Listen to the 20-minute Utterly Heretical after show episode that Nate & Shelby recorded debriefing this conversation with Dr. Laura AndersonDr. Laura Anderson tackles religious trauma, explaining it as our physiological response to religious experiences, distinct from the events themselves. She critiques purity culture for its detrimental effects on personal development and relationships, advocating for a more nuanced understanding of the Bible and recognizing its flaws. The conversation extends to the challenges churches face in addressing trauma, the variety of Christian views on mental health, and navigating relationships amid political and religious differences.Become a member and get:1. Bonus episodes of Utterly Heretical (our private podcast) every month2. All full-length episodes3. Access to our private community of 350+ listenersBecome a member: almostheretical.com/subscribe Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Listen to the extra 20-minute Utterly Heretical episode that Nate & Shelby recorded debriefing this conversation with David.Does Hell or even annihilationism mean that God's love is coercive? David Fitch (author of Reckoning With Power) debates with Nate and Shelby about whether we can call God's love "non-coercive".Thoughts, questions, stories? Please email almostheretical@gmail.comBecome a member and get:1. Bonus episodes of Utterly Heretical (our private podcast) every month2. All full-length episodes3. Access to our private community of 350+ listenersBecome a member: almostheretical.com/subscribe Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Elaine Pagels presents the compelling theory that the Gospel of John might have intentionally silenced the Gospel of Thomas. This interview not only explores the hidden gospels but also challenges us to rethink the foundational narratives of Christianity through the insights of Elaine Pagels.Thoughts, questions, stories? Please email almostheretical@gmail.comBecome a member and get:1. Bonus episodes of Utterly Heretical (our private podcast) every month2. All full-length episodes3. Access to our private community of 350+ listenersBecome a member: almostheretical.com/subscribe Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Philosopher Peter Rollins delves into deconstructing faith, emphasizing the power of questioning religious narratives. Discussions include negation in theology, work culture in Ireland and America, the gift economy, love, and bridging divides through embracing diversity and challenging beliefs.

Anna Gazmarian shares her journey of faith, getting fired from a church, and confronting mental health issues within the church. Discussions on Religious OCD, scrupulosity, and challenging toxic purity culture. Emphasis on redefining God and sin, navigating mental health struggles in a religious context, and choosing faith amidst overwhelming negativity.

The hosts discuss the story of Noah's Ark, its dark elements, and its depiction in different ancient cultures. They explore the comet theory suggesting a global flood and the challenge of interpreting the flood story as non-literal. They examine the significance of the story, its portrayal of God's existence and power, and the impact of cultural adaptations. They also discuss the change in perspective on scripture, navigating different perspectives on the Bible, and having grace for others in their journeys of faith.

Delve into ancient texts like the Book of Enoch to unravel the secrets of the Nephilim and the "sons of God" mentioned in Genesis 6:1-4. Explore the connections between these stories and gender dynamics in biblical narratives. Challenge the literal interpretation of biblical stories and question their purpose. Discover the significance of ancient texts in understanding Genesis and the portrayal of women and divine beings. Reflect on the power of language in the stories of Genesis and the infinite interpretations they offer.

Join us as we delve into Genesis 3 and explore its long-lasting impact on women. We'll tackle big questions like: Did God really say what we've been told? And why isn’t the serpent identified as Satan? We’ll discuss how much of what we believe comes from Paul's interpretations and how this story has shaped women’s experiences, especially around leadership. Get ready for an eye-opening chat about challenging old notions and seeing this story in a new light!Thoughts, questions, stories? Please email almostheretical@gmail.comBecome a member and get:1. Bonus episodes of Utterly Heretical (our private podcast) every month2. All full-length episodes3. Access to our private community of 350+ listenersBecome a member: almostheretical.com/subscribe Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Is Genesis 2:24 an institution of heterosexual marriage? Does it matter? In this episode, we tackle these questions and play devil's advocate to help you respond to the pushback you may be facing. We challenge traditional views and ask: How should we use the Bible today? Tune in as we navigate the complex landscape of faith, marriage, and sexuality.Thoughts, questions, stories? Please email almostheretical@gmail.comBecome a member and get:1. Bonus episodes of Utterly Heretical (our private podcast) every month2. All full-length episodes3. Access to our private community of 350+ listenersBecome a member: almostheretical.com/subscribe Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Did you ever wonder why Satan is never mentioned in the Garden of Eden? Prepare to have your mind blown as we dive into the untold complexities of Genesis 2:1-18. This episode uncovers surprising interpretations, challenges common myths, and may forever change the way you look at the creation story. Don't miss out; it's time to rethink what you thought you knew about Adam, Eve, and the Garden.Thoughts, questions, stories? Please email almostheretical@gmail.comBecome a member and get:1. Bonus episodes of Utterly Heretical (our private podcast) every month2. All full-length episodes3. Access to our private community of 350+ listenersBecome a member: almostheretical.com/subscribe Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices