Fueled By Trial

What are you bringing into your marriage… that you haven’t even unpacked yet?In this episode, we discuss “clearing the decks” which means exposing the expectations, habits, and hidden baggage we all carry from our past. From family dynamics and upbringing to unspoken fears and personal struggles, they talk through how these things quietly shape our relationships if left unaddressed.Through honest conversation, we explore the importance of identifying triggers, communicating expectations, and surrendering it all to God so He can build the foundation your marriage truly needs.Because marriage isn’t just a new chapter, it’s a brand new book. And what you don’t unpack now may show up later.

If it’s all God’s… why is it so hard to let go of our money?In this episode, we unpack what it really means to trust God with our finances. From tithing to daily stewardship, we dive into the heart behind giving, not just how much, but how and why we give.We discuss control, surrender, and the tension between trusting God and holding on tightly to it with a closed fist versus an open hand. Through personal experiences and biblical truth, this conversation challenges you to rethink your perspective on money and ask a deeper question:Do you truly believe it’s all His?

What happens when the struggles we hide finally come into the light?In this episode, Zion shares his personal struggle with pornography and how bringing it into the light through honesty with God, accountability, and vulnerability in marriage, and sharing it with others has been key to finding freedom. Jodie also shares her perspective and the role forgiveness, prayer, and support have played as they walk through this battle together.This episode is a reminder that we’re not meant to fight our battles alone. Whatever the temptation may be, healing begins when we stop hiding and start sharing.If you’re struggling with something in the dark, our encouragement is simple: tell someone and invite God into the fight.

What do you do when you’ve prayed… and nothing changes?In this episode, we sit down with Ellie Livingston, and we unpack what it really looks like to live out Luke 11, not just asking once, but seeking, knocking, and trusting even when the door doesn’t open right away. We talk about seasons of anxiety, sleepless nights, surrendering control, and waiting over a year for answers that only God could orchestrate.We wrestle with the tension between persistence and surrender as well as bold prayer without gripping for control. We share how obedience in small things, stewarding our bodies as temples, and trusting open doors reshaped our faith in the waiting.Because sometimes the miracle isn’t just the door opening…It’s who you become while you knock.

How do you know if it’s God speaking… or just your own thoughts?In this episode, we dive into the practical side of discernment and what it actually looks like in real life, not always in dramatic, mountaintop moments, but in everyday moments. We unpack how the voice of God will never contradict the truth of Scripture, vulnerability is the key to Godly relationships, and prayer is necessary for hearing Him. Lastly, we must believe that He can and will speak to us.This conversation isn’t about chasing signs or waiting for a loud answer. It’s about learning to listen, trusting God’s character, and choosing obedience in the small things.If you’ve ever wrestled with overthinking, uncertainty, or wondering whether a thought was from God or from fear, this episode is for you.

In this episode, we explore further what it means to follow God when the path ahead isn’t clear. Building on past conversations about faith in uncertainty and radical trust, we discuss the difference between believing in God and actually obeying Him, especially when obedience feels like stepping into the fog.We explore how obedience isn’t always just about big, life-altering decisions, but about faith in action through daily choices: reading the Word, praying consistently, listening to subtle nudges, and responding when God calls, even when it’s inconvenient or uncomfortable. Using the story of Moses and reflections from Hebrews 11, we unpack how faith and obedience work together, and why delayed obedience can often cost us more than we realize.This conversation also touches on anxiety, control, surrender, and the peace that comes when we stop trying to be the author of our own story and trust God with the direction. Whether you’re in a season of waiting, questioning what’s next, or learning how to be faithful in the small things, this episode is an encouragement to keep moving, trust God’s leading, and obey even when clarity hasn’t arrived yet.

