Hold On

About Hold On

The Hold On Podcast shares real, unfiltered stories of people who’ve faced life’s toughest battles and kept the faith. Hosts Kyle Cooper and Jared Larsen sit down with guests who open up about pain, perseverance, and the power of holding on when life gets heavy. If you’re feeling lost, stuck, or unsure, this show is a reminder that hope is real—and you're not alone.

Publisher

Kyle Cooper

Category

religion & spirituality

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

30 Jun 2025

Latest episode

11 Feb 2026

Latest episodes

17 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   11 Feb 2026

   Trusting God: Faith, Marriage & Finding Purpose | Hold On Ep. 17

   What happens when everything you planned starts falling apart and you’re forced to trust God anyway?In this deeply personal episode of Hold On, newlyweds Koby and Erin share their powerful journey of faith, adversity, and learning to rely on Jesus Christ through uncertainty. From being unexpectedly cut from teams, career-ending setbacks, anxiety, illness, and painful transitions, to serving a mission in Africa, navigating college athletics, and stepping into marriage and an unknown future abroad, their story is a reminder that God is always working especially when life feels most unstable.Through raw stories of prayer in desperation, miracles both small and undeniable, and moments where holding on was the only option, Koby and Erin testify that life isn’t falling apart, it's often falling into place. They reflect on how faith grew strongest in hardship, how God’s timing brought them together, and why surrendering control is often the path to peace, purpose, and lasting joy.This episode is for anyone who feels lost, cut off, uncertain, or stretched beyond their limits and needs the reminder that God sees you, knows you, and is not finished with your story.Check out our Episode with Shaan Sharma from The Chosen HERE: https://youtu.be/cerAiR8SdEM 00:00 Welcome to The Hold On Podcast 01:53 Background and Context02:38 Quick Intros: Meet Koby and Erin04:03 Erin's Journey: Soccer and Faith11:09 Colby's Story: Hard Work and Mission13:35 High School Days and Friendships16:22 The Spirit and Personal Experiences19:26 How Koby and Erin Met28:33 Struggles and Trusting God's Plan29:26 Miracle Goal and Eye Injury30:26 Heartbreak and Transfer to Arkansas33:05 Koby’s Mission to Africa37:51 Personal Prayers and Comfort48:59 Future Plans in Portugal52:14 Final Thoughts and TestimoniesSubscribe to the channel and share your thoughts in the comments. Your story might inspire the next conversation!Listen To The Podcast:Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4jCPVe4xpMDcNgpMEppKIw?si=X3y2pBeTQAqRsdX0PfWv7AListen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/hold-on/id1823769927 Produced in partnership with SB Studios.Start Your Podcast Today Here: https://www.sbstudios.coMusic From Sound Stripe: ST4NP7IM2E4BDF4W

2. 

   28 Jan 2026

   Growing Up in a Tent: The Journey That Led Me to the White House | Hold On Ep. 16

   What does the American Dream really look like today and is it still alive? In this powerful episode of Hold On, Tom Luna shares an extraordinary life journey that began growing up in a tent at Lake Mead, struggling with poverty, hunger, and instability, and eventually led him to serving in the White House and becoming a state leader in education and public service. Through stories of faith in hard times, family sacrifice, and perseverance through adversity, Tom explains why the American Dream isn’t dead, it’s just misunderstood. He reflects on lessons learned from a father who believed all work is honorable, the role of Jesus Christ in shaping his life, and how holding on to faith made it possible to rise above circumstances without losing humility or purpose. Check out our Episode with Shaan Sharma from The Chosen HERE: https://youtu.be/cerAiR8SdEM (https://youtu.be/cerAiR8SdEM) 00:00 Welcome to The Hold On Podcast 02:38 Tom Luna's Early Life and Family Struggles 09:06 Finding Faith and the Impact of Religion 16:43 Tom Luna's Entrepreneurial Journey 22:16 Entering Politics and Educational Reforms 31:06 Tom's Optimism and Faith 33:12 Eight Years in Office 35:51 The Decision to Exit Politics 38:52 Family and Personal Identity 45:22 Miracles and Family Blessings 01:00:12 Testimony and Final Thoughts

3. 

