
Data Over Dogma
This ain't your pastor's Bible podcast. This is a deep interrogation of the book, and we're bringing receipts. Bible scholar Dr. Dan McClellan and atheist podcaster Dan Beecher team up to discover what the Bible actually says, what it decidedly doesn't say (even if everyone thinks it does), and explore the history of the most popular book of all time.
Latest episodes

Apr 15, 2024 • 1h 12min
Episode 54: Black Hole Sun
You ever wonder if nefarious scientists are feverishly working to open a portal to allow demons out to begin the apocalypse? Well don't. That's silly. Nevertheless, some people ARE worried about that. And so many other silly things!This week, we look at the hysteria brought on by the recent total solar eclipse here in the U.S. and what Biblical implications (if any) it might have had.Also, we talk about the Jerusalem council in the book of Acts, and the impact it had on the formation of early Christianity. As the early followers of Jesus sorted out what it means to allow gentiles into the fold, they had some decisions to make about what rules all the new kids had to follow. They had no idea how big an impact they were going to have! To all the Christians who love bacon- they say "you're welcome."For early access to an ad-free version of Data Over Dogma, exclusive content, and an opportunity to support our work, please consider becoming a monthly patron at:https://www.patreon.com/DataOverDogma Follow us on the various social media places:https://www.facebook.com/DataOverDogmaPodhttps://www.twitter.com/data_over_dogma Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Apr 8, 2024 • 54min
Episode 53: The Holy Ghost (and Bears!)
Delving into Biblical ideas of spirits, souls, and the Holy Spirit. Exploring evolutionary agency detection and demons. Discussing the brutal tale of Elisha and bears. Examining symbolic interpretations of religious texts and power dynamics in biblical stories.

5 snips
Apr 1, 2024 • 1h 11min
Episode 52: What is a Woman... Biblically?
The podcast delves into the biblical mystery of who really killed Goliath, challenging the traditional narrative. It also explores the complex and evolving definitions of gender and womanhood in both biblical and modern contexts, shedding light on historical misconceptions and societal norms. The discussion touches on patriarchy, gender roles, and the roles of women in biblical scriptures, offering a fresh perspective on these age-old debates.

40 snips
Mar 25, 2024 • 1h 4min
Episode 51: Is Religion Make-Believe? With Neil Van Leeuwen
Cognitive scientist Neil Van Leeuwen discusses the distinction between religious credence and factual belief. The podcast delves into the psychology of religious beliefs, cognitive dissonance, and navigating complex religious beliefs. It highlights the resilience of religious beliefs, challenges in updating beliefs, and the impact of social dynamics on belief formation.

Mar 18, 2024 • 1h 3min
Episode 50: Easter and the Undead
Exploring the Easter holiday timeline and resurrection beliefs, the hosts dive into the historical discrepancies surrounding the Holy Week events. From the anointing of Jesus' feet to the crucifixion accounts, they analyze the evolution of beliefs in the New Testament, challenging traditional narratives. Delve into the complexities of the Easter story and unravel the misconceptions surrounding Jesus's last days in Jerusalem.

Mar 11, 2024 • 59min
Episode 49: Christian Slavery with Candida Moss
Exploring Christian slavery in the Bible, Dr. Candida Moss reveals the role of enslaved people in writing and editing biblical texts. Did enslaved individuals shape your favorite Bible passages? Unveiling uncomfortable truths about Christianity's involvement in slavery and early Christian history. Reimagining Jesus through symbolism challenges perceptions and highlights the labor of unseen workers.

Mar 4, 2024 • 1h 1min
Episode 48: Jesus in History with Helen Bond
Explore the historical Jesus with Helen Bond, including his countercultural message and changes in teachings. Discover the roles of women in early Christianity and their contributions. Dive into the impact of the end times on relationships and asceticism, contrasting historical views with modern interpretations.

Feb 26, 2024 • 38min
Episode 47: Introducing History Daily
This week we're doing something a little different. We're working with our friends over at History Daily to bring you some content that, though it is not Bible related, we think you'll really enjoy! Every weekday on History Daily, host Lindsay Graham (American Scandal, American History Tellers) takes you back in time to explore a momentous event that happened ‘on this day’ in history. Give it a listen, and if you like it, subscribe!***PLEASE CONSIDER TAKING OUR SURVEY! For a limited time, you'll be entered to win a $100 Amazon gift card!***https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/DATAOVERDOGMAFor early access to an ad-free version of Data Over Dogma, exclusive content, and an opportunity to support our work, please consider becoming a monthly patron at:https://www.patreon.com/DataOverDogma Follow us on the various social media places:https://www.facebook.com/DataOverDogmaPodhttps://www.twitter.com/data_over_dogma Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Feb 19, 2024 • 1h 8min
Episode 46: GENOCIDE!
Discussion on challenging topic of genocide in the Bible, including biblical stories and ethical implications. Exploration of conflicting accounts of Canaanite conquest and discrepancies in narratives. Analysis of historical mysteries and misconceptions influencing present beliefs. Focus on interpreting a challenging biblical passage and evolving concept of God's relationship with nations

Feb 12, 2024 • 1h 15min
Episode 45: The Dead Sea Scrolls With Kipp Davis
You've probably heard of the Dead Sea Scrolls, but how much do you really know about them? Where did they come from, when were they discovered, and what can they tell us about the Bible as it was handed down to us? Also, are all the scrolls and fragments that have found their way into private collections and museums legitimate?This week we talk to expert Dr. Kipp Davis, who gives us the skinny on the scrolls. It's all the history and mystery surrounding what some have called the most significant archaeological find of all time.To see more of Kipp's work, head over to his YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/@DrKippDavisOr check out his course on ancient Israelite religions:https://sales.mvp-courses.com/israelite-religions/***PLEASE CONSIDER TAKING OUR SURVEY! For a limited time, you'll be entered to win a $100 Amazon gift card!***https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/DATAOVERDOGMAFor early access to an ad-free version of Data Over Dogma, exclusive content, and an opportunity to support our work, please consider becoming a monthly patron at:https://www.patreon.com/DataOverDogma Follow us on the various social media places:https://www.facebook.com/DataOverDogmaPodhttps://www.twitter.com/data_over_dogma Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices