God of Dirt

Dana Conlan

God of Dirt is a podcast that explores how reconnecting with our people, place, and purpose through faith, nature, healing, and meaningful conversations can lead us back to the abundant life we were created to live.

Episodes

  1. 2d ago

    Wealth Beyond Money — with Jo Nemeth

    What if some of the things that make us truly wealthy are the very things we've stopped knowing how to value? Jo Nemeth has lived without money of her own for more than 11 years. But this conversation isn't simply about giving up money. It's about questioning the assumption that money is the primary way we exchange value. Jo and I talk about the gift economy, relational capital, community, growing food, creativity, convenience, individualism, and what it means to build a life around reciprocity rather than transactions. What if relationships aren't just something that makes life better—but something we actually need to survive? What if the person who gives you their time, the food growing in your garden, the skills you share with a neighbor, and the community you build around you are all forms of wealth? And what if becoming less dependent on large systems begins with very small things we can do right where we are? Jo leaves us with a few simple questions: Can I do this without money? How can I do this without money? Do I actually need this, or do I just want it? Resources Jo Mentioned Robin Wall Kimmerer Braiding SweetgrassThe Serviceberry Robin Wall Kimmerer's website Mark Boyle The Moneyless ManThe Moneyless Manifesto Moneyless.org Artist as Family — Meg Ulman & Patrick Jones Jo recommends their work for people who want to become less dependent on the monetary economy while still living within it, through growing food, bartering, sharing, and building community. Artist as Family Ethan Hughes & the Possibility Alliance Jo describes Ethan Hughes and the Possibility Alliance as an inspiring example of deeply connected, low-consumption living. Ethan Hughes & the Possibility Alliance At God of Dirt, we're exploring what happens when we remember that we belong—to people, to place, and to something larger than ourselves. Maybe the question isn't simply, “How do I get out of the system?” Maybe it's: “What can I build around me so I don't need the system to provide everything?” Thanks for being part of the conversation. Subscribe to God of Dirt and share this episode with someone who is questioning what a truly rich life looks like.

  2. Jun 2

    Episode 8: The Common Ground of Humanity - Adrianne Smith

    What if the things that unite us are far greater than the things that divide us? In this thought-provoking episode of God of Dirt, Dana Conlan sits down with Adrianne Smith for an honest conversation about spirituality, faith, healing, and the shared human desire to connect with something greater than ourselves. Coming from different backgrounds and perspectives, Dana and Adrianne explore what it means to seek truth, cultivate compassion, and recognize the divine image reflected in every person. Together, they discuss the beauty of nature as a meeting place with God, the challenges many people face within religious institutions, and the importance of looking beyond labels to find genuine human connection. Through vulnerability and respectful dialogue, this conversation invites listeners to embrace curiosity, humility, and a deeper appreciation for the common ground that exists between us. In this episode: Finding connection with the divine through natureNavigating spiritual differences with grace and respectHealing from religious hurt and disappointmentRecognizing our shared humanity beyond beliefs and labelsWhy curiosity and compassion are essential for meaningful connection Whether you come from a strong faith background, a different spiritual tradition, or are simply exploring life's deeper questions, this episode offers a refreshing reminder that connection begins when we choose to listen, understand, and see one another as fellow travelers on the journey. Because sometimes the path back to our people, place, and purpose begins with discovering just how much we have in common.

  3. Jun 2

    Episode 7: God's Medicine - Jen Levine

    What if healing isn't something we have to manufacture, but something God has already woven into creation? In this thought-provoking episode of God of Dirt, Dana Conlan sits down with naturopath and wellness advocate Jen Levine to explore the relationship between health, nutrition, and the natural systems God designed to sustain life. Through personal stories and practical wisdom, Jen shares how her own health challenges sparked a lifelong passion for understanding the body's incredible capacity to heal when given the right support. Together, Dana and Jen discuss the shortcomings of a symptom-focused healthcare model, the importance of addressing root causes, and the wisdom found in nature's design. From gut health and nutrition to biodiversity and the body's interconnected systems, this conversation offers a fresh perspective on what it means to pursue true wellness. In this episode: How personal health struggles led Jen into the field of naturopathyThe connection between nutrition, digestion, and overall well-beingWhy treating symptoms alone often misses the bigger pictureThe parallels between healthy ecosystems and healthy bodiesHow reconnecting with God's design can support lasting health Whether you're navigating your own health journey, seeking a deeper understanding of holistic wellness, or simply curious about the connection between faith and healing, this episode will encourage you to see your body as part of a beautifully designed system created to flourish. Because sometimes the medicine we need begins with remembering how we were made.

  4. Jun 2

    Episode 6: How Dreams Reconnect Us - Jeannine Rodriguez-Everard

    What if some of the guidance, wisdom, and direction you've been searching for has been coming to you while you sleep? In this fascinating episode of God of Dirt, Dana Conlan sits down with dream interpretation specialist, author, and teacher Jeannine Rodriguez-Everard to explore the often-overlooked role dreams play in our connection with God, purpose, and personal growth. Drawing from years of study and ministry, Jeannine shares how dreams can serve as invitations to deeper relationship with God and greater understanding of who we were created to be. Together, Dana and Jeannine discuss the biblical foundation for dreams, the difference between simply sleeping and truly listening, and how paying attention to the ways God speaks can bring clarity, healing, and direction. They also explore why many people dismiss their dreams and what might happen if we approached them with curiosity instead. In this episode: Why dreams have played an important role throughout ScriptureHow dreams can help us reconnect with purpose and identityThe difference between biblical dream interpretation and secular approachesWhy Western culture often overlooks the significance of dreamsPractical ways to begin paying attention to what God may be communicating Whether you're someone who remembers every dream or rarely recalls one at all, this conversation offers a fresh perspective on how God communicates and invites us into deeper connection with Him. Because sometimes the path back to our purpose begins with simply paying attention to what happens when we close our eyes.

