Better on the Inside

You can find a deeper dive into Keener's book on my Substack.Check out Jenai at her website.SummaryIn this conversation, Jon Pyle and Jenai Auman delve into the complexities of 1 Corinthians 14, particularly the controversial verses regarding women's roles in the church. They explore the cultural context of Corinth, the misinterpretations of Paul's letters, and the importance of hermeneutical principles in understanding scripture. Jenai shares her journey through different theological perspectives and emphasizes the need for a nuanced approach to biblical interpretation, advocating for the empowerment of women in ministry and the church.TakeawaysThe cultural context of Corinth was chaotic and hedonistic.Paul's letters often address specific issues rather than providing comprehensive theology.Misinterpretations of scripture can lead to harmful applications in church settings.Hermeneutical principles are essential for understanding biblical texts accurately.Women played significant roles in the early church, often as leaders and supporters.Paul's intent was to bring order to disorder, not to reinforce patriarchal structures.The importance of educating women in the church is highlighted in Paul's letters.Contextualizing scripture is crucial for modern application and understanding.The church should reflect the inclusive nature of Christ's teachings.The conversation encourages humility and openness in theological discussions. Chapters00:00 Introduction and Context of 1 Corinthians 1402:54 Personal Journeys and Interpretations of Scripture05:54 Hermeneutical Principles in Understanding Paul09:03 The Church in Corinth: Specific Contexts and Errors11:57 Interpretive Considerations for Paul's Letters15:31 Understanding the Corinthian Context16:43 Paul's Approach to Order and Disorder23:45 The Role of Women in Early Christianity29:45 Cultural Context and Interpretation35:21 The Call for Theological Humility

SummaryIn this conversation, Jon Pyle explores the essential elements of Christian faith, focusing on the nature of Jesus, the concept of sin, and the importance of forgiveness. He discusses how house rules in various churches can create confusion about fundamental beliefs and emphasizes that sin is fundamentally about separation from God and others. Pyle highlights the greatest commandment of loving God and loving one's neighbor, and he stresses that true love for God is authenticated by how we treat others. The conversation culminates in a discussion about the necessity of forgiveness, both for personal healing and for maintaining a close relationship with God.TakeawaysJesus is central to the Christian faith as God's son and king.Deconstruction of faith can lead to a clearer understanding of beliefs.Churches have different 'house rules' that can confuse newcomers.Sin is defined as missing the mark and separates us from God.Jesus has the authority to forgive sins, demonstrating his divinity.The greatest commandment is to love God and love your neighbor.Our love for God is authenticated by our love for others.Unforgiveness creates barriers between us and God.Forgiveness is a choice that leads to personal freedom.Forgiveness allows God to heal our wounds. Chapters00:00 Gratitude and Worship01:06 Understanding the Essentials of Faith01:31 House Rules in Christianity04:49 Jesus and the Concept of Sin18:17 The Greatest Commandment: Love23:49 The Importance of Forgiveness

In Paul, Women & Wives, Dr. Craig S. Keener presents a substantive, Scripture-based defense for egalitarian theology, principles and practices. Join me as we explore the writings of Paul in a way that liberates women, not subjugates them. We're finally starting with the crux of the book: exegeting Paul's letters and diving into Scripture. Keener has divided his book into two parts. Part 1 is about the Roles of Women in the Church (Chapters 1-3). Part 2 is about Women's Role in the Family (Chapters 4-6). Chapter 1: Head Coverings in 1 Corinthians 11:2-16 Keener presents several potential interpretations of the passage that are quite provocative, frankly. However, my takeaway was pretty simple: Paul's argument about head coverings isn't about “IF” women can pray or prophecy in the church (prophecy likely isn't too different from preaching in the modern context), but “HOW” they should do so. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Soul Care in the Digital Age 00:52 Exploring Gender Roles in the Church 09:22 Head Coverings and Cultural Context 18:49 Modesty, Class, and Community Dynamics 35:37 Understanding Paul's Perspective on Women

In Paul, Women & Wives, Dr. Craig S. Keener presents a substantive, Scripture-based defense for egalitarian theology, principles and practices. Join me as we explore the writings of Paul in a way that liberates women, not subjugates them. Check this out on Substack! Introduction “All biblical passages may be for all time, but all biblical passages are not for all circumstances.” - pg 59 This quote is tattoo-worthy. If you engage with the Christian Scripture for any of length of time, with any seriousness, this phrase should be a mantra you should repeat. This is especially true for pastors, elders, group leaders or anyone else who may be preaching and teaching the Jewish or Christian Scriptures. And it's extremely pertinent to our discussion. The most common accusation levied at egalitarians is that we have a “low view of Scripture” or are throwing out whole chunks of God's Word to arrive at our conclusion that women can serve in the church in the same capacities as men and aren't the only party called to submit in the home. For some, that is true. Part of their faith journey (especially those that are deconstructing or recovering from painful church experiences) is how they relate to the Bible. Especially if it was wielded like a weapon in their communities to harm them or control them. Sometimes, that experience leads folks to view Scripture with skepticism or completely disregard its authority in their life and belief system, while still clinging to faith in Jesus. I have nothing but grace and compassion for my brothers and sisters who feel that way. However, that's not my experience. In fact, it is in my authoritative view of Scripture that led to my egalitarian theology. And understanding this quote is big reason why, as Keener will lay out in further chapters. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Soul Care and Formation 00:29 Egalitarian Theology and Gender Roles 02:49 Understanding Hermeneutics and Biblical Interpretation 04:54 The Role of Paul in Gender Discussions 08:11 Questioning Women's Calling in Ministry 14:06 Cultural Context and Biblical Interpretation 19:03 The Complexity of Biblical Terms 27:14 Scripture's Misuse and the Call for Equality 29:47 God's Design for Gender Equality 34:00 Looking Ahead: Next Steps in the Discussion

Check out Dr Beth Allison Barr and buy her books! Hang out with the Matrons of Spice at I Read Something Bad. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Overview 06:36 The Making of Biblical Womanhood: Unapologetic and Radical 09:07 Separating Patriarchy from Faith: The Importance of Historical Context 15:04 Dealing with Pushback and Criticism: Setting Boundaries and Focusing on Evidence 19:07 Finding Liberation in Christianity: Women's Voices Throughout History 24:11 The Reformation's Impact on Women: Solidifying Patriarchal Structures 32:42 The Undermining of Reformation Theology 33:09 The Insertion of Male Spiritual Leadership 34:07 Addressing Residual Patriarchy in Egalitarian Spaces 44:38 Teaching as a Tool for Change 49:57 Taylor Swift: Resilience and Advocacy We're picking back up with our walk through Paul, Women & Wives next week, but I couldn't wait to share this pertinent discussion with Dr. Beth Allison Barr about the historicity of egalitarian theology that I recorded MONTHS ago. Not only did I think this detour would give folks a chance to purchase the book and read it without rushing (if they wanted to deep dive with me), I also feel like this conversation adds some super helpful historical context to the soul care/formation aspect of our discussion. Plus… this episode was burning a hole in my pocket and I couldn't sit on it any longer. Dr. Barr is the author of The Making of Biblical Womanhood, which you should absolutely read too. She's a professor at Baylor and a bit of a celebrity in the evangelical world because of her research and communication around women's historical role in the Church1. That's also why Dr. Barr has been a target for those committed to preserving a patriarchal hierarchy and even folks who want to continue this deeply harmful trench warfare approach to gender roles in Jesus' movement. The subtitle of her book is “how the subjugation of women became gospel truth,” and that's so powerful because it speaks to a critical reality of women's roles in the church: it wasn't always like this. As a historian, she presents compelling evidence that this concept of “biblical womanhood” we see expressed in the vast majority of evangelical church cultures is not what Jesus intended. Nor was it the way the early church operated. If we listen to Dr. Barr, women were never intended to be subordinate to men or limited in their calling to fulfill the Great Commission. Our conversation explored some of The Making of Biblical Womanhood but also its reception… specifically how the aftermath affected Dr. Barr herself. And it wasn't great. The way people talked and continue to talk to her is appalling. Just taking a peek at her mentions is to stare into the void. Hundreds of men (and women) spouting some of the ugliest, un-Christlike nonsense. Which underscores the need for a better way to have the conversations around women in ministry. I truly believe listening to Dr. Barr won't only shift your perspective, it also equip and empower you to follow Jesus and read Scripture in a different way.

