Faithful Politics

Have a comment? Send us a text! (We read all of them but can't reply). Email us: Will@faithfulpoliticspodcast.comIn this episode of Faithful Politics, investigative journalist Molly Redden from ProPublica joins hosts Will Wright and Pastor Josh Burtram to explore the controversial plans behind Project 2025, a blueprint for Donald Trump’s potential second-term agenda. The discussion reveals how Russell Vought, a key MAGA strategist and former OMB Director, is shaping this initiative through his think tank, the Center for Renewing America. Redden highlights how the plan seeks to expand executive power, bypass Congress, and enforce sweeping budget cuts to diminish federal agencies like the EPA and IRS. The conversation also delves into Vought’s ideological alignment with Christian nationalism, a movement that aims to merge faith-based principles with federal governance, reshaping the country’s political and cultural landscape.Key topics include Vought’s proposed legal frameworks for deploying military force against domestic protests, the broader implications of replacing career civil servants with MAGA-aligned loyalists, and the feasibility of achieving such radical government overhauls. With discussions on Trump’s controversial cabinet picks, including figures like Matt Gaetz and RFK Jr., and the role of think tanks like the Heritage Foundation in drafting Project 2025, this episode provides a detailed analysis of the potential transformation of American democracy. Whether you’re curious about the future of the federal government, Christian nationalism’s influence, or the legal mechanisms shaping Trump’s plans, this conversation offers a crucial look into the strategies behind a possible second Trump administration.Put Them in Trauma”: Inside a Key MAGA Leader’s Plans for a New Trump Agenda: https://www.propublica.org/article/video-donald-trump-russ-vought-center-renewing-america-magaGuest Bio:Molly Redden is a reporter for ProPublica covering national politics and elections. She was pr Support the show🎧 Want to learn more about Faithful Politics, get in touch with the hosts, or suggest a future guest?👉 Visit our website: faithfulpoliticspodcast.com 📚 Check out our Bookstore – Featuring titles from our amazing guests:faithfulpoliticspodcast.com/bookstore ❤️ Support the show – Help us keep the conversation going:donorbox.org/faithful-politics-podcast 📩 Reach out to us: Faithful Host, Josh Burtram: Josh@faithfulpolitics.com Political Host, Will Wright: Will@faithfulpolitics.com 📱 Follow & connect with us: Twitter/X: @FaithfulPolitik Instagram: faithful_politics Facebook: FaithfulPoliticsPodcast LinkedIn: faithfulpolitics 📰 Subscribe to our Substack for behind-the-scenes content:faithfulpolitics.substack.com 📅 RSVP for upcoming live events:Chec...

Have a comment? Send us a text! (We read all of them but can't reply). Email us: Will@faithfulpoliticspodcast.comIn this podcast episode of Faithful Politics, hosts Will Wright and Pastor Josh Burtram engage in a rich conversation with Dr. Samuel Perry, a leading expert on conservative Christianity and American politics. The discussion focuses on the 2024 election results, with Perry providing an analysis of the unexpected outcomes and voter behavior. He emphasizes that economic concerns, rather than ideological shifts, drove many voters' decisions. Perry notes that while some believe rhetoric like Trump's may just be for show, it can have significant societal impacts, including normalizing divisive language and authoritarian tendencies.They explore how religious identity has shifted in America, highlighting that evangelical support for Trump remained steady, while shifts were seen among Catholic and other religious voters. Perry also touches on how Christian nationalism and group identity influence political stances and willingness to support authoritarian measures.The episode concludes with Perry discussing his new book, Religion for Realists, which argues that understanding religion through a scientific lens can illuminate how beliefs, identity, and societal norms interact. He explains that current global and domestic leaders already utilize religious identity as a tool for power, making this understanding even more crucial today. The show wraps up with thoughts on maintaining hope and community engagement amid political and societal challenges.Guest Bio:An award-winning scholar and teacher, Dr. Perry is among the nation's leading experts on conservative Christianity and American politics, race, families, and sexual behavior. He has been recognized as among the top sociologists in the world in terms of research productivity and impact.Along with well over 100 peer-reviewed articles published in leading academic journals, Dr. Perry is also the author or co-author of five books, including Growing God's Family (NYU, 2017), Addicted to Lust (Oxford, 2019), Taking America Back for God (Oxford, 2020, with Andrew Whitehead), and The Flag and the Cross (Oxford, 2022, with Philip Gorski). His most recent book is enti Support the show🎧 Want to learn more about Faithful Politics, get in touch with the hosts, or suggest a future guest?👉 Visit our website: faithfulpoliticspodcast.com 📚 Check out our Bookstore – Featuring titles from our amazing guests:faithfulpoliticspodcast.com/bookstore ❤️ Support the show – Help us keep the conversation going:donorbox.org/faithful-politics-podcast 📩 Reach out to us: Faithful Host, Josh Burtram: Josh@faithfulpolitics.com Political Host, Will Wright: Will@faithfulpolitics.com 📱 Follow & connect with us: Twitter/X: @FaithfulPolitik Instagram: faithful_politics Facebook: FaithfulPoliticsPodcast LinkedIn: faithfulpolitics 📰 Subscribe to our Substack for behind-the-scenes content:faithfulpolitics.substack.com 📅 RSVP for upcoming live events:Chec...

Have a comment? Send us a text! (We read all of them but can't reply). Email us: Will@faithfulpoliticspodcast.comIn this episode of Faithful Politics, Will Wright and Pastor Josh Burtram host Brian Dembowczyk, author of Family Discipleship That Works, for an insightful discussion on practical faith-based parenting. Dembowczyk shares his approach to integrating discipleship into daily family life, emphasizing that faith formation can go beyond structured Bible study. Through what he calls "improvised discipleship," he encourages parents to use everyday moments—like conversations at the dinner table or casual interactions—to teach values like kindness, humility, and love. This flexible approach helps children see faith as a lived experience, making it both meaningful and accessible.The conversation also tackles navigating challenging social and political issues with kids, especially as they begin forming their own views. Brian, Will, and Josh discuss how to approach topics like politics, sexuality, and belief differences within families, all while staying rooted in Christian principles. Instead of focusing on rigid dogma, Dembowczyk’s method centers on fostering a compassionate, grace-filled atmosphere where children can ask questions and explore their faith openly. This episode is a must-listen for parents seeking a balanced, thoughtful approach to family discipleship in today’s complex world.buy the book: https://a.co/d/iDn5dinGuest Bio:Brian Dembowczyk has been part of a sports ministry, served on staff in the local church, and led a curriculum team that served millions of children, teens, and adults around the world. He now helps lead a Bible publishing team and writes, teaches, and speaks mostly about family discipleship and children’s ministry.Follow what Brian is doing: https://briandembo.com/ Support the show🎧 Want to learn more about Faithful Politics, get in touch with the hosts, or suggest a future guest?👉 Visit our website: faithfulpoliticspodcast.com 📚 Check out our Bookstore – Featuring titles from our amazing guests:faithfulpoliticspodcast.com/bookstore ❤️ Support the show – Help us keep the conversation going:donorbox.org/faithful-politics-podcast 📩 Reach out to us: Faithful Host, Josh Burtram: Josh@faithfulpolitics.com Political Host, Will Wright: Will@faithfulpolitics.com 📱 Follow & connect with us: Twitter/X: @FaithfulPolitik Instagram: faithful_politics Facebook: FaithfulPoliticsPodcast LinkedIn: faithfulpolitics 📰 Subscribe to our Substack for behind-the-scenes content:faithfulpolitics.substack.com 📅 RSVP for upcoming live events:Chec...

