Origin To Impact

About Origin To Impact

Welcome to Origin to Impact, a podcast featuring in-depth conversations with leaders in business, politics, and faith. We explore the defining moments that shaped who they are, the lessons they learned along the way, and how those experiences drive the impact they’re making today—locally and beyond. New episodes dive into leadership, service, community, decision-making, and what it really takes to turn conviction into action. Watch on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@OrigintoImpact (https://www.youtube.com/@OrigintoImpact)

Publisher

Brad Kelly

Category

business · education

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

22 Feb 2026

Latest episode

21 Oct 2026

Latest episodes

19 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   21 Oct 2026

   The Ancient Art of Falconry: Mastery, Discipline & Birds of Prey | Cole Serad

   What does it take to become a licensed falconer at a remarkably young age? On this episode of Origin to Impact, Brad Kelly sits down with Cole Sad, an 18-year-old Washington state-licensed falconer and federally licensed raptor educator, to explore the fascinating world of birds of prey and how he turned his passion into a business. Cole shares how his interest in birdwatching during the COVID-19 pandemic led him to pursue falconry as a teenager. He explains the licensing and training process, the unique relationship between falconers and their birds, and the long history of this remarkable practice. Cole is also the founder of Crooked Skies, a business dedicated to educating people about birds of prey through live flight demonstrations, educational presentations, hands-on falconry experiences, photography, and even weddings featuring birds as ring bearers. He also works in bird abatement, using trained raptors to help businesses manage pest bird populations. Throughout the conversation, Cole discusses the care and responsibility involved in working with raptors, the importance of conservation and public education, and the challenges and opportunities of building a specialized business around something he loves. Join Brad and Cole for an engaging conversation about falconry, wildlife, entrepreneurship, and what can happen when you turn a personal passion into an opportunity to educate and inspire others. Listen in and discover how one young entrepreneur is making an impact by bringing people closer to the incredible world of birds of prey.

2. 

   7 Oct 2026

   Street Evangelism: Reaching People with the Gospel | David Byle

   What does it look like to share the gospel with Muslims in today’s world? How do you have conversations about Jesus with people from different religious backgrounds? And is being a “good person” enough to be right with God? In this episode of Origin to Impact, Brad Kelly sits down with David Byle, a missionary with Operation Mobilization (OM), who has spent decades sharing the gospel with in Turkmenistan, Turkey and now Germany. Drawing from years of street evangelism and personal conversations, David shares what he’s learned about communicating the message of Jesus with love, compassion, and biblical conviction. David explains why the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ are at the center of the Christian faith and why the Bible teaches that salvation is found through Christ alone—not through good works or religious effort. While in Turkey David was arrested multiple times, taken to court nine times by the Turkish government, and eventually deported for publicly preaching the gospel in the streets of Istanbul. He also shares encouraging stories of Muslims who have come to faith in Jesus and discusses the growing number of people from Muslim backgrounds exploring Christianity. This is a conversation about courage, calling, and what happens when someone takes the Great Commission literally — no matter the cost. 📍 Find David Byle • https://davidulrike.wordpress.com (https://davidulrike.wordpress.com) • https://www.om.org (https://www.om.org) • https://www.facebook.com/share/1B9UbSysii/?mibextid=wwXIfr (https://www.facebook.com/share/1B9UbSysii/?mibextid=wwXIfr)

3. 

   23 Sept 2026

   From Refugee to Nation Builder: Chol Alan's Story of War, Faith & Independence

   What happens when a child grows up in the middle of a 25 year civil war, becomes a refugee, and then returns home to help rebuild his nation? In this powerful episode of Origin to Impact, Brad Kelly sits down with Chol Amum Alan, a South Sudanese missionary, entrepreneur, and founder of the Need of South Sudan Ministry and the Christian Business Union. Chol shares his remarkable journey of surviving one of Africa's longest and deadliest civil wars, fleeing to Egypt as a refugee, and eventually finding a new home in the United States. He explains how the kindness of American churches, volunteers, and communities transformed his life and inspired him to return to South Sudan after its independence in 2011. This conversation is a powerful reminder that faith, generosity, perseverance, and opportunity can change not only one person's life—but an entire nation. 📍 Find Christian Business Union of South Sudan: https://cbu-ss.com/ (https://cbu-ss.com/) https://www.facebook.com/share/1HgVTu1pH9/?mibextid=wwXIfr (https://www.facebook.com/share/1HgVTu1pH9/?mibextid=wwXIfr)

4. 

