Meet Robert Lederhilger | Tech Entrepreneur

We had the good fortune of connecting with Robert Lederhilger and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Robert, what’s one piece of conventional advice that you disagree with?
One piece of conventional advice I’ve always disagreed with is the idea that “You have to hustle 24/7 to succeed.” While hard work is undeniably important, the glorification of constant hustle often leads to burnout, strained relationships, and a loss of focus on what truly matters.

In my experience, success isn’t about working yourself to the bone—it’s about working smart, staying aligned with your purpose, and prioritizing what’s most important. I’ve found that taking time to rest, reflect, and recharge is just as critical as the hours you put into your work. In fact, some of my best ideas and breakthroughs have come during moments of stillness, not during the grind.

I also believe that this “hustle culture” mindset can make people lose sight of their values. When you’re constantly chasing the next goal or milestone, it’s easy to compromise on integrity or neglect the relationships and passions that bring true fulfillment. For me, faith has been a grounding force, reminding me that my worth isn’t tied to how much I achieve, but to how I live and serve others.

My advice? Work hard, but don’t forget to live well. Build in time for rest, reflection, and connection with the people and things that matter most. Success is a marathon, not a sprint, and the journey is just as important as the destination.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
At Kingdom Business Builders, we’re doing more than building businesses—we’re building people, purpose, and hope. What sets us apart is our deep commitment to combining faith-based values with practical strategies for entrepreneurship. We offer a unique space where people from all walks of life can pursue success without compromising their integrity. It’s not just about profit; it’s about creating businesses that make a positive impact on communities and lives.

One thing I’m most proud of is our focus on helping individuals who often get overlooked, particularly those with civil disabilities or felony convictions. These individuals face enormous obstacles in finding employment or reintegrating into society, but through our programs, we show them that a second chance is possible. We provide mentorship, guidance, and access to tools so they can take control of their future by starting their own businesses. Seeing their transformations—from hopelessness to empowerment and success—is one of the most rewarding parts of this work.

Getting to where we are today hasn’t been easy. The journey has been filled with challenges, both personal and professional. There were moments of doubt, financial hurdles, and even setbacks that felt insurmountable. But I’ve learned that challenges are classrooms where some of the greatest lessons are taught. Every difficulty was an opportunity to develop resilience, rely on faith, and stay creative in finding solutions. One of the key ways we overcame adversity was by leaning into our community. I realized that the people you surround yourself with can make all the difference. The support, wisdom, and encouragement we receive from mentors and peers is pivotal in guiding us through tough times.

The lessons learned along the way? First, stay true to your purpose, even when it feels hard. When you’re grounded in why you’re doing what you do, it becomes your compass through uncertainty. Second, never underestimate the power of relationships. Building a strong community of like-minded individuals can open doors you didn’t even know existed. And finally, don’t be afraid to fail. Mistakes are just part of the process; it’s what you learn and how you grow from them that matters most.

If there’s one thing I’d want the world to know about Kingdom Business Builders, it’s this—we’re not just about success, we’re about significance. We believe businesses can be a force for good, that faith and integrity can thrive in the marketplace, and that everyone, no matter their background, deserves a chance to succeed. Whether you’re a seasoned entrepreneur or someone dreaming of a fresh start, we’re here to walk alongside you, championing your growth, success, and purpose every step of the way.

Our story is one of faith, perseverance, and a commitment to making a difference, and it’s still unfolding. But at its heart, it’s about people coming together to create something bigger than themselves, and I believe that’s a story truly worth sharing.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
If you’re visiting me here in Bradenton, Florida, prepare yourself for a week brimming with charm, coastal beauty, and one-of-a-kind experiences. Nestled near Sarasota, Bradenton is chock full of local gems, from breathtaking nature spots to fantastic eateries. Here’s how I’d show my best friend the most unforgettable time:

Day 1: Welcome to Paradise

Morning: Start the day at Arte Caffé, a quaint Italian café that serves incredible croissants and lattes. We’d fuel up here before heading to the Bradenton Riverwalk. This mile-and-a-half stretch along the Manatee River is perfect for a scenic stroll, featuring art, picnic spots, and riverfront views.

Afternoon: Venture to the Village of the Arts, a vibrant neighborhood packed with quirky galleries, artisan boutiques, and colorful cottages. Grab lunch at Ortygia, a hidden gem serving Sicilian cuisine with a local twist. Their seafood dishes are unforgettable.

Evening: For dinner, we’d head to O’Bricks Irish Pub & Martini Bar. Their menu is diverse, featuring everything from fresh seafood to creative martinis. Afterward, we’d stop for cocktails at The Sage Biscuit Lounge, where cozy vibes and creative drinks set the tone for the night.

Day 2: Culture & Coastal Charm

Morning: Kick off the day with art at the South Florida Museum, home to fascinating local history and cultural exhibits. Don’t miss the Bishop Planetarium while you’re there!

