Podcast appearances and mentions of Christian Smith

Why did religion decline in America—and was it really driven by hostility toward faith? In this episode, Loren talks with sociologist Christian Smith about his book Why Religion Went Obsolete and the cultural, technological, and institutional changes that reshaped American religion over the last several decades. Smith, well known for coining the term “moralistic therapeutic deism,” argues that religion did not simply decline or get pushed out by secularism—it became culturally obsolete. The conversation explores Smith's argument that the early 1990s marked a major cultural turning point, driven by technological shifts, generational change, and evolving social expectations. Rather than abandoning spirituality altogether, many Americans sought meaning, identity, and transcendence elsewhere—in politics, digital communities, sports, and forms of what Smith calls “re-enchantment culture.” They also discuss the continuing influence of moralistic therapeutic deism, the role of scandal and self-inflicted wounds within religious institutions, and why Christianity's challenges may be more internal and cultural than simply ideological or political. Together they explore: The lasting influence of moralistic therapeutic deism Why 1991 marked a cultural tipping point “Re-enchantment” and the rise of alternative spiritualities Religious scandal and Christianity's self-inflicted wounds Why authenticity matters for younger generations Politics, polarization, and religion's public witness What churches can learn from cultural change and loneliness Christian Smith is the William R. Kenan, Jr. Professor of Sociology Emeritus and Founding Director of the Center for the Study of Religion and Society at the University of Notre Dame. Smith is well known for his research focused on religion, adolescents and emerging adults, and social theory. Smith received his MA and PhD from Harvard University in 1990 and his BA from Gordon College in 1983. He was a Professor of Sociology at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill for 12 years before his move to Notre Dame. Mentioned Resources:

A brand new episode of Element Sessions is here! This month we journey through two very different energies across two hours of underground house music. Hour 1 — Ascension Lifting off with deep progressive and melodic house vibes featuring music from Henry Saiz, Christian Smith, Pablo Gargano, Ezequiel Arias and more. Expect hypnotic grooves, emotional melodies and driving rhythms built for late-night listening. Hour 2 — Ignition Turning up the heat with an uplifting mix of house and tech house featuring tracks from Mark Knight, Tony Romera, Marshall Jefferson, Patrick Topping and more. Big energy, infectious grooves and pure dancefloor momentum from start to finish. Lock in, turn it up and enjoy the ride! PART ONE - ASCENSION Everything in Its Right Place - twofaced., ELEVEN (FR)  Madre Noche (Mariano Mellino Remix) - Henry Saiz Golden Point - Christian Smith Thread (Extended Mix) - Redspace, Olven Vector - Tom Bryder Midnight Shadows - Pablo Gargano Keep Movin' On - Ivory (IT) Beautiful Chaos - XAVI st Prisma (Extended Mix) - Durante, Ezequiel Arias  Sands of Time - Rauschhaus, Noise Generation Castaneda (Extended Mix) - Redspace, S.Y.M  Dream Controller (Extended Mix) - Durante, Ezequiel Arias PART TWO - IGNITION Shut It Down (Extended Mix) - Mark Knight, Rome Fortune, Pietro Waste My Time (Extended Mix) - Tony Romera Watch out Now (Extended Mix) - Marshall Jefferson, Tim Sanders Chicago Baby (Extended Mix) - Felix Da Housecat, Benny Benassi  This Is House (Extended Mix) - Gene Farris, Eden Prince  Out The Door (Extended Mix) - James Hurr, Wh0 Circo Loco (Extended Mix) - DJ PP Love Me (Extended Mix) - Patrick Topping Can U Feel That (Extended Mix) - Shiba San President House (Extended Mix) - Roland Clark, MistaJam  The Connection (Extended Mix) - SOSA (UK) Club Muzik (Extended Mix) - Sam Divine Right Move (Extended Mix) - Wade Let's Jack (Extended Mix) - Piero Pirupa In Da Jungle (Extended Mix) - BLOND:ISH

History echoes as the US increases pressure on Cuba once again. On this episode of Talking Geopolitics, GPF Chairman George Friedman joins host Christian Smith to discuss Cuba's unique place in American geopolitics, the cause and potential outcome of the current crisis, and how Cuba fits into the US's new Western Hemisphere strategy. Also: Cuban parallels to other island nations. Learn more about GeoEconomic Lens and access the first issue for free at https://geopoliticalfutures.com/lens/introducing-lens/. Learn more about GPF and subscribe to our free newsletter at http://www.geopoliticalfutures.com/gpf-newsletter.

Tonight - Arsenal win the league, Reform UK leader Nigel Farage is facing some heat, and a massive breakthrough in the Grenfell Tower Fire. 

Réécoutez Maxximum DJ's avec Chritian Smith du samedi 16 mai 2026

Is global power built on tanks and treaties, or trade and technology? Introducing your view of the global economy through the lens of geopolitics, GeoEconomic Lens. In this exclusive clip from ClubGPF's Podcast+, Senior Analyst and Chief GeoEconomist Antonia Colibasanu joins host Christian Smith for a primer on geoeconomics and the new offering, the vulnerabilities of global economic interdependence, and the distinction between static and dynamic power.  Learn more about GeoEconomic Lens and get access to our inaugural issue for FREE, available now: https://geopoliticalfutures.com/lens/introducing-lens/

The Title Was Too Easy To Pick It felt like it had been 84 years since NYCFC won an MLS game. But it had only been seven regular season games and the only two victories were in the US Open Cup. Finally NYCFC broke out of their slump against a struggling Columbus Crew to slide back up the Eastern Conference table. This week Christian Smith fills in for J.R. with Mike and Mike as the three talk about Jansen’s coaching styles, the team’s response to the run of poor results and of course the hat trick by Hannes Wolf.

Christian Smith dials in from London with news from the other side of the world.

With the US, Russia, China, and Europe all at strategic crossroads, the new global geopolitical order is starting to show itself. On this episode of Talking Geopolitics, GPF Chairman George Friedman joins host Christian Smith to discuss Russia's internal crises and strategic pivot, the upcoming summit and future of US-China rapprochement, and how Europe is critical not only to Russia's future but to the entire global system. This episode of Talking Geopolitics was recorded on May 11, 2026. Visit http://www.geopoliticalfutures.com/gpf-newsletter for a free download from our Special Collection on the Middle East.

Christian Smith dials in from London with news from the other side of the world.

Is Putin looking to Trump for a lifeline? How does last week's phone call between the leaders actually signal Russian weakness? On this episode of Talking Geopolitics, GPF Chairman George Friedman joins host Christian Smith to discuss the geopolitical implications of the meeting, Russia's economic deterioration and internal instability, and what a post-Putin Russia might look like. Also: US troop withdrawals and shifting global alliances. Visit http://www.geopoliticalfutures.com/gpf-newsletter for a free download from our Special Collection on the Middle East.

Check out my Tronic Radio on your favorite streaming platforms here: https://ssyncc.com/tronic-podcast/ 01.Christian Smith – Juicy Pad 02.Angel Alanis – Do You Like The Way You Feel When You Shake? 03.A.D.N.Y. & Moonchild – Falling 04.G-Flame – Take Me Back 05.Gaetano Parisio – The Preface 06.Junior Sanchez & Christian Smith – United Groove 07.Santos Rodriguez – Road To Rio 08.Samuel L Sessions – You Make Me Shiver 09.Michel De Hey Vs. Grooveyard – Compound 10.The Hacker – Fadin' Away (Oxia Remix) 11.Trevor Rockcliffe Featuring Blake Baxter– Visions Of You (Smith & Selway Remix) 12.Christian Smith – Mojito 13.Zeta Reticula – EP2 14.K-Alexy Shelby – Club M.C.M. (Sterac Remix) 15.Ben Sims – Manipulated (Adam Beyer Remix) 16.Christian Smith & John Selway – Endzone 17.DJ Shufflemaster – A1 18.UK Gold– Agent Wood (Ben Long Remix) 19.DJ Rob Little – Pulsate (DJ HMC Remix) 20.Chester Beatty – Levanon (B1) 21.Ben Sims – The Dubs 22.Oliver Ho – From Modern To Ancient 23.Adam Beyer – Remainings III (Thomas Krome Remix) This show is syndicated & distributed exclusively by Syndicast. If you are a radio station interested in airing the show or would like to distribute your podcast / radio show please register here: https://syndicast.co.uk/distribution/registration

Christian Smith dials in from London with news from the other side of the world.

