Make It Simple: Recent Episodes
MPM
Matt Popovits takes complicated issues and, with the help of an expert, breaks them down into ideas we can understand, truths we can apply, and questions worth pondering--and he does it all through the lens of faith. Co-host Rachel Ryder provides thoughtful insights and keeps the conversation moving on topics ranging from parenting, anxiety, and racism, to gender identity, the enneagram, politics and more.
This week, the podcast welcomes John Busacker for our season finale episode, where we discuss what it means to finish things well in all aspects of life. John shares wisdom to be considered as we look at what it means to move through life with intention. It’s a perfect conversation to close out this podcast season.
John Busacker is a writer, speaker and the Founder of Life-Worth, LLC, a personal leadership development firm. He has delivered keynotes, facilitated workshops, coached leaders, and orchestrated conferences on six continents with clients ranging from Medtronic, Duke Corporate Education, Thrivent Financial, PwC, CommonSpirit Health, National Football League, NGL, Ameriprise Financial and Kingdom Advisors.
John is the author of four books including his latest, Gasping for Breath: Inviting God's Spirit Into Your Overwhelmed Life.
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Check out What Matters Most, daily teachings from Matt Popovits, available wherever you get your podcasts.
For more information on MPM, head to mattpopovits.com
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Dr. Jordan Cooper joins the podcast to help us break down and understand Christian nationalism and share wisdom about living as a believer and a citizen. It’s a meaningful conversation with a new perspective on political responsibility.
Jordan Cooper is an ordained Lutheran pastor, a Professor of Systematic Theology, the Executive Director of Just and Sinner, and the President of the American Lutheran Theological Seminary. Check out the Just and Sinner Podcast from Dr. Cooper, who also hosts a popular YouTube channel.
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Check out What Matters Most, daily teachings from Matt Popovits, available wherever you get your podcasts.
For more information on MPM, head to mattpopovits.com
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This week, Matt and Rachel welcome screenwriter and filmmaker Joshua Salzberg, who shares about the power found in storytelling. He shares how stories help change and shape us, and often, leads us to great empathy. It’s a very fun episode, filled with a lot of wisdom (and a little bit of movie talk). To learn more and stay updated about Joshua's newest project, follow @ThePerformance on Instagram, and check out
Joshua Salzberg is a screenwriter and filmmaker living in Los Angeles, CA. Most recently, he adapted Arthur Miller's The Performance with director Shira Piven, due out in 2024. Salzberg has also worked on the editing crews of studio comedies such as Step Brothers, The Other Guys, and Funny People and as the lead editor of indie favorites that include Welcome to Me (National Board of Review Nominee), Dean (Tribeca Jury Prize), Netflix's Ibiza, and the Fox series Welcome to Flatch.
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Check out What Matters Most, daily teachings from Matt Popovits, available wherever you get your podcasts.
For more information on MPM, head to mattpopovits.com
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Terra McDaniel joins the podcast this week and brings a new perspective on grief. She shares how many people don’t know how to process mourning and instead struggle to honor their tears, vulnerability, and the full weight of these disillusioning times. She offers several practical ways to express lament and leaves us with hope for moving forward.
Terra McDaniel is a spiritual director for adults and children. She spent two decades as a pastor and ministry leader and earned her MDiv at Portland Seminary. McDaniel wrote More Than Ordinary with Doug Sherman and is a regular contributor to the Companioning Center blog. You can check out her most recdent book, Hopeful Lament, and learn more at TerraMcDaniel.com
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To support Make It Simple, head to mpm.simple donation.com
Check out What Matters Most, daily teachings from Matt Popovits, available wherever you get your podcasts.
For more information on MPM, head to mattpopovits.com
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Elrena Evans joins the podcast this week to share her experience as part of a family with special needs. She beautifully shares her story and what inspired her to write a book of prayers for when you don't have the words, and she gives us practical and loving ways to truly be welcoming to everyone, especially people navigating a world not designed for them. It's an empathetic conversation you won't want to miss.
Elrena is executive editor of Paper&String, a digital care package celebrating faith, creativity, and beauty in its many forms. She is the author of a short story collection, This Crowded Night, and coauthor of the essay collection Mama, PhD: Women Write About Motherhood and Academic Life. Her books, When I Go To Church, I Belong , and Special Grace are available now.
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To support Make It Simple, head to mpm.simple donation.com
Check out What Matters Most, daily teachings from Matt Popovits, available wherever you get your podcasts.
For more information on MPM, head to mattpopovits.com
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This week, Michelle Thompson is back with Matt & Rachel to discuss perfectionism and shame and shows us grief and acceptance are the pathways to growth. As always, Michelle brings wisdom, warmth, and lighthearted grace to the conversation. You don’t want to miss it.
Michelle is the Senior Director of External Relations and Executive Coaching and Consulting, Townsend Institute, Concordia Irvine.
As a Leadership and Growth Coach, credentialed as a Professional Certified Coach by the International Coaching Federation, she brings a breadth of executive leadership experience in the non-profit and for-profit sector combined with almost two decades of involvement with the Townsend Growth Model.
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Check out What Matters Most, daily teachings from Matt Popovits, available wherever you get your podcasts.
