The conversation today gets at the heart of our modern mental health crisis. Richard Beck, author of the new book 'The Shape of Joy,' takes us into how our cultural obsession with introspection and the pursuit of self-esteem has undermined our wellbeing. He traces this back to key philosophical and psychological figures like Descartes and Freud, who ushered in this inward turn. He shows how this has led to excessive rumination, a fragile sense of self-worth tied to external achievements, and an inability to find true meaning and joy. But the real power of this conversation is in how Beck points us towards an alternative - a path of transcendence, of finding our identity and security in something greater than ourselves. He unpacks the psychological benefits of gratitude, awe, and spiritual connection. And he challenges us to move beyond just insight and self-analysis, towards more embodied, experiential ways of cultivating wellbeing. It's a rich discussion that gets at the heart of our modern malaise and points towards a more joyful and grounded way of being. A conversation worth diving into. Richard Beck (PhD) is Professor of Psychology and Senior Fellow of the Landon Saunders Center for Joy and Human Flourishing at Abilene Christian University. Richard also teaches in the Doctor of Ministry programs at Fuller Theological Seminary and Abilene Christian University. During his teaching career, Richard has been honored twice as ACU Teacher of the Year. Richard has also been recognized as Honors Teacher of the Year and has won the College of Arts and Sciences Classroom Teaching award and Faith Integration award.Outside of the classroom, Richard travels the world as a sought after speaker and an award-winning blogger and author. To explore speaking engagements for your church or organization email beckr@acu.edu.Richard's Book:The Shape of JoyRichard's Recommendations:All Things Are Full of GodsThe PenguinJoin Our Patreon for Early Access and More: PatreonConnect with Joshua: jjohnson@allnations.usGo to www.shiftingculturepodcast.com to interact and donate. Every donation helps to produce more podcasts for you to enjoy.Follow on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, or Threads at www.facebook.com/shiftingculturepodcasthttps://www.instagram.com/shiftingculturepodcast/https://twitter.com/shiftingcultur2https://www.threads.net/@shiftingculturepodcasthttps://www.youtube.com/@shiftingculturepodcastConsider Giving to the podcast and to the ministry that my wife and I do around the world. Just click on the support the show link below"Ask Me Anything": Christmas Aftermath Welcome to Ask Me Anything, the podcast where we give you biblical answers to...Listen on: Apple Podcasts   SpotifySupport the show

In this episode, Stephanie Duncan Smith takes us on a profound journey through grief, loss, and the resilience required to open ourselves up to love again. She beautifully weaves together themes of time, the liturgical calendar, and the radical empathy of a God who meets us in every moment - whether joyful or sorrowful. Stephanie shares her own experiences with pregnancy loss, and how she grappled with the dissonance of everyday life and the world's expectations in the midst of her grief. She redefines resilience not as "overcoming," but as the ability to hold joy and sorrow together, to live in the uncomfortable tension. This conversation is a masterclass in finding hope, courage and the freedom to feel the full range of human emotion, even in the darkest of times. Stephanie's words offer a path forward for anyone who has experienced profound loss, and a reminder that love is always worth the risk.Stephanie Duncan Smith is a writer and senior editor at HarperOne who has spent her career developing award-winning and bestselling authors. She is the creator of Slant Letter, a bestselling Substack email newsletter for writers looking to deepen their craft and do it in style. Duncan Smith completed her master’s in theology at Western Theological Seminary, where she was the winner of the Frederick Buechner Prize for Excellence in Writing. She lives with her husband, Zach, a professor, and their two children in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania.Stephanie's Book:Even After EverythingJoin Our Patreon for Early Access and More: PatreonConnect with Joshua: jjohnson@allnations.usGo to www.shiftingculturepodcast.com to interact and donate. Every donation helps to produce more podcasts for you to enjoy.Follow on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, or Threads at www.facebook.com/shiftingculturepodcasthttps://www.instagram.com/shiftingculturepodcast/https://twitter.com/shiftingcultur2https://www.threads.net/@shiftingculturepodcasthttps://www.youtube.com/@shiftingculturepodcastConsider Giving to the podcast and to the ministry that my wife and I do around the world. Just click on the support the show link below"Ask Me Anything": Christmas Aftermath Welcome to Ask Me Anything, the podcast where we give you biblical answers to...Listen on: Apple Podcasts   SpotifySupport the show

Today, we have a fantastic conversation with Hal Donaldson, the founder and president of Convoy of Hope, a global humanitarian organization that has helped over 200 million people in need. Hal has an incredible personal story - growing up in poverty after his father was tragically killed, experiencing the kindness of strangers, and then feeling called to dedicate his life to serving the poor and marginalized. What I found so compelling about this conversation is how Hal has wrestled with the tension between ambition, drive, and burnout. As Convoy of Hope has grown into one of the largest charities in the US, Hal has had to learn hard lessons about the importance of self-care, boundaries, and staying grounded in his relationship with God. He shares practical tips he's implemented, like no problem-solving after 8pm, no dinner meetings, and protecting vacation time. Hal also reflects deeply on the role of humility and dependence on God for leaders - how success can actually be more dangerous than failure, if it leads to self-reliance. His insights on the difference between acting humble and truly embodying a humble spirit are really thought-provoking. Ultimately, this is a conversation about how to sustain a life of service and compassion over the long haul. Hal has some hard-won wisdom to share, and I think his story will resonate with anyone trying to make a difference in the world while also caring for their own wellbeing. It's a delicate balance, but one that Hal has clearly wrestled with and learned from. Hal Donaldson is the founder and CEO of Convoy of Hope, a nonprofit organization that leads humanitarian initiatives across the United States and around the world. The author of more than 30 books, Hal has degrees in journalism and biblical studies. He and his wife, Doree, have four daughters.Hal's Book:What Really MattersHal's Recommendation:The Lincoln ConspiracyJoin Our Patreon for Early Access and More: PatreonConnect with Joshua: jjohnson@allnations.usGo to www.shiftingculturepodcast.com to interact and donate. Every donation helps to produce more podcasts for you to enjoy.Follow on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, or Threads at www.facebook.com/shiftingculturepodcasthttps://www.instagram.com/shiftingculturepodcast/https://twitter.com/shiftingcultur2https://www.threads.net/@shiftingculturepodcasthttps://www.youtube.com/@shiftingculturepodcastConsider Giving to the podcast and to the ministry that my wife and I do around the world. Just click on the support the show link below"Ask Me Anything": Christmas Aftermath Welcome to Ask Me Anything, the podcast where we give you biblical answers to...Listen on: Apple Podcasts   SpotifySupport the show

Today, we have a fascinating conversation about a figure who has long been misunderstood and overlooked in the Christian tradition - Mary Magdalene. Our guest is Jennifer Powell McNutt, a scholar of church history and theology who has dedicated years to uncovering the true story of this remarkable woman. As Jennifer explains, Mary Magdalene was not a penitent prostitute, as she's often been portrayed incorrectly, but a devoted disciple of Jesus, one of the women who traveled with him and financially supported his ministry. She was present at the crucifixion, the first witness to the resurrection, and the one Jesus chose to send back to the other disciples with the news. In many ways, she was the "apostle to the apostles." Yet her story has been obscured and distorted over centuries of Christian history, shaped by cultural biases and theological agendas. Jennifer takes us on a deep dive into the Gospels and the complex history of how Mary Magdalene has been remembered - and forgotten - in the church. It's a rich and illuminating conversation that challenges us to reconsider what we think we know about this pivotal figure and her significance for our understanding of Jesus and the early Christian movement. I think you'll find it as fascinating as I did. Jennifer Powell McNutt (PhD, The University of St. Andrews) is the Franklin S. Dyrness Chair of Biblical and Theological Studies and Professor of theology and history of Christianity at Wheaton College. She is an award-winning author, a fellow of the Royal Historical Society, an ordained teaching elder in the Presbyterian church, and a fellow of the Center for Pastor Theologians.Jennifer's Book:The Mary We ForgotJoin Our Patreon for Early Access and More: PatreonConnect with Joshua: jjohnson@allnations.usGo to www.shiftingculturepodcast.com to interact and donate. Every donation helps to produce more podcasts for you to enjoy.Follow on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, or Threads at www.facebook.com/shiftingculturepodcasthttps://www.instagram.com/shiftingculturepodcast/https://twitter.com/shiftingcultur2https://www.threads.net/@shiftingculturepodcasthttps://www.youtube.com/@shiftingculturepodcastConsider Giving to the podcast and to the ministry that my wife and I do around the world. Just click on the support the show link below"Ask Me Anything": Christmas Aftermath Welcome to Ask Me Anything, the podcast where we give you biblical answers to...Listen on: Apple Podcasts   SpotifySupport the show

