The Grown-Up Table: Conversations On Character And Life

How has music changed the way people experience worship? Grant Swartzwelder sits down with Justin Brooks, Director of Contemporary Music at Saint Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church, to explore the evolution of contemporary Christian music and its place alongside traditional worship. From hymns and rock bands to songwriting, authenticity, and even the growing influence of AI, they unpack how music can connect generations, stir emotion, and create a deeper worship experience.

What does “value” mean and why can two people walk away from the exact same experience feeling completely differently about what they received?

Grant sits down with marketing veteran Eric Bierbrier to identify the relationship between value, values, and expectations. From airlines and hotels to restaurants, car dealerships, dentists, and even a cup of coffee, they explore how price, convenience, customer service, and the “hassle factor” shape our perception of whether something is truly worth it.

The conversation also covers what happens when businesses lose sight of the customer. Grant and Eric consider how upselling, changing expectations, customer loyalty, and why seemingly small details can make the difference between a one-time transaction and a customer for life.

It’s a practical conversation about recognizing what you value, understanding what others value, and why delivering a great experience often comes down to getting the little things right.

What does it take to face unimaginable trauma and still find hope? Chris and Rainey Webb share their journey from the 2016 Dallas sniper attack to founding Righteous Oaks Retreat, a lifeline for first responders battling mental health stigma and trauma. Tune in to discover how resilience, faith, and community can transform pain into healing.

What happens when the path to parenthood isn’t straightforward? Haylee Woodcock shares her candid journey through infertility, IVF, and embryo adoption, revealing the emotional and financial challenges couples face. Tune in to hear how honest communication and tough decisions shaped her family’s story—and why openness can be the greatest gift to a child.

Why are we so quick to anger, and how can we break the cycle of conflict? Beth Reeder Johnson, a licensed psychiatric social worker with over 20 years of experience, shares practical tools for managing negativity and building relationship wellness skills in today’s tech-driven world. Tune in to discover how curiosity, reflective listening, and self-awareness can transform your toughest conversations into opportunities for connection.

Philanthropy is evolving amid rising social needs and shrinking donor pools—how will charities adapt? Michael Meadows, a seasoned nonprofit leader, shares insights on the shifting landscape of giving, volunteerism, and the future of tax-exempt organizations. Tune in to understand what it takes for philanthropy to meet today’s challenges and sustain its vital role in society.

Human trafficking isn’t just a distant problem—it’s happening in our own communities, often hidden in plain sight. Matt Osborne, a former CIA and State Department operative turned anti-trafficking advocate, reveals how exploitation thrives locally and why addressing the demand side, especially among men, is crucial to breaking the cycle. Tune in to understand the realities behind the headlines and discover how education and accountability can make a real difference.

Is organized religion truly losing its relevance, or is it struggling to communicate its message in a way that connects in today’s world? The Rev. Dr. Christopher D. Girata, Rector of Saint Michael and All Angels Church, unpacks the evolving landscape of faith, from shifting church attendance to generational perspectives on belief and belonging. He explores the tension between preserving sacred tradition and adapting to a culture that often meets faith with skepticism.

Girata challenges the idea that faith is fading, suggesting instead that it may need a new language—one rooted in authenticity, humility, and thoughtful leadership. Tune in for a compelling look at how faith communities can rediscover their voice, lean into mystery, and find meaningful ways to resonate in a rapidly changing world.

What if sleeping apart could actually bring you closer? Katrina Watland, founder of TrueNorth, joins Grant Swartzwelder to unpack the surprising benefits of a “sleep divorce” and how separate bedrooms might actually protect both your rest and your relationship.

Sleep plays a bigger role than we think—not just in our health, but in how we show up for each other. In this episode, Katrina helps demystify the idea of couples choosing to sleep separately, sharing how it can improve sleep quality, reduce tension, and ultimately strengthen intimacy rather than diminish it.

Tune in to hear why prioritizing rest could be the unexpected key to a deeper connection and a healthier partnership.

Liliana Zani, Senior Social Emotional Learning Analyst at WGU, joins us for a conversation that gets to the heart of what empathy really means—and why it’s more important than ever. From personal relationships to leadership, Liliana shares how empathy is something we’re born with, yet often learn to suppress over time.

Drawing on her background in social-emotional learning, she breaks down how we can rebuild that connection in a world that feels increasingly divided. 

If you’ve ever wondered how to better understand others (and yourself), this one’s worth a listen.