SPIRIT 105.3 Moments

Sometimes the people God brings into our lives become unexpected gifts. Brant reflects on the unique blessing of a loving stepparent and the beautiful reminder that love isn't divided when families grow, it simply makes room for more gratitude.

It's easy to get caught up in the frustrations of everyday life, but one simple truth can change everything: God loves us deeply, and He loves the people around us too. When we keep that at the front of our minds, patience comes easier, grace grows deeper, and our responses begin to reflect His heart. Click PLAY for a heart reminder.

Matching shirts? Check. Epic for KING + COUNTRY concert? Check. A FaceTime cameo from Grandma in Boise? Also check. Eric, Dez and Livi attended the for KING + COUNTRY concert in Seattle and left feeling like they'd gotten a sneak preview of heaven. Press PLAY to listen to their concert debrief with Erica.

Sore muscles, college football, and teammates half his age? Pastor Justin Buzzard signed up for all three. His unexpected journey from dad-in-the-stands to player-on-the-field is a funny, inspiring reminder that sometimes the best adventures begin with a simple challenge and a big leap of faith. Learn more about Pastor Justin Buzzard at his website: https://www.justinbuzzard.net/.

Fall is officially here when you're discussing 5,000 pumpkins, giant corn mazes, and a seven-bale-high hay mountain. Farmer Nate Crousey from Swans Trail Farms in Snohomish joins Erica to talk all things autumn! Learn all about the Fall fun happening at Swans Trail Farms this year!

Seattle is getting its own Monopoly board, and honestly, I already have opinions. If you're anything like me, the moment you hear that news, you start debating life's most important questions: Does the Fremont Troll make the cut? Is the Space Needle a lock? And can we please find a way to give Costco its own corner of the board? Click PLAY to listen in on my chat with Jennifer from Seattle Monopoly, and discover that almost everything is up for grabs, and they're counting on Seattle locals to help decide what makes the final board. From iconic landmarks and beloved sports teams to neighborhood favorites and hidden gems, this is your chance to help shape a piece of Seattle history. So grab your imaginary top hat, collect your $200, and let's talk about what absolutely deserves a spot on Seattle Monopoly.

Have you ever noticed how easy it is to remind someone else they're loved, yet forget to believe it yourself? I know I have. I'm sitting down with Josh Wilson to talk about his deeply personal song, "How Loved You Are," and I find myself challenged by one powerful question: What would happen if we saw ourselves the way Jesus sees us? Click PLAY for an honest, hope-filled reminder that even on the days when the mirror seems to highlight our flaws, God's love tells a much different story.

Fair warning: this may make you want a puppy!Anne Tyson is with Guide Dogs for the Blind and she's here to share the incredible work of Guide Dogs for the Blind. She has the behind-the-scenes look at how fluffy little puppies grow into confident guides and faithful companions for people who are blind or visually impaired. Click PLAY and find out why raising a future guide dog is a rewarding journey for everyone involved. Guest: Anne Tyson From Guide Dogs for the Blind Click here to find out more!

It’s not every day you get to chat with one of your heroes, but it’s even more fun when that hero is your cousin! JT and I laugh about how weird it is that we're all grown up now. I love having him on the show today - He has an incredible story of how one conversation with his mom led him to a firehouse, a calling to serve, and a career that's making a difference every day. Click PLAY for powerful lessons about courage, mentorship, and honoring the heroes who inspired him to follow his dream.

Ever wonder if you're missing your "big calling" while just trying to survive Monday morning? In this honest and laughter-filled conversation with Luke Smallbone of for KING + COUNTRY, Erica discovers that faithfulness in the little things may be exactly where God wants us to start. From powerful thoughts on encouragement and purpose to a touching story about saying yes to Jesus at age eight, Luke shares the kind of wisdom that feels like a conversation with a trusted friend. Plus, his heartfelt message to a young fan who has walked through serious health challenges is a beautiful reminder that God can bring purpose, hope, and light even through life's hardest seasons. Click PLAY for a special conversation.

