Space for Life

Tommy Thompson brings back one of the earliest and most beloved episodes from Space for Life, a conversation with his brother and 40-year business partner, Litt Thompson. After a business crisis in the early 1990s pushed Litt to his breaking point, one desperate morning spent alone in a university library set him on a path he has been following for over 25 years. In this episode, Litt shares his five-part formula for carving out intentional time to think deeply about your life, and why he believes it is the second greatest secret to life next to knowing Christ.What You'll Hear in This Episode:The early 1990s savings and loan crisis that pushed Litt and Tommy to the edge of burnout, invisibly and simultaneously.The morning Litt spent alone in a university library with nothing but a legal pad and a pen, and why it became the most productive day of his career.How writing one focused question at the top of a page and going deep unlocks a level of creativity you cannot access in the middle of your normal day.Why so many of our stressors are fears in disguise, and how creating space helps you tell the difference.Litt's five-part formula for intentional solitude, including why place, time, and removing distractions all work together.Why this practice applies to everyone in every stage of life, not just entrepreneurs and leaders.Timestamps:(0:00) Intro(1:25) Tommy introduces Litt Thompson(3:20) The 1989 business storm(5:20) Litt's first day off the freeway(9:37) Legal pad and the blank slate(15:33) From crisis tool to life practice(21:15) Litt's five-part formula(29:18) This applies to everyoneLove the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! http://tommythompson.org

In this episode, Tommy sits down with Shola Richards, known as The Kindness Extremist and Brother Teresa, to talk about what kindness actually looks like when life gets hard. Shola shares his story of moving from bullying, burnout, and a near tragic moment on an LA freeway to building a global mission around freakishly practical kindness. The conversation gets into the real difference between niceness and kindness, how to handle the toxic people in your life, and why the hardest person to be kind to is usually yourself.What You'll Hear in This Episode:Why kindness takes more courage than most people realizeShola's story of being highly sensitive, bullied, and burned out, and the moment that redirected his lifeThe clear difference between being nice and being kindSix warning signs of a truly toxic person versus someone just having a bad dayThe Just Like Me practice for staying open when you would normally judgeWhy forgiveness is an act of kindness toward yourself, not the person who hurt youA simple courtroom framework for cross-examining your own negative self-talkBox breathing, knowing your triggers, and other tools for staying responsive instead of reactiveTimestamps: (0:00) Intro(4:01) Shola's Story(8:28) Making kindness freakishly practical (14:05) Why kindness takes real courage (16:30) Niceness vs kindness (19:00) Six warning signs of a toxic person (26:23) Are we part of the flood (29:18) The 'Just Like Me' practice (33:24) What forgiveness really means (42:25) Boundaries as a backdoor kindness (45:47) Turning kindness toward yourself (49:29) The courtroom of the mind (55:47) Where to find SholaResources / Next Steps:Shola's website, thesholarichards.comThe Kindness Extremist PodcastShola on Substack and LinkedInCivil Unity by Shola RichardsGo Together Global

Tommy sits down with Katherine Wolf, stroke survivor, author, and co-founder of Hope Heals, for one of his dream conversations. At 26, Katherine had a massive brain stem stroke that left her permanently disabled, and nearly two decades later she is one of the most compelling voices on suffering, hope, and what it means to live a truly good life in the middle of an impossibly hard one. This is a conversation about what it looks like when good and hard coexist, and why the pain you are carrying right now might be too precious to waste.What You'll Hear in This Episode:Katherine's story: the brain stem stroke at 26 that changed everything and the nearly two years of recovery that followedWhy there is no quota on suffering this side of heaven, and how that reframing actually brings freedomThe invisible wheelchairs we all carry, and why the disabilities nobody can see often do the most damageThe difference between wanting a cure and actually needing healing, drawn from the blind man in John 9What the practice of hope looks like when the feeling of hope is completely goneThe Isaiah 45 passage that became the foundation for Treasures in the Dark and why she chose to gather treasure instead of waste itHow to radically accept your story and trust an unknown future to a known GodTimestamps:(0:00) Intro and Katherine's story(7:35) No quota on suffering(11:51) Invisible wheelchairs(14:43) Redefining what good actually means(21:34) Treasures in the Dark and Isaiah 45(28:18) The difference between a cure and healing(30:18) Practicing hope when you can't feel it(36:04) Hope Heals Camp and radical belonging(45:51) Trusting an unknown future to a known GodResources / Next Steps: Learn more about Katherine and Hope Heals at hopeheals.com. Listen to The Good Hard Story podcast on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Pick up Treasures in the Dark on Amazon. If you are in Atlanta, visit Mend Coffee!

