Upside Down People

Why does evangelism feel stuck in today's culture? Cultural thinkers and pastors Glen Scrivener and Rory Shiner reveal how the gospel truly breaks through in a post-Christian world obsessed with progress, identity, and anti-woke backlash!Rory Shiner, pastor of Providence Church, Perth, and Glen Scrivener of Speak Life bring decades of frontline evangelism, cultural apologetics, and gospel proclamation. They unpack how to herald "Jesus is Lord" amid secular assumptions, mental health crises, and shifting political vibes.We explore:◼️ Why "Jesus is Lord" is the bullseye of every gospel conversation (not just a personal lifestyle tip)◼️ The "yes but no but yes" approach to engage both progressive human rights ideals and conservative responsibility calls◼️ How the anti-Hitler moral story quietly replaced the pro-Jesus vision—and what that means now◼️ Why the church itself needs constant evangelising with the rich, compelling reality of union with Christ◼️ The surprising cultural moment where people are drawn back to Christianity's infrastructure—and how to point them to Jesus HimselfChapters:02:29 Understanding the Role of Evangelism05:23 The Importance of the Gospel in the Church08:27 Defining Evangelism in Today's Culture14:17 Cultural Narratives and Their Impact on Evangelism20:39 The Progress Narrative and Its Challenges31:21 Engaging with Cultural Narratives in Evangelism39:39 The Intersection of Masculinity and Faith41:44 Shifting Narratives in University Evangelism43:43 Understanding Misconceptions of Christianity45:18 Public vs. Private: The Western Perspective on Faith49:00 The Role of Secularism in Modern Christianity50:10 Public Displays of Religiosity in Contemporary Culture52:49 Christian Nationalism: A Comparative Analysis56:43 The Evolution of Gospel Presentation59:45 Contextualizing the Gospel for Today's World01:04:04 The Shift in Evangelism: Understanding Modern Faith Conversations01:07:24 Jesus as the Center: The True Meaning of Abundance01:09:27 The Role of Debate in Evangelism: A Double-Edged Sword01:17:46 Navigating Social Media: The Missionary Approach01:28:56 Excitement in Ministry: Future Projects and Personal ReflectionsFind out more about Glen and his work with Speak Life: https://www.youtube.com/@SpeakLifeMediaFind out more about Rory and his work with Providence City Church: https://providencechurch.org.au/city/

Stephen McAlpine, author and cultural commentator, unpacks how the church can navigate a rollercoaster culture of secular anxiety and pagan spirituality with bold faith and gospel truth. Listen in to this moment to discover how to anchor your faith in a chaotic culture.

John Anderson, former Deputy Prime Minister of Australia, renowned social commentator, and host of the Conversations podcast, brings a wealth of priceless insight shaped by his Christian faith and decades of public service.In a world grappling with fractured trust, cultural division, and a loss of shared values, how can a biblical worldview restore hope and purpose? Why are our societies unraveling under the ideologies of individualism and progressivism, and what does Christianity offer as a path to authentic meaning and societal renewal? Join us as we dive deep into these pressing questions with John Anderson and explore how faith, history, and principled leadership can shape a flourishing future.Tune in to discover the critical role of freedom in a just society, the dangers of abandoning historical wisdom, the power of authentic Christian engagement in culture, the call to fearless leadership in turbulent times, and much more...Find out more about John Anderson here:https://johnanderson.net.au/

Dr. Christopher Watkin is a Christian scholar, author, and professor renowned for his works in the intersections of philosophy, theology, and culture. In this episode we dive into the tension between unchecked hedonism and rigid self-control, revealing how both paths ultimately crush the human spirit and lead to despair without a higher integrating force. Drawing from biblical wisdom and critiquing modern thinkers like Jordan Peterson, Chris unpacks why our fragmented selves and polarised societies struggle with sharing a common good, fueling everything from personal meaning crises to cultural wars.

