Tina VanDenburg - A Fully Lit-Up Life

Owner of Kinship Handwork, Tina VanDenburg has lived life others simply dream of. Ready for chances, and learning from experiences, Tina left no stone unturned in searching for passion, peace, and a fully lit-up life. Born and raised near Grand Rapids, MI, her sewing journey began when she couldn’t find cloths that fit her body. Before that she lived in Alaska then returned to Michigan and built houses as a carpenter.  She blogs and has a vibrant podcast called In Kinship. (2:06) How did Tina learn how to sew…through osmosis and independence! (2:55) Tina’s grandmother was a sewist – but Tina never really paid attention. Her grandmother’s creativity left an indelible mark on her…but Tina really didn’t understand…until it was too late. She explains…here and how her grandmother is still with her now anytime she sews. (6:04) In her 20’s Tina traveled to Alaska to live – she takes us on this adventure to Denali National Park, Anchorage and Seward. She also talks about her decision about college and her future and how a BIG job changed her life when she realized that there was more to living than a bag phone. Alaska opened her mind and changed her trajectory. (10:45) And then…she returned to Michigan missing her family and wanting to meet her new nephew. Alaska was never far from her heart. (11:25) Being curious and adventurous got her into the next phase of her life…the purchase of a brick-and-mortar bookstore. It was that “little voice”!  And then…she learned to sew…and there was a “gateway dress.” (20:25) Tina believes that we can take our lives – the whole experience” into our own hands. She loves to disconnect from the “should” to create the life she wants. This free spirit tells us more. Some of this came from an experience in Alaska – go figure! (23:45) Learn about her four steps to a peace filled, joyful day. These practices have and continue to set her up to feel grounded and capable. (25:09) Tina does many things to remain empowered…she talked about her many interests and skills. (27:01) Tina describes the Fully Lit-up Life! (31:15) Community and gathering with others is paramount to Tina and sharing it is even more energizing. Especially on her podcast In Kinship.  (32:26) She does retreats on Mackinac Island – she takes us through one! (33:21) What inspires Tina? Authenticity, Bravery and more! (35:00) What’s tina’s secret aspiration? She shares this here for the first time! (35:57) Her podcast In Kinship began a year ago and since that time she’s had some remarkable conversations. She shares a few of them here.  (43:23) What’s her dream? Well…it’s shifted because of a few notable life events. And…then there’s two acres and a little house on wheels! (45:13) What didn’t we ask?  (45:50) Want to reach out to Tina? Her website is www.kinshiphandwork.com, you can find all there!  If you know someone who has an outstanding story that should be shared on this podcast, drop Meg a note to [email protected] or complete the form on our website. Be sure to subscribe to, review and rate this podcast on your favorite platform…and visit our website sewandsopodcast.com for more information about today’s and all of our Guests.