In this episode, Scott and Bill discuss various topics ranging from personal anecdotes to serious public health issues, particularly focusing on vaccination mandates and public opinion. They explore the moral implications of leadership in contemporary society, the influence of Enlightenment thought on modern morality, and the challenges of navigating cultural and economic interests in politics. The conversation delves into the crisis of moral philosophy and the need for a more robust ethical framework in education, ultimately reflecting on the chaotic moral landscape of today's world.

This episode was inspired by a David Brooks piece in The Atlantic which we reference in the show. You can find the piece here.

In this episode of New Persuasive Words, Bill and Scott dive into the provocative little book _The Let Them Theory _and ask a big question: can the stoic mindset and the Christian vision really coexist, or are they fundamentally at odds? Along the way, they explore how “letting them” might be a healthy act of detachment—or a spiritual cop-out—and whether the calm of Marcus Aurelius can live in harmony with the compassion of the Gospels.

In this conversation, Scott and Bill explore various themes ranging from light-hearted banter about summer drinks and streaming services to deeper discussions on the gall of bitterness as presented in the Bible. They reflect on the nature of sin in Christianity, the politics of resentment, and the role of grace in the Christian life. The dialogue also touches on cultural reflections and the dangers of spiritual vices, concluding with a call to repentance and self-reflection.

In this conversation, Scott Jones and Bill Bohr explore the concept of demythologizing, particularly in relation to Donald Trump's influence on contemporary beliefs and narratives about Jeffrey Epstein. They discuss the implications of demythologizing in religion, the cognitive dissonance experienced by Trump supporters, and the nature of grace and redemption. The conversation also touches on the importance of small acts of kindness and the ongoing struggle between good and evil in society.

In this episode Scott and Bill explore various themes surrounding grievances in American society, including military spending, Medicaid myths, immigration issues, and the complexities of American identity. They discuss the cultural and creedal aspects of patriotism, the challenges of Christian realism, and the need for a national myth while navigating the current political landscape. The dialogue reflects on the past, present, and future of American ideals and the importance of understanding the narratives that shape them.

Takeaways

The airing of grievances is a common theme in public discourse.

Chapters

00:00 Airing of Grievances: Setting the Stage

In this conversation, Scott and Bill explore the decline of American pride, the erosion of the middle class, and the pervasive nature of 'bullshit' in political discourse. They discuss how political identity fluctuates based on party affiliation, the cultural implications of consumerism, and the role of rhetoric in shaping public opinion. The dialogue culminates in a reflection on sincerity and self-awareness in a world filled with misinformation and superficiality.

Takeaways

Sound bites

"We're killing the middle class."

Chapters

00:00 American Pride and Political Identity

In this special live episode of New Persuasive Words, Scott and Bill record in person at The Green Line Café in Philadelphia, reflecting on the recent bombing of Iran ordered by President Trump. With coffee in hand and other patrons in the room, they unpack the political and ethical dimensions of this act of war. What does it say about American power, the role of conscience in foreign policy, and the ever-thinning line between calculated strategy and reckless provocation? Join us for a real-time theological and political conversation rooted in moral seriousness and public faith.

We reference an anonymous open letter from an Iranian living abroad. You can find it here.

In this episode of New Persuasive Words, Bill and Scott explore the idea of history as a form of divine revelation—alongside nature and the Bible—drawing inspiration from Tomáš Halík’s provocative new book, The Afternoon of Christianity. As Halík invites us to reimagine faith for a postmodern, post-Christendom world, we consider how historical consciousness itself can become a sacred text, revealing God’s presence not just in the past but in the unfolding of time. From the Incarnation to modern crises, we ask: What if salvation history hasn’t ended, but continues to speak in the afternoon light of our contemporary moment?

In this episode of New Persuasive Words, Bill and Scott explore how the pattern of death and resurrection—so central to the Christian story—is also the essential rhythm of a thriving personal and public life. From letting go of ego and outdated identities to embracing new beginnings in our relationships, vocations, and politics, they argue that true transformation always passes through some form of dying. Drawing on theology, personal experience, and cultural analysis, they reflect on how this pattern can help us navigate a time of great institutional and existential upheaval. This isn't about escapism or sentimentality—it's about finding hope and renewal on the far side of surrender.

In this episode of New Persuasive Words, Bill and Scott explore the deep theological mystery of the Trinity in light of Trinity Sunday. But this isn’t just a church calendar check-in—we argue that the doctrine of the Trinity offers more than abstract metaphysics. It might just be the key to renewing the moral and relational foundations of liberal democratic society. Drawing from both ancient theology and contemporary political concerns, we ask: What does it mean to live in a world shaped by communion, difference, and love? And can the Trinitarian vision help us resist the isolating forces of individualism, authoritarianism, and despair? Tune in for a conversation that’s equal parts creed and critique.

We reference two articles in the piece. You can find them here:

https://www.persuasion.community/p/a-chilling-prediction-by-leo-strauss

https://firstthings.com/fukuyama-gets-leo-strauss-wrong/