Best Baldwin Public Library Podcasts (2025)

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League of Women Voters CEO Celina Stewart: Courage is Not the Absence of Fear 1:00:58

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1d ago1:00:58

1:00:58

This week, host Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush is joined by Celina Stewart, Chief Executive Officer of the League of Women Voters. They get into the way the League’s work has evolved over the past 105 years, with a focus on expanding access to the ballot, as well as on voter education,protecting voter rights, and strengthening civic engagement. Cel…

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Rabbi Sharon Kleinbaum, Randi Weingarten, and Skye Perryman speak on Religious Freedom in Public Schools 1:03:12

9d ago1:03:12

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Religious freedom and public education: how do these issues come together? This week on The State of Belief, we hear leading voices make a compelling argument for ensuring the latter comes with a healthy dose of the former: Labor leader Randi Weingarten, activist Rabbi Sharon Kleinbaum, and Democracy Forward's Skye Perryman. Most of this episode wa…

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Confronting Antisemitism and Its Weaponization: The Nexus Project's Jonathan Jacoby 50:12

16d ago50:12

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This week, host Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush is joined by Jonathan Jacoby, National Director of the Nexus Project. The compelling conversation highlights Jonathan's unique insights on confronting antisemitism and fostering a pluralistic democracy. Drawing from his family history as the descendant of Holocaust survivors and his intrinsic connectio…

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Libraries and Religious Freedom, with ALA President Sam Helmick 53:01

23d ago53:01

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This week on The State of Belief - a conversation with Sam Helmick, the newly inaugurated president of the American Library Association. Sam and host Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush mark National Library Card Sign-up Month by discussing the importance of libraries in advocating for intellectual freedom and access to information, noting that librarie…

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The Power of Community: Keya Chatterjee and the Vision for a Free DC 47:29

30d ago47:29

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The Trump administration’s federal takeover of the nation’s capital is having a profound impact on Washington, DC’s 700,000 residents - and on our very democracy. That’s according to this week’s guest on The State of Belief, Keya Chatterjee. Keya’s the co-founder and executive director of Free DC, a civic campaign defending Washington, DC’s home ru…

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How the Christian Right is Taking Over America with Talia Lavin 48:38

1M ago48:38

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She's a Jewish woman who has spent countless hours undercover, impersonating the White supremacist, misogynistic, antisemitic extremists she was researching for her first book. She's also brought an outsider's view to the growing dominance of Christian Nationalism in our society and our government for her second. This week on The State of Belief, j…

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"Curiosity, Not Contempt": Adam Nicholas Phillips on Bridging Divides 58:59

1M ago58:59

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What does it mean to build bridges amidst the turmoil of the second Trump Administration? How have interfaith communities moved forward with productive dialogue post-October 7th? Is there a more nuanced way to think about Christian Nationalism and the MAGA constituency? In this episode of The State of Belief, Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenush and Inter…

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An Unlikely Social Justice Warrior: Muslim Feminist Ani Zonneveld 56:05

2M ago56:05

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This week on The State of Belief, host Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush sits down with Ani Zonneveld, feminist Muslim activist, musician, and Grammy-winning songwriter. Ani’s journey from Malaysia to Germany, Egypt, India and eventually Los Angeles - and the lessons learned along the way - is nothing short of inspiring. And she lays it all out in her…

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Separating Church from Hate: A Conversation With John Fugelsang 53:50

2M ago53:50

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This week on The State of Belief, truth through comedy. Host Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush welcomes comedic genius John Fugelsang, author of the new book Separation of Church and Hate: A Sane Person's Guide to Taking Back the Bible from Fundamentalists, Fascists, and Flock-Fleecing Frauds coming September 9th. Together, they delve into the tension…

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From Sanctuary to Courtroom: Immigration and Religious Liberty with Legal expert Elizabeth Reiner Platt 54:12

2M ago54:12

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This week, host Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush had the pleasure of interviewing Elizabeth Reiner Platt, the brilliant mind leading the Law, Rights, and Religion Project. They dive deep into her newly published report, Religious Liberty and Immigration: Legal Analysis of Past and Future Claims. Despite the administration's rhetoric about protecting …

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Faith, followers, and the files: Jay Michaelson and the Epstein Cover-up 55:02

2M ago55:02

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We are back from a brief summer break, and are ready to hit the ground running! This week on The State of Belief, the political, ethical, religious and legal aspects of the sordid case of the Jefferey Epstein files. Whether or not there are incriminating documents, the relative silence from most faith-oriented leaders raises questions. Host Rev. Pa…

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Whither America? July 4th with Dr. Robert P. Jones 42:43

3M ago42:43

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What does falling off a bike have to do with the state of our nation? Is America going through an identity crisis - just like a seventeen-year-old? This week on The State of Belief, these parallels are part of the conversation with host Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush and Dr. Robert P. Jones on America's first 249 years, and what's to come as the co…

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On Diversity and Democracy With Wajahat Ali 1:00:22

4M ago1:00:22

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This week on The State of Belief, popular writer and commentator Wajahat Ali joins host Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush for a thought-provoking exploration of patriotism, diversity, and democracy in today’s politically charged climate. Waj shares his unique perspective on the responsibilities that immigrants and citizens face amid the continuing soc…

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A Pastor Reports from the Frontlines In Los Angeles: Faith and Immigration 1:08:28

4M ago1:08:28

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This week on The State of Belief, an inspiring conversation with Rev. Noel Andersen, the National Field Director for Church World Service and a dedicated advocate for immigrant rights. In this episode, he joins host Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush to delve into the pressing issues surrounding immigration enforcement, the role of faith communities, a…

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Leah Greenberg, Indivisible, and No Kings: "You do not need permission to get started" 53:22

4M ago53:22

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This week on The State of Belief – getting ready for No Kings Day on June 14th, an initiative of the national grassroots organization Indivisible. Co-founder Leah Greenberg explains that No Kings Day is a forceful nationwide response to the royal pretensions on display in Donald Trump's demand for a multi-million dollar military parade on his 79th …

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Jim Wallis and a Moral Budget: The June 10th Procession at the Capitol 49:54

4M ago49:54

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This week on The State of Belief, you’ll hear a powerful conversation with Rev. Jim Wallis and host Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush, diving deep into his upcoming event on June 10th at the Capitol, A Pentecost Witness for a Moral Budget, which aims to address critical issues surrounding the Reconciliation Bill and its potential cuts to vital program…

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Everybody Can Do Something: Rabbi Sharon Kleinbaum 53:24

4M ago53:24

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June, traditionally Pride Month, is almost here, and this year, Pride will test the courage of our nation. It has been a challenging time for the LGBTQ+ community - with attempts to erase trans people, roll back civil rights for the wider LGBTQ community, ban Pride flags, and in 10 states there are bills to take back the right to marry... as well a…

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Lt. Gen. Charles D. Luckey (Ret.) on the Role of the Military in Upholding Democracy 59:43

5M ago59:43

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This week on the show, we're honored to welcome Lt. Gen. Charles D. Luckey (Retired), former Chief of the United States Army Reserve, joining host Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush. He’s a combat veteran, he’s an attorney, and he’s a pastor’s son – so he's able to cover a wide range of topics with depth and wisdom. Having sworn an oath to the Constitu…

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Book Bans vs. the Right to Read: Kelly Jensen and Rev. Amos Brown 1:11:51

5M ago1:11:51

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This week on The State of Belief, host Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush welcomes Kelly Jensen. She’s a passionate advocate for intellectual freedom, democracy, and the right to read. As an editor at Book Riot and a former librarian, Kelly has been at the forefront of the fight against book bans and censorship. The urgent conversation covers the growi…

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Faith is Standing Strong: Rev. Dr. Shannon Fleck 55:56

5M ago55:56

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On Wednesday, April 30th, host Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush was with Faithful America Executive Director Rev. Dr. Shannon Fleck in front of the Supreme Court building, saying “No!” to tax dollars being funneled to private religious schools. That’s the issue that was before the justices as they heard arguments in St. Isidore of Seville Catholic Vi…

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Amy Spitalnick on How Jewish Safety and Inclusive Democracy are Inextricably Linked 55:47

5M ago55:47

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This week, Amy Spitalnick, CEO of the Jewish Council for Public Affairs (JCPA), is back on The State of Belief. In this episode, Amy and host Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush dig into the immediacy of antisemitism, democracy, and how our communities are connected. Among the important topics they cover: Why Jewish safety and democracy are intertwined …

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Remembering Pope Francis: Father James Martin Reflects on LGBTQ+ Inclusion, Environmentalism, and Compassionate Leadership 39:14

6M ago39:14

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Pope Francis, who led the Roman Catholic Church worldwide since 2013, has passed away at the age of 88. A tireless champion of the central social justice teachings of Jesus, Pope Francis followed his personal mantra, “don’t forget the poor,” Pope Francis – previously Cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio, Archbishop of Buenos Aires, Argentina - brought pr…

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Easter and Passover Courage in the Fight for Democracy 45:08

6M ago45:08

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This week on The State of Belief, host Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush directly takes on the critical issues facing our democracy as we reach the end of the first 90 days of the Trump-Vance-Musk administration. With the backdrop of the sacred days in both the Christian and Jewish traditions, Paul enumerates some of the anti-democratic actions the ad…

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Michael Eric Dyson: How We Love Is To Tell the Truth 50:50

6M ago50:50

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This week on The State of Belief, host Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Dr. Michael Eric Dyson, a distinguished professor at Vanderbilt University and a passionate advocate for social justice. They dive into the current political climate in America, addressing the rising tide of anti-democratic movemen…

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National Call to Action for Faith Communities 1:07:07

6M ago1:07:07

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On this special early-release edition of The State of Belief, you’ll hear host Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush moderate an incredible group of faith leaders, progressive organizers, and activists who came together for a National Call to Action for Faith Communities on April 2, 2025. This episode is a must-listen as we explore the urgent issues facin…

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Faith and LGBTQ+ Rights in the Face of Adversity 1:00:44

6M ago1:00:44

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This week, you'll hear a powerful panel discussion hosted by Rev. Paul Raushenbush and featuring four leading LGBTQ+ and faith activists: Chase Strangio (ACLU), Tahil Sharma (LGBTQ Task Force), Jon Cohen (Keshet), and Ross Keys (Interfaith Alliance of North Dakota). They discuss the intersection of faith and LGBTQ+ rights, the critical threats faci…

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The Rule of Law and the Chaos of MAGA: Jay Michaelson 57:57

7M ago57:57

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This week, Rabbi Dr. Jay Michaelson joins Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush for a deep dive into the state of U.S. politics, the role of the rule of law in preserving democracy, and political attacks against institutions of higher education. Together, they explore how faith can play a role in resistance and activism, reflecting on the deep divisions w…

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Navigating the Narrow Bridge: Congressman Eric Swalwell and the Fight for Democracy 47:28

7M ago47:28

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This week, Representative Eric Swalwell joins host Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush to discuss the ongoing challenges facing American democracy, lessons not learned in the January 6th Capitol riot, and the critical role of faith communities in this time of division. Together, they explore the importance of political engagement, especially in the face…

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Jeff Sharlet: The Slow Civil War Is Speeding Up 48:46

7M ago48:46

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In difficult times, the work of truth-telling can seem like obsessing on the negative. But the most important truths are very often uncomfortable and even frightening. This week, host Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush welcomes writer Jeff Sharlet, author of The Undertow: Scenes From A Slow Civil War, back to The State of Belief. As Jeff sees America’s…

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One Month of Trump's Attacks on Faith: Policymakers, Faith Leaders, and Legal Experts Take Action 1:08:31

