Martin Purnell of Off Grid Christianity interviews Frank Bennett, co founder of CTN Southwest and author of Gateway to Destiny.
What has God uniquely put you on this earth to achieve? That’s the question Frank Bennett had to wrestle with. In this thought-provoking interview, Martin Purnell of Off Grid Christianity explores Frank’s remarkable journey from a 30-year career in the police force to becoming a life coach and Christian business leader.
Frank shares how he navigated faith in a high-pressure career, what inspired him to help Christians in the workplace, and why he believes the business world is the “lost mission field.” He also reveals the pivotal moment that led him to write Gateway to Destiny, a book designed to help others find and fulfill their God-given purpose.
“Life is a privilege, not a right. If we don’t seek God’s purpose for our lives, we risk looking back with regret, wondering if we ever hit the targets He set for us.” – Frank Bennett.
Highlights of the Off Grid Christianity interview with Frank Bennett
Martin Purnell: Welcome to Off Grid Christianity, the podcast for those who go or don’t go to church, where we meet people who have made their faith count. Today’s guest is Frank Bennett, co-founder of CTN Southwest and author of Gateway to Destiny. Frank, thanks for joining us!
Frank Bennett: Great to be here, Martin.
Finding purpose in life
Martin Purnell: What inspired you to write your book, Gateway to Destiny?
Frank Bennett: It all started with a simple but profound question posed to me by a Christian life coach: “What has God put the unique you on this earth now to achieve?” That question stopped me in my tracks. I had been a Christian for 18 years, but I had never truly considered what God’s specific purpose for my life was. I spent five months seeking an answer, writing down my passions and skills, and eventually, I saw a pattern. That process became the foundation of my book.
Martin Purnell: That’s a question many struggle with. How do you help people find their unique calling?
Frank Bennett: I break it down into four key areas, which I call the GATE framework: Giants, Arrows, Targets, and Eagles.
- Giants represent the obstacles – fear, doubt, finances—that hold us back.
- Arrows are our God-given gifts and skills, things we are naturally drawn to.
- Targets help us clarify where to aim our efforts.
- Eagles symbolise soaring above challenges and fulfilling our God-ordained purpose.
From police work to Christian leadership
Martin Purnell: You spent 30 years in the police force before transitioning into coaching and ministry. How did that shift happen?
Frank Bennett: I realized that my career in law enforcement had prepared me for something more. I worked in training and leadership roles within the force, and I saw that I had a passion for helping others develop. I also encountered many challenges as a Christian in the workplace, which made me want to support other believers navigating similar struggles.
Martin Purnell: What was it like being a Christian in the police force?
Frank Bennett: It wasn’t easy at first. The culture was very work-hard, play-hard. When I became a Christian, I stopped drinking, and my colleagues took notice. They asked questions, which gave me opportunities to share my faith. But I also learned to be more empathetic—I began to see the people I dealt with not just as offenders but as individuals facing hardships. That perspective changed the way I approached my work.
Reaching Christian business leaders
Martin Purnell: Tell us about CTN Southwest. What’s its mission?
Frank Bennett: CTN Southwest started as a way to connect Christian businesspeople for support and networking. Over time, we realised that it wasn’t just about social connections – we wanted to see Christians making an impact in the business world. We believe the workplace is the “lost mission field,” and our goal is to equip believers to live out their faith in their careers.
Martin Purnell: What advice do you have for Christians in the business world?
Frank Bennett: Don’t separate your faith from your work. God has placed you in your role for a reason. Look for ways to lead with integrity, encourage others, and create a culture of Christ-centered values. Small daily actions can have a big impact.
Get close to God
Frank Bennett: If someone listening today feels stuck and unsure of their purpose, what would you say to them?
Frank Bennett: Take time to seek God. Get a blank sheet of paper and write down the things He has put on your heart. Don’t filter them by fear, finances, or time constraints. Then, ask yourself: What small step can I take today to move toward my calling? It’s never too late to start.
Martin Purnell: Fantastic advice! Where can people find your book?
Frank Bennett: Gateway to Destiny is available on Amazon. You can also visit my website, www.gatewaytodestiny.com, to learn more or get in touch.
Martin Purnell: Frank, thank you so much for sharing your journey and wisdom today.
Frank Bennett: My pleasure, Martin. Thanks for having me!
