takeaways

• Lauren's required reading is 'Life of Pi' for its depth.
• 'Grapes of Wrath' illustrates systemic evil in society.
• Growing up in a fundamentalist bubble shaped her faith.
• Trauma led to a painful deconstruction of her beliefs.
• Emotional prosperity gospel can distort faith expectations.
• Therapy was a crucial step in her healing process.
• Traveling to India was a leap of faith for her.
• Cultural immersion helped her rebuild trust.
• Trusting oneself is a vital part of recovery.
• Vulnerability is essential for self-acceptance. Cultural connections can lead to profound moments of acceptance.
• Alienation in evangelicalism can hinder personal healing.
• Family dynamics often influence our ability to confront pain.
• Transformative experiences can occur in mundane settings.
• Liminal spaces encourage open-handed living and receptivity.
• Reincarnation offers a different perspective on death and rebirth.
• Travel fosters humility and a sense of wonder.
• Navigating relationships requires understanding and compassion.
• Certainty can be found in embracing uncertainty.
• Deconstruction is a unique journey that requires patience and self-affirmation.

Chapters:

• Introduction and Warm Welcome
• Literary Influences and Required Reading
• Faith Foundations and Deconstruction
• Trauma and the Crisis of Faith
• Therapy and the Journey to Healing
• Traveling to India: A Leap of Faith
• Cultural Immersion and Trust Building
• Rebuilding Trust in Oneself
• Embracing Vulnerability and Self-Acceptance
• Cultural Connections and Acceptance
• The Alienation of Self in Evangelicalism
• The Impact of Family and Community on Healing
• Transformative Moments in Mundane Spaces
• Liminal Spaces and Open-Handed Living
• Reincarnation and Cycles of Life
• Traveling and Humility
• Navigating Relationships Through Change
• Finding Certainty in Uncertainty
• Embracing the Journey of Deconstruction

Links:

Website: https://laurencibene.com/

Substack: https://laurencibene.substack.com/?ref=website

Book: Tiger in a Lifeboat

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takeaways

• Bach's music exemplifies a pure expression of creativity.
• Creativity flows from a dance between internal and external influences.
• Individuality is a unique expression of the universal flow.
• Consciousness transcends the boundaries of ego and identity.
• The sacred can be found in everyday moments and experiences.
• Rituals can help us recognize the sacred in our lives.
• Creativity requires both chaos and order to flourish.
• The ego can hinder creativity by imposing limitations.
• Being present is essential to experiencing the sacred.
• Every moment is an opportunity to find the sacred. Creativity involves a balance between chaos and order.
• Both feminine and masculine energies are essential in artistic expression.
• Shame in music can be addressed through honest, first-person narratives.
• Theological language can perpetuate shame if not handled carefully.
• Integration of different parts of oneself leads to a more holistic identity.
• Non-dual perspectives can help bridge gaps in understanding spirituality.
• The question of identity is central to personal growth and understanding.
• Every part of us has a purpose, even those that seem negative.
• Transcending old beliefs requires including them in our new understanding.
• The essence of spirituality is recognizing our shared humanity.

Chapters

• Introduction and Setting the Scene
• The Genius of Bach and Creative Flow
• The Dance of Individuality and Ego
• Consciousness and the Nature of Reality
• Defining the Sacred in Everyday Life
• Creativity: Balancing Chaos and Order
• The Dance of Creativity: Balancing Chaos and Order
• Navigating Shame in Music and Theology
• Integrating Parts: The Journey of Self-Discovery
• The Question of Identity: Who Am I?

Links

Music: Gungor Music

Podcast: The Liturgist Podcast

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takeaways

• Andrew Root feels most comfortable surrounded by his books.
• The connection between humans and dogs is mystical and profound.
• Andrew's childhood experiences with grief shaped his faith.
• Lutheranism has a unique cultural context in the Midwest.
• Evangelism should focus on consolation rather than mere conversion.
• The church's role is to walk with people in their sorrow.
• Modern society struggles with deep feelings of loneliness.
• Evangelism is often misunderstood as a marketing strategy.
• Andrew's experiences highlight the importance of community support.
• The conversation emphasizes the need for a deeper understanding of faith. Rituals are essential for happiness in modern life.
• Evangelism should not be seen as lifestyle marketing.
• Luther's theology emphasizes God's presence in suffering.
• Ministry of consolation is vital in addressing grief.
• Suffering is a universal human experience.
• Pilgrimage invites people to journey together in faith.
• Joy and celebration are crucial in community life.
• Happiness should not be the ultimate goal.
• True contentment comes from connection with God.
• Acknowledging grief allows for genuine joy.

Chapters:

• Welcome and Introduction to the Podcast
• The Mystical Connection with Dogs
• Life in a Monastic Cell
• Growing Up in Lutheranism
• Cognitive Dissonance in Faith
• Redefining Evangelism in Modern Times
• The Role of Consolation in Evangelism
• The Role of Ritual in Modern Life
• Evangelism vs. Lifestyle Marketing
• Luther's Theology of the Cross
• Ministry of Consolation
• The Nature of Suffering and Grief
• Pilgrimage as a Spiritual Journey
• Joy and Celebration in Community

Links

Web page: https://www.andrewroot.org/about/

Book: Evangelism in an Age of Despair

Podcast: When Church Stops Working

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Take Aways

• Life experiences broaden your understanding of meaning.
• Family significantly impacts one's perspective on life.
• Cultural and community influences shape personal values.
• Art and beauty provide a deeper understanding of existence.
• Navigating societal expectations can be challenging.
• Authenticity is crucial in personal and professional spaces.
• External forces can guide life in unexpected ways.
• Finding the right questions is more important than answers.
• You must integrate past experiences into your current self.
• Personal growth involves transcending and including past beliefs.

Chapters

• Introduction and Background
• Journey to Becoming a Pastor
• Exploring Life's Meaning
• The Impact of Family on Meaning
• Evolving Perspectives on Life
• Cultural Influences on Meaning
• Work and Community's Role in Life's Meaning
• The Role of Love and External Factors
• The Influence of External Forces on Life
• The Role of Art and Beauty in Understanding Life
• Navigating Societal Norms and Personal Authenticity
• Finding Meaning Through the Right Questions

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• Keith Giles has written extensively on biblical topics, including the Book of Romans.
• The collaborative project with Matthew de Stefano was born out of a shared concern about the misinterpretation of Romans.
• Romans is often misused to justify negative ideologies, which the authors aim to correct.
• Understanding the structure of Paul's arguments is crucial for accurate interpretation of Romans.
• The technique of prosopopeia is used by Paul to present opposing viewpoints in his arguments.
• Many Bible teachers overlook the dual voices present in Romans, leading to misinterpretation.
• The authors aim to present a more compassionate and loving interpretation of Paul's teachings.
• Unity in the church does not require agreement on all issues, according to Paul's teachings.
• The clobber passages in Romans are often taken out of context and misapplied.
• Paul's emphasis on love and grace is a central theme that is often neglected in traditional interpretations. Romans chapter 1 addresses pagan idol worship, not modern homosexuality.
• Co-writing can be a rewarding experience with minimal conflict.
• Future projects may include Galatians and Hebrews.
• Engaging with critics is essential for theological dialogue.
• Romans 13 should be understood in the context of love and submission, not blind allegiance.
• Applying Paul's teachings today requires a focus on individual relationships.
• Misinterpretations of Romans 7 can lead to unhealthy shame and guilt.
• Worship culture often emphasizes a negative self-image.
• Theological discussions should encourage grace and understanding.
• The journey of unlearning harmful theological patterns is ongoing.

Links:

Blog: Keith Giles Patheos

Book: Reading Romans Right

Pod: Second Cup with Keith

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Show Outline:

Podcast Reflections & Growth

Tom’s journey from uncertainty to confidence in hosting.

Lessons from awkward interviews and maintaining consistency.

Peter Rollins & Parables

Kevin’s college story using Rollins’ parable of the mystic, evangelical, and fundamentalist.

