Faith Matters

In this enlightening discussion, Medlir Mema, the Head of the AI Governance Programme at the Global Governance Institute and Professor at BYU-Idaho, dives into the intersection of faith and artificial intelligence. He compares AI to the discovery of fire, highlighting its transformative potential for society. Topics include the existential impact of AI on jobs and identity, the importance of aligning AI with human values, and how it might reshape trust in institutions. Medlir urges faith communities to engage actively with these changes to ensure a future grounded in deep values.

Join Cynthia Winward and Susan M. Hinckley, co-hosts of the At Last She Said It podcast, as they dive into their transformative faith journeys. Cynthia shares her 'dark night of the soul' that reshaped her beliefs, while Susan discusses her 'silence crisis' and the liberation found in honest dialogue. They explore how speaking up can heal, the challenge of embracing uncertainty, and the importance of women's voices in faith discussions. Their conversation encourages navigating the complexities of belief with trust and mercy.

Jeff Burningham, an entrepreneur and former gubernatorial candidate, discusses his transformative journey and the insights from his book, The Last Book Written By a Human. He reflects on a profound experience by the Ganges River, framing it as a metaphor for life's constant changes. Jeff critiques the achievement-driven 'old game' and advocates for prioritizing presence and inner awareness. Fascinatingly, he presents AI as a 'cosmic mirror' that reveals our true selves, urging a return to love, family, and nature amidst rapid technological advancements.

Arthur Brooks, a behavioral scientist and author, delivers a poignant keynote on loving enemies and overcoming division. He tackles the deeper issue of contempt, arguing it fuels national disunity more than political differences. Drawing from personal experiences and science, he challenges listeners to elevate their standards from mere tolerance to truly loving their opponents. With insights on emotional roots of division and practical assignments like 'disagree better,' Brooks inspires a movement towards moral courage and small acts of kindness.

Chad Ford, a conflict mediator and author, joins Jennifer Thomas for a profound discussion on peacemaking. They dive into the challenges of forgiveness and ongoing reconciliation, exploring how Christ's teachings apply in practice. Ford shares strategies for overcoming fear, navigating societal disorientation, and why some believers resist peace efforts. With insights on the importance of preparation and community engagement, he emphasizes choosing love over retaliation. Their conversation is a powerful call to action for those grappling with conflict.

Jared Halverson, a popular speaker and faith leader known for his insights on discipleship, shares profound wisdom about life's paradoxes at the Restore gathering. He uses the cross as a compelling metaphor for true discipleship, emphasizing that our connection to God should inspire us to love others. Exploring common faith tensions, he advocates for a balanced approach, urging listeners to embrace both devotion and neighborly love. His heartfelt stories highlight the power of restorative love and remind us that being right with God doesn't excuse being wrong with others.

The discussion begins with a heartfelt acknowledgment of recent tragedies and the importance of hope. Community connections are highlighted as essential, especially in challenging times, urging listeners to build identity rooted in shared humanity. The trend of dechurching is explored through personal stories, revealing the complexities of faith departures. Attention is drawn to empowering women and engaging youth, emphasizing love and support over strict beliefs. Lastly, it tackles modern loneliness, calling for nurturing communities that foster genuine connections.

In this thought-provoking discussion, Joseph Grenny, author of "Crucial Conversations" and co-founder of The Other Side Academy, dives deep into the complexities of family life. He candidly shares his own experiences with addiction and estrangement, advocating for a redefinition of family success amidst chaos. Joseph emphasizes the power of patience and understanding in relationships, encouraging hope through narratives of redemption. His radical idea that 'All is well' can exist even in turmoil resonates with anyone navigating the messiness of family dynamics.

Sharon McMahon, a former high school government teacher turned trusted national educator and bestselling author, dives into the allure of conspiracy theories. She explores their psychological roots, revealing how human needs for safety and belonging fuel belief in them. Sharon provides compassionate advice for engaging with individuals who hold these views without sacrificing personal values. The conversation also highlights the critical role faith communities can play in combating misinformation and fostering resilience in today's polarized climate.

Jonathan Stapley, a historian with two decades of temple study, delves into the sacred complexities of Latter-day Saint life. He discusses his new book, exploring the temple's origins, Joseph Smith's transformative rituals, and generational shifts in practices. Jonathan candidly addresses difficult questions about worthiness, temple recommends, and the pain of conditional participation. He also shares insights on the connection between temple rituals and Freemasonry, enriching our understanding of the faith's evolving spiritual mission.