Curiously Confused

In this last part (finally!) my dad talks about how a fourth-grade aptitude test first pointed him toward architecture, even though he didn’t fully understand it then. After an accident affected his ability to draw, he shifted from art to architecture and started studying at a community college. Instead of following a traditional degree path, he jumped straight into work and learned on the job, quickly advancing. He reflects on how mentors shaped his career and how the field has changed with technology. We also talk about college—he sees value in it, but says real-world experience and a love for learning matter just as much.Verse’s Related:Proverbs 16:9Isaiah 30:21Ecclesiastes 7:8Ephesians 2:10Matthew 7:24-25Stay Curious!Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/curiouslyconfusedpodcast/Listen on Apple or Spotify!Apple: ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/curiously-confused/id17918511599Spotify: ⁠https://open.spotify.com/show/0gHshXoh58BjUBjrOzkhHB?si=39202e61cc2748bffTRANSCRIPT TO READ EPISODE HERE:https://docs.google.com/document/d/1-EK98Fz0flqZFLOcJz_YO5q83_5aeffRO-tCzLmI6NM/edit?tab=t.0

In part two, my dad talks about how architecture interested him from a young age, but after an accident affected his ability to draw, he shifted focus and started working right after community college instead of pursuing a traditional degree. He learned a lot on the job from mentors and quickly took on big responsibilities. He reflects on how technology has changed architecture over time, making it more automated. We also talk about college and how he believes it’s valuable but not necessary for everyone, and that following your passion is what matters.Verse’s Related:Proverbs 3:5-6Colossians 3:23Ecclesiastes 9:10James 1:5Proverbs 22:29Philippians 4:13Stay Curious!Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/curiouslyconfusedpodcast/Listen on Apple or Spotify!Apple: ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/curiously-confused/id17918511599Spotify: ⁠https://open.spotify.com/show/0gHshXoh58BjUBjrOzkhHB?si=39202e61cc2748bffTRANSCRIPT TO READ EPISODE HERE:https://docs.google.com/document/d/1L_sZJndzoYIe-ibZR_A-ivc1Er4LLvdqyqCV71_58qw/edit?tab=t.0

In this episode, I have a candid and fun conversation about faith and family with my dad. We dive into how his experiences growing up shaped his beliefs and how those beliefs influenced me. It’s a relaxed, honest chat where we laugh and reflect on the ways faith has evolved between our generations. It’s really about understanding him better and exploring what faith means to both of us.Verse’s Related:Proverbs 22:6Ephesians 6:4Psalm 78:4Deuteronomy 6:6-7Isaiah 40:31Stay Curious!Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/curiouslyconfusedpodcast/Listen on Apple or Spotify!Apple: ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/curiously-confused/id17918511599Spotify: ⁠https://open.spotify.com/show/0gHshXoh58BjUBjrOzkhHB?si=39202e61cc2748bffTRANSCRIPT TO READ EPISODE HERE:https://docs.google.com/document/d/1TxuahspEQXiY-RWj20ix0hv1xDek9BGb3_dWfySSw_U/edit?usp=sharing

In this episode of Curiously Confused, I talk about losing a past recording and how it brought back memories of how much I loved documenting life as a kid through videos, journals, and little creative moments. I’ve always wanted to hold onto the things that matter. But over time, I started using temporary fixes like control and routines to try to feel okay. They helped for a bit, but never lasted. Now, I’m learning to let go of those things and lean more on Jesus. He’s not a quick fix; He’s steady, constant, and the path I want to stay.Verse’s Referenced:Romans 12:2Proverbs 3:5–6Matthew 6:21John 14:6Isaiah 43:19Jeremiah 29:11Stay Curious!Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/curiouslyconfusedpodcast/Listen on Apple or Spotify!Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/curiously-confused/id17918511599Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0gHshXoh58BjUBjrOzkhHB?si=39202e61cc2748bffTRANSCRIPT TO READ EPISODE HERE:https://docs.google.com/document/d/1ZigfujMX7qSKw3I3WukA7lzGgFH_fCEVxl_kC8zphmU/edit?usp=drivesdk

