The Esau McCaulley Podcast
Esau McCaulley
The Esau McCaulley Podcast looks to find God in the midst of culture. Each week, Esau will bring together friends, scholars, artists, and writers to unpack the cultural stories that shape our lives and discuss how these stories point us back to God’s presence in the world. Whether it's literature, sports, movies, music, or politics, Esau and his guests will explore how culture reflects both human creativity and our deepest longings. They’ll also challenge the notion that spirituality and culture are at odds by showing how faith can inform our engagement with the world around us. The Esau McCaulley Podcast wants to help the church move beyond the walls of the sanctuary to meet real people where they are, in this beautiful, complex world God has made, and find the space where truth and goodness meet.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Oct 9, 2025 • 44min
ICE in Chicago: Tear Gas, Helicopters, and the Cost of Dehumanization
Priscilla Perreaux-Domínguez, an associate pastor and author, discusses the harrowing reality of ICE raids in Chicago, exposing the fear experienced in local communities. She emphasizes the church's role in advocating for humane treatment of migrants, upholding the dignity of every individual. The conversation takes a turn to the cultural implications of Bad Bunny's Super Bowl performance, revealing insights on belonging and church inclusivity. They also explore social media trends, highlighting the U.S. as an outlier in usage patterns.
Oct 3, 2025 • 30min
The Emergency Taylor Swift Pod: Review and Why Christians Should Care
Lindsey Goetz, a Taylor Swift expert, dives deep into the recent album while discussing its place in Swift's career. They explore themes of vulnerability, betrayal, and resilience, examining how these topics resonate with personal and communal experiences. The conversation emphasizes the importance of engaging with secular art, highlighting how it can spark meaningful discussions within faith communities. From favorite tracks to critiques of romantic idealization, this dialogue reveals the deeper layers of Swift's storytelling and its implications for listeners.
Oct 2, 2025 • 38min
Finding Your Purpose Outside of Your Career
Matt Forte, a former NFL running back for the Chicago Bears and two-time Pro Bowl selection, is now an author on a mission to help people discover purpose beyond their careers. In a heartfelt conversation, he delves into the challenges of redefining success after retirement and emphasizes that true identity shouldn’t hinge on fame or stats. Forte shares insights on his spiritual journey, the importance of serving others, and his passionate ministry to athletes, highlighting a growing authenticity in Gen Z when it comes to faith.
Sep 25, 2025 • 47min
Vaccines, Parental Rights, and the Public Good
Malcolm Foley, a scholar at Baylor University, joins Esau to navigate the murky waters of modern outrage culture sparked by a viral Phillies game incident. They dive into Florida's decision to eliminate school vaccine mandates, weighing parental rights against public health concerns. The conversation also critiques the current state of Disney, revealing its shift from a family-friendly destination to a luxury experience catering to the wealthy, thereby highlighting issues of inequality and accessibility.
Sep 18, 2025 • 48min
Charlie Kirk and America’s Cross-Cultural Divide
Christina Edmondson, co-host of Truth's Table and a church consultant, joins to discuss the aftermath of Charlie Kirk's assassination. They explore the cultural rifts this tragedy highlights, emphasizing the differing experiences of Black Christians. The conversation delves into the challenges faced by pastors in addressing violence and the importance of empathy in cross-cultural relationships. Edmondson also shares insights on maintaining integrity within academia while navigating racial tensions and the complexities of public ministry.
6 snips
Sep 11, 2025 • 47min
Charlie Kirk & Political Violence with Sharon McMahon and Justin Giboney
Sharon McMahon, known as America’s government teacher and author of The Small and the Mighty, joins Justin Giboney, president of the AND Campaign and author of the forthcoming book Don't Let Nobody Turn You Around. They dive into the recent political assassination of Charlie Kirk and its implications. The conversation touches on America's history with political violence, the risks of radicalization, and the crucial role of the church in fostering unity. They emphasize love and respectful dialogue amidst societal divides, urging compassion even in disagreement.
15 snips
Sep 4, 2025 • 42min
Jesus, Paul, and the Law: Friends or Foes?
Paul Sloan, a New Testament scholar and author of 'Jesus and the Law of Moses,' joins the discussion to unpack the complex relationship between Jesus and Paul regarding the law. They tackle significant questions about Torah observance for Jews and Gentiles and challenge misconceptions about the Pharisees. The conversation dives into the ethical teachings of the Sermon on the Mount and the role of grace. With a blend of theology and humor, they even link modern-day NBA legacies to broader themes of influence and change.
Aug 28, 2025 • 43min
Make America Forgetful Again?
In this engaging discussion, Justin Giboney, President of the AND Campaign and a commentator on culture, race, and politics, joins Esau to tackle the idea of America’s historical narrative. They debate the tension between celebrating the nation and confronting its shameful past, particularly around slavery. The duo humorously navigates topics like cancel culture's myths, societal views on authenticity and masculinity, and the corny yet earnest qualities that some public figures embrace. It's a thought-provoking and entertaining exploration of history and identity.
Aug 21, 2025 • 46min
The Hidden Cost of Sending Soldiers to D.C.
How does military deployment affect families and democracy when soldiers are sent to urban areas? The hosts discuss Trump’s decision to send the National Guard to D.C. and reflect on the emotional toll of service. They also dive into the rising trend of adult summer camps as a solution for loneliness, questioning if they're the best way to forge friendships post-college. Listener questions touch on faith in tough workplaces, the significance of liturgy, and personal shifts in beliefs over time.
Aug 14, 2025 • 48min
Sydney Sweeney’s Jeans: Outrage or Overreaction?
A provocative ad featuring Sydney Sweeney ignites a debate about beauty standards and ethics in advertising. Was it strategic marketing or a troubling reflection of societal values? The conversation takes a fun turn as the hosts discuss Taylor Swift's latest album and the emotional bonds fans share with her music. They also tackle the challenges Christian actors face in balancing their beliefs with career demands, while reflecting on the enduring relevance of gospel music in today’s culture.
