Better on the Inside: Recent Episodes
Better on the Inside
You can find Rohadi all over the internet.
Buy his book When We Belong: Reclaiming Christianity on the Marginsfrom his website!
Check out his podcast: Faith in a Fresh Vibe
Summary
In this conversation, Jon Pyle and Rohadi discuss the topics of decolonization, dismantling racism, and reclaiming Christianity on the margins. They explore the impact of these issues on the soul and the importance of soul care in the digital age. Rohadi shares his personal journey and experiences as a pastor and author, highlighting the need for individuals to reclaim their whole selves and find liberation. They also discuss the significance of land-based theology and the connection between spirituality and the land. Overall, the conversation emphasizes the importance of belonging, community, and a holistic understanding of God. The conversation explores the history and impact of mission work, highlighting the negative consequences and the need for change. It also discusses the lack of justice and inclusion in churches, the importance of embracing the whole family, and the need to reclaim Christianity from the margins. The conversation emphasizes the significance of embodiment and the value of rest and community. The guest, Rohadi, shares his joy in winter activities and baking with his partner.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Background
00:53 Rohadi's Journey to Canada
02:39 Writing 'When We Belong'
03:50 Reclaiming Christianity on the Margins
04:56 The Impact of Othering
05:24 The Crossroads of Assimilation and Reclamation
06:23 Expanding the Image of God
07:36 The Catalyst for Change
08:09 The Erosion of the Soul
08:47 Rohadi's Holistic Perspective
09:16 Belonging and Getting It Wrong
10:49 Rohadi's Vision for Belonging
12:20 Decolonizing Thought and Land-Based Theology
13:53 The Influence of Indigenous Knowledge Keepers
14:46 The Cookie Cutter Mentality in Church
15:17 The Uniqueness of Neighborhoods and Communities
16:15 The Relationship with the Land
19:18 Communing with the Land
20:35 Disembodied Christian Faith
22:12 The Pre-Curse World and Harmony with Creation
23:11 Vocation and Liberation
24:35 Reevaluating Mission Work
25:48 Questioning the Effectiveness of Church Mission Statements
26:43 The Erosion of the Church's Influence
27:31 The Failure of Contemporary Mission Work
28:27 The Lack of Connection to Justice in Mission Work
29:42 The Need for Inclusive Church Communities
31:05 The Importance of Family and Community in Church Planting
31:51 The Need for Justice and Family in Church Planting
33:20 The Difficulty of Implementing Change in Churches
36:14 The Journey of Decolonization and Reclamation
38:11 The Harm of Incomplete Church Families
39:36 The Poverty of the Soul in Success-Oriented Churches
41:59 The Desire for Inclusive and Impactful Churches
44:22 The Importance of Naming and Affirming the Body's Wisdom
46:24 Finding Joy in Winter Activities and Intentional Rest
49:41 Baking Together as a Source of Joy
51:15 BOTI Outro Video.mp4
--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/support
Content Warning [9 minutes]: Animal violence
There are lots of different kinds of people that call CityChurch San Antonio (my church) home. When you look at the plaza on a Sunday and you’ll see a wide swath of age, gender, ethnicity, style and any other distinction you can imagine. To some degree, this just happened. God has brought a diverse group of people to our campus for us to serve. We didn’t recruit or seek out any one group. But, it was also intentional. Behind the scenes, our leaders continue to take steps to remove barriers so that ALL PEOPLE can believe and thrive in Jesus.
Belonging is a significant part of thriving and a deep need within all of us. It’s not just a basic human need, it is also a spiritual need. Followers of Jesus are the Church, AKA The Body of Christ, where each of us are a valuable part of a larger whole. We are designed to fit together in community and serve together in unity. Everyone is valuable and brings something unique and necessary to the table.
Sadly, there are more folks than ever that are lonely. To the degree that the Surgeon General of the United States called loneliness an epidemic. One of the hallmarks of loneliness is disconnection. A distinct lack of belonging to a group or a robust network of relationships. So, what do we do? My friend Prasanta Verma is here to help us navigate how we can bring people together, across ethnic (and any other) lines.
Order Prasanta’s book today! I also encourage you to check out Prasanta’s website and her Substack, Belonging and the Human Experience.
Belonging and the Human Experience Prasanta was born under an Asian sun and grew up in the shadow of Appalachians. She writes about belonging, identity, loneliness, culture, health and social connection. She wants to help us envision a world where we're all a little less lonely.By Prasanta Verma1
Chapters
00:00 Exploring Ethnic Identity and Loneliness
03:09 The Consequences of Assimilation
24:26 Exploring Ethnic Loneliness and Social Disconnection
32:45 The Power of Storytelling and Empathy
36:57 The Role of Theater in Fostering Empathy and Understanding
42:18 Embracing Discomfort as an Invitation to Growth and Connection
44:52 BOTI Outro Video.mp4
--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/support
Grace E Kelley's website
Grace's Substack
Grace on IG
Summary
Grace E. Kelley, a farmer, mother, author, and poet, discusses her journey as a storyteller and the power of fiction. She shares how her desire for storytelling began at a young age and how she initially believed that fiction was not for her. However, she later discovered that fiction provided a healing outlet for processing her emotions and experiences. Grace emphasizes that fiction allows for the exploration of deep feelings and questions in a safe and fictional setting. She also highlights the importance of fiction in engaging audiences at a soul level and fostering authentic community. The conversation explores the themes of healthy relationships, the human act of sex, the connection between femininity and spirituality, and the beauty that can arise from destruction. The guests discuss how fiction, including romance novels, can provide a platform for discussing healthy relationships and consent. They also touch on the concept of purity culture and the need to unlearn shame surrounding sex. The conversation delves into the imagery of God as a breastfeeding mother and the connection between childbirth and the body of Jesus. The guests share excerpts from Grace E. Kelley's poetry book, 'As the Sparrow Flies,' which explore these themes. In this conversation, Grace E. Kelley and Jon Pyle discuss the importance of art and imagination in Christian communication. They explore the fear of the non-literal and the stifling of the divine imagination. They also touch on the control and interpretation of scripture, the role of the Holy Spirit, and the joy of writing fiction. Grace shares her current project, a speculative dark romantic comedy called 'Just Drive.'
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Grace's Background
01:44 Discovering the Desire for Storytelling
02:57 The Healing Power of Fiction
05:54 Engaging Audiences at a Soul Level
09:26 The Subversive and Revolutionary Nature of Women's Book Clubs
23:50 Exploring Healthy Relationships and Consent Through Fiction
25:13 Unlearning Shame: Challenging Purity Culture
28:57 The Connection Between Femininity and Spirituality
32:03 Finding Beauty in Destruction: Childbirth and the Body of Jesus
38:06 The Power of Poetry: Capturing Complex Emotions and Experiences
44:30 The Role of Art and Imagination
47:58 Overcoming the Fear of the Non-Literal
49:27 Trusting the Holy Spirit in Interpretation
57:54 The Joy of Writing Fiction
--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/support
Summary
Haley Hampton, a student at Bright Divinity School, shares her journey of pursuing community care and pastoral care. She discusses her background in food service and how it taught her about vulnerability and caring for others. Haley emphasizes the importance of being present with people and creating spaces where they feel seen and cared for. She also highlights the need to deconstruct and redefine church systems to prioritize redemptive community and soul care. Haley encourages individuals to invite others into their lives and be willing to be vulnerable, as this is where transformative relationships and community are formed. In this conversation, Haley Hampton and Jon Pyle discuss the importance of integrating faith into all aspects of life and the harm that can come from separating one's faith from their everyday existence. Haley shares her personal experience of feeling like she didn't fit in the church system and how she found healing and acceptance in a community that allowed her to be her authentic self. They also explore the concept of redemption and the tension between the already and not yet of the Kingdom of God. Haley emphasizes the importance of community care and the power of walking with others through their struggles.
Keywords
community care, pastoral care, food service, vulnerability, church systems, redemptive community, soul care, faith, integration, church, community, healing, acceptance, redemption, Kingdom of God, community care
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Background
03:09 Discovering the Call to Community Care
08:21 The Impact of Church Experiences on Identity
13:49 The Role of Food Service in Building Community
24:17 Caring for the Soul and Redefining Identity
27:47 Changing Spaces and Cultivating Redemptive Community
32:06 Introduction
32:14 Losing One's Soul: Separating the Spirit of God
36:46 Finding Healing and Acceptance in a Caring Community
38:30 Embracing Doubt and Wrestling with Faith
46:34 The Ongoing Process of Redemption and Resurrection
49:11 Finding Joy in the Midst of Difficult Seasons
57:24 Conclusion
01:00:18 BOTI Outro Video.mp4
--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/support
In light of the attempted assassination of President Trump, I wanted to share this incredibly prescient conversation I had with Michael Wear, the Founder, President and CEO of the Center for Christianity and Public Life. The organization is a nonpartisan, nonprofit institution based in the nation's capital with the mission to contend for the credibility of Christian resources in public life, for the public good. We had this conversation back in February, but I really think it’s important to share now.
This act of (political) violence has left a lot of us shaken and a uneasy. Some even may be afraid. And I understand why. This is scary stuff. It feels like the country is teetering on the brink of potential disaster. I also feel many of the harmful divisions deepening. It’s insane we have to say this but: No candidate, no matter how we feel about them, should be murdered. They shouldn’t be subject to any violence, or even the threat of violence. That’s not the vision of America. While violence is (unfortunately) part of our country’s history, and perhaps even our DNA, our government is designed for the peaceful transition of power. And we’ve done a pretty good job of that since 1776. That is an anomaly and absolutely, 100% worth protecting. So how should followers of Jesus “do politics” going forward? What can we do to make this partisan divide better? Michael gives us a great vision in his conversation and his book The Spirit of Our Politics.
Buy his book wherever books are sold, and check Michael out at his website.
--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/support
I met Daniel Yang at a San Antonio Church Planting event and had the pleasure of driving him to the airport. He shared so much insight and wisdom in our time together that I truly appreciated. Then Daniel invited my good friend Humbie Cervera to a wonderful conference about the future of the church and I got to tag along! It was mind-blowing. Now, Daniel works for World Relief overseeing their Churches of Welcome Initiative. You can find him on socials too.
I appreciate Daniel taking some time to chat with me about what he’s doing and what it means for us.