When life takes an unexpected turn, it's amazing how quickly God can reveal to us what truly matters. After receiving a frightening cancer diagnosis, Marv Mickley found himself leaning into the Lord in a deeper way than ever before, discovering God's peace, presence, and purpose in the middle of uncertainty. In this vulnerable and hope-filled conversation with Erica, Marv shares how a difficult season has sharpened his priorities, opened doors to encourage others, and strengthened his confidence that no matter what the future holds, God is faithfully by his side. Click PLAY below to listen.

It's impossible not to pause and reflect on the courage, sacrifice, and selfless service of so many heroes on this 25th anniversary of 9/11. South King Fire Chief Ryan Woodey is here with me, sharing why remembering these moments matters, what inspires people to answer the call to serve, and how simple acts of gratitude can make a difference. Click PLAY for a powerful reminder that when we put others before ourselves, we reflect the love, compassion, and servant-hearted example that Jesus showed us every day.

Talking with Tony Evans feels like a full-circle moment for me. As a new believer at 16, I learned so much from his teaching on the radio, so sitting down with him years later is a reminder of how faithfully God works across generations. Click PLAY to listen to Tony as he shares what it means to follow Christ with courage, lead well at home and in the workplace, and live with a faith that doesn't stay on the sidelines. His challenge is simple but powerful: in a world that desperately needs hope, it's time for Christians to step forward and say, "Let's roll."

Have you ever noticed how God rarely hands us a giant mission all at once? More often, He nudges us to take one small step of obedience, and before we know it, He's weaving together something far bigger than we imagined. Dan Eagle thought he was simply visiting his sister in a nursing home, but God turned a simple question, "How can I help?" into a beautiful ministry of quilts, friendship, and hope that's brightening lives all across Edmonds. Click PLAY to listen in to Erica and Dan's heartwarming conversation.

As the leaves begin to change and pumpkin spice season makes its annual return, there's something comforting about the things that stay the same. Chris from Rend Collective is here, and we're uncovering the heart behind "Evergreen," a song inspired by God's unchanging faithfulness in a world that often feels uncertain. From navigating anxiety and doubt to discovering God's presence through Scripture, prayer, and even therapy, Chris shares a powerful reminder that no matter what season we're walking through, God remains steady and true.

As a mom, there are few things more meaningful than realizing your kids were listening all along. Nancy Crawford joins me on the show today, and we talked about her daughter Leanna Crawford's new song, Thank God, and the sweet surprise of hearing some of her own faith-filled advice woven into the lyrics. Click PLAY for a heartfelt discussion about trusting God through life's disappointments, finding peace when the answer is "no," and the joy of watching faith take root in the next generation. I think you'll be encouraged by Nancy's warmth, wisdom, and reminder that God is faithfully writing every chapter of our story.

It's always a joy when my friend Debbie from the SPIRIT 105.3 sales team stops by the studio, and this time she brought a story you truly couldn't make up. What started as a road trip to a friend's wedding quickly went off the rails with a broken transmission, a break-in, roadside repairs, and one unexpected setback after another. But instead of letting frustration take over, Debbie leaned into the Lord, relied on the prayers of friends, and discovered God's faithfulness in ways she never would have expected. Her story is a powerful reminder that even when life feels completely off course, God is still guiding every mile of the journey. Click PLAY for a road-trip rally of inspiration.

Sometimes God uses a simple conversation to shine a light on something we're all wrestling with. Pastor Lee McDermott from Newspring Church, shares about the sneaky trap of envy, and the powerful "one-two punch" that can knock it out: gratitude and generosity. From giving away a beloved guitar to learning the freedom that comes from holding our possessions with open hands, this challenges me in the best way, and might just do the same for you. GUEST: Pastor Lee McDerment from Newspring Church

Every year, we think we're ready for back-to-school season... until it's actually here! In this conversation with my dear friend and SPIRIT 105.3 co-worker, Lanna, we talk honestly about the hopes, worries, and prayers that come with sending our kids back to the classroom. From praying through first-day jitters and listening to worship music on the drive to school to finding creative ways to spark faith-filled conversations, Lanna shares what's helping her family navigate this busy season. And because we're all just doing our best, we also laugh about the never-ending challenge of packing school lunches that kids will actually eat! Click PLAY for the most relatable convo you'll hear today!