For more information on MPM, head to mattpopovits.com
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This week, Steve Theiss joins Matt and Rachel to share about the art and craft of comedy. Steve shares insights into the importance of comedy, making people laugh, and the creative process behind humor. Listeners can gain a deeper understanding of the comedic world and pick up a few tips on injecting humor into their own lives.
Steve Theiss writes, improvises, acts, directs, teaches improv, and occasionally sleeps. He used to do these things in New York, but now does them in California, where he lives with his wife and three daughters. Steve has directed music videos, comedy videos, and recently completed a short film. He’s appeared in commercials for USA Today, Peeps, Disney Vacation Club, and more. See some of his work at stevetheiss.com.
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To support Make It Simple, head to mpm.simple donation.com
Check out What Matters Most, daily teachings from Matt Popovits, available wherever you get your podcasts.
For more information on MPM, head to mattpopovits.com
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Bob Hiller joins Rachel & Matt to share about some commonly misunderstood and misused Scripture. It’s a fun and grace-filled episode as they dive deep into three commonly misunderstood Bible verses. Bob shares how to better approach Scripture, and they all land on the other side with a deeper insight into the character of God (Warning… You may come away with a new perspective on some favorite verses). You won’t want to miss this episode!
Bob Hiller is the senior pastor of Community Lutheran Church in Escondido, CA. He is the content editor for The Craft of Preaching, a preacher on You Are Forgiven Radio, and a contributor to 1517. He is also a co-host on White Horse Inn
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To support Make It Simple, head to mpm.simple donation.com
Check out What Matters Most, daily teachings from Matt Popovits, available wherever you get your podcasts.
For more information on MPM, head to mattpopovits.com
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This week, Matt and Rachel are back, and talk with author and artist Ned Bustard about the true story of Saint Valentine and his new book Saint Valentine the Kindhearted. They discuss how our understanding of love changes, making stories accessible for children, and art of loving through our kindness.
You can learn more about Ned and check out his beautiful artwork on IG @NedBustard, and find his books on Amazon and wherever books are sold.
Ned Bustard is a graphic designer, children’s book illustrator, author, and printmaker. He is an elder at Wheatland Presbyterian Church, creative director Square Halo Books, Inc., curator of the Square Halo Gallery, and serves on the boards of the Association of Scholars of Christianity in the History of Art (ASCHA) and The Row House, Inc. His book "Saint Valentine the Kindhearted" is available now and retells the story of St. Valentine, a man whose kindness and love inspires us each year.
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Check out What Matters Most, daily teachings from Matt Popovits, available wherever you get your podcasts.
For more information on MPM, head to mattpopovits.com
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In this special episode, Rachel and Matt speak with their new friend, Matt Randerson. Matt brings a wealth of knowledge and compassion as he shares recent trends presented by the Barna Group regarding intergenerational relationships. He shares insights to help us navigate the generational divides, explains what the cultural labels really mean, and ways we can move forward in community together.
Matt Randerson serves as Vice President at Barna Group, working with churches and faith-based organizations to identify their most important opportunities using research. Matt sees research as a way to create confidence and clarity for leaders around their greatest opportunities in the Christian landscape. He lives with his wife and newborn son in Atlanta, Georgia.
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Check out What Matters Most, daily teachings from Matt Popovits, available wherever you get your podcasts.
For more information on MPM, head to mattpopovits.com
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This week, we talk to Dr. John Townsend about navigating tricky relationships with difficult people— what we mean when we say someone is “toxic” or find interactions with them continually causing us hurt. It’s a gracious and truth-filled conversation that will help you love the difficult people in your life while also caring for yourself.
Dr. John Townsend is a business consultant, leadership coach and clinical psychologist. He has written or co-written 27 books, selling 8 million copies, including the 8 million New York Times best-seller Boundaries, Leadership Beyond Reason, and Handling Difficult People.
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Check out What Matters Most, daily teachings from Matt Popovits, available wherever you get your podcasts.
For more information on MPM, head to mattpopovits.com
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This week, our summer series continues with a fascinating conversation about the history of the Bible (specifically, how ancient texts have been passed down and what makes the Bible different from other documents). It’s interesting and informative, and you’ll surely learn something new!
Jeffrey Kloha, the Chief Curatorial Officer for the Museum of the Bible, manages the Museum of the Bible Education, Scholars Initiative, Exhibits, and Curatorial and Collections departments.
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For more information on MPM, head to mattpopovits.com
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Welcome to season 6! This week, Rachel and Matt talk with Chad Lakies and break down Apologetics. It's a conversation about faith and our current culture and what it means to ask and answer, "What does it mean to be "Christian" today?" Join us!
Rev. Dr. Chad Lakies is the regional director for North America at Lutheran Hour Ministries, and is a scholar on the intersection of church and culture.
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This week, Alan Fadling joins the podcast to discuss what it looks like to slow down. He shares the how being unhurried is a rhythm of rest, and more about your soul than your calendar. It’s a conversation that will make you want to take a deep breath in and lean into the good things around you.
