Best Mainline Protestant Churches Podcasts (2025)

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Daughters of Zelophehad - Episode #4195 45:20

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1d ago45:20

45:20

Join us for Episode 4195 of Day1 featuring Dr. Ryan Bonfiglio, Old Testament scholar and professor at Emory’s Candler School of Theology. In his sermon “Daughters of Zelophehad,” based on Numbers 27:1-11, Dr. Bonfiglio explores how five courageous women shaped biblical tradition by seeking justice within their community. Through this message, he in…

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The Church, The Trump Administation and the Dual State with Chris Gehrz | Episode 246 1:22:20

5d ago1:22:20

1:22:20

Is there value in historical analogies? Yes and no. Many have tried to make comparisons between Donald Trump and Adolph Hitler that end up not being helpful to understand the times we are living in. But then there are other times when looking at how past societies dealt with creeping authoritarianism can serve as a lesson for contemporary politics.…

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Go Outside and Play! - Episode #4194 47:09

9d ago47:09

47:09

Join us for Day1 Episode 4194 with Rev. Dr. Ebby Arnold of Candler School of Theology, Emory University. In her sermon, “Go Outside and Play!” based on Genesis 15:1-6, Dr. Arnold explores how stepping outside—literally and spiritually—expands our imagination and renews our hope in God’s promises. Through vivid storytelling and theological insight, …

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Should Christians Leave Trump's America? with Amy Mantravadi | Episode 245 1:22:36

14d ago1:22:36

1:22:36

In this conversation, Amy Mantravadi discusses her article on 'the theology of staying,' where she reflects on the historical context of Christianity in Egypt and the challenges faced by Christians in the Middle East. The discussion also delves into Dietrich Bonhoeffer's experiences in Nazi Germany, exploring the complexities of staying or leaving …

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King’s X - Episode #4193 36:08

16d ago36:08

36:08

Join us for another "Day1 Classics" Episode #4193 featuring Dr. James A. Wharton, beloved professor and Presbyterian pastor, with his timeless sermon “King’s X,” based on Hosea 11:1-9. Originally preached in 1972, this powerful message explores divine love, idolatry, and God’s refusal to give up on us—even when we choose death over life. With comme…

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Reimagining Church Communication with Josh Linman | Episode 244 51:38

20d ago51:38

51:38

In this conversation, Josh Linman shares his faith journey from being a pastor's kid to founding Common Good Creative, a company focused on enhancing church communication. He discusses the importance of storytelling, community connection, and the role of technology and AI in modern church communication. Linman emphasizes the need for churches to ad…

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Shameless Audacity: Learning to Pray with Jesus - Episode #4192 46:51

23d ago46:51

46:51

Join us for Day1 Episode 4192 as Rev. Leon Stevenson of Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary in Cleveland, Ohio, brings a powerful message titled “Shameless Audacity: Learning to Pray with Jesus,” based on Luke 11:1-13. In this sermon for the 7th Sunday after Pentecost, Rev. Stevenson explores what it means to pray with boldness, humility, and trust…

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LGBTQ Allies and Effective Inclusion with Ryan Self | Episode 243 1:03:13

26d ago1:03:13

1:03:13

In this episode of Church and Main, Ryan Self, a gay Christian from Austin, Texas, discusses LGBTQ inclusion in church communities. Ryan shares his journey from a conservative background to more affirming spaces, highlighting the pitfalls of churches that claim inclusivity yet fail to embody it. We discuss the balance between activism and faith, cr…

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Truth Shared in Song - Episode #4191 53:50

30d ago53:50

53:50

Join us for Episode 4191 of Day1 with the Rev. Robb Webb, director of the Rural Church Division of The Duke Endowment in Charlotte, NC. In his sermon, “Truth Shared in Song,” based on Colossians 1:15-28, Rev. Webb explores the power of hymns to shape belief and reveal divine truth. Drawing from Paul’s letter to the Colossians, he highlights how sin…

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Is the Emergent Church Back? with Andrew Crowson | Episode 242 49:26

1M ago49:26

49:26

The Emergent Church seemed to be the future of the church, until it wasn't. Andrew Crowson joins the podcast to discuss how the movement initially attracted young evangelicals by challenging traditional church norms, yet ultimately struggled with its identity and connection to foundational beliefs. Andrew shares insights from his experiences and hi…

