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An introduction to and reading from my new book, The Unintentional Interim: Ministry in Times of Transition.Music: "Reflections" by Wild Wonder
Giving a second life to what I thought at the time was not my best Easter sermon. When I re-preached it for this episode, I don't know why I thought that.Mark 16:1-8Music: "Reflections" by Wild Wonder
The physical items that we collect can help tell the story of our lives and identity.High Fidelity by Nick HornbyHigh Fidelity (movie)Music: "Reflections" by Wild Wonder
Brief introductions and readings from my three most recent books, including a preview of my newest, which releases this month.Episode 61: All My Books, Part 1Episode 62: All My Books, Part 2Four Weeks: Reflections for AdventMirrobius: A NovelThe Unintentional Interim: Ministry in Times of TransitionMusic: "Reflections" by Wild Wonder
Whenever we go through a time of needing to heal from something, we may do so with the mindset that we need to get back to some former version of life as soon as we can. But this time of healing can bring clarity about who we are, and who our new healed self can and should be as well.NEW BOOK AVAILABLE FOR PRE-ORDER: The Unintentional InterimMusic: "Reflections" by Wild Wonder
A recap of my experience at Cleveland Fan Expo 2025.Music: "Reflections" by Wild Wonder
A martial arts principle about the development of skill and knowledge, which can easily be translated to other activities.Music: "Reflections" by Wild Wonder
The Christian season of Lent began on Ash Wednesday, March 5th. This week's episode gives some basics on what this time means, and a few traditional practices to observe.Go Ahead and Give Up Chocolate for LentPrayer in Motion: Connecting with God in Fidgety TimesMusic: "Reflections" by Wild Wonder
What's it take to achieve something big, glamorous, and life-changing? The answer is a lot of little things that may be boring, but necessary.Music: "Reflections" by Wild Wonder
The stereotypes of a midlife crisis are well-known and often played for laughs. But what does such a life season really entail, and what opportunities for growth and self-reflection can it bring?Music: "Reflections" by Wild Wonder
We are constantly besieged by demands on our attention and energy. What are truly worth the effort, and how can we renew ourselves along the way?The Wandering Mind by Jamie KreinerMusic: "Reflections" by Wild Wonder
Trump Tariffs and how they will affect CPG Brands and consumers, Emerging Brands New Launches in Retail, and Expo West Gouging The controversial Trump Tariffs announced over the weekend will be going into effect on Tuesday, February 4th, placing up to a 25 % tariff on all goods with exception to energy which is at 10 %. Canada has since retaliated and is threatening to impose their own tariffs on up to $300B worth of US goods coming into Canada starting in February. According to Trump: He has said he plans to impose tariffs for three reasons. “Number one is the people that have poured into our country so horribly and so much,” he said on Thursday. “Number two are the drugs, fentanyl and everything else that have come into the country. Number three are the massive subsidies that we're giving to Canada and to Mexico in the form of deficits.” These tariffs are expected to affect thousands of CPG brands manufacturing and shipping from Canada and Mexico, resulting in higher prices in retail, and potentially affecting velocities and a reduction in sales for these brands looking to continuing to grow in retail According to Mike Fata, Founder of Manitoba Harvest, an entrepreneur who resides in Canada, his latest Linkedin Post says: "Remember, We can be pro-family, pro-team, and pro-country, without crapping on others" In retail expansion news: Glonuts has expanded to Texas and is rolling out to 153 HEB Stores. Also, it may be slightly old news, but WIld Wonder has also expanded nationally in Whole Foods New Hope's Expo West is catching some flack for their high prices for this year's Natural Products Expo West Show, with badge passes costs for manufacturers, suppliers, and other business service companies as high as $4,500 per person. This definitely locks out some emerging brands and service providers looking to grow their business and network
In our current collective season, we may be feeling a lot of anger and anxiety. We need ways that name and vent those feelings that may help calm us down, but also ways that allow us to channel it in a helpful direction. Playlist: Everybody Shut Up Episode 29: The Rage Room Music: "Reflections" by Wild Wonder
My sermon at Congregational UCC in Canton, Ohio on January 26, 2025. 1 Corinthians 12:12-31a Music: "Reflections" by Wild Wonder
The sermon preached at Congregational UCC in Canton, Ohio on January 19, 2025. John 2:1-11 Music: "Reflections" by Wild Wonder
The anniversary of my ordination into ministry was 20 years ago this month. Here are a few themes and learnings that I think translate well for general use. Coffeehouse Contemplative: Spiritual Direction for the Everyday Music: "Reflections" by Wild Wonder
After the season of Christmas comes the celebration of Epiphany. This episode explores what it is and why it's important. Also, a little recap of my month off. Matthew 2:1-12 Music: "Reflections" by Wild Wonder
Late November can be a time when we're caught between two holiday seasons. In this final episode of the year, I honor both of them individually. Four Weeks: Reflections for Advent Highly Superior Christmas Playlist Music: "Reflections" by Wild Wonder
I've spent 2024 focusing on joy. With about 6 weeks left in the year, here's a little of what it taught me. Episode 139: Love Comes Back Around Music: "Reflections" by Wild Wonder
In this episode, we're joined by our friend Stephen Proctor, author of Wild Wonder, for an inspiring conversation about how nature teaches us about ourselves, our place in the world, and the importance of slowing down to live well.
