The 1000 Hours Outside Podcast

1KHO 649: When Lost Dreams Become Sacred Paths | Mikella Van Dyke, Chasing Sacred

Dec 14, 2025
In a heartfelt conversation, Mikella Van Dyke, a Bible teacher and missionary kid raised in Thailand, shares her journey of faith and identity. She discusses how her childhood experiences shaped her, from navigating culture shock in American high school to her transition from aspiring dancer to creating the Chasing Sacred ministry after unexpected life changes. Together, they explore the inductive Bible study method, emphasizing context in Scripture, and reflect on family missions that broaden children's worldviews, all while finding hope and purpose through life's losses.
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ANECDOTE

Missionary Childhood Shaped Her Faith

  • Mikella grew up on the Thailand–Myanmar border and in Chiang Mai while her parents translated the Bible into local languages.
  • Growing up between cultures caused a deep identity crisis that pushed her into intense Scripture study.
ANECDOTE

Ninth Grade Culture Shock

  • Mikella arrived in an American high school in ninth grade and felt isolated, crying in the bathroom her first day.
  • She describes being a 'third culture kid' who fit neither Thailand nor the U.S., causing long-term identity struggles.
ANECDOTE

Dreams Shifted Into Chasing Sacred

  • After an unexpected pregnancy Mikella left her dance career in New York and moved to New Hampshire.
  • During downtime and nap times she dug into Scripture and began sharing what she learned, launching Chasing Sacred.
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