Best Jon Aaron And Doug Smith Podcasts (2025)

1
LUCAS CURCIO - Choosing Faith Over Fads: The Truth About Power, Ego, and Online Influence 2:11:58

1h ago2:11:58

2:11:58

Lucas Curcio is the pastor of The Mission Church in New Jersey, and the host of the Method Ministries podcast. In our conversation, he shares his journey from an aimless young man to finding purpose through reading Scripture and accepting Christ at age 18. The episode discusses how true Christian masculinity requires taking responsibility for your …

1
Guarding the Sense Doors and Practicing with Social Media 29:19

2d ago29:19

29:19

The Buddha taught that guarding the sense doors is an essential part of practice. Of course, social media didn’t exist 2500 years ago. These days it’s so easy to get caught in the vortex of social media. Jon and Doug discuss how they guard (or not) the sense doors in the current media reality. Support the show Go to our website to leave a comment, …

1
JOE RIGNEY - The Dark Side of Empathy: When Victims Become Manipulators 57:33

7d ago57:33

57:33

Dr. Joe Rigney is a Fellow of Theology at New Saint Andrews College. In his controversial bestselling book "The Sin of Empathy" (Canon Press) he argues that empathy becomes sinful when divorced from truth and biblical standards. In our conversation, Dr. Rigney explains how weaponized empathy manipulates through emotional validation demands rather t…

1
JAMES LINDSAY - America's Hidden Enemy: The Battle for the Soul of Western Civilization 3:25:51

14d ago3:25:51

3:25:51

James Lindsay is an author and founder of "New Discourses," and he's studied the influence of Gnostic ideas on Western politics and culture. In this conversation, he explains how ancient mystical traditions transformed during the Enlightenment into social and political movements that promise to elevate humanity to higher levels of consciousness. Li…

1
COURTENAY TURNER - Decoding the Matrix: Exposing the Cybernetic Web Trapping Humanity 2:15:24

21d ago2:15:24

2:15:24

Courtenay Turner is a podcast host and aerial acrobatic performer who studies esoteric influences on modern society. In our conversation she explains how algorithms create feedback loops that program people's perceptions, connecting topics from education reform to transhumanism. She traces philosophical movements like Game B and Dark Enlightenment …

1
WILL SPENCER - A New Chapter: Personal Announcements and Podcast Evolution 12:00

28d ago12:00

12:00

This episode marks a key moment in my journey, as I share the joyful news of my engagement to Tamara! This is also a milestone that dovetails with the evolution of this podcast. I'm also announcing a shift in the format of the show, specifically discontinuing my extended monologue intros. They may no longer serve the intended purpose of honoring my…

1
ALY DEE - Ending The Gender Wars: Faith, Family, and the Realities of Social Media Influence 2:23:06

1M ago2:23:06

2:23:06

Aly Dee aka RealFemSapien joined the podcast to discuss motherhood, marriage, and the unexpected vulnerability new mothers face after childbirth. She explained how having children reveals fundamental differences between men and women, often testing marriages in ways couples aren't prepared for. Aly also shared how social media can negatively impact…

1
The Role of Faith or Confidence in Our Practice 28:29

1M ago28:29

28:29

Jon and Doug discuss the role of faith or confidence in Buddhist practice, how it can be useful and also how it can be misused. Support the show Go to our website to leave a comment, buy us a coffee, or see further notes and links: https://digginthedharma.com/By Jon Aaron and Doug Smith

1
MATTHEW EVERHARD - Making Worship Work: Confronting the Culture of Worshiptainment 1:44:19

1M ago1:44:19

1:44:19

Matthew Everhard, a PCA pastor and author, emphasizes the crucial distinction between worship that honors God and the increasingly popular trend of "worshiptainment" that prioritizes entertainment over reverence. In our discussion, we dig into his recent book, "Worshiptainment: The Modern Church's Golden Calf," where he critiques contemporary worsh…

1
JASON MIRONCHUCK - Devouring Mothers, Vengeful Sons: The Impact of Liberalism on Modern Men 2:15:39

2M ago2:15:39

2:15:39

Jason Mironchuck, host of Mironchuck Now, presents a compelling thesis regarding the current societal shift towards what he terms “vengeful sons.” Together we explore the intricate dynamics of cultural transformation, tracing a trajectory from the oppressive “tyrannical father” archetype, through the “devouring mother,” and into the present state c…

1
PASTOR DOUG WILSON - The Basic Laws of Stupidity: Institution Building and the Dank Right During Trump 47 1:17:42

2M ago1:17:42

1:17:42

Pastor Doug Wilson joins for the 6th edition of Will & Doug's Book Club, this time with a discussion about the impact of human folly as articulated in Carlo Cipolla's book, "The Basic Laws of Human Stupidity." The book explores the nature of stupidity, its pervasive presence across all demographics, and its implications for institutional building a…

1
MIKE GENDRON - Responding to Rome: Embracing the Bible's Authority Over Religious Doctrine 1:17:40

2M ago1:17:40

1:17:40

Mike Gendron joins the podcast to discuss the critical issue of salvation and the teachings of the Catholic Church. He shares his journey from being a devout Catholic to becoming a biblical apologist, emphasizing the stark contrast between Catholic doctrine and scriptural truths regarding salvation. Gendron argues that many evangelicals are leaving…

1
DR. JARED LONGSHORE - Why Young Men are Lost: Masculinity and Holiness in the Modern Age 1:11:01

2M ago1:11:01

1:11:01

Dr. Jared Longshore, Associate Pastor at Christ Church in Moscow, Idaho, and the Dean of New St. Andrews College, explores the pressing issues facing young Christian men in today's society. In this discussion, he highlights the detrimental effects of modern cultural influences on masculinity and the importance of adhering to timeless standards of C…

1
NICK JONSSON - From Depression to Triumph: Conquering the Dark Side of Corporate Glory 1:21:24

3M ago1:21:24

1:21:24

Nick Jonsson climbed the corporate ladder for over a decade before realizing his success came at a devastating personal cost. After hitting rock bottom with alcoholism, depression, and failed relationships, he found the courage to admit he needed help. By embracing vulnerability and making amends to those he had hurt, Nick discovered a new path for…

1
MIKE WILLIAMS - How The Beatles Broke the West: Engineering Cultural Collapse with Pop Music 3:42:32

3M ago3:42:32

3:42:32

Mike Williams, the creator of the Paul is Dead YouTube channel, unravels the intricate tapestry of the Beatles' cultural significance, which he argues extends far beyond mere musical innovation. Through meticulous documentation and analysis, Mike posits that the ascent of the Beatles was not merely a product of artistic evolution, but rather a calc…

1
Silence and Solitude 27:45

3M ago27:45

27:45

Silence and solitude are two forms of Buddhist practice of great depth, but also some difficulty for many. Jon and Doug discuss how they appear in the early texts, and how we can practice with them today. Support the show Go to our website to leave a comment, buy us a coffee, or see further notes and links: https://digginthedharma.com/…

1
LENNOX KALIFUNGWA - Racism and the Gospel: Ethnic Identity and Faith in a Shifting America 1:22:55

3M ago1:22:55

1:22:55

Lennox Kalifungwa, the host of the podcast Of Flames and Crowns, joins us to discuss his journey from Zambia to the United States. He reflects on his upbringing in sub-Saharan Africa and the cultural contrasts he has experienced. Throughout this dialogue, Lennox emphasizes the importance of a Christian worldview in combating contemporary societal c…

1
THE ART OF PURPOSE - Storming the Digital Gates: Empowering Others through Authenticity 2:16:31

3M ago2:16:31

2:16:31

Dino, aka The Art of Purpose, a former public school teacher and now a successful entrepreneur, shares his transformative journey back to Christianity. He discusses his experience of leaving the public school system during the COVID-19 pandemic and how it led him to explore his faith more deeply. Dino emphasizes the importance of community and fait…

1
Finding Joy Through Practice 25:57

3M ago25:57

25:57

Joy is an essential aspect of Buddhist practice. And boy do we need joy right now! Jon and Doug discuss how joy can arise for us, and what attitudes and practices can help joy to arise. Jon's Talk on Joy for Tricycle Support the show Go to our website to leave a comment, buy us a coffee, or see further notes and links: https://digginthedharma.com/…

1
SPENCER SMITH - The Occult in Your Church: New Age Influences in Christian Worship 2:11:01

4M ago2:11:01

2:11:01

In this episode, Spencer Smith, a pastor and filmmaker, delves into the intricate relationship between modern Christianity and ancient mysticism. He highlights how the 'Third Adam' documentary series exposes the alarming trends of occult practices infiltrating churches. Smith argues that many charismatic movements are essentially repackaged forms o…

1
Pilgrimage and Spiritual Seekers 29:47

4M ago29:47

29:47

Jon has been on pilgrimage in India over the last few weeks. He reports in about all he's been experiencing at various Buddhist and other sites. Links: Jon's blog posts: JonAaron.net/musings Where Are You Going: Ajahn Sucitto and Nick Scott https://whereareyougoing.podbean.com/ Doug's video: King Asoka: Buddhism's Great Political Modernist -- https…

1
CODY LAWRENCE - Unmasking the Woke Right: Conserving Truth Through Scripture 1:53:16

4M ago1:53:16

1:53:16

Cody Lawrence, host of the Spare No Arrows podcast, is a prominent voice against contemporary ideologies that threaten traditional values. Lawrence articulates a vision of courage that transcends mere bravado, advocating for a selfless commitment to truth and righteousness inspired by historical Christian principles. The discussion extends to the c…

1
VINCE MILLER - How To Forge a Godly Man: Masculine Identity and Spiritual Leadership 2:04:27

4M ago2:04:27

2:04:27

Vince Miller is an esteemed author and speaker who has dedicated nearly three decades to men's ministry. In this episode, we explore his insights into the challenges and opportunities men face today, as well as the essential elements of forging godly men. Vince draws upon his personal experiences, including the transformative influence of his grand…

1
WILL SPENCER - From Raves To Redemption: My 40-Year Odyssey to Christ 4:19:41

4M ago4:19:41

4:19:41

Special Birthday Episode! This Twitter/X Space recorded with the outstanding account @DarwinToJesus traces my path from deep involvement in the rave scene and New Age practices to ultimately finding my faith in Christianity. This in-depth testimony includes key moments for me like exploring psychedelics, studying the Kabbalah, and experiencing tran…

1
JOSHUA HAYMES - Facing Down the Orcs: Building a Covenantal Christian Community 2:08:22

4M ago2:08:22

2:08:22

Joshua Haymes is the host and founder of the Reformation Red Pill podcast, where he explores significant theological concepts and cultural issues from a Reformed perspective. His journey includes a remarkable transition from a church planter in Los Angeles to a committed member of a confessional church in Tennessee, driven by a desire to engage mea…

1
AARON SMITH - Finding Hope in Marriage: Glorifying God in Our Unions 1:30:36

5M ago1:30:36

1:30:36

Aaron Smith, co-founder of Marriage After God, articulates the essential role of faith in navigating the complexities of marriage and relationships. He reflects on his own journey, including the challenges he and his wife faced early in their marriage, and how those experiences shaped their mission to help others. Smith emphasizes that both men and…

1
It's About Time in Buddhism 27:59

5M ago27:59

27:59

How do we perceive time, and what can we learn from Buddhist teachings about it? How do we frame the past and the future, not to mention the present? Jon and Doug discuss this topic, inspired by the fact that Jon is currently in India, which is 9.5 hours ahead of the East Coast of the U.S., where Doug is. Support the show Go to our website to leave…

1
CARL TEICHRIB - Burning Man is a Warning: The Growing New Age Movement 3:31:22

5M ago3:31:22

3:31:22

Carl Teichrib, a Christian author and researcher, comes on the show to discuss his impactful book, *Game of Gods: The Temple of Man in the Age of Re-Enchantment*. Teichrib shares his insights on the rise of progressive spirituality, its roots in historical movements, and how it shapes contemporary culture. The conversation highlights the transforma…

1
(replay) WLLIAM BUTLER YEATS - A Dialogue of Self and Soul: Poetry for Men 56:10

5M ago56:10

56:10

A re-presentation of my Poetry for Men episode from October 2022 featuring William Butler Yeats' "A Dialogue of Self and Soul." I return to new episodes, interviews, and guests next week, on January 10, 2025. Happy New Year, and see you then. - Will Read "A Dialogue of Self and Soul" 🌟 The Will Spencer Podcast was formerly known as "The Renaissance…

1
STEVE CRUZ Live! - Trump's Second Presidency, America's Cultural Shift, and the Church 2:11:35

5M ago2:11:35

2:11:35

Examining the challenges facing modern masculinity, Will Spencer and Steve Cruz engage in a thought-provoking discussion that spans issues from the impact of childhood upbringing to the responsibilities of adult men in society. Cruz reflects on the consequences of a culture that often undermines traditional family structures, advocating for a retur…

