Best Table Church DC Podcasts (2026)

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Scrubbing Off What American Christianity Got Wrong 25:46

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3d ago25:46

25:46

What does biblical manhood actually look like? Spoiler: it's not what you've been told. This sermon explores the story of Joseph—a carpenter who had every reason to walk away from Mary's inexplicable pregnancy but chose something more difficult: solidarity, humility, and embracing mystery over control. Pastor Tonetta draws from the metaphor of a Ko…

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191: Mandana Hendessi 50:28

13h ago50:28

50:28

In this episode of Crossing Faiths, John Pinna speaks with Mandana Hendessi about her career in human rights advocacy and international development across Iraq and Afghanistan, with a particular focus on her novel, The Almond Garden of Kabul. Drawing from her real-life experiences providing legal aid and counseling at the Badam Bagh women's prison,…

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190 - Shaka Mitchell 46:57

3d ago46:57

46:57

In this episode of Crossing Faiths, John Pinna speaks with Shaka Mitchell, founder of the Come Together Music Project, about utilizing music as a tool to deepen relationships and foster vulnerability across cultural and political divides. They discuss the origins of Mitchell's podcast, which invites guests to share songs based on specific prompts, …

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Saying Yes While Trembling: Mary, Jeremiah, and Inadequacy 28:24

19d ago28:24

28:24

Not all fear is the same. Some fear protects you from real danger—and if you've experienced religious trauma or spiritual abuse, those fears are legitimate. But other fear is trickier: it's the voice telling you you're not capable, not worthy, that you can't trust yourself. This sermon explores how to tell the difference between protective fear and…

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189 - Laura Van Ham, Eco-Chaplain 39:37

10d ago39:37

39:37

In this episode of Crossing Faiths, John Pinna speaks with Lauren Van Ham, an interfaith minister and the Earth Restoration Coordinator for the United Religions Initiative (URI), about the vital intersection of spirituality and environmental stewardship. Van Ham details her journey to becoming an "Eco-Chaplain," a role dedicated to caring for the E…

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Small Acts Matter When You Can't See Results 20:41

23d ago20:41

20:41

What do you do when giving up feels simpler than keeping going? When even the people you admire most are questioning whether any of this matters? This sermon explores why despair can feel like a guilty pleasure—offering a horrifying kind of consistency in chaotic times—and why that simplicity is ultimately a lie. Drawing on the story of John the Ba…

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188: Shugen Arnold 54:03

17d ago54:03

54:03

In this episode of Crossing Faiths, John Pinna speaks with Geoffrey Shugen Arnold, the Abbot of the Zen Mountain Monastery, about the intersection of traditional Buddhist practice and modern American life. Shugen elucidates the role of an Abbot as both a spiritual teacher and administrator before diving into core Buddhist concepts, explaining how t…

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Learning to Hope in the Dark 21:01

1M ago21:01

21:01

What do you do when you've buried your hopes because holding onto them hurt too much? When the world feels so dark that giving up seems like the only way to survive the next day? This Advent sermon explores an uncomfortable truth: hope isn't always comforting—sometimes it's terrifying. Drawing from an ancient poet writing amid literal apocalypse an…

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The Oppressed Will Win: Rereading Revelation 23:52

1M ago23:52

23:52

What if the book of Revelation isn't about escaping the world, but about resisting it? Drawing from visits to the 16th Street Baptist Church bombing site and a memorial to lynching victims, this sermon reframes Revelation's final vision as a manual for living under empire—any empire that crushes human flourishing. The ancient text offers more than …

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187: Stephen Schneck, USCIRF Commissioner 35:21

1M ago35:21

35:21

In this episode of Crossing Faiths, John Pinna speaks with Stephen Schneck, a Commissioner for the United States Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF), about the vital role the independent, bipartisan commission plays in monitoring and advocating for freedom of belief worldwide. Schneck details the distinction between USCIRF’s advi…

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When Death Itself Dies 42:01

2M ago42:01

42:01

For centuries, Western Christianity has taught that hell means eternal conscious torment—but what if that's based on a mistranslation? This sermon digs into the Greek text of Revelation 20, the "millennium debate," and why early church theologians read the "lake of fire" as refining transformation rather than endless punishment. Drawing on scholars…

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186: Brian Grim 34:39

1M ago34:39

34:39

In this episode of Crossing Faiths, John Pinna speaks with Brian Grim from the Religious Freedom and Business Foundation about his influential research on global religious freedom. Grim recounts how his personal experiences living in the Muslim world, particularly during 9/11, led him to develop the groundbreaking framework that measures religious …

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The Book That Won't Let You Stay Comfortable 27:35

2M ago27:35

27:35

We've been told Revelation is about predicting the future or achieving the right political outcomes. But what if it's actually about something we can't control or engineer ourselves? This sermon explores how the Bible's most misunderstood book challenges both religious conservatives and progressive activists to reconsider what liberation actually m…

