This week on The Narrative, Mike, David, and CAN Executive Director Chris Lightfoot break down major updates from the Ohio Statehouse, including:

• Progress on the Success Sequence Bill,
• Indecent exposure reforms, and
• Protecting kids from high-potency THC products.

They also discuss why marriage is often missing from today’s fatherhood programs and why the Church must lead on family formation.

Plus, Chris shares how the Church Ambassador Network’s Minnery Fellowship and new Hope and a Future tour are equipping pastors to strengthen marriage and family ministries across Ohio. 

After the news, Mike, David, and Aaron interview Clare Morell, a fellow at the Ethics and Public Policy Center, about why she's calling for Americans to consider a smartscreen-free childhood for their children. Drawing from groundbreaking research and her new book, The Tech Exit, she outlines practical steps for families and policy solutions that are gaining national momentum. She also explains why schools, churches, and communities must lead a countercultural movement toward real human connection and spiritual renewal.

Listen wherever you get your podcasts!

More about Clare Morell

Clare Morell is a fellow at the Ethics and Public Policy Center in the Bioethics, Technology and Human Flourishing Program. Prior to joining EPPC, Ms. Morell worked in both the White House Counsel’s Office and the Department of Justice, as well as in the private and non-profit sectors. She is also the author of The Tech Exit: A Practical Guide to Freeing Kids and Teens from Smartphones, published by Penguin Random House.

Ms. Morell has had opinion pieces published in the Wall Street Journal, Fox News, Bloomberg News, The New York Post, Newsweek, the Washington Examiner, National Review, First Things, National Affairs, American Affairs Journal, Deseret News, The Federalist, The Hill, Public Discourse, WORLD Magazine, The American Conservative, the Washington Times, and the Daily Signal.

Ms. Morell has testified before Congress. Her policy work has also been featured in The New York Times, and she has done television interviews with Fox News, Blaze TV, EWTN, and Epoch TV, as well as print interviews with The New York Times, The Washington Post, National Review, and WORLD Magazine, among others.

Ms. Morell received a B.S.F.S. from Georgetown University’s Walsh School of Foreign Service, where she majored in Science, Technology, and International Affairs. She graduated summa cum laude and received the Edmund A. Walsh Award for academic achievement in international law. 

Ready to dive into this week's most pressing issues? Tune in to The Narrative with CCV's Aaron Baer, David Mahan, and Mike Andrews as they review:

• Israel-Hamas Peace Deal: The long-awaited peace deal is moving toward completion after more than two years of conflict. Walk through the release of remaining Israeli hostages vs. Hamas prisoners, the strategic actions taken by Israel, and why this could be a turning point in Middle East relations.
• Ohio Legislative Updates: From Pornhub age verification enforcement to Governor DeWine's ban on intoxicating hemp products, learn about the policies impacting children, families, and communities across Ohio—and why these battles are far from over.

After the news, Joel Penton joins for an in-depth conversation on LifeWise Academy, the fastest-growing Bible education movement in US public schools. Joel shares how his team is bringing faith-based instruction to over 100,000 students in 1,100 schools across 34 states, the challenges and controversies surrounding this unprecedented effort, and what inspired his new documentary, Off School Property.

Hear the story behind the movement, its impact on students' academic and spiritual lives, and why parents nationwide are embracing this model. 

More about Joel Penton

Joel is the Founder and CEO of LifeWise Academy. He is a nonprofit entrepreneur with a 15-year career focused on impacting students. A former Ohio State University football player, he received the Danny Wuerffel trophy for outstanding community service.

Joel founded Stand For Truth and Relevant Speakers Network, reaching over 3,000 schools and 2 million students. He is a renowned public speaker and author of three books.

He lives in Columbus, Ohio, with his wife, Bethany, and their five children, where they all enjoy telling stories at the dinner table, watching sci-fi movies, and playing full-contact monkey in the middle.

Listen in for a candid, faith-filled discussion on what it truly takes to stand for truth in a world that often seeks to silence it.

In today's rapidly shifting cultural landscape, holding fast to biblical values can feel like an uphill battle. We live in an era where objective truth is frequently treated as a mere suggestion, and where those who dare to speak with moral clarity are often met with hostility, cancellation, or intense marginalization. It takes immense courage to remain steadfast. How do we navigate a society that demands conformity to secular ideologies? How do we raise our families, lead our communities, and engage with the political sphere without compromising the Gospel? This highly anticipated conversation brings together two powerhouse voices who have dedicated their platforms to answering these exact questions with unwavering boldness, insight, and grace.

We are thrilled to welcome Allie Beth Stuckey to the discussion. As the host of the hit podcast, Relatable, Allie has become an indispensable voice for thousands of listeners who seek to make sense of the world through a biblical lens. She expertly breaks down the latest in culture, news, theology, and politics from an unapologetically Christian and conservative perspective. She is a frequent guest on Fox News, a prolific writer, and the bestselling author of two deeply impactful books: "You're Not Enough (& That's Okay)" and her latest release, "Toxic Empathy." Allie’s journey to the forefront of conservative Christian media is as inspiring as her commentary. In 2015, she simply began speaking to college sororities about the vital importance of voting and civic duty. What started as a passionate hobby soon blossomed into a full-time career. Her early blog and social media presence, aptly named The Conservative Millennial, rapidly gained viral traction, officially launching her into the political media sphere. Today, Allie is celebrated for her unique ability to dismantle popular cultural narratives—replacing them with the enduring, life-giving truths of Scripture.

Joining her in this profound dialogue is Pastor Luke Barnett, a man whose visionary leadership and pastoral heart have left an indelible mark on the modern church. Luke serves as the senior pastor of Dream City Church, one of the most dynamic, expansive, and influential congregations not only in Phoenix, Arizona, but within the entire Assemblies of God denomination nationwide. Taking over the mantle of leadership from his father, Tommy Barnett, in 2011, Pastor Luke stepped into a profoundly significant role laden with considerable expectations. Rather than simply maintaining the status quo, Pastor Luke has propelled Dream City Church into new eras of growth, community outreach, and spiritual vitality. He is a shepherd who deeply understands the struggles of the modern believer and consistently preaches a message of hope, resilience, and divine purpose. In 2015, he authored the inspiring book, "The Dream Centered Life." It is based on his foundational life message and teaches readers how to discover and pursue a true, God-sized dream. Pastor Luke challenges believers to step out of their comfort zones, overcome their fears, and embrace the extraordinary calling God has placed on their lives.

When the incisive cultural analysis of Allie Beth Stuckey meets the visionary, faith-building pastoral wisdom of Luke Barnett, the result is a conversation that is as deeply convicting as it is immensely encouraging. Together, they explore the urgent necessity of Christians stepping up to the plate in our current cultural moment. They unpack the dangers of retreating into silence, the necessity of discerning truth from emotional manipulation, and the practical ways we can all live boldly for Christ in our daily lives.

This week’s episode of The Narrative is something special—we're coming to you LIVE from the Ohio Statehouse lawn before the Ohio March for Life!

Thousands gathered in Columbus to boldly stand for life, and we were there, capturing the energy, voices, and stories that matter most. From inspiring testimonies to behind-the-scenes conversations, you’ll get an inside peek into the state’s largest protest.

Ohio March for Life keynote Melissa Ohden joins CCV's Aaron Baer, David Mahan, and Mike Andrews to talk about her abortion survival story, and state representatives Adam Mathews (R-Lebanon) and Melanie Miller (R-Ashland) take the Narrative stage to talk about what the future of Ohio looks like for pro-lifers.

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👉  Leave us a voicemail or text at 614-769-7077.

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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.

Support the show: https://www.ccv.org/donate

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The fight to protect children is gaining ground—Nationwide Children's Hospital just ended "gender-affirming" care for minors.

Will Hild, Executive Director of Consumers' Research, joins CCV Executive Policy Director David Mahan and Executive Communications Director Mike Andrews on this week's episode of The Narrative to break down how this victory came about, what it reveals about the broader battle over children's health, and why parents must keep speaking up and fighting for the protection of Ohio's children.

Before they share in the victory with Will, Aaron joins Mike to run through this week's most pressing news:

👉 Over one hundred thousand attendees flocked to Arizona this past Sunday to honor the life and legacy of Charlie Kirk. Among them were some of our nation's most prominent leaders proclaiming the name of Jesus Christ. You can watch the memorial service, in its entirety, here.