--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/support
Find Sandy at the Glean Network.Check out the Korean Queer & Transgender National NetworkSummaryIn this conversation, Jon Pyle and Sandy Hong discuss the concept of spiritual entrepreneurship and the work of the Glean Network. Sandy explains that spiritual entrepreneurship is about creating impact aligned with faith and values, and it can take many forms, such as asset redevelopment, deepening local missions, and connecting with community organizations. They also discuss the importance of bringing soul to work and the formation process that occurs in different environments. Sandy shares his own spiritual journey and the challenges and joys of embracing his multiple identities. He encourages others to question and explore their own paths, while finding support and affirmation from others. In this conversation, Jon and Sandy discuss the importance of community and the limitations of labels. They explore the need for open dialogue and understanding across different identities and experiences. Sandy emphasizes the significance of context and relationship in forming deep connections and meaningful conversations. They also touch on the challenges of navigating family dynamics and the joy of reimagining what family means. Overall, the conversation highlights the power of empathy, kindness, and embracing complexity.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Connection00:59 Introduction to the Glean Network02:32 Defining Spiritual Entrepreneurship03:48 Challenges in Traditional Religious Institutions05:34 Different Approaches to Spiritual Entrepreneurship06:29 Exploring the Shape of Community and Faith08:26 Design Thinking and Empathy in Spiritual Entrepreneurship09:40 The Formation Process in Work and Life11:34 The Importance of Formation in Every Space13:00 Understanding Identity and Belonging14:08 Sandy's Spiritual Journey and Multiple Belongings17:02 Rooting into Diasporic Context18:43 The Changing Landscape of Korean American Culture19:38 The Importance of Context in Identity21:16 Encouragement for Those Questioning Their Belonging23:38 Navigating Labels and Discourse25:37 The Importance of Relationship and Community28:06 Moving Beyond Labels and Universal Rules30:20 The Tension of Identity and Context32:38 Navigating Labels and Context in Discourse34:10 The Importance of Relationship in Formation35:15 Resistance to the Conveyor Belt36:39 Creating Authentic Connections37:57 The Importance of Empathy38:21 Music and Joy40:14 Reimagining Family41:36 Navigating Relationships with Aging Family Members42:33 Letting Go of Ideals43:08 The Joy of Podcasting44:00 Building Networks for Equality and Liberation44:16 BOTI Outro Video.mp4--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/support
Find Richard Clark at Area Code Audio, where you should visit before you start your own podcast. And you can check out his current podcast Area Code Batavia. Tweet at him!
Summary
In this conversation, Jon Pyle interviews Richard Clark, the proprietor of Area Code Audio, about the importance of active listening and understanding the lived experiences of others. Richard shares his journey of empathy and how podcasting has allowed him to facilitate connection and help people connect with others. He emphasizes that love is more important than theology and discusses the need for inclusivity and diverse perspectives in Christian spaces. Richard also talks about the challenges of certainty in Christian culture and the importance of listening and empathy in fostering understanding and love. The conversation explores different approaches to reporting and opinion pieces, highlighting the importance of giving people a sense of humanity and understanding. It discusses the need to move from critique to creation and the value of movies in understanding different perspectives. The conversation ends with a playful discussion about musical influences and what brings joy to both participants.
Keywords
active listening, understanding, empathy, connection, love, theology, inclusivity, diverse perspectives, certainty, Christian culture, reporting, opinion pieces, humanity, understanding, critique, creation, movies, perspectives, joy
Takeaways
Active listening is important in Christian spaces to foster understanding, empathy, and love.
Love is more important than theology.
Inclusivity and diverse perspectives are crucial in Christian spaces.
Certainty in Christian culture can hinder listening and empathy.
Podcasting can be a powerful medium for facilitating connection and understanding. Different approaches to reporting and opinion pieces can provide valuable insights and lived experiences.
Opinion pieces that focus on maintaining the status quo can be damaging and paternalistic.
Acknowledging and appreciating the humanity of individuals is important in fostering understanding.
Moving from critique to creation allows for positive change and growth.
Movies can serve as a medium for understanding different perspectives and experiences.
Finding joy in cultural experiences, such as video games and movies, can bring fulfillment.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction
00:54 Introducing Richard Clark
04:08 The Importance of Active Listening
05:01 Richard's Background at Christianity Today
06:38 Richard's Career Journey
07:56 The Importance of Active Listening in Christian Spaces
10:57 The Impact of Active Listening
14:27 Richard's Story of Active Listening
21:48 The Certainty in Christian Culture and the Lack of Listening
22:52 Richard's Experience at Christianity Today
24:21 Different Approaches to Reporting and Opinion Pieces
25:12 The Pitfalls of Opinion Columns
26:09 The Importance of Giving People a Fair Say
27:05 The Need for Genuine Empathy
27:47 The Complexity of Orthodoxy in Evangelicalism
29:01 Moving from Critique to Creation
30:04 The Value of Movies in Understanding Different Perspectives
31:00 The Trap of Looping Arguments
31:56 Modeling Vulnerability in Conversations
32:42 The Joy of Creating and Exploring Year-End Movies
35:59 Musical Influence: Drake
37:05 Non-Judgment Zone of Joy
38:25 Year-End Video Games and Movies
43:03 Movies as a Text for Understanding Perspectives
43:44 The Value of Empathy in Movies
44:52 Closing Remarks
45:07 BOTI Outro Video.mp4
--- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/support
Lark Kelsey is an absolute gem. You may know here as Lark Theosis on social media platforms.
Lark is incredibly insightful about a host of things, particularly when it comes to soul care. She is an insanely wise theologian and ministry practitioner. Through Lark's own journey and her extensive study, she drops some serious knowledge here.
--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/messageSupport this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/support
BUY JENAI’s BOOK! Click the link or purchase a copy wherever you buy books. And you can find more of her stuff on her website and the Othered Substack: https://jenaiauman.substack.com/
Everyone knows what it feels like to be “othered”. As Jenai unpacks in our conversation, “othered” is a very provocative word that evokes some kind of emotion in us. While her experience is based primarily on being Filipina-American woman in predominantly white male spaces, there are countless ways to be othered: how much money we make, our hairstyle, the clothes we wear, our education, our faith, the books we read, our values, where we live, what we eat for lunch… the list goes on and on.
When have you been othered? What did it feel like?
As followers of Jesus, we cannot lose sight of creating community and belonging in diversity, not forced conformity. We represent a faith that encompasses an incredibly wide swath of humanity from every continent and nearly every country on the globe. Christianity is weird and eclectic. Let’s embrace that weirdness as a way to include everyone.
--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/messageSupport this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/support
You can buy Sarah’s book The Way of Belonging, visit her website or subscribe to Sarah on Substack: https://sarahewestfall.substack.com/
Summary
The conversation is about soul care in the digital age and the importance of belonging. The guest, Sarah E. Westfall, discusses her book 'The Way of Belonging' and how belonging is about being rooted in who we are and embracing the love of God. She emphasizes the importance of being known and seen for who we are and not trying to fit in or change ourselves to belong. The conversation also touches on the challenges of belonging, the fear of rejection, and the need for genuine curiosity and attentiveness in relationships. The conversation explores the impact of withholding and the importance of vulnerability in relationships. It emphasizes the need for reciprocal relationships and the freedom that comes from expressing oneself and being met with kindness and acceptance. The discussion also touches on the distinction between isolation and loneliness, and the longing for belonging as a natural and good desire. It highlights the resilience that comes from experiencing deep pain and the importance of embracing one's true self. The conversation concludes with a discussion on finding joy in the work one was created to do.
--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/messageSupport this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/support
This is where you can find my wonderful guests! They are incredible people.
Liz Daye- linktr.ee/Lizadaye, https://www.threads.net/@lizadaye
Dianne Garcia- rocaderefugiosatx.org
Amy Ickes- https://www.threads.net/@aymiejoi
Chris Lee- https://www.threads.net/@chrisj.lee
Summary
In this conversation, Jon Pyle and his guests discuss the spiritual discipline of service. They explore topics such as finding the right fit for serving, the tension between individualistic and collectivist approaches to service, and the importance of serving without expectations. They also touch on the challenges of serving in the disability community and the need for leaders to create spaces where people feel welcome and loved. In this part of the conversation, the speakers discuss the tension between serving and receiving in the church. They talk about the importance of allowing people to receive and be served, as well as the need for balance and rest. They also highlight the negative effects of consumer-driven church culture and the pressure to constantly be serving. The speakers emphasize the need for leaders to listen to the needs and whispers of their congregation and create a healthy culture that encourages people to serve in a healthy and whole way. They also discuss the importance of subverting expectations and being present to the needs of the community. The conversation explores the concept of service within the context of the church and beyond. It touches on the importance of recognizing the humanity of others and meeting their needs, the subversive nature of Christianity, and the need to reframe spiritual disciplines as communal experiences. The speakers also discuss the role of personal relationship with Jesus in American Christianity, the need for balance and rest in service, and the importance of developing a posture of service that allows for both giving and receiving.
Takeaways
Finding the right fit for serving involves starting somewhere, even if it's a small task, and being open to trying new things.
Service should be rooted in joy and passion, but there are also times when we need to do things that make us uncomfortable or that simply need to be done.
In collectivist communities, there can be pressure to serve and expectations that everyone should contribute. However, it's important to create spaces where people feel welcome and loved, regardless of their ability to serve.
Leaders should be mindful of not pigeonholing people and should take the time to get to know individuals and their passions and gifts.
Service is a deeply human act that can transform both the giver and the receiver, and it should be done with abundant generosity and without expectations. There is a tension between serving and receiving in the church, and it is important to allow people to receive and be served.
Balance and rest are crucial in the context of serving and being served.
Consumer-driven church culture can be detrimental, and there is a need to create a healthy culture that encourages people to serve in a healthy and whole way.
Leaders should listen to the needs and whispers of their congregation and be present to their needs.
Subverting expectations and being aware of the needs of the community are important in creating a healthy church culture. Service starts with recognizing the humanity of others and meeting their needs.
Christianity is subversive and pushes against our worst impulses as humans.
Spiritual disciplines should be reframed as communal experiences.
The focus on personal relationship with Jesus in American Christianity has influenced the idea of individual spirituality rather than community.
Leaders in the church should set an example of balanced service, rest, and grace.
Developing a posture of service allows for both giving and receiving.
--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/messageSupport this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/support
Summary
In this conversation, Jon Pyle discusses the importance of spiritual disciplines, specifically the discipline of service. He emphasizes that spiritual disciplines help us thrive and become more like Jesus. Pyle explains that willpower is a limited resource and that disciplines can help us overcome our lack of willpower. He encourages listeners to develop the spiritual discipline of serving others, as it not only benefits them but also brings blessings into their own lives. Pyle provides practical examples of how to serve in various areas of life, such as marriage, workplace, and community.