Alan Fadling is president and founder of Unhurried Living, Inc., inspiring people to rest deeper, live fuller, and lead better. He speaks and consults internationally with organizations such as Saddleback Church, InterVarsity Christian Fellowship, Cru, Halftime Institute, Apprentice Institute, and Open Doors International.
He is the award-winning author of An Unhurried Leader and An Unhurried Life, which was honored with a Christianity Today Award of Merit in spirituality. He has a new book, "A Year of Slowing Down: Daily Devotions for Unhurried Living."
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Check out What Matters Most, daily teachings from Matt Popovits, available wherever you get your podcasts.
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This week, Jared Wilson joins the podcast to talk about Pastors, and shares some inside baseball about what it's like to be a pastor these days. He brings empathy and compassion to the conversation, and reminds us all that sometimes the key to success... is time and experience. It's a surprising conversation that you won't want to miss.
Jared Wilson is Assistant Professor of Pastoral Ministry and Author in Residence at Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary and a pastor and Director of The Pastoral Training Center at Liberty Baptist Church in Kansas City, MO. Jared hosts the For The Church Podcast and co-hosts The Art of Pastoring Podcast.
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Check out What Matters Most, daily teachings from Matt Popovits, available wherever you get your podcasts.
For more information on MPM, head to mattpopovits.com
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This week, Alan Noble joins the podcast to talk about his new book, On Getting Out of Bed, and considers about the unique burden of everyday life in the modern world. Alan shares how the choice to carry on amid great suffering—to simply get out of bed—is itself a powerful witness to the goodness of life, and of God.
Alan Noble (PhD, Baylor University) is associate professor of English at Oklahoma Baptist University, cofounder and editor in chief of Christ and Pop Culture, and an advisor for the AND Campaign. He has written for many publications such as the Atlantic, BuzzFeed, and Christianity Today, and many others. He has also written several books including his latest book, "On Getting Out of Bed."
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Check out What Matters Most, daily teachings from Matt Popovits, available wherever you get your podcasts.
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This week, the delightful Jessica Thompson joins the podcast to talk about her new book, He Loved Them, and offers a fresh examination on the love of Jesus. She shares why we all benefit from understanding not only that Jesus loves us, but how he loves us, and how that can change our daily lives. It’s an episode that will hit you in the feels, and leave you feeling loved.
Jessica Thompson is co-author of the popular parenting book Give Them Grace: Dazzling Your Kids with the Love of Jesus (with her mother Elyse Fitzpatrick). She is a wife, a mother of three, and the women's director at RISEN church in San Diego. She has a new book "He Loved Them" that looks at Jesus's interactions with real people in Scripture.
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Check out What Matters Most, daily teachings from Matt Popovits, available wherever you get your podcasts.
For more information on MPM, head to mattpopovits.com
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This week, David Zahl is back to talk with Matt and Rachel about Low Anthropology, and share why the sooner we realize that everyone struggles like we do, the sooner we can show grace to ourselves and others. It’s a really great conversation that will change the way you look at your neighbor (and yourself).
David Zahl is the director of Mockingbird Ministries, an organization he founded in 2007. He is editor-in-chief of the Mockingbird blog and cohost of the Mockingcast podcast. David is also an author of multiple books and has written for Christianity Today and the Washington Post.
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Check out What Matters Most, daily teachings from Matt Popovits, available wherever you get your podcasts.
For more information on MPM, head to mattpopovits.com
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Season 5 kicks off with a great episode with Kelly Flanagan joining Matt and Rachel to talk about companionship. He shares what to look for in true friend, and how companionship is a deeper way of looking at relationships.
Kelly is a licensed clinical psychologist and cofounder of Artisan Clinical Associates in Naperville, Illinois. In 2012, he began the now popular blog UnTangled, where he writes weekly about the redemption of our personal, relational, and global lives. He has authored several books, including "The Unhiding of Elijah Campbell" and "True Companions: A Book for Everyone About the Relationships That See Us Through."
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Check out What Matters Most, daily teachings from Matt Popovits, available wherever you get your podcasts.
For more information on MPM, head to mattpopovits.com
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We are so excited to welcome Jon Collins for a study of wisdom.
Jon Collins, from The BibleProject, joins the podcast for a special conversation, where we will learn about wisdom by looking at what Scripture has to show us. We take a look at different examples of wisdom, and learn what it means to let Scripture answer our questions. You won’t want to miss it!
Jon was a pastor then stepped into the marketplace to explore digital communication, working with clients ranging from Google and P&G to Silicon Valley start-ups and nonprofits. In 2009, Jon’s first company, Epipheo, introduced the business world to “explainer videos.” In 2016, Jon dove into the BibleProject full-time.
Check out more at BibleProject.com and wherever you get podcasts.
To support Make It Simple, head to mpm.simple donation.com
Check out What Matters Most, daily teachings from Matt Popovits, available wherever you get your podcasts.
For more information on MPM, head to mattpopovits.com
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Joshua Becker joins the podcast this week to talk all about minimalism!
We dive into understanding minimalism, and discover that it’s more a conversation about values, than about stuff. Joshua gives practical advice, as well as shares how a journey about minimalism is really a spiritual journey. You won’t want to miss it!
Joshua Becker is an author and the founder of Becoming Minimalist, a community / designed to inspire people to pursue their greatest passions by owning fewer possessions. Joshua is the WSJ Best-Selling author of The More of Less and The Minimalist Home. His new book, Things That Matter, is now available.
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Check out What Matters Most, daily teachings from Matt Popovits, available wherever you get your podcasts.
For more information on MPM, head to mattpopovits.com
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This week, we are joined by Brian McKenna for a very important conversation about anxiety and depression. Brian helps us understand the journey of anxiety and depression. He shares the differences between the two, and offers hope with the power of small victories.
With compassion, Brian helps individuals and families gain skills for life so they can achieve a healthy level of functioning, renewed hope, and happiness in their lives.
Brian McKenna helps individuals and families gain skills for life so they can achieve a healthy level of functioning, renewed hope, and happiness in their lives. His collaborative approach involves other essential relationships and resources to optimize outcomes, fostering a strong therapeutic alliance between himself and the individual. These two strategies are the most important factors to change and healing. Brian inspires and motivates people to become healthier, happier and more connected in their relationships, as seen in his Tedx Talk which can be found on YouTube.
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Check out What Matters Most, daily teachings from Matt Popovits, available wherever you get your podcasts.
For more information on MPM, head to mattpopovits.com
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Meredith Miller joins the podcast this week to share how to teach kids about the Bible.
Meredith shares with Rachel and Matt all about how to talk with kids about Jesus (and, even, what can be avoided for now!). It’s a sweet and informative conversation. You won’t want to miss it!
Meredith is a pastor and parent with over 20 years experience helping families follow Jesus. She wants to help parents re-examine the notion of using the Bible to raise “good kids” and catch a fresh vision for being a Jesus-centered, justice-seeking, and joy-filled family. She many resources, including a podcast called "Ask Away," a faith-based newsletter, and an Instagram account @MeredithAnneMiller
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Check out What Matters Most, daily teachings from Matt Popovits, available wherever you get your podcasts.
For more information on MPM, head to mattpopovits.com
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This week, we’re talking with our friend Tanner Olson all about Creativity, and spreading the message of hope through Poetry.
Tanner joins Rachel and Matt to talk about how poetry and speaking beautiful words can make an impact in our world. We’re so excited for you to meet our talented friend, Tanner!
Tanner Olson is an author, speaker, poet and the founder of Written to Speak which aims to spread hope and announce love through spoken word and poetry. Tanner's writing is a delightful blend of faith, humor, and curiosity that points readers and listeners toward the ultimate source of hope and love, Jesus. He's written three books of poetry: Walk A Little Slower, As You Go: Words for the Unknown, and *I’m All Over the Place.
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Check out What Matters Most, daily teachings from Matt Popovits, available wherever you get your podcasts.
For more information on MPM, head to mattpopovits.com
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Katelyn Beaty (author of Celebrities For Jesus) joins Rachel and Matt to discuss our culture's fascination with famous Christians, and the roll fame and celebrity play in today's popular evangelical figures. We discuss her book and the insights gained from it, as well as how to guard our hearts and find purpose in ordinary faithfulness.
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Check out What Matters Most, daily teachings from Matt Popovits, available wherever you get your podcasts.
For more information on MPM, head to mattpopovits.com
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Join our discussion about the Future of the Church with Nancy Beach and Samantha Kiley
Nancy Beach and Samantha Beach Kiley join us for an honest conversation about the future of the church in America. We discuss the struggles that have hindered the church’s witness today and what must be done in order for the church to be faithful and fruitful going forward.
To support Make It Simple, head to mpm.simple donation.com
Check out What Matters Most, daily teachings from Matt Popovits, available wherever you get your podcasts.
For more information on MPM, head to mattpopovits.com
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Learn all about discovering your gifts with Don Everts
This week, Rachel and Matt are joined by the delightful Don Everts. Don shares all about what it means to live out the gifts, talents, and passions God has given you, and what life looks like when a person fully recognizes who they are. It’s an encouraging conversation that will leave you excited about your gifts and who God made you to be.
To support Make It Simple, head to mpm.simple donation.com
Check out What Matters Most, daily teachings from Matt Popovits, available wherever you get your podcasts.
For more information on MPM, head to mattpopovits.com
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Mike Pacchione shares with us all the best tips for public speaking!
This week, Rachel and Matt talk with their friend, Mike Pacchione. Mike brings his public speaking expertise to the conversation and takes away the stigma of speaking in front of people, whether the crowd is six people over zoom or two hundred people in an auditorium. He also shares why public speaking is a gift for the speaker. It’s a fun conversation between friends, and you’re sure to learn some new tips.
To support Make It Simple, head to mpm.simple donation.com
Check out What Matters Most, daily teachings from Matt Popovits, available wherever you get your podcasts.
For more information on MPM, head to mattpopovits.com
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Beth Moore joins Rachel and Matt to share her journey in finding a new church, and to graciously share what the last few months have been like as she has walked through controversy. It’s a lovely conversation, filled with truth, grace, and wisdom.
