The UpWords Podcast

What happens when artificial intelligence enters the sanctuary? In this episode of The UpWords Podcast, host Daniel Johnson talks with author and researcher Todd Korpi about his new book, AI Goes to Church (InterVarsity Press, 2025). They explore how AI is already shaping the church, the ethical and theological questions Christians must wrestle with, and how technology can be used to foster—not fracture—human flourishing. Todd (DMiss, Fuller Theological Seminary) is a pastor, missiologist, and church consultant. He is dean of digital ministry programs at Ascent College, assistant professor of Christian leadership at Fuller Theological Seminary, and works in several capacities at OneHope.Key Topics:Why Todd wrote AI Goes to ChurchDefining AI and its influence on everyday lifeHow algorithms shape spiritual formationTheological frameworks for engaging technologyEthics: Is technology neutral?AI and the future of work, rest, and human flourishingHigher education’s evolving posture toward AIPractical advice for churches: “Automate the boring bits”Links & Resources:📙Get the book: AI Goes to Church - https://www.ivpress.com/ai-goes-to-churchLearn more about the SL Brown Foundation STUDIO - https://slbf.org/studio

Forgiveness is one of the most challenging—and liberating—virtues we can practice. In this episode of The UpWords Podcast, host Jean Geran, sits down with Dr. Robert Enright, a pioneer in the scientific study of forgiveness and the founder of the International Forgiveness Institute. Bob shares his remarkable journey from asking a “dangerous question” about the purpose of his research to becoming a global leader in forgiveness education.We explore:What forgiveness is—and what it is notWhy forgiveness is a moral virtueThe psychological and spiritual benefits of forgivingHow forgiveness can break cycles of generational traumaPractical steps for forgiving others and yourselfResources Mentioned:https://internationalforgiveness.comFree curriculum guides: Email director@internationalforgiveness.com and mention this podcast Subscribe & Share:If this conversation inspired you, subscribe to The Upward Podcast, leave a review, and share with a friend.

In this episode of The UpWords Podcast, we sit down with Byron Borger, owner of Hearts & Minds Bookstore, for a rich conversation about Advent—the season of waiting, longing, and hope. Byron shares personal stories, spiritual insights, and a curated list of Advent resources, from devotionals and theological reflections to family-friendly reads. Whether you’re seeking depth, beauty, or practical guidance for the season, this episode is a treasure trove of inspiration.Highlights:Why Advent is central to the biblical storyByron’s childhood Christmas memories and their spiritual significanceHow busyness can become holy work during the holidaysThe meaning of waiting and longing in a restless worldBooks Mentioned:·      Advent: The Once and Future Coming of Jesus Christ – Fleming Rutledge (Eerdmans, 2018)·      The First Advent in Palestine: Reversals, Resistance, and the Ongoing Complexity of Hope – Kelly Nikondeha (Broadleaf Books, 2022)·      Hints of Hope: Essays on Living Proximately – Steven Garber (Pericles Press, 2024)·      Advent (The Liturgical Year Series) – Tish Harrison Warren (InterVarsity Press, 2022)·      Christmas: The Season of Light and Life (The Liturgical Year Series) – Emily Hunter McGowin (InterVarsity Press, 2022)·      Epiphany: Season of Glory (The Liturgical Year Series) – Fleming Rutledge (InterVarsity Press, 2023)·      The Art of Living in Advent: 28 Days of Joyful Waiting – Sylvie Van Hooser (Paraclete Press, 2024)·      Advent Is the Story: Seeing the Nativity Throughout Scripture – Daniel Spanjer (Square Halo Books, 2022)·      With Heart and Soul and Voice: Advent Devotions on the First Christmas Songs – Tim Chester (The Good Book Company, 2024)·      A Book of Days: Christmas Reflections from the Northwest – Steve Moore & Contributors (Murdoch Trust, 2024)·      Praying with Saint Nicholas: A Christmas Devotional – Matt Mikalatos (Tyndale House, 2024)·      Waiting for Jesus: An Advent Invitation to Prayer and Renewal – Rich Villodas (WaterBrook, 2024)·      The Star Still Beckons: Gifts of Presence at Advent and Christmas – Leonard Sweet (Salish Sea Press, 2024)·      Unhappy Holidays: Advent Devotional Blessings for a Blue Christmas – Sherri Lee Gerber (Herald Press, 2024)·      All Creation Waits: The Advent Mystery of New Beginnings – Gayle Boss; Illustrations by David G. Klein (Paraclete Press, 2016; Gift Edition 2021)·      All Creation Waits: Children’s Edition – Gayle Boss (Paraclete Press, 2022)·      The Biggest Story: Advent Devotional – Kevin DeYoung; Illustrations by Don Clark (Crossway, 2023)·     The One We’re Waiting For: An Illustrated Advent Devotional for Families – Taylor Combs (B&H Publishing Group, 2023)·     Incarnation: A Bible Study on the Coming of Christ – Derek Vreeland (Word of Life Resources, 2024)Other Resources:Byron’s Booknotes Newsletter -