After Election Day, many are asking, "What now? What do we do?" I don't have any deep wisdom, but I can provide at least a little encouragement as we seek answers together. Luke 21:5-19 Music: "Reflections" by Wild Wonder
All Saints Day is traditionally observed on November 1st. In this week's episode, I give thanks for some who have been saints to me. Episode 116: Moonlight Is Lonely Paw Prints on the Baptism Cake No Perfect Time: Brief Essays on Life and Faith Music: "Reflections" by Wild Wonder
Paul shares a brilliant metaphor in 1 Corinthians to show how essential every member of the church actually is. 1 Corinthians 12:12-31a Music: "Reflections" by Wild Wonder
A single moment can send us into days of self-doubt, questioning, anxiety, and despair. Realizing that such moments are probably not that big a deal can take effort, but can also help us avoid such an internal struggle. Music: "Reflections" by Wild Wonder
Steve Duda is a Midwesterner turned west coaster. He describes writing as the only thing he can do. Currently, Steve is Head of Fish Tales at Patagonia. His work has appeared in numerous magazines, websites, and newspapers. Anglers know him as the former editor of The Fly Fish Journal. His new book titled River Songs is his first ‘solo album' that consists of short stories from his travels and observations. The book is full of history, science, nature, and anecdotes. In this episode we learn about Steve's youth as a sports fan, angler, and writer. The conversation was indented to focus on his book, however, these guys went off course quickly. Steve discusses his disdain for the semi-colon and farmed raised salmon. He tells stories about pranking his fising buddies, the ability to smell a school of fish moving in, and wild vs hatchery steelhead in the Pacific and Great Lakes. This podcast wouldn't be right if the conversation didn't lead to sandwiches. Don't be the person that catches the last wild steelhead. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Bringing a long-standing blog and newsletter feature to the podcast for the first time. My monthly author newsletter Music: "Reflections" by Wild Wonder
A phenomenon exists where enough people misremember something that it becomes part of the popular consciousness, when in fact it was never true. This can happen with faith and spirituality as well, sometimes to harmful results. Chuck Mangione, "Feels So Good" Music: "Reflections" by Wild Wonder
I've been involved in Wing Chun for about three months now. Here are some life lessons I've taken away from it already. Music: "Reflections" by Wild Wonder
A reading from my new novel, Mirrobius, and some reflections on my experience writing the characters. Mirrobius: A Novel Episode 143: Mirrobius Music: "Reflections" by Wild Wonder
My Friday the 13th could have gone much better. Instead, I had major car trouble that consumed most of my day. But somehow, there were bright spots in the midst of an anxious, vulnerable time. Music: "Reflections" by Wild Wonder
My first novel, Mirrobius, released on September 3rd, 2024. I've taken to describing it as a sci-fi/fantasy mystery tech thriller. In this week's episode, I talk about my inspiration for it, the creative process, and the story elements. Mirrobius: A Novel Music: "Reflections" by Wild Wonder
We may be used to thinking of divine signs in a particular way: God manipulating the world around us just so we can interpret it. That may not be how signs actually work, but we still might experience them. Music: "Reflections" by Wild Wonder
My sermon at Community Christian Church in North Canton, Ohio on August 25, 2024. John 6:56-69 Music: "Reflections" by Wild Wonder
My sermon at West Park UCC in Cleveland on Sunday, August 18, 2024. 1 Kings 2:10-2, 3:3-14 Music: "Reflections" by Wild Wonder
My sermon at Chapel Hill Community in Canal Fulton, Ohio on August 11, 2024. 1 Kings 19:4-8 Music: "Reflections" by Wild Wonder
Meet Steve Duda. Originally from Detroit now living in Seattle. Steve is currently the Head of Fish Tales for Patagonia. Steve was introduced to Fly Fishing when he was listing in Boise. Quickly Fly Fishing "hooked" him. Moving to Seattle and working at the Rocket Magazine and Amazon Music Steve started writing about Fly Fishing. Steve has recently published his first book River Songs.