Keywords: spiritual disciplines, service, willpower, thrive, become like Jesus, limited resource, overcome, blessings
Takeaways
- Spiritual disciplines help us thrive and become more like Jesus.
- Willpower is a limited resource, and disciplines can help us overcome our lack of willpower.
- The spiritual discipline of service benefits both others and ourselves, bringing blessings into our lives.
- Serving others can be practiced in various areas of life, such as marriage, workplace, and community.
--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/messageSupport this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/support
Find Josh & Megan's work at Future of Faith!
Summary
Dr. Josh Packard and Master Megan Bissell discuss the future of faith and their work as sociologists. They emphasize the importance of applied sociology and doing work that is useful, not just interesting. They talk about how they became a team and their journey from academia to founding the Springtide Research Institute. They highlight the need for sacred listening and treating every conversation as meaningful. They also discuss the importance of relationship and understanding the spiritual practices of young people. The conversation explores the importance of understanding and guiding young people in their spiritual journeys. It highlights the need for parents and adults to have curiosity and empathy when engaging with young people's spirituality. The conversation emphasizes the role of adults as guides rather than authorities, allowing young people to explore and find their own answers. It also encourages parents to take notes and track their children's spiritual growth over time. The conversation concludes with a reminder that adults don't have to have all the answers and can rely on the Holy Spirit to guide the process.
Keywords
future of faith, sociology, applied sociology, sacred listening, relationship, spiritual practices, young people, spirituality, young people, guidance, curiosity, empathy, exploration, parents, adults, notes, growth, Holy Spirit
Takeaways
- Applied sociology focuses on doing work that is useful, not just interesting.
- Sacred listening is treating every conversation as meaningful and finding deep listening as a sacred practice.
- Relationships are crucial in understanding the spiritual practices of young people.
- Young people are repackaging faith practices and finding spiritual moments in nature and other ways.
- Understanding the language and experiences of young people is essential in helping them develop meaningful faith practices. Parents and adults should approach young people's spirituality with curiosity and empathy.
- Adults should act as guides rather than authorities, allowing young people to explore and find their own answers.
- Taking notes and tracking a young person's spiritual growth over time can be valuable.
- Adults don't have to have all the answers and can rely on the Holy Spirit to guide the process.
--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/messageSupport this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/support
Tim Sweetman is a freaking radical dude. You can find all his stuff at his website: TimSweetman.com. It's also worth checking out Tension, his Substack newsletter.
Continue this conversation on our Facebook Group (https://www.facebook.com/groups/betterontheinside)
Please rate and leave a 5-star review on the Podcast app of your choice!
--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/messageSupport this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/support
You can find Pastor Trey on his website. https://www.pastortrey05.com/
Buy his book Theologizin' Bigger on Amazon.
Continue this conversation on our Facebook Group (https://www.facebook.com/groups/betterontheinside)
Please rate and leave a 5-star review on the Podcast app of your choice!
--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/messageSupport this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/support
You can find Pastor Trey on his website. https://www.pastortrey05.com/
Buy his book Theologizin' Bigger on Amazon.
Summary
The conversation explores the idea that humans have limited their potential by creating their own image of God. This self-constructed version of God has corrupted our understanding and hindered our growth. The speakers discuss the need to embrace the true nature of God and strive to become the best version of ourselves.
Keywords
aspiring, constructed, hamstrung, capacity, best, limited, eternal, other worldly, incorruptible, God, corrupted, imaginations, potential, understanding, growth
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Self-Introduction
50:28 Defining Identity and Roles
52:28 The Impetus for Writing
53:42 Choosing a Non-Traditional Publishing Route
55:28 Building a Non-Traditional Audience
56:51 Making God Smaller
59:21 The Message of the Book
01:00:54 Why We Make God Smaller
01:05:26 Expanding Our Understanding of God
01:11:04 Avoiding Blasphemy of the Holy Spirit
01:12:21 The Expanding Universe and God's Not Yet
01:14:35 Broadening Love and Avoiding Confinement
01:16:21 Idolatry and Shaping Ourselves
01:17:39 Introduction
01:21:56 BOTI Outro Video.mp4
Continue this conversation on our Facebook Group (https://www.facebook.com/groups/betterontheinside)
Please rate and leave a 5-star review on the Podcast app of your choice!
Transition music: Lundstroem - Jazz lounge sofa & couch.mp3 (https://freemusicarchive.org/)
--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/messageSupport this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/support
You can find Dianne on Instagram and her church here.
rocaderefugiosatx.org
AI Summary
Summary
In this conversation, Jon Pyle interviews Dianne Garcia, the pastor and church planter of Iglesia Cristiana Roca de Refugio, a church for immigrant families in San Antonio. Dianne shares her experience of starting a church that is led by and serves immigrant families. They discuss the importance of forming personal relationships with immigrants and the misconceptions surrounding immigration. The conversation highlights the need for churches and individuals to support immigrants in a way that truly helps and empowers them.
Keywords
church, immigrant families, church planting, community, relationships, support, misconceptions, empowerment
Chapters
00:00 Personal Connections and Changing Perspectives
07:02 Impact on the Soul through Engaging with Immigrants
08:40 Finding Meaning and Impact
09:24 The Challenge of Helping Many
09:54 The Most Meaningful Thing
10:36 Passion Rooted in Suffering
11:35 Moving Beyond Charity
12:30 Compassionate Relationship vs. Charity
13:21 Transformation through Suffering
14:17 Vulnerability and Empathy
15:16 The Impact on the Soul
16:01 Help that Hurts
17:12 The Danger of Dehumanization
18:08 Moving Beyond Transactional Help
19:41 Creating Safety, Narrative Change, and Empowerment
21:02 Seeking Sanctuary and Changing Narratives
22:29 Providing Emotional and Spiritual Sanctuary
25:08 The Emotional Journey of Asylum Seekers
26:01 Finding Joy in Watching Baby Chicks
27:52 Where to Find Diane
33:52 BOTI Outro Video.mp4
--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/messageSupport this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/support
You can find Dianne on Instagram and her church here.
rocaderefugiosatx.org
AI Summary
In this conversation, Jon Pyle and Dianne Garcia discuss the importance of treating immigrants with love, dignity, and respect. Dianne shares her experience as the pastor of a church that serves immigrant families and asylum seekers in San Antonio. They talk about the different categories of immigrants, the challenges they face, and the fear and uncertainty they live with. They also discuss the political and partisan aspects of immigration and the pushback Dianne receives for her work. The conversation highlights the need for a more humane and compassionate approach to immigration.
Keywords
immigration, immigrants, asylum seekers, church, love, dignity, respect, fear, uncertainty, political, partisan, pushback, humane, compassionate
--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/messageSupport this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/support
New Episode coming early next week.
--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/messageSupport this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/support
Find Kadi Cole at her website and on social media. She also has some INSANELY cool resources on here LinkTree. https://linktr.ee/kadicole--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/messageSupport this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/support
Find Kadi Cole at her website and on social media. She also has some INSANELY cool resources on here LinkTree. https://linktr.ee/kadicole
If you're not in full time ministry (90+% of people) what does it look like to fully engage your calling? That's one of the big questions Kadi is here to address and she does an amazing job guiding us to a fulfilling life at home, in church and at work.
--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/messageSupport this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/support
Summary
In this conversation, Jon Pyle and Riana Shaw Robinson discuss the challenges faced by women and people of color in the church. They talk about the transactional nature of the church and the pressure to compromise one's identity for belonging. Riana shares her experience of being a co-creator with God and the importance of patience in birthing something new. They also discuss the need for non-conventional communities that cater to specific groups and the tension that arises from that. Riana emphasizes the importance of listening to and receiving the stories of others with gratitude. In this conversation, Riana Shaw Robinson discusses the importance of creating safe spaces for marginalized communities and the power of community support. She shares her experiences at Miriam's Song, a church community that welcomes and uplifts women of color. Riana emphasizes the need for inclusivity and acceptance in religious spaces, challenging traditional boundaries and hierarchies. She also highlights the significance of self-care and joy in the midst of challenging times. Overall, the conversation highlights the transformative power of community and the importance of creating spaces where everyone feels seen, held, and loved.
Takeaways
The church can be transactional and often pressures individuals to compromise their identity for belonging.
The Holy Spirit is creative and invites individuals to co-create something new with God.
Non-conventional communities that cater to specific groups can provide a sense of belonging and empowerment.
It is important to listen to and receive the stories of others with gratitude. Creating safe spaces for marginalized communities is essential for their well-being and flourishing.
Inclusivity and acceptance should be prioritized in religious spaces, challenging traditional boundaries and hierarchies.
Self-care and joy are important for maintaining resilience and finding strength in challenging times.
Community support and affirmation are transformative and can help individuals feel seen, held, and loved.
Chapters
00:00 The Struggle of Women of Color in Church Spaces
01:33 Transactional Relationships in Church
03:01 Identity and Belonging
03:57 Navigating Progressive Spaces
04:50 Challenging Traditional Christianity
05:30 Receiving Others' Stories
06:36 Creating Inclusive Spaces
07:35 Listening and Learning
08:39 Accepting Truths
09:29 Unconventional Approaches
10:47 Creating Safe Spaces
11:46 The Importance of Boundaries
12:28 Trusting God's Guidance
14:08 The Power of Women's Gatherings
14:39 Unconventional as Conventional
15:37 Creating Safe Spaces for Marginalized Communities
16:40 Finding Joy in Sunshine
23:31 Supporting Miriam's Song
26:53 Outro Video.mp4
--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/messageSupport this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/support
Rev. Riana Shaw Robinson can be found on INSTAGRAM! Check out Miriam's Song Church.
This was a challenging conversation. In a good way. Riana Shaw Robinson birthed a new expression of church for Women of Color called Miriam's Song, and it challenges a lot of assumptions about church, women, Jesus and life in general. I loved chatting with Riana, and I think it'll be beneficial for you too.
Continue this conversation on our Facebook Group (https://www.facebook.com/groups/betterontheinside)
Please rate and leave a 5-star review on the Podcast app of your choice!
Transition music: Lundstroem - Jazz lounge sofa & couch.mp3 (https://freemusicarchive.org/)
--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/messageSupport this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/support
Leah Wrenne is a singer-songwriter, worship leader, theologian, philosopher, mental health advocate, Philly Girl, and an absolute boss. Check her out on IG and hit up her Linktree!
Segment 1
What’s up y’all!?!? Great to see you again.
We’re back for Part 2 with Leah Wrenne… and let me tell you… it’s worth the wait. We ended on a bit of a cliffhanger talking about mental health. This time we dive right in to two communities that historically struggle with mental health care: the church community and the black community. Leah sits in the middle of both, and she shares about her experience.
