Exploring More

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: ExploringMore@zoweh.org 🗺️ 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: ExploringMore@zoweh.org 🗺️ 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! 📧 Email us: ExploringMore@zoweh.org 🗺️ 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: ExploringMore@zoweh.org 🌐 Learn more: https://www.zoweh.org/podcast 📚 Explore Base Camp: https://www.zoweh.org/basecamp 

Hearing God’s Voice: Removing Obstacles and Restoring Intimacy In this episode of the Exploring More Podcast, Michael Thompson and Josh Overton dive into one of the most personal and transformative themes of the spiritual journey: hearing the voice of God. Through stories, theology, and personal reflection, they remind us that God is still speaking—and always has been. Michael shares a powerful encounter in an aspen grove, while Josh recalls a moment of divine validation as a "Giant Slayer." Together, they unpack the misconceptions, fears, and shame that often block us from hearing God clearly and offer encouragement for both solitude and community as sacred spaces where we can connect with Him. They also introduce their new YouVersion reading plan, “Comforted by God,” which is designed to help listeners engage in contemplative prayer and learn how to hear God’s voice in everyday moments. From walking in the woods to holding a rock in your hand, no moment is too ordinary for God to speak. This episode is an invitation to posture your heart to listen, believe He’s speaking, and experience the comfort of His voice. We hope you enjoy this episode and invite you to connect with us! 📧 Email us: ExploringMore@zoweh.org 📲 Download the plan: Comforted by God on the YouVersion Bible App 🌐 Learn more: https://www.zoweh.org/podcast 📚 Explore Base Camp: https://www.zoweh.org/basecamp 

King Me: Becoming the Hero in Your Story In this episode of the Exploring More Podcast, Michael Thompson shares a powerful conversation with Jim Ramos, host of the Men in the Arena podcast, centered on the themes of King Me—the masculine journey, identity, and living as image bearers of God. Michael unpacks the five stages of a man’s life: boyhood, explorer, warrior, king, and elder sage, and the importance of validation and initiation in each. Together, they explore the wounds men carry, the battles they face, and the calling to live as strong and kind kings who reflect the glory of God. The conversation is filled with practical wisdom for cultivating intimacy in marriage, blessing your children, and seeking healing from past pain. With honesty and encouragement, Michael and Jim invite men to ask two life-shaping questions: How do You see me, God? and How do I see myself? This episode is a clarion call to step into the Larger Story, live from a whole heart, and reign well in the relationships that matter most. We hope you enjoy this episode and invite you to connect with us! 📧 Email us: ExploringMore@zoweh.org 🌐 Learn more: https://www.zoweh.org/events https://www.zoweh.org/podcast 📚 Explore Base Camp: https://www.zoweh.org/basecamp

Writing King Me: Friendship, Editing, and the Journey to Wholeness In this special episode of the Exploring More Podcast, Michael Thompson sits down with longtime friend and editor Bob Harding to reflect on the creative journey behind King Me. What began as a professional connection through a mutual friend soon became a deep friendship rooted in trust, truth, and the shared mission of helping men rediscover their identity as beloved sons. Michael and Bob recount how their work together on The Heart of a Warrior paved the way for a more intimate collaboration on King Me—a book crafted not just through edits, but through prayer, coaching, and candid conversations. They share honest stories about the writing process, preserving Michael’s unique voice, and the growth that unfolded for them both. More than a behind-the-scenes look at a book, this episode offers insight into the power of brotherhood, creative vulnerability, and the healing that comes when we tell our stories well. With humor, heart, and deep appreciation, Michael and Bob invite listeners to see what can happen when two hearts align for a greater good. We hope you enjoy this episode and invite you to connect with us! 📧 Email us: ExploringMore@zoweh.org 🌐 Learn more: https://www.zoweh.org/events https://www.zoweh.org/podcast

Register for Zoom Groups here: https://linktr.ee/zoweh Listening, Naming, and Hearing God: Wrapping Up Season Four In the final episode of season four, Michael Thompson and SJ Jennings close out their five-part series on listening with a heartfelt reflection on what it means to truly pay attention—to others, to ourselves, and to God. They revisit the podcast’s journey since 2018, the shift to video, and the personal stories that have shaped their own listening growth. This conversation explores the deeper layers of listening: the spiritual practice of naming, the voices that influence us, and how empathy, curiosity, and presence can bless—or wound—the people around us. Michael and SJ reflect on how listening connects us to love and how hearing from God anchors all other listening. They offer practical guidance for discerning God’s voice and share plans for the upcoming season, which will explore the Larger Story map and the heart of a listener. Whether you’ve journeyed through every episode or just joined the conversation, this one invites you to keep growing, keep listening, and keep exploring more. We hope you enjoy this episode and invite you to connect with us! 📧 Email us: ExploringMore@zoweh.org 🌐 Learn more: https://www.zoweh.org/events https://www.zoweh.org/podcast

Register for Zoom Groups here: https://linktr.ee/zoweh Being Heard: The Healing Power of Presence and Empathy In this episode of the Exploring More Podcast, Michael Thompson and SJ Jennings continue their journey into the art of listening—focusing on what it means to truly hear someone. They explore how childhood wounds, family dynamics, and emotional disconnects can shape our experience of being missed, misunderstood, or invalidated. Through personal stories and practical insights, they highlight what engaged listening actually requires: empathy, presence, safety, and attentiveness. From naming emotions to avoiding common pitfalls like “the advice-giver” or “the story diverter,” Michael and SJ offer helpful strategies to listen in ways that foster connection and healing. They reflect on how even a well-intentioned response can shut someone down—and how a well-timed question like “Where would you like to start?” can open the door to trust. This conversation is a powerful reminder that being truly heard can be transformational, and that listening well is one of the greatest gifts we can offer. We hope you enjoy this episode and invite you to connect with us! 📧 Email us: ExploringMore@zoweh.org 🌐 Learn more: https://www.zoweh.org/events https://www.zoweh.org/podcast

Register for Zoom Groups here: linktr.ee/zoweh The Extra Mile: Listening Like Jesus In this episode of the Exploring More Podcast, Michael Thompson and SJ Jennings continue their conversation on the transformative power of listening—not just with our ears, but with our hearts. Drawing from Jesus’ invitation to go the extra mile, they explore what it means to carry someone’s emotional or spiritual load by offering your full attention and presence. With stories from encounter weekends, medic training, and the life of Jesus Himself, the hosts highlight the difference between “active” and “engaged” listening. They share how true listening builds trust, invites healing, and fosters deep relational and spiritual connection. Michael and SJ reflect on the pain of being misunderstood, the power of asking good questions, and the sacred ministry of simply being with someone in their moment. In a world that often talks too much and listens too little, this episode is a call to love others by listening well—like Jesus did. We hope you enjoy this episode and invite you to connect with us! Hearing God Series: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL2CxbBdJ5je0lxLcQl6Gki5ECUruT3EJC  📧 Email us: ExploringMore@zoweh.org  🌐 Learn more: https://www.zoweh.org/events  https://www.zoweh.org/podcast   

The Art of Listening: Building Trust, Connection, and Space for the Soul In this episode of the Exploring More Podcast, Michael Thompson and SJ Jennings begin a new series on listening—not just hearing, but truly engaging. They explore how good listening fosters trust, empathy, and connection, while poor listening erodes relationships over time. From the noise of everyday life to the emotional distractions within us, the hosts unpack why listening well is harder than we think—and more important than we realize. Drawing from personal stories, humor (including a nod to comedian Brian Regan’s “me monster”), and practical tips, Michael and SJ introduce the idea of “engaging listening”—a deeper, more relational approach that requires presence, emotional awareness, and intentionality. They reflect on their own growth, the pitfalls of distraction, and the small habits that either build or break connection over time. This episode also hints at what’s ahead: listening not just to others, but to God. Because in a world full of noise, creating space to hear His voice might be the most transformative practice of all. We hope you enjoy this episode and invite you to connect with us! 📧 Email us: ExploringMore@zoweh.org 🌐 Learn more: https://www.zoweh.org/events https://www.zoweh.org/podcast 📚 Visit Base Camp: https://www.zoweh.org/basecamp

