Rooted In Christ

Latest Episodes:

Mission: All of You & None of Me, Christian Hip Hop, God's Will & Faith | The Rooted in Christ Podcast Ep. 207 Aug 10, 2026

Show notes

In this episode of the Rooted in Christ Podcast, Eric sits down with Christian hip-hop artist Mission for an honest conversation about faith, music, obedience, family, success, and what it truly means to surrender your plans to God.

Mission shares his journey from growing up in Mississippi and being introduced to church at a young age, to fully surrendering his life to Christ in his early 20s. He opens up about how becoming a husband and father changed his perspective on life and pushed him to take his faith seriously.

The conversation dives deep into Mission’s mantra, “All You, None of Me,” and the challenge of actually living it out—not just wearing it on a shirt or saying it as a slogan. Together, Eric and Mission discuss what it looks like to seek God’s will in an industry driven by numbers, algorithms, fame, comparison, and recognition.

Mission also reflects on the unexpected success of his song “Marvelous,” including its organic reach into the NFL, and the temptation to recreate success rather than simply remain obedient to the creative process God has given him.

Other topics include:

• Finding your God-given message and voice as a Christian artist
• Fighting comparison in the age of social media and streaming numbers
• Navigating success without compromising your faith
• The importance of patience and trusting God’s timing
• Why Christian artists need to embrace and support the next generation
• Knowing when to speak and when to remain silent
• Putting marriage and family in their proper order
• Redefining what unity in Christian hip-hop actually looks like
• Using your platform to point people toward Christ rather than yourself
Mission closes with a powerful reminder: we all have different roles to play, but we can all point people to Christ.

This is a conversation about surrender, stewardship, authenticity, and remembering that the platform isn't ours—it belongs to God.

“All You, None of Me.”

If this episode encouraged you, be sure to like, share, subscribe, and follow the Rooted in Christ Podcast on all major podcast platforms.

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Want to be a guest on Rooted In Christ? Send Eric Stephens a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1759833790503730c0e0ceb0e

Behind the Scenes of Christian Music, Management, and Touring with Bailey Unterwagner | The Rooted in Christ Podcast Ep. 206 Aug 03, 2026

Show notes

In this episode of the Rooted in Christ Podcast, Eric sits down with Bailey Unterwagner—artist manager, tour manager, and founder of BOO Management—for an honest conversation about what it really takes to build a lasting career while keeping Jesus at the center.

Bailey shares his journey into the Christian music industry, how following God's voice shaped his career, and why character will always outlast talent. Together they unpack the realities of artist management, touring, record deals, business strategy, and the importance of serving others with integrity.

Whether you're an artist, creative, entrepreneur, or simply seeking to honor God in your work, this conversation is packed with practical wisdom and biblical encouragement.

In this episode you'll learn:
• Why character is more valuable than talent
• The importance of integrity in business and ministry
• What artists should know before signing a record deal
• How to build an "algorithm-proof" career
• Why servant leadership is essential for lasting impact
• Balancing career ambitions with family and faith
• Following God's voice, even when it doesn't make sense

No matter what God has called you to, success isn't measured by platform or popularity—it's measured by faithfulness.

If this conversation encouraged you, be sure to Like, Subscribe, and Share it with someone who needs this reminder.

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Want to be a guest on Rooted In Christ? Send Eric Stephens a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1759833790503730c0e0ceb0e

Healing from Childhood Abuse and Trauma | John Jarman on the Rooted in Christ Podcast Ep. 205 Jul 27, 2026

Show notes

What happens when the wounds of childhood follow you into adulthood—and God begins revealing what you've spent decades trying to forget?

In this powerful and deeply personal episode of the Rooted in Christ Podcast, Eric sits down with author, speaker, Marine Corps veteran, and mentor John Jarman to discuss his incredible journey from childhood trauma, abuse, and brokenness to healing, freedom, and purpose through Jesus Christ.

John shares how growing up in an abusive home left him carrying hidden wounds for decades, including having little memory of much of his childhood. Through counseling, discipleship, mentorship, and a surrendered relationship with Christ, God began exposing the strongholds that had shaped his life and guiding him toward lasting freedom.

Together, Eric and John discuss the importance of vulnerability, mentorship, mental health, spiritual warfare, and the sanctification process that every believer walks through. This conversation is filled with hope for anyone who feels trapped by their past and wonders if true healing is possible.

In this episode, you'll discover:

How childhood trauma can impact adulthood in unexpected ways
Why healing often requires both spiritual and practical support
The role mentorship plays in breaking strongholds and finding freedom
What true surrender to Christ looks like
Why vulnerability is essential for growth and healing
How counseling can be part of God's healing process
The connection between mental health, faith, and discipleship
Practical encouragement for those struggling with shame, fear, or unresolved pain

John's story is a powerful reminder that no matter how broken your past may be, Jesus can redeem it and use it for His glory.

If this episode encouraged you, please like, subscribe, and share the Rooted in Christ Podcast. Every share helps us reach more people with the hope, healing, and truth found in Jesus Christ.

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Want to be a guest on Rooted In Christ? Send Eric Stephens a message on PodMatch, here:https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1759833790503730c0e0ceb0e

How Chronic Lyme Disease Strengthened Our Faith in God - David Libby on the Rooted in Christ Podcast Ep. 204 Jul 20, 2026

Show notes

What happens when years of unimaginable suffering don't weaken your faith—but deepen it?

In this powerful episode of the Rooted in Christ Podcast, Eric sits down with author, apologist, and homesteader David Libby to discuss one of Christianity's most difficult questions: Why does God allow suffering?

Drawing from his family's 15-year battle with chronic illness, David shares how watching his wife and daughters suffer transformed his understanding of prayer, leadership, and what it truly means to trust God's sovereignty. Together, Eric and David explore how suffering can refine our faith, strengthen our relationship with Christ, and prepare us to glorify God in life's darkest seasons.

They also discuss the importance of biblical literacy, Christian apologetics, the role of sanctification, and why believers can confidently trust God's goodness—even when they don't understand His plans.

In this episode, you'll discover:

Why suffering is often God's tool for spiritual growth
How David's prayer life was radically transformed through hardship
The difference between knowing about God and truly knowing Him
Biblical perspectives on pain, trials, and God's sovereignty
The importance of Christian apologetics in today's culture
How to respond when life doesn't make sense
Practical encouragement for anyone walking through suffering

Whether you're facing trials yourself or looking to strengthen your faith, this conversation offers biblical wisdom, hope, and encouragement rooted in Scripture.

Connect with David Libby:
Email: DavidLibby87@gmail.com

If this episode encouraged you, be sure to like, subscribe, and share the Rooted in Christ Podcast. Your support helps us continue sharing Christ-centered conversations that point people to the hope found in Jesus.

#RootedInChrist #ChristianPodcast #DavidLibby #Suffering #Faith #GodsSovereignty #ChristianApologetics #BiblicalTruth #Prayer #TrustGod #JesusChrist #ChristianLiving #HopeInChrist

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Want to be a guest on Rooted In Christ? Send Eric Stephens a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1759833790503730c0e0ceb0e

Repentance, Grace, Guilt & Spiritual Growth | Brad Church on the Rooted in Christ Podcast Ep. 203 Jul 13, 2026

Show notes

What happens when the excitement of following Jesus fades and the struggles begin?

In this episode of the Rooted in Christ Podcast, Eric sits down with author and longtime follower of Christ Brad Church to have an honest conversation about what it really means to persevere in the Christian life. Together they discuss the battle between the flesh and the Spirit, why so many believers wrestle with guilt and shame, and how God calls us to walk in freedom instead of hiding from Him.

Brad shares wisdom from over 60 years of following Jesus, offering biblical encouragement for Christians who feel discouraged, stuck, or weighed down by sin. Rather than promising an easy life, this conversation points to the hope, grace, and strength found in Christ through every valley.

In this episode, you'll learn:

Why following Jesus doesn't eliminate life's struggles
The difference between conviction and condemnation
Why Christians often hide their failures instead of bringing them to God
How to overcome guilt, shame, and comparison
Practical ways to grow closer to Christ every day
The importance of biblical community and accountability
What true spiritual victory really looks like

If you've ever felt like you're not measuring up as a Christian, this conversation is a reminder that God's grace is greater than your failures—and that faith isn't about perfection, but perseverance.

If this episode encourages you, be sure to Like, Subscribe, and Share to help us continue spreading the hope of Jesus Christ.

🙏 If this ministry has impacted your life, consider sharing this episode with someone who needs encouragement today.

