Have a comment? Send us a text! (We read all of them but can't reply). Email us: [email protected]

In this thought-provoking episode of Faithful Politics, hosts Will Wright and Pastor Josh Burtram welcome back Jerome Copulsky, a research fellow at the Berkley Center for Religion, Peace, and World Affairs at Georgetown University. They delve into the themes of Copulsky's book, American Heretics: Religious Adversaries of Liberal Order, which examines religious critiques of America's political foundations from the Revolutionary era to the present. Copulsky unpacks how various religious thinkers have rejected liberal democracy and envisioned alternative political and theological systems, including theocracy and biblically centered governance. The discussion navigates the intersections of faith, politics, and pluralism, exploring the fragility of liberal democracy and the tensions between religious liberty and political authority. The episode challenges listeners to critically examine the evolving role of religion in America's political landscape.

Buy American Heretics: Religious Adversaries of Liberal Order: https://yalebooks.yale.edu/book/9780300241303/american-heretics/
Guest Bio:

Jerome Copulsky is a research fellow at the Berkley Center for Religion, Peace, and World Affairs at Georgetown University. He is the author of American Heretics: Religious Adversaries of Liberal Order, a groundbreaking exploration of the theological critiques of America’s founding principles and their implications for liberal democracy. Copulsky’s scholarship focuses on political theology, religious pluralism, and the historical intersections of religion and politics.

Support the show

Please Help Support the show
https://donorbox.org/faithful-politics-podcast

To learn more about the show, contact our hosts, or recommend future guests, click on the links below:

• Website: https://www.faithfulpoliticspodcast.com/
• Faithful Host: [email protected]
• Political Host: [email protected]
• Twitter: @FaithfulPolitik
• Instagram: faithful_politics
• Facebook: FaithfulPoliticsPodcast
• LinkedIn: faithfulpolitics
• Subscribe to our Substack: https://faithfulpolitics.substack.com/

Have a comment? Send us a text! (We read all of them but can't reply). Email us: [email protected]

Step into the cultural whirlwind of the late '90s with Ross Benes, author of 1999: The Year Low Culture Conquered America and Kickstarted Our Bizarre Times. In this episode, Will Wright and Ross dive deep into how pop culture phenomena—from Insane Clown Posse and Jerry Springer to Pokémon and Beanie Babies—shaped today’s political and societal landscape. They explore how "low culture" influences modern politics, religion, and consumer behavior, revealing surprising parallels between 1999 trends and current events. Whether it’s dissecting the "kayfabe" tactics of pro-wrestling or connecting moral panics like the satanic scare to today's misinformation epidemics, this conversation is a nostalgic yet critical look at how the '90s still echo in our world today.

Pre-Order the book, "1999 The Year Low Culture Conquered America and Kickstarted Our Bizarre Times": https://kansaspress.ku.edu/9780700638574/

Guest Bio
Ross Bennis is a critically acclaimed author and cultural commentator with expertise in media analysis and journalism. His work has been featured in renowned publications like Rolling Stone, Entertainment Weekly, and The Wall Street Journal. His latest book, 1999: The Year Low Culture Conquered America and Kickstarted Our Bizarre Times, delves into the cultural, political, and societal shifts of the late '90s that continue to influence America. Known for his keen insights and engaging storytelling, Ross brings a fresh perspective to understanding pop culture's profound impact on contemporary life.

Support the show

Please Help Support the show
https://donorbox.org/faithful-politics-podcast

To learn more about the show, contact our hosts, or recommend future guests, click on the links below:

• Website: https://www.faithfulpoliticspodcast.com/
• Faithful Host: [email protected]
• Political Host: [email protected]
• Twitter: @FaithfulPolitik
• Instagram: faithful_politics
• Facebook: FaithfulPoliticsPodcast
• LinkedIn: faithfulpolitics
• Subscribe to our Substack: https://faithfulpolitics.substack.com/

Have a comment? Send us a text! (We read all of them but can't reply). Email us: [email protected]

*We originally aired this episode in 2021 after the insurrection at the Capitol*


January 6th is a date that, before 2021, was a somewhat obscure date in the minds of most Americans. Many months after the general election, the victor of that contest has but one more hurdle to overcome, and until recently, was a benign and quiet event; the certification of the election. We talk with a  Capitol Police Officer, Harry Dunn, who thought that day would unfold like all the others had over his 14 year career.  But the events that occurred that day has shown us how fragile our democracy really is. 

