Religion on the Mind

Molly LaCroix, a clinician and therapy expert, returns to discuss the pervasive cognitive distortion of jumping to conclusions. She shares a personal story highlighting this error in relationships and therapy. The conversation navigates the balance between taking leaps of faith and making unfounded assumptions, drawing from various religious perspectives. They emphasize the need for slowing down and seeking full information as an antidote to hasty judgments. Ultimately, they advocate for empathy and curiosity in both spiritual and therapeutic contexts.

Delve into the surprising world of genetics as the hosts discuss whether the sequencing of Hitler's DNA offers meaningful insights into nature versus nurture. The debate over the appropriate use of the term 'pedophile' in discussions surrounding the Epstein files adds a layer of complexity, highlighting the importance of language. They also touch on societal norms surrounding nudity in locker rooms, with generational perspectives sparking lively banter. Their light-hearted palate cleanser of meditative bushcraft videos shows a unique blend of deep discussion and humor.

Ellen Hewitt, an investigative journalist and author of Empire of Orgasm, dives into the controversial rise and fall of OneTaste, a wellness startup promising enlightenment through orgasmic meditation. She shares the dual role of founder Nicole Daydon, examining how spiritual language veiled exploitation. The conversation explores how implicit manipulation kept members engaged, the blend of ancient spiritual practices with modern marketing, and reveals the alarming connections between startup culture and cult dynamics.

Matthew Burdette, an Episcopal priest, theologian, and Penguin Random House editor, shares insights on how faith intersects with culture. He discusses the importance of keeping God distinct from cultural influences while addressing human goodness and sinfulness. Matthew challenges the effectiveness of virtue signaling, particularly around power dynamics, while exploring the complexities of immigration and Christian ethics. The conversation also delves into the tensions between personal relationships and democratic governance in the context of paternalism.

In a thought-provoking discussion, Sarah Billups, an author and podcaster known for her insights on spirituality and anxiety, delves into the generational transmission of anxiety. She shares fascinating stories about her neurotic Jewish father and how family dynamics shape our fears. Sarah critiques how the church absorbs cultural anxiety and examines the polarization in today’s society. Highlighting her journey through Ignatian spiritual exercises, she introduces 'holy indifference' as a counter to OCD and emphasizes navigating loss in an increasingly anxious world.

Cameron Reed, a reflective storyteller and the host's brother-in-law, joins therapist Gabe Cortez, who immerses himself in fiction to explore psychological and spiritual truths. They discuss how fiction shapes our understanding of ourselves and others, transforming ordinary experiences into profound insights. Topics range from the power of storytelling in conveying complex ideas, to dissecting Alice Walker's 'Everyday Use' and its commentary on heritage and identity. Their engaging banter reveals the personal impact of literature in shaping empathy and understanding.

Join theologian and podcaster Mason Mennenga as he dives into the latest religious news. He discusses the surprising openness of Gen Z to spirituality, even as church attendance declines. Mason recounts the brave actions of clergy protesting ICE and examines Peter Thiel’s controversial Antichrist lectures. The duo also debates the significance of faith in shaping politics, shares laughs over a biblical comedy series, and reflects on why climate positivity isn't making headlines. It's a thought-provoking chat that's both insightful and entertaining!

John Mark McMillan, a Contemporary Christian musician known for his innovative sound, opens up about leaving the touring life after nearly 20 years. He delves into the harsh realities of modern music economics and the emotional toll of constant touring on family life. McMillan shares a transformative night in a Belfast pub, reshaping his vision toward community-focused music. He highlights the importance of depth over reach in his projects and expresses a desire to mentor younger creatives, paving the way for a more participatory approach to music.

The weekend in St. Paul for Theology Beer Camp was filled with unforgettable moments. Dan shares his insights from a lively Generation Gap Culture Hour and highlights playful audience interactions. He reflects on avoiding the spiritual guru label while emphasizing his focus on psychology. Exciting upcoming episodes are also teased, covering topics like Gen Z and clergy news. Personal connections made at the event added a special touch, as Dan met many listeners and fellow podcasters.

I'm launching a new series diving deep into cognitive distortions—those sneaky thinking errors we all fall into—and exploring how they show up at the intersection of psychology and religion.  In this first episode, I tackle "Should/Must statements" with research psychologist Laird Edman. We go way beyond the therapy textbooks to explore how these rigid internal rules can either guide us toward our values or trap us in cycles of shame and perfectionism, examine why our brains evolved to be so rule-obsessed in the first place, and dig into the messy territory of spiritual abuse, purity culture, and religious scrupulosity. We also venture into how different faith traditions—from Orthodox Judaism to Islam to Christianity—grapple with the balance between divine standards and human fallibility.  Whether you're wrestling with unrealistic expectations in your faith community, trying to understand OCD and religious anxiety, or just curious about finding that sweet spot between perfectionism and permissiveness, this conversation offers both psychological insight and practical tools for a more grace-filled approach to life. Plus, Laird shares some surprisingly vulnerable stories about altar calls and guitar playing that'll make you rethink what "good enough" really means. Laird's Website | ⁠Lairdedman.com⁠ ___________________________________________ Follow Dan on IG: www.instagram.com/dancoke/ Or Twitter: twitter.com/DanKoch Faith deconstruction resources: www.soyouredeconstructing.com/ Join the Patreon for exclusive episodes (and more) every month: patreon.com/dankoch Email about the "sliding scale" for the Patreon: youhavepermissionpodcast@gmail.com YHP Patron-only FB group: tinyurl.com/ycvbbf98 Website: www.dankochwords.com/yhp.html Join Dan's email list: www.dankochwords.com/ Artwork by sprungle.co/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices