Forged

We sit down with mental health coach Jason Tyler McLean to unpack one of the most intense survival stories we've ever heard. Jason opens up about his battle with addiction, the destruction of his ego, and the miraculous moment his gun jammed during a suicide attempt. He also breaks down his motorcycle crash that propelled him to dedicate his life to helping others. This episode gets straight into practical frameworks for mental toughness and the undeniable healing power of Jesus and our faith and hope in Him. We discuss moving past a victim mindset, prioritizing facts over feelings, and welcoming Jesus into our lives by giving our burdens to Jesus rather than relying on our own understanding. Jason shares how adopting a strong foundation of faith completely rebuilt his reality and why there is profound hope for anyone feeling trapped in the anxiety and depression cycle. If you are struggling to find true purpose, this conversation offers a raw, direct blueprint to taking absolute ownership of your life.

Are you being discipled by Jesus or the algorithm? Most of us check our phones hundreds of times a day without a second thought. But what if that endless scrolling is doing more than just wasting time? What if it's actually reshaping your theology, rewiring your brain, and subtly replacing your time with God? Zach and Andre hit the hard truth about social media addiction. We break down the psychology of the "feed," the danger of the echo chamber, and how the algorithm uses a slot-machine effect to keep you hooked. More importantly, we talk about how to guard your heart, reclaim your attention, and get back to the truth of the Word. If you've ever felt the burnout of living constantly distracted, this conversation is for you.

In this episode of the Forged Podcast, Zach Fontaine sits down with Shawn Black, founder of Sheepdog Brew Co., for a raw conversation about what it actually takes to be a man of faith in today's world. Proverbs tells us that iron sharpens iron, and this discussion proves exactly why strong Christian brotherhood is the ultimate catalyst for personal and professional growth. Shawn spent over a decade on the frontlines as a police officer and military combat engineer, absorbing the darkest parts of the city. He shares his gripping journey from battling severe depression and addiction to experiencing a radical transformation through the grace of Jesus. When his rapidly growing nitro cold brew business was on the verge of bankruptcy, Shawn realized that true masculine toughness isn't about maintaining absolute control, it is about surrendering your life, and your livelihood, to God.

Does screaming on a street corner actually bring anyone to Jesus? In this episode of the Forged Podcast, we are reacting to two powerful clips that challenge how we handle faith, anger, and the unexpected trials of life. First, we break down the aggressive "turn or burn" tactics of modern street preachers. While they might be passionate, we dive into the scriptures to show why leading with fear and guilt actually pushes people further away from God, and how the true biblical model is built on grace and gentleness. Then, we shift gears to react to a profound thought from Dr. Jordan Peterson about suffering, doing good in a dark world, and the absolute refusal to play the victim. We discuss how true Christian masculinity isn't about letting your anger take the wheel in the airport or in traffic, it's about emotional control, overcoming evil with good, and letting God write your story.

Fear, Grace & Suffering: 3 Truths Every Christian Needs  Forged with Zach Fontaine

Have you ever prayed, believed with all your heart, and still saw absolutely no change? It’s one of the hardest and most isolating places to be in your faith journey. In this episode, Zach and Andre tackle the tough questions: Can your life experiences actually deceive your faith? What do you do when your reality completely contradicts what God promised? We dive deep into why the brokenness of this world doesn't mean God has forgotten you and how to permanently break free from generational curses. Zach also shares a highly practical 5-step F.A.I.T.H. framework to help you stand firm when you are exhausted in the waiting room for your miracle. If you're doubting your prayers, feeling defeated by your circumstances, or just wondering why God's timing feels so frustrating, this conversation is exactly what you need to hear today. #Peace #Faith #Truth #ChristianPodcast #Forged

Are you experiencing the peace of God, or simply distracting yourself long enough to forget what hurts? In this episode, we talk about one of the most overlooked struggles in modern Christianity: using social media, television, gaming, achievement, work, money, and constant stimulation as substitutes for genuine spiritual peace. Entertainment is not automatically sinful. Relaxing is not wrong. But are they helping you rest, or have they become the only way you can feel okay? The world offers countless ways to escape your circumstances. God offers the strength to walk through them without being controlled by fear, anxiety, emptiness, or the need for constant stimulation. So ask yourself honestly: What do you reach for first when you feel stressed, lonely, disappointed, bored, or overwhelmed? #ChristianPodcast #FaithInGod #BiblicalTruth #IronSharpensIron #Forged

Can sin cancel grace? In this episode of the Forged Podcast, Andre and I sit down to talk about one of the biggest questions in Christianity: Can you lose your salvation? Many believers live with the fear that one mistake, season of doubt, or moment of weakness could undo everything Jesus accomplished. But if salvation is truly a gift, can it be taken away every time we fall short? We discuss the difference between grace and performance-based faith, why sin still has consequences, what genuine belief looks like, and whether someone can walk away from God after receiving salvation. We also talk about doubt, deconstruction, church hurt, the criminal beside Jesus, and why compassion matters when someone begins questioning their faith. If one mistake can erase salvation, was it ever a gift, or something we had to keep earning?

