Welcome to our story- one shaped by faith, community, and the belief that life’s most meaningful moments happen around the table, in shared spaces, and through the connections we build.
We’re Zachary and Michaela Harrod, a family living in Prague with a heart for people, storytelling, and fostering community.
Here’s a little about who we are, what we love, and the journey that brought us here.
Born and raised just north of Chicago, Zachary’s roots are in the Midwest, but has traveled far beyond. A lifelong storyteller at heart, he grew up dreaming of filmmaking and football with his sights set on tackling both at USC.
While life took a different turn, it led him toward an even greater story – one of faith, community, and a mission to inspire change.
During his time at the University of Wisconsin Oshkosh, Zachary’s world shifted when he encountered the life -changing message of Jesus. Through CRU and Athletes in Action, he discovered God’s heart of the nations, which led him to serve in the Czech Republic.
Over the years, he has poured his energy into coaching, mentoring and building relationships – through American football as a bridge to reach and inspire others.
As a coach, Zachary led teams to multiple national championships while fostering a culture of leadership and integrity through initiatives like Srdce Lva (Heart of a Lion), a youth program challenging young men to grow as leaders, teammates and citizens.
Beyond the field, his heart for the Czech community flourished through church planting, charity initiatives, and mentoring programs.
Zachary’s journey hasn’t been without its challenges. Stepping away football in 2023 allowed him to refocus on family and explore new passions. Today, he’s channeling his energy into initiatives like Kolem Stolu (Around the Table), fostering authentic connections, and Stōri Kolektif, a creative community that celebrates storytelling and artistry.
Míša’s journey started in the heart of Moravia, But she and Zachary met in Prague when the Moravian team came to pick up the Americans. Every summer, Zachary welcomed the American teams supporting the camp, eager to connect with participants and his financial supporters.
In the summer of 2013, however, everything changed. When Zachary first saw Míša- tall, brunette, and captivating – he couldn’t help but ask a friend, “Who’s that?”
Their connection was instant, though Míša was still working through an unhealthy relationship at the time. Inspired by Zachary’s authenticity and warmth, she found clarity and strength to move forward.
Within months, their shared faith and undeniable chemistry led to a whirlwind romance. Zachary prayed for Míša’s nation with such heartfelt conviction that it touched her deeply, and she knew she wanted to join him in his mission. Less than a year after they met, they were married, ready to serve together in Prague.
Míša’s passion lies in creating-whether its arts and craft with their boys, designing DIY projects, or dreaming of illustrating children’s books. She’s also deeply committed to building authentic relationships, helping women uncover their true selves and see the image of God in their lives.
Through her warmth and creativity, Míša has become a cornerstone in their community, offering spaces of safety, acceptance, and connection.
Together we’re pursing one unified vision – a mission centered on setting, building, and turning tables right side-up, where Jesus becomes the host. At these tables, the ordinary transforms into something extraordinary – a refuge, a feast, an altar, and a voyage.
Kolem Stolu: In the Gospel of Luke, we see Jesus at, going to, or leaving a meal nearly nine times. It was around the table that he served, loved, healde, cahllenged, and transformed lives. This initiative is about gathering people around tables to foster belonging, growth, and meaningful relationships. It’s a movement to see neighborhoods in Prague filled with authentic connections, where everyone has a seat at the table.
Discover how you can be part of building an authentic community through Kolem Stolu.
Stōri Kolektif: One of the communities we are leaning into as we work is to see a table set for authentic connections. Stōri Kolektif is a creative community in Prague that brings together storytellers and artists to collaborate, share ideas, and inspire cultural dialogue. At its heart is the belief that every person’s story holds validity and points to a bigger story that connects us all. Through workshops, mentorship, and shared resources, we aim to elevate storytelling as a way to explore the human experience and connect people.
Explore opportunities with Stōri Kolektif to collaborate, create, and share meaningful narratives.
As a family, we treasure the little things: adventuring in the forest, quiet Sabbaths (as quiet as they can be with two joyful little whirlwinds), and making memories together. We’re a mix of mountains and cities, superheroes and coffee lovers, art and storytelling. Through it all, our desire is to reflect the love we’ve received and invite others to join us in experiencing the beauty of life, faith, and connection.
Thank you for taking the time to get to know us. We’re excited about what God is doing here in Prague and beyond, and we’d love for you to be part of the journey.
Explore opportunities with Stōri Kolektif to collaborate, create, and share meaningful narratives.