Special co-host, and previous guest, Corinna Lain sits with Will to chat with one of the courageous officers who experienced that day first hand. They discuss issues of racisms, religion, and talk about what everyday Americans can do to ensure it doesn't happen again. It's an interview that focuses less on the details of that day, and more on the moments before, after, and the future. 

Support the show

Please Help Support the show
https://donorbox.org/faithful-politics-podcast

To learn more about the show, contact our hosts, or recommend future guests, click on the links below:

• Website: https://www.faithfulpoliticspodcast.com/
• Faithful Host: [email protected]
• Political Host: [email protected]
• Twitter: @FaithfulPolitik
• Instagram: faithful_politics
• Facebook: FaithfulPoliticsPodcast
• LinkedIn: faithfulpolitics
• Subscribe to our Substack: https://faithfulpolitics.substack.com/

Have a comment? Send us a text! (We read all of them but can't reply). Email us: [email protected]

This episode of Faithful Politics features Robert Callahan II, a Texas attorney, writer, and advocate, discussing his book, Fire in the Hole: Embracing Our Righteous Anger with White Christianity and Reclaiming Our Wholeness. The conversation explores the intersection of race, faith, and politics, focusing on the challenges faced by marginalized groups within white Christian spaces. Callahan shares how personal experiences, including the racial and political turmoil of 2020 and his struggles with spiritual abuse, inspired his writing. He highlights the role of righteous anger as a tool for transformation and discusses the systemic racism and prejudice often embedded in church culture. Alongside hosts Will Wright and Pastor Josh Burtram, Callahan dives into theological perspectives on reconciliation, activism, and maintaining faith amid injustice. This thought-provoking dialogue examines how Christians can embrace love, justice, and inclusion while addressing deep-seated cultural and institutional issues.

Learn more about our Guest: https://www.robertgcallahan.com

Guest Bio:
Robert is an accomplished attorney and author, dedicated to fighting for justice in his practice at Callahan & King, PLLC in Waco, Texas. He earned a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from Gonzaga University and a Juris Doctorate at Baylor University School of Law where he teaches a course entitled Integrating Faith and Legal Practice. In 2020, Robert was named Lawyer of the Year by the Texas Criminal Defense Lawyers' Association. As a writer, Robert has an undeniable talent for blending humor and insight as he tackles the issues of law, race, and religion. Robert and his wife celebrate an interracial marriage which has gifted them with three beautiful children, two demanding dogs, and a mountain of student loan debt.

Support the show

Please Help Support the show
https://donorbox.org/faithful-politics-podcast

To learn more about the show, contact our hosts, or recommend future guests, click on the links below:

• Website: https://www.faithfulpoliticspodcast.com/
• Faithful Host: [email protected]
• Political Host: [email protected]
• Twitter: @FaithfulPolitik
• Instagram: faithful_politics
• Facebook: FaithfulPoliticsPodcast
• LinkedIn: faithfulpolitics
• Subscribe to our Substack: https://faithfulpolitics.substack.com/

Have a comment? Send us a text! (We read all of them but can't reply). Email us: [email protected]

*Note: This conversation was recorded right after America Fest (https://www.amfest.com)*

In our last episode of  2024, hosts Will Wright and Pastor Josh Burtram are joined by Bryce Eddie , cultural and political commentator and host of The Bryce Eddy Show. The conversation explores Bryce's perspectives on the intersections of faith, politics, and societal challenges. Topics include the cultural shifts around masculinity, the role of Christians in political engagement, and the generational differences in values and priorities. They also discuss the implications of artificial intelligence and examine how the modern church navigates societal pressures and controversies. This conversation provides an opportunity to hear a distinct perspective on issues related to culture and politics from someone deeply involved in conservative activism. 


