Today on Desert Stories, we’re sitting with a story of spiritual exile—the kind of grief that comes when following God costs you your calling, your community, and the version of yourself you once knew. My guest today is a former Protestant pastor who, after years of ministry, stepped into the desert of loss and uncertainty on his way to the Catholic Church. This is a conversation about grief that doesn’t come from death, but from letting go—of titles, relationships, and the safety of what once felt like home—and trusting that God still meets us on the road when everything familiar falls away. This episode is so important and highlights such a real and raw kind of grief we don’t speak to enough. I can’t wait for you to hear it. Grab a cup of coffee and settle in. Here is my chat with my new friend and fellow Catholic Convert, Aaron Gunsaulus.

In this episode, I open up about the journey of writing my upcoming memoir, Under the Fig Tree. I share how the process stretched and shaped me—spiritually, emotionally, and creatively—and the meaning behind the title that came to define it all. Together, we’ll explore the themes woven through the pages: wandering in the wilderness, healing through grief, and the quiet faithfulness of God. Whether you’re walking through your own season of loss or seeking hope in the desert, this episode offers a glimpse into how Under the Fig Tree came to life—and what I pray it will mean for those who read it.

Luke & I chat about all the things in this episode! Navigating love after loss—exploring how two people build a new life after grief, how roles evolve (from bachelor to father, widow to wife), and how to honor the past while embracing the future.