No Small Endeavor with Lee C. Camp

Charles Marsh, Commonwealth Professor of Religious Studies at the University of Virginia and author of 'Evangelical Anxiety: A Memoir', shares his journey of reconciling faith with mental health. He candidly discusses his childhood in the evangelical South, where he battled panic attacks and learned to distrust his own desires. The conversation explores the complexities of navigating mental wellness within strict religious frameworks, offering insights into vulnerability, storytelling, and finding beauty in everyday challenges.

In this conversation, Charles Marsh, a Commonwealth Professor of Religious Studies and author of 'Evangelical Anxiety: A Memoir', shares his journey from an upbringing steeped in evangelical dogma to a more compassionate understanding of mental health. He candidly discusses how religious teachings shaped his struggles with anxiety, often viewing his panic attacks through a lens of guilt. Marsh highlights the importance of re-evaluating faith, embracing therapy, and finding beauty in ordinary moments, urging a broader acceptance of mental health within religious communities.

Phil Vischer, co-creator of VeggieTales, and Skye Jethani, a pastor and author, tackle the intersection of faith and culture with humor and insight. They discuss the challenges faced by evangelicals in a changing sociopolitical landscape, including the uncomfortable alignment with Trumpism. The duo emphasizes the power of humor in addressing serious topics like social justice and the role of faith in community engagement. They also reflect on the creative journey behind VeggieTales, highlighting the importance of joyful creation amidst struggle.

Phil Vischer, co-creator of VeggieTales and co-host of the Holy Post, teams up with Skye Jethani, a pastor and author known for his critiques of evangelical subculture. They dive into the intricate relationship between faith and politics, discussing the troubling rise of movements like MAGA within the church. Humor plays a key role as they navigate serious topics, emphasizing the need for joy in discourse. The duo also explores the connection between faith and social justice, critiquing historical divides while sharing their personal journeys in advocating for meaningful change.

Freddie O'Connell, the 10th mayor of Nashville, shares his journey from tech professional to civic leader. He discusses the lessons learned from living car-free for over three years, revealing how urban mobility impacts community dynamics. O'Connell highlights the interconnectedness of individual well-being and community prosperity, reflecting on how systemic issues like poverty and gentrification require thoughtful governance. He urges for greater local engagement, emphasizing the importance of social ties and ethical leadership in thriving neighborhoods.

Freddie O’Connell, the 10th Mayor of Nashville, shares insights from his journey in public service shaped by his tech background and community ties. He discusses moral leadership and the impact of local governance on residents' lives. O’Connell reflects on his experiences riding Nashville's public transit and the challenges of accessibility. He explores the balance between individual success and community flourishing, highlighting the importance of equitable support amidst urban growth. His advocacy for community engagement and addressing social disparities makes for a compelling conversation.

Michele Norris, former host of NPR’s All Things Considered and founder of The Race Card Project, dives into the power of storytelling about race and identity. She shares her innovative approach of asking individuals to describe their experiences in just six words, revealing the profound depth of responses. Norris reflects on the evolution of racial conversations in America, the significance of kitchens in shaping identity, and the importance of honest dialogue in confronting historical atrocities. Her insights promote understanding and healing through shared narratives.

Michele Norris, an accomplished journalist and former NPR host, introduces her intriguing Race Card Project, which invites people to encapsulate their experiences of race in just six words. She shares moving narratives and insights about the complexities of racial identity in America. Norris reflects on personal stories that reveal tender truths while tackling tough societal issues. The discussion also emphasizes the importance of open dialogues and diverse perspectives in building trust and understanding, especially in education and community settings.

Kristin Neff, a professor of Educational Psychology at the University of Texas at Austin, is a leading expert on self-compassion. In this engaging conversation, she highlights how self-compassion is a healthier alternative to self-esteem, arguing that the latter often leads to narcissism and anxiety. Neff shares practical insights on cultivating self-compassion to overcome self-criticism and perfectionism. The discussion delves into cultural influences on self-judgment and the relationship between self-compassion and personal growth, offering a fresh perspective on emotional well-being.

In this engaging conversation, Dr. Hindatu Mohammed, a passionate veterinarian and owner of Allendale Veterinary Clinic, shares her nearly 20 years of experience in the field. She reveals how she calms anxious felines with pheromone sprays and navigates the tough health decisions pet owners face. Discover the comical truth about a dog that misbehaves during nail clipping and learn about the humorous word 'neuticles.' Dr. Mohammed's anecdotes highlight both the emotional and humorous aspects of veterinary medicine, showcasing her deep commitment to animal welfare.