Good Faith

Wrestling with Shakespeare, Faith, and the Limits of Technology   Host Curtis Chang and Dr. Jessica Hooten Wilson—Fletcher Jones Chair of Great Books at Pepperdine University—explore The Tempest by William Shakespeare and its timeless wisdom for our technology-driven world. Through Prospero's struggle with power, control, and love, they draw parallels between Shakespeare's "magic" and our modern dependence on digital tools. Wilson explains how the play invites us to surrender our illusions of control, embrace humility, and rediscover relationships grounded in grace. Curtis and Jessica's discussion touches on C.S. Lewis, Andy Crouch, and the spiritual discipline of wrestling with hard texts and ideas in an age of easy answers from ChatGPT.   (02:30) - Dependence Upon Technology as Magic (05:40) - What Do We Forget in Our Obsessions? (11:03) - The Change in Prospero (13:41) - Engaging With Challenging Texts (18:53) - The Temptation of AI (21:40) - Celebrating Good Faith Podcast Production   Join The After Party   Send Campfire Stories to: info@redeemingbabel.org   Donate to Redeeming Babel   Mentioned In This Episode: William Shakespeare's The Tempest (entire play) Andy Crouch's The Tech-Wise Family: Everyday Steps for Putting Technology in Its Proper Place Genesis 32:22-32 (ESV) - Jacob Wrestling with God or "the Angel" C.S. Lewis's The Abolition of Man (pdf) The Tempest Act V, Scene 1: "Prospero's Speech" John 1:1-14 (ESV) - Jesus as the Word or "logos" Hebrews 5:11-6:12 (ESV) - the metaphor of milk and solid food   More From Jessica Hooten Wilson: Jessica Hooten Wilson's website Explore Jessica's books HERE Read articles and Essay by Jessica HERE   Follow Us: Good Faith on Instagram Good Faith on X (formerly Twitter) Good Faith on Facebook   Sign up: Redeeming Babel Newsletter   The Good Faith Podcast is a production of Redeeming Babel, a 501(c)(3) nonpartisan organization that does not engage in any political campaign activity to support or oppose any candidate for public office. Any views and opinions expressed by any guests on this program are solely those of the individuals and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of Redeeming Babel.  

How Are Cultural Shifts Making Evangelical Trends Look Like Revival?   Good Faith "founding friend" David French joins Curtis Chang for a powerful conversation on revival, revolution, and the future of American Christianity. Together they explore whether today's supposed spiritual movements signal a genuine renewal of faith or a political realignment within evangelical culture. From Gen Z's shifting beliefs to the rise of MAGA Christianity, they unpack the tension between true repentance and political identity. David and Curtis offer fresh insight into how Christians can pursue authentic spiritual growth while navigating a deeply divided cultural landscape.   (02:58) - What is happening in American Christianity? (06:36) - It's Complicated: Mistaking Revolution For Revival  (09:35) - What Does Revival Look Like? (12:11) - Revival vs. Revolutionary Christianity (20:09) - Empathy and Struggling With Sin Together (29:11) - Religious and Political Realignment in America (39:45) - Religious Realignment in American Churches   Join The After Party   Send Campfire Stories to: info@redeemingbabel.org   Donate to Redeeming Babel   Mentioned In This Episode: David French's article Something Is Stirring in Christian America, and It's Making Me Nervous Barna Research: Young Adults Lead a Resurgence in Church Attendance Tim Keller's article 'Lord, Do It Again': Tim Keller on Revival (The Gospel Coalition) Tim Keller's message A Biblical Theology of Revival  Read Acts 2:14-47 (ESV) - Peter preaches from Joel and repentance breaks out Read Isaiah 6 (ESV) - Isaiah's call and commission George Whitefield and the 1727 The Great Awakening What was the Azusa Street Revival? (Christian Union America) Kevin Brown's article What the Asbury Revival Taught Me About Gen Z (Christianity Today) What is Seven Mountain Dominionism? What is Catholic Integralism? Differing Opinions: Is Empathy A Sin? Some Conservative Christians Argue It Can Be (PBS) Rodney Stark The Rise of Christianity: A Sociologist Reconsiders History (PBS) Read Romans 5:1-11 (ESV) - Peace with God through faith  Listen: Good Faith episode 30 Russell Moore discusses why "crazy as a church growth strategy" is not the way of Jesus Ryan Burge: What About White Evangelicals Who Aren't Conservative?   More From David French: David French's New York Times pieces HERE Follow David French on Threads   Follow Us: Good Faith on Instagram Good Faith on X (formerly Twitter) Good Faith on Facebook   Sign up: Redeeming Babel Newsletter   The Good Faith Podcast is a production of Redeeming Babel, a 501(c)(3) nonpartisan organization that does not engage in any political campaign activity to support or oppose any candidate for public office. Any views and opinions expressed by any guests on this program are solely those of the individuals and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of Redeeming Babel.

Can We Move From Fear to a Holy Indifference That Teaches Peace and Presence? Seattle-based writer Sara Billups joins host Curtis Chang to explore how faith, mental health, and spiritual practices can help calm anxiety in our bodies, families, churches, and politics. Drawing from her book Nervous Systems (available November 4, 2025), Sara shares practical ways to find peace, emotional balance, and spiritual resilience amid today's chaos. Together, Curtis and Sara discuss how understanding our stories and grounding in faith can help us live with calm and clarity in an anxious culture.   (02:23) - Navigating Anxiety in Uncertain Times (04:35) - Understanding Anxiety Across Generations (18:58) - Navigating Anxiety With Holy Indifference (26:00) - Anxiety in Churches, Politics, and Systems (28:15) - Churches Cultivating Non-Anxious Presence (33:43) - Finding a Spiritual Home in Crisis (41:20) - Sara's Message a Generation of Anxious Young Adults   Join The After Party   Send Campfire Stories to: info@redeemingbabel.org   Donate to Redeeming Babel   Mentioned in this episode: Sara Billups' Nervous Systems: Spiritual Practices to Calm Anxiety in Your Body, the Church, and Politics What is Epigenetics? (Cleveland Clinic) Curt Thompson discusses generational trauma and epigenetics (episode of Curt's podcast) Ignatius' Spiritual Exercises  St. Teresa of Lisieux's Divine Office The story behind the hymn It Is Well With My Soul Frederick Buechner describes his daughter's anorexia and praying Psalm 131 (video) Frederick Buechner's Telling Secrets Matthew 26:36-46 (ESV) Jesus prays in Gethsemane Edwin Friedman's A Failure of Nerve: Leadership in the Age of the Quick Fix Edwin Friedman's Six Measures of Effective Leadership (Jack Shitima's Non-Anxious Leader blog) Mark Sayers's A Non-Anxious Presence: How a Changing and Complex World will Create a Remnant of Renewed Christian Leaders The ignatian concept of Indifference Thomas McKenzie's The Anglican Way: A Guidebook Tim Keller's The Church in the City (Series of audio messages) Christianity Today's The Rise and Fall of Mars Hill (podcast) 22 Explore Grace Church Seattle Good Faith episode featuring Paco Amador of Little Village in Chicago   More from Sara Billups: Sara Billups' Orphaned Believers: How a Generation of Christian Exiles Can Find the Way Home Sara Billups' Bitter Scroll (substack) Sara Billups' That's the Spirit podcast (with Morgan Page)   Follow Us: Good Faith on Instagram Good Faith on X (formerly Twitter) Good Faith on Facebook   Sign up: Redeeming Babel Newsletter  

What Does Faith Demand in an Age of ICE Raids?   In this first episode in an on-going series on immigration in America, host Curtis Chang talks with Pastor Luis "Paco" Amador about the struggles of Chicago's immigrant communities, especially in Little Village, where faith meets fear amid ongoing ICE raids. Pastor Amador shares stories of family separation, resilience, and gospel hope, revealing how churches stand as places of strength and compassion. The episode calls for biblical justice and unity within the church in the face of division and fear.   (03:15) - Immigration and Community in Chicago (05:49) - Impact of Immigration Raids on Community (12:54) - Immigration Rights Issues (15:35) - Community Support (17:38) - How Does the Bible Speak To the Immigrant's Experience? (19:37) - Migrants and Persecution (27:00) - A Faith Revival in Immigrant Communities (34:00) - Immigration Reform and Order (39:10) - Migrants Fleeing Collapsing Dictatorships   Episode Guide for Personal and Group Study   Join The After Party   Send Campfire Stories to: info@redeemingbabel.org   Donate to Redeeming Babel   Mentioned In This Episode: Images of ICE raids in Little Village, Chicago (the month of October)  Matthew 5:1-12 (ESV) The Beatitudes Acts 8:1-4 (ESV) The Scattering of the Church Genesis 12 (ESV) The Call of Abraham Justo L. Gonzalez's The Story of Christianity, Volume 1: The Early Church to the Dawn of the Reformation Justo L. Gonzalez's The Story of Christianity, Vol. 2: The Reformation to the Present Day More from Paco Amador Paco Amador: A Church With a Heart for Immigrants Little Village: New Life Community Church Immigrants Plant Churches and Revitalize a Neighborhood in Chicago (substack article)   Follow Us: Good Faith on Instagram Good Faith on X (formerly Twitter) Good Faith on Facebook   Sign up: Redeeming Babel Newsletter   The Good Faith Podcast is a production of Redeeming Babel, a 501(c)(3) nonpartisan organization that does not engage in any political campaign activity to support or oppose any candidate for public office. Any views and opinions expressed by any guests on this program are solely those of the individuals and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of Redeeming Babel.

