Join host Aaron Renn and cultural diagnostician Dr. John Seel in this thought-provoking podcast episode as they dive into the crisis of masculinity, the unraveling of modern culture, and the path to aspirational manhood. From the influence of sociologists like James Davison Hunter and Peter Berger to the societal implications of nihilism and technology, this conversation explores headwater issues shaping families, society, and civilization. Dr. Seel also introduces his new book, Aspirational Masculinity, offering a bold vision for men rooted in faith and purpose. Don’t miss this engaging discussion that challenges conventional narratives and calls for a renewed understanding of what it means to be a man today.

CHAPTERS:
(0:00:01 - Introduction and Welcome)
(0:00:49 - Dr. John Seel on Masculinity)
(0:01:31 - Working with James Davison Hunter and Oz Guinness)
(0:08:23 - The Cultural Inflection Point: Nihilism and Modernity)
(0:11:10 - Technology’s Acceleration vs. Cultural Decline)
(0:13:41 - Power, Authority, and Nietzschean Nihilism)
(0:22:03 - The Crisis of Masculinity: A Headwater Issue)
(0:26:51 - Framing the Masculinity Problem)
(0:31:16 - Identity Formation: Postmodern, Modern, and Biblical Views)
(0:39:37 - Aspirational Masculinity and Christ-Centered Identity)
(0:49:01 - Grace, Nature, and Masculinity)
(0:58:14 - The Parable of the Talents and Agency)
(1:03:28 - The Marines: A Secular Model for Identity)
(1:09:50 - Final Thoughts on a Positive Vision for Masculinity)
(1:11:18 - Book Announcement: Aspirational Masculinity)

JOHN SEEL'S LINKS:
📖 Buy Aspirational Masculinity: https://store.standrewsalmanor.org/products/aspirational-masculinity/

CONNECT & FOLLOW AARON RENN:
🐦 Twitter/X: https://x.com/aaron_renn
🌐 Newsletter - In-depth cultural analysis: https://www.aaronrenn.com/

Join host Aaron Renn as he sits down with David Yancey, president of Presbyterians for the Kingdom, and Generation Z influencer Redeemed Zoomer to discuss their mission to renew the Presbyterian Church (PCUSA) and the broader Operation Reconquista movement. They dive into the challenges and opportunities of restoring traditional theology within mainline Protestant denominations, the role of young conservatives in this revival, and their plans for the future. From institutional commitment to the power of historic churches, this episode explores why they’re staying to reform rather than leaving.

CHAPTERS:
(00:00 - Introduction)
(00:33 - What is Presbyterians for the Kingdom?)
(01:07 - Operation Reconquista and Its Inspiration)
(02:48 - Networks within the PCUSA)
(06:21 - Challenges of Mainline Decline)
(08:19 - A Generational Shift Toward Conservatism)
(11:11 - Personal Ties to the PCUSA)
(16:11 - Perceptions of the Movement within PCUSA)
(19:46 - Institutional Commitment in the PCUSA)
(27:01 - Balancing Word and Sacrament in Reformed Theology)
(33:40 - Biblical Case Against Splitting from the Church)
(37:06 - Stewardship of Historic Resources)
(42:30 - Future Plans for Presbyterians for the Kingdom)

GUEST LINKS:
🌐 Presbyterians for the Kingdom Website: https://www.kingdompresbyterians.com/
🐦 Presbyterians for the Kingdom Twitter/X: https://x.com/kingdompresbys

🌐 Redeemed Zoomer's Youtube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@redeemedzoomer6053
🐦 Redeemed Zoomer Twitter/X: https://x.com/redeemed_zoomer

CONNECT & FOLLOW AARON RENN:
🐦 Twitter/X: https://x.com/aaron_renn
🌐 Newsletter - In-depth cultural analysis: https://www.aaronrenn.com/

Join host Aaron Renn as he sits down with Caleb Morell, author of A Light on the Hill, to explore the rich history of Capitol Hill Baptist Church in Washington, D.C. Founded in 1878, this evangelical church, located just blocks from the U.S. Capitol and Supreme Court, has remained steadfast in its theological convictions while navigating cultural, political, and social changes over 150 years. From its founding by Civil War veterans to its role in the fundamentalist-modernist controversy, urban challenges, and the revitalization under pastor Mark Dever, this episode uncovers what makes this church a unique case study in American Christianity. Learn how Capitol Hill Baptist has maintained its gospel-centered mission amidst D.C.’s evolving landscape, including its response to suburbanization, gentrification, and even a lawsuit against the city during COVID-19.

