Off the Pavement is where real talk meets real life—starting on the sidewalk but never staying there. Join two longtime friends as they lace up, walk it out, and unpack everything from faith, friendship, and family to career pivots, community, and the curveballs life throws when you’re just trying to mind your business. What begins as a simple stroll turns into meaningful conversations—honest, humorous, and full of heart. Parthenia and Tonja take it off the pavement and into the places that really matter. Whether you’re walking the block or sitting with your thoughts, this is the space where we walk, talk, and get our stroll on—together.
Walk. Talk. Get your stroll on.
In this episode of the Off the Pavement Podcast, co-hosts Tonja and Parthenia take an insightful stroll through the often tricky terrain of food contributions at gatherings. They kick off the conversation with a humorous take on the unwritten rules of potlucks, particularly the importance of being mindful about what you bring.
They discuss the potential pitfalls of bringing food that may not be well-received, like that infamous potato salad with a side of cat hair. As always, the hosts emphasize the importance of self-awareness and understanding your capacity.
This is bigger than the potluck though. They then connect the discussion to organizational settings, urging listeners to consider what they bring to the metaphorical table in both social and professional environments. They wrap the episode with a nod to their favorite potato salads and by reminding everyone that it’s all about knowing what works best for the occasion.
28 Jul 2026
Less Meeting, More Training
In this episode of the Off the Pavement Podcast, co-hosts Parthenia and Tonja discuss the often-overlooked issue of training versus meeting. Join them as they explore the cultural tendencies that lead organizations to prioritize meetings over effective training sessions.
From “taking out the trash” to workplace settings, they emphasize the importance of knowing your audience, their learning styles, and the logistics involved in delivering effective training to not only build trust but also foster a culture of learning and growth.
Join them as they challenge the status quo and advocate for a more effective approach to communication and learning with: "Less meeting, more training."
14 Jul 2026
Take a Beat
In this episode of the Off the Pavement Podcast, co-hosts Tonja and Parthenia take a reflective stroll as they delve into the importance of self-awareness and the need to pause before reacting. They remind listeners to “check your pain” and discuss the value of having a trusted friend to confide in during tough times as well as the need to take breaks – or eat a snack and take a nap – when life gets to be too much.
This episode reminds listeners to honor relationships and themselves. Join us on this stroll and take a moment for self-reflection in your own life.
30 Jun 2026
Jesus Is Not Your Boyfriend
In this episode of the Off the Pavement Podcast, co-hosts Parthenia and Tonja kick off our conversation by addressing the lighthearted yet serious implications of the phrase, often used by single individuals, particularly women, who may be joking about their relationship status.
They explore the idea that while it’s perfectly normal to desire companionship, “Jesus is not your boyfriend.” They also emphasize the importance of being open to companionship and the need to cultivate genuine relationships with others.
Listen in and accept the challenge to put yourself out there and connect with other people, rather than hiding behind walls of doubt or fear. Jesus is not our boyfriend, but He is indeed our friend and a vital part of our lives.
Join us as we celebrate the beauty of companionship and the importance of seeking love in its many forms.
16 Jun 2026
It's Good to Know People
Parthenia and Tonja kick off their conversation by reflecting on how knowing the right people can significantly enhance their ability to serve others effectively.
They share their extensive experience in the nonprofit world, emphasizing how the power of leveraging relationships as well as having networks of connections allows organizations to provide comprehensive support to those they serve, especially in times of crisis. They discuss the necessity of nurturing these relationships like plants that need regular care.
Throughout the episode, they emphasize the idea that no one can do it all alone. Join them for this engaging conversation that underscores the value of relationships in our personal and professional lives and discover how you can cultivate your own network to make meaningful impact.
2 Jun 2026
What About Your Friends
Take a deep dive with Tonja and Parthenia into the significance of friendships and the vital role they play in our lives. As they walk and talk, they reflect on our personal experiences with our circles of friends, emphasizing how these relationships contribute to personal, spiritual, and professional development.
Listen in as they discuss their "light and dark friends" and the necessity of having friends who can support you not just during the good times but also during the challenging moments in life. As the episode progresses, they explore the idea that not everyone can be part of their inner circle and the importance of recognizing when a friendship may need to change or evolve.
Throughout the episode, they celebrate the beauty of chosen family and the blessings that come from authentic, drama-free friendships and surrounding themselves with people who uplift them and stand by them through life's ups and downs.
What about your friends? Tune in to find out!
19 May 2026
Don't Be Your Own Problem
In this episode of Off the Pavement, co-hosts Tonja and Parthenia take a deep dive into the theme of self-sabotage and the importance of recognizing when you are your own obstacle. They explore the idea that often the barriers preventing us from achieving our goals are not external but rather internal.
From feeling unprepared to lacking resources to struggles with perfectionism and analysis paralysis, they discuss the necessity of self-awareness and the courage to confront our own shortcomings, while simultaneously trusting God and trusting ourselves and abilities.
The hosts share personal anecdotes about their journeys, including the evolution of their approach to creating content and ultimately realizing that authenticity resonates more with their followers than perfection ever could.
They remind their audience that self-reflection and baby steps are the keys to growth. Join them as they walk through these important conversations and challenge themselves—and you—to get out of our own way.
5 May 2026
Get Some New Clothes
In this episode of Off the Pavement, co-hosts Parthenia and Tonja take a stroll through a thought-provoking conversation about personal growth and the necessity of change. The duo kicks off the walk with a light-hearted discussion about “outgrowing” clothes, which leads to a deeper exploration of how certain aspects of our lives—relationships, situations, and even environments—can become ill-fitting as they grow and evolve.
Throughout the episode, they emphasize the importance of self-awareness and the need to communicate openly with those around them. They share insights on how to navigate the complexities of relationships, especially when one person is growing in a different direction than another. The conversation touches on the idea that it’s okay to outgrow people and situations, and that it’s essential to recognize when it’s time to move on. Whether it’s letting go of old friendships, changing environments, or simply acknowledging our evolving selves, it’s all part of the journey.
Join them for this enlightening episode as they encourage you to embrace change and get some new clothes—figuratively and literally!
28 Oct 2025
God Is Good
In this episode of the Off the Pavement Podcast, Tonja and Parthenia, reminisce about the goodness of God in their lives. They’ll share stories about how foolish and dark life can feel sometimes, especially while waiting to see God move on their behalf. You’ll also hear about how they've experienced God's presence during challenging times, from high school to adulthood, marriage, and beyond.
As they wrap up this season of Off the Pavement, they emphasize the importance of remembering and documenting God's goodness in their lives by encouraging listeners to reflect on their own experiences.
Join them for this uplifting conversation filled with laughter, tears, and gratitude for the blessings we often overlook as they celebrate their ever-evolving relationships and the unexpected blessings that come from trusting God’s timing.
God is good!
14 Oct 2025
The Mama Episode
In this episode of the Off the Pavement Podcast, Parthenia and Tonja take a stroll down memory lane with the mamas and aunties, who’ve shared their knowledge and wisdom over the years.
From foundational garments and basketballs to the importance of acknowledging and respecting everyone, they discuss how their biological mothers and mother figures have helped them stand firm in their beliefs and supported their most prominent life moves.
You’ll laugh and reminisce thoughtfully on your own journey as Tonja and Parthenia state the importance of recognizing and appreciating the women who have shaped their lives, whether they are still present or have passed on. You’ll be encouraged to reflect on your own life and the legacy you’re leaving to future generations.
Let’s walk with the mamas!
30 Sept 2025
Intentional
In this episode of the Off the Pavement Podcast, Tonja and Parthenia, discuss the importance of the intentionality behind their physical and mental health. They reflect on their personal journeys and how small, intentional changes have led to significant improvements over time.
They talk candidly about their struggles with exercise, food choices, and how their bodies react differently with age, particularly to broccoli. Most importantly, they talk about mental health and the importance of disconnecting from daily stressors and prioritizing self-care.
What’s a life without relationship? No matter the type. Parthenia and Tonja also examine how they’ve been intentional in parenting and other relationships.
You’ll be encouraged to start small and find what works best for you, whether it's walking for just ten minutes, finding the best food lifestyle that works well for your body, or finding the right couch to sit on. This conversation serves as a reminder that being intentional can lead to positive changes, not just for them but also for you as well.
Let’s get intentional!
16 Sept 2025
Resilience of the Unhoused Community
In this episode of Off the Pavement, co-hosts Parthenia and Tonja take a thoughtful stroll through downtown, engaging in a heartfelt conversation about the often-misunderstood individuals living in temporary housing situations. As we walk and talk, we reflect on the misconceptions surrounding homelessness as well as the importance of recognizing the humanity in everyone we encounter.
Stroll along with the hosts as they discuss their favorite people they’ve met along the way, challenge the stigmas associated with homelessness, and the power of giving people the “time of day.” Discover ways in which we can best interact with people who might not have the same experiences and foster a more inclusive and understanding community.
Join us as we walk, talk, and reflect on the importance of connection and empathy in our everyday lives.
2 Sept 2025
Service Matters
In this episode of Off the Pavement, co-hosts Tonja and Parthenia take a thoughtful stroll as they examine the theme of service. We kick off our conversation by reflecting on our personal experiences with service, highlighting how it has shaped our lives and careers.
From a transition from corporate to nonprofit work to life as pastors’ daughters, we explore the nuances of service and the importance of serving from the heart and with authenticity.
Whether acts of service are loud or quiet, even the smallest act can make the biggest difference. We hope this conversation inspires you to reflect on your own service experiences and consider how you can contribute to your community with compassion and care.
Join us for this enriching discussion on the importance of service in our lives and the lives of those around us! What can you do with 30 minutes?
19 Aug 2025
Gas Station Chicken
In this episode of Off the Pavement, co-hosts Parthenia and Tonja take listeners on a delightful stroll down memory lane as they explore the comforting world of food and its deep connections to their childhoods. The episode opens with a light-hearted discussion about “restaurants that sell gas,” which sparks a conversation about comfort foods that shaped their upbringing.
Stroll with the hosts as they chat about fried bologna sandwiches, struggle meals, the inner fat girl, and food as love. With a blend of humor, nostalgia, and heartfelt reflections, this episode invites listeners to appreciate the comfort that food can bring while also promoting a healthier relationship with what we eat and drink.
Walk and talk with us as we discuss the joy of food made well for ourselves and others.
13 Aug 2025
Meet Parthenia & Tonja
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