Rooted & Rising

In this episode of Rooted & Rising, Kelly and Melissa sit down with Kim Baker, executive assistant to the President & CEO of Heights Christian Schools and producer of the podcast, for an honest conversation about God's relentless grace. Kim shares how the Lord met her in seasons of shame, reshaped her understanding of His love, and continues to remind her that His grace is greater than our...

Baylor volleyball coach Ryan McGuyre joins the podcast to share stories of faith, coaching, and God's steady guidance through life's victories and challenges. From the lasting impact of mentors like Bob Winger to learning the difference between perseverance and surrender, this episode is a reminder that God is always at work.

What does it look like to grow up rooted in faith? Zach Beckert joins the podcast to share memories of Christian school, family missions trips, pivotal moments of trust, and the ongoing process of learning to love others well. This conversation is a reminder that God's grace is present in both the big turning points and the everyday moments that shape us.

Kelly and Melissa sit down again with Jason McCleary to reflect on the legacy of Bob Winger, the early days of Christian education in La Mirada, and the lasting impact of faith-filled mentorship. Through stories of sportsmanship, consistency, prayer, and God’s faithfulness across generations, this conversation is a reminder that ministry often grows through everyday moments of obedience and care.

Kelly and Melissa sit down with Jason McCleary for a conversation about faith, mentorship, and what it means to show up consistently. From his early years at Heights to the influence of leaders like Bob Winger, Jason shares how God uses everyday moments to shape a life of purpose.

In this lighthearted episode, Kelly and Melissa welcome their youngest guest yet, Juliette Baker, for a humorous and heartfelt conversation about following Jesus as a fourth grader. With refreshing honesty and wisdom beyond her years, Juliette shares how she sees God at school, at home, and even in the middle of everyday challenges.

Kelly and Melissa sit down with Kenny Baker of Verve City Church for a thoughtful conversation about faith, leadership, and the grace of God that meets us in both hardship and healing. From basketball and Memphis roots to seasons of disappointment, Kenny shares how God’s encouragement, kindness, and abundant grace have reshaped the way he walks with Jesus.

Kelly and Melissa sit down again with Claud Lamar for a deeper look at the history of Heights Christian Schools and the moments that helped shape its growth. From the rapid launch of Heights Christian Junior High to the vision behind the Jubilee Legacy Project and honoring beloved coach Bob Winger, this conversation reflects on the people, prayers, and perseverance that have carried the ministry f...

Kelly and Melissa are joined by Claud Lamar, former president and CEO of Heights Christian Schools, for an honest conversation about faith, leadership, and learning to wait on the Lord. Claude reflects on growing up in the church, the season that most shaped his walk with Christ, and why choosing grace - again and again - is something you never regret. If you’ve ever felt the pressure to have all...

What happens when an ordinary couple says yes to an extraordinary calling? Kelly and Melissa talk with Tom and Gayle Shook about their calling as missionaries to Mongolia, community, sacred everyday moments, and the God who remains faithful through every season.

In this heartfelt conversation, Kelly and Melissa welcome Michelle Velasquez Bean to share her God story. Through generational strength, resilience, healing, and leadership, Michelle reflects on what it means to stay grounded in God’s love while rising with purpose.

In this episode, Kelly Beckert talks with HCS Principal Troy Kimura about growing up in Hawaii, finding Jesus in a life-changing worship moment, and learning to trust God through waiting seasons. With honesty and tenderness, Troy shares how patience, obedience, and courage have shaped his journey as a leader and father.

Hosts Kelly Beckert and Melissa Ordaz sit down with Pastor Louie Trevino to reflect on 90 years of faithfulness at Harbor Christian Center and the bold vision ahead. From Sunday morning faith to everyday community, this episode is a call to live transformed lives, together.

In Part 2 with Tom and Gayle Shook, Kelly and Melissa explore the long road from a simple prayer of willingness to 17 years of church planting in Mongolia and a new ministry serving refugees today. Through loss, sacrifice, supernatural provision, and renewed calling, this conversation invites us to trust God beyond our comfort.

In this episode of Rooted & Rising, Kelly and Melissa sit down with Pastor Louie Trevino of Harbor Christian Center for a powerful conversation about redemption, calling, and the quiet faithfulness of God across a lifetime. Pastor Louie shares his journey from a troubled past marked by addiction, loss, and hopelessness to a life transformed by a very real encounter with God. Through stories of...

In this episode of Rooted & Rising, Kelly and Melissa continue their conversation with Marissa Coloma, Creative Arts Pastor at Harbor Christian Center and author of When Creators Create. Together, they explore how God shows up powerfully in ordinary moments and how creativity is woven into the everyday lives of all Christ followers. Marissa shares the heart behind her book, her journey as a fi...

In this episode of Rooted & Rising, Kelly and Melissa welcome their first guest, Marissa Coloma, Creative Arts Pastor at Harbor Christian Center, for a conversation rooted in testimony, creativity, and God’s unwavering faithfulness. Marissa shares her story of growing up in the church, encountering God in a deeply personal way during a season of hardship, and stepping into a calling she never...

In this second episode of Rooted & Rising, Kelly Beckert turns the questions toward her co-host, Melissa Ordaz, inviting listeners into a thoughtful conversation about faith, family, and the foundations that shape who we become. Melissa shares what it was like growing up in a Christ-centered home, how her faith has unfolded over time, and the practices that have helped her learn to notice God’...

In our very first episode of Rooted & Rising, co-hosts Kelly Beckert and Melissa Ordaz sit down for a conversation that sets the tone for everything this podcast hopes to be. Together, they reflect on Kelly’s lifelong “God story” - the people, moments, and quiet reminders that have shaped her faith over time. This episode is an invitation to pause and remember. To look back at where God has be...