Episodes

  • Talking Across the Cultural Divide (And how to do it better) with Justin Lee

    Talking Across the Cultural Divide (And how to do it better) with Justin Lee
    Sep 29 2024

    How do we talk with the people with whom we disagree the most? Especially in today's toxic social, religious, and political environment, where disagreement is seen as treason and we're all on the edge of being canceled? This week, we had our eyes opened when Justin Lee gave us some practical advice for how to communicate with those across the aisle--and why our old arguments have always failed so miserably. Justin first appeared on our radar in the early 2000s, when the "Great Debate" on his blog about LGBTQ+ inclusion in the church broke new ground in showing that there is such a thing as a committed, faithful, gay Christian, and arguing that the Bible may not say exactly what we think it does about all queer relationships through all time and circumstances. That conversation turned into the popular book "Torn: Rescuing the Gospel from the Gays-vs.-Christians Debate," which was recently updated in a 2024 edition. Justin has now turned his attention to an even bigger picture, focusing on the many ways that we disagree across different aspects of our society, and dives deep into the causes of our disagreements, why our old ways of arguing with one another often backfire and make the divine even wider, and practical tools and methods of having productive conversations with the people who disagree with us the most. His essential book on this topic is called "Talking Across the Divide: How to Communicate with People You Disagree with and Maybe Even Change the World" Bio: Justin Lee has been successfully bridging cultural divides for 25 years. He first developed his strategic dialogue techniques while working at the difficult intersection of faith and LGBTQ issues, where he became internationally known for helping heal family and community rifts. His book on that subject, Torn, is now one of the most widely read in the field. Justin’s latest book, Talking Across the Divide: How to Communicate with People You Disagree With—and Maybe Even Change the World, draws on scientific research and real-world examples to apply these same techniques to today’s political and social conflicts. Follow Justin’s work at GeekyJustin.com.

    Justin Lee Website: https://geekyjustin.com/ Facebook: @geekyjustin Instagram: @geekyjustinlee Twitter/X: @geekyjustinlee

    Remember to come see us in person at Theology Beer Camp October 17-19 Denver, CO
    Get Information and Tickets for https://www.eventbrite.com/e/tRADICALHOBBITthe-return-of-the-god-pods-tickets-824208298207 Promo Code for our listeners: RADICALHOBBIT (all caps, no spaces)
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    45 mins
  • What the Bible REALLY Says about Marriage...and More Surprises! with Dr. Jennifer Bird

    What the Bible REALLY Says about Marriage...and More Surprises! with Dr. Jennifer Bird
    Sep 24 2024
    1 hr and 6 mins
  • Showing White People the Pathway to Anti-Racism (and Other Spiritual Journeys)

    Showing White People the Pathway to Anti-Racism (and Other Spiritual Journeys)
    Sep 15 2024
    Daniel Henderson, the author of "The Spiritual Journey to Anti-Racism: A Travel Guide for White People" (Quoir Press) embodies the idea that solving racism is a White People problem, not a People Of Color problem. While many well-meaning White liberals have relied on People of Color for racial education and pathways to reconciliation, Henderson has been inspired by his beliefs to pro-actively use his platform to guide White people on dismantling the systems that continue to perpetuate racial inequality OURSELVES. Our conversation covers Henderson's background in education and religion, his transition from Evangelical to a system of belief that more authentically fit his conscience (chronicled in his earlier book "Confessions of a Recovering Evangelical,"), and how that transformation led to his mission to do the work of dismantling racism. Henderson's story of belief goes back as far as the moment in 1966, when he "went forward" at a Billy Graham Crusade to give his life to Christ, up through the moment 40 years later, in 2005, he walked away from the traditional Evangelical church for a more authentic faith. With a 40-year career as an educator, speaker, writer and historian, Henderson continues today to encourage others to find their faith, embrace doubt, ask hard questions, and find their own spiritual path.
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    52 mins
  • Tattoos, taboos, and theology with Justin Scoggins, author of Inking Christ

    Tattoos, taboos, and theology with Justin Scoggins, author of Inking Christ
    Sep 8 2024
    Justin Scoggins has a passion for tattoos, and a passion for an authentic Christian faith, and finds an intersection of the two in his new book "Inking Christ: A Theological Approach to Faith." In a discussion that goes way beyond the surface discussion of ink and skin, we talk about what it means to be a true Christian witness, the status of our bodies as "temples," and what the Bible passages about "marking ourselves" are really about. This was a fascinating exploration for all of us. Dr. Justin Scoggins has is currently Associate Director of Homeless Outreach in Winter Haven, Florida and holds a Doctorate in Theology. From Quoir Publishing: Inking Christ is a celebration of art, faith, and the myriad ways they intertwine. It is an invitation to view tattoos not as marks of rebellion or mere decoration, but as sacred symbols that narrate the story of one's walk with Jesus. Through this book, Dr. Scoggins aims to inspire believers to embrace the artistry of tattoos as a legitimate and meaningful form of worship, reflecting the beauty and love of Christ in a unique and personal manner.
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    52 mins
  • Can Mysticism Save America? with Dr. Bruce Epperly

    Can Mysticism Save America? with Dr. Bruce Epperly
    Sep 4 2024
    This week we talk with Rev. Dr. Bruce Epperly, the multi-talented theologian, minister, professor, author, and pioneer in process/relational theology about one of his latest books, "Homegrown Mystics: Restoring Our Nation with the Healing Wisdom of America's Visionaries." We talk about what mysticism is, what it means to be a mystic in the Christian tradition (and others), key mystics in American history, and how Dr. Epperly's experiences with mysticism deepened his faith while also expanding his horizons. We also talk about how narrow and restrictive some traditional strains of Christianity can be, and how connecting with the Spirit can transform people and society as a whole. A great listen, as we cover a wide range of topics, history, and traditions. Epperly's bio, in his own words, from his website www.drbruceepperly.com: "I am a theologian, spiritual guide, pastor, professor, and author of over sixty books. I regularly speak in person and on Zoom at conferences, seminars, churches and classes studying my books. I believe that we are all mystics, and that there is a mystic in you. Each of us, whether we are spiritual, religious, agnostic, seeking, struggling with belief, is on a holy adventure.
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    49 mins
  • The Many Lives of Dina Nina Part 2 | Radical Love Live S3E28

    The Many Lives of Dina Nina Part 2 | Radical Love Live S3E28
    Aug 25 2024

    (Part 2 of 2) More more more! What can we say about Dina Nina? This was an incredible conversation, so jam-packed we made it a two-part episode, with the fabulous Dina Nina Martinez-Rutherford, whose bio includes Performer, Speaker, Politician, Queer Clergy, and "a little woo woo." We cover a wide range of topics from her conservative upbringing to her journey to finding herself to entering ministry: jumping into politics: being the FIRST transgender woman elected to office in Madison, WI: her passion for comedy and performing; her faith and spirituality; mystical experiences and past lives; healing trauma, and so much more. There is so much joy and feeling in these episodes, we are moved and blessed to have Dina Nina as a guest, and to call her a friend!

    In addition to her life as a speaker, comedian, counselor, minister, and civic leader, Dina Nina also leads Light of Love Fellowship, an inclusive and affirming faith ​community, an organization which aims "to encourage connection with the divine, ​provide a safe space for those who have faced adversity within ​faith communities, and promote love as our guiding principle."

    Dina Nina Martinez-Rutherford: https://dinanina.com/

    Light of Love Fellowship: https://lightoflovefellowship.com/

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dinaninaxo/

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    Get Information and Tickets for Theology Beer Camp October 17-19 Denver, CO https://www.eventbrite.com/e/tRADICALHOBBITthe-return-of-the-god-pods-tickets-824208298207 Promo Code for our listeners: RADICALHOBBIT (all caps, no spaces)
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    49 mins
  • The Many Lives of Dina Nina: A Journey of Faith, Courage, Resilience, and Joy

    The Many Lives of Dina Nina: A Journey of Faith, Courage, Resilience, and Joy
    Aug 19 2024
    (Part 1 of 2) Oh my gosh, what can we say about Dina Nina? This was an incredible conversation, so jam-packed we made it a two-part episode, with the fabulous Dina Nina Martinez-Rutherford, whose bio includes Performer, Speaker, Politician, Queer Clergy, and "a little woo woo." We cover a wide range of topics from her conservative upbringing to her journey to finding herself to entering ministry: jumping into politics: being the FIRST transgender woman elected to office in Madison, WI: her passion for comedy and performing; her faith and spirituality; mystical experiences and past lives; healing trauma, and so much more. There is so much joy and feeling in these episodes, we are moved and blessed to have Dina Nina as a guest, and to call her a friend! In addition to her life as a speaker, comedian, counselor, minister, and civic leader, Dina Nina also leads Light of Love Fellowship, an inclusive and affirming faith ​community, an organization which aims "to encourage connection with the divine, ​provide a safe space for those who have faced adversity within ​faith communities, and promote love as our guiding principle." Dina Nina Martinez-Rutherford: https://dinanina.com/ Light of Love Fellowship: https://lightoflovefellowship.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dinaninaxo/
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    49 mins
  • Brother Timothy Jolley: A Monk’s Devotion to Love and Action | Radical Love Live S3E19

    Brother Timothy Jolley: A Monk’s Devotion to Love and Action | Radical Love Live S3E19
    Aug 11 2024
    Mark talks with Brother Timothy Jolley, a life professed monk of the Order of the Holy Cross, an Anglican Benedictine monastic community of men, associated with The Episcopal Church, located in West Park, New York. Br. Timothy joined the monastery over 50 years ago with a calling to serve a vocation dedicated to children’s education, spiritual evolution, and spiritual direction. Our conversation covers how Br. Timohty was called to become an Anglican monastic, his work with the formation of the Holy Cross School in Grahamstown, South Africa, what can happen when we show radical welcoming to a guest, and how he lives out the founder’s mission statement: “Love must act as light must shine forth and fire must burn.” Find out more about Holy Cross, their beautiful campus on the banks of the Hudson River offering many types of retreats, and the monastic life at www.holycrossmonastery.com. Please support the Love Must Act and the Holy Cross School by visiting www.lovemustact.org. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Get Information and Tickets for Theology Beer Camp October 17-19 Denver, CO https://www.eventbrite.com/e/tRADICALHOBBITthe-return-of-the-god-pods-tickets-824208298207 Promo Code for our listeners: RADICALHOBBIT (all caps, no spaces) ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Get Information and Tickets for Theology Beer Camp October 17-19 Denver, CO https://www.eventbrite.com/e/tRADICALHOBBITthe-return-of-the-god-pods-tickets-824208298207 Promo Code for our listeners: RADICALHOBBIT (all caps, no spaces)
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    53 mins