The Aaron Renn Show

Join host Aaron Renn as he sits down with David Yancey, president of Presbyterians for the Kingdom, and Generation Z influencer Redeemed Zoomer to discuss their mission to renew the Presbyterian Church (PCUSA) and the broader Operation Reconquista movement. They dive into the challenges and opportunities of restoring traditional theology within mainline Protestant denominations, the role of young conservatives in this revival, and their plans for the future. From institutional commitment to the power of historic churches, this episode explores why they’re staying to reform rather than leaving.CHAPTERS:(00:00 - Introduction)(00:33 - What is Presbyterians for the Kingdom?)(01:07 - Operation Reconquista and Its Inspiration)(02:48 - Networks within the PCUSA)(06:21 - Challenges of Mainline Decline)(08:19 - A Generational Shift Toward Conservatism)(11:11 - Personal Ties to the PCUSA)(16:11 - Perceptions of the Movement within PCUSA)(19:46 - Institutional Commitment in the PCUSA)(27:01 - Balancing Word and Sacrament in Reformed Theology)(33:40 - Biblical Case Against Splitting from the Church)(37:06 - Stewardship of Historic Resources)(42:30 - Future Plans for Presbyterians for the Kingdom)GUEST LINKS:🌐 Presbyterians for the Kingdom Website: https://www.kingdompresbyterians.com/🐦 Presbyterians for the Kingdom Twitter/X: https://x.com/kingdompresbys🌐 Redeemed Zoomer's Youtube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@redeemedzoomer6053🐦 Redeemed Zoomer Twitter/X: https://x.com/redeemed_zoomerCONNECT & FOLLOW AARON RENN:🐦 Twitter/X: https://x.com/aaron_renn🌐 Newsletter - In-depth cultural analysis: https://www.aaronrenn.com/

Caleb Morell, author of A Light on the Hill, dives into the fascinating 150-year journey of Capitol Hill Baptist Church in D.C. Founded by Civil War veterans, the church has remained a stronghold of orthodox faith amidst cultural changes. Morell highlights its pivotal role during the fundamentalist-modernist controversy and the challenges of urban life, including gentrification and a COVID-19 lawsuit. He discusses how under pastor Mark Dever, the church revitalized while committed to a singular worship model, showcasing resilience in the face of changing times.

In this thought-provoking conversation, Joel Carini, a PhD student and writer known as The Natural Theologian, dives deep into the challenges of truth-seeking within evangelicalism. He contrasts the insular nature of seminary education with the open inquiry at the University of Chicago. Topics include presuppositionalism, the fear among evangelicals of engaging with differing views, and the importance of finding common ground with non-believers. Joel advocates for learning from diverse perspectives to strengthen faith and navigate complex questions.

In a deep dive into America’s housing crisis, Chief Economist Adam Ozimek shares his expertise on the escalating challenges of homebuying in 2025. He explains the key drivers behind soaring prices, from rising construction costs to zoning restrictions and the influence of institutional investors. Ozimek discusses innovative solutions such as YIMBYism, density zoning, and single stairwell reform to tackle affordability. He emphasizes the need for a balanced approach between local control and effective housing policies to create a more accessible market.

Ted Esler, President of Missio Nexus, offers a compelling look into the evolution and future of global missions. He highlights the historical impact of figures like William Carey and discusses the challenges posed by globalization and cultural shifts. Ted navigates the role of unreached people groups and examines the complex influence of American imperialism. Notably, he emphasizes the vital contributions of women in missions and analyzes how modern dynamics are reshaping the global church's approach to evangelism and discipleship.

Michael Foster, pastor of East River Church and author of 'It's Good to Be a Man', discusses the cultural tumult of recent years. He explores the rise of the Manosphere and its influence on masculinity, alongside the shift in dating dynamics prompted by social media. Foster reflects on the pandemic's impact on churches and societal roles, emphasizing a new cultural 'vibe shift' that prioritizes genuine engagement over negativity. His insights on modern faith challenges and the importance of stability offer a fresh perspective on navigating today's world.

