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Scott Latta

Award-winning journalist and author of Gods of the Smoke Machine, investigating abuse and systemic problems in America's megachurches and the rise of related political trends.

Top 3 podcasts with Scott Latta

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43 snips
Dec 3, 2025 • 1h 43min

Gods of the Smoke Machine: Power, Pain & the Megachurch

Scott Latta, an award-winning journalist and author, dives deep into the dark side of megachurches in his discussion. He reveals how these massive congregations, while appealing, often strip congregants of power and voice. Lance Ford, director with a strong background in theology, critiques the lack of real accountability, highlighting how many pastors evade consequences after scandals. Together, they explore the political influence of megachurches and advocate for a new initiative aimed at restoring community trust and accountability within church structures.
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Dec 2, 2025 • 56min

083: Megachurch Culture and Christian Nationalism with Scott Latta

Scott Latta, an award-winning journalist and author of "Gods of the Smoke Machine," dives deep into the troubling connections between megachurch culture, Christian nationalism, and spiritual abuse. He reveals how successful evangelical churches perpetuate systemic misconduct and explores the personal stories of survivors. Latta highlights patterns of power consolidation, accountability gaps, and the impact of mega-pastors on vulnerable congregants. He calls for a normalization of discussions around spiritual abuse and envisions healing for survivors amidst a shifting landscape.
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Oct 28, 2025 • 54min

148: Inside the Megachurch Machine: Abuse, Accountability, and Christian Nationalism with Scott Latta

Scott Latta, a religion journalist and author of 'Gods of the Smoke Machine,' dives deep into the dynamics of megachurches. He discusses their surprising growth amid declining overall church attendance and the impact on smaller churches, including the troubling trend of cannibalization. Latta highlights the emotional toll scandals have on congregants and the importance of centering survivor voices. He unpacks issues of accountability in these massive institutions, critiquing faux systems while emphasizing how megachurches are increasingly engaging in politics, shaping the landscape of Christian nationalism.

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