Best Ministry In A Secular Age Podcasts (2025)

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Zombies, Poetry, and Resonance 17:30

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4d ago17:30

17:30

Andy thinks ideas from Charles Taylor's recent works about resonance, poetry, and beauty can be found in the zombie show "The Last of Us". And it says a lot about what ministry looks like in a Secular Age.By Ministry in a Secular Age

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Raising Gospel-Centered Kids in a Pressure-Filled World: feat. Cameron Cole | Episode 303 41:08

5d ago41:08

41:08

What happens when faith becomes about performance rather than grace? In this heartfelt and eye-opening conversation, Jonathan Youssef sits down with Cameron Cole, President of Rooted Ministry and author of Heavenward: How Eternity Can Change Your Life on Earth, to talk about breaking the cycle of performance-based Christianity and rediscovering the…

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From Feminism to Faith: Understanding the Gender Identity Crisis: feat. Dr. Katie McCoy | Episode 302 57:28

12d ago57:28

57:28

In a culture where identity has become fluid, how can Christians respond with Biblical Truth with both conviction and compassion? In this episode of Candid Conversations, Jonathan Youssef sits down with Dr. Katie McCoy, author of To Be a Woman: The Confusion Over Female Identity and How Christians Can Respond. Together they unpack one of the most p…

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Quiet Revival Brewing? 23:30

19d ago23:30

23:30

Andy has returned from traveling abroad with news of a Quiet Revival happening in European churches. Andy and Derek discuss reasons for this and what it could mean for ministries in this secular age.By Ministry in a Secular Age

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Spiritual Resilience: Leading Faithful Lives in a Changing World: feat. Michael Keller | Episode 301 26:08

19d ago26:08

26:08

What happens when faith collides with a world changing faster than ever? In this episode, Michael Keller and Jonathan Youssef wrestle honestly with AI, digital isolation, and the fractured search for meaning, offering real hope and practical wisdom for anyone longing for true connection and honest community with grace at the center. Jonathan and M…

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Faith Under Fire: Biblical Truths and Modern Challenges: feat. Michael Keller | Episode 300 19:52

25d ago19:52

19:52

By Michael Keller, Jonathan Youssef

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Charlie Kirk, Taylor's Triangle, and Breaking Ressentiment 25:18

1M ago25:18

25:18

Andy discusses Charlie Kirk's death and how interpreting it is tied deeply to Charles Taylor's Triangle. Andy thinks this is not only helpful for those of us in ministry, but for society at large to break the cycle of ressentiment that perpetuates these sorts of violent acts. Our call-in line is open! Call us at (612) 405-8071 to leave a question f…

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Identity, Discipleship, and Costly Faith in Christ: feat. Sam Allberry | Episode 299 25:10

1M ago25:10

25:10

Discover how union with Christ transforms our identity, reshapes our approach to discipleship, and calls every believer to costly faith. Pastor and author Sam Allberry joins Jonathan Youssef to share candid insights on navigating same-sex attraction, authentic holiness, and the challenges facing today's church. Whether wrestling with faith or longi…

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How Do We Stop Scrolling Ourselves to Death? feat: Ivan Mesa and Brett McCracken, Episode 298 22:38

1M ago22:38

22:38

What if the habits shaping your daily scroll are quietly shaping your soul, and your church, for the next generation? In Part 2 of our conversation with Brett McCracken and Ivan Mesa, editors of Scrolling Ourselves to Death: Reclaiming Life in a Digital Age, we take a deeper look into the ways digital technology forms our hearts, relationships, and…

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In God We Trust (But Also Money!) 28:52

2M ago28:52

28:52

All churches need money to run. But sometimes Derek feels more like a small business owner than a pastor sometimes. Andy explains how money actually has more power than God in the Secular Age, but this gives churches an opportunity to talk about money, stewardship, budgets, and promises in a new way. Our call-in line is open! Call us at (612) 405-8…

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Why Are We Scrolling Ourselves to Death?: feat: Ivan Mesa and Brett McCracken, Episode 297 21:24

