No Small Endeavor with Lee C. Camp
Tokens Media
Exploring what it means to live a good life. What does it mean to live a good life? What is true happiness? What are the habits, practices, and dispositions that contribute to authentic human flourishing? No Small Endeavor examines these questions with host Lee C. Camp. You'll hear from best-selling authors, philosophers, scientists, artists, psychologists, theologians and even the occasional politician—courageous, impassioned people taking seriously the question of how to live a good life. Striving for a good life is No Small Endeavor, and we’re here with you on the road. Learn more at nosmallendeavor.com.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Jul 4, 2025 • 1h 28min
216: Unabridged Interview: David Blight
David Blight, Sterling Professor of History at Yale, dives into Yale's historical ties to slavery and the challenges of confronting such complex narratives. He emphasizes the importance of remembering the past accurately, arguing against the narratives that seek to sanitize history for national pride. Blight reflects on a significant project commissioned by Yale's president that resulted in his acclaimed book, examining both the negative and positive legacies of institutions. He highlights how our collective memory shapes societal discourse on race and accountability.
14 snips
Jun 30, 2025 • 48min
216: David Blight: Why How We Remember the Past Matters
David Blight, a Sterling Professor of History at Yale and an expert on slavery's legacies, dives deep into Yale’s historical connections to slavery. He highlights the moral complexities of acknowledging painful histories and why our collective memory shapes societal identity. The discussion reveals how narratives can sanitize historical truths, particularly around memorials and race. Blight emphasizes the importance of confronting these uncomfortable realities to understand present injustices and the paradox of a nation built on freedom while upholding slavery.
Jun 27, 2025 • 1h 11min
215: Unabridged Interview: Juliet Schor
In this insightful conversation, Juliet Schor, an economist and sociology professor at Boston College, discusses the consequences of our relentless work culture and proposes a transformative vision with her book, 'Four Days a Week.' She argues that the traditional five-day work week hampers happiness and community connections. Schor critiques free market myths, explores new definitions of the good life, and shares the benefits of a reduced workweek, including enhanced well-being and productivity. Her ideas invite us to rethink work in a way that truly serves our lives.
18 snips
Jun 23, 2025 • 56min
215: Juliet Schor: The Extensive Benefits of a Four-Day Work Week
Juliet Schor, a Boston College sociology professor and bestselling author, discusses the transformative benefits of a four-day work week. She argues that reducing work hours can enhance our happiness, productivity, and even improve social connections while confronting the consumerism that dominates our lives. Schor critiques traditional economic indicators like GDP, advocating for a reevaluation of what truly constitutes well-being. Through innovative models and research, she invites us to envision a future where work serves human needs rather than the other way around.
Jun 20, 2025 • 1h 11min
214: Unabridged Interview: Jemar Tisby
Jemar Tisby, a historian and scholar of race, religion, and social movements, shares his profound insights on justice and faith. He reflects on his early experiences as one of the few Black worshipers in predominantly white evangelical spaces. Tisby tackles the dangers of colorblindness, revealing how it perpetuates systemic inequality. He emphasizes the need for action to achieve human flourishing and discusses his works, including 'The Spirit of Justice.' Finally, he warns against anti-democratic trends within the church, stressing the importance of community engagement.
Jun 16, 2025 • 53min
214: Jemar Tisby: The Spirit of Justice
Jemar Tisby, a historian and New York Times bestselling author, shares his insights on the intersection of race, religion, and social justice. He reflects on his experiences growing up in a 'color-blind' Evangelical community and the awakening that followed the murder of Michael Brown. Tisby critiques the complicity of the white church in racism, urging for active justice engagement. He emphasizes that hope is found in action and discusses his latest works, including 'The Spirit of Justice' and 'Roadmap to Ruin,' which aim to guide the church in resisting democratic challenges.
26 snips
Jun 13, 2025 • 1h 10min
212: Unabridged Interview: Amy Grant
Amy Grant, the renowned "Queen of Christian Pop," dives deep into her extraordinary life and career. She reflects on recovering from serious health issues, revealing how vulnerability has shaped her personal growth. Listeners will be captivated by her thoughts on music as a universal language, fostering emotional connections. Grant also shares poignant insights on navigating grief and personal challenges, highlighting the importance of community and the values passed down through generations. This heartfelt conversation showcases her grounded perspective amidst fame.
25 snips
Jun 11, 2025 • 56min
213: Walter Brueggemann: The Prophetic Imagination
Walter Brueggemann, a renowned theologian and biblical scholar, shares his profound insights on prophetic imagination. He critiques the pervasive 'totalism of market ideology' that stifles dissent and encourages a vision of abundance over scarcity. Brueggemann emphasizes the need for faith communities to challenge consumerism and embrace creativity and compassion. He reflects on personal experiences and the urgency of truth-telling as a form of resistance against societal norms. This enlightening discussion honors Brueggemann’s legacy and inspires listeners to envision justice and hope.
Jun 9, 2025 • 53min
212: Amy Grant: Fame, Vulnerability, and Staying Grounded (Best of NSE)
Amy Grant, the ‘Queen of Christian Pop’ with millions of records sold and several Grammy Awards, opens up about her journey through fame and personal challenges. She discusses the power of vulnerability in music and life, sharing heartfelt stories from her early influences and family. Amy reflects on her recovery from health issues like open-heart surgery, emphasizing resilience and the importance of empathy. She touches on navigating public criticism and the significance of gratitude in daily life, all while maintaining a grounded spirit amidst her success.
Jun 6, 2025 • 1h 16min
211: Unabridged Interview: Charles Marsh
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.
