In this episode of Reasoned Reality, Joe Smith sits down with Christina Guillen to talk about deconstruction, motherhood, faith, and what it means to raise a child with compassion and freedom instead of fear. Christina shares how becoming a mother reshaped her theology, how a painful church experience with her daughter became the final turning point in her deconstruction, and how that journey led her to reimagine familiar Bible stories for children in a healthier, more expansive way.

Their conversation moves through church trauma, identity, LGBTQ+ inclusion, Christian nationalism, and the difference between control and care. Christina also shares the heart behind her new children’s book project, including why she’s writing for the version of herself who once believed she could do everything “right” and still be rejected by God.

Key Topics

• Christina’s journey from fundamentalist Christianity to deconstruction
• Motherhood as a catalyst for reevaluating faith
• Why church safety matters for children
• Reimagining Bible stories through the lens of love, wonder, and inclusion
• Shared values vs. shared beliefs
• Christian nationalism, empire, and the misuse of religion for control
• Raising children to believe they are good, they belong, and they should care for others

Connect with Christina: Momdeconstructed Instagram

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Summary

In this episode, we explore the roots of Christian nationalism, its impact on American democracy, and how to effectively counter disinformation with facts, emotional appeals, and shared values. Guest Andrew Seidel, a constitutional attorney and author, shares insights from his extensive work fighting for separation of church and state.

Key Topics

• Roots of Christian nationalism in America
• Disinformation and propaganda in political movements
• The importance of separation of church and state
• Strategies for effective dialogue and persuasion
• Historical myths and their impact on current politics

Resources

The Founding Myth by Andrew Seidel - https://www.amazon.com/s?k=The+Founding+Myth+Andrew+Seidel

Americans United for Separation of Church and State - https://www.au.org/

Freedom From Religion Foundation - https://ffrf.org/

American Atheists - https://www.atheists.org/

American Humanist Association - https://americanhumanist.org/

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Summary

In this episode, Joe Smith interviews Kathy Baldock about her new book 'Forging a Sacred Weapon' and explores the history, interpretation, and cultural context of biblical texts related to LGBTQ issues. They discuss the importance of understanding scripture in its historical context to foster informed and compassionate conversations.

Key topics

• Historical reinterpretation of biblical texts
• The influence of culture and politics on scripture
• The importance of context in biblical interpretation
• The role of straight allies in LGBTQ+ inclusion
• The evolution of views on marriage and sexuality

Resources

• Forging a Sacred Weapon by Kathy Baldock
• Unclobbered by Colby Martin
• Changing Our Minds by Dr. Gushee
• 1946 The Movie
• Amplify Asia

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Summary

In this insightful interview, Ross Murray (Vice President of Education & Training at the GLAAD Media Institute) shares his journey from small-town Minnesota to becoming a leading advocate for LGBTQ rights within faith communities. Discover how he bridges worlds of faith and LGBTQ advocacy, the importance of media in shaping perceptions, and the transformative work of the Naming Project.

Keywords

LGBTQ advocacy, faith and LGBTQ, media influence, naming project, GLAD, religious inclusion, community building, social change, storytelling, faith-based activism

Key Topics

• Ross Murray's background and upbringing in Minnesota
• The intersection of faith and LGBTQ identity
• The role of media and storytelling in social change
• The work and impact of the Naming Project
• Building trust and community in advocacy work

Resources

GLAD - Gay & Lesbian Advocates & Defenders - https://www.glad.org

Reconciling Works - Lutherans Concerned - https://www.reconcilingworks.org

The Naming Project - https://thenamingproject.org

Ross Murray's Website - https://rossmurray.org

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Summary

In this insightful interview, filmmaker Sharon 'Rocky' Roggio discusses her groundbreaking documentary 1946, the impact of biblical mistranslations, and the importance of open, respectful conversations about faith, LGBTQ+ issues, and social justice. Discover how her work is fostering understanding across communities worldwide.

Key topics

• Impact of biblical mistranslations on culture and society
• The making and influence of the documentary 1946
• Strategies for fostering respectful, open conversations about faith and LGBTQ+ issues

Resources

1946 the Movie - https://1946themovie.com/

Kathy's New Book - https://canyonwalkerconnections.com/books/

Christians Against Christian Nationalism - https://cacn.org/

PFLAG International - https://pflag.org/

Amplify Asia Conference - https://amplifyasia.org/

Connect with Rocky Roggio:

• Instagram
• Email- [email protected]

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Summary

Join us as Lauren Lanzaretta shares her powerful journey from conservative Christian roots to embracing her identity as a gay Christian artist. This conversation explores faith, authenticity, community, and the transformative power of music and storytelling.

Key Topics

• Faith and LGBTQ identity
• Religious abuse and discrimination
• Music as a tool for healing and community

Connect With Our Guest

Website | Podcast | Instagram | You Can Be Both Episode w/ Joe Smith

Summary

This conversation with Alex Kornswiet, Nick Young, Lucas Bean, and Cate Russell explores the rise of Christian nationalism, the impact of political and religious symbols, and how individuals from diverse backgrounds are speaking out against harmful narratives. It offers insights into faith, politics, and social change, emphasizing the importance of everyday conversations and personal impact.

Key Topics

• Rise of Christian nationalism and its impact
• The symbolism of the cross and its co-opting by political movements
• Personal motivations for speaking out against harmful narratives
• The influence of upbringing and background on beliefs
• Strategies for engaging in difficult conversations about faith and politics Fascism and authoritarianism
• Psychological barriers to change
• Role of social media in societal division

Connect With The Guests

Alex Kornswiet

• Substack | Instagram

Cate Russell

• Instagram

Lucas Bean

• Linktree | Instagram

Nick Young

• Linktree | Instagram

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Joe Smith: https://www.instagram.com/therealjoe.smith/

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Summary

In this engaging conversation, Jen Johannsen shares her unique journey from dentistry to trauma-informed political consulting, focusing on unbought progressive candidates and community-driven leadership. They explore systemic issues in politics, the importance of nuance, healing from trauma, and the power of collective action to create meaningful change.

Key Topics

• Unbought progressive candidates and their impact
• The role of trauma-informed leadership in politics
• Systemic issues in establishment politics and the importance of nuance
• Healing from trauma and the importance of self-awareness
• The potential of collective action and community-driven leadership

Follow Jen Johanssen

Instagram

Website

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Join us for an insightful conversation with human rights lawyer and activist Qasim Rashid as we explore faith, politics, systemic injustice, and how to create meaningful change in society. Discover practical steps for activism, the importance of faith in action, and the power of local engagement.

Key topics

• Faith and politics as tools for social change
• Systemic injustice and systemic violence
• The importance of local activism and community engagement

Resources

Qasim Rashid's podcast

Sway App for Voter Engagement

https://www.qasimrashid.com/subscribe

https://islamtoday.substack.com/subscribe

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Therealjoesmith Substack: https://therealjoesmith.substack.com/

Summary

In this engaging conversation, Joe Smith and Cate Russell explore the rapid pace of current events, the influence of algorithms on our perceptions, patriarchy, gender roles, and navigating a tumultuous world with resilience and authenticity. They share personal stories, insights on systemic issues, and practical ways to stay grounded amid chaos.

Key topics

• Impact of algorithms on social discourse
• Patriarchy and gender roles in society
• Navigating systemic injustice and political upheaval

Follow Cate Russell: https://www.instagram.com/thecaterussell/

Stay connected with all things Reasoned Reality

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