Have a comment? Send us a text! (We read all of them but can't reply). Email us: Will@faithfulpoliticspodcast.comIn this special Election Day episode of Faithful Politics, we bring you an insightful conversation with filmmaker and author Julio Vincent Gambuto. Known for his critical take on media culture, Julio shares the philosophy behind his new book, Please Unsubscribe, Thanks. Together, we explore the impact of "unsubscribing" from the things that drain us—be it social media, toxic relationships, or even our underlying beliefs. With Election Day upon us, this episode invites listeners to reflect on the mental and emotional subscriptions they hold and how letting go of some might bring a sense of peace and clarity.For those of us feeling tense about the election results, Julio's ideas offer a timely reminder: the bigger takeaway might be less about winning or losing and more about re-evaluating what truly matters to us. With our phones in hand, glued to the news or waiting for updates, let this episode be a gentle guide to help you navigate today's anxieties, foster compassion for others, and reconnect with what brings you joy and purpose.Join us for a conversation that’s all about helping you unsubscribe from the noise and focus on what matters—today and beyond.Guest Bio (from his website: https://www.juliovincent.com/)Julio is the author of the new book, Please Unsubscribe, Thanks! — now available from Avid Reader Press at Simon & Schuster. It is a follow-up to his viral essay series “Prepare for the Ultimate Gaslighting,” which sparked a worldwide conversation reaching more than 21 million readers in 98 countries. Julio remains a weekly contributor to Medium. From the time he was a super gay teen back in the 90s, “Giulio” has had over 30 jobs, including being a singing-and-dancing waiter at Johnny Rockets and welcoming customers at Abercrombie & Fitch (well before the greeters were half naked).​Deeply changed by the experience of the Covid pandemic, Support the show🎧 Want to learn more about Faithful Politics, get in touch with the hosts, or suggest a future guest?👉 Visit our website: faithfulpoliticspodcast.com 📚 Check out our Bookstore – Featuring titles from our amazing guests:faithfulpoliticspodcast.com/bookstore ❤️ Support the show – Help us keep the conversation going:donorbox.org/faithful-politics-podcast 📩 Reach out to us: Faithful Host, Josh Burtram: Josh@faithfulpolitics.com Political Host, Will Wright: Will@faithfulpolitics.com 📱 Follow & connect with us: Twitter/X: @FaithfulPolitik Instagram: faithful_politics Facebook: FaithfulPoliticsPodcast LinkedIn: faithfulpolitics 📰 Subscribe to our Substack for behind-the-scenes content:faithfulpolitics.substack.com 📅 RSVP for upcoming live events:Chec...

Have a comment? Send us a text! (We read all of them but can't reply). Email us: Will@faithfulpoliticspodcast.comIn this thought-provoking episode of Faithful Politics, hosts Will Wright and Pastor Josh Burtram tackle the timely and contentious intersections of religious liberty and government regulation. Joining them is Rachel Morrison, an attorney and fellow at the Ethics and Public Policy Center, whose expertise sheds light on how recent federal policies and Supreme Court decisions are impacting religious freedoms in healthcare, employment, and beyond.This episode dives into questions that resonate deeply in today’s polarized environment: What protections do healthcare professionals have if they object to certain procedures on moral or religious grounds? How does the recent Supreme Court Loper-Bright decision shift the power dynamics between government agencies and individuals? And, perhaps most importantly, what do these issues mean for the future of faith-based decision-making in a rapidly changing legal landscape?Morrison breaks down the implications of the Loper-Bright decision, explaining how it puts religious liberty on more stable footing by limiting the power of federal agencies to interpret laws in ways that might disregard religious or moral objections. The hosts and Morrison then explore real-world scenarios—such as COVID-19 mandates and the rise of gender-identity policies under the current administration—that illustrate how these legal shifts could play out in healthcare and workplace settings.Guest Bio:Rachel N. Morrison is a Fellow at the Ethics and Public Policy Center, leading EPPC’s HHS Accountability Project. An attorney specializing in religious liberty, healthcare conscience rights, life issues, and civil rights, she previously served as an Attorney Advisor at the EEOC, focusing on religious discrimination, and held roles at Americans United for Life and the Becket Fund for Religious Liberty. Ms. Morrison’s work has appeared in prominent law reviews and media outlets. She earned her J.D., magna cum laude, from Pepperdine University School of Law and her B.A., summa cum laude, from Whitworth University. She is a member of the D.C. and Washington State bars. Support the show🎧 Want to learn more about Faithful Politics, get in touch with the hosts, or suggest a future guest?👉 Visit our website: faithfulpoliticspodcast.com 📚 Check out our Bookstore – Featuring titles from our amazing guests:faithfulpoliticspodcast.com/bookstore ❤️ Support the show – Help us keep the conversation going:donorbox.org/faithful-politics-podcast 📩 Reach out to us: Faithful Host, Josh Burtram: Josh@faithfulpolitics.com Political Host, Will Wright: Will@faithfulpolitics.com 📱 Follow & connect with us: Twitter/X: @FaithfulPolitik Instagram: faithful_politics Facebook: FaithfulPoliticsPodcast LinkedIn: faithfulpolitics 📰 Subscribe to our Substack for behind-the-scenes content:faithfulpolitics.substack.com 📅 RSVP for upcoming live events:Chec...

