In this engaging conversation, New York Times columnist Ross Douthat, known for his insights on faith and conservatism, argues compellingly for the necessity of belief in today's world. He tackles major barriers to faith, suggesting that modern science could enrich spiritual understanding rather than diminish it. Douthat highlights the persistent divine experiences reported by people, pointing to a deeper reality. This dialogue blends theology and cultural analysis, inviting listeners to reconsider the relevance of faith amidst contemporary skepticism.

Shima Baradaran Baughman, a law professor at BYU and expert on criminal justice reform, shares her compelling story of fleeing Iran after her mother's activism led to imprisonment. She discusses the powerful role of faith communities in transforming lives within the justice system and advocates for mercy over punishment. Shima highlights the impact of initiatives like prison ministries and community support for the formerly incarcerated, emphasizing that true change often happens at the margins—where compassion thrives and barriers dissolve.

Justin Dyer, a BYU professor researching faith and mental health, dives into perfectionism's impact on religious life. He reveals that toxic perfectionism can triple the chance of leaving one’s faith, urging the creation of unconditional, loving church environments. Dyer discusses the difference between guilt and shame and shares practical steps for overcoming harmful perfectionistic beliefs. His insights highlight the importance of empathy and support in fostering community acceptance, emphasizing self-worth rooted in God's love.

Jana Spangler, an expert in emotional processing and resilience, shares her insights on understanding and navigating difficult emotions. She emphasizes that emotions are not enemies, but essential signals to guide us. Jana discusses the significance of somatic awareness and how suppressed feelings can harm our relationships and well-being. She offers practical tools for building emotional resilience, encouraging listeners to embrace discomfort for personal growth. The conversation highlights the importance of vulnerability in fostering authentic connections within communities.

Join McKay Coppins, a New York Times bestselling author and Atlantic staff writer, alongside Bill Turnbull, a Faith Matters co-founder, as they explore two intriguing films: 'Heretic' and 'Conclave.' They dive into how 'Heretic' satirizes new atheism, revealing the complexities of faith and control. In contrast, 'Conclave' brings to life the political drama of electing a new pope, highlighting church dynamics and the tensions between belief and skepticism. Their discussion unveils the evolving portrayal of faith in modern cinema, inviting deeper reflection on spiritual truths.

Tyler Johnson, author and meditation guide, shares a reflective Christmas Eve meditation inspired by his work in Wayfare magazine. He explores the profound emotions of Mary during Jesus' birth, highlighting how love emerges through struggles and sacrifices. The discussion delves into Joseph's journey, capturing his transformation from doubt to divine love as he embraces his new role. Through beautiful music and imagery, listeners are invited to find peace and meaning amid life's challenges, making this a poignant reflection for the holiday season.

Join Lori Forsyth, the Managing Editor of Faith Matters magazine, as she shares her heartfelt reading, 'Shining in Darkness.' She reflects on the true essence of joy during the Christmas season. Lori explores the intricate relationship between joy and adversity, revealing how pain can deepen our appreciation for happiness. She encourages listeners to embrace darkness as part of the journey, reminding us that hope and communal joy shine brightly through struggle. Perfect for a moment of peace in the holiday hustle!

Dr. Janette H. Ok, an Associate Professor of New Testament at Fuller Seminary and ordained pastor at Ekko Church, discusses the vital role of women in religious leadership. She emphasizes how women's voices enrich congregations and shares practical steps for women to embrace their leadership roles. Janette highlights the importance of self-awareness and intentionality in effective communication. She also addresses the challenges of imposter syndrome and the necessity of recognizing diverse contributions in ministry, advocating for collaboration in gender equality.

Joseph Grenny, a renowned social scientist and co-founder of VitalSmarts, dives into the art of navigating tough conversations. He underscores the danger of avoiding emotional dialogues, arguing that it only exacerbates issues over time. With practical tools, Joseph reveals how to communicate openly without jeopardizing relationships, especially when values clash. He also discusses fostering psychological safety to turn conflicts into opportunities and shares how crucial conversations can ultimately lead to healing and deeper connections.

Rebecca Glazier, a Professor at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock, shares insights from her research on how religious communities engage with society. She discusses the transformative power of serving together, emphasizing that meaningful outreach fosters 'congregational warmth.' With young people increasingly eager to volunteer, Glazier highlights the potential of interfaith partnerships to bridge political divides and strengthen communities. Her hopeful message showcases how small acts of service can deeply connect individuals and create lasting community impact.