Join host Keith Koo on this inspirational episode of Ten Talents as he sits down with Hermie Smit, Director of Neighborhood and Church Engagement at CityTeam. In this deeply personal conversation, Hermie reveals how his upbringing in a Christian home laid the groundwork for his passion to disciple and be discipled. Unexpectedly, Hermie found himself in construction when he first arrived in Silicon Valley—rather than the technology sector most people associate with the region.

Yet, amid worldly temptations and drifting from his faith, Hermie’s journey took a transformative turn when he reconnected with Christ, found a church community, met his wife, and eventually joined CityTeam. Now in his 23rd year of serving the underserved, Hermie and his teams address critical issues such as homelessness, food insecurity, and mobilizing churches to care for their neighbors. Tune in for a remarkable story of redemption, devotion, and practical ways to make a real difference in your own community.

Key Takeaways

1. Roots in Faith
• Hermie shares how his early Christian upbringing shaped his character and desire to disciple others.
• Discover what it means to have a foundation in faith that stands strong even when tested by life’s challenges.
2. A Surprising Silicon Valley Story
• Instead of diving into tech, Hermie found himself in construction after moving to the Bay Area.
• Learn how unexpected paths can lead us to deeper purpose and calling.
3. Falling Away and Coming Back
• Hermie candidly recounts a time of worldliness and drifting from his faith.
• Hear how rededicating his life to Christ set him on a new trajectory, including meeting his wife and finding a supportive church family.
4. Serving the Underserved with CityTeam
• As Director of Neighborhood and Church Engagement, Hermie has dedicated over two decades to addressing homelessness, food insecurity, and community outreach.
• Understand CityTeam’s mission and how they collaborate with local churches to bring tangible help to those in need.
5. Disciples Making Disciples
• Hermie’s passion for discipleship shines through as he explains why investing in others’ spiritual growth is both fulfilling and transformative.
• Gain insights into how anyone—regardless of background or experience—can step into a disciple-making role.

About CityTeam

CityTeam is a nonprofit organization committed to meeting the immediate needs of people struggling with homelessness, poverty, and food insecurity. Through their holistic programs, CityTeam also provides long-term solutions like job training, recovery programs, and discipleship mentorship.

San Jose Location:
CityTeam in San Jose

Why You Should Listen

• Inspiration: Hermie’s story of falling away from faith and returning to a life centered on Christ reminds us that it’s never too late for redemption.
• Practical Wisdom: Learn how one individual’s steadfast commitment to serving others can create a ripple effect of positive change in the community.
• Spiritual Growth: Get equipped with insights on discipleship—both being discipled and making disciples—within your local church or neighborhood.
• Local Impact: Discover ways to partner with organizations like CityTeam to address real needs in your own city.

Connect with Hermie Smit & CityTeam

• Hermie Smit on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/hermie-smit-63a08183/
• CityTeam Website: cityteam.org
• CityTeam San Jose: cityteam.org/get-help/san-jose

Join the Conversation

Don’t miss this compelling episode of Ten Talents. Hear how one man’s journey from a faith-based upbringing to worldly detours, then back to God’s calling, has shaped more than two decades of community transformation. If you’re looking for hope, direction, or practical ways to serve those around you, this episode is for you.

Tune in now for Hermie Smit’s powerful testimony and learn how you, too, can make an impact—one disciple and one neighborhood at a time.

JOIN THE CONVERSATION

Loved this episode?

• Subscribe to Ten Talents with Keith Koo on your favorite podcast platform.
• Share your insights on social media using #TenTalents.
• Leave a Review to help others discover these valuable conversations.

Stay tuned for more episodes spotlighting leaders who blend business acumen with faith, ethics, and innovation—one talent at a time.

JOIN THE CONVERSATION

Did you enjoy this episode?

• Subscribe to Ten Talents with Keith Koo on your favorite podcast platform.
• Share your thoughts with us on social media using #TenTalents.
• Leave a Review to help more listeners discover these insights.

Stay tuned for more inspiring stories from leaders and innovators who are reshaping industries—and our world—one talent at a time.

________________________________________

Connect with Keith Koo

• LinkedIn: Keith Koo
• Instagram: @techmaven
• Facebook: Keith Koo

Listen to Ten Talents Podcast

• Apple Podcasts: Ten Talents on Apple Podcasts
• Spotify: Ten Talents on Spotify
• iHeartRadio: Ten Talents on iHeartRadio
• KFAX 1100 AM Radio: Ten Talents on KFAX

Join the Conversation

We invite you to share your thoughts and experiences on how faith has influenced your professional networking:

www.xtalents.com

Subscribe & Share

If you found value in this episode, please subscribe to the Ten Talents Podcast on your favorite platform:

• Apple Podcasts: Subscribe on Apple Podcasts
• Spotify: Subscribe on Spotify
• iHeartRadio: Subscribe on iHeartRadio
• KFAX 1100 AM Radio: Listen every Sunday at 9:00 AM PST

Don't forget to leave a review and share this episode with friends, family, or colleagues who might benefit from integrating faith into their professional lives.

Tune in to gain valuable insights on navigating the fast-paced world of Silicon Valley without losing sight of your spiritual calling and discover how to make a lasting impact in both your professional and personal life.