I loved catching up with the lovely Brittany Walker for part three of our Belhaven Dance Alumni Series! Brittany is the founder of Evolve Dance Project based in Southern Colorado.

Listen in to this inspiring episode as we dive into Brittany’s journey from her formative years, to her time at Belhaven University, to her current role as a choreographer and dance instructor. Brittany shares the story behind the founding of Evolve Dance Project and her heart for positively impacting the southern Colorado community through the arts.

In our conversation, Brittany opens up about how injury transformed her mindset and perspective on dance as well as the importance of growth and adaptation in the creative process. We chat about the significance of community support, perseverance, and how art and expression can serve as a powerful healing tool. Whether you’re a dancer, artist, or simply someone who appreciates the transformative power of art, Brittany’s story will leave you inspired and motivated.

Several other Belhaven Dance Alumni have shared their stories on the podcast over the years, so we've gathered all the episodes together in a playlist for you! Check out the ⁠playlist on Spotify⁠!

Follow @evolvingdance

. . . . .

Welcome to The Creative Impact Podcast, where you will find encouragement to live out your calling as an artist.

. . . . .

Watch this episode on YouTube! Check out our YouTube Channel and be sure to like and subscribe!

⁠http://www.youtube.com/@creativeimpactpodcast⁠

Join our Patreon community for behind-the-scenes and bonus content!⁠⁠⁠patreon.com/creativeimpactpodcast⁠⁠⁠

Find the show notes and more at ⁠⁠https://creativeimpactpodcast.com/episode-130/⁠⁠

Some topics we chat about in today's episode include:

Belhaven University, dance, choreography, Evolve Dance Project, injury recovery, community, the creative process, perseverance, the artistic journey

. . . . .

Let's Connect!

Instagram & Facebook:

⁠⁠⁠@creativeimpactpodcast⁠⁠⁠

. . . . .

The podcast music was produced by Michael Cash.

We are back for part two of our Belhaven Dance Alumni Series with my amazing friend, Joanna (Tan) Koleth! Joanna was a guest on the podcast back in November 2020 for episode 24. It is a delight to have her back and to hear about her journey since we last spoke! Joanna is a dance-artist, educator, choreographer, and comprehensively certified BASI Pilates teacher. Her business, MADE TO MOVE STUDIO, merges her passions for dance and Pilates to empower people to move with purpose and freedom across all seasons of life.

Joanna and I originally met during our time in the Belhaven University Dance Department. In this conversation, we chat about Joanna's journey from Kuala Lumpur to Milan, and then to her current home in Johor Bahru, Malaysia. Joanna shares about her experiences with teaching and choreography, the impact of Belhaven University on her life, and advice for upcoming and current students. We also discuss identity, presence, and the importance of community. I love Joanna's dream of having Belhaven reunions across the globe!

Several other Belhaven Dance Alumni have shared their stories on the podcast over the years, so we've gathered all the episodes together in a playlist for you! Check out the ⁠playlist on Spotify⁠!

Follow @joannakoleth

Follow @madetomovestudio

. . . . .

Welcome to The Creative Impact Podcast, where you will find encouragement to live out your calling as an artist.

. . . . .

Watch this episode on YouTube! Check out our YouTube Channel and be sure to like and subscribe!

⁠http://www.youtube.com/@creativeimpactpodcast⁠

Join our Patreon community for behind-the-scenes and bonus content!⁠⁠⁠patreon.com/creativeimpactpodcast⁠⁠⁠

Find the show notes and more at ⁠⁠https://creativeimpactpodcast.com/episode-129/⁠⁠

Some topics we chat about in today's episode include:

Belhaven University, dance, Pilates, faith, community, art, healing, spiritual growth, identity, teaching

. . . . .

Let's Connect!

Instagram & Facebook:

⁠⁠⁠@creativeimpactpodcast⁠⁠⁠

. . . . .

The podcast music was produced by Michael Cash.

I’m honored to be joined by mentor and friend, Anthony Gurley, for episode 120. Anthony spent thirty years at his alma mater, Guilford College, as the Director of Financial Aid, retiring in 2009. He recently published his first book, Deadly Dilemma: A Memoir. I originally met Anthony through a scholarship and mentorship program he founded called Mo-T-Vation Ministry.

Anthony would describe himself as just an ordinary guy with a story to tell, and I am so grateful that he has recorded his story in his new memoir. In Deadly Dilemma, Anthony unsparingly opens the doors to his journey in the hope that others might find a path to confronting their struggles and failures, and in the process, discover their life-saving answers to that bigger question. Are those moments of victory and success, happiness and joy, and peaks of cherishable memories sufficient in number, scope, magnitude, and frequency to outweigh the valleys of failure, disappointments,  fear, and isolation, that often color the landscape of life?

In our conversation we talk about what led Anthony to write Deadly Dilemma, and the power of reflecting on our own stories. Anthony shares the importance of Friends, Choices, and Consequences in life, and why it is critical to find our Anchors. May Anthony’s story encourage you today!

The full show notes are available on our website https://creativeimpactpodcast.com!  You can be sure not to miss a Creative Impact conversation by subscribing through your favorite podcast app.  We are so grateful to have you as a part of the Creative Impact community and would love it if you would share the show with your friends!

Jackie Stouffer is the founder and Executive Director of Creative Dreams Outreach Center. Creative Dreams is a non-profit youth development program for middle and high school students. They offer free art, dance and music lessons as well as academic tutoring. Creative Dreams is truly a special place. I had the amazing opportunity to work there for multiple years during the summer and also after college, year-round.

In our conversation today, Jackie and I talk about the story of Creative Dreams. She shares how God planted the dream in her heart during her time raising her children and also working with an organization called Maria’s Children in Moscow, Russia. You will hear about how God gave her the vision for Creative Dreams and helped intervene and remove obstacles that felt like they were popping up as she was getting started.

We talk about how much Creative Dreams has evolved over the years and stories of God’s hand at work. She also talks about the process of building their own building for Creative Dreams to be housed. That was a huge journey of faith! Jackie has had a profound impact on so many lives; both the students and the volunteers or employees that have worked at Creative Dreams. I hope that you are inspired by her story to take that next step in pursuing the dream that God has placed in your heart.

This week actually marks the 16th anniversary of Creative Dreams! I’m so excited that you are joining us today as we celebrate what God’s done through this ministry.

Check out our website http://creativeimpactpodcast.com for the full show notes that include Jackie's biography and links mentioned in this episode. You can be sure not to miss a Creative Impact conversation by subscribing through your favorite podcast app.  We are so grateful to have you as a part of the Creative Impact community and would love it if you would share the show with your friends!

For episode 32, I am joined by Debbie Wiens. Debbie is a new friend of mine, who I actually met through this podcast! I’m so excited that we’ve gotten connected up, and I had so much fun learning about Debbie and her journey through this conversation. Debbie is a dancer, studio owner of 24 years, a Christian minister, wife, mom of 2 grown children and a one year old dog, a published author and blogger, and most recently the Podcast host for "Coffee Break With Miss Debbie".

I love hearing Debbie’s insight and wisdom about leadership and her experiences founding and running a studio. Debbie shares her journey of following God to move and start a dance studio without anything lined up ahead of time. We chat about boundaries and what it looks like grieving in this season, especially for studio owners and small business owners who have been experiencing loss and change. She explains how it’s important to grieve, but also to continue moving forward and setting the vision in leadership.

Debbie’s passion for God and for loving other people is so evident in our conversation. Join us for some laughter and encouragement today!

Check out our website http://creativeimpactpodcast.com for the full show notes that include Debbie's biography and links mentioned in this episode. You can be sure not to miss a Creative Impact conversation by subscribing through your favorite podcast app.  We are so grateful to have you as a part of the Creative Impact community and would love it if you would share the show with your friends!

