
Outstanding
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 host Joseph Backholm and guests as they examine the headlines through the lens of Scripture, and explore how Christians should respond.
Latest episodes

Apr 23, 2025 • 43min
Ep. 189: DEI, ESG & Wokeism: Dead Terms or Hidden Agendas?
Stephen Soukup, director of The Political Forum Institute, joins Jared Birdges and Suzanne Bowdey from The Washington Stand to discuss the state of DEI, ESG, and wokeism in business and government. Are these initiatives truly dead, or just rebranded? They explore the role of consumer boycotts, government actions, and why the average person should care. Soukup also offers tips on identifying these evolving efforts and the economic factors influencing them.

Apr 16, 2025 • 46min
Ep. 188: The Permanence of the Cross in a Temporary Age
In a world where everything feels temporary, this Resurrection Week conversation centers on the one thing that never changes—the cross of Christ. The Washington Stand’s Jared Bridges is joined by Dr. Stephen Wellum and Pastor David Schrock to discuss the lasting significance of the cross and resurrection in a fleeting world. They explore why the cross is central to God’s plan, the importance of Jesus’ dual nature, and how Christians can develop a deeper theology of Christ. A timely reflection on the hope and permanence found in Jesus.ResourcesChrist Over All

Apr 9, 2025 • 53min
Ep. 187: The Courage to Speak Out - An Update with Dr. Eithan Haim
In this powerful follow-up episode, Dr. Eithan Haim, who first joined us in March 2024 after blowing the whistle on Texas Children’s Hospital’s secretive transgender program for minors, shares his whirlwind legal journey fighting the Biden DOJ, what made him decide to blow the whistle, and what he has learned over the course of this year. Listen today to be encouraged by one man’s courageous stand for truth!

Apr 2, 2025 • 32min
Ep. 186: A Light on the Hill: Faith, Politics, and the Legacy of Capitol Hill Baptist
Should faith and politics mix? Joseph Backholm sits down with Caleb Morrell, author of A Light on the Hill, to explore the unique role of Capitol Hill Baptist Church in shaping evangelicalism in the nation’s capital. Caleb shares his journey with the church, uncovering its rich 150-year history, from its founding to its enduring biblical foundation despite cultural shifts. They discuss the church’s impact in political spaces, the significance of strong leadership, and how it has remained a guiding light through changing times.ResourcesA Light on the Hill: The Surprising Story of How a Local Church in the Nation's Capital Influenced by Caleb Morrell

Mar 26, 2025 • 58min
Ep. 185: Is Gavin Newsom Rebranding?
As Charlie Kirk put it, let’s hope voters do not have the memory of a goldfish when it comes to Gavin Newsom’s political history. President of California Family Council, Jonathan Keller, joins Joseph Backholm to discuss California Governor Gavin Newsom’s “political rebrand”. Recently, Newsom walked back his support for transgender athletes in women’s sports. Was this a strategic shift or political maneuver? They also discuss his efforts to engage conservatives on his new podcast, his potential 2028 run, and whether this signals a Democratic course correction. Can Newsom successfully rebrand, and will voters buy it? Tune in for the debate!

Mar 19, 2025 • 44min
Ep. 184: Syria's Power Shift: HTS, Assad's Fall, and Global Impact with Luke Moon
Executive Director of the Philos Project, Luke Moon, joins Joseph Backholm to unpack the latest developments in Syria. With HTS overthrowing the Assad regime after 54 years, they explore whether the new rule is any better - or just as bad. Luke breaks down the roots of the civil war, the role of the Alawites, and why Christians are being targeted. We also examine HTS’s origins, the broader Sunni-Shia conflict, and how this power shift in Syria might be influencing peace talks between Russia and Ukraine. Tune in for a deep dive into the complexities of Syria’s ongoing turmoil.

Mar 12, 2025 • 46min
Ep. 183: A Check in with Gen Z
As Generation Z grows older and enters the workforce, theworld is learning more about what they value and believe. Family Research Council interns Alanna Casey and Zach Gohl join host Joseph Backholm to share their experience being Gen Z and the shift they are seeing when it comes to lifestyles and worldviews among their peers.

Mar 7, 2025 • 53min
Ep. 182: The U.S., Ukraine & Russia: What's Next?
When President Donald Trump was elected, he promised to clean up the foreign affairs mess left by his predecessor - specifically the Russian-Ukrainian war. Professor at Regent University, Dr. A.J. Nolte, joins Joseph Backholm to explore America’s stance on Ukraine, the Biden administration’s role, and whether the U.S. should engage with Putin. Why is Trump the only president who seems willing to talk to Russia? What mistakes has Zelensky made, and is Ukraine’s corruption a barrier to peace? They break down the challenges of a deal, military risks, and the future of power in the region.

Mar 4, 2025 • 43min
Ep. 181: Life After Roe with David Closson
Family Research Council’s David Closson joins Joseph Backholm to discuss his new book Life After Roe, examining the impact of Roe v. Wade’s overturn in 2022. While 22,000 lives were saved, abortion reached an all-time high in the years following the overturn. They explore the role of pro-life laws, the church’s response, and the emerging debate on IVF. As culture shifts, how do we stay committed to biblical truth and protect the most vulnerable?

Feb 28, 2025 • 51min
Ep. 180: From Aid to Audit: Navigating USAID and DOGE Cuts
The Washington Stand’s Joshua Arnold and FRC Action’s Matt Carpenter explore recent government funding cuts, focusing on USAID and concerns over misuse of funds. Along with host Joseph Backholm, they discuss DOGE’s (Department of Governmental Efficiency) oversight, whether their actions are constitutional, and Elon Musk’s role in the shake-up. The hosts offer a Christian perspective on balancing empathy for those affected with the need for accountability, all while questioning if the federal budget can truly be balanced within two years.ResourcesDOGE Unearths Missing ID Codes in $4.7T Worth of Federal Spending Congressional Hearing Highlights Extent of USAID Waste, Mission Creep
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