The Non-Prophets

Republican-led states, spearheaded by Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, are launching a new accreditation body for higher education, aiming to dismantle existing standards deemed 'ideologically biased.' This move seeks to strip colleges of diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives, replacing robust academic curricula with 'anti-woke' content focused solely on workforce metrics and conservative dogma. It's a transparent ploy to cultivate a less critically thinking populace, benefit dubious institutions like 'Trump University,' and funnel taxpayer money to politically aligned ventures. This attack on comprehensive education prioritizes control and revenue over intellectual development, turning higher learning into an echo chamber for a narrow ideology, ultimately undermining the very fabric of an informed citizenry.News Source:Universities Creating New Accreditation Agency In Some Republican StatesBy Dan Levin and Karah Rucker for Straight Arrow NewsJune 27, 2025

Oklahoma's Superintendent Ryan Walters faces a lawsuit over new, controversially enacted education standards that inject Christian nationalist dogma and conspiracy theories into public school curricula. These changes, lacking transparency, bundle divisive religious content with popular but unfunded mandates, exemplifying a "shit-filled M&M" approach to policy. This blatant religious overreach is part of a broader Christian nationalist strategy to indoctrinate children, undermine secular education, and solidify power by marginalizing other faiths and non-believers. It highlights hypocrisy and poses significant challenges for teachers and the separation of church and state.**News Source:Oklahoma Sued Over School Standards, By Hemant Mehta for The Friendly Atheist, July 2, 2025

Colorado Springs City Council just threw their "inclusive" mask out the window, refusing to acknowledge Pride Month after three years, all because a Satanic group dared to utter "Hail Satan" at their parade. This isn't just about two words; it's a chilling display of hypocrisy and religious bigotry, driven by social media outrage that pushed a government body to discriminate against an entire community. While claiming to avoid "identity-based gestures," they weaponize religion against the LGBTQ+ community, proving that for some, the only identity that truly matters is their own narrow, Christian one. It's a bleak reminder that the fight for secularism and equality is far from over, especially when politicians cave to fear-mongering and pretend their religious intolerance isn't a political act. They demonize a non-theistic group for satire, while simultaneously harming queer individuals by making them feel "othered" and unsafe.News Source: Colorado Springs City Council Members Lash Out Over Pride Parade's "Hail Satan" Message By Hemant Mehta for The Friendly Atheist June 25, 2025 

Texas is pulling a fast one, mandating Ten Commandments posters in every public school classroom! This isn't about education, folks; it's a blatant, unconstitutional push to inject religious dogma into secular learning environments, ignoring clear historical precedents for the separation of church and state. Opponents highlight the staggering hypocrisy of a state with the death penalty pushing "thou shalt not kill," while taxpayers brace for the inevitable legal battles this divine decree will unleash. It's a classic case of religious overreach disguised as civic duty, proving some will stop at nothing to turn public schools into personal pulpits.News Source: Abbott Signs Law: Ten Commandments in Public School Classrooms By Anne James for KHOU 11 June 21, 2025

A Florida pastor offers a truly divine "testimony" of receiving a hefty $10,000 gift, allegedly for his fervent political endorsements, raising all sorts of holy hell about the blurred lines between pulpit and politics. This "blessing" isn't for charity, mind you, but for his personal coffers, sparking debate on whether this is divine intervention or just good old-fashioned grifting. Join us as we dissect this unholy union of faith and finance, exposing the alarming trend of religious organizations exploiting their tax-exempt status for personal and political gain, proving yet again that for some, the pursuit of earthly riches trumps spiritual integrity. It's a sermon on the mount of money, leaving us to wonder: is this divine prosperity, or just a new level of religious scam?.News Source: MAGA Pastor Brags About Receiving $10,000 For Supporting Trump By Black Information Network for BIN: Black Information Network June 23, 2025

In a brilliant display of malicious compliance, several cities are outmaneuvering GOP efforts to ban Pride flags on public property by simply making the rainbow banner their official city symbol. This tactical genius exposes the glaring hypocrisy of so-called "small government" proponents who have no issue legislating what colors citizens can fly, while simultaneously defending the divisive, hateful imagery of the Confederacy. It's a bold, "punk as fuck" stand against authoritarian bigotry and religious overreach, revealing how deeply threatened some are by inclusivity and basic human decency. This act of defiance serves as a beacon of hope against the relentless assault on human rights and freedom of expression, reminding us that critical thinking and resistance are vital in a climate where fear and ignorance are weaponized to control.News Source: GOP Fumes as City Outsmarts Pride Flag Ban By Daniel Villarreal for lgbtq nation June 7, 2025

A so-called "rehab" camp for child refugees, operating under the guise of faith, has been exposed for horrific abuse, leading to the removal of dozens of children. This disturbing pattern reveals the systemic dangers of religious institutions operating with unchecked power and zero oversight. When vulnerable populations, particularly immigrant and refugee children, are exploited in the name of piety, it exposes a deep societal failure where religious privilege shields heinous acts from accountability. This incident highlights the urgent need for stringent regulation and criminalization of these "faith-based" programs, ensuring all children are protected from the predatory practices masked by religious fervor. The cycle of abuse must end.News Source: Iowa Kingdom Ministry Rehab & Recreation 'Shekinah Glory Camp' accused of child abuse By Kelby Wingert for kcci.com June 16, 2025

A Georgia high school just pulled the plug on "The Crucible" because a few pearl-clutching parents deemed it "demonic." The irony! This isn't just baffling censorship; it's a symptom of a deeper societal rot where fear, ignorance, and religious overreach masquerade as "protecting the children." When a play warning against moral panic falls victim to it, we're plunging into a regressive abyss where critical thinking is demonized. This incident highlights alarming authoritarian control hijacking public education, proving unchecked religious influence and narcissistic entitlement threaten artistic expression and crucial historical lessons. Rage against the absurdity and fight for intellectual freedom.News Source:Georgia high school cancels 'The Crucible'By Hemant Mehta for The Friendly AtheistMay 26, 2025

Christian musician and COVID-era superspreader Sean Feucht is under fire—this time from within his own ministry. Former colleagues accuse him of financial fraud, abuse of power, and exploiting legal loopholes to avoid IRS scrutiny. In this episode of The Non-Prophets, the panel tears into religious privilege, unearned trust, and how figures like Feucht weaponize martyrdom to dodge accountability. When belief meets unchecked power, who pays the price?News Source Christian Nationalist Sean Feucht accused of massive financial misconduct by former ministry insidersThe Friendly Atheist, By Hemant Mehta, on June 3, 2025

After a two-year evidence review initiated by Utah's Republican governor, the data is in: gender-affirming care for youth is safe, effective, and medically justified. But instead of embracing science, lawmakers are ignoring their own study. In this episode, The Non-Prophets take apart the hypocrisy, the religious double standards, and the real human cost of denying care. When truth is inconvenient, some choose cruelty over compassion.News SourceMother Jones, “Utah Republicans Got the Science They Asked For—Then Ignored It”By Madison Pauly, May 24, 2025

The Non-Prophets explore the emergence of a new COVID variant, NB 181, and the public health system's fragile readiness. With mutations targeting the spike protein and signs of increased transmissibility, scientists are urging caution without panic. The panel unpacks virology basics, shares personal stories of loss, and grapples with America's deep distrust in institutions like the CDC and FDA. When trust erodes, so does the ability to respond—will we repeat past mistakes?News SourceHuffPost UK, “The Most Common COVID Symptoms Right Now”By Julia Ries, May 28, 2025

