Becoming Something with Jonathan Pokluda

This week we sit down with Gregg Tipton — former NFL quarterback turned college campus minister — to talk about what it looks like to chase greatness for something bigger than yourself. Gregg shares how losing his starting job, getting cut from the Cardinals, and later walking through his wife’s terminal cancer all became the moments God used most. If you’ve ever wondered whether the hard chapters of your story are being wasted, this one is for you!

In this episode a listener calls in asking how to navigate Halloween as a Christian — and JP, Kathy, and Nate have a lot to say about it. They talk about the origins of the holiday, where to draw the line, horror movies, costumes, and why JP thinks turning your lights off on October 31st might be missing the biggest evangelism opportunity of the year. This one’s timely — share it with a friend before the 31st!

This week we sit down with Kyleigh, who grew up devout Mormon in East Texas and spent years believing she had to earn her way to heaven and the moment everything changed for her and she gave her life to Christ. It was an eye-opening and insightful conversation that we think will be very helpful to you as you engage with people from the LDS church.

In this episode, a listener calls in with a question a lot of Christians wrestle with — what's the difference between God testing us and Satan tempting us, and how do you tell them apart? JP, Kathy, and Nate dive deep into spiritual warfare, demonic oppression vs. possession, whether demons can influence your dreams, and why JP spent a lot of his life blaming God for Satan's work. This one is packed — don't miss it!

You have been asking for it, here it is! In this episode JP, Kathy, and Nate answer a listener's question about navigating the chaos of new parenthood — and they have a lot to say! They talk about trusting God with your kids, consistent discipline, keeping your family in church even when it's hard, and why every interruption is actually an invitation. If you're a new parent, expecting, or just trying to figure out how to raise kids who love Jesus, this one's for you!

This week we sit down with author and podcaster Annie F. Downs to talk about her new book, Don't Let That Hold You Back, stepping into the dreams God has placed in your heart, and why the enemy works overtime to keep you from them. Annie opens up about her engagement, choosing not to have kids, and what it means to finish your name well. Pick up her new book wherever books are sold — you're going to love it! https://a.co/d/06ofEkVN

This week we sit down with Brian Guan, a content creator from New York City who went viral for going around pretending to be a Christian — and ended up actually becoming one. Just 12 days into his faith, Brian joins us live to talk about what happened when an experiment became real, the convictions he's already wrestling with, and what it looks like to follow Jesus when you're starting from scratch. This one is refreshing, honest, and a whole lot of fun!

This week we sit down with country music artist turned pastor and author Granger Smith to talk about his new book Poison the Well — and the question he asks almost every single day: are you actually a Christian, or have you just checked the box? Granger shares how his own faith unraveled and was rebuilt from the ground up, why he's passionate about sharing the gospel with Christians, and what it really means to follow Jesus beyond an altar call. Pick up Poison the Well wherever books are sold! https://a.co/d/0hQWM5I7

In this episode, a listener calls in with a question a lot of single Christians are quietly asking — am I supposed to be spending this season preparing for marriage, or is that missing the point entirely? JP, Kathy, and Nate unpack what it actually looks like to embrace singleness as a daughter of God rather than just a waiting room for a relationship. If you're single and trying to figure out what this season is for, this one's for you!

This week we sit down with Kelsey, who grew up deep in the mountains of Montana with no electricity, no running water, and a father convinced the world was ending. From polygamy and mountain lions to a serial killer staying in their cabin, Kelsey's story is one of the wildest you'll ever hear. JP and the crew don't see eye to eye with Kelsey on everything when it comes to faith — but that's exactly what makes this conversation worth having. Come for the crazy story, stay for the honest and gracious dialogue!

In this episode JP, Kathy, and Nate get honest about where the next generation is headed and what the church needs to do about it. They dig into phone addiction, the hunger for real community, and why revival might already be happening right in front of us. Don't miss this one!

This week we sit down with worship artist Cory Asbury — live from the tour bus — to talk about his journey through church hurt, online criticism, and what it looks like to come out the other side still singing. Cory opens up about the story behind "Reckless Love," his new song Prodigal God, and why he's done being cautious with his faith. If you've ever felt beaten up by the church or beaten down by the noise of social media, this episode is for you!

