In this episode, I sit down with Sarah Shin and Shin Maeng, the author-illustrator team behind The Great Waking Up: The Story of Easter, for a rich and deeply human conversation about hospitality, imagination, faith, beauty, and the courage to keep dreaming.

We also talk about the creative process behind The Great Waking Up, and why they wanted to create a children's book that is both theologically rooted and visually stunning. Along the way, we explore the power of art to awaken curiosity, the role of beauty in faith formation, and why children's books can open profound conversations about resurrection, grief, hope, and the story of Jesus.

Sarah Shin is a writer, theologian, teacher, and ministry leader whose work brings together theological depth, imagination, and pastoral care. She has studied at MIT and completed advanced theological training at Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary. She also teaches at Westminster Theological Centre in the UK. Sarah is passionate about helping people encounter Scripture with greater wonder, depth, and hope.

Shin Maeng is an illustrator and artist whose work is known for its beauty, theological richness, and emotional depth. His art invites both children and adults into deeper engagement with the biblical story. Together with Sarah, he helped create The Great Waking Up, a visually compelling retelling of the Easter story designed to spark imagination and spiritual curiosity.

1. Memorable meals and Turkish food in Scotland
2. Hospitality, restaurants, and finding family through welcome
3. Korean American family life, feeding others, and ministry through meals
4. Belonging begins with curiosity
5. Identity, stereotypes, and being invited to tell your story
6. Dreaming, hope, and the origins of The Great Waking Up
7. From dream to reality: writing, illustrating, and getting published
8. Art, imagination, and 'digital stained glass'
9. Beauty, sacred space, and art as a conversation starter
10. Fear, courage, and taking the next step
11. Collecting 'yes' stories and nurturing hope
12. Dreaming in midlife, parenting, and resisting resignation
13. Waiting, uncertainty, and trusting God in liminal seasons
14. Friendship, Sabbath, and living an undivided life
15. Post-interview reflections

I welcome back Tanner Olson, a poet and author, to discuss his latest book, Getting Through What You're Going Through. Our conversation delves into themes of presence, vulnerability, and the importance of community. Tanner shares insights from his journey as a father and writer, emphasizing the beauty of ordinary moments and the significance of being present in our lives. We explore how societal pressures can distract us from what truly matters, and how embracing simplicity can lead to a more fulfilling life. Tanner's reflections on grace, kindness, and the power of storytelling resonate throughout the discussion, offering listeners a heartfelt reminder of the importance of connection and compassion in navigating life's challenges.

Tanner Olson. is an author, poet, speaker, and podcaster. He is the author of five books, including the highly acclaimed collection of poetry, Walk A Little Slower and his latest book, Getting Through What You're Going Through.

His writing has been described as "hopefully unique" as it blends faith, humor, and curiosity. Through his work I seek to point readers and listeners toward the ultimate source of hope and love, Jesus.

For over 10 years he has been traveling the country sharing poetry, delivering messages of grace, and offering stories of hope.

Tanner lives in Nashville, TN with his wife, son, and thier goldendoodle, Pancake.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Welcome
01:10 Tanner's Journey as a Father and Author
04:00 The Importance of Presence and Grace
11:57 Living an Ordinary Life
19:58 The Power of Vulnerability and Community
30:01 Navigating Life's Challenges Together
40:03 The Ripple Effect of Kindness
49:52 Final Thoughts and Reflections

Takeaways

"I cannot outrun God's grace and I cannot out-fail God's grace."
"Ordinary is quite beautiful."
"We all have more in common than we think."
"This life is a gift and enjoying it is important."
"You're not a burden for needing help."
"The big things are the small things and the small things really do matter."
"We can give each other a little bit of grace as we go forward."
"I want to live with joy and steadiness."
"We need to remember what it feels like to be invited."
"I want to point you to something better, to someone more patient, loving, kind, graceful."

In my conversation with Blair Speed, a writer and photographer, she shares her profound journey through grief and healing after the loss of her husband, Travis. Blair reflects on the importance of community, the role of pets in her life, and how moments of play and connection can help us navigate life's challenges. She emphasizes the significance of being present and open to the beauty around us, even in the face of loss, and how love can transform our experiences, allowing us to grow and evolve through pain.

Blair recounts her experiences hiking the Appalachian Trail and the unexpected kindness of strangers, illustrating how these moments of connection can lead to deeper insights about life. The conversation also touches on the importance of acceptance, vulnerability, and the power of love in shaping our lives. As they discuss the complexities of grief, Blair shares how she has learned to embrace her emotions and the lessons they bring, ultimately leading to a richer, more integrated life.

Blair Speed is a Bozeman, Montana-based photographer, writer, and speaker. She crafts intimate images that communicate beauty, empathy, and spirit. Whether shooting personal, fine art, or commercial, her ability to hold moments is seen through her lens and an ever present appreciation for connection. Blair's lens shows her heart.