Galatians 6: Gentle Restoration, Personal Theology, and the Gospel of More In this final episode of the Galatians series, Michael Thompson and SJ Jennings explore Paul’s closing words in chapter 6—an invitation to live with gentleness, forgiveness, and mutual care. As they reflect on the early church’s challenges, Michael and SJ draw parallels to today’s world: pandemics, polarization, and the constant pull toward disunity. At the heart of the conversation is the reminder that we were never meant to walk alone. Whether it’s gently restoring a brother or bearing one another’s burdens, Paul’s charge is clear—live the gospel together. The hosts share personal stories of confrontation, accountability, and how grace multiplies when it’s sown in kindness rather than control. They also dive into the principle of sowing and reaping, using vivid metaphors (like boomerangs) to illustrate how our actions—good or harmful—have lasting impact. Listeners are invited to examine their “personal theology” and notice where they may be relying on a “Christ plus” mindset, instead of resting in Christ alone. With reflection, prayer, and gratitude, this episode closes the Galatians journey by pointing back to the bigger truth: there is always more freedom, more love, and more grace available in the life God invites us into. We hope you enjoy this episode and invite you to connect with us! 📧 Email us: ExploringMore@zoweh.org 🌐 Learn more: https://www.zoweh.org/events https://www.zoweh.org/podcast 📚 Explore Base Camp: https://www.zoweh.org/basecamp 

Galatians 5: Living by the Spirit and Resisting the Drift to Bondage In this episode of the Exploring More Podcast, Michael Thompson and SJ Jennings continue their journey through Galatians, diving deep into chapter 5 and its radical invitation: to live free and walk by the Spirit. They explore the tension between flesh and Spirit, law and grace, and what it means to express faith through love—not fear, performance, or legalism. Drawing parallels to The Shawshank Redemption and Schindler’s List, the conversation unpacks how easy it is to return to “institutionalized” ways of living—even after being set free. The hosts reflect on Paul’s passionate call to resist that drift and instead live as adopted sons and daughters, led by the Holy Spirit. They also examine the historical backdrop of the Reformation and Martin Luther’s deep connection to Galatians, tracing how his translation work helped recover the gospel of grace in an age of religious rule-keeping. With stories, Scripture, and honest questions, Michael and SJ make the spiritual struggle tangible—and hopeful. The episode also highlights Zoweh’s Base Camp, a free resource library full of devotionals, discussion guides, and podcast-based study tools designed for personal and group growth. We hope you enjoy this episode and invite you to connect with us! 📧 Email us: ExploringMore@zoweh.org 🌐 Learn more: https://www.zoweh.org/events https://www.zoweh.org/podcast 📚 Explore Base Camp: https://www.zoweh.org/basecamp 

Galatians 4: From Law to Sonship—Living in the Freedom of Grace In this episode of the Exploring More Podcast, Michael Thompson and SJ Jennings continue their journey through Galatians, unpacking the powerful contrast between life under the law and life as sons and daughters of God. Using the characters of Les Misérables—Javert and Valjean—they illustrate the stark difference between rigid justice and transformative grace. Michael and SJ reflect on Galatians 4 and the metaphor of the law as a guardian or tutor—meant to lead us to maturity, not define our identity. With personal stories and biblical insight, they explore the theme of adoption into God’s family, emphasizing both the legal authority and intimate connection that come with true sonship. The conversation calls believers to grow from spiritual slavery into spiritual maturity—moving from performance and obligation into freedom and responsibility, led by the Spirit. Grace isn’t just forgiveness—it’s the empowering presence of God that brings about real transformation. Listeners are encouraged to reflect on their own journey with grace, and to prepare their hearts for the next step in the series: the fruit of the Spirit in Galatians 5. We hope you enjoy this episode and invite you to connect with us! 📧 Email us: ExploringMore@zoweh.org 🌐 Learn more: https://www.zoweh.org/events https://www.zoweh.org/podcast 📚 Explore Base Camp: https://www.zoweh.org/basecamp 

