

The Esau McCaulley Podcast
Esau McCaulley
The Esau McCaulley Podcast unpacks the cultural stories that shape our lives. Pop culture always reveals something about what it means to be human: both our glory and our brokenness. Rather than retreating from the culture, Esau and his friends dive in head-on, bringing theological depth, humor, and a perspective you won't find anywhere else. From movies and music to news and politics, we find what is true, good, and beautiful about the complex world we live in.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Oct 31, 2024 • 47min
Halloween History, Scary Movies, and a Candy Draft!
Join Kaitlyn Schiess, a member of the Holy Post team and candy draft enthusiast, along with Emily McGowin, a theology professor, as they unpack the multifaceted history of Halloween. They explore whether Halloween is too pagan for Christians or a way to confront evil through playful engagement. Delve into the thrilling world of horror films, as they discuss the psychological aspects and societal reflections behind our love for scares. Plus, enjoy a spirited candy draft showdown, complete with lively debates over Halloween treats!

Oct 24, 2024 • 49min
More Than an Athlete: Matt and Danielle Forte on Faith, Writing, Marriage, and Finding Purpose After Sports
Former NFL running back Matt Forte, known for his impactful career with the Chicago Bears, joins his wife Danielle Forte, author and co-founder of 828 Lifestyle, for an inspiring discussion. They dive deep into balancing faith and family amidst the pressures of professional sports. Matt reflects on his journey through the NFL, while Danielle shares her struggle with identity beyond being a 'trophy wife.' They also discuss their children's book, 'My Hair Can,' emphasizing the importance of celebrating individuality and faith in overcoming challenges.

6 snips
Oct 17, 2024 • 40min
When Faith Disappoints
Lisa Fields, CEO of the Jude 3 Project, dives into the intricate relationship between faith and emotion. They discuss how apologetics has evolved to include emotional understanding, revealing our often irrational nature. Lisa shares personal stories of pain and emphasizes how they can serve as encouragement for others. The conversation also touches on navigating faith through trauma, the role of empathy in healing, and how individual experiences can reshape our beliefs. It's a poignant exploration of resilience and authenticity in faith.

Oct 10, 2024 • 41min
Kamala Harris, Multiracial Families, and The Church's Witness
Join Jonathan Warren Pagan, Rector of Emmanuel Anglican Church, and Kimberly Deckel, Executive Pastor at Church of the Cross, as they dive into the complexities of multiracial identity within the church. They discuss the challenges faced by multiracial families and emphasize the need for genuinely inclusive church spaces. The conversation touches on the impact of public figures like Kamala Harris on identity politics. Listen in for insights on fostering cultural curiosity and embracing diversity in faith communities.

Oct 3, 2024 • 41min
Lecrae's having *another* moment
Lecrae, a Grammy-winning artist celebrated for his impactful music, shares a heartfelt discussion about his journey through faith and fame. He reflects on the evolution of his music and the struggle of maintaining authenticity while facing public scrutiny. The conversation touches on unexpected shoutouts from icons like Kendrick Lamar and Simone Biles, as well as the pressures of creating in a secular world. Lecrae candidly discusses his identity as a 'hybrid' between cultures and highlights the importance of faithfulness and integrity in the creative process.

5 snips
Sep 24, 2024 • 47min
Caitlin Clark, Angel Reese, Trash Talk, and Navigating Cultural Narratives
Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese, both standout stars in women's basketball, join cultural commentators Nancy French and Ameen Hudson for an engaging discussion on sports rivalries. They dive into the significant trash talk culture surrounding their competition and how racial and gender dynamics influence public perception. Nancy shares her journey navigating political landscapes, while Ameen reflects on identity expectations as a Black man. Expect laughter and insight into how athletes manage societal pressures while striving for authenticity.


