The Intentional Parents Podcast Loving People in Unseen Ways, Trusting God in the Detours + Saying “Yes” to Jesus (America’s Got Talent Winner Dustin Tavella)
Mar 25, 2026
Dustin Tavella, AGT winner and magician who turned a hard childhood into a ministry of presence, shares stories of faith, adoption, and using magic to connect people. He talks about small acts of faith that reshape lives. He describes launching the D PLUS Project, trusting God through detours, choosing family over fame, and how play and presence become ministry.
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Clowning Led To A Lifelong Calling
- As a kid Dustin learned balloon-twisting at Creation East and was asked to dress as a clown to serve inner-city kids, which launched his early ministry involvement.
- That clown phase taught him to use what he loves (play, magic) to bless others, even when awkward.
Give What You Have Now Not When You Have More
- Use the things you love to serve people now instead of waiting for a perfect platform or more resources.
- Dustin warns generosity isn't unlocked by money; give your time, presence, and gifts regardless of scale.
Relational Ministry Grew From Sandwiches To Projects
- Dustin and Carrie turned short sandwich giveaways into a sustained Skid Row relationship, filming music videos with homeless friends and centering their identity beyond 'homeless' labels.
- That relational commitment became the D PLUS Project and shaped their adoption story.