CHAPTERS:
(00:01 - Introduction)
(00:24 - What Makes Capitol Hill Baptist Unique?)
(03:33 - Founding and Early History (1878))
(05:42 - Capsule Summary of the Church’s History)
(09:24 - The Fundamentalist-Modernist Controversy)
(14:56 - Suburbanization and Desegregation in the Mid-20th Century)
(20:54 - Urban Planning and Parking Lot Disputes)
(22:12 - Racial Integration and Social Engagement)
(27:31 - The Marion Barry Era and Urban Violence)
(32:13 - Mark Dever’s Arrival and Church Revitalization)
(35:50 - Gentrification and Its Impact)
(38:38 - COVID-19 Lawsuit and Church Response)
(41:38 - Commitment to Single-Service Gatherings)
(45:09 - Political Engagement Over Time)
(49:17 - The Importance of Institutions)
(52:11 - Closing Remarks)

CALEB MORELL'S LINKS:
📖 A Light on the Hill: https://www.amazon.com/Light-Hill-Surprising-Influenced-Evangelicalism/dp/1433592894/?&_encoding=UTF8&tag=theurban-20
🌐 Capitol Hill Baptist Church: https://www.capitolhillbaptist.org/

CONNECT & FOLLOW AARON RENN:
🐦 Twitter/X: https://x.com/aaron_renn
🌐 Newsletter - In-depth cultural analysis: https://www.aaronrenn.com/

In this provocative episode, Aaron sits down with Joel Carini, "The Natural Theologian," to explore the challenges of truth-seeking within evangelicalism. From the insular approach of seminary education to the open inquiry at the University of Chicago, Joel contrasts how these environments shape Christian thought. They dive into presuppositionalism, natural theology, and why evangelicals often shy away from engaging with opposing views. Join us for a candid conversation about faith, doubt, and the pursuit of truth.

CHAPTERS
(0:00:00 - Introduction)
(0:02:06 - Seminary vs. University of Chicago: A Tale of Two Educations)
(0:03:38 - What is Presuppositionalism?)
(0:09:05 - The University of Chicago’s Truth-Seeking Approach)
(0:15:24 - The Limits of Presuppositionalism in Apologetics)
(0:19:32 - Evangelicals and the Fear of Being Wrong)
(0:25:18 - Critiquing Evangelicalism’s Defensive Mindset)
(0:33:25 - Finding Common Ground with Non-Believers)
(0:44:57 - What is Natural Theology?)
(0:54:00 - Learning from Secular Thinkers to Strengthen Faith)
(1:00:20 - Wrapping Up: Building Faith on a Solid Foundation)

JOEL CARINI'S LINKS:
🌐 The Natural Theologian: https://joelcarini.substack.com/

CONNECT & FOLLOW AARON RENN:
🐦 Twitter/X: https://x.com/aaron_renn
🌐 Newsletter - In-depth cultural analysis: https://www.aaronrenn.com/

Dive into the housing crisis with Aaron Renn and Adam Ozemeck, Chief Economist at the Economic Innovation Group, as they unpack why buying a home can feel impossible in 2025. From skyrocketing construction costs to zoning roadblocks and institutional investors, this episode explores the real reasons behind soaring home prices. Discover potential solutions like YIMBYism, density zones, and more to make housing affordable again.

CHAPTERS:
(00:00 - Introduction: The Housing Crisis Explained)
(01:32 - State of the Housing Market: Why Are Prices So High?)
(05:58 - Indianapolis Case Study: A 40% Price-to-Income Surge)
(07:33 - Construction Costs: Why Building Homes Is So Expensive)
(15:33 - Zoning: The Hidden Barrier to Affordable Housing)
(23:26 - Monopoly in Home Building: Is Competition the Issue?)
(28:48 - Institutional Investors: Are They Driving Up Prices?)
(44:23 - Immigration and Labor: Impact on Housing Costs)
(49:50 - Solutions: YIMBYism and the Abundance Agenda)
(55:42 - Single Stair Reform: A Key to Cheaper Housing)
(59:22 - State Preemption: Rewriting Zoning Rules)
(1:02:13 - Density Zones: A Balanced Approach to Local Control)
(1:06:43 - Tackling Construction Costs: Tariffs and R&D)
(1:09:09 - Place-Based Policy: Spreading Opportunity Beyond Big Cities)
(1:15:08 - Fiscal Stimulus: Did It Fuel the Housing Crisis?)
(1:16:23 - Final Thoughts: Building a Dynamic Future)

ADAM OZIMEK'S LINKS:
🐦 Twitter/X: https://x.com/ModeledBehavior
🌐 Economic Innovation Group: https://eig.org/

CONNECT & FOLLOW AARON RENN:
🐦 Twitter/X: https://x.com/aaron_renn
🌐 Newsletter - In-depth cultural analysis: https://www.aaronrenn.com/

Ted Esler, President of Missio Nexus, joins me to dive deep into the current state of Christian missions. He explores the history, challenges, and future of global missions, from the legacy of William Carey to the impact of globalization and cultural shifts. Ted discusses the role of unreached people groups, the influence of American imperialism, and the evolving dynamics of missionary work, including the significant contributions of women. Discover how missions are adapting in a rapidly changing world and what it means for the global church.

