Good Faith

Dan Allender, a therapist and author renowned for his insights on trauma and healing, joins in a thought-provoking discussion. They explore how past relationships shape our worldview and impact marital dynamics. Key topics include overcoming hidden triggers of conflict, the importance of empathy and kindness, and tackling contempt in relationships. Allender emphasizes the transformative power of marriage as a healing force and offers practical advice for navigating personal histories and transitions like empty nesting.

Jasmin Shupper, the visionary founder and CEO of Greenline Housing Foundation, discusses the impact of racial covenants on housing equity and disaster recovery, particularly following the devastating Eaton Fire in Altadena. She highlights how historical practices like redlining have disproportionately affected Black homeowners. Jasmin shares her mission to close the racial wealth gap and prevent displacement, along with inspiring stories of families overcoming barriers in real estate. Her work advocates for community resilience and justice amidst systemic inequalities.

David French, a New York Times columnist known for his insights on legal and political issues, and Russell Moore, Editor-in-chief of Christianity Today and a prominent theologian, delve into the complexities of faith in a divided America. They discuss Trump's influence on democratic institutions and the emotional toll of political turmoil. Emphasizing the importance of individual action, they explore how Christians can uphold their values, nurture relationships, and remain hopeful through worship, all while navigating the anxieties of the current landscape.

How should Christians engage with political power in a divided world?   Contributor Andy Crouch joins Curtis Chang to trace a path from the courage of the early believers under Caesar to today’s crisis-driven politics and the ruling class. Together, they dive into the rise of emergency powers, growing contempt, and the breakdown of civil discourse—and offer a hopeful vision for how the Fruit of the Spirit can reshape both Christian posture and a public life rooted in love, gentleness, and faithfulness.   Resources mentioned in this episode: Explaining The Land of Israel Under Roman Rule Matthew 22:21 - "Render therefore unto Caesar..." (multiple versions and explanation) Explaining The Majesty of Herod’s Temple Augustus Caesar and the the title Divi filius, “son of a god” (audio) The Holy Roman Empire: The Rise of Medieval Europe (video) Tish Harrison Warren’s Prayer in the Night: For Those Who Work or Watch or Weep Fact sheet about PEPFAR Wendell Berry’s The Hidden Wound Wendell Berry’s ‘The Hidden Wound’ at Fifty (article from 2020) Galatians 5:22 - Fruit of the Spirit (multiple versions and explanation)     More from Andy Crouch: Interact with Andy’s website Check out Andy’s work at Praxis Read Andy’s book: The Life We're Looking For Read Andy’s book: The Tech-Wise Family     Good Faith Live “Watch Party” Russell Moore, David French, & Curtis Chang: Trump's First 100 Days   Follow Us: Good Faith on Instagram Good Faith on X (formerly Twitter) Good Faith on Facebook   Sign up: Redeeming Babel Newsletter

Can Literary Wisdom Counter Despair and Deepen Your Faith? In this episode of Good Faith Presents: Reading to Make Sense of the World, Curtis Chang and author-professor Jessica Hooten Wilson explore the spiritual insights of Flannery O’Connor’s prayer journal. They examine how O’Connor’s raw honesty, humility, and startling imagery confront the modern obsession with self and offer a radical vision of divine grace. Jessica helps listeners see why O’Connor’s work is more than provocative—it’s prophetic. Resources or references mentioned in this episode: Flannery O’Connor at 100 Excerpts from Flannery O'Connor's journal (printed in The New Yorker) Flannery O’Connor’s A Prayer Journal Jessica Hooten wilson’s Flannery O'Connor's Why Do the Heathen Rage?: A Behind-the-Scenes Look at a Work in Progress A Life in Psychiatry and Literature: (an interview with Robert Coles) Good Faith episode featuring Amy Low (Facing Cancer with Humor and Hope) Good Faith episode featuring Nancy French (Ghosted: an American Story) What Is Kafkaesque? - The 'Philosophy' of Franz Kafka (video explainer) More From Jessica Hooten Wilson: Jessica Hooten Wilson's website Explore Jessica’s books HERE Read articles and Essay by Jessica HERE Follow Us: Good Faith on Instagram Good Faith on X (formerly Twitter) Good Faith on Facebook   Sign up: Redeeming Babel Newsletter