In this conversation, Russ Ramsey talks about the power of art, beauty, and storytelling - and how they can help us make sense of the brokenness in our world. Russ is the author of books like "Rembrandt is in the Wind" and "Van Gogh Has a Broken Heart," where he dives into the lives and works of these iconic artists. And what he uncovers is so much more than just the paintings themselves. It's about the human experience - the joy, the suffering, the hope that these artists poured into their art. We talk about how engaging with beauty and art, can actually be a window into understanding the glory of God. And how even in the midst of tragedy and heartbreak, art can help us find language for our own struggles and emotions. Russ also shares some incredible stories behind famous works of art - like the Mona Lisa and why it became so famous. Spoiler alert: it's not because of the painting itself! So get ready for a rich, thought-provoking conversation about the intersection of faith, art, and the human experience. Russ has so much wisdom to share, so join us. Russ Ramsey grew up in the wheatfields of Indiana. He studied at Taylor University and Covenant Theological Seminary (MDiv, ThM) before becoming a pastor. He and his family live in Franklin, Tennessee. Russ is the author of Van Gogh has a Broken Heart: What Art Teaches Us About the Wonder and Struggle of Being Alive (Zondervan 2024) and Rembrandt is in the Wind: Learning to Love Art through the Eyes of Faith (Zondervan, 2022).Russ' Book:Van Gogh Has a Broken HeartRuss' Recommendation:Mary OliverJoin Our Patreon for Early Access and More: PatreonConnect with Joshua: jjohnson@allnations.usGo to www.shiftingculturepodcast.com to interact and donate. Every donation helps to produce more podcasts for you to enjoy.Follow on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, or Threads at www.facebook.com/shiftingculturepodcasthttps://www.instagram.com/shiftingculturepodcast/https://twitter.com/shiftingcultur2https://www.threads.net/@shiftingculturepodcasthttps://www.youtube.com/@shiftingculturepodcastConsider Giving to the podcast and to the ministry that my wife and I do around the world. Just click on the support the show link below"Ask Me Anything": Christmas Aftermath Welcome to Ask Me Anything, the podcast where we give you biblical answers to...Listen on: Apple Podcasts   SpotifySupport the show

In this conversation, Scot McKnight, a world-renowned speaker and expert on the historical Jesus, dives into the deconstruction movement in the church, describing it as a prophetic work of the Spirit. He shares his personal journey from a fundamentalist background to a Jesus-centered faith, emphasizing the importance of the 'I Am' statements in reconnecting with Jesus. Surprisingly, many deconstructors are not abandoning faith but are seeking more authentic church experiences. Scot offers insight on navigating disagreements and fostering unity amidst this transformative process.

In this captivating conversation, we dive deep into the intersection of bread, theology, and community with guest Kendall Vanderslice. Kendall shares her lifelong love of baking, which began as a way to process emotions and eventually blossomed into a vocational calling. But her journey took an unexpected turn when she discovered the rich theological and cultural dimensions of food, particularly bread. As Kendall studied the anthropology of food and explored biblical narratives around sustenance, she uncovered powerful parallels. The chemical process of bread-making, with its cycle of death and resurrection, mirrors the gospel story. And the act of breaking bread together has long been a way for diverse communities to bridge divides and find common ground. Perhaps most compelling is Kendall's experience with a "dinner church" - a community that held their services around the table, sharing meals and communion despite varying political and theological backgrounds. The way this group navigated their differences while breaking bread offers a powerful model for us all. Kendall also delves into the symbolic significance of bread in the communion table, explaining how the humble loaf can represent nourishment, community, and the transformative work of God. Whether you're a bread enthusiast or simply curious about the deeper meaning of everyday things, this conversation is sure to leave you with a fresh perspective. Prepare to have your eyes opened to the hidden spiritual and communal depths of the humble loaf of bread. Kendall Vanderslice is a baker, writer, speaker, and the founder of the Edible Theology Project, a ministry that connects the Communion table to the kitchen table. She is a graduate of Wheaton College (BA anthropology), Boston University (MLA gastronomy), and Duke Divinity School (master of theological studies). Kendall is the author of By Bread Alone and We Will Feast and lives (with her big-eared beagle named Strudel) in Durham, North Carolina, where she teaches workshops on bread baking as a spiritual practice.Kendall's Book:Bake & PrayKendall's Recommendations:Remarkably Bright CreaturesThe Spirit of Our PoliticsJoin Our Patreon for Early Access and More: PatreonConnect with Joshua: jjohnson@allnations.usGo to www.shiftingculturepodcast.com to interact and donate. Every donation helps to produce more podcasts for you to enjoy.Follow on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, or Threads at www.facebook.com/shiftingculturepodcasthttps://www.instagram.com/shiftingculturepodcast/https://twitter.com/shiftingcultur2https://www.threads.net/@shiftingculturepodcasthttps://www.youtube.com/@shiftingculturepodcastConsider Giving to the podcast and to the ministry that my wife and I do around the world. Just click on the support the show link below"Ask Me Anything": Christmas Aftermath Welcome to Ask Me Anything, the podcast where we give you biblical answers to...Listen on: Apple Podcasts   SpotifySupport the show

