The Two World Podcast: Recent Episodes
Jacob Dodson and Barnabas Martin
Welcome to the Two World podcast where you can hear thoughts and reflections on unique intersections between faith and culture. Tune in regularly to for this foray into feelings of surprise at interconnectedness and aha moments in life when two worlds come together.
Join Barney, Ken, and Jacob as they swap stories and memories of fall through many stages of life, from Halloween excitement, playing in leaves, and Thanksgiving to the foods that mark the season. Along the way, they reflect on the beauty of autumn, its traditions, and how their appreciation has deepened over time.
Join Ken, Barney, and Jacob as they discuss “Three Doctors” from Season 5, Episode 1 of Northern Exposure, exploring themes of healing and recovery through Ed’s unexpected calling, Shelly’s singing struggles, and Joel’s battle with glacier dropsy.
Barney, Jacob, and Ken share their experiences with worship music, exploring how it has enriched their faith, deepened their sense of community, and sustained them through life's challenges. This conversation celebrates different musical traditions from monastic chant and traditional hymnals to contemporary songs and global styles that connect us across cultures, denominations, and generations.
In this episode, Ken, Barney, and Jacob sit down with Steve Kalmeyer, a passionate volunteer in prison ministry whose journey of faith, empathy, and personal transformation leads him into Oklahoma's correctional centers. Steve shares how COVID sparked his call to serve, how authentic presence breaks down barriers, and why donuts, eye contact, and showing up truly matter. His stories, ranging from Thanksgiving invitations to movie nights and heartfelt conversations, highlight the humanity of those behind bars and the hope of restoration. Whether you’re curious about prison ministry or looking for inspiration to follow a quiet call in your own life, this episode offers a compelling and grace-filled glimpse into a world where lives are being changed from the inside out.
In this episode, Ken, Barney, and Jacob dive into themes of longing, meaning, and spiritual mystery through the lens of an unforgettable fish story from Northern Exposure Season 5, Episode 18.
Join Ken, Barney and Jacob as they share personal memories and highlights from their visits to Portland, Oregon, exploring iconic spots like the Japanese Gardens, Powell's Bookstore, alongside unique local events.
It’s that time of year—school’s out! In this episode, we chat about what the end of the school year means for students, teachers, and parents. We share stories from both sides of the classroom, dive into cultural differences between Japan and the US, and talk about why a good summer break matters for everyone. Come join us for reflections, laughs, and a little nostalgia about those last-day-of-school vibes.
Romance author Liz Johnson joins Ken and Barney to talk about her writing journey and the inspiration behind her Red Door Inn series. They explore her shift from romantic suspense to modern romance, the influence of real-life experiences on her characters, and how setting her stories in Prince Edward Island shapes everything.
Ken, Barney, and Jacob sit down with bestselling author Suzanne Woods Fisher to explore the story behind her new book, "Capture the Moment" and her deep love for storytelling, nature, and national parks. Suzanne shares insight into her character development process, the unique challenge of writing novellas, and how curiosity and reader engagement shape her stories.
In this Easter Sunday episode, Barney and Jacob explore Luke 24:1-12 and the breathtaking moment when the followers of Jesus arrive at the empty tomb. What does it mean to live in light of this moment and how might resurrection shape our priorities, expectations, and hope?
Barney and Jacob speak with author and photographer Meshali Mitchell about her journey of restoration and how she sees God at work in the world. From rebuilding her historic farmhouse to capturing beauty through her lens, Meshali reflects on how broken places can become sacred spaces. Her upcoming book, Restored: Partnering with God in Transforming Our Broken Places (Revell; April 15, 2025; $34.99; Cloth; ISBN 9780800746209; Ebook ISBN 9781493448579), invites readers into a deeper exploration of healing, beauty, and God's presence in every part of the process.
Barney and Jacob share their favorite moments from the Nintendo Museum in Japan, including rare consoles, interactive exhibits, and tips for anyone hoping to visit this one-of-a-kind destination.
In this episode, Barney and Ken talk with authors Lauraine Snelling and Kiersti Giron about their journey as mentor and friend in the writing world. Lauraine reflects on her early publishing experiences, the role of editors, and the historical research behind her novels, while Kiersti shares how teaching internationally and living near the Navajo reservation shaped her storytelling. Together, they discuss their collaboration, the themes of Land of Dreams, and the challenges of crafting complex characters. Throughout, they explore how faith influences their writing and the power of stories to connect past and present.
What draws us to love stories? What makes them resonate so deeply? In this episode, we talk with Patricia Johns, a gifted author whose novels explore the beauty, struggles, and redemptive power of love. We discuss her passion for writing, the inspiration behind her stories, and how faith shapes her portrayal of relationships.
Barney and Jacob sit with Psalm 119, reflecting on its beauty, depth, and what inspires them most about this powerful passage of Scripture.
In this episode, Barney and guest host Jason chat with author Jill Eileen Smith about bringing biblical figures to life through storytelling, balancing historical accuracy with imagination, and how faith and perseverance shape the writing journey. Don't miss her latest release, Dawn of Grace: Mary Magdalene’s Story!
Join us for a conversation with historical romance author Laura Frantz as we explore the art of bringing history to life, the research that fuels her storytelling, and the personal connections that shape her work. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to her books, you won’t want to miss this discussion.
Barney and Jacob discuss smarter ways for saving andspending, budgeting for new tech, and managing impulse buying.
Join Barney, Jacob, and special guest Jennifer Deibel, author of A Dance in Donegal and The Lady of Galway Manor, for a fascinating discussion on the themes, inspirations, and cultural connections in her Irish-inspired novels. Jennifer shares how she weaves faith, family, and the idea of "home" into her stories while highlighting the beauty and complexities of Irish culture. Plus, hear an exclusive preview of her upcoming novel, Heart of the Glen, releasing January 21, 2025.
