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In this special episode, Dan brings together his "Big Five" friends—Tripp Fuller, Myron Penner, Sarah Concepcion, and Sarah Lane Ritchie—to playfully mock and critically examine the Enneagram. Dan introduces the "Danneagram," an AI-generated personality system, sparking a lively discussion that oscillates between humorous riffs on personality typing and serious critiques. The group debates the value of such systems, even if not scientifically valid, and covers other topics like birth order, religious anthropology, and even "Lord of the Rings" characters. Join in for a thought-provoking and entertaining dive into the allure and limitations of personality assessments.Previous Enneagram Episodes:Ep #101 | Is the Enneagram Real?Ep #161 | The Enneagram Doesn't Hold UpDan's new Substack | Religion on the Mind___________________________________________Get Tickets for the PREGAME EVENT before Theology Beer Camp!Get Tickets for Theology Beer Camp 2024Use Code ReturnofYHP for $50 off your ticket!___________________________________________Follow Dan on IG: www.instagram.com/dancoke/Or Twitter: twitter.com/DanKochFaith deconstruction resources: www.soyouredeconstructing.com/Edited by Josh Gilbert (joshgilbertmedia.com -- he is accepting more work!)Join the Patreon for exclusive episodes (and more) every month: patreon.com/dankochEmail about the "sliding scale" for the Patreon: youhavepermissionpodcast@gmail.comYHP Patron-only FB group: tinyurl.com/ycvbbf98Website: www.dankochwords.com/yhp.htmlJoin Dan's email list: www.dankochwords.com/Artwork by sprungle. co/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this week's episode, I sit down with Katelyn Dixon and Sarah Almodovar, co-hosts of the Still Christian podcast, for another installment in my Still Christian series. We explore our diverse religious backgrounds and experiences questioning faith, from Katie's "dark night of the soul" to Sarah's period of rebellion in New York City. We also discussed the idea of "undeniable" spiritual experiences. Drawing from my philosophy background, I propose a more nuanced approach to these experiences, suggesting we treat them as important data points in our spiritual lives rather than irrefutable proof. While our approaches to faith differ — with Katie and Sarah emphasizing personal, subjective experiences and my leaning towards a more analytical view — this conversation showcases the presence of diversity within Christian spirituality and the value of open, engaging dialogue about faith.In the patron-only second half of the episode, we dive deeper into the role of suffering in faith, different approaches to religion, the interplay between art and faith, and our shared experience of hosting podcasts about Christianity in contemporary contexts. Join or log on to your Patreon account to hear the full, ad-free version of this episode.Highlights09:08 Dark Nights of the Soul11:57 Questioning Christian Identity14:49 Experiences of God's Presence17:53 Spiritual Experiences and Interpretation20:48 The Intersection of Faith and Modern LifeKatelyn and Sarah's Podcast | Still Christian Still Christian Instagram | @stillchristianpodcast Sarah's Yoga Page | sarahjoalmo.com Katelyn's Website and Writing Page | katelynjdixon.comDan's new Substack | Religion on the Mind___________________________________________Get Tickets for the PREGAME EVENT before Theology Beer Camp!Get Tickets for Theology Beer Camp 2024Use Code ReturnofYHP for $50 off your ticket!___________________________________________Follow Dan on IG: www.instagram.com/dancoke/Or Twitter: twitter.com/DanKochFaith deconstruction resources: www.soyouredeconstructing.com/Edited by Josh Gilbert (joshgilbertmedia.com -- he is accepting more work!)Join the Patreon for exclusive episodes (and more) every month: patreon.com/dankochEmail about the "sliding scale" for the Patreon: youhavepermissionpodcast@gmail.comYHP Patron-only FB group: tinyurl.com/ycvbbf98Website: www.dankochwords.com/yhp.htmlJoin Dan's email list: www.dankochwords.com/Artwork by sprungle. co/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