Galatians 3: Faith, Freedom, and the Promise of More In this episode of the Exploring More Podcast, Michael Thompson turns the spotlight to Galatians chapter 3—a pivotal passage where Paul passionately unpacks the difference between living by faith and being bound by the law. Building on earlier chapters, this conversation explores how grace, not performance, secures our place in God's family. Through clear teaching and heartfelt reflection, Michael highlights Paul’s rebuke of the Galatians for slipping back into works-based righteousness, and his reminder that the Spirit comes by faith—not rule-keeping. From Abraham to the coming of Christ, Galatians 3 unveils the promise of freedom through trust in God's covenant, not human effort. This episode also reintroduces Zoweh’s Base Camp, a new online resource library filled with devotionals, discussion guides, and podcast video series designed to help individuals and small groups dive deeper into Scripture—especially journeys like Galatians. Whether you're walking this out alone or with brothers in community, Galatians 3 reminds us that there is always more—more to believe, more to trust, and more freedom to receive as sons and daughters of God. We hope you enjoy this episode and invite you to connect with us! 📧 Email us: ExploringMore@zoweh.org 🌐 Explore Base Camp: https://www.zoweh.org/basecamp 🎧 More Episodes & Show Notes: https://www.zoweh.org/podcast

Galatians 2: Identity, Intimacy, and the Freedom Beyond Performance In this episode of the Exploring More Podcast, Michael Thompson and SJ Jennings continue their series on Galatians by diving into chapter two—where Paul boldly defends the gospel of grace and challenges efforts to impose law-driven faith on new believers. Through humor, baseball analogies, and historical insight, the hosts explore the cultural tension between Jewish and Gentile followers and how those same dynamics show up in modern faith and identity struggles. The conversation centers on the difference between living in performance-based religion versus intimacy with God. Michael and SJ reflect on Paul’s confrontation with Peter, the deeper meaning of justification by faith, and the subtle ways we still try to earn what Christ has freely given. Drawing from personal stories, cultural comparisons, and even Tim Keller’s commentary, this episode offers both theological depth and real-life application. The message is clear: our worth doesn’t come from rituals or appearances—it comes from being known, loved, and justified in Christ. This episode also spotlights Zoweh’s Base Camp, a powerful resource for men seeking spiritual growth, healing, and deeper connection with God and others. We hope you enjoy this episode and invite you to connect with us! 📧 Email us: ExploringMore@zoweh.org 🌐 Learn more: https://www.zoweh.org/events https://www.zoweh.org/podcast 📚 Visit Base Camp: https://www.zoweh.org/basecamp

Galatians 1: Gospel Clarity, Conditional Love, and Personal Theology In this episode of the Exploring More Podcast, Michael Thompson and SJ Jennings continue their series through the book of Galatians, focusing on Paul’s bold defense of his apostleship and the uncompromising unity of the gospel. Writing with passion and urgency, Paul confronts distortions introduced by the Judaizers—reminding the Galatians that his commission comes not from man, but from Jesus Christ Himself. The conversation moves from historical context to personal reflection, as Michael and SJ examine how cultural expectations, church upbringing, and performance-based faith can cloud our understanding of grace. They explore how many believers, knowingly or not, come to believe that love must be earned—when in fact, the gospel declares it’s freely given. This episode also introduces Zoweh’s Base Camp, a new online resource hub offering devotionals, podcasts, and discussion guides to support deeper connection with God and others. Whether you're exploring Galatians in a group or on your own, this resource is a companion for your healing and restoration journey. Listeners are encouraged to reflect on their own personal theology and motivations: What’s driving your faith—grace or performance? What version of love did your story teach you to believe? We hope you enjoy this episode and invite you to connect with us! 📧 Email us: ExploringMore@zoweh.org 🌐 Learn more: https://www.zoweh.org/events https://www.zoweh.org/podcast 🧭 Base Camp: https://www.zoweh.org/basecamp  