Note: There are 134,000 US missionaries, not 340,000 as stated in the podcast. Esler accidentally gave the global rather than US total.

CHAPTERS:
00:00 Introduction
00:29 Defining Missions: Evangelism, Discipleship, and Church Planting
01:30 The History of the Modern Missions Movement
03:07 The Origins of Missio Nexus
04:00 Missionary Funding and Global Perspectives
06:49 Paradigms Shaping Modern Missions
08:22 The Tension Between Evangelism and Development Work
11:24 The Decline of Mainline Denominations in Missions
12:36 Missions and the Question of Imperialism
17:35 Missions in the Age of Globalization
23:24 The Impact of DEI and Christian Nationalism on Missions
26:22 Women in Missions: A Historical Constant
28:31 The Future of Missions: Trends and Predictions
33:01 Closing Thoughts

TED ESLER LINKS:
🌐 Missio Nexus: https://missionexus.org/

CONNECT & FOLLOW AARON RENN:
🐦 Twitter/X: https://x.com/aaron_renn
🌐 Newsletter - In-depth cultural analysis: https://www.aaronrenn.com/

Join host Aaron Renn as he sits down with Michael Foster, pastor of East River Church in Batavia, Ohio, for a raw and unfiltered conversation about the wild cultural ride of the past five years. From the rise of the Manosphere to the pushback against woke culture, the impact of the pandemic on churches, and the shifting dynamics of masculinity and dating, this episode dives deep into what’s shaping our world in 2025. Michael shares his journey from starting It’s Good to Be a Man to planting a church during the pandemic, offering insights on faith, culture, and the new vibe shift. Expect candid reflections, bold takes, and a look at where we’re headed next.

CHAPTERS:
(00:00 - Introduction)
(01:04 - Michael Foster’s Journey: Starting East River Church)
(03:58 - The Manosphere’s Rise and Cultural Impact)
(11:23 - Dating Dynamics and the Internet’s Influence)
(19:55 - The Pandemic’s Effect on Churches and Culture)
(28:49 - The Post-Pandemic Vibe Shift)
(36:30 - Christianity, Institutions, and Missed Opportunities)
(50:04 - Choosing Stability Over Controversy)
(58:13 - The New Cultural Stasis and What’s Next)
(1:08:09 - Closing Thoughts and Farewell)

MICHAEL FOSTER-S LINKS:
📖 It's Good to Be a Man - https://www.amazon.com/Its-Good-Be-Man-Masculinity/dp/1954887396/?&_encoding=UTF8&tag=theurban-20
🐦 Twitter/X: https://x.com/thisisfoster
🌐 This Is Foster - https://www.thisisfoster.com/

CONNECT & FOLLOW AARON:
🐦 Twitter/X: https://x.com/aaron_renn
🌐 Newsletter - In-depth cultural analysis: https://www.aaronrenn.com/

Professional boxer Ed Latimore talks about his inspiring journey from growing up in Pittsburgh’s housing projects during the crack epidemic to earning a physics degree and overcoming addiction. In this episode, Ed shares raw insights from his book, Hard Lessons from the Hurt Business: Boxing and the Art of Life, diving into the challenges of poverty, the psychological traps of subsidized housing, the impact of corporal punishment, and how boxing gave him discipline and community. Ed also opens up about his battle with alcoholism and offers practical advice for those struggling with addiction. Don’t miss this powerful conversation about resilience, pattern recognition, and transforming your life against all odds.

CHAPTERS
(00:00 - Introduction)
(01:02 - Growing Up in the Projects: Life During the Crack Epidemic)
(03:11 - The Systemic Traps of Subsidized Housing)
(06:13 - How Childhood Beatings Shaped Ed’s View on Boxing)
(09:01 - Boxing as a Path to Discipline and Community)
(14:48 - Why Ed Rejects Corporal Punishment)
(24:43 - Writing Hard Lessons from the Hurt Business: A Memoir with Purpose)
(26:54 - Discovering His Intelligence Through Boxing and Education)
(33:08 - From Boxing to a Physics Degree: Ed’s Academic Journey)
(37:18 - How Intelligence Kept Ed from Self-Destruction)
(44:01 - Overcoming Alcoholism: Ed’s Strategies for Recovery)
(53:15 - Final Thoughts and Book Details)

