Sidewalk Conversations

We explore how spiritual growth moves from private devotion to public responsibility as Amy O’Donnell steps from communications director to executive director at Texas Alliance for Life. She shares hard-won lessons on delegation, media pressure, authentic voice, and the rhythms that keep leaders healthy.

• shifting from church-centered growth to action in the public square
• media training before Dobbs and navigating intense interviews
• building thick skin while keeping empathy for people
• moving from second chair to first chair leadership
• delegating authority, setting accountability, raising morale
• Navy SEAL lessons on discipline and honest self-audit Duration: 00:30:07

We trade the annual resolution rush for a slower, braver approach: examining the hidden drivers that shape our choices. Drawing on Jung’s insight about fate, we ask better questions, choose better fuel, and aim for a life that feels true and sustainable.

• Jung’s quote on the unconscious and fate 
• autopilot habits versus real agency 
• why resolutions fail by mid‑February 
• spotting fear, approval, and purpose as fuel 
• replacing outcomes with identity‑shaping practices 
• choosing clarity and courage over hustle

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We reflect on Mary’s immediate yes and what it means to pre-decide obedience before the specifics arrive. We share a simple pocket prayer for the season and invite a posture of trust anchored in discernment and courage.

• choosing a Christmas character for focused reflection
• Mary’s immediate response and its implications
• obedience as a pre-decided posture
• discernment versus rash decisions
• applying an advance yes to the year ahead
• using a pocket prayer to train trust

Maybe you want to join me in that as well. Maybe that's your gift to the Lord this...

We explore how ambition can serve legacy without swallowing your soul, tracing Lisa Copeland’s path from car sales to a 900‑agent real estate team and the habits that keep her rooted. Faith, presence, and integrity shape a career built to last.

• the perils of success and staying grounded
• building a 900‑agent national real estate team
• career pivots from car sales to mortgages to brand relaunch
• covid shutdowns and a fast move into real estate
• bold faith in business and public stances
• small‑town life, close friendships, and trust
• presence over hustle and learning Sa...

We trace Sam’s path from hospital halls to the pulpit and explore how faithfulness in small things shapes a durable life of service. We share tools for planning rest, handling political tension with empathy, and inviting God into real problems.

• learning pastoral care through hospital service
• choosing planned rest over burnout
• music, scripture and silence as renewal pathways
• handling political division with empathy and respect
• focusing on people’s real struggles over headlines
• asking “what is God doing in this?” as a guide
• a mother’s legacy of daily purpose and courage
• finish...

We trace Otto’s path from restless teen to devoted husband, father, and believer, and how one pointed question reframed his career and faith. Along the way, we unpack the habits that keep marriages strong, why accountability works, and how friendships become anchors.

• early influences from a strong mother and approachable youth pastors
• formative moves from Puerto Rico, New York, Virginia, and Florida
• meeting Sandy through hospitality work and building a 40-year marriage
• practical habits of forgiveness, grace, and assuming the best
• the pastor’s challenge that sparked a return to faith
• career doors rei...

We explore how to give thanks honestly when life is hard, moving from forced positivity to authentic gratitude that survives suffering. A simple illustration of cleaning a corroded battery terminal reframes gratitude as digging for a real connection to grace. Have a happy Thanksgiving!

• the challenge of giving thanks in everything
• the difference between authentic and forced gratitude
• a multi‑tool and battery corrosion as a metaphor for digging
• the cancer journey opening unexpected relationships
• a connection leading to a film project about redemption
• God’s ability to redeem pain without causing it
• practic...

We trace a winding path from Little Italy to the Texas Hill Country as Joe Remini shares how mentors, the Air Force, and a leap into jewelry turned into a values-first business. Faith practices like Sabbath and tithing reshape his team’s rhythms and, to his surprise, growth.

• early family anchors amid a rough home life
• choosing the Air Force and finding mentors
• moving to Texas to parent and start over
• opening The Texas Silver Rush on a shoestring
• evolving from beads to full fabrication with a skilled team
• organic connections with musicians and...

We trace a “magical” wedding, the emotions of launching our last child, practical parenting tools that built grit and closeness, and the mindset that steadied us through a tough real estate year and a cancer journey. Faith, planning, and words of blessing thread it all together.

