Faithful Politics

Have a comment? Send us a text! (We read all of them but can't reply). Email us: Will@faithfulpoliticspodcast.comWas America founded as a Christian nation? Warren Throckmorton joins Faithful Politics to unpack the historical myths behind that claim and explain why they still matter today. Drawing from his book The Christian Past That Wasn't, Warren walks through stories about Ben Franklin, the Constitutional Convention, Roger Williams, John Winthrop, David Barton, and the use of Christianity to justify everything from colonial conquest to slavery and Jim Crow. The conversation looks at how Christian nationalist history works, why it appeals to people, and why protecting church-state separation is one of the clearest ways to defend religious liberty for everyone.Resources MentionedThe Christian Past That Wasn't: Debunking the Christian Nationalist Myths That Hijack History by Warren Throckmorton: https://bookshop.org/a/112456/9798889835820Guest BioWarren Throckmorton is an author, speaker, and former psychology professor whose work focuses on the intersection of psychology, history, religion, and public life. He is the co-author of Getting Jefferson Right: Fact Checking Claims About Our Third President, which examines inaccurate claims about Thomas Jefferson and religious liberty. His latest book, The Christian Past That Wasn't: Debunking the Christian Nationalist Myths That Hijack History, challenges popular Christian nationalist narratives about America's founding by comparing those claims against primary historical sources. Throckmorton's work helps readers understand how myths about the past shape political identity, religious belief, and public policy.Support the show

Have a comment? Send us a text! (We read all of them but can't reply). Email us: Will@faithfulpoliticspodcast.comDavid Daley joins Faithful Politics to explain how gerrymandering, mid-decade redistricting, and recent Supreme Court decisions are reshaping the 2026 elections. The conversation covers Virginia's redistricting fight, the Supreme Court's decision in Louisiana v. Callais, the weakening of Section 2 of the Voting Rights Act, and the potential loss of Black political representation across the South. Daley also explains why noncompetitive districts fuel polarization and why reforms like proportional representation, multi-member districts, ranked choice voting, and the Fair Representation Act may be necessary to restore meaningful voter representation.https://fairvote.org/Guest bio:David Daley is a senior fellow at FairVote and a leading writer and commentator on gerrymandering, redistricting, voting rights, and democratic reform. He is the author of the national bestseller Ratf**ked: Why Your Vote Doesn't Count, which helped bring national attention to the modern strategy, technology, and political consequences of partisan gerrymandering. He is also the author of Unrigged: How Americans Are Battling Back to Save Democracy and Antidemocratic, which examines the Supreme Court, voting rights, and the long-term weakening of democratic protections. Daley's journalism and commentary have appeared in outlets including The New Yorker, The New York Times, The Atlantic, The Washington Post, Slate, The New Republic, CNN, MSNBC, and NPR. He previously served as editor-in-chief of Salon and has become one of the country's most prominent public voices on how redistricting shapes political power. Support the show

Have a comment? Send us a text! (We read all of them but can't reply). Email us: Will@faithfulpoliticspodcast.comIn this Faithful Politics POV episode, Will Wright and Pastor Josh Burtram examine the Trump administration's anti-Christian bias report and ask whether it proves real discrimination against Christians or mostly reframes policy disagreements as persecution. They discuss the FACE Act, the Richmond FBI memo involving traditionalist Catholics, IRS scrutiny of Christian nonprofits, vaccine exemptions, Liberty University fines, and the broader politics of religious liberty. The conversation is less about defending one administration and more about how Christians should evaluate evidence, resist easy outrage, and protect religious freedom without turning every conflict into persecution.Wait, We're the Oppressed Ones? Part Eight: https://faithfulpolitics.substack.com/p/wait-were-the-oppressed-ones-part-535?r=1bt7sxOur live POV episodes happen every 2nd Thursday. Support the show

Have a comment? Send us a text! (We read all of them but can't reply). Email us: Will@faithfulpoliticspodcast.comWhat did the Apostle Paul actually teach about heaven, resurrection, and the meaning of life on earth?Dr. Nijay Gupta joins Faithful Politics to talk about Paul, heaven, resurrection, and why Christian faith is not meant to function as an escape from the world. Drawing from his new book Paul for the World, Gupta explains how Paul's letters speak to ordinary life - friendship, work, suffering, grief, money, community, and hope. The conversation challenges the idea that the gospel is mainly about getting to heaven after death and instead presents Paul's vision of resurrection as a call to live faithfully in the world God intends to renew.Paul for the World: A Grounded Vision for Finding Meaning in This Life, Not Just the Next by Nijay K. Guptahttps://bakerpublishinggroup.com/products/9781540966926_paul-for-the-worldGuest BioDr. Nijay K. Gupta is the Julius R. Mantey Professor of New Testament at Northern Seminary, a senior translator for the New Living Translation, and cohost of the Slow Theology podcast. He is the author of numerous books on the New Testament and early Christianity, including Tell Her Story, Strange Religion, and Paul for the World: A Grounded Vision for Finding Meaning in This Life, Not Just the Next. His work focuses on helping readers understand Scripture in its historical, theological, and practical context.Support the show

Have a comment? Send us a text! (We read all of them but can't reply). Email us: Will@faithfulpoliticspodcast.comWhat if racism is not just a belief someone holds, but something people do through everyday choices, institutions, and patterns of behavior?Ainsley LeSure joins Faithful Politics to explain why racism cannot be reduced to personal belief, private intent, or what someone claims is in their heart. Drawing from her book Locating Racism in the World, LeSure argues that racism is better understood through practice, behavior, outcomes, institutions, and the everyday relationships that shape our shared world. The conversation covers institutional racism, the post-civil rights era, Christian political mobilization, democracy, equality, voting rights, and the ways racial common sense continues to shape American politics. We also discuss the recent BAFTA awards incident involving racist language during an acceptance speech connected to Sinners, using it as a real-world example of how harm, responsibility, intent, and public response become more complicated when racism is treated only as a question of personal motive.Locating Racism in the World:https://global.oup.com/academic/product/locating-racism-in-the-world-9780197833865?cc=us&lang=en&Guest BioAinsley LeSure, Ph.D. is a political theorist and Assistant Professor of Political Science and Africana Studies at Brown University, where she specializes in race and racism, phenomenology, democratic theory, feminist theory, and political thought. Her book Locating Racism in the World develops a phenomenological account of antiblack racism and challenges post-civil rights understandings that reduce racism to individual belief or intent. Her work helps explain how racism operates through everyday practices, institutions, relationships, and democratic life. Support the show

Have a comment? Send us a text! (We read all of them but can't reply). Email us: Will@faithfulpoliticspodcast.comWhat does religious trauma actually look like inside high-control Christian environments?In this episode of Faithful Politics, we sit down with Tia Levings, author of A Well-Trained Wife and I Belong to Me, to unpack her experience inside Christian fundamentalism and her journey out. Tia shares what life looked like inside a patriarchal, high-control religious system and how those environments shape identity, relationships, and personal agency.We explore how theology, culture, and authority structures work together in these spaces. Tia explains how belief systems are reinforced through obedience, how questioning is discouraged, and how survivors often internalize blame for harmful outcomes. She also discusses how movements like the Institute in Basic Life Principles and figures like Doug Wilsoninfluence broader religious and political culture.The conversation goes deeper into the concept of religious trauma and how it can mirror symptoms associated with PTSD. Tia walks through common patterns survivors experience, including loss of identity, fear responses, and difficulty trusting themselves after leaving. She also explains why rebuilding a sense of self is often harder than leaving the environment itself.We also examine the connection between high-control religion and broader political movements, including Christian nationalism. Tia highlights how these belief systems scale beyond individual households into larger cultural and political influence.Finally, Tia shares what healing looks like. Her latest book, I Belong to Me, focuses on recovery, autonomy, and rebuilding identity after leaving high-control environments. This episode offers a practical and honest look at what it takes to move forward.Buy the book, I Belong to Me A Survivor's Guide to Recovery and Hope after Religious Trauma: https://bookshop.org/a/112456/9781250374271Guest BioTia Levings is an author and advocate focused on life inside high-control religious environments and the recovery that follows. She is the author of A Well-Trained Wife: My Escape from Christian Patriarchy and I Belong to Me. Her work centers on religious trauma, deconstruction, and helping survivors rebuild identity and autonomy after leaving fundameSupport the show

Have a comment? Send us a text! (We read all of them but can't reply). Email us: Will@faithfulpoliticspodcast.comWhat is the religious right, and how has it shaped American politics over the last 50 years?In this episode of Faithful Politics, we sit down with Peter Montgomery to break down the religious right and its influence on American politics.We trace the movement from its modern roots in the late 1970s through figures like Jerry Falwell and the rise of organized political infrastructure. From legal battles over church-state separation to coordinated efforts in the courts, Peter explains how conservative Christian activism became a sustained political force.We also explore the difference between the religious right as a movement and Christian nationalism as an ideology, including how it shapes policy, culture, and debates around religious liberty, education, and LGBTQ rights. Organizations like Alliance Defending Freedom and initiatives like Project 2025 are part of that broader strategy.Finally, we talk about what it looks like to engage these issues without losing perspective, and why understanding the people behind the movement matters as much as understanding the movement itself.Right Wing Watch: https://www.peoplefor.org/rightwingwatchGuest BioPeter Montgomery is the Research Director at People For the American Way and a senior analyst for Right Wing Watch. He has spent more than two decades studying the religious right, its political strategies, and its influence on American law and culture. His work has been featured in major publications including The New York Times, The Washington Post, and The Wall Street Journal. Montgomery is widely recognized for his expertise on the intersection of religion and politics in the United States.Support the show

