The Common Good Podcast

Brian From takes a sobering look at recent headlines involving church leaders, asking whether the church is losing the battle for integrity and what it means to truly represent Christ. He also explores a viral debate about whether loud children belong in worship services and reflects on the deeper call for families to prioritize gathering together at church. The episode closes with a challenge from Kyle Idleman: following Jesus isn’t meant to be comfortable—true discipleship means recognizing Christ not just as Savior, but as the King who demands our allegiance.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Brian From reflects on how an AI-generated “viral” photo reminds us to slow down, verify what we share, and resist outrage bait online. Then, a surprise detour into ’90s worship music becomes a meaningful prompt to remember God’s past faithfulness and let gratitude fuel the present. The hour closes with a challenge: personality tests don’t excuse a lack of spiritual fruit, and a lukewarm faith can be renewed when we return to prayer, repentance, and the hope of being made new in Christ.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Brian From talks with James Barnett, CEO of Come and See, the nonprofit behind The Chosen, about the vision to finish all seven seasons and translate the series into 600 languages so it can be shared around the world for free. Barnett shares powerful stories of the show’s global impact—from unexpected conversions to discipleship opportunities in places far beyond the U.S.—and explains what viewers can expect as the series moves toward the crucifixion and resurrection. They also address a common criticism head-on: why The Chosen isn’t a replacement for Scripture, but a storytelling tool meant to point people back to the Bible and deeper faith.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Brian From welcomes March as a “month of hope,” while soberly reflecting on the frightening reality of war and turning listeners’ attention to Jesus—the firm foundation and the coming King who will bring an end to conflict. He then unpacks a weekend social-media firestorm around a John Piper Leviticus tweet, using it as a window into how outrage culture distorts Christian witness and conversation. The hour closes with a renewed call to become people of the Word, highlighting the surprising presence of doubt in Scripture and reading 1 Corinthians 1 as a reminder that our unity and confidence are anchored in Christ alone.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Brian From talks with Gospel Coalition writer Sarah Zylstra about surprising signs of spiritual engagement among Gen Z. Though statistically the most secular generation, pockets of young adults are showing deeper curiosity about Christianity, filling chapels, memorizing Scripture, and pursuing serious faith. It’s a hopeful conversation about cultural shifts, quiet revival, and what this moment could mean for the future of the church.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Brian From is joined by Adam Holz of Plugged In to break down I Can Only Imagine 2 and why its focus on marriage, illness, and everyday faith may resonate even more than the original. They also explore the growing “Chosen universe” phenomenon and whether Dallas Jenkins can sustain the momentum of one of Christian entertainment’s biggest success stories. The episode wraps with a look at the new K-pop film K-Pops! and what parents should know before sending their teens to the theater.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Brian From reflects on encouraging financial news before reminding listeners that true security isn’t found in mortgage rates or markets, but in Christ who never fluctuates. He walks through the “money-back guarantees” of the gospel from Romans 5—peace with God, access to grace, hope, assurance, and reconciliation—celebrating the unshakable blessings believers receive in Jesus. The hour also offers pastoral encouragement on prayer, integrity in leadership, and finding God’s steady presence even in seasons of anxiety.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Brian From talks with Focus on the Family counselor Glenn Lutjens about why money can become such a flashpoint in marriage—and how couples can move from tension to teamwork. They explore practical tools like creating a “spending plan,” setting regular money conversations, teaching kids biblical financial principles, and cultivating generosity together. It’s a candid, grace-filled discussion about protecting unity, pursuing peace, and putting Christ at the center of your finances.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Brian From sits down with Mark Boone, owner of All Citizens Lending, to talk about navigating today’s confusing housing market with clarity and confidence. Mark shares how his faith shapes his approach to mortgage lending, why education—not pressure—is key for buyers, and what first-time homeowners need to know before they start shopping. It’s a hopeful, practical conversation about building wealth, stewarding finances wisely, and keeping faith, family, fitness, and financeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Brian From wrestles with whether capital punishment belongs in the abortion debate and why a consistent pro-life ethic must extend from womb to tomb. He explores the historicity of the resurrection, asks what Christians would do if extraterrestrial life were discovered, and reflects on the difference between doubt and unbelief. Plus, a pastoral reminder that when dreams fall apart, contentment isn’t found in circumstances—but in Christ who strengthens us.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Brian From explores how churches can cultivate a truly inviting culture—starting not with programs, but with leaders who model evangelism and community themselves. He reflects candidly on lingering bitterness from personal hardship, the character revealed in everyday moments (like how we treat a waiter), and the spiritual discipline of persistent prayer. The hour closes with a powerful challenge: if chasing happiness leaves us empty, what happens when we chase Christ instead?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Brian From reflects on the spectacle of the State of the Union, the sobering four-year anniversary of the war in Ukraine, and the unifying power of Olympic gold. He challenges the church to resist celebrity culture, reject political labels attached to Christianity, and pursue true unity rooted in Christ alone. The hour closes with a powerful question: would heaven still be heaven if Jesus weren’t there?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Brian From talks with Jon Jorgenson, associate pastor of Soul City Church, about his unexpected journey from acting and musical theater to pastoral ministry. Jon shares how authentic community, discipleship, and a hunger for God’s presence shaped both his calling and the culture of Soul City in Chicago’s West Loop. Together they reflect on what God is doing in the city today—highlighting a growing desire not for celebrity Christianity, but for real encounter and transformed lives.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Brian From reflects on the joy of a classic snow day, celebrates Team USA’s Winter Olympic success, and wrestles with a cultural shift toward radical self-focus and independence. He shares a moving meditation on Christian funerals after attending the service of a young mother, exploring how believers hold grief and resurrection hope in tension. Brian also challenges listeners to break out of the “Christian bubble,” embrace their God-given calling like Bezalel, and live on mission with clarity, courage, and kingdom purpose.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Brian From talks with Bill Arbuckle of Focus on the Family about practical ways couples can strengthen their marriages in the year ahead. From responding to small “bids for connection” to prioritizing regular date nights and addressing deeper wounds with forgiveness and support, Bill shares simple but powerful habits that build lasting intimacy. The conversation also tackles the rise of “gray divorce” and reminds listeners that healthy marriages require ongoing intentionality, no matter how many years you’ve been together.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Brian From talks with Pastor Greg Armstrong of Renew Church in downtown Westmont about the journey from seven people in a living room to a thriving neighborhood congregation. Greg shares the highs and lows of church planting, the lessons learned through perseverance and the pandemic, and why they see themselves as joining God’s ongoing story in their community. The conversation highlights Renew’s intentional commitment to multi-ethnic ministry, reconciliation, and practical outreach—demonstrating how the gospel can shape both a church and a neighborhood.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Brian From talks with author and counselor Ed Welch about his new book The Humility Project for Men. Together they explore why humility is often misunderstood as weakness, how pride shows up as insecurity and self-protection, and why true strength begins with listening to God. Ed offers practical, gospel-centered steps for cultivating humility—reminding men that real honor and contentment are found not in power, but in dependence on Christ.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Brian From explores a creative twist on retirement after a Tennessee couple trades traditional living for life aboard cruise ships—raising bigger questions about money, calling, and contentment. He reflects on troubling headlines and cultural darkness, then turns to the inspiring faith of former Senator Ben Sasse as he faces terminal cancer with gospel-centered hope. From AI-driven career uncertainty to Colossians 3’s call to set our minds on things above, Brian reminds listeners that while the world shifts and shakes, Christ remains the steady anchor.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this Ash Wednesday edition of The Common Good, Brian From reflects on the meaning of Lent and why repentance, mortality, and preparation matter as we journey toward Easter. He tackles everything from political cruelty and cultural confusion to the power of Scripture, the need for play and rest, and how to share truth in a “live your truth” world. Through it all, Brian points listeners back to the same foundation: in a chaotic culture and a troubled world, our hope, perspective, and identity are found in Christ alone.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Brian From reflects on what it truly means to live as an ambassador of Christ and how intentional spiritual growth shapes both our witness and our character. He explores the “10,000 hours” principle, asks whether struggling Christians should abstain from communion, and considers the reality of spiritual warfare in light of Christ’s victory. From cultural debates about longevity and legacy to the eternal hope found in Jesus, Brian calls listeners to live with confidence, purpose, and gospel-centered perspective.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this Presidents Day edition of The Common Good, Brian Fromm shares surprising facts about the holiday, reflects on government dysfunction, and explores what a stunning Olympic collapse reveals about pressure and identity. He unpacks new research suggesting that worrying about aging may actually accelerate it, and challenges listeners to consider how anxiety, burnout, and misplaced hope shape our lives. Throughout the hour, Brian calls listeners back to a deeper foundation—an identity rooted in Christ rather than performance, politics, or public opinion.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Brian From is joined by Dr. Peter Larson of WinShape Marriage to talk about why dating your spouse shouldn’t stop after the wedding day. They unpack practical, doable guidelines—from putting dates on the calendar and unplugging from technology to focusing on progress over perfection—that can help couples stay connected in the midst of busy family life. The conversation offers a hopeful reminder that intentional, consistent pursuit can keep marriages from drifting into roommate status and instead cultivate lasting intimacy.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Brian From is joined by Adam Holz of Plugged In to break down this week’s entertainment headlines, from Steph Curry’s animated sports comedy GOAT to a surprisingly explicit new adaptation of Wuthering Heights. They also discuss the violent, spiritually murky animated film Scarlet and what parents should know before heading to the theater. The conversation wraps with reflections on Super Bowl commercials, cultural shifts, and a nostalgic (and surprisingly tame) Def Leppard concert in Las Vegas.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Brian From reflects on Olympic downhill skiers hurtling down the mountain at 70 miles an hour and challenges listeners to consider where God may be calling them to step out in bold faith rather than timid caution. From a false school alarm that exposed how little control we truly have, to a personal wrestling with bitterness and forgiveness, Brian explores what it means to trust the Lord in uncertain and painful seasons. The episode closes with a reminder from Mary and Martha and the story of the prodigal son that spiritual disciplines don’t save us—Christ does—and the foundation of it all is receiving His agape love before trying to do anything for Him.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Brian From reconnects with longtime friend and former youth group student Brad Wetherell, now lead pastor of The Orchard, to talk about calling, mentorship, and stepping into leadership after a respected predecessor. Brad shares how a hunger for God’s Word shapes the DNA of their six-campus church and reflects on the intentional transition that followed years of investment and team-based leadership. The conversation closes with a pastoral word of hope for anyone feeling weary, reminding listeners that in a relentlessly negative world, Christ remains our steady source of faith, hope, and love.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Brian From is joined by Emily Washburn of The Daily Citizen to examine the rapid rise of online sports betting and prediction markets in the wake of the Super Bowl. The conversation explores how gambling platforms use data analytics to target vulnerable users, why young men are especially susceptible, and how “prediction markets” blur the line between investing and betting. Together they unpack the spiritual, cultural, and practical dangers of a gambling industry that profits when its customers lose—and challenge churches to address an issue that has quietly become mainstream.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Brian From reflects on the legacy of James Van Der Beek and the sobering revelations surrounding Jeffrey Epstein, asking whether the so-called “culture wars” are masking deeper moral and spiritual realities. Drawing from Russell Moore’s analysis and the book of Philippians, Brian challenges listeners to move beyond outrage and partisanship toward a life anchored in Christ. The episode closes with a powerful reminder that true spiritual growth is measured not by knowledge or tribal loyalty, but by living for Christ and loving others with the humility of Jesus Himself.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Brian From speaks with Heather Rice-Minus, the president and CEO of Prison Fellowship, as they celebrate the organization's 50th anniversary. They discuss the mission of Prison Fellowship, its founding by Chuck Colson, the spiritual revivals occurring within prisons, and the future initiatives aimed at supporting incarcerated individuals and their families. Heather emphasizes the importance of church involvement in these efforts and the holistic approach Prison Fellowship takes to address the complexities of crime and incarceration.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Brian From reflects on our struggle with control—from traffic jams to life’s unexpected upheavals—and reminds listeners that true peace comes from trusting the God who is sovereign over it all. The episode weaves together cultural moments, from Survivor contestants unplugging from technology to public reminders of sin’s consequences, pointing back to the enduring hope found in the cross of Christ. Closing with a call to move beyond merely knowing about God to truly knowing Him, Brian challenges listeners to pursue obedience, love for others, and a deeper daily walk with Jesus.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Brian From reconnects with Randy Schoof, pastor of Warehouse Church in Aurora, to hear the remarkable story of how God transformed a troubled teenager into a pastor leading an unconventional, Christ-centered community. Randy shares how a simple Bible study in a warehouse grew into a church known for reaching people on the margins, including musicians, bikers, and those far from traditional church culture. The conversation celebrates God’s redemptive power and reminds listeners that the gospel still thrives when the focus stays on loving people and helping them follow Jesus.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Brian From is joined by author and speaker Arlene Pellicane to talk about National Marriage Week and why intentionality matters so much in long-term relationships. Arlene shares practical, hopeful ways couples can move beyond simply coexisting and rediscover connection, purpose, and joy—especially in seasons like parenting transitions and empty nesting. The conversation encourages couples to take small, meaningful steps toward growth and reminds listeners that strong marriages don’t happen by accident, but by choice.