Grace Period

This week, we talk with Nathan Howard, a California Highway Patrol officer (and CLC alum), about the realities of the job—what it demands, what it takes, and what it can cost. From everyday calls to high-stakes moments, this conversation gives a glimpse into a world most of us only see from the outside.But more than that, it’s a conversation about presence. About showing up. About treating people with dignity in situations that are often anything but easy.It’s honest. It’s thoughtful. And it’s a reminder that faith isn’t just something we talk about—it’s something we live, especially when it counts.

This episode wasn’t planned at all—it started with Molly and her friend Ryley walking into my office joking about recording a podcast… and then we actually did it.Molly returns for her second appearance, and Ryley jumps on the mic for the first time, turning a random moment into a surprisingly real conversation. We talk about what she’s been up to lately—from joining the church nursery and working Sunday school to graduating from the Milan Institute—and everything in between.It’s laid-back, a little chaotic, and exactly what happens when you hit record on a whim.If you like off-the-cuff conversations that feel real and unfiltered, you’ll enjoy this one.

In this episode, “The Breaking Point: How Burnout Sneaks Up on You,” our co-host Josh Nauman leads the conversation into what happens when pushing through just… stops working. Not in some dramatic crash, but in the quieter, more familiar way—when motivation fades, energy dips, and even simple things start to feel heavier than they should.Josh guides us through how burnout builds slowly in the background while you’re busy being “fine,” until one day your to-do list feels less like a plan and more like a personal attack. We get into the warning signs people brush off, why high-functioning burnout is so easy to normalize, and how to recognize your own breaking point before you hit it.And in a bit of unintentional method acting, our recording setup decided to hit its own breaking point mid-episode. So yes, you’ll hear some audio glitches, a few awkward pauses—and, as a bonus, our truly incredible “technical difficulties” music making a few guest appearances. Honestly, it might be the most consistent performer in the episode.It’s not the cleanest episode we’ve ever recorded. But it might be one of the most real.

Leaving home sounds exciting…until you actually do it.In this episode, I sit down with a longtime friend who made a similar move—leaving Minnesota and building a new life here in California. We talk honestly about what that transition has really been like—the excitement, the challenges, and the moments where it hits you that you’re no longer where you grew up.We get into what we miss (and it’s not always what you’d expect), how relationships change when distance becomes real, and what it means to figure out who you are in a completely new place. There are moments that are funny, moments that are tough, and a lot of reflection on what “home” actually means now.If you’ve ever moved away, thought about it, or just felt caught between where you came from and where you are—this conversation will hit home.

This episode is a bit of an experiment.We took the podcast out of the studio and into the chaos of Six Flags Magic Mountain to see what would happen. No perfect setup, no quiet room—just us, some mics, and plenty of background noise.Between roller coasters, crowds, and random interruptions, a father-daughter duo joins us as we talk about the mix of fun and fear that comes with riding coasters.It’s unpolished, a little unpredictable, and honestly just fun.Think of it less like a structured episode… and more like bringing you along for the ride.

Holy Week is one of the most meaningful weeks in the Christian story—but it can also be one of the easiest to rush through.In this episode, Noel Thompson is joined by Josh Nauman as they slow things down and walk through what Holy Week actually is, what happens each day, and why it still matters in a real and honest way.From Palm Sunday to Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, and Easter, they talk about the meaning behind each day, what these moments reveal about Jesus, and why this story still connects so deeply to real life. They also take time to talk through each of the Holy Week services at Christ Lutheran Church, what each service is centered on, and what people can expect as they enter into worship throughout the week.Whether Holy Week has always felt meaningful to you, or whether it’s something you’ve never fully understood, this conversation is a simple, grounded, and approachable way to enter the story and prepare for the week ahead.

In this episode, we sit down with Nathan Treece and Bryson Johnson, two cousins whose lives are shaped by a shared love of sport and a strong family bond. Together, we explore how their relationship has grown both on and off the field—and how those experiences shape the way they compete, support one another, and navigate life’s challenges.They reflect on the role of family in shaping who they are, the lessons sports have taught them about discipline, resilience, and humility, and what it means to stay grounded through both wins and losses. Through stories, laughter, and honest conversation, this episode highlights the importance of connection, consistency, and showing up for the people who matter most.Whether you’re an athlete, part of a close-knit family, or simply someone who values real conversations, this episode is a reminder that the bonds we build and the lessons we learn along the way matter far beyond the game.

In this episode, we sit down with Pastor Sean Ewbank to talk about his recent trip to the Middle East and the powerful experiences that come from stepping outside your everyday world.Travel has a way of changing how we see things—our faith, our culture, and even our priorities. Pastor Sean shares stories from the places he visited, the people he encountered, and the moments that left a lasting impression on him. From historical and spiritual significance to the everyday realities of life in the region, the conversation offers a unique perspective on a part of the world many of us only hear about in the news.More than just a travel recap, this episode explores how journeys like these can deepen our understanding of faith, broaden our worldview, and remind us how connected we really are.Join us for a thoughtful conversation about travel, perspective, and what it means to see the world through new eyes. 

Life can feel like a constant balancing act. Work, relationships, responsibilities, expectations—it’s easy to keep piling things on until something starts to tip. In this episode, we talk about the tension between having a full life and having too much on our plates.We also take a moment to recognize how fortunate we are to live in a place like America, where we often have so many opportunities, choices, and comforts. But sometimes that abundance makes it harder to know when to slow down.So how do we find the line between passion and burnout? Between enjoying life and overfilling it?Join us as we explore what it means to live well, recognize our limits, and make room for what really matters.

In this episode, we’re diving into something every community faces sooner or later—those moments when a big event, a conflict, or a story online ripples through a school, workplace, or town and suddenly everyone feels it. These moments can stir up strong emotions, strong opinions, and sometimes real confusion about how to respond. And even when the headlines fade, the weight of it often follows us into our everyday conversations and interactions.So today, we’re slowing things down. We’re talking honestly about how we process difficult moments, how we show up for each other with wisdom and compassion, and how we stay grounded when the world around us feels loud or overwhelming. We’re not claiming to have all the answers—but we’re asking the right questions. And we’re learning together what it looks like to navigate these moments with grace, humility, and hope.If your community has ever gone through something heavy—or if you’ve ever wondered how to respond in healthy, thoughtful ways—this conversation is for you.

In this upcoming episode, we step into the sacred season of Lent — forty days of repentance, reflection, and renewal. Beginning with Ash Wednesday and leading us to the cross on Good Friday, Lent invites us to slow down, take an honest look at our hearts, and cling more deeply to Christ’s mercy and God's grace. Lent isn’t about earning God’s favor. It’s about returning to the cross — trusting that Christ has already accomplished what we never could. In this episode, we reflect on us not being perfect, the depth of Christ’s sacrifice, and the sure hope that carries us toward the joy of the resurrection.Whether you’ve observed Lent your whole life or are encountering it for the first time, this conversation will encourage you to walk these forty days with honesty, humility, and confidence in the gospel.Stay tuned — and let’s journey to the cross together.

In this week’s episode, the conversation features our very own co-worker and music minister, Paul Delgado, as he shares a thoughtful and down-to-earth look at what vocation really means.The episode explores how Paul first sensed his calling, how music became a place of purpose for him, and how he continues to grow into the work God has placed before him. Listeners will hear honest reflections, lighthearted moments, and meaningful insight into the way vocation often takes shape over time—not all at once.It’s a friendly, encouraging conversation that invites everyone to reflect on their own sense of calling and how God works through ordinary people and everyday gifts.Tune in and be part of the journey!

In this episode, we slow things down and lean into the power of devotionals—those quiet, intentional moments that shape our faith day by day. Whether you’re consistent, struggling to stay focused, or just starting out, we’ll explore why devotionals matter, how they deepen our relationship with God, and practical ways to make them part of real life (not just the “perfect schedule” life).Expect honest reflections, simple encouragement, and reminders that devotion isn’t about perfection—it’s about presence. Come as you are, and let’s grow together.

Anxiety is something a lot of us deal with, even if we don’t always have the words for it. It can look like overthinking, constant stress, or that uneasy feeling that never quite goes away. In this episode, we sit down for an honest, relaxed conversation about what anxiety is really like and how it shows up in our lives. We talk about why anxiety can be so persistent, what makes it harder to manage, and what actually helps when things start to feel overwhelming. There’s no pressure to “fix” anything here—just space to understand what’s going on, share some perspective, and find a bit of steadiness along the way. If anxiety has ever made you feel tired, stuck, or alone, this conversation between Noel Thompson and Josh Nauman is for you. Above you, remember that you are not alone and you are loved. 

Do you remember being a senior in high school and feeling the pressure of having to decide what you wanted to do for the rest of your life? In this episode, we sit down with Evan Judson, who went through that same experience. Evan is currently in college working toward becoming a music teacher, and he talks about his love for music, how God has played a role in guiding his journey, what inspired him to pursue teaching, and what college life is really like as a music education major. It’s an honest and laid-back conversation about following your passion and figuring things out along the way.

What does it mean to grow up without a permanent home and still find your way? In this episode, we sit down with someone who spent their childhood navigating the foster care system. Through honest reflection, they share stories of instability, resilience, and the moments that shaped who they are today. Every childhood is different, and every childhood comes with its own challenges. This week, we’re joined by CLC young adult Gia Slaton in conversation with Noel Thompson.

Remember when the holidays felt endless—long breaks from school, magical traditions, and the pure excitement of waking up with nothing to do but celebrate? In this episode, we reflect on how the holidays have changed since we were young. From shifting family traditions and busier schedules to nostalgia, growing responsibilities, and evolving meanings of celebration, we explore what we’ve gained, what we’ve lost, and what the holidays look like now through older eyes. Whether you miss the magic or appreciate the growth, this conversation between Noel Thompson and Josh Nauman invites you to slow down and reconnect with what the season really means. 

Did you know National Pumpkin Pie Day is on Christmas? Noel had no idea, and he had thoughts about it. On today’s episode, Noel Thompson is joined by Laurie Werner, who is in her third year of teaching kindergarten in Visalia, California. Laurie and Noel discuss the challenges and joys of teaching young children and how her faith supports her in her vocation. Hope you enjoy the episode! 

Noel Thompson is joined by Molly Ridenour as they debut the very first Grace Period Podcast. They talk about the random holidays in December and go over the "Weird Stat of the Day." Molly discovers that her friends are in fact twins, and Noel talks about why he started the podcast. Hope you enjoy the pod!