Best Deepthinking Podcasts (2025)

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Seasons Change: An Evolution of The E-Word 13:56

Play Pause

24d ago13:56

13:56

Send us a text What if ancient wisdom held the keys to thriving in today’s world? In Season 3 of The E-Word, we’re expanding our focus from equity to eudaimonia, the Greek idea of living a flourishing, meaningful life rooted in truth, virtue, and excellence. Equity is still in the mix, but now it lives within a bigger conversation about what it mea…

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Ep 47 Part 3: Biblical Themes in Sinners 15:23

1M ago15:23

15:23

In Part 3 of our SMART analysis of Sinners, we explore the film’s theology through the lens of scripture in our Touch of The Word segment. We draw on Bible passages—from Saul and the medium of Endor to the temptations of Jesus—to unpack the spiritual themes woven throughout the movie. Our discussion highlights how the Bible treats witchcraft, artis…

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Ep 47 Part 2: Unity vs. Uniformity in Sinners 38:31

1M ago38:31

38:31

In Part 2 of our SMART Analysis of Sinners, we dive into the film’s intended audience and challenge listeners to rethink its deeper messages. This powerful episode explores how the film speaks directly to viewers, particularly those from marginalized communities, with its bold historical, spiritual, and artistic themes. We unpack the complex portra…

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Ep 47 Part 1: Is Art Dangerous? What Sinners Really Shows Us 30:47

1M ago30:47

30:47

In Part 1 of our three-part SMART Analysis of Sinners, we explore the film’s gripping story and the powerful message at its core. Centered on Sammy, a gifted musician navigating a world that both reveres and exploits his talent, we discuss how the film challenges us to think about the purpose and risks of using our gifts. We dive into how music con…

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Ep 46 Part 3: Biblical Reflections in Mufasa: The Lion King 18:37

2M ago18:37

18:37

In the final episode of our Mufasa: The Lion King series, we close with (T) A Touch of The Word—drawing rich theological connections between the film and Scripture. We explore how Mufasa’s growth and Taka’s downfall reflect biblical patterns of wisdom, temptation, and redemption. Proverbs 13:20 sheds light on the influence of community, as Mufasa l…

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Ep 46 Part 2: Welcoming and Wisdom in Mufasa: The Lion King 27:51

2M ago27:51

27:51

In Part 2 of our Mufasa: The Lion King series, we explore the film through (A) Audience and (R) Rethink. We affirm that this story is well-suited for families, friends, and even as a bridge for evangelistic conversations—but this episode doesn’t stop at surface-level insights. Our Rethink dives deeper into the film’s more provocative themes. We als…

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Ep 46 Part 1: Courage and Calling in Mufasa: The Lion King 16:34

2M ago16:34

16:34

In this first episode of our Mufasa: The Lion King series, we explore the film through the lens of (S) Summary and (M) Message. Told by Rafiki to Kiara, the film recounts Mufasa’s unlikely rise from orphaned cub to courageous king. Along the way, we meet key figures like Taka, Sarabi, and Zazu, and witness the choices that shape their destinies. We…

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Academic Freedom on Trial: Why Harvard’s Legal Win Matters 33:37

2M ago33:37

33:37

Send us a text What does it mean when a university’s right to admit international students comes under legal challenge? In this episode, Karen and Brittany explore Harvard’s recent court victory and what it reveals about the balance between institutional autonomy, educational values, and evolving policy priorities. At the heart of the case is a dee…

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Trapped in the Feed: What Is Your Algorithm Hiding From You? 37:19

2M ago37:19

37:19

Send us a text Two people. Same background. Completely different digital realities. How? In this episode, we unravel the invisible influence of algorithms and how personalized feeds quietly shape your worldview, reinforcing what you already believe and filtering out anything that challenges it. From college debates that once built mental muscle to …

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Beyond the Box: Rethinking Race and Identity 45:46

2M ago45:46

45:46

Send us a text What if the categories we use to define race are more limiting than enlightening? In this episode, Karen and Brittany unpack actor Malik Yoba’s recent statement that he no longer identifies as a “Black man” but as “non-white”—a personal choice that opens the door to a much bigger conversation. Together, they explore how racial classi…

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Ep 45 Part 3: Biblical Wisdom in The Lion King 15:32

2M ago15:32

15:32

This three-part podcast series offers a comprehensive analysis of the 1994 animated classic, The Lion King, using our signature "SMART" framework: Summary, Message, Audience, Rethink, and a Touch of The Word. What begins as a nostalgic look at a beloved film evolves into a deep discussion on identity, responsibility, and faith. In the final install…

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Ep 45 Part 2: Guilt and Restoration in The Lion King 34:03

2M ago34:03

34:03

This three-part podcast series offers a comprehensive analysis of the 1994 animated classic, The Lion King, using our signature "SMART" framework: Summary, Message, Audience, Rethink, and a Touch of The Word. What begins as a nostalgic look at a beloved film evolves into a deep discussion on identity, responsibility, and faith. In part two of our e…

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Ep 45 Part 1: Embracing Responsibility in The Lion King 20:29

2M ago20:29

20:29

This three-part podcast series offers a comprehensive analysis of the 1994 animated classic, The Lion King, using our signature "SMART" framework: Summary, Message, Audience, Rethink, and a Touch of The Word. What begins as a nostalgic look at a beloved film evolves into a deep discussion on identity, responsibility, and faith. In this episode, we …

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What Makes You Worthy? Unpacking Money, Status, and Self-Worth 39:14

5M ago39:14

39:14

Send us a text In this episode, Karen and Brittany delve into how society perceives and reacts to displays of wealth, sparked by a recent Real Housewives of Beverly Hills episode where a cast member declared, "my wallet is bigger." They explore why we often associate positive traits like intelligence and morality with financial status and how these…

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Erasing Identity: The Battle Over Words and Women's Rights 36:54

5M ago36:54

36:54

Send us a text This International Women's Day, Karen and Brittany delve into a pressing issue: the federal government's removal of terms like "women," "Black," "Latinx, "mental health," "climate change," "gender" and a host of other words from official communications. They share personal stories of influential women in their lives—mothers balancing…

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When Business Leaders Retreat from Their Values, Who Really Pays the Price? 33:36

5M ago33:36

33:36

Send us a text Deloitte says “everyone is welcome”—but just scrapped its DEI goals, transparency reporting, and inclusive programming in the U.S. In this episode, Brittany and Karen confront the contradiction and ask: what happens when companies eliminate the very tools that make inclusion measurable? From the quiet ban on pronouns in email signatu…

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Does DEI Actually Affect You? (Spoiler: Yes!) 45:27

6M ago45:27

45:27

Send us a text Think diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) is just about race and gender? Think again. DEI frameworks impact nearly everyone—veterans, parents, caregivers, disabled individuals, and more—by breaking down barriers to success and ensuring true merit can shine. In this episode, we tackle the biggest misconceptions about DEI, including…

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Ever found yourself in a heated debate with a loved one over political beliefs? 32:20

6M ago32:20

32:20

Send us a text We're unpacking a gripping Reddit post about a woman questioning her reaction to her fiancé’s Republican views on the federal financial aid freeze. Their story opens up a broader conversation on government subsidies, military service benefits, and how to navigate political differences in relationships. We also dive into deep-seated b…

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Is Target’s DEI Shift a Smart Business Move or Politics at Play? 32:55

6M ago32:55

32:55

Send us a text Target’s latest DEI moves are stirring up conversation—are they reacting to political pressure or making a strategic business play? We break down the end of their three-year DEI goals, the impact of past controversies (hello, Pride Month backlash), and what it all means for the brand’s future. We also explore how big brands can make …

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Ep 44: Truth and Manipulation in Wicked Part 1 54:59

7M ago54:59

54:59

In this episode we dive into Wicked: Part 1 and the deeper themes behind its story. Beyond the spectacle and music, we explore what it truly means to be "wicked" and how narratives shape our self-perception. The conversation unpacks the dangers of always seeing ourselves as the hero, the power of institutions to control truth, and the ways fear and…

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Ep 43: Fighting for Reconciliation 58:06

7M ago58:06

58:06

This episode about fighting for reconciliation is a continuation on the discussion about Ender's Game. In this conversation we discuss how fear and ego can stifle curiosity, particularly in religious spaces where certainty is prized over open exploration. We also touch on the importance of self-reflection in fighting for what’s right, highlighting …

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Wayment! McDonald’s Always Had Inclusion as Its Secret Sauce 38:10

7M ago38:10

38:10

Send us a text Contrary to the headlines, McDonald's isn’t abandoning its DEI principles—it’s been blending them into its secret sauce all along. In this episode, we dig beneath the headlines to explore McDonald's purpose and impact report, highlighting what the global giant is getting right, where we disagree and see a higher opportunity for its a…

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Costco Board says YES to DEI 31:02

8M ago31:02

31:02

Send us a text Costco has made headlines by affirming its commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI), resisting external political pressures that many corporations face regarding these essential policies. This episode explores the implications of Costco's stance for the retail sector while discussing the challenges other corporations enco…

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Why Are NASDAQ's Diversity Rules for the Board Room Facing Legal Pushback? 34:26

8M ago34:26

34:26

Send us a text What happens when corporate boardrooms fail to reflect the diversity of the society they serve? Today, we tackle this pressing question as we discuss the controversial rejection of NASDAQ's diversity rules by a US Appeals Court in New Orleans. We explore the crucial role of appointing judges capable of understanding diverse perspecti…

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How Does Diverse Admissions at the Naval Academy Challenge National Security Narratives? 29:52

8M ago29:52

29:52

Send us a text Can diversity in military education strengthen national security? Join us as we explore the groundbreaking federal court ruling that upholds the Naval Academy's race-conscious admissions policy. This decision is not just a bureaucratic victory but a significant stride towards ensuring that our armed forces reflect the rich diversity …

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Why Are Corporate DEI Strategies Quietly Transforming? 46:30

8M ago46:30

46:30

Send us a text Corporate America's DEI initiatives are not what they seem! As Walmart rolls back its diversity programs, there are more questions about the future of equity in the workplace. Brittany and Karen ponder the repercussions on minority and women-owned businesses in a time of shifting political landscapes and discuss the balancing act cor…

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Is the Future of Diversity and Inclusion at Risk Under a Republican Majority? 34:40

8M ago34:40

34:40

Send us a text What if the recent election outcomes signal a seismic shift for diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in both corporate and political realms? As we brace for the impending Trump presidency and a Republican majority, we dissect the potential ramifications for DEI initiatives and draw parallels with historical contexts, like reparatio…

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Ep 42: Ethics and Leadership in Ender’s Game 1:03:34

9M ago1:03:34

1:03:34

In this episode, we explore Ender’s Game, the cinematic adaptation of Orson Scott Card’s novel. Following Ender’s rise as a brilliant strategist, we unpack the moral weight of his decisions, the manipulation of truth, and the devastating consequences of war. Using our SMART framework, we examine the ethics of leadership, the role of fear in shaping…

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How The Real Housewives Mirror American Society and Teach Us Life Lessons 27:04

10M ago27:04

27:04

Send us a text BREATHER EPISODE: Every now and then, we need to hit pause on the heavy stuff and kick back with some laughs! Because let’s be real—life can’t be all serious all the time! ---- Have you ever wondered how a reality TV franchise could mirror the complexities of American society while offering pure entertainment? Karen & Brittany unpack…

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How Authenticity Influences Kamala Harris' Campaign and Sparks Connection 30:52

10M ago30:52

30:52

Send us a text Karen and Brittany kick off the conversation and delve into the excitement of the upcoming U.S. presidential election, focusing on Vice President Kamala Harris' run. Her candidacy is not just a political event; it's a cultural moment that resonates across communities. They share their admiration for Harris' leadership style, her knac…

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Why Black Woman Must Learn the Intricate Dance of Race and Gender in Modern Leadership 39:53

10M ago39:53

39:53

Send us a text This episode unpacks monumental moments like Mexico's inaugural woman president and the significance of a mixed-race Black woman running for the U.S. presidency. The challenges faced by political figures like Kamala Harris are front and center, as Karen & Brittany tackle perceptions and the crucial role of shared democratic responsib…

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Do Political Debates Prioritize Performance Over Policy Substance? 36:12

10M ago36:12

36:12

Send us a text Ever wondered how polished delivery can overshadow policy substance? We promise you'll learn how vice-presidential debates often favor soundbites and media-savvy appearances, potentially leading to public misconceptions. Brittany and Karen discuss the nuances of political communication, highlighting the importance of critical thinkin…

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Is Academic Freedom Being Used to Shield Racism in Higher Education? 41:23

10M ago41:23

41:23

Send us a text Is academic freedom a shield for hate speech, or should educators be held accountable for perpetuating racism? Karen & Brittany confront the provocative actions of Professor Amy Wax at the University of Pennsylvania, whose racially insensitive remarks have sparked controversy. As we dissect her advocacy for "cultural distance nationa…

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Ep 41: Sequel Fatigue and Parallels to the Church’s Journey 45:44

11M ago45:44

45:44

This episode was sparked by the number of recent movies and sequels that just ended up being disappointing. We dive into the factors that may contribute to the production of bad movies (quality and content wise) and the challenges the audience may face in navigating them. At the end we turn the conversation to an unexpected comparison—the church's …

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How 88 CEOs' Support of VP Harris is Influencing Corporate America's Political Agenda 42:38

12M ago42:38

42:38

Send us a text Ever wondered how Corporate America shapes its political landscape? Tune into "The E-Word" as we discuss the recent endorsement of Kamala Harris by 88 powerhouse CEOs. We'll uncover what this wave of support means for economic stability and corporate trust and why companies are now more compelled than ever to take definitive politica…

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A Tale of Two Americas: How Do Fear and Hope Shape the Future of Leadership? 41:13

12M ago41:13

41:13

Send us a text How do fear and hope drive American politics in opposite directions? Join us as we explore this provocative question, beginning with a deep dive into the often-ignored "E" in DEI—equity. We examine the stark contrasts between the Democratic and Republican National Conventions, focusing on the cultural ramifications of VP picks JD Van…

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Ep 40: Power and Control in Rollerball 1:01:27

1y ago1:01:27

1:01:27

In this episode, we explore the 1975 sci-fi film Rollerball through our SMART framework, focusing on its portrayal of a dystopian future where corporations control everything, including the brutal sport at the center of the story. We discuss the journey of Jonathan E., a superstar athlete caught in the deadly corporate-controlled sport, who struggl…

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Why Is Kamala Harris' Identity Under Political Scrutiny? 40:44

1y ago40:44

40:44

Send us a text Is Kamala Harris' multiracial identity being used as a political weapon? Join Karen & Brittany as they confront this controversial issue head-on, sparked by provocative remarks at the recent NABJ event featuring the Republican presidential nominee. This episode delves deep into the complexities of race and identity in America, focusi…

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Ep 39: Family Bonds in The Mitchells vs. The Machines 1:00:08

1y ago1:00:08

1:00:08

In this episode, we dive into The Mitchells vs. The Machines, exploring how this animated film cleverly critiques our reliance on technology while also reflecting on family dynamics. Katie Mitchell, an aspiring filmmaker, has her relationship with her family tested when their road trip collides with a tech apocalypse. Through Katie and her father R…

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Why does Kamala Harris have us HOPE-SCROLLING for inclusivity and representation? 46:05

1y ago46:05

46:05

Send us a text Imagine the powerful combination of Kamala Harris' diverse heritage and her historic nomination as the presumptive Democratic nominee for president. Join our celebration of this milestone as we discuss the significance of her candidacy, representing Black, South Asian, Jamaican, and immigrant communities. Hear about the enthusiastic …

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Why Did SHRM Strip 'Equity' From Its DEI Strategy? 35:06

