Charles Marsh

In this conversation, Charles Marsh, a Commonwealth Professor of Religious Studies and author of 'Evangelical Anxiety: A Memoir', shares his journey from an upbringing steeped in evangelical dogma to a more compassionate understanding of mental health. He candidly discusses how religious teachings shaped his struggles with anxiety, often viewing his panic attacks through a lens of guilt. Marsh highlights the importance of re-evaluating faith, embracing therapy, and finding beauty in ordinary moments, urging a broader acceptance of mental health within religious communities.

Charles Marsh, Commonwealth Professor of Religious Studies at the University of Virginia and author of 'Evangelical Anxiety: A Memoir', shares his journey of reconciling faith with mental health. He candidly discusses his childhood in the evangelical South, where he battled panic attacks and learned to distrust his own desires. The conversation explores the complexities of navigating mental wellness within strict religious frameworks, offering insights into vulnerability, storytelling, and finding beauty in everyday challenges.

In a lively discussion, Charles Marsh, a professor of religious studies and author of 'Strange Glory,' shares his deep admiration for Dietrich Bonhoeffer, a pivotal 20th-century theologian. They explore Bonhoeffer's evolving thoughts amidst turmoil, his revolutionary experiences in the African American church, and the profound influence of thinkers like Karl Barth and Reinhold Niebuhr. Marsh also reflects on Bonhoeffer's complex relationships, particularly the homoerotic bond with Eberhard Bethge, revealing layers of emotion and intellectual dialogue that shaped Bonhoeffer's legacy.