In this episode of Curiously Confused, I talk with my friend Paola (Pow Pow) about her powerful story of transformation. She shares how losing her dad at a young age and growing up in a broken home led her down a path of addiction, deep hurt, and identity struggles. But everything began to change when she encountered Jesus through Teen Challenge. Paola opens up about what it looked like to surrender, how she’s learned to trust God even when anxiety creeps in, and the freedom she’s found in Christ. Her testimony is raw, emotional, and so full of hope.Verses Mentioned:2 Corinthians 5:17Isaiah 61:3 Jeremiah 29:11LINK TO TEEN CHALLENGE HERE!https://www.teenchallenge.org/resource/?gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=10558621913&gbraid=0AAAAADLwzXDLoPz3j-BUIVRv3TsuOIr9v&gclid=CjwKCAjw_pDBBhBMEiwAmY02NnJNIKBQZuXAX4Q1CJIdC5PdSVXBeuhM4MMIaUrJC5kwQo8I249yoBoC2HgQAvD_BwEStay Curious!Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/curiouslyconfusedpodcast/Listen on Apple or Spotify!Apple: ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/curiously-confused/id17918511599Spotify: ⁠https://open.spotify.com/show/0gHshXoh58BjUBjrOzkhHB?si=39202e61cc2748bffTRANSCRIPT TO READ EPISODE HERE:https://docs.google.com/document/d/1ejsfcBQI6TT0adhkGKJ4wSguIjyzTqjYhDXB_MP8VRU/edit?usp=sharing

In part 2 of our chat, we dive even deeper into what real life in ministry looks like. We talk about the heartbreak of seeing people drift away from their faith, and how God uses even those painful moments to grow and shape us. We also share a lot about staying close to Jesus when ministry gets heavy and messy, and how it’s not about having all the answers… It’s about trusting Him through it all.Verses Mentioned:Romans 8:28Proverbs 3:5-6Jeremiah 29:11Philippians 1:62 Timothy 4:7Stay Curious!Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/curiouslyconfusedpodcast/Listen on Apple or Spotify!Apple: ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/curiously-confused/id17918511599Spotify: ⁠https://open.spotify.com/show/0gHshXoh58BjUBjrOzkhHB?si=39202e61cc2748bffTRANSCRIPT TO READ EPISODE HERE:https://docs.google.com/document/d/14VWQLOvXiTKhwkwWV38Q9QB5R_q5u-3YZy8wfTjGhBs/edit?usp=sharingCheck Out Jeanne and Paul's Podcast "Devotional Life"⁠https://open.spotify.com/show/4n3TUitR6fmSvDdpGgbTDK?si=81c3af2ff3954db1⁠

Today, I had the privilege of sitting down with my grandpa, Paul, who’s a pastor at a local Calvary Chapel. We talked about his journey from being raised Catholic, attending Catholic school, serving as an altar boy, and being deeply rooted in tradition to discovering a personal relationship with Jesus. His turning point came when he started attending Calvary Chapel Costa Mesa and heard the Bible taught in a clear and alive way, different from the ritualistic approach he grew up with. Eventually, he became a pastor through family Bible studies and God opening doors. He shared how important it is to teach the whole Word of God without filtering it, and how the church he leads has moved locations many times, always trusting where God leads. It was such a meaningful conversation full of wisdom and God’s faithfulness.Verses Mentioned:John 4:1-30John 8:32Stay Curious!Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/curiouslyconfusedpodcast/Listen on Apple or Spotify!Apple: ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/curiously-confused/id17918511599Spotify: ⁠https://open.spotify.com/show/0gHshXoh58BjUBjrOzkhHB?si=39202e61cc2748bffTRANSCRIPT TO READ EPISODE HERE:https://docs.google.com/document/d/14VWQLOvXiTKhwkwWV38Q9QB5R_q5u-3YZy8wfTjGhBs/edit?usp=sharingCheck Out Jeanne and Paul's Podcast "Devotional Life"⁠https://open.spotify.com/show/4n3TUitR6fmSvDdpGgbTDK?si=81c3af2ff3954db1⁠

In this episode, I reflect on my journey of growing closer to Jesus, starting from my Christian upbringing. I attended church regularly as a kid, but it became more of a routine than something I actively participated in. As I grew older, especially during high school, I faced a lot of personal challenges, from moving homes, family changes, and shifts in friendships that made me feel lost and distant from God. Even though I still went to church and life groups, I wasn't prioritizing my relationship with Him. I wasn’t denying Jesus, but I wasn't putting Him first in my life. It wasn’t until after high school, during the isolating times of COVID-19, that I realized how important it is to live out my faith daily. I also reflect on my college journey, choosing to attend community college in San Luis Obispo and studying early childhood education, even though I wasn't completely sure of my path at first. All of these experiences have led me to a deeper understanding of my faith and the importance of prioritizing God in all aspects of life.Stay Curious!Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/curiouslyconfusedpodcast/Listen on Apple or Spotify!Apple: ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/curiously-confused/id17918511599Spotify: ⁠https://open.spotify.com/show/0gHshXoh58BjUBjrOzkhHB?si=39202e61cc2748bffTRANSCRIPT TO READ EPISODE HERE:https://docs.google.com/document/d/1kQw5Qi-EHfJkGFne2jYq1HgOUIzJITM90FMRjVI1Za8/edit?usp=sharing

In this episode, I talk with my good friend Shannon about some questions surrounding Christianity. Her and I tackle some big questions about Christianity and faith. We share personal experiences, from how we came to build our own relationships with God to navigating tricky topics like women speaking in church, why Jesus sacrificed himself, and how to love others selflessly. We also wrestle with questions about what happens after we die and how to approach faith in a modern context. It’s a conversation full of honesty, curiosity, and reflection as we explore what it really means to live out our beliefs.Stay Curious!Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/curiouslyconfusedpodcast/⁠⁠Listen on Apple or Spotify!Apple: ⁠⁠⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/curiously-confused/id17918511599⁠⁠Spotify: ⁠⁠⁠https://open.spotify.com/show/0gHshXoh58BjUBjrOzkhHB?si=39202e61cc2748bff⁠⁠TRANSCRIPT TO READ EPISODE HERE:https://docs.google.com/document/d/1RXmD7diLXLjk7Lxj9lZrLRvkHkFzG8ISAMWjzhHTiSQ/edit?usp=sharing

In this episode of Curiously Confused, I’m joined by Anthony as he reflects on his personal faith journey, sharing both the challenges and the growth he’s experienced. He talks about the struggles he faced balancing work, school, and caring for his sick mother, and how he found strength through prayer and scripture. Anthony emphasizes the importance of trusting God’s timing, especially in relationships, and finding peace in His presence during life’s storms. He also discusses the impact of his mother’s selfless care and the importance of community, offering encouragement for others to lean on faith and the support of others when life gets tough.Verses and Notes Mentioned:Romans 5:3-5, Psalm 34:18, Ecclesiastes 3:1, Proverbs 31:28, Hebrews 10:24-25- Faith through challenges- God’s presence in difficulties- Trusting God’s timing- The importance of communityStay Curious!Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/curiouslyconfusedpodcast/⁠⁠Listen on Apple or Spotify!Apple: ⁠⁠⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/curiously-confused/id17918511599⁠⁠Spotify: ⁠⁠⁠https://open.spotify.com/show/0gHshXoh58BjUBjrOzkhHB?si=39202e61cc2748bff⁠⁠TRANSCRIPT TO READ EPISODE HERE:https://docs.google.com/document/d/1WwarJnMB2zM7Phe03TlK-IfsorYC0uFCsnaf0484xVg/edit?usp=sharing

In Part 2, I continue talking In this episode with Naomi who shares how her move from Mexico to the U.S. deepened her faith, transforming her relationship with Jesus from something familiar to something deeply personal. She opens up about the challenges of being away from family, adapting to a new culture, and finding strength in God as her foundation. Through her journey, she discovered a church that helped her grow spiritually in ways she hadn’t experienced before. Verses Mentioned:Matthew 6:33: Naomi emphasizes the importance of seeking God first, trusting that everything else will follow.Deuteronomy 31:6: Naomi’s experience of being alone in a new country but trusting that God is always with her.Psalm 46:1: Speaks to how Naomi leaned on God for comfort and support during her toughest moments.Romans 8:15: Naomi’s discovery of God as a father figure and close companion.James 1:2-4: Growth and strength she gained through her transition and trials.Podcast Mentioned: “CÓMO ESCOGER AL HOMBRE CORRECTO” (How to Choose the Right Man”https://youtu.be/B1QManbYdR8Stay Curious!Instagram: ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/curiouslyconfusedpodcast/⁠Listen on Apple or Spotify!Apple: ⁠⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/curiously-confused/id17918511599⁠Spotify: ⁠⁠https://open.spotify.com/show/0gHshXoh58BjUBjrOzkhHB?si=39202e61cc2748bff⁠TRANSCRIPT TO READ EPISODE HERE:https://docs.google.com/document/d/1h88FKZ9x-ybQLH8EqReeDpjUj94IkLJWBfrPXziRPbA/edit?usp=sharing

