What makes a gift meaningful?

In this heartwarming holiday episode of the Exploring More podcast, Michael Thompson and SJ Jennings unpack the deeper meaning behind giving and receiving gifts. What makes a present truly meaningful? It's not the price tag—but the story, the thought, and the heart behind it. From a toy fire truck that honored a man's courageous past to a miniature Jeep gifted with intention and love, the guys share personal stories that point to something deeper: presence.

The conversation explores why personalized gifts hit differently—because they tell someone, I see you, I remember you, and you matter. But Michael and SJ also acknowledge the tension many feel during this season—depression, grief, unmet expectations—and how practicing presence can bring hope, healing, and joy even in hard times. They talk about how being attentive, listening well, and remembering someone's story opens the door to giving relationally, not just materially.

Whether you're a last-minute shopper or someone who curates gifts all year long, this episode invites you to slow down and consider how the best gifts flow from being present to God and others.

We hope you enjoy this episode and invite you to connect with us!

🔔 Don't miss the upcoming Christmas Eve episode on the presence of God in the Christmas story.

📧 Email us: [email protected] 🌐 Learn more: https://www.zoweh.org/podcast

Sign up for the December 10 Allies Roundtable: Zoweh.org/allies

Start With Story: Vision, Brotherhood & Guardrails in Men's Ministry

In this episode of the Exploring More podcast, Michael Thompson, SJ Jennings, and Josh Overton close out the Men's Ministry series with a conversation rooted in one of the most important elements of group life: story. They unpack how storytelling builds trust, catalyzes connection, and anchors the culture of a men's group far more than curriculum ever could.

The team shares about the necessity of starting with a clear vision—three simple words like adventure, growth, or journey—and how this clarity helps shape expectations, engagement, and outcomes. They talk through the importance of creating group "guardrails," those unspoken (or even better, written) agreements that establish safety, rhythm, and mutual care within the group.

The episode also includes guidance on how to communicate expectations clearly, how to introduce new members to your group's heartbeat, and how facilitators can foster an atmosphere where men feel free to share honestly without pressure to perform. Whether you're navigating group dynamics, coaching a co-leader, or looking to reinvigorate a tired format, this conversation offers actionable insight and encouragement.

If you've ever wrestled with how to go deeper than surface-level discussion or how to steward momentum in a men's group, this one's for you. The hosts also extend an invitation to join the upcoming Zoweh Allies Roundtable on December 10th, where you can connect with like-hearted leaders, share ideas, and get equipped to launch or lead with confidence.

We hope you enjoy this episode and invite you to connect with us!

📆 Roundtable Info + Sign-up: zoweh.org/allies

📧 Email us: [email protected] 🌐 Learn more: https://www.zoweh.org/podcast

Sign up for the December 10 Allies Roundtable: Zoweh.org/allies

Men's Ministry That Heals, Not Just Helps.

In this episode of the Exploring More podcast, Michael Thompson, SJ Jennings, and Josh Overton continue the series on men's ministry, diving deep into the practicalities of leading and sustaining groups built around connection, brotherhood, and the heart. They unpack how to lead a men's group that isn't driven by curriculum or performance but by knowing and being known—where the goal is relationships, not checkboxes.

The conversation highlights how rhythms of gathering matter: weekly or bi-weekly meetings of 90–120 minutes, intentional midweek communication, and the importance of flexibility in content and structure. Whether it's gathering for a book discussion or breaking away to address real-life battles, the facilitators emphasize a culture of grace, safety, and presence.

They share their own group experiences, including long-term friendships forged through consistent time together—like Fourth of July parties, fishing trips, and long-form Monday night meetups. Leadership isn't about being the expert; it's about stewarding space and fostering brotherhood. The need for a "co-pilot" or secondary leader is highlighted as a game-changer for sustainability and care.

Listeners are encouraged to evaluate the culture they want to create and the role they're playing in helping men discover more life, more love, and more freedom. The episode closes with a call to join the Zoweh Allies Roundtable on December 10th—an open Zoom event for men who want to launch or grow something meaningful in their communities.

We hope you enjoy this episode and invite you to connect with us!

📧 Email us: [email protected] 🌐 Learn more: https://www.zoweh.org/podcast

Starting Something That Lasts

What if launching a men's group was less about curriculum and more about culture?