7M ago1:08:31

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This week, Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush is joined by a panel of faith leaders, legal experts, and policymakers to discuss the urgent threats facing democracy and religious freedom under the Trump administration. Together, they explore how faith communities can take action against executive overreach, attacks on religious institutions, and efforts…

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Unfiltered: The Gen Z Revolution with Olivia Julianna 57:28

8M ago57:28

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This week, Gen Z activist Olivia Julianna joins Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush to discuss the importance of political engagement and the pursuit of social justice at an incredibly difficult moment in our history. Together, they explore how a rising generation of young leaders is doing critical work to address systemic injustice and inequality – and…

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Black History Month In the Time of Trump: Rev. Jacqui Lewis 55:10

8M ago55:10

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This week, activist and theologian Rev. Dr. Jacqui Lewis joins host Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush to discuss the celebration and reflection of Black history, and the intersection of faith and activism. Together, they explore the ongoing fight for racial equality, the powerful influence of Black history on contemporary social justice movements, and…

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Money, Lies, and God: Katherine Stewart Inside the Movement to Destroy American Democracy 51:22

8M ago51:22

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This week, author and journalist Katherine Stewart joins host Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush to discuss the rise of Christian Nationalism, Trump’s authoritarian tendencies, and the weaponization of faith for political gain. Together, they dive into the current political climate, the deep divisions within American society, and how knowledge and orga…

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Can Religion Save Democracy? Maggie Siddiqi on Pluralism, Policy, and Resistance 52:42

8M ago52:42

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This week, Maggie Siddiqi, new senior fellow at Interfaith Alliance, is with host Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush discussing Donald Trump’s efforts to dismantle the Department of Education, Bishop Budde’s model of faithful resistance, and the importance of coalition-building to stand up for democracy and religious freedom. Maggie joins Interfaith Al…

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Skye Perryman: There's No Way Out of This But Through 52:54

8M ago52:54

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This week, host Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush reflects on the courage of Episcopal Bishop Rt. Rev. Mariann Budde, who spoke faithfully on behalf of the victims of the incoming administration’s policies at the inagural prayer service, attended by the president and vice president. Then Paul is joined by Skye Perryman, President and CEO of Democracy …

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King's Non-Violence Trumps Christian Nationalism 55:36

9M ago55:36

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This week, we focus on the confluence of the inauguration of Donald Trump on the day we observe Martin Luther King Day, January 20th. Host Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush brings attention to the dichotomy of these two pivotal events, reflecting on the contrasting paths that America finds itself on—one leading towards justice, equality, and liberatio…

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Christian Nationalism and Hate Violence: What Can We Do? 50:52

9M ago50:52

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This week, Zev Mishell, National Programs Associate at Interfaith Alliance, joins host Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush to discuss the intersection of systemic violence, hate crimes, and religious and political ideologies in America. Zev is the author of Interfaith Alliance’s new report, Together Against Hate, which closely analyzes how interfaith mo…

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Special Episode - Remembering Jimmy Carter 20:48

9M ago20:48

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Perhaps more than any other modern president, Jimmy Carter identified himself very publicly and explicitly as a person guided by faith. At the same time, he was also a consistent defender of healthy boundaries between government and religion, who made clear that he would never allow his personal faith to dictate or interfere with the public interes…

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January 6th: Bad Theology, Bad for Democracy 1:11:35

9M ago1:11:35

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This week, Dr. Robert P. Jones, president and founder of the Public Religion Research Institute, joins host Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush to discuss the intersection of race, religion, and politics in America, focusing on the rewriting of history regarding the January 6, 2021 attacks, and the impact of shifting demographics and the influence of po…

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Democracy Defying Gravity: WICKED as Movie and Metaphor 43:45

9M ago43:45

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Resisting authoritariansim. Not succumbing to the mass reverence for “the man behind the curtain.” Recognizing the value of those who are different, even if shunned by the majority. Staying true to one’s beliefs no matter what. These themes could just as easily reference American politics and culture on the cusp of 2025 as they do the hit movie mus…

