Podcast
Holy Shenanigans
Hosted by Tara Lamont Eastman · EN
Holy Shenanigans shares stories that surprise, encourage, and sometimes even turn life upside down – all in the name of love. Your muse is Tara Lamont Eastman, pastor, podcaster and practitioner of Holy Shenanigans . Join her on a journey of unforgettable spiritual adventure that is always sacred but never stuffy.
15episodes
Episodes
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Let’s Go Fly a Kite: Pentecost, Playfulness & Letting Go
1w ago00:12:07Tap to summarizeIn this windy Pentecost episode of Holy Shenanigans, Tara Lamont Eastman reflects on the simple childhood joy of flying a kite and how it connects to spiritual renewal, communion, and the movement of the Holy Spirit.Through stories, scripture from Acts 2, prayer, and poetry, Tara explores what it means to lift up our hearts, release burdens that weigh us down, and open ourselves to bold new directions inspired by God’s Spirit. Like a kite carried by the wind, Pentecost invites us to trust, let go, and move forward in love.This episode offers: A reflection on Pentecost and the Holy Spirit as wind A kite-inspired spiritual practice and prayer Connections between playfulness, faith, and renewal Encouragement to embrace new beginnings with courage and joy An original Pentecost poem celebrating freedom, wonder, and grace So grab your metaphorical kite string, step into the wind, and discover how the Spirit may be calling you toward something new.Send Tara a Text MessageSupport the showRev. Tara Lamont Eastman is a pastor, podcaster and host of Holy Shenanigans since September of 2020. Eastman combines her love of ministry with her love of writing, music and visual arts. She is a graduate of Wartburg Theological Seminary’s Theological Education for Emerging Ministry Program and the Youth and Theology Certificate Program at Princeton Seminary. She has served in various ministry and pastoral roles over the last thirty years in the ELCA (Evangelical Lutheran Church in America) and PCUSA (Presbyterian Church of America). She is the pastor of First Presbyterian Church of Warren Pennsylvania. She has presented workshops on the topics of faith and creativity at the Wild Goose Festival. She is a trainer for Soul Shop Suicide Prevention for Church Communities.
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From Rushed to Rooted: Learning to Appreciate Everyday Moments with Kate Fenstermacher
3w ago00:23:20Tap to summarizeStep into the spirit of Easter and Spring renewal with a conversation about creativity, nature, and the sacred rhythms of everyday life. In this episode of Holy Shenanigans, Pastor Tara Lamont Eastman sits down with floral artist Kate Fenstermacher of Bough and Bend Floral to explore how beauty, art, and the natural world can help us slow down, heal, and reconnect.Together, they reflect on the power of flowers to mark life’s most meaningful moments—from joy to grief—and how creative expression opens the door to deeper connection, mindfulness, and personal growth. Kate shares her journey of building a floral business rooted in belonging and authenticity, while Tara offers a moving poem that reminds us: we each carry a universe within us.Whether you’re seeking spiritual growth, emotional healing, or simply a gentler way of living, this episode invites you to embrace the “simple gifts” of life—and discover how renewal is always within reach.✨ In this episode, you’ll discover: How creativity supports healing and mental health Why nature helps us feel more connected and grounded The spiritual practice of slowing down and simple living Encouragement for personal growth during seasons of change 🌿 Perfect for listeners interested in: Easter and Spring reflection, mindfulness, creativity, nature, and meaningful connection.Send Tara a Text MessageSupport the showRev. Tara Lamont Eastman is a pastor, podcaster and host of Holy Shenanigans since September of 2020. Eastman combines her love of ministry with her love of writing, music and visual arts. She is a graduate of Wartburg Theological Seminary’s Theological Education for Emerging Ministry Program and the Youth and Theology Certificate Program at Princeton Seminary. She has served in various ministry and pastoral roles over the last thirty years in the ELCA (Evangelical Lutheran Church in America) and PCUSA (Presbyterian Church of America). She is the pastor of First Presbyterian Church of Warren Pennsylvania. She has presented workshops on the topics of faith and creativity at the Wild Goose Festival. She is a trainer for Soul Shop Suicide Prevention for Church Communities.