   9 Sept 2026

   From Musician to Activist | Misty Flowers' Political Awakening

   Misty Flowers sits down with Brad Kelly to trace her path from apolitical musician to full-time conservative organizer. She talks about the COVID lockdowns that reshaped her worldview, questions she's raised about ballot-handling practices in Whatcom County, her family's firsthand experience with addiction and a local housing facility, and why she believes rebuilding trust and local engagement is the key to shifting Washington's political future.

5. 

   26 Aug 2026

   The Simple Idea That Changed Photography Forever | Blackrapid Founder Ron Henry

   In this episode of Origin to Impact, Brad sits down with Ron Henry, founder of Blackrapid Camera Sling — the product that revolutionized how photographers carry their cameras. Ron shares how a frustrating day shooting a wedding led him to a simple idea that no one else had tried, and how a chance late-night conversation with a patent designer set the invention in motion. Ron opens up about growing up in a trailer park after losing his father, dropping out of high school, having his entire camera kit stolen right after he finally saved up for it, and building a photography career from nothing. He walks through the early days of Blackrapid — hand-making 80 straps, launching with an $800 banner ad, weathering online criticism, and eventually building a dedicated factory relationship in Taiwan. This conversation covers entrepreneurship, mindset, dealing with copycats and patents, building (and rebuilding) the right team, and why staying true to yourself matters more than any resume. Whether you're building a product, starting a business, or just trying to figure out your own path, Ron's story is packed with hard-won lessons. 📍 Find Blackrapid: https://blackrapid.com (https://blackrapid.com) https://www.instagram.com/blackrapid/ (https://www.instagram.com/blackrapid/) https://www.facebook.com/BlackRapidStrap (https://www.facebook.com/BlackRapidStrap)

6. 

   14 Aug 2026

   State Senator Sharon Shewmake on Politics, Power, and Why She's Walking Away

   What happens when an economics professor who never planned on politics ends up serving four years in the Washington State House and four more in the Senate? In this episode, host Brad Kelly sits down with outgoing State Senator Sharon Shewmake (42nd Legislative District) for a candid, wide-ranging conversation that crosses party lines without losing its warmth. Sharon opens up about her unlikely path from growing up with no connection to politics, to filing for office on a whim with a $500 fee, to representing her community for six years. She talks honestly about what it feels like to be "put on a pedestal," why she hated losing her first name to the title "Representative," and why she's choosing her kids over a political career. The conversation doesn't stay comfortable for long. As an economist, Sharon breaks down where she thinks markets work — and where they don't. She and Brad dig into capitalism vs. socialism, the millionaire's tax, healthcare in the U.S. versus the U.K., gun control and suicide prevention, trans athletes in youth sports, and immigration reform — all with the kind of respectful back-and-forth that's becoming rare in political conversations. Whether you agree with her or not, this is a conversation about what it actually looks like to serve, to listen, and to disagree well. 🎙️ New episodes of Origin to Impact release regularly. Subscribe and leave a review if you enjoy conversations with leaders in business, politics, and faith.

7. 

   29 Jul 2026

   From Drug Dealer to Pastor: David Garcia’s Incredible Story

   What does it take to completely change the direction of a life? In this episode of Origin Impact, Brad Kelly talks with Pastor David Garcia about his extraordinary journey from childhood trauma, gang culture, and drug trafficking to becoming a pastor and founder of the nonprofit A Better Way Out. David shares the painful experiences that shaped his early years, the choices that led him into crime, the moment he faced losing everything, and the unexpected encounter with God that transformed his life. Today, David serves youth and families by helping people escape gangs, addiction, trafficking, and cycles of violence while equipping parents and communities to recognize warning signs before it’s too late. This conversation explores redemption, forgiveness, purpose, and the hope that no one is beyond God’s reach. If you’ve ever wondered whether someone can truly change—or whether your past has to define your future—this episode is for you. 📍 Find David Garcia: A Better Way Out https://www.abetterwayoutwa.org (https://www.abetterwayoutwa.org) https://www.facebook.com/share/1D8f4QKgEh/?mibextid=wwXIfr (https://www.facebook.com/share/1D8f4QKgEh/?mibextid=wwXIfr) Iglesia Pentecostal Nueva Jerusalen (New Jerusalem Pentecostal Church) https://www.facebook.com/share/1MGKSgMWet/?mibextid=wwXIfr (https://www.facebook.com/share/1MGKSgMWet/?mibextid=wwXIfr)

