Confessions Of A Crappy Christian Podcast

Former NFL linebacker, three-time All-American, and College Football Hall of Famer David Pollack joins Blake to share his inspiring journey of perseverance and faith. After a career-ending neck injury and later being let go from ESPN, Pollack reflects on how these setbacks allowed him to pivot toward impactful new roles, such as coaching youth sports and writing his new book, The Won’t Quit Kid. He emphasizes the importance of valuing relationships, particularly in marriage, sharing heartfelt lessons about putting one's spouse first and maintaining a united front. Pollack discusses his reliance on faith through life’s challenges and how embracing hard moments strengthened his character and purpose. He also speaks candidly about his commitment to intentional communication and support within his family, demonstrating the power of love and teamwork in navigating life’s trials. In this episode, you’ll be able to… Discover strategies for fostering intentional communication in marriage, including expressing gratitude for everyday actions. Gain insights on balancing ambition and faith by aligning your career choices with your family's well-being and God's guidance. Understand the importance of setting boundaries between work, technology, and family life to maintain meaningful relationships. David is the author of The Won’t Quit Kid — available everywhere on November 21! To connect with David… Website: davidpollack.com Instagram: @davidpollack47 X: @davidpollack47 Thanks to our Sponsors: Nutrafol - Get $10 off your firth month's subscription and free shipping by going to Nutrafol.com and using the promo code BLAKE. Hiya Health - Get 50% off your first order by going to HiyaHealth.com/BLAKE If you’d like to partner with Blake as a sponsor of the Confessions of a Crappy Christian podcast, fill out our Advertise With Us form! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Pastor, author and speaker Mark Batterson joins Blake to discuss his new book, A Million Little Miracles. Building on themes from his earlier work, Mark dives into the idea of everyday miracles, exploring how small moments of beauty and gratitude can transform our lives. The conversation highlights how acknowledging these smaller blessings—like breathing or witnessing the changing colors of leaves—can help us see the world through a lens of wonder and gratitude. Mark encourages listeners to cultivate a “holy curiosity,” a perspective that appreciates the complexities of creation and sees every day as filled with divine purpose. The episode ultimately invites listeners to redefine miracles, seeing them in both the big, life-altering events and the quiet, daily gifts that often go unnoticed. In this episode, you’ll be able to… Discover how to recognize and appreciate everyday miracles in your life, from small moments to major blessings. Learn about the transformative power of gratitude and how it can shift your perspective. Explore the idea of seeing yourself and others as "walking, talking miracles," fostering deeper compassion and connection. Mark is the author of A Million Little Miracles — available everywhere on November 19! To connect with Mark… Website: markbatterson.com Instagram: @markbatterson Facebook: @markbatterson Thanks to our Sponsors: Fatty15 - Start replenishing your C15 levels and restore your long-term health. Get an additional 15% off their 90-day subscription Starter Kit by going to Fatty15.com/BLAKE and using the promo code BLAKE. Lumen - Gift you or someone else the gift of health.Get 15% off your purchase when you visit lumen.me/BLAKE. If you’d like to partner with Blake as a sponsor of the Confessions of a Crappy Christian podcast, fill out our Advertise With Us form! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Listen in to this special post-election episode where Blake provides an in-depth reflection on the recent election results. Join her to discuss initial expectations and preparations, the surprising outcome, and the ensuing public and personal reactions. The episode highlights the polarized nature of public discourse, the challenges of maintaining personal relationships amidst political divides, and the critical role of faith in navigating these challenging times. Thankfully Blake has walked through this before and is able to offer advice on how to respond to hostile interactions, the importance of prayer, and finding hope and community in uncertain times. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this special pre-election edition of Confessions of a Crappy Christian, Blake reflects on the anticipation and uncertainty surrounding the upcoming election, emphasizing the importance of being spiritually prepared for any outcome. While addressing concerns about potential policy impacts and media influence, Blake underscores that true strength and hope are rooted not in politics but in faith. Citing Philippians 4:12-13 and Isaiah 40:31, Blake shares that waiting on the Lord—through seeking, trusting, and praying—renews our strength and helps us face challenges with assurance. No matter the result, listeners are reminded that God remains in control, providing hope that never disappoints, as affirmed in Romans 5:1-5. Blake encourages everyone to stay anchored in faith, resilient, and prayerful, trusting in the steadfast nature of God to navigate whatever comes next. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mother-daughter duo Clarissa and Fiona Moll join Blake to discuss their journey of grief after losing Rob, Clarissa's husband and Fiona's father, in a tragic hiking accident. They talk about how their experience led them to write the book Hurt Help Hope, which serves as both a guide and a resource for others walking through grief. Clarissa reflects on the importance of having conversations about death, even before tragedy strikes, and how those discussions provided a sense of direction amidst loss. Fiona opens up about balancing societal pressures with grief as a young teen and how leaning into vulnerability, rather than strength alone, became essential. Together, they emphasize the value of embracing faith during sorrow, recognizing Jesus as a comforting presence in both the darkness of grief and moments of hope. The conversation offers insights into navigating grief non-linearly, encouraging listeners to find comfort and community in their journeys. In this episode, you’ll be able to… Gain insights into navigating grief as a family and fostering deeper connections through shared vulnerability. Learn how to balance personal healing with supporting others during difficult times. Explore the challenges of grieving at different life stages, especially as a parent and teenager. Clarissa and Fiona are the authors of Hurt Help Hope – available everywhere now! To connect with Clarissa and Fiona… Website: clarissamoll.com Instagram: @mollclarissa Thanks to our Sponsor: Nutrafol - Get $10 off your first month's subscription and FREE shipping by using the code BLAKE at Nutrafol.com. If you’d like to partner with Blake as a sponsor of the Confessions of a Crappy Christian podcast, fill out our Advertise With Us form! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Writers Meseidy Rivera and Rachel Reeves (from Here Are the Headlines) join Blake to discuss the importance of voting, particularly for Christians, and criticize those abstaining from elections due to dissatisfaction with candidates. They highlight concerns about religious freedom, free speech, and media censorship, emphasizing that Trump, despite his flaws, is more likely to protect these rights than Harris. Throughout, the hosts stress the importance of civic responsibility and choosing hope amid uncertainty, wrapping up with humor about bracing for election night chaos and staying connected in the weeks to come. In this episode, you’ll be able to… Understand the importance of voting, particularly for Christians, and their concerns about abstention. Explore the potential impact of the 2024 election on religious freedom, free speech, and media censorship. Gain insight into how the hosts compare Trump and Harris, focusing on which candidate they believe will better uphold religious and constitutional values. To connect with Rachel and Meseidy… Rachel: @herearetheheadlines Rachel’s Website: herearetheheadlines.com Meseidy: @itsmeseidy Meseidy’s Substack: It’s Meseidy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Writer, author, and creator of Scribble Devos Whitney Lowe joins Blake to discuss her new devotional, Set Your Eyes Higher, which focuses on four key themes: identity and insecurity, wisdom and humility, capacity and burnout, and scarcity and abundance. Whitney explains that the devotional aims to move beyond surface-level Christianity by addressing real-life struggles through a lens of scripture. They emphasize the value of devotionals as accessible "on-ramps" to deeper scripture engagement, especially for people overwhelmed by life or new to faith. The conversation also critiques the prideful tendency to dismiss devotionals, suggesting that even brief moments with God can yield profound spiritual growth. Ultimately, the episode highlights the importance of anchoring one's identity and pursuits in God's abundance rather than cultural expectations or personal performance. In this episode, you’ll be able to… Reflect on how pride, insecurity, and identity influence your relationship with God and others. Learn how to apply spiritual wisdom and build resilience by trusting in God's guidance, even in overwhelming circumstances. Discover practical ways to stay rooted in your calling without succumbing to burnout, fear, or societal pressures. Whitney Lowe is the author of Set Your Eyes Higher - available everywhere now! To connect with Whitney… Website: scribbledevos.com Instagram: @whitneypiersonlowe Facebook: @scribbledevos Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Psychologist, author, and speaker Dr. Camden Morgante joins Blake to discuss the effects of purity culture, particularly on women, and the misconceptions and shame that many have struggled with because of it. Dr. Camden defines purity culture as a movement, especially prominent in the 1990s and 2000s, that promoted abstinence before marriage using fear and shame. They discuss how the movement's rigid rules led to shame, especially when individuals didn’t follow them, and the lasting emotional damage for many, even into marriage. Camden highlights how people were left with false promises, like the idea of a “fairy tale marriage” for those who stayed pure, and the painful process of disentangling from those beliefs. The episode offers a compassionate look at healing from these deeply ingrained teachings. In this episode, you’ll be able to… Understand the definition and impact of purity culture, especially its effects on women. Explore how purity culture used fear and shame to promote abstinence and its lasting emotional and relational consequences. Gain insight into how to approach sexuality with grace and compassion, without the burden of shame. Dr. Camden is the author of Recovering from Purity Culture - available everywhere on October 15, 2024! To connect with Dr. Camden… Website: drcamden.com Instagram: @drcamden Facebook: @drcamden Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Author, speaker, and podcaster Jordan Raynor joins Blake to discuss his children's picture book, The Royal in You. The conversation begins with an exploration of Raynor’s personal journey and misconceptions about heaven, which led him to write this book. He explains that many Christians dread eternity due to false teachings about heaven being a place of endless worship without purpose. Jordan emphasizes the biblical vision of heaven as a renewed earth, where we will work, create, and reign alongside Jesus. The conversation dives into how understanding this changes our present lives, giving greater purpose to daily tasks and helping us experience glimpses of heaven here on earth. In this episode, you’ll be able to… Understand the biblical perspective of heaven and the new earth based on scripture. Explore how our view of eternity shapes how we engage with culture and the world today. Gain insights on how to live with an eternal perspective that influences your daily life and decisions. Jordan is the author of The Royal in You - available everywhere on October 22, 2024! To connect with Jordan… Website: jordanraynor.com Instagram: @jordanraynor Podcast: Mere Christians Podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this solo episode, Blake discusses the history of the CIA's controversial MK Ultra program, which explored mind control and behavior modification through drugs, hypnosis, and psychological manipulation. The episode begins by referencing recent events that reignited the discussion around government secrecy and censorship. She emphasizes the long-term effects on unsuspecting U.S. citizens, who were subjected to non-consensual experiments with devastating consequences. The episode ultimately questions the government's trustworthiness and stresses that faith in Christ is the only source of true security. In this episode, you’ll be able to… Uncover the dark history of MK Ultra, the CIA’s mind control program, and its unethical experiments on unwitting individuals. Consider the lasting effects of MK Ultra’s legacy and ongoing concerns about government overreach and secrecy. Learn about Dr. Sidney Gottlieb’s role in developing chemical weapons and assassination tools, earning him the title "Poisoner in Chief." To connect with Blake… Instagram: @thegirlnamedblake Website: thegirlnamedblake.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Wife and mom, Brittany Poppe joins Blake to share her deeply personal story of healing and transformation after experiencing an abortion in her youth and the emotional, spiritual, and psychological aftermath she experienced. She describes how her faith journey was not linear and how each time she shares her story, it brings her closer to healing. The conversation highlights the often overlooked emotional and mental health effects of abortion on women and the importance of redemption and recovery through faith. Today, she helps other women who have gone through similar experiences through her podcast ministry, focusing on post-abortion healing and support. In this episode, you’ll be able to… Explore the importance of addressing abortion in the church with both truth and grace. Discover how to find forgiveness and freedom from shame through Christ. Gain insights into resources available for post-abortion healing, including counseling and support networks. To connect with Brittany… Instagram: @brittanypoppe Podcast: Does God Forgive Abortion? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this special episode of Confessions of a Crappy Christian, we delve into the complex conversation surrounding gun reform following recent tragic events. Addressing both sides of the debate, I share my perspective on the nuances of proposed legislation, including red flag laws, universal background checks, safe storage requirements, and restrictions on high-capacity magazines and assault weapons. As a Christian and a constitutionalist, I express my concerns about the potential infringements on individual rights and the effectiveness of these reforms. It's vital to explore not just the laws but the underlying issues of mental health and cultural factors contributing to gun violence. Join me for a thoughtful discussion that aims to foster understanding and dialogue. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The host of the Blurry Creatures podcast, Nate Henry and Luke Rodgers return to the podcast to discuss their commentary on the Book of Enoch, discussing its significance and its alignment with biblical texts. They highlight the importance of the book’s content, its translations, and the inclusion of prophecies that foreshadow the coming of Christ. The conversation also touches on why the Book of Enoch, despite its influence on early Jewish and Christian thought, was not included in the biblical canon. The hosts encourage listeners to embrace historical context as a tool to enrich their faith, noting that it never diminishes the gospel’s truth. In this episode, you’ll be able to… Explore the historical context behind biblical concepts like demons and divine intervention. Understand the role of oral traditions and lesser-known texts in shaping the biblical narrative. Reflect on how ancient truths can be applied to modern-day life and spiritual growth. Nate and Luke are the authors of The Book of Enoch – available everywhere now! To connect with Nate and Luke… Website: blurrycreatures.com Instagram: @blurrycreatures Facebook: @blurrycreatures Podcast: Blurry Creatures Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Founder of Talitha Coffee, Jenny Barber joins Blake to share her journey of combining a passion for coffee with a mission to combat human trafficking. Jenny and her husband have been involved in anti-trafficking efforts for over 15 years, spurred by personal experiences and a desire to help others break free from exploitation. They realized that many survivors struggled to reintegrate into society due to a lack of education and employment opportunities. In response, they created Talitha Coffee, a business that provides training and jobs for trafficking survivors, alongside a network of holistic care to support their recovery. Jenny emphasizes the importance of awareness and understanding the signs of trafficking, challenging listeners to recognize the issue in their communities. In this episode, you’ll be able to… Understand the deep impact of childhood trauma and exploitation on a survivor's identity and neurological development. Discover how ethical consumer choices, like buying coffee or jewelry from survivor-supporting organizations, can make a real difference in combating human trafficking. Find inspiration in stories of resilience and recovery, and learn how you can support or get involved with organizations making an impact in this area. To connect with Jenny & Talitha Coffee… Website: talitha.com/crappy (Use code CRAPPY for 10% off!) Instagram: @talithacoffeeroasters Facebook: @talithacoffeeroasters Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Author and speaker Dawn Spicer joins Blake to discuss a heavy and often overlooked topic within the church: infidelity. She shares her personal journey of having an affair, the subsequent unraveling of her life, and the long path of restoration that followed. They discuss the void that led Dawn to seek fulfillment outside her marriage and the importance of recognizing and addressing those feelings before they lead to destructive decisions. Through her story, they highlight the significance of authenticity, accountability, and the power of grace and redemption in the Christian life. This conversation offers a raw and honest look at the challenges many face and the hope that can be found in Christ, even after the deepest of failures. In this episode, you’ll be able to… Explore the impact of societal pressures and personal expectations on marital satisfaction. Learn about the importance of authentic community and accountability in preventing and healing from sin. Gain insights into the balance between happiness and holiness in the Christian walk. Dawn is the author of Even Still – available everywhere Fall 2024! To connect with Even Still… Website: dawnspicer.me Instagram: @dawnspicer_ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Writer, author, and online educator Hannah Brencher joins Blake to discuss her journey with unplugging from technology and the importance of finding a balance between being present online and in real life. She shares how burnout, particularly as a new mom during the pandemic, led her to embrace a lifestyle of unplugging, which she initially resisted but ultimately found necessary for her mental health. Hannah explains how her journey inspired her to start the "Thousand Hours Plugged" challenge and write a book on the subject. The conversation touches on the nuanced approach to technology use, the dangers of overconsumption, and the importance of setting boundaries to maintain mental and emotional well-being. In this episode, you’ll be able to… Understand the impact of overconsumption of digital content on mental health and well-being. Explore practical tips for setting boundaries with technology to foster a healthier, more intentional lifestyle. Discover the personal challenges and benefits experienced from unplugging from technology. Hannah is the author of The Unplugged Hours – available everywhere September 17! To connect with Hannah… Website: hannahbrenchercreative.com Instagram: @hannahbrencher Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Therapist and writer, Sam Jolman joins Blake to discuss the harmful effects of purity culture on both men and women, especially those raised in the church. Sam shares his personal