goodtaste for the Soul

There’s a sacred space here in the Texas Hill Country. It’s easy to miss — just a simple building about fifty yards from the Guadalupe River. But inside, a few quiet rooms are holding things that mean everything to someone.

Since the July 4 flood that took so many lives, thousands of personal belongings have been recovered from the river — photographs, keepsakes, pieces of everyday life. Each one tells a story. Each one belonged to someone who mattered.

In today’s episode, you’ll meet the remarkable woman who’s taken on the heavy but sacred responsibility of caring for these items — gently collecting them, restoring them, and holding them safe until they can hopefully find their way home.

It’s sacred work. And it’s heavy work. Even now, seven months later, many of these belongings remain unclaimed — family photos, a cherished set of china, and a small, tender collection of children’s items from Camp Mystic.

Whether it’s Galentine’s or Valentine’s, today’s episode is about discovering love and purpose in the most unexpected places—sometimes right when you least expect it. Our guests are New York Times bestselling authors of the Godwinks books, SQuire Rushnell and Louise DuArt. From a seemingly ordinary moment in the grocery store to Jelly Roll’s recent declaration of a “Godwink” at a live performance, life’s so-called coincidences often turn out to be something far more meaningful than we ever imagined. And maybe those moments aren’t coincidences at all—maybe they’re gentle reminders that God is close and actively working in our lives.  Romans 8:28

Sometimes the best stories start in the kitchen!

Today’s guest is a beautiful family with a whopper of a story. Lila Smethurst’s path to the Food Network’s Kids’ Baking Championship started not just with a love for baking, but out of necessity. When Lila was only seven years old, her mom was diagnosed with breast cancer. Because her mother’s treatment was so intense, she couldn’t be in the kitchen—so Lila had to learn to cook.

That early spark grew into a passion, and that passion eventually led her to a national stage—bright lights, big bakes, and the courage to believe she belonged there. Lila’s story is a reminder that even in life’s most challenging moments, something beautiful can begin to rise.

An added bonus, Lila didn’t stop with her Food Network win.  She’s giving back in other ways - and right now, she needs your help.  For more info: https://pages.lls.org/svoy/stx/svoysa26/lsmethurst
photographs courtesy of Food Network

I like to think of faith as a muscle, the more you use it, the stronger it gets! If you’re looking to stretch your faith a bit and see God with fresh, soulful eyes, you’ll really enjoy learning about breath prayers with author Margaret Feinberg. Her book, The God You Need to Know, took me on such a thoughtful journey about the Holy Spirit, especially when it comes to navigating stressful seasons of life. Margaret has a beautiful way of diving into Scripture that sparks curiosity and wonder, and she gently invites you to experience Him as personal, present, and faithful. It’s one of those conversations that just might stick with you awhile.  I am a big fan of breath prayers!

Let’s face it—everybody loves San Antonio. Wherever I travel, I hear it.

In today’s episode, candid conversation with one of the city’s true media and sports icons—and a friend who has meant a great deal to me for many years. His sportscast and television show consistently lead the ratings, but what truly keeps viewers tuning in night after night is his big heart. 

It’s on full display when he shares the impact a high school teacher has had on his life. Plus, he credits  legendary Dallas Cowboy’s coach Tom Landry for his belief in Christ, reflects  on the hypocrisy he says can sometimes follow religion, and explains how growing up as a pastor’s kid influences the way he approaches his work—and his calling.