How Thin Is the Line Between Patriotism and Nationalism?   Curtis Chang and David French take a hard look at the rise of Christian nationalism and its growing influence on American faith and politics. They unpack how this ideology blurs the line between patriotism and nationalism, reshaping evangelical identity and challenging both biblical and constitutional values. Drawing from history and theology—from January 6th to modern evangelical movements—they reveal how love of country can be redeemed from the distortions of fear and power. Listeners are invited to reflect on what true patriotism looks like for followers of Jesus in a divided America.   (02:30) - Understanding Christian Nationalism in America (11:03) - Defining Christian Nationalism in America (17:37) - The Emotional Identity of Lived Out Christian Nationalism (26:17) - Challenging American Identity and History (33:43) - America's Story and a Universal "us"? (36:30) - The Competing Stories of 1619 and 1776 (44:18) - C.S. Lewis on Patriotism and Nationalism (48:56) - American Identity, Patriotism, and Protecting Others (55:45) - Security About the Truth of America   Join The After Party   Send Campfire Stories to: info@redeemingbabel.org   Donate to Redeeming Babel   Mentioned In This Episode: Andrew Whitehead & Samuel Perry's Taking America Back For God Thomas Kidd's Christian Nationalism vs. Christian Patriotism (article) How Many Americans Are Christian Nationalists? (article & date) David French: What Is Christian Nationalism, Exactly? (2/25/24) The Role of The New Apostolic Reformation A Critique of the Seven Mountain Mandate Derek Bell's Interest Convergence and the Permanence of Racism: A Reflection on Resistance Matt Yglesias's Great Awakening C.S. Lewis on Love of Country and Love of God C.S. Lewis on Love of Country and Love of God C.S. Lewis on Patriotism   More From David French: David French's New York Times pieces HERE Follow David French on Threads   Follow Us: Good Faith on Instagram Good Faith on X (formerly Twitter) Good Faith on Facebook   Sign up: Redeeming Babel Newsletter   The Good Faith Podcast is a production of Redeeming Babel, a 501(c)(3) nonpartisan organization that does not engage in any political campaign activity to support or oppose any candidate for public office. Any views and opinions expressed by any guests on this program are solely those of the individuals and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of Redeeming Babel.

Join Curtis Chang, host of the Good Faith Podcast, along with co-leaders Chuck Mingo, Sarah Billups, Russell Moore, Kaitlyn Schiess, and Mark Turman, as they move listeners through a series of guided prayers based on the Beatitudes. This pastoral effort invites the audience to recalibrate their spiritual focus and pray for the church, our country, and one another. Beginning with "Blessed are the poor in spirit" and culminating in rejoicing and gladness, this time of reflection and prayer encourages all-comers to renew their hope, reclaim peace, and follow Christ faithfully in a divided world.   (01:05) - Welcome from Curtis Chang (03:47) - Centering Silence (04:20) - Blessed Are the Poor In Spirit: Curtis Chang (09:50) - Blessed Are Those Who Mourn (13:39) - Blessed Are the Meek: Chuck Mingo (14:58) - Blessed Are Those Who Hunger and Thirst For Righteousness:Sara Billups (16:49) - Blessed Are the Merciful: Sara Billups (17:59) - Prayer For the Church Universal From the Book of Common Prayer: Sara Billups (19:45) - Blessed Are the Pure in Heart: Russell Moore (22:14) - Blessed Are the Peacemakers: Russell Moore (24:08) - Blessed Are Those Who Are Persecuted: Kaitlyn Schiess (27:35) - Prayers For the Needs of God's Work: Kaitlyn Schiess (28:39) - Rejoice and Be Glad: Mark Turman (32:12) - Hope and Joy in Christ: Mark Turman   Join The After Party   Send Campfire Stories to: info@redeemingbabel.org   Donate to Redeeming Babel   Scriptures Referenced: Matthew 5: 1-12 (ESV)  Psalm 139:23-24 (ESV) Amos 5 (ESV)   Follow Us: Good Faith on Instagram Good Faith on X (formerly Twitter) Good Faith on Facebook   Sign up: Redeeming Babel Newsletter   The Good Faith Podcast is a production of Redeeming Babel, a 501(c)(3) nonpartisan organization that does not engage in any political campaign activity to support or oppose any candidate for public office. Any views and opinions expressed by any guests on this program are solely those of the individuals and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of Redeeming Babel.

Can Our Enemies Teach Us Anything?   A.J. Swoboda joins the Good Faith podcast to unpack how cultivating a teachable spirit and practicing true discipleship means learning from enemies, strangers, and neighbors in a divided world. He emphasizes how to recognize real experts amid alternate facts and subjective "truths," and tells how the countercultural practice of learning from anyone—regardless of agreement—fosters humility, empathy, and connection, insights drawn from his book A Teachable Spirit.   (03:11) - Cultivating a Teachable Spirit (09:38) - Reverse Prophecy and Calling Out Your Tribe (17:55) - Experts & Expertise (22:09) - Sola Scriptura vs. "Solo" Scriptura (23:27) - Jesus Would Be the Best At Anything (32:04) - Replacing Our Neighbors With Technology (45:03) - Learning From Enemies   Join The After Party   Send Campfire Stories to: info@redeemingbabel.org   Donate to Redeeming Babel   Mentioned In This Episode: A.J. Swoboda's A Teachable Spirit How John Calvin understood the Ten Commandments Erving Goffman's The Presentation of Self in Everyday Life (pdf) More about Fuller Seminary's John Goldengay Roger Kneebone: The Path To Expertise and Why Experts Matter Understanding Erving Goffman's concept of Civil Inattention Dallas Willard's sermon: The Genius of Jesus, part 1 (video) Dallas Willard's Jesus the Logician (article) How Should Pastors Respond to Charlie Kirk's Assassination? (article) Scriptures Referenced: The Sermon on the Mount: Matthew 5-7 (ESV) Mark 12:30-31 (ESV) Deuteronomy 10 (ESV) Hebrews 13:2 (ESV)   More From A.J. Swoboda: A.J. Swoboda and Nijay Gupta's The Slow Theology Podcast   A.J. Swoboda's Low Level Theology Substack A.J. Swoboda's The Dusty Ones: Why Wandering Deepens Your Faith  Follow Us: Good Faith on Instagram Good Faith on X (formerly Twitter) Good Faith on Facebook   Sign up: Redeeming Babel Newsletter   The Good Faith Podcast is a production of Redeeming Babel, a 501(c)(3) nonpartisan organization that does not engage in any political campaign activity to support or oppose any candidate for public office. Any views and opinions expressed by any guests on this program are solely those of the individuals and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of Redeeming Babel.

How Is Radicalization A Risk in Online Spaces?   Host Curtis Chang sits down with Elizabeth Neumann, former DHS counterterrorism leader, to explore the rise of political violence in our digital world. From Charlie Kirk's assassination to the role of memes, online gaming, and extremist recruitment, they uncover how radicalization thrives—and where faith communities, government, and citizens can step in to push back against hate and defend freedom.   (01:54) - Understanding and Preventing Political Violence (08:22) - The Broader Context of Rising Violence (12:03) - Addressing Root Causes of Mass Violence (21:29) - Online Gaming and Extremism Concerns (27:15) - Rating the Trump Administration's Response to the Crisis (34:09) - Government Response to Political Violence (42:34) - Jesus Followers and the Threat of Violence     Register for the Good Faith live prayer event HERE   Join The After Party   Send Campfire Stories to: info@redeemingbabel.org   Donate to Redeeming Babel   Mentioned in this episode: Recommended Resource: Mass Violence Prevention An Independent article: The sinister role of 'black-pilling' in the murder of Charlie Kirk Elizabeth Newman's book Kingdom of Rage From the U.N.:Examining the Intersection Between Gaming and Violent Extremism (pdf) Learn about: The Calm Network (764) (the United States Attorney's Office District of Columbia) Learn how Violent Online Networks Target Vulnerable and Underage Populations   More From Elizabeth Neumann: Check out Elizebeth Neumann's website Elizabeth Neumann's archived DHS biography   Follow Us: Good Faith on Instagram Good Faith on X (formerly Twitter) Good Faith on Facebook   Sign up: Redeeming Babel Newsletter   The Good Faith Podcast is a production of Redeeming Babel, a 501(c)(3) nonpartisan organization that does not engage in any political campaign activity to support or oppose any candidate for public office. Any views and opinions expressed by any guests on this program are solely those of the individuals and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of Redeeming Babel.  

What Does Charlie Kirk's Murder Reveal About Extremism and Division?   Host Curtis Chang sits down with Good Faith "founding friend" and New York Times writer David French to reflect on the shocking assassination of Charlie Kirk and what it reveals about the rise of political violence in America. Together, they explore how formative experiences have shaped Baby Boomers and Gen Z differently, the role of influencers versus institutions, and the dangers of extremism across the political spectrum. With compassion for the personal tragedy at the center of this event, they also highlight the church's role on the path toward healing and rebuilding trust in a deeply divided nation.   Register for the Good Faith live prayer event HERE   Join The After Party   Send Campfire Stories to: info@redeemingbabel.org   Donate to Redeeming Babel   Mentioned in this episode: Poll Results: Is Political Violence Ever Justified? Why Do So Many Young Americans Justify Political Violence? (internal WSJ generational poll %s) How recent political violence in the U.S. fits into 'a long, dark history' (Politifact/PBS) Political violence in polarized U.S. at its worst since 1970s (Reuters, 2023) Spencer Cox's calls for civility spark introspection, and some GOP backlash Utah Gov. Spencer Cox decries 'cancer' of social media and its 'direct role' in every assassination over past 5 years  Pope Leo criticizes surge of nationalist political movements in the world (video)   David French on Charlie Kirk's Murder and Political Violence: David French: There Are Monsters in Your Midst, Too David French: If We Keep This Up, Charlie Kirk Will Not Be the Last to Die Roundtable discussion, including David French: The 'Fork in the Road' After Charlie Kirk's Death David French's Divided We Fall   More From David French: David French's New York Times pieces HERE Follow David French on Threads   Follow Us: Good Faith on Instagram Good Faith on X (formerly Twitter) Good Faith on Facebook   Sign up: Redeeming Babel Newsletter   The Good Faith Podcast is a production of Redeeming Babel, a 501(c)(3) nonpartisan organization that does not engage in any political campaign activity to support or oppose any candidate for public office. Any views and opinions expressed by any guests on this program are solely those of the individuals and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of Redeeming Babel.  