We are kicking off 2021 with my incredible friend Carleigh Dunbar! Carleigh is an artist-educator based in Jackson, Mississippi. She and I have an engaging conversation surrounding our shared passion for the value of the arts in public education.

Carleigh is part of the dance faculty of Power Academic and Performing Arts Complex (Power APAC) and has been there since 2017. Power APAC is a public arts magnet school providing advanced academics and rigorous arts training to 4th-12th grade students. She also has a variety of experience dancing professionally and teaching in various capacities, including as an Adjunct Professor of Dance at Belhaven University. She is always looking to inspire, engage, and educate through the power of movement, and that is so evident in our conversation today.

We talk about what it’s like coming in as a first-year teacher and the diligence and perseverance that it takes. I love how she explains, even though she had the passion coming in, she had to grow into the position she was given. We chat about what it looks like to create a safe environment and atmosphere for our students, whether virtually or in-person. 

Carleigh shares practical wisdom for how we can support arts in public education and encouragement for artists to be patient and present in this season during the pandemic. If you’re a teacher, I hope this conversation is inspiring and encouraging to you! For those who aren’t teachers, I hope it gives you a glimpse into the heart of arts educators and why we believe the arts are so important for our communities and our world.

Check out our website http://creativeimpactpodcast.com for the full show notes that include Carleigh's biography and links mentioned in this episode. You can be sure not to miss a Creative Impact conversation by subscribing through your favorite podcast app.  We are so grateful to have you as a part of the Creative Impact community and would love it if you would share the show with your friends!

We’ve made it to the final episode of 2020! There’s no doubt 2020 has been a year of change, loss and challenge in so many ways. Looking back, I am encouraged to see threads of hope, beauty, and resilience that are interwoven within those places. I am so grateful to be able to walk alongside you through this podcast.  

For today’s episode, I catch up with my friend Brianna Cash who was on episode 15 with her husband, Michael, earlier this year! If you haven’t heard their story yet, I’d encourage you to go back and listen! Brianna and I meet up virtually for coffee and take some time to reflect on this past year and look forward to the year ahead. Stick around after our conversation to hear a few of the podcast highlights from 2020 and get a preview of some of the guests coming to kick off 2021!

We’re so excited to have you join in on our virtual coffee today!

Check out our website http://creativeimpactpodcast.com for the full show notes including links mentioned in this episode. You can be sure not to miss a Creative Impact conversation by subscribing through your favorite podcast app.  We are so grateful to have you as a part of the Creative Impact community and would love it if you would share the show with your friends!

Today is our final episode in the Family Christmas series! We wrap up with a super fun group conversation with my mom’s side of the family for “A Lingerfelt Family Christmas”! My grandma, mom, two aunts, and uncle join me for a fun-filled time of sharing Christmas memories and traditions. Get ready to laugh! We chat about everything from finding the perfect Christmas tree to fruitcake – and there may even be some singing involved! No matter where you find yourself this Christmas season, may this conversation warm your heart and highlight the heart of this season – faith, family, and the beauty that is found in the small things.

Grab some hot cocoa and join us for “A Lingerfelt Family Christmas”!

Check out our website http://creativeimpactpodcast.com for the full show notes including links mentioned in this episode. You can be sure not to miss a Creative Impact conversation by subscribing through your favorite podcast app.  We are so grateful to have you as a part of the Creative Impact community and would love it if you would share the show with your friends!

Our "Family Christmas" series continues for part three with my amazing sisters-in-law, Alisa Piñones and Alana Borst! Alisa and Alana are twin sisters, and they are both such fun and beautiful people! We chat about what it was like growing up as a twin, their experiences with dance and worship, the journey of motherhood, and their favorite Christmas memories and traditions.

I enjoyed hearing Alisa and Alana’s perspective on the value of dance as a form of worship. They share both the beautiful and the difficult aspects of leading in the church in worship through movement. From their earliest experiences with dance, worship has been at the heart of their expression. Alana shares how their mom inspired them to pursue dance and to grow as worshipers. They share their experiences with dance growing up, through college, and more recently in missions and project-based ministry. Alisa reminisces about some of the funny moments during her time in missions with YWAM.

As we near Christmas 2020, I appreciate Alisa and Alana’s reminders about the important things in life – our families and our faith. We have fun talking about memories of Christmases past and some of the traditions that make this season so special. May this heartwarming conversation encourage you today!

Check out our website http://creativeimpactpodcast.com for the full show notes including links mentioned in this episode. You can be sure not to miss a Creative Impact conversation by subscribing through your favorite podcast app.  We are so grateful to have you as a part of the Creative Impact community and would love it if you would share the show with your friends!

Our “Family Christmas” series continues with my aunt, Seanne Smith! Seanne’s story is such an inspiration to me as I’m sure it will be for you. We talk about everything from fun family stories to her career journey, and we celebrate her being 20 years cancer free!

Seanne grew up dancing and worked in the professional dance world early in her career. She danced with Amarillo Ballet Theater, the musical drama Texas, and Gus Giordano, among others. She also worked as a teacher and choreographer. After getting a job in the retail world, she continued to climb the corporate ladder with companies like Lancome, Calvin Klein, and John Hardy, and eventually came to a point where she described she felt like she had “lost her soul.”

Seanne and I talk about the moment she decided it was okay to let go and leave the retail world behind. Soon after, she discovered Zumba and found a renewed sense of passion and rekindled love for dance. Seanne is a testament to the belief that it is never too late to follow your passion, and she became a licensed Zumba instructor at the age of 60! Join us for this fun episode full of laughter, inspiration, and hope in this Christmas season.

Check out our website http://creativeimpactpodcast.com for the full show notes that include Seanne's biography and links mentioned in this episode. You can be sure not to miss a Creative Impact conversation by subscribing through your favorite podcast app.  We are so grateful to have you as a part of the Creative Impact community and would love it if you would share the show with your friends!

My conversation with Meggie Belisle today for episode 26 begins our “Family Christmas” series of episodes! Meggie and I are (basically) related, although I’ll let you listen to the episode to find out the details. We first met while studying dance at Belhaven University, and I am so thankful for her friendship over the years. Meggie is a professional dancer, choreographer, and founder of Mei/Co. Dance.

Meggie shares her journey dancing with a variety of companies in Texas, New York, and New Jersey, including Ingredients Dance Company, Roxey Ballet, Ad Deum Dance Company, and Open Sky Arts Collective. We chat about the value of community, the challenge and beauty of taking a fresh look at our beliefs, and how to have better conversations. 

In 2015, Meggie founded Mei/Co. Dance to promote the art of listening through the creative art of dance. Inspired by her mom’s cancer journey, Meggie’s hope is to help bring healing to the hurting through the beauty of movement. Mei/Co. Dance shares stories that inspire, honor, and bring healing to all involved. I love how Meggie expresses, “Your story is unique and needs to be heard.”

Check out our website http://creativeimpactpodcast.com for the full show notes that include Meggie's biography and links mentioned in this episode. You can be sure not to miss a Creative Impact conversation by subscribing through your favorite podcast app.  We are so grateful to have you as a part of the Creative Impact community and would love it if you would share the show with your friends!

Join us for this special edition of the Creative Impact Podcast as we celebrate Thanksgiving with our arts community! Hear from multiple artists about why they are thankful for the arts, especially in 2020.

A special thank you to Jackie Stouffer, Krista Bower, Tiffany Howard, Kayla Sokoloff, Shannon Benton, Katelyn Harbaugh, Dawn Dippel, Debbie Wiens, Michael Cash, Meggie Belisle, Seanne Smith, Joanna Koleth, Randall Flinn, and Stella Almblade for contributing your thoughts and being part of our Thanksgiving “table”!

May this season of gratitude be marked by joy and peace!

Check out our website http://creativeimpactpodcast.com for the full show notes. You can be sure not to miss a Creative Impact conversation by subscribing through your favorite podcast app.  We are so grateful to have you as a part of the Creative Impact community and would love it if you would share the show with your friends!