Loneliness is rising in a world that has never been more connected.In this episode, Tommy sits down with longtime friend and recently retired pastor Dr. Nelson Ould to explore the power and practice of presence.Drawing from decades of pastoral ministry and personal experience, Nelson shares a simple insight: in life’s most difficult moments, people rarely remember the exact words that were spoken, but they always remember who showed up. Together they discuss why distraction and hurry are eroding real connection, why loneliness continues to rise, and how the simple act of being present with someone can transform relationships.They also share practical ways to grow in presence, including listening for open doors in conversation, asking thoughtful follow-up questions, creating margin before important interactions, and checking back in with people after meaningful conversations.In a culture filled with noise and constant distraction, this conversation is a reminder that one of the greatest gifts we can offer someone is our full attention.(0:00) Loneliness, distraction, and why presence matters today(2:16) How pastoral ministry revealed the power of presence(9:39) The biblical foundation of presence and God with us(19:01) Listening for open doors in conversation(22:07) The two enemies of presence, distraction and hurry(29:42) Practicing presence with the people closest to you(32:09) The underrated power of following up with people(40:02) Creating margin and quieting distraction before conversations

So many people carry the quiet dream of writing something meaningful. A book. A devotional. A story that has been sitting inside them for years.But the question lingers Where do I even begin?In this episode of Space for Life, Tommy sits down with Terry Whalin, acquisitions editor at Morgan James Publishing and author of more than 60 books, to talk about what it really takes to move from dream to discipline.Terry pulls back the curtain on the publishing world and explains why most aspiring authors start in the wrong place, what publishers are actually looking for, and why writing success is often 80 percent about the author and 20 percent about the book. They explore the catch 22 of publishing, the power of critique groups and apprenticeship, and why becoming a better reader is foundational to becoming a better writer.If you have ever considered writing, or simply want to understand how books truly shape lives, this conversation offers practical clarity and grounded encouragement for taking your next step.(0:00) Why So Many People Dream of Writing(6:41) How One Book Can Change a Life(14:16) What Publishers Really Look For(18:07) Where Aspiring Writers Should Start(32:32) The Catch 22 of Getting Published(40:19) The Power of Critique Groups(48:34) Why Reading Shapes Better Writing(58:53) Building Consistency as a WriterLove the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! http://tommythompson.org

In this episode of Space for Life, Tommy sits down with Mia Sundstrom, CEO of the National Institute for Play and granddaughter of renowned play researcher Dr. Stuart Brown, for a powerful conversation about why play is not childish, frivolous, or optional, but essential to human health, creativity, resilience, and fulfillment.They explore the science of play, the cultural myths that have stripped play from adult life, and why so many people feel burned out, disconnected, and exhausted in a world that treats play as a waste of time. Mia shares her personal journey growing up in a play-based learning environment, how her grandfather’s research shaped her life, and why play is now being reframed as a public health necessity.This conversation challenges the idea that productivity and play are opposites, and instead shows how play fuels better work, deeper relationships, creativity, and emotional health. They unpack the difference between real play and modern forms of escapism, why social media often masquerades as play, and how adults can reconnect with the playful part of themselves they’ve forgotten.Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! http://tommythompson.org