Andre and I talk about one of the biggest questions Christians wrestle with: Is Grace a license to sin?   God’s mercy is greater than our failures. But grace was never given so we could stay trapped in the same sin Jesus came to free us from. We talk about why so many people treat grace like permission, why sin still produces death, and why real grace should lead to freedom, repentance, and transformation. This is not about pretending we never struggle. This is about asking the question: If Grace was given to set us free, why do we keep using it as an excuse to stay the same? #Grace #ChristianPodcast #Faith #JesusChrist #Forged

I sit down with my good friend Matt Hnatuk for a conversation that went a lot deeper than I expected. We talked about fatherhood, biblical manhood, raising sons and daughters, building a legacy, and the importance of having godly men around you. Matt shares how he intentionally created a moment for his sons as he stepped from boyhood into manhood, and it opened up a bigger conversation about what fathers are really called to pass down. This is episode is about more than hunting, stories, or “man stuff”. It’s about the seeds that we plant in our kids, the men who helped shape us, the pain of losing a father, and how God can redeem the gaps in our lives through community, mentorship, and faith. If you’re a dad, a son, a husband, a leader, or a man trying to become who God called you to be, I think this conversation will speak to you. Real masculinity is not just being tough. It’s being faithful, intentional, humble, strong, and willing to protect what God has trusted you with. #Fatherhood #Manhood #Legacy #IronSharpensIron #Forged

Just because a man looks strong from the outside doesn’t mean he is strong on the inside. 🤔 Are you building a facade for public approval, or are you doing the heavy lifting in private where no one is watching? In this episode of Forged, Zach sits down with Andre Fontaine and Matt Allan to break down the illusion of modern strength. They dive into why biblical giants like King David and Elijah experienced massive private breakdown despite having monumental public victories. It all comes down to the habits you build in the silence. If short-term comfort is setting you up for long-term despair, it’s time to course-correct.

Everybody wants more. More responsibility. More influence. More opportunities. More impact. But very few people stop and ask: Do I actually have the capacity to carry it? In this episode of Forged, I sit with Devon, Kids Director at Springs Church, to unpack the connection between ownership, leadership, faith, and personal growth. Why God can't steer a parked ship, the difference between problems that need solving and tensions that need managing, and why the next level isn't something you arrive at, it's something you grow into #Forged #SpiritContemporary #IronSharpensIron #Grace #Jesus

Series Recap: Ambassadors | Forged with Zach Fontaine with Michala Stannard

Forged Special: The Ambassador's Appeal 3.5 Forged with Zach Fontaine

Saved But Still Struggling Forged with Zach Fontaine Guest Angela Brandt

Saved But Still Struggling Forged with Zach Fontaine Guests Michala Stannard and Andre Fontaine

The Internet Never Forgets Forged with Zach Fontaine and Guest Paul Davis

Forged With Zach Fontaine and Andre Fontaine

Would You Want You As a Leader?  Forged with Zach Fontaine & Chris Goede

Your Biggest Leadership Challenge with Jeremy Foster Forged with Zach Fontaine

What Your Tone Says About You! | Forged with Zach Fontaine

with Andre Fontaine

In this episode of Forged, Michala and I sit down and answer the relationship questions many of you sent in. We’re not therapists. We’re not experts. We’re just two people who love Jesus, and who believe the Bible still works in every season and every relationship.

In this episode of 'Forged,' the discussion focuses on the challenges and misconceptions about marriage.  Featuring Justin and Michelle, who share their 17 years of marriage experience, they discuss the importance of understanding each other's needs, effective communication, and the impact of the 'Love and Respect' course on their relationship. 

Marriage doesn’t drift toward health. It’s built, slowly, intentionally, and over time. Joined by Danny and Jen, married for over 25 years, we talk honestly about the gap between what marriage is sold to be and what it really is once the honeymoon fades. This episode isn’t about perfection or romance, it’s about commitment, communication, timing, faith, and the quiet, consistent work that forms a strong marriage. Danny and Jen share candid stories about conflict, growth, learning each other’s differences, and choosing to keep showing up. We also talk about aligning spiritually, navigating seasons where growth isn’t equal, and the responsibility of modeling a healthy relationship for your kids. Marriage works, but only if you’re willing to do the work.

A lot of people don’t walk away from faith because they stop believing in God… They walk away because they think the Bible can’t stand up to questions. In this episode of Forge, I’m joined by Thomas Bailey from Creation Ministries International, an organization committed to helping Christians understand and defend the truth of Scripture, especially when it comes to Genesis, creation, history, and dinosaurs. Thomas shares his journey from working as an actor to becoming a communicator and speaker in the world of apologetics, with a deep conviction that truth matters and the Church has to be equipped. We talk about the message of Genesis and why it’s not a side issue. We get into the old earth vs. young earth debate, common assumptions behind dating methods, Noah’s flood, carbon-14, dinosaur claims, and why apologetics isn’t about “winning arguments”, it’s about strengthening believers and removing unnecessary barriers to faith. If you’ve ever felt stuck between what you grew up believing and what you’re hearing from culture, this episode is for you.