Jennifer Knapp's music has been an enduring presence in my life and faith journey. My recent experience seeing her live confirmed that for me. Jennifer Knapp's website Music: "Reflections" by Wild Wonder
My sermon at Community Christian Church in North Canton, Ohio on July 28, 2024. John 6:1-21 Music: "Reflections" by Wild Wonder
My sermon at Bethany UCC in Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio on July 21, 2024. Mark 6:30-34, 53-56 Music: "Reflections" by Wild Wonder
What's causing enough stress in your life that something might be close to breaking? Music: "Reflections" by Wild Wonder
Just catching up after my month off: vacation, upcoming books, and big life questions. Music: "Reflections" by Wild Wonder
Description:The story of Mt. Rushmore begins with the story of the state in which it is found: South Dakota.Audio Clips Used (Theme):“President Franklin D. Roosevelt attends dedication of Jefferson sculpture at Mount Rushmore -SDPB” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fqCm4SSgQvc)“Trump in South Dakota: Mount Rushmore Will Never Come Down” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PU-GvozCC2g)“Journey Discussions: The Mount Rushmore Vision” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9PRlGbE_kWk&t=443s)“Episode 73 - Gutzon Borglum, The One Man War” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JzZkYActJxQ&t=79s)“Mount Rushmore Interview 1” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5ZtSa-BOPuQ&t=2s)“Mount Rushmore - Documentary Films” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BUo0GlWqhaw&t=3187s)Theme Music:“Anchor Crawl,” written and performed by Cody Martin. License available upon request.Episode Music (License available upon request):“Every Life Matters,” written and performed by Cody Martin.“Darkest Space,” written by Dustin Ransom; performed by Lost Ghosts.“A Kind Word,” “Echoes of Solitude,” and “Stroll the Westbury,” written by Adrian Dominic Walther; performed by Moments.“High Above” and “Wilderness,” written by Stephen Keech; performed by Wild Wonder.“LightHeart,” written by Joshua Sudduth; performed by TAYME
The story of the Spirit descending on the disciples in Acts 2 is one of chaos, disorder, and defying expectations. And yet not many of us may appreciate when the Spirit shows up in our lives in a similar way. Music: "Reflections" by Wild Wonder
Answering the question, "What's saving your life right now?" for myself. How would you answer? Leaving Church by Barbara Brown Taylor Music: "Reflections" by Wild Wonder
My sermon at Community Christian Church in North Canton on Sunday, May 12th, 2024. Acts 1:15-17, 21-26 Music: "Reflections" by Wild Wonder
Sometimes in the midst of grief or loss, creating through it can help. Paw Prints on the Baptism Cake Music: "Reflections" by Wild Wonder
People occasionally ask me how I've managed to write my books. Here's my basic approach to the creative process, which will seem anticlimactic, and generally boils down to "I just did it." My books Music: "Reflections" by Wild Wonder
A brief recap of my family's recent experience at Cleveland Fan Expo, and reflections on how and why we connect to stories in books, shows, movies, and comics. Music: "Reflections" by Wild Wonder
When the initial novelty and excitement of a new experience fades, what do we do? We have several options, one of which is adaptation. Music: "Reflections" by Wild Wonder
Rosa Li is the founder and CEO of Wildwonder - a brand that's reimagining the functional soda space with its sparkling drinks infused with heritage-inspired, gut-healthy ingredients.In this episode, Rosa shares about Wildwonder's savvy omnichannel approach, the strategic importance of picking high-impact distribution channels, and how they've managed to stand out in a crowded market through a perfect blend of educating consumers and delivering innovative flavors. Episode brought to you by More StaffingJoin 15k founders and marketers & get our pod highlights delivered directly to your inbox with the DTC Pod Newsletter!On this episode of DTC pod we cover:1. Introduction to Rosa Li and Wildwonder2. Building A Unique Brand Identity3. Impact of Shark Tank Appearance4. Early Challenges and Growth Strategies5. Marketing and Distribution Focus6. Product Development and Positioning7. Educational Marketing and Consumer Engagement8. Social Media and Online PresenceTimestamps00:00 Started with teas, evolved to create convenience.07:14 Product's accessibility increased by using cans.10:28 Persistence secured co-packer for beverage production.12:05 Sold door to door during quarantine, survived.15:29 Omnichannel approach targeting customers in San Francisco.20:07 Approachable, whimsical, consistent brand with uplifting packaging.22:46 Shark Tank increased brand awareness and sales.28:08 Excited about unique beverage approach and distribution.31:23 Interest in brand growth and future opportunities.34:48 Discussing product positioning and education in marketing.36:59 Hard to educate market when starting from zero.Shownotes powered by CastmagicPast guests & brands on DTC Pod include Gilt, PopSugar, Glossier, MadeIN, Prose, Bala, P.volve, Ritual, Bite, Oura, Levels, General Mills, Mid Day Squares, Prose, Arrae, Olipop, Ghia, Rosaluna, Form, Uncle Studios & many more. Additional episodes you might like:• #175 Ariel Vaisbort - How OLIPOP Runs Influencer, Community, & Affiliate Growth• #184 Jake Karls, Midday Squares - Turning Your Brand Into The Influencer With Content• #205 Kasey Stewart: Suckerz- - Powering Your Launch With 300 Million Organic Views• #219 JT Barnett: The TikTok Masterclass For Brands• #223 Lauren Kleinman: The PR & Affiliate Marketing Playbook• #243 Kian Golzari - Source & Develop Products Like The World's Best Brands-----Have any questions about the show or topics you'd like us to explore further?Shoot us a DM; we'd love to hear from you.Want the weekly TL;DR of tips delivered to your mailbox?Check out our newsletter here and our Projects the DTC Pod team is working on:DTCetc - all our favorite brands on the internetOlivea - the extra virgin olive oil & hydroxytyrosol supplementCastmagic - AI Workspace for ContentFollow us for content, clips, giveaways, & updates!DTCPod InstagramDTCPod TwitterDTCPod TikTok ---Rosa Li - Founder and CEO at WildwonderBlaine Bolus - Co-Founder of Castmagic