Delaware has become the 12th U.S. state to legalize medical aid in dying. In this deeply personal episode of The Non-Prophets, the hosts discuss the hard-won passage of House Bill 140 and the dignity it affords terminally ill patients. They examine the safeguards, ethical debates, and religious opposition to such laws—and why support remains strong despite decades of resistance. This is a story of autonomy, compassion, and the right to choose a peaceful end.The Friendly Atheist, “At long last, Delaware enacts ‘death with dignity' law”By Hemant Mehta, May 29, 2025https://www.friendlyatheist.com/p/at-long-last-delaware-enacts-deathThe Non-Prophets 24.23.3 with Eli, AJ, and Kelley LaughlinDelaware Legalizes Death with Dignity

The Non-Prophets take on Texas' latest Christian nationalist push—a bill requiring public schools to display the Ten Commandments. But Rep. James Talarico, a Christian Democrat, is having none of it. In a series of epic takedowns, Talarico grills his colleagues on their hypocrisy, biblical illiteracy, and blatant disregard for the Constitution. The hosts analyze the bill's legal problems, political motives, and the power of standing up for real religious freedom.The Friendly Atheist, “Texas Democrat Exposes GOP Hypocrisy Behind Ten Commandments Bill”By Hemant Mehta, May 28, 2025https://www.friendlyatheist.com/p/texas-democrat-exposes-gop-hypocrisyThe Non-Prophets 24.23.2 with Eli Slack, Kelley Laughlin, and AJTexas Passes Commandments Bill—One Rep Fights Back ✊Rep. Talarico Roasts Hypocrisy with Bible and Constitution

In this episode of The Non-Prophets, the panel reacts to the alarming halt in CDC communications, with the U.S. now flying blind on public health threats. Budget cuts, mass firings, and political meddling have silenced disease alerts that once informed doctors, hospitals, and the public. The team dives into how dismantling the CDC's outreach endangers lives, erodes trust in science, and shows contempt for evidence-based governance. It's not about public safety—it's about control.NPR, “CDC's public health warnings go dark after staff firings, media freeze”By Elijah Nouvelage, May 21, 2025https://www.npr.org/2025/05/21/nx-s1-5387723/cdc-communications-cuts-social-media-public-healthThe Non-Prophets 24.23.1 with Eli Slack, Kelley Laughlin, and AJAmerica's Disease Watchdog Has Gone Silent

In this fossil-fueled episode of The Non-Prophets, the hosts unpack a new discovery: lizard-like footprints in Australia that could rewrite the timeline of tetrapod evolution by 40 million years. From the science of peer review to the philosophical weight of evidence, the panel dives into how science self-corrects, why tentative claims aren't failures, and how our distant past continues to shape our future. Also: religion, dinosaurs, road durability, and… Silurians?News SourcePopular Mechanics, “395-Million-Year-Old Footprints Push Humanity's Timeline”By Elizabeth Rayne, May 19, 2025The Non-Prophets 24.22.3 with Eli, Cynthia, Rob, and FriendsWe All Came from… Something Like a Lizard

In this episode of The Non-Prophets, the panel highlights Faye “What” Albernas, a bold and vibrant voice for unity in the LGBTQ+ community amid growing hostility in Florida. Reporting from Miami Beach Pride, Albernas calls for connection and compassion, even while wrapped in color and confronting serious issues like HIV funding cuts and anti-trans legislation. The hosts discuss the tension between faith and queerness, the power of visibility, and how celebration can be an act of resistance.News SourceLGBTQ Nation, “Albernas waves the unity flag in Florida as the LGBTQ+ community faces vast threats”By Greg Owen, May 19, 2025https://www.lgbtqnation.com/2025/05/faywhat-albernas-waves-the-unity-flag-in-florida-as-the-lgbtq-community-faces-vast-threats/?utm_campaign=daily-newsletter&utm_medium=email&utm_edition=202505190600&utm_source=newsletterThe Non-Prophets, Episode 24.22.2 featuring Rob, Eli Slack, and Cynthia McDonaldPride in Florida Is a Protest

