There’s a sacred space here in the Texas Hill Country. It’s easy to miss — just a simple building about fifty yards from the Guadalupe River. But inside, a few quiet rooms are holding things that mean everything to someone.

Since the July 4 flood that took so many lives, thousands of personal belongings have been recovered from the river — photographs, keepsakes, pieces of everyday life. Each one tells a story. Each one belonged to someone who mattered.

In today’s episode, you’ll meet the remarkable woman who’s taken on the heavy but sacred responsibility of caring for these items — gently collecting them, restoring them, and holding them safe until they can hopefully find their way home.

It’s sacred work. And it’s heavy work. Even now, seven months later, many of these belongings remain unclaimed — family photos, a cherished set of china, and a small, tender collection of children’s items from Camp Mystic.

Whether it’s Galentine’s or Valentine’s, today’s episode is about discovering love and purpose in the most unexpected places—sometimes right when you least expect it. Our guests are New York Times bestselling authors of the Godwinks books, SQuire Rushnell and Louise DuArt. From a seemingly ordinary moment in the grocery store to Jelly Roll’s recent declaration of a “Godwink” at a live performance, life’s so-called coincidences often turn out to be something far more meaningful than we ever imagined. And maybe those moments aren’t coincidences at all—maybe they’re gentle reminders that God is close and actively working in our lives. Romans 8:28

Sometimes the best stories start in the kitchen!

Today’s guest is a beautiful family with a whopper of a story. Lila Smethurst’s path to the Food Network’s Kids’ Baking Championship started not just with a love for baking, but out of necessity. When Lila was only seven years old, her mom was diagnosed with breast cancer. Because her mother’s treatment was so intense, she couldn’t be in the kitchen—so Lila had to learn to cook.

That early spark grew into a passion, and that passion eventually led her to a national stage—bright lights, big bakes, and the courage to believe she belonged there. Lila’s story is a reminder that even in life’s most challenging moments, something beautiful can begin to rise.

An added bonus, Lila didn’t stop with her Food Network win. She’s giving back in other ways - and right now, she needs your help. For more info: https://pages.lls.org/svoy/stx/svoysa26/lsmethurst
photographs courtesy of Food Network

I like to think of faith as a muscle, the more you use it, the stronger it gets! If you’re looking to stretch your faith a bit and see God with fresh, soulful eyes, you’ll really enjoy learning about breath prayers with author Margaret Feinberg. Her book, The God You Need to Know, took me on such a thoughtful journey about the Holy Spirit, especially when it comes to navigating stressful seasons of life. Margaret has a beautiful way of diving into Scripture that sparks curiosity and wonder, and she gently invites you to experience Him as personal, present, and faithful. It’s one of those conversations that just might stick with you awhile. I am a big fan of breath prayers!

Let’s face it—everybody loves San Antonio. Wherever I travel, I hear it.

In today’s episode, candid conversation with one of the city’s true media and sports icons—and a friend who has meant a great deal to me for many years. His sportscast and television show consistently lead the ratings, but what truly keeps viewers tuning in night after night is his big heart.

It’s on full display when he shares the impact a high school teacher has had on his life. Plus, he credits legendary Dallas Cowboy’s coach Tom Landry for his belief in Christ, reflects on the hypocrisy he says can sometimes follow religion, and explains how growing up as a pastor’s kid influences the way he approaches his work—and his calling.

If you love good food, do yourself a favor and get very—very—familiar with Houston’s dining scene. Every year, the Houston Chronicle releases its highly anticipated Top 100 Restaurants list, sparking lively conversation, friendly debate, and yes, a few strong opinions.

Today, we’re sitting down with Bao Ong, restaurant critic for the Houston Chronicle and the person who leads the team tasked with the very hard work of finding the best restaurants in the city. Texas is filled with incredible food destinations—San Antonio, Austin, Dallas, even Marfa—but Houston consistently sets the bar high and delivers.

We’ll talk about what it takes to make the list, which spots truly stand out, and how those coveted rankings are earned. A road trip may be in your future.

So you’re thinking about fasting.
Before you panic—or start counting hours—take a breath. This isn’t about extremes or earning points. Annette Reeder is here to walk us through what fasting actually is, what it isn’t, and why stepping back from food can sometimes move us forward in clarity, purpose, and peace.

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New beginnings don’t always arrive neatly on January 1st. Sometimes they begin the moment we dare to believe God could use someone like us.
In this episode of Goodtaste for the Soul, Tanji Patton sits down with Ed Newton, pastor of one of the largest megachurches in Texas, CBC, and author of the powerful new book Why Not You. Ed’s story is anything but typical—not someone you’d expect to lead a mega church.

In Why Not You, Ed flips the script on insecurity, self-doubt, and the lies that keep so many of us stuck on the sidelines. This honest, hope-filled conversation explores calling, obedience, imposter syndrome, and what can happen when we stop disqualifying ourselves and start trusting God with the next step.

If you’ve ever wondered whether you’re truly called, qualified, or enough—this episode is for you.