1
Dharma Chat with Stephen Fulder-- Practicing in Challenging Times 33:20

6M ago33:20

33:20

Jon and Doug have a wide-ranging chat with the dharma teacher and peace activitist, Stephen Fulder, founder of Tovana, the Israel Insight Society. We discuss his work in Israel and his new book, How to Thrive in Hard Times. You can find his book here on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/How-Thrive-Hard-Times-Buddhist/dp/1915672740/ Support the show Go…

1
MATT REYNOLDS - How To Stop Wasting Your Time: Vital Lessons from "Undoing Urgency" 2:09:29

6M ago2:09:29

2:09:29

(Thanks to my bro Matt for pinch-hitting for me on the intro this week, while I've been out sick. - Will) Matt Reynolds, founder and CEO of Barbell Logic, joins The Will Spencer Podcast to discuss his new book, "Undoing Urgency." The central theme of their conversation revolves around the idea that urgency often crowds out the important aspects of …

1
Refuge in Practice: Self or Sangha? 27:35

6M ago27:35

27:35

What is the role of community in our practice? The sangha is one of the traditional three refuges or jewels of Buddhism. The Buddha also advised at the end of his life to hold the self as our island and refuge, with the dharma as our island and refuge. Jon and Doug discuss how we reconcile these ideals. Support the show Go to our website to leave a…

1
TILLY DILLEHAY - What Women Hide From Men: Insights from My Dear Hemlock 1:09:12

6M ago1:09:12

1:09:12

Tilly Dillehay, author of the thought-provoking book "My Dear Hemlock," explores the complexities of women's inner lives and the unique challenges they face in today's world. Dillehay delves into the themes of self-understanding, societal expectations, and the often-overlooked struggles women encounter in their relationships and faith. The conversa…

1
Investigation, Energy, and Joy 26:54

6M ago26:54

26:54

Three key aspects of the seven enlightenment factors are investigation, energy, and joy. What are they, and how can we touch them in our practice? Support the show Go to our website to leave a comment, buy us a coffee, or see further notes and links: https://digginthedharma.com/By Jon Aaron and Doug Smith

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ANDREW & SAMUEL BORNMAN and PARKER BROWN - Engaging with Culture: Insights from Missionaries and Storytellers (FLF 3) 1:18:29

6M ago1:18:29

1:18:29

The final episode of the three-part series from Fight, Laugh, Feast 2024 features Andrew Bornman, a missionary farmer living among the Tarahumara Indians in Mexico, and his son Samuel, a young author with a thought-provoking fantasy book. Andrew shares his unique experiences of integrating into a remote community plagued by malnutrition and pagan b…

1
DR. JAMES WHITE & JIM HUNTER: Scriptural Truth and Kingdom Wealth at Fight, Laugh, Feast 1:29:53

6M ago1:29:53

1:29:53

My second episode from Fight Laugh Feast features conversations with Dr. James White of Alpha & Omega Ministries and Jim Hunter of Alps Precious Metals Group, and opens a rich dialogue about the intersection of faith and modern economic practices. First, Jim Hunter shares his compelling journey from a successful career in high finance to running a …

1
Conscious of Consciousness 34:01

6M ago34:01

34:01

The final aggregate in the set of five is consciousness. What is meant by consciousness/ As an aggregate of clinging, when does it get in the way? Jon and Doug discuss. Doug's Video: The Problem(s) of Consciousness -- https://youtu.be/W1Pn65QZiZs Support the show Go to our website to leave a comment, buy us a coffee, or see further notes and links:…

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ISAAC BOTKIN & LOGAN RYSER - Faith, Art, and Firearms at Fight, Laugh, Feast 1:12:23

7M ago1:12:23

1:12:23

Isaac Botkin (TRex Arms) and Logan Reyser (Crux Art) join Will Spencer for a compelling discussion—live at the 2024 Fight Laugh Feast Conference!—that delves into the intersection of faith, creativity, and the evolving landscape of gun culture. The conversation begins with Reyser's journey into glassblowing, where he shares the transformative power…

1
Sankharas, What Are They? Volitional Formations/Constructions/etc.? 27:36

7M ago27:36

27:36

In Buddhism the root of karmic action is in sankharas, a word with many uses in the dharma. As we practice, we can see the sankharas taking shape and then realize we have choices. But even the choices are related to other sankharas and the "wow' of this mind. Jon and Doug discuss them and how we can view their role in our lives. Support the show Go…

1
DOUG WILSON - Mister Wilson Burns Bridges: Exploring Politics, Eschatology, and Idolatry 1:11:13

7M ago1:11:13

1:11:13

Pastor Doug Wilson returns to The Will Spencer Podcast for his fifth appearance, bringing an insightful analysis of the recent election results and the cultural landscape of America. He emphasizes the importance of understanding ideological idolatry as outlined in Herbert Schlossberg's book, "Idols for Destruction," which Wilson strongly recommends…

1
Bringing Our Practice to an Unwanted Outcome 28:14

7M ago28:14

28:14

Two days after the US Election, Doug and Jon discuss how they are handling the results. They also discuss how our practice can support us as we look to the future political landscape in the US and the world. Jon offered this poem by Rilke as a support: Let This Darkness be a Belltower Rainer Maria Rilke Quiet friend who has come so far, feel how yo…

1
ALEX KOCMAN - Christians, Don't Waste This Moment: How Trump's Election Changes the Landscape 2:00:40

7M ago2:00:40

2:00:40

Alex Kocman, the Director of Communications for the Association of Baptists for World Evangelism and co-host of the Missions Podcast, joins host Will Spencer to discuss the evolving landscape of global missions, particularly in light of recent political changes in the United States. They emphasize the importance of grounding missionary work in comm…

1
Talkin' 'bout feeling (Vedana) 29:30

7M ago29:30

29:30

Feeling tone, the pleasure or pain we take in experience, is a central part of dharma. As an aggregate, a foundation of mindfulness, a link in the chain of dependent origination, appreciating, understanding, and directly experiencing Vedana is a key to experiencing freedom. Jon and Doug have a lively discussion on this topic. Support the show Go to…

1
FORREST DICKISON - Make Art Beautiful Again: The Intersection of Art and Faith 1:20:03

7M ago1:20:03

1:20:03

Forrest Dickison, a fine artist and author, joins Will Spencer to discuss his new children's book, "Crispin's Rainy Day," and the unique artistic journey that brought it to life. The conversation explores the essence of creativity, emphasizing that everyone possesses some artistic talent and can find fulfillment in expressing it, regardless of thei…

1
The Aggregate of Form: Body and World 29:13

7M ago29:13

29:13

Doug and Jon continue to explore the Five Aggregates of Clinging (to self) and this week explore Form. How do we cling to form and at what point, does this clinging become suffering? Are doesn't it? Support the show Go to our website to leave a comment, buy us a coffee, or see further notes and links: https://digginthedharma.com/…

1
ADAM COLEMAN | Don't Fear the Mob: Navigating Faith and Influence 2:51:53

7M ago2:51:53

2:51:53

Adam Coleman, founder of Wrong Speak Publishing and author of "From Black Victim to Black Victor," joins Will Spencer to discuss the importance of personal empowerment and the responsibility that comes with having a voice in today's digital landscape. Coleman shares his journey from agnosticism to faith, emphasizing how his experiences shaped his p…

1
"Things Aren't as the Seem , Nor are they Otherwise*"-- Perception and Mis-Perception 28:20

8M ago28:20

28:20

Jon and Doug discuss perception and how it's mediated by past experience and the stories we tell. How does it become misperception? How can we work with our perception to live more skillfully and fully? *this quote is attributed to the Roman poet Phaedrus but it is often used by various Zen teachers Support the show Go to our website to leave a com…

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ZACH GARRIS | Feminism and the Church: Revisiting the Teachings of the Reformers 1:46:21

8M ago1:46:21

1:46:21

This podcast episode features a deep discussion on the impact of feminism within the church and society, highlighting how the traditional roles of men and women have been challenged over the decades. Zach Garris, author of "Honor Thy Fathers" and "Masculine Christianity" emphasizes the importance of adhering to the teachings of the Reformation, spe…

1
DR. VISHAL MANGALWADI | Made in God's Image: How the Bible Shaped the Modern World 3:20:34

8M ago3:20:34

3:20:34

The inaugural episode of The Will Spencer Podcast. This episode features a dialogue with Dr. Vishal Mangalwadi, an eminent Christian philosopher renowned for his insights into the intersection of faith and culture. Spencer introduces Mangalwadi as a luminary whose writings, including 'The Book That Made Your World', challenge contemporary understan…

Podcasts Worth a Listen

Jon Aaron And Doug Smith Podcasts

Podcasts Worth a Listen