The Bulletin

Elizabeth Neumann, a national security expert with over two decades of experience in counterterrorism, joins Mike Cosper for an insightful discussion. They explore how rage fuels extremism and the emotional crises that often precede radicalization. Neumann dissects the rise of right-wing evangelical radicalization and societal complicity in violence. The conversation emphasizes the importance of empathy, moral standards, and the church's role in community support, advocating for understanding as a pathway to peace.

Nicole Martin, Chief Impact Officer at Christianity Today, discusses how churches can help preserve endangered languages and cultures in NYC. Charlie Camosy, a Professor of Medical Humanities, delves into the complexities of 'pro-life 3.0' amid Trump's presidency, emphasizing inclusive strategies for supporting women and families. Tim Dalrymple, President of Christianity Today, explores the implications of artificial intelligence on faith and humanity, urging critical reflection on technology's rapid advancements.

Chris Stirewalt, a senior fellow at the American Enterprise Institute and seasoned political commentator, dives into the complex role of media during Trump's potential second term. He discusses the transformation of the media landscape, highlighting the decline of local newspapers and the rise of sensationalist digital platforms. Stirewalt emphasizes the disconnect between media narratives and voter sentiments and stresses the importance of diverse viewpoints in fostering a healthier democracy. His insights encourage critical engagement with news in an increasingly polarized world.

Justin Giboney, an attorney and political strategist, and David French, a columnist for The New York Times, delve into hot-button issues during a politically charged time. They discuss the emotional complexities surrounding the January 6 pardons and the impact on public trust in the justice system. Giboney highlights immigration challenges and the plight of Afghan refugees, while French critiques U.S. foreign policy regarding Israel and Hamas, reflecting on unmet campaign promises. Their insights reveal the intricate ties between faith, politics, and societal responsibilities.

In this engaging conversation, Ross Douthat, a New York Times opinion columnist and author, dives into why belief remains vital in our modern, secular age. He reflects on his own journey of faith, touching on the complexities of marriage and gender discussions in today's society. Douthat also tackles the balance of rationality and faith, the challenges of cynicism, and the potential for renewed trust in religious institutions. Throughout, he encourages a thoughtful exploration of spirituality against the background of contemporary cultural narratives.

Michael Wear, the founder of the Center for Christianity and Public Life, shares insights on the week’s cabinet hearings and the Israel-Gaza ceasefire negotiations. Kutter Callaway discusses the impact of California wildfires on communities, highlighting the emotional trauma of evacuations. Katharine Hayhoe emphasizes the urgent need for climate awareness, addressing 'weather whiplash' and the moral responsibility of stewardship within the Christian community. Together, they explore how faith intersects with current environmental and political crises.

Christine Rosen, a senior fellow at the American Enterprise Institute and a keen observer of culture and technology, dives into the pressing issues of our digital age. She discusses her new book on the 'extinction of experience' and how technology has diminished real-world interactions. Rosen critiques social media's impact on youth, urging a balance between tech use and healthy development. She also emphasizes the importance of embracing boredom to foster creativity and warns against the real-world conflicts bred by excessive online engagement.

Daniel Silliman, a news editor at Christianity Today and an author, reflects on Jimmy Carter's complex legacy and the polarized responses to his presidency. Harvest Prude shares insights into current congressional dynamics and the implications of political pardons in a divisive climate. Frances Haugen, the whistleblower who exposed Facebook, and Renée DiResta discuss Meta's controversial end to fact-checking, raising alarms about misinformation's rise and the need for community engagement to navigate this new digital landscape.

Charlie Sykes, an influential political commentator and former radio host, joins Mike Cosper to reflect on the January 6 Capitol attack's lasting impact on American democracy. They discuss the fracturing of conservatism, the role of misinformation, and the moral dilemmas of acknowledging truths about that day. Sykes shares insights into the emotional toll on principled conservatives within the GOP and the dangers of politicized violence. They also dive into the evolving landscape of artificial intelligence and its ethical implications for society.

Hosts reflect on their 2024 predictions, revealing unexpected truths and surprises. They dive into the ongoing conflict in the Middle East and how anti-Semitism is rising amidst political changes. The exhaustion from constant media coverage is discussed, highlighting its effects on public engagement. Furthermore, they tackle the implications of AI and technology on faith, urging a spiritual Reformation centered on ethical concerns. The talk wraps up with heartfelt reflections on friendship and commitments for the New Year.