Best-selling book and Bible study author Beth Moore is a dynamic teacher whose conferences take her across the globe. She is a dedicated wife, and mother of two adult daughters and three delightful grandchildren. Beth lives in Houston, Texas, where she leads Living Proof Ministries with the purpose of encouraging and teaching women to know and love Jesus through the study of Scripture.
To support Make It Simple, head to mpm.simple donation.com
Check out What Matters Most, daily teachings from Matt Popovits, available wherever you get your podcasts.
For more information on MPM, head to mattpopovits.com
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For the Season 3 finale, Dr. Anjeanette “AJ” Roberts is back to talk with us about Lessons from Covid. AJ joins us this week to look at the lessons from Covid-19 and the pandemic, and look at how the aftermath continues to effect us all, in big and small ways.
AJ is a molecular biologist and virologist and public advocate for the Christian faith, and she conducted SARS-CoV research at the National Institutes of Health from 2003 to 2006 and holds degrees in chemistry (BS, U. of Tulsa), cell and molecular biology (PhD, U. of Pennsylvania), and Christian apologetics (MA, Biola University).
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Love this podcast? Then check out What Matters Most, daily teachings from Matt Popovits, available wherever you get your podcasts.
For more information on MPM, head to mattpopovits.com
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Simpsons is Greater Than
A podcast about the impact of The Simpsons. Plus, interviews with people from the show.
Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify
Smart Passive Income Podcast
Weekly interviews, strategy, and advice for building your online business the smart way.
Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify
The Cold War Conversations podcast
The stories of the Cold War told by those that were there...
Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify
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In this week's episode, Andrea Davis joins the podcast to talk all about the ever present screens in our lives, and how to have a better relationship between screens and your family. Andrea brings encouragement, new insights, and practical strategies to help all people navigate this tech-filled world. For more information, follow Andrea at Better Screen Time on Instagram, or head to BetterScreenTime.com.
Andrea Davis is a former secondary ed teacher turned screen-time-navigator. She is the founder of Better Screen Time where she shares family-tested ideas from the (tech) trenches as a mom of five. She is on a mission to help parents worry less about tech, and connect more with their kids.
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Love this podcast? Then check out What Matters Most, daily teachings from Matt Popovits, available wherever you get your podcasts.
For more information on MPM, head to mattpopovits.com
Support the show (https://mpm.simpledonation.com)
Simpsons is Greater Than
A podcast about the impact of The Simpsons. Plus, interviews with people from the show.
Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify
Smart Passive Income Podcast
Weekly interviews, strategy, and advice for building your online business the smart way.
Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify
The Cold War Conversations podcast
The stories of the Cold War told by those that were there...
Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify
Support the show
Steve Cuss is back to talk with us about Relational Anxiety. Steve joins us this week to look at anxiety & conflict that arises between us and others, with co-workers, friends, family, and even strangers. He shares pitfalls to be aware of and tips for navigating our relationships.
Steve is the author of Managing Leadership Anxiety: Yours and Theirs and the founder of www.capablelife.me, an online community helping you to function as a calm, aware, present human in the work place and home place.
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Love this podcast? Then check out What Matters Most, daily teachings from Matt Popovits, available wherever you get your podcasts.
For more information on MPM, head to mattpopovits.com
Support the show (https://mpm.simpledonation.com)
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This week, we talk with Preston Sprinkle about Gender Identity. Preston will help us ponder sensitive questions surrounding transgender identities, and he will help us wrestle with how the local church can show love and compassion to its trans-identifying neighbors.Dr. Sprinkle is a Biblical scholar, speaker, podcaster, the New York Times bestselling author of “Embodied", and the co-founder and president of The Center for Faith, Sexuality & Gender. Preston has written a dozen books including Erasing Hell (w/ Francis Chan), Nonviolence, Scandalous Grace, People to Be Loved, Living in a Gray World, and Embodied. Preston also hosts a popular bi-weekly podcast titled Theology in the Raw, where he engages in honest conversations with interesting people.
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Love this podcast? Then check out What Matters Most, daily teachings from Matt Popovits, available wherever you get your podcasts.
For more information on MPM, head to mattpopovits.com
Support the show (https://mpm.simpledonation.com)
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Chad Bird joins Matt and Rachel this week as we aim to make sense of hell on the podcast. Chad answers all our burning questions (get it?!) about hell, and helps us understand the often misunderstood theology around this topic.
Chad is an author and a Scholar in Residence at 1517. He has served as a pastor, professor, and guest lecturer in Old Testament and Hebrew. He holds master’s degrees from Concordia Theological Seminary and Hebrew Union College. He is also the author of several books, including Night Driving: Notes from a Prodigal Soul. He cohosts two popular podcasts: “40 Minutes in the OT” and “Hidden Streams.”
Love this podcast? Then check out What Matters Most, daily teachings from Matt Popovits, available wherever you get your podcasts.
For more information on MPM, head to mattpopovits.com
Support the show (https://mpm.simpledonation.com)
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This week, Rachel and Matt welcome Sarah Condon to the podcast to talk grief and faith.
Sarah is an Episcopal priest, an author, and a co-host of the popular Mockingcast.
Sarah will share her story of trauma and grief and help us grapple with the presence of God in times of unimaginable loss.
Love this podcast? Then check out What Matters Most, daily teachings from Matt Popovits, available wherever you get your podcasts.