ED LATIMORE'S LINKS:
📖 Hard Lessons from the Hurt Business: https://www.amazon.com/Hard-Lessons-Hurt-Business-Boxing/dp/0593716361/?&_encoding=UTF8&tag=theurban-20
🌐 Ed Latimore's web site: https://edlatimore.com/
🐦 Twitter/X: https://x.com/edlatimore

CONNECT & FOLLOW AARON RENN:
🐦 Twitter/X: https://x.com/aaron_renn
🌐 Newsletter - In-depth cultural analysis: https://www.aaronrenn.com/

Join me for an insightful conversation with Dr. Jason Jewell, Chief Academic Officer of the State University System of Florida, as we dive into the bold reforms transforming higher education in the Sunshine State. From Governor Ron DeSantis’ efforts to eliminate ideological influences to the creation of a new accrediting agency, we explore how Florida is reshaping its universities to prioritize academic excellence and efficiency. Learn about Florida's innovative steps toward a new accreditation model, its post-tenure review policy, and the fight against administrative bloat. 

CHAPTERS:
(00:00 Introduction)
(01:15 Dr. Jason Jewell’s Background)
(04:44 Role of the Board of Governors)
(08:41 DeSantis’ Higher Ed Reform Goals)
(12:29 Creating a New Accrediting Agency)
(31:50 Post-Tenure Review Policy)
(43:07 Tackling Administrative Bloat)
(48:00 Conclusion)

JASON JEWELL'S LINKS:
🌐 Governor Ron DeSantis Announces First-of-its-Kind Alternative University Accreditor - https://www.flbog.edu/2025/06/26/icymi-governor-ron-desantis-announces-first-of-its-kind-alternative-university-accreditor/
🌐 No “Brain Drain” from the SUS’s Post-Tenure Review - https://www.flbog.edu/2025/07/21/no-brain-drain-from-the-suss-post-tenure-review/
🌐 Jason Jewell's Substack - https://jasonjewell.substack.com/

CONNECT & FOLLOW AARON RENN:
🐦 Twitter/X: https://x.com/aaron_renn
🌐 Newsletter - In-depth cultural analysis: https://www.aaronrenn.com/

Join Aaron in this eye-opening podcast episode with Rick Reinhardt, an expert on the intersection of urbanism and religion, as they dive into the growing crisis of America's emptying churches. With up to 100,000 churches facing closure, what happens to these historic buildings and their land? From affordable housing to community spaces, discover the challenges and opportunities of redeveloping sacred spaces in urban areas. Learn about the decline in church attendance, the financial burdens of maintaining historic properties, and innovative solutions for repurposing church real estate. Don’t miss this fascinating discussion on faith, urban planning, and the future of America’s communities!

CHAPTERS:
(00:00 - Introduction: The Church Closure Crisis)
(10:12 - Why Are Churches Closing Across America?)
(03:27 - Case Studies: Buffalo, Ottumwa, and Beyond)
(05:28 - The High Cost of Maintaining Historic Churches)
(08:05 - The Role of Churches in Communities)
(09:59 - Real Estate Opportunities: From Condos to Affordable Housing)
(12:58 - Using Church Land for Parking, Gardens, and More)
(15:27 - Affordable Housing: A Growing Trend for Church Properties)
(18:12 - Zoning and Regulatory Challenges)
(23:19 - Selling Churches: Who Buys Them and Why?)
(26:55 - Barriers to Redevelopment: Denominational Control and NIMBYs)
(30:07 - Cities and Tax-Exempt Properties)
(33:30 - Advice for Struggling Congregations)
(38:51 - Resources for Learning More)
(41:32 - Closing Thoughts)

RICK REINHARD LINKS:
🌐 Affordable Housing: YIGBY (“Yes in God’s Backyard”) Movement Seeks to Counter NIMBY Movement - https://urbanland.uli.org/property-types/housing-affordable-and-workforce/affordable-housing-yigby-yes-in-gods-backyard-movement-seeks-to-counter-nimby-movement
🌐 Can Struggling Houses of Worship Be Turned Into Housing? Not Always - https://www.governing.com/urban/can-struggling-houses-of-worship-be-turned-into-housing-not-always
🌐 Sacred Spaces, Civic Value: Making the Case for the Future of Faith-Built Assets - https://canurb.org/publications/sacred-spaces-civic-value/

CONNECT & FOLLOW:
🐦 Twitter/X: https://x.com/aaron_renn
🌐 Newsletter - In-depth cultural analysis: https://www.aaronrenn.com/