Restoring Our City

What happens when you create space for real, vulnerable conversations in the South Asian community? In this episode, hosts Jobbin & Jeswin Thomas sit down with Priya Johnson, founder of The Brown Table Talks, to explore just that.

In this episode we unpack the real challenges—and the hope—found in navigating community, culture, and faith within South Asian immigrant contexts.From stories of how basketball built unexpected bridges, to honest conversations about broken communities, this episode leans into the tension many face when feeling disconnected from their ethnic or spiritual roots. But there's hope.Drawing from Jeremiah 29, we explore how we can seek the welfare of our communities without idolizing culture over Christ. They wrestle with generational gaps, the power of prayer, and why empowering the next generation matters more than ever.Whether you've walked away from your cultural community, feel stuck between generations, or are longing for genuine connection—this conversation is for you. It's about faith that bridges divides and community that heals, not hides.

Is the supernatural just a fringe topic—or is it central to the Christian life?In this episode, hosts Jobbin & Jeswin dive deep into a conversation many avoid: the supernatural in Christianity. From spiritual warfare and answered prayers to the resurrection itself, they explore why believers often shy away from these topics—and why we can't afford to anymore.

How do we know if we're following God's will? What if we make the wrong choice and miss out on His plan?

Did you grow up thinking the Holy Spirit was something to fear? Many of us were raised with misconceptions that made the Spirit seem mysterious, intimidating, or even spooky. In this episode of Sunday Scaries, we unpack the truth about the Holy Spirit, why it's misunderstood in many South Asian churches, and how believers should actually view Him. Is He a force to fear or a Friend to follow? Let's break it down together.

What does it really mean to be *blessed*? Many churches today have a distorted view—some equate blessing with wealth and success (Prosperity Gospel), while others believe true faith requires poverty and struggle (Poverty Gospel). But what does the Bible actually say? In this episode, we break down these misconceptions and uncover the true, biblical meaning of blessing. Whether you're wrestling with the idea of financial prosperity or wondering if suffering is a sign of holiness, this conversation will challenge and encourage you.

As devastating fires sweep across Los Angeles in 2025, some have claimed the destruction is a sign of God's judgment, pointing to the city's perceived corruption and sinfulness. But is this truly how God operates? Or are these ideas rooted in misconceptions about His character? In this episode, we tackle the tough question: What is God's role when it comes to natural disasters? We'll explore how some use these misconceptions as scare tactics, spreading fear instead of truth. We unpack the cultural and theological misunderstandings that arise in times of crisis and examine the harm caused when people misuse natural disasters to paint God as punitive and unloving.

We all have commitment issues when it comes to relationships, goals, and overall discipline. But how does that translate to church? Do you really need to be committed to a church to be considered a real Christian?

How else do you wrap up the end of the year? With testimony time! Growing up, we used to dread giving testimonies in front of our whole church, but as we grow older, it's a biblical principle to share and reflect on what God has done. What does the Bible say about testimonies and why is it important? We dive into a quick study on Psalms 66 where not only are we encouraged to do so, but empowered when we share. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/restoringourcity/support

The holidays are supposed to be about peace and joy, but our world continues to get hostile and more polarized. While the stats point to a devolving world, what does the Bible say about it? The guys do a mini small group study on Ephesians 2:14-18 and talk about what divides the walls of hostility and truly brings peace. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/restoringourcity/support

It's the Christmas season, and while it might be the biggest holiday of the year, do we reflect on the weeks leading up to it? We discuss Advent and the preparation for the true meaning of Christmas. We even go back to our roots and do a psuedo small group style study on a Psalm 98 to illustrate how some of our favorite holiday songs speak about more than just the Christmas story. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/restoringourcity/support

We're back! After a much needed break, Restoring Our City kicks off a brand-new season discussing the power of mentorship in transforming our communities. In this first episode, we highlight the importance of both seeking and offering mentorship as a way to build stronger connections. Whether you're seeking guidance or ready to guide others, join us as we work together to build a better community through mentorship! --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/restoringourcity/support

You need to eat healthy, That goes for physically, as well as spiritually, and this content creator provides snack sized truths that's easy to digest. A long time friend of ROC, John Stephenson cooks up positive creativity through Faithful Flavors! For true insight from a marketing pro, check out this episode on how to live out your creativity from a Biblical point of view. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/restoringourcity/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/restoringourcity/support

Emerging South Asian Leaders are desperate for guidance, and have the unique position to lead from their story. Check out our conversation with creative leader Sabina Pappu, founder of Se.Cure Leadership who is empowering emerging Indian leaders to belong, find community, receive leadership training and mentorship, and boldly share their stories --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/restoringourcity/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/restoringourcity/support

There's a lot of macho talk these days, and toxic masculinity seems all the rage. But are there actual problems we should be aware of when it comes to raising young men? Are more men lacking ambition and purpose today? The guys discuss the alarming stats that young men face, and a react to a great pod from Dr. Anthony Bradley on "How Churches Should Respond to the Boy Crisis". Check that episode Dr. Bradley's pod here; its a great listen: https://open.spotify.com/episode/1fd6d5WW2s3VrZXKXAC7Nl?si=262eac250a5d4186 --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/restoringourcity/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/restoringourcity/support

What are the symptoms of an unhealthy church? How can you spot the warning signs? The guys discuss some helpful tips and differentiate staying in toxic environments to drive change....and when to run. Don't get mad at us for this one :) --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/restoringourcity/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/restoringourcity/support

Father's Day is a great holiday where we celebrate an amazing responsibility. But we dive into some tough questions every aspiring parent should think of. Should everyone have kids? How does discipline look like in today's world? What's it like being an Indian dad in today's culture? We discuss life and the cultural differences from being raised as brown kids to brown dads. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/restoringourcity/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/restoringourcity/support

A whole month celebrating Asian American culture, but what responsibility comes with that? Is there a place for ethnic centric churches or should we strictly pursue a multicultural approach all the time? The guys discuss how our unique identity plays into who we are, and the special ability it allows us to connect with others. A fun conversation with a challenge to reach those around us. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/restoringourcity/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/restoringourcity/support

By now the news seems repetitive. Another shooting in America, calls for action, but nothing takes place. As the world lashes out against empty thoughts and prayers, how should our community respond? The guys discuss the polarizing topic of gun violence in America and what our response as a community must be. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/restoringourcity/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/restoringourcity/support

Finding your calling in life is daunting, and obstacles can prevent us from getting started on the path to discovery. The guys discuss all the barriers that stop us, and whether it's truly the calling we should be pursuing in the first place. Jeswin, Bijoy, and Jobbin reunite on this episode discussing practical tips in discovering your calling. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/restoringourcity/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/restoringourcity/support

Weeeee're back! We said we would be right back, but a few things happened along the way. Babies being born, cross country moves, traveling, and callings in different directions. Just a few major life shifts, but we are back to talk through it all, especially how we decipher the calling in our lives. Jeswin and Jobbin jumpstart the podcast again to discuss direction and calling and how to decide when to move forward. Lots of fun in store this season, so thanks for joining the ride! --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/restoringourcity/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/restoringourcity/support

In our Season Finale, what better way to wrap up than to have a candid conversation on whether we can continue to have candid conversations? With Elon Musk on the verge of buying Twitter, renewed talks of free speech have come up. Will a takeover of social media open up more free thought? How do we guard against misinformation without censoring conversation? The guys discuss the fight for free speech along with looking ahead to topics you want to hear about in the next season. Thanks for listening all season long and we will be back after a short break! --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/restoringourcity/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/restoringourcity/support

Is your church too cool? There are some churches out there where the service looks like a laser light show, and the preachers have the latest sneakers. Are these trendy features necessary or even helpful in reaching people today? The guys discuss the latest fads in American churches, and whether we need to decorate the message shared to the world. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/restoringourcity/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/restoringourcity/support

The only slaps contained in this episode are hopefully knee slaps from all the laughs. But we hope there are lessons in here too. The guys discuss the fallout from the slap heard 'round the world at the Oscars, and the bigger idea surrounding how we deal with conflicts in a healthy manner. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/restoringourcity/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/restoringourcity/support

We made it to 50 episodes! We can't believe we made it to this milestone, and appreciate our listeners for keeping us moving. What better way to celebrate than taking on more of your questions! The guys tackle some important topics like the problems of virtue signaling, and why Christians are secretive and not vulnerable enough. More candid conversations coming your way, and we can't wait to see what the next 50 episodes bring up. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/restoringourcity/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/restoringourcity/support

We asked you to submit anonymous questions, and you definitely did that! On this episode, the guys tackle a few questions that came from our "Ask Us Anything" page and discuss some spicy ones like: Should we care about social issues if they don't directly affect us? Should Catholics be referred to as Christians? Thanks for not sending us any softballs, but we encourage you to keep sending your questions in so we can bring them up on future episodes! --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/restoringourcity/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/restoringourcity/support

When should you leave your church? When should you stick it out? It's a tough decision some of us had to make, and often times the reason is because our churches are not know by our love. The guys discuss the good and bad experiences of church life, and what we can do to change the perception of our churches as we wrap up our latest series. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/restoringourcity/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/restoringourcity/support

With the dangerous conflict happening in Ukraine, what should be the Christian response to war? How does this impact how we treat each other and ultimately love our neighbor? The guys discuss recent events in this special episode, and discuss how our passions should lead to action. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/restoringourcity/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/restoringourcity/support

Is our identity as Christians wrapped up in our politics? If you haven't lived under a rock over the past several years, you can clearly see how our polarized country has done just that. Christians are synonymous with a political party and some ideas, but should that be the case? How should our faith inform our politics? The guys discuss whether we should let our vote determine our identity. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/restoringourcity/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/restoringourcity/support

With so many high profile examples of leaders who fall, the Christian community is becoming more known for their failures than any kind of love. The guys explore the reason why these issues of failure are troubling for our community, and how we should approach reshaping what we're known for. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/restoringourcity/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/restoringourcity/support

Play by the rules or get your hands slapped. That's the culture a lot of us grew up in when it came to being a church goer. Unfortunately, that culture led to the perception of Christians as strict rule followers and excluding anyone who broke them. The guys explore the skewed perceptions of Christianity, and how the rules and standards we claim to hold can have an adverse look on what it truly means to be a Christian. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/restoringourcity/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/restoringourcity/support

How does the world see us as Christians? Society might choose words like judgmental, critical, and unloving…and in some instances they might be right. With so many polarizing examples in the news by people who claim to have faith, it can be hard to identify as a Christian without being viewed negatively. In this new series, we explore how the Christian community is perceived; both from an internal and external focus. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/restoringourcity/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/restoringourcity/support

We've all heard them. We've probably used them. Father God. Traveling mercies. Bless your heart. All of the go to phrases in Christian jargon commonly known as "Christianese". How should we avoid empty phrases and fall out of the habit of talking in familiar terms, and start being more intentional with our words? Jeswin, Bijoy, and Jobbin talk through all the fun and familiar phrases we are all guilty of saying. Except "daddy-God". There's no excuse for using that one. Check out the latest episode and be sure to check out the poll question and Q&A section on Spotify and let us know your favorite phrases! Graphics by: Claire Skelly – “Sears/Willis Tower” · Alexander Skowalsky – “Chicago” Theresa Stoodley – “Chicago” from The Noun Project Jazzy Abstract Beat by Coma- Media from Pixabay --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/restoringourcity/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/restoringourcity/support

Why do we resonate with celebrities? Why do we feel a certain way when a beloved famous person dies? Chances are, you will see and hear people react with shock and sadness when someone they never met, passes away. Bijoy, Jeswin, and Jobbin discuss celebrity deaths- the impact it has on our communities, and the lessons we should take away from the life and death of the rich and famous. Be sure to check out the Q&A and poll question on Spotify! Graphics by: Claire Skelly – “Sears/Willis Tower” · Alexander Skowalsky – “Chicago” Theresa Stoodley – “Chicago” from The Noun Project Music: Jazzy Abstract Beat by Coma- Media from Pixabay --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/restoringourcity/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/restoringourcity/support

Chances are, you've attended church in your pajamas at least once over the past year and a half. But what if virtual church becomes the norm? Jeswin, Bijoy, and Jobbin discuss their experiences with virtual church, and whether this model can be viable in the future. No avatars were used in the making of this episode...yet. Be sure to check out the questions and poll to let us know your thoughts via Spotify! Graphics by: Claire Skelly – “Sears/Willis Tower” · Alexander Skowalsky – “Chicago” Theresa Stoodley – “Chicago” from The Noun Project Music: Jazzy Abstract Beat by Coma- Media from Pixabay --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/restoringourcity/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/restoringourcity/support

New Year, New You? What happens when the expectations we set for ourselves don't often align with God's plan for us? We kick off Season 4 with our sights set on what a whole new year and new season will bring. Speaking of new, we've got new co-hosts this year in Jeswin Thomas and Bijoy Samuel as they share some insights into waiting well, and setting the right expectations over resolutions in the new year. Another year of candid conversations on todays topics to help connect our community is coming your way in Season 4! --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/restoringourcity/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/restoringourcity/support

Another season in the books! Jeswin and Jobbin recap the touchy subjects we've covered over the past season, along with addressing listener submitted questions! We also may have insulted the Cowboys. We loved hearing from our listeners, so please keep submitting those questions and we look forward to bringing you new content, great guests, and positive conversations to help Restore Our City next season! --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/restoringourcity/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/restoringourcity/support

Should we have stayed? Should we have left earlier? There are so many tough questions to answer when it comes to America's longest war and our presence in Afghanistan. In light of the recent events and exit from the country, what we have left is a nation with polarized opinions. More importantly, we have another nation in the midst of chaos. Jeswin and Jobbin review the complicated issue of ending a war, and how we as a church should think critically about the tough decision of Leaving Afghanistan. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/restoringourcity/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/restoringourcity/support

When it comes to polarizing topics, conversations revolving the COVID-19 vaccine might be at the top of most lists. With around 50% of the US population vaccinated at this point in August 2021, the country has clearly voiced several opinions on whether to take the shot or not. In this episode, Jeswin Thomas and Jobbin Varghese critically think through the question of taking the vaccine, the assumptions and thoughts behind the choices people make. Instead of diminishing opposing views, we take a look at the reasoning behind them to come to more logical conclusions. Let's stop arguing and start analyzing. *Please do not take any info from this episode as medical advice. Consult with your doctor before making any medical decisions. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/restoringourcity/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/restoringourcity/support

Don't knock it till you've thought about it....critically. In the South Asian culture, it's no secret how families love to set people up. This comes from the historical practice of arranged marriages. But with a generation living in a Western culture and very different relationship practices, the opinions on arranged marriage have been wide spread. Jeswin and Jobbin take a critically thoughtful approach to arranged marriage- the opinions, assumptions, and some of the data around it to see if you can truly arrange love at first sight. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/restoringourcity/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/restoringourcity/support

In a polarizing world, it's easy to dismiss other views and demonize people who don't agree with you. That's why it's important to think critically on issues in society today. Not just to prove a point, but to be better unified as a community. In this new series, Jeswin Thomas and Jobbin Varghese discuss a variety of topics that have multiple opinions, but try to approach them by thinking critically. Let's stop arguing and start analyzing more. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/restoringourcity/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/restoringourcity/support

This year has been tough for the Asian American community with the recent uptick in attacks over the past year. Outside of just acts of violence, hurtful comments seem to be the norm when disparaging people within this culture. Alvin Mathew and Toby Kurian join us on this episode to review some of the insensitive comments made towards minorities, and how its relatable to the communities we grew up in. We would love to hear your feedback, and let us know your thoughts by dropping us a message via our "hotline" at Anchor.fm/restoringourcity --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/restoringourcity/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/restoringourcity/support

Imagine getting beat up, clawed at, kicked, and punched by someone half your size. Welcome to the world of being a dad. After celebrating another Father's Day, we are joined by 4 brown dads: Joel Varghese, Steve Chacko, Toby Kurian, and Jobbin Varghese to discuss Fatherhood- the best and toughest parts. We also discuss the importance of the father figure role on society and how we as a community can participate whether we are parents or not. Lots of laughs along with important life lessons in this episode! --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/restoringourcity/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/restoringourcity/support

We try really hard to avoid saying anything dumb on this episode in hopes that our future selves won’t get cancelled

With so much going on in the world, the best way to make an impact as a community is through giving. This community approach to giving is the heart behind Piesa Giving, an innovative app developed by Joel Mathew and Prince Ittickathra. The app allows you to safely and securely give to churches, charities, and special causes you care about most! They also have a great podcast called Giving Connected where they interview non-profit leaders to help shed light to worthy causes. Through building awareness of great non-profits in our community, these young leaders are helping create a culture of giving. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/restoringourcity/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/restoringourcity/support

This is part 2 of our conversation with Dr. Neil Shenvi: a South Asian convert to Christianity who became interested in the intersection between theology and social ideologies such as Critical Race Theory. This episode reviews the Q&A portion of the webinar, addressing submitted questions from our attendees. Though we may have differing views on the subject, or have not formed an opinion on it, our hope is that we can constructively learn together so that we may better serve the world around us. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/restoringourcity/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/restoringourcity/support

While there is often a call to action in the face of the injustices we see in the world around us, seldom do we pause to consider the foundations of the frameworks the world uses to pursue peace. This episode is part 1 of a live webinar we hosted with Dr. Neil Shenvi: a South Asian convert to Christianity who became interested in the intersection between theology and social ideologies such as Critical Race Theory. Part 2 will be the Q&A portion of this webinar addressing submitted questions from our attendees. Special thanks to Alvin Oommen who moderates this talk, along with Jeswin Thomas who organized the event. Though we may have differing views on the subject, or have not formed an opinion on it, our hope is that we can constructively learn together so that we may better serve the world around us. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/restoringourcity/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/restoringourcity/support

If you haven't had your coffee yet, this episode is bound to wake you up. Our energetic and lively guest this week is Binoj Jacob, on-air personality with the show The Big Time out of Los Angeles. He joins the podcast to talk about the struggle before the success which is also the theme of his own podcast Never Overnight. We discuss his story of persistence in breaking into the industry and taking the leap of faith across the country with just his faith in God to make it happen. We hope this episode encourages you to stop making excuses and start making the leap. Check out his podcast Never Overnight and subscribe! --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/restoringourcity/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/restoringourcity/support

When we understand our identity, we can truly lead. In this episode, we are joined with Leadership Coach, Christine Thomas from Dallas, TX who talks about applying leadership principles with a Biblical focus in the workplace. Joined with our co-host Jamie John Kurian, we learn some powerful insights from both of these women on the challenges people face today, and how we are all called to lead. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/restoringourcity/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/restoringourcity/support

Leaders need to adapt and pivot to continue making an impact. Jacqueline Marciante has exhibited that and more with her role as Owner of Marciante and Co. As a leader and entrepreneur, Jacqueline shares her insight on what great leaders do and how success is perceived in today's context. Don't miss this great episode with a leader making an impact in our community! The latest episode is now streaming everywhere! --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/restoringourcity/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/restoringourcity/support