journey of grappling with his own sexuality and the challenges within his marriage. They explore how men, often left without proper guidance on sexuality, struggle to integrate their sexual desires in healthy ways. The conversation explored how shame can distort our understanding of our bodies and sexuality, and highlighted the importance of bringing these struggles into the light, where healing and redemption can take place. In this episode, you’ll be able to… Understand the importance of embracing and honoring the body as created in God's image. Discover how Jesus' compassion offers freedom and redemption in struggles with body image and sexual shame. Reflect on the theological understanding of desire and pleasure as gifts from God. Sam is the author of The Sex Talk You Never Got  – available everywhere now! To connect with Sam… Website: samjolman.com Instagram: @samjolman Facebook: @samjolman Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

TV host, author, and producer Cynthia Garrett joins Blake to discuss the lies women are told regarding their bodies, sexuality, and empowerment. She shares her journey from making common dating mistakes and ignoring biblical teachings on sex to embracing God's design for sexuality. She emphasizes how media, particularly shows like Sex and the City, have distorted societal views on relationships, leading many to adopt unhealthy behaviors. The conversation critiques the feminist and sexual revolution's impact on culture, highlighting how these movements have led to a degradation of true freedom and fulfillment. The discussion also touches on the alarming trends of normalizing pedophilia and the influence of media on youth, advocating for a return to biblical principles and responsible parenting. In this episode, you’ll be able to… Gain insights into the impact of the sexual revolution and feminist movement on modern beliefs about sexuality and gender. Understand the influence of the media on shaping societal norms and expectations. Explore the ongoing cultural battles over sexual ethics and how to navigate them with a faith-based perspective. Cynthia is the author of The Naked Truth – available everywhere now! To connect with Cynthia… Website: cynthiagarrett.org Instagram: @cynthiagarrett Facebook: @cynthiagarrettministries Sponsors: Nutrafol.com Promo Code "Blake" Soul Wellness - Promo Code "Blake" - 30% off! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Author and speaker Christy Boulware joins Blake to discuss teenage anxiety and mental health. The conversation centers on how anxiety manifests differently in teenagers compared to adults, highlighting symptoms such as insomnia, headaches, stomachaches, and a tendency to isolate. Both Blake and Christy share their personal experiences with anxiety from childhood through adulthood, emphasizing the importance of recognizing and addressing anxiety in teenagers. They also stress the critical role parents play in having open and honest conversations with their children about mental health, aiming to equip both parents and teens with tools to navigate anxiety effectively. In this episode, you’ll be able to… Gain insights into how anxiety manifests differently in teens compared to adults, including common symptoms and behaviors to look out for. Learn about specific physical and emotional indicators, such as insomnia, headaches, stomach aches, isolation, and increased comparison behaviors. Discover practical techniques for helping your child manage anxiety, including the importance of having open conversations and providing a balance of space and support. Christy is the author of Nervous Breakthrough – available everywhere now! To connect with Christy… Website: christyboulware.com Instagram: @christymboulware Facebook: @christy.boulware Podcast: Fearless Tips & Talks Sponsors Link: Our Place - Promo Code "BLAKE" Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Pro-life activist, speaker, and podcaster Seth Gruber joins Blake to discuss the current cultural and political climate, criticizing the church's passive approach to issues like abortion and gender ideology. Seth argues that the church has allowed itself to be sidelined, contributing to the rise of secularism and the moral decay in America. They emphasize the need for Christians to be bold and uncompromising in their beliefs, matching the zeal of those pushing progressive agendas. Seth also introduces his upcoming book and film, the 1916 Project, which aims to uncover the historical roots of today's societal issues, particularly the influence of Margaret Sanger and Planned Parenthood. In this episode, you’ll be able to… Gain insights into the role of the church in shaping societal values and resisting cultural shifts. Explore the impact of disengagement and apathy within the church on contemporary issues. Discover the intersections of faith, politics, and activism in addressing pressing moral and ethical challenges. Check out Seth’s new documentary, The 1916 Project, releasing in Fall 2024 Pre-order Seth’s new book, The 1916 Project, releasing in Fall 2024 To connect with Seth… Website: sethgruber.com Instagram: @sethgruberofficial YouTube: @sethgrubershow Podcast: The Seth Gruber Show Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices