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.

📧 Email us: exploringmore@zoweh.org
🌐 Learn more: https://www.zoweh.org/podcast

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.

📧 Email us: exploringmore@zoweh.org
🌐 Learn more: https://www.zoweh.org/podcast

Sign up for the December 10 Allies Roundtable: Zoweh.org/allies

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

📧 Email us: exploringmore@zoweh.org
🌐 Learn more: https://www.zoweh.org/podcast