Order Dr. Craig S. Keener's Paul, Women, and Wives: Marriage and Women's Ministry in the Letters of Paul Order Tracey Gee's book The Magic of Knowing What You Want: A Practical Guide to Unearthing the Wisdom of Your Desires. And you can learn more about Tracey on her website. Check out my notes on the Better on the Inside Substack. Summary In this episode, Jon Pyle discusses the importance of understanding one's desires and the impact of spiritual formation in the digital age. He delves into the complexities surrounding women in ministry, referencing the book 'Paul, Women, and Wives' by Craig Keener. The conversation emphasizes the need for a theological framework to support women's roles in the church, the significance of exegesis, and the importance of context in biblical interpretation. Jon highlights the ongoing evangelical debate regarding gender roles and the hermeneutical issues that arise in interpreting scripture, ultimately advocating for a more inclusive understanding of women's contributions to ministry. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Spiritual Formation 02:23 Women in Ministry: A Theological Perspective 11:25 Understanding Exegesis and Its Importance 40:13 Contextual Interpretation of Scripture

Hey you... come closer. I need to tell you something: How we talk about women in church and ministry is hurting our souls. Like our discourse is truly harmful to us, regardless of your "position". And the language we use (like position) is part of the problem. And it's driving me nuts. So we're gonna talk about. Check out Holy Balls by my friend, Sean Strehlow For more, check out the Better on the Inside Substack

In this episode, Jon Pyle returns from a sabbatical to discuss the evolution of the podcast and his focus on soul care and spiritual formation. He emphasizes the importance of taking an active role in one's spiritual journey, rather than being passively formed by external influences. Jon aims to provide practical applications in his conversations, fostering a community that resists dehumanization and supports personal growth. He invites listeners to join him on this journey and highlights the significance of the substack as a central hub for updates and community engagement. Read more on Substack. (Preview Below) You are being discipled.1 This is a fact, whether you believe in God or not. A better way to say it is that you are being FORMED. We all are. This is less a choice as it is a law of nature akin to gravity. Whether you believe it, care about it, trust it or like it… it is happening to you, in you and around you. Much like gravity, photosynthesis, or sunrises and sunsets, formation is inevitable. It is a natural process that transcends our choices. There is no unsubscribe button, so we can't opt-out. Formation shapes us. Sadly for most of us, we are passive recipients in the formation process. Most formation happens to us without much thought, consideration or resistance on our part. We are formed by everything we consume. The content. TV, movies, podcasts, news, music, social media. These all shape us, often far more than we consider. We are formed by our environments. Culture, both in family and work settings, is one of the strongest factors in shaping us. We are formed by our relationships. Who we spend time with, invest in and love shapes us. We are formed by the systems in which we exist and participate. The way we do the economy, politics and law shapes us. We are being formed. It is an immutable reality of existence. Unfortunately, we can't shut off all the influences that contribute to our formation until we figure out what is healthy and what isn't. We don't get to pause. We aren't entirely in control. However, we can choose to become an active participant in our formation. And if we're going to hold onto our souls, we can't afford not to. Here's the bad news: The way we are being shaped in the digital era is killing our souls.2  Check out my Bio Site for career coaching and links to other content. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/support

You can find Dr. Morgante at her website, but be sure to pre-order her book Recovering from Purity Culture and get some amazing bonuses! Dr Camden Morgante Instagram Summary In this conversation, Dr. Camden Morgante discusses the profound impact of purity culture on individuals, particularly within evangelical Christianity. She shares her personal journey from being a proponent of purity culture to recognizing its harmful effects. The discussion covers the definitions of purity culture, its implications for both men and women, and the importance of healing and aligning one's values. Dr. Morgante emphasizes the need for community, empathy, and professional help in overcoming the trauma associated with purity culture, while also highlighting the potential for positive sexual experiences based on mutual respect and understanding. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 01:24 Getting into the Work 06:13 Signs of Growing Up in Purity Culture 09:11 Impact on Women and Men 13:14 Recovering from Purity Culture 20:16 Performance and Damage to Men 22:38 Masturbation and Pornography 24:00 Impact of Pornography 24:50 Impact of Purity Culture on Relationships and Marriages 25:45 Damage of Purity Culture 26:43 Sexual Pain and Purity Culture 28:34 Disconnect between Mind, Body, Heart, and Soul 30:53 Seeking Professional Help 32:34 Empathy as an Antidote to Shame 35:23 Moving Towards Healthy Sexuality 43:23 Finding Joy in Dinner Dates 47:22 Outro 3.wav Keywords purity culture, healing, psychology, relationships, empathy, sexual ethics, trauma, evangelical Christianity, personal growth, mental health --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/support

Here's where you can find Holly: The internet's ONLY college football podcast (and my favorite), The Shutdown Fullcast Subscribe to Holly's amazing newsletter (with Spencer Hall), Channel 6! I don't know why I waited a year to release this. In part because it's such a unique conversation that it didn't pair well with anything else. Another reason: I'm such a fan of Holly and her work that I wanted to save it for a big moment. But, upon reflection I think it had a lot to do with the fact that once you share something... it's not yours anymore. This conversation would cease to belong to me and be a communal thing. That was its destiny all along and it would be a waste to horde the wisdom and whimsy Holly shared... but it did feel good that it was just mine for awhile. Holly and I talk about forgiveness, which is what connected us to this deeper conversation in the first place. We open and address all sorts of topics where Holly has tremendous, valuable insight. The nugget she shares about a former boss is INCREDIBLE! That alone is worth the price of admission. Enjoy, y'all! Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 06:09 Misunderstanding Forgiveness 13:03 The Rush to Forgiveness 21:47 The Importance of Support 27:42 The Impact of the Pandemic 34:50 Building Community 37:32 The Intimacy of Podcasting 37:58 The Power of Podcast Audiences 40:55 Breaking News and the Appeal of Podcasting 43:50 The Love for Utah Football 44:47 The Importance of Community and Time 47:35 The Slow Growth of Community 49:30 The Non-Judgment Zone of Joy 57:22 The Bear and the Art of Craftsmanship 01:00:47 The Bear Season 2 01:10:00 Closing Remarks 01:10:34 Outro 3.wav --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/support

Visit Gabrielle's website: Returning to Joy Check out Gabrielle's podcast: Returning to Joy Summary In this conversation, Jon Pyle and Gabrielle Michelle Leonard discuss the importance of soul care in a fast-paced, digital culture. Gabrielle shares her personal journey of how soul care became integrated into her walk with Jesus. They emphasize the need for a relationship-based approach to discipleship and spiritual practices. They also provide practical steps for engaging in soul care, such as taking a walk in nature, observing and reflecting on the surroundings, and having conversations with Jesus. The conversation highlights the importance of embodiment and the holistic nature of spiritual transformation. The conversation explores the theme of healing and wholeness in the context of community. It emphasizes the importance of repairing fractured relationships and seeking restoration within oneself. The guest highlights the need for both individual spiritual practices and communal support in the care for the soul. The discussion also touches on the challenges of navigating relationships and forgiveness, and the significance of embracing the messy middle of the healing process. The guest shares a personal experience of finding joy in the simplicity of being present in one space. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/support

