Follow Forward

Tim Tucker
  • 5.0 (3)
  • Christianity
  • Updated Weekly

Follow Forward Podcast Real Stories. Global Voices. Christ-centered Leadership. The Follow Forward Podcast is a Christian leadership interview podcast capturing wisdom, faith, and lived experience from global Christian leaders who are shaping communities, ministries, and movements across Africa and beyond. Follow Forward extends the conversation into an ongoing discipleship and leadership resource. Each episode features long-form, reflective conversations that explore what it truly means to serve, lead, and follow forward in obedience to Christ. Rather than chasing influence or platforms, this podcast centers on a countercultural truth: great leadership begins with great followership—fixing our eyes on Jesus and faithfully stewarding the call God has placed on our lives. Listeners will hear real stories of perseverance, calling, failure, growth, and transformation from leaders in ministry, non-profits, social-impact spaces, and the local church. These conversations are designed to inspire emerging leaders, strengthen leadership teams, and invite supporters and partners into the deeper story of what God is doing across the continent. Whether you are a young leader finding your footing, a seasoned church or organizational leader, or a global Christian seeking cross-cultural perspectives, Follow Forward exists to equip you with practical wisdom, spiritual depth, and a renewed vision for leadership rooted in Christ. This is more than a podcast. It's a discipleship journey, a leadership resource, and an invitation to invest in the next generation of transformational leaders. 🎙️ New episodes release weekly from January 2026.

  1. 1d ago

    S2E6 (part 2) Finding Your Voice 🎙️ Gareth Cottrell

    Follow Forward S2 Ep6 (part 2) | Finding Your Voice 🎙️ Gareth Cottrell What happens when the thing you believe disqualifies you becomes part of the story God is writing through you? In this episode of Follow Forward, Tim Tucker sits down with Gareth Cottrell, founder and breakfast show presenter of Konnect Radio in the UK, to explore his journey into broadcasting, the challenges he has faced and how God has been at work through it all. Growing up with a severe stammer, Gareth experienced bullying, self-doubt and questions about his future. Although he developed a passion for radio, pursuing a career that depended on speaking seemed like an unlikely path. But through persistence, unexpected opportunities and the encouragement of others, Gareth began discovering that his stammer did not have to define or limit his future. In this first part of their conversation, Gareth shares how he discovered his love for radio, the people who helped him take his first steps into the industry, and the academic challenges he faced while studying media and radio production. He also reflects on growing up in a Christian environment and the difference between knowing about God and developing a personal relationship with Jesus. From navigating the challenges of a stammer to finding opportunities in broadcasting, Gareth's story is a reminder that our perceived weaknesses do not have to disqualify us from the purposes God has for our lives. Gareth's story encourages us to reconsider the things we believe hold us back. What if the very thing you think disqualifies you is not the end of your story? About Gareth Cottrell Gareth Cottrell is the founder and breakfast show presenter of Konnect Radio in the UK. Through his journey in broadcasting, he has continued to pursue his passion for radio while navigating the challenges of living with a stammer. His story is an encouragement to anyone who has ever felt held back by their circumstances or wondered whether God could use them despite their perceived limitations.  📖 About Follow Forward Follow Forward Podcast shares Real Stories. Global Voices. Christ-Centred Servant Leadership. Hosted by Tim Tucker, Follow Forward explores the stories of leaders who are following Jesus, serving their communities and making a difference around the world. Through honest conversations about faith, leadership, mission, purpose and perseverance, we want to encourage a generation of leaders to follow Christ, lead with character and make an impact wherever God has placed them. 🎧 Subscribe to Follow Forward Podcast and share this episode with someone who needs encouragement to keep pursuing their calling.

  2. 3d ago

    S2E6 (part 1) Finding Your Voice 🎙️ Gareth Cottrell

    Follow Forward S2 Ep6 (part 1) | Finding Your Voice 🎙️ Gareth Cottrell What happens when the thing you believe disqualifies you becomes part of the story God is writing through you? In this episode of *Follow Forward*, Tim Tucker sits down with Gareth Cottrell, founder and breakfast show presenter of Konnect Radio in the UK, to explore his journey into broadcasting, the challenges he has faced and how God has been at work through it all. Growing up with a severe stammer, Gareth experienced bullying, self-doubt and questions about his future. Although he developed a passion for radio, pursuing a career that depended on speaking seemed like an unlikely path. But through persistence, unexpected opportunities and the encouragement of others, Gareth began discovering that his stammer did not have to define or limit his future. In this first part of their conversation, Gareth shares how he discovered his love for radio, the people who helped him take his first steps into the industry, and the academic challenges he faced while studying media and radio production. He also reflects on growing up in a Christian environment and the difference between knowing about God and developing a personal relationship with Jesus. From navigating the challenges of a stammer to finding opportunities in broadcasting, Gareth's story is a reminder that our perceived weaknesses do not have to disqualify us from the purposes God has for our lives. Gareth's story encourages us to reconsider the things we believe hold us back. What if the very thing you think disqualifies you is not the end of your story? **This is Part 1 of Gareth's story. Part 2 will be released on Thursday**, as Gareth continues sharing his journey and what it means to find your voice. 🎧 Subscribe to Follow Forward Podcast so you don't miss Part 2! About Gareth Cottrell Gareth Cottrell is the founder and breakfast show presenter of Konnect Radio in the UK. Through his journey in broadcasting, he has continued to pursue his passion for radio while navigating the challenges of living with a stammer. His story is an encouragement to anyone who has ever felt held back by their circumstances or wondered whether God could use them despite their perceived limitations.  📖 About Follow Forward Follow Forward Podcast shares Real Stories. Global Voices. Christ-Centred Servant Leadership. Hosted by Tim Tucker, Follow Forward explores the stories of leaders who are following Jesus, serving their communities and making a difference around the world. Through honest conversations about faith, leadership, mission, purpose and perseverance, we want to encourage a generation of leaders to follow Christ, lead with character and make an impact wherever God has placed them. 🎧 Subscribe to Follow Forward Podcast and share this episode with someone who needs encouragement to keep pursuing their calling.

  3. Oct 1

    S2E5 Leading Beyond the Field ⚽️ Ricardo Katza

    Follow Forward S2 Ep5 | Leading Beyond the Field ⚽️ Ricardo Katza  What happens when the final whistle blows—and where do you find your identity when football is no longer your platform?  In this episode of Follow Forward, Tim Tucker sits down with Ricardo Katza, former professional footballer, Bafana Bafana captain and passionate mentor to the next generation.  Ricardo's story is one of redemption, purpose and learning to follow God through every season. Growing up in the Cape Flats, Ricardo found himself making difficult choices as a teenager before encountering Jesus at 18. Not long afterwards, an unexpected opportunity opened the door to professional football. He went on to play for 14 years, represent South Africa at international level and captain both Bafana Bafana and SuperSport United.  But Ricardo discovered that football was never meant to be the beginning and end of his story.  From standing firm in his faith in the professional dressing room, to leading team prayer, navigating the disappointment of an unexpected retirement, and discovering a renewed purpose in coaching and developing young people, Ricardo shares what it means to build your identity on something deeper than success, status or performance.  Today, Ricardo uses sport as a vehicle to mentor young people—not simply coaching the game, but coaching the person. His passion is to help young people recognise their potential, make wise choices and develop the foundations they need to navigate life.  One of Ricardo's most powerful reminders is that your circumstances and results do not determine your worth. Whether you are at the top of your game or sitting on the bench, your identity remains rooted in who God created you to be.  "If you only coach the game, you will lose the kid. But if you coach the game and the kid, the kids will actually bring the results." — Ricardo Katza  About Ricardo Katza  Ricardo Katza is a former South African professional footballer and Bafana Bafana captain who played professionally for 14 years. Beyond his football career, Ricardo has developed a deep passion for working with young people through coaching, mentorship and sport. He currently serves in sports leadership within a school environment, investing in the development of the next generation.  His story is a reminder that leadership is not ultimately measured by trophies, titles or achievements, but by the people we impact along the way.  📖 About Follow Forward  Follow Forward Podcast shares Real Stories. Global Voices. Christ-Centred Servant Leadership.  Hosted by Tim Tucker, Follow Forward explores the stories of leaders who are following Jesus, serving their communities and making a difference around the world.  Through honest conversations about faith, leadership, mission, purpose and perseverance, we want to encourage a generation of leaders to follow Christ, lead with character and make an impact wherever God has placed them.  🎧 Subscribe to Follow Forward Podcast and share this episode with a young person, aspiring athlete, coach or leader who needs to hear Ricardo's story.