Mikki is a dear friend and someone I had the privilege of working with here, and she and her husband Jason open up about the unexpected arrival of their son, Wyatt, who was born at just 28 weeks and weighed only two and a half pounds. What followed was a 114-day NICU stay filled with challenges, including an emergency C-section, a frightening appendicitis diagnosis for Mikki, and countless moments that required faith, strength, and perseverance. Through it all, they leaned on God, family, friends, and the incredible medical team caring for Wyatt. Today, their little miracle is thriving, growing beyond expectations, and reminding everyone around him that even in the hardest seasons, hope can shine brightly. Their story is a powerful testimony of God's faithfulness, the strength of a loving community, and the resilience of one very special little boy. Click PLAY for this beautiful story of baby Wyatt.

If you've been dreaming about elephant ears, carnival rides, and leaving the fair with at least one random purchase you didn't plan on making, good news: the Evergreen State Fair is back! From pig races and monster trucks to artisan finds and the famous Purple Cow, there's something around every corner that's guaranteed to make you smile. And one of the sweetest traditions returns, with the Morning of Dreams offering a quieter, more welcoming fair experience for families and individuals with sensory sensitivities.There's so much to get excited about this year! Click PLAY for all of the Fair details.

Sometimes the brightest faith shines through the darkest circumstances. When I met Amy Moats, a Spokane mom whose family lost their home in a devastating fire, I was amazed by her ability to see God's goodness in the middle of heartbreak. Through unexpected acts of kindness, dinosaur birthday surprises, and even a miraculous wedding dress story, Amy's journey is a beautiful reminder that God doesn't just meet us at the end of the tunnel, He's with us every step of the way. Click PLAY for our convo.

Congrats to Sherri from Spanaway who just won $4,410, plus an extra $500 to give away from Elite Roofing, by guessing "utensil scraping against a bowl!" After years of setting alarms, studying the Secret Sound, and never giving up, she finally won, calling the surprise win a "hug from God." She'll be using the win for real-life priorities like a new washer and dryer, property taxes, and saving for a dream trip to Italy, while also looking for ways to bless family and friends. Listen to the winning call below!

After years of setting alarms, studying the Secret Sound, and never giving up, Sherri from Spanaway finally scored $4,410 plus an extra $500 to share with someone else! She's using the win for real-life priorities like a new washer and dryer, property taxes, and saving for a dream trip to Italy, while also looking for ways to bless family and friends. Sherri calls the surprise win a "hug from God" and says Spirit 105.3 has been a steady source of encouragement through it all.

Some stories stop you in your tracks and remind you what it truly means to trust God. Becky Graves is facing the reality of terminal cancer with a faith that is both humbling and inspiring, choosing to declare, even in hospice care, that fear will not define her future. Click PLAY to listen as she shares about suffering, heaven, and the unwavering presence of Christ in life's darkest valleys. It challenges me to ask myself a simple question: if my future felt uncertain, would my faith be as steady as hers?

Meet Stone, one of the joyful faces behind the SPIRIT 105.3 Street Team, who spends his summer handing out candy, glow sticks, pizza prizes, and plenty of hope across the Pacific Northwest. From heartwarming conversations with families to unexpected moments that spark faith, Stone shares how God is moving in local communities one simple connection at a time. Click PLAY to hear Stone's inspiring summer stories.