• planning and spoken blessing shaping a joyful wedding
• siblings bonded by early, positive language from parents
• chore cards, quality standards and jars for give-save-spend
• choosing the luxury of a full-time mom amid constraints
• repairing mistakes with apology, self-forgiveness and grace
• accepting “life is difficult” to face a down year
• bu...

A quiet, steady faith can be just as brave as a dramatic comeback. Preston Jackson recounts growing up in one church, choosing belief through honest doubt, and learning to hold tradition, mystery, and systems in one coherent life.

• growing up known in a single church community
• benefits of deep roots and the cost of being observed
• a chosen belief that led to a real encounter
• the college fork: physics abroad vs youth ministry here
• building systems that serve people and presence
• entrepreneurship, marketing, and creative logistics
• religion vs legalism and the value of tradi...

Worship can be the shared language that mends divides when we move from a multi-ethnic crowd to a truly multicultural experience shaped by real people and real stories. Joel Salabarria joins us to unpack relationship-first leadership, Worship Society, and how unity grows when we stop policing styles and start practicing cultural humility.

• redefining worship as a whole-life response
• sponsor spotlight on Tenfold Counseling
• Joelle’s tour with Girls Gone Bible and mentoring role
• the vision and structure of The Worship Society
• relationship before accountability for creatives
• Flow Nights: unscripted, Spirit-led gatherings and testimonies Duration: 00:44:13

We sit down with Mayor Crystal of Liberty Hill to explore how character, counsel, and courage shape local leadership in a polarized era. From dark skies to water infrastructure, we unpack practical ways to listen well, decide wisely, and keep a growing town’s soul.

• Central Texas roots, family redemption, and a servant’s heart
• Community draft into politics and why character beats pedigree
• Joy of serving people and the strain of assumptions
• Listening beyond your base and valuing dissent
• Turning conflict into inquiry, not contempt
• Dark sky policy with small business at the table Duration: 00:30:05

We share Z’s journey from a Georgian orphanage to founding REIZ Adaptive Fitness, tracing how faith, friends, and sheer grit transformed trauma into service. The conversation explores abuse, caregiving as a teen, disability identity, and building a free, adaptive training space that restores agency.

• a reframed idea: hurt people can heal people
• adoption to abuse and the choice to stay in the US
• survival tools: prayer, community, boundaries
• caregiving as a teenager and end-of-life decisions
• disability identity and confidence through sport
• why adaptive fitness matters and how it works
• partnerships, donations, and m...

Jurie Kriel joins us to share how a missionary call to America led to Austin, Texas, why “success is obedience,” and how rapid change demands anticipation, not anxiety. We explore AI-era identity, digital polarization, and the rhythms that keep leaders rooted at home and with God.

• his missionary call from South Africa to the US and Austin
• leadership as growing others and obeying God
• cultural insights on homelessness, comfort and consumerism
• the world’s accelerating change and anticipatory leadership
• identity crisis in the age of AI and spiritual grounding
• digital natives, curated feeds and fracture...

Kurt Andre shares his journey through a 45-year friendship with the host, discussing authentic relationships, professional transitions, and personal redemption after crisis.

• Kurt grew up on four continents in a military family, moving constantly until college
• Authentic friendship means having someone who knows your story and loves you anyway
• Your "why" comes out of your "who" – discover passion by noticing what you're good at
• Small experimental steps help minimize risk when transitioning careers
• At 39, Kurt's carefully managed life crashed when his incongruent living was exposed
• He lost his job, family, and ended up sleeping in...

Marsha Andre shares her powerful journey through a terminal cancer diagnosis at age 23, revealing how facing mortality transformed her understanding of life, faith, and purpose.

• Diagnosed with late-stage non-Hodgkin's lymphoma at 23, shortly after college graduation
• Underwent experimental bone marrow transplant treatment described as "standing a mile away from Chernobyl"
• Faced the devastating news she would never have children as a side effect of treatment
• Faith during treatment often consisted of simple one-word prayers: "Help"
• Found herself unable to imagine a future more than a few days ahead during recovery
• Cancer experience led her to pursu...

Exploring why our understanding of God is the most important thought process believers must embrace, this conversation delves into how theology shapes our entire Christian journey. 