I am so grateful for this opportunity to introduce you to my lovely friend Joanna Koleth, or Joanna Tan as many know her. Joanna is a dance-artist educator, choreographer, Pilates instructor, and writer. Joanna and her husband Glenn are currently based in her hometown of Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, with their dog Koko. Joanna graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Dance from Belhaven University and a Master of Fine Arts in Dance from Hollins University.

We chat about Joanna’s experiences living and dancing in various countries and how that continues to shape her work as a dancer, choreographer and teacher. We also explore the concept of identity and developing your “voice” as an artist. She talks about how easy it is to compare our lives to those around us and the importance of recognizing and valuing our own personal journey.

In our conversation, Joanna shares about her passion for storytelling through the art of dance and how she sees the impact of dance that goes far beyond the movement itself. I love Joanna’s encouragement to listen to God and seek Him for what to do each day, rather than holding too tightly to our “to-do” list. May this conversation encourage you in the midst of your journey!

Check out our website http://creativeimpactpodcast.com for the full show notes that include Joanna's biography and links mentioned in this episode. You can be sure not to miss a Creative Impact conversation by subscribing through your favorite podcast app.  We are so grateful to have you as a part of the Creative Impact community and would love it if you would share the show with your friends!

We are kicking off December with this fun and rich conversation with my new friend, Gabe Baker! Gabe is a singer/songwriter and cellist who is currently on tour with Grammy-winning group For King + Country. Their “A Drummer Boy” Christmas tour is happening now, and if you happen to be near one of the cities included in the tour - I highly recommend you check it out!

Gabe is a former college football athlete, has worked as as civil engineer and government policy strategist, has appeared on multiple television platforms such as NBC’s “American Ninja Warrior,” Netflix’s “The Ultimate Beastmaster,” & “The Bachelor: Listen To Your Heart”, and is currently living in Nashville and working on a variety of collaborative projects as a musician, singer-songwriter, and storyteller.

I was so inspired hearing Gabe share about how faith has been the through-line in his journey.  We cover a range of topics such as identity, community, goal setting, and stewarding a platform with authenticity and purpose.

The full show notes are available on our website https://creativeimpactpodcast.com!  You can be sure not to miss a Creative Impact conversation by subscribing through your favorite podcast app.  We are so grateful to have you as a part of the Creative Impact community and would love it if you would share the show with your friends!

My sweet friend Melissa Livingston joins me for episode 23! Melissa and I met as dance majors at Belhaven University, and have enjoyed cheering each other on in life ever since. Melissa and her husband Jeremy are passionate about ministry and discipleship, and are also health coaches to help encourage others towards optimal and holistic health.

We start by sharing our love for all things Fall and reminiscing a bit about our college years. Melissa shares about her journey as a dancer, from beginning as a young girl to the God story of how she ended up pursuing her BFA in Dance. For Melissa, connecting faith to her life as a dancer was a challenge. She shares how a seriously low point in college allowed her to grow closer to God and even integrate her faith more deeply into her art form. 

After college, Melissa continued to develop a love for teaching, and spent five years teaching ballet for the pre-professional students at The Link School of the Arts. We chat about where Melissa’s love for teaching began and the power and beauty of mentorship.

Over time, Melissa felt new dreams awakening, and she began transitioning into ministry. Her passion for teaching has taken new shape as she and Jeremy continue to teach and disciple others through ministry in the local church. May Melissa’s journey encourage you to remember that your identity is not about what you do, but who God says you are.

Check out our website http://creativeimpactpodcast.com for the full show notes that include Melissa's biography and links mentioned in this episode. You can be sure not to miss a Creative Impact conversation by subscribing through your favorite podcast app.  We are so grateful to have you as a part of the Creative Impact community and would love it if you would share the show with your friends!

Get ready to be encouraged through this conversation with Lindsey Carlson! Lindsey is a pastor’s wife, a mother of 5, and an author. She published her first book, “Growing in Godliness: A Teen Girl’s Guide to Maturing in Christ” with Crossway in 2019 and is currently writing a book on biblical encouragement for women with an expected release in 2022.

Lindsey shares about her early pursuits in the arts and how that led her into a love for communications. After starting a family, her path shifted towards motherhood and dabbling in multiple areas such as photography, music, and theater. After attending a women’s conference where they shared about speaking and writing, Lindsey’s eyes were opened to the opportunity of writing as a way to serve God.

During this time, Lindsey and her husband Kyle moved from Houston, Texas, to Baltimore, Maryland, to plant Imprint Community Church. We chat about how her passion for writing developed from blog posts to writing articles for The Gospel Coalition, Desiring God, and a variety of other contributor sites. From there, she began to pursue publishing a book. She describes how writing is a “long-haul thing” and how valuable community is in the process. We talk about the joys along the publishing journey and the challenges, including the trap of comparison and the reality of rejection.

Lindsey’s heart for teaching the Bible and discipling women through her writing and public speaking is evident throughout our conversation. I believe everyone will come away from this conversation encouraged to look to God and depend on His strength as we walk out our faith journey.

Check out our website http://creativeimpactpodcast.com for the full show notes that include Lindsey's biography and links mentioned in this episode. You can be sure not to miss a Creative Impact conversation by subscribing through your favorite podcast app.  We are so grateful to have you as a part of the Creative Impact community and would love it if you would share the show with your friends!

Episode 21 is a beautiful conversation with Amanda Browning that is sure to leave you feeling inspired! Amanda is a professional dancer, fitness coach, wife, and mother of four. She is currently dancing with Phoenix Rising Dance Company based in Indianapolis, Indiana.

We chat about Amanda’s journey with dance including her time at Belhaven University, her experiences dancing in multiple professional companies, and what it has looked like balancing her passion for dance with motherhood.

After having her second child, Amanda found herself at a low point as she struggled with serious postpartum depression and a sense of her identity as a dancer being stripped away. It was during this season that Amanda fell in love with fitness. Through developing the habit of daily movement, she felt more clarity, more confidence, and reduced stress. She eventually learned about fitness coaching and decided the only thing holding her back from becoming a coach herself was fear.

Amanda decided to step out in courage and start her own virtual health and fitness business from home so she could help other women who may be walking through similar seasons. Through her story, you will find encouragement and practical advice on what it looks like to invest in the season you are in and live in line with your values

Check out our website http://creativeimpactpodcast.com for the full show notes that include Amanda's biography and links mentioned in this episode. You can be sure not to miss a Creative Impact conversation by subscribing through your favorite podcast app.  We are so grateful to have you as a part of the Creative Impact community and would love it if you would share the show with your friends!

My guest for episode 20 is Nathan Clarkson. Nathan is an actor, author, filmmaker, podcast host, and all around creative person. He has a deep love for stories, which is the root of his creative endeavors. Growing up with learning disabilities and mental illness, Nathan shares how his mom, author Sally Clarkson, helped him lean into his areas of strength and encouraged his passion for stories. Together, Sally and Nathan co-authored the book “Different: The Story of an Outside-the-Box Kid and the Mom Who Loved Him.”

After receiving formal training in acting through the New York Film Academy, Nathan moved to Los Angeles to pursue a career in acting. He gained experience in tv shows and films in Hollywood, and eventually started his own film company. We talk about the challenges and highlights of working in the film industry, the creative process, and what it takes to produce a film. Nathan encourages artists to do what you can with what you have and know that you have to start somewhere. While we so often strive for perfection, Nathan reminds us that the beauty is in the process.

Nathan recently published his first solo book, “Good Man: An Honest Journey into Discovering Who Men Were Actually Created to Be.” You’ll hear how Nathan’s time in Hollywood prompted him to write this book.  There are so many great words of wisdom in this conversation! May you be inspired to move forward with courage in your calling!