Have a comment? Send us a text! (We read all of them but can't reply). Email us: Will@faithfulpoliticspodcast.comIn this special Halloween episode, Faithful Politics "defies gravity" by diving into the world of witches, supernatural beliefs, and the historical intersections between faith and witchcraft. Hosts Will Wright and Pastor Josh Burtram chat with Stanford anthropologist Professor Tanya Luhrmann, renowned for her work on how people experience the supernatural in various religious contexts. Together, we cast a Revelio charm to unpack the evolution of witchcraft from ancient agricultural societies to modern-day practitioners, explore the role of folklore and cultural myths, and discuss how ideas of “good” and “bad” supernatural powers shape our understanding of spirituality and fear. The episode also sheds some Lumos on the Salem witch trials, Halloween traditions, and the modern revival of pagan practices. This conversation is packed with insights into humanity's complex relationship with the unseen, perfect for both the curious and the skeptical.Guest Bio:Professor Tanya Luhrmann is an anthropologist from Stanford University, known for her in-depth research on how people experience the supernatural across various religious practices. Her work bridges anthropology, psychology, and religion, examining everything from witchcraft and evangelical prayer practices to encounters with the supernatural. With a unique background that includes immersive studies with modern-day covens and extensive fieldwork on spiritual phenomena, Luhrmann’s insights shed light on the ways belief and culture shape our experiences of the unseen world.Learn more about her work: https://www.tanyaluhrmann.com/ Support the show🎧 Want to learn more about Faithful Politics, get in touch with the hosts, or suggest a future guest?👉 Visit our website: faithfulpoliticspodcast.com 📚 Check out our Bookstore – Featuring titles from our amazing guests:faithfulpoliticspodcast.com/bookstore ❤️ Support the show – Help us keep the conversation going:donorbox.org/faithful-politics-podcast 📩 Reach out to us: Faithful Host, Josh Burtram: Josh@faithfulpolitics.com Political Host, Will Wright: Will@faithfulpolitics.com 📱 Follow & connect with us: Twitter/X: @FaithfulPolitik Instagram: faithful_politics Facebook: FaithfulPoliticsPodcast LinkedIn: faithfulpolitics 📰 Subscribe to our Substack for behind-the-scenes content:faithfulpolitics.substack.com 📅 RSVP for upcoming live events:Chec...

Have a comment? Send us a text! (We read all of them but can't reply). Email us: Will@faithfulpoliticspodcast.comIn this episode, Faithful Politics welcomes back investigative reporter Phoebe Petrovic from ProPublica to dive into an intense topic at the crossroads of faith and politics. Petrovic discusses her latest investigative findings on a group of organizations, including Lion of Judah and True the Vote, which are actively recruiting poll workers ahead of the 2024 election. These groups, often tied to false election fraud claims, are encouraging their members to "monitor" voting from the inside, stirring concerns over potential disruptions and misinformation.The conversation explores the controversial methods these organizations use, the religious and political narratives behind their efforts, and the implications for election integrity. Phoebe also delves into the fine line these groups tread legally, especially regarding nonprofit regulations. She shares insights from attending events like the "Courage Tour," a pro-Trump revival rally spearheaded by figures like Lance Wallnau and attended by high-profile names, such as JD Vance.This episode is a deep look at the convergence of religion, election integrity, and American democracy, especially for those interested in how activism, faith, and misinformation are shaping the political landscape. It's an eye-opening discussion that emphasizes the importance of understanding what’s at stake in upcoming elections. If you're curious about how grassroots efforts and faith-based groups are influencing political engagement and election processes, this is a must-listen.Articles discussed in our conversation:Right-Wing Activists Pushed False Claims About Election Fraud. Now They’re Recruiting Poll Workers in Swing States: https://www.propublica.org/article/poll-worker-recruitment-swing-states-true-the-vote-lion-of-judahJD Vance Campaign Event With Christian Right Leaders May Have Violated Tax and Election Laws, Experts Say: https://www.propubli Support the show🎧 Want to learn more about Faithful Politics, get in touch with the hosts, or suggest a future guest?👉 Visit our website: faithfulpoliticspodcast.com 📚 Check out our Bookstore – Featuring titles from our amazing guests:faithfulpoliticspodcast.com/bookstore ❤️ Support the show – Help us keep the conversation going:donorbox.org/faithful-politics-podcast 📩 Reach out to us: Faithful Host, Josh Burtram: Josh@faithfulpolitics.com Political Host, Will Wright: Will@faithfulpolitics.com 📱 Follow & connect with us: Twitter/X: @FaithfulPolitik Instagram: faithful_politics Facebook: FaithfulPoliticsPodcast LinkedIn: faithfulpolitics 📰 Subscribe to our Substack for behind-the-scenes content:faithfulpolitics.substack.com 📅 RSVP for upcoming live events:Chec...