The role of mysticism in challenging dogma.

Kevin’s New Book: Cosmic Christ and Concrete Jesus

Origins: Re-examining faith post-church closure and vocational shifts.

Defining the “Cosmic Christ” (universal divine presence) vs. “Concrete Jesus” (liberation-focused activism).

Bridging mysticism and social justice.

Deconstruction & Embodiment

Faith as direct experience vs. intellectual belief.

The danger of “spiritual insulation” and clichés.

Black Prophetic Tradition

Contrasting the “white Jesus” of power with the radical, marginalized Jesus.

Liberation theology’s influence on Kevin’s work.

Personal & Vocational Shifts

Kevin’s transition from pastoring to hospice chaplaincy.

Letting go of “next things” to embrace the present.

Links:

Web: https://www.kevinsweeneynow.com/ 

Pod: The Church Needs Therapy

Book: Cosmic Christ Concrete Jesus

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takeaways

• Howard Thurman is a significant figure for understanding hope in difficult times.
• The current political climate creates a crisis of hope for many.
• Progressive Christianity can serve as a counterforce to conservative ideologies.
• Empathy is essential for ethical behavior and morality.
• There is a divide in Christianity that reflects differing beliefs about God.
• Fear and grievance play a significant role in conservative Christianity.
• The importance of social justice and activism in faith communities.
• Mysticism can be a pathway to understanding our spiritual lives.
• The need for a strong, theologically grounded progressive movement is urgent.
• Bad behavior often reflects a misunderstanding of God's nature. Empathy is essential in understanding differing perspectives.
• Progressive Christianity aims to bring health to society and the planet.
• Christianity must evolve to meet contemporary challenges.
• Experience should take precedence over rigid doctrines.
• Faith should be dynamic and culturally relevant.
• God's presence is universal and not confined to one place.
• Politics should not define faith, but faith should inform politics.
• Moral accountability is crucial in political engagement.
• Hope can be found in small, everyday actions.
• Self-care and community support are forms of resistance.

Links

Blog: https://www.patheos.com/blogs/livingaholyadventure/

Book: https://tinyurl.com/35ftpnac

Sponsors
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takeaways

• Dillon discusses the cultural diversity in Lancaster County, highlighting the coexistence of Amish and Christian nationalists.
• He emphasizes the importance of love and neighborly kindness in his theological approach.
• Dillon's writing project critiques Christian nationalism through the lens of Jesus and Paul's teachings.
• He expresses a desire to understand biblical figures and their teachings more deeply.
• The conversation touches on the significance of orthopraxy over orthodoxy in modern faith practices.
• Dillon shares his personal journey through fundamentalism and the impact of early religious experiences.
• He reflects on the challenges of reconciling faith with modern scientific understanding.
• The role of permaculture is discussed as a metaphor for spiritual growth and interconnectedness.
• Dillon's experiences in seminary led to a deeper exploration of theology and spirituality.
• The conversation concludes with a focus on finding community and meaning in a changing world. Navigating post-fundamentalism involves reconciling faith with personal beliefs.
• Experiences of spirituality can transcend traditional dogma.
• Spiritual nourishment is essential in today's politically charged environment.
• Christian nationalism poses a significant challenge to authentic faith.
• The golden rule is a universal principle found across various belief systems.
• Personal experiences of grace can reshape one's understanding of faith.
• Community support is vital for those struggling with mental health issues.
• Hope exists in the form of individuals reevaluating their beliefs.
• Compassion towards others, even enemies, is a difficult but necessary pursuit.
• The need for a global perspective on love and humanity is more pressing than ever.

Links:

Podcast: https://godsquadpodcast.com/

Blog: https://tattooed-theologian.com/about/

Book: [click here]

Sponsors
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Christian Nationalism Defined: A political ideology merging American and Christian identities, often excluding non-Christians and enforcing conservative, white supremacist norms.

Historical Roots: Christian nationalism is intertwined with the doctrine of discovery, slavery, and segregation, using faith to justify oppression.