1y ago35:06

35:06

Send us a text Is SHRM abandoning equity? Join Brittany and Karen as they dissect SHRM's rather confusing shift from diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging (DEIB) to a narrower focus on inclusion and diversity (I&D). In this episode, Brittany and Karen: Dig into the implications of omitting "equity" from the equation, especially given its crit…

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Ep 38: Balancing Whimsy and Responsibility with Hook 56:39

1y ago56:39

56:39

In this Father’s Day episode, we discuss the beloved film "Hook." Peter Banning, a work-absorbed lawyer, rediscovers his true identity as Peter Pan after his children are kidnapped by Captain Hook. In Neverland, Peter confronts his past, battles Hook, and ultimately chooses family over career, finding joy in fatherhood. The film emphasizes the impo…

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Ep 37: Generational Humility and Brave (Mother’s Day Episode) 56:02

1y ago56:02

56:02

To celebrate Mother’s Day, in this podcast episode, we discuss Disney’s Brave and explore its depiction of parent-child relationships. We follow Merida, a skilled archer navigating her mother Elinor’s expectations for her future as a queen, which leads to conflict and a magical mishap turning Elinor into a bear. As they strive to undo the spell and…

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How does belief and bias affect the Cassandra's of Corporate America? 28:51

1+ y ago28:51

28:51

Send us a text Ever found yourself echoing the unheard prophecies of Cassandra, the Trojan priestess doomed to speak truths no one would believe? That's the thread Karen & Brittany tug at as they explore the labyrinth of trust and credibility, where the workplace becomes our modern-day Troy. In this episode, Karen and Brittany peel back the layers …

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Ep 36: Surviving Tragedy and A Good Person 57:14

1+ y ago57:14

57:14

Help guide our mission! Offer your feedback and ideas on the Google Form below: Survey: What would you like to see from Parable Arrows? In this episode, Josh and Femi discuss the real life drama film A Good Person. Josh and Femi discuss how to balance accountability with loving support, the cost of living a new life, and why meditating on the world…

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Why Can't We Unravel the Strands of Hair Equity and Expression in the Black Community? 31:26

1+ y ago31:26

31:26

Send us a text Every strand tells a story, and in our latest episode, we weave through the complex tapestry of hair's role in equity and self-expression. I open up about the personal hurdles I've faced sporting dreads and dyed hair in professional spheres, while we also unravel the historical battles for acceptance that many like Daryl George have …

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Has Marketing Leadership Truly Achieved Gender Parity? 54:51

1+ y ago54:51

54:51

Send us a text Discover how the landscape of marketing leadership is being reshaped with a historic shift towards female empowerment, as we examine what it really means to hold power and influence in this competitive industry. Celebrations may be in order for the rise of women to 51% of Chief Marketing Officer roles, but we peel back the veneer to …

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Why Is the Corporate Ladder Still So Steep for Black Women? 50:34

1+ y ago50:34

50:34

Send us a text Karen & Brittany's candid conversation sheds light on the systemic obstacles Black women leaders face climbing the corporate ladder back by disturbing findings from the McKinsey and LeanIn 2022 report. Learn how Black women, ambitious and poised for executive roles, are still being underestimated and labeled, their judgment second-gu…

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Is There a War Brewing Against Black Women's Success? 35:11

1+ y ago35:11

35:11

Send us a text Karen and Brittany explore the impact of the June 2023 Affirmative Action ruling and the lawsuit against Fearless Fund, a VC firm dedicated to providing pre-seed, seed-level, and Series-A financing to women of color. They dissect the argument of the lawsuit's leader, who believes race should not be a factor in decision-making, and hi…

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Intro to The E Word 0:31

1+ y ago0:31

0:31

Send us a text This E Word is hosted by Brittany S. Hale and Karen McFarlane. Brittany S. Hale, Founder and CEO, BND Consulting Brittany S. Hale transcends the conventional role of Founder and CEO; she stands as a visionary, catalyst for transformative change, and beacon of inspiration for leaders across diverse industries. With a background in lit…