John and Linn Haralson discuss their journey from complementarianism to egalitarianism regarding women in ministry. As long-time members of their church community, I've witnessed their progression firsthand, making this behind-the-scenes look particularly interesting. We explore the complexities of changing deeply held beliefs within a marriage and church leadership context. Lynn shares how events like the Charleston massacre in 2016 catalyzed her shift in perspective, while John describes his more gradual journey, influenced by leaving the PCA and reading William Witt's "Icons of Christ." The couple candidly discussed their "don't ask, don't tell" period and the personal costs of their former beliefs. We also delve into the challenges of guiding a congregation through such a significant doctrinal change, including the anxiety preceding the church vote and the intentional process of education and discussion. Their story illuminates how changing one's mind on theological issues is a deeply personal process affecting relationships, community dynamics, and individual spiritual journeys.Highlights:05:14 Different Perspectives on Gender Roles19:42 The Cost of Changing Beliefs35:24 Living with Complementarianism within Marriage59:03 Validating Grief and Loss within Complementarian BeliefsJohn and Linn's Church | graceseattle.orgDan's new Substack | Religion on the Mind___________________________________________Get Tickets for the PREGAME EVENT before Theology Beer Camp!Get Tickets for Theology Beer Camp 2024Use Code ReturnofYHP for $50 off your ticket!___________________________________________Follow Dan on IG: www.instagram.com/dancoke/Or Twitter: twitter.com/DanKochFaith deconstruction resources: www.soyouredeconstructing.com/Edited by Josh Gilbert (joshgilbertmedia.com -- he is accepting more work!)Join the Patreon for exclusive episodes (and more) every month: patreon.com/dankochEmail about the "sliding scale" for the Patreon: youhavepermissionpodcast@gmail.comYHP Patron-only FB group: tinyurl.com/ycvbbf98Website: www.dankochwords.com/yhp.htmlJoin Dan's email list: www.dankochwords.com/Artwork by sprungle. co/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, I welcomed back Dr. Pam Ebstyne King to discuss her framework of six facets for spiritual health. We focused on "transcendence and spirituality," where Pam expanded on Dr. Lisa Miller's definition to include not just experiencing something beyond oneself, but also responding to it. This resonated deeply with me, prompting thoughts on evolving my two-item model of spirituality and religiosity into a three-item model including transcendence. Pam's research on "spiritual exemplars" illustrated how individuals allow transcendent experiences to shape their identity, beliefs, and actions. This conversation sparked ideas about a more holistic model of spiritual life, acknowledging the initial experience of transcendence, the personal spiritual journey, and the communal religious practices that often follow. Highlights09:13 Six Facets of Spiritual Health19:30 Transcendence and Spirituality23:13 Habits and Rhythms25:59 Relationships and Community30:45 Vocation and Purpose35:49 Identity and Narrative41:49 Ethics and VirtuesPam's Thrive Center | thethrivecenter.orgPam's Podcast | With & ForPast YHP Episode with Pam King:#129 | Religion, Virtue & Human ThrivingDan's new Substack | Religion on the Mind___________________________________________Get Tickets for the PREGAME EVENT before Theology Beer Camp!Get Tickets for Theology Beer Camp 2024Use Code ReturnofYHP for $50 off your ticket!___________________________________________Follow Dan on IG: www.instagram.com/dancoke/Or Twitter: twitter.com/DanKochFaith deconstruction resources: www.soyouredeconstructing.com/Edited by Josh Gilbert (joshgilbertmedia.com -- he is accepting more work!)Join the Patreon for exclusive episodes (and more) every month: patreon.com/dankochEmail about the "sliding scale" for the Patreon: youhavepermissionpodcast@gmail.comYHP Patron-only FB group: tinyurl.com/ycvbbf98Website: www.dankochwords.com/yhp.htmlJoin Dan's email list: www.dankochwords.com/Artwork by sprungle. co/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the second episode of our series of conversations with comedians about religion and spirituality, comedian Maggie Lally joined me to share her genuinely unique religious experiences and how they inform her comedy and worldview. From a sheltered Catholic upbringing by a former Jesuit priest to becoming a “teen witch” in adolescence, Maggie was raised with a sense of spiritual openness that she still carries with her today. We discussed all the various therapeutic approaches she has experienced (including one who inspired a comedy bit about “overly empathetic white female therapists”) and connected on the practice of centering prayer.Highlights06:33 The Journey of Maggie's Father: From Jesuit to Family Man36:33 The Impact of Teenage Witchcraft43:38 The Role of Therapy and Spiritual Direction50:31 Cultivating a Meditation Practice01:00:23 Exploring Spirituality and ReligionMaggie's LinktreeDan's new Substack | Religion on the Mind___________________________________________Get Tickets for the PREGAME EVENT before Theology Beer Camp!Get Tickets for Theology Beer Camp 2024Use Code ReturnofYHP for $50 off your ticket!