In this powerful replay from a live event at Upper House, we hear the extraordinary story of Calvin Duncan, a man wrongfully convicted at age 19 and sentenced to life in Louisiana’s Angola Prison. Over 23 years, Calvin became a jailhouse lawyer, fighting for his own freedom and advocating for countless others. Joined by criminal justice reform advocate Sophie Cole, co-founder of the Visiting Room Project, Calvin shares his journey from incarceration to exoneration and ultimately earning a law degree at age 60. Moderated by journalist and ordained minister Phil Haslinger, this conversation explores the brokenness of the justice system, the transformative power of advocacy, and the enduring strength of the human spirit.Guests:Calvin Duncan – Jailhouse lawyer, law school graduate, co-founder of the New Orleans Innocence ProjectSophie Cole – Criminal justice reform advocate, co-founder of the Visiting Room ProjectModerator: Phil Haslinger – Journalist and ordained ministerTopics Covered:Wrongful conviction and the flaws in eyewitness testimonyLife inside Angola Prison and the role of jailhouse lawyersThe fight for access to legal records and justice reformReentry challenges after incarcerationFaith, resilience, and the meaning of advocacyResources & Links:https://slbf.org/eventshttps://slbf.org/studiohttps://www.visitingroomproject.org📙 Book:The Jailhouse Lawyer by Calvin Duncan and Sophie Cull (Penguin Random House, 2025) https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/771367/the-jailhouse-lawyer-by-calvin-duncan-and-sophie-cull/

Historian Tal Howard joins host Dan Hummel to discuss his new book Broken Altars: Secularist Violence in Modern History (Yale University Press). This episode dives deep into the global history of secularism, examining how different forms—passive, combative, and eliminationist—have shaped societies and, in some cases, led to state-sponsored violence against religious communities.📚 Topics include:·     The intellectual history of “religion” and “secularism”·     Case studies from France, Turkey, Mexico, the Soviet Union, and Albania·     The ideological legacy of Marxist-Leninist thought·     How secularist ideologies have impacted religious minorities·     A comparison with Charles Taylor’s A Secular Age🔗 Resources:·     Broken Altars by Tal Howard (Yale University Press) https://yalebooks.yale.edu/book/9780300263619/broken-altars/·     Previous Upwards episode with Tal Howard (2021) https://open.spotify.com/episode/2VKb21hmXYuFhCzB3RodKv?si=-f8_LzsMRnWp3ekfu8x0Hw👍 Like, comment, and subscribe for more conversations at the intersection of faith, academia, and public life.🌐 Learn more at https://slbf.org/studio