2M ago21:24

21:24

Are we scrolling ourselves numb while our souls quietly starve? On this episode of Candid Conversations, Jonathan Youssef talks with Brett McCracken and Ivan Mesa, editors of Scrolling Ourselves to Death: Reclaiming Life in a Digital Age, about how digital overload is quietly shaping who we are—often more deeply than we realize. Dive in as they rev…

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A Tool of Faith Formation for Our Secular Age: feat. Trevin Wax | Episode 296 12:37

2M ago12:37

12:37

Are you equipped to stand firm in the Christian faith in today’s ever-changing culture? Jonathan Youssef welcomes Trevin Wax, co-author of The Gospel Way Catechism, to discuss the importance of Christian catechism as a tool for spiritual formation in today’s world. Trevin is a vice president at the North American Mission Board (NAMB), a visiting pr…

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A Pilgrimage into Letting Go 20:00

2M ago20:00

20:00

Andy has a brand new book out called "A Pilgrimage into Letting Go". He talks about the book and why it's important for pastors, parents, and all people to practice the art of letting go. Our call-in line is open! Call us at (612) 405-8071 to leave a question for a future episode!By Ministry in a Secular Age

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A Legacy of Ministry and Global Training: feat. Jonathan Youssef on 2 Pastors Unplugged | Episode 295 24:55

2M ago24:55

24:55

This special episode re-airs Jonathan Youssef’s engaging visit with Rick Probst on 2 Pastors Unplugged. Jonathan—shaped by a legacy of ministry and global training—digs deep into what makes preaching truly life-changing, drawing from experiences that span Atlanta to Sydney. Hear how opening God’s Word becomes more than a message; it’s an invitation…

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How Do I Raise Children Who Will Follow Christ? feat. Jonathan Youssef | Episode 294 7:07

2M ago7:07

7:07

Are you feeling overwhelmed by the challenge of raising children to stand firm in their Christian faith because the culture pushes back at every turn? You’re not alone. Today, countless parents, teachers, and mentors are searching for hope-filled answers and practical, Biblical guidance for the next generation. In this episode of Candid Conversatio…

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Empire State of Mind 28:05

2M ago28:05

28:05

Derek wonders about what the Gospel is when Christianity is formed in an Empire. Andy dusts off the works of an obscure scholar who saw history as separate times of First, Second, and Third Culture. And Fourth Culture is on the way whether we like it or not. Our call-in line is open! Call us at (612) 405-8071 to leave a question for a future episod…

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How Can I Be More Like Jesus? feat. Dave Hubbard | Episode 293 38:02

2M ago38:02

38:02

Welcome back to Candid Conversations! After a refreshing sabbatical, Jonathan Youssef returns with a brand-new episode to kick off this new season of Candid, diving into one of the Bible's most powerful stories of transformation, Simon Peter. Jonathan is joined by author and Candid listener favorite, Dave Hubbard. His new book, “You Are, You Will B…

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Nietzsche Made Us Doubt the Moon Landing 22:19

3M ago22:19

22:19

Derek's friend doesn't believe in the moon landing. Andy explains that modern-day conspiracy theories rooted in the Three Horsemen of the Hermeneutics of Suspicion: Nietzsche, Freud, and Marx. It surprisingly has a lot to do with ministry in a Secular Age. Our call-in line is open! Call us at (612) 405-8071 to leave a question for a future episode!…

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How to Prepare for the Harvest w/Pastor Joe Kerrigan | Episode 292 42:17

4M ago42:17

42:17

A man lands in Dublin for a job interview. That night, in a hotel room, Jesus appears to him in a vision. The next morning, he stands weeping at a church gate, waiting for someone to explain what just happened. That’s not fiction. It's just one of the stories Pastor Joe Kerrigan shares in this unforgettable episode of Candid Conversations. From del…

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Sabbath as a Day of Delight w/Dr. Bill Davis | Episode 291 39:55

5M ago39:55

39:55

Jonathan welcomes Dr. Bill Davis of Covenant College back to Candid Conversations to explore the rich Biblical basis, spiritual significance, and transformative power of Sabbath rest, both personally, as a family, and as a faith community. Dr. Davis shares insightful, real‑world practices from raising children to enjoy delight-filled Sundays, to in…

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Reaching A Generation Hungry for Truth w/Dave Jensen | Episode 290 37:34

5M ago37:34

37:34

“There has never been a better time to evangelize the next generation.” That’s a bold statement, but one Dave Jensen stands behind with passion, clarity, and decades of ministry experience. In this energizing episode, Australian evangelist Dave Jensen returns to Candid Conversations to share why now, yes, right now, might be the most wide-open mome…

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From Fine to Free w/Joy Chapman | Episode 289 35:26

5M ago35:26

35:26

What happens when we stop pretending we’re fine and start getting honest with God? Jonathan Youssef sits down with Joy Chapman, West Coast Development Director for Leading The Way, to hear her powerful story of transformation. From a childhood faith shaped by Scripture to life-altering experiences of loss, fear, and forgiveness, Joy shares how God …

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Why Vacation Bible School Might Be the Most Important Week of the Year: Zack Carden | Episode 288 28:23

5M ago28:23

28:23

What do Listerine strips, backyard barbecues, and cartoon characters have to do with kids meeting Jesus? More than you might think. In this lively and insightful episode of Candid Conversations, host Jonathan Youssef welcomes back Zack Carden—pastor, storyteller, and creator of Grey Bobby Ministries—to explore the incredible opportunity churches ha…

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Where is Your Security?: Jonathan Youssef | Episode 287 8:27

6M ago8:27

8:27

Are you searching for something solid to hold onto when life feels uncertain? In a world where finances fluctuate, relationships disappoint, and the future seems unpredictable, we all crave a sense of security. But what if the things we cling to can’t truly keep us safe? In this episode of Candid Conversations, Jonathan Youssef explores the univers…

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Marriage, Kids, and Family in the Age of Authenticity 20:48

6M ago20:48

20:48

This week we dive into a listener question (thanks, Leanne!) about marriage, kids, and family life in the Age of Authenticity and how it's different now in this secular age. We unpack this along with what it means for the church. Andy's brand new book "Evangelism in an Age of Despair" is out now! You can grab it here or wherever else you get your b…

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Where is God in a World Filled with Evil?: Collin Hansen | Episode 286 33:45

6M ago33:45

33:45

If God is good and all-powerful, why does evil persist? In this thought-provoking episode of Candid Conversations, Jonathan Youssef sits down with Collin Hansen to tackle one of the most challenging questions people of faith will wrestle with. Drawing from his new book Where Is God In a World with So Much Evil?, Collin explores the age-old struggle…

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Apologetics for a Changing Culture: Sean McDowell | Episode 285 - part 2 28:36

6M ago28:36

28:36

Are you tired of faith conversations that feel more like a battle than a dialogue? What if defending what you believe could open doors instead of building walls? In this episode of Candid Conversations, Dr. Sean McDowell, author, professor, and leading Christian apologist, joins Jonathan Youssef to tackle the most challenging questions facing belie…

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Why Are Bible Sales Up?: Sean McDowell |Episode 285 - part 1 28:49

6M ago28:49

28:49

Why are Bible sales experiencing a surprising 22% surge? Is Western culture becoming spiritually curious again? In this episode of Candid Conversations, Jonathan Youssef welcomes Dr. Sean McDowell—author, speaker, and Biola University professor—to unpack this unexpected trend. Sean shares insights from his years of engaging the next generation on m…

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What Happens After Easter: Jonathan Youssef | Episode 284 11:08

6M ago11:08

11:08

Easter Sunday may be over, but the Resurrection story is just beginning. In this episode of Candid Conversations, Jonathan Youssef reflects on John 21 and what Jesus’ post-Resurrection moments reveal about how we are meant to live today. If you’ve ever felt spiritually stuck, disqualified from ministry, or unsure of what to do now that the Easter c…

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Evangelism Isn't Wellness - Evangelism in an Age of Despair 15:39

7M ago15:39

15:39

Andy just released his new book, "Evangelism in an Age of Despair". In it, he makes a compelling case that evangelism isn’t wellness or therapy—it’s a radical, counter-cultural act. In this episode, Andy unpacks what that means and how it could transform your church’s approach to ministry. Andy's brand new book "Evangelism in an Age of Despair" is …

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Teaching Little Hearts Big Truths About Easter: John Greco | Episode 283 25:40

