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, Will Wright and guest Patrick Ruffini delve into the intricacies of American politics, discussing the changing dynamics of voter demographics and the impact on election outcomes. Ruffini, a political strategist and author, shares insights from his book, highlighting the shift in voting patterns among different ethnic and racial groups, and the factors that contribute to these changes. They explore the complexities of black politics, the influence of religious beliefs on voting behavior, and the importance of understanding the nuances of different communities to accurately interpret polling data.Will and Patrick also discuss the challenges and misconceptions surrounding polling, offering valuable advice on how to be a better consumer of polling information. They emphasize the significance of state polls over national polls in predicting election outcomes, and the evolution of the Republican party in recent years. The conversation also touches on the impact of economic factors on voter sentiment, the role of intergenerational wealth in the African-American community, and the potential appeal of Republican policies to minority populations. This episode provides a comprehensive and insightful analysis of the current political landscape, with practical tips for navigating the complex world of polling and elections.Guest Bio:Over the last 15 years, Patrick Ruffini has advanced the digital and data-driven transformation of politics in numerous roles, most recently as the co-founder of Echelon Insights, a next-generation polling, analytics, and intelligence firm.Ruffini began his career as one of the country’s first political-digital practitioners, starting at the Republican National Committee in 2002. He managed grassroots technology and outreach for President George W. Bush’s 2004 re-election campaign, and returned to the RNC to run digital strategy in 2006. As the founder of Engage, a leading right-of-center digital agency, Ruffini would apply these lessons learned at the Presidential level to political campaigns nationally and internationally, the advocacy and nonprofit wo 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 captivating episode of Faithful Politics, hosts Will Wright and Pastor Josh Burtram  we sit down with Steven Hassan, an expert in the psychology of mind control and cults. The conversation is a deep dive into the mechanics of manipulation, exploring how individuals and entire societies can be influenced, transformed, and then manipulated again.Steven Hassan introduces key terms like "unfreezing," "changing," and "refreezing," which are part of a model that describes the process of disorienting a person's sense of self, indoctrinating them with new beliefs, and then solidifying those beliefs. He explains how these tactics have been used in various contexts, including politics, and specifically mentions their application during the Trump era.The episode also delves into the role of social media platforms in facilitating this kind of manipulation. Hassan warns about the dangers of becoming too reliant on these platforms for information, as they can serve as echo chambers that reinforce existing beliefs and make individuals more susceptible to manipulation.The conversation takes a fascinating turn when it intersects with faith and politics. Hassan, Pastor Josh, and Will discuss the ethical implications of using religion as a tool for political gain. They caution the audience about the risks involved in intertwining faith with political ideologies, emphasizing the need for critical thinking and self-awareness in today's polarized environment.Hassan ends the episode by offering practical advice for breaking free from these manipulative tactics. He encourages listeners to take a step back, disconnect from media, and spend time in self-reflection to understand their true values and beliefs. He also stresses the importance of learning from our mistakes and being open to changing our minds, as this is the only way to grow and protect ourselves from future manipulation."The Cult of Trump" BookBITE Model of Authoritarian Control 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 today's episode, we're diving headfirst into the geopolitical labyrinth of China's role in the Israel/Palestine conflict with William Nee, the research and advocacy coordinator for the Network of Chinese Human Rights Defenders.  As China positions itself as a neutral peacemaker while aligning with Palestine and Arab States, we explore the implications of this stance. We'll dissect China's media narratives that blame the U.S. for hostilities in the Middle East and contrast this with China's own human rights record, particularly concerning the Uyghurs in Xinjiang.In our second segment, we'll delve deeper into China's global ambitions. We'll discuss their new global initiatives like the GSI, GDI, GCI, and BRI, and what these mean for the international order. We'll also touch on the psychological mechanisms that make people susceptible to narratives that may not align with reality. How does public sentiment develop, and how do governments and media play into this? We'll explore these questions and more, providing you with a nuanced understanding of the situation.China Resources Mentioned by William NeeGreat podcast on Chinese issues, Sinica: https://thechinaproject.com/podcasts/The best China-focused newsletter, Sinocism (requires subscription): https://sinocism.comThe China-Global South Project's X feed: @ChinaGSProjectThe Network of Chinese Human Rights Defenders X feed: @CHRDnetUyghur region:Human Rights Watch report:  “Break Their Lineage, Break Their Roots”: China’s Crimes against Humanity Targeting Uyghurs and Other Turkic Muslims, William Nee recent op-ed:A UN Body Sheds Light on the Fate of Disappeared Uyghurs: The Working Group on Arbitrary Detention has provided more evidence of China’s 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 a compelling episode of Faithful Politics, hosts Will Wright and Josh Burtram engage in a nuanced conversation with Professor Mohammed Abu-Nimer, a leading authority on peace and conflict resolution. The trio delves into the complex history and current dynamics of the Israel-Palestine conflict, dissecting the role of religious ideologies, international politics, and media narratives. Born as a Palestinian, Abu-Nimer passionately advocates for a two-state solution, where Israel and Palestine coexist with open borders and mutual respect. He urges listeners to critically examine the information they consume, challenging them to look beyond mainstream