More Precious Than Rubies

A San Diego classic with an 87-year story: today I’m walking through the Chicken Pie Shop in North Park with General Manager and co-owner Lisa Townsend. In this episode, Lisa shares how the restaurant started in 1938 in downtown San Diego, moved through Hillcrest, and landed in North Park in 1992, plus why they’ve resisted trends to stay true to the restaurant's history. We talk about leading...

In this episode of More Precious Than Rubies I sat down with Dianne Sivulka, founder of Travel on Purpose, a full-service travel company curating culturally immersive trips that connect travelers with organizations doing good around the world. We talk about what it looks like to travel as a guest in someone's "home", why locals are the experts, and how ethical tourism can support com...

In this episode of More Precious Than Rubies, we dive into the evolving conversation around body image and healthy habits for young women. From the impact of social media to fostering self-empowerment, we explore how we can shift the focus from appearance to well-being. Plus, we spotlight the incredible Carmellia Jackson-Hurley, Executive Director of Louisville Girls Leadership, and reflect on her...

In this episode of More Precious Than Rubies, we sit down with Michelle Jue, founder of The Mawanda Project, to talk about the relationships, vision, and persistence behind a mission that began with one trip to Uganda and grew into lasting educational impact.  Michelle shares how she balances a demanding career in engineering with the responsibility of leading a nonprofit initiative across the wor...

There are places in the world where hope feels fragile, where poverty, loss, and violence have left children without consistent care, safety, or a path forward. And then there are places where hope is rebuilt, day by day, through people who choose to stay, to serve, and to love with endurance. In this episode of More Precious Than Rubies, we sit down with Estha Trouw, a local TV journalist and the...

Discover how women in refugee and marginalized communities are reclaiming their dignity through fair trade, craft, and tradition. In this week’s episode, I sit down with Mitos Urgel, President & CEO of WFTO Asia and founder of WEAVE Fair Trade Enterprise. For decades, Mitos has worked alongside indigenous, refugee, and under-resourced women across Asia, helping create dignified livelihoods thr...

In this episode of More Precious Than Rubies, I sat down with Sasibai Kamis, founder of Earth Heir  @earthheir7374  , a Malaysian women-owned business that connects consumers with artisan-made goods while investing back into the communities behind each piece. Sasi shares her journey from a finance background to creating a social enterprise focused on ethical fashion, artisan empowerment, and suppo...

In this episode of More Precious Than Rubies, I sit down with Dr. Grace Al-Zoughbi, an assistant professor at the Arab Baptist Theological Seminary. Originally from Bethlehem, Grace shares her profound insights on women's roles in theological education and mission across the Middle East. Discover how her cultural and spiritual heritage has shaped her approach to teaching and mentoring students...

In this episode of More Precious Than Rubies, I sit down with Mary Schueler to explore how global experiences, cross-cultural relationships, and intentional discipleship can shape the hearts and minds of young people. Drawing from Mary’s work with students in the U.S. and Spain through Good News Club, Young Life Spain, and hosting foreign exchange students, this conversation unpacks the power of h...

What does it mean to answer a global calling as a woman and transform scholarship and succession planning across continents? In this episode of More Precious Than Rubies, I’m joined by Flo Kagwamba whose journey from Nairobi to the United States is fueled by a passion for education, and stewardship. We’ll talk about the joys and challenges as a woman in male-dominated spaces, balancing family with...

What if your period could be pain-free? What if understanding your cycle could transform your energy, your work-flow, and even your fertility journey? In this episode, I’m joined by Caroline Bomer, creator behind Flourish and Flow, to explore the life-changing power of really knowing your body. Caroline opens up about her personal journey from debilitating pain to healing, and together, we unpack...

This week, I sit down with Melody Holtz, a devoted mom of six, homeschooling parent, worship leader, and small business owner, to talk about what it really means to juggle many hats while staying rooted in faith. Melody shares honest stories about letting go of parental expectations, building community through her quilting studio, and how her family weaves their own legacy of music and faith. 💎 S...

In this episode, I sit down with my dear friend and doula, Juliana Lunde. We dive into everything from Juliana’s unexpected journey into birth work, to the wild story of catching a baby during a home birth! You’ll hear how Juliana weaves her faith into every birth, empowers women to use their voice, and even finds joy raising a clan of piglets on her family’s mini farm. Study mentioned in today&#3...

On this week's episode of MPTR, I sit down with my dear friend, Sarah Corr: nurse, pro-life advocate, and an absolute beacon of joy, as she shares her incredible journey serving women at Alternatives Medical Clinic. Sarah’s story isn’t just about her path into nursing or her faith, it’s about what really happens inside a pregnancy clinic, the misconceptions, and the powerful role of faith, com...

This week on More Precious Than Rubies, I sit down with sisters Macy and Madison, the powerhouse duo behind Girlyish Skincare. We talk about starting a business as sisters, why youth-safe skincare matters, and how even just three simple steps can change your skin, and your confidence. Whether you’re a skincare junkie or looking for ways to boost your self-love and confidence, you don’t want to mis...

Are you passionate about fashion, faith, or making a positive impact in your community? This week I sat down with Emmy McDowell, ministry worker and advocate for ethical fashion, to talk about her journey as a woman making space in church leadership and how what we wear can actually reflect our deepest values. 💎 Follow Emmy on Instagram! 💎 Check out The Good Loop Clothing Swap ✨ ⁠Follow us⁠ on...

In this episode of More Precious Than Rubies, I sit down with Kendra Dahl, a devoted mother, speaker, Bible teacher and author of A Place for You: Reframing Christian Womanhood. Kendra shares her inspiring journey of embracing Christianity later in life and her desire to help women know God, their own minds, and that there's a place in the church for them. Order Kendra's book on Amazon! ✨...

In this episode of More Precious Than Rubies, we finish up our conversation with Cyndie de Neve. Cyndie is a DMin, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT 138446), Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, and author of four books. In this episode, we're shifting focus to explore Cyndie's passions and learn more about her partnership with Moms in prayer, working with complex trauma pati...

In this episode of More Precious Than Rubies, we sit down with Cyndie de Neve. Cyndie is a DMin, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT 138446), Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, and author of four books. With a heart for helping others heal, Cyndie shares how her faith and career are deeply intertwined, providing insight into her empathetic approach to counseling and her passion for b...

Meet Sarah Allen, an inspiring artist, military wife, and entrepreneur whose journey mirrors the biblical Tabitha, a woman known for her acts of kindness and service. In this episode of More Precious Than Rubies, we explore Sarah’s passion for art, her new mobile art business, and how she uses her gifts to uplift others. Listen now for an uplifting conversation that challenges us to use our gifts...

Welcome back to More Precious Than Rubies, in this episode, we're diving into the beautiful world of female friendships, and how social media has affected the way we keep in touch with our community. I'll share some inspiring stories of everyday kindness, how tech companies are using AI to "catch" AI, why you should add the Carlsbad flower fields to your list of things to do this...

In this episode of "More Precious Than Rubies," we sit down with Haley, a devoted wife and compassionate ER nurse, to explore the profound connections between her modern-day vocation and the biblical figure of Phoebe. Known as the first nurse mentioned in the Bible, Phoebe was a deaconess and benefactor in the early church, exemplifying leadership, service, and generosity. Haley shares h...

In this episode, we’re bringing you uplifting news, inspiring women’s stories, and a trending topic that you'll love. What’s Inside This Episode? What’s Good? - Humpback whales are singing more, a lost Pharaoh’s tomb was just discovered, and a fearless cat is skydiving with his owner! What’s Her Story? - We’re honoring three trailblazing women: Jovita Idár, Rosalind Franklin, and Mary Tape, pi...

In this episode of More Precious Than Rubies, we sit down with Julia, a first-time mom and talented singer, to explore how faith, motherhood, and music intersect in her life. Inspired by Hannah from the Bible, Julia shares how becoming a mother has strengthened her trust in God and deepened her worship through song. She reflects on the challenges and joys of motherhood, using music as a form of de...

In this episode, we’re shaking things up with a new format! What’s Good? → Uplifting news, including Texas tweens swapping video games for community service, a breathtaking cosmic web discovery, and a game-changing breast cancer treatment. What’s Her Story? → Celebrating Patsy Mink, Wangari Maathai, and Dolores Huerta, trailblazing women who changed history! What’s Goin’ On? → The trending Soft Li...