Modern Challenges of Self-Worth and Lies   Host Curtis Chang talks with author and women's ministry leader Emily Wilson about faith, motherhood, and battling the lies of shame and self-hatred. Drawing from C.S. Lewis's The Screwtape Letters and her new book Sincerely, Stoneheart, Emily explores how screens, productivity pressures, and cultural messages distort our identity—and how the truth of God's love can set us free.   (00:01) - Reimagining CS Lewis for Modern Times (04:54) - Women and Good vs. Evil (08:27) - Women and Men's Unique Vulnerabilities to Evil (13:03) - Did C.S. Lewis Miss Something About Women? (14:53) - C.S. Lewis and Friendship (19:08) - Unveiling Truths About Motherhood and Screens (28:01) - The Lie of Productivity   Join The After Party   Send Campfire Stories to: info@redeemingbabel.org   Donate to Redeeming Babel   Mentioned in this episode: Emily Wilson's Sincerely Stoneheart  Learn more about C.S. Lewis (C.S. Lewis Institute) The Background surrounding C.S. Lewis's The Screwtape Letters  More about Lewis's friendships and the Inklings  Listen to Good Faith Episode 160 - Resetting Your Faith: Exploring the Strength of Biblical Mothers with Tara Edelschick and Kathy Tuan-MacLea authors of Moms at the Well  NIH's Study on depression, screen time, and women (abstract) More from Emily Wilson: Emily Wilson's Website  Find Emily Wilson on Instagram Watch Emily Wilson on YouTube  Find Emily Wilson on Facebook   Follow Us: Good Faith on Instagram Good Faith on X (formerly Twitter) Good Faith on Facebook   Sign up: Redeeming Babel Newsletter

Why Is Your Inner Life So Complicated?   Host Curtis Chang and therapist Dr. Alison Cook connect dive into conversation about the intersection of Christian faith, psychology, and emotional health. Together they explore how overcoming shame, naming emotions, and quieting one's inner critic can lead to spiritual growth and deeper empathy. Drawing on the Internal Family Systems (IFS) model, Dr. Cook provides tools to manage the competing voices within.   (00:01) - Exploring Inner and Outer Complexity (03:45) - Compassionate Curiosity and Inner Complexity (17:16) - Unlocking Inner Complexity Through Exploration (22:28) - Navigating the Inner Soul Complexity (33:48) - Cultivating Inner Harmony for Leadership (37:45) - Journey of Inner Exploration   Drawing upon material from a past conversation, this episode provides ideas about emotional health and inner well being.   Join The After Party   Send Campfire Stories to: info@redeemingbabel.org   Donate to Redeeming Babel   Mentioned in this episode: Learn more about Internal Family Systems (IFS) Model Learn more about Dr. Richard Schwartz  Dr. Anna Lembke's Dopamine Nation: Finding Balance in the Age of Indulgence Read Isaiah 6:5 ESV (and related scriptures) Henry Nouwen: "Finding Our Sacred Center" (video, 1994) Explaining the True Therapy in 'Inside Out' (video) Explore the 5 Things Inside Out 2 Got Right about IFS Therapy Read about The Doctrine of the Trinity: No Christianity Without It   More from Dr. Alison Cook: Explore Dr. Cook's website Listen to Dr. Cook's podcast: The Best of You Read Dr. Cook's book The Best of You: Break Free from Painful Patterns, Mend Your Past, and Discover Your True Self in God Read Dr. Cook's book I Shouldn't Feel This Way: Name What's Hard, Tame Your Guilt, and Transform Self-Sabotage into Brave Action   Follow Us: Good Faith on Instagram Good Faith on X (formerly Twitter) Good Faith on Facebook   Sign up: Redeeming Babel Newsletter

We Can Find Common Ground Even in Washington, D.C. Good Faith's series of Campfire Stories invites listeners to hear how ordinary people are living out extraordinary faith in complex times. In this episode, Daniel, a pastor in Reston, Virginia, reflects on 23 years of ministry near Washington D.C., where politics and faith are in constant conversation. Inspired to bring the community – inside and outside of his church – together through civic discourse, he championed an initiative to create spaces for meal sharing and meaningful dialogue, creating curiosity and seeking unity across political lines. Daniel's story shows how one pastor can change the way we do church to cultivate reconciliation, hope, and community in the most polarized of towns. Send your Campfire Stories to: info@redeemingbabel.org

From Jeffrey Epstein to QAnon, Why Do Conspiracies Thrive in Churches?   The Atlantic's Pete Wehner, Christianity Today's Emily Belz, and host Curtis Chang dive into QAnon, conspiracy theories, and the MAGA movement's influence on American politics, culture, and the church. From Donald Trump's messianic image to the shadows of Jeffrey Epstein, they reveal why conspiracies thrive in times of distrust—and how faith communities can fight back with truth and resilience.   (01:58) - Understanding the QAnon Conspiracy Movement (04:10) - The Impact of QAnon Beliefs (10:55) - The Role of Jeffrey Epstein's Death (17:13) - Christian Vulnerability to Conspiracy Theories (25:13) - The History of Christianity and Conspiracies (30:14) - The Grip of Trump on MAGA (40:36) - Challenges Facing Church Leadership Today     Send Campfire Stories to: info@redeemingbabel.org   Donate to Redeeming Babel   Mentioned in this episode: Emily Belz: How QAnon Lives On Under Trump 2.0 Pete Wehner: Trump Discovers MAGA Has No 'Off' Switch Wired: All The Times Kash Patel Promoted QAnon FOX News: AG Pam Bondi on Epstein files: 'The public has a right to know' (March 3) Politico: Outraged Trump supporters not placated by DOJ's actions on Epstein New York Times: Trump Embraces Conspiracy Theories He Only Winked at Before Life Way Research: 50% of U.S. Protestant Pastors Hear Conspiracy Theories in Church American Enterprise Institute: Findings from the January 2021 American Perspectives Survey Nicholas Carr's The Shallows More about Historical Antisemetic Conspiracies: Blood Libel More about William Miller & the Millerites   More from Emily Belz & Pete Wehner: Emily Belz's article at Christianity Today Pete Wehner's articles at The Atlantic   Follow Us: Good Faith on Instagram Good Faith on X (formerly Twitter) Good Faith on Facebook   Sign up: Redeeming Babel Newsletter

Faithful Actions and a Blueprint for Societal Healing   Former Ohio Governor John Kasich joins Curtis Chang on the Good Faith Podcast to share how character, faith, and even suffering shape real leadership in a divided America. Drawing from the Governor's new book Heaven Help Us, he and Curtis unpack why objective truth matters more than ever, how faith communities and neighborhoods can spark real change, and why grassroots action beats toxic politics every time. The conversation explores the power of authentic relationships and faith-driven hope to help fix what's broken in our neighborhoods and our country.   (00:01) - Finding Faith Amid Suffering and Service (08:31) - Character, Faith, and Political Analysis (19:20) - Community Engagement and Faith-Based Action (32:51) - Inspiring Faith Communities and Hope   Send written questions or voice memos for "Ask Curtis" episodes to: askcurtis@redeemingbabel.org Send Campfire Stories to: info@redeemingbabel.org   Donate to Redeeming Babel   Resources mentioned in this episode: Governor Kasich's book Heaven Help Us: How Faith Communities Inspire Hope, Strengthen Neighborhoods, and Build the Future Ernie Johnson's Thoughts On the 2016 Election (starting at 4:05) Different versions of the scripture about Job and his friends Read about Helmut Thielecke Audio Archives featuring Helmut Thielicke A theological unpacking of Romans 8:28 Books by Tremper Longman Tim Keller's Gospel in Life website The history of the Vineyard Church in America Learn more about Convoy of Hope   More from Governor John Kasich: Governor Kasich's website Governor Kasich's book Every Other Monday: Twenty Years of Life, Lunch, Faith, and Friendship Governor Kasich's book Courage Is Contagious: Ordinary People Doing Extraordinary Things To Change The Face Of America   Follow Us: Good Faith on Instagram Good Faith on X (formerly Twitter) Good Faith on Facebook   Sign up:  Redeeming Babel Newsletter

  Suffering's Transformative Power in Faith and Mental Health   What if suffering isn't the enemy—but the doorway to beauty, connection, and hope? Psychiatrist Dr. Curt Thompson joins host Curtis Chang for a raw and redemptive conversation on how pain, anxiety, and fear of abandonment shape our lives and our faith. Grounded in both Scripture and neuroscience, this episode challenges the myths we carry about control and invites us into deeper attachment with God and others.   (00:01) - Exploring Suffering and Transformation (11:30) - Exploring Suffering and Connection (12:45) - The Object of God's Glory and the Object of God's Wrath (25:09) - Embracing Suffering With Community and Compassion (36:57) - Inviting Healing and Transformation Through Suffering   Drawing upon material from a past conversation, this episode provides ideas about emotional resilience and spiritual formation through suffering.   Send written questions or voice memos for "Ask Curtis" episodes to: askcurtis@redeemingbabel.org Send Campfire Stories to: info@redeemingbabel.org Donate to Redeeming Babel   Resources mentioned in this episode: Dr. Thompson's The Deepest Place: Suffering and the Formation of Hope Dr. Thompson's Anatomy of the Soul: Surprising Connections Between Neuroscience and Spiritual Practices That Can Transform Your Life and Relationships C.S. Lewis's The Voyage of the Dawn Treader C.S. Lewis's The Weight of Glory   Scripture mentioned in this episode: Read Mark 10:35-40 (ESV) - Jesus' question to James and John Read Genesis 2:16-18 (ESV) - God tells the man He will surely die Read Genesis 1-3 (ESV) - The narrative of creation and fall, as the origins of suffering Read John 1:14 (ESV) - Jesus is God's glory Read Psalm 22 (ESV) - The Psalm quoted by Jesus in the Gethsemane   More from Dr. Curt Thompson: Dr. Thompson's website Dr. Thompson's The Soul of Shame: Retelling the Stories We Believe About Ourselves Dr. Thompson's The Soul of Desire: Discovering the Neuroscience of Longing, Beauty, and Community   Follow Us: Good Faith on Instagram Good Faith on X (formerly Twitter) Good Faith on Facebook   Sign up: Redeeming Babel Newsletter    