About Our Guest: Bryce Eddy
Bryce Eddy is the host of The Bryce Eddy Show, where he delves into cultural and political topics with a blend of blunt honesty and deep inquiry. A passionate advocate for Christian political engagement, Bryce serves on the boards of The White Rose Resistance, America’s Turning Point, and the Center for Security Policy.

Beyond his commentary, Bryce is a fourth-degree black belt in Brazilian jiu-jitsu and a CrossFit coach, championing strength, discipline, and character as essential pillars of masculinity. He is known for his dedication to faith, liberty, and the preservation of foundational Christian principles in today’s challenging cultural landscape.

Support the show

Please Help Support the show
https://donorbox.org/faithful-politics-podcast

To learn more about the show, contact our hosts, or recommend future guests, click on the links below:

• Website: https://www.faithfulpoliticspodcast.com/
• Faithful Host: [email protected]
• Political Host: [email protected]
• Twitter: @FaithfulPolitik
• Instagram: faithful_politics
• Facebook: FaithfulPoliticsPodcast
• LinkedIn: faithfulpolitics
• Subscribe to our Substack: https://faithfulpolitics.substack.com/

Have a comment? Send us a text! (We read all of them but can't reply). Email us: [email protected]

In this episode of Faithful Politics, hosts Will Wright and Pastor Josh Burtram welcome Steve Wohlberg, a renowned apocalyptic expert, Bible scholar, and director of White Horse Media. Together, they explore a wide range of topics, including biblical prophecy, America’s role in the end times, and how faith intersects with politics in today’s world. Steve shares insights from his 40+ books, including The United States in Bible Prophecy and End Time Delusions, diving deep into how biblical texts may point to America’s role in prophetic history. The conversation also touches on lighter, heartfelt topics, such as whether our beloved pets might be with us in heaven. Packed with theological insights, thought-provoking ideas, and moments of levity, this episode offers a unique perspective on the intersection of faith, culture, and the future.

Guest Bio

Steve Wohlberg is an international speaker, Bible scholar, and director of White Horse Media, based in Priest River, Idaho. Known for his expertise in apocalyptic prophecy, Steve has authored over 40 books, including The United States in Bible Prophecy, End Time Delusions, and Will My Pet Go to Heaven?. He has appeared on more than 500 radio and television shows, spoken by special invitation at the Pentagon and U.S. Senate, and been featured in multiple History Channel and National Geographic documentaries. Steve’s work focuses on unpacking biblical truths, end-time events, and the transformative power of faith. When he’s not writing or speaking, he enjoys the great outdoors with his wife, Kristin, and their two children.

Support the show

Please Help Support the show
https://donorbox.org/faithful-politics-podcast

To learn more about the show, contact our hosts, or recommend future guests, click on the links below:

• Website: https://www.faithfulpoliticspodcast.com/
• Faithful Host: [email protected]
• Political Host: [email protected]
• Twitter: @FaithfulPolitik
• Instagram: faithful_politics
• Facebook: FaithfulPoliticsPodcast
• LinkedIn: faithfulpolitics
• Subscribe to our Substack: https://faithfulpolitics.substack.com/

Have a comment? Send us a text! (We read all of them but can't reply). Email us: [email protected]

In the second installment of our two-part series on Christmas myths about Santa Claus, Faithful Politics hosts Will Wright and Pastor Josh Burtram welcome Dr. Timothy Larsen, the Caroline and Fred McManis Professor of Christian Thought at Wheaton College and editor of the Oxford Handbook of Christmas. Building on the foundation laid in part one, Dr. Larsen dives deeper into the cultural, theological, and commercial forces that have shaped modern Christmas traditions. From the theology of the Incarnation to the evolution of Santa Claus, this episode uncovers how different cultures and historical periods contributed to the way we celebrate today. Dr. Larsen also addresses the tension between religious and secular celebrations and emphasizes the enduring power of Christmas to unite people across traditions. This fascinating conversation wraps up our series with profound insights into the myths and meanings of Christmas.

Guest Bio

Dr. Timothy Larsen is the Caroline and Fred McManis Professor of Christian Thought at Wheaton College and an eminent historian and theologian. With expertise in modern British religious history, the interplay of religion and culture, and intellectual thought, he is the editor of the acclaimed Oxford Handbook of Christmas. A Fellow of the British Academy, Dr. Larsen has authored numerous works, including Crisis of Doubt and The Slain God. His latest book, 12 Classic Christmas Stories, is a curated collection of timeless holiday tales from renowned authors, offering readers a rich literary tradition to explore and enjoy.

Link to the Book

12 Classic Christmas Stories: https://a.co/d/gNpVsT8

Support the show

Please Help Support the show
https://donorbox.org/faithful-politics-podcast

To learn more about the show, contact our hosts, or recommend future guests, click on the links below:

• Website: https://www.faithfulpoliticspodcast.com/
• Faithful Host: [email protected]
• Political Host: [email protected]
• Twitter: @FaithfulPolitik
• Instagram: faithful_politics
• Facebook: FaithfulPoliticsPodcast
• LinkedIn: faithfulpolitics
• Subscribe to our Substack: https://faithfulpolitics.substack.com/

Have a comment? Send us a text! (We read all of them but can't reply). Email us: [email protected]

In this engaging first episode of a two-part series on Christmas myths about Santa Claus, Faithful Politics hosts Will Wright and Pastor Josh Burtram sit down with Dr. Adam C. English, Chair of the Department of Christian Studies at Campbell University and author of The Saint Who Would Be Santa Claus. Dr. English traces the historical evolution of St. Nicholas, the 4th-century bishop known for his acts of generosity and justice, into the modern figure of Santa Claus. The discussion explores the real-life legacy of Nicholas, his connection to Christian giving, and how folklore and culture reshaped him into the jolly icon of Christmas we know today. This episode uncovers the deeper story of St. Nicholas, offering listeners a fresh perspective on the origins of Christmas traditions. Don’t miss this thought-provoking conversation as we set the stage for part two of our series with Dr. Timothy Larsen!

Guest Bio

Dr. Adam C. English is the Chair of the Department of Christian Studies at Campbell University in Buies Creek, North Carolina. A scholar of theology and religious history, he is the author of The Saint Who Would Be Santa Claus: The True Life and Trials of Nicholas of Myra. Dr. English is a sought-after speaker and researcher whose work bridges historical Christian traditions with contemporary cultural discussions, offering deep insights into the evolution of Christmas and its most iconic figure, Santa Claus.

Link to the Book

The Saint Who Would Be Santa Claus: The True Life and Trials of Nicholas of Myra: https://a.co/d/cKthKWa

Support the show

Please Help Support the show
https://donorbox.org/faithful-politics-podcast

To learn more about the show, contact our hosts, or recommend future guests, click on the links below:

• Website: https://www.faithfulpoliticspodcast.com/
• Faithful Host: [email protected]
• Political Host: [email protected]
• Twitter: @FaithfulPolitik
• Instagram: faithful_politics
• Facebook: FaithfulPoliticsPodcast
• LinkedIn: faithfulpolitics
• Subscribe to our Substack: https://faithfulpolitics.substack.com/

Have a comment? Send us a text! (We read all of them but can't reply). Email us: [email protected]

In this insightful episode of Faithful Politics, hosts Will Wright and Pastor Josh Burtram welcome Dr. Travis Ruddle, assistant professor at Brigham Young University’s Romney Institute of Public Service and Ethics, to discuss his groundbreaking book, The Totality of Allegiance: Inside the Hearts and Minds of Trump Supporters. Dr. Ruddle provides a deep dive into the psychological, sociological, and political dynamics that shape the loyalty of Trump supporters, based on extensive focus group research conducted across diverse demographics in the U.S. The discussion covers the erosion of critical thinking, the role of identity and allegiance in political behavior, and comparisons to broader societal and global trends in democratic systems. The episode balances academic rigor with empathy, offering nuanced perspectives on political tribalism, media trust, and the human aspects of political affiliation. Whether you’re curious about Trump supporters, concerned about democracy, or interested in understanding political behavior, this episode delivers thought-provoking analysis and actionable insights.