Check out our website http://creativeimpactpodcast.com for the full show notes that include Nathan's biography and links mentioned in this episode. You can be sure not to miss a Creative Impact conversation by subscribing through your favorite podcast app.  We are so grateful to have you as a part of the Creative Impact community and would love it if you would share the show with your friends!

It was so wonderful connecting with Shannon Benton! Shannon is a professional dancer who has performed with companies such as Ad Deum Dance Company, HoustonMET, Open Sky Arts Collective, and Zion Dance Project. She recently completed Youth with a Mission’s Arts in Movement Discipleship Training School and earned her certification in Progressing Ballet Technique. Shannon currently lives in the Kansas City area where she is dancing with Störling Dance Theater and is a faculty member for Störling Conservatory.
 
I am so grateful for Shannon’s heart for racial reconciliation and the wisdom she shares. As artists, we can play a role in the process of racial reconciliation through storytelling, connection, and valuing the beauty in our differences. We chat about how empathy is so crucial and how listening with the intent to understand creates the space for deeper relationships. Since recording this episode, she became the first staff member of Unite KC, a faith-based, grassroots organization committed to taking action toward racial reconciliation in Kansas City.

Identity is another key topic of our conversation. Shannon explains that if we listen to the world’s ideas for identity, we will have a hard time finding a “place to stand,” but if we look to our Creator, our identity is built on a solid foundation. May you be encouraged by Shannon’s words to be faithful as you walk in your calling as an artist.

Check out our website http://creativeimpactpodcast.com for the full show notes that include Shannon's biography and links mentioned in this episode. You can be sure not to miss a Creative Impact conversation by subscribing through your favorite podcast app.  We are so grateful to have you as a part of the Creative Impact community and would love it if you would share the show with your friends!

My guest for episode 18 is the beautiful Jaleesa McCreary! Jaleesa has been a worship leader at The Austin Stone Community Church for the past 7 years. In addition to leading worship weekly, Jaleesa spends much of her time investing in the development of female worship leaders and teaching worship ministry philosophy at The Austin Stone.

Jaleesa shares her incredible testimony of walking through the loss of her voice and experiencing what felt like the death of a dream. Without singing, Jaleesa’s life felt empty, but God remained faithful through it all. You are sure to be inspired by her journey. I love Jaleesa’s heart for people to encounter God personally in worship and take that encounter with God outside of Sundays.

As a young, biracial woman, Jaleesa shares about the challenges and insecurities she faced becoming one of the first female worship leaders in a predominately white church. We chat about what it means to “go scared” and step out in courage rather than being held back by fear. She helps encourage other women to take similar steps of faith and understand that they are called to so much more as worship leaders than merely singing.

Many of us have felt a sense that our identity as an artist is being stripped during this season of uncertainty and isolation. I love Jaleesa’s encouragement to lean into that process and allow God to shape our identity and purpose.

Check out our website http://creativeimpactpodcast.com for the full show notes that include Jaleesa's biography and links mentioned in this episode. You can be sure not to miss a Creative Impact conversation by subscribing through your favorite podcast app.  We are so grateful to have you as a part of the Creative Impact community and would love it if you would share the show with your friends!

I’m excited to introduce you to my friend Gabriel Speiller for episode 17! Gabriel is a native New Yorker raised in Queens and is married to his lovely wife Dara who dances with Texas Ballet Theater. He received a BFA in dance from Belhaven University and currently dances with Bruce Wood Dance in Dallas, Texas. He has also danced with Paul Taylor 2, Ad Deum Dance Company, and many project companies.

In our conversation, we talk about Gabriel’s journey from discovering dance in high school to the God-story of how he ended up majoring in dance and eventually dancing professionally in his current role with Bruce Wood Dance. We also chat about Gabriel’s experiences teaching and choreographing throughout the United States.

Gabriel shares about learning to slow down and listen to God. We explore what it looks like to allow God to influence our creative work.

Check out our website http://creativeimpactpodcast.com for the full show notes that include Gabriel's biography and links mentioned in this episode. You can be sure not to miss a Creative Impact conversation by subscribing through your favorite podcast app.  We are so grateful to have you as a part of the Creative Impact community and would love it if you would share the show with your friends!

It was such a joy to talk with Libby John, host of the Art & Faith Conversations Podcast! Libby and I happen to both be Nines on the Enneagram and share a similar passion to highlight artists of faith. Libby hopes to use the podcast to encourage artists in their search for deeper meaning in their creative identity. We talk about how common it is for artists to feel on the fringes of their faith community and why connecting to community is so important. 

In addition to creating and hosting the podcast, Libby is a dancer, teacher, and singer/songwriter. We chat about her early journey with music and dance, leading her to pursue dance in college. Libby relates her wisdom from over 15 years of teaching. She explains how movement has power to heal us and connect us deeper in our faith.

Libby shares about a challenging season where she felt wounded by the church and how it prompted her to explore songwriting. I love her reminder, “don’t let your low point be your end point.” Since 2017, Libby has released two albums of original music. Through her story, I was reminded of how art can bring order to chaos and bring healing for our souls.

Check out our website http://creativeimpactpodcast.com for the full show notes that include Libby's biography and links mentioned in this episode. You can be sure not to miss a Creative Impact conversation by subscribing through your favorite podcast app.  We are so grateful to have you as a part of the Creative Impact community and would love it if you would share the show with your friends!

Friends, get ready for a super fun episode full of laughter, fun stories, and inspiring conversation. Episode 15 is our first ever couple’s interview with Michael and Brianna Cash. You may recognize the name Michael Cash because he is the creator and producer of the music for the podcast!

From the Enneagram to Buc-ee’s, you are going to love getting to know Michael and Brianna. They have been married for 12 years and have 2 incredible kiddos. Brianna is a dental hygienist, a homeschool mom, and a big part of everything that happens at Sugar Land Family Church, where Michael is on staff as a pastor.

Together they lead worship at SLFC. In our conversation, you’ll get to hear what got Michael and Brianna into music and leading worship. They share about their story as a couple and what it looks like getting to work together in ministry. We chat about some of the challenges they’ve faced and the beauty of walking through those challenges together.

Their passion for worship and their love for people is evident. I loved hearing their thoughts about marriage, parenting, and the power of music to impact lives. Pour yourself a cup of coffee and enjoy this life-giving conversation.

Check out our website http://creativeimpactpodcast.com for the full show notes that include Michael and Brianna's biography and links mentioned in this episode. You can be sure not to miss a Creative Impact conversation by subscribing through your favorite podcast app.  We are so grateful to have you as a part of the Creative Impact community and would love it if you would share the show with your friends!

For episode 14 of the podcast, I have the joy of introducing you to Shizu Yasuda! Shizu is currently the Artistic Director of Ad Deum II Dance Company. She began her professional career as a freelance dancer in New York City, after which she performed nationally and internationally as a principal dancer with Ad Deum Dance Company.

Shizu grew up in Japan where she developed a passion for dance. She decided to pursue dance by moving to New York City, where she happened to witness the first Project Dance event taking place in Times Square. Through a series of events, or “God moments” as I like to call them, she auditioned for Ad Deum Dance Company and started a new adventure in Houston, Texas.

In our conversation, Shizu and I talk about some of her favorite experiences as a professional dancer as well as a director and choreographer. We talk about the power of art and the value of finding your voice as an artist. Shizu shares her faith journey through the challenges of life including illness, injury, and spiritual emptiness. She describes going from an atheistic worldview, to a season as a devout Buddhist, and most recently, her search for truth brought her to faith in Jesus. I am so thankful that Shizu and I have had the opportunity to work together and be in community together through Ad Deum.

Check out our website http://creativeimpactpodcast.com for the full show notes that include Shizu's full biography and links mentioned in this episode. You can be sure not to miss a Creative Impact conversation by subscribing through your favorite podcast app.  We are so grateful to have you as a part of the Creative Impact community and would love it if you would share the show with your friends!

