#19. From Turmoil to Thriving: An Unfiltered Conversation w/ Stephen Garrett

In this deeply raw and redemptive episode of The Unfiltered Faith Podcast, Stephen shares his incredible journey of growing up Southern Baptist in a small town in South Carolina, navigating identity, heartbreak, rejection, and depression — only to discover God was never absent, even in the darkest seasons.

From the early days of being bullied before he even knew who he was, to exploring identity in secret, chasing connection, and seeking love — Garrett takes us through the highs of success and the deep valleys of loss. But the most transformational part of his story? The healing that began after it all fell apart.

You’ll hear how:

• A joyful, independent child became a teenager carrying unspoken shame and isolation.
• Love, ambition, and “making it” in Miami seemed like everything — until it all crumbled.
• His marriage ended abruptly, his career collapsed, and he hit emotional rock bottom.
• He returned home, sat in his brokenness, and wrestled with God through anger and grief.
• And how through church, therapy, reflection, and faith, he rediscovered a greater purpose: helping others heal and rise again.

This is more than a coming-out or comeback story — it’s about how God repurposes pain, rebuilds us when the dust settles, and uses even our breakdowns as blueprints for someone else’s breakthrough. Stephen is now a transformational coach and lives a purpose-driven life, using his experience and heart for transformation to help others navigate personal growth, healing, and calling. He’s working toward empowering people to become better, not bitter, after life’s deepest wounds. If you’ve ever felt angry with God, but kept showing up — this episode will comfort you.

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Connect with Stephen Garrett:

Instagram: @travis_g_1976

Email: [email protected]

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This episode has been labeled explicit due to the use of derogatory language and other mature topics that might not be suitable for a younger audience. Listener discretion is advised. The language used in this conversation is discussed in context and does not reflect the values of this podcast, but we believe it's important to address these topics honestly and transparently.