In this episode of Space for Life, host Tommy Thompson is joined by Dan Allan, Executive Director at Campus Crusade for Christ (Cru), for a wide-ranging conversation about faith, renewal, and what’s unfolding across college campuses today.Dan shares his personal journey in ministry, how The Chosen has become a powerful catalyst for gospel conversations, and why collaboration across ministries is essential in this moment. Together, they explore the surprising signs of spiritual hunger among Gen Z, the tension between retreat and revival, and why this season feels bigger than any single strategy or organization.This episode offers clarity, encouragement, and real hope for anyone wondering what God may be doing in the next generation.Key TakeawaysGod appears to be moving in a unique way among Gen ZThe Chosen is reintroducing Jesus in a relational, accessible formatCollaboration strengthens impact more than competitionCollege campuses show both spiritual retreat and renewalWatch parties create natural entry points for faith conversationsPrayer and presence matter more than polished strategiesRising spiritual hunger is supported by both stories and dataTimestamps00:00 Introduction and global perspective02:08 The impact of The Chosen07:18 Dan Allan’s journey into ministry16:52 Collaboration across Christian ministries30:05 Gen Z, retreat, and revival on campus54:10 Stories of faith and transformationResources & ContactThe Chosen Watch Party Discussion Guides (free and publicly available)Contact Dan Allan: dan.alan@cru.orgLove the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! http://tommythompson.org

In this episode of Space for Life, Tommy Thompson sits down with Stan Jantz, Global Ambassador for the Come and See Foundation, the nonprofit behind the global production, translation, and distribution of The Chosen.Stan shares firsthand stories from around the world showing how The Chosen is reaching people across cultures, denominations, and generations. They discuss the mission to translate the series into hundreds of languages, the intentional theological care behind the storytelling, and why the show has become a powerful entry point back to Scripture for many viewers.The conversation also explores the current spiritual climate, signs of renewed hunger for faith especially among younger generations, and why “come and see” remains one of the most compelling invitations Jesus ever gave.Key Topics:The Chosen and the Come and See FoundationGlobal discipleship and Christian storytellingTranslating faith-based media into hundreds of languagesWhy authenticity matters in portraying JesusSigns of spiritual renewal around the worldReaching new generations through invitational faith00:00 Introduction to The Chosen and Come and See03:52 Global reach and international impact10:47 Stan Jantz’s background and journey21:32 The vision behind Come and See Foundation32:57 Storytelling, theology, and production challenges42:01 Signs of spiritual renewal and revival51:28 How listeners can get involvedLove the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! http://tommythompson.org

In this episode, Tommy is joined by bravery expert, leadership developer, and author Jill Schulman to unpack The Bravery Effect—the idea that bravery isn’t something you’re born with, but something you can train. Jill shares her unconventional path from Marine Corps officer to positive psychology expert, blending personal stories, scientific research, and practical tools to show that courage is a learnable skill.Together, they explore how bravery drives personal and professional growth, why discomfort is essential, how mindset shapes action, and why surrounding yourself with the right people can make you braver than you ever imagined. Whether you're facing a tough decision, stuck in a rut, or seeking a more courageous life, this conversation offers a roadmap toward becoming who you were meant to be.Key TakeawaysBravery is not innate — it’s a skill you can learn and strengthen.Choosing discomfort is often the doorway to growth.A supportive community (“your brave tribe”) elevates your bravery.Bravery = voluntary action in the presence of fear toward a worthwhile goal.Small acts of “micro-bravery” compound into high confidence.Mindset is foundational — especially growth mindset and stress-is-enhancing mindset.Planning and pre-deciding your actions prevent fear from talking you out of progress.Some brave actions involve letting go, not just taking on more.Bravery is a strategy, not just a feeling.Every person has an area where they can take the next brave step.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Bravery03:07 Jill’s Journey & The Science of Bravery05:50 The Definition and Importance of Bravery12:07 Building Bravery as a Muscle17:50 The Role of Comfort and Discomfort24:02 Micro-Bravery in Everyday Life29:41 Mindset & Stress Management35:48 Taking Action & Planning for Bravery41:47 Right-Sizing Your Bravery Goals47:42 Surrounding Yourself with a Brave TribeResources MentionedJill Schulman’s Website: https://www.jillschulman.comBravery Quiz: https://www.jillschulman.com/bravery-quizLove the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! http://tommythompson.org

