Best Ruth Hetland And Dawn Trautman Podcasts (2025)

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Ep. 97 - Creative Journeys: Theater, Travel, and the Power of Community 26:04

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2d ago26:04

26:04

In this catch-up episode, Dawn's been knee-deep in the Missouri theater scene, choreographing and directing a comedy production that's apparently been running longer than some marriages. She gets real about the magic of working with a cast with a deep past and why tight-knit creative communities are worth their weight in hotdish. Meanwhile, Ruth's …

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Ep 96 - Embracing Creative Vulnerability with Dawn Marie Duncan 27:16

9d ago27:16

27:16

Today’s guest, Dawn Marie Duncan, is doing ALL the things. We're talking music industry veteran turned children's book author, visual artist, AND creativity coach. Because apparently one creative pursuit just wasn't enough. Dawn Marie gets real about her transformation journey (spoiler alert: Julia Cameron's 'The Artist's Way' was involved), and ho…

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Ep 95 - When Creativity Crashes Your Perfectly Good Systems 18:47

16d ago18:47

18:47

Dawn and Ruth are diving into the age-old struggle every creative person knows by heart: how do you keep your artistic soul alive when real life keeps happening every day. Chapter 11 of "The Artist's Way" gets the full treatment here, including some thoughts on how the Creator influences our creating and why your body might be trying to tell your b…

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Ep 94 - Created Creative LIVE from the MN State Fair! 11:44

23d ago11:44

11:44

Note: This episode is also available on our YouTube channel (https://youtu.be/SC2Pr2i2JhI) - you might enjoy seeing some of the scenes we filmed. Dawn and Ruth dive headfirst into the beautiful chaos of Minnesota's greatest gathering, where you can get hot dish on a stick (because of course you can) and witness the genuine artistry of butter sculpt…

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Ep 93 - Cannes, HBO, and Keeping It Real: A Chat with Multi-Hyphenate Brey Noellee 40:27

30d ago40:27

40:27

Spirituality and creativity aren't just connected—they're practically best friends who finish each other's sentences. On this episode, Dawn and Ruth sit down with the absolutely delightful Brey Noelle (actress, model, musician, and honestly, is there anything this woman can't do?) who decided to go full-time creative and somehow made it work. We're…

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Ep 92 - Is Fear Getting in the Way of Your Creativity? 21:47

1M ago21:47

21:47

You're Not Lazy, You're Just Scared (And That Changes Everything) This week we’re calling out that sneaky little lie we tell ourselves: that we're just being "lazy" when we can't seem to start that project. Spoiler alert: you're not lazy, you're scared. And that's totally normal, so quit beating yourself up about it. Hosts Dawn and Ruth get wonderf…

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Ep 91 - Jesus, Mushrooms, and Mental Health with Ligare, a Christian Psychedelic Society 34:00

1M ago34:00

34:00

Yes friends, We're Going There: Jesus, Mushrooms, and Mental Health with the Ligare Folks We’re diving headfirst into the deep end today, friends! After Dawn and Ruth catch up on their weekend shenanigans (including some quality time at WeFest), we're serving up a conversation that'll make your church ladies raise their eyebrows. The Ligare folks, …

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Ep 90 - Breaking the Sales Rules (Because Your Ministry Calling Doesn't Pay the Bills) 24:06

2M ago24:06

24:06

Ruth and Dawn are discussing something that nobody talks about in seminary: pastors are natural salespeople who cast vision, build programs, and run stewardship campaigns. But when it comes to using those same skills to start a side hustle? Suddenly we're "too commercial" or "not focused on ministry." After 20 years watching talented women pastors …

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Ep 89 - The Artist's Way Chapter 6: Why Vulnerability Sucks But Works 33:26

2M ago33:26

33:26

We're diving headfirst into why vulnerability makes us squirm, why effort actually matters, and how abundance shows up when you're not trying so dang hard. Dawn and Ruth are back with another episode of 'Created Creative,' and we're not messing around. Broadcasting live from the parking lot of Hector International Airport in Fargo, ND, we're talkin…

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Ep 88 - Media Deprivation Week 0:55