Have a comment? Send us a text! (We read all of them but can't reply). Email us: Will@faithfulpoliticspodcast.comThis podcast episode features an in-depth discussion with Kiera Butler, a senior editor at Mother Jones. The conversation revolves around two significant topics: the New Apostolic Reformation (NAR) and the influence of "Theo Bros." Butler shares insights from her investigative reporting on the entanglement of Christian nationalism with far-right political movements, specifically the NAR’s role in shaping local communities and its ties to influential figures like Donald Trump. The episode highlights the overlaps between religious extremism and political activism, with a focus on movements like NAR that combine charismatic Christian theology with political goals, such as dominionism and the Seven Mountains Mandate. Butler also explores the rise of the "Theo Bros," a younger generation of militant, conservative Christian men influenced by Calvinist doctrine and figures like Doug Wilson.To Understand JD Vance, You Need to Meet the “TheoBros”: https://www.motherjones.com/politics/2024/09/theobros-jd-vance-christian-nationalism/Christian Nationalists Dream of Taking Over America. This Movement Is Actually Doing It: https://www.motherjones.com/politics/2024/10/new-apostolic-reformation-christian-nationalism/Guest Bio:Kiera Butler is a senior editor at Mother Jones and the author of the book Raise: What 4-H Teaches 7 Million Kids—and How Its Lessons Could Change Food and Farming Forever (UC Press, November 2014). At Mother Jones, Kiera writes and edits stories about the environment, nutrition, health, and agriculture, including her award-winning column, Econundrums. Her piece about a dietitians’ convention sponsored by McDonald’s was featured on NPR’s All Things Considered. Kiera’s work through the Climate Desk collaboration has been published in the Atlantic‘s CityLab, Wired.com, Slate, and Grist. Kiera lives in Oakland, California. Her favorite ride at the county fair is the Support the show🎧 Want to learn more about Faithful Politics, get in touch with the hosts, or suggest a future guest?👉 Visit our website: faithfulpoliticspodcast.com 📚 Check out our Bookstore – Featuring titles from our amazing guests:faithfulpoliticspodcast.com/bookstore ❤️ Support the show – Help us keep the conversation going:donorbox.org/faithful-politics-podcast 📩 Reach out to us: Faithful Host, Josh Burtram: Josh@faithfulpolitics.com Political Host, Will Wright: Will@faithfulpolitics.com 📱 Follow & connect with us: Twitter/X: @FaithfulPolitik Instagram: faithful_politics Facebook: FaithfulPoliticsPodcast LinkedIn: faithfulpolitics 📰 Subscribe to our Substack for behind-the-scenes content:faithfulpolitics.substack.com 📅 RSVP for upcoming live events:Chec...