What is the impact of the arts around the world? During this mini-series, we are diving into conversations focused on the global impact of the arts. I am honored to have Keith and Kathy Thibodeaux joining me for part eight of this series! Keith and Kathy are the Founders and Directors of Ballet Magnificat!, an arts organization dedicated to presenting the good news of Jesus Christ to the whole world.

Kathy was born in Memphis, TN, but trained and has lived in Jackson, MS, most of her life. She went on to become one of the first contracted dancers for the Jackson Ballet Company (Ballet Mississippi) under the direction of Thalia Mara, dancing as principal until 1986. In 1982, Kathy was awarded a silver medal for her performance at the II USA International Ballet Competition (IBC), where she premiered her solo piece, “We Shall Behold Him.” Her desire to use her God-given talent of dance to share her faith in Jesus Christ led Kathy to resign from Ballet Mississippi and found her own company, Ballet Magnificat!, in 1986.

Keith is the former child entertainer best known as “Little Ricky” on the I Love Lucy television series and Johnny Paul Jason on The Andy Griffith Show. He was a drummer for the rock band David and the Giants which later became a groundbreaking Christian rock band, with Keith becoming a Christian in 1974. Keith shares about the dramatic life transformation he experienced–from hitting rock bottom to discovering fullness of life in Jesus.

Together, Keith and Kathy have taken steps of faith, trusting God along their adventurous journey! Since founding Ballet Magnificat! in 1986, the organization has grown to include a Trainee Program, a School of the Arts, and most recently Ballet Magnificat! Brazil. I loved hearing about some of the pivotal moments for Keith and Kathy, lessons they’ve learned in leadership, and how God has sustained them over the years. We also chat about the impact of dance across cultures. Get ready to be inspired by their incredible journey of faith!

The full show notes are available on our website https://creativeimpactpodcast.com!  You can be sure not to miss a Creative Impact conversation by subscribing through your favorite podcast app.  We are so grateful to have you as a part of the Creative Impact community and would love it if you would share the show with your friends!

My guest for episode 13 of the podcast is the lovely and engaging Lara Bianca Pilcher. Lara is a British, Australian Actress, dancer, singer, writer and producer who works internationally. In our conversation, you’ll hear about Lara’s journey from her beginnings in dance to her current ventures including work as an actress, writer, and podcast host. We talk about life as a freelance artist, and the realities of pursuing a career in the West End in London. I love Lara’s thoughts on reframing rejection and keeping perspective throughout the audition process by focusing on being prepared and continuing to develop as an artist.

We chat about Lara’s work as a writer for Dance Informa magazine and some of the adventures she’s had as the host for the Victorian Dance Festival (VDF) podcast. She is the founder of Artists House International, a not for profit organization. Artist’s House International uses the tool of creativity to help transform lives through gatherings, outreaches and an incredible podcast!

Lara has a passion for fostering community amongst artists and utilizing the arts as a witness. We talk about how Lara, her husband Andrew, and their children are on mission together as family. Through her work and ministry, Lara connects artists from all around the world.

Check out our website http://creativeimpactpodcast.com for the full show notes that include Lara's full biography and links mentioned in this episode. You can be sure not to miss a Creative Impact conversation by subscribing through your favorite podcast app.  We are so grateful to have you as a part of the Creative Impact community and would love it if you would share the show with your friends!

It was such a gift to spend time connecting with Cheryl Cutlip for episode 12! Cheryl is the founding director of The Project Dance Foundation, formed in 2002 as a mission to bring hope and healing to the world through the universal language of dance.  Cheryl currently directs The Space @ Project Dance, the foundation’s dance training and education program area as well as the precision dance company, The Carolina Snowbelles.

Cheryl began dancing at a young age, and decided by the time she was 15 to pursue dance as a professional career. Her life changed dramatically when she put her faith in Jesus early in her performance career. She shares how she grappled with the place of dance in her life given her new found faith.

Cheryl enjoyed performing with the Radio City Rockettes for 15 years where her duties included dance captain; assistant choreographer and spokesperson for nationally televised appearances. We spend some time talking about her life as a Rockette and some highlights and fun stories from that season.

We get into some deep conversation around what it looks like to grieve the end of your career as a performer. Cheryl says, “You’re not just grieving the work you did onstage. You’re sort of all of sudden identifying with the very real truth that you won’t do this forever.” She shares the hope that “you have a voice when you’ve gone through something, reconciled with something, and have gained peace from that something”

Cheryl gives us a glimpse into the beginnings of the Project Dance events, which began nearly 20 years ago. Since then, the 3-day Project Dance events have taken place in over 26 cities and 13 countries! Cheryl describes how art has an eternal trajectory and acts as a bridge that connects people and brings unity. For the artist, the real beauty is experiencing God through the art.

Check out our website http://creativeimpactpodcast.com for the full show notes that include Cheryl's full biography and links mentioned in this episode. You can be sure not to miss a Creative Impact conversation by subscribing through your favorite podcast app.  We are so grateful to have you as a part of the Creative Impact community and would love it if you would share the show with your friends!

My guest for episode 11 of the podcast is Jessie Winters. Jessie is a creative and passionate mentor, teacher, choreographer, coach, and mother. She wants to see the Holy Spirit move mightily in the Arts. In our conversation, you’ll get to hear more about her heart for the nations, the musical theatre community, and the special needs community.

My favorite part of our conversation was hearing Jessie’s stories of faith and God moving in incredible ways! She shares about motherhood, homeschooling on the road, and following God’s calling together as a family. Jessie and her husband Clayton (our guest on episode 10) now live in Fairfield, CT, where Jessie is the prayer ministry leader at their church. She is passionate about intercession, community, and allowing their home to be a sanctuary for those living in NYC.

I love Jessie’s reminder that while we tend to think we have to promote ourselves, God calls us to rest in His timing, worship, and watch as He opens the doors of opportunity. When He does call you to big things, don’t be afraid. Know that you are equipped and that He is with you!

Check out our website http://creativeimpactpodcast.com for the full show notes that include Jessie's full biography and links mentioned in this episode. You can be sure not to miss a Creative Impact conversation by subscribing through your favorite podcast app.  We are so grateful to have you as a part of the Creative Impact community and would love it if you would share the show with your friends!

My guest for episode 10 of the podcast is J. Clayton Winters. Clayton is a Professional Musical Theatre Performer and works in vocational ministry as the Director of Worship and Arts at Trinity Baptist Church of Fairfield, CT. He has a range of teaching experience, including as a Director of Musical Theater at the University level. Clayton’s fun personality and passion for life make this conversation one to remember! 

We chat about how Clayton, in his own words, was a “total nuisance in school.” This led to his start in theatre at a young age, combining his love of stories and his entrepreneurial spirit. He has been working as a professional performer since the age of 11. Through our conversation, you will hear about the incredible twists and turns in his life, including a season where everything was taken away and the pursuit of his appetites left him void of hope or fulfillment. Clayton says, “in that void was Jesus.” 

Clayton shares the story of meeting his wife, and how they have been on a journey of bold obedience together as a family. You’ll hear some wild stories of how God has worked in their lives! Clayton knows that it is hard to make the jump from the early career phase as an artist to having a self-sustaining arts career. His passion is to help artists thrive and find ways to earn a steady income. Through his businesses, Clayton makes this passion a reality for himself and others.

Check out our website http://creativeimpactpodcast.com for the full show notes that include Clayton's full biography and links mentioned in this episode. You can be sure not to miss a Creative Impact conversation by subscribing through your favorite podcast app.  We are so grateful to have you as a part of the Creative Impact community and would love it if you would share the show with your friends!

For Episode 9 of the Creative Impact Podcast, I have the joy of introducing you to one of my teachers and mentors, Laura Morton. Laura serves as an Associate Professor of Dance and Director of the Ballet Division at Belhaven University in Jackson, MS. She has traveled nationally and internationally performing professionally, teaching, and choreographing. 

