The Bulletin

Rebeccah Heinrichs, a senior fellow at the Hudson Institute and national security expert, dives into the pressing global challenges facing the U.S. She discusses the complexities of U.S. foreign policy in response to China and Russia’s aggressive maneuvers. Heinrichs critiques rising populism in Europe and urges a renewed clarity in American values. The conversation also highlights the strategic importance of Ukraine for NATO and warns against historical misrepresentations that could affect America’s global role.

In a poignant discussion, Aimee Welch, a former journalist and adoptive parent, shares her firsthand experience with the halt of Chinese international adoptions, highlighting the emotional toll on families awaiting their children. Bob Smietana, a national reporter for Religion News Service, dives into the complexities of maintaining friendships across political divides, citing Taylor Swift as a relatable example. The conversation further explores the intersection of humanitarian issues, political debates, and the challenge of connecting in today's polarized climate.

Gen Z in the workplace, Israeli hostages, and astronauts stuck in space.Find us on Youtube.This week on The Bulletin, we discuss Gen Z in the workplace with Skot Welch (organizational development expert), the deaths of six Israeli hostages with Mona Charen (policy editor at The Bulwark), and the two American astronauts stuck in space with Jeff Williams (former NASA astronaut). GO DEEPER WITH THE BULLETIN: Follow the show in your podcast app of choice. Find us on YouTube. Rate and review the show in your podcast app of choice. Leave a comment in Spotify with your feedback on the discussion—we may even respond! Check out episode 91 for Mike Cosper’s conversation with author Frank Bruni on grievance. Visit former NASA astronaut Jeff Williams’s Instagram account for amazing views from the International Space Station. TODAY’S GUESTS: Skot Welch is the principal/founder of Global Bridgebuilders (GBB), a firm focusing on organizational development, cultural transformation, and inclusion. Prior to the launch of Global Bridgebuilders, Skot served as vice president of business development and benchmarking services for DiversityInc magazine in New Jersey, where he worked with many of the Fortune 500’s biggest global brands across a broad range of industries. Skot is the author of Unfractured: A Christ-Centered Action Plan for Cultural Change.Mona Charen is a syndicated columnist, the policy editor of The Bulwark, and the host of the podcast Beg to Differ.Jeff Williams is a retired United States Army officer and a NASA astronaut. He is a veteran of four space flights and formerly held the American record for most days spent in space. Jeff was a two-time station commander for the International Space Station.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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Mike Murphy, a prominent political consultant, shares eye-opening insights into the evolving landscape of the presidential election. Luma Simms discusses the grim realities of the Taliban's new laws and their effect on women's rights in Afghanistan. Sheila Wise Rowe emphasizes the importance of mental and spiritual health during turbulent times, urging listeners to adopt 'soulkeeping' practices. Together, they tackle polarization and the necessity of compassion in today's society, exploring how faith can drive meaningful change.

Sharon McMahon, known as America’s Government Teacher and a popular Instagram influencer, engages in a compelling discussion with Mike Cosper. They tackle the pressing need for civil discourse and critical thinking in today’s political climate. Sharon shares insights from her upcoming book about unsung historical figures, emphasizing the importance of recognizing overlooked contributions. The conversation also addresses the dangers of misinformation and the essential role of respectful dialogue in maintaining a healthy democracy.

In this discussion, David Zahl, director of Mockingbird Ministries, analyzes the recent Democratic National Convention, focusing on the emotional shifts and 'joyful' messaging amidst political complexities. He urges Christians to engage despite political homelessness. Joining him, Katelyn Beaty explores the 'trad-wife' movement on social media, unpacking its blend of traditional femininity and modern expectations, questioning the quest for validation in today’s influencer culture. Together, they tackle how these trends reshape family dynamics and societal roles.

Join Charlie Vickers, who plays Sauron, and Daniel Weyman as The Stranger, alongside showrunners Patrick McKay and JD Payne. They delve into the creative journey of adapting Tolkien’s works, sharing personal connections and the emotional nuances involved. Expect thrilling discussions about the upcoming season, including Sauron's influence and the introduction of Numenor and the Harfoots. Vickers sheds light on embodying Sauron’s complex character, balancing dark themes with narrative allure, all while capturing the enchanting essence of Middle Earth.

Karen Swallow Prior, an author and contributor to Religion News Service, discusses the impact of J.R.R. Tolkien's works on today's conservative sentiments. She explores the emotional depth of reading against film adaptations. Krista Boan, founder of Screen Sanity, then delves into the implications of cell phone bans in schools, highlighting their effect on student learning and mental health. The conversation also touches on evolving abortion trends and the ethical complexities surrounding women’s choices post-Dobbs, emphasizing the need for understanding in a polarized landscape.

Tim Alberta, a journalist from The Atlantic, and David French, a New York Times columnist, dive into politics and geopolitics. They discuss the implications of Tim Walz's nomination as Kamala Harris' running mate and assess how this impacts the Democrats’ strategy for the 2024 election. The conversation turns to the escalating tensions in the Middle East, exploring Iran's potential actions against Israel while contemplating the emotional challenges voters face amidst political chaos. The duo also shares insights on the decline of the U.S. reputation in the Arab world and its implications.

In this discussion, journalist Evan Gershkovich shares his harrowing experience following his return from Russia. Alsu Kurmasheva, also a journalist, reveals her role in the prisoner swap, opening up about the ethical dilemmas involved in negotiating with authoritarian regimes. Noah Rothman provides context on the international implications of these exchanges, while Paul Whelan, a former Marine, reflects on the aftermath of his own imprisonment. Together, they highlight the complex interplay of personal stories and geopolitics in the world of prisoner swaps.