Have a comment? Send us a text! (We read all of them but can't reply). Email us: Will@faithfulpoliticspodcast.comIn this thought-provoking episode of Faithful Politics we delve into the fascinating world of Biblical Womanhood and its influence on gender roles in American Christianity. Our guest, Professor Beth Allison Barr author of "The Making of Biblical Womanhood: How the Subjugation of Women Became Gospel Truth" takes us on a captivating journey through history, shedding light on the development and impact of this concept.Join us as we explore a series of intriguing questions with Professor Barr. We begin by uncovering the inspiration behind her book and her hopes for readers' takeaway. Professor Barr's research challenges traditional notions of gender roles within the church, inviting readers to critically analyze their beliefs and consider the implications for women.We then delve into the distinction between Patriarchy and Complementarianism, seeking to understand the nuances between these two concepts that often intersect within Christian circles. Professor Barr expertly clarifies these terms, unraveling their implications for gender dynamics in the church and society.Next, we embark on a journey through history, encountering Margery Kempe, a historical figure who may spark laughter among Professor Barr's students. Discover why this connection is both intriguing and significant in understanding the evolution of gender roles within Christianity.One of the central themes of "The Making of Biblical Womanhood" is the development and usage of this concept to shape gender roles in American Christianity. Professor Barr expertly explains the origins and evolution of Biblical Womanhood, offering valuable insights into its impact on women's lives.In a captivating comparison, we explore Dr. Mckay's book alongside Sheila Wray Gregoire's, "She Deserves Better." We discuss the contrasting focus between raising girls to resist toxic teachings and addressing the oppression faced by adult women in the church. We also contemplate who might write about the oppression of senior women in the future, with intriguing predictions for a potential author.Wrapping up the conversation, we address the after- Support the show🎧 Want to learn more about Faithful Politics, get in touch with the hosts, or suggest a future guest?👉 Visit our website: faithfulpoliticspodcast.com 📚 Check out our Bookstore – Featuring titles from our amazing guests:faithfulpoliticspodcast.com/bookstore ❤️ Support the show – Help us keep the conversation going:donorbox.org/faithful-politics-podcast 📩 Reach out to us: Faithful Host, Josh Burtram: Josh@faithfulpolitics.com Political Host, Will Wright: Will@faithfulpolitics.com 📱 Follow & connect with us: Twitter/X: @FaithfulPolitik Instagram: faithful_politics Facebook: FaithfulPoliticsPodcast LinkedIn: faithfulpolitics 📰 Subscribe to our Substack for behind-the-scenes content:faithfulpolitics.substack.com 📅 RSVP for upcoming live events:Chec...

Have a comment? Send us a text! (We read all of them but can't reply). Email us: Will@faithfulpoliticspodcast.comIn this episode of Faithful Politics, Will Wright and Josh Burtram engage in a thought-provoking conversation with Amanda Clark, a pastor at Branches Vineyard Church. The discussion dives into Amanda's journey as a woman in ministry, navigating her calling within the context of a complementarian background. Amanda shares how her early desire to serve Jesus as a missionary eventually evolved into pastoral leadership, despite the challenges posed by conservative views on women in ministry.Throughout the episode, Amanda reflects on the barriers female pastors often face, such as the societal awkwardness and traditional rules against male and female leaders meeting privately. She also touches on the support she received from key mentors, her theological journey in seminary, and how she reconciled her beliefs with the Bible's teachings on women in leadership.The conversation expands into broader issues affecting the church today, including political polarization, social justice, and the role of discipleship in church growth. Amanda emphasizes the importance of balancing leadership growth with the spiritual development of congregants, avoiding the pitfalls of the church growth model that prioritizes numbers over genuine spiritual depth.This episode also explores Amanda’s personal experiences as a lead pastor in a rural, predominantly conservative area. She candidly discusses the challenges of being perceived as too progressive by some, while also attracting those who value her inclusive approach to ministry. Finally, Amanda offers insights on how pastors can stay grounded in their core convictions, resisting the temptation to cater to popular opinion at the expense of their beliefs.It’s a powerful discussion about leadership, faith, and the evolving role of women in the church. You can learn more about Amanda's ministry at Branches Vineyard Church and follow her on social media for further insights.To learn more about our Guest Check Out:Branches Vineyard Church: http://branchesvineyard.org/Theology for Women in Church Leadership Support the show🎧 Want to learn more about Faithful Politics, get in touch with the hosts, or suggest a future guest?👉 Visit our website: faithfulpoliticspodcast.com 📚 Check out our Bookstore – Featuring titles from our amazing guests:faithfulpoliticspodcast.com/bookstore ❤️ Support the show – Help us keep the conversation going:donorbox.org/faithful-politics-podcast 📩 Reach out to us: Faithful Host, Josh Burtram: Josh@faithfulpolitics.com Political Host, Will Wright: Will@faithfulpolitics.com 📱 Follow & connect with us: Twitter/X: @FaithfulPolitik Instagram: faithful_politics Facebook: FaithfulPoliticsPodcast LinkedIn: faithfulpolitics 📰 Subscribe to our Substack for behind-the-scenes content:faithfulpolitics.substack.com 📅 RSVP for upcoming live events:Chec...