In this episode of Space for Life, Tommy welcomes entrepreneur Jeff Johnson for a deeply moving conversation about surrender, resilience, and the ways God reaches us through life’s hardest moments. Jeff shares the powerful story of hitting the breaking point in his fourth-generation steel fabrication business, kneeling alone on the shop floor, and asking God to take over.What follows is a journey of obedience, transformation, and learning to “take your hands off” while still doing the next right thing. Through biblical stories of Simon Peter, reflections on work, and moments of vulnerability, Jeff illustrates how surrender opens the door to a deeper relationship with God and an unexpected path to renewal.Timestamps0:00 Intro2:17 Scotland Trip and How They Met3:45 Jeff Begins His Story6:02 Marriage Counseling and Learning to Listen7:49 Faith and Work in Jeff’s Life10:26 History of Johnson Machine Works14:07 When Nothing Works16:28 Breaking Point on the Shop Floor19:42 Praying Over the Building and Workers23:49 The Unexpected Turnaround Begins26:54 God’s Mercy, Not Formulas29:33 Why Work Matters in God’s Design40:38 How God Used the Crisis to Reach Jeff44:22 Jeff’s Tuesday Night Practice of Surrender46:25 Invitation for Anyone Needing EncouragementReferenced LinksJeff’s Podcast, Courageous CrossroadsArtists & WritersTakeawaysSurrender is often where true transformation begins.Desperation can bring unexpected clarity.Work is part of God’s design for purpose and flourishing.Vulnerability opens doors that effort alone cannot.God uses circumstances — even painful ones — to reach us.Doing the next right thing is part of surrender, not separate from it.Resilience is built in the quiet, unseen moments.Prayer can reshape environments, mindsets, and outcomes.Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! http://tommythompson.org

In this episode of Space for Life, Tommy sits down with parenting expert Keith McCurdy, founder of Live Sturdy and CEO of Total Life Counseling, to unpack what it really means to raise sturdy kids.Keith shares decades of experience counseling more than 15,000 families, guiding parents toward raising emotionally mature, capable, and resilient children. Together, they explore the role of healthy struggle, practical responsibility, and emotional regulation in child development—and why comfort and happiness shouldn’t be the ultimate goals.This conversation challenges modern parenting norms and provides practical steps for building sturdier families—ones grounded in values, identity, and the kind of leadership that grows capable kids and healthy adults.Key TopicsWhy parenting can feel overwhelming and guilt-inducingWhat “sturdy” really means in child developmentHow overprotection creates fragile kidsWhy emotions shouldn’t dictate parenting decisionsThe connection between practical skills and emotional maturityThe value of healthy struggle and discomfortMoving children from consumers to contributorsEstablishing family identity and guiding principlesLeading with sacrifice and consistency in parentingPractical steps to begin raising sturdier kids00:00 Introduction to Parenting Challenges02:50 The Importance of Raising Sturdy Kids06:10 Generational Wisdom in Parenting08:51 The Role of Emotions in Parenting11:48 Defining ‘Sturdy’ in Parenting14:50 Practical Skills for Sturdy Kids17:51 The Impact of Struggle on Growth20:43 The Disconnect Between Happiness and Growth24:05 The Process of Maturity Through Trials32:09 The Fragility of Overprotection36:21 The Role of Discomfort in Growth41:31 Establishing Family Identity and Guiding Principles47:03 Transitioning from Enabling to Empowering55:42 Practical Steps for Raising Sturdy KidsKeith McCurdyPresident & CEO, Total Life CounselingFounder, Live SturdyCounselor, Speaker, and Parenting Coachlivesturdy.comLove the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! http://tommythompson.org

In this episode, Tommy sits down with pastor and good friend David Dwight to talk about his new book Field Notes from the Letter to the Ephesians. Together they explore what makes Ephesians one of the most profound writings in Scripture, offering fresh insight into faith, the Church, and life in Christ.David shares how his book came to life, what the Greek word sozo (“to be healed”) reveals about salvation, and why mutual submission in marriage reflects the very nature of God. Along the way, they unpack Paul’s remarkable conversion, the beauty of the Church, and the hope found in living a life shaped by grace.What You’ll Take Away:Why Field Notes from the Letter to the Ephesians is more than a commentary — it's a reflection on life in ChristThe deeper meaning of the Greek word sozo (“saved” or “healed”)What Paul’s conversion reveals about God’s power to transform anyoneWhy Ephesians offers such a vibrant, redemptive vision for the ChurchHow “mutual submission” in marriage mirrors the relationship within the TrinityHow Paul’s writing connects theology, beauty, and everyday lifeResources:Get your copy of Field Notes from the Letter to the Ephesians on Amazon (available in print and Kindle)Explore more episodes and resources at tommythompson.orgTimestamps:(0:00) Intro(8:46) Exploring the Depth of Ephesians(11:46) The Meaning of the Word “Saved”(15:06) The Complexity of Theological Concepts(17:59) The Structure and Style of the Book(21:10) Personal Stories and Their Impact(24:06) The Central Message of Ephesians(31:56) The Unlikely Apostle: Paul’s Transformation(35:42) The Magnitude of Conversion(39:09) Exploring the Relationship Between Jesus and Paul(44:49) Understanding Ephesians: A Deep Dive(48:00) Marriage and Mutual Submission in Ephesians(58:17) The Cultural Context of Ephesians(1:01:59) The Beauty of God in Marriage and Family LifeLove the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! http://tommythompson.org

Grief touches almost every life, yet many of us feel unsure how to face it, name it, or talk about it. In this candid conversation, Tommy and longtime friend David Dwight (Senior Pastor at Hope Church in Richmond, VA) explore the complexity of grief and sadness. This is an honest, compassionate guide for anyone carrying loss or walking with someone who is.“the presence of her absence is everywhere.” ~ Edna St. Vincent MillayIn This Episode:- The language problem, grief vs sadness and why one word is not enough- Myths that keep us silent, including the fear that talking about grief invites it- The unhelpful urge to scale or compare grief and how to stop- Different kinds of loss, extended illness, sudden death, suicide, job loss, broken relationships, losing a pet- Family systems, differing timelines, and the need for permission and grace- Guilt, shame, moments of happiness, and the surprising companion of relief- Faith as refuge and wholeness when losses feel irreconcilableTimestamps:(0:00) Why We’re Finally Talking About Grief(4:28) Why We Avoid Grief(10:43) Permission and Grace(17:58) Grief vs Sadness: Finding Better Words(26:27) How Loss Changes Us(36:08) What to Say (and Not Say)(46:16) Families Grieve Differently(55:32) When Acute Grief Becomes Lasting Sadness(1:03:06) Guilt, Forgetting, and Moments of Joy(1:10:08) Relief Alongside Sorrow(1:15:30) Moving Forward With HopeResources:- Psalm 46- The Taste of New Wine, Keith Miller- The Weathering Grace of God, Ken Gire- Lament for a Son, Nicholas Wolterstorff- A Grace Disguised, Gerald Sittser- Healing the Heartbreak of Grief, Peter James Flamming- Healing After Loss, Martha HickmanIf this episode helps you or someone you love, consider sharing it. Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! http://tommythompson.org