What happens when a chance encounter becomes a story only God could write? In this episode of Seek Go Create, Tim Winders sits down with Tamara and Joseph Battaglia to unpack the serendipitous moments, leaps of faith, and unexpected Uber cancellations that orchestrated their divine connection. Together, they reveal how their relationship—and Tamara’s new book, Written in Heaven—grew out of open hearts, creativity, and trust in God’s plan. If you’ve ever wondered how purpose, faith, and creativity can completely change the course of your life, this is the episode you won’t want to miss!

"You never get tired of seeing God work in the right way in someone's life. If you keep the awe in that, then that spreads out into the relationship." - Joseph and Tamara Battaglia

Access all show and episode resources HERE

About Our Guest:

Joseph Battaglia is an accomplished author, broadcaster, and media executive. He is the president of Renaissance Communications and executive producer of "Keep the Faith," one of the nation’s largest faith-based radio programs. With decades of experience, Joseph has served on the board of the Gospel Music Association for 20 years and has played a significant role in the Christian music and film industry. His books, including "The Politically Incorrect Jesus" and "Make America Good Again," have inspired believers to engage faith with conviction and compassion.

Tamara Hester Battaglia is an author, flight attendant, and co-creator of "Written in Heaven," a 40-day devotional featuring the stories of renowned women in Christian ministry, such as Roma Downey, Priscilla Shirer, and Karen Kingsbury. Tamara brings personal insight and encouragement through her writing and faith journey, having navigated seasons of challenge and transformation with resilience and grace. Together, Joseph and Tamara share a powerful message on faith, purpose, and the divine ways God writes individual stories.

Reasons to Listen:

1. Discover How Divine Timing Works: Hear the remarkable story of how Joseph and Tamara Battaglia’s chance encounter at a private Nashville event led to a life-changing connection—full of unexpected twists, Holy Spirit moments, and faith-filled decisions.
2. Insider Glimpse Into Faith-Based Creativity: Learn why Franklin, Tennessee has become a hub for Christian artists, filmmakers, and authors—and get insights into the collaborative process behind Tamara’s 40-day devotional, "Written in Heaven," featuring multiple powerhouse voices.
3. Real Talk About Mature Relationships & Purpose: Explore honest conversations about blending families, finding love later in life, overcoming loss, and stepping into new callings together—including behind-the-scenes stories on writing, publishing, and growing in faith and courage.

Episode Resources & Action Steps:

Resources Mentioned:

1. Written in Heaven – A 40-day devotional book co-created by Tamara Hester Battaglia featuring stories from voices like Roma Downey, Priscilla Shirer, and Karen Kingsbury. Available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Christianbook.com, and other major retailers.
2. Keep the Faith Radio Program – One of the nation’s largest faith-based radio programs, executive produced by Joseph Battaglia.
3. NRB (National Religious Broadcasters) Convention – A major annual event for faith-based media professionals, mentioned as a place for industry connection and ministry growth.

Action Steps for Listeners:

1. Reflect on and Share Your Story: Take time to consider moments in your life that feel “written in heaven,” and consider journaling or sharing your experiences with friends or family. Recognize where faith and divine intervention may have shown up in your journey.
2. Connect and Build Community: If you’re interested in faith-based media or creative work, look up events like the NRB Convention for opportunities to connect with others in the industry or ministry.
3. Commit to Personal Growth and Prayer: As discussed in the episode, Tamara found comfort and clarity through prayer and reflecting on Psalm 139:13. Use daily devotionals or prayer as a tool for personal and spiritual growth, especially during seasons of transition or decision-making.

Key Lessons:

1. Divine Interventions Can Change Your Life: Joseph and Tamara’s story is filled with “God-winks” and unexpected Holy Spirit moments that turned ordinary encounters—a misdirected ticket purchase, a canceled Uber, a surprise flight assignment—into life-altering events. Staying open to divine guidance can lead you somewhere you never planned to go.
2. Healing Before Partnership is Essential: Both Joseph and Tamara emphasized the importance of healing from past relationships before entering a new one. Taking time for personal growth and restoration allowed them to build their marriage on a healthy, faith-filled foundation.
3. Building Relationships Takes Courage and Initiative: Their journey shows that sometimes you need to step out of your comfort zone (or even over someone’s shoulder to cancel an Uber!) to pursue a connection. Taking bold or creative action, especially when you feel divinely nudged, can open doors to meaningful relationships.
4. Shared Faith Creates Deeper Purpose: Their marriage and collaboration are built on shared faith, mutual respect, and a focus on how God is writing their story. Viewing life through the lens of purpose and calling brings depth and joy to both personal and professional partnerships.
5. Supporting Each Other’s Growth is Powerful: Joseph and Tamara’s teamwork on the book "Written in Heaven" highlights the power of encouragement and partnership. When you champion one another’s gifts and dreams, you multiply your impact and experience God’s best in your collaborative efforts.

Episode Highlights:

00:00 A Divine Encounter: Canceling the Uber

00:32 Meet Tamara and Joe Battaglia

01:58 The Move to Franklin, Tennessee

04:57 A Chance Meeting at the Ryman Auditorium

11:42 The Uber Incident: A Holy Spirit Moment

13:43 God's Plan Unfolds: From Newark to Nashville

22:42 A Providential Journey: From LA to the Ark

28:01 Navigating Early Relationship Stages

29:18 COVID-19 and Relationship Growth

33:20 Meeting Family and Friends

36:31 Proposal and Engagement

38:41 Challenges and Reflections on Marriage

42:31 Writing and Collaborating on 'Written in Heaven'

54:42 Future Projects and Final Thoughts

Resources for Leaders from Tim Winders & SGC:

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