Have a comment? Send us a text! (We read all of them but can't reply). Email us: Will@faithfulpoliticspodcast.comWhat if having good intentions alone isn't enough? In this episode, we sit down with J.D. Bauman, Executive Director of Christians for Impact and author of All the Lives You Can Change, to explore a challenging question: are Christians stewarding their money, time, and influence in the most effective ways possible?J.D. breaks down the growing movement around “effective altruism” and why he believes Christians should think more critically about where they donate, how churches spend money, and whether our giving habits are shaped more by emotion than actual impact. We discuss everything from short-term mission trips and church budgets to global poverty, PEPFAR, political responsibility, and the difficult tradeoffs that come with trying to do the most good possible.The conversation gets deeply personal as Josh wrestles in real time with what this framework means for pastors, families, and ordinary people trying to balance generosity with real-world responsibilities. This is one of those episodes that may leave you uncomfortable in the best possible way.Links Mentioned in EpisodeAll the Lives You Can Change — https://bookshop.org/a/112456/9780802885135Christians for Impact — https://www.christiansforimpact.orgGiveWell — https://www.givewell.orgPEPFAR (President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief) — https://www.state.gov/pepfar/Guest BioJ.D. Bauman is the Executive Director of Christians for Impact, a nonprofit that helps Christians apply evidence, reason, and vocational discernment to major global challenges. He is a leading voice at the intersection of Christian ethics and the effective altruism movement and works to help believers maximize their impact through their careers, charitable giving, and public engagement. He is also the co-author of All the Lives You Can Change.Support the show

Have a comment? Send us a text! (We read all of them but can't reply). Email us: Will@faithfulpoliticspodcast.comIn this conversation, Nadine Smith traces her journey from investigative journalism to becoming one of the country's leading civil rights advocates. Drawing from decades of experience, she explains how organizations like Color of Change work to shift systems of power, amplify marginalized voices, and respond to real-time political threats.The discussion explores how modern civil rights battles extend beyond race to include LGBTQ rights, immigration, and broader questions of access, dignity, and government authority. Nadine outlines how legislation, messaging, and grassroots organizing interact—and why fear-based narratives are often used to divide communities and maintain control.She also breaks down how advocacy efforts successfully stopped dozens of anti-LGBTQ bills in Florida, emphasizing the role of real people showing up in public spaces and engaging directly with decision-makers. The conversation moves into deeper territory, examining how narratives around identity, religion, and “cultural decline” are constructed and weaponized in politics.Throughout the episode, Nadine returns to a core idea: that civil rights work is ultimately about community, accountability, and whether people are willing to act when others are being harmed. The discussion closes with a reflection on what it means to stand up for others in a system that often rewards silence.Color of Change: https://colorofchange.orgEquality Florida: https://www.eqfl.orgGuest Bio:Nadine Smith is a longtime civil rights leader and the incoming President and CEO of Color of Change, the nation's largest online racial justice organization. She previously co-founded and led Equality Florida, building it into a nationally recognized model for grassroots advocacy focused on LGBTQ rights, voting access, and racial justice.Smith has been a key figure in major civil rights efforts for decades, including co-chairing the 1993 March on Washington. Her work has influenced public policy, challenged discriminatory legislation, and mobilized communities at scale. With a background in journalism and organizing, she brings a systems-level perspective to how power operates in American society and how it can be challenged.Support the show

Have a comment? Send us a text! (We read all of them but can't reply). Email us: Will@faithfulpoliticspodcast.comWhat is actually happening inside Congress right now—and how does it affect everyday people?In this episode, Congresswoman Jennifer McClellan breaks down a wide range of issues shaping the current political moment, from rising healthcare costs and federal budget cuts to military action in Iran and ongoing debates over voting rights. She explains how expiring ACA tax credits are impacting families, why proposed budget changes could affect hospitals, education programs, and energy costs, and what constituents in Virginia's 4th District are already experiencing.The conversation also explores the War Powers Resolution and the limits of presidential authority in military conflicts, offering context for recent U.S. actions abroad. On voting rights, McClellan walks through the details of the SAVE Act and why it has become a point of contention.The episode closes with a discussion on artificial intelligence—its risks, energy demands, and the challenge policymakers face in regulating it—and a reflection on America's 250th anniversary and what it means for the future of the country.GUEST BIOJennifer McClellan is the U.S. Representative for Virginia's 4th Congressional District. She previously served nearly two decades in the Virginia General Assembly and, in 2023, became the first Black woman elected to Congress from Virginia. Her work focuses on healthcare, energy, technology, and voting rights.Support the show

Have a comment? Send us a text! (We read all of them but can't reply). Email us: Will@faithfulpoliticspodcast.comThis conversation takes a direct look at one of the most debated claims in American politics: whether the United States was founded as a Christian nation. John Fea, a historian of early America, walks through how historians approach that question and why it often gets misunderstood in modern debates.He explains that history isn't just about facts—it's about context, causation, and change over time. Using examples from the founding era, Fea shows how different states handled religion in public life, including religious tests for office and established churches. At the same time, he highlights how those systems evolved as the country became more democratic and more religiously diverse.The conversation also unpacks common talking points like the Treaty of Tripoli and why it gets misused in today's arguments. Fea makes clear that both sides often cherry-pick history to support present-day political agendas.The episode closes with a practical takeaway: you don't need America to be a “Christian nation” to live out faith in public life. The real question is how individuals bring their values into a pluralistic democracy without distorting the past to justify it.Notable Resources MentionedWas America Founded as a Christian Nation?: https://bookshop.org/a/112456/9780664262495Why Study History?: https://bookshop.org/a/112456/9780801039652Guest BioJohn Fea is a historian of early America and Professor of American History at Messiah University. His work focuses on the relationship between religion and public life in the United States, particularly during the founding era. He is the author of Was America Founded as a Christian Nation? and Why Study History?, where he explores how historical thinking can bring clarity to modern political and cultural debates.Support the show

Have a comment? Send us a text! (We read all of them but can't reply). Email us: Will@faithfulpoliticspodcast.comThe middle class in America didn't just happen—it was built through government policies after World War II. In this episode, law professor Mechele Dickerson explains how things like affordable housing, stable jobs, and access to education helped create a strong middle class—and why those same supports have weakened over time.She breaks down why it's harder today to afford basic things like housing, college, and healthcare, even for people who are working hard. The conversation shows how education, jobs, debt, and housing are all connected. When one becomes unaffordable, it affects everything else.Dickerson also explains why common ideas like “just work harder” or “cut spending” don't match the reality many people are facing today. Wages have stayed mostly flat while costs have gone up, and many jobs no longer offer the stability or benefits they used to.The episode also looks at bigger economic ideas like trickle-down economics and why those policies haven't helped most middle-class families. Instead, wealth has increasingly moved to the top while more people struggle to stay financially stable.This conversation focuses on what's actually happening to the middle class in America, why it matters, and what kinds of policy changes could help rebuild economic stability for everyday people.Buy The Middle-Class New Deal: Restoring Upward Mobility and the American Dream:  https://bookshop.org/a/112456/9780520423398Guest Bio Mechele Dickerson is a law professor at the University of Texas whose work focuses on housing, consumer finance, and economic justice. Her research examines how financial systems shape everyday life, especially for families navigating homeownership, debt, and economic instability. She is the author of The Middle Class New Deal, which explores how policy decisions built—and are now reshaping—the American middle class.Support the show

Have a comment? Send us a text! (We read all of them but can't reply). Email us: Will@faithfulpoliticspodcast.comIn this episode of Faithful Politics, Will Wright and Pastor Josh Burtram sit down with Bunni Pounds to unpack America Reads the Bible, a national initiative tied to the 250th anniversary of the United States. The project brings together leaders from government, ministry, and culture to publicly read Scripture with the goal of addressing what Pounds calls a growing problem: biblical illiteracy.The conversation explores how Scripture has shaped American political thought, why this moment matters in today's cultural and technological landscape, and what it looks like to engage faith without political prescription. They also examine tensions around representation, unity across denominations, and how Christians can approach civic engagement in a polarized environment.Relevant LinksAmerica Reads the Bible: https://americareadsthebible.comChristians Engaged: https://christiansengaged.orgGreat American Pure Flix (livestream platform mentioned): https://www.pureflix.comGuest BioBunni Pounds is the founder and president of Christians Engaged, a nonprofit organization that equips Christians to participate in civic life through prayer, voting, and community involvement. She spent over a decade working with members of Congress, gaining firsthand experience in how policy and leadership decisions are shaped. Today, her work focuses on connecting biblical understanding with civic responsibility, helping individuals engage political issues through the lens of faith. She is also the author of Stepping Up to Lead: Rebuilding a Nation in the Footsteps of Nehemiah, which explores leadership and national renewal from a biblical perspective.Support the show