Segment 2
When you’re struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, fear, and more, how the community responds to you is critical to your care. If that’s you, please check out your local resources. But if you have no place to go, we’d love to help.
Next Leah digs in and we talk about rest. Looking back, I feel like I talked a little more than I would’ve liked to because I’d prefer to let Leah cook a little more. She has some wonderful insights about what It means to really rest and why that matters. Rest is a soul level issue. I want to be clear on that. It’s so much more than physical or emotional… rest is spiritual.
Segment 3
The Non-Judgment Zone of Joy with an actual singer! Yipes.
Continue this conversation on our Facebook Group (https://www.facebook.com/groups/betterontheinside)
Please rate and leave a 5-star review on the Podcast app of your choice!
Transition music: Lundstroem - Jazz lounge sofa & couch.mp3 (https://freemusicarchive.org/)
--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/messageSupport this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/support
Leah Wrenne is a singer-songwriter, worship leader, theologian, philosopher, mental health advocate, Philly Girl, and an absolute boss. Check her out on IG and hit up her Linktree!
Music truly connects with our souls. On a deep level, often in ways we don’t quite understand. In that way, music is a mystery. Leah Wrenne is someone who speaks wisely and empathically about that mystery. and I talk about the role of music in her life, when she started writing songs and her Family Country Duo. She also reflects on her mental health and the role music has played.
Continue this conversation on our Facebook Group (https://www.facebook.com/groups/betterontheinside)
Please rate and leave a 5-star review on the Podcast app of your choice!
--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/messageSupport this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/support
Check out Liz on Substack. You can find her on LinkTree too.
Join Threaded (Kate's Bible Studies), check out her website and her new awesome non-profit The Remembered Table.
For those deconstructing or struggling with Scripture, the start of this podcast will be a breath of fresh air. You don't have to keep reading The Bible the same way... there are different perspectives! We also talk about how churches use incomplete measurements of spiritual growth because of the focus on quantitative metrics like butts, budgets and baptisms.
And Liz ends dropping some serious truth about how the church treats families with disabilities and it is truly incredible.
Join us in this conversation with Kate Boyd and Liz Daye.
--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/messageSupport this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/support
Check out Liz on Substack. You can find her on LinkTree too.
Join Threaded (Kate's Bible Studies), check out her website and her new awesome non-profit The Remembered Table.
Many folks have a complicated relationship with Scripture. Especially if religious leaders have quoted verses to shame or manipulate you. Other people have struggled making sense of The Bible, which I understand because it is an ancient religious text made up of multiple books, many genres and styles, written over thousands of years in at least 3 languages.
Either way, Scripture can be a major source of stress for people of faith. But what if it wasn't a struggle? What if it could be something that fed your soul? Join us as I dig into these questions with Kate Boyd and Liz Daye.
--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/messageSupport this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/support
Part 2
Segment 1
What’s up, y’all? You’re about to hear Part 2 with Seth Kaplan, who wrote the book Fragile Neighborhoods. And my brother Seth knocks it out of the park.
In our last episode, Dr. Kaplan introduced us to the idea of why our places, work, home, schools and other institutions, matter so much to the quality of our lives. Over the last generation in America, we’ve experienced social decay. This is the thinning of relationships and a growing sense of isolation and loneliness. This isn’t an opinion, either. Every survey and study confirms this reality. You probably feel it too. Like we don’t have as many dependable, anxiety-absorbing institutions as we used to. Like it’s getting harder and harder to connect with people, even people we already know.
We’re in a prosperous and generally stable country, but we’re decaying from the inside out from lack of healthy relationships and communities. In Part 1, Seth left some insight as to how we can make that better in our own neighborhoods. In Part 2, we talk about the role the church can play in restoring and healing our communities.
Part of what I really love about this is that Seth is Jewish. He’s not a church insider, but rather a sociologist who has recommendations based on his research. He doesn’t really have a dog in the fight, nor does he have an ax to grind. Dr. Kaplan is as unbiased as you are liable to get to talk about the future of the church.
Listen to what he has to say.
Segment 2
I think Dr. Kaplan shares a worthwhile challenge for the church. There was a question I heard at a conference awhile ago that I think applies: “If your church left your community, would anyone besides your congregation notice?” That boils down to impact. If your church is having a positive impact on your community, people would miss it.
And I think Seth is encouraging us to be deeply embedded in the local fabric of our neighborhoods. If you want to make a difference in your community, thickening relationships will be massive. He believes it so strongly, when I asked him if he wanted to share anything else, he wanted to address church leaders.
Segment 3
Can you feel that fire? Dr. Kaplan was preaching. Don’t just hear his words, I challenge you to put them into action. How can you make your “place”, neighborhood, school, college, workplace, church, or other organization, stronger. How can you forge thick relationships that enrich the fabric of people’s lives?
At last we’ve come to the Non-Judgment Zone of Joy. This one is different…
Segment 4
Y’all…I think we have a lot to work on. What Seth and I talked about is a curious kind of solution to social decay. In one sense, we can make it better right away. And the ownership is in our hands. We’re not waiting for the powers that be to change something.
In another sense, it feels a little daunting because we’re fighting against the design of modern America. Because the systems and processes and architecture that disconnect us from one another is the result of choices people have made. That can be kind of overwhelming. But anything done, can be undone. We have a chance to reinvigorate our communities with thick relationships to one another. And progress may be slow… but it’s worth it.
Buy Seth’s book: Fragile Neighborhoods. It’s a great read. And I’ll see y’all next time.
--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/messageSupport this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/support
Seth Kaplan Part 1
Segment 1
What’s up, y’all? I’m so pumped to be back. This week we have a real humdinger of an episode, talking about something that you might not think about, but affects you every single day: place.
Our guest today is Seth Kaplan, who wrote the book Fragile Neighborhoods. He’s an expert on fragile states but took his knowledge and expertise that is usually applied to volatile nations and examined the social decay in modern America.
Place is a concept we think about a lot on some level and NEVER on another. Like, we consider where we are and where we want to go pretty often. Probably on a daily basis. But we rarely consider how our environments: homes, workplaces, schools, parks, common spaces and churches, shape our relationships. Whether we know it or not, we are profoundly impacted by the design of where we live, work, eat, shop, and worship. And that design has changed dramatically over the last few decades… whether it’s good for us or not.
Listen to Seth talk about this.
Segment 2
I really enjoyed talking to my dude, Seth. We joked around that we practically recorded an entire podcast before I hit record. I definitely want to talk to him again.
In his book, Seth spends a lot of time talking about the difference between place-based community and network-based community. He’ll define it well in this segment, but it’s important to note that network-based community is VERY new and has been enabled by technology. Up until very recently, all humans have been dramatically limited by our place. Our ancestors lived almost their entire lives in a bubble of a few miles. Think about that! Even our grandparents were constrained by where they happened to be born. But, that’s not the world our kids live in now. And that matters. How? Listen to Seth.
Segment 3
I love the concept of THICK and THIN relationships. That’s really good terminology for us to adopt that I think could bring more clarity to how we define community. I know that it’s MUCH easier to have a lot of THIN relationships than even just a few THICK ones. That’s something to think about this week.
Part 2 drops next week, where Seth and I dive deeper into the role churches and places of worship can play in healthy community.
In the meantime, pick up his book Fragile Neighborhoods by Seth Kaplan wherever books are sold. Love y’all and I’ll see you next week!
--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/messageSupport this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/support
Find Traci on her website and subscribe to her to her newsletter. You can also follow her on Twitter or Instagram.
Summary
In this conversation, Traci and Jon discuss the busyness of modern life and the need to simplify. They explore the importance of embracing different traditions and perspectives, even those from outside the church. They also discuss overcoming negative experiences with church and finding what works for each individual. They emphasize the importance of respecting different church traditions and appreciating different ways of experiencing Jesus. Finally, they share their joy in routine and the fall season.
Takeaways
- Modern life is busy and cluttered, making it important to simplify and find moments of stillness.
- Embracing different traditions and perspectives can enrich our understanding of faith and spirituality.
- Negative experiences with church should not deter us from exploring different expressions of worship.
- Respecting and appreciating different church traditions allows for a more inclusive and diverse faith community.
--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/messageSupport this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/support
Find Traci on her website and subscribe to her to her newsletter. You can also follow her on Twitter or Instagram.
Summary
In this conversation, Traci and Jon discuss the busyness of modern life and the need to simplify. They explore the importance of embracing different traditions and perspectives, even those from outside the church. They also discuss overcoming negative experiences with church and finding what works for each individual. They emphasize the importance of respecting different church traditions and appreciating different ways of experiencing Jesus. Finally, they share their joy in routine and the fall season.
Takeaways
- Modern life is busy and cluttered, making it important to simplify and find moments of stillness.
- Embracing different traditions and perspectives can enrich our understanding of faith and spirituality.
- Negative experiences with church should not deter us from exploring different expressions of worship.
- Respecting and appreciating different church traditions allows for a more inclusive and diverse faith community.
--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/messageSupport this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/support
In this episode, host Jon Pyle discusses the purpose of the podcast and the shift back to its original focus on soul care. He highlights the importance of soul care in the digital age and the need for transformation from the inside out. Jon emphasizes that churches should be spiritual places and calls for a shift from behavior modification to true transformation. He explores the impact of the church industrial complex and the value of the soul. Jon invites listeners to join him on a journey of becoming better on the inside and caring for their souls.
Takeaways
- Soul care is essential in the digital age and requires a focus on transformation from the inside out.
- Churches should be spiritual places that prioritize love and the well-being of souls.
- True transformation comes from internal work and the power of the Holy Spirit.
- Taking responsibility for healing and growth is necessary for a flourishing life.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Purpose of the Podcast
03:02 The Church Industrial Complex and Soul Care
07:19 Transformation from the Inside Out
10:32 Soul Care and Becoming Better on the Inside
14:23 The Journey of Transformation
17:00 The Church's Lack of Love
19:21 The Impact of the Digital Age on Souls
21:48 The Value of the Soul and the Need for Soul Care
25:38 Taking Responsibility for Healing and Growth
28:01 Gratitude for the Community and Future Plans
--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/messageSupport this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/support
As a Pastor who suffers from significant depression and anxiety, I NEEDED to preach a different kind of sermon about Philippians 4:6-8. So, I preached the sermon I always wanted to hear. I hope this message is helpful for you too!
Continue this conversation on our Substack (https://beyondsunday.substack.com/) and our Facebook Group (https://www.facebook.com/groups/betterontheinside)
Please rate and leave a 5-star review on the Podcast app of your choice!
