Wild & Waking

142 | Star-Spangled Jesus: Deconstructing Christian Nationalism & Reclaiming Faith with April Ajoy


Listen Later

In this conversation, April and I dive into how Christian nationalism has shaped modern evangelicalism and American politics, the fear-based messaging that keeps people from questioning their beliefs, and what it really means to deconstruct faith while holding onto a deep love for Jesus. We explore the impact of misinformation, culture wars, and political agendas on religious spaces, and how to navigate difficult conversations with family and friends who see faith and politics differently. April shares her experience of rebuilding her faith outside of fear, control, and rigid ideology, offering hope to anyone who has ever felt the tension of questioning long-held beliefs.

Whether you're deconstructing, reconstructing, or simply curious about the intersection of faith, culture, and politics, this episode will challenge and inspire you. Tune in for an honest, thought-provoking conversation that reminds us all: faith should be about love, not fear.

In this episode, we cover:

  • April Ajoy’s journey from America-first Christianity to a faith rooted in love, inclusion, and critical thinking
  • The fear-based messaging that keeps people from questioning their faith—and why stepping outside the box can feel terrifying
  • The real reason so many churches equate Republican politics with Christianity (hint: it’s not just about faith)
  • The role of misinformation, culture wars, and political agendas in shaping religious beliefs
  • How Christian nationalism influences conversations around abortion, LGBTQ+ rights, and women’s autonomy
  • Why some faith leaders are pushing for a government controlled by Christian ideals—and what that really means
  • The emotional, relational, and spiritual toll of leaving behind rigid belief systems—and how to find community after deconstruction
  • What the Seven Mountain Mandate is and why it’s influencing today’s political landscape

Be sure to hit subscribe so you never miss the latest episode!


Connect with April Ajoy:

Follow April for more thought-provoking conversations, satire, and insights on faith and culture:

  • TikTok:@aprilajoy
  • Instagram:@aprilajoy
  • YouTube:@April_Ajoy
  • Facebook:@aprilajoy
  • Threads:@aprilajoy
  • Bluesky:@aprilajoy.bsky.social

Find her book, Star-Spangled Jesus, wherever books are sold!


Connect with Emily:

  • Instagram: @emilyreuschel
  • Facebook: Emily Reuschel
  • LinkedIn: Emily Reuschel
  • Email List:join here
  • Website www.EmilyReuschel.com


Resources & Links:

  • Sign up here to get the inside scoop to my book writing journey!
  • Interested in sponsoring Gather in Growth? Apply here
  • Book me as a speaker for your next event - email inquiries to [email protected] or schedule a call here
  • Gather in Growth Podcast – Produced by Jill Carr Podcasting |Learn More

...more
View all episodesView all episodes
Download on the App Store

Wild & WakingBy Emily Reuschel

  • 5
  • 5
  • 5
  • 5
  • 5

5

48 ratings


More shows like Wild & Waking

View all
The Chalene Show | Diet, Fitness & Life Balance by Chalene Johnson

The Chalene Show | Diet, Fitness & Life Balance

7,247 Listeners

The Goal Digger Podcast | Top Business and Marketing Podcast for Creatives, Entrepreneurs, and Women in Business by Jenna Kutcher

The Goal Digger Podcast | Top Business and Marketing Podcast for Creatives, Entrepreneurs, and Women in Business

12,055 Listeners

The Rachel Hollis Podcast by Three Percent Chance

The Rachel Hollis Podcast

16,674 Listeners

The Melanie Mitro Show by Melanie Mitro

The Melanie Mitro Show

842 Listeners

The Genius Life by Max Lugavere

The Genius Life

4,813 Listeners

You Can Sip With Us by You Can Sip With Us

You Can Sip With Us

2,590 Listeners

EmpowerHER by Kacia Ghetmiri

EmpowerHER

1,538 Listeners

Culture Apothecary with Alex Clark by Turning Point USA

Culture Apothecary with Alex Clark

12,395 Listeners

Good Inside with Dr. Becky by Dr. Becky Kennedy

Good Inside with Dr. Becky

4,361 Listeners

Discover Ag by Tara Vander Dussen & Natalie Kovarik

Discover Ag

282 Listeners

Alive & Well – Burnout, Anxiety, Nervous System, Productivity, Time Management, Somatic Tools, Work-Life Balance by Michelle Grosser – Inspired by Mel Robbins, Rachel Hollis & Dr. Becky Kennedy

Alive & Well – Burnout, Anxiety, Nervous System, Productivity, Time Management, Somatic Tools, Work-Life Balance

507 Listeners

The Mel Robbins Podcast by Mel Robbins

The Mel Robbins Podcast

20,358 Listeners

The Candace Cameron Bure Podcast by CandyRock

The Candace Cameron Bure Podcast

3,710 Listeners

Beyond The Crops by Mary Pat Sass + Jena Ochsner

Beyond The Crops

168 Listeners

Boldly Grounded by Kylie Epperson

Boldly Grounded

50 Listeners