Dr. Travis Ruddle is an assistant professor at Brigham Young University’s Romney Institute of Public Service and Ethics. His research focuses on the interplay between ethics, morality, and organizational behavior across public, nonprofit, and for-profit sectors. With expertise in political sociology, crisis management, and citizen engagement, Dr. Ruddle has contributed significantly to understanding how individuals and groups navigate complex ethical landscapes. His latest book, The Totality of Allegiance: Inside the Hearts and Minds of Trump Supporters, offers a groundbreaking analysis of the motivations and dynamics shaping political allegiance in America today. Dr. Ruddle’s work has been praised for its empathetic and nuanced approach, bridging theory and real-world application to foster meaningful dialogue.

Link to the Book:

The Totality of Allegiance: Inside the Hearts and Minds of Trump Supporters: https://a.co/d/eA3yaru

Support the show

Please Help Support the show
https://donorbox.org/faithful-politics-podcast

To learn more about the show, contact our hosts, or recommend future guests, click on the links below:

• Website: https://www.faithfulpoliticspodcast.com/
• Faithful Host: [email protected]
• Political Host: [email protected]
• Twitter: @FaithfulPolitik
• Instagram: faithful_politics
• Facebook: FaithfulPoliticsPodcast
• LinkedIn: faithfulpolitics
• Subscribe to our Substack: https://faithfulpolitics.substack.com/

Have a comment? Send us a text! (We read all of them but can't reply). Email us: [email protected]

This episode of Faithful Politics takes a deep dive into the impact of white Christian nationalism on American democracy with Robert P. Jones, president of PRRI (Public Religion Research Institute). Host Will Wright and Jones analyze the pivotal role white Christians played in the 2024 election, drawing from Jones’s Time Magazine article, “What White Christians Have Wrought,” and his latest book, The Hidden Roots of White Supremacy and the Path to a Shared American Future. The conversation traces the historical and cultural forces that have shaped white Christian political allegiance, explores the divide between religious and racial groups in voting behavior, and examines how Trump’s continued support reflects deeper systemic challenges. This episode provides a candid look at the intersection of faith, politics, and social identity, highlighting what’s at stake for the future of pluralistic democracy.

• What White Christians Have Wrought: https://time.com/7174260/white-christianity-trump-election-essay/
• Why Christian Democrats Are Seen as the “Wrong Kind” of Christian: https://open.substack.com/pub/faithfulpolitics/p/why-christian-democrats-are-seen?r=1bt7sx&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web
• The Hidden Roots of White Supremacy: and the Path to a Shared American Future: https://a.co/d/3jLsPfQ

Robert P. Jones is the president and founder of Public Religion Research Institute (PRRI). He is the author of the New York Times bestseller The Hidden Roots of White Supremacy and the Path to a Shared American Future (published September 5, 2023), as well as White Too Long: The Legacy of White Supremacy in American Christianity, which won a 2021 American Book Award. He is also the author of The End of White Christian America, which won the 2019 Grawemeyer Award in Religion.

Jones writes regularly on politics, culture, and religion for The Atlantic, TIME, Religion News Service, and other outlets. He is frequently featured in major national media, such as CNN, MSNBC, NPR, The New York Times, The Washington Post, and others. Jones writes a weekly newsletter for those dedicated to the work of truth-telling, repair, and healing from the legacy of white supremacy in American Christianity at www.whitetoolong.net.

Support the show

Please Help Support the show
https://donorbox.org/faithful-politics-podcast

To learn more about the show, contact our hosts, or recommend future guests, click on the links below:

• Website: https://www.faithfulpoliticspodcast.com/
• Faithful Host: [email protected]
• Political Host: [email protected]
• Twitter: @FaithfulPolitik
• Instagram: faithful_politics
• Facebook: FaithfulPoliticsPodcast
• LinkedIn: faithfulpolitics
• Subscribe to our Substack: https://faithfulpolitics.substack.com/