This week we sit down with Christian artist Forrest Frank — live from the tour bus — to talk about what it looks like to steward massive success while keeping your heart fully surrendered to God. Forrest opens up about eight years of grinding before his breakthrough, how he stopped sneaking Jesus into his music and started giving him every breath, and why the surrendered life is available to everyone — not just the people in the arena. This one will leave you fired up!

This week we sit down with John Olinger — former global brand director for Kobe Bryant at Nike and author of Worthy Wins — to talk about what it looks like to point your life toward what actually matters most. John opens up about losing both parents, a season of unexpected career upheaval, and how God used every chapter of his story to prepare him for something he never saw coming. If you've ever wondered whether your past experiences are being wasted, this episode is for you!

This week we sit down with author and educator Jon Eckert to talk about his new book The Happiness Crisis and why the pursuit of happiness is actually keeping people from finding it. Jon breaks down how adversity, belonging, and curiosity are the real building blocks of a joyful life — and why Gen Z may be the generation that finally gets it right. Send this one to every parent, teacher, and young adult in your life, and grab a copy of The Happiness Crisis wherever books are sold! https://a.co/d/08kTjIow

In this episode we sit down with Josh Rutledge from Liberty University to talk about what spiritual formation actually looks like in the college years — and why the decisions you make at 19 can shape who you are for decades. JP opens up about his own first nine days of college and the fork in the road that followed, and Josh shares why this generation of students may be more spiritually hungry than any before them. If you're in college, heading there, or wish you could go back and do it differently, this one's for you!

This week JP, Nate and Kathy sit down with Christian Huff, husband of Sadie Robertson, to talk about what it really looks like to lead your family through fear, anger, and hard seasons. Christian opens up about a terrifying medical scare with his daughter, wrestling with anger toward God, and what it means to step into spiritual strength as a husband and father. If you've ever found yourself blaming God for the enemy's work, this one is for you!

This week JP and Kathy sit down with therapist and author Trey Tucker to talk about the two traps most young men fall into — chasing achievement to outrun insecurity, or staying passive to avoid failing at all. Trey shares wisdom from his book Tough Enough on building a "team," getting comfortable with silence, and using what God gave you for others instead of yourself. He also tells the wild, true story of going undercover overseas to help rescue women from sex trafficking. Pick up Tough Enough and pass this one along to the men in your life who need to hear it.

As an extension of JP's Friday Q&A, he answers live audience questions from Beso Live! Topics include prioritizing the big rocks of life, why your phone is the biggest threat to intimacy with God, learning to say no, and what it actually takes to live a life leveraged for the kingdom.

As an extension of JP's Friday Q&A, he answers live audience questions from Beso Live! Topics include modesty and what the Bible actually says about it, how culture shapes our standards, dating with discernment, and why God cares more about why you wear what you wear than what you wear.

We are back for Part 2 of the Q&A with JP as he answers live audience questions from Beso Live! Topics include storing up treasures in heaven, the purpose of prayer, grief and loss, discipleship, insecurity, legalism, and how to know if you're truly saved.

In this episode we talk to author Kirby Kelly about her new book The Fabric of Hope. Life is full of seasons that leave us asking "why God?" — but what if those same seasons are exactly how He builds our faith? We talk with Kirby about how God weaves redemption into suffering and why bringing Him your honest pain is the key to finding real hope!

As an extension of JP’s Friday Q&A, he answers live audience questions from Becoming Something Live! Topics include feeling like you’re not doing enough for God, the Holy Spirit, dating and marriage, eschatology, spiritual success, Israel, and self-defense.

As we continue our BESO Live series, we start by answering a question about hearing God’s voice through dreams and how to discern what’s from Him. Then we dive into a conversation about staying pure and faithful through every stage of relationships—dating, waiting, and marriage.

In our first episode from BeSo Live, we answer the question that our attendees most wanted answered. They asked, “How do you hear God’s voice from your own thoughts?” If you want to grow in your understanding of God’s voice, this episode is for you!

In this episode we get to talk to pastor and author, Levi Lusko, about his new book “Blessed are the Spiraling”. He shares with us about how God used a uniquely difficult season in his life. Many times God does His best work in the hardest times!

