Becoming Something with Jonathan Pokluda

David Nasser, an Iranian-born pastor and American church leader who escaped Iran after 1979, shares his story. He recounts Iran’s theocratic shift, repression and protest, and concerns about nuclear and regional threats. He describes the underground church’s growth, visions of large worship gatherings, and practical ways to support Iranians seeking freedom.

Jon Passavant, a former top international model who worked for major fashion and fragrance brands, shares candid stories from the runway and set. He recounts turning down a high-profile Armani shoot for moral reasons. Short, vivid tales explore setting boundaries in secular workplaces and how faithfulness shaped his career path.

Jennie Allen, best-selling author and speaker who helps people uncover spiritual and emotional lies. She discusses how childhood narratives become hidden beliefs and names common core lies like helplessness, worthlessness, and unlovability. She explains why naming lies aloud matters and how shifting into God’s kingdom, not performance, changes identity. Practical steps include tracing lies to their origins and offering compassion to your younger self.

Preston Sprinkle, author and biblical scholar who studies contested theological topics, discusses his book From Genesis to Junia. He talks about women leaders in the early church like Junia and Phoebe. He explores reading 1 Timothy 2 in context, linguistic evidence about authority, and how Ephesus and Artemis shaped instructions. They also discuss navigating church disagreements with humility.

Jason Woodruff, founder and editor-in-chief of The Pour Over, curates short, Christian-rooted news summaries. He talks about trimming news overload and avoiding endless scrolling. He explains a disciplined news routine, how algorithms fuel outrage, and why consuming diverse sources and focusing on what you can pray for keeps media from wrecking relationships.

A candid look at whether staying friends after a breakup is healthy. They debate boundaries, mixed signals, and how modern dating blurs commitment. Practical advice on breaking up with honesty, guarding your heart, and managing mutual friend groups. Conversation also touches on using AI wisely and treating others with kindness.

Craig Groeschel, pastor and New York Times bestselling author who led a large church, shares his burnout-to-recovery journey. He discusses why he co-wrote Heal Your Hurting Mind and the moment things broke. Conversation covers neuroplasticity and renewing thought, surprising hobbies that replenished him like jiu-jitsu and flying, and the power of asking for help and building honest community.

A candid look at why modern dating often fails and how shifting priorities can help. They examine historical marriage norms, dating apps, FOMO, and inflated expectations. The conversation stresses defining non-negotiables like faith and character, treating dating like an interview, and becoming the person you want to attract.

Christian Bevere, author and speaker known for 'Future Husband, Present Prayers,' shares her story and why praying for a spouse shaped her writing. Conversation covers waiting well in singleness, discerning calling to singleness, what she prays for a future husband, and practical prayer habits to shape relationships and personal growth.

Conversation about stopping the masks we wear and living consistently with who God made us to be. They debate authenticity versus strategic relating for the sake of the gospel. Practical stories explore stewardship, appearance, and church expectations. Themes include confession, compassion for the marginalized, and prioritizing God’s approval over public opinion.