In this episode, Chad Veach dives deep into the critical topic of humility versus pride - a battle that every leader and believer must wrestle with. He unpacks how pride can so easily creep into our lives and relationships, while true humility unlocks the best version of ourselves and our communities. We explore Chad's own journey of learning humility, from his upbringing to his time as a youth pastor. He shares how finding safe, accountable friendships was key, as well as the daily discipline of Bible reading that keeps him grounded. We also unpack powerful examples of humility from Moses and Jesus, and how their suffering and obedience led them to greater dependence on God. Ultimately, the message is clear - pride is a liar that promises everything, but gives nothing, while true humility is the pathway to the freedom, impact and fulfillment we truly crave. It's a challenging but vital conversation for anyone seeking to live with authenticity and purpose. Chad Veach is the founder and lead pastor of Zoe Church, a dynamic community in the heart of Los Angeles, California. An international speaker and preacher, he has dedicated his life to the ministry of the Gospel. He is the author of Help! I Work With People, Faith Forward Future, Unreasonable Hope; and I Bet You Think This Book Is About You, and the host of Leadership Lean In, a top-charting leadership podcast. Chad and his wife Julia, reside in Los Angeles with their four children: Georgia, Winston, Maverick, and Clive.Chad's Book:I Bet You Think This Book is About YouChad's Recommendations:GritWhy Great Men FallJoin Our Patreon for Early Access and More: PatreonConnect with Joshua: jjohnson@allnations.usGo to www.shiftingculturepodcast.com to interact and donate. Every donation helps to produce more podcasts for you to enjoy.Follow on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, or Threads at www.facebook.com/shiftingculturepodcasthttps://www.instagram.com/shiftingculturepodcast/https://twitter.com/shiftingcultur2https://www.threads.net/@shiftingculturepodcasthttps://www.youtube.com/@shiftingculturepodcastConsider Giving to the podcast and to the ministry that my wife and I do around the world. Just click on the support the show link below"Ask Me Anything": Christmas Aftermath Welcome to Ask Me Anything, the podcast where we give you biblical answers to...Listen on: Apple Podcasts   SpotifySupport the show