In this episode we talk to pastor and author, Matt Chandler, about his new book "Becoming Like Jesus". The path to holiness is oftentimes not a straight line. We talk with Matt about how God uses the ups and downs of life to shape us into the likeness of His Son!

While our jobs are important, they are not our identity. How do we balance a desire to succeed in our job, without being obsessed with our job? We do our best to help you develop a healthy work ethic in this episode!

Fox News host and author, Shanon Bream, has just released a new book called “Nothing is Impossible with God”. She shares about how the stories in the Bible help give us faith today. Shanon even shares her own stories of God doing the impossible!

David Nasser is a leader in the American church, but he was born in Iran. He gives us an inside look into where Iran has been, where it is now, and where he hopes it goes in the future. You’re going to be moved by this episode!

In this episode we talk to former top model, Jon Passavant, about how to navigate faithfulness in a difficult workplace. When you’re surrounded by people not following Jesus, how do you keep your standards? You won’t want to miss his stories!

In this episode we get to speak with best selling author and speaker, Jennie Allen. Her new book “The Lie You Don’t Know You Believe” will help you identify where the enemy has deceived you. Satan has been a liar from the beginning, don’t let his voice win in your life!

In this episode we talk to author, Preston Sprinkle, about his new book “From Genesis to Junia”. Across denominations, there are varying perspectives on what the Bible says about gender roles. Through years of study, Preston gives us insight into what his perspective has become!

In this episode we talk to Jason Woodruff, founder and editor in chief of The Pour Over, about how to handle the news. Some of us probably consume too much news, while others too little. How do we live informed, but not always outraged. This is an important episode for everyone!

Break-ups are hard! In this episode we talk about how to handle all of the next steps. Should you reach out to your ex, or ignore them? All of that and more on this episode!

We talk with pastor and author, Craig Groeschel, about his own journey to get a healthy mind. Craig experienced work burnout, but found some ways to heal his hurting mind. His insights will help you no matter what season you’re in!

In this episode we talk through the major issues young adults have in dating. Are our standards too high? Not high enough? We talk through why things aren’t working and how to fix it!

In this episode we get to talk to author, Christian Bevere, about how to wait well for marriage. In your singleness, how can you pray for your spouse while also being content in your current season? 

Many of us are so prone to changing who we are based on who we’re around. In this episode we talk about how we can stop pretending, and to be who God created us to be!

In this episode we talk to Amanda Bible Williams, one of the founders of She Reads Truth. They have put together a fantastic new resource called “The Bible is for You” that will help everyone love their Bible more. To learn to love the Word of God more, check out this episode!

Shane and Shane have been writing songs for the church for years, and they’ve gotten to see how songs impact us. They’re convinced that we were made for worship! Their new daily devotional has helped thousands follow Jesus. To hear more, check out this episode!

How do you handle friendships with people that don’t follow Jesus? How close can those people be to you? For help with your friendships, you won’t want to miss this episode!

Josiah Queen is an artist that has found success at an early age. With songs like “The Prodigal” and “Dusty Bibles” he’s already selling out arenas in his young 20’s. We talk with him about what his journey has been like and how to stay grounded in God through all of it!

We continue our conversation with clinical psychologist, author, and speaker Juli Slattery about sex. She answers some of the most asked questions on the topic of sex. Don’t miss this really helpful discussion!

We get to speak to clinical psychologist, author, and speaker Juli Slattery about all things sex. She brings a wealth of knowledge to this subject and will help you wherever you’re at! Don’t miss this episode!

How far is too far when it comes to joking around with friends? Are jokes and sarcasm ever ok, or it is a sin? For more, check out this episode!

We continue our conversation with Lee Strobel about his book “The Case for Christmas”. He uses his investigative mindset to prove that Jesus really was born in a manger. However, he also sheds light on parts of the story you may not previously know!

We have a conversation with Lee Strobel about the evidence for supernatural things. God will work to bring joy to the angry heart, and even visions of Heaven to the dying. God is living and active and there is proof for it!

In this episode we talk with world renown Brain expert, Dr. Amen. He gives insights on how to live in a way that your brain will like! Healthy brains lead to healthier lives!

