#39 Dec 07, 25

A Real Talk About Hope

Advent kicks off with a deep dive into HOPE. From ancient prophecy to personal pain, this episode unpacks Isaiah 9 and reminds us why real hope isn’t found in holiday cheer—but in a person.

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You don’t have to lead alone. Thrive Leaders NorCal | April 30–May 1: Two days to grow in clarity, courage, and calling.

Episode Video

Creators and Guests

Host

Curt Harlow

For the past 13 years Curt Harlow has served as one of the Senior Pastors of Bayside Church. With 9 campuses (primarily in the Sacramento area) and over 17,000 people in regular attendance Bayside is one of the fastest growing churches on the west coast. Before coming to Bayside Curt spent almost three decades working as a missionary to students attending secular college campuses. His current responsibilities at Bayside include planting the church's newest campus in Auburn, CA. Curt communicates in a hilarious style that will make you laugh hard and then think even harder. Most of all, he will challenge you to find grace inspired ways to apply truth in everyday life. He has been married to Kelly, his graphic designer wife and partner in ministry, for 36 years. They have three adult children.

Host

Dena Davidson

Dena Davidson loves Jesus. She has the best husband in the world. She’s mom to the cutest kids. She loves her big family more than anything. She has her dream job. She loves learning, reading, the British flag, philosophy, and running charades. She can’t multitask. Her favorite TV show is The West Wing. Her husband takes her on adventures. Officially, she is the Discipleship Director of Thrive College at Bayside Church. Unofficially, her office is a place of laughter, crying, and the peculiar mess of making disciples.

Guest

Brannon Shortt

Brannon is a pastor, rapper (Bshortt), candle maker, and community developer. Along with being a Pastor at Bayside Church, Brannon also sits on the board of directors for “Rise Academy Compton” and “The Hollywood Prayer Network”. Brannon’s greatest passions are communicating the message of Jesus, engaging culture, and all things creative. He holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Theological Studies from Bryan College and a Master’s Degree in Theological Studies from Gateway Seminary. Brannon, along with his wife Casey and dog Gizmo currently reside in Sacramento California. Go Dodgers!