Lunchtime in Rome

Welcome everyone and pull up a seat at the table. It’s Lunchtime in Rome. Tonight’s episode 288 is titled “Vacations, good and bad.” Sometimes vacations are the best, other times they just don’t work out. Tonight we will celebrate and remember with some and mourn with others. That’s what we’re doing at The Table this evening.

Pull up a seat at the table and join us!

Episode Summary

In episode 288 of the Lunchtime in Rome podcast, titled "Vacations, Good and Bad," the guys dive into the highs and lows of vacation experiences, sharing personal stories and listener submissions that capture the joy and chaos of getting away. Guided by their mission to "rejoice with those who rejoice and mourn with those who mourn" (Romans 12:15), the episode blends humor, reflection, and heartfelt moments.

The episode kicks off with the guys recounting their recent disc golf trip, a fun but physically taxing adventure involving 15 miles of walking. One host shares the pain of sore feet from wearing minimalist barefoot shoes, while another describes an epic day of disc golf, hockey, and muscle cramps after a grueling schedule. The trip, though exhausting, was a bonding experience filled with laughter and memorable shots.

The conversation then shifts to listener-submitted vacation stories, showcasing a range of experiences. Highlights include Gab Hershman’s bittersweet vacation where she discovered her pregnancy (best) but also faced an exploding electric stove (worst), only to find a silver lining in a fun pizza place. Chesney shares her dreamy Hawaii honeymoon as her best trip, contrasted by a painful childhood beach trip ruined by a foot-long splinter. Tamara Bergamasco recalls a family trip to Puerto Rico where lost car keys in a rainforest led to a memorable zipline adventure, while Robert Greene celebrates his daughter’s wedding in Sweden but laments a sweltering bed-and-breakfast stay without power.

The guys also reflect on their own vacation memories. One host vividly describes the emotional weight of dropping his son off at college orientation, a poignant moment of pride and transition. Another recounts a disastrous family vacation with a sick infant and a sunscreen allergy, while a third celebrates a vow renewal on the beach as a cherished milestone. The episode wraps up with Dan Leppold’s inspiring perspective, viewing every vacation challenge as an opportunity to embrace a positive attitude, paired with his jaw-dropping list of adventures like playing with lava in Hawaii and exploring Machu Picchu.

Throughout, the guys weave humor and empathy, from joking about ancient Rome’s fall to salmonella to mourning vacation mishaps like car troubles and mandatory evacuations. They invite listeners to share their own best and worst vacation stories, emphasizing the privilege of getting away, whether it’s a far-flung trip or a staycation.

Join the Lunchtime in Rome community at lunchtimeinrome.com to take their relational needs questionnaire and follow along on social media. The podcast takes a break next week but returns on July 2nd for episode 289. Whether your vacation is a triumph or a trial, the guys are ready to celebrate or commiserate with you!

Get full access to Lunchtime In Rome Podcast at www.lunchtimeinrome.com/subscribe

Welcome everyone and pull up a seat at the table. It’s Lunchtime in Rome. Tonight’s episode 287 is titled “Am I wrong?” People online ask if they are in the wrong. We’re going to take a look at them from an emotional needs perspective and even see how the internet tried to help them. That’s what we’re talking about at The Table this evening.

Pull up a seat at the table and join us!

Episode Summary

In episode 287 of the Lunchtime in Rome podcast, titled "Am I Wrong?", the guys dive into a lighthearted yet insightful discussion, blending personal updates with an exploration of real-world relationship conflicts from Reddit’s “Am I the A**hole?” thread. This episode, inspired by Bella’s idea to bring dynamic, relatable content to the table, examines two Reddit stories through the lens of emotional needs theory, offering both humor and wisdom while reflecting on how people navigate interpersonal challenges.

The episode kicks off with the guys sharing personal updates. Brian celebrates his son Ethan’s high school graduation, a milestone that evokes both joy and nostalgia as he reflects on the end of an era and the start of “book two” in his family’s journey. He also shares excitement about his wife Lex’s upcoming college graduation ceremony. Jay recounts a comical mishap involving a seatbelt tag getting stuck in his car’s buckle, followed by a messy disc golf course repair adventure with chemical resin. Eric updates listeners on his daughter Maggie’s winning softball season and his anticipation for an upcoming disc golf trip, while Bella discusses her busy work life at a restaurant and her newfound love for homemade caramel sauce.

Transitioning to the main topic, the guys analyze two Reddit posts where users question their actions in relationship conflicts. The first story involves a man who upgraded his international flight to business class using frequent flyer miles but didn’t downgrade to economy to sit with his wife, who failed to upgrade her own ticket despite multiple reminders. The guys unanimously agree he’s not wrong, citing his repeated efforts to support her—offering to upgrade her ticket, reminding her, and even proposing to switch seats. They critique the wife’s passive-aggressive comments post-trip, suggesting she may have unmet emotional needs, like belonging or respect, driving her behavior. The internet’s responses echo this, with commenters calling her unreasonable, though some take it too far, labeling her an “idiot” and offering harsh personal advice.

The second story features a man who turned off the apartment Wi-Fi at midnight to stop his roommates’ loud late-night gaming, which disrupted his early morning work schedule. The guys find fault on both sides: the roommates for ignoring his requests to quiet down, and the man for resorting to a “nuclear option” without clearer communication or compromise, like trying earplugs or discussing quiet hours upfront. They note the lack of open, vulnerable dialogue, a recurring theme in the podcast’s emotional needs framework. Reddit commenters largely agree, calling everyone wrong and suggesting better communication or new roommates as solutions, though one defends the man’s actions as a fair response to being disregarded.

Throughout, the guys blend humor, personal anecdotes, and emotional needs theory to unpack these conflicts, emphasizing the importance of communication and empathy in relationships. They invite listeners to join the conversation by visiting lunchtimeinrome.com, taking the relational needs questionnaire, and following on social media. Tune in next week for episode 288, and pull up a seat at the table for more heartfelt discussions with Lunchtime in Rome!

Get full access to Lunchtime In Rome Podcast at www.lunchtimeinrome.com/subscribe

Welcome everyone and pull up a seat at the table. It’s Lunchtime in Rome. Tonight’s episode 286 is titled “Bella is back!!!” 2 years into college and a year and half removed from being at the Table. What’s new with Bella? We’ll be talking with her at The Table this evening.

Pull up a seat at the table and join us!

Get full access to Lunchtime In Rome Podcast at www.lunchtimeinrome.com/subscribe

Episode Summary

In episode 285 of the Lunchtime in Rome podcast, titled "Noise, Part 2," the guys continue their heartfelt and insightful discussion about the distractions—referred to as "noise"—that pull us away from God’s purpose for our lives. Building on the previous episode, they explore how noise, whether from politics, health concerns, finances, or workplace stress, can disrupt relationships and our focus on what truly matters.

The episode kicks off with the guys sharing personal updates, blending humor with vulnerability. They recount recent challenges, like navigating urgent care visits and appliance mishaps, and joyful moments, such as a family reunion and a disc golf outing. These stories set the stage for the main topic: how noise manifests in everyday life and how to manage it.

The guys define noise as anything the enemy uses to distract us from God’s love and purpose, whether it’s external (like social media or political arguments) or internal (like worry or self-doubt). They emphasize that while some noise, like health or financial concerns, is significant, we must avoid letting it consume us. The discussion highlights how noise can vary based on individual emotional needs, such as security, acceptance, or respect, making it a universal challenge that hits differently for everyone.

To combat noise, the guys propose practical steps: avoid controllable noise (e.g., by limiting social media), accept unavoidable noise without letting it dominate, stay engaged in relationships rather than detaching, and seek guidance from the Holy Spirit to discern when to engage or step back. They share a relatable example of sidestepping a “noise trap” at a family reunion, where a potentially divisive political question was defused with grace.

The episode wraps up with a listener’s comment, affirming the timeliness of the discussion, and a reminder to stay connected through Lunchtime in Rome’s website and social media. With their signature mix of humor, faith, and practical wisdom, the guys encourage listeners to recognize and rise above the noise to focus on loving God and others.

Join the guys next week for episode 286, and visit lunchtimeinrome.com to take their Relational Needs Questionnaire or support the podcast!

Get full access to Lunchtime In Rome Podcast at www.lunchtimeinrome.com/subscribe

Lunchtime in Rome: Episode 284 - Noise Part 1

In Episode 284 of Lunchtime in Rome, titled "Noise Part 1," the guys dive into a heartfelt and thought-provoking discussion about the concept of "noise" in our lives—those distractions, anxieties, and divisions that pull us away from peace, relationships, and a deeper connection with God. This episode blends personal updates with a spiritual exploration of how noise impacts our daily lives and relationships.

The episode kicks off with the guys sharing personal updates, reflecting the podcast’s core mission of rejoicing and mourning together (Romans 12:15). Chris opens up about the recent passing of his father, describing his time in Titusville as cathartic and healing, despite the emotional weight of the loss. He shares how staying at a Quality Inn provided a separate space for his family to process their grief, and how seeing extended family, including his grandmother, brought comfort. Meanwhile, Brian discusses his daughter Abby’s painful mouth surgery and her resilience, alongside celebrating his son Ethan’s final high school performances. Eric celebrated his 18th wedding anniversary with Amy. Jay rounds out the updates with stories about his son Joe’s pivotal ROTC meeting, his daughter Bella’s health scare, and a humorous anecdote about fixing an oven door with Joe’s unexpected expertise.

Transitioning to the main topic, the guys explore the idea of "noise" as a force that distracts, dissuades, and divides. Jay introduces the concept through a poignant story about Kathy, a church member who, on her deathbed, declared that politics and worldly concerns were "all noise." This perspective, echoed by another church member, Evie, battling cancer, sets the stage for a discussion about how noise—whether political, social, or internal—interferes with our peace and relationships.

Drawing from scripture, the guys unpack three key verses to frame their discussion:

* John 10:10 – The thief (Satan) comes to steal, kill, and destroy, often targeting relationships from the beginning of time, as seen in Adam and Eve’s story.

* 2 Corinthians 4:4 – Satan, described as the "god of this world," blinds the minds of unbelievers, and the guys suggest he also "deafens" people to God’s voice through noise, even for believers.

* 1 Peter 5:7-8 – Casting anxieties on God requires a sober mind, which is alert and clear, contrasting with a volatile or numb mind consumed by noise. The enemy prowls like a lion, seeking to devour not just individuals but relationships.

The guys emphasize that noise is a deliberate tactic of the enemy to disrupt our peace, relationships, and ability to hear God. They discuss the importance of "taking every thought captive" (2 Corinthians 10:5), a discipline of filtering out noise by critically examining external stimuli and seeking God’s perspective. This practice, they argue, helps believers stay grounded amidst the chaos of modern life, from social media rabbit holes to political divisiveness.

The episode identifies three major areas affected by noise:

* Personal Peace and Connection with God: Noise distracts from quiet reflection and prayer, leaving us anxious and disconnected.

* Relationships: Whether existing or potential, relationships suffer when noise—such as political tribalism or obsessive interests—dominates conversations and perspectives.

* Hearing God’s Guidance: Noise clouds our ability to discern God’s voice, especially when it calls us to love those who differ from us.

With humor and vulnerability, the guys weave personal stories into their discussion, like Eric’s anxiety over whether the recording software Audacity was working during the podcast—a perfect example of internal noise. They also acknowledge their listeners, giving shout-outs to supporters like Breaking 90 and Hooked on Jesus, who sit at the “head of the table” as paid subscribers.

Looking ahead, the guys promise to dive deeper in Part 2, exploring what constitutes noise, how to distinguish internal versus external noise, and practical ways to avoid it. They invite listeners to reflect on what noise looks like in their own lives and to join them next week for Episode 285.

