Forward Podcast

This week on the podcast, Thomas sits down with Kari to tackle some of the questions that weigh heavy on parents' hearts. How do we set healthy boundaries for screen time without constant battles? What should we do when our child starts noticing weight gain and struggling with body image? How can we guide our kids to form their own opinions while keeping them grounded in truth? And how do we find hope and healing after the pain of miscarriage? With honesty, compassion, and practical wisdom, Thomas and Kari share real-life insights, encouragement, and gentle reminders that you're not alone — no matter what season your family is facing.

In today's episode, we're talking about raising children with biblical discipline and building a budget that honors God. From training young hearts to managing your money wisely, we'll share practical tips grounded in Scripture to help your family grow in faith and stewardship.

In this episode, we're diving into the mind; and how to gain control over it, clear out negativity, and stop the habit of creating imaginary arguments that only bring us down. Join us as we explore the power of our thoughts and learn how to think deeper, not harder.

Family time during holidays or vacations can be amazing… or a little overwhelming. Whether it's too many opinions at the dinner table or tight quarters in a shared Airbnb, getting along isn't always easy. In this episode, we're talking about how to navigate those family gatherings with more peace, better boundaries, and maybe even a little fun. Let's get into it.

Church doesn't end when the final song fades—it begins. In this follow-up to “The Church: More Than a Sunday Show,” Thomas and Kari dive into what it means to live out your faith during the week. They explore how applying God's Word daily shapes your identity—not around performance or pressure, but around Jesus Himself. If you've ever wondered how Sunday sermons are supposed to impact your Monday mindset, this episode will give you practical steps, biblical encouragement, and a fresh perspective on what spiritual growth really looks like.

Is church just something we attend on Sundays, or something we are every day of the week? In this episode, Thomas and Kari unpack the difference between watching church and being the church. With biblical truth, funny real-life examples (yes, we talk about “Chickfila Church Service”), and practical takeaways, you'll be challenged to rethink your role in the body of Christ.

Graduation is an exciting milestone—but it's also a launching point into a brand-new season of life. In this episode, Kari and Thomas share heartfelt, biblical advice for graduates stepping into the next chapter. Packed with Scripture, encouragement, and practical insight, this is the episode every graduate, and every parent of a graduate, needs to hear. Tune in, share it with a graduate you love, and keep moving forward in faith.

In Part 2, we're shifting from the mirror to the heart—digging into the internal struggles that often shape how we see ourselves. How do confidence, insecurity, and spiritual truth interact? Let's talk about breaking free from comparison and embracing God's design—body and soul.

This week, we're diving into body image—everything physical. How does our appearance intersect with our faith? What role should looks play in our identity and worth as Christians? Join us as we explore the connection between body, soul, and spirituality.

This week, we're diving into something a little different: how the way your brain works can shape your devotional life. Kari opens up about her own journey—how discovering her unique learning style transformed the way she connects with God. Don't miss this honest moment as we explore what it means to pursue authentic obedience to Christ, regardless of personality or processing style.

In this powerful and practical episode, Thomas and Kari sit down with Dr. Dave Delaney to talk about the church's role in foster care and adoption. Dr. Delaney shares heartfelt insights, helpful tips, and biblical reasons why every believer should care — whether you're opening your home, supporting a family, or simply praying intentionally. You'll be challenged, encouraged, and reminded that caring for the vulnerable isn't optional for the church — it's a calling. Everyone can do something… and together, we can make a difference.

Let's be honest — some people and situations make it really hard to be Christlike. In this episode, Thomas and Kari dive into what it looks like to apply grace to the everyday annoyances of life — from the rude coworker to the long grocery line to that never-ending family drama. With a mix of humor, Scripture, and real-life stories, they'll explore how to respond with kindness when it's easier to snap, and why living with grace doesn't mean becoming a doormat. Spoiler: there's grace for that... and for you, too.

Get ready to laugh, reflect, and connect! In this episode, we're diving into a round of 'This or That'—from lighthearted choices to meaningful spiritual questions. Grab your spouse or a friend and play along with us for a fun mix of joy and depth!

Tune in as we dive into essential parenting questions—balancing being your kid's friend versus an authority figure, navigating your relationship with your spouse, and more. We're tackling the topics that have a lasting impact on your family dynamic.