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From Loneliness to Lifeline: The Surprising Power of a Simple Walk
Apr 1500:16:56Tap to summarizeIn a world where loneliness is more common than ever, what if the path back to connection is simpler than we think?In this episode of Holy Shenanigans, Tara shares a heartfelt story of an unexpected friendship that began with ordinary morning walks—and became a lifeline of encouragement, belonging, and lasting connection. Through this personal reflection and the powerful story of the road to Emmaus (Luke 24), we explore how meaningful relationships are often formed in the most everyday moments.What can a simple walk and conversation teach us about healing, hope, and spiritual growth? And how might we already be encountering the sacred—without even realizing it?You’ll be invited into a gentle, imaginative Lectio Divina practice to experience scripture in a fresh way, while also reflecting on your own relationships: When was the last time you truly felt encouraged? Who might need your encouragement today? And what could happen if you simply reached out? This episode is for anyone longing for deeper connection, navigating loneliness, or seeking to rediscover the presence of God in everyday life.✨ You might just find that the walk you’ve been needing… is already waiting for you.Send Tara a Text MessageSupport the showRev. Tara Lamont Eastman is a pastor, podcaster and host of Holy Shenanigans since September of 2020. Eastman combines her love of ministry with her love of writing, music and visual arts. She is a graduate of Wartburg Theological Seminary’s Theological Education for Emerging Ministry Program and the Youth and Theology Certificate Program at Princeton Seminary. She has served in various ministry and pastoral roles over the last thirty years in the ELCA (Evangelical Lutheran Church in America) and PCUSA (Presbyterian Church of America). She is the pastor of First Presbyterian Church of Warren Pennsylvania. She has presented workshops on the topics of faith and creativity at the Wild Goose Festival. She is a trainer for Soul Shop Suicide Prevention for Church Communities.
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Experience Holy Week Differently: Seeing Scripture Come Alive Through the Power of Imaginative Prayer
Apr 100:14:59Tap to summarizeExperience Holy Week in a deeper, more imaginative way. 🌿What if you didn’t just read Scripture—but entered into it?In this Holy Week episode of Holy Shenanigans, we explore the transformative practice of imaginative prayer, rooted in Ignatian spirituality, and how it can help you encounter Jesus in a more personal, sensory, and meaningful way.Through a guided reflection on Palm Sunday (Matthew 21:1–11), you’re invited to see, hear, and feel the story unfold—placing yourself within the scene as the crowds cry “Hosanna!” and Jesus enters Jerusalem.Together, we’ll explore:How Lectio Divina and Visio Divina can deepen your experience of ScriptureWhy imagination is a powerful tool for spiritual growth and renewalWhat it means to “see with the eyes of your heart” during LentHow creative practices—like poetry and reflection—can become forms of prayerThis episode also includes an original poetic prayer inspired by Palm Sunday and a gentle invitation to carry imagination, hope, and openness with you throughout Holy Week.Whether you’re new to contemplative practices or looking to refresh your faith journey, this episode offers a meaningful way to experience Scripture anew.✨ Perfect for: Lent reflections, Holy Week preparation, contemplative prayer, Christian meditation, and spiritual formation.Send Tara a Text MessageSupport the showRev. Tara Lamont Eastman is a pastor, podcaster and host of Holy Shenanigans since September of 2020. Eastman combines her love of ministry with her love of writing, music and visual arts. She is a graduate of Wartburg Theological Seminary’s Theological Education for Emerging Ministry Program and the Youth and Theology Certificate Program at Princeton Seminary. She has served in various ministry and pastoral roles over the last thirty years in the ELCA (Evangelical Lutheran Church in America) and PCUSA (Presbyterian Church of America). She is the pastor of First Presbyterian Church of Warren Pennsylvania. She has presented workshops on the topics of faith and creativity at the Wild Goose Festival. She is a trainer for Soul Shop Suicide Prevention for Church Communities.