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Brian From is joined by Pastor Aaron Byers of Calvary Christian Church in Royal Oak, Michigan to talk about legacy, calling, and what it means to pastor a truly family-centered church. Aaron shares his journey from business into ministry, his experience stepping into leadership after his father, and why investing deeply in kids and community is essential in a fragmented, lonely culture. The conversation offers a hopeful reminder that real connection, biblical purpose, and putting God first are still the foundation for a flourishing church and a healthy life.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Brian From reflects on what it truly means to affirm the image of God in every person, drawing on Karen Swallow Prior’s call to be pro-life from the womb to the tomb and beyond partisan categories. The hour also challenges Christians to recover the primacy of Scripture in an age of distraction, urging believers to become people shaped not by slogans or brands, but by sustained engagement with God’s Word. From conversations about worship music, church culture, and the lure of success, this episode calls listeners to resist dehumanization, reject brand-driven faith, and live with an eternal perspective that is rich toward God.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Brian From reflects on a whirlwind of cultural moments—from Super Bowl outrage and social media fatigue to a sobering story of a faithful pastor who died suddenly after preaching the gospel. Along the way, he wrestles with big questions about urgency, suffering, contentment in a cost-of-living crisis, and a provocative Christianity Today debate over wine versus grape juice in communion. The episode closes with a reminder that while culture, technology, and circumstances change rapidly, God is the same yesterday, today, and forever—and still invites us to listen for His voice.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Brian From is joined in studio by Darius Holland, whose remarkable journey took him from professional football to pastoral ministry and ultimately into U.S. Army chaplaincy. Darius shares how chasing success in the NFL left him empty, and how walking with soldiers through pain, purpose, and faith has become his true calling. The conversation offers a powerful look at spiritual life in the military and invites pastors and leaders to consider chaplaincy as a mission field where the gospel meets real-life brokenness.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Brian From sits down with Tommy Thompson, pastor of Ashburn Baptist Church, to talk about calling, obedience, and the unexpected journey that brought a Florida pastor to Chicago. Tommy shares how Ashburn has become a hub for church revitalization, helping declining congregations rediscover mission and new life across the Chicagoland area. The conversation is both hopeful and urgent, offering encouragement to pastors and leaders who believe their church’s best days might still be ahead.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Brian From is joined by singer and worship leader Sarah Scarborough McLaughlin to talk about a special benefit concert supporting Pastor Mark Kaufman and his family as they walk through a cancer journey. Sarah shares her heart for worship, songwriting, and why coming alongside people in tangible ways during seasons of suffering matters so deeply. The conversation highlights the power of music, community, and generosity to create a night that is both joyful and meaningful—lifting hearts while meeting real needs.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Brian From is joined by Adam Holz of Plugged In for a wide-ranging conversation about what’s worth watching right now—and why discernment matters more than ever. They discuss a surprisingly sweet Kevin James rom-com, a new Amazon series that offers a raw and honest look at a pastor’s family in crisis, and a challenging film that confronts the reality of human trafficking with sobriety and hope. The episode helps listeners think wisely about entertainment, offering options that range from lighthearted escape to stories that demand reflection and compassion.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Brian From takes on the controversy surrounding the Super Bowl halftime show and questions the habit of framing entertainment choices as moral battles rather than matters of wisdom and discernment. He then turns to a sobering reflection on Bible literacy, responding to a powerful essay by Jen Wilkin that challenges churches to stop lowering the bar and start forming true disciples who know Scripture deeply. The episode weaves together cultural critique, pastoral concern, and spiritual exhortation—calling listeners to prayer that actually prays, faith that trains like an Olympian, and discipleship that embraces both grace and truth.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Brian From is joined by longtime friend and Wheaton College classmate Marcus Nelson, senior pastor of St. John Lutheran Church in downtown Wheaton, to talk about calling, ministry, and the surprising journey that brought Marcus back to where it all began. Marcus shares what he loves most about being a pastor, the unique spirit and community of St. John, and why an “ordinary” Christian life rooted in love and contentment is actually extraordinary. The conversation closes with a pastoral word of hope for anyone feeling weary, reminding listeners that real hope is found in being loved by God and loving others in return.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Brian From reflects on a striking modern-day echo of Ecclesiastes after a revealing comment from the world’s richest man reminds us that wealth can’t deliver meaning or happiness. He explores why chasing money, power, or pleasure ultimately leaves us empty, pointing instead to reverence for God as the true source of contentment. The conversation then turns to the danger of misusing Scripture to justify our own positions, urging listeners to let the whole counsel of God shape their convictions rather than cherry-picking verses to fit a preferred narrative.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Brian From unpacks why church hopping often reflects consumer instincts rather than commitment, and why putting down roots—even in imperfect churches—matters for spiritual growth. He then turns to Super Bowl week and the explosive rise of sports betting, weighing cultural normalization against real financial, relational, and spiritual dangers, especially for young men. The episode rounds out with encouragement on staying anchored in God’s Word, understanding forgiveness as the absorption of debt, and remembering that doubt, service, and perseverance are not signs of weak faith—but marks of an honest one.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Brian From talks with Reverend Joel Hess of St. James Chicago Church and School about his unexpected path into ministry and the joy of proclaiming the gospel as a completely free gift. Joel shares what he’s seeing on the ground in Chicago, where Gen Z is showing renewed curiosity about historic faith, real community, and truth that isn’t performative or partisan. The conversation explores why loneliness, skepticism, and overload are driving people back to church—and how grace, joy, and authenticity are meeting them there.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Brian From reflects on family, faith, and the moments that quietly shape who we become—from a powerful weekend witnessing his daughter’s testimony to the enduring nostalgia of The Wonder Years. He explores what true transformation looks like through Jelly Roll’s bold Grammy testimony, asks hard questions about work-life balance, youth sports, and misplaced priorities, and challenges listeners to consider what actually brings joy to the enemy of our souls. The hour closes with a strong call to resist legalism, remain rooted in grace, persevere in faith, and live with integrity—online and offline—as people who simply refuse to quit.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Brian From talks with Kyle Isabelli, lead pastor of Avenue Christian Church, about stepping into senior leadership at a young age—and doing so just as the pandemic upended everything. Kyle shares how preaching through the book of Romans has sparked honest, healthy conversations about unity, judgment, government, and disagreement in a deeply divided cultural moment. The discussion ultimately points toward a countercultural invitation: slowing down, staying rooted in Christ, and learning to be present with others—even when we don’t see eye to eye.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Brian From talks with John Kuhfahl, Associate Campus Pastor at The Chapel’s Grayslake campus, about leaving a decades-long career in the pharmaceutical industry to step into ministry. John shares how his business background now fuels the Chapel Care Center, the largest food pantry and clothing closet in Lake County, and how serving tangible needs has reshaped the church’s culture and mission. The conversation highlights courage, calling, and the quiet miracles that happen when the church becomes known simply as “the church that helps people.”See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Brian From talks with Pastor Jonathan Bergemann of Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Downers Grove about leading a congregation through the aftermath of a devastating church fire. Jonathan shares how displacement, uncertainty, and worshiping as nomads clarified what truly defines the church—not programs or buildings, but the unchanging gospel and deep personal relationships. The conversation offers a powerful reminder of perseverance, hope, and how God often does his most meaningful work when everything familiar is stripped away.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Brian From sits down with Jonathan Masters of Park Community Church to talk about pastoring in a city defined by constant movement, change, and opportunity. Jonathan explains Park’s unique model as a family of interdependent churches, the beauty and tension of shared leadership, and why seeing others grow in their gifts brings him the greatest joy. Together, they offer a hopeful picture of what God is doing across Chicago—far beyond the headlines—and why the gospel continues to flourish in the city’s neighborhoods.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Brian From reflects on the surprising rise in Bible engagement through The Bible Recap and what it reveals about a deeper hunger for God’s Word and a belief in a God who does immeasurably more than we can imagine. He then turns to a sobering spiritual question—what could we ever do to repay our debt to Christ—exploring grace, gratitude, and why the answer is ultimately nothing at all. Along the way, Brian challenges cultural trends around money, boredom, productivity, and distraction, calling listeners to move beyond “doing nothing” and instead invest their lives in what truly matters.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Brian From sits down with Philip Miller, senior pastor of Moody Church, to talk about his unexpected calling into ministry and what it’s like to shepherd one of Chicago’s most historic congregations. Philip reflects on preaching through the pandemic, leading a deeply diverse church, and staying faithful without being overwhelmed by the weight of legacy. The conversation highlights the enduring DNA of Moody Church—welcoming the stranger, preaching the Word, and trusting God to transform lives over time.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Brian From sits down with Steve Carter, lead pastor of Christ Church of Oak Brook, to talk about calling, leadership, and stepping into a historic church with deep roots and a strong legacy. Steve shares what he loves most about pastoring, the unique DNA of Christ Church, and how presence, character, and faithful shepherding shape a healthy congregation. The conversation closes with a powerful pastoral word of hope for those walking through grief or hardship, pointing listeners toward perseverance, resurrection hope, and Christ as the anchor for their souls.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.