This conversation with Gareth Higgins is an exploration of how storytelling, empathy, and a commitment to love can transform even the most entrenched conflicts. Gareth shares his personal journey growing up in Northern Ireland, where the dominant narrative was one of division, fear, and violence. But through the transformative power of films like 'One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest,' Gareth discovered the importance of seeing the humanity in those we might otherwise label as 'other.' He realized the need to become an ally - not by imposing his own vision, but by listening and allowing those he seeks to support to define what true allyship looks like. Gareth goes on to unpack a profound insight - that all conflict is rooted in fear, and beneath that fear lies love. By learning to love and accept ourselves, we open the door to a new kind of storytelling, one that moves beyond 'us vs. them' narratives and towards a vision of liberation, reconciliation, and interdependence. This conversation is a masterclass in the power of imagination, empathy, and a willingness to embrace the complexity of the human experience. Whether you're navigating personal struggles or seeking to understand the roots of societal conflict, Gareth's wisdom offers a roadmap towards a more just, compassionate, and connected world. So join us.Gareth Higgins was born in Belfast in 1975, grew up during the northern Ireland Troubles, and now lives in the US. He writes and speaks about the power of storytelling to shape our lives and world, peace and making justice, and how to take life seriously without believing your own propaganda. He has been involved in peace-building and violence reduction in northern Ireland and helping address the legacy of conflict, received a Ph.D. in Sociology from Queen’s University Belfast, and helped teach the world’s first graduate course in Reconciliation Studies at Trinity College Dublin. He also helped found the Wild Goose, New Story and Movies & Meaning festivals. Gareth leads retreats in North America and Ireland; and he founded The Porch Magazine. Brian McLaren says Gareth’s new book How Not to be Afraid is “a beautiful book”, Kathleen Norris says it’s “a necessary book”, and Micky ScottBey Jones says it’s “a much-needed resource for skill-building through our fear and trauma, so that we might create the belonging and communities we desire”.  Find out more at www.hownottobeafraid.comHis newest book "A Whole Life in Twelve Movies: A Cinematic Path to a Deeper Spirituality", co-authored with Kathleen Norris explores movies and the meaning of our lives.Gareth's Book:A Whole Life in Twelve MoviesGareth's Recommendations:Sun HousePerfect DaysJoin Our Patreon for Early Access and More: PatreonConnect with Joshua: jjohnson@allnations.usGo to www.shiftingculturepodcast.com Follow on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, or Threads at www.facebook.com/shiftingculturepodcasthttps://www.instagram.com/shiftingculturepodcast/https://twitter.com/shiftingcultur2"Ask Me Anything": Christmas Aftermath Welcome to Ask Me Anything, the podcast where we give you biblical answers to...Listen on: Apple Podcasts   SpotifySupport the show

Randy & Edith Woodley have a radically different perspective on what it means to live a fulfilling life. As Native American authors and educators, they challenge the Western notion of pursuing individual happiness, arguing that true well-being comes from living in harmony with our broader community and the natural world. In this conversation, Randy and Edith share their personal stories of overcoming intergenerational trauma and discovering the wisdom of indigenous worldviews. They contrast the European dualism that separates the spiritual and material realms, with a holistic understanding that sees all of creation as interconnected. Digging into concepts like hospitality, humor, and the importance of story, Randy and Edith paint a vision for how we can all learn to live more authentically and in right relationship - not just with each other, but with the earth itself. Their insights challenge us to unravel the lies we've been told, and to rebuild our lives on a foundation of harmony, respect, and generosity. This is a conversation that can open up a different way to see the world. So get ready to have your assumptions challenged, and your heart opened, as we explore a path to greater well-being - for ourselves, our communities, and our planet. Randy and Edith Woodley are a dynamic couple with a deep passion for creativity and Indigenous spirituality, justice, and earth empowerment. Their diverse backgrounds and experiences have uniquely equipped them to bring about positive change in their communities for over three decades. They have four children and six grandchildren.Randy Woodley, an award-winning author and Cherokee descendant (UKB), weaves Indigenous wisdom, ecological sustainability, and spirituality. He is respected by Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities worldwide and has been featured in The New York Times, Politifact, Time Magazine, and The Huffington Post.Edith Woodley, a member of the Eastern Band of Shoshone Indians, and of Choctaw, Crow, Paiute, Pi'ikanni, Umatilla, and Mohawk descent showcases Indigenous cultures through traditional beadwork, seed-keeping, and storytelling. She advocates for Indigenous rights and cultural preservation. Edith is co-founder and co-leader of a semi-annual mentorship called “Decolonizing with Badass Indigenous Grandmas.” Randy & Edith's Book:Journey to ElohehRandy's Recommendation:The Universal ChristJoin Our Patreon for Early Access and More: PatreonConnect with Joshua: jjohnson@allnations.usGo to www.shiftingculturepodcast.com to interact and donate. Every donation helps to produce more podcasts for you to enjoy.Follow on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, or Threads at www.facebook.com/shiftingculturepodcasthttps://www.instagram.com/shiftingculturepodcast/https://twitter.com/shiftingcultur2https://www.threads.net/@shiftingculturepodcasthttps://www.youtube.com/@shiftingculturepodcast"Ask Me Anything": Christmas Aftermath Welcome to Ask Me Anything, the podcast where we give you biblical answers to...Listen on: Apple Podcasts   SpotifySupport the show