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Top Religion News 2024: NYT Reporter Ruth Graham 54:33

10M ago54:33

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In 2024 America, almost every major news story was a religion story in some way. Important stories call for compelling storytelling, and we take a look back at 2024 in the company of a leading religion journalist who’s expert at telling those stories. Host Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush is joined by Ruth Graham, New York Times National Reporter cov…

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Timothy Snyder On Religion, Power, and Freedom 57:22

10M ago57:22

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This week, renowned historian and author Timothy Snyder joins host Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush to discuss the complex relationship between religion, freedom, and democracy. His new book, On Freedom, explores what freedom truly means, how it has been misunderstood, and why it is critical for our collective survival. It debuted as an instant New Y…

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Did Christian Nationalism Win? Matthew Taylor on the Vote and the Future 1:00:51

10M ago1:00:51

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Christian Nationalism has seemingly grabbed the levers of power in America. With an overt passion for power over democracy, the agenda of this authoritarian, exclusionary movement needs to be examined now, more than ever. This week on The State of Belief, host Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush turns to concerned experts who have been telling this stor…

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The Subversive Power of Gratitude with Diana Butler Bass 53:33

10M ago53:33

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Happy Thanksgiving! This week on The State of Belief, we look at gratitude and appreciation from several angles: through the eyes of children, and of a theologian who literally wrote the book on giving thanks. Host Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush welcomes the youngest guests ever to appear on The State of Belief, his sons Walter and Glenn. Together,…

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Antisemitism: Canary in the Coal Mine to Destroying Democracy With Rabbi Jill Jacobs 50:07

11M ago50:07

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This week, we dive into the Israel-Palestine crisis, reflecting on the struggles and the urgent call for peace. Recorded just before Rosh Hashanah and the one-year mark of the October 7th attacks, the conversation focuses on the need for moral leadership to stand against violence and authoritarianism. The State of Belief host Rev. Paul Brandeis Rau…

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How to End Christian Nationalism with Amanda Tyler 46:20

11M ago46:20

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Faced with the surging threat of Christian nationalism, The State of Belief this week explores the urgent need for resistance against authoritarian theocracy, focusing on the roles that faith communities, and particularly Christians, can play in defending religious freedom and multi-faith democracy. Guest Amanda Tyler joins host Rev. Paul Brandeis …

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Election 2024: No Mandate for Extremism 58:11

11M ago58:11

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In the wake of a deeply consequential election, The State of Belief this week unpacks the electoral role played by religious communities, exploring how various faith groups influenced voter turnout and political coalitions. Guests Skye Perryman, Katherine Stewart, Adelle Banks and Bob Smietana join host Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush to share criti…

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The Vote Is Sacred Bus Tour 1:10:02

11M ago1:10:02

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This week’s episode of The State of Belief features interviews with guests along Interfaith Alliance’s “The Vote is Sacred Bus Tour.” Host Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush visits with Karim Khayati, Rabbi Deanna Sussman, Rev. Sarah Jones, Dan Osborn, Connie Ryan, State Sen. Rev. Sarah Trone Garriott, Rt. Rev. Betsey Monnot, Rhonda Lindner, Rev. Brean…

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Democracy and Faith Hit The Road 57:44

11M ago57:44

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This fall, a number of faith- and values-driven organizations have taken to the road, bringing a positive message to communities across the country aboard colorful, activist-filled buses. From the Nuns On The Bus & Friends Vote Our Future Tour, to the Revolutionary Love Tour, to the Faith & Democracy Tour, to the Vote Common Good Confronting Christ…

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The Freedom to Read is an Essential Human - and Religious - Right! 1:12:30

12M ago1:12:30

1:12:30

Marking the Freedom to Read Day of Action, this week’s episode of The State of Belief, Interfaith Alliance's weekly radio program and podcast, features interviews with Qiana Johnson, Rev. Kim Coleman, and Rabba Rori Picker Neiss – influential leaders working at the intersection of faith and activism to combat censorship and book bans. They join hos…