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Want to be a guest on Rooted In Christ? Send Eric Stephens a message on PodMatch, here:https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1759833790503730c0e0ceb0e

He Survived Abuse.. Then Surgery That Changed Everything | Rory Paquette on the Rooted in Christ Podcast Ep. 202 Jul 06, 2026

Show notes

What happens when a lifetime of abuse, anger, loss, and brokenness is surrendered to Christ?

In this powerful episode of the Rooted in Christ Podcast, Rory Paquette shares his incredible testimony of growing up in an abusive home, protecting his family as a child, wrestling with anger toward God, surviving devastating financial loss, and ultimately encountering the transforming grace of Jesus Christ.

Rory opens up about the hidden scars of childhood trauma, the intentional work required to break generational cycles, and the life-changing moments that led him from self-reliance to complete dependence on God. Through near-death experiences, seasons of despair, and miraculous restoration, Rory reveals how the Lord used every hardship to prepare him to encourage and mentor others.

Whether you've experienced trauma, struggle with forgiving your past, or wonder where God has been in your darkest moments, this conversation is a powerful reminder that God wastes nothing. Your pain does not define you—Christ does.

In this episode, we discuss:

Growing up with abuse and alcoholism in the home
Breaking generational cycles through God's grace
Wrestling with anger toward God after suffering
How faith became personal after life-changing trials
Finding purpose through pain and helping others heal
Living a life of obedience instead of self-reliance
The hope and freedom found in Jesus Christ

If this conversation encouraged you, be sure to like, subscribe, and share it with someone who needs the reminder that no matter how broken their story may seem, God is still writing it.

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Want to be a guest on Rooted In Christ? Send Eric Stephens a message on PodMatch, here:https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1759833790503730c0e0ceb0e

Poetry and Purpose - Eddie Mace's Faith Journey | The Rooted in Christ Podcast Ep. 201 Jun 29, 2026

Show notes

In this episode of the Rooted in Christ Podcast, Eric sits down with filmmaker, photographer, poet, and creative partner Eddie Mace for an honest conversation about faith, creativity, and using every talent for the Kingdom of God.

Eddie shares his testimony of growing up in church, how God deepened his personal relationship with Christ in recent years, and the journey that led him into spoken word poetry. Together, they discuss the power of artistic expression, the challenges of remaining uncompromising in creative spaces, and why Christians are called to create with purpose rather than pursue worldly approval.

This conversation dives into:

Eddie's testimony and spiritual journey
Finding identity in Christ instead of creative success
The role of poetry and spoken word in sharing the Gospel
Standing firm without compromising biblical truth
Navigating burnout, church hurt, and personal growth
Why what we consume spiritually matters
Building Kingdom-centered creative communities
Encouragement for Christian artists and creatives

Whether you're an artist, musician, writer, filmmaker, or simply someone seeking to use your gifts for God's glory, this episode will encourage you to pursue excellence while remaining faithful to your calling.

"Ultimately, the Lord gave me these gifts, so why wouldn't I use them for Him?"

If this episode encouraged you, please LIKE, COMMENT, SHARE, and SUBSCRIBE to help us continue spreading the Gospel through these conversations.

Scripture Reminder:
"Whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God." — 1 Corinthians 10:31

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Want to be a guest on Rooted In Christ? Send Eric Stephens a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1759833790503730c0e0ceb0e

Intimacy Takes Intentionality (James 4:8) | How to Draw Near to God - The Rooted in Christ Podcast Ep. 200 Jun 22, 2026

Show notes

🎉 We made it to Episode 200! 🎉

In this special milestone episode, Eric is joined by his wife, Holly Stephens, for a heartfelt conversation about one of the most important aspects of the Christian walk: intimacy with God.

Before diving into the discussion, friends and past guests share encouraging messages celebrating 200 episodes of the Rooted in Christ Podcast and the impact God has made through this ministry. Eric and Holly take time to reflect on God's faithfulness, the journey of the podcast, and the incredible community that has been built along the way.

Drawing from James 4:8, "Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you," this episode explores:

✨ Why intimacy with God requires intentionality
✨ The importance of the secret place and daily communion with the Father
✨ How different seasons of life affect our prayer and devotional rhythms
✨ The role of humility, repentance, and surrender in spiritual growth
✨ Overcoming feelings of unworthiness through our identity in Christ
✨ Practical ways to seek God's presence throughout your day
✨ Why spiritual intimacy matters more than spiritual activity

Eric and Holly share personal testimonies, lessons from their own marriage and faith journey, and practical encouragement for anyone longing to deepen their relationship with Jesus.

