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.

Sometimes we learn our best lessons from our worst bosses.

In this episode of MANNA, Jeff sits down with leadership researcher, speaker, and author Dr. Andy Neillie to discuss how one difficult leadership experience shaped his life's work. Through years of study, coaching, and doctoral research, Andy has become a leading voice on servant leadership and organizational influence.

Together they explore leadership, character, faith, trust, and why the best leaders focus less on personal success and more on helping others thrive. If you're responsible for leading people—in business, ministry, or at home—this conversation offers practical wisdom and timeless truths.

A S20 bonus episode with returning S6 MANNA Man and US Senate candidate Tom Weiler

What happens when the dream you've spent your life pursuing nearly ends it?

In this episode of MANNA, Jeff welcomes Tim Malm, founder of Stronger 4:13 and former nationally ranked rodeo competitor. After a catastrophic accident changed the trajectory of his life, Tim faced the difficult challenge of rebuilding his identity and discovering God's purpose in the midst of adversity.

Tim shares his remarkable recovery journey, the role faith played in sustaining him, and how Philippians 4:13 became the foundation for a mission that now encourages others facing life's toughest challenges. This conversation is a powerful testimony to God's ability to redeem even our deepest disappointments.

Can a pastor become an FBI agent and live out the same calling?

In this episode of MANNA, Jeff welcomes Eric Robinson, a recently retired FBI Special Agent whose journey took him from the pulpit to federal law enforcement. After beginning his career in Christian ministry, Eric spent more than two decades investigating everything from white-collar crime and public corruption to gangs, terrorism, and crimes against children.

Eric shares stories from his unique career, lessons learned from serving both the Church and the Bureau, and how faith shaped his approach to leadership, justice, and service.

What does it mean to lead like Jesus in a world that often rewards ego, power, and control?

In this episode of MANNA, Jeff Peterson sits down with executive coach, speaker, and author Mark Deterding to explore the principles of servant leadership and the role faith plays in shaping effective leaders. After a successful career with organizations including Taylor Corporation and RR Donnelley, Mark founded Triune Leadership Services to help leaders develop the servant heart modeled by Christ.

Together, Jeff and Mark discuss leadership, purpose, humility, faith in the workplace, and why the greatest leaders are often the ones most committed to serving others. Whether you're leading a business, a ministry, a family, or simply yourself, this conversation offers practical insights for becoming the leader God is calling you to be.

Author and speaker Weston Brandon turns unimaginable loss into the D.R.I.V.E. framework helping young people find identity and purpose.