👉 This Wednesday, September 24, US Secretary of Education Linda McMahon, along with Ohio Governor Mike DeWine, US Senator Bernie Moreno, and Erika Donalds, gathered at our office in Downtown Columbus for a press conference about expanding school choice in Ohio. Photos from the event can be viewed on our social channels: @CCVPolicy.

👉 There are only two days left to secure your tickets for the upcoming Essential Summit on Thursday, October 2! Ticket sales close Sunday, September 28, at 11:59 pm.

MORE ABOUT WILL HILD

Will Hild is the Executive Director of Consumers’ Research, the nation’s oldest consumer protection organization. After taking the helm in 2020, Hild shifted focus to fight against Environmental, Social, Governance (ESG) and woke capitalism. Hild led Consumers’ Research as it launched the innovative Consumers First campaign, a multi-million-dollar ongoing campaign calling out woke corporations for betraying their customers and educating consumers on the dangers of ESG.

Under Hild’s leadership, The Washington Post described Consumers’ Research as “a key player in the conservative crusade to prevent Wall Street from factoring climate change into its investment decisions.” Companies targeted by the Consumers First campaign include BlackRock, Bank of America, Coca-Cola, Nike, State Farm, Ticketmaster, and more. Hild works to educate leaders across the United States on the dangers of ESG and woke capitalism and the threat they pose to consumers.

His efforts were highlighted in a profile in Bloomberg, noting that he was at the “forefront of the movement” to roll back woke corporate excess. He is a frequent radio, podcast, and television guest and has been interviewed by publications across the nation, including Fox News, CNBC, Wall Street Journal, Financial Times, Daily Mail, Washington Examiner, and The Daily Wire.

Will received his J.D. from Georgetown University Law Center and resides in Maryland with his wife, Cheryl, and their family.

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The recent assassination of Charlie Kirk has sent shockwaves through the nation and forced every Christian to confront a sobering, inescapable question: How do we live faithfully when the culture around us grows increasingly hostile to objective truth? When tragedy strikes at the heart of the conservative movement, and when speaking foundational truths invites severe backlash or even physical danger, it is tempting for believers to retreat into the safety of silence. But silence is not an option. In a time marked by deep ideological divides, unprecedented political violence, and intense cultural hostility, the church cannot afford to step back. We must stand firm, but we need the right theological and practical tools to do so effectively.

On this highly anticipated week’s episode of The Narrative, Dr. Andrew Walker joins Center for Christian Virtue's Aaron Baer, David Mahan, and Mike Andrews for a profoundly candid and necessary conversation about Christian ethics in a world that seems determined to abandon them. This is not an episode filled with platitudes. Dr. Walker doesn’t offer easy, superficial answers to complex cultural problems. Instead, he lays out a robust framework for courage, clarity, and conviction rooted deeply in Scripture. He addresses how we can maintain our witness without compromising our values, how to speak truth in love when the world responds with anger, and how to raise the next generation to be resilient in their faith. This is the exact kind of framework believers desperately need in culturally turbulent moments like this. Whether you are a parent, a pastor, or a professional, this discussion will equip you to navigate the moral complexities of our day with unwavering faith and unyielding grace.

Center for Christian Virtue President Aaron Baer shares a special tribute honoring Charlie Kirk’s life and how we answer the Lord’s call to move forward.

We look forward to our Cleveland Gala on Friday, September 26, where we will stand alongside you, pray together, and unite under Christ as we remember Charlie’s life and the impactful Kingdom work he dedicated his life to.

Join us as we continue to pray for the Kirk family.

Support the show: https://www.ccv.org/donate

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this week's special episode of The Narrative, CCV President Aaron Baer, Policy Executive Director David Mahan, and Communications Executive Director Mike Andrews give a run-down on this week's hottest news topics:

• The latest report on the Minnesota school shooter reveals he previously worked at a marijuana dispensary, leading to the use and abuse of the drug, which he claimed led to his planning of the massacre.
• The Trump administration is floating around the idea of reclassifying transgenderism as a mental health issue, which could lead the administration to restrict gun purchases for individuals who claim they identify as transgender.
• Malcolm Gladwell, Canadian journalist and author, shared this week that he now regrets advocating for men to compete in women's sports, saying he felt pressured to do so at the time.
• Left-wing journalist Taylor Lorenz wrote an article sharing that a "dark money" group is secretly funding Democratic influencers.
• Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. (RFK Jr.) has been in Senate committee hearings this week, answering questions about his public health agenda. The hearings grew heated, as questions flared regarding COVID-19 vaccinations, vaccine data, and more. RFK Jr. fired back, calling out senators for their involvement.