Natalie Runion is a best-selling author, former worship leader, and founder of the Raised to Stay ministry; Amanda Viviers is the creative director for Compassion Australia, has authored 15 books, and hosts the Kin Women podcast.We are wired for community, but building it demands commitment, courage, and vulnerability—especially in the church, where hurt can linger and generational divides widen. We talk about fostering authentic sisterhood, healing from church hurt, and creating intergenerational spaces that thrive!Tune in to learn why community matters and how to create the connections you crave, the role of vulnerability in starting meaningful conversations, practical ways to navigate church hurt and generational tensions, the power of radical hospitality in building relationships, how to cultivate spiritual practices amid doubt and busyness, and much more...* From our recent live podcast event, Diary Of A Creative Christian.Find out more about Natalie Runion - https://natalierunion.com/@raisedtostayFind out more about Amanda Viviers - https://amandaviviers.com/@amandaviviers

Rich Villodas, author and pastor of New Life Fellowship in Queens, New York, shares unpacks the transformative power of the Sermon on the Mount. Tune in to discover how can Jesus’ teachings guide us through the beauty and struggle of discipleship, why the Sermon is a practical blueprint for Christian living, the balance between heart and behaviour, the cost of following Jesus, and how faith transforms struggles into treasures...

Rich Villodas, author and pastor of New Life Fellowship a vibrant, multi-ethnic church in Queens, New York, shares some profound insights on embracing diversity as a fruit of the Gospel. In a world quick to divide, how do we foster unity without losing distinction?Tune in to find why true diversity isn’t a growth strategy but a reflection of God’s new humanity, how to navigate the delicate dance of cultural complexity, the dangers of reactive division, and the power of staying emotionally connected while remaining distinct in Christ.

Zachary Meerkreebs is a pastor, author and speaker, shaped by the Asbury outpouring, joins us to explore the quiet, subversive beauty of humility. In a culture obsessed with self-assertion and striving, we’re wired to chase significance, yet our souls ache for a deeper communion with God. Often, in the mundane or the broken, we sense a longing for divine encounter—one that doesn’t bend to our formulas or performance. So, how does radical humility, rooted in Christ’s own descent, reorient us toward true freedom and spiritual awakening? And how do we posture ourselves for God’s presence when it feels elusive?Expect to uncover why humility is the foundation of spiritual awakening, the freedom lost in comparison and self-reliance, what stirs an authentic outpouring of the Spirit in an age of skepticism, why revival is less about our striving and more about God’s initiative, how brokenness becomes a doorway to meeting Jesus; and how to cultivate communities that shine with vibrant, God-glorifying authenticity, free from the fear of pride or the trap of false humility and much more...To find out more about Zach head over to his website https://www.zachmeerkreebs.com/ or follow him @zachmeerkreebs on instagram

Tenielle Neda and John Van Deusen are acclaimed Christian artists whose music reflects their deep faith and creative journeys.In a world where artists face pressure to conform or chase trends, how can faith shape authentic creativity? Join us for an inspiring conversation from the Origin Collective Gathering, where Tenielle and John share how their relationship with Jesus transforms their art, the struggles of balancing creativity with life’s demands, and the beauty of creating from a place of honesty.Listen in to learn why authenticity matters in art, how faith breaks down the sacred-secular divide, the challenges of navigating social media as Christian artists, the freedom found in embracing creative mistakes, how to create in the midst of life’s limitations, and much more...Find out more about Origin Collective : @_origin.collective_Tenielle Neda: @teniellenedaJohn Van Deusen: @jvdmusic

Makoto Fujimura is a leading contemporary artist and an influential voice in exploring the intersection of creativity, faith, and love.In a world obsessed with justifying work and productivity, why does art matter, and how does it reflect the abundant love of God? Join us as we dive into the profound connection between creativity and divine love, exploring how every act of creation—from painting to plumbing—can be an expression of God’s gift to the world.Expect to learn why art doesn’t need justification, how God’s reckless creativity shapes our understanding of love, the difference between transactional work and acts of love, why even non-Christians create from a place of gift, how Jesus redefines love as sacrificial, and much more...

Dr. Christopher Watkin is a Christian scholar, author, and professor renowned for his works like Biblical Critical Theory and his deep dive into the intersections of philosophy, theology, and culture.In an age marked by a "meaning crisis," where individuals wrestle with identity and purpose, how can a biblical worldview offer a path to true flourishing? Why do we swing between chasing fleeting desires and striving for rigid self-control, and what does the gospel reveal about finding peace in a fragmented world? Join us as we unpack these profound questions with Chris and explore how faith reshapes our understanding of self and society.Tune in to discover why humans crave meaning, the pitfalls of hedonism and stoic self-sacrifice, how the Bible redefines the common good, the transformative power of grace in overcoming fear of failure, the unique integration of truth and goodness in a Christian worldview, and much more...To find out more about Chris: https://christopherwatkin.com/Youtube: www.youtube.com/@christopherwatkin9627Twitter: twitter.com/DrChrisWatkin

Karl Faase is an Australian Christian communicator, cultural commentator, and CEO of Olive Tree Media.In a world where new atheism has faded and spirituality is making a surprising comeback, why are people turning back to faith, and what role does the historical figure of Jesus play in this cultural moment? Join us as we explore the shift in modern belief systems, the hunger for meaning, and how churches can engage with a generation open to spiritual conversations.Tune in to learn why new atheism has declined, how Jesus as a historical figure shapes modern values, the importance of authentic faith discussions, why younger generations are drawn to spirituality, how churches can disciple in a post-seeker-sensitive era, and much more...Find out more about Karl and Olive Tree Media here:https://www.olivetreemedia.com.au/

Luke Cawley is a Christian communicator, author, and Christian innovator based in the UK. In a world searching for meaning, many people sense there’s “something” more out there—neither fully atheist nor religious, but curious. How can we explore this vague sense of “somethingism” and move toward clarity, particularly through the person of Jesus?Tune in to hear why people are increasingly open to spiritual exploration, how to engage in authentic conversations about faith, the difference between evangelism and apologetics, why creating spaces for vulnerability matters, the tension between wanting and resisting God, and much more...Find out more about Luke Cawleyhttps://lukecawley.org/www.entertheinvisiblecastle.com

Noddy Sharma is a thought leader, founder of Able Movement, and passionate advocate for engaging the next generation in faith, community, and purpose. In a world driven by digital connection and individualism, how do we foster authentic relationships and guide young people toward meaningful spiritual formation?Expect to learn why emotional intelligence is critical for building relationships, how to create safe spaces for vulnerability and growth, the impact of social media on Gen Z’s mental health and identity, practical ways to parent with love and boundaries, and the role of community in shaping purpose-driven lives—plus much more!Find out more about Noddy & Abel Movement - https://www.abelmovement.org/

Luke Smith is an entrepreneur, small business owner, podcaster, and friend.Humans face challenges that can shake their sense of purpose, yet some find a way to turn pain into meaning. Luke Smith, host of the Australian Lawn and Garden Podcast, shares his journey of battling a chronic autoimmune condition, navigating family upheaval, and finding purpose through faith and resilience. How can we find meaning in the midst of suffering, and what keeps us grounded when life feels overwhelming?Expect to learn why challenges can fuel personal growth, how faith shapes resilience, the power of forgiveness in relationships, why meaning matters more than physical health, how to stay optimistic in tough seasons, the role of community in overcoming isolation, and much more...

Scott Morrison is a former Australian Prime Minister and author of Plans for Your Good.As a leader navigating faith, politics, and a polarised media landscape, Morrison faced unprecedented challenges like bushfires, COVID-19, and geopolitical tensions. How does personal faith shape leadership in a secular world, and how can one remain authentic amid public scrutiny and cultural shifts?Expect to learn how Morrison’s faith guided his decisions as Australia's 30th Prime Minister, the tension between personal beliefs and public expectations, the impact of media narratives on public perception, why forgiveness is crucial in high-stakes roles, the challenges of leading in a secularizing society, and much more...