In this episode of the Exploring More Podcast, Michael Thompson, SJ Jennings, and Josh Overton continue their deep-dive into the world of men's ministry. Building on years of experience, they offer practical insights for those looking to start or strengthen a gathering of men rooted in connection, trust, and transformation.

The conversation covers everything from establishing a clear culture (hint: "vulnerability" might not be your best word) to navigating existing church dynamics with humility and discernment. They emphasize the importance of starting small, defining clear expectations, and focusing more on friendship than function. Listeners are reminded that success isn't found in numbers or programs—it's in creating a safe space where men can be seen, heard, and known.

If you're beginning a group, reimagining one, or mentoring others to lead, this episode offers valuable guardrails and encouragement to build something that lasts.

We hope you enjoy this episode and invite you to connect with us!

📧 Questions or comments? Email: [email protected] 🌐 Resources: https://www.zoweh.org/podcast https://www.zoweh.org/allies

From Good Men to Loved Men

What if the real invitation of men's ministry isn't to be better, but to be loved?

In this episode of the Exploring More Podcast, Michael Thompson, Josh Overton, and SJ Jennings take an honest look at the past, present, and future of men's ministry. They reflect on the shift from performance-based models of discipleship, service, and behavior modification to a new frontier—intimacy with God and the journey of becoming a beloved son.

From fragile beginnings to lasting impact, the conversation explores what it takes to build spaces where men can be vulnerable, known, and free. The guys share stories from the field, the power of starting small, and how brotherhood and story are essential to healing. Whether you're leading a group, exploring a calling, or simply hungry for more, this episode will encourage you to trade striving for sonship.

We hope you enjoy this episode and invite you to connect with us!

📧 Email us: [email protected] 🌐 Learn more: https://www.zoweh.org/podcast https://www.zoweh.org/allies

Unplugging from the Matrix: Spiritual Training for Real Life

In this episode of the Exploring More Podcast, Michael Thompson and SJ Jennings dive into the metaphor-rich world of The Matrix to explore how spiritual training transforms our ability to live with power, love, and freedom. Just like Neo needed to learn the rules of the system, believers must become aware of the unseen battle between good and evil—and train accordingly.

Drawing from personal stories, Scripture (like Galatians 5), and scenes from The Matrix, they challenge listeners to discern spiritual reality, recognize enemy tactics, and lean into the guidance of the Trinity. This episode is a call to vigilance, spiritual growth, and choosing to walk in the authority and identity we've been given.

Whether you're facing internal "agents" of fear, shame, or distraction, or learning to discern the voice of the Spirit, this episode reminds you: training isn't optional—it's essential.

We hope you enjoy this episode and invite you to connect with us!

📧 Email us: [email protected] 📘 Resources: https://www.zowehoutpost.com/books 📚 Download the map: https://www.zoweh.org/2R2K-map 🌐 Encounter Weekend: https://www.zoweh.org/events

Encounter Weekend: www.zoweh.org/the-heart-of-a-warrior-encounter

The Heart of the Story: Why Everything Flows from the Inside Out

In this episode of the Exploring More Podcast, Michael Thompson and SJ Jennings unpack the central role of the heart in the spiritual life. Drawing from Scripture, theology, and personal experience, they explore how the heart is not just symbolic—it's the seat of belief, perception, and transformation.

Referencing The Wizard of Oz and the Tin Man's search for a heart, they reflect on why the heart matters so much in our stories, and why it's often misunderstood. Is it wicked? Is it good? The answer is complex—but critical.

They dig into what it means to live "life from the heart," the lies that often corrupt our core beliefs, and the role of the Holy Spirit in healing and restoration. With practical next steps and recommended resources like Search and Rescue, this episode is an invitation to begin inspecting, guarding, and transforming your heart—because that's where life really starts.

We hope you enjoy this episode and invite you to connect with us!

📧 Email us: [email protected] 📘 Read Search and Rescue zoweh.org/books 📚 Explore A Biblical Theology of the Heart (PDF Download) 🌐 Learn more: zoweh.org/podcast

The Kingdom for You: Hearing God's Voice and Partnering in the Battle

In this episode of the Exploring More Podcast, Michael Thompson and SJ Jennings explore the profound reality that the Kingdom of God isn't just coming—it's for you. Picking up the thread from previous episodes on the map of darkness and light, they discuss how Jesus didn't just defeat the enemy—He invites us to join Him in bringing the Kingdom to earth.

