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
5 snips
Mar 6, 2025 • 46min
Who’s the New Public Face of Christianity?
In this discussion, Justin Giboney, a prominent voice in Christian activism, and Tish Harrison Warren, an insightful theologian and author, dive into the shifting landscape of Christian leadership. They tackle the decline of traditional figures like Billy Graham and Tim Keller, the rise of social media influencers in faith, and the resurgence of young people returning to church. Their conversation also highlights the often unfair media portrayal of Christianity, while providing a hopeful outlook amid the chaos and uncertainty surrounding modern faith.
Feb 27, 2025 • 49min
Reclaiming the Black Church's Story
In this conversation, theologian Walter Strickland, an elder and author of "Swing Low: A History of Black Christianity in the United States," reveals the rich yet overlooked narratives of Black Christianity. He discusses the powerful role of Negro spirituals in shaping cultural identity and their modern connections. Strickland highlights significant yet lesser-known figures in the Black church's legacy and emphasizes that its story extends beyond politics. The discussion also probes the unique contributions of Black missionaries and the theology of resilience in the face of suffering.
Feb 20, 2025 • 46min
Did the Early Church Believe Jesus Was God?
Dr. George Kalantzis, a Theology Professor at Wheaton College, dives into the historical intricacies of the Nicene Creed and its implications on early Christian beliefs. He tackles misconceptions about the Council of Nicaea, debunking myths of coercion by Constantine and the idea that the Bible was invented there. The conversation sheds light on the clash between Roman masculinity ideals and the vulnerability of Jesus, as well as the fierce theological debates that shaped doctrines and the development of the New Testament canon.
Feb 13, 2025 • 49min
Love, Fame, and Internet Trolls
Nancy French, wife of David French, and Jonathan Warren, husband of Tish Harrison Warren, share their experiences of love in the spotlight. They discuss the challenges of public scrutiny and the importance of emotional resilience in relationships. With humor, they reflect on their unexpected meeting moments and navigate the quirks of marriage. The duo dives into the cultural impact of romantic comedies, offering candid anecdotes and advice on commitment and sanity amidst internet trolls, all while sharing insights into faith and trust in partnerships.
5 snips
Feb 6, 2025 • 46min
The Anti-Greed Gospel: Money, Racism, and the Church
Join historian Malcolm Foley, an expert on racial violence, as he dives into the complex ties between money and racism. He argues that greed, rather than just hate, fuels racial injustices, uncovering the economic motives behind historical lynchings. The conversation explores the church's potential for fostering true social engagement and challenges listeners to rethink their understanding of generosity and solidarity. With a nod to figures like Ida B. Wells and Frederick Douglass, it calls for a reexamination of how faith intersects with economic exploitation.
Jan 30, 2025 • 47min
Why Jackie Hill Perry Walked Away from Music—And Why She Came Back
Jackie Hill Perry, a talented Christian artist, poet, and Bible teacher, reflects on her unique creative journey in music and poetry. She candidly discusses her decision to step away from music at its peak and the compelling reasons for her return. The conversation covers the tension between influence and integrity, the transformative power of hip-hop in discipleship, and her childhood memories within the Black church. Jackie also shares insights on navigating faith and creativity, including how she balances theological depth with artistic expression.
4 snips
Jan 23, 2025 • 42min
LA Fires, Climate Change, and Christian Responsibility
Jamie Aten, a disaster relief expert and Blanchard Chair of Humanitarian and Disaster Leadership at Wheaton College, discusses the urgent need for Christian action in the aftermath of California's wildfires and the increasing threat of climate change. He emphasizes the vital role churches play in relief efforts, community resilience, and the importance of humility when addressing climate issues. Aten also highlights the societal and policy challenges that exacerbate disasters, while exploring how faith can guide responses in times of crisis.
Jan 16, 2025 • 44min
What Squid Game Says About Us (And Capitalism)
Cultural critic Rebecca Sun joins the conversation, sharing her insights on the global phenomenon, Squid Game. They dive into how the show critiques capitalism by depicting deadly childhood games, reflecting stark socioeconomic inequalities. The discussion touches on the creator's personal experiences and the intricate balance between artistic integrity and commercial success. Additionally, Rebecca highlights cultural nuances in the narrative and tackles the show's moral questions, revealing its powerful commentary on societal issues.
Jan 9, 2025 • 49min
Denzel’s Ministry and What We Want From Celebrity Christians
In this discussion, Devin DeLarder, an education professor at Belmont University, and Joy Sherrod, a discipleship pastor, join Esau McCaulley to explore Denzel Washington's recent baptism and newfound ministry calling. They delve into the pressures on celebrity Christians and question societal expectations of them. Also, Esau shares insights from his own experience with family estrangement, tackling the difficulties of honoring parents amidst severed ties. The conversation balances themes of faith, authenticity, and the challenges of celebrity influence.
4 snips
Jan 2, 2025 • 1h 5min
The Biggest Stories of 2024
Justin Giboney, an attorney and political strategist, and Tish Harrison Warren, an Anglican priest and author, explore the defining themes of 2024. They discuss the impact of the recent election and the shock of rising AI in churches, highlighting ethical dilemmas in preaching. The duo examines startling trends in church attendance, particularly among Gen Z men, and the challenges of political polarization. They encourage a focus on local community engagement, addressing fears and hopes amid political fatigue.
