In this heartfelt episode of The Big Fish Cares Podcast, host Benny Fisher sits down with Brad Dalton, the artist and founder behind Clay and Spirit and New Creation Pottery. Brad’s mission? To handcraft deeply personal, faith-filled gifts that speak to the soul using clay as his canvas and spirit as his guide. Inspired by a calling from God and the enduring encouragement of his late friend John Ruhlin, Brad creates “living artifacts” pottery pieces that celebrate love, legacy, and personal affirmation. Each creation begins with a story, shaped by heartfelt words from the giver, and ends as a one-of-a-kind piece that becomes a treasured reminder of connection. Brad opens up about his artistic journey, how he rediscovered clay in college, and how he turned a creative spark into a ministry of healing, encouragement, and faith. From his workshop to homes across the country, Brad’s gifts are transforming hearts one vessel at a time.
Key Moments:
00:00 The Big Fish Cares Intro
03:03 Brad's Early Creative Memories
06:06 The Role of Faith in Life & Art
13:40 Meeting John Ruhlin & The Artifact Mug
21:32 John Ruhlin's Legacy and Spirit
27:33 The Creative Process of the Artifact Mug
31:46 Meaningful Gifting and Emotional Impact
37:35 Clay and Spirit: Integrating Faith & Art
41:41 Being a Pure Vessel & Recovering Wonder
45:44 The Spiritual Foundations
51:00 Advice for Artists & Meaningful Giving
56:06 Leaving a Legacy of Love
01:00:06 Dreams, Loss, and RC Street Racing
01:04:11 Reflections, Gratitude, and Final Thoughts
01:11:11 Closing Remarks & Podcast Wrap Up
Connect with Brad Dalton:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/clay_and_spirit
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/brad.dalton.56
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brad-dalton-421886197
Connect with Host Benny Fisher:
Official Website: https://www.bennyfisher.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bigfish.benny
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/fisherbenny
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fisherbenny