23: Ken Yang – From Refugee to Fisherman

Ken Yang is a dedicated Christian father, fisherman, and former car dealer who embodies resilience and faith, shaped by his family’s journey from a Thai refugee camp to North Carolina. Born in 1980 to Laotian parents fleeing communism, Ken grew up in poverty, learning to fish and hunt for survival in Wisconsin before transitioning to leisure activities in North Carolina, where he’s lived since 1989. A father of three sons, he prioritizes their spiritual growth, teaching them to follow Jesus while fostering outdoor passions like fishing and hunting, often choosing catch-and-release to focus on family bonding. After selling his car dealership, Ken now coaches others online, aiming to integrate Christian principles into business without alienating non-believers. His life reflects a commitment to leading his family with faith, drawing inspiration from Bible verses like Philippians 4:13 and his parents’ perseverance.

 

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Topics

Introduction & Outdoor Beginnings

1:11 - Early Fishing Days: Ken started fishing at four inWisconsin. He joined his dad at creeks and ponds.

2:08 - Family Background: Ken was born in a Thai refugeecamp. His parents fled Laos post-Vietnam War.

4:08 - Necessity to Leisure: Ken’s family hunted and fishedfor food. It became fun as they gained stability.

 

Faith & Family Journey

10:36 - Christian Roots: A Lutheran church sponsored Ken’sfamily. His parents became Christians in the U.S.

11:20 - Kids’ Faith: Ken’s sons have strong faith. Hismiddle son was recently baptized.

12:22 - Teaching Christ: Ken teaches his boys to pray andfollow Jesus. He guides them intentionally.

24:13 - Father’s Role: Ken believes men must lead familiesto Christ. He learned from his dad’s example.

27:08 - Oldest Son’s Challenge: Ken’s oldest son dates anon-Christian. Ken encourages showing Jesus through actions.

 

Raising Kids Outdoors

9:06 - Kids in Nature: Ken took his sons fishing at two orthree. They hunted as they grew older.

17:19 - Making It Fun: Ken prioritizes kids’ enjoyment. Heleaves hunts early if they’re cold or tired.

20:04 - First Deer Hunt: Ken’s youngest shot his first deeryears later. Patience kept him engaged.

21:44 - Kids’ Preferences: Ken’s oldest loves fishing. Hismiddle son prefers hunting; the youngest enjoys ocean fishing.

29:41 - Grandparents’ Bond: Ken’s kids rarely hunt withtheir grandfather. He’s busy with farming and rice fields.

 

Business & Christian Principles

42:03 - Car Dealer to Coach: Ken sold his car dealership. Henow teaches car flipping online.

43:09 - Faith in Business: Ken wants to weave Christianprinciples into his course. He avoids exclusivity.

45:23 - Sharing Faith: Ken aims to show God’s impact subtly.He fears turning people away.

46:43 - Open Approach: Jacob suggests casual faith-basedbranding. It attracts without scaring off.

48:02 - Online Teaching: Ken’s course is pre-recorded. Hecoaches dealers via Zoom, avoiding travel.

 

Dreams & Closing

29:38 - Bucket List Trip: Ken dreams of fishing in Panamawith his sons. They want big yellowfin and dolphin.

34:58 - Offshore Fishing: Ken loves bottom fishing forgrouper. He keeps grouper and trigger fish to eat.

38:14 - Favorite Bible Verse: Ken picks Philippians 4:13. Itgave him strength as a teen.

39:17 - Growing Faith: Ken values James’ “resist the devil”verse. It protects his marriage and family.

 

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