Why do you do what you do? Tyler Zach is an Enneagram expert and coach and explores how the Enneagram uncovers the hidden motivations behind our actions. As a former pastor and host of the Ennea Summit, Tyler shares how this powerful tool can be used to transform your life, career, relationships and faith, and approach to life’s challenges, from infertility to redefining success. We cover:-How the Enneagram reveals the why behind your behaviors.-Why shedding your “mask” leads to authentic connections.-The surprising way your personality shapes your faith journey.-How to empathise with others by seeing through their lens.-The key to turning failures into spiritual growth.And so much more!KEY CHAPTERS:03:52 Understanding the Enneagram06:42 The Enneagram as a Tool for Self-Discovery09:48 Personal Experiences with the Enneagram12:46 The Enneagram and Relationships15:56 The History and Origins of the Enneagram18:47 The Enneagram in a Christian Context21:53 Healthy vs. Unhealthy States in the Enneagram25:00 The Enneagram's Practical Applications28:01 Navigating Misconceptions about the Enneagram30:40 Conclusion and Final Thoughts39:54 Future Orientation and the Enneagram43:19 The Role of Different Enneagram Types47:33 Navigating Identity and Enneagram Insights50:41 The Sensitivity of Type Fours53:40 Empathy and Understanding in Relationships01:01:52 Finding Meaning in Life01:07:47 The Importance of Acknowledging MistakesFind out more about Tyler:Instagram: @gospelforenneagramPodcast: @enneasummitWebsite: https://www.tylerzach.com/

In this episode, Caleb Gray is joined by Professor John Swinton, Scottish theologian and disability theology pioneer, to explore how lament, mental health, and disability can reshape our faith.John shares profound insights on embracing the Psalms’ raw honesty, redefining discipleship for all, and building inclusive Christian communities that reflect Jesus’ upside-down love.KEY CHAPTERS:00:00 Introduction to Professor John Swinton04:44 The Role of a Chaplain to the Royal Family06:33 Exploring Mental Health and Disability in Theology10:27 Assumptions and Misunderstandings in Mental Health14:47 Engaging with People Facing Mental Health Challenges18:47 Lamenting in the Context of Mental Health26:19 Practicing Lament in Spiritual Formation29:57 Engaging with Personal Identity and Mental Health34:53 The Body of Christ: Embracing Diversity39:58 The Challenge of Belonging in a Digital Age45:10 Staying True to Jesus in the Workplace52:44 Meaning and Purpose in LifeTo find out more about Prof John:Instagram: @revprof57University of Aberdeen:https://www.abdn.ac.uk/people/j.swintonFollow us:Instagram: @upsidedownpeoplepodYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@upsidedownpeople

How does a creative spark transform faith and build thriving communities?Shannon Hinkle is a visionary artist, faith leader, and the driving force behind The Origin Collective, fostering spaces where creatives and believers thrive.Shannon joins Caleb Gray on The Upside Down People Podcast to share her passion, journey, and the transformative power of art in faith.From Fremantle, Australia, she’s building intentional communities through art installations, music, and the upcoming Origin Collective Gathering. With a heart for Jesus and a 30-year ministry alongside her husband, she’s inspiring artists to embrace their divine creative calling.GET TICKETS TO THE ORGIN COLLECTIVE GATHERING: https://events.humanitix.com/origin-collective-gatheringTo find out more about the Origin Collective:Instagram: @_origin.collective_Follow us:Instagram: @theupsidedownpeoplepodYouTube: KEY CHAPTERS00:00 Creating Community Through Art02:13 The Role of Art in Faith07:27 Navigating Scarcity and Abundance12:10 Supporting Local Artists17:08 Upcoming Gatherings and Community Engagement22:39 The Value of Community and Connection27:36 Creating Lasting Community Through Feasting31:44 Challenges for Creatives in Faith Spaces41:37 Art as a Medium for Community Lament and Healing47:44 Celebrating Creativity in All Walks of Life

In this episode, Caleb Gray is joined with Ainsley Freeman, author of Impress, speaker and children's ministry pastor, to explore how we can pass on faith to our kids with intention. Ainsley shares practical wisdom on resisting the urge to be “impressive” and instead embracing storytelling, spiritual rhythms, and a countercultural approach to parenting.KEY CHAPTERS:00:00 Introduction to Ainsley Freeman and Her Work12:33 Understanding 'Impress' and Its Significance24:21 The Role of Parents in Passing on Faith36:28 Cultural Challenges in Parenting Today39:51 The Importance of Spiritual Practices for Families46:43 Navigating Church with Young Children48:29 The Trellis Concept: Structuring Family Faith56:55 Rites of Passage: Marking Life's Transitions01:00:23 Balancing Parenting and Faith in a Modern WorldTo find out more about Ainsley:Instagram: @impress.dailyWebsite: https://www.olivetreemedia.com.au/impress/Follow us: Instagram: @theupsidedownpeoplepodYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@upsidedownpeople