2M ago0:55

0:55

Dawn and Ruth tried media deprivation week from 'The Artist's Way' - no social media, no binge-watching, and no podcasts. Turns out cutting the digital noise actually works for unleashing creativity. Skip our podcast this week and do some morning pages instead - your brain will thank you! It's a great week to get coaching! Contact Dawn to set up an…

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Ep 87 - Stop Saying Someone Already Said It: Why Your Story Still Counts with Laurie Neill 40:17

2M ago40:17

40:17

Everyone thinks their story has already been told. But it hasn't been told by you yet, and that makes all the difference. On this episode of Created Creative, Dawn and Ruth are getting real about kicking self-doubt to the curb and why your voice matters in this noisy world. We reflect on last week's theme from 'The Artist's Way' - reading deprivati…

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Ep 86 - The Art of Not Losing Yourself While Saving Everyone Else 21:11

3M ago21:11

21:11

Look, we need to talk about something that's going to sting a little: you can't pour from an empty cup, but somehow we keep trying anyway. In this episode of Created Creative, Dawn and Ruth are getting real about Chapter 4 of Julia Cameron's The Artist's Way – and it's about to call us all out. Here's the thing nobody wants to admit: we're so busy …

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Ep 85 - The Enneagram in Personal and Spiritual Growth with Stephanie Lape 45:47

3M ago45:47

45:47

This conversation is going to hit you right in the feels. Dawn and Ruth talk with Stephanie Lape about how the Enneagram completely changed her relationships—including helping her reconnect with her father in a deep, healing way. Stephanie's journey from comparative religions professor to pastor is fascinating, but what really gets us is how she br…

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Ep 84 - Creativity and Time Management - Chapter 2 of the Artist's Way 30:03

3M ago30:03

30:03

Do you suffer from time sickness? In this episode of Created Creative, co-hosts Dawn and Ruth discuss their summer journey through the book 'The Artist's Way'. In particular, they focus on Chapter 2 which covers the themes of time management and dealing with 'crazy makers'. Dawn shares her experience with an occupational therapist, while Ruth touch…

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Ep 83 - Paul Drees on Creating Meaningful Content & Social Media Evangelism 44:26

3M ago44:26

44:26

This episode of 'Created Creative' features a conversation with Paul Drees, a ELCA Lutheran pastor and social media influencer, who shares his journey of blending traditional ministry with modern platforms like TikTok and Instagram. Paul discusses the challenges and triumphs of using social media as a medium for progressive Christian evangelism, th…

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Ep 82 - A Creative Life with Meta Herrick Carlson 38:21

4M ago38:21

38:21

In this episode of 'Created Creative,' hosts Dawn and Ruth discuss the importance of everyday creativity and methods to stay grounded in a world driven by monetization. They are joined by guest Meta Herrick Carlson, a pastor and poet, who shares her experiences around recent significant events like family graduation and birthday celebrations. Meta …

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Ep 81 - RE-RELEASE - Creating a Memorable Tagline with Lisa Kaufer of the Muddy Fork 24:17

4M ago24:17

24:17

After 80 consecutive weeks of brand new episodes we are doing a throwback this week to one of our very first interviews! Enjoy this re-release of Pottery, Parables, and Portable Communionware: A Conversation with Lisa Kaufer. In this whimsical kickoff of "Created Creative from November of 2023," hosts Dawn and Ruth embark on an Advent adventure, de…

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Ep 80 - Join Us in the Artists' Way this Summer! 24:30

4M ago24:30

24:30

In this episode, we dive into an insightful quote from renowned author and artist Julia Cameron, known for her book 'The Artist's Way.' During her interview, Cameron shared a thought-provoking idea that deeply resonates with the core themes of our podcast: 'Creativity and spirituality intertwine like dancing partners.' This elegant metaphor illumin…

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Ep 79 - Creativity in Small-Town Governance with Mayor Latham Hetland 31:43

4M ago31:43

31:43

In this episode of 'Creative', hosts Dawn and Ruth explore a spectrum of engaging topics surrounding everyday creativity and community impact. They delve into personal routines and the joys and challenges of balancing professional and personal life, including anecdotes from the hosts' daily experiences. Mayor Latham Hetland of New York Mills, Minne…

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BONUS EPISODE - Enhance Your Creative Journey! 3:19