In Part 1 of this episode, I talk with Naomi, a 24-year-old aspiring chef from Mexico, about her journey moving to the U.S. for a hotel internship. She shares her initial excitement and nerves, from adjusting to a new work environment to forming connections with her coworkers. One of her biggest culture shocks has been the respect for work breaks, which contrasts with Mexico's fast-paced, demanding kitchen culture. While she’s grateful for the opportunity to grow in her career, she misses the food, traditions, and sense of home she left behind.In Part 2, we’ll dive deeper into her experiences and what she wants for her future.Stay Curious!Instagram: ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/curiouslyconfusedpodcast/⁠Listen on Apple or Spotify!Apple: ⁠⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/curiously-confused/id17918511599⁠Spotify: ⁠⁠https://open.spotify.com/show/0gHshXoh58BjUBjrOzkhHB?si=39202e61cc2748bff⁠TRANSCRIPT TO READ EPISODE HERE:https://docs.google.com/document/d/1h88FKZ9x-ybQLH8EqReeDpjUj94IkLJWBfrPXziRPbA/edit?usp=sharing

In this episode, I sit down with my friend Shannon, a first-year high school history teacher, to dive into her journey into education. We start by chatting about her inspiration to become a teacher, which goes back to when she was in sixth grade, and how that early spark guided her toward history in college. Shannon shares the challenges and surprises she faced while navigating her way through a teaching credential program at Biola University, and how it was a mix of hard work, fun moments, and faith-building experiences. She talks about the rewarding aspects of teaching, especially working with freshmen and sophomores, and how every day brings something different. From classroom dynamics to personal connections with students, Shannon gives an honest, behind-the-scenes look at what it's like being a first-year teacher. She also opens up about the role her faith plays in shaping her classroom environment and how she balances that with the pressures of being a new educator. Whether you’re a fellow teacher or just curious about the world of education, this conversation gives great insight into the highs and lows of teaching!Stay Curious!Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/curiouslyconfusedpodcast/⁠⁠Listen on Apple or Spotify!Apple: ⁠⁠⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/curiously-confused/id17918511599⁠⁠Spotify: ⁠⁠⁠https://open.spotify.com/show/0gHshXoh58BjUBjrOzkhHB?si=39202e61cc2748bff⁠⁠TRANSCRIPT TO READ EPISODE HERE:https://docs.google.com/document/d/1h88FKZ9x-ybQLH8EqReeDpjUj94IkLJWBfrPXziRPbA/edit?usp=sharing

In this episode of Curiously Confused, I continue the conversation on confidence, exploring how trust in yourself and others shapes decision-making and resilience. I discuss handling uncertainty, maintaining self-assurance, and the role of communication in building trust and avoiding misunderstandings. I also share my personal experiences with criticism and how it impacts confidence, the difference between constructive feedback and unnecessary negativity, and the importance of staying true to yourself. Confidence is an ongoing journey, and I hope this episode helps you reflect on your growth.Stay Curious!Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/curiouslyconfusedpodcast/⁠⁠Listen on Apple or Spotify!Apple: ⁠⁠⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/curiously-confused/id17918511599⁠⁠Spotify: ⁠⁠⁠https://open.spotify.com/show/0gHshXoh58BjUBjrOzkhHB?si=39202e61cc2748bff⁠⁠TRANSCRIPT TO READ EPISODE HERE:https://docs.google.com/document/d/13oIV_l3DAOOwejsuBDETgsJ15zzBK1uBy3JZzF5-SKs/edit?usp=sharing

