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 such as fishing and hunting, often choosing catch-and-release methods 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.

TOPICS

Introduction & Outdoor Beginnings

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

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

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

Faith & Family Journey

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

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

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

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

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

Raising Kids Outdoors

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

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

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

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

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

Business & Christian Principles

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

43:09 - Faith in Business: Ken wants to weave Christian principles 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-based branding. It attracts without scaring off.

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

Dreams & Closing

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

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

38:14 - Favorite Bible Verse: Ken picks Philippians 4:13. It gave 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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