In this episode of The Walk, Kurtis Parks sits down with pastor-turned-maker Derek Welborn to tell a story that starts with loss, wrestles through identity, and unfolds into unexpected calling. What began as a painful journey through alopecia became the soil God used to birth Saints Western—and a deeper trust in His timing.

Episode 159
Host: Kurtis Parks

In This Episode, You’ll Hear:

How losing his hair forced Derek to confront identity, fear, and faith
Why unanswered prayers can still become sacred turning points
The role community plays when God invites us to step out in faith
How Saints Western was born from pain, craftsmanship, and obedience
What it looks like to follow God when the next step feels unclear

Guest Bio

Derek Welborn lives in Austin, Texas, with his wife Jill and their daughters, Jaymes and Gray. After 15 years in full-time ministry, Derek stepped into a new season when a battle with severe alopecia disrupted everything he thought he knew about calling and identity. What began as a deeply personal loss became the birthplace of Saints Western, a brand rooted in craftsmanship, legacy, and faith. Today, Derek continues to tell redemptive stories—through community, creativity, and a life surrendered to God’s leading.

Pull Quote

“WHAT I THOUGHT WAS THE END OF MY STORY WAS ACTUALLY THE PLACE GOD STARTED WRITING A NEW ONE.”

Helpful Links

https://www.saintswestern.com
https://www.instagram.com/derekwelborn
https://www.instagram.com/saintswestern

Sponsor — Planning Center

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