4M ago3:19

3:19

Join Our Patreon and Enhance Your Creative Journey In this episode of Created Creative, Dawn encourages listeners to join their Patreon by Thursday. She details the benefits of supporting the podcast at various levels, including participation in the 'Created Creative Container,' an interactive creative coworking session with fellow supporters and f…

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Ep 77 - Navigating Masculine Identity and Christian Nationalism with Angela Denker 41:48

5M ago41:48

41:48

In this episode of Created Creative, hosts Dawn and Ruth discuss the rise of gendered Christian nationalism and the challenges white men and boys face with guest Rev. Angela Denker from Minneapolis, author of 'Red State Christians' and 'Disciples of White Jesus.' The conversation explores radicalization, the influence of Christian masculinity, and …

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Ep 76 - Creative Journeys: Road Trips and Side Hustles 32:45

5M ago32:45

32:45

In this episode of 'Creative Creative,' hosts Dawn and Ruth discuss a variety of topics ranging from personal road trip adventures to the intricacies of side hustles and the unique challenges faced by women in ministry. Dawn shares her experiences with her subscription box service 'Consecrate,' detailing its impactful support for ministers, particu…

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Ep 75 - Creativity & Photography with Chris Stevens-Yu 36:29

5M ago36:29

36:29

Dawn and Ruth engage in a detailed conversation with Chris Stevens-Yu, a professional photographer and speech-language pathologist. Chris discusses his journey in photography, from childhood fascination with photos to developing his craft through community education and practice. He shares insights on street photography, the challenge of finding un…

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Ep 74 - Social Media Evangelism & "God Didn't Make Us to Hate Us" with Rev Lizzie McManus-Dail 38:44

5M ago38:44

38:44

In this episode, Dawn and Ruth welcome Rev. Lizzie, an Episcopal priest from Austin, Texas, who shares her experiences in ministry, her new book 'God Didn't Make Us to Hate Us,' and her journey as a church planter. Lizzie also discusses the intersection of creativity and spirituality, the unique culture of Austin, and her use of social media for ev…

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Ep 73 - Healing and Creativity with Paul Lutter 31:28

5M ago31:28

31:28

In this episode of Created Creative, hosts Dawn and Ruth dive into personal narratives on healing and creativity. Special guest Paul Lutter, an ELCA Pastor, shares his transformative journey following a stroke and minor heart attack. Paul reflects on learning self-compassion, the importance of rest, and the interplay between healing and creativity.…

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Ep 72 - Christian Minimalism and Embracing Simplicity with Becca Ehrlich 34:13

6M ago34:13

34:13

In this episode of Creative, hosts Dawn and Ruth delve into a conversation with Becca Ehrlich, an author and advocate for Christian minimalism. The discussion covers a range of topics, starting with the importance of intentional living and its connection to Christian faith. Becca shares insights from her book, 'Christian Minimalism,' and reflects o…

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Ep. 71 - Creativity and Bravery 27:23

6M ago27:23

27:23

Dawn and Ruth discuss the courage it takes to share personal and creative work publicly. Artists and creators, including Joe Davis, David Gate, Christine Davies, Andrea Roske-Metcalfe, Julie Hoplamazian, and Rob Bell share their personal journeys of overcoming fear and vulnerability to share their creative talents. The session explores various form…

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Ep 70 - Amy Stearns & Project 412: Community Creativity in Detroit Lakes, MN 39:17

6M ago39:17

39:17

This episode dives into Project 412 in Detroit Lakes, Minnesota, a nonprofit organization dedicated to increasing community engagement through public art and events. Hosts Ruth and Dawn interview Amy Stearns, the executive director, discussing the project's origins, initiatives like public sculptures, murals, and free events like Hot Dish, a great …

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Ep 69 - Exploring the Let Them Theory by Mel Robbins 20:58

6M ago20:58

20:58

In this episode, Dawn and Ruth delve into 'The Let Them Theory' by Mel Robbins, discussing its core principles and applications. They explore how relinquishing control can lead to emotional peace and improved relationships, both personally and within larger systems. The hosts share personal anecdotes, discussing challenges in ministry, parenting, a…

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Ep 68 - Creative Conversations: Sacred Spaces and Holy Shenanigans with Tara Lamont Eastman 36:26