Galatians, Grace, and Gospel: Paul’s Passion and Our Freedom In this episode of the Exploring More Podcast, Michael Thompson and SJ Jennings open a brand-new journey through the book of Galatians. With passion and insight, they explore Paul’s missionary travels, his dramatic transformation from Pharisee to apostle, and the cultural tension between Jewish and Gentile believers in the early church. This episode lays the foundation for the Galatians series—a deep dive into one of Paul’s most emotional and urgent letters. Michael and SJ unpack themes of identity, freedom, grace, and spiritual warfare, and examine how Paul’s personal encounters with the resurrected Christ shaped his bold message of salvation by grace, not by works. Alongside historical and theological context, the conversation gets personal: What are we adding to the gospel? Where are we still performing for acceptance? Through honest reflection and practical application, the hosts invite listeners to confront performance-based faith and embrace grace as the empowering presence of God. Whether you’re listening alone or with a small group, this series invites you into the heart of the gospel—a life of freedom, identity, and unshakable belonging in Christ. We hope you enjoy this episode and invite you to connect with us! 📧 Email us: ExploringMore@zoweh.org 🌐 Learn more: https://www.zoweh.org/events https://www.zoweh.org/podcast

Kings Row with John Eldredge: Experiencing Jesus in Daily Life In this special episode of Exploring More, Michael Thompson welcomes bestselling author John Eldredge to launch the new series Kings Row. Together, they explore deeper spiritual experiences—not through religious striving, but through daily relational union and communion with Jesus. John shares his heart behind Experiencing Jesus, a guide to recovering ancient practices and creating space to connect with God. Drawing from Psalm 91, neuroscience, and his own journey, he introduces the “ordinary mystic”—believers who walk intimately with God in everyday life. The conversation explores the challenge of a culture driven by speed and distraction. John names the toll of technology and invites listeners to unplug and return to practices that foster healing and peace. From angelic encounters to Star Trek, the episode offers wisdom and wonder in how God meets us. Michael and John also highlight the role of spiritual fathering, mentors, and tools like the Pause app—resources to reorient the soul and experience God in real time. This episode invites you to linger in God’s presence, embrace the unseen realm, and rediscover the joy of walking with Jesus daily. We hope you enjoy this episode and invite you to connect with us! 📧 Email us: ExploringMore@zoweh.org 🌐 Learn more: https://www.zoweh.org/events https://www.zoweh.org/podcast 🕊️ Pause App & Experiencing Jesus Module: https://www.pauseapp.com

Healing the Father’s Heart: Questions, Connection, and the Power of Apology In this episode of the Exploring More Podcast, Michael Thompson and SJ Jennings dive into the deep waters of fatherhood and healing. They explore how a father’s spiritual health and emotional presence can shape not only his own heart but also the hearts of his children. The invitation is clear: walk with God, get your heart back, and reconnect with your children—no matter what season of parenting you're in. Through personal stories, including bread baking requests, football games, Star Trek marathons, and the hard lessons of missed moments, Michael and SJ unpack practical ways for fathers to stay engaged and grow in empathy. From asking better questions to reading books and watching shows alongside their kids, they share everyday strategies that create opportunities for meaningful connection. A major theme of the episode is the healing power of sincere apologies. The hosts offer guidance on how to make amends—not from a place of shame, but from a place of humility and love. They emphasize that even past mistakes, when owned and addressed, can become sacred moments of restoration. The conversation also highlights the spiritual dimension of fatherhood: praying for and with children, standing in spiritual authority, and staying attentive to God’s voice in the parenting journey. Resources like Zoweh’s Daily Prayer and the book King Me are recommended as tools for this sacred calling. Whether you're in a season of reconnection or just beginning to examine your own story, this episode offers hope, honesty, and help for the road ahead. We hope you enjoy this episode and invite you to connect with us! 📧 Email us: ExploringMore@zoweh.org 🌐 Learn more: https://www.zoweh.org/events https://www.zoweh.org/podcast