Last week, we dove into how to navigate change in your personal life. This week, we're shifting gears and focusing on the church. How should you handle changes in ministry? And what's the best way to communicate when you don't agree with a decision? Tune in as we explore how to approach these challenges.

Change is inevitable, but navigating it well takes intentionality. In this episode, Thomas and Kari dive into the challenges and opportunities that come with change — whether in life, ministry, or relationships. They share practical insights on how to approach change with faith, embrace the unknown, and grow through every season. If you're facing a transition or simply want to be better prepared for life's unexpected turns, this conversation offers encouragement and wisdom for the journey.

In this episode, Thomas and Kari dive into the difference between ritual and routine. They explore how both are essential in our lives and why finding balance between the two is key. With personal stories and practical tips, they share insights on how to incorporate both into your daily life without leaning too heavily on one side.

Tune in for the final round of listener questions! We're keeping it real as we share the inside scoop on ministry, marriage, and parenting—plus, plenty of laughs along the way!

This week on the podcast, we're diving into the pros and cons of life in ministry. If you're considering full-time ministry, this episode is for you! We'll talk about the blessings and challenges of serving, the unique lifestyle that comes with it, and why, despite the ups and downs, we wouldn't trade it for anything.

Tonight on the podcast, Thomas interviews Kari about the journey of motherhood. From challenges to blessings, we're sharing insights for parents at every stage. Tune in for an honest, engaging conversation that's both entertaining and informative!

This week, we're diving into the art of conversation! Join Kari as she interviews Thomas about what it takes to be a great conversationalist—making others feel at ease, exiting conversations gracefully, and balancing your personality in communication. Tune in for expert insights and practical tips!

Join us every week this February as we dive into all things love! This week, we're sharing advice for newlyweds—covering everything from communication to finances. Tune in as we navigate the journey of marriage together!

Tune in as we welcome a special guest, Andrew Carlson, to discuss the topic, "What to Do When You Feel Forgotten by God." Together, we'll unpack the struggles of feeling overlooked by God and explore the right heart posture to navigate this very human experience. Andrew brings thoughtful insights and biblical truths that will encourage and inspire you. Don't miss these powerful takeaways straight from God's Word!

Join us on this episode as we dive into the transformative experience of missions. Whether you're considering going on a mission trip yourself or sending your teen, these journeys open the door to incredible perspectives and new cultures. Discover how God can use these moments to deepen your faith and help you recognize the many blessings in your life. Together, we'll explore how stepping out to impact the world leaves a lasting imprint—not just on others, but on our own hearts.

This week on the podcast, we're diving into a challenging but important topic: how to handle disappointment in family relationships. Whether it's extended family or those closest to you, navigating these struggles can be tough. Join us as we explore 10 practical and Christ-centered ways to address these issues with grace, love, and understanding. Don't miss it!

In this episode, Thomas and Kari share their excitement for the year ahead on the Forward Podcast! They provide a sneak peek into mentors they're collaborating with, upcoming episode topics that promise to inspire and challenge, and special editions tailored for specific seasons and audiences. Whether it's tackling relevant issues, offering practical advice, or sharing personal stories, this episode sets the stage for an engaging and impactful year. Tune in to hear their vision and get a behind-the-scenes look at what's in store!

In this festive episode, Thomas and Kari take a trip down memory lane, sharing their favorite childhood Christmas memories and reflecting on how these moments shaped their love for the season. They remind listeners of the true reason for Christmas—Jesus and His miraculous birth over 2000 years ago.  

Start the year with purpose! In this episode, we'll discuss how to set meaningful goals that align with your values, create a clear vision for the future, and keep God at the center of your plans. Join us for practical tips and encouragement to make this your most intentional year yet!

Welcome to today's episode, where we're diving into how to stay spiritually grounded during life's busiest seasons. With so much noise and distraction in our culture, how can we keep our hearts and minds focused on what truly matters? Stick around as we explore practical ways to stay connected to your faith, no matter how overwhelming life gets!

Today, we're diving into an important topic: Are we sometimes more of a hindrance than a help to the young people in our lives? How can we effectively prepare them to face real-world challenges and make tough decisions? Living out our faith by example is key—and it all starts with intentional guidance and reflection.

Join us for a deep dive into helicopter parenting and fear-based parenting tactics. We'll share personal stories and insights, plus you'll get to meet our kids as we bring them into the conversation!

Are we setting the next generation up for success, or are we unintentionally holding them back? In this episode, Thomas takes a closer look at how over-scheduling and the pursuit of perfection are impacting today's youth.  Join Thomas as he unpacks the root of these challenges and shares practical strategies to create healthier, more balanced environments for the next generation. Whether you're a parent, mentor, or simply invested in the lives of young people, this episode offers valuable insights and actionable steps to help them thrive—without the weight of unnecessary pressure.

This week on the podcast, we're diving into the experience of being single. We'll explore how God can work through a single person and share ways to embrace and thrive in this season of life. Whether you're single or know someone who is, we want to offer encouragement and practical tips for living well in every stage. Tune in for insights and inspiration!

In this episode, we're diving deeper into the topic of criticism—specifically how it impacts those in ministry and in marriage. We'll explore how to handle criticism when it comes our way, how to offer it constructively, and how to find that delicate balance between being helpful and hurtful.

This week on the podcast, we're diving into the topic of handling criticism with grace. We'll explore practical strategies and a common-sense approach to managing negative feedback, setting pride aside, and turning critiques into opportunities for growth.

Join us tonight as we dive into the advice we'd give our younger selves! We'll be focusing on marriage, ministry, parenting, and other key life moments. We're excited to explore what we might have done differently and what we're glad we got right along the way. Don't miss this heartfelt conversation—you're sure to walk away with a fresh perspective!

Welcome to this week's episode, where we're diving into the importance of active listening with your children. We'll explore how having a heart to truly hear their opinions can strengthen your connection and help guide their growth. Tune in as we discuss how listening with the intent to understand can make a big difference in their development.

Join us as we explore how to create a safe, nurturing environment for your kids and navigate the emotional side of parenting. We'll discuss how to stay grounded and keep a healthy mindset while raising children in today's culture.

On this week's episode, we're diving into how to make the most out of attending church. From fostering meaningful friendships to keeping a flexible mindset, we'll explore practical tips for enriching your church experience and building a fulfilling church life.

Join us on this episode as we dispel common myths about church membership and explore how to engage in worship with authenticity and a heart truly aligned with faith.

Welcome to part two of our series on gender roles and how we can use them to glorify God and become the best version of ourselves. In today's episode, We'll break down the role of managing a household—not as a restrictive or outdated idea, but as an empowering responsibility that honors God, nurtures our families, and reflects His design for a balanced and fruitful life. Whether you're a man or a woman, single or married, these principles can help us all understand our roles and how they contribute to a greater purpose. Let's dive in!

Join us for this episode as we explore gender roles in families and marriage. We'll dive into what biblical gender roles are and how we can support one another in understanding and embracing these roles in a healthy and meaningful way.

In this episode of our podcast, "Why So Serious?" we explore the value of laughter and light-heartedness in our daily lives, ministry, and marriage. Whether you're navigating the pressures of ministry, managing relationships, or simply looking to add more laughter to your routine, this episode will offer encouragement and insights to help you keep things light and joyful.

In this episode of our podcast, Thomas and Kari Shepherd, a husband-and-wife team, dive deep into the topic of overcoming toxic negativity. They explore how a negative mindset can infiltrate our lives, relationships, and workspaces, leading to a spiral of discouragement and despair. Together, we share practical steps and biblical wisdom to combat negativity, reclaim joy, and foster a positive, faith-filled outlook. 

This week, we're diving into the transition to fall and exploring how we can prepare for the season while staying connected with our families and communities. Let's work together to make this fall your best one yet.

"Get ready for a special episode as we welcome our very first guest—our daughter, Lois! We're diving into the parent/preteen relationship from her perspective, answering questions, and sharing insights. Tune in with your kids and enjoy a heartwarming family conversation as we grow together."

Welcome to part 2 of "I Don't Agree with You". This week, we're diving deeper into practical steps for addressing disagreements and getting along with others.

In this episode, we explore the art of navigating disagreements with kindness and respect. We'll also delve into how living under the guidance of the Holy Spirit can influence our approach to being right or wrong.

This week, Thomas and Kari  will focus on managing and overcoming anger. We will share strategies and techniques to help you effectively command and address anger in your life.

In this episode, we're exploring the advantages and tactics for using social media in a healthy manner. Tune in as we discuss constructive approaches to harness this tool for positive outcomes.