Welcome to our first episode of 2026! In this deeply honest conversation, The Daring Grace Podcast host Brittany Bethel sits down with Cross Connection Director of Engagement Juanfer Rodriguez to revisit the heart of Daring Grace— where it came from, why it matters, and how it continues to stretch and shape both our ministry and our faith.

Together, they explore:

* What inspired the launch of the Daring Grace Podcast

* How faith, inclusion, and leadership intersect in real and costly ways* Why grace is often uncomfortable — and why it’s worth it

* How the church and our communities can learn to hold difficult conversations with humility, courage, and love

* What it means to follow Jesus in a divided world

This episode is a reflection on identity, belonging, accountability, and the kind of love that risks everything to make space for others. Whether you’re deeply connected to Cross Connection or discovering us for the first time, we invite you into this evolving conversation.

In this episode of The Daring Grace Podcast, host Brittany Bethel sits down with Brittany Ingold, a Cross Connection alum who has lived out the ministry’s mission long after her summers on staff. Together, they reflect on what it means to build legacy through care and belonging—the kind of legacy that doesn’t end when the summer does.

From stories of bubbles and kindness to conversations about inclusion, faith, and staying connected, this episode captures how alumni continue to embody Daring Grace: a grace that moves, acts, and dares to love boldly.

Whether you’ve served with Cross Connection, attended as a camper, or simply believe in the power of community, Legacy in Real Time is a reminder that our stories—and our impact—are still being written.

In this episode of Daring Grace, host Brittany Bethel sits down with two summer staff members from different points on their Cross Connection journey. Anna, a seasoned third-year, and Riley, a first-year staffer, share their honest reflections after wrapping up their very first week of camp this summer.

Together we talk about:

• Highlights and surprises: The moments that made them laugh, think, or feel God’s presence in unexpected ways.

• Growth in action: How Anna’s experience shaped her leadership this year, and how Riley’s first week challenged and encouraged her.

• The heartbeat of camp: Building relationships, serving communities, and creating spaces where everyone belongs.

Whether you’ve been following Cross Connection’s story for decades or are just discovering the joy of camp ministry, this conversation captures the energy, faith, and life-changing connections that happen when people show up ready to serve.

Join host Brittany Bethel in a new episode of Daring Grace as she welcomes two 2025 summer staff members, Greta and Allie. This week, we sit down with two summer staff members—we hear their training experience and the anticipation for their first week of camp.

We explore:

• Behind-the-scenes preparation: What did training look like? Which practices or insights are they carrying into their roles?

• Camp day excitement: What are they most looking forward to—whether it’s leading activities, connecting with campers, or experiencing the camaraderie of a summer team?

• Personal hopes & reflections: What does serving at camp mean to them personally? How does their role tie into Cross Connection’s mission of community, and seeing abundance in overlooked places?

In this episode of Daring Grace, the full-time Cross Connection staff sits down to reflect on the book Having Nothing, Possessing Everything by Michael Mather and how its message is shaping the heart of our summer programming. We talk about what it means to see abundance in overlooked places, how Asset-Based Community Development informs our mission, and how the book’s themes are challenging and inspiring us as leaders. Join us for a conversation about shifting narratives, embracing unexpected grace, and preparing for a summer that dares to see God’s goodness in every neighbor and every moment.

In this episode of Daring Grace, we dive into the inspiring journey of the Parkview Community Center. I sit down with Makena, Ratavis, and Nina to explore how this vision became a reality—from its early beginnings to the challenges overcome along the way. We discuss the heart behind Parkview, the lives already being impacted, and our hopes for the future as we create a space for connection, support, and transformation. Join us for a powerful conversation about building community, fostering belonging, and dreaming big for what’s next.

Join Grace Reyes, Cross Connection's Honduras Administrator, as she shares the story of Cross Connection's annual weekend in Copán, Honduras. Sponsored by Light of Christ UMC, this cherished tradition is filled with Christmas crafts, games, shared meals, and the joy of giving gifts. Since 2016, Cross Connection has partnered with the vibrant Copán community, fostering connection, celebration, and love. Tune in to hear how this weekend brings the holiday spirit to life and deepens the bond between cultures and hearts.

In this episode of Daring Grace, Tino and Carter share the powerful ministry work happening in Kansas City through their church and nonprofit. They discuss the community’s needs for reconciliation and development and explore how Cross Connection’s presence will deepen partnerships, amplify local voices, and create lasting impact for the churches that attend.

In this episode of Daring Grace, we sit down with Laura and Jinnia to hear their personal stories in the wake of Hurricane Helene. They share how the storm affected their lives and the Haywood Street community, providing an inside look at the challenges and resilience that have emerged.

We explore the immediate and long-term impacts of the hurricane, discuss how to respond with generosity and care, and highlight practical ways to support recovery efforts. Laura and Jinnia also open up about their personal journeys, offering insight into how they’re navigating this season and their plans for moving forward with faith and hope.

This episode is a call to action for anyone moved by stories of courage and community. Tune in to learn how you can make a difference in the recovery and rebuilding efforts after Hurricane Helene.

To give to the Haywood Street Community Development click here.

In this Sharing episode of the Daring Grace Podcast, Brittany sits down with three staff members from Cross Connection's coastal location, each at different stages of their journey. We meet Marisa, who has been with CCC for four years, starting as a camper and now leading as a Project Director. Next, Brittany speaks with Emilee, who is a second-year staff member who serves in the same location as last summer. Lastly, we hear from Hannah, a new staff member who brings fresh enthusiasm and perspective after just one season on staff. Together, they discuss their personal growth, the impact of CCC on their lives, and their shared passion for fostering a welcoming and inclusive camp environment.