For more, visit lunchtimeinrome.com to take the relational needs questionnaire, follow the podcast on social media, or become a paid subscriber to support the show. As always, Lunchtime in Rome invites you to pull up a seat at the table, where the guys strive to love one another and help you do the same.

Listen to Episode 284 on YouTube or your favorite podcast platform, and stay tuned for Noise Part 2!

Get full access to Lunchtime In Rome Podcast at www.lunchtimeinrome.com/subscribe

Welcome everyone and pull up a seat at the table. It’s Lunchtime in Rome. Tonight’s episode 283 is titled “Triggers.” What causes us to “lose it”? The current word is “triggers” but what is it that sets us off and why does it? We’ll be talking about that at The Table this evening.

Pull up a seat at the table and join us!

Lunchtime in Rome Podcast Episode 283: Understanding Triggers

In episode 283 of the Lunchtime in Rome podcast, titled "Triggers," the guys dive into an engaging and insightful discussion about what sets us off emotionally and why. Recorded on May 8, 2025, this episode explores the concept of triggers—external stimuli that provoke internal reactions—and offers practical strategies for managing them.

The episode kicks off with personal anecdotes, including a memorable wedding in the Poconos and a powerful storm that hit Pittsburgh, highlighting the hosts’ knack for blending humor and relatability. These stories set the stage for the main topic: triggers. The guys define triggers as external events—like a loud noise, a change in plans, or someone cutting you off in traffic—that spark emotional responses such as anger, fear, guilt, or self-condemnation. They trace the term’s evolution, noting its roots in specific contexts like PTSD and its broader, sometimes overused, application today.

Through candid conversation, the hosts share their own triggers. From slow play on the disc golf course to someone kicking the back of a movie theater seat, they reveal how these moments can escalate emotions, often tied to unmet emotional needs like respect or security. A key insight emerges: triggers aren’t just about the moment but are amplified by past hurts, creating an “exponential reaction.” For example, a story about a colleague who reacts strongly to bullying reflects how childhood experiences can intensify present-day responses.

The guys emphasize that while we can’t control external stimuli, we can manage our internal reactions. They share personal coping mechanisms, including:

* Self-awareness: Recognizing physical signs of a trigger, like clenched fists or a racing heart, and reflecting on past patterns.

* Positive self-talk: Using logic to climb out of a “doom spiral” by assessing the worst-case scenario and working backward, as Joe describes after a minor car accident.

* Seeking understanding: Eric advocates for empathizing with others’ perspectives, like understanding a child kicking a seat isn’t malicious.

* Prayer and perspective: Jay turns to prayer and asks, “Will this matter in 10 minutes or two years?” to reframe the situation.

Drawing from the book Switch on Your Brain, the hosts outline a systematic approach to handling triggers: be aware of your senses and history, assess past outcomes, and attach a new, positive thought to redirect your response. They also touch on the “trigger death spiral,” where unchecked emotions lead to feeling isolated or misunderstood, underscoring the importance of breaking this cycle.

The episode wraps up with a call to listeners to share their own triggers and coping strategies at lunchtimeinrome.com, fostering a sense of community around emotional growth. With humor, vulnerability, and practical advice, the guys deliver a compelling case for understanding and managing triggers to live more connected, grace-filled lives.

Join the conversation at lunchtimeinrome.com, take the Relational Needs Questionnaire, and tune in next week for episode 284!

Get full access to Lunchtime In Rome Podcast at www.lunchtimeinrome.com/subscribe

Lunchtime in Rome Podcast Episode 282: Conspiracy Theories

In Episode 282 of the Lunchtime in Rome podcast, hosts Jay, Eric, Brian, Chris, and Rachel come together for a spirited and thought-provoking discussion on conspiracy theories. Titled "Conspiracy Theories," this episode features a lively game where the hosts present controversial topics and state their belief with a "yes or no" or a percentage of certainty. The game fuels animated debates, personal revelations, and ties into the podcast’s core mission of building connection through meaningful conversations.

The episode begins with the hosts sharing personal updates. Eric beams with pride over his daughter Maggie’s first softball game, where she hit the first pitch and scored a run. He also celebrates the completion of his home’s flooring and painting project, mentioning plans for a new front door. Rachel, enjoying spring break, discusses her work at a school for deaf students, sharing touching anecdotes about students using communication devices. Jay talks about an upcoming family wedding and his passion for disc golf, while Chris reflects on a poignant Holy Week, highlighting a Good Friday service and a fun Easter egg dyeing session with friends. Rachel, rounding out the updates, expresses her joy at being part of the group’s dynamic.

The main segment introduces the "Yes or No" game, with a variation allowing percentage-based responses to gauge belief in various conspiracy theories. The discussion kicks off with Jeffrey Epstein’s death, where all hosts unanimously agree he did not kill himself. Brian introduces the theory that pandas are not real, citing their absence in ancient Chinese literature and odd biological traits, leading most to believe pandas exist but may be genetically altered. Eric raises the 9/11 Building 7 collapse, questioning if it was deliberately imploded, with opinions ranging from skepticism to partial belief. Jay challenges the authenticity of the moon landing, pointing to Cold War pressures and technological inconsistencies, though some hosts believe later lunar trips occurred. The group debates COVID-19’s origins, largely rejecting the wet market narrative in favor of a lab leak. Eric’s claim that the government manipulates weather through HAARP sparks division, with some referencing cloud seeding and others questioning the extent of control. Chris brings up the Loch Ness Monster, with most hosts giving moderate credence due to the lake’s depth and reported sightings. Finally, Rachel posits that friendly ghosts cannot haunt houses, prompting a deep dive into spiritual energy versus traditional ghost stories, with Brian advocating for neutral energy imprints.

The hosts weave emotional needs—security, acceptance, and respect—into the conversation, noting how beliefs reflect personal and relational dynamics. They conclude by reflecting on the game’s format, with some favoring the clear-cut "yes or no" and others appreciating the nuance of percentages.

Tune in next week for Episode 283, and visit lunchtimeinrome.com to take the relational needs questionnaire or connect on social media. Episode 282 is a delightful mix of humor, curiosity, and camaraderie, inviting listeners to join the table.

Get full access to Lunchtime In Rome Podcast at www.lunchtimeinrome.com/subscribe

Support Ben and Gab

Follow their ministry

Lunchtime in Rome Podcast Episode 281: Gab Hershman’s Inspiring Journey

In Episode 281 of the Lunchtime in Rome podcast, hosts Jay, Brian, and Eric welcome Gab Hershman , the founder of Sola Gratia Vita Ministry, for a heartfelt and inspiring conversation. Gab shares her remarkable life story, from her challenging childhood to her transformative journey as a bereavement doula and ministry leader, offering listeners a powerful testament to resilience, faith, and purpose.

A Journey Through Adversity Gab’s story begins in Penn Hills, Pittsburgh, after being born in Long Island, New York. Raised by her mother following her parents’ separation, Gab navigated a complex childhood, traveling alone to visit her father in New York from a young age. Despite forming close bonds with friends, her need for belonging was tested early on when she became pregnant at 16, leading her to leave high school and earn a GED. This life-altering experience brought shame and isolation, but also unexpected support, such as a compassionate response from a church member that left a lasting impact on her mother.

As a single mother to her daughter Lila, Gab faced significant challenges, balancing co-parenting and a career in the beauty industry. She witnessed profound brokenness in her clients, mirroring her own struggles, which sparked a desire to help others. During this time, she met her husband, Ben, at a party, marking the beginning of a new chapter. Together, they welcomed a son and later faced the heartbreaking loss of their daughter, Catalina, at 24 weeks due to Turner syndrome. This tragedy, coupled with the support of their church community, deepened their faith and set Gab on a path of service.