Laura and I talk about what it was like as educators ending the Spring 2020 semester during the pandemic, and we contemplate how dance could be impacted by this shift in our society. Laura shares about her journey in dance. Her path began with a pursuit of professional ballet, moved to teaching aerobics in the 1980's, then to jazz dance and eventually led her to a career in teaching at the collegiate level. Laura explains how she never thought she would become a teacher, let alone a professor in higher education.

Laura’s passion for teaching is evident, and she shares valuable insights for teachers as she explains her own journey and teaching philosophy. Laura’s background includes a degree in Psychology and a Master of Science in Applied Exercise Physiology. To increase longevity as a dancer, Laura recommends working with the body you have and understanding the power of thoughts in performance. Laura reminds us that while dance takes discipline, it should also be full of joy!

Check out our website http://creativeimpactpodcast.com for the full show notes that include Laura's full biography and links mentioned in this episode. You can be sure not to miss a Creative Impact conversation by subscribing through your favorite podcast app.  We are so grateful to have you as a part of the Creative Impact community and would love it if you would share the show with your friends!

My friend Katelyn Harbaugh joins me for Episode 8 of the Creative Impact Podcast. Katelyn is a stay-at-home mom to her three children and is a visual artist who creates in what she describes as the “margins” of her life. 

In our conversation, we talk about Katelyn’s journey as an artist and her experience balancing a small business with being a stay-at-home mom. Katelyn shares about her current projects and her process for creating art. She reflects, “I feel like a lot of my process is practicing. Always learning is really important.”

We talk about the importance of community and how different our community can look in different seasons. No matter what season of life you are in, I believe Katelyn’s story will encourage you to be faithful in the daily practices and the seemingly mundane parts of life and to consider your “why” as an artist.

Check out our website http://creativeimpactpodcast.com for the full show notes that include Katelyn's full biography and links mentioned in this episode. You can be sure not to miss a Creative Impact conversation by subscribing through your favorite podcast app.  We are so grateful to have you as a part of the Creative Impact community and would love it if you would share the show with your friends!

For episode 7 of the Creative Impact Podcast, I have the opportunity to chat with Steve Rooks. Steve is a former Principal Dancer with the Martha Graham Dance Company where he performed for over a decade. His performance credits also include the Alvin Ailey Repertory Ensemble. Currently, Steve is Chair of Dance and Resident Choreographer at Vassar College in New York.

In our conversation, you will hear the story of how Steve discovered dance in college while he was pursuing a music degree. He shares his incredible journey from novice dancer to touring the world as a Principal Dancer for the Martha Graham Dance Company. I enjoy hearing him describe working with Martha Graham and how his experiences with her impact how he works today.

We discuss the importance of mentorship. Steve challenges the assumption that once dancers are done performing they should automatically become teachers. He encourages dancers to make sure they are teaching from a place of passion and not frustration. I love his advice for dancers in this current season: be ready, the world is going to be craving the beauty we can bring as we come out of this season of isolation! Steve’s humility and wisdom are such a gift. I believe you will be so encouraged by this conversation!

Check out our website http://creativeimpactpodcast.com for the full show notes that include Steve's full biography and links mentioned in this episode. You can be sure not to miss a Creative Impact conversation by subscribing through your favorite podcast app.  We are so grateful to have you as a part of the Creative Impact community and would love it if you would share the show with your friends!

My guest for episode 6 of the Creative Impact Podcast is Cynthia Newland. Cynthia is an artist, educator, speaker and wellness consultant. She is the founder of Alible3 – Nourishing the Body, Soul and Spirit, providing educational resources and equipping tools for holistic health.  Cynthia is also the founder of Feet Speak Dance, offering hope through the art form of dance.

We chat about the key elements of wellness and the major part nutrition plays in our overall health, physically, mentally, emotionally, and even spiritually. We talk a lot about knowing what season of life we are in and making intentional choices to find sabbath rest, avoid burnout, and set boundaries so we can invest in our priorities. For all those who are mothers, you will find encouragement in Cynthia’s perspective of motherhood as an artist.

Cynthia has been a mentor of mine since college. I enjoyed getting to ask her about her view of mentorship and her teaching philosophy. Cynthia’s passion for intentional living and wellness is contagious! 

Check out our website http://creativeimpactpodcast.com for the full show notes that include Cynthia's full biography and links mentioned in this episode. You can be sure not to miss a Creative Impact conversation by subscribing through your favorite podcast app.  We are so grateful to have you as a part of the Creative Impact community and would love it if you would share the show with your friends!

My guest for episode 5 of the Creative Impact Podcast is Durell Comedy. Durell was a professional dancer with the Limon Company and Mark Morris Dance Group in NYC for close to 11 years. Recently he, his wife, Hannah and 2 daughters, moved to Charlotte, NC. He currently serves as a Worship Leader for The LIFT, a church based in Indian Trail, North Carolina. I came out of my conversation with Durell so inspired and encouraged, and I know you will too! Durell shares about key moments in his journey and hearing God’s voice. At a moment where he felt like quitting, God opened a door. We talk about going through rejection and seasons that feel like we’re walking through the wilderness. Durell encourages us not to hold so tightly to one idea of the “plan” for our lives that we miss what God is doing in front of us.

We also talk about the current challenges we are facing with the pandemic and the racial injustice that can feel so overwhelming and hopeless. I love how Durell explains, “my eyes can’t look horizontally for hope”. Durell is passionate about helping to create an environment where people can experience the presence of God and truly be changed.

Check out our website http://creativeimpactpodcast.com for the full show notes that include Durell's full biography and links mentioned in this episode. You can be sure not to miss a Creative Impact conversation by subscribing through your favorite podcast app.  We are so grateful to have you as a part of the Creative Impact community and would love it if you would share the show with your friends!

I am honored to share this conversation with Randall Flinn, Founder and Artistic Director of Ad Deum Dance Company in Houston, Texas. I have been connected with the Ad Deum community for many years and was a member of Ad Deum II Dance Company for two years. In my conversation with Randy, you will get to hear his story from the beginnings to current day. He grew up with a love for dance, but was held back from pursuing formal training because he feared negative reactions from his friends and family. I love his story of his first experience teaching! Through the years, he has connected with artists all over the world, and seen huge growth in the fellowship of believer artists. You will enjoy hearing Randy’s story of developing the Ad Deum Dance Company community. Randy’s shares wisdom about discerning the true absolutes of God versus things we think are truth that are really just part of our church culture. He speaks to the importance of living in grace, finding wholeness in our identity, and finding liberty in our expression as believer artists. Be ready to be encouraged, friends!

Check out our website http://creativeimpactpodcast.com for the full show notes that include Randy's full biography and links mentioned in this episode. You can be sure not to miss a Creative Impact conversation by subscribing through your favorite podcast app.  We are so grateful to have you as a part of the Creative Impact community and would love it if you would share the show with your friends!

What is the impact of the arts around the world? During this mini-series, we are diving into conversations focused on the global impact of the arts. For part seven of this series, I am so excited to introduce you to Chelsea Dawn! Chelsea serves on the global and regional arts faculty with the University of the Nations for Youth WIth A Mission (YWAM) and hosts the new dance and faith podcast called Dance & The Sacred.

Originally from New Mexico, USA, Chelsea currently lives in San José, Costa Rica, where she has been working to develop the University of the Nations’ undergraduate dance degree program with YWAM. Chelsea has 24 years of experience in choreography and performance, as well as 20 years teaching classes and workshops throughout the USA, Mexico, and Costa Rica.

In our conversation, Chelsea shares about her own eclectic dance journey and how she has seen God open doors time after time. We chat about seasons of change, sensing God’s guidance, and maintaining a posture of gratitude and wonder as artists. I loved hearing Chelsea’s stories of witnessing dance create space for healing, connection, and life transformation!

