Forward Podcast

Marriage is under attack today, and many young couples are feeling the pressure. In this episode of the Forward Podcast, Thomas and Kari have an honest, off-the-cuff conversation about struggles they faced early in their own marriage. They open up about two key areas that caused tension—teamwork and communication—and how God helped them grow through it. If your marriage isn’t where you want it to...

Judging has quietly become part of church culture, and many don’t even realize it. In this episode, Thomas and Kari discuss why Christians can sometimes be more critical than compassionate, how that affects those who are struggling, and why Jesus modeled something very different. If we’re not careful, we can be right about truth but wrong in spirit. This episode is a call back to grace, humility,...

Everyone says, “Don’t judge,” but the truth is—we all do it. In this episode, Thomas and Kari talk about the culture of judging inside Christian circles. Why are believers sometimes the quickest to criticize? Where does this mindset come from? And how is it quietly damaging our churches, relationships, and witness? This honest conversation explores why judging has become so common—and why grace mu...

Fear has a quiet way of stealing opportunities, relationships, and the future God may have planned for us. In this episode, Thomas and Kari talk about the real ways fear shows up in life—big decisions, career changes, stepping out in faith, and even everyday choices. Kari shares her experience of overcoming fear when purchasing her agency, and how support, faith, and courage helped move their fami...

100 episodes. What a journey. In this special milestone episode of Forward, Thomas and Kari record live from Israel as we reflect on the incredible support that has carried us to this moment. From week one to episode 100, your encouragement, messages, shares, and prayers have meant more than we can express. We take time to say thank you to every listener who tunes in each week, every supporter who...

Love doesn’t stay strong by accident, it stays strong on purpose. In this Valentine’s episode of Forward, Thomas and Kari talk honestly about how to keep your spouse attracted to you—emotionally, spiritually, and physically. We share practical tips on dating after marriage, staying intentional instead of drifting, and why attraction is something you nurture, not assume. From effort and communicati...

Change is rarely comfortable—but it’s often necessary. In this episode of Forward, Kari shares the story behind buying an insurance agency and the fears she had to face along the way. We talk honestly about what it looks like to step forward when you don’t feel ready, how fear can either paralyze or propel you, and why making change requires both courage and conviction. We also discuss the role fa...

Self-control isn’t suppression- it’s direction. In this segment, Thomas and Kari talk about why feelings are real but unreliable leaders, how discipline actually protects freedom. In a culture driven by impulse, this conversation reframes self-control as a tool for clarity, growth, and lasting freedom. Because real freedom needs direction.

In Part 2 of this conversation, Thomas and Kari focus on one of the most overlooked skills in adulthood: a real apology. We talk about why true apologies take ownership without explanation or defense, why “I’m sorry” isn’t about being right but about being restored, and how sincere apologies rebuild trust faster than time ever will. We also unpack why adults often struggle to apologize more than c...

Listen in as Kari sits down with the younger generation to gain a fresh perspective and discover how we can meaningfully influence their lives for the Lord.

In a culture that often blames circumstances and avoids accountability, we unpack why real growth begins when we own our choices, take responsibility for our actions, and learn to manage our emotions, habits, and time. We also discuss why apologizing isn’t a weakness, how self-control protects your future, and why unmanaged life eventually leads to unnecessary chaos.

A new year doesn’t require a new version of you- just renewed surrender. In this episode, Thomas talks about what it means to truly leave 2025 behind: failures, distractions, unhealthy rhythms, and spiritual complacency. We walk through practical spiritual and physical resolutions, share encouraging Scripture, and challenge you to start this year with clarity, discipline, and dependence on God. If...

In this episode, we talk about leaving 2025 behind; letting go of self-doubt, discouragement, and unresolved failures that don’t belong in the new year. We reflect on how the Psalms steady our hearts, remind us of God’s faithfulness, and help us move forward with hope, truth, and renewed trust in the Lord.

The Christmas season has a way of stirring up memories—some joyful, some painful, and some that remind us of what we wish had been different. In this episode, we talk honestly about the good memories that warm our hearts, the hard memories that still linger, and the new memories God invites us to create right now.

In this episode, we talk about the heart of real Christmas generosity—giving with no strings attached and blessing people who can’t give anything back. It’s simple, practical, and a reminder that the most Christlike gifts are often the quiet ones.

Jealousy is loud—but God offers a better way. Let’s talk about the roots of envy, the truth of Scripture, and the steps that lead us into genuine freedom and spiritual growth.

In this lighthearted yet meaningful Thanksgiving episode, Thomas and Kari share some of the odd, unexpected, and downright quirky things they’re thankful for this year. But beyond the fun, we reflect on a deeper truth: no matter what season you’re walking through, there is always something to thank Jesus for. From small blessings to big reminders of His goodness, this conversation will encourage y...

In this follow-up to “When Feelings Fade,” Thomas and Kari talk about how to stay in love when life gets busy. They dig into the power of honest communication, the importance of small dates that keep connection alive, and how to “win” in marriage by prioritizing your relationship over everything that pulls you apart. Real talk, practical steps, and encouragement for every couple learning to choose...

In this solo episode, Thomas opens up about what it really means to be a godly husband in a world that’s confused about leadership and love. From leading with humility to praying over your wife with purpose, this episode challenges men to step up;  not with pride, but with presence. It’s an honest, convicting, and hope-filled look at how husbands can reflect Christ in the way they love, serve, and...

In this episode, Thomas and Kari get real about what happens when the feelings fade in marriage. Love isn’t always easy,  but it’s always worth choosing. They talk about the difference between covenant and contract, how to love when it’s hard, and why grace is the glue that holds couples together. Whether your marriage is thriving or just surviving, this honest, hope-filled conversation will remin...

In this final part, Thomas and Kari talk about what it means to live with grace in everyday life. Learn how to build a home, ministry, and mindset where excellence thrives; not through pressure, but through peace. Discover how letting go of perfection opens the door to joy, creativity, and authentic faith.

In this follow-up episode, Thomas and Kari dive deeper into what true excellence looks like in everyday life, family, and ministry. Learn how to pursue growth without guilt, give your best without losing your peace, and lead with grace instead of pressure.

When our desire to do things well turns into the pressure to do them flawlessly, we lose the joy of serving. In this episode, Thomas and Kari talk about how excellence honors God, but perfectionism tries to be God... and how to pursue high standards without burning out or breaking down.

In this episode, Thomas reflects on the unexpected wisdom that comes from stepping away from the daily grind. After a refreshing time at a recent ministry conference, they share the lessons God taught them while resting, reconnecting, and refocusing. From hearing His voice more clearly to remembering the importance of fun and margin, this conversation is a heartfelt reminder that getting away isn’...

This week, we open up about the joys and challenges of marriage...especially the struggles with communication and the quiet competition that can creep in. We’re sharing the honest moments, the missed cues, and the practical lessons we’ve learned about staying united when life pulls you in different directions. Be sure to share this episode with others who may need encouragement in these areas.