In this episode of Sacred Sitdowns, Danny and Kyle wrap up season four's core value series with Michelle Latty, associate pastor at the Promise Road campus, to talk about our core value of engagement. They explore what it looks like when faith moves beyond words into action, from mission trips that turned into service learning trips, to the mentors who first showed them what a lived-out faith looks like. Michelle shares stories from Hurricane Helene relief work, the barriers that keep people from getting involved, and why the church is at its best when it is willing to fail.

In this episode of Sacred Sitdowns, Danny and Kyle close out season four's core value series with Reverend Sarah Renfro to talk about our core value of community. They explore what it means to be a church of compassion and care, walking with one another through every season of life, and share stories of the elders and mentors who first shaped their own sense of belonging at Geist. Sarah and Danny talk about the tension between wanting community's benefits without its demands, why prayer letters and handwritten notes still carry so much power, and what it looks like to hold onto authentic community in a world of screens and isolation. Tune in for a heartfelt conversation on presence, prayer, and what it means to give the ball away.

In this episode of Sacred Sitdowns, Danny and Kyle welcome Ryan Hazen, lead pastor of the Mud Creek campus, to talk about our core value of faithful curiosity. They explore what it means to trade certainty for curiosity, from Mother Teresa's invitation to come and see, to the childhood questions about baptism and communion that never really stopped mattering as they grew older. Ryan and Kyle talk honestly about the questions they are still wrestling with themselves, why pastors who claim to have all the answers should raise a red flag, and how giving people permission to sit in mystery might be one of the church's best gifts. Tune in for a conversation on why not knowing is not a weakness of faith, but often the beginning of it.

In this episode of Sacred Sitdowns, Danny and Kyle open season four by sitting down with Samantha Copeland, pastor of youth and young adults, to talk about our core value of inclusivity. They explore how the call to welcome every person as a bearer of God's image traces back to Genesis rather than a modern agenda, and share the mentors and moments that first showed each of them what real belonging feels like. Sam and Danny get honest about the discomfort that real inclusivity requires, the temptation to make ourselves the standard instead of Christ, and why being told your church will accept anyone is the best review you could ask for. Tune in for a candid conversation on what it costs, and what it gives back, to be a truly welcoming church.

In this episode of Sacred Sitdowns, Danny and Kyle welcome Ted Baker to explore faith, identity, and the long road back from brokenness. Ted shares his journey growing up as the son of two ministers in Anderson, Indiana, and how his big, magnetic personality became both a gift and a defense mechanism. They discuss what it has meant to be an African American man in a predominantly white church, why he chose Geist after walking away from a congregation that would not fully welcome his LGBTQ child, and the season of depression and suicidal thoughts that brought him to his knees and, ultimately, closer to God. Ted opens up about the friend, the faith, and even a little Joel Osteen that helped him claw his way back, and what it looks like now to hold onto grace while still calling himself a broken, hot mess. Tune in for an honest and moving conversation on shame, healing, and finding belonging in the body of Christ.

In this episode of Sacred Sitdowns, Danny and Kyle welcome Megan Phillippe to explore the intersections of architecture, social justice, and public art. Megan shares their journey from growing up in a family of educators to pursuing a PhD in architecture, focusing on urban design and equity. They discuss the impact of historical events in Charlottesville on Megan’s work, the significance of public monuments, and how art can serve as a tool for community healing and engagement. Tune in for a thought-provoking conversation on the power of design, education, and storytelling in shaping more just and inclusive spaces

In this episode of Sacred Sitdowns, Danny and Kyle welcome Sarah Parks-Reese, a dedicated member of Geist Christian Church and assistant director of kindergarten readiness for the Indiana Department of Education. A lifelong advocate for education and community, Sarah shares her journey of faith; the challenges and joys of serving on the Hamilton Southeastern school board; and her passion for ensuring all students feel safe, included, and supported. She also discusses her experience as a band mom, the importance of mental health resources in schools, and how faith has shaped her commitment to education.

Danny and Kyle are kicking off this season with Michelle Latty. She is a lifelong Disciple whose journey of faith began at First Christian Church in Kokomo. Now serving as Minister of Discipleship and Engagement at Geist Christian Church, Michelle is passionate about helping others find their place in faith. Recently commissioned as a minister, she brings wisdom, warmth, and a deep love for community.

Tune in as we dive into her story—faith, family, and a backyard paradise. 

Today, Danny and Kyle sit down with Max Michael. Born and raised in Pendleton, Max embraced a unique blend of interests during high school that have continued throughout his life.  Married to Dana, he spent a large portion of his life working for the Indiana Department of Environmental Management, where he managed the statewide emergency spill response program for two decades. Now retired, he balances part-time roles at Roxley Games in Calgary and Saltire Games on Pendleton Pike. A dedicated history buff, Max loves participating in reenactments and having served as an Elder. His pride lies in his two daughters, Alyson and Kinsey, who embody bravery and brilliance.

Casey Osterkamp is currently serving as the vice president of operations at Herron Classical Schools. This intentionally diverse, tuition-free, college prep charter school network serves 1,900 scholars in three schools in downtown Indianapolis. She and her family moved to Indianapolis earlier this year from Missouri where she was the director of the Division of Personnel for the State of Missouri. Casey started her professional career as a surface warfare officer in the U.S. Navy and has worked in management roles for the Chicago Public Schools and IBM. Casey earned her Bachelor of Science in Political Science and Communication from Northwestern University, her Master of Public Policy from Harvard University’s John F. Kennedy School of Government, and her Master of Education Policy and Leadership from the University of Missouri. Casey, her husband Beau, and five-year-old son Jesse live in Indianapolis.