James McGrath is a religious studies professor and author of the book Christmaker: A Life of John the Baptist. In this conversation, McGrath explains how his interest in John the Baptist was sparked by his previous work on the Gospel of John and the Mandaeans, a group that emerged from followers of John the Baptist. He also challenges common misconceptions about John's appearance and lifestyle, highlighting the complexity of his family background and his role as a charismatic figure challenging the religious establishment. The conversation explores the foundational tradition of John the Baptist and his role in challenging the existing religious practices of his time. It delves into the connection between John and Jesus, the influence of the prophetic tradition, and the significance of baptism. The conversation also highlights the importance of understanding John the Baptist in order to gain a deeper understanding of Jesus and Christian origins. Recommended resources for further study are provided, along with a discussion on the author's approach to writing and the connection between his work and his personal interests.