What does it look like when a church decides to love its city in practical ways? Pastor James Reyes from All Nations Church Seattle stopped by to share how a simple message, "Jesus Cares for Seattle," through Hands of Hope is making a real difference through backpack giveaways, groceries, free pet care, and everyday acts of kindness that help people feel seen and loved. Click PLAY and see how Hands of Hope is changing lives.

Behind every uplifting song is often a story of perseverance, and for Christian artist Rachel Purcell, "Keep Going" was born from one of the hardest seasons of her life. In this heartfelt conversation with Erica, Rachel shares how God carried her through devastating loss, restored her joy, and transformed her pain into a message of hope for anyone walking through grief, fear, or uncertainty. Click PLAY to listen to Rachel's journey through grief and how the Lord restored her joy. Rachel Purcell: https://www.rachelpurcellmusic.com/

What began as a last-minute trip to Seattle to catch the Blue Angels at Seafair quickly turned into a life-or-death situation for Lillie, a certified lifeguard, Division I water polo player, and nuclear engineering intern. While watching the boat races, she noticed three girls struggling in the water and recognized the signs of drowning that many bystanders missed. Without hesitation, she dove in fully clothed and rescued all three children, including one who was unconscious and tangled in a buoy line. Click PLAY to hear how Lillie's split-second decision, courage under pressure, and lifesaving training made a life-changing difference for three families that day.

Warning: This story contains heartwarming moments, heroic first responders, and one very good dog. As wildfires continue to impact communities across Eastern Washington, many families and first responders are facing long days and heavy hearts. Thankfully, help is arriving from an unexpected source: a golden retriever named Isaac. With his wagging tail, gentle spirit and knack for bringing people together, Isaac the comfort dog has been making his way through evacuation centers and fire camps, offering smiles, hugs, and moments of peace when they're needed most. As it turns out, sometimes love and care can come in the form of a furry friend who knows exactly when to lean in for a cuddle. Click PLAY and get ready to fall in love with a golden retriever who's making a big difference.

What if worship wasn't just something that happened on Sunday, but something woven into the rhythm of everyday life? Chatting with one of our SPIRIT artists, Phil Wickham unpacks the heart behind Everyday Hallelujah, exploring how staying connected to Jesus, like a branch to the vine, can transform ordinary moments into meaningful encounters with God. Click PLAY for a breath of fresh air and inspiration. Phil's Book: https://philwickham.store/collections/books/products/everyday-hallelujah-book

Who says birthday parties have to happen at a trampoline park or pizza place? When Seattle twins Eliza and Jade celebrated their birthday at Maple Leaf Ace Hardware, they traded party hats for aprons and became "employees for a day" alongside 25 of their friends. From planting flowers and building mini fans to dancing, cake, and even hardware-themed tattoos, this one-of-a-kind celebration turned a neighborhood hardware store into the ultimate birthday destination. Click PLAY for Erica's convo with Hillary and find out why this hardware store party wowed!

When wildfires threaten a community, it has a way of bringing out both heartbreak and incredible generosity. Tim from JK Boots shares how firefighters, local businesses, and everyday neighbors have come together during the Spokane-area wildfires to support one another in practical and meaningful ways. As a company whose boots are trusted by wildland firefighters, JK Boots quickly stepped in by donating handcrafted boots to help support those spending long days on the front lines. They also opened a "recharge station" at their Spokane factory and delivered drinks, snacks, and other supplies to fire base camps. Tim's stories highlight not only the courage of the firefighters risking their lives, but also the compassion of a community determined to care for one another. Even in the middle of a crisis, hope often shows up through simple acts of generosity. A special way to get involved: jkboots.com/pages/sponsor-a-firefighter Click PLAY for this incredible story - You will be inspired!

We Love Our City doesn’t just show up for Federal Way, this crew shows up for kids. Shelley Pauls shares how their annual and mid‑year school supply initiative rallies families, churches, businesses, and youth programs to make sure students walk into class with high‑quality supplies and a whole lot of confidence. It’s a community effort that lifts the financial weight off parents and reminds kids they’re seen, supported, and worth investing in. Click PLAY to hear how families are being cheered on and supported this school year.

Maltby Café isn’t just a breakfast spot, it’s the kind of place where the cinnamon rolls are bigger than your face and the stories run even deeper. Co‑owner Keesha Laws grew up in this cozy, faith‑rooted community café, and now she’s helping guide it into a new season as they prepare to move buildings without missing a single morning of pancakes or people. She says the heart of Maltby Café will stay the same: the friendships, the faith, and the customers who’ve become family—each one “famous in God’s eyes.” Click PLAY to find out how God and the Maltby Café are on the move! Maltby Café website: https://maltbycafe.com/

Congratulations to Taylor from Spanaway and her silly kitty, Jerry, for winning our Summer Pet Spotlight contest! When we saw the photo of Jerry sitting on the stairs, we just knew this was our winner. Jerry will be receiving the ultimate goodie basket from our friends at Robert Gardner Roofing! Thank you to all who shared your bestest furry friends with us!

Logan Gilbert’s voice hits different when he talks about being a dad — you can hear how little Henry’s joy is reshaping his days, his perspective on the mound, and even his friendships with other player‑dads. And as he looks ahead to Fields of Faith, his heart is set on Jesus, unity, and choosing what’s eternal, especially in a moment when our city is grieving and desperately needing hope. Click PLAY for an extra special conversation with Logan, Erica and Max.

"All Glory To God For His Protection..." ~Amy Walter, Edmonds Mom Thanking God with you for the stories of hope we're hearing following the tragedy at Seattle Center on Sunday. And absolutely praying for those who have lost precious loved ones, the wounded, the first responders, and the bystanders. Amy Walter's daughters were at the Bite and the Lord protected them. Click PLAY to hear their story and thank God with us! You are Loved, Erica

Jimmy Wanichsuksombat and his family were working at the Bite when tragedy struck our city. The co-owner of Seattle Fudge had seconds to make a choice… and the one he made offered peace in the midst of panic for many people. Join Jimmy and Erica to hear the story… and may the Lord continue to heal every heart hurting in our city… in Jesus Name, amen.

Nikki showed up to a Mariners game expecting garlic fries and a good time… not a 107‑mph fastball to the face. Yet somehow she walked away with a black eye, a wild story, and half the team cheering her on. It’s the kind of “you won’t believe this” moment that turns an ordinary Tuesday into pure Seattle legend. Click PLAY for the full story!

Jimothy might be the only raccoon in Seattle who can go from “local oddball wildlife sighting” to “national treasure” overnight, and I love that for him. When talking with Phil Sklar from the National Bobblehead Hall of Fame you understand exactly why this wiggly‑spined little guy has captured all our hearts, and why turning him into a bobblehead is somehow the most perfect tribute. It’s fun, it’s wholesome, and it’s one more reminder of how a tiny creature can bring a whole community together. Click PLAY to find out more Jimothy goodness! National Bobblehead Hall of Fame

Jimothy might be the only raccoon in Ballard who can turn a slow Tuesday into a neighborhood block party, and honestly, watching people lose their minds over this tiny, wiggly‑spined celebrity has been the highlight of my feed! Talking with Dr. Carrie Schneider just makes me love him more and reminds me why cheering him on from a safe distance is the best way to keep our little local icon thriving.Click PLAY for details on our dear sweet Jimothy!

Jim’s story feels like something every parent can connect with—a dad who just wanted Molly to have a place where she belonged, and ended up creating two community‑changing businesses that feel more like family than anything else. Couple of Socks became the first home for that dream, a cozy little shop where Molly and her friends could work, grow, and be celebrated for exactly who they are. Then came Couple of Scoops, the ice cream shop that’s now buzzing with 35 employees with special needs, giving families this emotional jolt of hope the moment they walk in because they can suddenly picture their own kids thriving too. Through all of it, Jim shares how it’s all spirit‑led, and you can feel that—every sock sold and every scoop served is really about belonging, dignity, and showing God’s love in the most everyday, beautiful ways. GUEST: Jim Ciaciuch, Founder of Couple of Scoops/Couple of Socks Couple of Socks: https://coupleofsocks.com/ Couple of Scoops:…

CareNet of Puget Sound is one of those ministries that makes you want to stand up and cheer as you watch God moving in real time. The way they link arms with hundreds of churches, support women in crisis, and turn a simple ultrasound into a moment of holy clarity—it’s powerful and hope‑filled. Something that hit hard was Dave sharing about the Care Net prayer team. This group of over 1,700 people get real‑time texts and stop whatever they’re doing to pray for women who are wrestling with impossible decisions. Hearing how they lift these moms up in the exact moment they need courage, and then celebrate when a woman chooses life, reiterates to me how powerful it is when God’s people show up and pray boldly in the mighty name of Jesus. Click PLAY for Erica and Dave's powerful conversation.

Sometimes God uses the most unexpected moments, like an Instagram video you watch while folding laundry, to remind you God is still in the business of chasing down His kids. Zach's song with Ben Fuller, “Wait for Me” makes me think about all the long, winding roads we take, and how God never stops waiting, never stops pursuing, never stops running toward us... It's a hug for anyone who’s ever wandered, and a reminder that even our detours aren’t wasted in God’s hands. Press PLAY for a transparent interview with Zach.

Meet Eric, Dex, and their lovely daughter Livy from Bremerton. Mom and Dad pulled off the surprise of Livy's life! Press PLAY for a jolt of JOY today!

“I can do all things through Christ Who gives me strength!” - Philippians 4:13 “You take what the enemy meant for evil and turn it for good.” -Elevation Worship My son was a healthy teenager playing high school football when a cruel disease called ulcerative colitis (UC) took over his body and left him looking like a concentration camp victim. Today, he’s a walking miracle… praise God! Through years of middle of the night emergency room visits, terrifying surgeries, and heart wrenching procedures, I watched my son suffer and trust Jesus. Yes, he had his moments of doubt and anger… but he never gave up! With a deep faith and a positive attitude, he fought the good fight… and the Lord brought him back to life. UC stole his large intestine… but we like to say “No colon, still rollin’!” Now, he wants to help others who are shocked by the viciousness of UC. I want to publicly congratulate my son, AUTHOR Joshua Parkerson, for writing and illustrating a graphic novel about overcoming UC… and really, adversity in…

Summer in the Puget Sound won’t feel quite the same knowing Wild Waves is splashing through its final season. For so many of us, that park was a rite of passage — sunburned shoulders, soggy towels in the backseat, and the thrill of finally being tall enough for the “big rides.” As the community gathers to celebrate 50 years of memories, this last chapter feels both tender and joyful, a chance to relive the magic one more time before the gates close for good. Anybody wanna buy Wild Waves?! Let's gooooooooo!

I love their mission: We are committed to providing basic needs to homeless children so that they can live life without worrying about where they will sleep or what they will eat. Washington Kids in Transition is a cause close to my heart... and their Executive Director is our special guest today. Kim Gorney doubles as one of my favorite difference makers in our community! Join us for a chat about how kids in the middle of hard circumstances are growing, discovering peace - and worms, learning, and loving our neighbors this summer... in our own backyard! You are Loved, Erica Washington Kids in Transition: https://washingtonkidsintransition.org/

God is on the move, stirring the hearts of people in Seattle, and Pastor Rich Simms is leaning into it with open doors and open arms. As World Cup crowds flood Pioneer Square, Hope Is Alive Church has become a beacon, uniting pastors, lifting up Jesus in the streets, and watching lives soften, heal, and turn toward hope. God is building a stage in the city, and this little church is joyfully stepping into the spotlight of His goodness. Click PLAY for beacon boost of Jesus today!