You can find Rohadi all over the internet. Buy his book When We Belong: Reclaiming Christianity on the Margins from his website! Check out his podcast: Faith in a Fresh Vibe Summary In this conversation, Jon Pyle and Rohadi discuss the topics of decolonization, dismantling racism, and reclaiming Christianity on the margins. They explore the impact of these issues on the soul and the importance of soul care in the digital age. Rohadi shares his personal journey and experiences as a pastor and author, highlighting the need for individuals to reclaim their whole selves and find liberation. They also discuss the significance of land-based theology and the connection between spirituality and the land. Overall, the conversation emphasizes the importance of belonging, community, and a holistic understanding of God. The conversation explores the history and impact of mission work, highlighting the negative consequences and the need for change. It also discusses the lack of justice and inclusion in churches, the importance of embracing the whole family, and the need to reclaim Christianity from the margins. The conversation emphasizes the significance of embodiment and the value of rest and community. The guest, Rohadi, shares his joy in winter activities and baking with his partner. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 00:53 Rohadi's Journey to Canada 02:39 Writing 'When We Belong' 03:50 Reclaiming Christianity on the Margins 04:56 The Impact of Othering 05:24 The Crossroads of Assimilation and Reclamation 06:23 Expanding the Image of God 07:36 The Catalyst for Change 08:09 The Erosion of the Soul 08:47 Rohadi's Holistic Perspective 09:16 Belonging and Getting It Wrong 10:49 Rohadi's Vision for Belonging 12:20 Decolonizing Thought and Land-Based Theology 13:53 The Influence of Indigenous Knowledge Keepers 14:46 The Cookie Cutter Mentality in Church 15:17 The Uniqueness of Neighborhoods and Communities 16:15 The Relationship with the Land 19:18 Communing with the Land 20:35 Disembodied Christian Faith 22:12 The Pre-Curse World and Harmony with Creation 23:11 Vocation and Liberation 24:35 Reevaluating Mission Work 25:48 Questioning the Effectiveness of Church Mission Statements 26:43 The Erosion of the Church's Influence 27:31 The Failure of Contemporary Mission Work 28:27 The Lack of Connection to Justice in Mission Work 29:42 The Need for Inclusive Church Communities 31:05 The Importance of Family and Community in Church Planting 31:51 The Need for Justice and Family in Church Planting 33:20 The Difficulty of Implementing Change in Churches 36:14 The Journey of Decolonization and Reclamation 38:11 The Harm of Incomplete Church Families 39:36 The Poverty of the Soul in Success-Oriented Churches 41:59 The Desire for Inclusive and Impactful Churches 44:22 The Importance of Naming and Affirming the Body's Wisdom 46:24 Finding Joy in Winter Activities and Intentional Rest 49:41 Baking Together as a Source of Joy 51:15 BOTI Outro Video.mp4 --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/support

Content Warning [9 minutes]: Animal violence There are lots of different kinds of people that call CityChurch San Antonio (my church) home. When you look at the plaza on a Sunday and you'll see a wide swath of age, gender, ethnicity, style and any other distinction you can imagine. To some degree, this just happened. God has brought a diverse group of people to our campus for us to serve. We didn't recruit or seek out any one group. But, it was also intentional. Behind the scenes, our leaders continue to take steps to remove barriers so that ALL PEOPLE can believe and thrive in Jesus. Belonging is a significant part of thriving and a deep need within all of us. It's not just a basic human need, it is also a spiritual need. Followers of Jesus are the Church, AKA The Body of Christ, where each of us are a valuable part of a larger whole. We are designed to fit together in community and serve together in unity. Everyone is valuable and brings something unique and necessary to the table. Sadly, there are more folks than ever that are lonely. To the degree that the Surgeon General of the United States called loneliness an epidemic. One of the hallmarks of loneliness is disconnection. A distinct lack of belonging to a group or a robust network of relationships. So, what do we do? My friend Prasanta Verma is here to help us navigate how we can bring people together, across ethnic (and any other) lines. Order Prasanta's book today! I also encourage you to check out Prasanta's website and her Substack, Belonging and the Human Experience. Belonging and the Human Experience Prasanta was born under an Asian sun and grew up in the shadow of Appalachians. She writes about belonging, identity, loneliness, culture, health and social connection. She wants to help us envision a world where we're all a little less lonely.By Prasanta Verma1 Chapters 00:00 Exploring Ethnic Identity and Loneliness 03:09 The Consequences of Assimilation 24:26 Exploring Ethnic Loneliness and Social Disconnection 32:45 The Power of Storytelling and Empathy 36:57 The Role of Theater in Fostering Empathy and Understanding 42:18 Embracing Discomfort as an Invitation to Growth and Connection 44:52 BOTI Outro Video.mp4 --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/support

Grace E Kelley's website Grace's Substack Grace on IG Summary Grace E. Kelley, a farmer, mother, author, and poet, discusses her journey as a storyteller and the power of fiction. She shares how her desire for storytelling began at a young age and how she initially believed that fiction was not for her. However, she later discovered that fiction provided a healing outlet for processing her emotions and experiences. Grace emphasizes that fiction allows for the exploration of deep feelings and questions in a safe and fictional setting. She also highlights the importance of fiction in engaging audiences at a soul level and fostering authentic community. The conversation explores the themes of healthy relationships, the human act of sex, the connection between femininity and spirituality, and the beauty that can arise from destruction. The guests discuss how fiction, including romance novels, can provide a platform for discussing healthy relationships and consent. They also touch on the concept of purity culture and the need to unlearn shame surrounding sex. The conversation delves into the imagery of God as a breastfeeding mother and the connection between childbirth and the body of Jesus. The guests share excerpts from Grace E. Kelley's poetry book, 'As the Sparrow Flies,' which explore these themes. In this conversation, Grace E. Kelley and Jon Pyle discuss the importance of art and imagination in Christian communication. They explore the fear of the non-literal and the stifling of the divine imagination. They also touch on the control and interpretation of scripture, the role of the Holy Spirit, and the joy of writing fiction. Grace shares her current project, a speculative dark romantic comedy called 'Just Drive.' Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Grace's Background 01:44 Discovering the Desire for Storytelling 02:57 The Healing Power of Fiction 05:54 Engaging Audiences at a Soul Level 09:26 The Subversive and Revolutionary Nature of Women's Book Clubs 23:50 Exploring Healthy Relationships and Consent Through Fiction 25:13 Unlearning Shame: Challenging Purity Culture 28:57 The Connection Between Femininity and Spirituality 32:03 Finding Beauty in Destruction: Childbirth and the Body of Jesus 38:06 The Power of Poetry: Capturing Complex Emotions and Experiences 44:30 The Role of Art and Imagination 47:58 Overcoming the Fear of the Non-Literal 49:27 Trusting the Holy Spirit in Interpretation 57:54 The Joy of Writing Fiction --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/support

Summary Haley Hampton, a student at Bright Divinity School, shares her journey of pursuing community care and pastoral care. She discusses her background in food service and how it taught her about vulnerability and caring for others. Haley emphasizes the importance of being present with people and creating spaces where they feel seen and cared for. She also highlights the need to deconstruct and redefine church systems to prioritize redemptive community and soul care. Haley encourages individuals to invite others into their lives and be willing to be vulnerable, as this is where transformative relationships and community are formed. In this conversation, Haley Hampton and Jon Pyle discuss the importance of integrating faith into all aspects of life and the harm that can come from separating one's faith from their everyday existence. Haley shares her personal experience of feeling like she didn't fit in the church system and how she found healing and acceptance in a community that allowed her to be her authentic self. They also explore the concept of redemption and the tension between the already and not yet of the Kingdom of God. Haley emphasizes the importance of community care and the power of walking with others through their struggles. Keywords community care, pastoral care, food service, vulnerability, church systems, redemptive community, soul care, faith, integration, church, community, healing, acceptance, redemption, Kingdom of God, community care Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 03:09 Discovering the Call to Community Care 08:21 The Impact of Church Experiences on Identity 13:49 The Role of Food Service in Building Community 24:17 Caring for the Soul and Redefining Identity 27:47 Changing Spaces and Cultivating Redemptive Community 32:06 Introduction 32:14 Losing One's Soul: Separating the Spirit of God 36:46 Finding Healing and Acceptance in a Caring Community 38:30 Embracing Doubt and Wrestling with Faith 46:34 The Ongoing Process of Redemption and Resurrection 49:11 Finding Joy in the Midst of Difficult Seasons 57:24 Conclusion 01:00:18 BOTI Outro Video.mp4 --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/support

