Ted shares a meeting with some friends at a local coffee shop.

There was lots of friendly banter about chores, projects, and honey-do-lists. Terry bragged how he has none of these obligations. Ted explains why this is the case.

And a donut that mysteriously disappeared!

And one of the guys revealed how he and his granddaughter were kicked out of the pool. That got everyone's attention!

An upcoming kayak trip was discussed and concerns were raised about the successful return of one particular person.

And a controversy emerged about what is and isn't a truck.

No world problems were solved. No major issues were even discussed. And while there was no Iron Sharpening Iron, relationships were deepened through this typical hour at the coffee shop.

One unexpected phone call interrupted Ted's morning coffee with the guys and launched him into a household mystery that would soon become known as "The Case of the Exploding Ink Pen."

Armed with only a damaged four-color Bic pen and a silent point toward the laundry room, he slowly pieced together the evidence surrounding a washing machine, a favorite notebook, and a dryer covered in colorful ink.

Fortunately, the damage wasn't nearly as bad as first feared, but the story turned into a humorous reminder that even our everyday mishaps can become some of life's best memories—especially if they leave us with a good story to tell.

What would it take for you to leave everything familiar and move halfway around the world?

In this episode, I sit down with Daniel, a young missionary preparing to make Cambodia his home through Youth With A Mission (YWAM).

We talk about faith, sacrifice, raising support, learning a new culture, and what it means to answer God's call, even when the future is uncertain.

Along the way, we also explore the quiet sacrifices made by parents Bruce and Rebecca as they encourage their son to follow God's leading.

Whether you're interested in missions, curious about Cambodia, or simply looking for an encouraging conversation about faith and purpose, I think you'll enjoy this thoughtful and inspiring interview.

Two years ago, I pushed the record button on a podcast I knew almost nothing about.

Today, after more than 175 episodes, I look back at the unexpected journey—from tropical theme music, Hawaiian shirts, bargain microphones, and occasional xylophone and kazoo performances to wolves, North Idaho stories, faithful sponsors, unforgettable guests, and a wonderful community of listeners.

Along the way there have been plenty of laughs, mistakes, sound effects, one missing microphone, and countless blessings.

Pour yourself a cup of coffee—or perhaps some hot chocolate—and join me as we celebrate two years together here in Almost Paradise in North Idaho.

Last week's Turner Fire reminded many of us how quickly life can change. While the flames never reached our home, they did leave behind an important question: If you had only ten minutes to evacuate, what would you take?

As we talked with friends and neighbors who faced that very decision, we discovered their choices revealed far more than what they owned—they revealed what they valued.

This Morning Brew isn't really about wildfires. It's about memories, priorities, preparedness, and the treasures that no insurance policy can ever replace. Before the next emergency comes knocking, perhaps it's worth asking yourself that same simple question.

Some dogs and cats arrive at Second Chance Animal Shelter because they've been lost. Others have been abandoned, surrendered, or simply run out of options. But thanks to the caring volunteers who refuse to give up on them, many will soon find the loving forever homes they deserve.

In this episode of Almost Paradise in North Idaho, I sit down with Stephanie and Jennifer, members of the Second Chance Animal Shelter Board of Directors, to talk about the joy, heartbreak, and hope that come with caring for some of our community's most vulnerable animals. They share unforgettable rescue stories, explain what it means to operate a no-kill shelter, discuss the difficult decisions that occasionally must be made, and describe the incredible difference volunteers make every single day.

Whether you're an animal lover, looking for a meaningful way to serve your community, or simply enjoy hearing stories of compassion and hope, I think you'll come away inspired. Sometimes changing a life begins with something as simple as an open heart...and a helping hand.

Last week, the Turner Fire reminded us just how quickly life can change.

What began as a calm summer evening turned into days of uncertainty as powerful winds drove a wildfire toward our home and community.

We packed evacuation bags, moved livestock, watched helicopters battle the flames, and waited for word that might force us to leave everything behind.

Along the way, neighbors opened their homes, volunteers stepped forward, firefighters worked tirelessly, and an entire community prayed.

This isn't just a story about fire. It's a story about faith, preparedness, gratitude, and the remarkable strength that emerges when people come together in difficult times.

Every community has people who quietly step forward and decide to build something that will benefit others. They invest their time, energy, resources, and often a fair amount of faith, hoping that what they create will make a difference.

In today's episode we visit with Tony Marsella—not because he seeks recognition, but because of his willingness to strengthen families, churches, and entire communities. He and his wife are putting together the upcoming Shiloh Echo '26 Christian Family Retreat in September.

As the conversation progressed I found myself thinking less about the schedule of events and more about the courage it takes to bring a vision like this to life.

Whether it's organizing a retreat, coaching a youth team, leading a Bible study, or volunteering behind the scenes, quiet builders like Tony remind us that faith is more than belief. Sometimes faith looks like rolling up your sleeves, taking a risk, and creating a place where hope can grow.