Welcome to Episode 182 of The Almost Amazing Podcast! In this episode, Jennifer Dennis, Justin Kellough, and Ashley Miksch dive into the art of conversation and the struggle of moving past perfunctory small talk. We explore why the standard "How are you?" often feels like a missed opportunity for real connection and brainstorm better ways to truly see the people around us.

From Beth Moore's "concentric circles" of vulnerability to the messy reality of being authentic in a church hallway, we discuss how to navigate relationships with honesty and grace. Plus, we share personal updates on summer student ministry transitions, sermon prep breakthroughs, and what God is actively teaching us through the parables.

In this episode, we discuss:

Why we should (maybe) stop asking "How are you?"

The difference between being authentic, vulnerable, and intimate

Justin's experience researching Scripture for his latest sermon

Summer student ministry: VBS, camps, and seniors graduating

Wrestling with hard questions and the beauty of "deconstruction" that leads back to Christ About

Welcome back to a very special "Reunion Show" edition of The Almost Amazing Podcast! After a long hiatus due to the CityRise "Pathways" campaign, Jennifer Dennis, Justin Kellough, and Ashley Miksch are finally back in the studio to catch up on everything that's been happening in their lives. In this episode, the team dives into the complexities of work relationships, sharing honest stories about the struggle of not letting your boss "get in your head" and the unique challenges of being friends with the people you work for. Ashley shares incredible stories from her recent mission trip to Ecuador with 13 seniors, where they served local villages through One Heart Missions. Meanwhile, Justin discusses his deep dive into Greek midterm studies and the "lent thing" that changed his perspective on secular media. Finally, Jennifer gives us a candid (and slightly hilarious) look at her recent "Spring Break" spent navigating medical appointments.

Welcome back to The Almost Amazing Podcast! We are kicking off a brand-new year with some much-needed reflections on growth, digital habits, and the power of honesty. In this episode, Jennifer Dennis, Ashley Miksch, and Justin Kellough dive into their New Year's resolutions for the show—including a new bi-weekly schedule to keep things steady and sustainable. We also have a candid conversation about the "why" behind getting off TikTok, the growing challenges of AI-generated content, and why real accountability is more than just a church buzzword. Plus, Justin shares some behind-the-scenes stories (and a few spelling mishaps) from our church's latest print project. In this episode, we discuss: Setting personal and podcast boundaries for the new year. The struggle with "AI trickery" on social media. The history and impact of "Wesleyan Bands" and partner accountability. Lessons in pastoral care from the latest Knives Out movie.