• Everybody already has a theology—the question is whether it's biblical
• Theology is like a map that helps you from getting lost, but isn't the actual journey itself
• Understanding the Bible as a whole provides the best defense against theological error
• The primary place to start theological exploration is reading Scripture from front to back
• Jesus performed the same miracles seen in the Old Testament to demonstrate His divinity<...

Today, we are exploring the connection between God's creativity and our own artistic expressions, focusing on how songwriters and musicians reflect the divine creative nature while also calling it forth in others.

• Creativity as our spiritual inheritance, beginning with God's revelation as Creator in Genesis 1:1
• Amy Hooper's journey from classical flutist to professional songwriter and worship leader
• Balancing ego and ministry when performing on stage or platform
• The discipline of songwriting as a daily practice versus waiting for inspiration
• Co-writing as a method to overcome creative blocks and broaden song perspectives
• Different approaches t...

Rebecca Contreras returns to share her remarkable journey from the barrio to the White House and now as a successful business owner who has built a $20 million company. Her story demonstrates how relationships, surrender to God's plan, and continuous learning can transform lives regardless of one's starting point.

• Building relationships that make or break your success
• Surrendering to God's guidance and living out biblical principles
• Developing yourself through continuous learning
• Moving from government employee to entrepreneur after being pushed out of a comfortable position
• Creating a business culture of "leading with love" that puts peopl...

Welcome to Season 4 of Sidewalk Conversations, now broadcasting from our brand new studio designed to create a living room atmosphere. We've evolved over ten years of podcasting to focus on ordinary people doing extraordinary things, with a space that reflects our more conversational approach.

• Our dedicated team including Jen, Preston, Martin, Ethan, and Carol spent countless hours creating this new studio space
• Special thanks to donors Wendy Sweats, Jennifer Nichols, and Mike and Leanna for their generous contributions
• The Black Sheep theme remains central to our identity, representing those who think differently
• Season 4 kicks off with...

**Join us for the conclusion of our summer series of conversations with Shaina and Piet about the genius of the "and." We have enjoyed sharing this 4-part discussion with you AND getting ready for the launch of season 4 of Sidewalk Conversations in just a few weeks! If you enjoy these episodes and want to check out all of the things Piet is working on, head on over to the Piet Van Waarde channel on Youtube.**

Today, we explore the tension in church services between reaching believers and non-believers, discussing how the "power of AND" creates inclusive experiences...

**Join us for a special summer series of conversations with Shaina and Piet about the genius of the "and." We are so excited to share this 4-part discussion with you AND for the launch of season 4 of Sidewalk Conversations this August! If you enjoy this episode and want to check out all of the things Piet is working on, head on over to the Piet Van Waarde channel on Youtube.**

Today, we explore how either-or thinking creates false dichotomies, particularly around diversity and merit, and how embracing the "and"  allows for more nuanced understanding.

• Personal sto...

**Join us for a special summer series of conversations with Shaina and Piet about the genius of the "and." We are so excited to share this 4-part discussion with you AND for the launch of season 4 of Sidewalk Conversations this August! If you enjoy this episode and want to check out all of the things Piet is working on, head on over to the Piet Van Waarde channel on Youtube.**

We are exploring "the genius of the AND" – the powerful concept of embracing both conventional and alternative approaches to healthcare rather than viewing them as opposing forces. Th...

**Join us for a special summer series of conversations with Shaina and Piet about the genius of the "and." We are so excited to share this 4-part discussion with you AND for the launch of season 4 of Sidewalk Conversations this August! If you enjoy this episode and want to check out all of the things Piet is working on, head on over to the Piet Van Waarde channel on Youtube.**

Today, we discuss the transformative power of using "and" instead of "or" when processing life's complexities and how embracing multiple truths simultaneously can radically change your perspective...

On this special July 4th episode, Carol and I reflect on the meaning of American citizenship through my personal journey, immigrating from the Netherlands and eventually becoming a naturalized US citizen. We explore what it means to embrace American values even while acknowledging the nation's imperfections.

• Coming to America on a green card from the Netherlands with Dutch citizenship
• Making the decision to become an American citizen after falling in love with American values
• Experiencing the emotional citizenship ceremony alongside other hopeful immigrants
• The significance of swearing off previous allegiances and fully committing to American...