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Who Is My Neighbor? - Episode #4190 40:12

1M ago40:12

40:12

Join us for Day1 Episode 4190 as Rev. Adam Mixon, pastor of Zion Spring Baptist Church in Birmingham, AL, delivers his sermon "Who Is My Neighbor?" based on Luke 10:25-37. In this timely message for the 5th Sunday after Pentecost (Year C), Rev. Mixon explores how labels, compassion, and justice intersect in the call to love our neighbors. With hone…

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Resurrection Hope Amidst the Broken Politics of 2025 with Drew McIntyre | Episode 241 59:29

1M ago59:29

59:29

Where can we find hope in the current political context? For Methodist pastor Drew McIntyre, that hope took place in an empty tomb when Jesus rose from the dead. Drew and I talk about the distinction between hope and optimism, and the cultural pessimism prevalent in society today. We also look at the significance of the bodily resurrection of Jesus…

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Shake the Dust, Share the Peace - Episode #4189 41:40

1M ago41:40

41:40

Join us for Day1 Episode 4189 featuring Rev. Dr. Jenny Shultz-Thomas, pastor of Countryside Community Church, UCC and part of the Tri-Faith Initiative in Omaha, Nebraska. In her sermon "Shake the Dust, Share the Peace," based on Luke 10:1-11, 16-20, she reflects on Jesus' call to share God’s inclusive love without coercion, embracing spiritual abun…

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Are Free-Range Priests the Future? with Cathie Caimano | Episode 240 1:13:16

2M ago1:13:16

1:13:16

I speak with Cathie Caimano, an Episcopal priest who discusses her journey and the concept of "free-range ministry" as a solution for small congregations. She advocates for flexible, part-time ministry models that empower lay leadership and foster community engagement. Suggested Reading and Listening: Free Range Priest website Related Episodes: Lut…

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Called to Connection - Episode #4188 39:14

2M ago39:14

39:14

Join us for Day1 Episode 4188 as Rev. Dr. Charles Qualls, senior pastor of Franklin Baptist Church in Franklin, VA, delivers his sermon, "Called to Connection," based on 2 Kings 2:1-2, 6-14. In this thoughtful message for the 3rd Sunday after Pentecost, Dr. Qualls explores the deep bonds of mentorship, the power of spiritual legacy, and our God-giv…

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Luther Seminary and the Future of Mainline Protestantism with Rob Myallis | Episode 239 45:10

2M ago45:10

45:10

In this episode, I take some time to explore the significant changes at Luther Seminary and their implications for mainline Protestantism. With the decision to sell its remaining property by 2027, a reflection of long-standing financial struggles, I discuss insights from Rob Myalis, an ELCA pastor and Luther alumnus, on sustaining a pipeline of pas…

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What Is Ethical Evangelism? with DeDe Dollinger and CeCe Cernansky | Episode 238 1:05:34

2M ago1:05:34

1:05:34

Can evangelism be done in a way that’s both ethical and inclusive? Denise Dollinger and Christina Cernansky, hosts of the podcast "Emissaries of Renewal," join me to discuss the nuances of ethical evangelism. DeDe and CeCe examine the concepts of radical hospitality and inclusivity in today’s religious context, advocating for a reimagined evangelis…

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The Journey Will Be Too Much - Episode #4187 39:34

2M ago39:34

39:34

Join us for Episode 4187 of Day1 with Rev. Juan Carlos Huertas, Minister of Proclamation & Practice of Justice at First-Plymouth Congregational Church in Lincoln, Nebraska. In his sermon, “The Journey Will Be Too Much,” based on 1 Kings 19:1-15a, Rev. Huertas explores exhaustion, fear, and the quiet ways God sustains us on the long road of faith. A…

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Hope That Doesn’t Quit - Episode #4186 46:51

2M ago46:51

46:51

Join us for Day1 Episode #4186 with Rev. Danny Lybarger, Founding Pastor of The Well United Methodist Church in Weldon Spring, Missouri, as he preaches “Hope That Doesn’t Quit,” unpacking Romans 5:1-5 in the context of Trinity Sunday (Year C). Through a moving story of shifted expectations at a hockey game, Danny explores how suffering shapes endur…

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An All Saints Theology in a Political Halloween World with Jacob Smith | Episode 237 52:24

2M ago52:24

52:24

In this episode, I talk to Jacob Smith, the rector of Calvary St. George's Episcopal Parish in Manhattan. We compare politics to Halloween and religion to a celebration called All Saints Day, discussing how faith, politics, and today's issues connect. Jacob believes faith should guide our political actions and promote kindness and inclusivity inste…

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Risen, and Making a Racket - Episode #4185 37:22

2M ago37:22

37:22

Join us for Day1 Episode 4185 as we welcome Rev. Rebecca Gurney, pastor of Reems Creek-Beech Presbyterian Church in Weaverville, NC. In her Pentecost sermon, “Risen and Making a Racket,” based on Acts 2:1-21, 32-33, 36-39, Rev. Gurney reflects on natural disaster, resurrection hope, and the noisy, beautiful mess of the Spirit’s movement. With humor…

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What "Elbows Up" Means to Canadian Christians with David Harrison | Episode 232 42:21

3M ago42:21

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In this episode, we look at the shifting dynamics between Canada and the United States amid rising nationalism, influenced by recent U.S. political rhetoric. I speak with David Harrison, an Anglican priest, about the impact on Canadian Christians navigating economic challenges and national identity. We discuss how churches are providing community s…

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Being A Witness When Rome Won’t Do - Episode #4184 39:10

3M ago39:10

39:10

Join us for Episode 4184 with Rev. Dr. Ozzie E. Smith, Jr. of Covenant United Church of Christ as he delivers “Being A Witness When Rome Won’t Do” (Acts 16:16–34). In this 7th Sunday of Easter reflection, Dr. Smith explores how faith resists empires, transforms jail cells into places of praise, and calls believers to stay alert to the movement of t…

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The Urgency of Grace in Today's World with David Zahl | Episode 236 55:01

3M ago55:01

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In this episode, I chat with David Zahl, founder of Mockingbird Ministries and author of "The Big Relief: The Urgency of Grace in a Worn-Out World." We explore the essential role of grace in providing relief amid modern pressures and its importance in fostering genuine connections. Zoll emphasizes the need for vulnerability in relationships and cri…

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Welcome One Another - Episode #4183 47:40

3M ago47:40

47:40

Join us for Day1 Episode 4183 featuring Rev. Dr. Cynthia Campbell, distinguished theologian and former president of McCormick Theological Seminary. Her sermon, “Welcome One Another,” based on Acts 16:9-15, explores the transformative power of hospitality through the story of Lydia—the first documented Christian convert in Europe. In this powerful m…

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A Church Restarts in Brooklyn with Ben DeHart | Episode 235 52:43

3M ago52:43

52:43

Summary In this conversation, Ben DeHart shares his unique faith journey, growing up in a mixed-religion household and finding his way into the church through an evangelical community. He discusses his transition to St. John's in Brooklyn, the dynamics of the Park Slope community, and the importance of preaching in revitalizing a church. Ben emphas…

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Among Mortals - Episode #4182 45:47

3M ago45:47

45:47

Join us for Day1 Episode #4182 featuring writer, activist, and preacher Sara Miles of St. Gregory of Nyssa Episcopal Church in San Francisco. In her sermon “Among Mortals,” based on Acts 11:1-18, Sara explores what it means to truly embrace God’s inclusive love in the messy, broken world we inhabit. Preaching on the 5th Sunday of Easter, she invite…

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Solving the Mystery - Episode #4181 45:28

3M ago45:28

45:28

Join us for Episode #4181 of Day1 featuring Rev. Peter Wallace, vicar of St. Timothy’s Episcopal Church in ‘Aiea, Hawaii. In his sermon “Solving the Mystery,” based on John 10:22-30, Rev. Wallace reflects on life’s deeper questions through the lens of the Good Shepherd. Drawing on Psalm 23 and the Easter season’s themes of assurance and divine pres…

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The Church and the Working Class with Brian Dijkema |Episode 234 1:00:20

4M ago1:00:20

1:00:20

In this episode, we examine the intersection of faith and the working class with Brian Dijkema, president of CARDUS. We discuss how traditional churches connect—or fail to connect—with blue-collar workers amid shifting socioeconomic dynamics. Brian shares insights on the historical involvement of churches in labor movements and the challenges they …

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Who Are We Persecuting? - Episode #4180 53:40

4M ago53:40

53:40

Join us for Day1 Episode 4180 featuring Rev. Bruce Reyes-Chow. His sermon, “Who Are We Persecuting?” explores Acts 9:1-20 and the dramatic transformation of Saul. Through stories of grace, confrontation, and community, Rev. Reyes-Chow invites us to examine the ways we knowingly—or unknowingly—harm others, and how we might be called to change. It’s …

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Redefining Evangelism in an Age of Sadness with Andrew Root | Episode 233 47:14

4M ago47:14

47:14

I had a conversation with Andrew Root, who is a theologian and wrote the book "Evangelism in an Age of Despair." We explored how evangelism can serve as a way to comfort others, stressing the importance of real human connections during hard times instead of just trying to get people to attend church. Root criticizes how faith is treated like a prod…

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Resurrection in Fits and Starts and the Abiding Jesus - Episode #4179 39:37

4M ago39:37

39:37

Join us for Episode 4179 of Day1 with Rev. Dr. Hyemin Na, Assistant Professor of Worship, Media and Culture at Wesley Theological Seminary in Washington, D.C. In her sermon, “Resurrection in Fits and Starts and the Abiding Jesus,” based on John 20:19-31, Dr. Na reflects on how resurrection unfolds through trauma, presence, and persistent peace. Thi…

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Capacity - Episode #4178 39:14

4M ago39:14

39:14

Join us for Day1 Episode #4178 featuring Rev. Mark Ramsey, Executive Director of The Ministry Collaborative in Powder Springs, GA. In his Easter sermon, “Capacity,” based on John 20:1-18, Rev. Ramsey invites us to live into the fullness of God's expansive world rather than the smaller stories we often settle for. Drawing on stories of grief, hope, …

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The Good and Bad of DEI with George Yancey | Episode 231 36:16

4M ago36:16

36:16

In this episode, I explore the complex topic of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) within contemporary church teachings and societal dynamics. I engage in a conversation with George Yancey, a Professor of Sociology and Religion, who shares his insights on DEI’s role in fostering inclusive communities amid a polarized political climate. Together…

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Hosanna, Not Alleluia - Episode #4177 42:50

4M ago42:50

42:50

Join us for Episode 4177 of Day1 with guest preacher Dr. Diana Butler Bass, renowned author and scholar based at Duke University. In her Palm Sunday sermon, “Hosanna, Not Alleluia,” based on Luke 19:28-40, Dr. Bass explores the true meaning of “hosanna” as a cry for liberation—not mere praise. She contrasts Jesus’ peaceful procession with Rome’s im…

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The Rise and Fall of the United States Institute of Peace with Susie Hayward | Episode 230 51:58

4M ago51:58

51:58

We explore the United States Institute of Peace (USIP) with Susie Hayward, a former senior advisor with extensive experience in religion and inclusive societies. Hayward shares insights into USIP's mission, history, and the recent challenges it faces following actions by the Department of Governmental Efficiency. We discuss her personal journey, em…

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The End of the Search - Episode #4176 39:24

4M ago39:24

39:24

Join us for Episode #4176 of Day1 as we welcome Rev. Dr. Jared Alcántara, Professor of Preaching at Truett Seminary at Baylor University. In his sermon, “The End of the Search,” he reflects on Philippians 3:4b-14 and the restless human pursuit of meaning. Through powerful storytelling and theological insight, he explores how the apostle Paul discov…

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USAID, Revisited with Peter Mandeville | Episode 229 54:04

5M ago54:04

54:04

I speak with Peter Mandeville, former head of the faith-based office at USAID, about the complexities of U.S. foreign aid and the agency's current challenges. Peter shares his insights on how faith influences international development and discusses recent shifts under the Department of Government Efficiency. We highlight the crucial role of faith-b…

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Staying at the Communion Table in Politically Divisive Times with Jonathan Hall | Episode 228 1:04:18

5M ago1:04:18

1:04:18

I talk with Jonathan Hall, the pastor of First Christian Church of North Hollywood, as he shares his experiences in leading a politically diverse congregation. He discusses his journey from Alabama to various church communities, emphasizing the need for open communication on difficult subjects. Through personal anecdotes, he illustrates how empathy…

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Second Thoughts from a Republican Refugee with Gretchen Purser | Episode 227 1:12:43

5M ago1:12:43

1:12:43

In this episode of Church and Main, I speak with Gretchen Purser, a former Republican operative, about her 20-year experience in national campaigns and her transformation into a "Republican refugee." We discuss her evangelical roots, the GOP's departure from foundational values under Trump, and the intersection of faith and politics. Gretchen calls…

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Finding Hope in Trump 2.0 with David Gray | Episode 226 59:37

5M ago59:37

59:37

In this episode, I talk to David Gray, a senior pastor and public policy expert, to discuss the intersection of faith and politics during the Trump administration. We explore how faith communities can provide hope amidst the uncertainties of shifting policies and social climates. David shares his perspective from his pastoral role in a diverse cong…

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USAID, Church World Service and Foreign Aid with Alex Morse | Episode 225 49:36

6M ago49:36

49:36

Alex Morse, Deputy Regional Director for Latin America and the Caribbean at Church World Service joins the podcast to talk about the ramifications of potential changes to the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) on religious organizations. We discuss the challenges faced by NGOs due to recent executive orders impacting foreign…

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Why Church Decline Matters with Ben Crosby | Episode 224 59:34

6M ago59:34

59:34

Ben Crosby, an Episcopal priest returns to talk about the decline of mainline Protestantism. We discuss his recent article highlighting a 40% drop in attendance in the Anglican Church in Canada, which he argues reflects a broader crisis in engaging new believers and younger generations. Ben challenges the notion that declining numbers are a necessa…

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Cheerleading for Congregations with Travis Smith McKee | Episode 223 1:04:56

6M ago1:04:56

1:04:56

In this episode, I chat about the amazing work of Reverend Travis Smith McKee, who serves as the Associate Regional Minister for Transformation Ministries in the Kansas Region of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). Travis shares his journey from being a summer camp intern to becoming a champion for local congregations, along with some uplif…

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The Body of Christ in a Polarized Culture with Teer Hardy | Episode 222 52:23

6M ago52:23

52:23

In this episode, we have a deep discussion with Methodist Pastor Teer Hardy. He points out that a church's real identity is found in being the Body of Christ, not in whether it leans liberal or conservative. Based on his article "Your Church Isn't Liberal or Conservative, It's the Body of Christ," he calls on congregations to prioritize worship, co…

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Clergy Leadership and the Propensity to Mess* Things Up with Scott Benhase | Episode 221 58:30

7M ago58:30

58:30

In this episode, I have a meaningful discussion with Scott Benhase, the former Episcopal Bishop of Georgia, where we delve into his perspectives on pastoral leadership as outlined in his book, Done and Left Undone: Grace in the Meantime of Ministry. We examine how the role of clergy is changing in response to modern challenges, highlighting the imp…

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Why You Should Pray for President Trump (Even If You Don't Like Him) | Episode 220 19:20

7M ago19:20

19:20

In this episode, I dive into the tricky connection between faith and politics, especially with Donald Trump making a comeback as president. I talk about the often awkward but necessary act of praying for leaders we might not agree with, stressing that it can be a significant spiritual duty. Drawing from my essay, “Why We Should Pray for President T…

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Polarization and the Campaign for Kindness with Cathy Bien | Episode 219 37:22

7M ago37:22

37:22

In this episode of Church and Main, I explore the intersection of faith, politics, and culture after President Trump's inauguration, focusing on the critical role the church can play in bridging societal divides. I speak with Cathy Bien, leader of the Campaign for Kindness at the Church of the Resurrection in Leawood, Kansas, about this grassroots …

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Talking About Success and Failure in the Church with Martha Tartarnic | Episode 218 56:25

7M ago56:25

56:25

In this episode, I speak with Martha Tatarnik, a priest at St. George's Anglican Church and co-host of the Future Christian podcast. We explore the challenges of discussing success and failure in church leadership, drawing from Martha's 2023 article, "It's Hard to Talk About Success in the Church." She shares her experiences in a downtown community…

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Why Jimmy Carter's Legacy Matters with Andrew Donaldson | Episode 217 1:08:08

7M ago1:08:08

1:08:08

In this episode, I discuss early 2025 events with Andrew Donaldson, starting with the terrorist attack in New Orleans. We reflect on Jimmy Carter’s legacy, analyzing his faith-driven leadership amidst today's polarization and conservative evangelicalism. Our conversation transitions to the media's portrayal of crises, emphasizing sensationalism's d…