PostEverything

Identity Politics, Polarization & Moral Persuasion — with Dr. George Yancey Why does every political controversy feel like a Rorschach test? In this episode of Posteverything, sociologist Dr. George Yancey joins us to explore identity politics, polarization, and whether moral persuasion still works in a culture that rewards outrage over understanding. We discuss how framing everything through power and oppression reshapes public discourse, why polarization may be a crisis of moral formation rather than ideology, and what happens when shared moral language erodes. We also examine Tim Keller’s “Third Way,” the limits of political power, and the church’s role in forming people who can engage culture without being consumed by it. This is a conversation about truth, trust, leadership—and what kind of people we need to become in a liminal age. 🔍 Big Questions We Explore Is identity politics a strategy—or a substitute religion? When does moral persuasion break down? What happens when we lose shared moral language? What kind of people do we need to become in a liminal age? CHAPTERS 00:00 Intro 02:15 The Cost of Identity Politics 06:59 Polarization and Its Consequences 13:38 The Evolution of Racial Dynamics 20:29 Understanding Identity Politics 28:19 Tim Keller's Third Way 34:34 Moral Persuasion and Its Challenges 40:20 The Role of the Church in Society 49:18 Navigating a Post-Secular World

John and Brad welcome back renowned political scientist, ethicist and specialist on 21st century warfare, Peter Warren Singer. They discuss advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) and its implications for society. Singer reflects on the evolution of AI over the past two and a half years, highlighting both the positive and negative impacts it has had on various sectors, including politics and the economy. He emphasizes the dual nature of AI's influence, where it can drive economic growth while simultaneously raising concerns about job displacement and societal disruption. The conversation also touches on the military applications of AI, particularly in the context of the ongoing Ukraine conflict, where innovative uses of drones have transformed warfare dynamics. As the discussion progresses, Singer delves into the broader cultural and social ramifications of AI, noting how it affects personal identity and community roles. He shares insights from a survey of experts regarding the anticipated effects of AI on different aspects of life, including healthcare and social interactions. The episode concludes with a personal story from Singer about his son's charitable initiative, Cancer Kicks, which aims to support cancer patients while funding research, showcasing a positive response to adversity in the face of technological change. #warfare #artificialintelligence #cancer #dronewarfare #tech Chapters: 00:00-02:00 Intro 02:01-10:18 What's changed in two and a half years in AI? 10:18-20:29 Ukraine/Russia drone warfare and tech advances 20:30-35:00 U.S. Rivalry w/ China...and Taiwan 35:00-47:59 Military Advancements and Societal Impacts 48:00-54:05 Cancer Kicks (Peter's Son's Non-Profit) 54:06-1:07:33 John and Brad's Take-Aways Listen on: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2IduWunxhhDfZd8vYOGNab?si=a9c8901c0b5b43dc Apple Podast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/posteverything/id1676174977 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_posteverything Resources: Peter Singer books: https://pwsinger.com/books Cancerkicks: https://www.cancerkicks.org/ Cancerkicks store: https://store.cancerkicks.org/ Corporate Catalog (for groups buying with their own logo on the items): https://www.cancerkicks.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/CorporateCatalog.pdf

S2E2 (#69) In this conversation, Mike Graham discusses the implications of artificial intelligence on cultural apologetics, focusing on the AI Christian Benchmark report. He explores the methodology behind the report, the theological reliability of AI outputs, and the challenges and opportunities presented by AI technology. The discussion also delves into the role of institutions, the church's response to technology, and the importance of navigating the complexities of AI in a redemptive manner.    CHAPTERS 00:00 Intro 02:00 Why Study AI? 05:30 Cultural Complexity and the Church 08:20 Is AI Just a Smarter Google? 10:15 Spiritual Questions People Ask AI 12:25 Differing Outputs from Different LLMs 17:50 Why Are the Models So Different? 23:00 Epistemological Scrambling and the Future 25:00 More on Using AI vs Googling 30:57 Gemini’s Response to the TGC Report 34:25 Will AI Disrupt Society Like Social Media Has? 41:50 TGC’s Plan for Discipleship Tools Around AI 43:10 Digital Divination 46:45 More on AI and Social Media 53:35 The Future of the Church 01:01:30 Triperspectivalism 01:02:39 The Complexity of the Future 01:08:21 Brad and John’s Take-Aways   Follow Us Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/_posteverything Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@PostEverythingPod

S2E1 (#68) Alan Noble discusses the current state of higher education, the implications of AI, and the importance of holistic formation and mentorship. He emphasizes the need for community in education and the ethical considerations surrounding AI's role in learning. Noble advocates for a return to virtue and moral excellence in education, arguing that these elements are essential for preparing students to navigate a chaotic world. He also addresses the challenges posed by AI in academia and the necessity of embodying education in a community setting. #artificialintelligence #higherlearning #highereducation #virtue CHAPTERS 00:00 Intro 02:06 The State of the Union of Higher Ed 08:46 What Should Higher Ed Be About? 13:25 Economics and Ideology and Education 14:54 Virtue, AI and Formation 29:59 Embodied Education and Life 37:35 Alan’s New Book: To Live Well 41:47 Are Virtues Anti-Holy Spirit? 49:48 Brad and John’s Take-Aways Follow Us Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/_posteverything Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@PostEverythingPod

Brad and John return to discuss all things liminal, reflecting on their journey since the last season, and pondering the ongoing cultural changes that define our current liminal age. They explore the complexities of navigating change, the impact of social media algorithms on perception, and the importance of context in understanding reality. The conversation delves into the anxiety surrounding certainty in a rapidly changing world, the role of storytelling in shaping truth, and the church's responsibility to steward truth amidst these challenges. They also discuss the implications of artificial intelligence on culture and the church's vital role in providing community and meaning in uncertain times, concluding with a preview of the upcoming season. Resources Mentioned: The Reason for Church, by Brad Edwards: Book of the Year Rooted by the River: Youtube Audio The Last Invention: Follow Us Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PostEverythingPodcast Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/_posteverything X: https://twitter.com/_PostEverything Youtube: https://youtube.com/@posteverythingpod?si=jsnLg96Uqky0936X

In our Season 5 wrap-up, Brad and John unpack how the recent vibe shift is reshaping cultural narratives—and what it means for Christians today. Key Points: What is a vibe shift? Should digitalization affect how the Church does cultural apologetics? How has social media affected our individual and cultural narratives? What happens when the vibe shift goes to D.C.? The Church is still God's Plan A. Was this episode helpful or encouraging in some way? Great! Then you won't want to miss what's next so SUBSCRIBE now and send this episode to a friend! We appreciate it! 🙏 You can also leave a review (it really helps) Follow Us Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PostEverythingPodcast Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/_posteverything X: https://twitter.com/_PostEverything

Today, Brad joins the Truth Over Tribe podcast to discuss his recent book, "The Reason For Church." He and Patrick Miller discuss why Christian culture has been stuck in an anti-vision mindset and why a negative perception around institutions as a whole is partly to blame. Brad details why the Church is so necessary and explains how many Christians have forgotten the Church’s role as a source of healing and community. But what about people who have experienced spiritual abuse at the hands of the Church? We hope this episode offers an honest-yet-hopeful vision for church as a necessary institution. Was this episode helpful or encouraging in some way? Great! Then you won't want to miss what's next so SUBSCRIBE now and send this episode to a friend! We appreciate it! 🙏 You can also leave a review (it really helps) Follow Us Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PostEverythingPodcast Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/_posteverything X: https://twitter.com/_PostEverything

Brad's new book, The Reason for Church: Why the Body of Christ Still Matters in an Age of Anxiety, Division, and Radical Individualism, is officially out. Get your copy here. Was this episode helpful or encouraging in some way? Great! Then you won't want to miss what's next so SUBSCRIBE now and send this episode to a friend! We appreciate it! 🙏 You can also leave a review (it really helps) Follow Us Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PostEverythingPodcast Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/_posteverything X: https://twitter.com/_PostEverything

Michael Keller dissects our current cultural narratives, showing how they have subtly shaped our hearts, minds, and habits. Key points: John, Brad, and Michael define a cultural narrative. Freedom and individualism as a cultural narrative. Why secularism is leading people back to Christianity. Provoking imagination is a great way to confront cultural narratives and give people a better story. The algorithm is reinforcing our beliefs and affections. Why believers can have a confident trust in the Christian story. Was this episode helpful or encouraging in some way? Great! Then you won't want to miss what's next so SUBSCRIBE now and send this episode to a friend! We appreciate it! 🙏 You can also leave a review (it really helps) Follow Us Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PostEverythingPodcast Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/_posteverything X: https://twitter.com/_PostEverything

Paul Anleitner explores metamodernism as a cultural and philosophical movement that responds to postmodern cynicism with renewed sincerity and hope. Key points: Metamodernism emerges from exhaustion with postmodern detachment The multiverse concept in pop culture reflects changing worldviews Honest faith conversations are increasingly valued Films like "Napoleon Dynamite" embody metamodern themes "The Matrix" presents techno-gnosticism, modernizing ancient Gnostic ideas Contemporary society faces a crisis of meaning that pure critique cannot solve We need coherent narratives that provide purpose rather than endless deconstruction Was this episode helpful or encouraging in some way? Great! Then you won't want to miss what's next so SUBSCRIBE now and send this episode to a friend! We appreciate it! 🙏 You can also leave a review (it really helps) Follow Us Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PostEverythingPodcast Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/_posteverything X: https://twitter.com/_PostEverything

