From the Court to the Cross: How Al Lorenzen Found True Success Off the Hardwood
What do you do when you reach the top — and still feel empty?
That question sits at the heart of a powerful episode of The Germinate Podcast, where host Joe Sampson sits down with former University of Iowa basketball star turned Christian business leader and ranch owner, Al Lorenzen.
Their conversation spans decades, from the high-stakes energy of Big Ten basketball in the 1980s to the quiet, life-giving ministry happening today at Godspeed Equine, a faith-based equine therapy nonprofit in rural Iowa.
But this isn’t just a story about sports or business. It’s a raw, deeply personal reflection on faith, failure, family, and finding purpose when the scoreboard no longer matters.
Glory Days & The Emptiness That Followed
Al Lorenzen had it all on paper: McDonald's All-American, University of Iowa standout, four NCAA tournament appearances, and a career that extended into Europe and professional leagues.
But beneath the applause was something else — a gnawing emptiness.
“That time in my life wasn’t joyful,” Al admits. “I was chasing all the wrong things — status, comfort, the next high. And it left me hollow.”
For years, Al’s self-worth was tied to performance. Win the game. Close the deal. Be the best. But when the lights dimmed and the accolades faded, he was forced to face the truth: success isn’t always satisfying.
A “Mugged by Jesus” Moment
At 44, Al had a spiritual awakening. Or as he puts it, “I hadn’t been mugged by Jesus yet.” That moment changed everything.
No longer chasing worldly glory, he found peace in serving others, growing his faith, and leaning into a purpose bigger than himself.
He and his wife now operate Godspeed Equine at Victory Ranch — 22 acres of healing and hope just outside Waukee, Iowa. They provide free, faith-centered horse therapy to children, veterans, and first responders battling trauma, grief, and stress.
“Nobody pays to come here. We just bless the community,” Al says. “And God has shown up every step of the way.”
Parenting Through Pressure
The conversation also dives deep into parenting — particularly raising kids in competitive sports.
As a dad to both high-performing athletes and rodeo-loving teenagers, Al knows how easy it is to link identity with performance.
“My job isn’t to coach my kid. It’s to love them — win or lose,” he says. “They need to know that my love doesn’t rise or fall based on the scoreboard.”
This message is especially poignant in a culture obsessed with winning, where youth sports can easily become more about the parents than the players.
“Let them suffer. Let them lose. And then be there to love them anyway,” Joe adds. “That’s how they grow grit.”
From Athletic Drive to Servant Leadership
Al’s post-athletic career has been just as dynamic. As CEO of TBB Inc., a business brokerage firm, he helps small business owners buy and sell companies — but he does it with a twist: through the lens of servant leadership.
“It’s not about the money. It’s about asking, ‘How can I best serve this client today?’”
He shares stories of taking lower commissions, mentoring others, and prioritizing integrity over ego. In a world chasing hustle, Lorenzen is preaching humility.
Gen Z Revival & The Impact of Charlie Kirk
A deeply emotional part of the podcast revolves around the recent assassination of Christian leader Charlie Kirk, and the personal impact it had on Al’s family.
His 23-year-old stepson — once spiritually lost — accepted Christ in the wake of Kirk’s death.
“He told me, ‘I had everything I thought I ever wanted — the horse, the job, the house. But I still felt empty. Now I know why. I needed Jesus.’”
This led Al and his wife to organize a community vigil at their ranch to honor Charlie Kirk’s legacy and inspire others to find truth in a time of cultural confusion.
“There’s a revival happening,” Al says. “Gen Z isn’t afraid of the truth. They’re hungry for it.”
Final Thoughts: The Real Game is Eternal
At the end of the day, The Germinate Podcast reminds us that the wins that really matter don’t come with trophies.
They come in moments of redemption.
In business deals made with integrity.
In the quiet whispers of grace when we fail.
In parenting with love, not pressure.
In standing for truth, even when it’s unpopular.
Whether you’re an entrepreneur, athlete, parent, or just someone navigating life’s “middle chapters,” Al Lorenzen’s story is a bold reminder: you were made for more — and Jesus is the only thing that fills that void.
“It doesn’t matter what your kids achieve. It matters who they become. And it matters where their identity is rooted.”
Amen to that.
Want to Learn More?
Learn about Godspeed Equine (link pending – update if needed)
Explore TBB Inc. – Business Brokerage
Discover EMBO Sales, Joe Sampson’s company
Learn more about Iowans for Freedom
Follow & support Adam Steen in his campaign for Iowa Governor
Loved This Episode?
Listen now wherever you get your podcasts, and don’t forget to:
✅ Subscribe
✅ Leave a review
✅ Share this episode with someone who needs it