In this episode of The UpWords Podcast, host Jean Geran speaks with Nicole Bibbins Sedaca, Kelly and David Pfeil Fellow at the George W. Bush Institute and former Executive VP at Freedom House. As part of our series on Christian citizenship, Nicole shares her insights on how faith intersects with democracy, the importance of religious freedom, and the role Christians can play in promoting justice and compassion both locally and globally.Topics Covered:Why democracy matters for people of faithThe biblical call to seek justice for the vulnerableHow Christians can engage in civic life without placing ultimate hope in politicsThe global struggle for freedom and the role of American ChristiansHigher education’s role in forming democratic citizensGuest Bio:Nicole Bibbins Sedaca is a seasoned advocate for democracy and human rights, with experience at the State Department and Freedom House. She brings a deep understanding of global democratic movements and a strong Christian perspective on civic engagement.Resources & Links:Learn more about the https://slbf.orgConnect with Nicole Bibbins Sedaca via the George W. Bush Institute - https://www.bushcenter.org/Links to previous episodes on Citizenship: Christian Citizenship in a Pluralistic World | Chris SeipleApple Podcasts = https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-upwords-podcast/id1537044590?i=1000720569822 Spotify = https://open.spotify.com/episode/1eXhXf3DdII63mc97NIlaq?si=Tqx8q4vGSgWKI2G7FhEOPgYouTube = https://youtu.be/ndD4NTT8kLQFaith, Citizenship, and Dissent: Lessons from 18th–19th Century Britain | Michael RutzApple Podcasts = https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-upwords-podcast/id1537044590?i=1000722513294Spotify = https://open.spotify.com/episode/2cwJ9pjDQZBp5hxRDVoUMR?si=38433acca24c40b4Christian Citizenship and the Early Church | Gar Anderson Apple Podcasts = https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-upwords-podcast/id1537044590?i=1000726874819Spotify = https://open.spotify.com/episode/088w4Ne0lxQSStKsp9senx?si=87caaabc653943b3YouTube = https://youtu.be/tdE4uw2KokY

In this episode of The UpWords Podcast, host Daniel Johnson welcomes author and leadership coach J.R. Briggs to discuss his new book, The Art of Asking Better Questions: Pursuing Stronger Relationships, Healthier Leadership, and a Deeper Faith (IVP, 2025). Together, they explore how asking thoughtful questions can transform relationships, deepen spiritual formation, and strengthen leadership.J.R. shares personal stories and practical frameworks, including the four levels of good questions—from basic information to transformational depth. He also reflects on how Jesus modeled question-asking, why curiosity is essential for Christian formation, and how leaders can use questions to foster flourishing in their communities.Key Topics:Why questions are essential for spiritual growth and leadershipThe four levels of good questionsHow to ask better questions of God, ourselves, and othersStories of transformation through questions, including the powerful example of Daryl DavisPractical questions for leaders at every levelResources Mentioned:The Art of Asking Better Questions by J.R. Briggs (IVP, 2025) https://www.ivpress.com/the-art-of-asking-better-questionsHearts & Minds Bookstore (Byron Borger)The Six Conversations by Heather HollemanPsalms of lament and the role of questions in ScriptureConnect with J.R. Briggs:https://jrbriggs.com@jr_briggs on social mediaWatch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/vu0qW7mQrWo

In this episode of The UpWords Podcast, host John Terrill sits down with Jason Jensen, Vice President of Spiritual Foundations at InterVarsity Christian Fellowship and author of Formed to Lead: Humility, Character, Integrity, and Discernment. Together, they explore a transformative vision of Christian leadership—one shaped not by power or platform, but by spiritual formation, humility, and the aroma of the gospel.Drawing deeply from Luke chapters 1–4, Jason shares how the life of Jesus offers a radically different leadership model rooted in identity, character, and calling. He discusses the personal disciplines that have shaped his journey, including Ignatian spirituality, Orthodox iconography, therapy, and the daily examen. Jason also reflects on his pilgrimage along the Camino de Santiago and the importance of discerning signposts in leadership vocation.This rich conversation invites listeners to reimagine leadership as participation in God’s story, where we are called to be faithful secondary characters in the divine drama. Whether you're a seasoned leader or just beginning your journey, this episode offers wisdom, hope, and practical guidance for leading with integrity and grace.📘 Form to Lead is available now and includes group discussion guides and spiritual exercises for deeper engagement.https://www.ivpress.com/formed-to-lead

In this episode, Dan Hummel sits down with historian Brandon Bloch to explore his new book, Reinventing Protestant Germany. The conversation traces the complex role of Protestant churches in Germany from the Weimar Republic through the Nazi era and into the post-war reconstruction. Block shares insights into how religious nationalism shaped political ideologies, the nuanced responses of church leaders to Nazism, and how post-war Protestantism positioned itself as a moral compass in rebuilding German democracy. 🧠 Topics Covered Brandon’s academic journey and early experiences in Berlin The religious landscape of Germany in the early 20th century Protestant responses to the Weimar Republic and the rise of Nazism The Confessing Church, Bonhoeffer, and the myth vs. reality of resistance Lay women and local resistance efforts during WWII Post-war Protestantism and its role in moral reconstruction The church’s stance on denazification and human rights Protestant identity, conscience, and democratic values in West Germany Comparative reflections on secularization in Germany vs. the U.S. 📚 Key Takeaways Protestant churches were deeply intertwined with the German state pre-WWI and faced identity crises post-1918. Initial enthusiasm for Nazism among Protestant leaders gave way to internal conflict over racial policies and church autonomy. Resistance efforts were often led by laypeople, especially women, rather than prominent pastors. Post-1945, Protestant churches leveraged their moral authority to influence democratic reconstruction and human rights discourse. The concept of “conscience” became central to Protestant political engagement in West Germany. German secularization differs from the American model, with churches maintaining public roles despite declining private religiosity. 🔗 Resources & Mentions Reinventing Protestant Germany by Brandon Block — Harvard University Press https://www.hup.harvard.edu/books/9780674295438  Peter Kaika’s book Follow Your Conscience Doris Bergen’s work on military chaplains and Nazi crimes Kirchentag (German Protestant lay assembly) Martin Niemöller’s famous quote: “First they came for the communists…” 📍 Where to Listen Find this and over 150 other episodes at slbf.org/studio

In this episode of The UpWords Podcast, host Susan Smetzer-Anderson sits down with J. Richard Middleton, Emeritus Professor of Biblical Worldview and Exegesis at Northeastern Seminary and Roberts Wesleyan University. With decades of scholarship spanning theology, philosophy, and cultural analysis, Middleton offers a compelling exploration of what it truly means to hold a Christian worldview—and how that concept has evolved, been misunderstood, and often distorted over time.Drawing from his seminal work The Transforming Vision (1984) and his forthcoming book Dancing in the Dragon’s Jaws: The Christian Worldview in a Conflicted Age, Middleton challenges listeners to move beyond tribalism, cultural conformity, and rigid doctrinal packages. Instead, he invites us to embrace a biblically rooted, lived orientation toward the world—one that is shaped by grace, community, and spiritual formation.Topics include:The difference between worldview as a lived orientation vs. a set of ideasHow cultural norms have overtaken biblical foundations in many churchesThe role of deconstruction and reconstruction in spiritual growthWhy diversity in Scripture points to a deeper unityPractical questions to help uncover and reshape your worldviewWhether you're a student, pastor, educator, or curious seeker, this episode offers rich insights into how we see the world—and how Scripture invites us to see it differently.📺 Watch this episode on YouTube https://youtu.be/y20HygPRXWE.🔔 Subscribe to The UpWords Podcast to stay updated on future episodes.

In this conversation, host Daniel Johnson welcomes author and leader Peter Greer, who discusses his latest book, How Leaders Lose Their Way: And How to Make Sure It Doesn't Happen to You. Drawing from decades of leadership experience and research, Peter explores the subtle and often invisible forces that cause leaders to drift from their mission, values, and integrity. The episode is a deep dive into the habits, mindsets, and relationships that help leaders finish well.🧭 Key Topics CoveredMission Drift & Leadership DriftBuilding on his earlier book Mission Drift, Peter explains how both organizations and individuals can lose sight of their purpose.Writing Your Eulogy & Resignation LetterPeter shares how these two exercises helped him recalibrate his identity and leadership priorities.Misguided Pursuits: Achievement & PowerThe dangers of idolizing success and influence, especially in mission-driven work.The Role of Speed & Isolation in DriftHow hurry and lack of authentic relationships contribute to leaders losing their way.Whether you're a senior leader or a rising one, this episode offers practical wisdom and soul-searching reflection. Peter’s insights challenge us to slow down, build authentic relationships, and stay rooted in purpose. Leadership isn’t just about achieving—it’s about finishing well.Peter Greer is president and CEO of HOPE International, a global nonprofit working to alleviate physical and spiritual poverty in 29 countries around the world. Peter’s favorite part of his role is spending time with the remarkable entrepreneurs HOPE serves. A graduate of Harvard’s Kennedy School, Peter has co-authored over 15 books, including Lead with Prayer, Mission Drift, Rooting for Rivals, and How Leaders Lose Their Way. While his sports loyalties remain in New England, he lives with his wife, Laurel, and their four children in Lancaster, PA. 📚 About the BookTitle: How Leaders Lose Their WayAuthor: Peter GreerPublisher: InterVarsity PressYear: 2025Website: HowLeadersLoseTheirWay.com🔗 Resources & Links📖 Purchase the book from InterVarsity Press = https://www.ivpress.com/how-leaders-lose-their-way🌍 Hope International = https://www.hopeinternational.org/🏛️ S.L. Brown Foundation = https://slbf.org/📺 Watch this episode on YouTube = link fourth coming

