Balancing Faith, Work, & Podcasting— Survival Guide — Johnie Taverner | Ep 50

In today’s episode, I sat down with Johnie Taverner, the passionate host behind Refuge Freedom Stories—a podcast all about powerful journeys of faith and real-life transformations through the love of Jesus. We dove deep into how his show started, the heart behind sharing stories from former offenders and everyday people, and the unique challenges (and joys!) of running a Christian podcast. We also geeked out a bit about podcast production, tools we use, and the importance of staying true to your calling, even when the numbers aren’t your main goal. My hope is that after listening, you’re inspired to chase purpose over popularity, and maybe even start telling your own story—because it just might help change someone else’s life. Thanks for joining us on this journey!Connect with Johnie TavernerIf you’d like to connect with Johnie Taverner and discover more about the life-changing stories shared on his faith-based podcast, Refuge Freedom Stories, you can find the show on all major podcast platforms Johnie encourages everyone to listen to at least one episode and experience firsthand the powerful journeys of transformation shared by his guests. Don’t miss the chance to be inspired by the real, tangible impact of faith in people’s lives.Website:https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/refuge-freedom-storiesIf Relatable Wisdom speaks to you—if a quote shared makes you pause, smile, or see things differently—consider subscribing so you never miss an episode. And if you have a minute, leaving a review helps more people discover these everyday voices and the wisdom they carry. Your support means the world.Every episode has more to it than what you hear. Join the Relatable Wisdom newsletter to get thoughtful reflections, behind-the-scenes extras, and personal notes that don’t make it into the show. It’s a calm space to stay inspired between listens.Sign up here: https://relatablewisdom.com/joinIf the quotes and stories you hear here offer you comfort, clarity, or connection, you can help support the podcast by buying me a coffee. Every small contribution helps keep these everyday voices and shared wisdom going strong.Support the show: https://buymeacoffee.com/wisdomhqWant to be a guest on Relatable Wisdom? Send Wisdom Okonkwo a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/relatablewisdomChapters00:00 Purpose and Impact of the Podcast00:43 Introduction to Johnny Taverner and Refuge Freedom Stories01:26 Origin Story: Ministry Beginnings and Launching the Podcast04:20 Transition from Radio to Podcast & Hosting Journey07:17 Unique Stories and Guest Experiences09:45 Audio-Only Format and Global Reach12:04 Production Workflow and Technical Tools17:10 Booking Guests, Challenges, and Faith-Based Focus36:13 Distinctives of a Christian Podcast42:52 Monetization, Finances, and Maintaining Integrity48:27 Advice for Aspiring Christian Podcasters & Final Thoughts