The Esau McCaulley Podcast

Malcolm Foley, author of The Anti-Greek Gospel, joins to discuss LeBron James' defense of his son Bronny against public scrutiny. They dive into the balance of parental support versus overreach and examine the cultural backlash against empathy. The conversation also critiques how power and privilege can be wielded for good. Add in some humorous reflections on seasonal depression and newfound love for soccer, and you have a fascinating exploration of parenting, empathy, and cultural challenges.

Join Hannah Anderson, a writer finishing her MDiv at Duke, and Hannah King, associate pastor and upcoming author, as they tackle the internet's pervasive anger. They explore how rage has become currency online and how loneliness fuels this hostile atmosphere. Conversations touch on the impact of drumming up negativity through 'rage bait influencers' and the challenges writers face amidst harsh online feedback. The duo advocates for deeper community connections and healthier ways to express dissent in today's digital landscape.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.