Tony Abbott wrote a history of Australia called, wait for it, Australia. Tim has been reading it, which sent him down a rabbit hole about celebratory versus critical history, cognitive dissonance, steel-manning both sides, and why we're so terrified of changing our minds.Joel and Tim work through black armband versus three cheers versions of Australian identity, and what Christian Smith's critical realist personalism has to do with welcoming newcomers at church. Then they land somewhere that ties it all together: Jesus is the synthesiser. Not a middle ground between two political tribes, not a careful hedge, but the total truth above and beyond all of it, which is exactly what a generation exhausted by polarisation is starving for.Plus: two Michael Jensen articles on how not to be weird to newcomers, the difference between a hobby and a practice, and Tim's takeaway on being genuinely curious about other people.Timestamps00:00 Welcome — adventures, new creation and Tim's AI-generated book cover05:00 Tony Abbott's history of Australia and the history wars09:30 Black armband vs celebratory history, why we can't hold both at once16:30 Steel-manning both sides with Claude and the danger of always complexifying22:00 Christian Smith's critical realist personalism: objective truth, subjective engagement28:00 Michael Jensen on how not to be weird to newcomers at church34:00 The regulars and irregulars problem: when community becomes a closed circle43:00 Hobby vs practice: Brad Stulberg on getting 1% better at welcoming51:00 God's sovereignty and our practice: the both/and of sanctification56:30 Tim's takeaway: be genuinely curious about othersDiscussed on this episodeTony Abbott - Australia: A HistoryChristian Smith - What is a Person?Sean Nolan - The Way He WalkedMichael Jensen - How Not to Be Weird to Newcomers at ChurchMichael Jensen - How to Be Normal to Newcomers at ChurchBrad StulbergCal Newport - How To Build Discipline in a Distracted WorldThe Antilibrary: The Hidden Value of Unread BooksJoin the Shock Absorber Network: shockabsorber.com.auSubscribe, leave a review, and send your thoughts to Joel at joel@shockabsorber.com.au

This month we take off with Ascension — a full hour of progressive and melodic house designed to lift you higher. Expect deep, driving energy and emotional textures featuring sounds from Guy J, Christian Smith, Monika Kruse, Roland Clark and more. Then we turn up the heat with Ignition — an uplifting second hour packed with house and tech house grooves to keep you moving. Featuring tracks from Nic Fanciulli, James Hurr, CamelPhat, Eats Everything and more. Two journeys. One session. Press play and let the elements take control. #ElementSessions #HouseMusic #TechHouse #ProgressiveHouse #DJMix PART ONE - ASCENSION The Underground - Roland Clark, Kadosh (ofc), à Dieu Selector - Guy J C Moon - Maze 28 Spawn - Soulmade (AR) Tremor - Nicolas Viana Death of Disco (Extended Mix) - Rolo Green Illusion (Ezequiel Arias Remix) - Christian Smith Sabi - Mayro I See You - Peter Makto, Matthew Sona Luvsucka (Tantum Remix) - Monika Kruse, Voodooamt Animals (Jerome Isma-Ae Remix) - Nihil Young, Zy Khan, Madison Palmer PART TWO - IGNITION  Love Dancing (Extended Mix) - Mixed Signals  Revolution (Extended Mix) - Nic Fanciulli Gitanita (James Hurr Extended Mix) - James Hurr, Sandra Carrasco, STBAN, Josemi Carmona Can You Feel It (Extended) - Todd Terry, CLS, Janika Tenn, Eddie Craig  Jockin (Extended Mix) - CamelPhat, Rafael Cerato Come To Me (Extended Mix) - Thomas Newson Perfect Love (Extended Mix) - Alaia & Gallo Don't Stop (Extended Mix) - CamelPhat, Rafael Cerato, Amarha Free Your Mind (Extended Mix) - Cloonee, Prospa  Can't Stop The Feeling - Riva Starr A Good Time with House Music (Tom Novy & Chris Trucher Deeper Ride) - Tom Novy, Chris Trucher  Rock the Beat (Extended) - Vintage Culture, OMRI. Bass (Sharam Jey, Frey Remix) - Sharam Jey, Chemical Surf, ILLUSIONIZE One More - (Solomun Extended Remix) - Solomun, Ad-Apt, Max Styler Slippin' (Extended Mix) - TCTS, Soma (AU) Make Some Noise (Extended Mix) - Eats Everything     

What does the multi-billion-dollar warship deal between Japan and Australia say about the new geopolitical order forming in the Pacific? On this episode of Talking Geopolitics, GPF Chairman George Friedman joins host Christian Smith to discuss the landmark defense cooperation, its impact on regional power dynamics, and how it may alter the posture of major players like China and the US. Also discussed: the future of oil dependency. Visit http://www.geopoliticalfutures.com/gpf-newsletter for a free download from our Special Collection on the Middle East.

We look at the latest international news making headlines.

We look at the latest international news making headlines 

A ceasefire is in place, but negotiations are once again breaking down over the conflict in Iran. Are we any closer to a long-term solution? On this episode of Talking Geopolitics, GPF Chairman George Friedman joins host Christian Smith to discuss the stalled negotiations, the impacts of the US blockade on Iranian ports, and why this new strategy could be more about China than Iran for Donald Trump. Visit http://www.geopoliticalfutures.com/gpf-newsletter for a free download from our Special Collection on the Middle East.

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

The return of humans to space with the Artemis II's orbit around the moon has captured the hearts and minds of millions around the world. While exploratory space travel enthralls the public, the geopolitics of space and its implications for war are something much less understood. On this episode of Talking Geopolitics, GPF Chairman George Friedman joins host Christian Smith to discuss satellites, potential space warfare tactics, the strategic value of the moon, and why we went there in the first place. Visit http://www.geopoliticalfutures.com/gpf-newsletter for a free download from our Special Collection on the Middle East.

News from the other side of the world.

De kinesiska humanoiderna slår världen med häpnad. Men hur avancerade är Kinas robotar, egentligen? Lyssna på alla avsnitt i Sveriges Radios app. Buddhistmunk, kung fu-dansare och barista. Kinesiska människoliknande robotar syns i många skepnader just nu och Moa Kärnstrand har fått tillfälle att testa några av dem i Peking. Nyligen blev dansande robotar på den kinesiska statliga nyårsgalan ett globalt viralt fenomen och i sociala medier sprids dagligen robotklipp från Kina. Hur tekniskt avancerade är de kinesiska robotarna? Och kan vem som helst köpa sig en humanoid?Ny arena i stormaktskampenKina tar täten i det globala robotracet och i Kinas nya femårsplan lyfts innovation inom AI och robotik fram som ett centralt mål för landet. Utvecklingen är redan en ny arena för stormaktskampen mellan Kina och USA och klart är att humanoidhajpen framstår som en stor PR-framgång för Kina. Hur kommer Europa förhålla sig till den snabbt växande kinesiska robotindustrin och vad händer när AI-robotarna blir en allt större del av den militära upprustningen?Medverkande: Moa Kärnstrand, Sveriges Radios Kinakorrespondent, Hanna Sahlberg, Sveriges Radios Kinareporter, Christian Smith, docent och lektor på avdelningen för robotik vid Kungliga tekniska högskolan KTH i Stockholm.Programledare: Björn DjurbergProducent: Therese RosenvingeKällor ljudklipp: NBC News, Sky News Austraila, CNA, CCTV, Reuters.

Solarstone pres. Pure Trance Radio Episode 481 Archive Solarstone Vinyl Mix circa 2000. 01. Tetraflux - Forever 02. PMT - Gyromancer 03. El Greco - Night Watch (Tribal Mix) 04. Tim Baker - Groove Treatment (believer ep) 05. Z2 - Herbgrinder 06. Oliver K - Simple Journey 07. Fingerfest inc. - Autoporno 08. Sentinal - I Am (Chris Cargo Remix) 09. Freakazoids - Freak & Hustle 10. Orbital - Nothing Left (Les Rhythmes Digitales Remix) 11. Timo Mass - Killin Me 12. Thomas P. Heckman - Ultra Vixens 13. Z2 - I Want You (Moshic & Zidan Remix) 14. Christian Smith & J. Selway - Yess 14. Marc et Claude - The History of Acid House 15. Hardfloor - Acperience

As we enter the second month of war in the Middle East, bombs continue to fly, and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz threatens a global crisis. On this episode of Talking Geopolitics, GPF Chairman George Friedman joins host Christian Smith to discuss the military pressures facing Washington and Tehran, the expanding scope of the conflict, and what it can tell us about the future of war. Visit http://www.geopoliticalfutures.com/gpf-newsletter for a free download from our Special Collection on the Middle East.

Christian Smith dials in from London with news from the other side of the world.

Another PRO Referee Fiasco NYCFC hosting Inter Miami on a Sunday afternoon could have been a showcase for MLS. Florida versus New York. Instead it was an exhibition of absurdity. This week Mike Anderer and J.R. diBart welcome back Christian Smith to breakdown the Sunday afternoon match and all of it’s highs and lows. At the end of the show listen to post-game audio from Tayvon Gray, Kevin O’Toole, Johnny Shore and Thiago Martins.

With the long-awaited meeting between Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping delayed until May, all eyes are on the two giants and the long shadow they cast on the Iran war and the world at large. On this episode of Talking Geopolitics, GPF Chairman George Friedman joins host Christian Smith to discuss China's strategic restraint in the Middle East, economic fragility and rapprochement with the US, and the importance of Taiwan. Visit http://www.geopoliticalfutures.com for world-class geopolitical analysis and discussion.

Check out my Tronic Radio on your favorite streaming platforms here: https://ssyncc.com/tronic-podcast/ Recorded LIVE at Florida135, Spain 31.3.2007 This show is syndicated & distributed exclusively by Syndicast. If you are a radio station interested in airing the show or would like to distribute your podcast / radio show please register here: https://syndicast.co.uk/distribution/registration

Christian Smith dials in from London with news of a chasm between Hungary and the rest of the European Union.

Talles Magno’s Moment NYCFC faced their toughest challenge to date in 2026 with the Colorado Rapids coming to Yankee Stadium last Saturday. While the Rapids failed to capitalize on their sustained possession, they still proved to be a strong opponent both with their intense press and their defensive rotations. It would be a Nico Fernandez Mercau brace that put NYCFC in the winning position, but the goal of the night was the Talles Magno icing on the cake that sealed the victory in the 85th minute. This week Mike Anderer and J.R. diBart welcome Christian Smith to talk about NYCFC Legends and the game from the weekend.

Babylon 5: "And Now for a Word"We interrupt your scheduled podcasting! Christian Smith joins us for a news report episode of the cult favorite space opera, where a Barbara Walters-type journalist shows us the intergalactic news media's perspective on aliens, space war, and space politics -- along with prescient takes on propaganda and evil corporate sponsors. We talk about the strange history of the Prime Time Entertainment Network (PTEN) and syndication, J. Michael Straczynski's pre-planning, and THE PSI CORPS IS YOUR FRIEND. TRUST THE PSI CORE.Follow Christian:⁠Instagram⁠ | ⁠Bluesky⁠Check out Christian's appearances on Graymalkin Lane!End Song: "Babylon 5 OST (Extended remix)" by NANKATA proud part of⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Glitterjaw Queer Podcast Collective⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Tip us on Ko-Fi⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ |⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Gimmicks Website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Email: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠gimmickspodcast@gmail.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ |⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠Bluesky⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ |⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Theme song:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠"Disco Tears" by Raven⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ |⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Creative Commons Attribution 3.0⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Sources: ⁠The Babylon ProjectThe Lurker's Guide to Babylon 5Archive of JMS Usenet postsPatricia Tallman Interview⁠

Another journey through sound, featuring fresh selections from Boris Brejcha, Moritz Hofbauer, Nora En Pure, Booka Shade, Christian Smith, Andhim, and more.1. David Granha - The Way I Breathe 00:00:332. Boris Brejcha - Engine 00:05:443. Mauro Picotto, CRW & Kamilo Sanclemente - I Feel Love 00:12:274. Moritz Hofbauer - Wait A Minute 00:18:235. Artic White - Equilibrio 00:23:026. C-Jay, Yves Eaux & Maurice Caron - RompSlomp 00:28:277. Kasper Koman - Morgen 00:32:508. Zero - Emit (VAZ Remix) 00:38:319. Nora En Pure - Tibet 00:44:4210. Booka Shade - Your Command (Pig&Dan Remix) 00:47:5011. Christian Smith - Illusion (Ezequiel Arias Remix) 00:52:0812. Andhim - Acido 00:55:4113. The Whitest Boy Alive - Golden Cage (Fred Falke Remix) 00:58:13

The US-Israeli war with Iran has no end in sight as strikes on both sides continue. With Iran's capitulation failing to materialize and the IRGC's true strength revealed, the conflict is in a state of evolution. On this episode of Talking Geopolitics, GPF Chairman George Friedman joins host Christian Smith to discuss shifting US war aims, the rising price of oil as the Strait of Hormuz remains a critical chokepoint, and just how long this all might last. Visit http://www.geopoliticalfutures.com for world-class geopolitical analysis and discussion, and to access our full 2026 Forecast: Re-anchoring the World.