In this thought-provoking episode, host Jean Geran sits down with guest Gar Anderson to explore the concept of Christian citizenship through the lens of the early church. Drawing from Gar’s recent lecture in Oshkosh, the conversation delves into how early Christians—most of whom lacked formal citizenship—navigated life under the Roman Empire. Rather than seeking political power, they transformed society through radical love, community care, and allegiance to Christ.Gar and Jean discuss:The historical context of citizenship in the Roman EmpireThe difference between patriotism and indifference in Christian political engagementJesus’ teaching on rendering to Caesar and GodLessons from Paul’s use of Roman citizenship to expose injusticePractical examples of loving one’s neighbor in everyday life📚 Recommended ResourcesBooks Mentioned:Christians as the Romans Saw Them by Robert Wilken (Oxford University Press, 1984)The Rise of Christianity by Rodney Stark (HarperOne, 1996)Destroyer of the Gods by Larry Hurtado (Baylor University Press, 2016)Strange Religion by Nijay Gupta (Brazos Press, 2023)The Patient Ferment of the Early Church by Alan Kreider (Baker Academic, 2016)Ancient Text Highlighted:Letter to Diognetus (c. 125–150 AD) — A second-century Christian apology describing the distinctiveness of Christian life and allegiance. Link = https://storage2.snappages.site/6X3R8B/assets/files/The-Epistle-to-Diognetus.pdfOther Podcast Episodes Mentioned·     Christian Citizenship in a Pluralistic World | Chris Seiple (August 4, 2025) https://player.captivate.fm/episode/1fedbb2c-6c00-47d3-bc40-a1cc9a367d84/·     Faith, Citizenship, and Dissent: Lessons from 18th–19th Century Britain | Michael Rutz (August 18, 2025) https://player.captivate.fm/episode/8fa1fc18-402f-4271-afc8-9e4bf9a73c13/ 🔗 Watch & Subscribe🎧 Subscribe to The UpWords Podcast on your favorite podcast app to stay updated.

In this rich and inspiring episode, host Daniel Johnson welcomes back guest Byron Borger to discuss transformative books for the fall season. Byron shares a curated list of titles that speak to theology, culture, education, memoir, and spiritual formation—perfect for students, readers, and lifelong learners. The conversation explores how books can shape our faith, deepen our understanding of culture, and equip us for meaningful engagement in the academy and beyond. ➡️ 📚 Featured Book Recommendations🎓 For Students & EducatorsWhy Study History? by John Fea (Baker Academic, 2024)Learning to Love: Christian Higher Education as Pilgrimage by Alex Sosler (Falls City Press, 2023)The Art of Asking Better Questions by J.R. Briggs (IVP, 2025)Everything is Never Enough: Ecclesiastes' Surprising Path to Resilient Happiness by Bobby Jamieson (Penguin Random House, 2025)🌍 On Culture & TheologyThe Way of Christ in Culture: A Vision for All of Life by Benjamin Quinn & Dennis Greeson (B&H Academic, 2024)The Core of the Christian Faith: Living the Gospel for the Sake of the World by Michael Goheen (Brazos Press, 2025)Culture Making by Andy Crouch (IVP, 2008)He Shines in All That’s Fair: Culture and Common Grace by Richard Mouw (Eerdmans, 2002)Creation Regained: Biblical Basics for a Reformational Worldview by Albert Wolters (Eerdmans, 2005)🕊️ Spiritual FormationSlow Theology: Eight Practices for Resilient Faith in a Turbulent World by A.J. Swoboda & Nijay Gupta (Brazos Press, 2025)You Can Trust a God with Scars: Faith (and Doubt) for the Searching Soul by Jared Ayers (NavPress, 2025)👥 Memoirs & Personal NarrativesI'm Still Here: Black Dignity in a World Made for Whiteness by Austin Channing Brown (Convergent Books, 2018)Full of Myself: Black Womanhood and the Journey to Self-Possession by Austin Channing Brown (Convergent Books, 2025)The Exact Place by Margie Haack (Deep River Books, 2012)Surrender: 40 Songs, One Story by Bono (Knopf, 2022) 💬 Key ThemesThe Gospel of the Kingdom and its cultural implicationsChristian higher education as a journey of love and formationAsking better questions as a spiritual and relational practiceEngaging culture thoughtfully and faithfullyThe power of memoirs to cultivate empathy and self-reflectionSlowing down to deepen theological understanding and resilience 🔗 Resources & LinksHearts & Minds Bookstore = https://www.heartsandmindsbooks.comSL Brown Foundation = https://slbf.org

In this episode, host John Terrill welcomes Elaine Howard Ecklund and Denise Daniels to discuss their new book, Working for Better: A New Approach to Faith at Work. Drawing from extensive research, including surveys of over 16,000 people and nearly 300 interviews, Elaine and Denise explore how Christians can live out their faith in the workplace with integrity, courage, and compassion.🧠 Key Topics CoveredThe Double-Edged Nature of Calling: How a sense of calling can both inspire and blind us to workplace injustices.Faith in a Pluralistic Workplace: Navigating religious diversity while remaining true to Christian convictions.Radical Embrace: The central thesis of the book—engaging others with respect and openness, even across belief systems.Five Core Tensions:Secular vs. Sacred WorkProtecting Ourselves vs. Protecting OthersIndividual Ethics vs. Systems ThinkingRestrictive Gender Roles vs. Flourishing TogetherVerbal Proclamation vs. Principled Pluralism(Bonus Tension: Work vs. Rest/Sabbath)The Role of Rest: Why Sabbath matters and how to integrate rhythms of rest into daily life.Empirical Insights: Surprising data on who feels called to their work—and who doesn’t.📊 Research HighlightsOnly 1 in 5 Christians surveyed feel a strong sense of calling in their work.People in service-oriented or nonprofit roles report higher levels of calling than those in finance or knowledge work.Those with more organizational power are more likely to feel called—but higher income does not correlate with calling.📚 About the GuestsElaine Howard Ecklund is the Herbert S. Autrey Chair in Social Sciences, professor of sociology, and director of the Boniuk Institute at Rice University.Denise Daniels is Hudson T. Harrison Professor of Entrepreneurship at Wheaton College.📺 Watch & Subscribe🎧 Subscribe to The UpWords Podcast on your favorite podcast app to stay updated.🌐 Learn MoreVisit https://slbf.org/ for more about the SL Brown Foundation and Upper House.Explore the book: Working for Better: A New Approach to Faith at Work (available now). https://www.ivpress.com/working-for-better