Chris & Sara Goede Forged with Zach Fontaine

Guests, Andre Fontaine and Matt Allan

Welcome back to The Forged Podcast! In this episode, I sit down with Andre Fontaine for a real, honest, and often hilarious conversation about everyday life, personal growth, and what it looks like to stay grounded when things get messy. We swap stories about gym fails, garage mishaps, coffee opinions, hunting adventures, and then dig into what it means to find contentment no matter what season you’re in. It’s down-to-earth, practical, and full of those “oh yeah, I’ve been there” moments.

Forged with Zach Fontaine and Matt Allan

The Recap: Money, Mindsets, and Moving Forward in Faith Forged with Andre & Zach Fontaine

Forged an Interview with Dave Minton Zach Fontaine

I've been on a series lately, "Kingdom Economy" and on today’s episode I’ll be answering some of the questions that came in during this series. 

Zach sits down with Patrick, a longtime volunteer who’s spent 25 years bringing hope inside prison walls. Patrick opens up about his own journey—from a rebellious kid to a man who now walks alongside inmates as they face some of life’s hardest battles. You’ll hear powerful, real stories of lives turning around: addictions broken, unexpected moments of healing, and hope showing up where it’s least expected. It’s an honest, moving conversation about second chances, purpose, and what happens when you show up for people who feel forgotten.

Ever wondered what it really looks like to live free, not stressed, when it comes to money and life? In this episode, Brock joins us to talk about a way of thinking that flips the script on how we handle our resources, priorities, and the life we’re building. Brock shares real stories and lessons he’s learned about generosity, living with purpose, and why aligning your mindset makes all the difference.  From money and business to family and everyday choices, this conversation is down-to-earth, practical, and packed with insights you can put to work right away. If you’ve been feeling the pressure to keep up, or just want a healthier perspective on what success looks like, you’ll get a lot out of this one

 Stronger than Loss - Moving Towards Healing  A conversation with Patrick Karuhije  

Does that really matter? When The Negotiable’s Take Over Forged with Zach Fontaine

In this episode of Forged, we sit down with Paul Licerio to hear his story of resilience and hope. From growing up in the Philippines, overcoming addiction and finding a fresh start, Paul shares how his journey shaped him into the husband, father, and musician he is today.

Listener Questions: You Asked, We Answered Q&A Episode with Zach Fontaine

Join us as Ernest Goertzen shares his incredible journey from never experiencing illness to battling Stage 4 cancer. Discover how his unwavering faith, miraculous healings, and divine encounters shaped his path to recovery. Is healing still for today? What scriptures can you stand on?

Join us this week on Forged for a profound conversation with Chris Golding, a war veteran who has undergone a remarkable transformation. Delve into Chris's riveting experiences in Afghanistan, his struggles with PTSD and depression, and the significant turning points that led him to find Christ. From discussing his military tours to his upbringing in foster care and his ultimate journey to faith, Chris's story is a testament to resilience and redemption. This episode is packed with raw stories, honest reflections, and insights into how faith and community can provide healing and purpose.

Malcolm’s story takes us from Pakistan to Canada,  with a whole lot of faith, culture, and deep questions along the way. In this episode, we talk about how his experiences with different worldviews strengthened his understanding of Christianity, what courses and mentors helped shape his walk with Jesus, and how the Holy Spirit plays a real, active role in everyday life. What does it actually look like to stay grounded in your faith, and how should you talk about what you believe, whether you're in a classroom, a coffee shop, or a totally unfamiliar environment.

Today’s guest, Josh Boettcher shares his journey growing up in chaos, from having demonic visitations, living in a psychiatric hospital, to the moment of absolute freedom.  How do you balance a life that moves from one extreme to another What does it truly mean to be repentant, and what are the pitfalls that “professional” Christian’s get trapped in?

This week’s episode is with Daniel Nemetchuk - he’s a mountain biker, 18–24 hour events kind of guy (yeah… wild), and now a husband, dad, business owner, who also studies and teaches Christian apologetics. We talk about everything from brutal race stories and that “push-past-the-pain” mindset, to how priorities shift when marriage and family come into the picture. We also share why risk-taking is essential for the growth of boys and men (not just on a bike), how he got into apologetics, and why defining truth actually matters, especially in the day-to-day stuff most people overlook. It’s a mix of raw stories, honest reflections, and a few deep dives that might make you rethink how you're living, leading, and showing up in your world.

Hope Series Recap Forged with Zach Fontaine

Episode 6 - Forged With Zach Fontaine & Shai Ross

Balancing Career, Family, and Faith Forged with Zach Fontaine

Gunshots, Faith, and Finding Purpose in Unexpected Places Forged With Zach Fontaine

Let's Take Our Job Back: A Conversation with Kelly Stickel Forged with Zach Fontaine

Up line - Side line - Down Line. A conversation with Jeremy Foster Forged with Zach Fontaine