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From Stones to Bread: How God Shows Up in Your Hardest Seasons
Mar 1500:09:12Tap to summarizeIn this Lenten reflection, we step into the wilderness with Jesus and explore what it means to encounter God in seasons of hunger, testing, and uncertainty. Drawing from Matthew 4, this episode reflects on the powerful symbols of stones and bread—reminders that even in life’s most difficult moments, God’s presence is closer than we think.Have you ever found yourself in a “wilderness” season—feeling stretched, uncertain, or searching for meaning? Through scripture, story, and gentle spiritual practice, you’re invited to remember who you are and whose you are. What if the very places that feel empty are actually filled with God’s provision?This episode offers encouragement for anyone navigating hard seasons, inviting you to notice the sacred in everyday life and to trust that you are not alone. You’ll also be guided through a simple, tangible Lenten practice—carrying a stone as a reminder of God’s nearness wherever you go.✨ In this episode, you’ll discover: What Jesus’ temptation in the wilderness reveals about faith and identity The deeper meaning of stones and bread in the biblical story How to recognize God’s presence in your own life A simple spiritual practice to carry through the Lenten season Whether you’re observing Lent or simply longing for reassurance in a challenging time, this reflection offers a moment to pause, remember, and be renewed.Send Tara a Text MessageSupport the showRev. Tara Lamont Eastman is a pastor, podcaster and host of Holy Shenanigans since September of 2020. Eastman combines her love of ministry with her love of writing, music and visual arts. She is a graduate of Wartburg Theological Seminary’s Theological Education for Emerging Ministry Program and the Youth and Theology Certificate Program at Princeton Seminary. She has served in various ministry and pastoral roles over the last thirty years in the ELCA (Evangelical Lutheran Church in America) and PCUSA (Presbyterian Church of America). She is the pastor of First Presbyterian Church of Warren Pennsylvania. She has presented workshops on the topics of faith and creativity at the Wild Goose Festival. She is a trainer for Soul Shop Suicide Prevention for Church Communities.
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How to Turn Ordinary Moments into Sacred Strength: A Lenten Transformation
Mar 100:24:51Tap to summarizeIn this meaningful Lenten conversation, Pastor Tara Lamont Eastman is joined by Rev. Ellen Corcella--author of "Walk With Me: A Journey Through the Landscape of Trauma" and host of The Faith and Resilience Podcast--to explore the power of resilience and the sacred hidden within everyday life. Together, they reflect on how resilience is not just an individual trait, but something nurtured through connection—to God, to others, and to the present moment.Drawing on the wisdom of Julian of Norwich and her simple yet profound “hazelnut” metaphor, this episode invites listeners to slow down and notice the sacred in ordinary experiences—a cup of coffee, a conversation, a breath between moments. Through storytelling, poetry, and spiritual practices like Lectio Divina and contemplative reflection, Tara shares how creativity and theopoetics can open new pathways to meaning, healing, and hope.Whether you are walking through a season of wilderness or simply navigating the rhythms of daily life, this episode offers a gentle reminder: you are already surrounded by grace. In both the mountaintops and the valleys, you are made, loved, and kept.Join us for a thoughtful, grounding conversation that encourages you to embrace “thin spaces” right where you are—and to discover that all manner of things, even now, can be well.Send Tara a Text MessageSupport the showRev. Tara Lamont Eastman is a pastor, podcaster and host of Holy Shenanigans since September of 2020. Eastman combines her love of ministry with her love of writing, music and visual arts. She is a graduate of Wartburg Theological Seminary’s Theological Education for Emerging Ministry Program and the Youth and Theology Certificate Program at Princeton Seminary. She has served in various ministry and pastoral roles over the last thirty years in the ELCA (Evangelical Lutheran Church in America) and PCUSA (Presbyterian Church of America). She is the pastor of First Presbyterian Church of Warren Pennsylvania. She has presented workshops on the topics of faith and creativity at the Wild Goose Festival. She is a trainer for Soul Shop Suicide Prevention for Church Communities.
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Ashes to Action: Advice for your Lenten Journey
Feb 1500:13:45Tap to summarizeThink Lent is only about giving things up? Join Tara as she describes the season as a way to “make room” - for meditation, reflection, and acts of service. She invites you to take up a new spiritual practice or write your own spiritual autobiography. She describes how two stories - Madeleine L’Engle’s Circle of Quiet & the Transfiguration of Jesus in Matthew 17 - taught her that transformation involves commitment, community, and action.Send Tara a Text MessageSupport the showRev. Tara Lamont Eastman is a pastor, podcaster and host of Holy Shenanigans since September of 2020. Eastman combines her love of ministry with her love of writing, music and visual arts. She is a graduate of Wartburg Theological Seminary’s Theological Education for Emerging Ministry Program and the Youth and Theology Certificate Program at Princeton Seminary. She has served in various ministry and pastoral roles over the last thirty years in the ELCA (Evangelical Lutheran Church in America) and PCUSA (Presbyterian Church of America). She is the pastor of First Presbyterian Church of Warren Pennsylvania. She has presented workshops on the topics of faith and creativity at the Wild Goose Festival. She is a trainer for Soul Shop Suicide Prevention for Church Communities.
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Championing Women in Ministry with Dr. Crystal Hall
Feb 100:29:57Tap to summarizeTara interviews Dr. Crystal Hall from Crystal Hall Coaching about supporting and affirming women in ministry. Dr. Hall shares her journey, the challenges women face in ministry, and the importance of cultivating sustainable and life-giving ministries. The conversation explores themes of patriarchal structures and the significance of women's voices in proclaiming the gospel. Listen in on an inspiring discussion of the intersections of St. Brigid's Day, earth traditions, and the contributions of women saints like Brigid and Hildegard of Bingen.Hearth Keeper Prayer of St. Brigid - from St. Brigids.orgBrigid of the Mantle, encompass us,Lady of the Lambs, protect us,Keeper of the Hearth, kindle us.Beneath your mantle, gather us,And restore us to memory.Mothers of our mother,Foremothers strong.Guide our hands in yours,Remind us how to kindle the hearth.To keep it bright, to preserve the flame.Your hands upon ours,Our hands within yours,To kindle the light,Both day and night.The Mantle of Brigid about us,The Memory of Brigid within us,The Protection of Brigid keeping usFrom harm, from ignorance, from heartlessness.This day and night,From dawn till dark,From dark till dawn.Send Tara a Text MessageSupport the showRev. Tara Lamont Eastman is a pastor, podcaster and host of Holy Shenanigans since September of 2020. Eastman combines her love of ministry with her love of writing, music and visual arts. She is a graduate of Wartburg Theological Seminary’s Theological Education for Emerging Ministry Program and the Youth and Theology Certificate Program at Princeton Seminary. She has served in various ministry and pastoral roles over the last thirty years in the ELCA (Evangelical Lutheran Church in America) and PCUSA (Presbyterian Church of America). She is the pastor of First Presbyterian Church of Warren Pennsylvania. She has presented workshops on the topics of faith and creativity at the Wild Goose Festival. She is a trainer for Soul Shop Suicide Prevention for Church Communities.
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Aligning Your Passion & Purpose with Emily Goodstein of Greater Good Strategy
Jan 1500:21:09Tap to summarizeTara welcomes Emily Goodstein, the Founder + CEO of Greater Good Strategy. They discuss how to find fulfillment and purpose while contributing to the greater good. Emily shares her journey of establishing a digital marketing and fundraising firm that supports mission-driven organizations, emphasizing the power of community and sustainable work practices. She wears really cool glasses too!Send Tara a Text MessageSupport the showRev. Tara Lamont Eastman is a pastor, podcaster and host of Holy Shenanigans since September of 2020. Eastman combines her love of ministry with her love of writing, music and visual arts. She is a graduate of Wartburg Theological Seminary’s Theological Education for Emerging Ministry Program and the Youth and Theology Certificate Program at Princeton Seminary. She has served in various ministry and pastoral roles over the last thirty years in the ELCA (Evangelical Lutheran Church in America) and PCUSA (Presbyterian Church of America). She is the pastor of First Presbyterian Church of Warren Pennsylvania. She has presented workshops on the topics of faith and creativity at the Wild Goose Festival. She is a trainer for Soul Shop Suicide Prevention for Church Communities.
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Love Inspired New Year Resolutions
Jan 100:20:11Tap to summarizeKickstart the New Year as we embrace 2026 through the lens of love-inspired New Year's resolutions. Dive into reflections from Bonnie Smith Whitehouse's 'Season of Wonder' and hear uplifting stories of simple, everyday acts of love—from sharing pens and art to donning joy sweaters and making Sunday soup. Let's explore how ordinary gestures can bring more life, liberation, creation, and love into our world. Join us in walking the way of love in this special New Year's episode.Gratitude to Rev. Ellen Corcella for her support of HSP!Book References:Seasons of Wonder by Bonnie Smith Whitehouse - at InstagramCrone Zone by Nina Bargiel - Slack Mistress at InstagramPlaces to Visit:The Plaza Restaurant Bough and Bend FloralFirst Presbyterian Church of Warren, PASend Tara a Text MessageSupport the showRev. Tara Lamont Eastman is a pastor, podcaster and host of Holy Shenanigans since September of 2020. Eastman combines her love of ministry with her love of writing, music and visual arts. She is a graduate of Wartburg Theological Seminary’s Theological Education for Emerging Ministry Program and the Youth and Theology Certificate Program at Princeton Seminary. She has served in various ministry and pastoral roles over the last thirty years in the ELCA (Evangelical Lutheran Church in America) and PCUSA (Presbyterian Church of America). She is the pastor of First Presbyterian Church of Warren Pennsylvania. She has presented workshops on the topics of faith and creativity at the Wild Goose Festival. She is a trainer for Soul Shop Suicide Prevention for Church Communities.
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