From Puppies to Purpose: How Faith Fueled Wes Van Loenen’s Entrepreneurial Journey
Wes Van Loenen
Canadian entrepreneur, dog breeder, and Airbnb host
In this powerful episode of the Anchoring Hope Podcast with David Mansilla, we meet Wes Van Loenen— whose life testify to God’s transforming power. Wes, an entrepreneur and dog breeder from Ontario, Canada.
What makes their story extraordinary is not just their entrepreneurial success, but their unshakable trust in God through seasons of uncertainty, healing, and spiritual warfare. In this conversation with host David Mansilla, Wes opens up about his journey from doubt to deliverance, from struggle to breakthrough — revealing how faith truly becomes the anchor for every battle we face.
Faith Over Fear — Trusting God in Uncertain Seasons
Wes’s testimony begins with a leap of faith. When God told him to quit his job right as his wife was pregnant, logic said no — but obedience said yes. That decision set the foundation for everything that followed. True leadership often requires radical trust. God doesn’t always reveal the plan; He reveals Himself, and that’s enough.
Wes learned that faith is not about understanding every step — it’s about trusting the One who orders them. When we release control, we make room for miracles. Every bold act of obedience writes a new chapter in our walk with God.
The Pressure That Produces Purpose
As Wes built his dog-breeding business, success didn’t come easily. The market fluctuated, finances grew tight, and uncertainty pressed hard. Yet, he recognized that gold is only formed under pressure.
In his words, “It’s been a year of pressure — but I know God is preparing our hearts and minds for what’s next.” This is where true growth happens. The same God who allows the fire is the one who refines us through it. Leadership in faith means enduring the refining process with joy, trusting that pressure precedes promotion.
Deliverance and Discipline — Winning the Battle Within
One of the most profound parts of Wes’s story is his supernatural healing. As a child, he was diagnosed with autism, ADHD, and asthma — yet God completely delivered him. During a moment of prayer, the power of the Holy Spirit broke generational bondage and restored his mind and body.
His healing revealed a deeper truth: spiritual warfare is real. Our struggles are not just physical or emotional — they are often spiritual battles for our peace and purpose. To lead well, we must first win the battles within. Freedom is not sustained by emotion but by daily surrender and discipline in God’s Word.
Forgiveness — The Key to Lasting Freedom
Both Wes and David spoke about how unforgiveness can keep believers trapped. The Bible says, “Forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.” Forgiveness is not optional — it’s a spiritual law.
Wes shared how holding onto bitterness can reopen spiritual doors that God has already closed. True healing happens when we let go of resentment and allow the Holy Spirit to fill that space with peace. Forgiveness is not about excusing what happened — it’s about freeing yourself from what’s holding you back. Leaders who forgive walk in true authority and lasting freedom.
Standing Firm in the Final Hour
As the conversation turned toward the end times, David and Wes discussed the growing spiritual battle in today’s world — a time where light and darkness are more visible than ever. Yet, believers are called to shine brighter in the darkness.
Wes reminded us that the urgency of faith is real: “We are living in the last days, and God is raising up His people to stand firm.” Leadership in faith means living ready, walking in truth, and leading others toward hope. Our mission is not to fear the times we live in, but to be the light that points others to Jesus.
Final Reflection
Faith-filled leadership is not about avoiding battles — it’s about standing strong in them. Whether in business, family, or spiritual warfare, one truth remains: those who trust in the Lord will never be put to shame. (Romans 10:11)
Like Wes, may we learn to see every trial as training, every setback as setup, and every battle as proof that God is still in control.
Written by Jovilyn Dela Cruz
“Gold is made under pressure, and so is faith. Every time I wanted to quit, God reminded me that He’s the one who moves mountains.”