Whether you're in a season of growth, healing, waiting, or searching, this episode is a reminder that God is inviting you closer—and that His presence is where true peace, wisdom, and transformation are found.

🙏 Thank you to everyone who has listened, shared, prayed, supported, and been a part of these first 200 episodes. We couldn't have done it without you!

If this episode encourages you, please like, subscribe, share, and leave a review. Your support helps us continue spreading the Gospel and sharing testimonies that point people to Christ.

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Want to be a guest on Rooted In Christ? Send Eric Stephens a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1759833790503730c0e0ceb0e

I Was the World's Top New Age Author Until I Found Jesus | Doreen Virtue on the Rooted in Christ Podcast Ep. 199 Jun 15, 2026

Show notes

What happens when one of the world's most recognized New Age teachers encounters the truth of Scripture?

In this powerful episode of the Rooted in Christ Podcast, Eric Stephens sits down with bestselling author and former New Age leader Doreen Virtue. Once known worldwide for her teachings on angels, psychic readings, manifestation, and spiritual practices, Doreen shares the remarkable story of how reading Scripture led her to repent, surrender her life to Jesus Christ, and walk away from a career that had brought her fame, wealth, and influence across the globe.

Doreen opens up about her upbringing in Christian Science, her rise to prominence in the New Age movement, and the moment Deuteronomy 18 convicted her heart and changed the course of her life forever. Together, Eric and Doreen discuss the growing influence of New Age teachings in modern culture, how deception can creep into the church, and why believers must remain rooted in God's Word.

In this conversation, you'll hear about:

• Doreen's journey from New Age teacher to follower of Christ
• The dangers of spiritual deception and counterfeit spirituality
• Why practices such as astrology, tarot, mediumship, Reiki, and manifestation are becoming increasingly popular
• How New Age beliefs are influencing modern Christianity
• The importance of biblical discernment and spiritual warfare
• What true repentance looked like after leaving the New Age movement
• Finding peace, purpose, and freedom through Jesus Christ alone
• Why every believer must be grounded in Scripture

Whether you're curious about New Age spirituality, searching for truth, or looking to strengthen your walk with Christ, this episode offers a compelling testimony of God's grace, redemption, and transforming power.

"Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding." — Proverbs 3:5

If this episode encourages you, be sure to like, share, subscribe, and leave a review to help us reach more people with the Gospel.

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Want to be a guest on Rooted In Christ? Send Eric Stephens a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1759833790503730c0e0ceb0e

Living on Mission without Burning Out - Addie Ott on the Rooted in Christ Podcast Ep. 198 Jun 08, 2026

Show notes

What does it look like to carry the gentle love of Jesus into your everyday life?

In this episode of the Rooted in Christ Podcast, Eric sits down with author, entrepreneur, podcaster, and founder of Gentle and Lowly Co., Addie Ott. Together they explore how God uses our personal stories, creative gifts, and daily interactions to advance His Kingdom.

Addie shares her powerful testimony of finding hope in Christ during her parents' divorce, how God led her to launch Gentle and Lowly Co., and why authentic Christian community is more important than ever in a culture increasingly shaped by isolation and digital distractions.

This conversation is packed with encouragement for believers who want to live on mission, cultivate meaningful relationships, embrace Sabbath rest, and continually allow God to transform their hearts through His Word.

In this episode, you'll learn:

How God can use painful seasons to deepen your faith
The inspiration behind Gentle and Lowly Co.
Why your everyday life is your mission field
Practical ways to build authentic Christian community
How to overcome isolation and cultivate fellowship
The importance of vulnerability, accountability, and forgiveness
Using creativity to glorify Christ rather than ourselves
Why Sabbath rest is a gift from God
How to stay rooted in Jesus in a noisy, distracted world

Whether you're a creative, entrepreneur, ministry leader, or simply seeking to grow deeper in your walk with Christ, this conversation will challenge and encourage you to live intentionally for God's Kingdom.

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Want to be a guest on Rooted In Christ? Send Eric Stephens a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1759833790503730c0e0ceb0e

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