

Outstanding
The Washington Stand
Critical conversations on the news of the day and the issues that shape us.
Outstanding is a podcast of The Washington Stand, Family Research Council's outlet for news and commentary from a biblical worldview. We examine outstanding news and issues from TWS with an aim to take every thought captive for the obedience of Christ (2 Corinthians 10:5). Join us as we examine the headlines through the lens of Scripture, and explore how Christians should respond.
Outstanding is a podcast of The Washington Stand, Family Research Council's outlet for news and commentary from a biblical worldview. We examine outstanding news and issues from TWS with an aim to take every thought captive for the obedience of Christ (2 Corinthians 10:5). Join us as we examine the headlines through the lens of Scripture, and explore how Christians should respond.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Dec 10, 2025 • 40min
The Harms of Predatory Gambling (Ep. 222)
Is gambling doing anyone any good? Host Casey Harper is joined by Les Bernal, national director of Stop Predatory Gambling, and The Washington Stand’s Jared Bridges to confront the roots and impacts of predatory gambling. Few actions by state governments harm Americans more. What does gambling truly offer? Only loss. The three break down what Scripture says about gambling, why corruption around it is so widespread, and whether there’s a real solution to this growing problem.

Dec 3, 2025 • 36min
Christian AI vs. Secular AI pt.2 (Ep. 221)
In a world being quickly influenced by Artificial Intelligence, how can Christians navigate this new reality? Host Casey Harper is joined by pastor and Dominion AI cofounder Erik Reed, along with The Washington Stand’s Jared Bridges to unpack how AI can be used in a way that glorifies the Lord. While AI provides knowledge and information, it will never replace the wisdom that actual humans can provide. The three contemplate the future of AI and the impact it will have on the workforce.

Nov 26, 2025 • 36min
Christian AI vs. Secular AI pt.1 (Ep. 220)
Can AI truly be Christian? Host Casey Harper is joined by pastor and Dominion AI cofounder Erik Reed, along with The Washington Stand’s Jared Bridges, to explore the foundations and future of faith-driven artificial intelligence. Even if you are not a personal user of AI chat bots, the software is everywhere. Erik shares the story behind Dominion AI, how it differs from secular platforms, and the growing evidence revealing the risks of relying on AI for companionship alone.

Nov 19, 2025 • 42min
Socialism: What Happens When the Money Runs Out? (Ep. 219)
“Socialism works until the money runs out.” Host Casey Harper is joined by Cuban writer and author Yoe Suarez and The Washington Stand’s Jared Bridges to break down the core principles of socialism and its impact on society. Speaking from experience, Yoe shares what life under Cuban socialism looked like, how socialist ideology views the church and how money is not always the solution for societal problems.

Nov 12, 2025 • 35min
The Importance of the Filibuster (Ep. 218)
Every member of the Senate has a tool that allows them to single handedly bring the government to a screeching halt. Host Casey Harper is joined by Family Research Council’s Quena Gonzalez and The Washington Stand’s Suzanne Bowdey to discuss an interesting political tool and tactic: the filibuster. Created in the early years of American government to remove the ability to end debate, the filibuster has been used by both Republicans and Democrats throughout the years. The three discuss what it is, how does it maintain balance in the Senate, and if it were removed what are the unintended consequences for a short term gain, but long term consequences.

Nov 5, 2025 • 48min
What Churchgoers Really Believe (Ep. 217)
What do regular churchgoers actually believe? Host Casey Harper sits down with Family Research Council’s David Closson and The Washington Stand’s Sarah Holliday to unpack a new survey from FRC’s Center for Biblical Worldview, conducted with researcher George Barna. The study explores how adult churchgoers view today’s key social issues and their personal worldviews.

Oct 29, 2025 • 32min
The Government Shutdown and the Miracle at the Southern Border (Ep. 216)
Host Casey Harper sits down with U.S. Congressman Michael Guest to unpack the government shutdown and how President Trump managed to do the impossible at the southern border. Rep. Guest shares how his personal faith shapes his work in Congress and guides his decision-making. The two also dive into the ongoing government shutdown - what’s behind it, what needs to be resolved - and discuss how Republicans and the Trump administration have worked together to strengthen border security and prioritize the interests of the American people.

Oct 22, 2025 • 60min
Gen Z Dating and Singleness: The Female Perspective (Ep. 215)
Sarah Holliday, a reporter covering cultural issues from a Christian lens, and Rachael Woods, a Gen Z expert at the Family Research Council, delve into the complexities of dating and singleness for today’s young women. They unpack what Gen Z women seek in relationships, the balance of traditional roles, and the importance of faith in dating. Both emphasize the value of singleness and purposeful living. The conversation also touches on political alignments in relationship choices, gaming, and the need for churches to support both marital and single paths.

Oct 15, 2025 • 40min
Why are Abortions Increasing? (Ep. 214)
Why since the overturning of Roe v. Wade have abortions increased, not decreased? Joining host Casey Harper is Dr. Christina Francis and Family Research Council’s Mary Szoch to discuss this concerning trend. With power back to the states, many assumed the number of abortions would decrease. What they failed to recognize was one small, yet powerful influence: the abortion pill. Dr. Francis and Mary unpack the impact and dangers women face when taking the pill and why it should be taken off the market immediately.

Oct 8, 2025 • 44min
The Death of Free Speech in the UK (Ep. 213)
Freedom is under attack across the pond. Host Casey Harper sits down with Peter Mcilvenna, co-founder of the free speech alliance Heart of Oak, who shares firsthand insight into the dwindling personal liberties faced by UK citizens. In Britain today, people are being arrested simply because someone found their words or posts “offensive.” Together, they explore what kinds of speech can get you arrested, whether similar trends are emerging in the U.S., and how mass immigration has influenced this growing crisis.