In light of the attempted assassination of President Trump, I wanted to share this incredibly prescient conversation I had with Michael Wear, the Founder, President and CEO of the Center for Christianity and Public Life. The organization is a nonpartisan, nonprofit institution based in the nation's capital with the mission to contend for the credibility of Christian resources in public life, for the public good. We had this conversation back in February, but I really think it's important to share now. This act of (political) violence has left a lot of us shaken and a uneasy. Some even may be afraid. And I understand why. This is scary stuff. It feels like the country is teetering on the brink of potential disaster. I also feel many of the harmful divisions deepening. It's insane we have to say this but: No candidate, no matter how we feel about them, should be murdered. They shouldn't be subject to any violence, or even the threat of violence. That's not the vision of America. While violence is (unfortunately) part of our country's history, and perhaps even our DNA, our government is designed for the peaceful transition of power. And we've done a pretty good job of that since 1776. That is an anomaly and absolutely, 100% worth protecting. So how should followers of Jesus “do politics” going forward? What can we do to make this partisan divide better? Michael gives us a great vision in his conversation and his book The Spirit of Our Politics. Buy his book wherever books are sold, and check Michael out at his website. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/support

I met Daniel Yang at a San Antonio Church Planting event and had the pleasure of driving him to the airport. He shared so much insight and wisdom in our time together that I truly appreciated. Then Daniel invited my good friend Humbie Cervera to a wonderful conference about the future of the church and I got to tag along! It was mind-blowing. Now, Daniel works for World Relief overseeing their Churches of Welcome Initiative. You can find him on socials too. I appreciate Daniel taking some time to chat with me about what he's doing and what it means for us. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/support

Find Sandy at the Glean Network. Check out the Korean Queer & Transgender National Network Summary In this conversation, Jon Pyle and Sandy Hong discuss the concept of spiritual entrepreneurship and the work of the Glean Network. Sandy explains that spiritual entrepreneurship is about creating impact aligned with faith and values, and it can take many forms, such as asset redevelopment, deepening local missions, and connecting with community organizations. They also discuss the importance of bringing soul to work and the formation process that occurs in different environments. Sandy shares his own spiritual journey and the challenges and joys of embracing his multiple identities. He encourages others to question and explore their own paths, while finding support and affirmation from others. In this conversation, Jon and Sandy discuss the importance of community and the limitations of labels. They explore the need for open dialogue and understanding across different identities and experiences. Sandy emphasizes the significance of context and relationship in forming deep connections and meaningful conversations. They also touch on the challenges of navigating family dynamics and the joy of reimagining what family means. Overall, the conversation highlights the power of empathy, kindness, and embracing complexity. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Connection 00:59 Introduction to the Glean Network 02:32 Defining Spiritual Entrepreneurship 03:48 Challenges in Traditional Religious Institutions 05:34 Different Approaches to Spiritual Entrepreneurship 06:29 Exploring the Shape of Community and Faith 08:26 Design Thinking and Empathy in Spiritual Entrepreneurship 09:40 The Formation Process in Work and Life 11:34 The Importance of Formation in Every Space 13:00 Understanding Identity and Belonging 14:08 Sandy's Spiritual Journey and Multiple Belongings 17:02 Rooting into Diasporic Context 18:43 The Changing Landscape of Korean American Culture 19:38 The Importance of Context in Identity 21:16 Encouragement for Those Questioning Their Belonging 23:38 Navigating Labels and Discourse 25:37 The Importance of Relationship and Community 28:06 Moving Beyond Labels and Universal Rules 30:20 The Tension of Identity and Context 32:38 Navigating Labels and Context in Discourse 34:10 The Importance of Relationship in Formation 35:15 Resistance to the Conveyor Belt 36:39 Creating Authentic Connections 37:57 The Importance of Empathy 38:21 Music and Joy 40:14 Reimagining Family 41:36 Navigating Relationships with Aging Family Members 42:33 Letting Go of Ideals 43:08 The Joy of Podcasting 44:00 Building Networks for Equality and Liberation 44:16 BOTI Outro Video.mp4 --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/support

Find Richard Clark at Area Code Audio, where you should visit before you start your own podcast. And you can check out his current podcast Area Code Batavia. Tweet at him! Summary In this conversation, Jon Pyle interviews Richard Clark, the proprietor of Area Code Audio, about the importance of active listening and understanding the lived experiences of others. Richard shares his journey of empathy and how podcasting has allowed him to facilitate connection and help people connect with others. He emphasizes that love is more important than theology and discusses the need for inclusivity and diverse perspectives in Christian spaces. Richard also talks about the challenges of certainty in Christian culture and the importance of listening and empathy in fostering understanding and love. The conversation explores different approaches to reporting and opinion pieces, highlighting the importance of giving people a sense of humanity and understanding. It discusses the need to move from critique to creation and the value of movies in understanding different perspectives. The conversation ends with a playful discussion about musical influences and what brings joy to both participants. Keywords active listening, understanding, empathy, connection, love, theology, inclusivity, diverse perspectives, certainty, Christian culture, reporting, opinion pieces, humanity, understanding, critique, creation, movies, perspectives, joy Takeaways Active listening is important in Christian spaces to foster understanding, empathy, and love. Love is more important than theology. Inclusivity and diverse perspectives are crucial in Christian spaces. Certainty in Christian culture can hinder listening and empathy. Podcasting can be a powerful medium for facilitating connection and understanding. Different approaches to reporting and opinion pieces can provide valuable insights and lived experiences. Opinion pieces that focus on maintaining the status quo can be damaging and paternalistic. Acknowledging and appreciating the humanity of individuals is important in fostering understanding. Moving from critique to creation allows for positive change and growth. Movies can serve as a medium for understanding different perspectives and experiences. Finding joy in cultural experiences, such as video games and movies, can bring fulfillment. Chapters 00:00 Introduction 00:54 Introducing Richard Clark 04:08 The Importance of Active Listening 05:01 Richard's Background at Christianity Today 06:38 Richard's Career Journey 07:56 The Importance of Active Listening in Christian Spaces 10:57 The Impact of Active Listening 14:27 Richard's Story of Active Listening 21:48 The Certainty in Christian Culture and the Lack of Listening 22:52 Richard's Experience at Christianity Today 24:21 Different Approaches to Reporting and Opinion Pieces 25:12 The Pitfalls of Opinion Columns 26:09 The Importance of Giving People a Fair Say 27:05 The Need for Genuine Empathy 27:47 The Complexity of Orthodoxy in Evangelicalism 29:01 Moving from Critique to Creation 30:04 The Value of Movies in Understanding Different Perspectives 31:00 The Trap of Looping Arguments 31:56 Modeling Vulnerability in Conversations 32:42 The Joy of Creating and Exploring Year-End Movies 35:59 Musical Influence: Drake 37:05 Non-Judgment Zone of Joy 38:25 Year-End Video Games and Movies 43:03 Movies as a Text for Understanding Perspectives 43:44 The Value of Empathy in Movies 44:52 Closing Remarks 45:07 BOTI Outro Video.mp4 --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/support

Lark Kelsey is an absolute gem. You may know here as Lark Theosis on social media platforms. Lark is incredibly insightful about a host of things, particularly when it comes to soul care. She is an insanely wise theologian and ministry practitioner. Through Lark's own journey and her extensive study, she drops some serious knowledge here. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/support