The feast of St. Patrick - The history of who Patrick was, why we celebrate his legacy, and the spiritual lineage of this feast day

As war rages in the Middle East, the future of Iran remains an open question. The same can be said for Lebanon, where exchanges of fire between Hezbollah and Israel have been taking place for more than a week. On this episode of Talking Geopolitics, host Christian Smith is joined by Senior Analyst Hilal Khashan for a ground-level perspective on the escalating conflict in Lebanon, and to explore the broader regional impacts of the Iran war. Visit http://www.geopoliticalfutures.com for world-class geopolitical analysis and discussion, and to access our full 2026 Forecast: Re-anchoring the World.

Christian Smith brings us news from the other side of the world.

"...Generosity cannot be counterfeited, and fake generosity does not make us happier, healthier, and more purposeful in life..."This week, I'm reading a quote from The Paradox of Generosity by Christian Smith and Hilary Davidson. 2014 edition.Reflection question: Are any of our fundraising activities and messaging encouraging self-interested, fake generosity?  If so, how can we tweak them to reflect authentic generosity?Reflection on quote:Last week in our series on authentic giving, we discussed avoiding transactional approaches.  What happens if the donor wants to treat the donation as a transaction during a capital campaign?  And, if we encourage these donors to be generous for their self-serving reasons, will they reap the benefits of generosity?Capital campaigns can bring the joy of seeing donors become more kind, more amenable, more generous the more they give. And, yet, we may also encounter donors who become more demanding, more angry, more sour the more they give.  These are donors who are, as the authors said, going through the motions of generosity simply in order to reap the desired rewards.  If we tie giving to self-interested rewards, then we are more likely to encourage fake generosity and attract other donors like them.  To purchase this book: The Paradox of Generosity by Christian Smith and Hilary Davidson. Copyright: Oxford University Press 2014. Reproduced with permission of the Licensor through PLSclear.What do you think? Send me a text. To explore small town capital campaign coaching deeper and to schedule an free explore coaching call, visit ServingNonprofits.com.Music credit: Woeisuhmebop

The ongoing US-Israeli strikes on Iran, which began over the weekend, come after a protracted period of tension, negotiations and military build-up. Tehran has now said it will attack U.S. assets in the region in response to the U.S. and Israeli strikes, which killed several top Iranian officials and Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.  So why, in a world where the U.S. is trying to withdraw from anything outside the Western Hemisphere, does the U.S. still care about Iran? Talking Geopolitics host Christian Smith is joined by GPF Chairman George Friedman to discuss how we got here, intelligence failures, and the future of the Iranian regime, which could look quite different or remain just a new version of the same. Visit www.geopoliticalfutures.com for world-class geopolitical analysis and discussion, and to access our full 2026 Forecast: Re-anchoring the World.

In Week 8 of our James series, Pastor Aaron McRae walks through James 5:12–20 and explores one central theme: the power of words.From truthful speech to corporate prayer, from confession to restoring someone who has wandered from the faith, James reminds us that words shape lives, communities, and eternity.We live in a world filled with noise — conspiracy theories, instant reactions, and competing truth claims. But James calls believers to something radically different:Let your “yes” be yes.Pray in suffering.Praise in joy.Confess sins to one another.Restore those who wander.Pastor Aaron unpacks how suffering can strain our relationship with God and others — and how prayer is meant to anchor and restore the community. James shows us that sickness, hardship, and even wandering faith are not problems to ignore but opportunities for prayerful care and courageous love.This message challenges us to move beyond private spirituality into corporate vulnerability:Prayer that is Spirit-empowered.Confession that builds trust.Correction that restores gently.Community that refuses to isolate the weak.James closes his letter not with theory — but with action. Words that tell the truth. Words that pray. Words that confess. Words that restore.Because the prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.If this message encourages you, like, subscribe, and share it with someone who needs restoration or prayer today.

Christian Smith has long operated at the intersection of progressive and techno. As both DJ, producer and label boss of Tronic, his work is defined by precision, propulsion and an instinct for evolution that has kept him at the top of his game for more than two decades. A constant presence in global clubs and festivals, Smith's output remains relentless. His productions draws on a deep understanding of dancefloor psychology shaped over years behind the decks. The recent Follow Me EP with us underscores that position. Rooted in groove yet engineered for peak-time moments, it reflects an artist who has refined the art of impact. 

 On this Balance Selections mix, the pioneer delivers on those years of refinement. Featuring tracks from Gai Barone, Jamie Stevens and Mariano Mellino, this is a muscular mix that knows when to pull on emotional levers. @christiansmith Tracklisting & interview: https://balancemusic.com.au/balance-selections-christian-smith ------------------------------------- Follow: Instagram: www.instagram.com/balance_series Facebook: www.facebook.com/balanceseriesmusic Youtube: www.youtube.com/@balancemusicofficial

Following the 2026 Munich Security Conference, the transatlantic alliance appears to be at a crossroads. With the Russian threat failing to manifest and the U.S. shifting its strategic focus, is the "divorce" between these old allies inevitable, or is it a necessary evolution? In this episode of Talking Geopolitics, host Christian Smith is joined by GPF Chairman George Friedman to examine why the U.S. views European reliance as exploitation rather than obligation, and to explore whether Europe can finally overcome its fragmented history to build a unified defense capability. Visit http://www.geopoliticalfutures.com for world-class geopolitical analysis and discussion, and to access our full 2026 Forecast: Re-anchoring the World.

At January's World Economic Forum in Davos, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney argued that the old world order is not coming back. He went on to say that we are now in an era of great power rivalry, and that middle powers, like Canada, should come together to counter the rise of great powers. So what could the new order look like, and just how much influence can middle powers wield compared to the U.S. and China? They may be smaller by GDP standards but they are not without importance geopolitically.   In this episode of Talking Geopolitics, host Christian Smith is joined by GPF Chairman George Friedman to discuss it all, to examine why the U.S. and Canada can't just decouple from one another, and what will happen to Cuba now that it has reached a tipping point in its economy and its defense. Visit www.geopoliticalfutures.com for world-class geopolitical analysis and discussion and to access our full 2026 Forecast: Re-anchoring the World.

Check out my Tronic Radio on your favorite streaming platforms here: https://ssyncc.com/tronic-podcast/ Christian Smith Live @ Rasa Space, Singapore This show is syndicated & distributed exclusively by Syndicast. If you are a radio station interested in airing the show or would like to distribute your podcast / radio show please register here: https://syndicast.co.uk/distribution/registration

This week, leaders from Russia, Ukraine and the United States will meet in Abu Dhabi for another round of peace talks aimed at ending the war in Ukraine; a conflict which has continued for four years this month. After so much fighting, what does Russia still hope to get out of negotiations, and is it willing to concede after not reaching its goals? Russia's economy has suffered immensely as a result of the war and by several measures simply can no longer be considered a major power on the world stage. To discuss the upcoming negotiations, where Europe stands on it all and how parallels can also be drawn between the current conflict and the Vietnam War, Talking Geopolitics host Christian Smith is joined by GPF Chairman George Friedman. Visit http://www.geopoliticalfutures.com for world-class geopolitical analysis and discussion and to access our full 2026 Forecast: Re-anchoring the World.

Earlier this month, Geopolitical Futures released its annual Forecast, which focuses on the most critical changes to the international order in the year to come. One of the featured predictions in this year's Forecast was on the shifting relationship between the United States and China. It is a relationship that GPF Chairman George Friedman believes will define the next generation of international relations. This week on Talking Geopolitics, George joined host Christian Smith to give a preview of this forecast, and we'll even dive into the perplexing logic of Donald Trump's will-he, won't-he attempt to take ownership of Greenland from Denmark, a NATO ally. Visit http://www.geopoliticalfutures.com for world-class geopolitical analysis and discussion.