Have a comment? Send us a text! (We read all of them but can't reply). Email us: Will@faithfulpoliticspodcast.comIn this episode of Faithful Politics, Will Wright and Pastor Josh Burtram sit down with sociologists Michael Emerson and Glenn Bracey to unpack the core ideas behind their book The Religion of Whiteness.The conversation explores a challenging but important question: how cultural identity—specifically whiteness—can operate as a system of belief that competes with or even overrides Christian teaching. Emerson and Bracey define the “religion of whiteness” as a set of beliefs, practices, and symbols that elevate white identity as sacred while marginalizing what falls outside of it.They walk through the data behind their research, including survey findings showing how white Christians often respond differently to biblical teachings when those teachings challenge racial hierarchies. The discussion also examines how symbols like a white Jesus, the merging of the cross and the American flag, and even attitudes toward political violence can reinforce this framework.The episode doesn't stay abstract. It connects these ideas to real-world dynamics inside churches—why conversations about race are often resisted, how “stay out of politics” can function as a boundary, and why awareness itself can feel threatening.This is a direct, data-driven conversation about faith, identity, and the tension between cultural loyalty and religious conviction.Guest BioMichael Emerson is a sociologist specializing in race, religion, and inequality in the United States. He is currently a professor at Rice University and is widely known for his research on how religious communities shape racial attitudes and structures. He is the co-author of Divided by Faith and The Religion of Whiteness. Glenn E. Bracey II is a sociologist at Villanova University whose work focuses on race, religion, and social inequality. His research examines how systems of belief and power interact within American institutions, particularly in the context of race and Christianity. He is the co-author of The Religion of Whiteness.Relevant LinksThe Religion of Whiteness by Michael Emerson and Glenn Bracey: https://bookshop.org/a/112456/9780197746288Divided by Faith by Michael Emerson and Christian Smith: https://booSupport the show

Have a comment? Send us a text! (We read all of them but can't reply). Email us: Will@faithfulpoliticspodcast.comIn this episode of Faithful Politics, Will Wright and Pastor Josh Burtram sit down with political theorist and historian Hyrum Lewis to challenge one of the most basic assumptions in American political thinking: the left-right spectrum.Drawing from his work on The Myth of the Left and Right, Lewis explains why reducing politics to a single line fails to capture how people actually think and act. Instead of treating political identity as one fixed position, he argues for a more granular approach—one that looks at individual issues on their own terms.The conversation moves beyond political labels into deeper questions about truth, history, and how we interpret the American founding. Lewis breaks down why both conservatives and progressives engage in preserving and changing society, and why those labels often obscure more than they clarify.They also explore how history is used in modern political debates—especially around the claim that America was founded as a Christian nation. Lewis offers a nuanced framework for understanding the founders, arguing that while Christian ideas shaped the culture, the founding itself reflects a broader and more complex intellectual tradition.The episode closes with a practical takeaway: how to think more clearly about politics, avoid false binaries, and engage issues with more precision and humility.Guest BioHyrum Lewis is a professor of history and political theory at Brigham Young University–Idaho, where he leads the American Foundations program. His work focuses on the history of ideology and how political ideas shape culture and society. He is the co-author of The Myth of the Left and Right and the author of There Is a God: How to Respond to Atheism in the Last Days. His research challenges common assumptions about political identity and encourages a more nuanced understanding of how beliefs are formed. Relevant LinksThe Myth of the Left and Right by Hyrum Lewis and Verlan Lewis: https://bookshop.org/a/112456/9780197680629There Is a God: How to Respond to Atheism in the Last Days by Hyrum Lewis: https://bookshop.org/a/112456/9781462120413Support the show

Have a comment? Send us a text! (We read all of them but can't reply). Email us: Will@faithfulpoliticspodcast.comWhat does it actually mean to “deconstruct” your faith—and why are so many people doing it?In this episode of Faithful Politics, Will Wright and Pastor Josh Burtram sit down with Margaret Rose Bronson, founder of Deconstruction Doulas, a support network helping people navigate religious trauma and high-control church environments. Drawing from her own experience inside patriarchal and authoritarian church systems, Margaret explains the difference between deconstruction and deconversion, and why that distinction matters.The conversation explores how certain theological frameworks can lead to control, shame, and harm—particularly for women—and how these systems often operate beneath the surface of otherwise “normal” church communities. Margaret also breaks down the role of a “deconstruction doula,” someone who walks alongside individuals as they process their beliefs, ask hard questions, and rebuild their understanding of faith on their own terms.They also discuss the real-world cost of deconstruction, including shunning, loss of community, and long-term emotional impact on individuals and families. This episode provides a grounded, firsthand look at how religious systems can both shape and distort faith—and what it takes to reclaim it.Deconstruction Doulas: https://www.deconstructiondoulas.comThe Rise of Christian Nationalism (CNN): https://www.cnn.com/audio/podcasts/the-whole-story-with-anderson-cooper/episodes/10f01a2c-b8ef-11f0-99d9-ebc70f76e43cGuest Bio:Margaret Rose Bronson is the founder of Deconstruction Doulas, a support network helping people navigate faith deconstruction and recover from religious trauma. A survivor of high-control church environments, she now works with individuals rebuilding their beliefs, identity, and sense of autonomy after leaving harmful systems.Support the show

Have a comment? Send us a text! (We read all of them but can't reply). Email us: Will@faithfulpoliticspodcast.com*Note* Appologies for my audio, it was a bad microphone day! - Will What role does Christian Zionism play in shaping American politics and foreign policy?In this episode of Faithful Politics, Will Wright sits down with investigative journalist Kiera Butler of Mother Jones to unpack the growing influence of Christian Zionism—particularly within charismatic evangelical movements and political leadership. Drawing from her recent reporting, Butler explains how theological beliefs about Israel, biblical prophecy, and the end times are influencing real-world decisions, including reactions to U.S. military action in Iran.The conversation explores the divide within Christian nationalist circles, where some groups celebrate geopolitical conflict as part of a prophetic timeline while others reject intervention entirely. Butler also breaks down the rise of movements like the New Apostolic Reformation, the role of influential figures and organizations, and how these ideas are spreading from pulpits to policy.They also examine how changes to the Johnson Amendment, generational shifts among evangelicals, and the growing political visibility of Christian Zionism could shape upcoming elections.Trump's Holy Warriors Finally Got the Apocalypse They've Prayed For: https://www.motherjones.com/politics/2026/03/trumps-holy-warriors-finally-got-the-apocalypse-theyve-prayed-for/Guest BioKiera Butler is a senior investigative reporter at Mother Jones, where she covers religion, politics, and the growing influence of movements like Christian nationalism and Christian Zionism. Her reporting focuses on how belief systems shape real-world policy and political behavior.Support the show

Have a comment? Send us a text! (We read all of them but can't reply). Email us: Will@faithfulpoliticspodcast.comWhat happens when faith becomes a source of harm instead of healing?In this episode of Faithful Politics, Will Wright and Pastor Josh Burtram sit down with therapist Morgan Piercy, who specializes in religious trauma, deconstruction, and identity rebuilding after high-control faith environments. Drawing from both clinical experience and personal background, Piercy explains how religious trauma forms, why it often surfaces after someone leaves a church, and how it reshapes identity, relationships, and mental health.The conversation breaks down key concepts like the overlap between trauma and deconstruction, the role of grief and loss of certainty, and how systems of control can operate within religious spaces. Piercy also introduces practical frameworks like Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and the BITE model to help listeners understand how belief systems can influence behavior, thought patterns, and emotional well-being.The episode also explores how pastors and faith leaders can better recognize signs of distress in their congregations, the psychological impact of purity culture and moral anxiety, and the challenges faced by LGBTQ individuals navigating faith communities. Throughout the discussion, the focus stays on autonomy, agency, and the process of rebuilding a belief system that aligns with one's lived experience.This is a grounded conversation for anyone working through questions about faith, identity, and what it means to move forward after leaving a rigid religious environment.Resources & LinksMorgan Piercy Website: https://www.morganpiercy.comDeconstruction Counseling: https://www.deconstructionkc.comGuest Bio Morgan Piercy is a licensed professional counselor who specializes in religious trauma, faith deconstruction, and identity development after high-control religious environments. Her work focuses on helping individuals navigate complex trauma, anxiety, OCD, and the psychological impact of rigid belief systems. Drawing from both clinical training and personal experience, she uses evidence-based approaches like Acceptance and Commitment Therapy to help clients rebuild autonomy and aliSupport the show

Have a comment? Send us a text! (We read all of them but can't reply). Email us: Will@faithfulpoliticspodcast.comWhat if the abortion debate is missing the most important framework entirely?In this episode of Faithful Politics, Will Wright and Pastor Josh Burtram sit down with Angela Weszely, founder of ProGrace and author of Becoming ProGrace. Drawing from her experience in both ministry and pregnancy support work, Angela explains why the traditional “pro-life vs pro-choice” divide breaks down—and how a different, Jesus-centered approach could reshape the conversation.They explore how political language fuels division, why many Christians feel tension with both sides, and what it would look like to prioritize grace, dignity, and shared responsibility for both women and children. This conversation moves beyond policy debates and focuses on how the church can better reflect the character of Jesus in one of the most contentious issues in society.Learn more: https://prograce.org/Book: Becoming ProGrace: Expanding the Abortion Conversation Beyond Life Versus Choice: https://bookshop.org/a/112456/9781514011683Guest Bio Angela Weszely is the founder and CEO of ProGrace, an organization that equips Christians to engage conversations about abortion in ways rooted in the example of Jesus rather than political reflexes. She previously spent nearly a decade leading development for a pregnancy support organization in Chicago, where her experiences exposed the tension between messaging and practice in the abortion space.Her work now focuses on reframing the conversation around grace, dignity, and shared responsibility. She is the author of Becoming ProGrace, where she outlines a new approach aimed at helping Christians move beyond the traditional pro-life vs pro-choice divide.Support the show