In this episode, we’re joined by a special guest ~ Beth Conolly ~ who shares her powerful testimony of faith, dealing with anxiety & OCD, and the radical surrender of it all to Christ. From growing up in a Christian home to experiencing a life-changing encounter with God at a young age, we talk about what it looks like to trust God fully in the middle of anxiety, intrusive thoughts, and seasons of deep struggle.This conversation explores how faith doesn’t remove anxiety overnight, but offers freedom, healing, and a new way to walk through it. We discuss taking thoughts captive, building habits rooted in God’s Word, and learning to trust Him when plans fall apart and life takes unexpected turns. Through travel delays, missed plans, and divine interruptions, we see how God often works most powerfully when we slow down and surrender control.Whether you’re wrestling with anxiety, feeling overwhelmed by uncertainty, or learning how to walk faithfully in the everyday moments of life, this episode is an encouragement to trust God radically and believe that He is present, purposeful, and faithful in every season.

In this episode, we share our experience walking through pre-marriage counseling and why preparing for marriage matters so much more than planning a wedding day. We discuss the conversations that challenged us, the questions we didn’t know we needed to ask, and how inviting God into the process has shaped and is shaping the foundation of our relationship.From communication and expectations to roles, trust, and dreaming about the future, this conversation highlights the importance of slowing down and being intentional before saying “I do.” We also share how working through The Story of Marriage (by John & Lisa Bevere) helped us have deeper discussions, learn from mentors, and build a shared vision rooted in faith.Whether you’re engaged, dating, married, or simply thinking about what a Christ-centered marriage looks like, this episode is an encouragement to focus on the lifelong commitment, not just the ceremony.

In this episode, we talk openly about uncertainty and the seasons of life where the path forward isn’t clear. From leaving home to chase dreams, changing schools, finishing college athletics, navigating career questions, marriage, and waiting on God when answers don’t come quickly, we share pieces of our own journeys and what these moments have taught us.This conversation isn’t about having everything figured out (believe us we don't have it all figured out!). It’s about learning to surrender control, trusting God in the waiting, and remembering that He has always been faithful even when the plan doesn’t look the way we expected.If you’re in a season of asking “what’s next,” feeling anxious about the future, or struggling to let go and trust God fully, this episode is for you.

In this intro episode, we talk about what it looks like to bring Fueled By Trial back for Season 2 and why this new chapter feels different. We share how our lives have changed, why we wanted to return to the mic together, and the heart behind creating honest conversations about walking through trials with God.This episode isn’t about telling every detail of our story just yet. It’s a look at where we’ve been, what we’ve learned, and what we hope this season becomes. We open up about marriage, faith, growth, and the real-life challenges that are shaping us in our current stage of life.If you're here for something authentic, encouraging, and rooted in hope, this episode sets the tone for everything ahead. We’re grateful to be back and excited to walk through this new season with you.

In this episode, we sit down with Steven Thomas, the leader of Thomas Road Young Adults at Thomas Road Baptist Church. Steven shares his testimony (God's story) from a childhood marked by nightmares and the challenges of having a father imprisoned for the gospel to finding his calling as a pastor and child of God. He opens up about the nightmares that once haunted him, the importance of community and accountability in this Christian life, and how seeking help can transform your path. This episode is a testament to the power of faith, resilience, and the impact of personal testimony.

In this powerful episode, we sit down with Emily Meyer (emilyjomeyer), who shares her journey of walking through anorexia and finding true freedom by surrendering control to God. Emily opens up about her struggles with self-image and perfectionism and how the LORD worked through little moments to impact her and draw her back to the kingdom. With vulnerability, she reflects on the transformative power of trust in God and offers a message of hope. Whether you’re facing your own challenges or seeking inspiration, Emily’s testimony serves as a powerful reminder of the healing that faith can bring and the freedom found in giving up control.

You are reading that right! We have officially hit Mile 20! We want to thank those of you who have just joined us and those who have been there from the beginning.In this episode, we dive into the topic of missions and the many ways you can help contribute. We are called to go and reach all the nations. This means starting where you are, there is no better time than NOW to truly do the work that our God has called us to throughout the Bible. Let Him fill the Heavens by working through us.