We explore the concept of trusting God for big dreams and how embracing our God-given desires can lead to fulfillment and purpose. Carol Van Ward shares her journey into real estate after delaying her dream for years, offering wisdom on overcoming self-doubt and taking practical steps toward your goals.

• God places dreams and visions in our hearts for a purpose
• Without a vision, people "cast off restraint" or wander aimlessly
• Carol's lifelong interest in real estate began in childhood
• Her hesitation to become a realtor stemmed from not wanting to be "pushy"
• The mindset sh...

Piet shares personal and professional updates as Season 3 comes to a close, including recent cancer treatment developments and exciting new projects on the horizon.

• Recent visit to Mayo Clinic revealed a "suspicious spot" on Piet's bladder requiring follow-up in August
• All other cancer tests came back clear, showing last year's surgery was likely effective
• Launching 90-day health and fitness challenge with Otto Hernandez comparing vegan vs. meat-based approaches
• Follow the challenge on Facebook group "Keep on Healing with Piet Van Waarde" with daily themed updates
• YouTube content now organized into five channels: Sidewalk Conversati...

Candy Coburn returns to Sidewalk Conversations to explore the tension between isolation and integration as Christians seek to authentically represent Christ in the world. Her journey as both a worship leader and bar performer offers powerful insights into maintaining spiritual authenticity while engaging with secular culture.

• The false dichotomy between isolation from culture versus integration with culture
• How holiness refers to heart separation rather than physical distance from the world
• Candy's dual ministry leading worship at "the Barn" while performing in bars and clubs
• Managing sobriety (10+ years) while performing in venues where alcohol flows freely Duration: 00:33:41

Billie Logiudice shares her journey from creating a classroom in her childhood bedroom to becoming the "Chief Connecting Officer" at Hutto's Chamber of Commerce, driven by her passion to leave the world a better place through service and meaningful connections.

• Growing up as an "army brat" with educators as key influences shaped her path toward education and service
• Started in children's ministry after becoming a believer 26 years ago, eventually becoming a director at several churches
• Created "The Sandbox at Madeline's Place" teen center after family friend's suicide, providing a safe space where teens could connect with t...

Chris Tapken shares his remarkable journey from federal prison to leading a thriving prayer ministry at Austin Christian Fellowship, demonstrating how God transforms our worst moments into our calling. Through authentic stories of desperation and redemption, he reveals how genuine prayer becomes a lifeline rather than a religious obligation.

• Small town roots in Yankton, South Dakota where family and community shaped Chris's early years
• Pursuing success in business became Chris's "identity drug of choice"
• Three life events that got his attention: marriage, infertility struggles, and business collapse
• Receiving God's calling while serving 18 months in federal...

Van Kirkland shares his journey from Louisiana roots to Texas transplant, including his career as a dental technician creating beautiful smiles and how his faith sustained him through profound personal tragedies. His story reveals how mentorship, community support, and a deep relationship with God provided resilience during life's most challenging seasons.

• Originally from Plaquemine, Louisiana, moved to Texas after marrying a Texan
• Built a career as a dental technician, recently opening a new high-tech dental lab
• Early spiritual formation through mentor Jim Boley helped develop deep faith
• Lost daughter Grace to spinal muscular atrophy, experien...

Michael Walt shares his incredible journey from South Africa to Austin, Texas, where he and his family are preparing to join Shoreline Church in full-time ministry. His story reveals how God's divine timing and unexpected open doors have confirmed their calling to uproot their lives for ministry across continents.

• Grew up in a small South African town where his youth leader inspired his passion for ministry
• Built carbon fiber sailing catamarans in the coastal town of Knysna while developing his technical skills
• Received an unexpected text invitation to return to full-time ministry at Shoreline Church
•...

Mike Orenstein shares his journey from military kid to recovery ministry leader, revealing how his unique background prepared him to connect with people across different backgrounds and help them find healing. His candid discussion of personal struggles with addiction and family crisis demonstrates how vulnerability becomes strength when used to help others overcome similar challenges.

• Early life as a military child provided unique perspective on being an outsider and adapting to different cultures
• Ability to connect with diverse groups of people became foundation for ministry work
• Open discussion about overcoming pornography addiction and the importance of acc...

Valerie shares her powerful journey from growing up on a Texas farm to finding redemption through adoption and learning to listen to God's voice in unexpected ways.

• Lived on a small farm in Texas for the first 17 years of her life
• Found healing and family when adopted by a childless couple from her church
• Stepped down from youth ministry after 10+ years when God clearly said it was time
• Became a full-time caregiver for her mother-in-law during her final seven weeks
• Learned that "good doesn't always mean right" when discerning God's will
• Discovered the challeng...

Natalie shares her journey from skeptical teen to passionate social media manager and youth leader at Shoreline Church, revealing how God met her in her darkest moments and transformed her life.

• Finding faith during COVID through a devotional book found in a junk drawer
• Building and leading a social media ministry team at Shoreline Church
• Using technology and social media to share the gospel and invite people into church
• Working with middle school students and addressing their questions about faith, identity, and self-control
• The importance of authenticity in reaching the next generation
• How modern c...

Tyler Hake shares his journey from business owner to faithful Christian, recounting how a near-death experience with carbon monoxide poisoning and his parents' health struggles led him to discover purpose beyond himself.

• Growing up in a tight-knit entrepreneurial family in Madison, Wisconsin
• Struggling through traditional education before buying a window cleaning business
• Surviving carbon monoxide poisoning that doctors called a "miracle"
• Finding faith after reaching a low point in life when family health crises hit
• Learning to communicate effectively while preparing for marriage
• Recognizing how pride and self-sufficiency prevented spiritual growth
• Experiencing t...

Kyle O'Neal, Creative Arts Pastor at Shoreline Church, shares his journey from childhood musician to worship leader and how his faith shaped his path through church planting, cross-country moves, and creative ministry leadership.

• Growing up in Atlanta with his father as primary influence and role model for serving in church
• Making cassette tape "radio shows" at age six and receiving his first real guitar at twelve
• Dropping out of college at 19 to plant churches, spending 11 years in church planting ministry
• Moving from Georgia to Wichita, Kansas with his family after God prepared them through strength...

Denise Jackson shares her extraordinary journey of faith through floods, teenage marriage, and raising children, revealing how documenting God's faithfulness became her anchor through life's storms. She offers powerful insights from 50 years of marriage and explains how seeing God at the center rather than as one slice of life transforms every challenge.

• Surviving a devastating flood in Wimberly just months after moving there
• Growing up between Catholic and Baptist traditions before finding personal faith at 19
• Marrying at 16 and defying expectations through 50 years of marriage
• Learning the power of praying together during financial crisis
• Three keys...

Meg Hiney shares how she transformed her passion for wine into the Hutto Wine Bar, creating a unique space that spotlights female winemakers while balancing family life, entrepreneurship, and personal health challenges.

• Growing up with a father who loved exploring wines, especially from California
• Moving to Hutto in 2011 and recognizing the need for a local wine bar
• Creating a business that specifically showcases wines made or owned by women
• Starting the wine bar while maintaining a full-time career in software management
• Building relationships with building owners and other entrepreneurs that proved crucial
• Hosting comm...

Carly shares her powerful journey from cancer diagnosis to healing through an integrative approach that honors both conventional medicine and holistic therapies, all while staying true to her entrepreneurial spirit and faith.

• Diagnosed with thyroid cancer at age 33 after having her first baby
• Discovered the root cause was a dental infection from a college accident years earlier
• Took an integrative approach at Hope for Cancer clinic focusing on dental work, emotional healing, and cellular detoxification
• Achieved 80% cancer reduction through holistic methods before choosing surgery on her own terms
• Created "Carly Loves Kale" Instagram platform t...

Karin’s grand adventure includes being raised in South Africa, excelling at tennis, losing her father to cancer - a tragedy which opened the door to meeting her Heavenly Father.  It’s also a story of prophetic dreams, beautiful confirmations, rich relationships, miraculous provisions, and a move across the world… by faith…

• The remarkable life of a centenarian who plays tennis at 103 
• Living beyond oneself: the power of serving others 
• Karin's journey from South Africa to ministry in the U.S. 
• Inspirational moments: meeting Nelson Mandela 
• Intergenerational hopes: empowering the next generation 
• Purpose in adversity: fait...

This episode features a heartfelt conversation with my mother, who shares her insights and experiences from nearly a century of life. She reflects on the importance of support systems, the healing journey of forgiveness, and maintaining balance in a world full of division.

• Celebrating a significant birthday milestone 
• Emphasis on the role of family and friendships 
• Growing up during World War II and living through adversity 
• The significance of forgiveness in personal healing 
• Spiritual disciplines as a source of strength 
• Observations on societal issues and the importance of understanding 
• Personal decisions shaped by life exper...

Suzanna Hake shares her profound journey through childhood, health challenges, and the remarkable power of faith and community. As she navigates the complexities of relationships and entrepreneurship, she emphasizes resilience, the importance of support, and the potential for miraculous healing.  

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Today, Bethany shares her journey through the challenges of motherhood, personal healing, and faith, providing insights into the complexities of life as a single mom. Through her story of resilience and honesty, she inspires us to embrace struggles and seek comfort and growth in our faith journey. 

Learn more about our amazing sponsor the Van Waarde Foundation.

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In this episode, Starr shares her unique experiences as a professional poker player and how her unwavering faith intertwines with her passion for the game. As she navigates the complexities of her job and faith, she also explores themes of resilience, purpose, and the significance of divine guidance in her journey.

Learn more about our amazing sponsor Ten Fold Counseling.

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What shapes a storyteller bound to faith? Journey with us as we explore this question with David Peters, a pastor's son turned filmmaker who finds his life's work interwoven with the teachings of his childhood. Through memories of his father's pioneering efforts in ministry and his mother's compelling biblical tales, David shares how these early influences forged his path toward a career in Christian filmmaking. Experience David's story as he reflects on the normal-yet-distinct life of a pastor's kid and his relentless drive to illuminate the message of Jesus through the lens of a camera.

David's path...

Ever wondered how a Boy Scout's cooking hobby could turn into an award-winning salsa business? Meet Gerald Bailey, whose extraordinary life path has taken him from being delivered by the Prince of Thailand to culinary success. Raised in a multicultural military family across Thailand, Spain, Portugal, and the U.S., Gerald's childhood was filled with unique experiences that shaped his resilient spirit. Join us as he shares how his passion for cooking was ignited during his time as a Boy Scout counselor and how he overcame personal challenges, including family battles with cancer, to build a rewarding life in...

What happens when the paths of engineering and faith intersect within a family known for its spiritual leadership? Join us as my brother, John Koch, shares his enlightening journey from a household of pastors to a career in engineering. Through humorous anecdotes and heartfelt memories, we explore how our father's subtle influence and passion for innovative projects might have inadvertently steered John toward his vocation. Whether it's recounting his mathematical prowess in high school or the joy of working on family projects, John's story is a testament to the confluence of upbringing, talent, and passion.

As we...

What would you do if you found yourself facing a life-altering diagnosis? Join me, Pete Van Ward, as I recount my personal battle with cancer, from the harrowing experience of undergoing major surgery to the relief and joy of being declared cancer-free. My journey has been incredibly challenging, but also deeply rewarding, particularly through creative collaborations like the Instagram Reels project with filmmaker Martin Zavala. Together, we aim to shed light on the daily lives of cancer warriors and spread hope to anyone impacted by this disease. Discover how these stories, shared on my Instagram, might just offer the...

Ever wondered how someone transitions from a stable ministry role to the unpredictable world of entrepreneurship? Join us as we catch up with Jennifer, a beloved guest from our first season, who’s done just that. Her story is one of resilience and reinvention, as she leaves behind an eight-year tenure at Shoreline Church to launch a successful career as a virtual executive assistant. Jennifer's journey didn’t stop there—she also embarked on a deeply personal ministry venture inspired by her son's return home after years of incarceration. Together, we explore how she’s using this experience to create r...

In this episode of the Sidewalk Conversations Podcast, we’re joined by Jared Jolly, entrepreneur and owner of the innovative new Pickleball Kingdom. Jared shares his journey from selling his former business to starting a pickleball facility, guided by a mix of business savvy and strong faith. With refreshing honesty, he discusses the joys and challenges of co-parenting his grandson, balancing risk-taking with spirituality, and how he seeks to make a difference through his work. Whether you’re a pickleball fan, a business enthusiast, or someone searching for purpose, Jared’s insights on navigating life's unexpected turns are sure to ins...

In this powerful episode of the Sidewalk Conversations Podcast, we sit down with Crystal Rodenbaugh, owner and head counselor at Tenfold Counseling in Kansas City. Crystal opens up about her deeply personal journey through loss, resilience, and the pivotal moments that shaped her into the empathetic leader she is today. From growing up in the midst of family tragedy to helping others navigate trauma, Crystal shares insights into the transformative power of counseling and why understanding our stories can lead to true healing. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in mental health, personal growth, and finding hope...

Join us in a heartfelt episode with Esther, who shares her profound journey from a large, devout Muslim family in the Ivory Coast to embracing Christianity amidst trials and rejections. Navigating through cultural, spiritual, and personal landscapes, Esther's story is a testament to resilience, the transformative power of faith, and the courage to choose one's own path. Explore a narrative that bridges continents and beliefs, highlighting the essence of authentic living and spiritual discovery.

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In a uniquely personal episode of Sidewalk Conversations, host Piet Van Waarde shares an intimate look into his ongoing battle with cancer and the spiritual and emotional journey it has entailed. Piet opens up about his treatment decisions, the invaluable support from the community, and the peace he finds in his faith. Additionally, he introduces listeners to exciting upcoming projects, including a devotional card set and a mini-documentary created in collaboration with the David's Harp Foundation. Join Piet as he intertwines his personal struggles and triumphs with the broader vision of fostering connection and spiritual growth through Sidewalk Conversations...

In this introspective episode of Sidewalk Conversations, Piet Van Waarde sits down with Art Powell, a multifaceted individual who has worn the hats of a CEO, theologian, and author, to navigate through the intricate pathways of his life’s journey. Art shares the riveting tales of his nomadic childhood, moving 15 times by the age of 17, and how these experiences shaped his social interactions and personal development. From a proud agnostic to a man of profound faith, Art’s spiritual journey unveils the transformative power of experiential belief and the grounding framework theology provides. Dive deep into a conversation that expl...

Join us in a heartfelt episode with Jan Goss, an executive consultant and mentor, as she unfolds her journey from a spiritually rich childhood to becoming a beacon of leadership for women. Jan shares how navigating through personal pain and loss has shaped her approach to life and work, turning challenges into kindness and compassion. She emphasizes the crucial role of accountability in leadership and personal life, advocating for consistent self-checks and external guidance. Dive into a conversation that seamlessly weaves through leadership, spirituality, and life’s raw realities, offering lingering insights and wisdom.

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A successful mortgage lender with Elite Financing Group. We cover a wide variety of topics including Christians in business, financial markets, and women in leadership.

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Education and a conversation with the head of school.

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School. Church. Child of Divorce.  Life's about more than just checking boxes.

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True. Authentic. People living out their desire to walk after Jesus.

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Today, we are talking to David Swandt founder of Twenty20 Faith, a ministry that reaches around the globe with Bible Study resources in multiple languages.  David made a mid-life transition from the marketplace to ministry and this episode explores the highs/lows of that transition.  It’s sure to be an encouragement to anyone trusting God with a seemingly improbable dream.

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Chameleons, on the run and preaching in prison. Here’s a story of restoration. 

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Struggling with parents. Struggling with mental health. And the simple faith that brought us here today. 

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Piet’s tattoo artist & childhood trauma. Nothing is off limits today. 

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An incredible, special guest! She’s a mom, she’s a businesswoman, she’s Swedish, and she willingly puts up with Piet.

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An ode to our graceful hosts. The story of our fancy IT room.

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Professionalism. Job hunts. Making a change. Whatever it is, light a fire.

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Prayer. Worship. Daring to dream. 

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Drugs. Alcohol. Sex. That’s not what we’re talking about.

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Growing up in Indonesia. Imprisoned, separated from family. And recovering in the aftermath.

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Unexpected beginnings. Middle school ministry. And the war on marriage.

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CHIPs. Keyboard courage. And no short services. Just a conversation with the chief of police.

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Wives. Thanksgiving. A little family drama.

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Family. Faith. Politics. This one has it all.

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Detours. Music. One tough cookie.

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 God. Grit. Good friends. And success no one would have expected.

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