Episode 2 of “We Are Created To Create” is here. We welcome back two phenomenally created humans, Wilson Smith III and Kerhyl Gantt. On this episode we dive face first into the companions of “Risk & Failure” - two formational experience in the creative process and execution. Risk is a non-negotiable. And failure — real failure, not the rebranded kind — is somewhere on the road for everyone who tries to bring something meaningful into the world. We hope this episode speaks to you, and please let us know what you think, and make sure to subscribe.

Today we’re going to talk about creativity — but not the polished version.We want the unfiltered one. The one that includes the risk that didn’t pay off, the collaboration that cost something, the moment you almost talked yourself out of the thing that mattered most.Because here’s what I believe, and what I suspect our guests know from the inside out:We are created to create.Not just artists. Not just designers. Not just the people with the title or the portfolio. All of us carry something that wants to be made — a life, a business, a relationship, a community, a plate of food, a song hummed in the car. The creative impulse isn’t the property of the gifted few. It’s part of what it means to be human.(This is part one of a two part series.)Wilson W. Smith III spent 41 years at Nike. Forty-one years. Inside one of the most iconic creative institutions on the planet, he designed across everything — retail, footwear, architecture, graphics, experience, apparel, brand. He put his hands on product worn and carried by Michael Jordan, Serena Williams, Roger Federer, Andre Agassi, Derek Jeter. Names that don’t need last names.Kerhyl Gantt’s story moves in a different direction — not longer, but deeper. Nike. Amazon. Howard University. The Wharton School. A resume that opens every door. Today she is the founder and creator of Bible Club Jewelry — a brand born from faith, built by hand, worn as a kind of quiet declaration. She is, by her own description, wife, mother, dreamer, builder, believer.

On this Afterglow episode we are so excited to have Dr. Nijay Gupta on the podcast. Dr. Nijay Gupta is a dear friend, an author of many books, a professor of theology, father, husband, and most importantly a diehard soccer fan. On this podcast we dive into one of Nijay’s  recent books - “The Affections of Christ Jesus: Love at the Heart of Paul’s Theology.” This episode is full of banter and thoughtful discussion centered around this most essential Divine & human interaction - LOVE.

On this Afterglow episode we are so excited to have Dr. Nijay Gupta on the podcast. Dr. Nijay Gupta is a dear friend, an author of many books, a professor of theology, father, husband, and most importantly a diehard soccer fan. On this podcast we dive into one of Nijay’s  recent books - “The Affections of Christ Jesus: Love at the Heart of Paul’s Theology.” This episode is full of banter and thoughtful discussion centered around this most essential Divine & human interaction - LOVE.

Brandon, Katy, with their three children decided a different normal was calling them. They rented out their home, packed up the 5th wheel, bought a truck and headed out on the road to explore the terrain of this country while exploring the terrain of their inner life, family life, and the lives they would meet on the road. This podcast is a part 2 of their journey and since they were in town we wanted to get caught up. So listen in as we laugh, and learn, about their ongoing journey on the road.

The Aftermath: Our experience on the Camino de Santiago w/ Steve and Julie PietilaPsalm 84:5 says, “Blessed are those whose strength is in you, whose hearts are set on pilgrimage.” Steve and Julie set their hearts and intention to walk the sacred and historic pilgrimage of the Camino de Santiago. What they discuss on this Afterglow episode regarding themselves and God is both honest and inspiring. The dust from the pilgrimage will remain on Julie and Steve for some time, and we hope that when you hear their story it will have the same lasting effect.To learn more or contact Steve and Julie [email protected]@gmail.com

On this episode of the Afterglow podcast Sarah Schroeder and Erin Lowe join me (Greg) in the studio to talk about the unwanted companionship of cancer. Sarah shares openly and honestly about her breast cancer diagnosis, her journey, the unexpected gift of friendship, and the battle of advocating for her own health. Erin, a healthcare professional, shares some insights and challenges regarding Women’s Health, which can feel like an uphill climb women have to navigate.Part 2 is already in the works. Stay tuned.

This is a special episode. Our long time friends from North West Arkansas (NWA), Scott and Mollie Page join Michele and Greg in the studio. Scott and Mollie talk about the influence and disparity of NWA, the gift and burdens of the community they live in, and how they and the community they lead, Christ & Neighbor, come alongside the neighbors and neighborhood in their context of NWA. The practice of “returning” (showing up) is central to who they are and who they’re becoming. Their stories are gritty under a shadow of hope. Plus, don’t miss the live karaoke session.Learn more about the Common Hope Network - commonhope.network, and Christ & Neighbor in NWA https://christandneighbor.org

On this Afterglow Episode we welcome Dr. Chuck DeGroat, Dr. Darcy Hansen, and Lisa Procter to the podcast studio where we rip into questions about “remembering rightly,” “remembering redemptively,” and what is “home.” This episode comes off the back of a 6 hour SOFE (school of formation & engagement) learning session with Dr. Chuck DeGroat focused on Healing What’s Within. This episode is an honest, raw, and searching dialog concerning life, loss, and what does it mean to return home. We hope it helps.https://thesofe.com

On this Afterglow episode Author and Enneagram Teacher Chris Heuertz steps in the studio and takes us on a 30 minute journey in and through the Enneagram pathways. With his infectious wit, humor, and wisdom Chris helps us see how the Enneagram speaks to our inner life and social connections. This is one episode you will  share and tag people into.Find Chris’ work here: https://chrisheuertz.com