7M ago36:26

36:26

In this episode of 'Created Creative,' hosts Dawn and Ruth engage in a delightful conversation with guest Tara Lamont Eastman, a pastor and practitioner of holy shenanigans. They discuss the significance of creative processes within spiritual and community contexts. Tara shares her experiences in podcasting, leading a vibrant community art initiati…

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Ep 67 - Creativity and Community: Reflections on the Created Creative Challenge 31:36

7M ago31:36

31:36

In this episode of 'Created Creative,' hosts Dawn and Ruth discuss the impact of the February podcast challenge that invited participants to engage in daily creative acts. Joined by several guests who took part in the challenge, they share experiences, lessons learned, and new perspectives on creativity. The guests, from diverse backgrounds and pro…

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Ep 66 - Unschooling and Faith Deconstruction with Marla Taviano 42:03

7M ago42:03

42:03

In this episode of Created Creative, hosts Dawn and Ruth interview author Marla Taviano. Marla shares her journey from conservative evangelical Christianity to a more progressive, socially just form of faith. The discussion includes Marla's transition through faith deconstruction and her experiences with unschooling her children. Ruth also shares a…

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Ep 65 - Owning Your Greatness: A Musical Journey with Kika Wright 34:54

7M ago34:54

34:54

In this episode of Created Creative, Dawn and Ruth engage in a lively conversation with Kika Wright, a professional musician, arts administrator, and new public school music teacher in NYC. Kika shares her unconventional theory about Vivaldi, discusses her multifaceted career, and explores her transition from freelancing and arts administration to …

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Ep 64 - She Wrote the Camp Song Everyone Knows - Psalm 25 (To You, O Lord) by Krista Wiger 28:23

8M ago28:23

28:23

In this episode, Dawn and Ruth are joined by Krista Wiger, a multifaceted medical doctor and musician who shares insights about her journey in music, particularly her well-loved camp song Psalm 25 (To You, Oh Lord}. Krista also talks about her current projects, including plays, music, and a book that aims to dismantle the medical-industrial complex…

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Ep 63 - Building a Substack Following with Christine Davies 39:31

8M ago39:31

39:31

In this episode of 'Created Creative Podcast,' hosts Dawn and Ruth interview Christine Davies, a Presbyterian minister and CPE supervisor at a Level One trauma center. Christine shares her journey from writing privately to gaining a thousand followers on Substack and talks about her experiences and thoughts on grief, self-care, and spirituality. Th…

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Ep 62 - Turning your Expertise into a Book with Richard Bruxvoort Colligan 42:24

8M ago42:24

42:24

In this episode of Created Creative, hosts Dawn and Ruth welcome back Richard Bruxfort Colligan to discuss creativity, spirituality, and Psalms. The conversation touches on Richard's experience living in Strawberry Point, Iowa, his relationship with dogs and his dream of owning a cat, and the intersection of creativity and spirituality. Richard sha…

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Ep 61 - Broadway Dreams & Advice for a 17 year-old Creative 31:58

8M ago31:58

31:58

Dawn and Ruth welcome Ruth's son, Jesse Hetland Peterson, a passionate theater aficionado and high school senior. Jesse shares his journey in theater, discussing everything from his experiences in community and school productions to his aspirations for a career on Broadway. The conversation delves into his recent experiences playing Willy Wonka, th…

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Ep 60 - The Magic Behind Camp Songs: A Chat with Cathy Pino 29:48

8M ago29:48

29:48

In this episode of Created Creative, hosts Dawn and Ruth discuss the origins and impact of camp songs, particularly focusing on the work of Cathy Pino. They explore Cathy’s background working at various Bible camps, the story behind her popular song ‘Light of the World', and how it gained widespread popularity. Cathy shares insights into her journe…

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Ep 59 - Goal Setting - Part 2 42:06

9M ago42:06

42:06

Creating Forward: Elevate Your Life Goals - Dawn and Ruth welcome special guest Kris Bjorke for an inspiring conversation about moving forward, setting goals, and embracing new beginnings. The group discusses their personal journeys and their unique, creative approaches to life and ministry. They also delve into their struggles with physical space,…

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Ep 58 - Goal Setting - Part 1 26:07

9M ago26:07

26:07

In this episode of 'Created Creative', Dawn and Ruth discuss the importance of attitude and positive thinking when working towards goals. They delve into the 'one little word' concept from Allie Edwards which frames an entire year with a guiding word, and compare it to 'Star Words'. The hosts explore the concept of manifesting, examining its limita…

