The StoryMakers Podcast

Episode 9: Parenting with Certainty

Tune into the pod to hear what it means to parent with confidence. Will and Courtney, founders of Crew and Co., share God's story and what it means to experience faith at home. Courtney is a visual artist and Will is an author. Together they create resources that spark the imagination and faith.

Episode 8: Grownups Need Grace, Too! Emotional Well-being of Grown-ups with Rebekah Hannah

The word of God anchors the soul, and Rebekah Hannah is at work to assure the next generation of that truth. Author, Therapist, and Youth Director Rebekah Hannah shares her wisdom. She is a mother and theological leader, shepherding the grownups raising the next generation. Tune in and meet Rebekah Hannah.

Episode 7: God Sparks Faith

Tune into the episode "God Sparks Faith" with Esau McCaulley, PhD, author, and New Testament professor at Wheaton College. He has authored numerous books, ranging from Bible commentaries to children’s literature. Esau is the father of four children and husband to Dr. Mandy McCaulley. This Christmas, he will release Andy Johnson and the March for Justice, the second book of a two-part series. Esau is a contributing opinion writer for the New York Times, a senior editor for Holy Post Media, and the host of a new podcast that intersects faith and culture.

Episode 6: Set The Table: Quality vs. Quantity with Sarah Copeland

Get cozy and tune in to hear from hospitality extraordinaire, Sarah Copeland. She joins Mel to share her favorite tricks of the trade when it comes to connection and beauty. Sarah is an author, chef, and incredible writer. You won’t want to miss this episode.

Episode 5: Easing Into December with Rhythms: Advent House Feature with Courtney Tracy

Tune in to hear from mother, author, former elementary teacher, and current homeschooler Courtney Tracy. Courtney is a mother of four and has a pulse on what it means to hold rhythms at home. If you are a grown-up with kids at home, you will want to take a beat and receive a bit of encouragement from this kind and creative Minnesotan! Be sure to follow Courtney Tracy along on Instagram @courtney.tracy where she drops a daily dose of wisdom and fun.

Episode 4: Staying Anchored to God’s Story with Kathleen Wadkins from The Pour Over

Are you feeling the buzz of anxiety? Join me for an episode with Kathleen from The Pour Over. The Pour Over offers a daily dose of the biggest news paired with brief Christian perspectives, summarized in an accessible, anxiety-alleviating way. If you want to be informed without spiraling, The Pour Over’s resources can be a great way to stay engaged while being encouraged with a gospel-centered perspective. As the upcoming election approaches, consider subscribing to The Pour Over and discover how you can hang onto the "peace that surpasses all understanding," amid a challenging political climate.

Episode 3: Mamas Are Storied, Too! ... Amber O’Neal Johnston, aka Heritage Mom

"I plucked my soul out of its secret place." Join me for a conversation with Amber O'Neal Johnston—an extraordinary mother, educator, and author. Amber is the founder of Heritage Mom, a resource dedicated to creating an inclusive and culturally rich home learning environment. In this episode, Mel and Amber dig into her new book, Soul School, which takes readers on a joyful journey through the heart of Black American Culture. Just like us, Amber is passionate about the ways stories can captivate our children, and her latest work is something we know you won’t want to miss.

Episode 2: Remaining Nimble and True... Lisa Kimball, Ph.D., VP for Lifelong Learning

Tune in to hear our episode with Dr. Lisa Kimball, founder and Vice President of Life Long Learning at Virginia Theological Seminary. Lisa Kimball is based in Alexandria, VA and is passionate about lay leadership and training those who form the next generation. Lisa beautifully intersects faith relating to baptism and formation. Listen in to discover what it means to show up, listen, and tell the truth, and how it can impact your approach to formation. Welcome to Episode Two... Remaining Nimble and True.

Episode 1: God’s Story Is a LONG Story... David Zahl, Founder & Executive Director of Mockingbird

Tune in to hear our FIRST episode with David Zahl, founder of Mockingbird Ministries, author, and father of three boys. Dave is based in Charlottesville, VA and serves at Christ Church Episcopal Church. Over the last 15 years, Dave has continued to hold onto the unwavering truth that God's story is a long story. Listen in to discover how a message of grace, play, and fun can carry you through the bumps of our faith journey. Welcome to Episode One!