--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/messageSupport this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/support
In honor of this spooky season, Dr. Laura Robinson and I sit down and unpack what is often considered the scariest movie of all time... THE EXORCIST. It is Dr. Robinson's favorite scary movie, and you can tell immediately because her passion for it shows in this episode. The Exorcist is definitely one of my Horror Mount Rushmore picks and what I believe to be THE BEST CHRISTIAN MOVIE OF ALL TIME! (hot take alert)
This movie didn't just change horror movies, it changed movies and had a profound impact on society at large. We talk about key themes, great scenes, Priests as heroes, how gross and disgusting the special FX are, the novel, William Peter Blatty, The Exorcist: Believer, and how it even influenced the Satanic Panic of the 80's. While the goal may have been to scare the hell out of people, Blatty & Director William Friedkin may just have scared the hell into us.
Follow her on Twitter: https://twitter.com/LauraRbnsn
Subscribe to her Substack, where she's posting great stuff including a deep dive on Operation Underground Railroad: https://laurarbnsn.substack.com/
Continue this conversation on our Substack (https://beyondsunday.substack.com/) and our Facebook Group (https://www.facebook.com/groups/betterontheinside)
Please rate and leave a 5-star review on the Podcast app of your choice!
--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/messageSupport this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/support
Rey De Armas is an incredible dude who left vocational ministry to pursue a completely different kind of ministry and find a sense of purpose. Rediscovering a passion from his Pre-Med days to help people through medicine, Rey totally shifted the course of his life and is investing directly in the common good of his community. You love to see it!
Continue this conversation on our Substack (https://beyondsunday.substack.com/) and our Facebook Group (https://www.facebook.com/groups/betterontheinside)
Please rate and leave a 5-star review on the Podcast app of your choice!
--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/messageSupport this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/support
Dr. Laura Robinson is an absolute pop culture and theological genius. I've been trying to get her on the podcast for a LONG TIME and we finally made it happen. (We recorded this episode in April, so things have changed since then.) Hopefully we'll get a chance to deep dive a movie soon.
In this episode, we journey through a number of movies, books and TV shows (House of the Dragon, Redeeming Love, Black Snake Moan and more) and how these stories tell us about God and ourselves. Laura's brain moves a million miles an hour and we both get super excited, so we move quickly through a number of subjects with tons of references and analogies. Buckle up!
Follow her on Twitter: https://twitter.com/LauraRbnsn
Subscribe to her Substack, where she's posting great stuff including a deep dive on Operation Underground Railroad: https://laurarbnsn.substack.com/
Continue this conversation on our Substack (https://beyondsunday.substack.com/) and our Facebook Group (https://www.facebook.com/groups/betterontheinside)
Please rate and leave a 5-star review on the Podcast app of your choice!
--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/messageSupport this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/support
Kyle Burkholder is not an easy person to talk to if you like to be comfortable. He's very affable and kind but he will always challenge you to prioritize growth, health and contentment over the status quo. Our conversation touches on a variety of subjects but most importantly, what church actually looks like Beyond Sunday. Kyle's focus is HYPER LOCAL, which he defines in this episode, and he talks about what that reality looks like in his Ohio church. Honestly, I think we can all embrace this relationally-driven mentality.
Check out his Substack here: https://kylejburkholder.substack.com/
Continue this conversation on our Substack (https://beyondsunday.substack.com/) and our Facebook Group (https://www.facebook.com/groups/betterontheinside)
Please rate and leave a 5-star review on the Podcast app of your choice!
--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/messageSupport this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/support
Imagine yourself floating down the Frio River. It's a warm day but not nuclear hot like this summer has been. The water is cool, your tube is comfortable and your cooler is full (with Topo Chico or other beverages of choice). And 2 of your friends are philosophizing about suffering, art and a host of other topics... that's what this conversation with Nathan Perrin feels like.
Nathan and I dig in around his spiritual journey and ending up as an Anabaptist-Quaker Pastor. We talking about the amazing healing powers of art, movies and writing to speak to our suffering and reflect on our pain. Nathan is also a fiction writer and a great storyteller, so I really delighted in this thoughtful and redemptive conversation.
All of Nathan's Links: https://allmylinks.com/nperrin-writer#
Nathan's Website: https://www.nathanperrinwriter.com/
Continue this conversation on our Substack (https://beyondsunday.substack.com/) and our Facebook Group (https://www.facebook.com/groups/betterontheinside)
Please rate and leave a 5-star review on the Podcast app of your choice!
--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/messageSupport this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/support
This episode description was generated with the help of ChatGPT Would love to hear your feedback.
In this episode, Justin takes us back to the origins of his agency, Nava Church Marketing. He recounts his journey of creating a proven roadmap to help churches gain prominence within their communities. With a decade of experience in freelance marketing, Justin developed strategies that elevated his clients' profiles, making some of them notable enough to have streets and neighborhoods named after them.
Unconventional as it may sound, Justin's narrative unfolds, revealing how his agency's efforts resulted in a church being protected by a local gang due to the community's recognition of its positive impact. He shares anecdotes about charismatic churches and their unique presence in their neighborhoods, emphasizing the importance of reaching diverse audiences while maintaining the church's values.
Justin's agency, Nava Church Marketing, specializes in utilizing a definitive church marketing method, revolutionizing how churches connect with their communities. By working closely with churches, his team offers services ranging from website development to online advertising. As the founder of the agency, Justin highlights the role of his team in fulfilling services while he ensures that churches receive the quality they deserve.
While Justin acknowledges the profitability of serving businesses, his passion for church marketing stems from a deep conviction to help local churches thrive. His personal connection to churches and his belief in their potential to create meaningful impact drive his dedication to transforming churches into vital community pillars. Through his podcast, Justin aims to shed light on the challenges and triumphs of church marketing while offering invaluable insights into making churches better known within their communities. Join us as we explore his remarkable journey and learn from his expertise in church marketing.
Continue this conversation on our Substack (https://beyondsunday.substack.com/) and our Facebook Group (https://www.facebook.com/groups/betterontheinside)
Please rate and leave a 5-star review on the Podcast app of your choice!
--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/messageSupport this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/support
What do church metrics and California Raisins have in common? Dr. John Harris tells us in this great conversation, including a lot about the digital church and how we make disciples online. What gets me excited is how Dr. Harris is taking advantage of the digital medium and building something unique and wonderful. He also gets very real about metrics that really matter.
Get his book Sharing Jesus Online: Helping Everyday Believers Become Digital and Metaverse Missionaries!
Continue this conversation on our Substack (https://beyondsunday.substack.com/) and our Facebook Group (https://www.facebook.com/groups/betterontheinside)
Please rate and leave a 5-star review on the Podcast app of your choice!
Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/support
Jenn Layte blessed the conversation with her journey and how she's helping others take those steps! Jenn is an author, Pastor and trained Spiritual Director. I love how she tells stories and help others tell better stories with their lives.
Check out her LinkTree (https://linktr.ee/jenniferaglayte) and/or her website (https://jenniferaglayte.com/) to learn more about the work she's doing. There, you'll have the opportunity to join one of her online studies.
Continue this conversation with us in our Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/betterontheinside
I spoke at the Thrive & Cultivate Summit in May with a bunch of other amazing speakers like Kay Warren, DJ Chuang and Nona Jones. You can purchase the entire conference here (use the code "JON" to give me credit): https://www.thriveandcultivate.com/a/2147530379/oF6L4sE2
Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/support
Sharifa Stevens and Kate Boyd join me on this episode. Y'all, these ladies absolutely blew me away. I am gobsmacked.
Sharifa & Kate are the best of what a theologian should be: brilliant, passionate, principled, loving and clear. And they dropped knowledge for nearly an hour. I truly think every professing believer should listen to this podcast. Because it's not just about how we can help women utilize their God-given gifts and talents within the church... it's truly about how we can disciple people to the fullness of Jesus' vision for HIS CHURCH. WHEW!!!!
Subscribe to Sharifa's newsletter: https://sharifahstevens.substack.com/
Buy Kate's book: https://www.anuntidyfaith.com/
You can continue the conversation in our Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/betterontheinside
I spoke at the Thrive & Cultivate Summit in May with a bunch of other amazing speakers like Kay Warren, DJ Chuang and Nona Jones. You can purchase the entire conference here (use the code "JON" to give me credit): https://www.thriveandcultivate.com/a/2147530379/oF6L4sE2
Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/support
Eric Hoke is the proprietor of "I Help Pastors Get Jobs", a wonderful website that does exactly what it says... help Pastors (and other folks in vocational ministry) transition out of church jobs and into the marketplace. He helps people follow the path that he himself has walked, and even more importantly, he still has skin in the game as part of a local church in NYC.
You can continue the conversation in our Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/betterontheinside
I spoke at the Thrive & Cultivate Summit in May with a bunch of other amazing speakers like Kay Warren, DJ Chuang and Nona Jones. You can purchase the entire conference here (use the code "JON" to give me credit): https://www.thriveandcultivate.com/a/2147530379/oF6L4sE2
Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/support
My dude Ben Hardman comes by and PREACHES! Ben runs the Kingdom Dreams Initiative , where they bring to life the Good Work you have been uniquely created and uniquely called to do. He has a totally unique perspective on church and how to unleash folks with the skills, talents and gifts to make this world a better place. I'll be honest, you can't listen to Ben and then go to back to doing "church as usual". I think he'll challenge your perspective and hopefully open your mind to invest in people's kingdom dreams.
You can continue the conversation in our Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/betterontheinside
I spoke at the Thrive & Cultivate Summit in May with a bunch of other amazing speakers like Kay Warren, DJ Chuang and Nona Jones. You can purchase the entire conference here (use the code "JON" to give me credit): https://www.thriveandcultivate.com/a/2147530379/oF6L4sE2
Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/support
Part 2 is here!
This episode is super fun. Emily and her eldest son Coen set the interwebs ablaze when they released their exhaustive rankings of the best animated Disney films of all time. So, I got them on the podcast to chat about it... and we talked for 3 hours.
You can continue the conversation in our Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/betterontheinside
I spoke at the Thrive & Cultivate Summit in May with a bunch of other amazing speakers like Kay Warren, DJ Chuang and Nona Jones. You can purchase the entire conference here (use the code "JON" to give me credit): https://www.thriveandcultivate.com/a/2147530379/oF6L4sE2
Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/support
This episode is super fun. Emily and her eldest son Coen set the interwebs ablaze when they released their exhaustive rankings of the best animated Disney films of all time. So, I got them on the podcast to chat about it... and we talked for 3 hours. This is just part 1!!!!!!