Power Over Principles: The alignment of some Christian groups with political power (e.g., Trump-era policies) often sacrifices theological integrity for influence.

Violence and Symbolism: Events like the Tree of Life Synagogue shooting and January 6th Capitol attack exemplify Christian nationalism’s violent consequences.

Hope in Community: Grassroots conversations, honest history, and interfaith solidarity are vital to resisting Christian nationalism and fostering healing.

Amanda’s Faith & Political Roots (00:00–15:00)

Growing up in a Baptist family in Texas.

Early passion for politics, career in law, and work with Rep. Lloyd Doggett.

Faith, Power, and Disillusionment (15:01–30:00)

Tension between Christian values and political power.

Critique of the Moral Majority’s shift from justice to power-seeking.

Defining Christian Nationalism (30:01–45:00)

Links to white supremacy, colonialism, and the myth of America as a “Christian nation.”

January 6th as a modern example of Christian nationalist violence.

Historical Trauma and White Supremacy (45:01–60:00)

The doctrine of discovery, slavery, and systemic racism as foundational to Christian nationalism.

Challenges in discussing race and privilege without triggering defensiveness.

Hope and Resistance (60:01–End)

The role of literature (James by Percival Everett) and community dialogue in healing.

Amanda’s optimism in grassroots movements and truth-telling.

Organizations:

Baptist Joint Committee for Religious Liberty (BJC)

Christians Against Christian Nationalism

End Christian Nationalism Campaign

Amanda’s Book: How to End Christian Nationalism (available on the above sites)

Mentioned Literature: James by Percival Everett (retelling of Huckleberry Finn)

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From Beliefs to Practice: Aaron advocates for shifting from a beliefs-based faith to a practice-based spirituality, where doing (e.g., forgiveness, liturgy, service) shapes belief more than intellectual assent.

Ecumenical Future: The future of faith communities lies in crossing denominational silos, integrating traditions (e.g., evangelical hospitality with liturgical depth), and creating spaces for diverse expressions of worship.

Critique of American Christianity: Both progressive and conservative Christian traditions often prioritize cultural power (e.g., nationalism, consumerism) over the "enemy-loving, peacemaking way of Jesus."

Embodied Spirituality: Practices like the Ignatian Examen, centering prayer, and communal lament help re-enchant faith by grounding it in the body and daily life.

Soundtrack of Struggle: Aaron’s current spiritual "soundtrack" is the Icelandic band Sigur Rós, whose haunting, wordless music mirrors his mix of disillusionment and hope.

Introductions & Soundtrack of Life (00:00–10:00)

Aaron shares his emotional state (disillusioned yet hopeful) and chooses Sigur Rós as his metaphorical soundtrack.

Tom recommends Jesse Wells, a folk artist embodying modern resistance music.

Faith Roots & Deconstruction (10:01–25:00)

Aaron’s upbringing in the Plymouth Brethren tradition and later evangelical mega-churches.

His faith crisis and rediscovery of Jesus’ kingdom message through Dallas Willard’s The Divine Conspiracy.

Liturgy, Hospitality, and Re-enchantment (25:01–45:00)

The role of liturgy in forming community and the need for "hospitable" worship.

Critique of evangelical emotional manipulation vs. liturgical depth.

Tom’s story of revitalizing liturgy by rediscovering its symbolic meaning.

American Christianity & Political Disillusionment (45:01–01:00:00)

The dangers of conflating faith with political power.

Reflections on MAGA, progressive capitalism, and the church’s failure to discern.

The Future of Faith Communities (01:00:01–End)

The importance of ecumenical retreats (e.g., Pastors, Priests, and Guides).

Aaron’s book The Eternal Current and practices like forgiveness as “miraculous” acts.

Aaron’s Book: The Eternal Current: How a Practice-Based Faith Can Save Us from Drowning

Website: aaroniequist.com

Instagram: @aaroniequist

Retreats: Pastors, Priests, and Guides Retreats (Boston, Chicago, Malibu in 2024)

Music Mentioned:

Sigur Rós (Aaron’s soundtrack)

Jesse Wells (Tom’s recommendation)

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