Since Advent is fast approaching, we talk with author Tom Fuerst about his new book Underdogs and Outsiders. The book explores the five women Matthew includes in his genealogy of Jesus (perfect since Matthew is this year's lectionary Gospel). Why did Matthew include these women, and how is it good news for us? Plus: What do you do when Christmas falls on a Sunday?

Kadee Wirich Smedley teaches us how to respond pastorally to victims of sexual violence. PLUS we reflect on a year of podcasting and feedback on our Halloween episode.

Should Christians celebrate Halloween? We investigate the pagan and Christian roots of Halloween. Then we discuss how Christians can engage in Halloween as an act of hospitality, regardless of our beliefs on the holiday!

Following up on a metaphor Tara recently used, we investigate conversion. Taking a cue from the strange story of Derek Black, we tease out the ministry implications for the reality that conversion is a process more than an event.

Is "locker room talk" ever appropriate? Tara, Heather and JR. consider the cultural cost of sexism and explore the extent to which misogyny plagues even the Church.

What exactly is the Bible? And how do we speak faithfully about inspiration? Tara and JR. dive into a tough conversation about how to talk about the Bible!

How should pastors deal with personal crisis? How much should we share from the pulpit? With our church leadership? Where can we find safe spaces to heal?

While Heather is gone, JR. and Tara explore forgiveness and reconciliation. Is there a difference? How do they work? And what responsibility do pastors have to lead in forgiveness?

We're back with a new release day (Fridays!) and a new hot-button conversation: Should churches be political? With a tense election season, how can church leaders grapple with

Tara, Heather and JR. welcome Leighton Brown to talk about when it's time to leave a church family, and what can be gained by staying.