8. 

   19 Jul 2026

   Small Town Kid to 49-Year Law Enforcement Veteran — The Making of Sheriff Bill Elfo

   In this episode of Origin Impact, host Brad Kelly sits down with Bill Elfo — the longest-serving sheriff in Whatcom County history — for a rare, unfiltered conversation about a career spanning nearly five decades in law enforcement. Bill traces his path from a small-town kid who moved to high-crime South Florida at age 12, to serving as a municipal officer, to ultimately leading the Whatcom County Sheriff's Office for over 21 years. Along the way, he pulls no punches on the issues that defined his tenure: Washington State's revolving-door criminal justice system, the decades-long failure to build an adequate county jail, the dangers of releasing mentally ill violent offenders, and the political pressures that elected law enforcement officers face every day. He also speaks openly about his personal faith, the loss of his adopted son William, and the Blue Collar Award scholarship created in his memory to support young people entering the trades. And in one of the most gripping segments, Bill walks us through the cold case murder of Mandy Stavik — a 20-year-old Acme resident and Central Washington University student killed in 1989 — and the painstaking detective work that finally brought her killer to justice nearly 30 years later. If you care about public safety, criminal justice, faith under pressure, or just want to hear from someone who gave 49 years to protecting a community, this episode is for you.

9. 

   2 Jul 2026

   School Board Fighter: One Immigrant's Stand for Parental Rights & Girls' Sports | Khush Brar

   What happens when an immigrant from the Philippines — raised with values of hard work, faith, and freedom — sits down at a school board table and starts asking questions nobody else will? In this episode of Origin to Impact, Brad Kelly sits down with Khush, a school board member in Lynden, Washington, to talk about what's really happening inside the public education system — and what one determined parent is doing about it. Khush didn't set out to be an activist. She came to America, built a blueberry farm, raised a family, and trusted the system. Then COVID hit. Then she heard about a transgender athlete winning a girls' state championship. Then she started reading the policies — and couldn't stop. In this conversation, Khush breaks down: How gender identity became a protected class in Washington State as far back as 2007 — and why no one raised the alarm The WIAA policy that allows biological males to compete in girls' sports — and the resolution Lynden submitted twice to change it Policy 3211: what it says about bathrooms, locker rooms, pronouns, and what schools are hiding from parents The legal battle between Le Center School District and OSPI — and why it matters for every school district in the state How unelected bureaucrats and teacher unions shape policy that elected board members can barely touch Two major Supreme Court rulings that OSPI isn't telling school districts about Why parental rights must always come before school authority Khush also gets personal about the real cost of standing on principle — the sleepless nights, the friendships lost, and the moment she decided she'd rather wear "troublemaker" as a badge of honor than rubber-stamp policies that harm kids and families. This is a conversation about courage, vigilance, and what it truly means to protect freedom — told through the eyes of someone who had to travel halfway around the world to find it. Freedom isn't free. You have to be vigilant.

10. 

    16 Jun 2026

    Inside U.S. Border Enforcement with a Former Special Agent | Thomas Behm

    What do years of combined military and federal law enforcement service actually look like from the inside? In this eye-opening episode, host Brad Kelly sits down with Thomas Behm — retired US Army First Sergeant and 20-year HSI Special Agent — for an unfiltered look at America's border. Tom breaks down the real difference between deportation and voluntary return, explains how the cartel operates more like a business than a war zone, and shares why child exploitation cases are the most dangerous warrants agents serve. He also discusses working alongside Tim Ballard (the agent behind Sound of Freedom), being assigned to the Secret Service during the 2016 election, and why he believes the Pacific Northwest is quietly becoming the next major smuggling corridor. Packed with stories you won't hear anywhere else — including a close call in a Walmart parking lot — this conversation will change how you see the world around you.