Have a comment? Send us a text! (We read all of them but can't reply). Email us: Will@faithfulpoliticspodcast.comWhat happens when your faith tradition and your political reality collide? In this episode, we sit down with Peter Beinartto unpack the moral and theological tensions shaping the war in Gaza and the broader debate around Zionism. Beinart walks through his personal evolution from liberal Zionist to a critic of the current Israeli framework, grounded in both lived experience and Jewish theological reflection.The conversation moves beyond surface-level talking points. Beinart explains how Zionism developed historically, how it became tied to Jewish safety, and why he now believes that framework creates moral contradictions—especially when it requires unequal treatment of Palestinians. He makes a case that systems built on political supremacy tend to generate instability and violence, drawing comparisons to apartheid South Africa and Jim Crow America.We also dig into something your audience will recognize: the role of religious narratives in shaping political behavior. Beinart draws a clear parallel between Jewish nationalism and Christian nationalism, arguing that when a state becomes central to religious identity, it can displace core theological commitments like human dignity. He points to how scripture—both Jewish and Christian—can be interpreted either to justify violence or to challenge it, depending on the framework applied.The episode closes with a practical takeaway: if people want a more grounded and humane understanding of the conflict, they need to listen directly to Palestinian voices. Without that, the conversation stays abstract—and disconnected from the human cost.Book: Being Jewish After the Destruction of Gaza: A Reckoning: https://bookshop.org/a/112456/9780593803899Guest Bio:Peter Beinart is a professor of journalism and political science at the Craig Newmark Graduate School of Journalism at CUNY. He is a contributing opinion writer for The New York Times and editor-at-large of Jewish Currents. Beinart previously served as editor of The New Republic (1999–2006) and has written extensively on U.S. foreign policy, Zionism, and Jewish identity. His latest book, Being Jewish After the Destruction of Gaza: A Reckoning, examines the moral and theological challenges facing Jewish communities inSupport the show

Have a comment? Send us a text! (We read all of them but can't reply). Email us: Will@faithfulpoliticspodcast.comIn this episode of Faithful Politics, Pastor Josh Burtram sits down with Old Testament scholar and author L. Daniel Hawk to unpack the theological roots and lasting impact of Manifest Destiny. What many Americans were taught as a story of courage and expansion is reexamined through a harder lens—one that reveals how Christian language and scripture were used to justify colonization, displacement, and violence against Indigenous peoples.Hawk explains how ideas like the Doctrine of Discovery and interpretations of Genesis were used to frame land expansion as part of God's will. He walks through how these beliefs became embedded in American identity, shaping both policy and culture, and why those narratives still matter today. The conversation also explores how violence was often initiated by settlers, how historical memory has been shaped to obscure that reality, and how Christian institutions were complicit in reinforcing these systems.The episode closes with a forward-looking discussion on what it means to confront this history honestly. Hawk offers practical steps for listeners—learning local history, engaging Indigenous voices, and rethinking how faith can be expressed without repeating colonial patterns. This is a grounded, historically informed conversation about faith, responsibility, and what it takes to build a more honest public witness.Buy Undoing Manifest Destiny: Settler America, Christian Colonism, and the Pursuit of Justice:  https://bookshop.org/a/112456/9781514008645Guest BioL. Daniel Hawk is a professor of Old Testament and Hebrew at Ashland Theological Seminary and an ordained United Methodist minister. His work focuses on biblical narrative, especially conquest texts like Joshua, and how scripture has been interpreted in ways that shape moral imagination and public life.He is the author of Undoing Manifest Destiny: Settler America, Christian Colonism, and the Pursuit of Justice, where he examines how theological ideas were used to justify colonization and how those narratives continue to influence American culture and Christianity today.Support the show

Have a comment? Send us a text! (We read all of them but can't reply). Email us: Will@faithfulpoliticspodcast.comIn this episode of Faithful Politics, Will Wright and Pastor Josh Burtram speak with Rachel Laser, President and CEO of Americans United for Separation of Church and State, about the growing legal and political battles over religion in American public life. Laser argues the country is in a “code red” moment for church-state separation as court rulings and policy efforts increasingly blur the lines between religious belief and government authority.The conversation explores recent controversies including efforts to post the Ten Commandments in public school classrooms, parental rights claims affecting school curriculum, and religious freedom challenges to abortion laws. Laser explains how these cases reflect deeper tensions in a religiously diverse country where different faith traditions often interpret moral and legal questions very differently.Throughout the discussion, the hosts examine how these conflicts are shaping debates over religious liberty, public education, and constitutional protections, while asking whether church-state separation remains the best framework for protecting both faith and pluralism in American democracy.Guest BioRachel Laser is the President and CEO of Americans United for Separation of Church and State, a national nonprofit organization dedicated to defending religious freedom and ensuring that religion and government remain separate. She has spent her career working in civil rights advocacy and public policy, including leadership roles at the Open Society Foundations and other national organizations focused on democracy and human rights.Resources and LinksAmericans United for Separation of Church and Statehttps://www.au.orgSummit for Religious Freedomhttps://www.thesrf.orgSupport the show

Have a comment? Send us a text! (We read all of them but can't reply). Email us: Will@faithfulpoliticspodcast.comWhat if the basic way we talk about politics is fundamentally flawed?In this episode of Faithful Politics, Will Wright and Pastor Josh Burtram sit down with Verlan Lewis, professor of constitutional studies at Utah Valley University and co-author of The Myth of Left and Right: How the Political Spectrum Misleads and Harms America. Lewis argues that the familiar political spectrum dividing society into “left” and “right” oversimplifies political reality and distorts how Americans understand issues, parties, and even each other.Lewis explains how the left-right framework emerged historically, why it became dominant in modern political discourse, and how it encourages ideological tribalism. Instead of seeing politics as a complex set of issues where people may agree on some topics and disagree on others, the spectrum pushes citizens to sort themselves into rigid teams. According to Lewis, this mindset can reduce intellectual humility, weaken meaningful dialogue, and contribute to the rising hostility in American politics.The conversation explores how media ecosystems reinforce ideological identities, why political beliefs often cluster together even when they have little logical connection, and how faith communities can offer a different approach to civic engagement. Lewis suggests moving beyond ideological labels and focusing on individual issues, allowing for more thoughtful discussion and collaboration across differences.For listeners interested in understanding polarization, political identity, and how faith might shape a healthier civic culture, this episode offers a thoughtful examination of the assumptions that structure modern political debate.The Myth of Left and Right: How the Political Spectrum Misleads and Harms America: https://bookshop.org/a/112456/9780197680629Guest BioVerlan Lewis is an associate professor of political science and constitutional studies at Utah Valley University and a fellow at the university's Center for Constitutional Studies. He is co-author of the book The Myth of Left and Right: How the Political Spectrum Misleads and Harms America, which challenges the idea that modern politics can be accurately uSupport the show

Have a comment? Send us a text! (We read all of them but can't reply). Email us: Will@faithfulpoliticspodcast.comWhat do the numbers actually tell us about Christian nationalism in the United States?In this episode of Faithful Politics, Will Wright and Pastor Josh Burtram sit down with Melissa Deckman, CEO of the Public Religion Research Institute (PRRI), to walk through the latest national data on Christian nationalism and what researchers are seeing across the country.Deckman explains how PRRI measures Christian nationalism, why the concept is often misunderstood in public debate, and what the data reveals about who tends to hold these views. The conversation explores how religion, identity, and politics intersect in American life, along with the demographic and cultural patterns researchers are tracking.They also discuss how survey questions are designed, why some people react strongly to the label “Christian nationalism,” and how researchers try to measure belief systems without reducing complex identities to a single label.For anyone trying to understand the role of religion in American politics today, this conversation offers a clear look at what the research actually shows. Recommended Links and ResourcesPRRI – Public Religion Research Institute: https://www.prri.orgMapping Christian Nationalism Across the 50 States: Insights from PRRI's 2025 American Values Atlas: https://prri.org/research/mapping-christian-nationalism-across-the-50-states-insights-from-prris-2025-american-values-atlas/Guest BioMelissa Deckman is the CEO of the Public Religion Research Institute (PRRI), one of the nation's leading research organizations studying the intersection of religion, culture, and politics. She previously served as the Louis L. Goldstein Professor of Public Affairs at Washington College and is a political scientist whose work focuses on religion, gender, and civic engagement in American political life.Support the show

Have a comment? Send us a text! (We read all of them but can't reply). Email us: Will@faithfulpoliticspodcast.comHow secure are America's elections, and what actually happens behind the scenes when votes are cast and counted?In this episode of Faithful Politics, Will Wright and Josh Burtram sit down with election journalist Jessica Huseman, Editorial Director of VoteBeat, to walk through the real mechanics of the U.S. voting system. The conversation explores the proposed SAVE Act and what it would change about voter registration, why some counties are returning to hand-counting ballots, and the logistical strain election administrators face as redistricting reshapes districts just before key primaries.Huseman also addresses claims about non-citizen voting, the FBI raid on stored ballots in Fulton County, and how technical systems and local election offices adapt when political decisions force rapid changes. The discussion pulls back the curtain on how elections actually work on the ground, why misinformation spreads so easily, and why the biggest fights over election legitimacy often happen after the ballots are cast. Guest Bio:Jessica Huseman is the Editorial Director at VoteBeat, a nonprofit newsroom dedicated to covering election administration and voting policy across the United States. She is an award-winning investigative journalist who has spent years reporting on how elections are run at the local and state level, focusing on the mechanics of voting systems, election law, and the people responsible for carrying out elections. Huseman previously reported for ProPublica and has become one of the country's leading journalists covering election infrastructure, misinformation, and voting policy.Relevant Links:VoteBeat – https://www.votebeat.orgSupport the show