  4. Sep 16

    S2E4 The Search for Home 🇷🇼 Beatrice Smith

    What does it mean to search for home—and where do we ultimately find it? In this episode of the Follow Forward Podcast, Tim sits down with Beatrice Smith, an author, speaker and storyteller whose remarkable life is a testimony of God's faithfulness through unimaginable hardship. Beatrice grew up in Rwanda surrounded by family, community, laughter and a deep sense of home. But at just ten years old, the 1994 genocide shattered that sense of security, forcing her family to flee their home and begin a years-long journey as refugees. From Rwanda to the Democratic Republic of Congo, Kenya and Eswatini, and eventually to the United Kingdom, Beatrice experienced the uncertainty of displacement, the grief of losing home and the profound challenge of searching for somewhere to belong. In this deeply personal conversation, Beatrice shares what it was like to survive war as a child, how prayer became her family's lifeline, and how God's presence sustained them through moments when they had no idea what would happen next. Tim and Beatrice also explore grief, trauma, identity, belonging and redemption, reflecting on what it means to process painful experiences from a place of safety and to allow God to bring healing to parts of our stories we would rather leave behind. Beatrice shares how writing her autobiography, The Search for Home, became an unexpected part of her healing journey—and how God has since redeemed her story by giving her opportunities to work with and advocate for refugees and displaced people. Together, they explore what it means to follow Jesus in a world where people are increasingly searching for safety, belonging and a place to call home. The conversation challenges us to see refugees not simply as statistics or political issues, but as people made in the image of God—and to consider how we can become the hands and feet of Jesus to those who are searching for home. Her book: https://www.amazon.com/Search-Home-Story-Beatrice-Smith About Beatrice Smith Beatrice Smith is an author, speaker and storyteller whose life and work are shaped by her experience as a Rwandan refugee and her Christian faith. After fleeing Rwanda as a child during the 1994 genocide, Beatrice and her family spent years moving between countries before eventually settling in the United Kingdom. Her journey of displacement, survival, grief and restoration is captured in her autobiography, The Search for Home. Today, Beatrice works to protect and advocate for refugees and displaced people, drawing from her own experience to help others understand the human realities behind displacement and migration. Her story is one of faith, resilience, prayer and the redemptive power of God. 💬 Share your thoughts in the comments. 👍 Like this episode. 📤 Share it with someone who could be encouraged by Beatrice's story of faith, resilience and hope.  🔔 Subscribe to the Follow Forward Podcast so you never miss an episode.  About the Follow Forward Podcast  Follow Forward explores Real Stories. Global Voices. Christ-centred Servant Leadership. Hosted by Tim Tucker, each episode features authentic conversations with Christian leaders from around the world who are faithfully serving Jesus in diverse cultures and contexts. Together, we explore leadership, mission, discipleship, justice, evangelism and the practical realities of following Christ today.  At Follow Forward, we believe meaningful conversations can challenge, inspire and help us grow. Every guest speaks from their own convictions and lived experience, creating space for honest dialogue, thoughtful reflection and a deeper walk with Jesus Christ.

  5. Sep 2

    S2E3 Decolonising Mission 🌍 Harvey Kwiyani

    Follow Forward S2 Ep3 | Decolonising Mission 🌍 Harvey Kwiyani  What happens when we reimagine mission without empires?  In this episode of the Follow Forward Podcast, Tim sits down with Harvey Kwiyani, a Malawian-born theologian, author, and Executive Director of Missio Africanus (https://missioafricanus.com/), for a thought-provoking conversation about the future of mission and the global Church.  Harvey's journey from Malawi to Europe has given him a unique perspective on Christianity, migration, culture, and mission. Drawing from his own story and his work in Decolonizing Mission (https://www.amazon.co.za/Decolonizing-Mission-Harvey-C-Kwiyani/dp/0334063191), he challenges us to reconsider who we imagine as missionaries, where God is already at work, and what it means to follow Jesus in an increasingly multicultural world.  Together, Tim and Harvey explore the legacy and complexity of Christian mission, the rise of the global Church, and the growing influence of African and migrant Christians in Europe. They discuss why mission should not be about domination or conquest, but about liberation—and why the Church needs to learn to listen, receive, and recognise the gifts God has placed in different parts of Christ's global body.  The conversation also explores how migration is reshaping Christianity, the importance of contextualising the Gospel, and why effective mission requires vulnerability, humility, mutuality and a willingness to learn from others.  About Dr Harvey Kwiyani  Dr Harvey Kwiyani is a Malawian-born theologian, author and Executive Director of Missio Africanus. His experience across Africa, Europe and North America has shaped his work exploring world Christianity, migration, mission and theology. His writing includes Decolonizing Mission and Multicultural Kingdom (https://amzn.eu/d/04pGZO52), and his ministry focuses on helping the global Church engage in mission through greater diversity, collaboration and mutual learning.  We'd love to hear from you!  What challenged or encouraged you most in this conversation?  💬 Share your thoughts in the comments.  👍 Like this episode.  📤 Share it with someone who is passionate about mission and the global Church.  🔔 Subscribe to the Follow Forward Podcast so you never miss an episode.  About the Follow Forward Podcast  Follow Forward explores Real Stories. Global Voices. Christ-centred Servant Leadership.  Hosted by Tim Tucker, each episode features authentic conversations with Christian leaders from around the world who are faithfully serving Jesus in diverse cultures and contexts. Together, we explore leadership, mission, discipleship, justice, evangelism and the practical realities of following Christ today.  At Follow Forward, we believe meaningful conversations can challenge, inspire and help us grow. Every guest speaks from their own convictions and lived experience, creating space for honest dialogue, thoughtful reflection and a deeper walk with Jesus Christ.  #FollowForwardPodcast #HarveyKwiyani #DecolonizingMission #Mission #GlobalChurch #WorldChristianity #AfricanChristianity #MissioAfricanus #ChristianLeadership #ServantLeadership #Migration #CrossCulturalMission #Evangelism #Discipleship #FollowingJesus #TimTucker #MessageGlobal #RealStories #GlobalVoices

  6. Aug 19

    S2E2 Healing the Hurting ❤️‍🩹 Greg Boyle

    Follow Forward S2 Ep2 | Healing the Hurting ❤️‍🩹 Greg Boyle What if the answer to gang violence isn't tougher policing—but deeper healing?  In this compelling episode of the Follow Forward Podcast, Tim sits down with Gregory Boyle, Jesuit priest, bestselling author, and founder of Homeboy Industries—the world's largest gang intervention, rehabilitation, and re-entry programme—to explore a radically different approach to transformation.  For more than three decades, Greg has walked alongside thousands of formerly gang-involved and previously incarcerated men and women in Los Angeles. What began as a small parish response to escalating gang violence has grown into a global movement rooted not in punishment, but in compassion, kinship, and healing.  Together, Tim and Greg explore why violence is always "about something else," how trauma shapes behaviour, why jobs alone don't transform lives, and why healing—not employment—is the true foundation for lasting change. They discuss fatherlessness, hope, belonging, servant leadership, Ubuntu, and the life-changing power of unconditional love.  About Gregory Boyle  Gregory Boyle is a Jesuit priest, bestselling author, and the founder of Homeboy Industries in Los Angeles, California.  Since 1988, he has dedicated his life to accompanying gang-involved and formerly incarcerated men and women through rehabilitation, healing, education, employment, and community. Under his leadership, Homeboy Industries has become the world's largest gang intervention and re-entry programme, serving thousands of people each year.  Greg is the author of several acclaimed books, including Tattoos on the Heart, Barking to the Choir, and The Whole Language. His message of radical compassion, kinship, and hope has inspired leaders, churches, and communities across the world.  We'd love to hear from you!  If this episode encouraged or challenged you, let us know in the comments.  📧 Questions, comments or feedback followforward@messageglobal.org  If this conversation blessed you, please:  👍 Like the video  💬 Leave a comment  📤 Share it with someone who needs to hear it  🔔 Subscribe to the Follow Forward Podcast so you never miss an episode.  Connect with Homeboy Industries: 🌍 Website: https://homeboyindustries.org/  📱 Social Media:  Facebook - @homeboyindustries   Twitter - @homeboyind   Instagram - @homeboyindustries  LinkedIn - homeboy-industries  YouTube – Jobs Not Jails About the Follow Forward Podcast  Follow Forward is a podcast exploring Real Stories. Global Voices. Christ-centred Servant Leadership.  Hosted by Tim Tucker, each episode features authentic conversations with Christian leaders from around the world who are faithfully serving Jesus in diverse cultures and contexts. Together, we explore leadership, mission, discipleship, justice, evangelism, and the practical realities of following Christ today.  Conversation Note  At Follow Forward, we believe meaningful conversations have the power to challenge, inspire, and help us grow. Throughout this season, you'll hear stories and perspectives from guests representing a wide range of cultures, experiences, and theological viewpoints.  While every guest speaks from their own convictions and lived experience, the views expressed in each episode are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of Follow Forward or our team.  Part of following forward is recognising that we can all learn and grow by listening to people who may not share the same convictions we do. Our heart is to create a space for honest dialogue that encourages thoughtful reflection, deeper understanding, and a closer walk with Jesus Christ.  Our aim is not merely to manage conversations—it is to model the way of Jesus in every conversation.

  7. Aug 5

    S2E1 The Disciple-Making Crisis 🌱Jeremy Koeries (JK)

    Follow Forward S2 Ep 1 | The Disciple-Making Crisis 🌱Jeremy Koeries (JK)  What if the Church's greatest challenge isn't a lack of programmes but a lack of disciples?  In this thought-provoking episode of the Follow Forward Podcast, Tim sits down with Jeremy Koeries (JK), co-international director of J Life Africa (https://www.jlife.org/), practical theologian, and disciple-making catalyst, to explore one of the biggest questions facing the Church today: Are we making disciples—or simply maintaining church programmes?  Growing up in Ocean View, Cape Town, Jeremy shares how God shaped his life through community, servant leadership, and a personal encounter with Jesus that transformed not only his faith but also his understanding of Christian ministry. From serving children at risk to equipping leaders across Africa, Jeremy's journey reveals how ordinary believers can participate in God's extraordinary mission of multiplying disciples.  Together, Tim and JK unpack the paradigm shifts needed for churches to move beyond attendance and activity towards authentic disciple-making movements. They discuss leadership, multiplication, contextual ministry across Africa, and why every follower of Jesus is called to both follow Him and help others do the same.  In this episode you'll discover:  ✔️ Why disciple-making is much bigger than church programmes  ✔️ How Jesus' model transforms leadership  ✔️ The mindset shifts preventing churches from multiplying disciples  ✔️ Stories of disciple-making movements across Africa  ✔️ Practical ways leaders can cultivate healthy disciple-making cultures  We'd love to hear from you!  If this episode encouraged or challenged you, let us know in the comments. 📧 Questions, comments or feedback? Email: followforward@messageglobal.org If this conversation blessed you, please:  👍 Like the video  💬 Leave a comment  📤 Share it with someone who needs to hear it  🔔 Subscribe to the Follow Forward Podcast so you never miss an episode.  Connect with J Life Africa  🌍 Website: https://www.jlife.org/)  📱 Social Media:  Instagram: @jlife_africa_official  Give towards their ministry: https://giving.myamplify.io//app/giving/jlif2642372   About the Follow Forward Podcast  Follow Forward is a podcast exploring Real Stories. Global Voices. Christ-centred Servant Leadership. Hosted by Tim Tucker, each episode features authentic conversations with Christian leaders from around the world who are faithfully serving Jesus in diverse cultures and contexts. Together, we explore leadership, mission, discipleship, justice, evangelism, and the practical realities of following Christ today.  Our Heart  At Follow Forward, we believe meaningful conversations have the power to challenge, inspire, and help us grow. Throughout this season, you'll hear stories and perspectives from guests representing a wide range of cultures, experiences, and theological viewpoints.  Part of following forward is recognising that we can all learn and grow by listening to people who may not share the same convictions we do. Our heart is to create a space for honest dialogue that encourages thoughtful reflection, deeper understanding, and a closer walk with Jesus Christ.  Our aim is not merely to manage comments—it is to model the way of Jesus in every conversation.

  8. Jun 17

    More than a Game 🇺🇸⚽ China Maja

    More than a Game 🇺🇸⚽ China Maja 🎧 ABOUT THIS EPISODE  In Episode 22 of the Follow Forward Podcast, host Tim Tucker is joined by South African football coach, mentor, and academy founder Bethuel "China" Maja for an inspiring conversation about faith, leadership, sport, and creating opportunities for the next generation.  Born in Mpumalanga and raised in Polokwane, China grew up in a family where faith and football were deeply intertwined. Influenced by his grandfather's ministry and his father's football career, he developed an early passion for the game and left home at just 12 years old to pursue his dream of becoming a professional footballer.  In this episode, Tim and China reflect on their first meeting during a sports ministry outreach in Mali in 2001 and explore how God has used sport as a vehicle for discipleship, leadership development, and mission. China shares his remarkable journey from South African football academies to representing his country, studying and playing soccer in the United States, earning both a business degree and MBA, and eventually building one of the leading youth soccer development programs in South Carolina.  Together, they discuss the life lessons sport teaches beyond the field, including discipline, character, resilience, and servant leadership. China explains how his faith has guided every stage of his journey and how God opened doors that ultimately led him from player to coach, entrepreneur, and mentor.  The conversation also explores the vision behind KOSA (Kick Off Soccer Academy) https://www.kickoffsocceracademy.com/, the academy China founded to provide elite training while developing young people of character and purpose. He shares his excitement about expanding KOSA into South Africa (https://kosaafrica.com/), creating opportunities for young African footballers while emphasizing education, faith, and personal development alongside sporting excellence.  Whether you're a leader, coach, educator, parent, entrepreneur, or someone seeking to faithfully follow God's calling, this episode offers powerful insights into leadership, perseverance, and investing in the next generation.  Enjoy.  👤 ABOUT THE GUEST  Bethuel "China" Maja is a South African football coach, mentor, entrepreneur, and founder of KOSA Soccer Academy. Originally from Mpumalanga and raised in Polokwane, China pursued football opportunities in South Africa before moving to the United States, where he earned degrees in business and finance while continuing his soccer career. Today he leads youth development programs across the United States and South Africa, using sport as a platform to develop character, leadership, faith, and opportunity for young people.  👤 ABOUT THE HOST  Tim Tucker is an author, theologian, and leadership mentor with a PhD in Theology. Originally from the UK and now based in Cape Town, he works with The Message Trust across Africa and beyond. He is the author of Grab a Towel, Grief and Grace, and Finding Life After Death, and hosts the Follow Forward Podcast.  🎙️ ABOUT FOLLOW FORWARD  Follow Forward is a Christ-centred leadership podcast featuring real stories and global voices. Hosted by Tim Tucker and produced by The Message Trust, the podcast exists to inspire emerging leaders to follow Jesus faithfully and lead others with humility, courage, and purpose.

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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
3 Ratings

About

Follow Forward Podcast Real Stories. Global Voices. Christ-centered Leadership. The Follow Forward Podcast is a Christian leadership interview podcast capturing wisdom, faith, and lived experience from global Christian leaders who are shaping communities, ministries, and movements across Africa and beyond. Follow Forward extends the conversation into an ongoing discipleship and leadership resource. Each episode features long-form, reflective conversations that explore what it truly means to serve, lead, and follow forward in obedience to Christ. Rather than chasing influence or platforms, this podcast centers on a countercultural truth: great leadership begins with great followership—fixing our eyes on Jesus and faithfully stewarding the call God has placed on our lives. Listeners will hear real stories of perseverance, calling, failure, growth, and transformation from leaders in ministry, non-profits, social-impact spaces, and the local church. These conversations are designed to inspire emerging leaders, strengthen leadership teams, and invite supporters and partners into the deeper story of what God is doing across the continent. Whether you are a young leader finding your footing, a seasoned church or organizational leader, or a global Christian seeking cross-cultural perspectives, Follow Forward exists to equip you with practical wisdom, spiritual depth, and a renewed vision for leadership rooted in Christ. This is more than a podcast. It's a discipleship journey, a leadership resource, and an invitation to invest in the next generation of transformational leaders. 🎙️ New episodes release weekly from January 2026.

Information

  • Creator
    Tim Tucker
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    30
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Tim Tucker
  • Show Website
    Follow Forward