media outlets like CNN and NBC, and to hold their political representatives accountable for perpetuating one-sided, harmful policies.Co-host Josh Burtram, coming from an evangelical Christian perspective, adds another layer to the conversation by highlighting the oft-ignored Christian communities in Palestine. He calls on listeners, especially those in the Christian faith, to recognize the suffering of their "brothers and sisters in Christ" in the region. The episode culminates in a collective call to action: for listeners to actively participate in peace-building efforts, whether that's through engaging in dialogue, attending peace activities, or combating hate speech in their own communities. Both hosts and their guest stress the importance of human dignity and equality in resolving the conflict and encourage their diverse audience, ranging from atheists to conservative Christians, to take informed, compassionate stances. This episode serves not just as an educational resource but as a moral imperative for listeners to become part of the solution.Guest Bio:Mohammed Abu-Nimer, of the International Peace and Conflict Resolution program, is a full professor who has conducted interreligious conflict resolution training and interfaith dialogue workshops in conflict areas around the world, such as in, Egypt, Northern Ireland, the Philippines (Mindanao), Israel, Palestine, Chad, Nigeria, and Sri Lanka. As a professor with over 35 years of teaching experience, he has devel 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, hosts Will Wright and Pastor Josh Bertram sit down with Congresswoman Abigail Spanberger, who's been serving Virginia's seventh congressional district since 2019. Our conversation journeys through her unique path to politics—starting as a federal employee, transitioning to an undercover role in the CIA, and finally, landing in Congress. We explore the historical significance of her win, breaking a 60-year Democratic drought in her district, and what that implies for her potential third-term victory.We tackle the ongoing Speaker of the House dilemma, discussing its impact on both her constituents and the nation at large. The episode also delves into bipartisan efforts, focusing on how Democrats and Republicans are collaborating to safeguard Americans and restore trust in Congress. We touch on international topics like aid to Ukraine and its implications for American security. To cap it all off, we get a fascinating peek into Spanberger's past life as an undercover CIA agent, including how her mother was largely in the dark about her covert activities.This was a really fun interview with the Rep. Spanberger and we think you'll enjoy it as much as we did recording it!Guest Bio:U.S. Representative Abigail Spanberger is proud to represent the people of Virginia’s Seventh Congressional District in the U.S. House.Abigail’s career has been defined by public service. She first swore an oath to the U.S. Constitution as a federal agent with the U.S. Postal Inspection Service. In this role, she investigated money laundering and narcotics cases — including at the southern border. Then, as a Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) case officer, she worked at home and abroad to collect intelligence, keep our country safe from terrorism, and inform policymakers in their national security decisions. Following her time at CIA, Abigail joined the private sector and helped American colleges and universities diversify their student bodies, expand opportunities for Americans entering the workforce, and increase graduation rates.To learn more:  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 riveting episode of the Faithful Politics podcast, host Josh Burtram welcomes esteemed guest Professor Christopher Wright to delve into the multifaceted nature of Christian mission. This enriching discussion unfolds the broader scope of mission, transcending the conventional frameworks of evangelization, and explores the profound implications of embodying the teachings of Jesus in daily life and within modern church communities.The conversation kicks off with an introduction to the concept of holistic mission, where Professor Wright shares invaluable insights from his mission-centric work, setting a robust foundation for the discourse ahead. The dialogue then transitions into the realm of cultural identity and divine purpose, exploring the modern societal norms, the influences of contemporary culture on self-identity and spirituality, and the importance of recognizing a God-given identity amidst the societal clamor.As they journey further into the essence of mission, Josh and Professor Wright provide practical insights on initiating a missional journey both individually and as a community. They explore the historical backdrop of Apostle Paul's missional strategies in nurturing nascent Christian communities amidst hostile societal settings, emphasizing the importance of understanding and living out the divine narrative in daily life.The narrative further evolves to unveil how daily life activities can indeed be a ministry, effectively breaking down the traditionally perceived dichotomy between the sacred and the secular. They delve into the significance of individual contributions to the larger mission, drawing inspiration from Martin Luther King's teachings on dignified labor.In the concluding segments, the discussion encapsulates the essence of finding individual significance within God's grand narrative, even if one perceives their role as a tiny pixel in a vast scheme. Professor Wright eloquently articulates how every act, no matter how minuscule, holds value within God’s overarching plan, emphasizing that none of us are too small to be significant in the divine narrative.Th 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.comNot quite sure what to make of the Israel & Palestine conflict? No fear , our guest this week will help breakdown this complicated situation that has gone one for generations. Dr. Constanza Musu is an associate professor at the Graduate School of Public and International Affairs at the University of Ottawa, and brings her extensive knowledge to shed light on the topic. The discussion goes beyond the surface-level interpretations and delves into the historical, political, and cultural facets that define Zionism.Another compelling segment of the show revolves around the broader aspects of monotheistic religions and how they relate to current political issues. Dr. Musu brings an academic lens to the conversation, discussing how religious beliefs can serve as both a unifying and divisive force in