I know you missed us because we missed you! As you know life can get crazy but excited to be back and get episodes out to you all!In this episode, we are joined by Jodie (yes another South African!) and she shares about the morning that she felt a change in her heart. Have you ever had a quiet moment like that with God? What did you do with that moment? If it wasn't a catalyst then, then we hope it is now and you cherish those moments with God. When we search for Him then God will provide, maybe not always in the way we expect but He will. God does not want just the bare minimum, He wants all of us.Search and Yearn for that quiet time with God.

Welcome to Mile 18, where we explore vulnerability and the transformative power of surrendering our pain to God. In this episode, we embark on a journey of healing and resilience, sharing stories of courage amidst adversity. Join us as we navigate through the challenges of life's marathon, finding solace in the understanding that our vulnerabilities are not weaknesses but pathways to strength when we give it to God. Tune in as we discover the beauty in letting go and allowing God to carry our burdens, paving the way for redemption and restoration.

Grateful. We are thankful for those who have joined us on this journey and for those who have been with us from the start. In this episode, we are joined by Nicaise Muamba as he discusses the early success he had on his athletic journey and the identity that was formed because of that. Like life, though athletics has its fair share of mountains and valleys and Nicaise walks us through some of those experiences and how God was always working. The invitation to have a relationship with our Father in Heaven is always extended and we just need to reach for it like He is reaching for us.

Mile Marker 16! Welcome back and boy do we have a great testimony for you to hear. As we are joined by Micah we discuss how his story went from the "basic" Christian story to one that held a new set of trials. God was never done working in his life, and Micah decided to draw closer to God in that moment. When life and the storms we face get stronger we must remember that our God is greater and only by his grace can we make it through.

Join us for the next mile is this journey as we welcome Christiaan and Zion’s old teammate and roommate. In this episode we look at the importance of following God and having a personal relationship with Him. Many of us may approach a lot of life logically like Josh or maybe emotionally like others BUT the foundation of all of our lives should be centered around the ONE who saved us all so we could have a relationship with our Heavenly Father.

Join us as we welcome Zion and Christiaan's former teammates who during his time at Liberty came to a relationship with our heavenly Father. Listen in as we discuss the pull of God that was felt in his life and how he is growing now in his walk with the LORD. Remember to look back on that initial excitement when we first dedicated our life to the LORD and strive to live each day with that same fire as our God is the same yesterday, today, and tomorrow.

HOPE, PEACE, GOD REVEALING HIMSELFThose are just some of the topics that we cover in this episode as we welcome a very special guest. AJ tells a bit of his testimony as well as other stories of God revealing himself that has impacted him. Do not miss this episode and we pray God reveals something in your heart through this.

Join us for a moving episode as we sit down with Heather to hear her powerful testimony of loss, transformation, and rededication to faith. From the heart-wrenching experience of losing her mom to cancer to the moment of revelation when she realized her life lacked God's focus, Heather shares her journey with vulnerability and courage. Loss takes many forms, but Heather's story reminds us that God is always there, leading us back to Him like the good shepherd. Tune in to this profound conversation that offers hope and inspiration to anyone navigating grief or seeking spiritual clarity.

Join me for a candid conversation with my parents as they share their journey of love, faith, and growth. In our latest episode, they open up about the lessons learned from their dating experiences and the challenges they faced by not always following God's path. From navigating their relationship to overcoming obstacles, they offer valuable insights and wisdom gained through their own journey. Tune in for a discussion that will resonate with anyone seeking guidance in matters of the heart.

As we celebrate Mile 10 on our podcast journey, join us for a conversation with Luke Eberle. In this episode, Luke shares reflections his journey of how God has provided in ways that he could have never foreseen.We explore Luke's unique experiences, including his involvement with Samaritan's Feet, discovering how God's plan unfolded in unexpected ways. Through stories and wisdom, Luke encourages us to trust in God's sovereign design, where the grass is always greenest

Dethroning Self for God's SovereigntyAs we reach Mile 9 on our podcast journey, join us for a conversation with Lou Combrinck. In this episode, Lou shares insights about the pivotal choice of who sits on the throne of our hearts. Drawing from personal experiences and reflections, she unveils the profound truth that God, not ourselves, must reign supreme.Her testimony is encapsulated by 2 Corinthians 12:9-10, discovering the strength found in weakness and the grace that abounds when we surrender our self-rule. Lou's journey is a compelling testament to the beauty of allowing God's sovereignty to shape our lives.

As we hit Mile 8 of our marathon, we're joined by Kyle. He shares how God's guiding hand is preparing us for promises we might not have seen or heard, but they are there, waiting for us. Our conversation is grounded in the wisdom of 2 Corinthians 2:9: 'What no eye has seen, nor ear heard, nor the heart of man imagined, what God has prepared for those who love Him.'

We are always grateful to hear the stories of how God transforms lives. In this heartwarming episode, we are joined by Arnold, whose remarkable journey has taken him from the impoverished streets of Nairobi, Kenya to the soccer fields of the United States. He shares his inspiring story of God's unwavering provision throughout the various chapters of his life. Arnold's experiences are a testament to God's faithfulness and provision through some of life's toughest moments

In this episode, our guest shares their experience of questioning God in the wake of responding to the 2010 Haiti disaster. Through the profound silence, we discover how God speaks to us when we most need to hear Him. Join us for an emotionally charged conversation that explores the depths of faith, silence, and the raging sea that is life.

In this episode our guest Dylan shares a deeply personal journey of how Jesus called him. Through his testimony, we uncover the incredible reality that God is continually pursuing us with His unending grace. Join us for a conversation that highlights the divine love and persistence of our Savior. Get ready to be inspired and encouraged as we delve into the story of a relentless pursuit.

In this episode we talk to Christiaan as he delves into the profound topic of joy and its singular source—Jesus Christ. With passion and insight, Christiaan explores the depths of what it means to find genuine joy through his own story. Join us as we journey through Christiaan's own experiences and the timeless wisdom of scripture to uncover the secret to lasting joy. In a world that often seeks happiness in fleeting pleasures, this episode serves as a reminder that true joy can only be discovered in a relationship with Jesus.

Join us as we delve into an honest conversation about the challenges many women and men face in a world that often pressures us to conform to worldly desires. Through Emily's journey, we discover the transformative power of faith, the importance of accountability, and the unwavering love of our Heavenly Father. This episode offers hope and encouragement to anyone seeking liberation from the grip of fleshly temptations. Tune in and embark on a journey towards renewed strength and spiritual victory.

In the second episode of 'Fueled By Trial,' join us in conversation with Julia Mangum as she shares her testimony of battling with pride. Julia offers a vulnerable look into the moments where her own pride threatened to eclipse the grace of God. Through her story, we discover the powerful transformation that unfolds when we surrender our weaknesses to Him. Prepare for a moving conversation exploring the beauty of humility and God's redemptive love. Tune in and let's embark on this journey together.

Welcome to the inaugural episode of 'Fueled By Trial,' where stories of faith and triumph unfold. In this episode, your hosts Zion Heaven, Emily Dykema, Julia Mangum, and Christiaan Worst set the stage for this empowering journey of sharing personal testimonies. Zion Heaven opens up about his own life's trials and victories, offering a glimpse into what 'Fueled By Trial' is all about and how God has worked throughout his life. Get ready to be inspired, encouraged, and uplifted as we lay the foundation for a series of heartfelt conversations. Tune in and embark on this transformative voyage of faith, resilience, and God's unending grace.

Step into the world of 'Fueled By Trial' at Mile Marker 0. Join hosts Emily Dykema, Julia Mangum, Christiaan Worst, and Zion Heaven as they introduce you to the heart and soul of the podcast. In this introduction discover how 'Fueled By Trial' aims to uplift, inspire, and ignite conversations of resilience. Buckle up for an exciting journey ahead, where faith takes center stage and lives are transformed.