MANNA

When was the last time you truly got away? Not just a vacation. Not just a business trip. A real opportunity to step back, gain perspective, and reconnect with God. After decades of global travel as a successful executive, Steve Salmen came to believe that some of life's greatest lessons happen when we intentionally step away from our routines and create space for reflection. Today, through Remarkable Journeys, Steve helps others discover the joy, wonder, and transformational power of travel. In this episode, Jeff and Steve discuss adventure, leadership, silent retreats, spiritual growth, and how nearly fifty years of annual reflection have shaped Steve's life, faith, and purpose.

What happens when God meets us at our lowest point? Eric Stephens spent years searching for acceptance in all the wrong places, battling addiction, depression, and feelings of rejection that nearly cost him his life. But in 2010, a series of events, and a simple prayer asking God to reveal Himself, set Eric on a new path. Today, Eric is an ordained pastor, founder of Redwood Christian Ministries, and host of The Rooted in Christ Podcast, helping others discover the same hope and healing he found in Christ. In this episode, Jeff and Eric discuss redemption, identity, addiction, forgiveness, purpose, and why God's grace doesn't erase our past, but rather prepares us for the future He created us to live.

For many creatives, faith and career can feel like competing priorities. Allen C. Paul believes they were never meant to be separated. A professional musician, author, coach, and founder of God and Gigs, Allen has spent years helping artists, entrepreneurs, and creators discover how to pursue their calling without compromising their relationship with God. In this episode, Allen shares his journey from church musician to professional creative, the lessons he's learned about purpose and identity, and why our greatest work happens when our gifts and faith work together. Together, Jeff and Allen discuss creativity, calling, discipleship, and how God often uses our passions as part of His plan.

What does authentic inclusion sound like? In this episode of MANNA, Jeff welcomes attorney, advocate, and Peaces of Me Foundation founder Daniel Hodges. Born blind and living with multiple disabilities, Daniel has spent his life challenging assumptions and helping others understand the dignity and value present in every human being. Daniel shares his personal experiences with discrimination, his journey into advocacy, and the faith that continues to guide his mission. This conversation explores inclusion, disability, human dignity, and what it means to see others the way Christ sees them.

If your "body is the temple of the Holy Spirit" spiritually, what happens when begins to fail you physically? In this episode of MANNA, Jeff welcomes former athlete, health advocate, and Undo Method founder Daniel Esposito. After being diagnosed with multiple chronic conditions and facing a future of increasing pain and physical limitations, Daniel began a journey that ultimately transformed both his health and his perspective on life. Daniel shares how faith, perseverance, and a commitment to understanding the body God gave him led to healing, renewed purpose, and a passion for helping others overcome chronic pain. This conversation offers practical insights and spiritual encouragement for anyone facing physical challenges or seeking greater health and wellness.