The full show notes are available on our website https://creativeimpactpodcast.com!  You can be sure not to miss a Creative Impact conversation by subscribing through your favorite podcast app.  We are so grateful to have you as a part of the Creative Impact community and would love it if you would share the show with your friends!

I’m so excited to introduce you to my friend, Whitney Dufrene!  Whitney is a professional dancer with Doug Varone and Dancers in New York City. Our friendship began in college, and to give you a fair warning, in the first few minutes of our conversation we reminisce about special moments throughout our friendship. Whitney recounts her story from her start in dance all the way through her current role at Doug Varone and Dancers. We dive deeper into a challenging season in her life. She was seriously injured. She battled insomnia, depression, and even had thoughts of suicide. I am so grateful for Whitney’s vulnerability and willingness to share her story. Whitney gives her perspective on how we can help those we love who may be in the midst of a similar season. We talk about the common mindset that “when I finally get [insert your dream here], I will arrive,” and the beauty of depending on our Creator for our worth. Whitney has a passion for life, and is currently interested in pursuing a master’s degree so she can use the arts, movements, and play to help children heal from trauma. This conversation is deep, real, and points us to where we can truly find hope.

Check out our website for the full show notes that include Whitney's full biography and links mentioned in this episode.You can be sure not to miss a Creative Impact conversation by subscribing through your favorite podcast app.  We are so grateful to have you as a part of the Creative Impact community and would love it if you would share the show with your friends!

My guest for our very first episode of the Creative Impact Podcast is Stella Almblade.  Stella is a professional dancer as well as an instructor for both dance and Pilates. Stella has an impressive resume (see below). But what really stands out to me about Stella is her genuine heart for others and her passion for helping dancers see the beauty of worshipping through their artform. Friends, my conversation with Stella was so life-giving. We start off talking about the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on her work in New York City, and I love her perspective that artists are essential workers. Stella then shares about what got her into dance and some of the key moments in her journey as an artist. I am so thankful for Stella’s vulnerability and honesty in sharing her journey through injury and a season of depression. She also speaks to how dance can be used as a tool for healing. Our conversation ranges from miraculous moments to Star Wars, and we hope you are encouraged through it all!

Check out our website for the full show notes that include Stella's full biography and links mentioned in this episode. You can be sure not to miss a Creative Impact conversation by subscribing through your favorite podcast app.  We are so grateful to have you as a part of the Creative Impact community and would love it if you would share the show with your friends!

Friends, you are going to love my conversation with Cassandra (Cassie) Clark for episode 2 of the Creative Impact Podcast! Cassie is a visual artist whose focus is illustration. She has a master’s degree in counseling from Southern Seminary in Louisville, Kentucky. Cassie shares how visual art has been a part of her story from a young age and takes us through her journey as an art major and then building her own business. We chat about the high points and low points of that process, and how she ended up pursuing her master’s in counseling. One of my favorite parts of our conversation is her description of how art and counseling are closely related. Check out her Etsy shop and current projects at the links on our website! Cassie’s story is a reminder to be faithful in the daily work. In her words, “Don’t be afraid of being humbled in your craft.”

Check out our website for the full show notes that include Cassie's full biography and links mentioned in this episode.You can be sure not to miss a Creative Impact conversation by subscribing through your favorite podcast app.  We are so grateful to have you as a part of the Creative Impact community and would love it if you would share the show with your friends!

Welcome to the Creative Impact Podcast!  This interview-style podcast is designed for artists who desire to make an impact on the world through their work.  Each week we will bring you refreshing conversations that will fill you with motivation, inspiration, and courage to pursue your calling.  In this preview episode, you will hear more about the heart behind the show and get a glimpse into our first few conversations.  You can learn more and connect with the Creative Impact community at www.creativeimpactpodcast.com or on our Facebook page @creativeimpactpodcast

What is the impact of the arts around the world? During this mini-series, we are diving into conversations focused on the global impact of the arts. I am so grateful for the opportunity to connect with Jeff and Natalie Lewis of Arrows International for part six of this series! Jeff and Natalie Lewis are the Founders and Directors of Arrows International, which is a full time training program and dance company, based in Oklahoma, designed to nurture, disciple, and prepare trained artists to go out as ambassadors of Christ. They train dancers to use their gifts and talents to bring hope, joy, and healing in our cities, states and nations.

Both Jeff and Natalie have a variety of professional experience in dance including television, theatre, concert tours, conventions, international ministry, and more! As pastors, mentors, motivational speakers, choreographers, instructors, and ministers of the gospel, Jeff and Natalie have a heart for pouring into the next generation of artists.

In our conversation, Jeff and Natalie share their incredible journeys and the way that God redeems situations we can’t fully understand to bring healing, life, and beauty. We chat about what it looks like to build for generational impact, how the arts open hearts across cultures, and being faithful to follow through when God says to go. I am so encouraged by their stories of faith and their encouragement that we are in a season of momentum and open doors to bring the hope of the Kingdom of God to all those we encounter. May you be inspired to run with vision in the calling God has on your life!

The full show notes are available on our website https://creativeimpactpodcast.com!  You can be sure not to miss a Creative Impact conversation by subscribing through your favorite podcast app.  We are so grateful to have you as a part of the Creative Impact community and would love it if you would share the show with your friends!

What is the impact of the arts around the world? During this mini-series, we are diving into conversations focused on the global impact of the arts. It is an honor to connect with Jeremiah and Mona Enna for part five of this series!

Jeremiah and Mona Enna are the Co-Founders of The Culture House in Kansas City. The Culture House is an award winning community arts organization succeeding in excellence, education, and social engagement. The Culture House includes The Culture House Academy of the Performing Arts with over 700 students, world-class dance company Störling Dance Theater is in residency at TCH, and their social outreach program, The STAR Program serves hundreds of incarcerated and at-risk children and youth each year. Störling Conservatory of the Arts, an accredited, college conservatory offering degrees in dance launched in 2021 with a vision to expand to theatre, music and visual art.

In our conversation, Jeremiah and Mona share some incredible stories from their journeys! We chat about how the arts have the ability to reach past language barriers, connect people, and create space for deeper conversations and relationships. I am so inspired by their heart for “people before projects” and how they foster a thriving community within The Culture House. Towards the end of the episode, we dive into the topics of leadership, mentorship, and lessons they have learned through the years. Fellow artists, may you be encouraged through this conversation and remember, as Mona says, “be not afraid!”

The full show notes are available on our website https://creativeimpactpodcast.com! You can be sure not to miss a Creative Impact conversation by subscribing through your favorite podcast app.  We are so grateful to have you as a part of the Creative Impact community and would love it if you would share the show with your friends!

What is the impact of the arts around the world? During this mini-series, we are diving into conversations focused on the global impact of the arts. It is a joy to have Edwin Santini of Imaginare! Arts International join me for part four of this series!

Originally from Puerto Rico, Edwin and his family currently live in West Palm Beach, Florida, where he is a professor at Palm Beach Atlantic University. He and his wife Vilmarie have been involved with ministry through worship and the arts for over 20 years, and together they founded Imaginare! Arts International. Edwin shares about their journey and how they have witnessed God utilize the arts and worship to bring healing and revival across the globe.

With a vision for equipping and inspiring creatives, Imaginare! Arts International collaborates with other ministries, churches, and artists to create spaces for people to encounter God and to build up the next generation of creatives. Edwin shares how a heart of worship and excellence in our craft are synergistic, the importance of community for artists, and the value of the arts in ministry. I love his encouragement to steward what God has given us in each season.

The full show notes are available on our website https://creativeimpactpodcast.com! You can be sure not to miss a Creative Impact conversation by subscribing through your favorite podcast app.  We are so grateful to have you as a part of the Creative Impact community and would love it if you would share the show with your friends!

What is the impact of the arts around the world? During this mini-series, we are diving into conversations focused on the global impact of the arts. Mother-daughter duo Karen Sudds and Ainsley Sudds join me from Calgary, Alberta, Canada, for part three of this series!

