The Bulletin

Join author and counselor John Eldredge, president of Wild at Heart, as he dives into the complexities of modern masculinity and spirituality. He discusses the challenges posed by far-right politics and reclaiming authentic male identity. Eldredge emphasizes the healing power of personal experiences of God's love and critiques 'hard-ass masculinity' in church settings. The conversation also touches on navigating spirituality amidst digital distractions, advocating for deeper connections with Christ for true fulfillment.

A deportation showdown, Pete Hegseth’s cleanup of the Naval Academy library, and the impact of USAID cuts in war-weary Sudan. Find us on YouTube.This week, the Trump administration continues its deportation plan despite court orders, defense secretary Pete Hegseth cleans out the Naval Academy library, and war-weary Sudan experiences the tragic consequences of USAID cuts. The Bulletin is joined by Elizabeth Neumann, Karen Swallow Prior, and CT contributor Mindy Belz to discuss these headlines and why they matter to you.  GO DEEPER WITH THE BULLETIN: Join the conversation at our Substack.  Find us on YouTube. Rate and review the show in Apple Podcasts. ABOUT THE GUESTS: Elizabeth Neumann is a national security expert who has served across three presidential administrations—on the inaugural staff of the White House Homeland Security Council under President George W. Bush, as an advisor to the office of the director of national intelligence during the Obama Administration, and as the Department of Homeland Security’s deputy chief of staff and assistant secretary for counterterrorism and threat prevention in the Trump administration. Neumann is also a national security contributor for ABC News, board chair for the National Immigration Forum, a fellow of the fourth class of the Civil Society Fellowship of The Aspen Institute, and a member of the Aspen Global Leadership Network.Karen Swallow Prior is a reader, writer, and professor. She is the author of The Evangelical Imagination: How Stories, Images, and Metaphors Created a Culture in Crisis; On Reading Well: Finding the Good Life Through Great Books; Fierce Convictions: The Extraordinary Life of Hannah More—Poet, Reformer, Abolitionist; and Booked: Literature in the Soul of Me. She has a monthly column for Religion News Service. Her writing has appeared at Christianity Today, The New York Times, The Atlantic, The Washington Post, First Things, Vox, Think Christian, The Gospel Coalition, and various other places. Mindy Belz is a journalist who has covered wars and victims of conflict in Afghanistan, Syria, Iraq, Sudan, and the Balkans. She recounts some of her experiences in a 2016 award-winning book, They Say We Are Infidels. David Brooks with The New York Times calls her “one of the bravest and best foreign correspondents in the country.” She is the former senior editor at World magazine and has done writing and editing for Christianity Today.ABOUT THE BULLETIN:The Bulletin is a weekly (and sometimes more!) current events show from Christianity Today hosted and moderated by Clarissa Moll, with senior commentary from Russell Moore (Christianity Today’s editor in chief) and Mike Cosper (director, CT Media). Each week, the show explores current events and breaking news and shares a Christian perspective on issues that are shaping our world. We also offer special one-on-one conversations with writers, artists, and thought leaders whose impact on the world brings important significance to a Christian worldview, like Bono, Sharon McMahon, Harrison Scott Key, Frank Bruni, and more.The Bulletin listeners get 25 percent off CT. Go to https://orderct.com/THEBULLETIN to learn more.“The Bulletin” is a production of Christianity TodayProducer: Clarissa MollAssociate Producer: Alexa BurkeEditing and Mix: TJ HesterMusic: Dan PhelpsExecutive Producers: Erik Petrik and Mike Cosper Senior Producer: Matt Stevens Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

David Bahnsen, a prominent financial commentator and chief investment officer at The Bahnsen Group, dives into the complex world of tariffs. He clarifies how tariffs impact consumer prices and trade dynamics, drawing on historical perspectives from figures like Donald Trump. The conversation also addresses ethical sourcing issues and the benefits of free trade in reducing global poverty. Bahnsen emphasizes a market-driven approach to trade, advocating for equitable deals while reassuring listeners about maintaining long-term investment strategies amid market volatility.

Paul D. Miller, a Georgetown University professor and former White House staffer, and Matthew Lee Anderson, a theology professor at Baylor University, dive into the intricate U.S.-China trade tensions. They explore how tariffs affect not only economics but also the church's role during crises. The conversation shifts to a Christian response to cancel culture, emphasizing the need for open dialogue in academia. Finally, Justin Giboney inspires hope, urging proactive engagement in societal issues rather than paralysis amid political upheaval.

Lydia Dugdale, a Professor of Medicine at Columbia University and an expert in clinical ethics, joins the discussion about a significant measles outbreak in Texas. The conversation focuses on the vital role of vaccinations in preventing health crises and the impact of misinformation. They explore the complexities of vaccine hesitancy and the importance of community trust in public health. Additionally, Dugdale delves into the ethical dilemmas faced by medical practitioners and the need for informed public engagement to combat misinformation.

Ken Chitwood, a religion scholar and newswriter, discusses the rise of far-right populism in Europe, focusing on Marine Le Pen's legal troubles. Michael Wear and Harvest Prude break down Cory Booker's marathon Senate speech and its implications for the Democratic Party. Finally, Carmen Imes examines the controversial prosperity gospel espoused by televangelist Paula White, critiquing its promises of blessings while emphasizing the importance of communal spirituality over individualism.

Reflecting on the poignant experiences during the pandemic, heartfelt stories emerge from frontline workers grappling with loss and courage. Personal journeys highlight resilience, fostering community bonds amidst adversity. Amidst emotional turmoil, small acts of kindness arise, showcasing the profound connections formed during challenges. The discussion also centers on personal growth through grief, emphasizing faith and hope as guiding lights in dark times. Together, these narratives reveal unexpected hope and transformation in the wake of COVID-19.

Paul D. Miller, an academic and former White House staffer, joins the conversation this week. He shares insights on the Department of Defense's accidental war plan leak and the implications for national security. The discussion shifts to Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem's challenges regarding deported Venezuelans, including legal and security concerns. The podcast also critiques Disney's live-action Snow White, exploring its disappointing box office and the cultural relevance of modern adaptations. It's a lively exploration of current events and their broader impacts.

Reflecting on the fifth anniversary of the COVID-19 pandemic, personal stories from first responders reveal emotional complexities. The discussion delves into the initial responses from health officials and educators, highlighting the challenges of virtual learning. Resilience emerges as a theme, particularly in how students adapted to adversity. The evolving nature of science during crises is examined, emphasizing the importance of community and compassion in navigating the lasting impact of the pandemic.

Michael Wear, the founder of the Center for Christianity and Public Life, and Dalibor Rohac, a scholar at the American Enterprise Institute, dive into pressing political themes. They discuss Chuck Schumer's surprising bipartisan support, revealing implications for the Democratic Party. The humanitarian crisis in Ukraine, especially concerning abducted children, is a poignant topic, as is the stigma around pilot mental health. Both guests explore how leadership should be rooted in maturity rather than fear, tying together faith and public life in a compelling way.