Contrary to Ordinary, Exploring Extraordinary Personal Journeys

22. Pastor Laura O’Brien on Finding Faith Pt.1

Contrary to Ordinary, Exploring Extraordinary Personal Journeys

Show Notes

Faith is an important tool that many people use to navigate the world. Today’s guest, Pastor Laura O'Brien has had an unconventional journey to finding hers. Laura is a Lutheran Pastor, who has worked all over the world. Her book Hell Hope on Wheels charts her incredible journey across the US, Europe, and eventually to her faith. Laura wasn’t brought up in a religious household and was even exposed to some elements of faith that she didn’t agree with on her epic journey.

In part 1, we’ll be focusing on some of the life events that feature in her book. Join us next time for part 2 of Laura’s interview.

Resources

Follow your curiosity, connect, and join our ever-growing community of extraordinary minds. CariFree Website CariFree on Instagram CariFree on Facebook CariFree on Pinterest CariFree on Twitter Dr. Kim Kutsch on LinkedIn

What's In This Episode The moment when Laura’s life changed. Her experience in Brazil that turned her away from faith. Laura’s time in Washington D.C working for a notable political figure. How Laura finally found her faith.

More from Contrary to Ordinary, Exploring Extraordinary Personal Journeys

Feb 24, 2026

People often take the easy path, but what can you achieve and grow by jumping into thorny problems that don’t have an obvious solution? Today's guest on Contrary to Ordinary is Dr. Alex Vieira. He’s a pioneer in cleft-palate research, has authored more than 400 scientific papers, and is the most cited expert in the field. In this episode, Alex shares his journey from growing up in Rio de Janeiro during the military regime to becoming a leading figure in oral health research. He discusses his decision to pursue dentistry, influenced by an admired uncle, the challenges of starting his research career during the AIDS epidemic, and his fascination with the Human Genome Project. In this episode’s commentary, Kim discusses the importance of the entrepreneurial mindset and the roles of genetics and environment in shaping human behavior. He emphasizes the value of collaboration, the importance of local contributions to global impact, and the need to maintain high research standards. Overall, Alex believes in following one's passion and making meaningful changes in the immediate environment, which he sees as having a trickle-down effect on broader societal improvements. Episode Highlights

Nov 26, 2024

Today's guest is Dr. Bradley Bale, a pioneering cardiologist and co-founder of the BaleDoneen Method.

Nov 12, 2024

Today's guest is Dr. Sandra Hulac, co-founder of Tam, Hulac & Partners, a cutting-edge interdisciplinary dental practice in Hong Kong. In this episode, we dive into what it means to be a global citizen and business owner. We’ll also get a rare, inside look at how someone as accomplished as Sandra handles challenges - and even navigates moments of self-doubt. Sandra has been living and practicing in Hong Kong since 2001 and has also worked in London, Germany, and the US. Resources

Oct 29, 2024

Today's guest is Sheena Hinson, Senior Marketing Manager at Philips. Sheena's journey began as a dental hygienist, but she quickly uncovered a passion for business development. Since then, she’s not only launched her own ventures but also built a vast expertise in entrepreneurship. This is part two of Sheena’s interview. In this episode, she opens up about her struggles, and how reaching out for support has helped her grow. She also reflects on how she balances short-term and long-term thinking in business and finding mentors in unlikely places. Resources

Oct 15, 2024

Today's guest is Sheena Hinson, Senior Marketing Manager at Philips. Sheena's journey began as a dental hygienist, but she quickly uncovered a passion for business development. Since then, she’s not only launched her own ventures but also built a vast expertise in entrepreneurship.

See all episodes →