  5. Jun 2

    Episode 5: Health From the Earth - Lindsay Steves

    What if some of the most powerful tools for healing have been growing around us all along? In this inspiring episode of God of Dirt, Dana Conlan sits down with Lindsay Steves to explore the profound connection between human health and the natural world. From herbal remedies and foraging to childbirth, nutrition, and everyday wellness, Lindsay shares how her journey into natural health opened her eyes to the incredible resources God has already placed within creation. Together, Dana and Lindsay discuss the wisdom found in nature, the growing disconnect between modern life and the natural world, and how reconnecting with the earth can help restore our physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. Their conversation challenges listeners to rethink health not as something found in a bottle or a prescription, but as a relationship with the living systems God designed to sustain us. In this episode: How Lindsay's curiosity about nature led her into natural healthThe forgotten uses of common plants growing all around usWhy modern culture has become disconnected from the natural worldThe role of nature in supporting physical and mental wellnessHow God's creation provides resources for healing and flourishing Whether you're interested in natural remedies, holistic wellness, gardening, or simply spending more time outdoors, this episode will inspire you to see the earth through new eyes and rediscover the gifts that have been there all along. Because sometimes the path to healing begins by reconnecting with the place we were always meant to belong.

  6. Jun 2

    Episode 4: Legacy – The Principle of Multiplication - Mark Chassman

    What if the greatest measure of your life isn't what you build for yourself, but what continues to grow because of the investment you made in others? In this thought-provoking episode of God of Dirt, Dana Conlan sits down with mentor, business leader, and purpose coach Mark Chassman to explore the powerful principle of legacy through multiplication. After experiencing a personal crisis that forced him to reevaluate success, Mark began a journey of discovering God's design, purpose, and calling for his life—a journey that transformed the way he views leadership, fulfillment, and impact. Together, Dana and Mark discuss the difference between striving and flourishing, ambition and purpose, and why true legacy is built by investing in people rather than pursuing personal achievement. Through practical wisdom and spiritual insight, they unpack how living from a place of purpose creates a ripple effect that extends far beyond our own lifetime. In this episode: The crisis that led Mark to reevaluate his definition of successThe difference between striving for achievement and flourishing in purposeWhy renewing our minds is essential for living an abundant lifeThe principle of multiplication and investing in othersHow legacy is built through intentional mentorship and leadership Whether you're leading a family, a business, a ministry, or simply seeking greater purpose in your everyday life, this episode will challenge you to think beyond personal success and consider the lasting impact your life can have on future generations.

  7. Jun 2

    Episode 3: Life Through Our Hands - Doug Steves

    What if the most powerful legacy we leave behind isn't what we accomplish, but how we love, serve, and remain faithful through life's challenges? In this heartfelt episode of God of Dirt, Dana Conlan sits down with Pastor Doug Steves to explore what it means to bring life into the world through our everyday actions. Drawing from decades of ministry, family life, and personal faith, Pastor Doug shares lessons on perseverance, spiritual fatherhood, and the importance of nurturing the relationships closest to us. Together, they discuss the reality that abundant life isn't found in perfection or achievement, but in faithfully showing up for the people God has placed in our care. From raising children and building a family legacy to navigating conflict and staying rooted in faith through hardship, this conversation offers practical wisdom for cultivating life-giving relationships that endure. In this episode: What it means to create life through our words, actions, and relationshipsThe role of spiritual fathers and mentors in shaping future generationsWhy faithfulness matters more than perfectionProtecting and strengthening the relationships closest to usHow abundant life grows through service, sacrifice, and love Whether you're a parent, mentor, leader, or simply someone seeking to leave a meaningful impact on the people around you, this episode will encourage you to consider the life you're creating through your own hands.

  8. Jun 2

    Episode 1: Getting Back to Eden - Danielle Hastings

    What if the abundant life we're searching for isn't found in doing more, achieving more, or going farther—but in returning to the place we were created to thrive? In this inaugural episode of God of Dirt, Dana sits down with farmer, mother, and homesteader Danielle Hastings to explore how disconnection from place, identity, and community has shaped modern life—and how reconnecting with the land can help restore what we've lost. Danielle shares her journey from childhood upheaval, religious disappointment, and searching for purpose to finding healing, belonging, and a deeper connection with God through gardening, homesteading, and motherhood. Together, they discuss the Garden of Eden as more than a biblical story—it is a blueprint for human flourishing. This conversation invites listeners to consider how the natural world, meaningful community, and intentional stewardship can reconnect us to our people, our purpose, and the abundant life we were created for. In this episode: Why modern life often leaves us feeling disconnectedThe relationship between identity, belonging, and placeHow gardening became a path to healing and spiritual renewalLessons from motherhood, community, and stewardshipWhat it means to "get back to Eden" in today's world Whether you're a gardener, a person of faith, or simply longing for a deeper sense of purpose and connection, this episode offers a hopeful invitation to rediscover the sacred right beneath your feet.

About

God of Dirt is a podcast that explores how reconnecting with our people, place, and purpose through faith, nature, healing, and meaningful conversations can lead us back to the abundant life we were created to live.