BUY JENAI's BOOK! Click the link or purchase a copy wherever you buy books. And you can find more of her stuff on her website and the Othered Substack: https://jenaiauman.substack.com/ Everyone knows what it feels like to be “othered”. As Jenai unpacks in our conversation, “othered” is a very provocative word that evokes some kind of emotion in us. While her experience is based primarily on being Filipina-American woman in predominantly white male spaces, there are countless ways to be othered: how much money we make, our hairstyle, the clothes we wear, our education, our faith, the books we read, our values, where we live, what we eat for lunch… the list goes on and on. When have you been othered? What did it feel like? As followers of Jesus, we cannot lose sight of creating community and belonging in diversity, not forced conformity. We represent a faith that encompasses an incredibly wide swath of humanity from every continent and nearly every country on the globe. Christianity is weird and eclectic. Let's embrace that weirdness as a way to include everyone. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/support

You can buy Sarah's book The Way of Belonging, visit her website or subscribe to Sarah on Substack: https://sarahewestfall.substack.com/ Summary The conversation is about soul care in the digital age and the importance of belonging. The guest, Sarah E. Westfall, discusses her book 'The Way of Belonging' and how belonging is about being rooted in who we are and embracing the love of God. She emphasizes the importance of being known and seen for who we are and not trying to fit in or change ourselves to belong. The conversation also touches on the challenges of belonging, the fear of rejection, and the need for genuine curiosity and attentiveness in relationships. The conversation explores the impact of withholding and the importance of vulnerability in relationships. It emphasizes the need for reciprocal relationships and the freedom that comes from expressing oneself and being met with kindness and acceptance. The discussion also touches on the distinction between isolation and loneliness, and the longing for belonging as a natural and good desire. It highlights the resilience that comes from experiencing deep pain and the importance of embracing one's true self. The conversation concludes with a discussion on finding joy in the work one was created to do. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/support

This is where you can find my wonderful guests! They are incredible people. Liz Daye- linktr.ee/Lizadaye, https://www.threads.net/@lizadaye Dianne Garcia- rocaderefugiosatx.org Amy Ickes- https://www.threads.net/@aymiejoi Chris Lee- https://www.threads.net/@chrisj.lee Summary In this conversation, Jon Pyle and his guests discuss the spiritual discipline of service. They explore topics such as finding the right fit for serving, the tension between individualistic and collectivist approaches to service, and the importance of serving without expectations. They also touch on the challenges of serving in the disability community and the need for leaders to create spaces where people feel welcome and loved. In this part of the conversation, the speakers discuss the tension between serving and receiving in the church. They talk about the importance of allowing people to receive and be served, as well as the need for balance and rest. They also highlight the negative effects of consumer-driven church culture and the pressure to constantly be serving. The speakers emphasize the need for leaders to listen to the needs and whispers of their congregation and create a healthy culture that encourages people to serve in a healthy and whole way. They also discuss the importance of subverting expectations and being present to the needs of the community. The conversation explores the concept of service within the context of the church and beyond. It touches on the importance of recognizing the humanity of others and meeting their needs, the subversive nature of Christianity, and the need to reframe spiritual disciplines as communal experiences. The speakers also discuss the role of personal relationship with Jesus in American Christianity, the need for balance and rest in service, and the importance of developing a posture of service that allows for both giving and receiving. Takeaways Finding the right fit for serving involves starting somewhere, even if it's a small task, and being open to trying new things. Service should be rooted in joy and passion, but there are also times when we need to do things that make us uncomfortable or that simply need to be done. In collectivist communities, there can be pressure to serve and expectations that everyone should contribute. However, it's important to create spaces where people feel welcome and loved, regardless of their ability to serve. Leaders should be mindful of not pigeonholing people and should take the time to get to know individuals and their passions and gifts. Service is a deeply human act that can transform both the giver and the receiver, and it should be done with abundant generosity and without expectations. There is a tension between serving and receiving in the church, and it is important to allow people to receive and be served. Balance and rest are crucial in the context of serving and being served. Consumer-driven church culture can be detrimental, and there is a need to create a healthy culture that encourages people to serve in a healthy and whole way. Leaders should listen to the needs and whispers of their congregation and be present to their needs. Subverting expectations and being aware of the needs of the community are important in creating a healthy church culture. Service starts with recognizing the humanity of others and meeting their needs. Christianity is subversive and pushes against our worst impulses as humans. Spiritual disciplines should be reframed as communal experiences. The focus on personal relationship with Jesus in American Christianity has influenced the idea of individual spirituality rather than community. Leaders in the church should set an example of balanced service, rest, and grace. Developing a posture of service allows for both giving and receiving. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/support

Summary In this conversation, Jon Pyle discusses the importance of spiritual disciplines, specifically the discipline of service. He emphasizes that spiritual disciplines help us thrive and become more like Jesus. Pyle explains that willpower is a limited resource and that disciplines can help us overcome our lack of willpower. He encourages listeners to develop the spiritual discipline of serving others, as it not only benefits them but also brings blessings into their own lives. Pyle provides practical examples of how to serve in various areas of life, such as marriage, workplace, and community. Keywords: spiritual disciplines, service, willpower, thrive, become like Jesus, limited resource, overcome, blessings Takeaways Spiritual disciplines help us thrive and become more like Jesus. Willpower is a limited resource, and disciplines can help us overcome our lack of willpower. The spiritual discipline of service benefits both others and ourselves, bringing blessings into our lives. Serving others can be practiced in various areas of life, such as marriage, workplace, and community. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/support

Find Josh & Megan's work at Future of Faith! Summary Dr. Josh Packard and Master Megan Bissell discuss the future of faith and their work as sociologists. They emphasize the importance of applied sociology and doing work that is useful, not just interesting. They talk about how they became a team and their journey from academia to founding the Springtide Research Institute. They highlight the need for sacred listening and treating every conversation as meaningful. They also discuss the importance of relationship and understanding the spiritual practices of young people. The conversation explores the importance of understanding and guiding young people in their spiritual journeys. It highlights the need for parents and adults to have curiosity and empathy when engaging with young people's spirituality. The conversation emphasizes the role of adults as guides rather than authorities, allowing young people to explore and find their own answers. It also encourages parents to take notes and track their children's spiritual growth over time. The conversation concludes with a reminder that adults don't have to have all the answers and can rely on the Holy Spirit to guide the process. Keywords future of faith, sociology, applied sociology, sacred listening, relationship, spiritual practices, young people, spirituality, young people, guidance, curiosity, empathy, exploration, parents, adults, notes, growth, Holy Spirit Takeaways Applied sociology focuses on doing work that is useful, not just interesting. Sacred listening is treating every conversation as meaningful and finding deep listening as a sacred practice. Relationships are crucial in understanding the spiritual practices of young people. Young people are repackaging faith practices and finding spiritual moments in nature and other ways. Understanding the language and experiences of young people is essential in helping them develop meaningful faith practices. Parents and adults should approach young people's spirituality with curiosity and empathy. Adults should act as guides rather than authorities, allowing young people to explore and find their own answers. Taking notes and tracking a young person's spiritual growth over time can be valuable. Adults don't have to have all the answers and can rely on the Holy Spirit to guide the process. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/support

Tim Sweetman is a freaking radical dude. You can find all his stuff at his website: TimSweetman.com. It's also worth checking out Tension, his Substack newsletter. Continue this conversation on our Facebook Group (⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/betterontheinside⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠) Please rate and leave a 5-star review on the Podcast app of your choice! --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/support

You can find ⁠Pastor Trey on his website⁠. https://www.pastortrey05.com/ Buy his book ⁠Theologizin' Bigger on Amazon⁠. Continue this conversation on our Facebook Group (⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/betterontheinside⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠) Please rate and leave a 5-star review on the Podcast app of your choice! --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/support