Widespread anti-government protests in Iran have been growing for weeks now in Iran, and the government crackdown has turned deadly. While protests here are not a new phenomenon, many are saying this time things are much different. With the US poised to intervene and the future of the Iranian regime hanging in the balance, this week on the podcast we're taking a look at how the situation is evolving and how it is perceived by the wider region. Talking Geopolitics host Christian Smith is joined by GPF Chairman George Friedman as well as Geopolitical Futures contributing analyst Kamran Bokhari to break it all down. Visit http://www.geopoliticalfutures.com for world-class geopolitical analysis and discussion.

With the new U.S. National Security Strategy published by the White House only a month ago, we're already seeing what America's vision for prioritizing securing the Western Hemisphere looks like. Following America's seizure of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro on Saturday, the world is now questioning just how far the current administration might go to secure that Western Hemisphere. What are its intentions with Cuba, and how far is it willing to push NATO allies in the issue of Greenland? GPF Chairman George Friedman joins Talking Geopolitics host Christian Smith for our first podcast of the new year, as we dive into what is going on in the Western Hemisphere. You'll also get a sneak peek into our predictions for China, as part of our upcoming 2026 Forecast. Visit http://www.geopoliticalfutures.com for world-class geopolitical analysis and discussion.

Welcome back to Hardcore Penn State Football, the ultimate podcast for raw breakdowns, insider intel, and bold takes on the Nittany Lions! In this explosive episode – dropping January 6, 2026 – hosts Shawn Kane & Cory Lestochi dissect the chaotic transfer portal frenzy reshaping Happy Valley under head coach Matt Campbell. With over 30 players bolting and a flood of Iowa State talent incoming, we're covering the blockbuster addition of QB Rocco Becht, the raid on Cyclone players (including three key linebackers & receivers), record-setting departures, new defensive line coaches, and crucial retentions keeping PSU competitive. From roster rebuilds to Big Ten implications, this is your essential guide to the 2026 Nittany Lions. The portal delivers a game-changer! Former Iowa State starter Rocco Becht, with 26 career wins and 64 passing TDs (second in Cyclones history), commits to PSU for his final season, reuniting with coach Campbell. Shawn analyzes Becht's stats (over 5,000 yards in two seasons as a starter) and film, highlighting his accuracy, mobility, and leadership in leading ISU to an 8-4 record in 2025. Cory discusses how this stabilizes the QB room post-Ethan Grunkemeyer's exit and sets up an immediate contender vibe for 2026. Campbell's Ames pipeline is open wide – PSU lands 19 transfers from Iowa State, including All-Big 12 standouts and starters galore. We spotlight the three linebackers: Kooper Ebel (149 career tackles, two-year starter), Caleb Bacon (team-leading 9.5 TFLs and 3 sacks in 2025), and Cael Brezina (young depth piece). Other highlights: RB Carson Hansen (952 rush yards), TE Benjamin Brahmer (All-Big 12, 6 TDs), S Marcus Neal (77 tackles), and more like WR Karon Brookins and OL Trevor Buhr. Our hosts break down how this "Cyclone invasion" addresses defensive gaps and adds proven Big 12 experience. The coaching transition hits hard – over 30 Nittany Lions enter the portal, a program high amid the Franklin-to-Campbell shift. Shawn details key losses like QB Ethan Grunkemeyer, S King Mack (58 tackles), OT J'ven Williams, WR Josiah Brown, and DEs like Zuriah Fisher and Jaylen Harvey. Cory explores the ripple effects on depth, NIL factors, and how Campbell's staff is plugging holes fast. Bolstering the trenches! PSU hires Ikaika Malloe (former UCLA DC) as DL coach and run game coordinator, reuniting him with new DC D'Anton Lynn. We also discuss the pursuit of Northwestern's Christian Smith for another DL role, specifically working with the defensive ends. Shawn evaluates Malloe's track record (Hawaii native, West Coast coaching ties) and how he replaces Deion Barnes, emphasizing run defense schemes. Cory predicts impacts on recruits and transfers like DT Keanu Williams. Amid the chaos, big wins in retention! Standouts sticking around include LB Tony Rojas (star returnee), OL Anthony Donkoh, Cooper Cousins, and five-star OT Malachi Goodman; CB Daryus Dixson; five-star RB Quinton Martin Jr.; WR Koby Howard; DE Max Granville; and TE Andrew Rappleyea. Our hosts rank the top retentions (Dixson No. 1 for secondary stability) and debate how these holdovers blend with portal additions for a playoff-caliber squad. Visit rhettcoblentz.com for your graphic design needs!