In this episode we talk about the pressure of doing all of the right things in our relationship with God. How do we know if we are praying or reading the Bible enough? If you struggle with feeling guilt, this episode is for you!

What happens if you have friends, but may not really feel like you have genuine community? In this episode we talk about how to create deep relationships with the people around you. It may be simpler than you realize!

In this episode, we conclude our conversation with Jamie Winship. He shares about how he has learned to follow the voice of God in his life. If you’re eager to be challenged in your faith this episode is for you!

In this episode we talk to Jamie Winship about finding our true identity. Many of us have lived for decades without actually understanding who God says we are. We are all unique creations of God and He has a special role for each of us!

Is there a way to celebrate Halloween in a way that honors God? Or are we overthinking it entirely? Check out this episode for more!

When it comes to movies, music and media, what are some boundaries that Christians should put up? Are we free to listen to whatever? What are the impacts if we do? We talk all that and more in this episode!

JP’s stay in the hospital has brought increased clarity as to who you should be dating. With candor and clarity he talks about how sickness helps you know what to look for in a spouse!

What does it look like to build identity on Christ before anything else? Madi Prewett Trout opens up about her journey into marriage, the pressure to perform, and how faith anchors true intimacy. Whether you’re engaged, married, dating, or still waiting — this conversation will encourage you to become who God’s calling you to be. https://a.co/d/2JYpgqS

In this special bonus episode we have a conversation with JP from the hospital. We cover how he’s processing this past week, why God doesn’t always heal, and how to serve someone who is hurting. 

Pride and selfishness are silent killers in our relationship with others, and even with God. In this episode we talk about practical steps you can take to get over yourself!

Maybe you’ve been in a season where your fire for the Lord has fallen away. Your faith doesn’t have to stay that way! In this episode we talk about how to get your passion back and why it matters.

We get to have a conversation with author and visionary behind the Unite movement, Tonya Prewett. She shared with us about where this movement of God came from how prayer had the power to change everything. Pick up her new book, “Roses to Revival” here: https://a.co/d/eyMJJf4

We talk with Ruslan KD about his new book “Godly Ambition”. He’s a creative thinker and entrepreneur and has a lot to share about ambition. Is it a selfish thing? Or a God glorifying thing? For more check out his new book here: https://a.co/d/1xdGWx2

When you don’t yet have what you hope God will provide, what should you do? We talk about how to make sure your waiting season isn’t a wasted season!

Is there anything that Christians should be worried about with AI? Is it all good? All bad? Somewhere in between? All of that and more in this episode!

What should boundaries look like with our parents once we become adults? Do we have to answer the phone every time they call? If you are wondering how to honor your parents while also maintaining your individuality this is for you!

In this episode we talk with Christine and Nick Caine, founders of A21. Christine Caine has been on the front lines to what God has been doing for decades, but they share what new things have been happening now. If you want to be inspired to live with faith, check out this episode!

You may have heard that you need to establish spiritual boundaries while you date. Is that real or not? We talk about what you should and shouldn’t do as you date!

This week we talk with Pastor Matt Chandler about the sign gifts of the spirit. Are they still real? Should we even care? All of that and more in this episode!

This week’s episode we talk all things authenticity. What should you share? Who should you share it with? Why share at all?

Every single one of us has been called. In this episode we talk to author and speaker, John Bevere, about what that calling is. We also have a conversation about the return of Jesus! Buy his new book “You are Called” here: https://a.co/d/a4vte3M

When you follow Jesus, it can seem like everyone else gets to have all the fun. Why would he keep us from things that would be exciting? Do His rules ever allow us to have fun?

We get to talk with the hosts of Girls Gone Bible about how Jesus has changed their life. They share just how much better life with Him is. Pick up their new devotional “Out of the wilderness” here: https://a.co/d/c5CaXUS

Does the Bible have anything to say about birth control and IVF? We talk about how to think through such important and timely issues!

Jonathan Isaac is an NBA player, but more importantly he’s a courageous follower of Jesus. While he lives in a culture that doesn’t promote holiness, he chooses to live differently. We talk about difficult decisions he’s had to make and how they have impacted his life!

How do we align what Jesus said do with our finances versus what is actually practical? Do we need to sell everything? Give 10%? How can we be faithful with our finances?