7M ago25:40

25:40

Do you struggle as a parent to help your children grasp the profound significance of Easter while swimming against a tide of pastel eggs and jelly bean overload? In this episode of Candid Conversations, Jonathan Youssef talks with John Greco, whose new children's book, The Easter Lamb, was born from his parenting challenge to explain to his three y…

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How to Live Authentically for Christ with Jinger & Jeremy Vuolo | Episode 282 - part 2 23:41

7M ago23:41

23:41

What happens when our desire to be liked becomes a barrier to real community? In part two, Jonathan Youssef continues his conversation with Jeremy and Jinger Vuolo, delving deeper into the profound struggles behind people-pleasing and how God’s Truth sets us free. Jinger shares powerful stories of real-life moments that challenged her desire to app…

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The Weight of People Pleasing with Jinger & Jeremy Vuolo | Episode 282 - part 1 23:38

7M ago23:38

23:38

What happens when you realize much of your life has been shaped by the need to meet others' expectations? In this enlightening episode of Candid Conversations, Jonathan Youssef welcomes Jeremy and Jinger Vuolo back to the program as they dive into the suffocating world of people-pleasing. Jinger, known from TLC's "Nineteen Kids and Counting," revea…

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Truth in a Post-Truth World: Why It Still Matters: Jonathan Youssef | Episode 281 8:15

8M ago8:15

8:15

In a culture that is increasingly more comfortable with phrases like "my truth" and "your truth," Jonathan Youssef explores the concept of objective truth and why it matters in our everyday lives. This episode examines the logical problems with a "post-truth" mentality and presents compelling evidence for why Christianity's truth claims deserve tho…

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Five Star Funerals - Evangelism in an Age of Despair 18:54

8M ago18:54

18:54

Andy just published a brand new book, "Evangelism in an Age of Despair". It reminded Derek of his church's Google reviews and a woman who rated a funeral 5 stars. Andy thinks this is what evangelism is all about. Andy's brand new book is out now! You can grab it here or wherever else you get your books: bit.ly/41zuNIN…

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Waking the Sleeping Church: Dr. Michael Youssef on God's Final Call| Episode 280 25:05

8M ago25:05

25:05

Is the church asleep while the world crumbles? What if Jesus' ancient warnings to the church are more relevant now than ever? Jonathan Youssef sits down with his father, renowned Bible teacher Dr. Michael Youssef, for an unfiltered conversation about spiritual complacency in critical times. As they explore the insights from Dr. Youssef's new book, …

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Dru Hammer: Scandal, Forgiveness, and a Calling Greater Than Wealth - Episode 279 | Part 2 23:36

8M ago23:36

23:36

In this powerful conclusion of our conversation with Dru Hammer, she openly shares about walking through public trials, finding healing after a public divorce, and how God turned her pain into purpose through the Hammered Heart Foundation. Episode Highlights: Dru's candid discussion about navigating the controversy surrounding her son, Armie Hammer…

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Ministering to the Famous and Forgotten: The Bold Faith of Dru Hammer - Episode 279 | PT 1 30:59

9M ago30:59

30:59

In this powerful first installment, Jonathan Youssef sits down with Dru Hammer to discuss her remarkable faith journey, from her roots in Tulsa, Oklahoma, to becoming part of one of America's most prominent families. Episode Highlights: Dru shares the story of her parents' conversion to Christianity when she was five years old and how it transforme…

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What the Western Church Can Learn from the Eastern Church: Tara Shinja (Episode 278) 48:39

9M ago48:39

48:39

What happens when deep cultural roots meet the life-changing power of the Gospel? Tara Shinja knows firsthand. Raised between two distinct cultures, Tara’s journey is a powerful testimony of God’s transforming grace and the strength it takes to stand firm in the Christian faith. In this episode, Tara shares her family’s story of radical transformat…

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Why the Next 25 years Will Change the Global Church Forever: Dr. Richard Pratt (Episode 277) 58:28

9M ago58:28

58:28

Jonathan Youssef welcomes Dr. Richard L. Pratt Jr., president and co-founder of Third Millennium Ministries, to Candid Conversations. Dr. Pratt, an esteemed Old Testament scholar and global evangelist, shares his transformative journey from a dramatic conversion during the Jesus Movement to founding a ministry that provides seminary-level Biblical …

