

No Small Endeavor with Lee C. Camp
Tokens Media
What does it really mean to live a good life—in our politics, our faith, our work, and our relationships?
On No Small Endeavor with Lee C. Camp, we explore the ideas, practices, and public debates that shape human flourishing today. Each week you’ll hear thought-provoking conversations with bestselling authors, philosophers, neuroscientists, psychologists, theologians, artists, and political leaders—people wrestling with the biggest questions of meaning and purpose in our time.
Together we ask:
How can religion be a force for healing instead of division?
What does neuroscience reveal about happiness, habits, and productivity?
Where do politics and justice meet the pursuit of the common good?
How do truth, beauty, and goodness help us live well—personally and collectively?
If you care about faith, politics, social justice, science, or the search for meaning, you’ll find courageous, practical conversations here. Because pursuing a meaningful life is no small endeavor—and we’re with you on the road.
Learn more at nosmallendeavor.com.
On No Small Endeavor with Lee C. Camp, we explore the ideas, practices, and public debates that shape human flourishing today. Each week you’ll hear thought-provoking conversations with bestselling authors, philosophers, neuroscientists, psychologists, theologians, artists, and political leaders—people wrestling with the biggest questions of meaning and purpose in our time.
Together we ask:
How can religion be a force for healing instead of division?
What does neuroscience reveal about happiness, habits, and productivity?
Where do politics and justice meet the pursuit of the common good?
How do truth, beauty, and goodness help us live well—personally and collectively?
If you care about faith, politics, social justice, science, or the search for meaning, you’ll find courageous, practical conversations here. Because pursuing a meaningful life is no small endeavor—and we’re with you on the road.
Learn more at nosmallendeavor.com.
Episodes
Mentioned books

26 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.

4 snips
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.

13 snips
Jun 2, 2025 • 59min
211: Charles Marsh: Evangelical Anxiety
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.

10 snips
May 30, 2025 • 1h 9min
210: Unabridged Interview: Holy Post
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.

12 snips
May 26, 2025 • 53min
210: Phil Vischer and Skye Jethani: Navigating Faith, Politics, and Humor
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.

May 23, 2025 • 1h 5min
209: Unabridged Interview: Freddie O'Connell
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.

May 19, 2025 • 54min
209: Nashville Mayor Freddie O’Connell: Everything is Political
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.

May 16, 2025 • 1h 8min
208: Unabridged Interview: Michele Norris
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.

May 12, 2025 • 53min
208: Michele Norris: Race, Your Story, 6 Words, Please Send
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.