In this powerful episode of The Non-Prophets, the panel tackles the disturbing case of Robert Morris—a megachurch pastor who used his influence to shield himself after years of sexually abusing a child. The team discusses how religious power structures protect predators, silence victims, and shield moral leaders from justice. From golden parachutes to biblical forgiveness, this story exposes the entitled arrogance of spiritual abusers and the complicity of the churches that defend them.News SourceThe Friendly Atheist, “Albernas waves the unity flag in Florida as the LGBTQ+ community faces vast threats”By Hemant Mehta, May 19, 2025https://www.lgbtqnation.com/2025/05/faywhat-albernas-waves-the-unity-flag-in-florida-as-the-lgbtq-community-faces-vast-threats/?utm_campaign=daily-newsletter&utm_medium=email&utm_edition=202505190600&utm_source=newsletterThe Non-Prophets, Episode 24.22.1 featuring Rob, Eli Slack, and Cynthia McDonaldMegachurch Pastor Abused a Child—And Wants Millions

In this refreshing and hopeful episode of The Non-Prophets, the hosts celebrate some rare good news for secular politics: the Congressional Freethought Caucus has added two new members—Representatives Judy Chu and Delia Ramirez. The panel explores what the Freethought Caucus stands for, why secular representation matters, and how language, humanism, and smart tactics can help normalize atheists and nonreligious values in public office. It's a thoughtful, funny, and inspiring discussion on the future of reason-based policy in government.News SourceThe Friendly Atheist, “The Congressional Freethought Caucus just added two new members”By Hemant Mehta, May 12, 2025https://www.friendlyatheist.com/p/the-congressional-freethought-caucus?utm_source=share&utm_medium=android&r=oa4eg&triedRedirect=trueThe Non-Prophets 24.13.25 with Helen, Rob, Tracy, and FriendsProspective Titles Freethought Caucus Grows—And That's Good News

In this deeply unsettling episode of The Non-Prophets, the panel confronts the tragic and controversial case of Adriana Smith—a brain-dead woman in Georgia whose body is being kept on life support to carry a pregnancy to term. Despite being legally dead, Georgia's abortion restrictions prevent her family from making medical decisions, effectively reducing her to an incubator. The hosts examine the ethical, legal, and human rights implications of this case, exploring how far the state's control over reproductive bodies can go—even beyond death.News Source11Alive.com, “Adriana Smith case raises questions about Georgia's heartbeat law”By Kate Brumback, May 19, 2025https://www.11alive.com/article/news/politics/adriana-smith-case-raises-questions-georgia-heartbeat-law/85-8beefae8-daca-4ef8-86f4-82575a09cf0fThe Non-Prophets 24.13.25 with Helen, Tracy, Rob, and FriendsShe's Dead. But the State Won't Let Her Go ⚰️ Georgia Uses Brain-Dead Woman as an Incubator

In this episode of The Non-Prophets, the panel unpacks a troubling new bill—The Interstate Obscenity Definition Act—that threatens to redefine what counts as “obscene” in America. Framed as protecting public decency, the bill could lead to sweeping censorship of porn, LGBTQ+ content, art, and personal expression. The hosts expose the vague language, moral posturing, and religious overtones driving the legislation, and explore how it could impact everything from adult entertainment to free speech. It's not about protecting children—it's about control.News SourceInteresting Engineering, “New obscenity bill could trigger anti-porn prosecution”By Aamir Khollam, May 12, 2025https://interestingengineering.com/culture/new-obscenity-bill-could-trigger-anti-porn-prosecutionThe Non-Prophets 24.13.24 with Helen, Rob, Tracy, E.J. The Porn Panic Is Back: A 1950s Morality Reboot

In this episode of The Non-Prophets, the panel explores the Democratic Party's surprising new strategy: using religion to push back against Trump-era policies. From Capitol Hill vigils to Bible-quoting sit-ins, leaders like Hakeem Jeffries and Cory Booker are invoking Scripture and moral framing to regain ground with religious voters. But does this signal genuine change—or is it political theater? The hosts examine whether moral messaging can replace policy-driven advocacy, and what it means for secular voters and marginalized communities alike.News SourceReligion News Service (RNS), “To put pressure on Trump, Democrats turn to religion—and religious activists” By Jack Jenkins, May 7, 2025 https://religionnews.com/2025/05/07/to-put-pressure-on-trump-democrats-turn-to-religion-and-religious-activists/The Non-Prophets, Episode 24.20.3 featuring Helen Greene, Stephen Harder, The Ejector Seat and Cindy Plaza Democrats Quote Scripture to Challenge Trump

In this episode of The Non-Prophets, the panel reacts to the election of Pope Leo XIV—the first American pope—and what his leadership might mean for the Catholic Church. While some see the appointment of Robert Francis Prevost as a possible attempt at modernization, others remain skeptical. The team discusses the Pope's political views, possible reform efforts, and the Catholic Church's long, global history of corruption and harm. Is this new pope a sign of change—or just another face for an unchanging institution?News SourceYahoo News!, “Who is Robert Francis Prevost, the new Pope Leo XIV, and how will his political views shape his papacy?” By Andrew Romano, May 9, 2025 https://www.yahoo.com/news/who-is-robert-francis-prevost-the-new-pope-leo-xiv-and-how-will-his-political-views-shape-his-papacy-204820387.htmlThe Non-Prophets 24.13.22 with Helen, Cindy, E.J., Stephen, and Tinny America's First Pope: Progress or PR Move?

In this heartfelt and painful segment, The Non-Prophets discuss a mother's public reckoning with sending her son to conversion therapy. Connie Hoying, mother of Pentatonix singer Scott Hoying, recounts the regret and harm caused by trying to "pray the gay away" in her new memoir. The panel dives into the psychological damage of so-called “ex-gay therapy,” its religious justifications, and why it must be seen—and banned—as a form of torture. LGBTQ Nation originally published this personal story of reflection, harm, and hope.News SourceLGBTQ Nation, “I Regretted Sending My Son to Conversion Therapy” by Connie Hoying, May 5, 2025 https://www.lgbtqnation.com/2025/05/i-regretted-sending-my-son-to-conversion-therapyThe Non-Prophets, Episode 24.20.2 featuring Helen Greene, Stephen Harder, The Ejector Seat and Cindy PlazaShe Sent Her Son to Conversion Therapy… Then Regretted It

In a disturbing yet unsurprising twist, the U.S. Justice Department—under the Trump administration—backed the Catholic Church's stance against mandatory reporting laws that would require clergy to report child abuse confessed during confessional.The Non-Prophets panel unpacks the civil rights investigation launched against the law, discusses the implications for victims and justice, and contrasts global approaches to church accountability. How long can the confessional loophole shield abusers from consequences?News SourceThe Friendly Atheist, “Trump Justice Dept. Sides with Catholic Church in Fight Against Reporting Law” https://www.friendlyatheist.com/p/trump-justice-dept-sides-with-catholicThe Non-Prophets, Episode 24.20.1 featuring Helen Greene, Stephen Harder, The Ejector Seat and Cindy PlazaDOJ Defends Church's Right to Hide Abuse

Southern Baptist Convention membership has dropped to its lowest level in over 50 years, falling from nearly 13.7 million in 2021 to just over 12.7 million in 2025. While leaders tout rising baptism numbers, critics say this masks the real issue—declining relevance and aging congregations.The Non-Prophets dive into what this means for American Christianity, global religious trends, and why the church's cultural power may not be fading as fast as its pews.News Source The Friendly Atheist, by Hemant Mehta, May 1, 2025https://www.friendlyatheist.com/p/southern-baptist-membership-hitsThe Non-Prophets, Episode 24.19.4 featuring Kelley Laughlin, Eli Slack, Jason Friedman, and Jonathan RoudabushSouthern Baptist Membership Plummets to 50-Year Low

A Milwaukee judge is facing federal charges after allegedly helping a man avoid ICE agents by allowing him to exit through a jury door—agents who only had a non-judicial warrant. Judge Hannah Dugan's defenders argue she was upholding constitutional protections, not obstructing justice. Is this a principled stand for civil rights, or a threat to law enforcement authority?The Non-Prophets examine what's legal, what's moral, and what it means for judicial independence in an increasingly polarized system.News Source Reuters, by Sarah N. Lynch and Andrew Goudsward, April 25, 2025https://www.reuters.com/world/us/fbi-director-says-arrested-judge-obstructing-immigration-operation-2025-04-25/The Non-Prophets, Episode 24.19.3 featuring Kelley Laughlin, Eli Slack, Jason Friedman,and Jonathan RoudabushJudge Arrested for Blocking ICE Agents: Justice or Overreach? ⚖️Can a Judge Be Charged for Defending the Constitution?

A Georgia elementary school sparked national outrage after posting “Whites Only” and “Blacks Only” signs over water fountains during a lesson on desegregation. The teacher claimed it was part of a history lesson on Ruby Bridges, but the move left students confused and targeted, and parents furious. Was this an ill-conceived attempt at immersive education—or a reckless display that retraumatized and divided?The Non-Prophets break down the controversy, ethics, and long-term impact.News Source The Independent via Yahoo News, by Katie Hawkinson, April 24, 2025https://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/americas/honey-creek-elementary-signs-georgia-b2739151.htmlThe Non-Prophets, Episode 24.19.2 featuring Kelley Laughlin, Eli Slack, Jason Friedman, and Jonathan RoudabushSegregation Signs Posted at Georgia School Spark Outrage

Calvary Chapel San Jose has finally been held accountable after defying COVID restrictions, spreading misinformation, and racking up millions in fines. A California appellate court upheld a $1.2 million penalty against the church, rejecting claims of religious discrimination.The panel dives into what this ruling means for religious privilege, public safety, and the growing tension between faith and law. Is this a sign that courts are beginning to take church accountability seriously?News Source The Friendly Atheist by Hemant Mehta, April 25, 2025https://www.friendlyatheist.com/p/ca-court-upholds-12-million-fineThe Non-Prophets, Episode 24.19.1 featuring Kelley Laughlin, Eli Slack, Jason Friedman. and Jonathan RoudabushCourt Smacks Down Defiant Church Over COVID Fines

When Atlanta megachurch pastor Phillip Mitchell told his congregation to stop blaming white cops and start teaching “obedience to authority,” backlash erupted—including from his own members. While he apologized on Instagram, many saw it as hollow, especially when he doubled down on the same dangerous rhetoric. The panel breaks down the historical and present-day implications of respectability politics in Black churches, police violence, and what true accountability really looks like.News SourceAtlanta Black Star by Christian Boone, April 21, 2025https://atlantablackstar.com/2025/04/21/atlanta-megachurch-pastor-apologizes-for-telling-black-folks-to-stop-blaming-white-cops-for-the-killing-of-black-kids/The Non-Prophets, Episode 24.18.3 featuring Cynthia McDonald, Stephen Harder and AJ Atlanta Pastor Sparks Outrage Over Police Violence Comments

Hundreds of U.S.-based scientists are applying to a French university program following major federal research funding cuts in the U.S. France's new initiative promises financial support and academic freedom, prompting what some are calling a potential “brain drain.” The panel discusses the implications for American innovation, global collaboration, and the growing politicization of science funding.News SourceNPR by Alana Wise, April 18, 2025https://www.npr.org/2025/04/18/nx-s1-5368132/us-researchers-scientists-apply-french-university-programThe Non-Prophets, Episode 24.18.2 featuring Cynthia McDonald, Stephen Harder and AJ FranceAttracts U.S. Scientists After Research Cuts