Lunch: For lunch, we’d visit Anna Maria Oyster Bar on the pier. Nothing beats their fresh Gulf oysters and waterfront views.
Afternoon: Drive over to Anna Maria Island and spend the afternoon relaxing on the stunning white sands of Coquina Beach. The calm waters and warm breezes are irresistible.

Evening: For dinner, experience coastal dining at Beach Bistro, an upscale restaurant with an oceanfront setting. Their menu features expertly prepared seafood dishes, perfect for a luxurious night out.

Day 3: Island Hopping & Adventure

Morning: Rent bikes and explore Anna Maria Island at your own pace. Stop by Ginny & Jane E’s Café for a hearty breakfast of stuffed French toast or biscuits and gravy.

Afternoon: Take a pontoon boat tour or rent kayaks from Robinson Preserve. Kayaking through mangroves and spotting dolphins in their natural habitat is an unmissable Gulf Coast experience.

Evening: Head back to Bradenton for dinner at Mattison’s Riverwalk Grille. The live music, paired with their slow-roasted pork osso bucco, makes for a perfect laid-back ending to an adventurous day.

Day 4: Bradenton Boutique Day

Morning: Brunch at Sage Biscuit Café is a must. Their savory crab cake benedict and fluffy pancakes are standout dishes.
Afternoon: Spend the day shopping at Downtown Bradenton’s boutiques. From charming antiques to handcrafted jewelry, there’s something for everyone. Don’t forget a stop at Bird Rock Taco Shack for their incredible fusion tacos and sangria.

Evening: Catch sunset at Pier 22, a waterfront restaurant in a historic building. The sunset views from their patio, alongside a decadent filet mignon, make this an unforgettable moment.

Day 5: Day Trip to Sarasota

Morning: Take a short drive south to explore The Ringling in Sarasota. This sprawling estate features an art museum, circus museum, and the opulent Ca’ d’Zan Mansion.

Lunch: Grab lunch at Owen’s Fish Camp, a Sarasota staple with Old Florida charm and Southern-inspired seafood. Their shrimp and grits are unbeatable.

Afternoon: Stroll through Sarasota’s Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, a tranquil oasis known for its orchids, mangroves, and bayfront views.

Evening: Wrap up the day with fine dining at Indigenous, a Sarasota farm-to-table treasure renowned for their inventive, seasonal dishes.

Day 6: Nature & Relaxation

Morning: Make your way to Bradenton’s Robinson Preserve. Start with an early bird hike or climb the observation tower for panoramic views of the mangroves and waterways.

Afternoon: Reserve a few hours at IMG Academy Golf Club for a leisurely afternoon on the greens, or unwind in the sun at Manatee Public Beach.

Evening: We’ll have a casual dinner at Motorworks Brewing. Their outdoor beer garden is the perfect spot to enjoy live music, craft brews, and gourmet burgers.

Day 7: Farewell by the Water

Morning: Cap off the week with brunch at First Watch, where their locally sourced avocado toast or million-dollar bacon will fuel you for the day ahead.

Afternoon: Take a final stroll along Manatee Riverwalk, stopping for gelato or ice cream at Holy Cow Ice Cream Shop. It’s the sweetest way to say goodbye before you head home.

Bradenton is a city that beautifully blends artsy vibes, coastal beauty, and a down-to-earth community feel. By the end of this week, you’ll not only have explored its hidden gems but also discovered what makes this place so special to me. From relaxing by the water to savoring incredible meals and connecting with the local culture, this itinerary offers the perfect mix of fun and relaxation. Trust me, Bradenton will leave you wanting to come back for more!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
There are so many people and influences that have shaped my journey, but if I had to dedicate a shoutout, it would go to my family and my faith community. My family has been my rock—always encouraging me, praying for me, and reminding me of my purpose, even when I doubted myself. Their unwavering support has been a constant source of strength and inspiration.

I also want to recognize the incredible mentors and peers I’ve met through my faith community. These are the people who have poured wisdom, love, and accountability into my life. They’ve challenged me to grow, to lead with integrity, and to stay true to my values, even in the face of challenges. Their guidance has been instrumental in shaping both my personal and professional journey.

Lastly, I’d like to give a special shoutout to the individuals I’ve had the privilege of working with through Kingdom Business Builders. Whether it’s the entrepreneurs striving to build businesses with purpose or the individuals overcoming barriers to rebuild their lives, their resilience and determination inspire me every single day. They remind me why I do what I do and push me to keep going, even when the road gets tough.

To all of these people and communities, I owe a debt of gratitude. Their love, encouragement, and belief in me have been the foundation of my journey, and I’m endlessly thankful for their role in my story.

Website: https://kingdombusiness.builders/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robertlederhilger/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kingdom.business.builders.7/

Other: https://www.robertlederhilger.com/

Image Credits
Robert W. Lederhilger III
(Rob Lederhilger)