
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 us as we examine the headlines through the lens of Scripture, and explore how Christians should respond.
Latest episodes

Jun 11, 2025 • 45min
The Tech Exit: Is AI and Social Media Rewiring Childhood? Clare Morell, Arielle Del Turco (Ep. 195)
Technology is reshaping childhood in deeply concerning ways, especially in the areas of artificial intelligence and social media. Clare Morell, author of The Tech Exit, and Family Research Council’s Arielle Del Turco explore how screen addiction, AI chatbots, and unregulated tech are damaging young minds, fueling loneliness, and eroding both emotional and spiritual well-being. Together, they emphasize the need for stronger regulations and share practical advice and policy solutions for parents and lawmakers to better protect the next generation.ResourcesThe Tech Exit: A Practical Guide to Freeing Kids and Teens from Smartphones by Clare MorellFRC's Comment on the Development of an Artificial Intelligence Action Plan

Jun 4, 2025 • 1h 1min
The Hate Charade: Tyler O'Neil and Chris Gacek on the SPLC (Ep.194)
The Southern Poverty Law Center has been in the business of big hate for decades. Even after inspiring a 2012 domestic terror attack by an attempted mass-shooter who used their "hate map," the SPLC doubled down. The organization is once again targeting conservatives for their views. Daily Signal's Tyler O'Neil and Family Research Council's Chris Gacek explain the history and corruption of SPLC, their devolution to the far left, and impact of its hate map.

May 28, 2025 • 34min
Embracing God's Design: Walt Heyer and Jennifer Bauwens (Ep. 193)
It is not about gender – but identity. Family Research Council’s Jennifer Bauwens and Walt Heyer speak on their new book and resource that helps explain and offers advice on how Christians can navigate the growing transgender movement. In their new book, Embracing God’s Design, Jennifer and Walt dive deep into what is pushing the transgender movement, what role trauma plays, and how the church can respond in love, but also with truth when addressing this issue.ResourcesEp. 28: What Causes Transgenderism?Ep. 104: The Long Term Effects of Pride with Walt Heyer

May 14, 2025 • 56min
Created to Create: Art and Creativity for Christ (Ep. 192)
Just like words, art is used to communicate beauty, feelings, and truth. Family Research Council’s Hannah Tu and veteran designer Jeff Dionise discuss the power and purpose of art as a form of human creativity and expression. They share how they integrate faith and design and how creativity flows from a rightly ordered faith. They also explore its role in communication and the church, and how AI is impacting the world of art.

May 7, 2025 • 51min
Journalism: Past, Present, and Future (Ep. 191)
Journalists Mark Tapscott and Casey Harper join The Washington Stand’s Jared Bridges to discuss the state of journalism—past, present, and future. They explore media bias, declining public trust, the shift from traditional reporting, and historical and modern media missteps. They also reflect on how their Christian faith shapes their work and how believers can wisely consume media in a digital age.ResourcesThe Center Square

Apr 30, 2025 • 55min
100 Days of Trump 2.0 (Ep. 190)
As Donald Trump launches into his second term, the first 100 days have been nothing short of a political whirlwind. FRC Action's Matt Carpenter and Family Research Council's Quena Gonzalez unpack the first 100 days of the Trump administration 2.0. They reflect on the fast-moving first few weeks, the importance of Congress making reforms permanent, and key wins for social issues important to Christians. He has done a lot in a short amount of time, but there is still more to do! Check out FRC Action's Trump Commitment Tracker for updates on this administration's agenda.ResourcesTrump Committment Tracker

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