You can continue the conversation in our Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/betterontheinside
I spoke at the Thrive & Cultivate Summit in May with a bunch of other amazing speakers like Kay Warren, DJ Chuang and Nona Jones. You can purchase the entire conference here (use the code "JON" to give me credit): https://www.thriveandcultivate.com/a/2147530379/oF6L4sE2
Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/support
I'm honestly laughing just thinking about recording this episode with Sharifa Stevens! Not hilarious and witty, she's also insightful, wise, compassionate and brilliant. A true Wizard! I'm excited to share this free-flowing conversation where tackle all sorts of topics like Hogwarts Houses, Harry Bellafonte, the pettiness of John the disciple, growing up in the Bronx, being an only child, injustice, love and theology.
To hear what JK Rowling would name Sharifa's character, pay for a YEARLY subscription to Sharifa's Substack and in the notes let her know you want the name! https://sharifahstevens.substack.com/
Go to Sharifa's LinkTree to read all of what she writes and listen to some of her podcast appearances. https://linktr.ee/sharifawrites
You can continue the conversation in our Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/betterontheinside
I'll be speaking at the Thrive & Cultivate Summit in May with a bunch of other amazing speakers like Kay Warren, DJ Chuang and Nona Jones. You can register for FREE here: https://www.thriveandcultivate.com/a/2147530380/oF6L4sE2
If you would like the All Access pass, which allows you to access the conference on-demand, use the code "JON" to give me credit: https://www.thriveandcultivate.com/a/2147530379/oF6L4sE2
--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/messageSupport this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/support
Pastor Keith Myer has been advocating for survivors of the widespread (and often covered-up) abuse within the Southern Baptist Convention (SBC). Not only with bringing awareness and changing procedures, but also in the tangible way of helping survivors travel to the annual meeting in New Orleans, LA. Please help Keith by donating to the Go Fund Me to pay for survivors travel, food and lodging expenses.
https://www.gofundme.com/f/help-get-survivors-to-nola?member=25526023&utm_campaign=p_cp+share-sheet&utm_content=undefined&utm_medium=copy_link_all&utm_source=customer&utm_term=undefined
Order Kyle Meyaard-Schaap's book Following Jesus in a Warming World from IVPress. Use the code "BETTERIN" to get 30 percent off, plus free shipping at ivpress.com until 5/8/23.
You can continue the conversation in our Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/betterontheinside
I'll be speaking at the Thrive & Cultivate Summit in May with a bunch of other amazing speakers like Kay Warren, DJ Chuang and Nona Jones. You can register for FREE here: https://www.thriveandcultivate.com/a/2147530380/oF6L4sE2
If you would like the All Access pass, which allows you to access the conference on-demand, use the code "JON" to get 10% off: https://www.thriveandcultivate.com/a/2147530379/oF6L4sE2
--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/messageSupport this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/support
Besides mispronouncing his name (SMH), I enjoyed every second of my conversation with Kyle Meyaard-Schapp. I honestly didn't know what to expect from my conversation with someone from the Evangelical Environmental Network. But Kyle absolutely delivered with some really challenging and (dare I say) mind-blowing stuff about what it means to follow Jesus in the midst of climate change. If I had to boil what I learned down to the essence, it would be this: caring for God's creation is a discipleship issue, not a socio-political one or a fashionable cause.
Order Kyle's book Following Jesus in a Warming World from IVPress. Use the code "BETTERIN" to get 30 percent off, plus free shipping at ivpress.com from 4/24-5/8.
You can continue the conversation in our Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/betterontheinside
I'll be speaking at the Thrive & Cultivate Summit in May with a bunch of other amazing speakers like Kay Warren, DJ Chuang and Nona Jones. You can register for FREE here: https://www.thriveandcultivate.com/a/2147530380/oF6L4sE2
If you would like the All Access pass, which allows you to access the conference on-demand, use the code "JON" to get 10% off: https://www.thriveandcultivate.com/a/2147530379/oF6L4sE2
--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/messageSupport this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/support
I met Ezra Byer at a cool conference I had the opportunity to attend a few months ago. We hit it off, at least in part, because we care so much about the practical application of the Christian faith and moving it out of the Sunday morning box. Ezra created and leads The Monday Christian, a website and podcast focused on turning Sunday belief into Monday action.
You can continue the conversation in our Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/betterontheinside
--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/messageSupport this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/support
Kate Guthrie is brilliant. A Pastor, Chaplain, Spiritual Director and just overall wonderful person, Kate wrote a prophetic dissertation in 2014 that is even more relevant today. While some of the terms may need updating, her observations about how our souls are shaped by digital media are prescient. Kate's grasp of modern spiritual formation is beyond necessary and wildly helpful.
I connected with Kate looking for a Spiritual Director, but she was so gracious enough to send me her dissertation too. And I was immediately hooked. I tore through her writing in one plane ride because what she was talking about was so pertinent to the world as I see it. I couldn't wait to talk to Kate, so I invited her on the podcast and wanted to share it with everyone.
You can learn more Kate's Spiritual Direction practice at Anam Cara.
Continue the conversation in our Facebook Group.
--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/messageSupport this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/support
Raconteur and Benevolent Cult Leader(?) Andrew Sears joins me on this episode. Andrew shares about the evolution of his spiritual journey, his experience with church and finding a home. We also get to talk about Tabletop Games, Video Games and the communities built around play. He said something profound that I think can apply to the church: everybody shows up and plays! That's so important.
You can find Andrew on Twitter, but the best place is the Andak Media website for all that's going on.
You can also listen to Andrew's podcasts: Rebooted and I Freaking Love That Movie (w/ Rob Fike).
Join the conversation in our Better on the Inside Facebook Group.
--- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/messageSupport this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/betterontheinside/support
Ryan Nanni is an absolute treasure. As 1/4 of the internet's only college football podcast, Ryan is not only the twisted mind behind characters like Antioch the Birthday Spider but also a catalyst behind this passionate, mostly benevolent digital community. On the surface, the Shutdown Fullcast is a rollicking and silly inside-joke laden college football podcast where they talk about everything BUT college football. But when you look deeper, you'll see a thriving version of an online neighborhood. I wanted to talk to Ryan because I think there is much to learn from cultivating a deep, vibrant community around things you love. And I'm a huge fan of Ryan in general. You can find Ryan Nanni on Twitter and on the Shutdown Fullcast.If you want to dive into the Fullcast, Ryan suggests the Disaster Episodes. There is a great playlist here: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/6bLJmgr4qE1zFw6y97cweh?si=66607843e622497aJoin the conversation in our Better on the Inside Facebook Group.--- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/betterontheinside/message
Let's-a-go! Join Charlotte Elia and Jon Pyle as they dig deeper into the previous episode, answer your questions and share your insights. With an eye on how to apply, After Better on the Inside is meant to make an actual difference in your home and work life.
This week, Charlotte and I reflect on the diamonds from the phD mines that Becky Castle Miller dropped from her work on emotions in Scripture. We take some time to talk about the mystical/spiritual side of Christianity, contemplative prayer and dig deep into some emotional reflection. I believe integrating emotional health into discipleship is ABSOLUTELY necessary to find the freedom and peace we're all searching for. It is hard, but rewarding work.
You can find Becky Castle Miller at her website: beckycastlemiller.com or subscribe to her Substack: beckycastlemiller.Substack.com
You can find Charlotte on Twitter or her website.
Join the conversation in our Facebook Group.
--- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/betterontheinside/message
EPISODE TRANSCRIPT
Have you ever been made to feel bad about feeling good? Were you taught that "above all things, the heart is deceitful?" If so, you gotta listen to this conversation with Becky Castle Miller! If not, you should listen too because you will still learn something.
Becky challenges (and kinds debunks) many of the ways we think about our emotions, feelings and desires. She drops a bunch of diamonds from the phD mines and blows my mind a few different times. The way we've been taught about how Jesus and the Bible view of our emotions may be quite limited... and changing that perspective could have a massive impact on your life. Listen to the end to get Becky's final word about emotional health and uncomfortable emotions.
You can find Becky Castle Miller at her website: beckycastlemiller.com or subscribe to her Substack: beckycastlemiller.Substack.com
Join the conversation in our Better on the Inside Facebook Group.
--- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/betterontheinside/message
Let's-a-go! Join Charlotte Elia and Jon Pyle as they dig deeper into the previous episode, answer your questions and share your insights. With an eye on how to apply, After Better on the Inside is meant to make an actual difference in your home and work life.
This week, Charlotte and I dive into my conversation with Sarah Styf around furthering the Kingdom online. The algorithm is not neutral. The algorithm is not your friend. The algorithm is gonna get you. [Cue the Miami Sound Machine]
For more about Sarah: Sarah has a great newsletter (On the Journey) and an AWESOME BOOK over at Amazon called Embracing the Journey: Learning to Grow When Life Doesn’t Work Out as Planned
You can find Charlotte on Twitter or her website.
Join the conversation in our Facebook Group.
--- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/betterontheinside/message
EPISODE TRANSCRIPT
Sarah Styf is a very cool English Teacher and more! We had a great conversation about how important it is for believers to consider our conduct online. When every tweet or comment section can become a digital hellscape, our posture, our words and our presence matter. Do we need to be perfect? Absolutely not. But we certainly can make the effort to be loving. We also discuss echo chambers, silos and have a Non-Judgment Zone of Joy that would make the Swifties proud.
Sarah has a great newsletter (On the Journey) and an AWESOME BOOK over at Amazon called Embracing the Journey: Learning to Grow When Life Doesn’t Work Out as Planned
Join the conversation in our Facebook Group.
--- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/betterontheinside/message
Let's-a-go! Join Charlotte Elia and Jon Pyle as they dig deeper into the previous episode, answer your questions and share your insights. With an eye on how to apply, After Better on the Inside is meant to make an actual difference in your home and work life.
This week, Charlotte is both co-host and guest as we dive into her points about resigning from volunteer roles and making the digital hellscape safer for your people. We actually roleplay a successful conversation and strategize about how to respectfully avoid job creep.
TRANSCRIPT HERE
You can find Charlotte on Twitter or her website.
Join the conversation in our Facebook Group.
--- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/betterontheinside/message
What can small rural churches teach large churches about digital ministry? And how can we all (rural, urban, big, small, new, old) do digital better, together? Charlotte Elia is here to help expand our digital imagination and find our respective lanes in the digital space.
Charlotte is one of the funniest people ever but more importantly, an incredible voice in both rural and digital church spaces. She is the host of the How We Do Digital Ministry and Heavenly Banquet podcasts, valuable resources for anyone not just church leaders.
You can find Charlotte on Twitter or her website.
Join the conversation in our Facebook Group.
--- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/betterontheinside/message
Today my conversation is with Dr. Josh Packard, Executive Director of the Springtide Research Institute. Through their extensive research (perhaps the largest data set on the planet) on the spiritual lives of young folks, Springtide and Dr. Packard discovered some mind-blowing things. You might think you know about the spirituality of the next generation (13-25 year olds), but you're probably wrong. The "decline narrative" is way too simplistic. Yes, you might see less young people attending church... but that doesn't mean they're out on Jesus. And it doesn't mean they're going to come to us for help.
Since the next generation is less likely to seek out traditional church attendance (they don't trust institutions or institutional leaders), it's important we go to them. Let's look beyond the assumptions and meet them where they are. But they don't need more Fun Uncles... Reddit is better for that. It means shifting our models from Knowledge Transfer to Relational Authority. From the Sage on the Stage to the Question Consultant.
Follow Springtide on Twitter.
Join the conversation in our Facebook Group.
--- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/betterontheinside/message
My guest this week is me. I invited my good friend Andy Mage to interview me because I wanted to share what I've learned this year.
When I started this podcast, it was because I was looking for answers. With all the scandals, abuse, and controversy surrounding the church, I wanted to know how to make the church "better on the inside". Specifically for those working, going to, visiting, volunteering for the church: how can you work for a church without losing your soul? Meaning, how can you do ministry and love Jesus even more?
And the answers I've gotten are incredible. I had the privilege to speak to some of the most wonderful, wise and inspiring people this year. (I only name-dropped a few of y'all, but ALL OF Y'ALL were wonderful) So, I wanted to take the time to share what I learned from 25+ conversations that have changed how I see church, discipleship, pastoring, theology, miracles, Jesus and almost everything else. Andy & I dig into what has come out of this season, how it's changed me and what is coming next.
You can find Andy Mage at Bay Hope Church, Lux Digital Church or on Twitter. He's wonderful.
To keep up with us and get updates about the new season of Better on the Inside: SUBSCRIBE and join the conversation in our Facebook Group.
--- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/betterontheinside/message
Rob Fike is the first guest I've ever had on my socks!! (True story)
Rob & I are friends IRL and he's a fantastic dude. We've worked together, podcasted together, watched movies together, played basketball together and dreamed together. As a PK and non-profit sector veteran, Rob has a unique and impactful view of how to start and sustain movements. This is absolutely worth a lesson as we reflect on what it means to be a force for good in this world!
You should also buy Rob's fiction books: The Department of Mutated Persons
Rob's website
Rob's Twitter
Rob's Linktree
I Freaking Love That Movie Podcast
Keep the conversation going in The Better on the Inside Facebook Community.
--- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/betterontheinside/message
Jason Kirk is one big part of the Shutdown Fullcast, the internet's ONLY college football podcast, and the proprietor of Vacation Bible School, a podcast about the big, weird Holy Bible, made by and for Sunday School kids. (Support them on Patreon!) Jason is also a wonderful theologian and thinker about religion and spirituality, but firmly outside the Evangelical Industrial Complex, so I wanted to talk with him about how to make the church better on the inside. He has a unique perspective, going from the ultimate insider in Southern SBC megachurch Youth Groups to somewhat of an outsider, with many VALID critiques and concerns about the church. (And a great taste in Christian music.)
I love talking with Jason so much. Please listen to this conversation with an open mind. Some of what he has to say, you may disagree with (is Job a real story?) but please don't let that discourage you from hearing him. Jason has a prophetic edge, which I love, and he's speaking to a deeply spiritual longing that I think many in and out of the church will recognize.
No matter where you are on your spiritual journey, you belong here and I'm glad you're here.
If you want to continue this conversation, join us on Facebook: Better on the Inside Facebook Group.
--- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/betterontheinside/message
Helping unhoused people is often divisive and politicized work that doesn't have a lot of easy solutions. So, what can we do to help?
As with many things, it starts with relationship. While I don't have all the answers, I do know we all need to start listening to people like Kevin Nye. Kevin has worked directly with our unhoused neighbors in a number of capacities and has an invaluable perspective that transcends party lines and challenges our preconceived notions. In our conversation, Kevin unpacks his experience and really paints a picture of what help and humanization can look like. He is brilliant, and I loved talking to him. He also gets the first non-musical "Non-Judgment Zone of Joy" intro.
Please read Kevin's book: https://kevinmnye.com/grace-can-lead-us-home-book/, subscribe to his newsletter and support him generally. Truly a good dude. If you want to continue the conversation, check out our Facebook Group!
--- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/betterontheinside/message
Holly Stallcup is the Founder and Executive Director of Rise (https://www.nowsherises.org/), an organization that connects, equips and empowers people to build a Church where women thrive. And she is a delight to have a conversation with. Thankful to meet her through Hector and Sarah of the Pocket Pulpit Podcast (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/pocket-pulpit/id1590925649)
Holly has a unique perspective and experience on how the Church (the Big C church, the universal Church) can support women that transcends theology. She says it in the episode, but Holly and Rise believe women are already out there doing good work, being the hands and feet of Jesus out in the world. So how can you empower them? Listen to this episode and Holly has some amazing ideas.
If you want to continue this conversation, join our Facebook Group.
--- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/betterontheinside/message
My dude Eugene Kim is a dream guest for the podcast. Truly. As I started to brainstorm what Better on the Inside could be, I made a guest list of people I'd love to talk to. And Eugene was on the FIRST LIST, which means I've wanted to chat with him for quite awhile. (There are still some dream names on the list that I hope to wrangle one day) And my dude does not disappoint. Eugene is one of the strongest voices for experimenting and changing a church model that wasn't working for him as a pastor and isn't working for A LOT of people who come (or used to come) to church.
Eugene Kim is a pastor and the brains behind the New Wine Collective, a grassroots movement empowering people to co-create their own spiritual community wherever they are. He is wildly brilliant and I'm so thankful for his work and advocacy in the church space.
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/betterontheinside/message
My new friend David Hayward AKA Naked Pastor (please only search for his site with one word: nakedpastor, or you may get an unpleasant surprise. The safest way: follow the link here: https://nakedpastor.com/) chats with me about how he moved from pastoral ministry in a church to a different kind of ministry: cartoons! You may have seen them on the internet, but David has done a good job portraying "the Jesus we fell in love with" in his cartoons, art and prints. An untamed and wild Savior, who loves us dearly and has no problem turning over tables to upset the order of things. What is it like to follow Jesus and be completely free?
Check out his work, follow him on Twitter and BUY HIS BOOK: https://www.amazon.com/Flip-Like-This-David-Hayward/dp/1506484727
Keep the conversation going with us: https://www.facebook.com/groups/betterontheinside
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/betterontheinside/message
My conversation with Rose J. Percy is absolutely delightful. She is not only fun to talk to, Rose is creative, kind and brilliant. She uses the phrase "epistemic humility" seamlessly in conversation without batting an eyelash (and it makes sense). When she digs into the challenges of the industrial mindset of the church and what happens when you don't fit into the assembly line, it is MIND-BLOWING. Rose brings a much-needed organic, curious and beautiful perspective to our church life and our imagination. This was eye-opening and challenging for me, so I hope it effects you in similar way.
"I don't want to be needed, I want to belong.
The songs of belonging are different, I can sing them with my whole body"
Check out Rose's website: https://www.rosejpercy.com/
LinkTree: https://linktr.ee/rosejpercy
Dear Soft Black Woman Podcast: https://www.rosejpercy.com/dearsbw
Twitter: @rosejpercy
Continue the conversation in our Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/betterontheinside
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/betterontheinside/message
Jenai Auman is an absolute delight! I really enjoyed our conversation, which was filled with a lot of joy, even though it was about something terrible: spiritual abuse. Jenai and her family have a story all too familiar: going from excited church planters to wounded exiles, hobbling out of a community they loved and wanted to protect. While she is still healing, Jenai is telling her story and creating something beautiful from the ashes of her experience. And honestly, the future of the church belongs in the hands of folks like Jenai Auman.
Want to connect with Jenai? You can find her and everything she's doing at https://www.jenaiauman.com/ or @jenaiauman on the socials.
If you want to continue the conversation, you can join the Better on the Inside Facebook Group or follow @jonpyle on Twitter.
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/betterontheinside/message
Corey Winfield is an Eagle. I tease him about it, but he truly flies above all the mess and sees the world from a unique (often higher) perspective. We worked together at CityChurch but eventually Corey's story sent him away… and got very interesting.
He has a wonderful take on what it means to leave the church but not leave Jesus and reflects on what ministry looks like among the people. We also are joined briefly by his lovely wife Rhonda.
If you want to continue the conversation, join our Facebook Group http://Facebook.com/groups/betterontheinside
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/betterontheinside/message
Tracey Gee is a BOSS! I met her through Twitter and found her leadership insight and coaching invaluable but also accessible. So often “leadership” is a buzzword that doesn't really help most people or even a term that feels icky to some, especially in the church world. But that's not Tracey.
She is focused on unlocking everyone's strengths and helping you be your best. She shared some wonderful advice for anyone and everyone to be unleashed.
If you want to continue the conversation, join our Facebook Group http://Facebook.com/groups/betterontheinside
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/betterontheinside/message
Very few people have experienced the inside of the "Evangelical Industrial Complex" quite like Dave McGinnis. As a kid who has grown up in the church (running a video switcher for the Christmas Program and switching transparencies for worship) with two parents & a wife on staff and also worked for churches himself, Dave has a unique perspective on the issues facing the church and how it could (potentially) be better on the inside. When you know how the sausage is made, when you've seen behind the curtain and experienced several hurts and calamities, how do you move forward with church? I don't know. But we have to do better!
We get into some really good topics: politics, nationalism, #ChurchToo, Toxic Masculinity and more. You can find Dave on Twitter (@dav_mcg), where he is super duper insightful and often posts fun stuff about movies and pop culture too.
Want to continue the conversation? Hang out with us over on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/betterontheinside
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/betterontheinside/message
I get to talk to a man I consider a celebrity: Tyler Huckabee!
Tyler is someone I sincerely appreciate because he approaches complex issues with a great deal of nuance. Hearing his take on deconstruction was EXTREMELY helpful and instructive. Tyler is a reporter and breaks down deconstruction, this movement critiquing toxic religious systems, but why he's worried we won't go far enough. What does this have to do with "switching jerseys" and "redecorating the house"? You'll have to listen to find out. Plus we have a choose your own adventure-like question, explore Tyler variants and dive into the tension Jesus creates.
Tyler is the Senior Editor at Relevant Magazine and you can find him on Twitter at @tylerhuckabee
Want to continue the conversation: join our Facebook Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/betterontheinside
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/betterontheinside/message
Volunteer Guru Mary Ann Sibley joins me for our first ever LIVE show! She is amazing. When I asked the question: "who should I talk to about volunteer burnout?" several people pointed me toward Mary Ann... and she did not disappoint.
Not growing up in the church, she has been willing to ask the questions and try the things that "churches don't do". Mary Ann also has led a toxic volunteer culture herself, so much of her wisdom is hard-won through blood, sweat and tears. I am thankful for her humility and insight. Whether you're a volunteer yourself, a church leader or someone who has been chewed up and spit out by the church machine Mary Ann brings tremendous truth, care and wisdom that will help you. She unpacks what makes toxic cultures toxic and what makes healthy cultures places people LOVE to serve.
Like, subscribe and if you want to keep the conversation going, join our Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/betterontheinside
*We have some technical difficulties at the beginning of this episode that distract me for a moment, so please bear with us
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/betterontheinside/message
Why does evil exist? Why do bad things happen to good people? Why God why?
Have you ever asked God those questions? I know I have. At 20 years old, my entire life ahead of me, I was diagnosed with cancer.
My question was WHY? WHY GOD WHY? Why would you do this to me? Why would you allow this to happen to me? I am a good person. I don't break any laws. I don't treat others poorly. My life has barely started and I have so much to do. Why me?
Maybe you didn't get a cancer diagnosis but something else happened and you found yourself asking the question WHY.
Even if you’ve never asked God out loud, I imagine you’ve asked WHY too. Maybe it’s why you left the faith. Maybe it’s why you never started. But when we face painful hardships in life most of us ask WHY?
- Why did COVID spread all around the world?
- Why are people in Ukraine dying?
- Why are children starving?
- Why did my dad leave?
- Why did I lose my job?
- Why is my kid hurting themself?
- Why did my marriage end?
- Why am I sick? Why am I alone?
- Why didn’t you heal my mom?
When we face painful hardships in life most of us ask WHY? And it’s a good question. Our pain and suffering lead us to seek answers. This is part of the human condition. Maybe you were told that these questions were inappropriate for God. Or disrespectful. Or that they were silly and unanswerable. Maybe you were even made to feel bad for asking the question. Perhaps when you asked this question, people in your life responded with empty platitudes and hollow answers like: God never gives you more than you can handle. Or my least favorite: everything happens for a reason.
Have you ever heard that before? Doesn't it just make you so mad. When you’re really hurting, these responses to our pain and suffering so often don’t help. These answers rarely bring us hope.
I may not have an answer for YOUR WHY today, but I can offer some help. Through a story in the Scripture and through my personal story, I want to help you when you face pain and suffering. I want to give you HOPE! I can’t take away your pain or remove your suffering, but I can help you find hope. But you have to make a choice.
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/betterontheinside/message
Pastor Doug is my dude! I learned about him from Hector Martinez and Sarah Kinzer, who had him on their podcast: The Pocket Pulpit. Doug is a Pastor's Pastor in more ways than one. Not only is he a fantastic representative of what it means to be a true shepherd of the people on their spiritual journey, he also devotes a lot of time caring for those in ministry... especially pastors. We could all use a friend like Doug. He keeps it real about his own struggles and the challenges of leading a church in my conversation with him. It was the first, but it won't be the last. Check out Doug at https://www.fairlyspiritual.org/ You can continue the conversation from this episode or any other episode at our Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/betterontheinside
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/betterontheinside/message
I caught Jonathan Carone on Tik-Tok and I immediately wanted to have him on the show. His podcast, Unlearning Youth Group, has really connected with people deconstructing and wrestling in their spiritual journeys... but ALSO folks currently serving at a church and even leading Youth Ministry. When Jonathan realized that he had to "un-learn" some unhealthy theology that was hurting his own personal relationship with Jesus, he invited all of us on the journey with him. This is big for the church, but more importantly it's massively critical for people as they try to follow Jesus without sacrificing their mental health.
Check out his podcast Unlearning Youth Group (https://shows.acast.com/unlearning-youth-group) and hire him at his website (https://jonathancarone.com/)
Join the Better on the Inside Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/betterontheinside and keep the conversation going.
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/betterontheinside/message
Melissa Florer-Bixler (AKA the Notorious MFB) is an absolute BOSS. Melissa is the pastor of Raleigh Mennonite Church, (that's right... a Mennonite!) and a graduate of Duke University and Princeton Theological Seminary. She has spent a lot of time investing in local organizing efforts in her county and has been the hands and feet on the ground to make the lives of real people better. The Notorious MFB has written wonderful stuff online and a new book called How to Have an Enemy: Righteous Anger and the Work of Peacethat you absolutely should read. Her perspective will be challenging for you, regardless of where you're coming from. And I think it is incredibly important to move out of our comfort zones, interrogate our beliefs, and imagine a different kind of church.
Wanna continue the conversation? Check out the Better on the Inside Facebook Group.
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/betterontheinside/message
I think I was 3 years old when I met Michael Jones. And we've been besties ever since. We've had a ton in common over the years: Star Wars action figures, movies, professional wrestling, sports and shenanigans... but unexpectedly we also both ended up becoming Pastors too! Definitely not the path we expected to take when were cruising around Alta Loma in his sweet ass Camaro during the Great Toilet Paper War of 1998.
Michael is the Family Pastor for Granite Creek Community Church in Claremont, California but he's also led Youth and helped out with Digital. He is a super creative and amazing guy who has been in the Youth trenches for a long time. His perspective on what kids and teens need during the pandemic and after are incredibly valuable. Michael brings a ton of wisdom for anyone who has served at a church or been on a church staff and what it looks like to create healthy spiritual communities where you are. Truly, Michael is an amazing man and someone who has taught me about what it means to be better on the inside.
To continue the conversation, check out our Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/betterontheinside
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/betterontheinside/message
What happens when you "transition" from your church? ("Transition" is church code for getting fired) What do you do when you're asked to leave... but you don't want to?
I sit down with one of my ride or die homies and certified Brown Boy Robby Quintero about his unexpected journey from his calling in ministry to the "real world". When you're on staff at YOUR church and you're asked to leave, it has significant emotional and spiritual consequences. It can effect your identity and your relationship with Jesus. I know Robby's not alone in that situation. Church hurt is very real and difficult to rebound from... so what do you do? How can you find healing? There is a path. There is a way where YOU can be better on the inside and recover your soul.
Also... Robby is 6'4".
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/betterontheinside/message
Chamberlain Saenz is my dude. I've gotten to know him over the past few years and he has been instrumental in helping me through some difficult times. His life story is an amazing one and can testify to the transformative power of Jesus. We've worked together on staff at CityChurch San Antonio and been through some turmoil... but the biggest thing we talk about on this episode is church hurt and his story.
What do you do when you feel like God called you somewhere but you're meeting a lot of resistance? How do you respond when it feels like the church is holding you back from your calling? What does it take to make peace with a church that's hurt you?
Our conversation unpacks these and helps anyone who may be walking around with wounds from a church.
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/betterontheinside/message
Tom Pounder is a church veteran who has managed to stay passionate and enthusiastic about Youth and Online Ministry, in part because of his humility and desire to continue learning. In this physical/digital (phygital) hybrid era, Tom shares some wisdom and expertise around taking digital beyond vanity metrics and into discipleship, the Metaverse, reaching the Youth in a meaningful way and how we can navigate our own spiritual growth. Of course, we also talk about our favorite Cable TV movies, Dad thrillers and our simpatico movie tastes.
Also, I debut a new segment that is a lot of fun!
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/betterontheinside/message
Tom Pounder is a church veteran who has managed to stay passionate and enthusiastic about Youth and Online Ministry, in part because of his humility and desire to continue learning. In this physical/digital (phygital) hybrid era, Tom shares some wisdom and expertise around taking digital beyond vanity metrics and into discipleship, the Metaverse, reaching the Youth in a meaningful way and how we can navigate our own spiritual growth. Of course, we also talk about our favorite Cable TV movies, Dad thrillers and our simpatico movie tastes.
Also, I debut a new segment that is a lot of fun!
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/betterontheinside/message
From serious theological discussion (including big words like antithetical parallelism) to tricking his Korean Mom into seeing a movie, Dr. Sam Won brings amazing depth of knowledge and insight to the podcast. He is a true "Slash": Pastor/Pharmacist/Professor.
For followers of Jesus, our "Bible in a Year" reading plans can can really bog us down and de-motivate us in the Old Testament... but it doesn't have to. While Christians are under a new covenant with Jesus, the foundational background to our faith is found in the Scripture of God's chosen people. We can revitalize our reading and our spiritual life by diving deep into the stories, poetry, wisdom and legal documents in the front of our Bibles.
Dr. Won, Adjunct Professor of the Old Testament at Dallas Theological Seminary, shares what the Hebrew Scriptures can teach us as Christians, how to unlock the richness of the text and why the OT is like Marvel Comics. He also talks about legalism, art and pop culture in a way that will keep you inspired and hungry for more.
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/betterontheinside/message
For this episode, I got to hang out with Holly Tate and have a delightful conversation about changing a toxic leadership culture, vulnerability, healthy growth, her own story and being a woman in ministry.
Holly is the SVP of Growth for Leadr, a really cool tech company that is doing their part to make churches and other organizations better on the inside. I met her for the first time in-person at an event that Leadr hosted and she is such a smart and dynamic person I was like, I really want to have her on the podcast. If her voice sounds familiar, it’s because Holly was the host of the Vanderbloemen podcast for several years when was a part of that organization.
If you work in ministry, or volunteer at your church, or you got burned out and left organized religion altogether, this is a really good conversation about restoring goodness and health to the spiritual communities we love.
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/betterontheinside/message
There is a lot of fear, concern and complaining about the faith of the next generation. But what if all of this worry is unnecessary? What if the kids aren't just alright... what if they're poised to lead the church exactly where we need to go?
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/betterontheinside/message
Does God want us to be happy? Like, for real?
Followers of Jesus, especially those with religious trauma, sometimes feel a great deal of confusion around happiness. Theoretically, we should be full of joy. But, in practice, Christians are often some of the most miserable (and judgmental) folks on the planet. Why? We've lost something so important that can make following Jesus a little more fun.
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/betterontheinside/message
Dr. Roberta Jones-Hall (AKA Bertie) is incredibly wise, insightful and helpful. As both a doctor and a minister, she has a unique perspective on our path to spiritual growth that is INCREDIBLY valuable to anyone... but especially those who work for a church.
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/betterontheinside/message