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185: Rushan Abbas 44:42

2M ago44:42

44:42

In this episode of Crossing Faiths, John Pinna speaks with Rushan Abbas, an advocate for the Uyghur community and founder of the Campaign for Uyghurs, about the history and ongoing genocide of her people. Abbas explains the Uyghurs' distinct identity as a Turkic, Muslim people from East Turkestan (now called Xinjiang by China), tracing the evolutio…

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Justice, Mercy, and the Collapse of Empire 38:49

2M ago38:49

38:49

What do you do with biblical texts that depict God pouring out bowls of cosmic destruction? For those of us who believe in a nonviolent, loving God, passages like Revelation 15-16 create serious problems. They've been used to terrorize people and justify violence for centuries. This sermon offers a different way forward. By understanding apocalypti…

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184: Matthew Hawkins 36:46

2M ago36:46

36:46

In this episode of Crossing Faiths, John Pinna speaks with Matt Hawkins, a founder of the podcast, about his return to the international religious freedom (IRF) space and his new role as Executive Vice President of the IRF Secretariat. Hawkins explains how the Secretariat serves as an administrative support body for the global religious freedom mov…

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You're Fighting Systems, Not Just People 28:36

2M ago28:36

28:36

Why does doing the right thing seem to cost everything while everyone else appears to be thriving? And when resistance feels futile, is conformity really that bad? Using Revelation 13's symbolism of beasts and marks, this sermon cuts through religious jargon to expose how state power and propaganda work together to make injustice feel inevitable. I…

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The Price Tag on Standing Up 38:16

2M ago38:16

38:16

We all participate in systems that harm people—it's nearly impossible not to. Your credit card, your phone, your morning coffee: all connected to exploitation somewhere down the line. So what do we do when opting out isn't really an option, but going along feels like giving up everything we stand for? This talk digs into why resistance always comes…

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When the Bible Gets Weird and Wonderful 28:52

2M ago28:52

28:52

Ever wonder why the Bible ends with dragons, cosmic battles, and a woman giving birth in space? Turns out, Revelation 12 isn't trying to predict the future or scare you—it's doing something far more interesting. This passage takes everything the Bible has been saying about good, evil, death, and resurrection and cranks it up to high definition. Dra…

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183 - Joseph F. Dumond 1:27:04

2M ago1:27:04

1:27:04

In this episode of Crossing Faiths, Elliot Toman speaks with Joseph Dumond, an author and expert on biblical prophecy and the Jubilee calendar. Dumond explains his theory that humanity has been allotted 120 Jubilee cycles of 49 years, a timeline derived from Genesis 6:3, which he believes provides a framework for predicting major prophetic events, …

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The Four Horsemen and Finding Hope in Apocalyptic Times 33:40

3M ago33:40

33:40

What does it mean to witness suffering without becoming bitter or indifferent? Can you stare directly at systemic injustice and still believe in life? Using Assata Shakur's poem "Affirmation" and readings from Revelation 6-8, this sermon reframes ancient apocalyptic literature as a survival guide for communities under oppression. The Four Horsemen …

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182 - Despina Namwembe 42:25

2M ago42:25

42:25

In this episode of Crossing Faiths, John Pinna speaks with Despina Namwembe, a social scientist and regional coordinator for the United Religions Initiative (URI) in the Great Lakes region of Africa. Namwembe discusses her work coordinating dozens of grassroots interfaith organizations to address the area's complex challenges, primarily focusing on…

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When the Lion Turns Out to Be a Lamb 36:17

3M ago36:17

36:17

Ever wonder why the Bible is so hard to understand? It's not just because it's old—it's because we're missing the cultural references. Just like future generations won't get "boots with the fur" or calling 411 for information, we're 2,000 years removed from the world that wrote Revelation. This talk explores the throne room vision in Revelation 4-5…

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181: Michael Kinnamon 56:18

3M ago56:18

56:18

In this episode of Crossing Faiths, John Pinna speaks with Michael Kinnamon, a novelist, professor of theology, and expert in interfaith relations, about his novel "A Rooftop in Jerusalem" and the broader themes of his life's work. Kinnamon discusses his three careers—as a professor, an ecumenical leader with the National Council of Churches, and n…

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Revelation Wasn't Written for Conspiracy Theorists 39:14

3M ago39:14

39:14

The U.S. government recently issued a directive targeting groups that show "anti-American" or "anti-capitalist" tendencies. Early Christians faced eerily similar accusations: they were called atheists, conspirators, and haters of humanity. This sermon explores how the book of Revelation wasn't written as a prophecy decoder ring—it was a survival ma…

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180 - Joseph F. Dumond: Predicting the End of Days 1:24:02

3M ago1:24:02

1:24:02

In this episode of Crossing Faiths, John Pinna speaks with Joseph Dumond, an author and subject matter expert on biblical prophecy and the Jubilee calendar. Dumond explains his decades-long research into establishing a precise timeline for the end of days based on 120 Jubilee cycles of 49 years each. Using historical and archaeological evidence lik…

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When Death Feels Like Victory 27:15

3M ago27:15

27:15

How do you resist injustice without becoming what you despise? In times when hope feels scarce and violence seems to win, many of us struggle with what we're supposed to feel—and how we're supposed to respond. This sermon tackles those uncomfortable tensions head-on. Rather than treating Revelation as a roadmap to the end times, this message refram…

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Ancient Resistance Manual for Modern Times 28:48

3M ago28:48

28:48

How do you stand up to injustice without letting anger consume you? How do you fight systems of oppression without becoming the very thing you oppose? These questions feel especially urgent right now, as many of us wrestle with complex emotions about violence, justice, and what it actually means to create change. This talk explores the Book of Reve…

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179 - Eric Roux 58:28

3M ago58:28

58:28

In this episode of Crossing Faiths, John Pinna speaks with Eric Roux from the United Religions Initiative (URI) about his personal and professional journey in interfaith collaboration and religious freedom advocacy. Roux recounts how his work began by defending his own faith, Scientology, against discrimination in France, but evolved as he recogniz…

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178 - The Amish Butter Popcorn and America Prays 49:42

3M ago49:42

49:42

A Christian and a Muslim talk religion & politics. In this episode, cohosts John and Elliot have a typically wide-ranging discussion involving comparative religion, ancient cultures and the White House's recent "America Prays" initiative, loosely held together by the thread of Elliot's problematic popcorn habit. Support Crossing Faiths…

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177 - Chad Brignac 1:13:47

4M ago1:13:47

1:13:47

In this episode of Crossing Faiths, John Pinna speaks with Chad Brignac, an author, consultant, and self-described "transformationist," about applying principles of personal growth and faith to the divisive landscape of American politics. Brignac details his personal journey from workaholism to developing a philosophy of compassionate leadership, d…

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When Your Faith Feels Like a Lie 29:27

4M ago29:27

29:27

Many of us carry shame about our faith - shame about questions we've asked, people we've hurt, or feeling like we don't fit the "good Christian" mold. This honest reflection explores how religious shame can poison our relationship with spirituality and keep us from authentic community. Drawing from a summer of solitude and the apostle Paul's bold d…

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176 - Dr. Sahar Khamis 40:14

4M ago40:14

40:14

In this episode of Crossing Faiths, John Pinna speaks with Dr. Sahar Khamis about the complex and evolving role of digital and social media, particularly within the Arab and Muslim world. They explore the concept of social media as a "double-edged sword," discussing its initial promise as a tool for liberation during events like the Arab Spring and…

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Why Good People Burn Out Fighting Injustice 32:01

4M ago32:01

32:01

Ever feel like you're the only one who cares? Like you have to fix every injustice or no one will? Many of us cycle between doing too much, burning out, then either withdrawing completely or blaming others for not stepping up. This pattern destroys both activists and movements. Drawing from the ancient story of prophet Elijah's breakdown and recove…

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Your Limits Are Actually Your Compass 39:56

4M ago39:56

39:56

We all hit walls—whether it's career ambitions that feel out of reach, relationships that drain us, or dreams that seem impossible. But what if the problem isn't your limitations? What if you're just misreading the signals? Trevor shares a fresh perspective on personal boundaries, offering practical tools to distinguish between obstacles worth push…

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Stop Being the Messiah of Your Relationships 17:24

4M ago17:24

17:24

Do you exhaust yourself trying to fix everyone around you? Civil rights lawyer and pastor Antonio explores why our need to be everyone's savior leads to anxiety, burnout, and resentment. Whether you're supporting struggling friends, fighting for social justice, or caring for family members, the pressure to solve every problem can be overwhelming. D…

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175: 175 - Ghazala Salam 30:57

4M ago30:57

30:57

In this episode of Crossing Faiths, John Pinna speaks with Ghazala Salam, a nonprofit leader, chef, and cultural storyteller, about the powerful intersection of food, culture, and identity. They discuss her participation in a recent chef competition, which she uses as a springboard to explain her core mission of food diplomacy and cultural storytel…

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When Change-Makers Hit the Wall 25:02

5M ago25:02

25:02

Whether you're fighting for justice or just trying to make it through tough times, burnout is real. This conversation explores an honest question: Are you the person who needs care right now, or are you in a position to help others? Using the ancient story of Elijah's breakdown and recovery, we examine how to assess where you are emotionally and sp…

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174 - Dr. Minhas Kahn: Divine Diplomacy 50:06

5M ago50:06

50:06

In this episode of Crossing Faiths, John Pinna speaks with Minhas Kahn about her book, Divine Diplomacy, which explores the impact of post-9/11 American evangelicals on Pakistan-United States relations. Kahn details how her research challenged initial perceptions of evangelicals, revealing that many engaged in positive diplomacy through humanitaria…

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Why One-Size-Fits-All Therapy Doesn't Work 30:25

5M ago30:25

30:25

Most of us carry experiences that overwhelmed our ability to cope—trauma that literally rewires our brains and makes safe things feel dangerous. Whether it's childhood neglect, discrimination, abuse, or chronic stress, these experiences can leave us feeling frozen, anxious, and disconnected from the relationships we need most. This talk explores ho…

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173: 173 - Guy Elhanan: The tragedy of forced military service 40:22

5M ago40:22

40:22

In this episode of Crossing Faiths, John Pinna speaks with Guy Elhanan, an Israeli actor and member of the Parents Circle–Families Forum, a joint Israeli-Palestinian organization of bereaved families. Elhanan shares his personal journey from a typical Israeli upbringing to a peace activist, detailing how his artistic awakening in an arts high schoo…

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"How to Stay Calm When Others Panic" 45:30

5M ago45:30

45:30

Ever notice how one person's stress can spiral through an entire family, workplace, or friend group? This talk explores why anxiety is "viral" and how we unconsciously pass our emotional states to others—often without realizing it. Drawing from family systems theory and stories of Jesus navigating conflict, Anthony introduces the concept of "non-an…

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"Why Your Family Still Controls You" 43:18

5M ago43:18

43:18

Ever feel like you're finally independent, only to realize you're still making decisions based on what you're rebelling against? This talk explores how anxiety spreads through families like a virus, creating patterns that control our choices long after we've left home. Using family systems theory and the story of Joseph, Pastor Anthony reveals how …

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172: 172: Talking About Hulk Hogan with Joseph Yoo 56:56

5M ago56:56

56:56

In this episode of Crossing Faiths, John Pinna speaks with Joseph Yoo for a "wellness check" following the death of professional wrestler Hulk Hogan, a shared childhood hero. They explore the complex emotions of mourning a figure they once idolized, grappling with the stark contrast between Hogan's heroic on-screen persona and the flawed, often con…

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171: Laila Alsheikh - Parent's Circle 40:35

5M ago40:35

40:35

In this episode of Crossing Faiths, John Pinna speaks with Laila Alsheikh, a Palestinian from Bethlehem and a member of The Parents Circle-Families Forum, a joint Israeli-Palestinian organization of over 700 bereaved families. Laila shares the deeply personal and tragic story of losing her six-month-old son, who died after being denied timely passa…

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169: 169: Sahar Aziz 1:02:18

5M ago1:02:18

1:02:18

In this episode of Crossing Faiths, John Pinna speaks with Sahar Aziz, a distinguished professor of law and director of the Center for Security and Race and Rights, about the profound impact of 9/11 on Muslim identity and civil liberties in America. Aziz introduces the concept of the "racial Muslim," explaining how the collective trauma and governm…

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170: 170: Chris Campbell, "The Babka King" 1:09:01

5M ago1:09:01

1:09:01

Chris Campbell—better known online as Chris CARESNONE, “The Babka King”—is a Chicago‑born speaker, podcaster, and viral food creator who uses humor and high‑energy storytelling to turn everyday dishes into unexpected lessons on unity. His cross‑cultural food videos have attracted nearly half‑a‑million TikTok fans, hundreds of thousands on Instagram…

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When Life Takes the Long Way Around (Pastor Heidi Mills) 27:14

6M ago27:14

27:14

What if your life isn’t “off track”—just on a longer, more winding route than you expected? For anyone wrestling with job loss, big transitions, or that nagging feeling of being stuck, this sermon explores what it means to navigate uncertainty without losing hope. Drawing from the story of Moses and the Israelites, we look at how guidance often sho…

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When You Have No Idea What You're Doing (Daniel Dixon) 34:34

6M ago34:34

34:34

Ever feel like you're making major life decisions based on dreams about cats? You're not alone. In this honest conversation about discernment, Daniel Dixon explores what it means to figure out where you're going when you genuinely have no clue. Moving beyond the tired "God has a plan" rhetoric and simplistic self-help formulas, this talk gets real …

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Who Am I Really Beneath the Surface? (Shae Washington) 28:19

6M ago28:19

28:19

Many of us feel stuck between who we think we should be and who we actually are. Whether you're questioning your purpose, feeling unworthy of your dreams, or wondering if you even have a "calling" at all, you're not alone in this struggle. Through the story of Moses and the burning bush, Shae Washington explores three common obstacles we face when …