We recently had the chance to connect with CJ Fowler and have shared our conversation below.
CJ, really appreciate you sharing your stories and insights with us. The world would have so much more understanding and empathy if we all were a bit more open about our stories and how they have helped shaped our journey and worldview. Let’s jump in with a fun one: What is something outside of work that is bringing you joy lately?
Honestly, what’s been bringing me the most joy lately is just being intentional about family time. My daughter, Shiloh Amor, is at such a fun age right now—her energy, her curiosity, the way she makes us laugh nonstop. And having those moments to just play with her or spend quality time with my wife, Diamond, has been the highlight of my days. It’s the little things—games on the floor, late-night talks, watching movies—that really fill me up.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Sure! My name is CJ Fowler, and life for me is really about building, leading, and creating spaces where people can thrive, create and grow. I have the privilege of pastoring Ignite Church, which has expanded into two cities—Tampa, FL and Houston, TX. Leading in two states definitely keeps me on my toes, but it’s exciting to see how faith and community can flourish in different places while still carrying the same mission, vision and heartbeat.
Beyond that, I’m a doctoral student, which is stretching me in all the best ways, and I recently became an author—my first book “The Reformers are Here”, just released, which has been both surreal and rewarding. I also run a business with my wife, because I’ve always believed in creating opportunities and building people, places and systems that outlast you.
What makes my story unique is probably the mix of it all. I don’t see ministry, education, business, or writing as separate lanes—for me, they all overlap. Each one gives me a chance to impact people in a different way. Whether I’m preaching on Sunday, writing late at night, sitting in a classroom, or brainstorming a business strategy, the goal is the same: to inspire people to live with purpose, resilience, and faith.
Right now, I’m especially excited about growing our Houston location, developing leaders across both cities, and reaching more people through writing and creative projects. It’s a busy season, but it’s also the most fulfilling one yet.
Appreciate your sharing that. Let’s talk about your life, growing up and some of topics and learnings around that. What relationship most shaped how you see yourself?
The relationship that shaped me the most was with my mother. Her time here was short, but the impact she made on my life was profound. She was an educator with a master’s degree, and she instilled in us the importance of education, discipline, and excellence. She had a way of making you believe you could do more, be more, and rise above any circumstance. Even though she transitioned early in my life, the values she grounded in me—faith, resilience, and a commitment to keep learning and striving—are still guiding me today. Everything I pursue, from pastoring to business to academics, is really an extension of the seeds she planted.
If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
If I could say one kind thing to my younger self, it would be: “Give yourself grace. You don’t have to have it all figured out at once.” I’d remind him that every step, even the missteps, are part of the process that shapes you. The pressure to be perfect or have it all together can be heavy, but the truth is—you’re growing, you’re learning, and it’s okay to take it one day at a time.
Sure, so let’s go deeper into your values and how you think. Where are smart people getting it totally wrong today?
I think a lot of smart people are getting it wrong by overvaluing opinions and undervaluing character. We live in an era where everyone has a platform, and brilliance often gets measured by how loud or viral someone can be. But being smart doesn’t always mean being wise. Some of the smartest people are missing the mark because they’ve mastered strategy, innovation, and influence—but they’ve neglected integrity, empathy, and accountability. True impact isn’t just about what you know, it’s about who you are while you’re doing it.
Okay, so before we go, let’s tackle one more area. When do you feel most at peace?
I feel most at peace when I’m unplugged and fully present with the people I love. Whether it’s laughing and playing with my daughter, Shiloh, spending quiet moments with my wife, Diamond, or even just sitting still and reflecting, those are the times that bring me the most calm. My world is usually moving fast with church, business, and school, so slowing down and enjoying those simple, everyday moments is where I find real peace.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.iamcjfowler.com
- Instagram: @iam_cjfowler
- Facebook: CJ Fowler