In this episode, host Jean Geran speaks with guest historian Michael Rutz about the historical experience of British Protestant dissenters in the 18th and 19th centuries. Drawing from his book The British Zion: Congregationalism, Politics and Empire, 1790–1850, Dr. Rutz explores how dissenting Christian communities navigated issues of religious liberty, education, social activism, and citizenship under an Anglican state church.🗝️ Key Topics CoveredWho Were the Dissenters?Protestant groups (Congregationalists, Baptists, Quakers, Presbyterians) who refused to conform to the Church of England.Faced legal discrimination and second-class civic status.Education and the Dissenting AcademiesCreation of alternative institutions to educate ministers and laypeople.Emphasis on practical, Enlightenment-influenced curriculum including science, history, and civic engagement.Rational vs. Evangelical DissentersRational dissenters embraced Enlightenment ideals and supported revolutionary causes.Evangelical dissenters focused on personal conversion, biblical authority, and social activism.Religious Liberty and Political ReformCampaigns to repeal discriminatory laws like the Test and Corporation Acts.Advocacy for religious freedom as a core Christian and civic principle.Missions and AbolitionEvangelical dissenters played key roles in foreign missions and anti-slavery movements.Missionary work in places like the Cape Colony led to campaigns for civil equality for indigenous populations.Coalition Building Across Faith LinesGroups like the Clapham Sect united Anglicans and dissenters around shared goals like abolition.Lessons for today: working across theological and political divides for common good.ABOUT OUR GUESTMichael A. Rutz, Ph.D. is a Professor of History at the University of Wisconsin Oshkosh. Since joining UWO’s history faculty in 2002, he has built a distinguished career as a scholar of 19th- and 20th-century Great Britain, the British Empire, religion and politics. Dr. Rutz earned his Ph.D. and M.A. in History from Washington University in St. Louis, and a B.A., with high honors in History, from the University of Michigan. His major publications include The British Zion: Congregationalism, Politics, and Empire (2011) and King Leopold’s Congo and the “Scramble for Africa” (2018); he has also published several articles on the intersection of religion and politics in 19c Britain and the British empire and is a Fellow of the Royal Historical Society. 📚 Recommended ReadingThe British Zion: Congregationalism, Politics and Empire, 1790–1850 by Michael Rutz (Baylor University Press, 2011) https://www.baylorpress.com/9781602582057/the-british-zion/🔗 ResourcesLearn more about the S.L. Brown Foundation and Upper House: https://slbf.org/

In this episode, host Daniel Johnson sits down with Craig Detweiler — author, filmmaker, theologian, and Dean of the College of Arts and Media at Grand Canyon University — to explore the intersection of faith, storytelling, and technology. From his formative experiences with classic cinema to his work in Hollywood and academia, Craig shares how theology and filmmaking can be harmoniously integrated. The conversation dives deep into the evolving media landscape, the impact of AI on creativity, and the enduring power of human imagination.🗣️ Topics CoveredCraig’s journey from seminary to screenwritingThe spiritual and emotional power of film as storytellingThe changing dynamics of the film industry post-COVID and post-strikeThe rise of independent filmmaking and new distribution modelsThe WinRyder program and its impact at Sundance Film FestivalRecommended summer films: Sketch, Superman, Fantastic FourUpcoming fall release: Bruce Springsteen biopic Deliver Me From NowhereNavigating the sacred/secular divide in mediaTechnology’s influence on spirituality and identityAI’s role in the creative process — risks and opportunitiesThe importance of human ingenuity and honest creativity🎬 Film RecommendationsSketch – A heartfelt, imaginative indie film exploring grief and creativitySuperman & Fantastic Four – Fresh takes on superhero narratives with sincerity and optimismSinners – A dark, cautionary tale with unexpected spiritual depthDeliver Me From Nowhere – A soulful Bruce Springsteen biopic coming this fall📚 Craig’s Latest BookHonest Creativity – A reflection on anxiety in the creative class and the role of AI in shaping the future of art and storytelling.🔗 Resources & LinksWatch this episode on YouTubeLearn more about the S.L. Brown Foundation and Upper House: slbf.org🙌 Closing EncouragementCraig reminds us that while tools may change, the human longing for connection through art remains timeless. He encourages creatives to lean into their unique voices and continue expressing joy, pain, and truth through their craft.

In this episode of The UpWords Podcast, host Jean Geran sits down with Dr. Chris Seiple, a renowned global leader in the fields of human rights, diplomacy, and religious freedom. Together, they explore what it means to be a responsible Christian citizen in today’s polarized world.Through the lens of “covenantal pluralism,” Chris shares insights from decades of experience working at the intersection of Christian faith, education, and public life. The conversation covers the threefold nature of Christian citizenship—loyalty to our country, the world, and first and foremost, the Kingdom of God. They discuss the importance of loving our neighbors, engaging respectfully with those we disagree with, and preparing the next generation through higher education to be thoughtful, principled citizens.Chris and Jean also address current challenges, including religious nationalism, polarization, and the contentious debates around diversity and inclusion in academia. They share practical suggestions for building relationships across diverse communities, overcoming fear, and living out faith in tangible ways at both the local and global levels.Whether you’re a student, educator, faith leader, or community member, this episode offers timely wisdom and encouragement for anyone seeking to be a peacemaker and agent of flourishing in a pluralistic society.