How do you love someone who you may disagree with? In this episode we talk about how to live like Jesus to anyone and everyone in your life!

JP answers questions on the spot from attendees of BeSo Live. It’s a wide ranging conversation so you’ll want to listen to all of it!

We rapid fire answer the top questions asked at BeSo Live. Things like, how do I honor those in authority? And, what can go wrong in marriage? Those and many more in this episode!

What would Jesus flip tables over in church's today? We talk about all of this and more in the second recording from BeSo Live 2025.

How important is our physical health? And when can it become an obsession about appearance? We talk about all of that and more in this first recording from BeSo Live 2025!

Since there is no perfect person, there is no perfect marriage. There are plenty of ways for division to arise in a marriage, but fighting for unity is possible. On this episode we talk to Gabe and Rebekah Lyons about their new book “The Fight for Us”. Pick it up here: https://a.co/d/fJhSeD5

You can really have a vibrant relationship with Jesus! A stale religion can be replaced with an intimate knowledge of who Jesus is. Buy John’s new book “Experience Jesus. Really” here: https://a.co/d/iT62iFJ

It’s so easy to live for the approval of people, but it’s an exhausting life! In this episode we talk about how you can find freedom from people pleasing.

What do you do if you’ve found someone you want to date, but you’re not physically attracted to them? In this episode we talk about the importance of physical attraction in dating and marriage. If you’re looking for who to marry, this episode is for you!

Making big decisions can be stressful because we don’t want to disobey what God’s plan for our life may be. In this episode we talk about God’s call for our life and if it’s possible to miss it.

Many of us know people who are Catholics, but aren’t sure what they believe. What are the differences and similarities between Protestants and Catholics? Are both groups Christians? 

Is God always listening and responding when I’m praying? The answer may surprise you! If you want to know what happens when you pray, this episode is for you!

How can two Christians be convicted about different things? Would the Holy Spirit be telling them two different things? We address that and more on this episode!

If you’re looking for better friendships, the first step is to be a better friend! In this episode we talk about maintaining and sustaining relationships. Rather than just looking for other people to be better friends, you should take the first step! 

What should we do when we doubt an aspect of God? Is it even ok to admit that we have doubts? In this episode we talk to pastor and author, Craig Groeschel, about how our doubts can bring us closer to God! Check out more by purchasing his new book here: https://a.co/d/diJBWJ9

Our phones are costing us. They provide a constant distraction that will interrupt and interfere with our relationship with Jesus. Don’t let your addiction to your phone keep you from an intimate relationship with God!

This week we get to talk with Ben Stuart about the updated version of his book “Single, Dating, Engaged, Married”. He has helpful teaching on whatever relationship status you find yourself in. We also talk about his has added material on how to break up! Get his book here: https://a.co/d/2ZaUPZo

In this episode we get to talk to JP about his brand new book, “Your Story Has a Villain”! Scripture says we have an enemy that wants to steal, kill, and destroy. How can we fight back against Satan’s attacks? To buy JP’s book follow this link: https://a.co/d/15OaDXo

Why does God allow bad things to happen to seemingly good people? It doesn’t seem fair that some people have an easy life, while others have a lot of difficulties. How can we trust a God that allows hurt and pain?

In this week’s episode we talk about how to handle your fears and anxieties about the future. Is it ok to be afraid, or does that mean you lack faith? Anxiety isn’t a sin, but what you do with it can be. Check out this episode for how to handle your fears!

What should you do after you’ve crossed sexual boundaries in a dating relationship? Once you’ve crossed lines, is there any use in going back? Should you break up? We talk about all of that and more in this week’s episode!

In this week’s episode we talk about what a calling is and what it means for us, as Christians. Do only certain people have callings from God, or is it everyone? If you’re looking for more purpose in your life check out this episode!

A few weeks ago we did an episode called “Where are the Godly Guys?” and we heard from many of you guys! You told us that you actually have that question for the girls! We talk about where the godly girls are and how to be a godly woman!

Jesus teaches that we should be familiar with fasting. We should go without so that we can subdue our urges and connect with our Father. In fact, Jesus even promises that there is a promised reward from fasting. To hear more check out this episode!