11. 

    2 Jun 2026

    Art, Censorship & Cultural Political Economy | Dr. Sophia Kidd

    What does censorship in China have in common with the American art world? More than you'd expect. In this episode, host Brad Kelly welcomes Dr. Sophia Kid — gallery owner, publisher, academic, and cultural entrepreneur — for a wide-ranging conversation on art, culture, and the invisible forces that shape both. Sophia spent 15 years immersed in China's art scene, earned advanced degrees in classical Chinese literature at Sichuan University, and taught Chinese culture to hundreds of students — in Mandarin. Now running Sophia Grace Gallery in the U.S., she's drawing striking parallels between artistic self-censorship in authoritarian China and the quiet conformity she sees in America's contemporary art world. From the political chaos at the Venice Biennale to the legacy of Mao's cultural directives, from the spiritual dimension of a single black canvas to the democratizing power of Instagram — this conversation covers the full sweep of what it means to make, sell, and experience art in today's world. If you've ever wondered who decides what "great art" is, why artists lean left, or whether true creative freedom exists anywhere, this episode is for you.

12. 

    21 May 2026

    The Dark Truth About Human Trafficking — And How the Church Can Fight Back | Joshua Parriera

    In this powerful episode of Origin to Impact, Brad Kelly sits down with Joshua Parriera — pastor, abolitionist, and founder of International Saints and Abolitionists (ISA). Joshua shares his raw, personal journey from sexual brokenness to redemption, and how a life-changing trip to Cambodia ignited his calling to fight human trafficking through prevention and education. They cover the staggering reality of 50 million enslaved people worldwide, the direct link between pornography and sex trafficking, how traffickers groom children online, what parents need to know to protect their kids, and why the Church must start having these conversations. There is hope — and his name is Jesus. 🔗 Learn more & support ISA: isafreedom.org (http://isafreedom.org)

13. 

    5 May 2026

    The Fight to Save Family Farming | Dillon Honcoop

    What’s really happening to family farms in Washington—and why does it matter to you? In this episode of Origin to Impact, host Brad Kelly talks with Dillon Honcoop, Communications Director for Save Family Farming, to explore the growing challenges facing today’s farmers. From shifting public narratives and media influence to tightening regulations, legal battles, and tough economic realities, Dillon breaks down what’s putting pressure on family farms—and why so many are disappearing. But this conversation goes beyond agriculture. It’s about how stories are shaped, how perception drives policy, and what that means for the future of our food system. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why farmers are struggling financially—even as food prices rise The reality behind “corporate farming” vs. family-run operations How media and activism influence public perception What’s really causing farms to disappear Practical ways you can support local agriculture

14. 

    21 Apr 2026

    He Turned a Hobby Into Impact | Weather & Photography | Randy Small

    Brad Kelly sits down with Randy Small — pastor, photographer, and the man behind Whatcom County Weather, a platform with over 66K followers. From childhood snowstorm curiosity to building one of the region's most trusted local weather sources, Randy shares the journey behind the platform — and the unexpected path that led him to photography. In this episode: Why weather is so hard to predict in the upper NW corner of the Pacific Northwest The science behind snowstorms and Fraser outflow winds How he built a massive local following His photography journey — starting from zero Practical advice for beginners A conversation about curiosity, growth, and finding purpose later in life.

15. 

    8 Apr 2026

    From Protest to Purpose: How Racial Unity Now Started | Jeremy Dorrough

    n 2020, a student-led March for Black Lives in Lynden, Washington sparked controversy and deep conversations about race, faith, and community. In this episode of Origin To Impact Brad Kelly speaks with Jeremy Dorrough, Executive Director of Racial Unity Now, about the events that led to the founding of the organization and the work they are doing to build relationships across racial and cultural lines. Jeremy shares his journey from global Christian ministry to local community leadership, reflecting on the tensions of 2020, the role of faith in reconciliation, and how honest conversations can help communities move forward. This episode explores how moments of division can also become opportunities for understanding, growth, and unity.

16. 

    27 Mar 2026

    86 Years of Wisdom: Teacher, Yellowstone Ranger, and Conservation Hero | Harlan Kredit

    What does a life of curiosity, service, and lasting impact truly look like? In this episode of Origin Impact Podcast, host Brad Kelly sits down with legendary teacher and Yellowstone National Park ranger Harlan Kredit. At 86 years old, Harlan is still actively teaching, mentoring students, and preparing for his 54th summer in Yellowstone—living proof that purpose doesn’t retire. Harlan shares unforgettable stories from a lifetime of exploration and service, including witnessing the historic 1988 Yellowstone fires, helping restore salmon runs in his hometown creek, and working closely with wolves, bears, and bison inside America’s first national park. With over six decades in education, he reflects on the lessons that have shaped generations of students. This conversation goes beyond stories—diving into the science of ecosystems, from salmon migration to wolf reintroduction and forest fire recovery—while uncovering deeper insights about leadership, curiosity, and living a meaningful life. Harlan also challenges conventional thinking about retirement, shares his philosophy on staying engaged at any age, and even entertains the possibility of Bigfoot. If you’re seeking wisdom on purpose, nature, leadership, and how to make a lasting impact, this episode is for you. Your life matters. Make an impact today—no matter how small.

17. 

    12 Mar 2026

    The Real Reason Housing Is So Expensive | Mary Kay Robinson

    In this episode of Origin to Impact, Brad Kelly sits down with realtor Mary Kay Robinson to discuss the growing housing affordability crisis. Over the past decade, the median home price in Whatcom County has jumped from about $275,000 to nearly $600,000, while incomes have increased only modestly. Mary Kay explains the key factors driving these changes, including land use policies, supply constraints, population growth, and the impact of building apartments instead of homes. The conversation also explores how these trends affect younger generations trying to buy their first home and why home ownership has traditionally been a major pathway to building generational wealth.

18. 

    26 Feb 2026

    From Party Life in Scotland to a Prayer Movement in America | Bill Richardson

    From a party-driven life in Scotland to leading a regional prayer movement in the Pacific Northwest, Bill Richardson’s journey is a story of encounter, transformation, and calling. In this episode of Origin Impact, Bill shares how a simple prayer in his bedroom at age 19 led to a powerful encounter with Jesus that removed his fear of death and set him on a completely new path. After years in sales and business, God redirected his life toward ministry, eventually bringing him from Scotland to the United States. Now serving as Director of the Light of the World Prayer Center in Bellingham, Washington, Bill is passionate about mobilizing churches in unified prayer and believes we are witnessing one of the greatest spiritual awakenings in history. In this conversation, we explore: Overcoming church hurt and hypocrisy The power of persistent prayer Why prayer feels difficult for many Christians The importance of humility and repentance What God may be doing in America right now If you’ve ever wrestled with prayer, doubted the church, or wondered how God works behind the scenes — this episode will encourage and challenge you. Origin Impact is where we talk with leaders in business, politics, and faith about the moments that shaped them — and the impact they’re making today.

19. 

    22 Feb 2026

    From Military Leadership to Local Impact | Nick Sawka

    In the first episode of Origin to Impact, host Brad Kelly sits down with Nick Sawka—retired U.S. Coast Guard Chief, educator, father, and school board member—to unpack the experiences that shaped his leadership and drive to serve. Nick reflects on his 20-year military career, lessons in mentorship and discipline, and the challenges of transitioning to civilian life before finding purpose in education and local government. The conversation explores his journey through a tough school board race, community engagement, parental rights, school safety, facilities planning, and the realities of public service. Honest, thoughtful, and occasionally humorous, this episode sets the foundation for a podcast focused on leadership, service, and making a real impact at the local level. To learn more about Nick please visit https://nicksawka.com (https://nicksawka.com) 📍 Recorded in the Pacific Northwest 🎙 Hosted by Brad Kelly 🔔 Like, Subscribe & Share to help spread stories that inspire impact. “Your life matters. Make an impact today — no matter how small.”

Contact Origin To Impact

Guest appearances

Books guests

Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.