Have a comment? Send us a text! (We read all of them but can't reply). Email us: Will@faithfulpoliticspodcast.comWhat does it mean to call America a “Christian nation”? And has it ever truly been one?In this episode, we sit down with Matt Avery Sutton, historian and author of Chosen Land, to unpack the long and complicated relationship between Christianity and American public life. From Christopher Columbus and biblical prophecy to premillennialism, evangelical political power, and the modern Supreme Court, Sutton traces the historical through line of Christian influence in the United States. We explore why America became more religious — not less — after disestablishment, how an unofficial Protestant establishment shaped public life, and why separation of church and state did not secularize the country. We also discuss the role of capitalism and corporate funding in shaping both the religious right and the religious left, the theological roots of political activism, and how beliefs about the end times influenced public engagement. Finally, we examine three emerging coalitions competing to define America's future: Christian nationalist conservatives, progressive pluralists who bring faith into the public square, and strict separationists who want religion kept out of politics. This conversation isn't just about what America was — it's about what kind of country we want to be moving forward.Buy - Chosen Land: How Christianity Made America and Americans Remade Christianity https://bookshop.org/a/112456/9781541646339Guest BioMatt Avery Sutton is a distinguished professor and chair of the Department of History at Washington State University. He earned his PhD from the University of California, Santa Barbara, and has received fellowships from the National Endowment for the Humanities.He is the author of multiple books, including:Chosen LandAmerican ApocalypseHis work focuses on the intersection of religion, politics, and American culture, with particular attention to evangelicalism and apocalyptic belief.Support the show

Have a comment? Send us a text! (We read all of them but can't reply). Email us: Will@faithfulpoliticspodcast.comNote: This episode was recorded prior to Tricia McLaughlin announced she was leaving DHS: (read)Minnesota-based YouTuber and former pastor Pat Kahnke returns to Faithful Politics to discuss federal immigration enforcement, media narratives, and the emotional toll on local communities. He describes how recent operations in the Twin Cities have affected families, churches, and public trust, and how conflicting information shapes national perception. The conversation explores how Christians interpret immigration through scripture, why many congregations are divided, and how political messaging influences public response. We also examine the midterm political implications, the role of media ecosystems, and how to engage friends and neighbors who see the situation differently. This episode focuses on how faith, civic responsibility, and real-time events intersect — and what constructive engagement looks like in a polarized moment.Guest Bio:Pat Kahnke is a Minnesota-based commentator, former pastor, and host of the  @culturefaithandpolitics podcast. His work focuses on the intersection of religion, civic life, and public policy, with particular attention to how faith communities respond to political conflict and social change.Support the show

Have a comment? Send us a text! (We read all of them but can't reply). Email us: Will@faithfulpoliticspodcast.comFilmmaker Matthew Pridgen, director of The Sins of Our Fathers: Race, Religion and the Rise of Trump, joins Faithful Politics to examine the roots and rise of Christian nationalism in America.Drawing from his documentary, Pridgen traces connections between slavery, segregation, and modern religious politics, arguing that Christian language has repeatedly been used to justify systems of power. We discuss how Christian nationalism differs from traditional conservatism, how racial fear has shaped political strategy, and why white evangelical voting patterns remain central to today's political landscape.This episode explores the historical foundations of Christian nationalism, its theological distortions, and what it means for Christians navigating faith, race, and democracy in the United States.Watch the film: https://sinsofourfathersfilm.com/Guest BioMatthew Pridgen is a filmmaker and social commentator best known for his documentary The Sins of Our Fathers: Race, Religion and the Rise of Trump. His work examines the intersection of race, Christianity, and political power in American history.Raised in South Carolina, Pridgen's ministry work in historically Black communities reshaped his understanding of American history, theology, and public life. His documentary traces how religious rhetoric has been used to justify slavery, segregation, and modern political movements, while calling Christians back to what he describes as the “real Jesus” — one rooted in sacrificial love rather than cultural dominance.Support the show

Have a comment? Send us a text! (We read all of them but can't reply). Email us: Will@faithfulpoliticspodcast.comChristian nationalism is becoming a central force in American politics and public debate. In this episode, Congressman Jared Huffman joins Faithful Politics to discuss Christian nationalism in the United States, how it is defined, and how it is influencing government, policy, and political rhetoric in 2026. This conversation explores what people mean when they use the term Christian nationalism and why it has become a major topic in discussions about democracy, religious liberty, and the role of faith in public life.Huffman explains how lawmakers and policy experts identify Christian nationalism in legislation and government action, and how it differs from personal religious belief or individual expressions of faith. The discussion looks at church-state separation, the First Amendment, and how Christian nationalism is showing up in debates over education, federal agencies, public funding, and political messaging. The episode also covers the Congressional Free Thought Caucus, the Religious Liberty Commission, the Anti-Christian Bias Task Force, and the ongoing relevance of the Johnson Amendment.The conversation examines how Christian nationalism is framed by supporters and critics, why the term is contested, and how it connects to broader questions about pluralism, religious diversity, and democratic norms. Huffman outlines how members of Congress evaluate whether policies cross into religious favoritism and what tools exist to respond when concerns about church-state boundaries arise. The episode also addresses how political movements, media narratives, and demographic shifts are shaping the current conversation around Christian nationalism in America.Learn more about the Freethought Caucus: https://freethoughtcaucus-huffman.house.govGuest bioJared Huffman represents California's 2nd congressional district in the U.S. House of Representatives. He is co-chair of the Congressional Free Thought Caucus, a group focused on church-state separation, religious liberty, and the role of religion in public policy. Huffman has led congressional briefings and initiatives examining Christian nationalism, pluralism, and the influence of religion in American politics.Support the show

Have a comment? Send us a text! (We read all of them but can't reply). Email us: Will@faithfulpoliticspodcast.comSociologist Ruth Braunstein joins Faithful Politics to examine how Americans use faith and moral language to interpret citizenship, protest, and public life. Drawing on her research into religious activism across the political spectrum, Braunstein explains why democracy in the United States is often framed as a “sacred project” and how two competing moral narratives — one rooted in prophetic critique and another in patriotic preservation — shape today's political conflicts. The conversation explores Christian nationalism, motivated reasoning, and the internal dynamics of white evangelical communities, while also highlighting progressive faith activism that often goes unseen. Braunstein argues that pluralism is difficult but necessary, and that meaningful democratic engagement starts by moving from partisan abstractions to shared local concerns. This discussion provides a sociological framework for understanding how faith communities influence politics and how citizens can hold strong convictions while navigating deep disagreement. Learn more: https://www.ruthbraunstein.comDemocracy is Hard Substack: https://substack.com/@ruthbraunsteinGuest BioRuth Braunstein is a sociologist who studies religion, politics, and democratic life in the United States. She is the author of Prophets and Patriots: Faith and Democracy Across the Political Divide and writes the Substack Democracy Is Hard. Her research examines how Americans across ideological lines use faith to interpret public responsibility, citizenship, and protest. She also hosts the documentary podcast When the Wolves Came, which explores internal debates within evangelical communities about extremism and political identity.Support the show

Have a comment? Send us a text! (We read all of them but can't reply). Email us: Will@faithfulpoliticspodcast.comIn this episode of Faithful Politics, we sit down with James Michael Smith, founder of  @DiscipleDojo for a conversation about how Christians engage culture without losing clarity or charity. Smith draws on his background in theology and martial arts to frame public discourse as sparring — pushing ideas hard while still treating the other person as a training partner rather than an enemy.The conversation moves across church culture, political polarization, and the habits that shape how we disagree. We discuss how identity gets tied to ideology, why online spaces intensify conflict, and what it looks like to challenge ideas without dehumanizing people. Smith also shares how his ministry works to form Christians who can think critically, hold convictions, and stay grounded in real-world relationships.Throughout the episode, the focus stays on discipline — intellectual, spiritual, and relational. The goal isn't to eliminate disagreement. It's to handle it in a way that sharpens understanding instead of tearing people apart. Disciple Dojo YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@UCMEea4p5qqTlpDrp3vl9G3A Guest Bio James Michael Smith is the founder of Disciple Dojo, a discipleship and Bible-training ministry that equips Christians to think clearly and engage culture with integrity. He holds an M.Div. from Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary and is a Brazilian jiu-jitsu black belt. Smith also founded Refugee Jitsu, a free program that teaches self-defense and resilience to refugee and underserved youth. His work brings together theology, cultural analysis, and disciplined conversation in both digital and in-person spaces.Support the show

Have a comment? Send us a text! (We read all of them but can't reply). Email us: Will@faithfulpoliticspodcast.comThis month's live Point of View (POV) brings a close reading of several U.S. government social media posts that pair Bible verses and prayers with military messaging. We're joined by author and journalist Brian Kaylor to examine how these passages are being used, what they mean in their original context, and whether that kind of messaging is appropriate for a pluralistic public institution.We walk through four examples – Psalm 18, Psalm 23, Joshua 1:9, and the Lord's Prayer – and ask two questions for each: Is this a faithful reading of the text? And what happens when scripture is used as institutional messaging by the government? The conversation explores how biblical language can shift from personal devotion to national branding, and what that does to public theology, civic identity, and the way people understand faith in a political environment.We also discuss the role of military chaplains, the difference between individual religious expression and government-sponsored messaging, and recent developments around worship services hosted within federal institutions.Support the show

Have a comment? Send us a text! (We read all of them but can't reply). Email us: Will@faithfulpoliticspodcast.comNote: We discuss social media posts in this episode that are shown on the screen. To see the actual images watch the YouTube episode: https://youtu.be/316SCgIX9qQ The Department of Homeland Security has been posting Bible verses alongside immigration enforcement content. In this episode, Will and Pastor Josh are joined by President and editor-in-chief of Word&Way Brian Kaylor to examine what those posts mean and why they matter. The conversation focuses on how specific passages of Scripture are being applied, whether they are used in context, and what happens when government messaging adopts religious language to frame public policy.Kaylor walks through several examples and explains how these verses function rhetorically. The group discusses interpretation, audience impact, and the broader implications for churches, public discourse, and civic life. The episode also explores how political messaging can shape the way people understand both faith and government authority, especially for newer believers or those encountering Scripture through social media rather than through a church context.The Bible According to Christian Nationalists: Exploiting Scripture for Political Powerhttps://bookshop.org/a/112456/9780827203501Social Media Images Used:Matthew 5:9 — “Blessed are the peacemakers”: https://www.facebook.com/share/r/1D8o2ar3ay/Isaiah 6:8 — “Send me”: https://www.facebook.com/share/r/17v3tazVxv/Proverbs 28:1 — “The wicked flee…”: https://x.com/DHSgov/status/1949913619644493930?s=20Psalm 28:7 — “The Lord is my strength and my shield”: https://www.instagram.com/p/DPbyLZoEUJ4/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ==Isaiah 41:10 — “Fear thou not…”: https://www.instagram.com/reel/DRXiDWuicRE/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ==Proverbs 23:24 — “Father of a righteous child…”: https://x.com/DHSgov/status/2000609130835292248?s=20Guest BioBrian Kaylor is a Baptist minister, journalist, and commentator covering the intersection of faith, politics, and public life. He serves as President and editor-in-chief of Word&Way and writes extensively about church-state issues, Christian natSupport the show

Have a comment? Send us a text! (We read all of them but can't reply). Email us: Will@faithfulpoliticspodcast.com**Warning*** This episode contains discussion about sexual abuseInvestigative reporter Jessica Lussenhop joins Faithful Politics to discuss her ProPublica investigation into sexual abuse and institutional silence inside the Old Apostolic Lutheran Church. Alongside reporter Andy Mannix, she walks through how a single criminal case in Minnesota exposed a broader system of internal “forgiveness sessions,” unreported abuse, and failures of accountability. The conversation also explores how investigative journalists verify survivor accounts, the role of clergy privilege laws, and why transparency inside religious institutions matters. This episode examines the intersection of faith, authority, and justice—and what happens when communities prioritize internal resolution over public accountability. Learn more:Young Girls Were Sexually Abused by a Church Member. They Were Told to Forgive and Forget.: https://www.propublica.org/article/sexual-abuse-old-apostolic-lutheran-church-minnesota5 Takeaways From Our Investigation Into How Leaders of a Minnesota Church Community Enabled a Child Abuser: https://www.propublica.org/article/minnesota-old-apostolic-lutheran-church-investigation-takeawaysWhat a Recorded Interview Between Police and Preachers Reveals About How a Minnesota Church Handled Sexual Abuse: https://www.propublica.org/article/minnesota-old-apostolic-lutheran-church-sexual-abuse-police-recordingGuest BiosJessica LussenhopJessica Lussenhop is an investigative reporter with ProPublica covering institutional failures, criminal justice, and accountability. She reports on how systems impact vulnerable communities and is the host of an upcoming ProPublica investigative podcast.Andy MannixAndy Mannix is an investigative reporter with ProPublica and former Minnesota Star Tribune journalist. His work focuses onSupport the show

Have a comment? Send us a text! (We read all of them but can't reply). Email us: Will@faithfulpoliticspodcast.comChurch conflict is no longer the exception—it's the norm. In this episode of Faithful Politics, Will Wright and Pastor Josh Burtram are joined by Andy Hale, congregational psychologist and author of Mending the Fracturing Church, to explore why churches are experiencing deeper polarization and what it takes to rebuild trust.Hale explains how psychology, family systems theory, and theology intersect in congregational life, and why conflict itself is not the real threat—avoidance and fear are. The conversation digs into how political identity, generational divides, and moral certainty are reshaping church communities, often in ways leaders are unprepared to address.Rather than offering quick fixes or ideological answers, Hale calls for patience, self-awareness, and practices that restore human connection—starting with understanding how fear, identity, and the need to be “right” shape the way we treat one another. It's a grounded, hopeful conversation about what it looks like for the church to remain faithful in a polarized age.Mending the Fracturing Church: How to Navigate Conflict and Build Trust for Thriving Communities: https://bookshop.org/a/112456/9798881806644Guest Bio Andy Hale is a congregational psychologist, minister, and organizational consultant who works with churches navigating conflict, polarization, and institutional change. With nearly three decades of experience in congregational and denominational leadership, his work integrates psychology, family systems theory, and theology to help faith communities rebuild trust and practice healthier forms of disagreement.He is the author of Mending the Fracturing Church: How to Navigate Conflict and Build Trust for Thriving Communities and hosts two podcasts, including Clergy Confessions, which explores the hidden pressures pastors face today. Hale currently serves in denominational leadership with the Cooperative Baptist Fellowship.Support the show

Have a comment? Send us a text! (We read all of them but can't reply). Email us: Will@faithfulpoliticspodcast.comIn this episode of Faithful Politics, Will Wright and Pastor Josh Burtram speak with Dan Carr, a pastor and Republican political organizer whose faith and politics are closely aligned with the MAGA movement.The conversation explores how theological conviction becomes political identity and where those convictions collide with the realities of a pluralistic democracy. Carr shares his faith story, explains why he believes Christians should be deeply engaged in politics, and outlines how he evaluates public policy through a biblical worldview. From contrasting political perspectives, the discussion moves beyond party labels to examine deeper questions: Where is the line between moral conviction and coercion? How should people of faith relate to those who do not share their assumptions? And what happens when religious identity and political identity become inseparable?Rather than seeking agreement, the episode offers clarity. It reveals how faith-driven conservatism understands power, policy, and culture—and what it looks like when those ideas are tested in direct conversation with a Democratic host.Learn more: https://danqcarr.com/Guest Bio Dan Carr is a pastor, author, and political organizer working at the intersection of faith and conservative politics. He serves as pastor of Community Baptist Church and is involved in Republican political strategy and civic engagement in Mississippi. Carr has worked in political organizing and public policy, including serving as a political director connected to the Mississippi Public Service Commission.Raised in a ministry family, Carr's work focuses on strengthening churches, families, and local communities while encouraging Christians to remain active in public life. He is the author of Chivalry Isn't Dead and I Have Surrendered, where he explores themes of faith, identity, and cultural responsibility. Carr is a prominent voice in conservative Christian circles, advocating for policies shaped by a biblical worldview and engaging debates around religious freedom, social issues, and the role of government in American society. Support the show

Have a comment? Send us a text! (We read all of them but can't reply). Email us: Will@faithfulpoliticspodcast.comIn this episode of Faithful Politics, Will Wright and Pastor Josh Burtram speak with Dr. Matthew Boedy, professor of rhetoric and author of The Seven Mountains Mandate, about the ideological and strategic framework driving modern Christian nationalism.Boedy explains how the Seven Mountains Mandate evolved from a missionary concept into a coordinated political strategy aimed at gaining institutional control over key sectors of society, including government, education, media, religion, and family. He traces the movement's theological roots, its connection to the New Apostolic Reformation, and its modern expression through figures like Charlie Kirk and organizations such as Turning Point USA.The conversation explores how Christian nationalism differs from traditional religious influence, how eschatology shapes political urgency, and why the movement represents a shift from persuasion to power. Will and Josh also wrestle with the implications for democracy, religious freedom, and marginalized communities, while asking what responsible Christian leadership looks like in an era of rising populism and polarization.Buy the book: The Seven Mountains Mandate: https://bookshop.org/a/112456/9780664269210Guest BioDr. Matthew Boedy is a professor of rhetoric and composition at the University of North Georgia and a scholar of religion, politics, and extremism in American culture. His work focuses on how religious ideas shape political movements and how rhetoric is used to mobilize power in public life.He is the author of The Seven Mountains Mandate: Exposing the Dangerous Plan to Christianize America and Destroy Democracy, which traces the theological origins, political strategy, and institutional networks behind the modern Christian nationalist movement. In the book, Boedy examines how figures such as Charlie Kirk and organizations like Turning Point USA have transformed religious ideology into a coordinated strategy for influencing government, education, media, and other key sectors of society.Boedy's research bridges theology, political theory, and cultural analysis, offering a framework for understanding how faith-based movements evolve from spiritual influence into oSupport the show

Have a comment? Send us a text! (We read all of them but can't reply). Email us: Will@faithfulpoliticspodcast.comIn this episode of Faithful Politics, we sit down with Heather Cronk, founder of Project 21:12, to talk about what happens after people leave evangelical Christianity—and why that story matters politically, socially, and morally. Heather shares her own journey through fundamentalism, seminary, deconstruction, and organizing, and explains why roughly 15 million Americans now identify as exvangelicals. We discuss why LGBTQ treatment is one of the leading reasons people leave evangelical churches, how Christian nationalism distorts faith into a tool of power, and why organizing—not just healing—is central to accountability. The conversation wrestles honestly with Jesus, doubt, labels, and pluralism, while asking a forward-looking question: if this movement becomes visible and organized, how might it reshape the national conversation about faith and democracy?Relevant LinksProject 2112: https://project2112.orgGuest Bio Heather Cronk is a longtime community organizer and the founder of Project 2112, an initiative focused on connecting and organizing Americans who have left evangelical Christianity. After deconstructing from fundamentalist evangelicalism more than two decades ago, Heather spent years working across progressive movement spaces, bringing organizing tools to issues of power, accountability, and harm. Through Project 2112, she works to make exvangelicals visible, connected, and equipped to challenge the political and social damage caused by authoritarian forms of religion—while building healthier forms of community and public engagement.Support the show