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Ep 57 - Soap-Making as Art and (Thriving!) Business with Heidi Renney 34:27

9M ago34:27

34:27

In this episode of Created Creative, hosts Dawn and Ruth chat with Heidi Renney, a soap maker and yoga enthusiast from Detroit Lakes. Heidi shares her journey from quitting her corporate job to starting Nature's Embrace Soap Company. She discusses her creative process, the growth of her business, and the importance of staying connected to her spiri…

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Ep 56 - Creating Easy and Effective Websites for Churches and Nonprofits with Nathan Maxwell Doherty 39:44

9M ago39:44

39:44

Dawn and Ruth host a conversation with Nathan Maxwell Doherty, a UX designer with a background in youth ministry and graphic design. The dialogue explores the importance of clear messaging and user experience in nonprofit and church websites, emphasizing the role of UX in solving problems by focusing on the human element. Nathan shares personal ane…

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Ep 55 - From Rock Bottom to Rooted: A Pastor’s Journey Through Addiction to Orchardist 33:44

10M ago33:44

33:44

Our latest episode is one of pivoting from the role of pastor to author to orchardist while being a recovering addict. Dawn and Ruth engage in a heartfelt conversation with Dan Maurer, who shares his unique journey from being a pastor to becoming an orchardist. Dan opens up about his struggles with addiction, recovery, and how it influenced his car…

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Ep 54 - Burnout in Ministry 27:24

10M ago27:24

27:24

In this episode of 'Created Creative,' hosts Dawn and Ruth reflect on their podcast's first anniversary and discuss the critical differences between being tired and burned out. They review their successful year of producing 52 episodes without a break, explore why they aren't burned out, and share insights on maintaining enthusiasm for creative pro…

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Ep 53 - Turning a Hobby into a Healing Practice - the Evolution of Stitchology Crafts 44:09

10M ago44:09

44:09

Devotional Crafting with Tina Crog from Stitchology Crafts In this episode of Created Creative, hosts Dawn and Ruth introduce guest Tina Krog, a Lutheran pastor from Massillon, Ohio, who shares her journey of turning to cross-stitching as a healing practice after a personal tragedy. Tina elaborates on how crafting evolved into her devotional practi…

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Ep 52 - Forest Bathing with David Motzenbecker 39:07

10M ago39:07

39:07

In this episode of Created Creative, hosts Dawn and Ruth engage in a dynamic conversation with David Motzenbecher (aka Motz), a professional landscape architect who pivoted his career to become a Forest Therapy Guide. They discuss a range of topics from the history and practice of forest bathing to the personal and ecological benefits of connecting…

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Ep 51 - How to Create a New Youtube channel with Diane Sponheim 32:41

11M ago32:41

32:41

In this episode of Created Creative, hosts Dawn and Ruth chat with Pastor Diane Sponheim about the calming power of creativity and her various creative ventures including knitting, gardening, and involvement in a semi-professional choir. They discuss the details of their upcoming book club for 'Parables of a Resilient Nomad', and Diane introduces h…

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Ep 50 - Single Motherhood by Choice with Cassandra Lamb 37:31

11M ago37:31

37:31

Join us for an insightful conversation about pursuing dreams despite circumstances, including single motherhood by choice. Campus Pastor Cassandra Lamb’s story of becoming a mother through IUI and navigating societal and congregational reactions offers encouragement to others in similar situations. The episode underscores the support from communiti…

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Ep 49 - Discernment 24:20

11M ago24:20

24:20

In this engaging episode we tackle the widespread issue of burnout and the critical journey of rediscovering one's true calling. Dawn and Ruth discuss the importance of self-evaluation, such as understanding innate traits, acquired skills, and community needs. Ruth shares her personal experiences with side hustles and interim ministry roles that re…

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Ep 48 - What is Grief Yoga with Jillene Fritch-Gallatin 35:38

11M ago35:38

35:38

Jillene Fritch-Gallatin, senior pastor of Grace Lutheran Church, shares her profound journey through grief and the development of her business, 'Grounded Love for Grief and Loss.' She discusses the integration of movement, breath, and sound to aid the emotional and physical release of grief. The conversation covers Jillene’s personal experiences, f…