In this thought-provoking episode of the Upword Podcast, host Dan Johnson sits down with Mark Matlock to explore the shifting spiritual landscape in America. Drawing from his latest book, Faith for the Curious, and years of research with Barna Group, Mark unpacks the rise of the “spiritually curious” — a growing group of people who are open to spirituality but not necessarily aligned with traditional Christian beliefs.Together, they discuss:The difference between the spiritually curious, curious skeptics, and naturalistsHow Gen Z is both in revival and retreat — and what that means for the ChurchWhy traditional evangelism methods may fall short in today’s cultureThe importance of long-term relationships over quick conversionsHow churches can better engage those deconstructing their faithThe role of curiosity, ambiguity, and meaningful relationships in discipleshipWhether you're a ministry leader, student, or simply curious about faith trends, this episode offers deep insights into how we can better understand and walk alongside those exploring spirituality in a post-Christian world.🔗 Resources & Links:Learn more about Faith for the Curious = https://shop.barna.com/collections/featured-work/products/faith-for-the-curiousExplore Barna’s research on Gen Z and spiritual opennessConnect with Mark Matlock at markmatlock.com

In this episode, host Daniel Johnson sits down with Michael Huerter, author of The Hybrid Congregation: A Practical Theology of Worship for an Online Era. Michael shares insights from his research and ministry experience, exploring how churches can faithfully navigate the evolving landscape of digital and hybrid worship. From theology to technology, embodiment to community, this conversation offers a thoughtful and hopeful vision for the future of worship in a digitally integrated world.🧠 Topics CoveredWhat is a Hybrid Congregation?Michael defines hybrid congregations as communities that blend traditional in-person worship with digital practices, emphasizing that most churches already operate along this spectrum.Theology of Digital EmbodimentDrawing on scholars like Pete Phillips and Teresa Berger, Michael discusses how embodiment persists even in digital spaces and how online worship can still be deeply relational and spiritual.Music in Hybrid WorshipMichael reflects on the evolving role of music in digital settings, balancing participatory and presentational approaches, and shares creative examples from his research.Sacraments in a Digital WorldFrom virtual baptisms to home communion, Michael explores how different traditions are reimagining sacramental practices in hybrid contexts.Community & Spiritual FormationPractical strategies for fostering genuine community and discipleship across physical and digital spaces, including empowering online members to lead and serve.Technology, Discernment & the ChurchA call for churches to resist fear-based or tech-obsessed extremes and instead adopt a people-first, discerning approach to digital ministry.The Future of WorshipMichael shares his vision for a church that resists fragmentation and embraces digital tools to deepen connection, compassion, and Christlikeness.📚 Resources Mentioned📖 The Hybrid Congregation: A Practical Theology of Worship for an Online Era by Michael Huerter (InterVarsity Press)📊 Pew Research on church attendance and online worship trends in 2025🧠 Scholars referenced: Pete Phillips (Spurgeon’s College), Teresa Berger (Yale Divinity School)🎥 Watch this episode on YouTube https://youtu.be/E8tdXaTHPIc 🔗 Connect with Us🌐 Learn more about the S.L. Brown Foundation and Upper House: slbf.org📬 Subscribe to the podcast on your favorite app💬 Share your thoughts and feedback with us!

In this episode, host Susan Smetzer Anderson sits down with acclaimed author Mitali Perkins to explore the intersection of art, justice, vocation, and faith. Drawing from her latest book, Just Making: A Guide for Compassionate Creatives, Mitali shares her journey as a Bengali American writer, her passion for justice, and how creatives can sustain their work in a chaotic world.Together, they reflect on how art can be a vehicle for shalom—a vision of universal flourishing—and how artists can navigate internal doubts, external pressures, and the temptation to turn art into propaganda or kitsch. Mitali also offers practical wisdom on embracing ancient spiritual practices, finding courage to share your work, and building creative community.🔗 Resources & Links📺 Watch this episode on YouTube = https://youtu.be/DehNMpdp0Yo🌐 Learn more about Mitali Perkins and her work: mitaliperkins.com📖 Explore the S.L. Brown Foundation and Upper House: slbf.org