The Common Good Podcast

Brian From welcomes bestselling author and former Chicago journalist Lee Strobel to discuss his new book The Case for Christmas and why he believes the story of Jesus’ birth is historically trustworthy. Strobel reflects on his own journey from atheism to faith, the role of evidence in belief, and why Christmas is a uniquely powerful moment for spiritual conversations. The conversation also ventures into Chicago nostalgia—from deep-dish pizza to Ernie Banks—as Strobel shares personal stories alongside his call for Christians to use this season to share hope.

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Brian From sits down with pastor and author Isaac Serrano to discuss his new book When Life Feels Empty, which explores why so many people today—especially younger generations—struggle to find purpose despite material comfort. Serrano unpacks the cultural pull toward materialism, the spiritual hunger it leaves unresolved, and seven ancient Christian practices that help reorient life toward meaning. Their conversation offers both a diagnosis of our cultural moment and a hopeful path forward for anyone longing for direction and depth.

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Brian Fromm opens the show with a remarkable story of online generosity, as strangers raise over $1.4 million to help an 88-year-old Army veteran finally retire with dignity. He then reflects on why choosing the “hard way” in life—spiritually, relationally, and personally—often becomes the path to lasting peace. The episode closes with insights on identity and Advent longing

Army veteran Ed Bambas' son Michael says father will finally retire after $1.5 million GoFundMe fundraiser | New York Post 

Collin Rugg on X: "NEW: Internet users raise over $1.2M for an 88-year-old US Army veteran to help him retire after his pension was wiped out. Ed Bambas lost his wife 7 years ago and is now working 40 hours a week to make ends meet. Bambas retired from General Motors in 1999, expecting to have https://t.co/tKkIys1rvT" / X 

Paul David Tripp on X: "Christ not only gives me forgiveness and a new future, but a whole new identity as well! I’m now a child of God, with all of the rights and privileges that this title bestows." / X 

Paul David Tripp on X: "We all live out of some sense of identity, and our Gospel identity amnesia will always lead to

The Hard Way Is the Easy Way - Redeeming Productivity 

Ian Simkins on Instagram 

Mind Your Christmas Imperatives | Tim Challies 

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Brian From welcomes Lois Stewart, Education Executive for the Northern Illinois District of the LCMS, to discuss the mission and impact of more than 70 Lutheran schools across Chicagoland. Stewart shares how these schools keep Christ at the center while delivering rigorous academics, accredited programs, and safe, nurturing environments for students. She also offers guidance for families weighing their schooling options and highlights the hope she sees in the next generation growing in faith each day.

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Brian From talks with Dan Dean of the legendary trio Phillips, Craig & Dean as they prepare for their upcoming Christmas concert in Tinley Park. Dan reflects on the group’s unexpected rise in the early ’90s, the moments that shaped their ministry, and why Christmas music continues to be such a joy to perform. He also teases some of the stories and songs audiences can expect during this special holiday event.

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Brian From talks with pastor and professor Ryan Tinnetti about his new book, The Quiet Ambition, which explores Scripture’s invitation to step out of the frantic pace of modern life and into a life shaped by the gospel. Ryan unpacks what it means to “live quietly,” build holy habits of stillness, and resist the pressures of constant striving and comparison. The episode offers practical wisdom and spiritual encouragement for anyone longing for calm, clarity, and deeper rest in Christ.

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In their weekly conversation, Brian From and Plugged In’s Adam Holz break down the cultural phenomenon of Stranger Things as the series enters its final season. Adam explains the show’s blend of nostalgia, horror, and heroic storytelling—along with the content concerns parents should weigh before letting kids watch. They also explore why the series resonates so deeply and how families can think biblically about entertainment in today’s media world.

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Author and creator Hillary Phillips joins Brian From to talk about her new book, My Brain While Reading the Bible, a witty and heartfelt look at encountering Scripture with honesty, humor, and curiosity. Hillary shares her journey from a tumultuous childhood and spiritual confusion to discovering a deeply personal faith shaped by authenticity and God’s grace. She also offers encouragement for anyone feeling overwhelmed or unseen, reminding listeners that God meets us right where we are—and does remarkable things with even the smallest “yes.”

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On this Giving Tuesday, Brian From is joined by Aniela Chis of Human Coalition for a candid and compassionate conversation about supporting women facing unplanned pregnancies. Aniela shares how Human Coalition reaches abortion-minded women online, provides practical and emotional support, and helps them choose life by changing the circumstances that make parenting feel impossible. She also opens up about her own story, offering a message of hope, healing, and the power of the church to walk alongside women in crisis.

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On this episode of The Common Good, Brian From reflects on Giving Tuesday, the meaning of generosity, and why our response to God’s grace shapes how we give. He then tackles a growing debate in Christian circles—whether sending kids to public school is sinful—and offers a pastoral perspective rooted in freedom, wisdom, and family discernment. Finally, Brian explores how digital distraction is reshaping everything from Netflix scripts to our spiritual lives, and why Advent invites us back to focus, hope, and the presence of Christ.

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