From Washington gridlock to the crisis of fatherhood, this week’s episode of The Narrative tackles the cultural forces shaping our culture and families. First, Aaron and Mike cover the news about:

• The Government Shutdown: Now stretching over nearly a month, this shutdown is unlike any before. The guys break down what’s driving the gridlock in Washington, and how political brinkmanship is testing both parties’ resolve.

• America’s Sports Betting Crisis: As gambling scandals rock professional sports, a deeper cultural issue is emerging: how the sports betting boom is fueling corruption across leagues, in addition to isolation among young men.

After the news, Justin Whitmel Earley joins Mike, David, and CAN Executive Director Chris Lightfoot to discuss how everyday routines shape our hearts, our families, and our faith. From the battle between phone habits and family presence to the father’s calling as a spiritual anchor in the home, Justin shares practical ways to rebuild healthy rhythms of grace, work, and worship.

Learn how intentional family formation can restore balance in a distracted age, and how the return of faithful fatherhood can reshape our culture for the better.

Listen wherever you get your podcasts!

More about Justin Whitmel Earley

Justin Whitmel Earley is a lawyer, author, and speaker from Richmond, Virginia, where he lives with his wife, Lauren, and their four sons: Whit, Asher, Coulter, and Shep.

With a background in English literature, cross-cultural ministry in China, and a law degree from Georgetown, Justin brings a unique blend of thoughtfulness, creativity, and practicality to his work. Through his books, speaking, and legal practice, he helps individuals and families craft intentional habits that shape the soul.

Justin is the author of The Common Rule, Habits of the Household, Made for People, The Body Teaches the Soul, and a new children’s book, The Big Mess. He regularly speaks on the topics of spiritual formation, technology, mental health, and family rhythms.

Justin is passionate about helping others live out their deepest values in the chaos of daily life.

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🔎 About The Narrative

The Narrative breaks away from the script to cut through the typical media narratives and helps you understand the root causes of today’s culture and political controversies.

Join Center for Christian Virtue (CCV) President Aaron Baer, Policy Director David Mahan, Communications Director Mike Andrews, and world-renowned experts as they dissect current issues and events from multiple angles and viewpoints, equipping you to be a critical thinker on some of the hottest topics today.

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