I loved getting to know both Karen and Ainsley and hearing their heart for community and mentorship in the dance studio setting. Karen has over 30 years of experience in both the pedagogical and artistic performance aspects of dance. She is recognized as an accomplished dance educator, founder, and director of Crossings Dance School, Director Emeritus of Corps Bara Dance Theatre, and advocate for the integration of dance science research and practice in the dance studio.

Ainsley is both the Studio Director and a Dance Instructor at Crossings Dance, is on Faculty at the Alberta Ballet School, and guest teaches throughout the Calgary dance community. She is also the Event Producer for Project Dance Calgary and on staff with Project Dance NYC. Karen and Ainsley share about their journeys with dance and the development and growth of Crossings Dance.

We chat about finding the balance of business and ministry with a faith-based dance studio, and the succession process as Karen and Ainsley are currently in a season of shifting leadership at Crossings Dance. Their values-driven approach is truly an inspiration, and I am so encouraged by their genuine love for their community!

The full show notes are available on our website https://creativeimpactpodcast.com! You can be sure not to miss a Creative Impact conversation by subscribing through your favorite podcast app.  We are so grateful to have you as a part of the Creative Impact community and would love it if you would share the show with your friends!

What is the impact of the arts around the world? During this mini-series, we are diving into conversations focused on the global impact of the arts. I am so excited to have Zoé Zuno Golden and her husband, David Golden, on the podcast today for part two of this series!

Zoé and David live in Guadalajara, Mexico, and are making an incredible impact through their arts company, Procora. Procora began as a local event, but has become a production gathering more than 1,500 people from over 11 different countries! Zoé is the director and creative producer of Procora, and David is a Pastor and contributes to Procora events through his musical gifts and as a member of the Procora band.

Zoé’s story is such an inspiration! She shares about her journey and seeing God provide in unmistakable ways. Through their work with Procora, Zoé and David inspire others to pursue their God-given dreams and know that they can be used by God through the arts.

The full show notes are available on our website https://creativeimpactpodcast.com! You can be sure not to miss a Creative Impact conversation by subscribing through your favorite podcast app.  We are so grateful to have you as a part of the Creative Impact community and would love it if you would share the show with your friends!

What is the impact of the arts around the world? Over the next several weeks, we will dive into a mini-series focused on the global impact of the arts. It is truly an honor to have Rev. Dr. Byron Spradlin on the podcast today to start off this series!

Byron is the Founder and President of Artists in Christian Testimony International, a missions and ministry sending board for artists and creatives. A.C.T. International currently has over 650+ innovative staff in more than 51 nations. For over 50 years, Byron has served the Body of Christ as an artists-in-missions-&-ministry specialist, worship pastor, a Bible teacher, church planter, senior pastor, music-evangelist, professor, recording artist, published songwriter and arts-missiologist in over 50 countries. He is a thought-leader in the role of imagination and the arts in The Church, and is living out his God-given assignment “to disciple and mentor people out of music and the arts, working them into the fabric of church, missions, and marketplace ministry around the world.”

We chat about the unique power of the arts to speak to the hearts of people, practical tools for discipleship, and how (as Byron shares) “the artistically gifted person is one of the most powerful declarers of God’s reality and His accessibility.” Byron is full of life-giving wisdom, insight, and humility, and this is one of those conversations that I will come back to time and time again.

The full show notes are available on our website https://creativeimpactpodcast.com! You can be sure not to miss a Creative Impact conversation by subscribing through your favorite podcast app.  We are so grateful to have you as a part of the Creative Impact community and would love it if you would share the show with your friends!

We are kicking off our Belhaven Dance Alumni Series with the incredible Cheri Orr! Cheri is the artistic director of Jubilee Dance Company and co-founder of Jubilee Arts Collective in Colorado Springs. Cheri is also a company dancer with Ormao Dance Company and serves as an adjunct dance instructor at the University of Colorado at Colorado Springs.

Cheri was an early graduate from the Belhaven University Dance Department and helped to build the foundation for the generations of Belhaven dancers to come! She started the Doxa Dance Club, which I was part of when I was a student, and continues to be a huge part of the department experience today. We chat about Cheri's journey in dance, her experiences at Belhaven, and how the Lord has continued to guide her through the years. Cheri shares about some challenges she's faced with her health, her reconnection with dance, and the mission of Jubilee Arts Collective to use art as a means of healing and restoration in the community. We also talk about what it looks like to pursue a contemplative life and encouragement for the next generation of artists.

Several other Belhaven Dance Alumni have shared their stories on the podcast over the years, so we've gathered all the episodes together in a playlist for you! Check out the playlist on Spotify!

Follow @cheriorr6

Follow @jubileeartscollective

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Welcome to The Creative Impact Podcast, where you will find encouragement to live out your calling as an artist.

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Watch this episode on YouTube! Check out our YouTube Channel and be sure to like and subscribe!

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Find the show notes and more at ⁠https://creativeimpactpodcast.com/episode-128/⁠

Some topics we chat about in today's episode include:

Belhaven University, dance, Jubilee Arts Collective, faith, community, art, healing, motherhood, contemplative life

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Let's Connect!

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The podcast music was produced by Michael Cash.

Rachel shares a quick update about what's coming up next on the podcast. Hear about the new Global Impact mini-series starting on August 8, 2023! 

To learn more about the podcast, check out our website https://creativeimpactpodcast.com! You can be sure not to miss a Creative Impact conversation by subscribing through your favorite podcast app.  We are so grateful to have you as a part of the Creative Impact community and would love it if you would share the show with your friends!

I am so excited to share my conversation with friend and mentor, Bea Sprouse! Bea is an author and educator whose faith and wisdom are truly an inspiration. She recently released her book “Life in the Faith Lane: Overcoming the Traditions of Men,” which I couldn’t put down! Bea shares so many nuggets of wisdom throughout our conversation today. We talk about what it means to live our lives walking by faith, how to move from head knowledge to heart knowledge, understanding our true identity, and more!

Bea’s stories of stepping out in faith, experiencing miraculous healing, and witnessing the provision of God time and time again are incredible and a treat that you won’t want to miss! Whether you are on the mountain top or in the valley, this conversation is for you. As Bea says, “God put you on this Earth for a purpose!”

The full show notes are available on our website https://creativeimpactpodcast.com! You can be sure not to miss a Creative Impact conversation by subscribing through your favorite podcast app.  We are so grateful to have you as a part of the Creative Impact community and would love it if you would share the show with your friends!

I am honored to have David and Micah Gamboa from Elijah Rising joining me on the podcast for episode 109! Elijah Rising is a nationally-recognized anti-trafficking agency based in Houston, Texas. Micah serves as the Executive Director of Elijah Rising, and David serves as Communications Director. Through their work with Elijah Rising, they are pursuing the eradication of sex trafficking in the Gulf Coast region.
 
In our conversation, we chat about the development of Elijah Rising, from the early days–to the work they are currently doing in prayer, awareness, intervention, and restoration. Micah and David share how they came to serve at Elijah Rising, and how they have seen God move in miraculous ways! This topic is serious and heart-wrenching, which is why I am so grateful for the work of Elijah Rising and individuals like Micah and David who are on the frontlines helping to combat the injustice.

In the second half of our conversation, we talk about how Micah was miraculously healed after suffering full cardiac arrest while speaking at a church in Houston. This experience led David to learn more about the healing power of Jesus, lead healing services, and inspire others to have faith that God can heal, even when it looks impossible! Get ready to be inspired and infused with faith!

Check out elijahrising.org to learn more and find out how you can help work to end sex trafficking.

The full show notes are available on our website https://creativeimpactpodcast.com! You can be sure not to miss a Creative Impact conversation by subscribing through your favorite podcast app.  We are so grateful to have you as a part of the Creative Impact community and would love it if you would share the show with your friends!