What does a summer camp for cows, a Catholic Worker house, and a well-timed dad joke teach us about weaving ourselves into our community?

In this episode of How Life Shapes Us, Dan Wilson reflects on the unexpected paths that led him from college plans for medical school to a life rooted in community service. His journey includes running a summer camp for cows, living and working at Bethany House, and advocating for greater voter turnout in southeastern Minnesota.

Through relationships formed in shared spaces, Dan learned the power of presence, dignity, and humor in building connection. He also shares his work with Minnesota Voice, his belief in civic engagement across differences, and what inspired him to run for State House.

This episode offers a thoughtful look at empathy, friendship, and how living alongside others can quietly change who we become.

For local business-owner Samijo McClatchey, navigating the pandemic as a gym owner (in an industry built on close human connection) forced her to rethink business, identity, and purpose.

In this episode of How Life Shapes Us, host Tesla Mitchell talks with Samijo about how she got through some of the big life moments -- like shutting down her gym -- that shaped her into the forward-thinking, grounded, and driven person she is today.

Samijo opens up about the lasting impact of abusive relationships, her journey through eating disorders, and the mental, emotional, and spiritual healing that followed. The conversation also explores Samijo’s transition into homeschooling and becoming a daycare provider, highlighting her continued commitment to nurturing, mentoring, and supporting others -- whether they're in the gym or in her daycare.

Tune in to hear tips on:

• Recognizing eating disorder behaviors
• Understanding the path of healing
• The power of authentic human connection in personal growth

This episode offers an honest, compassionate look at what it means to heal — and to keep showing up for others while doing so.

Told he might never run — and later that he'd die in surgery — Pastor Warren Green refused to surrender to fear and instead chose to live with purpose.

Pastor Green shares his story of survival, faith, and resilience in facing mortality head-on, and how he used life's "detours" as opportunities to grow his understanding of purpose and service.

Talking about his invitation to Africa, Pastor Green shares how building a church and restaurant in Tanzania and Kenya has impacted local economies, has become a center for connection, and provided hope for their communities.

If you’re navigating hardship, searching for meaning, or curious about how one person’s “yes” can change entire communities, this episode offers deep wisdom and inspiration.