Episode 15: Addiction to Assignment 

🎧 ABOUT THIS EPISODE 

In Episode 15 of the Follow Forward Podcast, host Tim Tucker is joined by missionary and disciple-maker Michael Kenyon (https://www.kenyoncovenant.com/) for a powerful conversation about transformation through calling and the long game of discipleship. 

Growing up in a small town in Northern California, Michael's early life was marked by broken family relationships and a deep drive to prove himself. After pursuing a career as a chef and seemingly achieving everything he set out for, his life took a dramatic turn, leading to homelessness and addiction on the streets of America. 

It was in that lowest place that Jesus met him. What followed was a journey of restoration and surrender that would ultimately lead him across the world to Cambodia. 

Now living in Cambodia with his family, Michael is part of a ministry working with young people coming out of trafficking, poverty, and generational trauma. Through a deeply relational and intentional approach, he is helping raise up leaders by focusing not on quick results but on long-term discipleship that brings lasting transformation. 

At its core, this episode is a compelling reminder that no story is beyond redemption—and that when we follow Jesus faithfully, He can turn survival into a life of service. 

Whether you're involved in ministry, leadership, or simply seeking to understand your calling, this episode will challenge and encourage you. Enjoy. 

🔑 KEY THEMES 

• From brokenness to calling: how God redeems every part of our story 
• The power of discipleship as a long-term, relational investment 
• Why belonging is essential in reaching people with the gospel 
• Addressing trauma, poverty, and purpose through holistic ministry 
• Raising leaders who disciple others for generational impact 
• Trusting God's guidance even when the path doesn't make sense 

👤 ABOUT THE GUEST 

Michael Kenyon is a missionary and disciple-maker based in Cambodia. Originally from the United States, he encountered Jesus after a period of homelessness and addiction, and now dedicates his life to walking alongside young people from vulnerable backgrounds. Through business, mentorship, and community, Michael is passionate about raising leaders who will bring lasting transformation to their communities. 

👤 ABOUT THE HOST 

Tim Tucker is an author, theologian, and leadership mentor with a PhD in Theology. Originally from the UK and now based in Cape Town, he works with The Message Trust across Africa and beyond. He is the author of Grab a Towel, Grief and Grace, and Finding Life After Death, and hosts the Follow Forward Podcast. 

🎙️ ABOUT FOLLOW FORWARD 

Follow Forward is a Christ-centred leadership podcast featuring real stories and global voices. Hosted by Tim Tucker and produced by The Message Trust, the podcast exists to inspire emerging leaders to follow Jesus faithfully and lead others with humility, courage, and purpose. 

🔔 STAY CONNECTED: 

🎧 Subscribe to the podcast: https://linktr.ee/followforwardpodcast 

📩 Sign up for Tim's monthly newsletter: https://grabatowel.site/contact/ 

🌍 Learn more about The Message Trust: https://messageglobal.org/ 

📢 SHARE THE EPISODE 

If this conversation encouraged you: 

👍 Like 

💬 Comment 

🔁 Share with an emerging leader 

⭐ Leave a review on your podcast app