Shifting Culture

In this episode, Mandy Smith shares a ancient vision for pastoral leadership - one that acknowledges human weakness and relies on God's strength. Mandy unpacks the problems with the Western, secular approach to ministry that has crept into the church and she proposes a reorientation towards confession, lament, and trusting in the work of the Holy Spirit, rather than relying on our own efforts and strategies. Mandy vulnerably shares personal stories of feeling overwhelmed in ministry, and how the practice of confession and emptying herself before God has led to renewal and a deeper awareness of His presence. She emphasizes the importance of measuring success not by numbers, but by transformed lives and the overflowing of God's Spirit. This conversation offers a compelling vision for a different kind of pastoral leadership - one that is deeply rooted in faith, rather than secular models. Mandy's insights challenge us to get out of the way and let God work in and through us in powerful ways. Dr Mandy Smith is the pastor of St Lucia Uniting Church in Brisbane, Australia, and author of The Vulnerable Pastor: How Human Limitations Empower Our Ministry and Unfettered: Imagining a Childlike Faith Beyond the Baggage of Western Culture. Her latest book, Confessions of an Amateur Saint: The Christian Leader's Journey from Self-Sufficiency to Reliance on God, releases in October 2024. Mandy teaches for DMin programs at The Eugene Peterson Center for Christian Imagination and Fuller Seminary. Mandy and her husband Jamie, a New Testament professor, live in their parsonage where the teapot is always warm. Learn more at www.TheWayIsTheWay.org. Mandy's Book:Confessions of an Amateur SaintJoin 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 Support the show

Kristin Kobes Du Mez, a New York Times bestselling author and professor specializing in gender, religion, and politics, reveals the troubling realities of abuse within the church. She discusses how victims are frequently silenced while abusers find quick forgiveness. The conversation covers systemic power dynamics, the urgent need for accountability, and the need for churches to embody true justice and care. Through her research, she amplifies the voices of survivors and challenges the church to confront its dark truths and foster genuine change.

Brad Brisco and I have a fascinating conversation about the future of church planting in North America. Brad shares his personal journey from the restaurant business to seminary and church planting, and how that led him to rethink the entire approach to planting new churches. He argues that we need to shift our mindset - from seeing the church as a vendor of religious goods and services, to understanding the church as a sent missionary people. This is a crucial distinction, because it changes everything about how we approach church planting. Brad unpacks the benefits of co-vocational ministry, the importance of building diverse teams, and the need to start with missionary behaviors and activities rather than just launching a Sunday morning service. If you're someone involved in church planting, or if you're simply curious about the future of the church in our rapidly changing culture, you're going to want to lean in and listen closely to this conversation. Brad offers a compelling new vision that just might reshape the way we think about fulfilling the Great Commission in our communities. Brad Brisco is currently the Director of Multiplication Strategies for the Send Network. He holds a doctorate in the area of missional ecclesiology, his doctoral thesis was on assisting existing congregations in transitioning in a missional direction. He is the co-author of Missional Essentials, a twelve-week small group study guide, The Missional Quest: Becoming a Church of the Long Run, Next Door As It Is In Heaven, and author of ReThink and Covocational Church Planting. Brad's Book:Co-Vocational Church PlantingJoin 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 Support the show

In this episode, Aundi Kolber takes us on a deep dive into the interplay between trauma, attachment, and the wisdom of the body. We explore the crucial distinction between healthy hard work and trauma-driven overwork, and how to discern the difference. Aundi shares powerful insights on the concept of the "window of tolerance" - how trauma can shrink it, and the process of expanding it to allow us to fully feel our emotions. We also discuss the role of the church in becoming more trauma-informed, and the importance of leaders doing their own inner work first. Aundi offers compassionate, practical guidance on the journey of healing and integration - learning to listen to the profound intelligence of the body, and finding the balance between safety and risk-taking. So join us as we seek wholeness and growth, both individually and within our communities. Aundi Kolber is a licensed professional counselor (MA, LPC) and the best selling author of the critically acclaimed Try Softer™️ and her newest book Strong like Water. She has received additional training in her specialization of trauma- and body-centered therapies and is passionate about the integration of faith and psychology. Aundi has appeared on Good Morning America, regularly speaks at national events, and is a frequent guest on podcasts such as The Lazy Genius, Typology, and The Rise and Fall of Mars Hill. As a survivor of trauma, Aundi brings hard-won knowledge about the work of change, the power of redemption, and the beauty of experiencing God with us in our pain. Aundi's Books:Preorder Take What You NeedTry SofterStrong Like WaterAundi's Recommendation:SensitiveJoin 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 Support the show

Rich Robinson, a transformative coach and cofounder of Movement Leaders Collective, shares insights from his new book, "All Change." He discusses a framework of dream, discover, design, and deploy that reflects Jesus' journey with his disciples. Listeners are inspired to cultivate curiosity, embrace disruptive change, and explore innovative church planting strategies. Rich emphasizes the importance of community engagement and understanding one's identity in leadership for impactful kingdom work. Get ready to unlock your potential and reimagine what's possible!