If public policy topics like this interest you, and you're curious to learn more or how you can get involved, join us for our upcoming events:

✨ Cleveland Celebration Gala, featuring Charlie Kirk, on Friday, September 26

🔥 The Essential Summit on Thursday, October 2

👣 Ohio March for Life on Friday, October 3

For many believers, patriotism has either been idolized or abandoned. But is there a better way forward—one that honors God and seeks the good of our nation? 

On this week's episode of The Narrative, Communications Executive Director Mike Andrews and Church Ambassador Network Executive Director Chris Lightfoot are joined by author and pastor Daniel Darling to discuss his new book, In Defense of Christian Patriotism.

At a time when faith and politics often collide, Daniel makes the case for patriotism that is rooted in gratitude, humility, and love for neighbor. One that honors God above all while still cherishing the blessings of living in America. 

Before Daniel joins the show, CCV President Aaron Baer joins Mike to run through this week's latest news:

• The Ohio Christian Education Network opened its fifth school, with two more opening next week after Labor Day.
• Dr. James Dobson, founder of Focus on the Family, passed away last week, Thursday, August 21.
• Breaking news from Minnesota: two children are dead and seventeen are injured after a gunman opens fire at Annunciation Catholic School in Minneapolis. 

MORE ABOUT DANIEL DARLING

Daniel Darling is an author, pastor, and thought leader. He currently serves as the Director of The Land Center for Cultural Engagement at Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary and Assistant Professor of Faith and Culture at Texas Baptist College. 

Daniel is an author, co-author, or editor of 20 books, including The Original Jesus, The Dignity Revolution, The Characters of Christmas, The Characters of Easter,  A Way With Words, Agents of Grace: How to Bridge Divides and Love as Jesus Loves, and the forthcoming: In Defense of Christian Patriotism.  

Dan holds a bachelor's degree in pastoral ministry from Dayspring Bible College, has studied at Trinity Evangelical Divinity School, and holds a Master's degree from Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. 

Dan has served churches in Illinois and Tennessee. He and his wife, Angela, have four children and are members of Travis Avenue Baptist Church in Fort Worth, Texas.

What kind of future do we want for our children? Dr. Laurie Todd-Smith, with the federal Office of Early Childhood Development, has spent her career answering that question.

In this week's episode of The Narrative, CCV Communications Executive Director Mike Andrews and Ohio Christian Education Network (OCEN) Executive Director Troy McIntosh speak with Laurie as she shares real-time trends and statistics in American classrooms, what downsizing the Department of Education entails, and why school choice is essential to protecting parental rights and student success.

Before the guys sit down with Laurie, Troy shares exciting OCEN updates, including:

• Seven new Christian schools opened this year through the partnership of OCEN, CCV, and churches that felt called to serve the children in their communities. 
• The launch of the nationwide Christian Education Network brought in leaders to Ohio from three states to learn how they can build a network of their own.
• The recent Sidney Daily News article Troy wrote in response to school choice critics.

MORE ABOUT LAURIE TODD-SMITH

Dr. Laurie Todd-Smith is the Deputy Assistant Secretary at the Office of Early Childhood Development at the Administration for Children and Families at the US Department of Health and Human Services.

She most recently served as the America First Policy Institute as Director of the Center for Education Opportunity and the Center for the American Child where she focused on assisting states to advance evidence-based education policy reforms including the expansion of school choice, early literacy, foster care reform, online safety of children, as well as model policy for fentanyl curriculum in public schools. 

Dr. Todd-Smith served as Senior Education and Workforce Policy Advisor to Governor Phil Bryant as well as Executive Director of the State Early Childhood Council. Her work led to remarkable growth in reading and math achievement outcomes for Mississippi's students, earning the state the title of the "Mississippi Miracle."

President Trump appointed Dr. Todd-Smith as the Director of the Women’s Bureau at the United States Department of Labor in 2018. During her tenure at the Women’s Bureau, she focused the agency on childcare quality and access, paid family leave, and grants to support women in apprenticeships.  

Dr. Todd-Smith holds a doctorate in education from Mississippi State University, a master’s degree from Western New Mexico University, and a bachelor’s degree from the University of Arizona.