Forward Podcast
In a world where fear seems to be driving many into retreat, where discouragement and depression hold too many in their grip, it’s time to reclaim your stride. Welcome to our podcast, crafted specifically to reignite your spirit, refuel your positivity, and guide you back onto the path of purpose.
Join us as we dive into the depths of human experience, covering everything from the complexities of marriage to navigating life’s inevitable mistakes, cherishing precious moments, and finding fulfillment in ministry. Regardless of where you are in life or where you come from, each episode promises to be a beacon of hope, filled with relatable stories, powerful illustrations, and practical advice to propel you forward on your journey. Don’t just listen—let’s journey together, Forward!
In a world where fear seems to be driving many into retreat, where discouragement and depression hold too many in their grip, it’s time to reclaim your stride. Welcome to our podcast, crafted specifically to reignite your spirit, refuel your positivity, and guide you back onto the path of purpose.
Join us as we dive into the depths of human experience, covering everything from the complexities of marriage to navigating life’s inevitable mistakes, cherishing precious moments, and finding fulfillment in ministry. Regardless of where you are in life or where you come from, each episode promises to be a beacon of hope, filled with relatable stories, powerful illustrations, and practical advice to propel you forward on your journey. Don’t just listen—let’s journey together, Forward!
Listen on:
Episodes

2 hours ago
Episode 133- The Enough Life
2 hours ago
2 hours ago
31 min
How much is enough?
In this episode of Forward, Thomas and Kari talk honestly about money, comparison, contentment, and the pressure to always want more. They share lessons they’ve learned through different financial seasons, practical habits that have helped their family, and what they hope their children understand about money and stewardship.
2 hours ago
31 min

Oct 19, 2026
Episode 132- Letting Go Well
Oct 19, 2026
Oct 19, 2026
28 min
Parenting changes as our kids grow, and that shift can catch us off guard. In this episode of Forward, Thomas and Kari talk about moving from constant direction to growing trust, knowing when to step in and when to step back, and protecting the relationship while teens learn to take responsibility. If you're raising older kids or heading into that season, this conversation is for you.
Oct 19, 2026
28 min

Oct 12, 2026
Oct 12, 2026
37 min
How do you know what God wants you to do when the answer isn’t obvious? In this episode, Thomas and Kari talk through some of the practical questions that come with major decisions—how to use Scripture, seek wise counsel, sort through emotions, consider your responsibilities, and move forward when you still don’t have 100% certainty. If you’ve ever wished God would just make the answer crystal clear, this conversation is for you.
Oct 12, 2026
37 min

Oct 5, 2026
Oct 5, 2026
33 min
Social media is full of opinions, headlines, rumors, and half-truths. In this episode, we share three simple biblical ways to discern what is true, stand firm in what you know, and know when it is better to stay silent.
Oct 5, 2026
33 min

Sep 28, 2026
Sep 28, 2026
29 min
Disagreements are inevitable, but damaged relationships don’t have to be. In this episode, we talk about practical, biblical ways to navigate conflict, communicate with grace, and protect the relationship even when you don’t see eye to eye.
Sep 28, 2026
29 min

Sep 21, 2026
Episode 128- Think About It Part 2
Sep 21, 2026
Sep 21, 2026
15 min
In Part 2 of our “Think About It” series, we get practical about protecting your attention and taking care of the brain God gave you. From multitasking and constant distractions to sleep, exercise, and healthy rhythms, we look at simple changes that can help you focus better, learn better, and think more clearly.
Sep 21, 2026
15 min

Sep 14, 2026
Episode 127- Think About It Part 1
Sep 14, 2026
Sep 14, 2026
25 min
Are we forgetting how to think? In Part 1 of this three-part series, we introduce the challenges of learning and thinking in a world filled with constant information, distractions, technology, and AI. We talk about what all of this is doing to our attention, our minds, and even our spiritual lives—and why learning how to focus and think deeply may be more important than ever.
Sep 14, 2026
25 min

Sep 7, 2026
Sep 7, 2026
20 min
A consistent prayer life doesn’t have to be complicated. In this episode, we share practical ways to make prayer a natural part of everyday life—from praying immediately when a need comes to mind, to meditating on Scripture, to establishing a consistent time and place to meet with God. Simple habits can lead to a deeper, more consistent walk with Him.
Sep 7, 2026
20 min

Aug 24, 2026
Aug 24, 2026
24 min
In Part 2, we focus on breaking free from the need for everyone’s approval. We talk about handling criticism, knowing whose opinions really matter, and finding the confidence to live for God instead of constantly worrying about what others think.
Aug 24, 2026
24 min

Aug 17, 2026
Episode 124- Stop Taking Everything Personally
Aug 17, 2026
Aug 17, 2026
22 min
It’s easy to overthink a comment, a look, a text, or someone’s opinion. In this episode, we talk about how to stop taking everything personally, give people grace, handle criticism, and learn when to simply let things go.
Aug 17, 2026
22 min
About Us
Meet Thomas and Kari Shepherd, the dynamic duo shaking up Indianapolis with their passion for marriage and ministry. Settled just outside the city since 2020, they've been weaving their own love story for 18 years while serving as co-laborers with others navigating the rollercoaster ride of life.
Their brood of five—Tommy, Lois, London, Norah, and Rose—keeps their household buzzing with energy and laughter. Thomas serves as the senior pastor at Crosspointe Baptist Church, a hub of spiritual growth and community outreach. Meanwhile, Kari lends her expertise as a brand manager for an online company, while pouring her heart into their shared ministry endeavors.
Together, they're not just living life—they're painting a vivid portrait of love, and faith in action, inspiring those around them to embrace the adventure and the joy of serving others.

Why Forward
In a world where fear seems to be driving many into retreat, where discouragement and depression hold too many in their grip, it's time to reclaim your stride. Welcome to our podcast, crafted specifically to reignite your spirit, refuel your positivity, and guide you back onto the path of purpose.
Join us as we dive into the depths of human experience, covering everything from the complexities of marriage to navigating life's inevitable mistakes, cherishing precious moments, and finding fulfillment in ministry. Regardless of where you are in life or where you come from, each episode promises to be a beacon of hope, filled with relatable stories, powerful illustrations, and practical advice to propel you forward on your journey. Don't just listen—let's journey together, Forward!


