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Meet Our Founders - Jeff & Karie Kirschbaum
Still Fearless. Still Growing. Still Believing.
Jeff and Karie Kirschbaum met at Sandy Brown's Church (Believers' Ministry International) in Las Vegas, NV, and married there in 1989. For over 30 years, they have shared an extraordinary adventure of faith, friendship, leadership, and life as founders of Believers Ministry International (BMI), named in honor of Sandy and the lifelong relationships created there - many of which still exist today.
Their passion has never been about building an organization for its own sake. It's about people — helping them discover, first of all Jesus loves them, then who they are in Jesus, experience the freedom of His finished work, and build friendships that cross cultures, generations, denominations, and borders.
What began with a simple vision in Fontana, California, in 1997, has grown into an incredible international family. Along the way, there have been countless adventures, a few unexpected turns, plenty of laughter, and friendships that have lasted a lifetime.
And they're not finished yet - there are many more friends to make, and adventures to be had!
Jeff Kirschbaum
The Gentle Giant | Leader, Teacher & Mentor
Affectionately known around the world as "The Gentle Giant," Jeff Kirschbaum is a leader to leaders, a gifted teacher, mentor, trainer, and businessman whose life has been dedicated to investing in people.
Standing 6'7", Jeff may be a giant in stature, but it's his gentle spirit, humility, mercy, and genuine love for people that leave the greatest impression.
He has a remarkable ability to communicate profound truths with simplicity, wisdom, and grace. His leadership combines quiet strength with compassion and an unwavering belief in the potential of others. Whether mentoring leaders, teaching, developing business opportunities, or sharing a conversation over a meal, Jeff has a way of making people feel valued, understood, and encouraged.
One of his best-known messages, "Just Call Me Jeff," reflects his approach to leadership. Titles have never mattered nearly as much as relationships. His influence is reflected in the lives of people he has encouraged, the leaders he has helped develop, and the lasting friendships he has built around the globe.
To many, Jeff is a respected leader and teacher. To others, a trusted mentor and friend. And to just about everyone who knows him, he's simply The Gentle Giant.
Karie Kirschbaum
Still Fearless | Leader, Encourager & Adventurer
Karie Kirschbaum has never been particularly interested in living a small life — and she certainly doesn't believe following Jesus should be boring!
A natural connector of people, an enthusiastic encourager, and a woman with an entrepreneurial spirit, Karie brings energy, vision, humor, and a healthy dose of adventure to just about everything she does.
Her diverse background in business, executive leadership, public service, community development, and international relationships has given her a unique perspective on people and the extraordinary possibilities found in everyday life.
As a motivational speaker and mentor, Karie loves challenging people to think beyond limitations, embrace new opportunities, and discover the freedom and joy of living authentically.
Her memorable message, "You Can Go to Heaven Jacked Up," captures something of her unconventional approach to sharing the simplicity of God's grace. Perfection isn't the price of admission, and a relationship with Jesus isn't reserved for people who have it all together!
She believes laughter is good medicine, relationships are among life's greatest treasures, and Jesus has the best sense of humor of anyone she's ever known.
Whether she's speaking to a room full of people, building a new business partnership, traveling the world, spending time with horses, or simply enjoying a lively conversation with friends, Karie approaches life with curiosity, enthusiasm, and a conviction that the best adventures often begin with a simple "yes."
Her longtime signature to the BMI family says it all:
Still Fearless!