This live conversation explores the intersection of faith, culture, and the role of institutions in achieving the good life. The speakers discuss the challenges posed by individualism and the importance of community and belonging, emphasizing that while we can survive without institutions, we cannot thrive. They argue that institutions provide essential elements such as safety, peace, and purpose, which are crucial for human flourishing. Was this episode helpful or encouraging in some way? Great! Then you won't want to miss what's next so SUBSCRIBE now and send this episode to a friend! We appreciate it! 🙏 You can also leave a review (it really helps) Follow Us Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PostEverythingPodcast Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/_posteverything X: https://twitter.com/_PostEverything

Dr. Sarah Irving-Stonebraker discusses the concept of radical individualism and its relationship with ahistoricism, particularly in the context of the digital age. She explores how contemporary culture often views history as irrelevant, leading to a lack of historical knowledge and a fragmented sense of identity. The discussion dives into the ideological implications of this ahistoric mindset, the tension between individual narratives and collective history, and the importance of curiosity and complexity in understanding the past. Stonebreaker also critiques the phrase 'the right side of history' and emphasizes the need for a more nuanced approach to historical narratives, particularly from a Christian perspective. Was this episode helpful or encouraging in some way? Great! Then you won't want to miss what's next so SUBSCRIBE now and send this episode to a friend! We appreciate it! 🙏 You can also leave a review (it really helps) Follow Us Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PostEverythingPodcast Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/_posteverything X: https://twitter.com/_PostEverything

In this conversation, Collin Hansen discusses his book on Tim Keller, focusing on the influences that shaped Keller's spiritual and intellectual formation. The discussion explores the importance of community in theological education, the role of providence in Keller's life, and the concept of cultural apologetics. Hansen emphasizes the need to address defeater beliefs that prevent people from considering Christ and highlights the historical context of these discussions within American evangelicalism. Was this episode helpful or encouraging in some way? Great! Then you won't want to miss what's next so SUBSCRIBE now and send this episode to a friend! We appreciate it! 🙏 You can also leave a review (it really helps) Follow Us Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PostEverythingPodcast Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/_posteverything X: https://twitter.com/_PostEverything

Brad Edwards, John Houmes, and Jake Meador explore the cultural restlessness and disenchantment prevalent in contemporary society. They discuss how technology, particularly smartphones, has impacted identity and belonging, leading to a sense of exile in place. The conversation delves into the atrophy of social connections and the role of the church in providing meaning and community in a disenchanted world. They also examine the mental energy required to maintain relationships and the tension between the desire for control and the search for transcendence. In this conversation, the speakers explore the themes of community building, the role of the church in personal development, the ethics surrounding the value of life, and the importance of caring for the vulnerable in society. They discuss how spiritual growth is often misconstrued as self-actualization and emphasize the need for ordinary acts of kindness and connection in a disenchanted world. The conversation culminates in a reflection on how individuals can create a sense of home and community through simple, sincere gestures of care and hospitality. Was this episode helpful or encouraging in some way? Great! Then you won't want to miss what's next so SUBSCRIBE now and send this episode to a friend! We appreciate it! 🙏 You can also leave a review (it really helps) Follow Us Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PostEverythingPodcast Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/_posteverything X: https://twitter.com/_PostEverything

Kyle Worley discusses his book 'Home with God' and the concept of union with Christ. He explores the feelings of exile that many experience in life and how the doctrine of union with Christ offers a sense of belonging and identity. The discussion delves into the importance of community, the role of storytelling in shaping identity, and the distinction between union and communion with God. Throughout the conversation, Kyle emphasizes the transformative power of understanding our identity in Christ and the significance of being part of a larger community of believers. They explore the profound themes of obedience, grace, and the doctrine of union with Christ. They discuss the importance of community and belonging within the church, the tension between individualism and collective faith, and the significance of the Lord's Supper as a communal experience. The conversation also addresses the disillusionment many feel towards the institutional church and how the doctrine of union with Christ can provide hope and healing. Was this episode helpful or encouraging in some way? Great! Then you won't want to miss what's next so SUBSCRIBE now and send this episode to a friend! We appreciate it! 🙏 You can also leave a review (it really helps) Follow Us Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PostEverythingPodcast Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/_posteverything X: https://twitter.com/_PostEverything

In this conversation, John Houmes and Brad Edwards discuss the concept of a 'vibe shift' in the current cultural landscape, exploring the transitions from a phase of cynicism to one of hope and sincerity. They analyze the implications of social media, the pandemic, and political events on societal institutions and leadership, emphasizing the need for understanding and navigating this liminal age. The discussion also highlights the relevance of the church in providing stability and meaning amidst these changes, as they prepare for a new season of exploration in their podcast. Get Brad Edward's Book, "The Reason For  Church": https://a.co/d/5RExkKg Get Ian Harber's book, "Walking Through Deconstruction": https://a.co/d/3OqXAoG Get Kyle Worley's book, "Home With God": https://a.co/d/bFhuLsf

Brad and John discuss with Andy Crouch the importance of institutions and the decline of institutionalism in society. Crouch highlights the denial of power in Christian circles and the rise of social media as a counterfeit institution. The influence of social media on honor and shame dynamics is explored, as well as the loss of forgiveness and humility in society. The conversation explores the language of shame and victimhood, particularly in the context of political discussions. The cross is shown to be way out of victimhood, offering a path of forgiveness and redemption. The power of friendship and hospitality is discussed as a means of building meaningful connections and creating lasting change. Finally, the need for trust and thread to build institutions is explored, emphasizing the importance of long-term thinking and investment. Was this episode helpful or encouraging in some way? Great! Then you won't want to miss what's next so SUBSCRIBE now and send this episode to a friend! We appreciate it! 🙏 You can also leave a review (it really helps), or follow us on Twitter, Facebook, & Instagram to join the conversation!

In this episode, Brad Edwards, John Houmes, and our guest Michael Sacasas explore the complex issues surrounding the outsourcing of virtue in the age of social media. We delve into the challenges of moderating content on online platforms and the blurred boundaries of free speech. Drawing parallels to historical and bureaucratic settings, we discuss the difficulties of governing large communities. Throughout the conversation, we discuss the consequences of relying on algorithms and the impact on individual judgment and responsibility. We highlight the overwhelming abundance of information in the digital media landscape, the shift from a narrative experience to a database experience, and the importance of media literacy in navigating conflicting opinions and finding the truth. The discussion also touches on the pressure to speak on social media, the use of emotionally charged language for attention, and the tendency to default to tribal thinking. We emphasize the need for critical thinking, patience, and humility when encountering these complex issues. L. M. Sacasas is associate director of the Christian Study Center of Gainesville, Florida and author of The Convivial Society, a newsletter about technology and society. Was this episode helpful or encouraging in some way? Great! Then you won't want to miss what's next so SUBSCRIBE now and send this episode to a friend! We appreciate it! 🙏 You can also leave a review (it really helps), or follow us on Twitter, Facebook, & Instagram to join the conversation!

There are few voices on leadership with as consistent of a track record in anticipating needed shifts in our approach to leadership as Dr. Tod Bolsinger. As the author of multiple books (including one we've referenced heavily - "Canoeing the Mountains") and Associate Professor of Leadership Formation at Fuller Seminary, he brings a rare combination of academic depth and practical breadth to "rethinking leadership." Listen in as we pick his brain on everything from the need for institutions to adapt, the uselessness of "casting vision" in a liminal age, and how to know when we need "build greenhouses" or "burn our canoes" to draw new mental maps... Was this episode helpful or encouraging in some way? Great! Then you won't want to miss what's next so SUBSCRIBE now and send this episode to a friend! We appreciate it! 🙏 You can also leave a review (it really helps), or follow us on Twitter, Facebook, & Instagram to join the conversation! RESOURCES (BOOK) Canoeing the Mountains, by Tod Bolsinger https://www.amazon.com/Canoeing-Mountains-Christian-Leadership-Uncharted/dp/0830841474/ref=tmm_hrd_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1682619232&sr=8-1  (BOOK) Tempered Resilience: How Leaders Are Formed in the Crucible of Change by Tod Bolsinger https://a.co/d/5rXG5JF

On this episode, join Brad Edwards, John Houmes, and guest Steve Cuss who shares about his personal journey of understanding anxiety from a systems perspective. He discusses how recognizing his own anxiety patterns and the false beliefs that fueled them helped him lead with less reactivity. Steve also touches on how admitting mistakes publicly freed him to be human with his community and built trust. You'll learn about the importance he places on prioritizing community care over being the sole caregiver, and how that empowered others in his church to support one another through challenging seasons. It's a thoughtful discussion around managing anxiety from the inside out in order to better shepherd God's people. Was this episode helpful or encouraging in some way? Great! Then you won't want to miss what's next so SUBSCRIBE now and send this episode to a friend! We appreciate it! 🙏 You can also leave a review (it really helps), or follow us on Twitter, Facebook, & Instagram to join the conversation!