___________________________________________Follow Dan on IG: www.instagram.com/dancoke/Or Twitter: twitter.com/DanKochFaith deconstruction resources: www.soyouredeconstructing.com/Edited by Josh Gilbert (joshgilbertmedia.com -- he is accepting more work!)Join the Patreon for exclusive episodes (and more) every month: patreon.com/dankochEmail about the "sliding scale" for the Patreon: youhavepermissionpodcast@gmail.comYHP Patron-only FB group: tinyurl.com/ycvbbf98Website: www.dankochwords.com/yhp.htmlJoin Dan's email list: www.dankochwords.com/Artwork by sprungle. co/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this follow-up to our discussion on the Apostle's Creed, Thomas Jay Oord and I delve into the Nicene Creed, examining its history, language, and theology through a progressive Christian lens. We grapple with complex concepts like the Trinity, the nature of Christ, and the Holy Spirit, questioning traditional interpretations and exploring how our diverse backgrounds shape our understanding of these ideas. While acknowledging the historical significance of the Creed, we also confront the challenge of interpreting ancient texts in a modern context. Our conversation highlights the tension between appreciating theological tradition and prioritizing practical expressions of faith that address contemporary issues. Ultimately, we reflect on the value of critically engaging with our religious heritage to cultivate a faith that is both historically grounded and relevant to today's world.Highlights00:00 Introduction and Recap of Previous Episode03:14 The Role of Theology: Faith Seeking Understanding11:50 The Limitations of Language in Theological Discourse19:10 Decoding the Language of the Nicene Creed23:57 The Tension Between Theological Precision and LanguageTom's Previous Episode list:#7 | To Change Your Mind: Healing Prayer#23 | To Be a Postmodern Christian#42 | Is the "Supernatural" Actually Just Natural?Matthew Novenson Episode on "Pneuma:#163 | Apocalyptic Expectations, the Resurrection & MoreDan's new Substack | Religion on the Mind___________________________________________Get Tickets for the PREGAME EVENT before Theology Beer Camp!Get Tickets for Theology Beer Camp 2024Use Code ReturnofYHP for $50 off your ticket!___________________________________________Follow Dan on IG: www.instagram.com/dancoke/Or Twitter: twitter.com/DanKochFaith deconstruction resources: www.soyouredeconstructing.com/Edited by Josh Gilbert (joshgilbertmedia.com -- he is accepting more work!)Join the Patreon for exclusive episodes (and more) every month: patreon.com/dankochEmail about the "sliding scale" for the Patreon: youhavepermissionpodcast@gmail.comYHP Patron-only FB group: tinyurl.com/ycvbbf98Website: www.dankochwords.com/yhp.htmlJoin Dan's email list: www.dankochwords.com/Artwork by sprungle. co/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this first part of our discussion, Thomas Jay Oord and I take a deep dive into the Apostle’s Creed, exploring its origins, language, and theology through a progressive Christian lens. We examine foundational beliefs about God, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit, questioning traditional interpretations and considering how our experiences and backgrounds influence our understanding of these core tenets of faith. As we navigate the historical significance of the Creed, we also grapple with the challenge of applying these ancient declarations to a modern, evolving faith context. Our conversation reflects the ongoing tension between honoring theological tradition and pursuing a faith that resonates with contemporary concerns. Ultimately, we emphasize the importance of critically engaging with our religious heritage to cultivate a faith that is both deeply rooted in history and responsive to the realities of today’s world.Highlights:03:15 Discussion on the Apostles Creed13:06 Challenges and Personal Responses to the Creeds23:47 Interpreting the Phrase 'Believe in Jesus Christ'28:02 Understanding the Uniqueness of Jesus34:20 Exploring the Concepts of 'Descended to the Dead' and 'Resurrection'40:33 The Significance of the Resurrection in Christianity52:26 Exploring the Possibility of Mass Experiences56:45 Continuation of Subjective Experience Beyond DeathTom's Previous Episode list:#7 | To Change Your Mind: Healing Prayer#23 | To Be a Postmodern Christian#42 | Is the "Supernatural" Actually Just Natural?Matthew Novenson Episode on "Pneuma:#163 | Apocalyptic Expectations, the Resurrection & MoreDan's new Substack | Religion on the Mind___________________________________________Get Tickets for the PREGAME EVENT before Theology Beer Camp!Get Tickets for Theology Beer Camp 2024Use Code ReturnofYHP for $50 off your ticket!___________________________________________Follow Dan on IG: www.instagram.com/dancoke/Or Twitter: twitter.com/DanKochFaith deconstruction resources: www.soyouredeconstructing.com/Edited by Josh Gilbert (joshgilbertmedia.com -- he is accepting more work!)Join the Patreon for exclusive episodes (and more) every month: patreon.com/dankochEmail about the "sliding scale" for the Patreon: youhavepermissionpodcast@gmail.comYHP Patron-only FB group: tinyurl.com/ycvbbf98Website: www.dankochwords.com/yhp.htmlJoin Dan's email list: www.dankochwords.com/Artwork by sprungle. co/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this inaugural episode of the new "God Songs AKA Songs in the Key of G-O-D" series, Dan Koch and fellow musician (and returning guest) Tyson Motsenbocker explore spiritually significant songs that aren't overtly religious. Dan shares his encounter with Jim James of My Morning Jacket and delves into James' song "Believe (Nobody Knows)," examining how it expresses belief amidst uncertainty. The conversation weaves through topics like evangelical "friendship evangelism," the psychological impact of absolutist beliefs, and the concept of "infinity withdrawal." Dan and Tyson discuss connections between James' music and Transcendental Meditation, touching on TM-inspired songs by The Beatles, Donovan, and the Beach Boys. This wide-ranging discussion explores the intersection of spirituality, culture, and art, grappling with deep questions about belief, community, and the human need for meaning, while contrasting ascetic traditions with worldly expressions of spirituality.Highlights:06:44 Analyzing 'Believe (Nobody Knows)' by My Morning Jacket23:11 The Nuances And Limits Of Faith And Belief33:26 The Influence of Transcendental Meditation on Popular MusicTyson on InstagramWhere the Waves Turn Back BookTyson's WebsiteDan's new Substack | Religion on the Mind___________________________________________Get Tickets for the PREGAME EVENT before Theology Beer Camp!Get Tickets for Theology Beer Camp 2024Use Code ReturnofYHP for $50 off your ticket!___________________________________________Follow Dan on IG: www.instagram.com/dancoke/Or Twitter: twitter.com/DanKochFaith deconstruction resources: www.soyouredeconstructing.com/Edited by Josh Gilbert (joshgilbertmedia.com -- he is accepting more work!)Join the Patreon for exclusive episodes (and more) every month: patreon.com/dankochEmail about the "sliding scale" for the Patreon: youhavepermissionpodcast@gmail.comYHP Patron-only FB group: tinyurl.com/ycvbbf98Website: www.dankochwords.com/yhp.htmlJoin Dan's email list: www.dankochwords.com/Artwork by sprungle. co/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Joy Vetterlein, a social media expert and previous guest, joins to unpack the complex ties between disgust psychology and Christian attitudes toward LGBTQ+ individuals. They dive into how evolutionary instincts shape perceptions of sexuality and discuss personal experiences from conservative backgrounds. The conversation emphasizes the need for critical thinking and discernment in reconciling belief and intuition. They also question whether visceral reactions are truly divine guidance and advocate for empathy and understanding in navigating these relationships.

Russell Moore, editor-in-chief of Christianity Today, sat down with me to explore the current state of American Christianity, focusing on the challenges of maintaining relationships across ideological divides in an age of deep political cynicism and polarization. He shared insights on navigating family dynamics in a polarized era, emphasizing the importance of preserving relationships even when agreement seems impossible. We discussed the complexities within the Southern Baptist Convention, including how to interpret news from their annual meetings and the challenges of defining doctrinal boundaries. Russell has a nuanced perspective and I appreciate his ability to critically examine both conservative and progressive tendencies in Christianity.Chapters10:46 The Importance of Authenticity26:41 Navigating Relationships and Acceptance35:07 The Decline of the Southern Baptist Convention55:17 Ethical Considerations and Regulations in the Age of AI01:05:27 The Importance of Balancing Perspectivesrussellmoore.comRussel Moore | Christianity TodayThe Russel More Show (Podcast)Russel's Article on AI | A New Era of AI Is Here, and the Church Is Not Ready___________________________________________Get Tickets for the PREGAME EVENT before Theology Beer Camp!Get Tickets for Theology Beer Camp 2024Use Code ReturnofYHP for $50 off your ticket!___________________________________________Follow Dan on IG: www.instagram.com/dancoke/Or Twitter: twitter.com/DanKochFaith deconstruction resources: www.soyouredeconstructing.com/Edited by Josh Gilbert (joshgilbertmedia.com -- he is accepting more work!)Join the Patreon for exclusive episodes (and more) every month: patreon.com/dankochEmail about the "sliding scale" for the Patreon: youhavepermissionpodcast@gmail.comYHP Patron-only FB group: tinyurl.com/ycvbbf98Website: www.dankochwords.com/yhp.htmlJoin Dan's email list: www.dankochwords.com/Artwork by sprungle. co/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices