Best Phronesis Podcasts (2025)

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Phronesis and Other Unpronounceable Miracles with Pastor Ryan Braley 34:07

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8d ago34:07

34:07

What glasses are you wearing? How we view reality fundamentally shapes everything about our lives – our choices, our relationships, our definition of "the good life." In this illuminating exploration of Philippians 2, we dive deep into the ancient Greek concept of "phronesis" – a way of seeing that encompasses far more than mere thinking. Paul chal…

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Benjamin - Resilient Leader | BPS8 E12 14:35

23d ago14:35

14:35

Key text: Gen. 49:27 "Benjamin is a ravenous wolf; in the morning he devours the prey, in the evening he divides the plunder.” Biblical Application: Benjamin’s tribe was known for their fierceness, but Paul, a Benjamite, redirected this zeal for Christ. God calls us to channel our passions toward His kingdom. Call to Action: Ask God to transform yo…

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Rubbish to Righteousness with Ben Carruthers 32:08

17h ago32:08

32:08

Where do you find your joy? Is it in delicious food, exciting vacations, meaningful relationships, or good health? These sources of happiness seem natural—but what happens when they're taken away? In this eye-opening exploration of Philippians 3, Ben Carruthers guides us through the Apostle Paul's radical perspective on joy. Writing from a Roman pr…

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Spiritual but Not Religious? {Reflections} 6:28

6d ago6:28

6:28

Ever caught yourself nodding along when someone says, "I'm spiritual but not religious"? This reflexive distinction has become commonplace in our culture, but what are we really saying when we make this claim? Ryan dives deep into this modern spiritual paradigm, examining how many people approach faith like a buffet—selecting appealing elements whi…

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Holy Places: Rethinking Sacred Geography in Modern Faith {Reflections} 5:06

13d ago5:06

5:06

Have you ever wondered what makes a place truly sacred? Ryan explores the fascinating contrast between ancient beliefs about holy places and a more personal understanding of sacred spaces. Throughout history and across religious traditions, certain locations—mountains, rivers, trees, boulders—have been designated as inherently holy. The Hebrew Scri…

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Can't Lose with Pastor Ryan Braley 31:11

15d ago31:11

31:11

What if I told you that regardless of your circumstances, you simply cannot lose? That's the radical truth Paul communicates from his prison cell to the Philippian church. Looking at a man who's been beaten, shipwrecked, starved, rejected, and now faces possible execution, we'd expect despair. Instead, we hear the triumphant declaration: "For me to…

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Two Roads: Choosing Softness or Hardness {Reflections} 8:16

20d ago8:16

8:16

Have you ever wondered if there's more to spiritual conviction than just feeling bad about your sins? That nagging feeling might actually be an invitation to something deeper and more transformative. Taking you on a journey from my Christian upbringing through my time with Youth with a Mission, I share a personal revelation about what conviction tr…

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Intro to Joy with Sonja Knutson 16:47

22d ago16:47

16:47

Discover the radical counterculture of joy through the lens of Philippians, a letter penned by a man awaiting possible execution. Pastoral Associate Sonja Knutson launches our new sermon series "Joy Anyway" by unpacking why this brief 104-verse book continues to captivate Christians worldwide despite—or perhaps because of—its origin story. What kin…

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Rediscovering Sacred Space {Reflections} 7:24

27d ago7:24

7:24

Ever wonder if we've lost something vital in our modern rush to demystify the world? Ryan explores one of the most fascinating paradoxes in spiritual history: how ancient Israelites built an ornate temple for God, only to realize that no building could contain the divine presence. The temple wasn't just a building—it was a teaching tool. Through ri…

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Home: A Father’s Day Sermon with Pastor Ryan Braley 37:46

29d ago37:46

37:46

"Does anybody really love me?" It's a question that echoes in the depths of our hearts. For those who grew up without a father—or with complicated father relationships—this question carries extra weight, especially on Father's Day. Growing up without my father after years of family turmoil, I discovered that love and approval became synonymous. I b…

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Joseph - Favored Leader | BPS8 E11 12:38

1M ago12:38

12:38

Key text: Gen. 49:22 “22Joseph is a fruitful vine, a fruitful vine near a spring, whose branches climb over a wall." Biblical Application: Despite betrayal and hardship, Joseph remained faithful, and God exalted him. Romans 8:28 assures us that all things work together for good for those who love God. Call to Action: Remain faithful in trials. Trus…

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The Chaos Inside Us {Reflections} 7:34

1M ago7:34

7:34

Have you ever wondered why spiritual clarity often follows periods of inner turmoil? In this reflective episode, we explore the powerful story of Elijah from 1 Kings—a narrative that perfectly captures the spiritual rollercoaster many of us experience. Elijah's journey takes us from the triumphant heights of Mount Carmel, where he spectacularly def…

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Rhythm: Celebration with Pastor Ryan Braley 31:39

1M ago31:39

31:39

What if celebration isn't just something we do when life is going well, but a spiritual discipline we need to cultivate intentionally? In this eye-opening exploration of sacred celebration, we discover that God actually commanded his people to celebrate regularly—not as an optional add-on to faith, but as an essential practice for spiritual formati…

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Naphtali - Gifted Leader | BPS8 E10 11:02

1M ago11:02

11:02

Key text: Gen. 49:21 “Naphtali is a doe set free that bears beautiful fawns." Biblical Application: Naphtali’s blessing emphasized fruitfulness and eloquence. Our words should reflect God’s wisdom (Proverbs 18:21). Call to Action: Use your words to inspire, uplift, and bring life to others. Recognitions Music: Nathaniel Bassey Olive Tree Bible APP …

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The True Self vs. False Self: Discovering Who You Really Are {Reflections} 6:48

1M ago6:48

6:48

Have you ever been caught off guard by the seemingly simple question: "Who are you?" For many of us, we instinctively respond with what we do—our jobs, roles, or accomplishments. But what happens when those external identifiers are stripped away? Who remains? This episode delves into the transformative concept of the "true self" versus the "false s…

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Rhythm: Worship with Pastor Ryan Braley 32:36

1M ago32:36

32:36

Have we lost our breath in the modern world? In this profound exploration of worship, we discover that for ancient peoples, worship wasn't a scheduled event but as natural and necessary as breathing itself. It was woven into the fabric of their daily existence, punctuating their lives through prayers, celebrations, and sacred rituals. The word "wor…

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Asher - Happy Leader | BPS8 E09 11:27

1M ago11:27

11:27

Key text: Gen. 49:20 “Asher’s food will be rich; he will provide delicacies fit for a king." Biblical Application: Asher’s blessing emphasized abundance. God desires that leaders walk in both spiritual and material prosperity (Deuteronomy 28:1-6). Call to Action: Walk in obedience so God’s favor and provision may rest upon you. Recognitions Music: …

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Faith in the Age of AI {Reflections} 7:30

2M ago7:30

7:30

Ever feel like the world is changing too fast to keep up? You're not alone. In this deeply reflective episode, I explore a profound interview between Stephen Bartlett and investor Raoul Paul that left me questioning what happens when artificial intelligence fundamentally transforms our world. Paul's assessment of AI as "the single greatest innovati…

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Rhythm: Submission with Ben Carruthers 26:57

2M ago26:57

26:57

Ever noticed how certain words can immediately put us on edge? "Submission" is certainly one of them. What should be a pathway to freedom has become associated with control, oppression, and abuse. But what if we've been looking at it all wrong? This exploration of submission as a spiritual rhythm takes us beyond negative connotations to discover it…

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Gad - Battle-Ready Leader | BPS8 E08 10:46

2M ago10:46

10:46

Key text: Gen. 49:19 “Gad[i] will be attacked by a band of raiders, but he will attack them at their heels." Biblical Application: Gad faced challenges but triumphed. Perseverance is key in leadership. James 1:12 reminds us that the one who perseveres will receive the crown of life. Call to Action: Stand firm in trials, knowing victory comes to tho…

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260. Social Media and Social Irrationality 16:04

2M ago16:04

16:04

A lot of ink has been spilled about the crisis of misinformation, but Henry Farrell thinks we have a much bigger problem: manufactured public opinion. Video: http://youtu.be/Mjyq9gAqH5g Show Notes: https://thunkshow.com/2025/05/25/260.-Social-Media-and-Social-Irrationality.htmlBy Josh Pelton

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Theology on a Timer {Reflections} 10:40

2M ago10:40

10:40

Racing against a 30-second timer, Pastor Ryan tackles deep theological questions with surprising candor and insight in this experimental podcast format. Music director Mike Lauer serves as both inquisitor and timekeeper, challenging Ryan to distill complex spiritual concepts into concise, meaningful answers before the buzzer sounds. The rapid-fire …

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Rhythm: Silence & Solitude with Pastor Ryan Braley 32:09

2M ago32:09

32:09

What happens when we stop shaking the jar of our lives and let everything settle? In this exploration of silence and solitude, we discover how intentional withdrawal from noise and distraction creates space for profound spiritual encounters. The story of Elijah offers a powerful metaphor for our own journeys. After a tremendous spiritual victory, E…

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Dan - Compromised Leader | BPS8 E07 11:43

2M ago11:43

11:43

Key text: Gen. 49:17 17 Dan will be a snake by the roadside, a viper along the path, that bites the horse’s heels so that its rider tumbles backward. Biblical Application: Dan was given a role in justice, but his descendants later fell into idolatry. Leaders must remain faithful to their calling. 1 Corinthians 10:12 warns us to stand firm lest we f…

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Fire in the Fireplace: A Christian Perspective on Sex {Reflections} 8:40

2M ago8:40

8:40

We live in a culture saturated with sexual messaging, yet meaningful conversations about sexual ethics often remain elusive. Drawing from both pastoral experience and personal journey as a parent of four, Ryan offers a refreshingly balanced framework for understanding human sexuality that moves beyond both prudish restrictions and casual disregard.…

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Rhythm: Service with Sonja Knutson 19:47

2M ago19:47

19:47

Have you ever wondered why the most fulfilling moments in life often come when we're serving others? This powerful exploration of "The Rhythm of Service" reveals how regular acts of service transform not just those we help, but our own spiritual lives as well. Pastor Sonia Knutson shares her family's remarkable legacy of service, revealing how her …

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Issachar - Servant Leader | BPS8 E06 12:23

2M ago12:23

12:23

Key text: Gen. 49:15 15 When he sees how good is his resting place and how pleasant is his land, he will bend his shoulder to the burden and submit to forced labor. Biblical Application: Issachar’s wisdom and hard work made his tribe valuable. Proverbs 4:7 says wisdom is the principal thing. Leaders must understand their times and act wisely. Call …

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Wonder in a Jaded World {Reflections} 7:54

2M ago7:54

7:54

What happens when we lose our capacity for wonder? Through the lens of Abraham Joshua Heschel's profound wisdom, this episode explores how modern life has gradually eroded our ability to be amazed by the extraordinary world around us. Ryan shares a touching moment from church where a young girl demonstrated the pure, unfiltered wonder that children…

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Rhythm: Fasting with Pastor Ryan Braley 32:30

2M ago32:30

32:30

What happens when we deliberately disrupt the rhythm of consumption in a world where virtually anything can be delivered to our doorstep within hours? This episode dives deep into the countercultural practice of fasting and how it shapes our spiritual lives. We begin by examining "the water in which we swim" - our culture of immediate gratification…

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Zebulun - Positioned Leader | BPS8 E05 12:24

2M ago12:24

12:24

Key text: Gen. 49:13 “Zebulun will live by the seashore. and become a haven for ships; His border will extend toward Sidon.” Biblical Application: Zebulun’s tribe thrived because of its strategic location. God places us where we can best serve His purpose. Acts 17:26 affirms that He determines our appointed times and places. Call to Action: Leaders…

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Mastering Your Emotions {Reflections} 8:36

3M ago8:36

8:36

Ever been swept away by your emotions, feeling like you've jumped into a rushing river with no control over where you'll end up? That's exactly what we're diving into today as I share a powerful insight that's been transforming my life at 45 years old. When someone cuts us off in traffic or rolls their eyes during dinner, we have immediate reaction…

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The Rhythm is Gonna Get You with Pastor Ryan Braley 30:33

3M ago30:33

30:33

What forces are shaping your life right now? Beyond your conscious awareness, daily habits and patterns are carving pathways in your heart, sculpting your desires, and ultimately determining who you become. When we repeatedly complain, our lens for viewing the world darkens. When we reach for our phones first thing in the morning and scroll mindles…

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Judah - Redeemed Leader | BPS8 E04 11:55

3M ago11:55

11:55

Key text: Gen. 49:8 8 “Judah,[b] your brothers will praise you; your hand will be on the neck of your enemies; your father’s sons will bow down to you." Biblical Application: Judah’s leadership evolved from selfishness to responsibility, ultimately leading to Christ’s lineage. Leaders must embrace growth and redemption. Call to Action: Reflect on y…

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Wild Faith: John the Baptist's Radical Path {Reflections} 10:06

3M ago10:06

10:06

The wild, untamed nature of God's work takes center stage as we explore the revolutionary ministry of John the Baptist – a man who abandoned his priestly inheritance to preach in the wilderness. This seemingly simple career change represents one of the most profound challenges to religious authority in the biblical narrative. Born to a temple pries…

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It’s In the Moment with Sonja Knutson 18:35

3M ago18:35

18:35

What happens when Jesus interrupts an ordinary meal to become a servant? On this Maundy Thursday, we witness a profound moment that transforms how we understand love and service. There's a striking difference between choosing to serve and choosing to be a servant. Most of us serve when it fits our schedule, when we gain something from it, or when w…

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I Am the Resurrection and the Life with Pastor Ryan Braley 24:31

3M ago24:31

24:31

"I am the resurrection and the life." With these words, Jesus makes one of his most profound declarations while standing at the grave of his friend Lazarus. But what does this statement really mean for us today? When Jesus refers to the dead Lazarus as merely "sleeping," he hints at something revolutionary: death isn't permanent. While the disciple…

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Levi - Priestly Leader | BPS8 E03 10:59

3M ago10:59

10:59

Key text: Gen. 49:6 6 Let me not enter their council, let me not join their assembly, for they have killed men in their anger and hamstrung oxen as they pleased. Biblical Application: Though Levi initially misused his strength, God later transformed his lineage into a priesthood (Numbers 3:5-10). This shows that God can redeem and repurpose us for …

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Accusation and Forgiveness: Jesus' Radical Third Way {Reflections} 11:14

3M ago11:14

11:14

Join us! Facebook | Instagram | www.clcelkriver.orgBy Central Lutheran Church

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259. After Virtue 20:05

3M ago20:05

20:05

Alastair MacIntyre thinks we’ve lost something essential at the core of our discussions of right & wrong, & Aristotle has been telling us for 2000 years. Video: http://youtu.be/CDetc4y7_Gs Show Notes: https://thunkshow.com/2025/04/15/259.-After-Virtue.htmlBy Josh Pelton

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I Am the True Vine with Pastor Ryan Braley 29:24

3M ago29:24

29:24

The ancient world valued gardens as rare treasures belonging only to kings and the wealthy. These weren't merely beautiful spaces but powerful symbols of divine blessing, order over chaos, and sacred communion. When Jesus declares "I am the true vine," he taps into this rich imagery that runs through Scripture from Eden to the New Jerusalem. What d…

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Simeon - Angry Leader | BPS8 E02 12:56

3M ago12:56

12:56

Key text: Gen 49:7 7 Cursed be their anger, so fierce, and their fury, so cruel! I will scatter them in Jacob. and disperse them in Israel.. Biblical Application: Simeon’s anger led to violence and division. Proverbs 16:32 reminds us that self-control is more significant than physical strength. As leaders, we must manage our emotions wisely. Call t…

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What Emerges When We Stop Feeding Our Distractions? {Reflections} 7:56

3M ago7:56

7:56

Wilderness journeys reveal what's hidden in the depths of our hearts. During this Lent season, we're exploring how temporary discomfort creates space for profound spiritual growth. The 40-day period of Lent mirrors powerful biblical wilderness experiences – from Israel's desert wandering to Jesus facing temptation alone. These weren't punishments b…

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I Am the Good Shepherd with Pastor Ryan Braley 29:43

3M ago29:43

29:43

What if Jesus calling us "sheep" isn't just a poetic metaphor, but a profound truth about human nature? In this eye-opening message, Pastor Ryan explores why sheep perfectly represent our tendencies toward poor judgment, defenselessness, and aimless wandering - and why that's actually good news. Drawing from 10,000 years of sheep domestication hist…

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Reuben - Unstable Leader | BPS8 E01 12:46

3M ago12:46

12:46

Key Text: Gen. 49:4 4 Turbulent as the waters, you will no longer excel, for you went up onto your father’s bed, onto my couch and defiled it.” Biblical Application: Reuben's instability cost him his birthright. This teaches us that leadership requires steadfastness and self-control. James 1:8 warns that a double-minded person is unstable in all th…

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I Am the Way, the Truth, the Life with Ben Carruthers 23:13

3M ago23:13

23:13

Jesus' declaration "I am the way, the truth, and the life" isn't made during a theological debate or before a massive crowd. Instead, these profound words emerge around a dinner table as comfort for twelve confused disciples facing imminent loss and uncertainty. The setting is crucial: the Last Supper has transformed from celebration to chaos. Jesu…

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Blind Faith {Reflections} 8:20

3M ago8:20

8:20

What happens when our spiritual vision gets things backward? Ryan explores two powerful Gospel narratives that flip conventional religious understanding on its head. First, we dive into John 9, where Jesus heals a man blind from birth—but the real story isn't just about physical healing. As the formerly blind man progressively recognizes Jesus (fir…

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Keep Your Eyes On Your Own Paper {Reflections} 6:02

4M ago6:02

6:02

Have you ever caught yourself looking at someone else's life, work, or talents and thinking, "What about them?" You're not alone. In this deeply reflective episode, we explore a fascinating moment between Jesus and Peter from John 21 that perfectly captures our human tendency toward comparison. After his resurrection, Jesus is having a profound con…

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I Am the Light of the World with Ben Carruthers 22:21

4M ago22:21

22:21

Standing in the temple courts during the vibrant Festival of Sukkot, surrounded by massive oil lamps commemorating God's pillar of fire, Jesus makes his bold declaration: "I am the light of the world." The timing couldn't be more profound—moments after extending radical grace to a woman caught in adultery and publicly shamed. This powerful message …

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Two Pieces of Paper {Reflections} 5:54

4M ago5:54

5:54

Have you ever pondered the beautiful tension between your cosmic significance and humble origins? This reflective episode explores an ancient rabbinical practice of carrying two contradictory truths that perfectly balance our understanding of human existence. The rabbis recommended keeping two pieces of paper in your pockets. The first reads, "For …

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I Am the Gate with Pastor Ryan Braley 38:46

4M ago38:46

38:46

What happens when religious gatekeeping collides with divine compassion? Jesus' declaration "I am the gate for the sheep" emerges from a powerful confrontation over a man born blind—healed but subsequently expelled from the synagogue by religious leaders more concerned with rule-keeping than rejoicing in restoration. This declaration arrives during…