Hello! I’m James Kennison
james@nlcast.com // x.com/thatstoryshow // linkedin.com/in/james-kennison
Podcaster & Comedy Creator
I’m best known as a podcaster, artist, writer, former minister, and mental health advocate. I’m the driving force behind That Story Show, a long-running clean comedy podcast where my co-host, John Steinklauber, and I share funny, real-life stories submitted by listeners. The show started in 2006 as Nobody’s Listening with my brother David and has evolved over nearly two decades into a beloved platform for family-friendly humor.
Beyond comedy, I have a deep podcasting portfolio, including The Gospel of Kennison, an audio journal where I candidly explore my experiences with major depressive disorder and anxiety. I’ve also started and ended other podcasts that listeners may find interesting.
Writer & Storyteller
At my core, I’m a storyteller. I wrote Sorta Kinda Superpowered, a middle-grade superhero novel about a boy who stumbles into powers via a mysterious pin. I’ve also written three illustrated Christmas stories:
- The Very Last Room – About the family who gets the last room in Bethlehem just before the Holy Family arrives.
- The Christmas Repair Service – A magical morality story about a boy who needs to fix his Christmas and his heart.
- The Birthday Story – A mother tells her 5-year-old son, Jesus, the story of his birth.
My creative pursuits extend to art, video games, and collecting Buzz Lightyear memorabilia, reflecting my playful, geeky side.
Family & Personal Journey
Family is the most important part of my life. I’ve been married to my wife, Jennifer, since 1996, and she has been my biggest supporter through every challenge and success. We have two amazing kids, Jenna (20) and J (17), who constantly keep me laughing and inspired.
Before diving fully into creative work, I spent over a decade in inner-city children’s ministry as a pastor. That experience gave me a practical, down-to-earth perspective that I bring to everything I do. I’ve navigated significant personal challenges, including a tough battle with depression, which I’ve openly addressed while rebuilding my life and career with my wife and our kids in St. Louis, Missouri. My journey resonates with a loyal community that values authenticity, humor, and a good story.
Health & Transformation
I’ve also fought a long battle with my weight. At my heaviest, I was over 315 pounds, struggling with both physical and mental health challenges. Through a combination of bariatric surgery and self-control, I’ve lost over 126 pounds and completely changed my lifestyle. It’s been a journey of discipline, perseverance, and self-care in ways I never had before.
Current Work
Currently, I work as an online content administrator for a major screen and digital printing supply company. I oversee the website, manage social media, and get to create imaginative YouTube videos. It’s a great blend of creativity and technical work, allowing me to use my skills in design, video production, and digital marketing to engage with a unique industry.