Welcome to episode 39 of the Designing with Love podcast! In this episode, I had the pleasure of interviewing Tommy Kilpatrick, a retired teacher and author.

Tommy Kilpatrick's spiritual journey takes us from the classrooms of California to the villages of the Philippines in this thought-provoking exploration of faith, purpose, and radical giving.
Raised in an Episcopal family, Tommy's path included unexpected detours through socialist organizations he now recognizes were fundamentally opposed to his Christian values. His awakening came in a moment of surrender: "I woke up one morning and went 'okay, God, I believe.'" That simple acceptance set him on a transformative path that would eventually lead him across the world.
Tommy shares fascinating stories from his diverse career—working with autistic children at a state hospital, becoming an insurance investigator at just 17, and co-founding a charter school that continues operating nearly three decades later. His educational innovation challenged conventional systems, emphasizing smaller class sizes, requiring parent participation despite significant bureaucratic resistance.
Now settled in the Philippines, Tommy has dedicated himself to teaching sustainable building techniques with bamboo, vertical gardening methods, and establishing free medical clinics for underserved communities. His philosophy centers on interdependence rather than charity: "My free clinic is going to be free, but the Filipino has to give me an egg, has to sweep the street, has to do something." This exchange preserves dignity while fostering community.
The conversation takes a profound turn when Tommy explains his approach to engaging atheists through thoughtful questions about creation and existence. Rather than confrontational evangelism, he creates space for spiritual inquiry: "Were you created? If you are a createe, then is there a creator?" These Socratic methods open doors that might otherwise remain closed.
Subscribe now to hear Tommy's practical wisdom on practicing "random acts of kindness" in cross-cultural contexts, his unique perspective on breathing as a spiritual practice, and his inspiring vision for rehabilitating those struggling with addiction. His story reminds us that true purpose emerges when we focus on giving rather than receiving.

🔗Website and Social Links

Please visit Tommy Kilpatrick’s website and social media links below.

Tommy Kilpatrick’s Website

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