Finding Common Ground in a Divided World   What can strife in Israel and Palestine teach us about America's own political polarization? Host Curtis Chang sits down with conflict resolution expert Nathan Stock of the Carter Center to explore some of the hard truths from Middle East—and the surprising parallels here at home. From media-fueled division to the hope for bipartisan breakthroughs, Curtis and Nathan unpack how deep-rooted conflict forms—and offer pathways to bring healing and hope.   (00:01) - Navigating Conflict in the Middle East (14:05) - Lessons from Northern Ireland and South Africa (16:42) - Building Hope for Conflict Resolution (25:18) - Different Brain Types and Polarization (26:30) - Bridging Political Divides to Further U.S. Unity (39:27) - Building Community Through Shared Stories   Donate to Redeeming Babel   Resources mentioned in this episode: Summary: The "Six Day War" of 1967 (U.S. Dept. of State) Overview: October 7, 2023 and the Israel/Hamas Conflict (U.S. Congress) An Explanation of The Geneva Conventions and their Commentaries (The Red Cross) An Explanation of The Good Friday Agreement (Associated Press) Remembering The Breakup of Yugoslavia (U.S. Office of the Historian) Abstract: Shared neural representations and temporal segmentation of political content predict ideological similarity (Science Advances) John R. Hibbing, Kevin B. Smith, & John R. Alford's book Predisposed: The Left, The Right, and The Biology of Political Differences NPR Poll: Most feel democracy is threatened and political violence is a major problem   The Carter Center's Conflict Work: Nathan Stock's article: There's a new silent majority — and they need to be activated The Carter Center's Democracy Program The Carter Center's Conflict Resolution Program The Carter Center's Conflict Resolution Reports   More In Common Studies: Listening Across Difference:  What Americans feel, fear, and want to learn Interpreting young Americans' views on government, the Constitution, and the appeal of authoritarian alternatives​ The Connection Opportunity: Insights for Bringing Americans Together Across Difference   Follow Us: Good Faith on Instagram Good Faith on X (formerly Twitter) Good Faith on Facebook   Sign up: Redeeming Babel Newsletter

Empathy and Empowerment in Economic Challenges   What if economic justice isn't about charity—but solidarity and investment? Harvard MBA Giselle Garraway shares how she left corporate America to found ThriveFunds, a platform that empowers working poor families with dignity-centered investments in their everyday lives. From a street sweeper chasing dreams of restoring a broken family to a working mom caring for both her husband and aging parents, Curtis and Gisele uncover how small, targeted support and investments can transform lives—and shift hearts across economic lines. They explore systemic setbacks and challenge some of the myths of meritocracy while asking: what does it truly mean to love your neighbor today?   (00:01) - Introduction (02:48) - Gisele Garraway's Story and Work (12:42) - Investing in Working Families (19:55) - Building Bridges Across Economic Divides (36:15) - Systemic Aspects of Government Benefits and Poverty (47:35) - Embodying Human Solidarity in Community (56:11) - Credits   Donate to Redeeming Babel   Resources mentioned in this episode: Matthew Desmond's Evicted: Poverty and Profit in the American City Matthew Desmond's Poverty, by America  Gallup Study: 50% in U.S. Fear Bankruptcy Due to Major Health Event USA Today: The average American is closer to being homeless than being Elon Musk The United Way's research on Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed Americans Richard Rothstein's The Color of Law: A Forgotten History of How Our Government Segregated America Tom Holland's Dominion: How the Christian Revolution Remade the World Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr's Strength to Love   Scripture Passages About Caring for the Poor: Matthew 22:37-40 (ESV) Psalm 146:5-7 (ESV) 1 John 3:17-18 (ESV) Deuteronomy 15:10-11 (ESV) James 2:15-17 (ESV) Isaiah 58:6-11; 13-14 (ESV)   More about ThriveFunds: Learn More about ThriveFunds Explore ThriveFunds model and Four Categories of Service Be Encouraged by ThriveFunds podcast Bio: Gisele Garraway   Follow Us: Good Faith on Instagram Good Faith on X (formerly Twitter) Good Faith on Facebook   Sign up: Redeeming Babel Newsletter