Have a comment? Send us a text! (We read all of them but can't reply). Email us: Will@faithfulpoliticspodcast.comFormer ACLU president and First Amendment scholar Nadine Strossen joins Faithful Politics for a wide-ranging conversation on what free speech actually protects—and what it doesn't—in today's political climate. Strossen explains why free expression is the foundation for every other civil liberty, why censorship often backfires, and how both the left and the right have grown more comfortable restricting speech they dislike. The conversation moves from campus speech controversies and hate speech laws to protest, ICE enforcement, January 6, and the legal standard for incitement. Throughout, Strossen makes a clear case for viewpoint neutrality and warns that powers used to silence one group rarely stay contained. The episode closes with practical guidance on how Americans should think about the First Amendment in daily life, and why defending speech we oppose is the price of protecting our own.Guest BioNadine Strossen is one of the country's leading voices on free speech and civil liberties. She served for 17 years as president of the ACLU, becoming the first woman to lead the organization. She is a law professor at New York Law School and a senior fellow at the Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression (FIRE). Strossen is the author of several influential books, including Hate: Why We Should Resist It with Free Speech, Not Censorship, Free Speech: What Everyone Needs to Know, and The War on Words.Organizations:Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression: https://www.thefire.org/American Civil Liberties Union: https://www.aclu.org/Recommended Readings:Hate: Why We Should Resist It with Free Speech, Not Censorship: https://bookshop.org/a/112456/9780190859121The War On Words: 10 Arguments Against Free Speech—And Why They Fail: https://bookshop.org/a/112456/9781949846829The Coddling of the American Mind How Good Intentions and Bad Ideas Are Setting Up a Generation for Failure: https://bookshop.org/a/112456/9780735224919Support the show

Have a comment? Send us a text! (We read all of them but can't reply). Email us: Will@faithfulpoliticspodcast.comIn this episode of Faithful Politics, we sit down with Bishop Dwayne Royster, pastor and national faith leader with Faith in Action, to wrestle with what faith looks like when political power is being used to intimidate, exclude, and dehumanize. Royster traces how his theology was shaped early by organizing, community action, and a church tradition where justice and faith were never separate. From the roots of white Christian nationalism to the modern machinery behind ICE raids and political fear, he explains why Christianity was never meant to serve empire—and why power itself is morally neutral until it is used to liberate or to dominate.We talk through the shooting of Renee Good, the contrasting Christian response to political violence, and what it means for churches to hold government accountable without abandoning nonviolence. Royster challenges Christians to move beyond sermons and into action, calling the church to become “courageously uncomfortable” in a moment that demands moral clarity, solidarity with neighbors, and a recovery of faith rooted in human dignity rather than political control. Links and ResourcesFaith in Action: https://www.faithinaction.orgFollow Faith in Action: @FIANational (Instagram, Facebook, X, Bluesky)Contact Bishop Royster: bishop@faithinaction.orgGuest BioBishop Dwayne Royster is a pastor, organizer, and national faith leader working at the intersection of religion and public life. He serves as Executive Director of Faith in Action, a multiracial, multifaith organizing network mobilizing congregations around issues like voting rights, immigration, housing, and economic justice. With more than three decades of pastoral experience, Royster's work focuses on building faithful power that advances dignity, equity, and liberation in communities across the United States and globally. Support the show

Have a comment? Send us a text! (We read all of them but can't reply). Email us: Will@faithfulpoliticspodcast.comIn this episode of Faithful Politics, we talk with Mother Agapia Stephanopoulos, a Greek Orthodox nun who has spent nearly three decades living and working in Jerusalem and the West Bank. From teaching Palestinian girls in Bethany to navigating Israeli checkpoints during the Second Intifada, she offers a firsthand view of what life looks like for Christians under occupation.She explains how families lose access to their land, why Christians are cut off from their own holy sites, and how settlements and the separation wall have reshaped daily life. We also discuss Gaza, October 7, and the role of the United States in sustaining the current system.Throughout the conversation, Mother Agapia reflects on faith, endurance, and what it means to follow Christ in a place defined by displacement, fear, and political power.Useful Link:Convent website: https://www.stnicholasconvent.org/Two groups that offer trips to Israel and Palestine to understand life of Christians there:https://www.telosgroup.org/resources/israel-palestine-resources/https://www.fosna.org/Guest BioMother Agapia Stephanopoulos is a Greek Orthodox Christian nun who entered monastic life in 1991 and has spent decades serving in Jerusalem and the West Bank. She worked in Orthodox schools for Palestinian children and lived through the Second Intifada, the construction of the separation wall, and the expansion of Israeli settlements.Her work centers on Palestinian Christian communities and how occupation shapes daily life, faith, and survival in the Holy Land. She challenges the use of Christian theology to justify violence and land seizure and speaks widely about the human and spiritual cost of the conflict. She is also the sister of journalist George Stephanopoulos.Support the show

Have a comment? Send us a text! (We read all of them but can't reply). Email us: Will@faithfulpoliticspodcast.comIn this episode of Faithful Politics, we're joined by Marc J. Defant, a professor of geology and geochemistry at the University of South Florida, to discuss his controversial peer-reviewed paper Evolutionary Psychology and the Crisis of Empirical Rigor in Feminist Studies.Marc explains how his scientific training shaped his concerns about how some areas of feminist scholarship handle evidence, critique, and falsifiability. We walk through the core claims of evolutionary psychology, how it differs from social constructionism, and why Marc believes certain academic fields have shifted away from empirical methods toward ideological frameworks.The conversation also explores academic peer review, cancel culture, emotional safety versus intellectual inquiry, and what universities lose when dissenting ideas are treated as harm rather than arguments. Along the way, Marc reflects on backlash to his work, the changing culture of higher education, and why he thinks truth-seeking requires discomfort.Marc's website: https://www.marcdefant.com/Article discuss: Evolutionary Psychology and the Crisis of Empirical Rigor in Feminist Studies https://link.springer.com/epdf/10.1007/s12119-025-10465-7?sharing_token=xhLL_kUU3AJoozWOStCtNPe4RwlQNchNByi7wbcMAY7qhjlkYrDnv0nFUr1VvYzTCYBHSTVW-yEPNQylsA981gK0c23F0a6k3aPlfqm7DyZEyCJfPpG8vxwrAaQNK1T4wUIgNwdfhLSIcCOOkeI5yj6S2np70SCryX2HcwsAUaQ%3DGuest BioMarc J. Defant is a professor of geology and geochemistry at the University of South Florida. Trained as a physical scientist, his academic work spans volcanology, geochemistry, and evolutionary psychology. In recent years, he has published peer-reviewed research examining methodological weaknesses in feminist studies and critiques of evolutionary psychology. Marc has appeared on platforms including TEDx, The Joe Rogan Experience, and numerous academic and media outlets, where he focuses on eSupport the show

Have a comment? Send us a text! (We read all of them but can't reply). Email us: Will@faithfulpoliticspodcast.comNote: Audio from our most recent POV. You can watch the live version on our YouTube channel: https://youtube.com/live/Mw5zzuCeIRYPOV episodes are intentionally slower. They create space to step back from the constant churn of headlines and talk through what's happening without rushing to conclusions. Will Wright and Josh Burtram use these conversations to think out loud, ask honest questions, and stay focused on clarity rather than reaction.In this episode, we reflect on three developments that raise serious questions about power and accountability. We begin with the U.S. seizure of Venezuela's president and what that action means for constitutional authority, regime change, and America's role in the world. We then turn to growing discussions around Greenland, national security in the Arctic, and how those conversations are being received by U.S. allies.The episode closes with a difficult discussion about the killing of an American citizen during a federal immigration operation in Minnesota. We walk through what is known, what remains unclear, and how quickly public narratives form before investigations are complete.Throughout the conversation, Josh works to frame a Christian perspective shaped by human dignity, restraint, truthfulness, and lament. POV is a space to slow down, think carefully, and keep people at the center when policy decisions carry real human consequences.Support the show

Have a comment? Send us a text! (We read all of them but can't reply). Email us: Will@faithfulpoliticspodcast.comIn this conversation, we sit down with Amar D. Peterman to talk about his new book, Becoming Neighbors: The Common Good Made Local. Amar reflects on his experience as an Indian American adoptee formed across Catholic, evangelical, and interfaith spaces, and how those tensions shaped his understanding of belonging, faith, and the common good.We explore why “neighbor” is an active practice rather than a passive label, how shared tables create space for real relationship across difference, and why listening, lament, and accompaniment matter more than efficiency or winning arguments. The conversation moves from theology to lived practice, grounding big ideas like evangelism, interfaith dialogue, and Christian witness in everyday, local relationships.Becoming Neighbors: The Common Good Made Local -https://bookshop.org/a/112456/9780802884121Guest BioAmar D. Peterman is a writer and theologian focused on religion, civic life, and community formation. He is the founder of Scholarship for Religion and Society, LLC, a former Assistant Director of Civic Networks at Interfaith America, and a PhD student at the University of Chicago Divinity School. Amar holds an MDiv from Princeton Theological Seminary and has written for outlets including Sojourners, Christianity Today, The Christian Century, The Future Institute, The Berkeley Forum, and The Anxious Bench. He also publishes regularly on Substack at The Common Life.Support the show