In this first part of my series on confidence, I share how I’ve learned to build it, from “faking it till you make it” to making confident decisions and surrounding myself with the right people. I also talk about how past friendships shaped my self-esteem and why a supportive community, especially church, has been so important. Part two is coming soon, and I’m aiming to upload weekly on Mondays. Stay Curious! Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/curiouslyconfusedpodcast/ Listen on Apple or Spotify! Apple: ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/curiously-confused/id17918511599 Spotify: ⁠https://open.spotify.com/show/0gHshXoh58BjUBjrOzkhHB?si=39202e61cc2748bff TRANSCRIPT TO READ EPISODE HERE: https://docs.google.com/document/d/13oIV_l3DAOOwejsuBDETgsJ15zzBK1uBy3JZzF5-SKs/edit?usp=sharing

In this episode of Curiously Confused, I had the chance to sit down with my grandma, Jeanne! Together, we dive into some big topics about Christianity. We explored how Christianity differs from other religions, and the main takeaway was this: most religions focus on trying to be “good enough” to reach God, but Christianity flips that. It’s not about earning your way it's about having a relationship with God, thanks to Jesus. I share a personal experience where I witnessed a supposed miracle, but something about it just didn’t feel right to me. While I believe in God's ability to perform miracles, the way it was done felt more like a performance than a genuine act of faith. It made me question the authenticity of the moment. I talked about how it’s important to have faith, but also how we need to be careful about the way spiritual gifts, like speaking in tongues, are expressed. I shared my thoughts on growing deeper in faith and fostering a personal relationship with God, and how I believe the Holy Spirit helps guide us—if we’re open to it. Check Out Jeanne and Paul's Podcast "Devotional Life"⁠https://open.spotify.com/show/4n3TUitR6fmSvDdpGgbTDK?si=81c3af2ff3954db1⁠Verses and Notes Mentioned:1 Corinthians 14:1-17 (Caution showing Gifts of the Spirit in public) Ephesians 2:8-9 (Forgiveness: took our place so we can be forgiven, promise of Heaven) Christianity believes the virgin birth and Jesus lived sinless life. We are Saved by grace not works. Jesus died on the cross, rose from dead and He is God.Need to understand Essentials and Nonessentials. ESSENTIALS are a MUST and study the Bible.Stay Curious!Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/curiouslyconfusedpodcast/Listen on Apple or Spotify!Apple: ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/curiously-confused/id17918511599Spotify: ⁠https://open.spotify.com/show/0gHshXoh58BjUBjrOzkhHB?si=39202e61cc2748bffTRANSCRIPT TO READ EPISODE HERE:https://docs.google.com/document/d/1_cSYj6pzKnfNanoDbyAk1hRpLynrAuAsZTzOwHikZLM/edit?usp=sharing

This is my first solo episode where open up about my struggles with career uncertainty and the pressure I’ve felt since earning my psychology degree and starting a master’s program I wasn’t sure about. I share how much I love working with kids, but also how intimidating it feels to commit to one path forever. Burnout and fear of making the wrong choice are real, but so is the possibility of change and growth. If you’ve ever felt unsure about your purpose or career, I hope my reflections help you feel less alone. It’s never too late to change, and we’re all figuring it out together.Stay Curious!Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/curiouslyconfusedpodcast/⁠⁠Listen on Apple or Spotify!Apple: ⁠⁠⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/curiously-confused/id17918511599⁠⁠Spotify: ⁠⁠⁠https://open.spotify.com/show/0gHshXoh58BjUBjrOzkhHB?si=39202e61cc2748bff⁠⁠TRANSCRIPT TO READ EPISODE HERE:https://docs.google.com/document/d/1-ZjfTQ6baJtenK0QJsH5zP9snOlmRA-sUVyHKisveh8/edit?usp=sharing

Welcome to Curiously Confused, the podcast where we embrace life’s big questions and the confusion that comes with them. I’m your host, Alexa Tickenoff, and together we’ll explore faith, identity, social issues, personal growth, and all the messy complexities of living in an ever-changing world. This isn’t about having all the answers, but about creating space for curiosity, open conversation, and real reflection. If you’re ready to dive into life’s tough questions and embrace the uncertainty, you’re in the right place. Let’s explore together! Stay Curious! Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/curiouslyconfusedpodcast/ Listen on Apple or Spotify! Apple: ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/curiously-confused/id17918511599 Spotify: ⁠https://open.spotify.com/show/0gHshXoh58BjUBjrOzkhHB?si=39202e61cc2748bff TRANSCRIPT TO READ EPISODE HERE: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1IMX4WKAA8ikuvGkAGaRMYh0ZMvkyjB7xdnXKN90cljE/edit?usp=sharing