You can find Pastor Trey on his website. https://www.pastortrey05.com/ Buy his book Theologizin' Bigger on Amazon. Summary The conversation explores the idea that humans have limited their potential by creating their own image of God. This self-constructed version of God has corrupted our understanding and hindered our growth. The speakers discuss the need to embrace the true nature of God and strive to become the best version of ourselves. Keywords aspiring, constructed, hamstrung, capacity, best, limited, eternal, other worldly, incorruptible, God, corrupted, imaginations, potential, understanding, growth Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Self-Introduction 50:28 Defining Identity and Roles 52:28 The Impetus for Writing 53:42 Choosing a Non-Traditional Publishing Route 55:28 Building a Non-Traditional Audience 56:51 Making God Smaller 59:21 The Message of the Book 01:00:54 Why We Make God Smaller 01:05:26 Expanding Our Understanding of God 01:11:04 Avoiding Blasphemy of the Holy Spirit 01:12:21 The Expanding Universe and God's Not Yet 01:14:35 Broadening Love and Avoiding Confinement 01:16:21 Idolatry and Shaping Ourselves 01:17:39 Introduction 01:21:56 BOTI Outro Video.mp4 Continue this conversation on our Facebook Group (⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/betterontheinside⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠) Please rate and leave a 5-star review on the Podcast app of your choice! Transition music: Lundstroem - Jazz lounge sofa & couch.mp3 (https://freemusicarchive.org/) --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/support

You can find Dianne on ⁠Instagram⁠ and ⁠her church here.⁠ ⁠rocaderefugiosatx.org⁠ AI Summary Summary In this conversation, Jon Pyle interviews Dianne Garcia, the pastor and church planter of Iglesia Cristiana Roca de Refugio, a church for immigrant families in San Antonio. Dianne shares her experience of starting a church that is led by and serves immigrant families. They discuss the importance of forming personal relationships with immigrants and the misconceptions surrounding immigration. The conversation highlights the need for churches and individuals to support immigrants in a way that truly helps and empowers them. Keywords church, immigrant families, church planting, community, relationships, support, misconceptions, empowerment Chapters 00:00 Personal Connections and Changing Perspectives 07:02 Impact on the Soul through Engaging with Immigrants 08:40 Finding Meaning and Impact 09:24 The Challenge of Helping Many 09:54 The Most Meaningful Thing 10:36 Passion Rooted in Suffering 11:35 Moving Beyond Charity 12:30 Compassionate Relationship vs. Charity 13:21 Transformation through Suffering 14:17 Vulnerability and Empathy 15:16 The Impact on the Soul 16:01 Help that Hurts 17:12 The Danger of Dehumanization 18:08 Moving Beyond Transactional Help 19:41 Creating Safety, Narrative Change, and Empowerment 21:02 Seeking Sanctuary and Changing Narratives 22:29 Providing Emotional and Spiritual Sanctuary 25:08 The Emotional Journey of Asylum Seekers 26:01 Finding Joy in Watching Baby Chicks 27:52 Where to Find Diane 33:52 BOTI Outro Video.mp4 --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/support

You can find Dianne on Instagram and her church here. rocaderefugiosatx.org AI Summary In this conversation, Jon Pyle and Dianne Garcia discuss the importance of treating immigrants with love, dignity, and respect. Dianne shares her experience as the pastor of a church that serves immigrant families and asylum seekers in San Antonio. They talk about the different categories of immigrants, the challenges they face, and the fear and uncertainty they live with. They also discuss the political and partisan aspects of immigration and the pushback Dianne receives for her work. The conversation highlights the need for a more humane and compassionate approach to immigration. Keywords immigration, immigrants, asylum seekers, church, love, dignity, respect, fear, uncertainty, political, partisan, pushback, humane, compassionate --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/support

New Episode coming early next week. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/support

Find ⁠Kadi Cole at her website⁠ and on ⁠social media⁠. She also has some INSANELY cool resources on here ⁠LinkTree⁠. https://linktr.ee/kadicole --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/support

Find Kadi Cole at her website and on social media. She also has some INSANELY cool resources on here LinkTree. https://linktr.ee/kadicole If you're not in full time ministry (90+% of people) what does it look like to fully engage your calling? That's one of the big questions Kadi is here to address and she does an amazing job guiding us to a fulfilling life at home, in church and at work. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/support

Summary In this conversation, Jon Pyle and Riana Shaw Robinson discuss the challenges faced by women and people of color in the church. They talk about the transactional nature of the church and the pressure to compromise one's identity for belonging. Riana shares her experience of being a co-creator with God and the importance of patience in birthing something new. They also discuss the need for non-conventional communities that cater to specific groups and the tension that arises from that. Riana emphasizes the importance of listening to and receiving the stories of others with gratitude. In this conversation, Riana Shaw Robinson discusses the importance of creating safe spaces for marginalized communities and the power of community support. She shares her experiences at Miriam's Song, a church community that welcomes and uplifts women of color. Riana emphasizes the need for inclusivity and acceptance in religious spaces, challenging traditional boundaries and hierarchies. She also highlights the significance of self-care and joy in the midst of challenging times. Overall, the conversation highlights the transformative power of community and the importance of creating spaces where everyone feels seen, held, and loved. Takeaways The church can be transactional and often pressures individuals to compromise their identity for belonging. The Holy Spirit is creative and invites individuals to co-create something new with God. Non-conventional communities that cater to specific groups can provide a sense of belonging and empowerment. It is important to listen to and receive the stories of others with gratitude. Creating safe spaces for marginalized communities is essential for their well-being and flourishing. Inclusivity and acceptance should be prioritized in religious spaces, challenging traditional boundaries and hierarchies. Self-care and joy are important for maintaining resilience and finding strength in challenging times. Community support and affirmation are transformative and can help individuals feel seen, held, and loved. Chapters 00:00 The Struggle of Women of Color in Church Spaces 01:33 Transactional Relationships in Church 03:01 Identity and Belonging 03:57 Navigating Progressive Spaces 04:50 Challenging Traditional Christianity 05:30 Receiving Others' Stories 06:36 Creating Inclusive Spaces 07:35 Listening and Learning 08:39 Accepting Truths 09:29 Unconventional Approaches 10:47 Creating Safe Spaces 11:46 The Importance of Boundaries 12:28 Trusting God's Guidance 14:08 The Power of Women's Gatherings 14:39 Unconventional as Conventional 15:37 Creating Safe Spaces for Marginalized Communities 16:40 Finding Joy in Sunshine 23:31 Supporting Miriam's Song 26:53 Outro Video.mp4 --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/support

Rev. Riana Shaw Robinson can be found on INSTAGRAM! Check out Miriam's Song Church. This was a challenging conversation. In a good way. Riana Shaw Robinson birthed a new expression of church for Women of Color called Miriam's Song, and it challenges a lot of assumptions about church, women, Jesus and life in general. I loved chatting with Riana, and I think it'll be beneficial for you too. Continue this conversation on our Facebook Group (⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/betterontheinside⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠) Please rate and leave a 5-star review on the Podcast app of your choice! Transition music: Lundstroem - Jazz lounge sofa & couch.mp3 (https://freemusicarchive.org/) --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/support

Leah Wrenne is a singer-songwriter, worship leader, theologian, philosopher, mental health advocate, Philly Girl, and an absolute boss. ⁠Check her out on IG⁠ and ⁠hit up her Linktree!⁠ Segment 1 What's up y'all!?!? Great to see you again.  We're back for Part 2 with Leah Wrenne… and let me tell you… it's worth the wait. We ended on a bit of a cliffhanger talking about mental health. This time we dive right in to two communities that historically struggle with mental health care: the church community and the black community. Leah sits in the middle of both, and she shares about her experience.  Segment 2 When you're struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, fear, and more, how the community responds to you is critical to your care. If that's you, please check out your local resources. But if you have no place to go, we'd love to help. Next Leah digs in and we talk about rest. Looking back, I feel like I talked a little more than I would've liked to because I'd prefer to let Leah cook a little more. She has some wonderful insights about what It means to really rest and why that matters. Rest is a soul level issue. I want to be clear on that. It's so much more than physical or emotional… rest is spiritual.  Segment 3 The Non-Judgment Zone of Joy with an actual singer! Yipes. Continue this conversation on our Facebook Group (⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/betterontheinside⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠) Please rate and leave a 5-star review on the Podcast app of your choice! Transition music: Lundstroem - Jazz lounge sofa & couch.mp3 (https://freemusicarchive.org/) --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/support

Leah Wrenne is a singer-songwriter, worship leader, theologian, philosopher, mental health advocate, Philly Girl, and an absolute boss. Check her out on IG and hit up her Linktree! Music truly connects with our souls. On a deep level, often in ways we don't quite understand. In that way, music is a mystery. Leah Wrenne is someone who speaks wisely and empathically about that mystery. and I talk about the role of music in her life, when she started writing songs and her Family Country Duo. She also reflects on her mental health and the role music has played. Continue this conversation on our Facebook Group (⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/betterontheinside⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠) Please rate and leave a 5-star review on the Podcast app of your choice! --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/support

Check out ⁠Liz on Substack⁠. You can find her ⁠on LinkTree⁠ too. Join ⁠Threaded (Kate's Bible Studies)⁠, check out ⁠her website⁠ and her ⁠new awesome non-profit The Remembered Table⁠. For those deconstructing or struggling with Scripture, the start of this podcast will be a breath of fresh air. You don't have to keep reading The Bible the same way... there are different perspectives! We also talk about how churches use incomplete measurements of spiritual growth because of the focus on quantitative metrics like butts, budgets and baptisms. And Liz ends dropping some serious truth about how the church treats families with disabilities and it is truly incredible. Join us in this conversation with ⁠Kate Boyd⁠ and ⁠Liz Daye⁠. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/support

Check out Liz on Substack. You can find her on LinkTree too. Join Threaded (Kate's Bible Studies), check out her website and her new awesome non-profit The Remembered Table. Many folks have a complicated relationship with Scripture. Especially if religious leaders have quoted verses to shame or manipulate you. Other people have struggled making sense of The Bible, which I understand because it is an ancient religious text made up of multiple books, many genres and styles, written over thousands of years in at least 3 languages. Either way, Scripture can be a major source of stress for people of faith. But what if it wasn't a struggle? What if it could be something that fed your soul? Join us as I dig into these questions with Kate Boyd and Liz Daye. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/support

Part 2 Segment 1  What's up, y'all? You're about to hear Part 2 with Seth Kaplan, who wrote the book Fragile Neighborhoods. And my brother Seth knocks it out of the park. In our last episode, Dr. Kaplan introduced us to the idea of why our places, work, home, schools and other institutions, matter so much to the quality of our lives. Over the last generation in America, we've experienced social decay. This is the thinning of relationships and a growing sense of isolation and loneliness. This isn't an opinion, either. Every survey and study confirms this reality. You probably feel it too. Like we don't have as many dependable, anxiety-absorbing institutions as we used to. Like it's getting harder and harder to connect with people, even people we already know. We're in a prosperous and generally stable country, but we're decaying from the inside out from lack of healthy relationships and communities. In Part 1, Seth left some insight as to how we can make that better in our own neighborhoods. In Part 2, we talk about the role the church can play in restoring and healing our communities. Part of what I really love about this is that Seth is Jewish. He's not a church insider, but rather a sociologist who has recommendations based on his research. He doesn't really have a dog in the fight, nor does he have an ax to grind. Dr. Kaplan is as unbiased as you are liable to get to talk about the future of the church. Listen to what he has to say. Segment 2  I think Dr. Kaplan shares a worthwhile challenge for the church. There was a question I heard at a conference awhile ago that I think applies: “If your church left your community, would anyone besides your congregation notice?” That boils down to impact. If your church is having a positive impact on your community, people would miss it. And I think Seth is encouraging us to be deeply embedded in the local fabric of our neighborhoods. If you want to make a difference in your community, thickening relationships will be massive. He believes it so strongly, when I asked him if he wanted to share anything else, he wanted to address church leaders. Segment 3 Can you feel that fire? Dr. Kaplan was preaching. Don't just hear his words, I challenge you to put them into action. How can you make your “place”, neighborhood, school, college, workplace, church, or other organization, stronger. How can you forge thick relationships that enrich the fabric of people's lives? At last we've come to the Non-Judgment Zone of Joy. This one is different… Segment 4 Y'all…I think we have a lot to work on. What Seth and I talked about is a curious kind of solution to social decay. In one sense, we can make it better right away. And the ownership is in our hands. We're not waiting for the powers that be to change something. In another sense, it feels a little daunting because we're fighting against the design of modern America. Because the systems and processes and architecture that disconnect us from one another is the result of choices people have made. That can be kind of overwhelming. But anything done, can be undone. We have a chance to reinvigorate our communities with thick relationships to one another. And progress may be slow… but it's worth it. Buy Seth's book: Fragile Neighborhoods. It's a great read. And I'll see y'all next time. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/support

Seth Kaplan Part 1 Segment 1 What's up, y'all? I'm so pumped to be back. This week we have a real humdinger of an episode, talking about something that you might not think about, but affects you every single day: place.  Our guest today is Seth Kaplan, who wrote the book Fragile Neighborhoods. He's an expert on fragile states but took his knowledge and expertise that is usually applied to volatile nations and examined the social decay in modern America.  Place is a concept we think about a lot on some level and NEVER on another. Like, we consider where we are and where we want to go pretty often. Probably on a daily basis. But we rarely consider how our environments: homes, workplaces, schools, parks, common spaces and churches, shape our relationships. Whether we know it or not, we are profoundly impacted by the design of where we live, work, eat, shop, and worship. And that design has changed dramatically over the last few decades… whether it's good for us or not. Listen to Seth talk about this. Segment 2 I really enjoyed talking to my dude, Seth. We joked around that we practically recorded an entire podcast before I hit record. I definitely want to talk to him again. In his book, Seth spends a lot of time talking about the difference between place-based community and network-based community. He'll define it well in this segment, but it's important to note that network-based community is VERY new and has been enabled by technology. Up until very recently, all humans have been dramatically limited by our place. Our ancestors lived almost their entire lives in a bubble of a few miles. Think about that! Even our grandparents were constrained by where they happened to be born. But, that's not the world our kids live in now. And that matters. How? Listen to Seth. Segment 3 I love the concept of THICK and THIN relationships. That's really good terminology for us to adopt that I think could bring more clarity to how we define community. I know that it's MUCH easier to have a lot of THIN relationships than even just a few THICK ones. That's something to think about this week. Part 2 drops next week, where Seth and I dive deeper into the role churches and places of worship can play in healthy community.  In the meantime, pick up his book Fragile Neighborhoods by Seth Kaplan wherever books are sold. Love y'all and I'll see you next week! --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/support

Find Traci ⁠on her website⁠ and subscribe to her to her newsletter. You can also follow her on ⁠Twitter⁠ or ⁠Instagram⁠. Summary In this conversation, Traci and Jon discuss the busyness of modern life and the need to simplify. They explore the importance of embracing different traditions and perspectives, even those from outside the church. They also discuss overcoming negative experiences with church and finding what works for each individual. They emphasize the importance of respecting different church traditions and appreciating different ways of experiencing Jesus. Finally, they share their joy in routine and the fall season. Takeaways Modern life is busy and cluttered, making it important to simplify and find moments of stillness. Embracing different traditions and perspectives can enrich our understanding of faith and spirituality. Negative experiences with church should not deter us from exploring different expressions of worship. Respecting and appreciating different church traditions allows for a more inclusive and diverse faith community. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/support

Find Traci on her website and subscribe to her to her newsletter. You can also follow her on Twitter or Instagram. Summary In this conversation, Traci and Jon discuss the busyness of modern life and the need to simplify. They explore the importance of embracing different traditions and perspectives, even those from outside the church. They also discuss overcoming negative experiences with church and finding what works for each individual. They emphasize the importance of respecting different church traditions and appreciating different ways of experiencing Jesus. Finally, they share their joy in routine and the fall season. Takeaways Modern life is busy and cluttered, making it important to simplify and find moments of stillness. Embracing different traditions and perspectives can enrich our understanding of faith and spirituality. Negative experiences with church should not deter us from exploring different expressions of worship. Respecting and appreciating different church traditions allows for a more inclusive and diverse faith community. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/support

In this episode, host Jon Pyle discusses the purpose of the podcast and the shift back to its original focus on soul care. He highlights the importance of soul care in the digital age and the need for transformation from the inside out. Jon emphasizes that churches should be spiritual places and calls for a shift from behavior modification to true transformation. He explores the impact of the church industrial complex and the value of the soul. Jon invites listeners to join him on a journey of becoming better on the inside and caring for their souls. Takeaways Soul care is essential in the digital age and requires a focus on transformation from the inside out. Churches should be spiritual places that prioritize love and the well-being of souls. True transformation comes from internal work and the power of the Holy Spirit. Taking responsibility for healing and growth is necessary for a flourishing life. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Purpose of the Podcast 03:02 The Church Industrial Complex and Soul Care 07:19 Transformation from the Inside Out 10:32 Soul Care and Becoming Better on the Inside 14:23 The Journey of Transformation 17:00 The Church's Lack of Love 19:21 The Impact of the Digital Age on Souls 21:48 The Value of the Soul and the Need for Soul Care 25:38 Taking Responsibility for Healing and Growth 28:01 Gratitude for the Community and Future Plans --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/support

As a Pastor who suffers from significant depression and anxiety, I NEEDED to preach a different kind of sermon about Philippians 4:6-8. So, I preached the sermon I always wanted to hear. I hope this message is helpful for you too! Continue this conversation on our Substack (⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://beyondsunday.substack.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠) and our Facebook Group (⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/betterontheinside⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠) Please rate and leave a 5-star review on the Podcast app of your choice! --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/support

In honor of this spooky season, Dr. Laura Robinson and I sit down and unpack what is often considered the scariest movie of all time... THE EXORCIST. It is Dr. Robinson's favorite scary movie, and you can tell immediately because her passion for it shows in this episode. The Exorcist is definitely one of my Horror Mount Rushmore picks and what I believe to be THE BEST CHRISTIAN MOVIE OF ALL TIME! (hot take alert) This movie didn't just change horror movies, it changed movies and had a profound impact on society at large. We talk about key themes, great scenes, Priests as heroes, how gross and disgusting the special FX are, the novel, William Peter Blatty, The Exorcist: Believer, and how it even influenced the Satanic Panic of the 80's. While the goal may have been to scare the hell out of people, Blatty & Director William Friedkin may just have scared the hell into us. Follow her on Twitter: ⁠https://twitter.com/LauraRbnsn⁠ Subscribe to her ⁠Substack⁠, where she's posting great stuff including a deep dive on Operation Underground Railroad: ⁠https://laurarbnsn.substack.com/⁠ Continue this conversation on our Substack (⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://beyondsunday.substack.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠) and our Facebook Group (⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/betterontheinside⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠) Please rate and leave a 5-star review on the Podcast app of your choice! --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/support

Rey De Armas is an incredible dude who left vocational ministry to pursue a completely different kind of ministry and find a sense of purpose. Rediscovering a passion from his Pre-Med days to help people through medicine, Rey totally shifted the course of his life and is investing directly in the common good of his community. You love to see it! Continue this conversation on our Substack (⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://beyondsunday.substack.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠) and our Facebook Group (⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/betterontheinside⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠) Please rate and leave a 5-star review on the Podcast app of your choice! --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/support

Dr. Laura Robinson is an absolute pop culture and theological genius. I've been trying to get her on the podcast for a LONG TIME and we finally made it happen. (We recorded this episode in April, so things have changed since then.) Hopefully we'll get a chance to deep dive a movie soon. In this episode, we journey through a number of movies, books and TV shows (House of the Dragon, Redeeming Love, Black Snake Moan and more) and how these stories tell us about God and ourselves. Laura's brain moves a million miles an hour and we both get super excited, so we move quickly through a number of subjects with tons of references and analogies. Buckle up! Follow her on Twitter: https://twitter.com/LauraRbnsn Subscribe to her Substack, where she's posting great stuff including a deep dive on Operation Underground Railroad: https://laurarbnsn.substack.com/ Continue this conversation on our Substack (⁠⁠⁠⁠https://beyondsunday.substack.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠) and our Facebook Group (⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/betterontheinside⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠) Please rate and leave a 5-star review on the Podcast app of your choice! --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/support

Kyle Burkholder is not an easy person to talk to if you like to be comfortable. He's very affable and kind but he will always challenge you to prioritize growth, health and contentment over the status quo. Our conversation touches on a variety of subjects but most importantly, what church actually looks like Beyond Sunday. Kyle's focus is HYPER LOCAL, which he defines in this episode, and he talks about what that reality looks like in his Ohio church. Honestly, I think we can all embrace this relationally-driven mentality. Check out his Substack here: https://kylejburkholder.substack.com/ Continue this conversation on our Substack (⁠⁠⁠https://beyondsunday.substack.com/⁠⁠⁠) and our Facebook Group (⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/betterontheinside⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠) Please rate and leave a 5-star review on the Podcast app of your choice! --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/support

Imagine yourself floating down the Frio River. It's a warm day but not nuclear hot like this summer has been. The water is cool, your tube is comfortable and your cooler is full (with Topo Chico or other beverages of choice). And 2 of your friends are philosophizing about suffering, art and a host of other topics... that's what this conversation with Nathan Perrin feels like. Nathan and I dig in around his spiritual journey and ending up as an Anabaptist-Quaker Pastor. We talking about the amazing healing powers of art, movies and writing to speak to our suffering and reflect on our pain. Nathan is also a fiction writer and a great storyteller, so I really delighted in this thoughtful and redemptive conversation. All of Nathan's Links: https://allmylinks.com/nperrin-writer# Nathan's Website: https://www.nathanperrinwriter.com/ Continue this conversation on our Substack (⁠⁠https://beyondsunday.substack.com/⁠⁠) and our Facebook Group (⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/betterontheinside⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠) Please rate and leave a 5-star review on the Podcast app of your choice! --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/support

*This episode description was generated with the help of ChatGPT* Would love to hear your feedback. In this episode, Justin takes us back to the origins of his agency, Nava Church Marketing. He recounts his journey of creating a proven roadmap to help churches gain prominence within their communities. With a decade of experience in freelance marketing, Justin developed strategies that elevated his clients' profiles, making some of them notable enough to have streets and neighborhoods named after them. Unconventional as it may sound, Justin's narrative unfolds, revealing how his agency's efforts resulted in a church being protected by a local gang due to the community's recognition of its positive impact. He shares anecdotes about charismatic churches and their unique presence in their neighborhoods, emphasizing the importance of reaching diverse audiences while maintaining the church's values. Justin's agency, Nava Church Marketing, specializes in utilizing a definitive church marketing method, revolutionizing how churches connect with their communities. By working closely with churches, his team offers services ranging from website development to online advertising. As the founder of the agency, Justin highlights the role of his team in fulfilling services while he ensures that churches receive the quality they deserve. While Justin acknowledges the profitability of serving businesses, his passion for church marketing stems from a deep conviction to help local churches thrive. His personal connection to churches and his belief in their potential to create meaningful impact drive his dedication to transforming churches into vital community pillars. Through his podcast, Justin aims to shed light on the challenges and triumphs of church marketing while offering invaluable insights into making churches better known within their communities. Join us as we explore his remarkable journey and learn from his expertise in church marketing. Continue this conversation on our Substack (⁠https://beyondsunday.substack.com/⁠) and our Facebook Group (⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/betterontheinside⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠) Please rate and leave a 5-star review on the Podcast app of your choice! --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/support