Professional boxer Ed Latimore talks about his inspiring journey from growing up in Pittsburgh’s housing projects during the crack epidemic to earning a physics degree and overcoming addiction. In this episode, Ed shares raw insights from his book, Hard Lessons from the Hurt Business: Boxing and the Art of Life, diving into the challenges of poverty, the psychological traps of subsidized housing, the impact of corporal punishment, and how boxing gave him discipline and community. Ed also opens up about his battle with alcoholism and offers practical advice for those struggling with addiction. Don’t miss this powerful conversation about resilience, pattern recognition, and transforming your life against all odds.CHAPTERS(00:00 - Introduction)(01:02 - Growing Up in the Projects: Life During the Crack Epidemic)(03:11 - The Systemic Traps of Subsidized Housing)(06:13 - How Childhood Beatings Shaped Ed’s View on Boxing)(09:01 - Boxing as a Path to Discipline and Community)(14:48 - Why Ed Rejects Corporal Punishment)(24:43 - Writing Hard Lessons from the Hurt Business: A Memoir with Purpose)(26:54 - Discovering His Intelligence Through Boxing and Education)(33:08 - From Boxing to a Physics Degree: Ed’s Academic Journey)(37:18 - How Intelligence Kept Ed from Self-Destruction)(44:01 - Overcoming Alcoholism: Ed’s Strategies for Recovery)(53:15 - Final Thoughts and Book Details)ED LATIMORE'S LINKS:📖 Hard Lessons from the Hurt Business: https://www.amazon.com/Hard-Lessons-Hurt-Business-Boxing/dp/0593716361/?&_encoding=UTF8&tag=theurban-20🌐 Ed Latimore's web site: https://edlatimore.com/ 🐦 Twitter/X: https://x.com/edlatimoreCONNECT & FOLLOW AARON RENN:🐦 Twitter/X: https://x.com/aaron_renn🌐 Newsletter - In-depth cultural analysis: https://www.aaronrenn.com/

Join me for an insightful conversation with Dr. Jason Jewell, Chief Academic Officer of the State University System of Florida, as we dive into the bold reforms transforming higher education in the Sunshine State. From Governor Ron DeSantis’ efforts to eliminate ideological influences to the creation of a new accrediting agency, we explore how Florida is reshaping its universities to prioritize academic excellence and efficiency. Learn about Florida's innovative steps toward a new accreditation model, its post-tenure review policy, and the fight against administrative bloat. CHAPTERS:(00:00 Introduction)(01:15 Dr. Jason Jewell’s Background)(04:44 Role of the Board of Governors)(08:41 DeSantis’ Higher Ed Reform Goals)(12:29 Creating a New Accrediting Agency)(31:50 Post-Tenure Review Policy)(43:07 Tackling Administrative Bloat)(48:00 Conclusion)JASON JEWELL'S LINKS:🌐 Governor Ron DeSantis Announces First-of-its-Kind Alternative University Accreditor - https://www.flbog.edu/2025/06/26/icymi-governor-ron-desantis-announces-first-of-its-kind-alternative-university-accreditor/🌐 No “Brain Drain” from the SUS’s Post-Tenure Review - https://www.flbog.edu/2025/07/21/no-brain-drain-from-the-suss-post-tenure-review/🌐 Jason Jewell's Substack - https://jasonjewell.substack.com/CONNECT & FOLLOW AARON RENN:🐦 Twitter/X: https://x.com/aaron_renn🌐 Newsletter - In-depth cultural analysis: https://www.aaronrenn.com/

Rick Reinhardt, an expert on urbanism and religion and former chief of staff to a mayor in Buffalo, discusses the crisis of up to 100,000 empty churches in America. He explores the pressing challenges of declining congregations and the financial burdens of maintaining historic properties. Innovative repurposing ideas include transforming churches into affordable housing and community spaces. Reinhardt also addresses the complexities of zoning laws and the potential for churches to adapt as vital community anchors amid changing spiritual landscapes.

An inspiring conversation with Reverend Jake Dell, pastor of the First Congregational Church of Woodbury, Connecticut, founded in 1659. Rev. Dell shares his journey to become an Episcopal priest, then to taking on leadership of a dying historic church in an attempt to revive a congregation with 355 year legacy. Also discover his bold vision for a donor intent litigation trust to hold mainline institutions accountable and revive America’s Christian heritage. CHAPTERS:(00:00 Introduction)(01:04 Rev. Dell’s Journey to Ministry)(05:02 The Need for Operation Reconquista)(08:51 What Is Operation Reconquista?)(12:29 Why Rev. Dell Is Optimistic About Revival)(14:31 Understanding Congregational Churches)(17:25 Reviving a 350-Year-Old Church)(27:52 Secrets to Growing a Congregation)(34:08 The Donor Intent Litigation Trust Idea)(47:58 Next Steps for the Litigation Trust)(50:01 Closing Thoughts)REV. DELL'S LINKS:🌐 The First Congregational Church of Woodbury - https://www.firstchurchwoodbury.org/CONNECT & FOLLOW AARON RENN:🐦 Twitter/X: https://x.com/aaron_renn🌐 Newsletter - In-depth cultural analysis: https://www.aaronrenn.com/