Today, we're diving into the powerful intersection of justice, faith, and women's issues with Tiffany Bluhm. As the new director of Made for PAX and the author of the devotional "The Women We've Been Waiting For," Tiffany has dedicated her life's work to empowering marginalized voices and reimagining what flourishing looks like for women. In our conversation, Tiffany unpacks the vital role of self-care, contemplation, and holy imagination in the lives of women - especially those facing injustice. She shares how practices like breath prayers, centering prayer, and cultivating a "magnificent refuge" can provide the resilience and inner strength needed to enact communal renewal. Tiffany also explores the importance of women's stories and perspectives, and how men can benefit from engaging with diverse voices. We discuss the power of art, beauty, and creativity to nourish the soul and spark new visions of what's possible. Ultimately, Tiffany's message is one of hope - that when women are empowered to tend to their own wholeness, it leads to the flourishing of entire communities. So join me as we learn from Tiffany's wisdom and imagine a more equitable world where women's full humanity is honored. Tiffany Bluhm is a speaker and writer with more than fifteen years of experience in ministry and nonprofit leadership. She is the author of Never Alone, She Dreams, and Prey Tell and former cohost of the Why Tho? podcast. She speaks at conferences, companies, and churches around the world, and her work has been featured in Publishers Weekly and Sojourners. As a minority, immigrant woman with an interracial family, Bluhm is passionate about inviting all to the table of faith, equality, justice, and dignity. She lives in the Pacific Northwest. Tiffany's Book:The Women We've Been Waiting ForTiffany's Recommendation:TryingJoin 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 Support the show

In this episode, Christine Westhoff shares about reframing our understanding of the prophetic. Christine has been on a 30-year journey exploring the beautiful and dreadful aspects of the prophetic movement, and she's here to share some crucial insights. We dive into the common misuses of prophecy that we've seen, especially in the political landscape. But more importantly, Christine unpacks the true purpose of the prophetic - to align people back to the covenant and the eternal purposes of Christ. We discuss the distinction between prophecy and simple encouragement, the vital role of the apostolic and prophetic working together, and the importance of testing and weighing prophetic words in community. Christine also shares her heart for the body of Christ to persevere through disillusionment and fight for the true prophetic. This is a conversation that I believe will challenge and equip you to approach the prophetic in a healthier, more biblical way. So join us as we reframe the prophetic. Christine is the author and creator of Reframing the Prophetic. She has a long history with the International team for 24-7 Prayer and is the President and founder of Akouo Missions, Inc, which is the umbrella ministry for Reframing the Prophetic and Illuminated Soul.Christine's Book:Reframing the PropheticChristine's Course:Reframing the PropheticJoin 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 Support the show

In this episode, Chris Lee shares his own journey of discovering the deep, unconditional love of God, and how that truth can transform our lives and culture, even in the midst of anxiety, fear, and division. Chris reminds us that at the core of the gospel is the simple yet profound message that we are loved by God. He encourages us to stop, be still, and receive that love - not through our own efforts or worthiness, but simply by acknowledging who God is. As we navigate challenging cultural waters, Chris offers wisdom on avoiding the traps of judgment and instead reflecting the grace and peace of Christ. His words point us to the life-giving presence of the Holy Spirit, and how cultivating that awareness can bear fruit in our lives and relationships. Whether you're feeling weary, cynical, or simply hungry for more of God's love, I believe this conversation will nourish your soul and inspire you to know, deep in your heart, that you are beloved. Chris Lee is the Vicar of St Saviours Wendell Park a growing Church in West London. He is married to Jenny and father of three, Rose, Saoirse and Jack. He is an Instagram influencer with over 170k followers (revchris7) and a YouTuber with over 350 million views on the various videos he is involved in. He uses his social media platforms to communicate the love God and of self. His 60 second sermons have brought him national coverage, being called by Holly Willoughby ‘the internet’s favourite vicar’. Chris’ latest book is Know You Are Beloved. Chris is a published author with Penguin Century releasing ‘The OMG Effect’ in Nov 2020 and has two new books coming out with Tyndale publishing in 2024. He has been regular contributor to Pause for Thought on BBC radio 2 and has spoken at conferences at home and abroad. He has a podcast called ‘come read with me,’ where he reads the bible with friends and discusses it. He is passionate about prayer and encouraging people to deepen their relationship with God through silence and contemplation. The Church Chris leads has a rule of life rather vision action plan which reflects the spirituality of the place.Chris' Book:Know You Are BelovedChris' Recommendation:Practicing the WayJoin 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 Support the show

In this episode, Shannon K. Evans takes us on a fascinating journey through the lives and teachings of radical female mystics from history, and explores how their wisdom and practices can speak powerfully to our lives and faith today. We'll dive into topics like the importance of art and creativity, caring for the environment, mental health, and finding balance between action and contemplation. So join us as we listen to what the mystics of the past have to say to us. Shannon K. Evans is the author of the books The Mystics Would Like a Word, Feminist Prayers for My Daughter, and Rewilding Motherhood. With interest in ecofeminism, contemplative practice, and social change, Shannon leads workshops and retreats across the country that spark curiosity and compassion. She has partnered with the Jesuits of Canada and the U.S. and is a frequent contributor to Franciscan Media. Having previously lived in Indonesia for two years, Shannon loves to travel, but is happiest at home on the Iowa prairie with her family and beloved chickens. Shannon's Book:The Mystics Would Like a WordJoin 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 Support the show

In this engaging discussion, Natalie Runion, a bestselling author and founder of Raised to Stay, shares her transformative vision for the church's future. She emphasizes returning to the biblical principles found in the book of Acts, cultivating a Spirit-led community. Natalie dives into rebuilding faith after deconstruction, the essence of true discipleship, and the healing power of unity and prayer. With insights on authentic worship and the need for genuine accountability, she inspires listeners to root their identity firmly in Christ.