2414
2414 is a podcast about finding hope and common ground through casual conversation. Like the friends on the road in the New Testament, in Luke 24:14, we want to walk away with more understanding that leads to more conversation, as the journey continues. Thanks for walking with us.
From Dust Bowl to Pulpit: Robert Grothe's Story of Faith and Calling
Robert Grothe joins Shane Welter to share an extraordinary story of faith, family, and God's provision.
From growing up on a small vegetable farm in West Texas to answering the call into pastoral ministry, Robert reflects on the people and experiences that shaped his life. Alongside his wife Jan, he shares stories of hardship, loss, unexpected blessings, seminary life, marriage, ministry, and the ways God remained faithful through every season.
It's a conversation filled with humor, history, heartfelt moments, and encouragement for anyone seeking to trust God's leading in their own journey.
Join...
The 1-2-3 Challenge: Gather In Life Together
What does genuine Christian community actually look like?
In this episode of 2414, Pastor Dan and Shane continue the conversation on St. Luke’s 1-2-3 Challenge by focusing on “Gather: In Life Together.” From learning names and sharing meals to building trust through ordinary conversation, they explore why Christian fellowship is formed through consistent, everyday presence — not just major life moments.
The episode moves from personal highs and lows, parenting struggles, and an absurd “Wheels vs. Doors” trivia game into a deeper discussion on friendship, vulnerability, and why modern Christianity can drift toward isolation and individualis...
The 1-2-3 Challenge: Gather In Worship
What does it actually mean to “gather” as Christians?
In this episode of 2414, Pastor Dan and Shane spend time unpacking the “Gather: In Worship” portion of St. Luke’s 1-2-3 Challenge. From showing up consistently, to arriving early for prayer, to bringing a Bible, taking sermon notes, serving in worship, and building relationships across services, the conversation centers on how simple, intentional habits shape Christians over time.
The discussion explores why discipleship is built more through rhythms than inspiration, why participation matters more than consumption, and how worship forms Christians for life beyond Sunday morning.
The 1-2-3 Challenge: Taking Intentional Steps in Faith
Five months into the 1-2-3 Challenge, Pastor Dan and Shane sit down to reflect on the intentional steps they’ve taken to Gather, Grow, and Go throughout 2026. They talk about what’s been encouraging, where growth has been challenging, and why small, faithful steps matter in the Christian life.
The 1-2-3 Challenge invites every person at St. Luke’s to take two intentional steps in each of our three discipleship strategies:
• Gather in Worship and Life Together
• Grow in the Word and Baptismal Identity
• Go Love Well and Speak the Gospel
Thi...
Isaac Sato's Faith Journey: A Conversation on Ordinary Faithfulness & Reason
In this episode, Pastor Dan sits down with Isaac Sato for a thoughtful, wide-ranging conversation about faith that doesn’t rely on dramatic turning points—but instead is shaped through steady, ordinary faithfulness.
Isaac reflects on growing up in the Church, where simple songs, weekly worship, and baptism formed a foundation long before he could fully articulate belief. Over time, that childlike faith was tested and refined through questions about science, evolution, and the nature of truth itself.
Together, they explore:
-Why reason is not the enemy of faith—but a gift meant to str...
Talking About Your Faith: Comfort in Christ’s Two Natures
On this episode of 2414, Shane and Pastor Dan center the conversation on the comfort and confidence found in the LCMS confession that Jesus Christ is true God and true man.
They explore what it means to confess that the eternal Son of God took on real human flesh at the Incarnation, remains both God and man after the resurrection and ascension, and reigns even now for our salvation. The discussion unpacks the communication of attributes, clarifies why the church rejects errors such as adoptionism and subordinationism, and shows how Scripture, the Apostles’ Creed, and Luther’s Small Cate...
Talking About Your Faith: Free Will
Do Christians really have free will when it comes to faith? In this episode of 2414, “Talking About Your Faith: Free Will,” warm humor and playful banter give way to a thoughtful, honest conversation about one of Christianity’s most challenging and often misunderstood questions.
The episode begins lightheartedly with highs and lows, family stories, and a spirited round of Outburst, before turning toward a deeper theological discussion rooted in Scripture and Lutheran teaching. From hiking mishaps and board game disasters to adoption analogies and the “house of salvation,” Pastor Dan and Shane explore what the Bible says about huma...
Talking About Your Faith: What Sin Is (and Why It Matters at Christmas)
What is sin — and why does it matter, especially as we approach Christmas? In this episode of 2414, we continue the conversation from last week by addressing one of the most foundational (and often misunderstood) questions of the Christian faith.
As the Church prepares to celebrate the birth of Christ, we take time to talk honestly about sin: what it is, how it affects our relationship with God and one another, and why the reality of sin makes the incarnation not just meaningful, but necessary. This conversation helps set the stage for Christmas by pointing to why Christ ca...
Talking About Your Faith: Why It Matters + LCMS Colloquy Journey (DPM)
Talking about your faith matters more than we realize. In this episode of 2414, we explore why every Christian needs someone they can openly discuss their faith, doubts, and spiritual life with — and how honest conversation shapes discipleship. We also take a look at the LCMS colloquy process and what it means to pursue becoming a rostered Director of Parish Music (DPM).
Whether you're navigating your own faith journey, curious about LCMS colloquy, or simply longing for deeper spiritual conversations, this episode offers practical insights, encouragement, and real-world reflections.
In this episode we di...
Episode 100: Our Best Moments from 2414
Welcome to Episode 100 of 2414! 🎉
Today we celebrate a massive milestone — 100 episodes of vibrant conversations, faith exploration, honest questions, and plenty of laughter.
In this special celebration episode, we:
✨ Recap all 99 episodes — from our earliest ideas to the most powerful conversations
🎚️ Highlight our high points and low points from the entire series
📈 Reflect on what God has done through 2414
🤣 Play a celebratory round of Outburst (and yes, chaos ensued)
🎤 Share behind-the-scenes stories, bloopers, surprises, and heartfelt moments
Whether you've been here since Episode 0 or just tuned in today, this milestone is for YOU.
Liturgies: Finding Meaning in Sacred Rhythms
Episode 99 – Liturgies: Finding Meaning in Sacred Rhythms
Pastor Dan and Shane are back with a reflective and relatable conversation on liturgies—the words, prayers, and habits that give rhythm to our walk with Christ. From the creeds we confess to the coffee we brew, these patterns shape who we are and remind us of God’s presence in all things.
They explore why crafted words matter, how repetition shapes our hearts, and what it looks like to bring ancient rhythms into modern life.
Don’t forget to continue the conversa...
The Vibrant Conversations Deck #11
Welcome to Episode 98 of 2414, our 11th round with the Vibrant Conversations Deck from Lutheran Hour Ministries! In this episode, Pastor Dan and Shane explore one of the most deceptively simple and deeply relevant prompts yet:
🃏 “What makes extending hospitality easier or more difficult right now?”
From apartment quirks and parenting chaos to deep dives into pride, expectations, and guest experiences, this conversation is equal parts hilarious and practical. We also share real-life hospitality hacks, from “lowering the bar” on hosting to the three guest essentials: snacks, bathrooms, and introductions. It’s like a masterclass in casual Christ...
The Vibrant Conversations Deck #10
Welcome to Episode 97 of 2414! In this 10th installment of the Vibrant Conversations Deck series, Pastor Dan and Shane are back—just the two of them—for a hilarious, heartfelt, and hunger-inducing episode.
They dive into everything from home buying stress to the theology of knocking on wood, from Outburst games on human sacrifice (yes, really) to Wits & Wagers trivia on Oprah and cable channels. But the highlight? A single card from the deck:
"What’s one adventurous thing you’ve eaten? Share about the meal."
What follows is a food storytelling marathon that ranges from fer...
The Vibrant Conversations Deck #9
In this episode of 2414, Pastor Dan, Shane, and Vicar Dave dive into another round of the Vibrant Conversations Deck—and things get hilariously weird and surprisingly deep. From a “would you rather” debate between climbing Everest or diving in a submersible, to playing a statistical guessing game (spoiler: puffins are shockingly plentiful), this episode is full of laughs, humility, and unexpected spiritual depth.
The heart of the episode? A vulnerable, reflective discussion prompted by the Seven of Hearts:
1. What do you like about yourself?
2. What do you wish were different?
3. How does G...
The Vibrant Conversations Deck #8
In this episode, Pastor Dan and Shane sit down for a meaningful conversation about the faithfulness of God—how it shows up in everyday life, how we can trust His promises even when things don’t go according to plan, and how Scripture shapes that trust. It’s a reflection rooted in grace, centered on Christ, and honest about the ups and downs we all face.
This week’s discussion is sparked by The Vibrant Conversations Deck, which invites us to share how we’ve experienced God keeping His word—even when walking through the valley of the shadow o...
The Vibrant Conversations Deck #7
In this episode of 2414, we dive back into The Vibrant Conversations Deck—a simple yet powerful tool made to spark meaningful conversations about life and faith. This time, Pastor Dan and Shane are joined by Brenda and Vicar Dave for a heartfelt conversation around just one card from the deck.
The topic? “Talk about a time when you had a doubt about God or the Bible. DO you still feel that way? What changed your mind?”
Together, the group reflects on moments of spiritual uncertainty, the role of community, and how God often brings the right...
The Vibrant Conversations Deck #6
No Pastor Dan this time—but don’t worry, the conversation’s still vibrant!
In this sixth installment of our Vibrant Conversations Deck series, we're joined by two thoughtful voices from our community: Jonah and Brenda. Together, we dive into another round of questions from the deck, exploring faith, life, and the ways we see God at work in everyday moments.
Whether you’re new to the deck or have been following the series from the beginning, this episode offers fresh insights, honest reflections, and plenty to ponder (and maybe even laugh about).
Pull up...
Utter Gibberish
After a brief Easter break, the 2414 crew is back! In this re-entry episode, Dan and Shane are joined by friend of the show Jonah Kaufmann for a low-key hangout that feels more like catching up with friends than anything else. They introduce a new game—*Guess the Gibberish*—that brings some fun (and confusion) to the mix, and also squeeze in a few more rounds of *Outburst* for good measure. It’s not a wild one, but it’s a warm return and a reminder that sometimes just being together is enough.
Don't forget to continue the conversation at home...
Specific Ministry Pastor (SMP): Dave Gallagher
In this latest episode, "friend of the show" Brenda Schmelling fills in for Shane as Pastor Dan is joined by Dave and Laurie Gallagher for an insightful discussion on the Specific Ministry Program (SMP) in the Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod.
Dave has not only been accepted into this rigorous program but will soon officially serve as the SMP pastor for St. Luke's Lutheran Church in Federal Way. Together, we explore what the SMP program is, who it's for, and how it equips individuals for ministry in specific contexts.
Whether you’re part of a congregation, considering mi...
The Vibrant Conversations Deck #5
In this episode of The Vibrant Conversation Deck, we dive into life in the Puget Sound area, where rainy days are just part of the rhythm. We chat about how the weather shapes our routines, moods, and even our relationships with those around us. Plus, we reflect on how well (or not so well) we know our neighbors. Do we embrace community, or do we keep to ourselves? Grab a warm drink and join us for another engaging conversation!
If you’re looking to enhance your own conversations or simply want to explore these engaging topics further, yo...
The Vibrant Conversations Deck #4
In this episode of the *2414 Podcast*, Pastor Dan and Shane continue their journey through the Lutheran Hour Ministries Vibrant Conversations Deck. Now in the fourth installment of this ongoing series, they dive into more cards filled with thought-provoking questions and meaningful prompts. As always, you can expect a mix of humor, heartfelt stories, and moments of deep reflection as they navigate life, faith, and everything in between. Whether it’s tackling challenging topics or sharing everyday insights, Dan and Shane bring fresh perspectives and lively discussion to every card. Don’t miss this latest chapter of their vibrant conversations!
...
The Vibrant Conversations Deck #3
In this episode of the 2414 Podcast, Pastor Dan and Shane continue their exploration of the Lutheran Hour Ministries Vibrant Conversations Deck, delving into even more thought-provoking topics and reflective questions. Building on the insights from the first episode, they navigate through a new set of cards, sparking lively debates, personal stories, and moments of spiritual depth. From tackling tough questions to sharing heartwarming experiences, this episode is filled with fresh perspectives on faith, life, and the everyday moments that shape our journeys. Join Dan and Shane for another round of vibrant conversation, where humor meets wisdom, and the conversations...
The Vibrant Conversations Deck #2
In this episode of the 2414 Podcast, Pastor Dan and Shane continue their exploration of the Lutheran Hour Ministries Vibrant Conversations Deck, delving into even more thought-provoking topics and reflective questions. Building on the insights from the first episode, they navigate through a new set of cards, sparking lively debates, personal stories, and moments of spiritual depth. From tackling tough questions to sharing heartwarming experiences, this episode is filled with fresh perspectives on faith, life, and the everyday moments that shape our journeys. Join Dan and Shane for another round of vibrant conversation, where humor meets wisdom, and the conversations...
The Vibrant Conversations Deck
In this episode of the 2414 Podcast, Pastor Dan and Shane dive deep into meaningful discussions, using the Lutheran Hour Ministries Vibrant Conversations Deck as their guide. Each card from the deck sparks insightful reflections, thoughtful debates, and heartwarming moments on faith, life, and everything in between. Whether you're seeking inspiration or just a fresh perspective, this episode offers a dynamic blend of humor, wisdom, and spiritual insight.
If you’re looking to enhance your own conversations or simply want to explore these engaging topics further, you can grab your own Vibrant Conversations Deck here: https://shoplhm.org/vi...
A Thanksgiving Smorgasbord
In this fun and lighthearted episode of *2414*, Pastor Dan and Shane sit down to talk all things Thanksgiving! From the turkey to the side dishes, they dive into their personal favorites and least favorite foods that make an appearance on the holiday table. Whether you’re a fan of cranberry sauce or can't get enough of pumpkin pie, this episode is full of laughs and relatable food takes. Tune in as they share their thoughts on the best (and worst!) Thanksgiving snacks, plus a few quirky traditions and holiday memories. Grab your plate and get ready for a tasty di...
Sabbath Rest: Change Required
If your lifestyle routines or choices are leading you to unhealthy outcomes, you would likely want to make different choices to lead to a healthier life. Similarly, if you are ALWAYS busy and never rested, then you will probably need to make changes in your routines and general lifestyle to lead to a life where you can finally rest. In today's episode, Shane and Pastor Dan talk through what those changes might look like and what the end outcome might look like.
Don't forget to continue the conversation at home, in the car, at work, or anywhere you...
Good Grief
Grief is a common symptom for those who have lost something loved in one's life. What can we do about it, and how can it bring people together? With today's episode being so close to All Saints' Day, Pastor Dan, Jonah, and Brenda talk through grief and how loss can bring people together in ways that bring us closer. In the Lutheran Church, “All Saints' Day” honors every Christian who has gone to be with Jesus, from the apostles and martyrs to the lesser-known saints who may even have been members of our own congregations and families.
Don't forg...
Sabbath Rest: Catching Up
After some time off, Pastor Dan and Shane reconnect and talk about their summers and how they've implemented their learnings from The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry.
Don't forget to continue the conversation at home, in the car, at work, or anywhere you can find someone to talk to! Thanks for walking with us!
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Meet the Kaufmanns
In this episode, you will have the exclusive opportunity to meet the Kaufmann family! Jonah Kaufmann is St. Luke's Lutheran Church's Director of Youth Ministry and Christian Education. He is joined by his wife, Megan, and making her very FIRST podcast debut, Jonah and Megan's baby, Sarah. Learn about their life story, how they met, and how God works through brokenness to lead us to His will.
Don't forget to continue the conversation at home, in the car, at work, or anywhere you can find someone to talk to! Thanks for walking with us!
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Sabbath Rest: Lifestyles and Routines
WWJD was a popular acronym in the early 2000s that stood for "What Would Jesus Do?" In today's episode, Dan and Shane look at some restful aspects of Jesus' life and compare them with the common routines of our life.
Don't forget to continue the conversation at home, in the car, at work, or anywhere you can find someone to talk to! Thanks for walking with us!
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Sabbath Rest: Of Only We Had More Time...
If only we had more time in the day, THEN we would be able to get everything done and find time to rest... Right? Well, no. In today's episode, we talk about our body, mind, and soul's natural limitations and why that's for us.
Don't forget to continue the conversation at home, in the car, at work, or anywhere you can find someone to talk to! Thanks for walking with us!
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Sabbath Rest: Hurry Sickness
Psychologists and modern professionals of the modern world talk about this new(ish) term called "Hurry Sickness." What is it? Hurry Sickness can be defined as, "A discomfort or illness in which a person feels chronically short of time, and so tends to perform every task faster and to get flustered when encountering any kind of delay." -From John Mark Comer's book: The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry. Dan and Shane continue this series as they talk through some symptoms we all might experience from this overt need to 'hurry.'
Don't forget to continue the conversation at home...
Sabbath Rest: A Brief History of Speed
Are you constantly tired? Within a culture of busyness, stress, and living life hurried, Dan and Shane talk about some of their personal problems of unrest and why most of us live the way we do. While diving into Sabbath and rest, we continue to explore the book The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry by John Mark Comer.
Don't forget to continue the conversation at home, in the car, at work, or anywhere you can find someone to talk to! Thanks for walking with us!
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Sabbath Rest: Slow and Steady
As Dan and Shane continue exploring what rest is in an ever-busy world, they look at the book The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry by John Mark Comer. In today's episode, we diagnose what some of today's problems might stem from in everybody's restlessness.
Don't forget to continue the conversation at home, in the car, at work, or anywhere you can find someone to talk to! Thanks for walking with us!
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Running 100 Miles: What's That Like?
Have you ever imagined what it would be like to run for 100 miles straight? Well, Dan Weber might have some insight into that!
Don't forget to continue the conversation at home, in the car, at work, or anywhere you can find someone to talk to! Thanks for walking with us!
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Sabbath Rest: Introduction
Does it feel like everyone, including yourself, is tired? Perhaps people are physically tired, but maybe you and others might be emotionally or spiritually tired as well. In this episode and the following series, join Dan and Shane on this journey of exploring what Sabbath rest is and how God wants us to be rested and rejuvenated.
The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry: https://johnmarkcomer.com/new
Don't forget to continue the conversation at home, in the car, at work, or anywhere you can find someone to talk to! Thanks for walking with us!
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Agree to Disagree
Can't we all just agree to disagree? Probably not... but what if? In today's episode, Dan and Shane discuss some fun light-hearted debate topics with the goal of teaching what it might look like to disagree with someone on something you're passionate about. While you might disagree with us on some of our answers, we hope you're able to find someone else to ask these same questions to and discover ways to disagree with them while still being able to hear each other out.
Don't forget to continue the conversation at home, in the car, at work, or...
Thoughts and Prayers
"Thoughts and prayers" is a term often used when people want to show their sympathy and care towards a tragic event, but what does this actually mean, and is there a meaningful way those actions could actually have an impact on a person's life? In this episode of 2414, Dan and Shane explore ways we can think and pray about people in and outside of our our lives.
Scripture References:
1 Timothy 2:1-3
"First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people, for kings and all who are in high...
White Flag: Behind the Music
Lauren Welter (artist name Lauren Kruse) is a singer-songwriter in Seattle who recently released a new single called White Flag. In today's episode, Lauren, Shane, and Dan dive into what makes this song unique and the life lessons we can learn from surrender, compromise, and forgiveness.
Listen to White Flag here: https://found.ee/lk_WhiteFlag
Don't forget to continue the conversation at home, in the car, at work, or anywhere you can find someone to talk to! Thanks for walking with us!
White Flag lyrics:
Intro
Oh-oh oh-oh oh-oh oh
Oh-oh...
Meet the Youth: Ella & Carissa
This episode will give you, the listener, an opportunity to learn about some of the youth at St. Luke's. In today's episode, hear from Ella and Carissa Gruner and some of their favorite topics.
Don't forget to continue the conversation at home, in the car, at work, or anywhere you can find someone to talk to! Thanks for walking with us!
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