From Grief to Purpose: Becoming a Bereavement Doula Catalina’s loss introduced Gab to the role of a bereavement doula, a professional who provides emotional, educational, and logistical support to families experiencing pregnancy loss or high-risk pregnancies. Inspired by her own bereavement doula, Heather Bradley, Gab trained to become a doula herself, initially focusing on standard childbirth support before specializing in bereavement care. Her work involves guiding families through unimaginable grief, helping with memory-making, funeral arrangements, and emotional processing, ensuring they feel supported during their darkest moments.

Gab’s experiences led her to found Sola Gratia Vita Ministry, which focuses on counseling and supporting women through traumatic childbirth experiences. She emphasizes the importance of addressing the emotional and spiritual needs of grieving mothers, who often feel isolated and overlooked after medical care ends. Her recent presentation at a hospital, equipping healthcare providers with counseling skills, highlights her growing impact in bridging faith-based support with clinical care.

A Ministry of Belonging and Comfort Gab’s story is deeply tied to her high relational needs for belonging and comfort, shaped by her childhood and reinforced through her ministry. Sola Gratia Vita offers a lifeline to women navigating the aftermath of childbirth trauma, providing counseling and community to help them process their grief and reclaim their identity. Gab’s journey from a struggling teen to a compassionate leader underscores the podcast’s mission to “rejoice with those who rejoice and mourn with those who mourn” (Romans 12:15).

How to Support Sola Gratia Vita Listeners are encouraged to support Gab’s mission by visiting the Sola Gratia Vita Instagram page for more information or donating through the GiveSendGo platform (links available in the podcast show notes). Gab welcomes opportunities to connect with those who want to learn more or contribute to her ministry’s work.

Join the Conversation Episode 281 is a moving exploration of Gab Hershman’s life, from personal trials to a calling that brings hope to others. Tune in to hear her full story, including personal updates from the hosts, and stay connected by subscribing to Lunchtime in Rome on your favorite podcast platform or visiting lunchtimeinrome.com. Take the relational needs questionnaire to reflect on your own journey, and join the hosts next week for Episode 282.

Listen now on YouTube, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts, and don’t forget to give Lunchtime in Rome a five-star review!

Get full access to Lunchtime In Rome Podcast at www.lunchtimeinrome.com/subscribe

Photo by Paul Seling

Welcome everyone and pull up a seat at the table. It’s Lunchtime in Rome. Tonight’s episode 280 is titled “Pet Peeves.” There are things that bother all of us but some things REALLY get under our skin. What are they and why? Can we do anything about it? We’re talking about that at The Table this evening.

Pull up a seat at the table and join us!

Lunchtime in Rome Episode 280: Pet Peeves and Emotional Needs

In Episode 280 of the Lunchtime in Rome podcast, titled "Pet Peeves," the guys dive into the quirks and irritations that get under our skin. The episode kicks off with personal updates, setting a warm and relatable tone before transitioning into the main topic: exploring pet peeves and the emotional needs behind them.

The guys share updates on their lives, from home renovations and softball games to musical performances and vinyl record hunts. Jay talks about his return to Young Life staff after 17 years, finding joy in connecting with high school students and adults alike. Brian celebrates his son Ethan’s standout performance in a high school musical, while Chris recounts a stomach-churning mystery involving a family casserole recipe and a heartwarming surprise for his wife, Rachel.

The core discussion centers on pet peeves, prompted by a Facebook post that garnered over 48 responses. The guys emphasize that pet peeves are more than just annoyances—they’re personal triggers that often tie back to unmet emotional needs like respect, security, or acceptance. By analyzing listeners’ submissions, they aim to uncover why certain behaviors bother some people more than others and how understanding these triggers can reduce their emotional impact.

Some standout pet peeves include:

* Rachel’s aversion to people sitting on kitchen countertops and sleeping without a top sheet, which the guys link to her need for security and order, rooted in her childhood experiences.

* Ben Busby’s frustration with men not washing their hands after using the restroom, tied to respect and hygiene.

