How Life Shapes Us

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.

 From the wrestling ring to the open house, Chris Jacobson learned what confidence, grit, and pursuing an unconventional dream really takes — injuries and all. 

A former pro wrestler, ex-teacher, and now successful Winona realtor, Chris shares how pro wrestling taught him resilience, shaped his confidence, and prepared him for the highs and lows of the housing market. 

Tune in to hear:

• How a change in career path doesn't mean a loss in time and talent.
• Practical tips Chris uses with buyers and sellers in today’s market (what to watch for, mistakes to avoid).
• The effort and grit it really takes to step into the ring 

Whether you love unconventional career paths or you’re house hunting this year, Chris’s story is an inspiring reminder that grit + willingness to try new things can create unexpected success.

Tom Sawyer, a renowned retired football coach from Winona State University, shares insights he's learned from 25 years as head coach, including how to build a strong team, the value of creating a goal-oriented culture, and strategies to handle both success and failure. Tom emphasizes the importance of giving team members ownership, fostering trust, and maintaining high standards. He also touches on how those principles can apply to other areas of life and work. Tom’s dedication to nurturing leadership and accountability in his team shines through, offering valuable advice for building successful teams both on and off the field.

Emily Miller opens up about her journey as a young transgender woman and how transitioning during high school in a rural community shaped her path. Facing both support and resistance from those around her, Emily reflects on what she’s learned about relationships, societal expectations, and the emotional shifts that came with her transition. Her story is a candid exploration of resilience, self-acceptance, and the courage it takes to live authentically.

In this unique episode, host Tesla Mitchell is interviewed by former guest Ron Strege as she shares her own life experiences and profound lessons. Tesla talks about her father's tragic murder, the impact it had on her, and how it fueled her desire to document life. Also touching on her stepfather's fireworks accident and her own spiritual reflections, Tesla emphasizes the importance of capturing stories before they're lost and cherishing the moments that make us who we are.

Paul Stern talks about his experience studying in Buddhist Temples, his viewpoints on the human existence, and his belief that every moment can be sacred. Paul, a Buddhist priest and and an associate director at Winona State University, shares what he does when anger and other emotions pop up -- and the answer just might surprise you! 

Full of deep wisdom and humanity, Paul talks about the importance of community and how we show up in the spaces we live within. 

In this episode, Jeff Reinardy shares how he went from being the scrawny kid in school to a powerlifter and fitness fanatic. Now the Director of Fitness and Wellness at Winona State University, Jeff shares the lessons he's learned about injuries, comparing ourselves to others, and the power of small victories. 

Hear from Rebeccah Rudnik, who shares how she survived a life-changing car accident that ultimately led her to changing career paths from marketing to becoming a firefighter. From overcoming a severe spinal injury and depression to finding her purpose in firefighting, her story emphasizes the power of the human spirit, resilience, and the importance of pursuing one's dreams regardless of age or circumstances.