the dream that God put on your heart.”
— Mike Davis, General Manager, Rainbow International Restoration