politics. This part of the conversation aims to disentangle the complexities of faith-based politics and offers listeners an in-depth understanding of how monotheistic views intersect with modern governance.Lastly, the episode doesn't shy away from tackling the contentious issue of Israel—its statehood, land, and geopolitical importance. With objective analysis and nuanced perspectives, the discussion navigates the intricate dynamics surrounding the State of Israel. This segment provides listeners with a comprehensive understanding of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, the concept of "land" in religious and political discourses, and how these issues resonate on the international stage.Guest Bio:Dr. Costanza Musu is Associate Professor at the Graduate School of Public and International Affairs at the University of Ottawa and Editor-in-Chief of the journal International Politics (Palgrave). She obtained her PhD in International Relations from the London School of Economics and Political Science. Subsequently she was a Jean Monnet Fellow at the European University Institute (EUI) in Florence and Assistant Professor of International Relations at Richmond University (London-UK). She has been a consultant for the Military Center for Strategic Studies – Center for Advanced Defense Studies (CeMiSS-CASD), the think tank o 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 week's must-listen episode of Faithful Politics, hosts Josh Bertram and Will Wright are joined by Professor Dr. Jessica Hooten Wilson, a luminary in the field of classic literature. The trio delves deep into the profound influence of reading on shaping individual worldviews and societal norms. Dr. Hooten-Wilson, holding the Fletcher Jones Chair of Great Books at Pepperdine University, unravels how books can serve as both a mirror and a window, offering insights into our own lives and the world at large. The conversation doesn't shy away from sharing personal viewpoints, making the discourse rich, relatable, and deeply engaging.In the latter part of the discussion, the episode takes a more introspective turn. The hosts and their guest explore the nuances of acknowledgment and understanding in conversations, especially in the realms of faith and politics. Emotional responses and expressions of love and agreement punctuate the dialogue, adding a layer of sincerity that's hard to ignore. Whether you're a seasoned bibliophile, a political aficionado, or someone interested in the underpinnings of human interaction, this episode promises a well-rounded intellectual feast. Tune in and challenge your perspectives on reading, politics, and the complexities of human emotion.Buy her book: "Reading for the Love of God" https://a.co/d/8gjKjbVGuest Bio:Jessica Hooten Wilson is the Fletcher Jones Endowed Chair of Great Books at Pepperdine University and formerly Louise Cowan Scholar in Residence at the University of Dallas. She is the author of several books, most recently Reading for the Love of God. Her book Giving the Devil his Due: Flannery O’Connor and The Brothers Karamazov received a 2018 Christianity Today book of the year in arts and culture award and The Scandal of Holiness received a 2022 Award of Merit. In 2019 she received the Hiett Prize for Humanities from the Dallas Institute of Humanities and Culture. 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 insightful episode of Faithful Politics, host Josh Burtram sits down with Drs. Chris and Laura Smith to delve into their book "Make Your Splash" and the broader theme of nurturing spiritual unity in a politically polarized climate. The conversation traverses the nuanced challenges and the enduring effort required to build a harmonious community amidst varying political views within a church. The Smiths open up about their experiences and the wisdom they've garnered on prioritizing bonds of peace and unity of the spirit, essential for the prosperity of congregations during politically charged times. The dialogue sheds light on their book's narrative and encapsulates real-world scenarios, offering a rich tapestry of insights for faith leaders striving to elevate their congregations above political discord. This episode serves as a conduit for exploring the delicate interplay between faith, politics, and community and inspires a journey towards a more unified spiritual horizon amidst the political tumult. 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 compelling episode of Faithful Politics, Political Host Will Wright goes one-on-one with Professor Caroline Mala Corbin of the University of Miami School of Law. While Faithful Host Pastor Josh Burtram couldn't join in, the episode doesn't skip a beat in addressing some of the most intricate legal and social issues facing America today. A central theme is the U.S. Constitution—specifically, its role in shaping modern American society and safeguarding individual freedoms. Caroline offers unique insights into how the Constitution isn't just a historical document but an evolving tapestry that continually informs our civil liberties.The conversation then shifts to the First Amendment, dissecting its two main clauses: the Establishment Clause and the Free Speech Clause. This segment is a goldmine for anyone interested in the delicate balance between state and religion, as well as the boundaries of free speech in an increasingly polarized world. Caroline illuminates these topics with examples, case studies, and personal viewpoints, making complex legal jargon accessible to all. Another enriching theme touched upon is feminism, particularly its relationship with both faith and law. Caroline delves into the complexities of gender issues within religious and legal frameworks, offering a nuanced perspective that is both academic and relatable.This episode is a treasure trove of knowledge for anyone at the intersection of faith, politics, and law. Whether you're a law student, a legal practitioner, a faith leader, or simply someone intrigued by the complexities of American society, this episode has something for youGuest Bio:Caroline Mala Corbin is Professor of Law at the University of Miami School of Law. She teaches U.S. Constitutional Law I, U.S. Constitutional Law II, First Amendment, the Religion Clauses, the Free Speech Clause, Feminism and the First Amendment, and Advanced Topics in Reproductive Rights. Her scholarship focuses on the First Amendment’s speech and religion clauses, particularly their intersection with equality issues.Professor Corbin’s articles have been published in the New Y 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...