In this powerful and deeply moving episode of Next Rung Radio, we sit down with Cathy A. Lewis, one of America’s first female executive chefs who’s cooked for NFL, NBA, and NHL teams, music legends, and Indy 500 champions and now an award‑winning author and speaker whose story of redemption will stir your soul. From the high‑pressure chaos of the restaurant world and the heartbreak of addiction to a radical life transformation through faith, Cathy reveals how she rebuilt her identity from the inside out. Her courage to confront her past, rediscover her worth, and boldly walk away from destructive habits is nothing short of miraculous. This conversation is raw, redemptive, and real, a true masterclass in grace, resilience, and the power of saying yes to a new life.

Episode Highlights

One of America’s first female executive chefs, who cooked for elite athletes, celebrities, and music icons and then found a higher calling through faith.

Opens up about years of addiction, burnout, and searching for identity in the wrong places and how a divine encounter completely transformed her life.

Shares how recommitting to Christ turned her from survivor to servant, now using her culinary gifts to minister to those who minister.

Reveals the spiritual awakening that inspired her to write two award‑winning historical fiction books based on her father’s WWII experiences.

Encourages listeners to face their past, find their peace, and rediscover purpose through faith, forgiveness, and community.

To Learn More About Cathy Visit: Cathy A Lewis

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his week on Next Rung Radio, we dive into the colorful world of Dean Tomasek, a rare creative who’s lived multiple artistic lifetimes. From painting stage sets for Dolly Parton, Alice Cooper, and KISS, to playing bass on tour and designing murals across the country, Dean’s story is one of true resilience, humility, and raw creative fire. Hear how he shifted from supporting roles to owning his artistry, stayed grounded through feast-or-famine seasons, and built a legacy out of saying YES, even when he didn’t know how. Whether you’re torn between passions or looking for clarity in your creative path, this conversation will inspire you to trust your voice, follow your hands, and keep climbing, no matter what the canvas looks like.

Episode Highlights

From bassist to muralist: Dean shares how he carved out careers in both music and visual art.

Created legendary stage designs for Dolly Parton, Grace Potter, Alice Cooper, and even Kiss (including 6-ft muscular cat sculptures!).

Talked about carving giant stage props from Styrofoam with heat wires and rasps, pure grit and invention.

Reveals the power of diversity in creativity and the value of being a “yes man” even when the task seems impossible.

Highlights how working through the pandemic taught him to pivot and adapt using digital sales and commissioned art.

To Learn More About Dean Visit: Dean Tomasek

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In this deeply moving and iconic episode of Next Rung Radio, we sit down with Manuel Cuevas , the 92-year-old master tailor behind the looks of Johnny Cash, Elvis, Dolly Parton, and hundreds of the world’s most celebrated artists. From picking up a needle at age seven to shaping fashion history, Manuel shares how clothing isn't just fabric: it's identity, storytelling, and legacy. With poetic humility and a mischievous grin, he reminds us that true beauty lies within, he just adorns it so the world can recognize it. This isn’t just about rhinestones and runways... it’s about purpose, perseverance, and the soul of creation.

If you’ve ever doubted your gift or wondered what it means to truly love what you do, this episode is your wake-up call.

Episode Highlights

Legendary fashion designer who began sewing at age 7 and went on to dress Elvis, Johnny Cash, and even presidents.

Describes his mission not to change people but to help them feel seen and celebrated through what they wear.

Emphasized cooperation, legacy, and passion as cornerstones of longevity in any creative field.

Still creating at 92, sharing wisdom on why work doesn’t feel like work when you love what you do.

To Learn More About Manuel Visit Manuel Couture

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