New Persuasive Words

In this episode of the podcast Scott and Bill wrestle with the tragic shooting of Charlie Kirk and what it reveals about the deeper fractures in American life. Beyond the headlines and hot takes, they explore what this moment says about the condition of our politics, the rising tide of anger and alienation, and the spiritual vacuum shaping our national conversation. Can we find a way to move beyond violence, fear, and resentment toward a more life-giving vision of civic and spiritual renewal?

In this thought-provoking episode of New Persuasive Words, hosts Bill and Scott explore an op-ed by Bishop Robert Barron—published on September 7, 2025—titled “The dangers behind Sen. Kaine’s rejection of God-given rights as a founding principle.” Bishop Barron raises serious concerns about Senator Tim Kaine’s remarks during a Senate confirmation hearing—where Kaine questioned the idea that our rights originate from God, likening that notion to the theocratic governance of Iran. In response, Barron passionately reminds listeners that the Declaration of Independence, penned by Thomas Jefferson, affirms that our inalienable rights come from a Creator—and that government exists merely to secure them—not grant them. Bill and Scott unpack what’s really at stake. It’s a conversation about first principles, political theology, and why the question of where rights come from still matters. You can find the article we reference by Bishop Barron here. .

In this episode, Scott and Bill discuss various topics ranging from personal anecdotes to serious public health issues, particularly focusing on vaccination mandates and public opinion. They explore the moral implications of leadership in contemporary society, the influence of Enlightenment thought on modern morality, and the challenges of navigating cultural and economic interests in politics. The conversation delves into the crisis of moral philosophy and the need for a more robust ethical framework in education, ultimately reflecting on the chaotic moral landscape of today's world. This episode was inspired by a David Brooks piece in The Atlantic which we reference in the show. You can find the piece here.

In this episode of New Persuasive Words, Bill and Scott dive into the provocative little book _The Let Them Theory _and ask a big question: can the stoic mindset and the Christian vision really coexist, or are they fundamentally at odds? Along the way, they explore how “letting them” might be a healthy act of detachment—or a spiritual cop-out—and whether the calm of Marcus Aurelius can live in harmony with the compassion of the Gospels.

In this conversation, Scott and Bill explore various themes ranging from light-hearted banter about summer drinks and streaming services to deeper discussions on the gall of bitterness as presented in the Bible. They reflect on the nature of sin in Christianity, the politics of resentment, and the role of grace in the Christian life. The dialogue also touches on cultural reflections and the dangers of spiritual vices, concluding with a call to repentance and self-reflection. **_ Takeaways_ The gall of bitterness is a significant theme in Christianity. Streaming services are becoming a common alternative to cable. Summer in Philadelphia offers a unique social dynamic. Christianity is not free from original sin. Bitterness can persist even after baptism. Grace should not be seen as a mere ticket to salvation. Spiritual vices can be more dangerous than physical vices. The politics of resentment can stem from bitterness. Repentance is essential for spiritual growth. Cultural reflections can influence our understanding of grace.

In this conversation, Scott Jones and Bill Bohr explore the concept of demythologizing, particularly in relation to Donald Trump's influence on contemporary beliefs and narratives about Jeffrey Epstein. They discuss the implications of demythologizing in religion, the cognitive dissonance experienced by Trump supporters, and the nature of grace and redemption. The conversation also touches on the importance of small acts of kindness and the ongoing struggle between good and evil in society.

In this episode Scott and Bill explore various themes surrounding grievances in American society, including military spending, Medicaid myths, immigration issues, and the complexities of American identity. They discuss the cultural and creedal aspects of patriotism, the challenges of Christian realism, and the need for a national myth while navigating the current political landscape. The dialogue reflects on the past, present, and future of American ideals and the importance of understanding the narratives that shape them. Takeaways The airing of grievances is a common theme in public discourse. Military spending for celebrations raises questions about public funds. Medicaid fraud is often exaggerated in political rhetoric. Immigration policies are influenced by economic incentives. American identity is shaped by both cultural and creedal elements. The left and right have diverging narratives on patriotism. Christian realism requires a balance between faith and national identity. Historical context is crucial for understanding current American ideals. Political identity is complex and often contradictory. Coalition building is essential in navigating political landscapes. Chapters 00:00 Airing of Grievances: Setting the Stage 02:56 The Cost of Celebration: Military Spending and Public Funds 05:58 Medicaid Myths: The Reality of Fraud and Abuse 08:54 Immigration and Economic Incentives: A Complex Dilemma 11:51 Cultural Identity vs. Creed: Understanding American Values 14:50 The Left and Right: Diverging Narratives on Patriotism 17:44 Christian Realism: Balancing Faith and National Identity 20:46 The Future of American Ideals: Learning from History 23:49 Coalition Building: The Complexity of Political Identity

In this conversation, Scott and Bill explore the decline of American pride, the erosion of the middle class, and the pervasive nature of 'bullshit' in political discourse. They discuss how political identity fluctuates based on party affiliation, the cultural implications of consumerism, and the role of rhetoric in shaping public opinion. The dialogue culminates in a reflection on sincerity and self-awareness in a world filled with misinformation and superficiality. Takeaways Only 58% of Americans express extreme pride in their country. Democratic pride in America fluctuates significantly with political leadership. The middle class in America has been eroding since the 1980s. Cultural commentary often highlights the contradictions in American values. Bullshit in politics is a greater threat to truth than outright lies. Rhetoric can distort truth, serving neither honesty nor deception. The rise of social media has amplified the spread of bullshit. Self-reflection is crucial in understanding our own beliefs and biases. Sincerity is often mistaken for truth in public discourse. The conversation emphasizes the need for skepticism towards our own convictions. Sound bites "We're killing the middle class." "Born in the USA is a sad song." "Sincerity itself is bullshit." Chapters 00:00 American Pride and Political Identity 03:53 The Erosion of the Middle Class 09:47 The Nature of Bullshit in Politics 19:35 The Role of Rhetoric and Communication 29:31 Self-Reflection and Sincerity in Discourse

In this special live episode of New Persuasive Words, Scott and Bill record in person at The Green Line Café in Philadelphia, reflecting on the recent bombing of Iran ordered by President Trump. With coffee in hand and other patrons in the room, they unpack the political and ethical dimensions of this act of war. What does it say about American power, the role of conscience in foreign policy, and the ever-thinning line between calculated strategy and reckless provocation? Join us for a real-time theological and political conversation rooted in moral seriousness and public faith. We reference an anonymous open letter from an Iranian living abroad. You can find it here.

In this episode of New Persuasive Words, Bill and Scott explore the idea of history as a form of divine revelation—alongside nature and the Bible—drawing inspiration from Tomáš Halík’s provocative new book, The Afternoon of Christianity. As Halík invites us to reimagine faith for a postmodern, post-Christendom world, we consider how historical consciousness itself can become a sacred text, revealing God’s presence not just in the past but in the unfolding of time. From the Incarnation to modern crises, we ask: What if salvation history hasn’t ended, but continues to speak in the afternoon light of our contemporary moment?