Episode 14: Engineer-Turned-Evangelist: How Meekness, Music, and Bold Moves Shape a Gospel Life (w/ Joanna Danielson)

Joanna Danielson didn’t set out to become a missionary. She was an environmental engineer—analytical, ambitious, and thriving in her consulting career. But a spring break trip and a string of Spirit-led conversations began to change everything. Slowly, God redirected her steps from boardrooms to dorm rooms.

In this episode, Joanna shares her journey from "absolutely not" to absolutely surrendered. Now serving full-time with New Life Church at the University of Michigan, she disciples students, leads worship, and shares Jesus boldly and faithfully—even when it costs her.

We talk about what it means to steward the gift of evangelism, how Gen Z is spiritually curious but relationally guarded, and why Joanna believes worship might be the most powerful gospel witness of all. She opens up about the slow, faithful process of leaving engineering, raising support, and stepping into ministry despite expectations.

Whether she’s leading late-night pancake outreach on frat row or praying for students who walked away from the gospel, Joanna offers a compelling picture of evangelism that’s more about presence than perfection.

You’ll walk away inspired by her honesty, challenged by her obedience, and reminded that a life trusting God cannot be wasted.

Resources Mentioned:

• GotQuestions.org: Joanna’s favorite resource for students wrestling with theology and doubt.
• Evangelism cohort training materials (Contact us to request a copy)
• Late night worship and prayer gatherings (not a resource—just an invitation to show up and be changed)

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