In a recent episode of Diamond Podcast, host Alfredo Diamond welcomed Brian Ballenger, owner of Whisenhunt Construction, for an inspiring conversation that touched on personal growth, business challenges, and community service. What emerged was the portrait of a man who has consistently chosen the path of service, responsibility, and perseverance throughout his life.
Learning to Let Go
The conversation began with an unexpected connection between the two men—skydiving. Ballenger shared how his recent pursuit of skydiving certification taught him a profound lesson. During training in DeLand, Florida, an instructor observed something deeper than just technique issues: “You’re trying to control everything in your life,” the instructor told him.
This moment of clarity resonated with Ballenger, who acknowledged that control has been a theme throughout his professional life. The skydiving experience became a metaphor for faith and trust—learning when to let go and surrender to forces beyond one’s control.
Building from Humble Beginnings
Ballenger’s journey from handyman to commercial construction business owner exemplifies perseverance. After military service in the National Guard and college at Ball State, he started a modest handyman service that gradually evolved. His path wasn’t without significant challenges. In 1998-99, Ballenger faced such severe financial difficulties that both his accountant and attorney advised bankruptcy.
“I just didn’t feel like that was something I could do to my creditors,” Ballenger reflected. “Unless somebody forces me, I will not do that.” This decision to honor his commitments, despite the tremendous difficulty, laid the foundation for his future success. Years later, when opportunity knocked, his credit history and reputation for integrity made it possible to secure financing to acquire Whisenhunt Construction when the previous owner was ready to retire.
The Birth of Brighter Path
Perhaps the most moving segment of the conversation centered on Ballenger’s nonprofit organization, Brighter Path. The equine therapy program began with a persistent calling that Ballenger initially resisted for two years, primarily due to financial concerns.
“I can’t afford to do this,” he repeatedly told himself while mowing his lawn in July 2007. The breakthrough came when he felt a clear response: “You can’t afford not to do this.”
Breaking ground just weeks later, Brighter Path has now served hundreds of children facing physical, mental, and emotional challenges through equine therapy over nearly two decades. What started as a personal mission between Ballenger and his daughter has grown into a formal nonprofit with a board of directors, serving children from more than twenty zip codes.
The Value of Responsibility
When asked about influential figures in his life, Ballenger credited his parents, particularly his father’s approach to instilling responsibility. When his father began working as a truck driver and would be gone for weeks at a time, there were no detailed instructions for young Ballenger on caring for their small farm.
“It was just expected,” he recalled. This early experience of being trusted with important responsibilities shaped Ballenger’s independent spirit and work ethic. “Nobody’s going to do it for you,” he reflected, a lesson that continues to drive him today.
Community Investment
Ballenger’s enthusiasm for Richmond’s future was evident as he discussed downtown revitalization efforts. His company is currently working on the iconic Read More building, part of a broader movement to preserve and reimagine historic structures in the community.
“We’ve got a lot of amazing buildings downtown architecturally… We’re not going to see new buildings be built to that grand scale,” he noted, emphasizing the importance of saving these structures “for the next generation to enjoy.”
A Legacy of Service
Throughout the conversation, one theme remained consistent: service to others. Whether through his construction business, nonprofit work, or mentoring others in the community, Ballenger embodies the principle that true fulfillment comes through contributing to something larger than oneself.
As he looks toward eventual retirement, Ballenger made it clear that stopping work completely isn’t in his nature: “As long as I have my right mind, I will never be completely retired. I may not be working for a paycheck, but I’m going to be doing something because you have to have something that moves you in terms of having purpose.”
In a world often focused on immediate gratification, Ballenger offers a refreshing counter-narrative—one centered on long-term vision, personal responsibility, and the profound rewards of serving others.