Have a comment? Send us a text! (We read all of them but can't reply). Email us: Will@faithfulpoliticspodcast.comIn this conversation, we're joined by Ryan Burge, professor of practice at the John C. Danforth Center on Religion and Politics and author of The Vanishing Church. Burge walks us through what the data actually shows about religion in America—especially the quiet collapse of mainline Protestantism and the growing alignment between political identity and religious affiliation. We talk about why religious change is usually slow, why the 1990s marked a real inflection point, and how churches that once brought politically diverse Americans together are disappearing. The result, Burge argues, is not just a weaker church, but a weaker democracy—more isolated, more polarized, and less capable of holding disagreement without rupture.Book MentionedThe Vanishing Church: How the Hollowing Out of Moderate Congregations Is Hurting Democracy, Faith, and Us: https://bookshop.org/a/112456/9781587436697Guest BioRyan Burge is a sociologist of religion and political scientist who studies religious change, polarization, and the rise of the religiously unaffiliated. He serves as Professor of Practice at the John C. Danforth Center on Religion and Politics at Washington University in St. Louis. Before entering academia full-time, Burge spent nearly two decades as a local church pastor. He is the author of The Nones, The Great Dechurching, and The Vanishing Church, and writes regularly at his Substack, Graphs About Religion.Support the show

Have a comment? Send us a text! (We read all of them but can't reply). Email us: Will@faithfulpoliticspodcast.comIn this episode of Faithful Politics, Will Wright and Josh Burtram are joined by Jonathan Freedland, an award-winning journalist, longtime Guardian columnist, and bestselling author, to discuss his latest book, The Traitor's Circle.Freedland unpacks the true story of a small, elite group of German citizens who quietly resisted Adolf Hitler from within Nazi Germany - and the devastating betrayal that ultimately exposed them. Through the lens of faith, conscience, and moral authority, the conversation explores why some people resist tyranny while most comply, how fear and partial courage shape human decisions, and why belief in a higher authority - whether God, conscience, or moral tradition - can give people the strength to say no when it matters most.The discussion draws powerful connections between history and the present without collapsing them into easy analogies, offering listeners a sobering and deeply human exploration of complicity, resistance, and the cost of moral clarity in dangerous times. Guest BioJonathan Freedland is a British journalist, author, and broadcaster. He is a longtime columnist for The Guardian, former Washington correspondent, and host of Politics Weekly America. Freedland is the author of several acclaimed books, including The Escape Artist, and his work often focuses on democracy, authoritarianism, antisemitism, and moral responsibility in modern history.Book DiscussedThe Traitor's Circle: The True Story of a Secret Resistance Network in Nazi Germany and the Spy Who Betrayed Them by Jonathan Freedland https://bookshop.org/a/112456/9780063373204Support the show

Have a comment? Send us a text! (We read all of them but can't reply). Email us: Will@faithfulpoliticspodcast.comIn this episode of Faithful Politics, Will and Josh sit down with attorney and EPPC fellow Rachel Morrison to unpack the legal and political fight over “anti-Christian bias” in America. Drawing from her new Ethics and Public Policy Center report responding to President Trump's Executive Order 14202, Rachel explains what the Anti-Christian Bias Task Force actually is, how it differs from the new Religious Liberty Commission, and why her research focuses less on sound bites and more on concrete federal actions. She walks through three key areas where she believes the Biden administration has sidelined religious liberty: conscience protections in health care at HHS, rulemaking that treats religion as an afterthought, and EEOC enforcement choices that chill religious exercise in the workplace. Along the way, the conversation hits RFRA, the Affordable Care Act's contraception and abortion mandates, pronoun and dress-code disputes, and the messy reality of COVID vaccine mandates for employees who requested religious accommodations. Rachel closes with what she sees as the most important fix Congress could make right now and why everyday people of faith should care about the “boring” world of federal regulations as much as the headlines. Guest Bio:Rachel N. Morrison is a Fellow at the Ethics and Public Policy Center, where she focuses on the intersection of law, religious liberty, and public policy. She directs EPPC's Administrative State Accountability Project, monitoring and challenging federal agency regulations that affect life issues, conscience protections, and nondiscrimination laws. Links and Resources Mentioned:EPPC Report: Eradicating Anti-Christian Bias: A Response to Executive Order 14202 – https://eppc.org/publication/eradicating-anti-christian-bias-a-response-to-executive-order-14202/Executive Order 14202: Trump administration order establishing the Anti-Christian Bias Task Force https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2025/02/12/2025-02611/eradicating-anti-christian-biasSupport the show

Have a comment? Send us a text! (We read all of them but can't reply). Email us: Will@faithfulpoliticspodcast.comIn this wide-ranging and deeply personal conversation, Will Wright sits down with comedian, broadcaster, and author John Fugelsang to unpack how Christianity became entangled with political power - and how the teachings of Jesus have been distorted to justify cruelty, exclusion, and authoritarianism.Drawing from his book Separation of Church and Hate, Fugelsang challenges the idea that modern right-wing politics reflect Christian values. He walks through how scripture is selectively weaponized around issues like immigration, LGBTQ rights, abortion, gun policy, and punishment, while the actual teachings of Jesus - care for the poor, welcome the stranger, reject violence, and show mercy - are ignored.The discussion moves beyond critique and toward hope. Fugelsang reflects on his unusual upbringing as the son of a former nun and Franciscan brother, his journey through faith and doubt, and why he still believes Jesus matters even for people who have deconstructed organized religion. Together, Will and John explore what a healthier relationship between faith and public life could look like - one rooted in compassion rather than dominance, and transformation rather than fear.This episode is an honest, challenging, and often humorous examination of what it really means to follow Jesus in a polarized political age. Buy Separation of Church and HateA Sane Person's Guide to Taking Back the Bible from Fundamentalists, Fascists, and Flock-Fleecing Frauds: https://bookshop.org/a/112456/9781668066898Guest BioJohn Fugelsang is an actor, comedian, broadcaster, and political commentator known for blending humor, history, and faith-based critique. He hosts nightly programming on SiriusXM Insight and the daily John Fugelsang Podcast. A former host of America's Funniest Home Videos, Fugelsang has become a leading voice confronting Christian nationalism and religious hypocrisy with wit and moral clarity. His latest book, Separation of Church and Hate, offers a guide to challenging extremist theology using the Bible itself.Support the show

Have a comment? Send us a text! (We read all of them but can't reply). Email us: Will@faithfulpoliticspodcast.comIn this powerful episode, Will and Josh talk with Justin Giboney, attorney, minister, political strategist, and co-founder of the AND Campaign. Justin unpacks the themes of his new book, Don't Let Nobody Turn You Around, exploring how the Black church's public witness offers an alternative to today's culture-war discipleship. The conversation ranges from Shirley Chisholm's moral courage to the failures of identity-based politics, the Imago Dei as a corrective to good-vs-evil partisanship, the dangers of Christian nationalism, and why Christians must resist being discipled by political outrage. Giboney offers a deeply hopeful but honest framework rooted in Scripture, justice, and civic responsibility.Additional ResourcesThe AND Campaign: https://andcampaign.orgJustin on Instagram: @andcampaignJustin on Twitter/X: @JustinEGiboneyChurch Politics Podcast (weekly commentary)Guest BioJustin Giboney is an attorney, ordained minister, political strategist, and co-founder of the AND Campaign, a Christian civic-engagement organization rooted in both conviction and compassion. He is a two-time Democratic National Convention delegate, a published author, and co-host of the Church Politics Podcast. His work focuses on restoring a faithful Christian witness in the public square by combining moral clarity with a commitment to justice and neighbor-love.Support the show

Have a comment? Send us a text! (We read all of them but can't reply). Email us: Will@faithfulpoliticspodcast.comIn this episode of Faithful Politics, Will and Josh sit down with journalist Jack Jenkins, a leading religion and politics reporter known for his thoughtful coverage of faith movements, extremism, and spiritual life in America. The conversation explores how compassion shows up in ordinary religious communities, why moments of unexpected moral clarity matter, and how American faith traditions continue shaping public life even in deeply polarized times. Jack shares insights from years of reporting at Religion News Service, including what he's learned from covering everything from clergy on the front lines to the spread of Christian nationalism. This is a grounded, hopeful conversation about the spiritual instincts that still emerge even in messy political moments.Additional ResourcesJack Jenkins' website: https://jackjenkins.meJack's work: https://religionnews.comGuest BioJack Jenkins is an award-winning national reporter covering religion and politics. He writes for Religion News Service, where his work focuses on Christian nationalism, social movements, church-state issues, and the role of faith communities in American public life. His reporting has appeared across major national outlets, and he is known for bringing nuance, empathy, and deep context to some of the country's most contentious debates.Support the show

Have a comment? Send us a text! (We read all of them but can't reply). Email us: Will@faithfulpoliticspodcast.comIn this episode, Will and Josh talk with Dr. George Yancey, a sociologist at Baylor University who specializes in race, identity politics, Christianophobia, and how faith communities can move beyond today's culture-war structures. The conversation unpacks why identity politics has become such a powerful force, how Christians can disentangle their core identity from political tribes, and why social identity theory helps explain today's polarization. Dr. Yancey also discusses his research on Christianophobia, the limits of both conservative and progressive models, and how a Christ-centered identity offers a more honest path forward than culture-war loyalty.Additional ResourcesDr. Yancey's YouTube channel: Shattering ParadigmsSociology Department at Baylor University (contact): https://www.baylor.edu/sociology/Guest BioDr. George Yancey is a sociologist and professor at Baylor University whose work focuses on race, social identity, anti-Christian bias, and the intersection of faith and culture. He is the author of several books on racial reconciliation, Christianophobia, and sociology of religion. His research emphasizes data-driven analysis and a Christ-centered approach to navigating America's most polarized debates.Support the show