   14 Jan 2026

   5 Truths You Need to Hear If Your Past Still Shapes How You See Yourself | Hold On Ep. 15

   In this episode of Hold On, Denae Warren shares her story of healing, faith, and identity after a childhood marked by trauma, instability, and starting over with nothing but a suitcase. Together, we unpack five truths you need to hear if your past still shapes how you see yourself. Especially if you feel stuck in survival mode or defined by what happened to you. Denae opens up about growing up without a safe home, being believed for the first time, and learning how to separate her identity from her trauma. This conversation speaks directly to anyone asking hard questions like “Why can’t I move on?”, “Why do I still feel broken?”, or “How do I stop letting my past control my life?” If you’ve ever struggled with self-worth, faith after trauma, or figuring out who you are beyond your experiences, this episode offers honesty, hope, and a reminder that healing is possible and your story is still being written. Check out our Episode with Shaan Sharma from The Chosen HERE: https://youtu.be/cerAiR8SdEM (https://youtu.be/cerAiR8SdEM) 00:00 Welcome to The Hold On Podcast 02:41 Dene's Early Life Struggles 04:01 Arrival at Hope House 07:31 A Life-Changing Conversation 09:21 Hope House: A Beacon of Support 18:57 Overcoming the Victim Mentality 27:57 Parenting and Sharing Life Lessons 31:23 Finding Strength in Faith 36:13 The Impact of Mentors and Giving Back 41:36 Words of Wisdom and Closing

4. 

   31 Dec 2025

   I Didn’t “Feel” God… Until I Looked Back | Hold On Ep. 14

   In this episode of Hold On, Kyle and Jared sit down with Jason Oswald for a raw conversation about what it actually looks like to keep your faith when life hits hard. Jason shares personal moments with depression, seasons of feeling spiritually stuck, and how a wake-up call pushed him toward repentance and a string of “too-specific-to-ignore” miracles. Check out our Episode with Shaan Sharma from The Chosen HERE: https://youtu.be/cerAiR8SdEM (https://youtu.be/cerAiR8SdEM) 00:00 Welcome to The Hold On Podcast 02:52 Jason's Early Life 04:33 Mission Experiences and Personal Growth 06:30 Struggles and Small Miracles 10:04 The Power of Faith and Holding On 14:33 Battling Depression and Finding Strength 23:23 A Life-Changing Health Scare 30:27 Final Thoughts and Testimony

5. 

   10 Dec 2025

   Doubting God in Hard Times? Amber Shana Williams From "The Chosen" Explains

   In this episode of Hold On, actress Amber Shana Williams from "The Chosen" shares a powerful Christian testimony about doubting God in hard times, living with chronic illness, and finding hope again through Jesus Christ. She talks about grief, spiritual exhaustion, community, and the small daily acts of faith that kept her going, while also sharing BTS from “The Chosen” set and how working on the series including preparing for “The Chosen” Season 6 has deepened her relationship with the Savior. Check out our Episode with Shaan Sharma from The Chosen HERE: https://youtu.be/cerAiR8SdEM 00:00 Welcome to The Hold On Podcast 02:53 Amber's Journey with “The Chosen”06:21 Amber's Personal Story and Challenges19:47 The Importance of Gratitude and Support22:30 The Purest Form of Love in Dark Times27:10 Finding Purpose Through Passion29:25 A Lifelong Journey of Faith34:54 The Power of Empathy and Boundaries38:46 “The Chosen” Season 6 Preview 45:02 A Message.. Subscribe to the channel and share your thoughts in the comments. Your story might inspire the next conversation!Listen To The Podcast:Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4jCPVe4xpMDcNgpMEppKIw?si=X3y2pBeTQAqRsdX0PfWv7AListen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/hold-on/id1823769927 Produced in partnership with SB Studios.Start Your Podcast Today Here: https://www.sbstudios.coMusic From Sound Stripe: ST4NP7IM2E4BDF4W

6. 

   12 Nov 2025

   The Day I Lost My Mom and the Miracles That Followed | Hold On Ep. 12

   In this heartfelt episode of Hold On, entrepreneur John Parkes opens up about losing his mother at age four, the chain of miracles that followed, and a father’s radical choice to forgive. John shares how faith in Jesus Christ, the comfort of the Holy Ghost, and years of healing shaped his empathy, family life, and service to youth. It’s a tender, hope-filled conversation about grief, guidance, and the assurance that every storm has an end. Episode with a cast member from The Chosen is OUT NOW: https://youtu.be/cerAiR8SdEM 00:00 Welcome to The Hold On Podcast 03:45 John's Early Life and Tragic Loss05:31 Miracles Amidst Tragedy11:52 Coping and Growing Up13:54 Finding Strength in Faith17:08 Supporting Others Through Tragedy19:17 Impact on Current Life and Family27:40 Understanding the Holy Ghost33:30 Faith and Divine Guidance39:51 Testimony and ConclusionSubscribe to the channel and share your thoughts in the comments. Your story might inspire the next conversation!Listen To The Podcast:Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4jCPVe4xpMDcNgpMEppKIw?si=X3y2pBeTQAqRsdX0PfWv7AListen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/hold-on/id1823769927 Produced in partnership with SB Studios.Start Your Podcast Today Here: https://www.sbstudios.coMusic From Sound Stripe: ST4NP7IM2E4BDF4W

7. 

   29 Oct 2025

   From Sick to Whole: How Prayer, Grit, and Grace Healed My Life

   Kyle and Jared sit down with Todd to unpack a faith-based healing story. From losing everything in the 2008 crash and climbing out of $2M in debt to finding purpose in Christ and helping others heal. We dive into Christian mindset and mental health (living in the present, renewing the mind, self-forgiveness), the power of prayer, and how belief shapes physiology. Episode with a cast member from The Chosen is OUT NOW: https://youtu.be/cerAiR8SdEM 00:00 Welcome to The Hold On Podcast 03:15 Christian Healing Testimony: Todd’s Early Life 04:24 Overcoming Health Challenges and Financial Struggles07:31 Reinventing Yourself at 41 09:24 Starting a Wellness Clinic & Supplement Brand 11:20 Christian Mindset and Motivation 18:09 Positive Thinking and Faith in Jesus: How Belief Shapes Physiology and Healing 21:39 Goal Setting with God 22:16 Christian Affirmations That Work: Personal Story of Rewiring Thoughts in Christ 25:16 Family-First Success: Balancing Marriage, Kids, and a Mission-Driven Career 29:57 Finding a Higher Calling 33:45 Spiritual Healing in Christianity: Prayer, Presence, and Root-Cause Wellness 41:17 Closing Subscribe to the channel and share your thoughts in the comments. Your story might inspire the next conversation! Listen To The Podcast: Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4jCPVe4xpMDcNgpMEppKIw?si=X3y2pBeTQAqRsdX0PfWv7A Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/hold-on/id1823769927 Produced in partnership with SB Studios. Start Your Podcast Today Here: https://www.sbstudios.co Music From Sound Stripe: ST4NP7IM2E4BDF4W

8. 

   15 Oct 2025

   How to Hear God When Life Gets Loud | Hold On Ep. 10

   In this episode of Hold On we unpack what it really means to hear God when life is loud. Stress, schedules, and nonstop noise. Through honest stories and practical habits, we explore how to tune out the static and tune into God’s whisper with Scripture, stillness, gratitude, and simple acts of obedience. If you’ve felt spiritually “on mute,” this episode offers a clear path to turn the volume back up on His voice. Episode with a cast member from The Chosen is OUT NOW: https://youtu.be/cerAiR8SdEM 00:00 Welcome to The Hold On Podcast 05:44 Matt's Family Adventures08:07 Matt's Childhood and Upbringing14:21 Hearing God's Guidance27:45 The Role of Faith in Life's Challenges31:27 Personal Stories of Faith and Guidance38:06 Balancing Family, Work, and Faith40:41 The Importance of Community and Gratitude45:56 Testimony and Final Thoughts Subscribe to the channel and share your thoughts in the comments. Your story might inspire the next conversation!Listen To The Podcast:Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4jCPVe4xpMDcNgpMEppKIw?si=X3y2pBeTQAqRsdX0PfWv7AListen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/hold-on/id1823769927 Produced in partnership with SB Studios.Start Your Podcast Today Here: https://www.sbstudios.coMusic From Sound Stripe: ST4NP7IM2E4BDF4W

9. 

   1 Oct 2025

   Feeling Lost at Sea? Your Boat Will Return | Shaun Murray Explains | Hold On Ep. 9

   Wakeboarding legend Shaun Murray joins Kyle and Jared to talk faith, resilience, and purpose. Sharing his wakeboard parable: when you fall, the boat comes back. God circles back with the rope, and our job is to grab it again. Do Now Well, stop handing your joy to others, and remember it’s less about what you do and more about who you do it with. Shaun Murrayhttps://www.instagram.com/shaunmurray/?hl=enhttps://www.youtube.com/@Shaun.Murray https://shaunmurray.com/ Episode with a cast member from The Chosen is OUT NOW: https://youtu.be/cerAiR8SdEM 00:00 Welcome to The Hold On Podcast 01:43 Sean's Journey and Influence in Wakeboarding05:26 Coaching and Life Lessons06:44 The Parable of the Rope and the Boat10:19 Balancing Faith and Fame21:38 The Boat Always Comes Back: A Metaphor for Faith31:51 The Importance of Surrounding Yourself with the Right People34:39 Living in the Present and Doing It Well40:37 The Power of Flow State and Mental Pushes45:56 Experiencing Life Rather Than Performing59:02 Finding Peace and Hope Through FaithSubscribe to the channel and share your thoughts in the comments. Your story might inspire the next conversation!Listen To The Podcast:Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4jCPVe4xpMDcNgpMEppKIw?si=X3y2pBeTQAqRsdX0PfWv7AListen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/hold-on/id1823769927 Produced in partnership with SB Studios.Start Your Podcast Today Here: https://www.sbstudios.coMusic From Sound Stripe: ST4NP7IM2E4BDF4W

10. 

    17 Sept 2025

    God Won’t Let You Go Too Far | Hold On Ep. 8

    This episode of Hold On features Jason Nielsen, who reflects on his unexpected detour from Grass Valley to Brazil and how those experiences shaped his faith and ministry. Jason shares how the simple act of “turning back” through repentance, choosing to just show up, and trusting that God won’t let us go too far became anchors in his discipleship. 00:00 Welcome to The Hold On Podcast 03:23 Jason's Early Life and Family Background 09:18 Challenges and Defining Moments 16:53 Mission Experience in Brazil 28:28 The Importance of Repentance and Knowing Christ 30:14 The Role of Faith and Action 40:50 Balancing Church, Family, and Work 50:14 Interfaith Work and Community Building 55:45 Testimony and Final Thoughts Music From Sound Stripe: ST4NP7IM2E4BDF4W

11. 

    3 Sept 2025

    Make Every Relationship Your Ministry | Hold On Ep. 7

    This episode of Hold On features author Todd Stice, who shares how trials, from career setbacks to challenging missionary companions, became defining moments in his discipleship. Todd explains why true spiritual growth comes from embracing hard seasons, serving others—especially those who are difficult to love—and letting go of perfectionism. 00:00 Welcome to The Hold On Podcast 05:28 Todd's Journey09:45 Overcoming Trials and Finding God14:48 Maintaining Faith Through Success and Struggles15:46 The Importance of Identity and Discipleship36:14 The Power of Temple Worship and Sacrifice40:23 Trusting in Divine Guidance46:34 Overcoming Perfectionism48:40 The Power of Failure and Resilience55:58 Navigating Relationships and Companionships01:02:49 The Role of Accountability in RelationshipsMusic From Sound Stripe: ST4NP7IM2E4BDF4W

12. 

    20 Aug 2025

    How to Stay Faithful When Life Doesn’t Make Sense | Hold On Ep. 6

    In this episode, actor Shaan Sharma from the hit series The Chosen shares his journey from a Hindu upbringing to becoming a born-again Christian. He opens up about growing up in a broken home, battling loneliness, and how God’s quiet guidance led him from pain to purpose. Shaan unpacks the miracles, divine timing, and spiritual wrestle that shaped his calling. 00:00 Welcome to The Hold On Podcast 00:30 Welcoming Shaan Sharma 04:06 Early Life and Family Background 13:57 Acting Career Beginnings 18:21 Joining 'The Chosen' and Impact 25:49 Miracles on Set: Red Sea Moments 33:29 The Role of Schmuel: A Personal Connection 39:54 The Impact of Visual Storytelling 45:23 What's Next for The Chosen? 47:29 A Testimony of Faith and Perseverance Music From Sound Stripe: ST4NP7IM2E4BDF4W

13. 

    6 Aug 2025

    Stop Trying to Be the Hero of Your Own Story | Hold On Ep. 5

    In this powerful and transparent conversation, Pastor Phil Eastman joins the Hold On Podcast to share how God met him in the midst of personal, spiritual, and professional collapse. From leading a janitorial crew at Moody to navigating deep church hurt and a life-altering stroke that left his father paralyzed, Phil opens up about what it means to truly “hold on” when you have nothing left. 00:00 Opening Prayer and Introduction02:41 Phil's Journey into Ministry12:17 A Personal Story of Struggle and Faith29:12 The Importance of Humility and Understanding God's Character41:24 Pastor Phil's Journey and Church Growth47:04 A Message of Love and Self-Reflection52:49 A Musical Lament and Final Thoughts

14. 

    2 Jul 2025

    The Day My 7-Year-Old Reminded Me What Faith Really Looks Like | Hold On Ep. 4

    In this heartfelt episode of the Hold On Podcast, hosts Kyle and Jared are joined by Mayor Wagner, who shares his incredible journey of faith, resilience, and leadership. Diving into Mayor Wagner's life story, from his upbringing in Idaho to his life-altering experience with a brain tumor. Mayor Wagner opens up about the challenges he faced, the strength he found through faith, and the support of his family. Join us for a roller coaster of an episode that is a testament to the power of faith and perseverance.

15. 

    2 Jul 2025

    I Thought I Knew Who I Was… Until I Didn’t | Hold On Ep. 3

    In this episode of the Hold On Podcast, hosts Kyle and Jared welcome Steven Jenkins as he shares his inspiring journey of faith, resilience, and transformation. From facing numerous personal struggles and moving across eight states to finding his purpose and passion in life, Steven discusses the pivotal moments, mentorships, and divine interventions that led him to where he is today. This heartfelt conversation delves into overcoming challenges, building trust in God's plan, and the power of incremental growth. Join us for an uplifting discussion on embracing change, finding hope, and surrendering to a higher purpose. 00:00 Welcome to The Hold On Podcast00:38 Guest Introduction: Steven Jenkins01:49 Steven's Journey and Faith12:06 Mentorship and Spiritual Growth19:45 Finding Fulfillment Through Faith22:23 Embracing Change and Overcoming Darkness25:18 The Importance of Surrender and Trust30:36 Building a Strong Foundation for the Future36:57 The Value of Patience and Persistence38:04 Final Thoughts

16. 

    2 Jul 2025

    You Don’t Need to Have It All Figured Out..Just Start | Hold On Ep. 2

    In this powerful episode of the Hold On Podcast, hosts Kyle Cooper and Jared Larson sit down with Roberto, the man behind the camera, to hear his incredible story. From a childhood spent working in strawberry fields as the son of Mexican immigrants to navigating the challenges of having an absent father, Roberto shares how he overcame numerous obstacles to find success and faith. Don't miss this inspiring journey of resilience, growth, and the impact of surrounding yourself with the right people.

17. 

    30 Jun 2025

    We Were Tired, Broke, and Ready to Quit. This Is What Got Us Through | Hold On Ep. 1

    Welcome to The Hold On Podcast! In this episode of the Hold On Podcast hosts Kyle Cooper and Jared Larsen introduce the heartwarming and inspiring journey of Kyle's wife, Brittney Cooper. Faced with severe health challenges, financial struggles, and emotional turmoil, Brittney shares how she persevered with faith, hope, and the unwavering support of her husband. Join us as we explore this powerful story of resilience, love, and unwavering commitment.

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Apple Podcasts (US)

5.0 / 5

2 ratings

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Books guests

Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.