The Two World Podcast

In this Easter Sunday episode, Barney and Jacob explore Luke 24:1-12 and the breathtaking moment when the followers of Jesus arrive at the empty tomb. What does it mean to live in light of this moment and how might resurrection shape our priorities, expectations, and hope?

Barney and Jacob speak with author and photographer Meshali Mitchell about her journey of restoration and how she sees God at work in the world. From rebuilding her historic farmhouse to capturing beauty through her lens, Meshali reflects on how broken places can become sacred spaces. Her upcoming book, Restored: Partnering with God in Transforming Our Broken Places (Revell; April 15, 2025; $34.99; Cloth; ISBN 9780800746209; Ebook ISBN 9781493448579), invites readers into a deeper exploration of healing, beauty, and God's presence in every part of the process.

Barney and Jacob share their favorite moments from the Nintendo Museum in Japan, including rare consoles, interactive exhibits, and tips for anyone hoping to visit this one-of-a-kind destination.

In this episode, Barney and Ken talk with authors Lauraine Snelling and Kiersti Giron about their journey as mentor and friend in the writing world. Lauraine reflects on her early publishing experiences, the role of editors, and the historical research behind her novels, while Kiersti shares how teaching internationally and living near the Navajo reservation shaped her storytelling. Together, they discuss their collaboration, the themes of Land of Dreams, and the challenges of crafting complex characters. Throughout, they explore how faith influences their writing and the power of stories to connect past and present.

What draws us to love stories? What makes them resonate so deeply? In this episode, we talk with Patricia Johns, a gifted author whose novels explore the beauty, struggles, and redemptive power of love. We discuss her passion for writing, the inspiration behind her stories, and how faith shapes her portrayal of relationships.

Barney and Jacob sit with Psalm 119, reflecting on its beauty, depth, and what inspires them most about this powerful passage of Scripture.

In this episode, Barney and guest host Jason chat with author Jill Eileen Smith about bringing biblical figures to life through storytelling, balancing historical accuracy with imagination, and how faith and perseverance shape the writing journey. Don't miss her latest release, Dawn of Grace: Mary Magdalene's Story!

Join us for a conversation with historical romance author Laura Frantz as we explore the art of bringing history to life, the research that fuels her storytelling, and the personal connections that shape her work. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to her books, you won't want to miss this discussion.

Barney and Jacob discuss smarter ways for saving and spending, budgeting for new tech, and managing impulse buying.

Join Barney, Jacob, and special guest Jennifer Deibel, author of A Dance in Donegal and The Lady of Galway Manor, for a fascinating discussion on the themes, inspirations, and cultural connections in her Irish-inspired novels. Jennifer shares how she weaves faith, family, and the idea of "home" into her stories while highlighting the beauty and complexities of Irish culture. Plus, hear an exclusive preview of her upcoming novel, Heart of the Glen, releasing January 21, 2025.

Barney and Jacob reflect on foundations of the Anabaptist Community and its continued relevance.

Ken, Barney, and Jacob display their favorite ties and shares meaningful stories associated with them.

Gather 'round the fireplace as we dive into the magic of holiday films! In this episode, we discuss Christmas movies that hold a special place in our hearts and celebrate the season with a dose of festive fun!

In this special episode, we sit down with bestselling author Suzanne Woods Fisher to discuss the creative journey behind her fiction and the role of faith, family, and curiosity in her storytelling. Suzanne shares the inspirations drawn from her grandfather's heritage, her reflections on balancing writing with raising four kids, and the heart behind her beloved characters. Grab a cup of coffee or tea, and join us for an insightful conversation that explores themes of forgiveness, simplicity, beauty, and the way we perceive others!

Barney and Jacob explore influential passages from the Bible that have impacted their lives.

Barney and Jacob take themselves on a walk alongside pets old and new.

Ken, Barney, and Jacob uncover the importance of community as it relates to Jewish practices of mourning, family feuds, and a yearly dance competition. 

Barney and Jacob delve into random icebreaker questions to learn unexpected things about each other.

Barney and Jacob share pictures and stories about their summer vacations and highlight some fun activities and memorable meals.

Barney and Jacob look back at their podcasting journey and share hopes for the future beyond their 100th episode.

Barney and Jacob explore the deeper meaning of biblical words for "living rightly" and how they relate to modern life.

Barney and Jacob share about their experiences at the local county fair.

Barney and Jacob talk about the city of Narita and the mutual sense of gratitude in helping others.

Ken, Barney, and Jacob uncover how the impending birth of a child connects members of the community in Cicely, Alaska.

Barney and Jacob discuss the advantages of learning Hebrew and Greek at any level.

Barney and Jacob discuss entering into middle age and what they have learned over the years.

Barney and Jacob dive down the warp pipe of Mario's movies and classic cartoon adventures.

Matt, Barney, and Jacob share their experiences with signs and language beyond literal meaning.

Barney and Jacob share about the impact of neighborhoods on their lives.

Barney and Jacob dig into overlooked scripture passages related to Easter in light of Hebrew, Greek, and Japanese.

Barney and Jacob share stories and experiences about their passion for learning foreign languages.

Barney and Jacob discuss Jesus-centered faith and other highlights from the Ohio Mennonite Conference Annual Assembly in Plain City.

Join Matt and Jacob as they delve into the history of Johannes Whisler's Book of Arithmetic Problems and explore the intersections of creativity, education, and community.

Ken, Barney, and Jacob reflect on dissonant characters whose stories harmonize in “Duets” from season 4 of Norther Exposure.

Ken, Barney, and Jacob discuss important events in their lives and the lives of characters in Northern Exposure.

Barney and Jacob share personal experiences and stories about the rewards and joys of parenting.

Barney and Jacob look back at 2023 with gratitude and look forward to 2024 with hope.

Ken, Barney, and Jacob indulge on morsels of story and subtext from "The Big Feast" episode of season 4 of Northern Exposure.

Barney and Jacob share about their favorite children's books and the lessons that they have learned from them.

Barney and Jacob discuss the benefits and challenges of AI and the ever-present need for human creativity

Ken, Barney, and Jacob explore episode 14, "Burning Down the House," from season 3 of Norther Exposure.

Take a drive with Barney and Jacob through stories and experiences on the road.

Barney and Jacob look back on his trip to Scotland with Katie this past summer.

Barney and Jacob share their experiences with family reunions.

Barney and Jacob work out the role that exercise plays for them and those around them.

Barney and Jacob reflect on examples of community, connections, and care from the second year of their podcast.

Barney and Jacob explore how coffee brings people together and helps them to appreciate the richness of the world around them.

Barney and Jacob reminisce about their favorite live concerts and the small details that made them unforgettable.

Barney and Jacob reflect on their experiences with vacation Bible school and its ongoing impact in their lives.

Barney and Jacob look back at experiences of rejection surrounding religious beliefs and seek to learn and grown from them.

Ken, Barney, and Jacob reflect on important wake-up calls in life as seen in an episode of the third season of Northern Exposure.