For more information on MPM, head to mattpopovits.com
Support the show (https://mpm.simpledonation.com)
Support the show (https://mpm.simpledonation.com)
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Mary Van Geffen is an international parenting coach who helps moms and dads of “spicy” children stay calm, kind, and firm.
In this episode Mary will help Matt and Rachel understand what it means to parent in a gentle, respectful, and effective way—especially if you weren’t raised that way.
Love this podcast? Then check out What Matters Most, daily teachings from Matt Popovits, available wherever you get your podcasts.
For more information on MPM, head to mattpopovits.com
Support the show (https://mpm.simpledonation.com)
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In this first episode of season three Matt and Rachel are joined by David Zahl to discuss, “performancism” and “seculosity.” David will help us see that we, as a culture, are not less religious as we are so often told. Instead, we have — according to Zahl — shifted our religious needs and impulses to other things, like performance and efficiency.
David Zahl is the founder and director of Mockingbird Ministries and co-host of The Mockingcast. He and his family live in Charlottesville, Virginia. Zahl is the author of Seculosity: How Career, Parenting, Technlogy, Food, Politics, and Romance Became Our New
Religion and What To Do About It. His next book, Low Anthropology: The Unlikely Key to a Gracious View of Others (and Yourself) comes out Sept 2022 from Brazos Press.
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Check out What Matters Most, daily teachings from Matt Popovits, available wherever you get your podcasts.
For more information on MPM, head to mattpopovits.com
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For this final episode of Make It Simple season 2, Matt and Rachel are joined by actor Paul Walter Hauser for a fun conversation covering faith, celebrity, and the impact of practicing gratitude in all things.
Paul shares what it was like growing up in small town Michigan, to now quickly being recognized as one of the most talented actors up and coming. With humility and lightheartedness, he reminds us of the power in being respectful to all and loving others well.
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Check out What Matters Most, daily teachings from Matt Popovits, available wherever you get your podcasts.
For more information on MPM, head to mattpopovits.com
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In this episode, Jon Tyson joins the podcast to discuss intentional fatherhood, and how relationship shapes our parenting. He brings grace and insight into the truth that we don't have to "try harder, do more," but rather, it's the small moments that make big impacts.
Jon Tyson is a Pastor and Church Planter in New York City. Originally from Adelaide Australia, Jon moved to the United States twenty years ago with a passion to seek and cultivate renewal in the Western Church. He is the author of Rumors of God, Sacred Roots, A Creative Minority, The Burden is Light, Beautiful Resistance, and The Intentional Father. For the last 15 years Jon has lived in Manhattan with his family. He serves as the Lead Pastor of Church of the City New York.
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Check out What Matters Most, daily teachings from Matt Popovits, available wherever you get your podcasts.
For more information on MPM, head to mattpopovits.com
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In this episode, Clarissa Moll joins Matt and Rachel to share her story with grief and loss. She discusses the different ways grief shows up in our lives and how grief can bring a deeper intimacy with God and those around us.
Everyone experiences grief of all kinds, as the natural flow of this life. Clarissa brings wisdom and compassion to the conversation as she reflects on experiencing such grief with grace. Join us!
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To support Make It Simple, head to mpm.simple donation.com
Check out What Matters Most, daily teachings from Matt Popovits, available wherever you get your podcasts.
For more information on MPM, head to mattpopovits.com
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In this episode, Sarah Salzberg joins Matt and Rachel to talk all about the Old Testament, and how significant it still is for people of faith today. She breaks down what the Old Testament is, and how to approach it with new eyes as we look to see what it reveals about God. Sarah brings a delightful perspective to a scholarly and heartfelt conversation.
Sarah Salzberg lives in Los Angeles, CA with her husband (Josh), son (Hosea) and daughter (Simone), traveling from one coffee shop to another trying as many cappuccinos and croissants as she can. When not hopped up on espresso, Sarah teaches Old Testament at Orange Lutheran High School in Orange County, CA. In addition, she has served as a planner and theological advisor for the LCMS Youth Gathering as well as a speaker for youth and women's retreats around the country. She earned her Masters in Theology from Concordia University in Irvine, but her pride and joy will always be Concordia Seward where she earned her Bachelors in Education.
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To support Make It Simple, head to mpm.simple donation.com
Check out What Matters Most, daily teachings from Matt Popovits, available wherever you get your podcasts.
For more information on MPM, head to mattpopovits.com
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In this episode, Jonathan Merritt joins Rachel and Matt to talk all about marijuana, and how a person of faith can wrestle with differing perspectives. Jonathan shares his personal experience and discusses his article, "A Christian Case for Marijuana." They look at the history, criminalization, and research around marijuana, and share how we can take a position of mercy and justice no matter where we land on the issue. It's a beautiful conversation filled with compassion. You don't want to miss it!
Jonathan Merritt is one of America’s most popular writers on issues of faith and culture. He is author of several critically-acclaimed books, including Learning to Speak God from Scratch: Why Sacred Words are Vanishing and How We Can Revive Them, named “Book of the Year” by the Englewood Review of Books.
Jonathan is an award-winning contributor for The Atlantic, a contributing editor for The Week, and a regular columnist for Religion News Service. He has published more than 3000 articles in respected outlets such as The New York Times, USA Today, Buzzfeed, The Washington Post, The Daily Beast and Christianity Today.
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To support Make It Simple, head to mpm.simple donation.com
Check out What Matters Most, daily teachings from Matt Popovits, available wherever you get your podcasts.
For more information on MPM, head to mattpopovits.com
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Kirsten shares all about her journey with grace, and what it looks like to treat others with humanity despite hurtful discourse. She breaks down how living a life of grace is more than just “being nice,” but rather leads to kindness and accountability. It’s a great conversation, and we’re so glad to share it with you!
Kirsten Powers is a senior political analyst at CNN and a NYT bestselling author. He latest book is "Saving Grace: Speak Your Truth, Stay Centered and Learn to Coexist with People Who Drive You Nuts." Kirsten formerly was a columnist for USA Today, The Daily Beast, the New York Post, and a political analyst on Fox News.
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To support Make It Simple, head to mpm.simple donation.com
Check out What Matters Most, daily teachings from Matt Popovits, available wherever you get your podcasts.
For more information on MPM, head to mattpopovits.com
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This week, Matt and Rachel are talking all about climate change with Katharine Hayhoe. Katharine is leading the way in helpful, hope-filled conversations about the environment, diving into the ins and outs of climate change, and offering tangible solutions that we can all do, big and small, to turn things around. Her care for the environment and this planet all stems from one place- her love for Jesus.
Katharine Hayhoe is an atmospheric scientist whose research focuses on understanding what climate change means for people and the places where we live. She is the Chief Scientist for The Nature Conservancy and a Horn Distinguished Professor and Endowed Professor of Public Policy and Public Law in the Dept. of Political Science at Texas Tech University.
Her book, “Saving Us: A Climate Scientist’s Case for Hope and Healing in a Divided World,” released in Sept 2021 and she also hosts the PBS digital series Global Weirding, currently in its fifth season. Katharine has been named one of TIME's 100 Most Influential People, the United Nations Champion of the Environment, and the World Evangelical Alliance’s Climate Ambassador.
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To support Make It Simple, head to mpm.simple donation.com
Check out What Matters Most, daily teachings from Matt Popovits, available wherever you get your podcasts.
For more information on MPM, head to mattpopovits.com
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In this episode, Michael Wear joins Rachel and Matt to talk all about politics. Michael offers advice about how to approach personal opinions, the role politics should play in our lives, and how to approach political discourse. Michael also suggests at at its core, our political views are just another way we can love our neighbors. You don't want to miss it!
Michael Wear is a leading strategist, speaker and practitioner at the intersection of faith, politics and public life. Michael was also one of the youngest White House staffers in modern American history. Today, Michael is also the founder of Public Square Strategies LLC, and previously served as Chief Strategist and member of the executive team for the AND Campaign, and is the author of, Reclaiming Hope: Lessons Learned in the Obama White House About the Future of Faith in America.
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To support Make It Simple, head to mpm.simple donation.com
Check out What Matters Most, daily teachings from Matt Popovits, available wherever you get your podcasts.
For more information on MPM, head to mattpopovits.com
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In this episode, Frank Hart joins Rachel and Matt to discuss Halloween and his article Christians & Halloween, A Biblical Perspective From Frank Hart. They discuss origins, how believers can approach these festivities, and the importance of good candy. Frank gives us this to consider : "It's scary out there, but we don't have to be afraid." You don't want to miss it!
Frank Hart is the Pastor of NewChurch in Katy, Texas. He is an author, recording artist, frontman for Atomic Opera, public speaker, and record producer. He is also a happy husband and father. His book, “Joyride: A Beginning in Every End” and various albums of his music are available at FrankHart.com.
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To support Make It Simple, head to mpm.simple donation.com
Check out What Matters Most, daily teachings from Matt Popovits, available wherever you get your podcasts.
For more information on MPM, head to mattpopovits.com
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Join us for our last episode of season 1, episode 10, where will be talking all about Conflicts with Michelle Thompson.
We dive into all aspects of conflict, and discuss how to move through conflict in productive ways. What do we do about conflict, what does healthy versus unhealthy conflict look like, and what are some practical ways to handle conflict? We get into all of it with our good friend Michelle Thompson.
About the Expert: Michelle Thompson is the Director of the Executive Coaching and Consultation Program in the Townsend Institute at Concordia University, Irvine, CA. She is also available for coaching at Michelle.GrowthCoach@gmail.com.
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To support Make It Simple, head to mpm.simpledonation.com
Check out "What Matters Most," daily teachings from Matt Popovits, available wherever you get your podcasts.
For more information on MPM, head to MattPopovits.com
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Join us for episode 9, where will be talking about Science & Faith with Sarah Salviander.
We dive into the relationship with Science and Faith, and why science can seem to be, at times, at odds with God. Dr. Sarah Salviander brings a unique perspective to the conversation, as we discuss creation, burden of proof, and the importance of looking into things for yourself. You won't want to miss it!
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To support Make It Simple, head to mpm.simpledonation.com
Check out "What Matters Most," daily teachings from Matt Popovits, available wherever you get your podcasts.
For more information on MPM, head to MattPopovits.com
Support the show (https://mpm.simpledonation.com)
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Join us for episode 8, where will be talking about Human Trafficking with Raleigh Sadler.
In this episode, Raleigh brings education and awareness to this often politicized issue in our culture today, and discusses how we can help those around us who are vulnerable. It's a great conversation, and we are excited to share it with you!
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To support Make It Simple, head to mpm.simpledonation.com
Check out "What Matters Most," daily teachings from Matt Popovits, available wherever you get your podcasts.
For more information on MPM, head to MattPopovits.com
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In episode 7, we talk with author Rachel Joy Welcher about Purity Culture.
We discuss what we mean when we say "purity culture," and breakdown the impacts from the movement, as well as how we move forward in healing. You won't want to miss it.
Bonus: This week we will have a giveaway! Listen to the podcast to find out more.
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To support Make It Simple, head to mpm.simpledonation.com
Check out What Matters Most, daily teachings from Matt Popovits, available wherever you get your podcasts.
For more information on MPM, head to mattpopovits.com
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AJ Sherrill joins us for episode 6 of the podcast to teach us The Enneagram - What is it and how do we use it?!
This week, AJ speaks with Matt and Rachel about the enneagram, and how this tool can be useful in our own Spiritual formation and in our relationships.
AJ is the author of "The Enneagram for Spiritual Formation" and is the lead pastor at St. Peter's Church in Mount Pleasant, South Carolina. He is an adjunct professor at Fuller Theological Seminary, where he teaches popular courses on transformational preaching and the Enneagram.
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To support Make It Simple, head to mpm.simpledonation.com
Check out What Matters Most, daily teachings from Matt Popovits, available wherever you get your podcasts.
For more information on MPM, head to mattpopovits.com
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Kathy Lee Eggers is an award winning author and has been dedicated to the well-being of young children for more than 30 years. Kathy has extensive experience in the field of child development and early childhood education.
In this episode, Kathy shares her insights about common things that overwhelm parents, how to deal with guilt, and teaches us how to be present for our kids in the day-to-day busy-ness of our lives. You don't want to miss it!
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To support Make It Simple, head to mpm.simple donation.com
Check out What Matters Most, daily teachings from Matt Popovits, available wherever you get your podcasts.
For more information on MPM, head to mattpopovits.com
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Shane Ramer is the host of That Sober Guy Podcast, a recovery platform used to help others stay sober.
In this episode, Shane answers common questions around addiction and recovery. Matt and Shane discuss the biggest misconceptions about sober living, how to support an addict that we love, and what it takes to love someone well who is on the road to recovery.
You can listen to Shane's podcast and learn more by heading to thatsoberguy.com.
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To support Make It Simple, head to mpm.simple donation.com
Check out What Matters Most, daily teachings from Matt Popovits, available wherever you get your podcasts.
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Rev. Dr. Gerard Bolling is an LCMS pastor and Lutheran university educator.
Dr. Bolling currently serves as pastor of Bethlehem Lutheran Church in St. Louis, Missouri, and as assistant professor of leadership and theology and coordinator of multicultural engagement at Concordia University Texas.
He works with Lutherans for Racial Justice and is the co-host of The (Im)Partial Church podcast available on apple podcasts, Google, and Spotify.
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To support Make It Simple, head to mpm.simple donation.com
Check out What Matters Most, daily teachings from Matt Popovits, available wherever you get your podcasts.
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Dr. Anjeanette (AJ) Roberts is a molecular biologist and virologist and a public advocate for the Christian faith.
Dr. Roberts conducted SARS research at the National Institutes of Health and holds degrees in chemistry, cell and molecular biology (PhD, U. of Pennsylvania), and Christian apologetics (MA, Biola University).
Dr. Roberts has co-authored over 40 articles published in peer-reviewed scientific journals, contributed to two books with RTB Press: "Thinking about Evolution" and "Building Bridges" and lectured at various institutions and in scientific meetings around the world.
In 2005, she received the NIH Merit Award for her contribution to research in infectious diseases. Her research at Yale and the NIH focused on how virus cause disease and proof-of-concept studies for developing vaccines and anti-viral therapies.
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To support Make It Simple, head to mpm.simple donation.com
Check out What Matters Most, daily teachings from Matt Popovits, available wherever you get your podcasts.
For more information on MPM, head to mattpopovits.com
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Steve Cuss is the author of Managing Leadership Anxiety: Yours and Theirs.
He’s also the founder of Capable Life which helps leaders live a calm, aware, present, and able existence at work and at home.
In this first ever episode of Make It Simple, Matt and Steve break down anxiety: what it is, how to manage our own, and how to help others.
For more from Steve, head to: stevecusswords.com and capablelife.me.
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To support Make It Simple, head to mpm.simple donation.com
Check out What Matters Most, daily teachings from Matt Popovits, available wherever you get your podcasts.
For more information on MPM, head to mattpopovits.com
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Matt and Rachel explain the big idea behind Make It Simple and introduce some of the tough topics they'll tackle in Season One. (Launching July 6th, 2021)
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