Okay, I'm revealing this a little sooner than expected...
Working at Catalyst has been an absolutely amazing experience. I've loved the team. I've loved Brad Lomenick. And I've loved the job. Most people would give their left arms to work here.
Which is why you'll think I'm crazy for doing this...
But I'm leaving Catalyst at the end of next week.
There were no problems and no personality conflicts. In fact, Catalyst West proved that Brad and I have great chemistry together. We were just hitting our stride. But...
For 11 years, I've had the dream of starting a production company that would create mind-blowing live experiences and film projects. In fact, I incorporated this non-profit organization back in 1998. God gave me the dream long before I had the experience or the means to achieve it. Until now.
So Ainsley and I are moving our family to Virginia Beach on May 22 to start a new adventure. I have no net. No plan B. And no capital. It's all very scary and uncertain, but I couldn't be more excited.
On Monday, I'll announce the first project we're undertaking. I think you'll be swept into the experience and hope that you'll join me for it.
Here's to living radically.
WOW! Sounds exciting (and scary). I'll be praying for you.
Posted by: Brian Ayers | May 07, 2009 at 07:57 AM
yes, yes, yes. chase those dreams! we'll be cheering you on.
Posted by: Emily | May 07, 2009 at 07:57 AM
Dude, it was great catching up yesterday. I couldn't be any more excited about the days ahead for you and your family! God is pleased with your obedience and commitment to following the dreams He has placed in your heart.
Posted by: Jason Hayes | May 07, 2009 at 07:58 AM
RIGHT ON!! Very sad for catalyst, as I'm sure they are losing one of their best...but I'm excited to see that you're coming back to the beach! ...let's grab some joe. :)
Posted by: Joshua Cryer | May 07, 2009 at 07:58 AM
So excited for you... know how terrifying but totally mindblowing the unknown is!! Praying.
Posted by: emma | May 07, 2009 at 08:03 AM
I'm proud of you, Ben, for taking this bold step and I'm confident that the Lord will bless your efforts. I'm praying for you, my friend.
Posted by: Tony McCollum | May 07, 2009 at 08:05 AM
no regrets...go for it man, thanks for sharing your journey here on the blog
Posted by: michael bayne | May 07, 2009 at 08:15 AM
can't wait to hear more! sounds like you're in for a fun ride.
Posted by: tony morgan | May 07, 2009 at 08:23 AM
you inspire me...glad to have you back in VA as well!!
Posted by: Daniel Floyd | May 07, 2009 at 08:26 AM
Congrats!
Posted by: Kent Shaffer | May 07, 2009 at 08:27 AM
Congrats Ben :) I couldn't be more excited for you
Posted by: Dawn Nicole Baldwin | May 07, 2009 at 08:32 AM
Ben, I was literally driving to work at 6:30 this morning and thinking "I wonder how much longer Ben Arment will be at Catalyst?" Now I know! We'll be praying for you lots! Also, what are your plans for funding/venture capital. I think a few of us would like to invest!
Posted by: Jay Brock @ Sexrev.org | May 07, 2009 at 08:35 AM
Rock On Man! congrats and cannot wait to hear more about this!
Posted by: Pete | May 07, 2009 at 08:39 AM
WOAH! That is amazing. Congrats bro. I wasn't expecting that exactly when you gave that teaser yesterday (and by the way, I'm glad I didn't have to wait a week to hear the news) but I'm excited for you.
...and dude, you are moving back to the VEE AYY. Hope this means I'll actually get to meet up with you occasionally.
Posted by: Terrace Crawford | May 07, 2009 at 08:39 AM
Live expansively! If I can ever do anything to help you please let me know.
Posted by: Tim Abare | May 07, 2009 at 08:46 AM
So you're saying that the future posts on this blog will be either an inspiration or a train-wreck.
::: grabs bag of popcorn :::
All joking aside, I'm excited for your family. I can only imagine the lessons your kids will learn from watching their parents trust God and pursue risky dreams.
peace|dewde
Posted by: dewde | May 07, 2009 at 08:51 AM
exactly dewde. it will be glorious either way. =)
ainsley told me yesterday that she has been praying since the age of 18 that she would be "unsafe" as a parent and christ-follower in the eyes of her kids
Posted by: Ben Arment | May 07, 2009 at 08:53 AM
Really exciting to hear about what God is brewing up with you and your family.
Posted by: John Carroll | May 07, 2009 at 08:57 AM
We'll miss you Ben! Thanks so much for your encouragement to me and helping me to develop in my skills here! YOU ROCK! I'll totally twitter whatever you need for your next event!
Posted by: Jesse Phillips | May 07, 2009 at 09:01 AM
Finally someone who can put the757 on the map!!!
Posted by: Dave Daniels | May 07, 2009 at 09:04 AM
woah! very cool/exciting/scary! I am excited to hear about your first project! God bless as you step off into the great unknown!
Posted by: Nate | May 07, 2009 at 09:08 AM
Ben;
Big step. I pray that God attracts the right people into your adventure along with the great projects.
Posted by: Jason Boucher | May 07, 2009 at 09:17 AM
thats awesome ben. how exciting and unnerving at the same time!
you are a leader that i would follow.
Posted by: tony sheng | May 07, 2009 at 09:21 AM
So excited to see what's next for you!
Posted by: jonathan | May 07, 2009 at 09:21 AM
YES! SO excited for you and the family Ben...does this mean when I come down to the beach this summer we can hang out? Welcome back!
Posted by: Ryan Shaughnessy | May 07, 2009 at 09:22 AM