Take A Leap Hosts interview Christian musician Kaégan about faith, songwriting, and purpose. Kaégan, raised by worship-pastor parents, says his love for God and music grew in church and that as a quiet pastor’s kid he began using songwriting to help others feel included and consider Jesus. He explains his song “Water” reflects giving his life to the Lord at six and learning that life changes suddenly while God’s promises remain, shaped by losses like his grandfather in 2018. He describes a lyrics-first creative process, finishing songs when no edits remain, and influences from Steven Curtis Chapman, for KING & COUNTRY, U2, The 1975, and Coldplay. He discusses co-writing, Bible reading, community, social-media detox, and trusting God, previews “Stronger,” and advises seekers to trust God with their lives.

On Take a Leap, hosts Ocean Marshall and Neftali Rodriguez interview Mariah Zavala (Pascua Yaqui; also Oaxacan and Puerto Rican), a Flagstaff-based community advocate, ultra runner, and business development professional at Mountain Mojo Group. She shares how ultra running (beyond a marathon) became prayer and advocacy, including racing in traditional clothing with a red handprint to raise awareness for murdered and missing Indigenous people. She discusses endurance as surrender, flexibility, and self-care; chairing Flagstaff’s Indigenous Commission; serving on Girls on the Run Northern Arizona; and founding the Anya Collective/Yaqui Tribe Rafting Experience with Grand Canyon Youth and SPL Sports Inc., rafting 10 youth (ages 11–14) to build leadership and self-worth. She emphasizes authenticity, mentors, feedback, and “be the community you wish existed."

In this Take Leap podcast episode, Neftali Rodriguez interviews Rachel Lief, a senior at NYU and future medical student, about her journey with faith and interfaith work. Rachel discusses her Jewish faith's impact on her values and actions, particularly in social justice and health equity. She reflects on her evolving religious identity, her involvement in interfaith initiatives, and her experiences with religious diversity at NYU. Rachel shares insights on the importance of interfaith collaboration in addressing global issues and offers advice for young people exploring their faith.

In this episode of 'Take a Leap', hosts Neftali Rodriguez and Ocean Marshall converse with Sabah Ahmedi, a British Muslim imam, about balancing faith and modern life. Ahmedi shares insights on his spiritual journey, the meaning of 'Take a Leap', dealing with misconceptions about Islam, and the importance of interfaith dialogue. He also discusses the influence of prayer, gratitude, and how Islam aligns with broader human values like justice and peace.

In this video, Ocean interviews Jaleesa about her ideal place to live and her faith journey. Jaleesa shares her deep-rooted belief that faith is an action and responsibility, and how it has influenced her leadership, particularly in founding the Raising a Village Foundation. The nonprofit supports underserved children and families in Washington, DC. Jaleesa discusses the impact of faith on young people's resilience and leadership and details how her spiritual perspective shapes her mentoring approach. She emphasizes the importance of community and offers advice on staying grounded in values and purpose.

In this episode of 'Take a Leap,' hosts Neftali and Ocean, interview Mirabelle Morah, a motion designer and founder of Grohwie. They discuss Mirabelle's journey in using her faith and creativity to make a social impact. Mirabelle shares her background, experiences, and the role of faith in her career. She emphasizes the importance of patience, community, and staying grounded in her beliefs while working in multicultural spaces. Maribel advises young people to pursue big dreams with determination and faith, sharing personal stories of how her faith guided her big decisions and creative initiatives.

Sadie Dahl, recently on The Voice, joins us to talk about how prayer was a huge part of her experience on the NBC singing reality competition television series. Plus, what it's like to work with Snoop Dog.

Replay of Ocean and Arriza discussing Arizza's work as a global peace advocate and co-founder of Kris for Peace, a nonprofit promoting peace in conflict-affected areas of the Philippines. Kris for Peace has generated significant impact through libraries, education support, and youth programs. Arizza shares her personal story of growing up in a mixed-faith household, challenges faced, and the importance of interfaith dialogue and action. She emphasizes the role of education, youth empowerment, and faith in fostering peace and social cohesion. Arizza also discusses overcoming skepticism, the power of community, and the need for active listening and purpose.

In this episode of the Take Leap podcast, hosts Neftali Rodriguez and Ocean Marshall interview Ashley Breinholt, a student studying neuroscience and Chinese at Brigham Young University. Ashley recently won second place in the global finals of the Chinese Bridge competition, celebrating Chinese language and culture. She shares her experiences, discussing her favorite Chinese foods, the impact of faith and prayer on her confidence, and the importance of understanding different cultures. Ashley emphasizes the value of humility, perseverance, and seeking help to succeed. She encourages listeners to take opportunities to learn and grow, linking her linguistic skills and international experiences to her future career and personal goals.

In this episode of the Take Leap podcast, hosts Neftali Rodriguez and Ocean Marshall interview Ashley Breinholt, a student studying neuroscience and Chinese at Brigham Young University. Ashley recently won second place in the global finals of the Chinese Bridge competition, celebrating Chinese language and culture. She shares her experiences, discussing her favorite Chinese foods, the impact of faith and prayer on her confidence, and the importance of understanding different cultures. Ashley emphasizes the value of humility, perseverance, and seeking help to succeed. She encourages listeners to take opportunities to learn and grow, linking her linguistic skills and international experiences to her future career and personal goals.