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The Election that Ended the Century 21:46

9M ago21:46

21:46

Andy thinks this recent election marked the end of the 20th century. Andy and Derek are joined by special guest Rev. David J. Wood to discuss what the election means for faith communities and how our rich tradition of faith & theology can shape our imaginations to lead congregations during these historic times.…

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Three Truths to Help You Weather the Storms of Life: Jonathan Youssef Episode 276 9:32

9M ago9:32

9:32

Life’s storms are inevitable—whether you’re in one now, just coming out, or about to face one. The real question is: how do you navigate them with unshakable faith? In this episode, Jonathan Youssef shares three powerful biblical truths that will strengthen and encourage you when trials come. Drawing from the dramatic shipwreck of the Apostle Paul …

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A New Year to Know God and Grow Spiritually: Jonathan Youssef:Episode 275 7:56

10M ago7:56

7:56

As you move through this new year, are you merely setting Christian-sounding goals or truly seeking God daily with a heart of worship? In this special episode of Candid Conversations, Jonathan reflects on the importance of pursuing godliness above all else. Drawing from 1 Timothy 4:8, listeners will be reminded that physical and worldly disciplines…

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Leading a Christian Revival in Secular Boston with Pastor Jaime Owens: Episode 274 26:31

10M ago26:31

26:31

In this compelling episode of Candid Conversations, Jonathan Youssef sits down with Pastor Jaime Owens of Tremont Temple in Boston, a church rich in history yet facing the challenges of revitalizing faith in one of America’s most secular cities. Jaime shares his dramatic journey—from a hungover skeptic stepping into a church for the first time to a…

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A New Christmas Reflection From Jonathan: 7 Extraordinary Prophecies Fulfilled on the First Christmas: (273) 8:10

11M ago8:10

8:10

Have you ever stopped to think about how the first Christmas was meticulously planned centuries before it happened? In this week's episode, Dr. Jonathan Youssef shares the divine blueprint behind the birth of Jesus—one too precise to be left to chance. In a world of uncertainty, discovering the fulfilled prophecies of the first Christmas can bring …

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Where Hope Meets Fear: Finding Peace in Christ This Christmas: Jonathan Youssef (272) 7:10

11M ago7:10

7:10

What does it mean this Christmas season that "the hopes and fears of all the years are met in thee tonight"? Join Jonathan on Candid Conversations to reflect on this Christmas hymn and the birth of Jesus—the light of the world who fulfills our deepest hopes and fears. In this reflection, Jonathan talks about: The promise of peace and security in Je…

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Becoming Free Indeed: Jeremy and Jinger Vuolo on Faith, Fear, and Freedom (271) 48:36

12M ago48:36

48:36

Are you wrestling with beliefs that feel more like chains than freedom? Do you wonder what it means to experience a faith rooted in grace, not fear? In today’s episode of Candid Conversations, Jinger Duggar Vuolo joins us to share her powerful journey from a life of rigid rules and public expectations to one of true spiritual freedom. Raised in the…

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Caregiving and Honoring Aging Parents: A Biblical Look with Dr. Bill Davis (Episode 270) 51:36

12M ago51:36

51:36

Are you facing the difficult journey of caring for an aging parent and wondering what it means to honor them in this season of life? As parents age and face cognitive or physical decline, families are often left with more questions than answers, including how to handle challenging emotions, manage difficult decisions, and stay true to their wishes …

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Faith, Fear, and Hope on Election Day: Jonathan Youssef (Episode 269) 8:00

12M ago8:00

8:00

On this special election day episode of Candid Conversations, Jonathan addresses the balance between political engagement and spiritual grounding. As the nation watches election results roll in, Jonathan reflects on the hope, fear, and faith that often accompany these moments. He emphasizes that while participation is essential, our ultimate peace …

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Episode 268: The Pursuit of Truth in Modern Media: Jane Robelot 32:59

1y ago32:59

32:59

In today’s fast-paced media landscape, truth and integrity remain essential, especially for journalists who are Christians. But with today’s divisive narratives, how can believers step into mainstream media with a commitment to honesty and faith? Join Jonathan Youssef on Candid Conversations as he welcomes award-winning journalist and news anchor J…