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

In this engaging discussion, David French, a founding friend of the podcast and a keen political analyst, explores how Trump's foreign policy is redefining America’s global presence. He emphasizes the shift from traditional support for liberal democracies towards a more authoritarian stance. Key topics include dwindling U.S. backing for Ukraine, strained alliances, and how these dynamics reflect on national character. David also addresses the importance of respectful political conversations among Christians and how to foster community despite division. Don't miss his insights on finding hope in challenging times!

Everyone wants love and community in a fractured world. What happens when they are lost?   Host Curtis Chang and Pete Wehner, a columnist for The Atlantic and former White House staffer, explore the deep sense of political, cultural, and spiritual exile felt by many Americans. Reflecting on Pete’s journey from shaping policy during 9/11 to breaking from the Republican Party over Donald Trump, they discuss the challenges of shifting identities while staying true to one’s convictions. Drawing from the Psalms, cognitive psychology, and Christian history, they offer a vision for engaging culture and finding new purpose amid political disillusionment and feelings of living in exile, even in the place you call home.   This episode revisits a past conversation to examine cognitive dissonance and the pursuit of truth in times of uncertainty.   Send written questions or voice memos for “Ask Curtis” episodes to: askcurtis@redeemingbabel.org   Get a 25% discount when you buy The Art of Disagreeing by Gavin Ortland at thegoodbook.com with code: GOODFAITH   Resources From This Episode: Psalm 126 (New Living Translation) Winston Churchill’s Painting as a Pastime A Short History Of The Dardanelles Campaign The GOP and the Birther Trap (article) by Pete Wehner Jonathan Haidt’s The Righteous Mind: Why Good People Are Divided by Politics and Religion Jonathan Rauch’s The Constitution of Knowledge: A Defense of Truth Jeremiah 29 (New Living Translation) Makoto Fujimura’s Culture Care: Reconnecting with Beauty for Our Common Life  Mark Labberton’s talk: The Deep Work of a New Creation Mark Labberton’s talk: Beauty in Exile Rodney Stark (books) Russell Moore clip: “Jesus is a hood ornament” 2 Corinthians 5 New Living Translation   More From Pete Wehner: Read Peter Wehner’s latest article: MAGA Has Found a New Model Peter Wehner’s The Atlantic opinion pieces Peter Wehner at The Trinity Forum Follow Us: Good Faith on Instagram Good Faith on X (formerly Twitter) Good Faith on Facebook   Sign up: Redeeming Babel Newsletter

Explore the power of three reflective questions that can transform hope and gratitude in worship. Dive into personal campfire stories that reveal how individuals strengthen bonds within their families and communities. Discover the joys and challenges of fostering deep connections in brief chapel settings. This conversation highlights the essence of storytelling in creating shared experiences and meaning in everyday life.

Jonathan Rauch, a senior fellow at the Brookings Institute and author of "Cross Purposes," delves into the hidden influence of Christianity on American democracy. He discusses how Judeo-Christian values shape political stability and fears within the evangelical church. The conversation highlights the important connection between faith, individual freedoms, and civic engagement, emphasizing dialogue and compromise across beliefs. Rauch warns of the potential consequences if Christianity's role in society diminishes, urging a deeper understanding of its virtues.

Mike Cosper, creator of "The Rise and Fall of Mars Hill" podcast and author of "The Church in Dark Times," dives deep into the unsettling realities of church abuse and power dynamics. He discusses the importance of accountability within evangelical settings, using the Mars Hill case as a lens. The conversation explores the emotional and spiritual ramifications of toxic leadership and emphasizes the need for healing through acknowledgment of past traumas. Cosper's insights shine a light on the path to restoring trust in faith communities.

Barbara Bradley Hagerty, an acclaimed journalist and bestselling author, joins Ben Spencer, a man who spent 34 years wrongfully imprisoned. They delve into Ben's harrowing journey of faith and resilience, highlighting the critical role of investigative journalism in his exoneration. The conversation explores the systemic failures of the justice system and the emotional toll of wrongful incarceration. Ben shares how forgiveness transformed his life, offering a powerful message of hope amid adversity, while emphasizing the importance of redemption and truth.

Dive into the intersection of faith and culture through engaging dialogues. The host discusses how thoughtful conversations can unravel life's essential questions. With a diverse lineup of guests, listeners are invited to embark on a journey filled with exploration and hope. It’s all about fostering understanding in a complex world.