Come.Union Podcast

By: Erin Olinger and Ramonita Smith
  • Summary

  • Come.Union is all about relationships over religion. Our relationship with Christ, ourself and with others. In a culture that seems so divisive, we are cultivating a community of truth-seekers from all walks of life. So whether you have faith, no faith or have walked away from faith, YOU ARE WELCOME HERE. We are ready to understand, heal, have tough conversations and re-build bridges. So let's get started! Let the reconciliation begin!

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Episodes
  • S2E25: Expectations and the Path to Reconciliation
    Jul 30 2024

    This is our season finale of season 2 and we cannot wait for where we are headed for season 3!

    In a world filled with division and brokenness, hosts Ramonita and Erin dive deep into the heart of reconciliation with God, self, and others. In this episode they discuss the topic of expectations: the ones we have for ourself, the ones we have for others and the expectations others have for us. Reflecting on the power of intentionally loving others, unmet expectations and the spiritual warfare shaping our society, they confront the harsh realities of our current world. Join them as they navigate through the challenges of a divided society, emphasizing the importance of unity, love, and understanding. Featuring a powerful discussion sparked by real-life events, including the tragic story of Sonia Massey.

    Key Takeaways:

    * Discover the impact of expectations on self-perception and relationships.

    * Embrace the journey towards self-love and acceptance, prioritizing God's view of us over societal standards.

    * Explore the significance of reconciliation with God, ourselves, and others in a divided world.

    * Reflect on the power of intentional love and the need for empathy in a polarized society.

    * Acknowledge the role of spiritual warfare in societal division and the importance of seeking unity and understanding.


    Stay tuned for Season 3 coming THIS FALL 2025!


    Connect with us!

    Follow us on instagram: @come.union

    Subscribe to our newsletter at come-union.com and subscribe to the podcast on this listening platform too!


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    41 mins
  • S2E24: His Design with Jeremy Smith
    Jul 23 2024

    In this episode, Ramonita and Erin sit down with the incredible Jeremy Smith, whose journey is all about resilience and authenticity. Growing up under high expectations, Jeremy excelled in basketball despite setbacks like contracting mono in high school. His unwavering determination led him to significant professional success, embodying perseverance and trusting the journey.

    Join us as Jeremy shares candid reflections on family dynamics and basketball experiences, weaving a powerful narrative of resilience and acceptance. Our conversation dives deep into faith and prayer, underscoring the importance of aligning personal desires with God's plan for a fulfilling life. This episode is filled with inspiration and insight you won't want to miss!

    Key Takeaways:

    * Navigating High Expectations: Jeremy shares the impact of growing up with siblings who excelled academically, setting a high standard that he struggled to meet.

    * Resilience in Setbacks: Mono abruptly ended Jeremy's promising basketball career, teaching him the importance of adapting to new realities and accepting God's will.

    * Authenticity Over Conformity: Embracing his unique mindset and processing of information, Jeremy learned the value of being true to oneself rather than trying to meet others' expectations.

    * Faith and Prayer: The passing of his grandmother led Jeremy to comprehend the significance of aligning personal desires with God's plan, shaping his perspective on prayer and acceptance.

    * Embracing Who You Are: Jeremy's journey to self-acceptance and authenticity underscores the power of staying true to oneself despite challenges and external pressures.


    Jeremy Smith, originally from Chino Hills, California, is a seasoned professional who has ascended to a senior leadership role at Nike’s World Headquarters. Despite early challenges, including the end of his promising basketball career due to illness, Jeremy demonstrated resilience and adaptability, continuing to play at Division II schools and junior college. Moving to New York City after college, he worked tirelessly from a retail position at Nike to a respected leadership role. Known for valuing authenticity and perseverance, Jeremy's career is marked by overcoming initial rejections and letting his work speak for itself.

    On a personal note, Jeremy is married to Ramonita and is a dedicated father to two daughters, Storm and Sol. Raised in a Christian household, his faith was tested during his grandmother’s illness, leading him to a deeper understanding of God’s will. Jeremy's journey is characterized by resilience, authenticity, and a steadfast commitment to his family and professional growth.

    Follow Jeremy on Instagram: @JustJay14_


    Connect with us!

    Follow us on instagram @come.union

    Subscribe to our newsletter at come-union.com and subscribe to the podcast on this listening platform too!


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    1 hr and 2 mins
  • S2E23: What Has Your Heart? Discovering and Overcoming Idols in Our Lives
    Jul 16 2024

    In this heartfelt episode (S2E23) we’re asking the big questions: What truly has your heart? What sits on the throne of your life? We’ll explore what we worship and prioritize, and how these choices shape our lives. We discuss the idols we often unknowingly worship, even when our intention is to put God first. Dive in with us as we uncover how to live out of love rather than fear, the importance of seeking God first, and practical steps to keep God at the center of our hearts.


    Key Takeaways:

    * Heart Check: What do you worry about the most? Are you living out of fear or love? Often, our fears disguise themselves as love, but perfect love casts out all fear.

    * Prioritize God: Even good things can become idols if they take God's place. Like I shared in my journey, even working to fulfill God's calling can become an idol if it overshadows our relationship with Him.

    * Trust in God's Timing: We can grow impatient and create idols out of our desires. Remember the story of Baal? Taking control because God seemed too slow. Let’s trust in God’s timing and promises, even when we don’t see immediate results.

    * Time, Energy, and Attention (TEA): Reflect on where you invest your TEA. Are you pouring it into things that truly matter? This world offers so much, yet often leaves us feeling empty and chasing after things that don’t satisfy.

    * Seek God Wholeheartedly: We’ll never find true fulfillment when idols occupy our hearts. Scriptures remind us that God is near when we seek Him with all our heart (James 4:8, Jeremiah 29:13, Revelation 3:20). God isn’t elusive; the more we seek Him, the more we find Him.

    * Living in Love: When God is on the throne, the fruits of our lives are evident. Living from a place of love, not fear, brings discernment, wisdom, and joy. The things we once obsessed over lose their grip, and our priorities become clear.

    * Steps to Remove Idols: Awareness is the first step. Recognize when an idol surfaces, confess it, and seek accountability. Invite others on this journey—whether it’s a mental health professional, trusted friend, pastor, or resource group. We’re not meant to do this alone.


    Connect with us!

    Follow us on instagram @come.union

    Subscribe to our newsletter at come-union.com and subscribe to the podcast on this listening platform too!


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    42 mins

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In the spirit of reconciliation, Audible acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to their elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.