With the death of Pope Francis, attention turns to his divisive legacy in the U.S. Catholic Church. While hailed globally as a reformer, Francis alienated many conservative American Catholics over his stances on climate change, immigration, and LGBTQ rights. As the Vatican sought inclusion, U.S. Catholics increasingly aligned with far-right politics, exposing the church's internal fractures.The panel explores what this split means for the future of Catholicism and the global religious landscape.News Source: Reuters by Jessica DiNapoli, April 22, 2025https://www.reuters.com/world/us/us-catholics-pope-francis-tenure-defined-by-growing-divisions-2025-04-22/The Non-Prophets, Episode 24.18.1 featuring Cynthia McDonald, Stephen Harder and AJ The Pope Is Dead—Now What? ☠️Pope Francis Divides U.S. Catholics One Last Time

A Russian drone strike has damaged Chernobyl's outer containment structure, raising alarms across Ukraine and beyond. Experts stress that while the inner sarcophagus remains intact and no radiation leak has been detected, the deliberate nature of the attack signals a troubling escalation. The panel explores the potential environmental, political, and psychological consequences of targeting one of history's most infamous nuclear disaster sites.News SourceReuters by Yurii Kovalenko, April 13, 2025https://www.reuters.com/world/europe/ukraine-seeking-solutions-damaged-chernobyl-confinement-vessel-minister-says-2025-04-12/The Non-Prophets, Episode 24.17.4 featuring Jimmy Jr., Rob, Tracy Wilbert and The Ejector SeatChernobyl Attacked Again—Is the Sarcophagus Safe? ☢️Russia Bombs Chernobyl Containment—Why?

Senator James Lankford is pushing a bill to relax political speech restrictions for churches, despite admitting it's largely unnecessary. The Non-Prophets panel explores how clergy already flout the Johnson Amendment with impunity while secular 501(c)(3)s remain muzzled. Could repealing the rule backfire and empower atheist nonprofits? Or would it further tilt the playing field toward well-funded religious institutions?News Source:The Friendly Atheist by Hemant Mehta, April 14, 2025https://www.friendlyatheist.com/p/sen-james-lankford-knows-the-irsThe Non-Prophets, Episode 24.17.3 featuring Jimmy Jr., Rob, Tracy Wilbert and The Ejector Seat Senator Admits IRS Rule Change for Churches Is Pointless

Harvard University is taking legal action after the Trump administration froze $2.2 billion in federal grants, citing failure to address antisemitism and comply with vague new rules about “merit-based” practices and “viewpoint diversity.”The panel discusses the implications for academic freedom, student activism, and how terms like antisemitism may be misused to silence dissent. Is this a crackdown on hate or a political power play? News SourceAP News by Michael Casey, April 14, 2025https://apnews.com/article/harvard-trump-administration-federal-cuts-antisemitism-0a1fb70a2c1055bda7c4c5a5c476e18dThe Non-Prophets, Episode 24.17.2 featuring Jimmy Jr., Rob, Tracy Wilbert and The Ejector SeatTrump Freezes $2.2B in Harvard Grants Over Campus Protests

When an Iowa couple sued MercyOne and Catholic Health Initiative for the death of their unborn child, the Catholic hospital initially argued the fetus wasn't a person—despite Catholic doctrine claiming life begins at conception. Only after public backlash did the hospital walk back its legal argument. The panel explores the church's double standards, financial motivations, and what this case reveals about its moral authority in public health.News Source:The Friendly Atheist by Hemant Mehta, September 2, 1120 (likely intended as 2025)https://www.friendlyatheist.com/p/catholic-hospital-ditches-pro-lifeThe Non-Prophets, Episode 24.17.1 featuring Jimmy Jr., Rob, Tracy Wilbert and The Ejector SeatCatholic Hospital Says Fetus Isn't a Baby—to Dodge Lawsuit

A legal dispute between Freedom From Religion Foundation and American Atheists over a donor's estate raised eyebrows—but the reality was far less dramatic. After questions emerged over a handwritten memo altering distribution plans, the parties sought transparency, not a fight. The case was settled amicably, with all organizations receiving more than expected. The panel unpacks lessons in ethics, optics, and legacy.News Source: Friendly Atheist by Hemant Mehta, April 8, 2025https://www.friendlyatheist.com/p/two-influential-atheist-groups-have?utm_source=share&utm_medium=android&r=oa4eg&triedRedirect=trueThe Non-Prophets 24.16.3 with Scott Dickie, Jonathan Roudabush and Eli Slack Two Atheist Groups Settle Estate Dispute Peacefully

A $250K grant intended to install LGBTQ+ historical markers in Ohio was abruptly canceled by the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), sparking backlash from advocacy groups and lawmakers. The panel examines why commemorating LGBTQ+ history is being politicized and what this says about state-level efforts to erase marginalized voices from public memory.News Source: Central Ohio News by David Rees, April 8, 2025https://www.nbc4i.com/news/local-news/central-ohio-news/doge-cancels-250000-ohio-grant-installing-lgbtq-historical-markers/The Non-Prophets 24.16.2 with Scott Dickie, Jonathan Roudabush and Eli SlackDOGE Withdraws $250K from LGBTQ+ History Project

The Supreme Court sided with the Department of Education, pausing a lower court ruling that would have restored grants for diversity, equity, and inclusion programs. The panel explores what's at stake—not just for education, but for democracy itself. Are DEI efforts under threat because they aim to level the playing field? Or is ignorance becoming policy by design?News Source: CBS News by Melissa Quinn, April 4, 2025https://www.cbsnews.com/news/supreme-court-trump-administration-to-cancel-education-grants-for-now/The Non-Prophets 24.16.1 with Scott Dickie, Jonathan Roudabush and Eli Slack Supreme Court Halts DEI Education Grants

Major win for abortion rights in US after new rulingMetro by Sarah Hooper on April 1, 2025https://www.smartnews.com/en-us/article/4797808326211539939The Non-Prophets 24.15.4 with Cynthia McDonald, AJ, Kelley Laughlin and RobBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-non-prophets--3254964/support.

Oklahoma's Ryan Walters wants to bring Bibles into classrooms—and silence the watchdogs. But is it religious freedom or unconstitutional overreach?In this episode, The Non-Prophets take aim at Oklahoma State Superintendent Ryan Walters, who is suing the Freedom From Religion Foundation (FFRF) for doing what it does best: upholding the Constitution. After the FFRF blocked Walters from using $3 million in public funds to buy Trump Bibles for every classroom, Walters retaliated by accusing the organization of "attacking teachers and students." The panel breaks down how this lawsuit isn't just legally flimsy—it's part of a wider Christian nationalist strategy to chip away at the wall between church and state. We also explore what this means for educators, indigenous communities, and anyone fighting for a secular government.The Non-Prophets 24.15.3 with Cynthia McDonald, AJ, Kelley Laughlin and RobBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-non-prophets--3254964/support.

Texas Pastor Says Bible Has 'No' Grounds for Being Anti-Transgender NewsBreak by Nick Mordowanec, on March 31, 2025https://www.newsbreak.com/share/3943600104434-texas-pastor-says-bible-has-no-grounds-for-being-anti-transgenderThe Non-Prophets 24.15.2 with Cynthia McDonald, AJ, Kelley Laughlin and RobBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-non-prophets--3254964/support.

On April 1st, 2025, a bipartisan proposal to let members of Congress vote by proxy while on parental leave sparked unexpected chaos in the U.S. House. Co-sponsored by Rep. Ana Paulina Luna (R) and Rep. Brittany Pettersen (D), the measure aimed to support working parents in government.But GOP leaders attempted to quietly kill the bill using a procedural trick—only to face rebellion from their own side. Nine Republicans joined Democrats to derail the legislative agenda, exposing the hypocrisy in so-called “pro-family” rhetoric.The Non-Prophets panel explores how this battle reflects the broader national tension between parental rights, representation, and political gamesmanship.Watch as the crew breaks down the contradictions in Congress' stance on family leave and why proxy voting for parents turned into such a hot-button issue.Read the full story here:Metro, by Sarah Hooper, April 1, 2025