Douglas McKelvey, the author of the 'Every Moment Holy' series, shares his passion for finding the sacred in everyday tasks. He discusses how mundane activities like folding laundry can become spiritual practices, inviting listeners to embrace a deeper rhythm of life. With Easter approaching, he emphasizes the role of liturgical prayers in transforming daily routines into significant encounters with the divine. Douglas also reflects on how liturgy can navigate modern distractions, reinforcing community bonds and fostering a meaningful connection to faith.

Join Jared Patrick Boyd, a pastor and founding director of the Order of Common Life, as he discusses the revival of ancient monastic practices for modern believers. He emphasizes the need for intentional community and contemplative rhythms to foster spiritual growth. Boyd explores how these practices can address the current crises in the church and provide a path for renewal. He also examines the enriching role of monasticism in overcoming spiritual isolation, encouraging listeners to embrace these traditions for deeper faith.

Dana Wichterman, a former USAID and Commerce development expert, and Bill Wichterman, a former special assistant to President George W. Bush, dive into the impact of U.S. foreign aid cuts on global poverty. They discuss the urgent need for faith-driven impact investing to fill these gaps. The duo highlights the power of individual stewardship and generosity, showcasing how for-profit businesses like Masaka Farms are transforming lives. Listeners are challenged to rethink traditional views on retirement, emphasizing purposeful living through ethical investments and service.

D.T. Slothman, producer and director of content for Redeeming Babel, engages with Curtis Chang as they tackle burning questions about faith in today’s world. They discuss finding community post-deconstruction and the role of the church amidst political divides. Curtis shares thoughts on the impact of AI in sermon prep and explores life after death in the new heavens and new earth. Music also plays a key role, with Curtis revealing his top five artists, adding a personal touch to the insightful dialogue.

How can we stay grounded in an anxious political climate?   Leadership anxiety expert Steve Cuss joins the Good Faith Podcast to help us navigate Trump’s turbulent second term without becoming overwhelmed. We explore how chronic anxiety spreads through reactivity, why political leaders and their followers often amplify fear through straw man arguments, and how we can break free from the cycle. Drawing from his experience as a trauma chaplain and beyond, Steve shares practical tools for maintaining spiritual and emotional balance. If political division is making your mind race, heart pound, or body tense, Steve offers wisdom and encouragement to help you find calm and clarity in the chaos.   Send written questions or voice memos for “Ask Curtis” episodes to: askcurtis@redeemingbabel.org   Send Campfire Stories to: info@redeemingbabel.org   Resources or references mentioned in this episode: Frederick Buechner’s Whistling in the Dark The Evangelical vote in 2024 The Los Angeles Times: Is Donald Trump a new King David? “Remember the Lord” from Proverbs 3:6-16 GNT Jacob’s assurance from Genesis 28 NLT  Jesus’ trial before Pilate John 18:28-40 NLT Paul’s trials before Festus and Felix Acts 24-26 NLT Jesus calls Herod a “fox” Luke 13:31-32 NLT Freedom to love others Galatians 5:13 More about Gregory Boyle More From Steve Cuss: Steve’s podcast Being Human Steve’s book Managing Leadership Anxiety: Yours and Theirs Steve’s book The Expectation Gap: The Tiny, Vast Space between Our Beliefs and Experience of God Steve’s website (free access to the Life Giving List and Conscious List of Relationships) Register for the Illuminate Arts & Faith Conference   Follow Us: Good Faith on Instagram Good Faith on X (formerly Twitter) Good Faith on Facebook   Sign up: Redeeming Babel Newsletter