Is Superman Woke—or Just Wonderfully Human?   Can a superhero cut through the world's chaos better than a political debate or another sermon? New York Times columnist David French and Christianity Today editor-in-chief Russell Moore explore why Superman still strikes a cultural nerve—especially in the age of outrage and "wokeness" debates. From his immigrant origins to the often-overlooked theme of adoption, they unpack how James Gunn's 2025 reboot revives timeless questions about identity, belonging, moral courage, and kindness. This conversation is more than capes and kryptonite—it's a surprising, thoughtful, and even fun look at the stories shaping who we are.   (00:00) - Exploring the Resonance of Superhero Myths (07:24) - Fun That Connects To Deeper Needs (10:10) - A Jewish Immigrant's Myth (15:40) - Exploring James Gunn's Superman 2025 (23:06) - Is Superman Woke?  (27:04) - Kindness as a Countercultural Value (34:11) - Parenting With Superheroes and Morals (51:09) - Credits   Donate to Redeeming Babel   Resources mentioned in this episode: Russell Moore's article Why Superman Matters David French's column Kindness Is MAGA Kryptonite J.R.R. Tolkien's On Fairy Stories J.R.R. Tolkien's eucatastrophe (an essay) C.S. Lewis' "True Myth": The Myth That Became Fact C.S. Lewis' Reviews of Lord of the Rings (veil of familiarity) Grant Morrison's Super Gods Official Trailer: Super/Man: The Christopher Reeve Story Sonny Bunch's article How to Decide If You Want to Watch 'Superman' A short interview with Superman's creators Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster (video) Übermensch Explained: the Meaning of Nietzsche's 'Superman' The Times interview James Gunn: Some people will take offence at my new Superman Read Deuteronomy 17:16-17 (NLT) Social Commentary in The Office Wonder Woman vol. 5 Annual #1 Batman & Superman share their real names (video) Relevant Magazine: What the Superman Backlash Says About American Masculinity   More From David French: David French's New York Times pieces HERE Follow David French on Threads   More From Russell Moore: Sign up for Russell Moore's weekly newsletter Moore to the Point Listen to The Russell Moore Show (podcast)   Follow Us: Good Faith on Instagram Good Faith on X (formerly Twitter) Good Faith on Facebook   Sign up: Redeeming Babel Newsletter

What Role Does Jordan Peterson Play in Shaping Young Men's Views on Masculinity?   Host Curtis Chang teams up with "founding friend" and New York Times columnist David French to unpack David's recent conversation with Jordan Peterson—and the crisis facing young men today. From mental health struggles to educational decline, David and Curtis take a hard look at what's shaping young male identity in modern America, including the outsized influence of figures like Peterson. They explore how political polarization, digital culture, and a loss of purpose are driving young men to extremes. Most importantly, they offer a redemptive vision: practical ways to cultivate virtuous masculinity through mentorship, community, and spiritual formation.   Donate to Redeeming Babel   Resources mentioned in this episode: David's column What's the Matter With Men? David French appears on Jordan Peterson's podcast Urban and Rural numbers on "Deaths of Despair" (NIH) The Widening Gender Gap Reflections: Men Without Chests (from C.S. Lewis' The Abolition of Man) Admiral William H. McRaven's 2014 Commencement Address  Of Boys and Men: A Conversation with Richard Reeves Richard Reeves' Of Boys and Men: Why the Modern Male Is Struggling, Why It Matters, and What to Do about It   More From David French: David French's New York Times pieces HERE Follow David French on Threads   Follow Us: Good Faith on Instagram Good Faith on X (formerly Twitter) Good Faith on Facebook   Sign up: Redeeming Babel Newsletter

Teen Anxiety Is Skyrocketing—How Can Parents and Churches Help? Anxiety is overwhelming today's teens—and Curtis Chang knows the struggle firsthand. Joined by "founding friend" David French and Dr. Kara Powell of the Fuller Youth Institute, this deep dive into the mental health crisis facing our youth, exposes the pressure-cooker of social media, why parenting style matters, and why anxiety and depression continue to rise. If you're tired of hand-wringing and ready for hope-filled action, this conversation delivers clarity, challenge, and compassion. Drawing upon material from a past conversation, this episode seeks to empower parents to help the next generation to navigate anxiety with faith and community.   Donate to Redeeming Babel   Resources mentioned in this episode: The work of the Fuller Youth Institute  The Fuller Youth Institute's Sticky Faith Fuller Youth Institute's Faith in an Anxious World  Jonathan Haidt: The Dangerous Experiment on Teen Girls CDC: Depression Prevalence in Adolescents and Adults: U.S., Aug '21–Aug '23 New York times: What Social Media Does to the Teen Brain Angela Duckworth's The Good Life Project Angela Duckworth's Research Lisa DaMour's work and books Scott Cormode profile at Fuller Seminary Springtide Research Institute   More From Kara Powell: Dr. Powell's TheoED Talk: 3 Big Questions that Change Every Young Person Dr. Powell on instagram Dr. Powell on X (formerly Twitter) More From David French: David French's New York Times pieces HERE Follow David French on Threads   Follow Us: Good Faith on Instagram Good Faith on X (formerly Twitter) Good Faith on Facebook   Sign up:  Redeeming Babel Newsletter