What does it mean to follow a God who is completely relaxed even when our lives are not. Tanner and Megan Fate Marshman have a vulnerable conversation about pressure, performance, grief, and letting go of the need to understand everything. They explore the lie that our value comes from striving, the gap between who we want to be and who we actually are, and the beautiful work God does in seasons of dryness. This episode offers a safe, hope filled invitation to trust the Father whose posture toward us is always kindness.

Christian higher education is standing at a crossroads. Rising cultural pressure, big existential questions, and the relentless pace of change are reshaping what it means to prepare the next generation for a life of calling and conviction. In this episode of Clarity in Controversy, Tanner sits down with Connor Champion, founder and president of Austin Christian University, to explore why college is more than academics, it is spiritual formation. Connor shares his surprising path into higher education, the pastoral weight of leading a university, and his vision for equipping students to live faithfully in a world that pushes faith to the margins. If you care about the future of the Church, the future of education, or the future of your own calling, this conversation will challenge, clarify, and inspire.

Money is one of the most powerful forces in our world. It shapes decisions, drives markets, and often reveals our deepest values. But behind the glitter of wealth and investing, there’s a darker side—a story about power, control, and the subtle ways money can shape our souls. Today, we are joined by Matt Cole, CEO of Strive Funds, to peel back the curtain on what’s really happening in the financial world. We’ll talk about what most investors never see, how the markets reflect our character, and why Christians can’t afford to ignore where their dollars go.

In a world where political beliefs can often divide, James Gallagher, a California State Assemblymember, stands as a beacon of conviction and faith. In a recent episode of the podcast "Clarity in Controversy," Gallagher shared his journey and the challenges he faces as a Christian conservative in a predominantly liberal state. This blog post delves into his experiences and insights, providing a glimpse into the life of a political leader who remains steadfast in his beliefs amidst adversity.

In this episode of Clarity in Controversy, Tanner DiBella sits down with Dr. Scott Hagan for one of the most charged and timely conversations happening in American Christianity today. What begins as a discussion becomes a deep exploration of history, theology, and the complicated crossroads of faith and nation.

Together, they dive into the heart of the debate: Is Christian nationalism a return to biblical conviction, or a dangerous blending of God and country. Where is the line between loving your nation and worshiping an idea of it. Can the global Church help us see our national identity with greater humility and clarity.

Drawing on ancient history, modern research, and pastoral insight, Tanner and Dr. Hagan trace the story from Constantine’s empire to Pew’s latest numbers, revealing how faith and power have always wrestled for the human heart. They examine patriotism, identity, cultural Christianity, and the subtle ways believers mistake conservatism for discipleship. Most of all, they call listeners to discernment, spiritual courage, and a love for Christ that stands above every flag.

This conversation is challenging, refreshing, and needed. If you want clarity on one of the most misunderstood topics in the Church today, this episode is for you.

Human trafficking is often seen as a distant crisis—but it’s closer than most realize. In this powerful episode of Clarity in Controversy, Tanner DiBella sits down with Matt Roberson, a leader in the fight against human trafficking, to expose the hidden epidemic unfolding in our own communities. Together, they uncover how traffickers exploit everyday vulnerabilities, why silence from the Church only deepens the darkness, and what practical steps believers can take to bring hope and freedom to the oppressed.

This is not just a conversation about injustice—it’s a call to action. Through stories of rescue, restoration, and redemption, you’ll be reminded that the gospel is not passive; it confronts evil with truth and compassion.

Listen, share, and take one tangible step toward awareness and action. Because when ordinary people rise up, extraordinary change can happen.

In a world redefining gender at every turn, what does it truly mean to be created male and female in the image of God? In this episode of Clarity in Controversy, Tan sits down with Elizabeth Woning, a courageous and compassionate voice helping the Church think clearly about gender and theology. Together, they explore how Scripture speaks to identity, the mistakes the modern Church often makes in this conversation, and how believers can hold both truth and tenderness in a culture of confusion.

This episode will challenge assumptions, restore hope, and reframe how we see one another as image-bearers of God. Whether you’re a parent, pastor, or simply trying to live faithfully in today’s world, this conversation offers biblical clarity for one of the most pressing questions of our time.

Politics has become one of the most toxic spaces in our culture. We cancel. We divide. We choose sides. But what if the way forward isn’t about winning arguments—but winning people?

In this episode of Clarity in Controversy, Tanner DiBella sits down with friend and mentor Denise Gitsham, author of Politics for People Who Hate Politics, to explore how we can step into the chaos with courage, keep our friendships intact, and reflect Christ in a divided world.

Denise has been in the rooms where decisions are made—from the White House to the U.S. Senate—and she shares how believers can resist outrage, love their enemies, and bring light to one of the darkest corners of modern culture.

You can watch the full video episode at theamericancouncil.com or text "clarity" to 96341.

What happens when your heart stops—and your spirit doesn’t flinch? In this gripping episode of Clarity in Controversy, Pastor Tanner DiBella sits down with Gary Zelesky, a man who has brushed the edge of eternity three times and lived to tell about it. From collapsing on his garage floor to being told he had only an hour to live, Gary’s near-death experiences became defining moments that reshaped his purpose, joy, and faith. With humor, raw honesty, and a contagious passion for life, Gary shares how deposits of prayer and Scripture carried him through the valley of death without fear. This conversation will challenge how you think about mortality, resilience, and what it really means to live with clarity in the face of the inevitable.

The world is loud. Confusion is everywhere. We were never meant to wander aimlessly in confusion, but to stand firmly in the clarity of God’s truth.

This is Clarity in Controversy, a podcast where we slow down and lean into the hardest questions. From faith and politics to family and culture, we’ll sift through the noise together. Because clarity is not just about seeing—it’s about living with courage, conviction, and grace.

Join Pastor Tanner DiBella for meaningful conversations and the clarity we need to be leaders of clarity. courage. and character. Welcome to Clarity in Controversy.