The Gospel in The Notebook

In this episode of the Exploring More podcast, Michael Thompson and SJ Jennings turn to an unexpected favorite—The Notebook—to explore the deeper longings of the human heart. What might seem like a simple romantic drama becomes a window into themes of pursuit, sacrifice, faithfulness, and sacred romance woven into the larger story God is telling.

Through the characters of Noah and Allie, Michael and SJ unpack what it means to fight for love over time, through opposition, loss, and suffering. They reflect on the beauty of being chosen, known, and pursued—and how true romance always carries a cost. The conversation moves beyond sentimentality into the reality that real love is forged through perseverance, courage, and self-giving devotion.

Alongside their film analysis, Michael shares a personal story of encountering God's presence in an unexpected moment—drawing a parallel between divine pursuit and human romance. Together, they invite listeners to consider how stories like The Notebook awaken something holy in us: a longing to be fully loved and to give ourselves away for something greater.

We hope you enjoy this episode and invite you to connect with us!

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The Gospel in Lord of the Rings

In this episode of the Exploring More podcast, Michael Thompson and SJ Jennings journey through the epic world of The Lord of the Rings—exploring how Tolkien's masterpiece mirrors the deeper spiritual realities of our own lives. From the quiet comfort of the Shire to the battlefields of Middle Earth, the conversation follows Frodo, Gandalf, Aragorn, and the fellowship as they answer the call to adventure, face down evil, and sacrifice for something greater than themselves.

Using the trailers from The Fellowship of the Ring, The Two Towers, and The Return of the King, Michael and SJ unpack the arc of the Hero's Journey and why it continues to resonate. They reflect on the pull toward comfort, the cost of leaving "the normal world," and the significance of choosing hope in the darkest places. The ring becomes more than a plot device—it's a symbol of the burdens we carry and the battles we face daily.

With personal stories, spiritual insight, and reverence for the storytelling genius of Tolkien, this episode reminds us that every man is in a larger story—one filled with glory, grief, and a King worth following.

We hope you enjoy this episode and invite you to connect with us!

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The Gospel in Tombstone

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In this episode of the Exploring More podcast, Michael Thompson and SJ Jennings kick off their new "Faves" series by diving into one of their all-time favorite films: Tombstone. Through the lens of the friendship between Wyatt Earp and Doc Holliday, they unpack themes of sacrifice, loyalty, and brotherhood—exploring how one man laid down his life so another could live his. Drawing from Joseph Campbell's "Hero's Journey," they reflect on the arcs of transformation, the call to adventure, and the role of mentors, weaving these archetypes into real-life spiritual parallels.

As they recount powerful moments from Tombstone, the conversation touches on the universal longing for a normal life, the inevitable confrontation with evil, and the beauty of redemptive friendship. Whether it's Wyatt's search for peace or Doc's act of selfless love, the hosts invite listeners to consider the ways story helps us see our own battles, questions, and courage more clearly.

It's not just a movie episode—it's a deep reflection on the power of story to mirror truth, stir the soul, and invite us into the greater story God is telling.

We hope you enjoy this episode and invite you to connect with us!

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Give and End-of-Year Gift Here: zoweh.org/eoy25

In the final Exploring More podcast episode of the year, Michael Thompson and SJ Jennings slow down to reflect on presence, soul care, and the relentless love of God. From the joy of receiving a personal sign from God to the challenge of letting go of false beliefs, they unpack the paradox of a love that both has no limits and still honors our boundaries.

This honest and reflective conversation explores what it means to be known and loved by God—and how we often struggle to receive that kind of love. They discuss practical ways to engage your soul, such as reviewing your calendar, photos, and journals to see where God was present in your year. Along the way, they offer wisdom for setting intentions for the new year, cultivating self-awareness, and trading performance for presence.

Whether you're ending the year on a high note or in the depths of transition, this episode is a tender invitation to sit with your story, let God speak, and walk forward with hope. As Michael says, "There's more life, more love, and more freedom to be had… but it starts with being still."

We hope you enjoy this episode and invite you to connect with us!

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Give and End-of-Year Gift Here: zoweh.org/eoy25

In this special Christmas Eve edition of the Exploring More podcast, Michael Thompson and SJ Jennings invite you into a reflective and joy-filled conversation about the heart of the holiday season. Far beyond the tinsel, carols, and gifts, they explore the true significance of Christmas—the presence of Jesus as the ultimate present.

Through personal stories, favorite traditions, and honest reflections, they unpack how presence—God's and ours—transforms the meaning of Christmas. From a flashlight found on a trail to the haunting beauty of "O Holy Night," this episode is a heartfelt call to slow down, notice what really matters, and let yourself be moved.

As the year draws to a close, Michael and SJ also encourage listeners to ponder the past and prepare their hearts for what's ahead, offering space to reflect on God's goodness and nearness throughout the journey.

🎄 Whether you're celebrating with a full house or carrying quiet grief this year, this episode offers hope, grounding, and a reminder: You're not alone. He is with us.

We hope you enjoy this episode and invite you to connect with us!

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What if the Holidays are Hard?

In this heartfelt episode of the Exploring More podcast, Michael Thompson and SJ Jennings dive into the complex emotional terrain of the holiday season. While Christmas and Thanksgiving are often painted as joyful and magical, they acknowledge that for many, the holidays bring up grief, loneliness, and the ache of change. Whether it's a first Christmas without a loved one, a tradition lost to transition, or a general feeling of disconnection, this episode reminds listeners that they're not alone—and that presence often speaks louder than words.

Michael and SJ share vulnerable stories about their own shifting holiday experiences, from quiet moments in Marco Island to family members moving away. They explore the tension between honoring old traditions and stepping into new ones, and how to navigate this "liminal space" with empathy and courage. Rather than fixing others or offering shallow cheer, they invite us to show up with compassion—doing the dishes, offering silence, or simply asking, "Would it help to talk?"

The episode includes practical encouragement for those supporting others through a hard season, as well as a reminder: we're all walking each other home. Whether you're grieving, reflecting, or just feeling the weight of the season, this conversation offers space to breathe and a gentle nudge toward connection, healing, and hope.

We hope you enjoy this episode and invite you to connect with us!

The Listening Guide: https://www.zowehoutpost.com/listening-well-a-guide-for-men-pdf-download/

🔔 Don't miss the upcoming Christmas Eve episode on the presence of God in the Christmas story.

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The Boy, The Mole, The Fox, and The Horse: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fbdem4g_LEc

What makes a gift meaningful?

In this heartwarming holiday episode of the Exploring More podcast, Michael Thompson and SJ Jennings unpack the deeper meaning behind giving and receiving gifts. What makes a present truly meaningful? It's not the price tag—but the story, the thought, and the heart behind it. From a toy fire truck that honored a man's courageous past to a miniature Jeep gifted with intention and love, the guys share personal stories that point to something deeper: presence.

The conversation explores why personalized gifts hit differently—because they tell someone, I see you, I remember you, and you matter. But Michael and SJ also acknowledge the tension many feel during this season—depression, grief, unmet expectations—and how practicing presence can bring hope, healing, and joy even in hard times. They talk about how being attentive, listening well, and remembering someone's story opens the door to giving relationally, not just materially.

Whether you're a last-minute shopper or someone who curates gifts all year long, this episode invites you to slow down and consider how the best gifts flow from being present to God and others.

We hope you enjoy this episode and invite you to connect with us!

🔔 Don't miss the upcoming Christmas Eve episode on the presence of God in the Christmas story.

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Start With Story: Vision, Brotherhood & Guardrails in Men's Ministry

In this episode of the Exploring More podcast, Michael Thompson, SJ Jennings, and Josh Overton close out the Men's Ministry series with a conversation rooted in one of the most important elements of group life: story. They unpack how storytelling builds trust, catalyzes connection, and anchors the culture of a men's group far more than curriculum ever could.

The team shares about the necessity of starting with a clear vision—three simple words like adventure, growth, or journey—and how this clarity helps shape expectations, engagement, and outcomes. They talk through the importance of creating group "guardrails," those unspoken (or even better, written) agreements that establish safety, rhythm, and mutual care within the group.

The episode also includes guidance on how to communicate expectations clearly, how to introduce new members to your group's heartbeat, and how facilitators can foster an atmosphere where men feel free to share honestly without pressure to perform. Whether you're navigating group dynamics, coaching a co-leader, or looking to reinvigorate a tired format, this conversation offers actionable insight and encouragement.

If you've ever wrestled with how to go deeper than surface-level discussion or how to steward momentum in a men's group, this one's for you. The hosts also extend an invitation to join the upcoming Zoweh Allies Roundtable on December 10th, where you can connect with like-hearted leaders, share ideas, and get equipped to launch or lead with confidence.

We hope you enjoy this episode and invite you to connect with us!

📆 Roundtable Info + Sign-up: zoweh.org/allies

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