* Kathy Wolfe’s irritation at being called “Miss” instead of “Mrs.”, a clear call for respect.

* Dave Juicywitz’s annoyance at mislabeling hay and straw or concrete and cement, reflecting a need for precision and respect for expertise.

* Mary McWhinney’s disdain for dancing in commercials and made-up words like “shacket,” pointing to a desire for authenticity and order.

* Anita’s exasperation with inconsistent ATM and point-of-sale systems, highlighting needs for security, respect, and acceptance when navigating technology.

The guys approach each peeve with humor and empathy, encouraging listeners to reflect on their own triggers. They suggest that identifying the emotional need—whether it’s respect, security, or belonging—can help diffuse irritation and foster self-awareness. This introspection not only aids personal growth but also improves communication with others.

The episode wraps up with gratitude for their supporters and an invitation to join the next live recording. Listeners are encouraged to visit lunchtimeinrome.com to take the Relational Needs Questionnaire and follow the podcast on social media.

Key Takeaway: Pet peeves are more than surface-level annoyances—they’re windows into our emotional needs. By understanding what’s behind our irritations, we can manage our reactions better and connect more deeply with ourselves and others.

Tune in to Episode 281 next Wednesday at 8:30 PM on YouTube, and join the Lunchtime in Rome community as they continue to explore life, love, and connection at the table.

Get full access to Lunchtime In Rome Podcast at www.lunchtimeinrome.com/subscribe

Welcome everyone and pull up a seat at the table. It’s Lunchtime in Rome. Tonight’s episode 279 is titled “2 Things can be true.” We live in an increasingly absolute world. Lines are being drawn more and more often. However, perhaps it doesn’t have to be that way? We’re talking about that at The Table this evening.

Pull up a seat at the table and join us!

Lunchtime In Rome Podcast is a listener-supported publication. To receive new posts and support our work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

In Episode 279 of the Lunchtime in Rome podcast, titled "Two Things Can Be True," hosts Jay, Amy, Eric, and Chris dive into a thought-provoking discussion about the complexity of human experiences and the increasing absolutism in today’s world. Recorded on April 2, 2025, this episode explores how two seemingly contradictory ideas can coexist, challenging the black-and-white thinking that dominates modern discourse.

The episode kicks off with personal updates from the hosts. Amy shares her pride in her daughter Abby, who raised over $17,000 for the Leukemia Lymphoma Society and earned a Mission Pillar Award, highlighting the balance of pride and the challenges of stepping back as a parent. Eric talks about home renovations and his newfound passion for vinyl records. Jay celebrates his return to Young Life staff and the joy of working with high school athletes at a food pantry, emphasizing the rewards and complexities of engaging with youth.

The core topic, introduced by Amy, stems from a realization inspired by the Barbie movie’s monologue about conflicting expectations. She suggests replacing "but" with "and" in our language to allow space for dual truths—like loving family and needing alone time. The hosts explore why society is growing more absolute, pointing to tribalism fueled by a need for belonging, social media algorithms that amplify extremes, and personal insecurities that make people defensive rather than open to dialogue. They note how this absolutism leads to division, isolation, and broken relationships, often driven by a lack of conflict resolution skills and emotional awareness.

To lighten the mood, the group plays a game, identifying "two things that can be true" in categories like faith, sports, and music. Examples include being a Christian and enjoying alcohol, being a Steelers fan and tolerating the Ravens, or loving music and disliking certain bands. They steer clear of heavier topics like politics and relationships to end on a positive note.

The episode wraps up with a call to embrace nuance, encouraging listeners to visit lunchtimeinrome.com, take the relational needs questionnaire, and join the conversation. It’s a reminder that life isn’t always either/or—sometimes, it’s both/and.

Tune in next week for Episode 280, and until then, keep exploring the gray areas of life with Lunchtime in Rome!

Get full access to Lunchtime In Rome Podcast at www.lunchtimeinrome.com/subscribe