Forward with Jarrett Stephens (Conversations)

In this episode of the Forward with Jarrett Stephens Podcast, Jarrett welcomes Dr. Connor Bales, pastor, author, and passionate advocate for families impacted by disability, for an honest conversation about faith, suffering, calling, and the goodness of God.

Whether you’re walking through hardship, discerning God’s calling, or seeking to faithfully serve others, this conversation offers biblical wisdom, practical encouragement, and lasting hope.

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In this episode of the Forward with Jarrett Stephens Podcast, Jarrett sits down with Daniel Ritchie to hear his remarkable story of being born without arms, overcoming unimaginable challenges, and discovering that God’s purpose is greater than any limitation.

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Pastor Steve Bezner shares his story of ministry, suffering, prayer, and trusting God through life’s hardest seasons while encouraging believers to stay rooted in the local church and the Kingdom of God.

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In this episode of the Forward Podcast, Pastor Jarrett sits down with Daniel Henderson—author, pastor, and president of Strategic Renewal—to talk about prayer, spiritual renewal, and cultivating a prayer culture in the church.

Daniel shares his journey from pastoring large congregations to leading a global movement that equips pastors and believers to pursue God’s presence through worship-based prayer. Together, they unpack practical ways to grow in prayer, build rhythms of intimacy with God, and move from seeking God’s hand to seeking His face.

In this episode of *Forward with Jarrett Stephens*, Pastor Jarrett sits down with longtime friend and ministry leader Mike Taylor. From student ministry at Champion Forest to mobilizing churches across Europe, Mike shares how God called him out of comfort and into cross-cultural missions. Hear powerful stories of transformation, learn what it means to lead in a post-Christian culture, and be inspired by practical ways to make an impact—wherever you are. This conversation is full of wisdom for anyone sensing a call, stepping out in faith, or simply wanting to live with greater purpose.

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In this powerful episode of Forward with Jarrett Stephens, we welcome Stuart Hall—an influential leader and dynamic communicator who has spent nearly 40 years shaping the next generation through student ministry.

Jarrett and Stuart take a walk down memory lane, reflecting on Stuart’s journey from Alabama to Louisiana and the countless lives impacted along the way. But Stuart’s story goes far beyond ministry—he shares his near-death battle with COVID-19, including a month in a coma, and the life-altering lessons he learned through that experience. His testimony is a powerful reminder of God’s sovereignty, the power of prayer, and the importance of putting family first.

They also dive into the realities of parenting teenagers in today’s culture, the challenges of youth ministry, and why faith must take priority over religion. Packed with wisdom, personal stories, and practical encouragement, this episode will inspire and challenge you.

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In this episode of Forward, Jarrett Stephens sits with Kevin Phillips, founder of FAMM (For All Mankind Movement), to discuss reaching unreached people groups. Phillips highlights how empowering local leaders led to an extraordinary 1300% ministry growth overseas.

They explore FAMM’s mission strategy, focusing on populations with less than 2% Christian presence, and the shift from Western missionaries to indigenous leadership. This transition increased impact, reduced costs, and leveraged cultural understanding.

The conversation offers practical ways for Christians to engage in global missions—through prayer, giving, and adopting a missionary mindset locally. Jarrett and Kevin challenge listeners to live intentionally for Christ, both locally and globally.

Michael Neale, a singer, songwriter, and bestselling author, shares his journey of faith, creativity, and leadership in this inspiring podcast episode.

Through candid conversations, he reflects on his songwriting process, his impactful books, and the pivotal moments that shaped his ministry. Listeners will be encouraged by his lessons on overcoming the need for validation, fostering unity, and living with purpose. With wisdom gleaned from decades of serving the local church, Michael delivers profound leadership principles and a message of freedom in Christ. This episode is a must-listen for leaders, worshippers, and creatives alike.

"Seven Traits of a Great Guide"

In this episode of the Forward Podcast, Jarrett sits down with John Avant, President of Life Action Ministry, to explore the topics of revival in churches, leadership, and personal transformation. John, a former pastor, and author, shares stories of the Brownwood Revival, a powerful movement of God that began in 1995, transforming churches, communities, and even universities. They also discuss the essential elements of revival, the obstacles facing the modern church, and how prayer and humility are key to experiencing a true spiritual awakening.

John opens up about his own life, detailing the challenges he faced in his marriage and how brokenness led to a deeper connection with God and a stronger bond with his wife. You'll definitely love this inspiring conversation that encourages believers to be pioneers in their faith, fostering revival in their homes, churches, and beyond.