From stories like The Chronicles of Narnia and 50 First Dates, to biblical truths and personal experience, Michael and SJ unpack what it means to recognize God's voice, partner with the Holy Spirit, and live as image bearers of light in a world still shadowed by darkness.

They emphasize that hearing from God isn't a spiritual elite experience—it's part of our design. With tools like the Pause app and YouVersion devotionals, they offer practical ways to slow down, be still, and listen deeply.

This episode is a call to engage: to practice stillness, recognize the King's voice, and live as an agent of redemption in the Story we've been invited into.

We hope you enjoy this episode and invite you to connect with us!

📧 Email us: [email protected] 🗺️ Explore the map: zoweh.org/map 📲 Try the Pause app: pauseapp.com 📚 Base Camp Resources: zoweh.org/basecamp

Mapping Darkness and Light: Discernment, Love, and the Spiritual Battle

In this episode of the Exploring More Podcast, Michael Thompson and SJ Jennings dive into the ongoing spiritual battle between darkness and light. Using stories from Scripture, personal experiences, and even a 1974 NFL game, they highlight the critical importance of discernment—knowing the enemy's tactics and understanding where you are on the map of the Larger Story.

They explore how love, kindness, and forgiveness aren't passive virtues—they're powerful weapons in spiritual warfare. Whether it's learning to resist the devil, naming deceptive thoughts, or walking in mercy toward others, this conversation offers wisdom and tools for fighting well and living free.

Michael and SJ remind us that we were never meant to walk this path alone. With the guidance of the Holy Spirit, the support of community, and the clarity that comes from spiritual training, we can navigate this battle with courage and hope.

We hope you enjoy this episode and invite you to connect with us!

📧 Email us: [email protected] 🗺️ Explore the map: zoweh.org/map 🌐 Learn more: zoweh.org/podcast 📚 Base Camp Resources: zoweh.org/basecamp

The Hero's Journey and the Map of the Larger Story

In this episode of the Exploring More Podcast, Michael Thompson and SJ Jennings dive deeper into the theme of this first series: learning to read the map of the Larger Story. Through the lens of beloved classics like Pinocchio, The Lion King, and The Wizard of Oz, they unpack the shape of the hero's journey and the spiritual landscape we all live in—one marked by darkness and light, conflict and redemption.

Michael and SJ explore how the Old and New Covenants frame our understanding of the battle for identity, authority, and purpose. They reflect on personal experiences, spiritual formation, and the power of belief and story in shaping our path. With the help of the digital and physical Zoweh Map, they reveal why orientation and training are critical for every man who wants to know where he is and where he's going.

This episode invites you to slow down, study the map, and ask God what He sees in you and your story. Because in a world at war, clarity is everything—and healing begins when we understand the terrain.

We hope you enjoy this episode and invite you to connect with us!

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🗺️ Explore the map: zoweh.org/map

🌐 Learn more: zoweh.org/podcast

📚 Base Camp Resources: zoweh.org/basecamp

Maps, Mountain Lions, and the Larger Story

Season Five kicks off with Michael Thompson and SJ Jennings reflecting on where the journey has taken them—and where it's going next. Surrounded by memorabilia, laughter, and memories, they introduce the guiding theme for this new season: understanding the larger story through the lens of maps, spiritual reality, and the battle between light and darkness.

From tales of mountain lions in Montana to metaphors pulled from The Lord of the Rings and Harry Potter, this episode invites listeners to reframe how they see their lives—not as random or isolated, but as part of a greater narrative shaped by love, war, and redemption.

Michael and SJ emphasize the centrality of the heart in that story, the importance of spiritual awareness, and the need to know where you are and where you're headed. This season, the podcast will explore Zoweh's Map of the Larger Story, offering listeners tools, truth, and orientation to help them navigate life in both the physical and spiritual realms.

We hope you enjoy this episode and invite you to connect with us!

📧 Email us: [email protected]

🌐 Learn more: https://www.zoweh.org/podcast

📚 Explore Base Camp: https://www.zoweh.org/basecamp