Barney and Jacob reflect on foundations of the Anabaptist Community and its continued relevance.
Ken, Barney, and Jacob display their favorite ties and shares meaningful stories associated with them.
Gather 'round the fireplace as we dive into the magic of holiday films! In this episode, we discuss Christmas movies that hold a special place in our hearts and celebrate the season with a dose of festive fun!
In this special episode, we sit down with bestselling author Suzanne Woods Fisher to discuss the creative journey behind her fiction and the role of faith, family, and curiosity in her storytelling. Suzanne shares the inspirations drawn from her grandfather's heritage, her reflections on balancing writing with raising four kids, and the heart behind her beloved characters. Grab a cup of coffee or tea, and join us for an insightful conversation that explores themes of forgiveness, simplicity, beauty, and the way we perceive others!
Barney and Jacob explore influential passages from the Bible that have impacted their lives.
Ken, Barney, and Jacob uncover the importance of community as it relates to Jewish practices of mourning, family feuds, and a yearly dance competition.
Barney and Jacob delve into random icebreaker questions to learn unexpected things about each other.
Barney and Jacob share pictures and stories about their summer vacations and highlight some fun activities and memorable meals.
Barney and Jacob look back at their podcasting journey and share hopes for the future beyond their 100th episode.
Barney and Jacob explore the deeper meaning of biblical words for "living rightly" and how they relate to modern life.
Barney and Jacob talk about the city of Narita and the mutual sense of gratitude in helping others.
Ken, Barney, and Jacob uncover how the impending birth of a child connects members of the community in Cicely, Alaska.
Barney and Jacob discuss entering into middle age and what they have learned over the years.
Barney and Jacob dive down the warp pipe of Mario's movies and classic cartoon adventures.
Matt, Barney, and Jacob share their experiences with signs and language beyond literal meaning.
Barney and Jacob dig into overlooked scripture passages related to Easter in light of Hebrew, Greek, and Japanese.
Barney and Jacob share stories and experiences about their passion for learning foreign languages.
Barney and Jacob discuss Jesus-centered faith and otherhighlights from the Ohio Mennonite Conference Annual Assembly in Plain City.
Join Matt and Jacob as they delve into the history of Johannes Whisler's Book of Arithmetic Problems and explore the intersections of creativity, education, and community.
Ken, Barney, and Jacob reflect on dissonant characters whose stories harmonize in “Duets” from season 4 of Norther Exposure.
Ken, Barney, and Jacob discuss important events in their lives and the lives of characters in Northern Exposure.
Barney and Jacob share personal experiences and stories about the rewards and joys of parenting.
Ken, Barney, and Jacob indulge on morsels of story and subtext from "The Big Feast" episode of season 4 of Northern Exposure.
Barney and Jacob share about their favorite children's books and the lessons that they have learned from them.
Barney and Jacob discuss the benefits and challenges of AI and the ever-present need for human creativity
Ken, Barney, and Jacob explore episode 14, "Burning Down the House," from season 3 of Norther Exposure.
Barney and Jacob reflect on examples of community, connections, and care from the second year of their podcast.
Barney and Jacob explore how coffee brings people together and helps them to appreciate the richness of the world around them.
In this episode, Barney and Jacob reminisce about their favorite live concerts and the small details that made them unforgettable.
Barney and Jacob reflect on their experiences with vacation Bible school and its ongoing impact in their lives.
Barney and Jacob look back at experiences of rejection surrounding religious beliefs and seek to learn and grown from them.
Ken, Barney, and Jacob reflect on important wake-up calls in life as seen in an episode of the third season of Northern Exposure.
Barney and Jacob reflect on the story of Nataliia, Alex, and Max Murza as they relocated to Ohio from Ukraine and adjust to life in a new culture and community.
Barney and I explore how doors define spaces and provide room for gathering with others.
Barney and Jacob interview Jen Kindbom about the topic of doors and an art installation that she created.
Barney and Jacob enjoy sharing stories about meaningful smells from their life experience.
Ken, Barney, and Jacob explore unique reactions to the anticipation of Spring in an episode of Northern Exposure.
Barney and Jacob delve into their experiences with mentoring and celebrate the impact that it has had on their lives.
Ken, Barney, and Jacob uncover connections between technology, superstition, relationships, and scientific approaches to life in “Slow Dance” from season two of Northern Exposure.
Barney and Jacob give a behind-the-scenes look at their vocations in the classroom and at church.
Barney and Jacob consider and share appreciation for the wonder and beauty of the winter season.
Ken, Barney, and Jacob talk about the Northern Exposure episode "Seoul Mates," elements of the Christmas season that they treasure the most, and what they have gained from new Christmas traditions.
Barney and Jacob reflect on the meaning and purpose of Japanese soccer fans cleaning up stadiums after matches at the World Cup.
Ken, Barney, and Jacob explore characters' dreams, connections, and beliefs from a multilayered and rich episode from season one of Norther Exposure.
Barney and Jacob open up about finding lost memories and connections, working through grief, and experiencing hope.
Barney and Jacob share with gratitude about the curiosity and insightfulness of their children.
Barney and Jacob feast on delicious stories and memories about the most important meal of the day.
Barney and Jacob sit down with Ralph Reinford and learn about his experience with Voluntary Service and the unexpected meaning in serving others.
Barney and Jacob reminisce about grandparents and elders and celebrate the heritage that they leave behind.
Barney, Jacob, and Ken delve into the themes, meaning, and connections within the Northern Exposure episode, "Goodbye to All That."
Barney and Jacob talk with Molly Sponsler about her family's journey to a small town in Southern Germany and the ways that they have grown since moving there.
Barney and Jacob sit down with Michael Ludwig and reflect on the importance of gratitude, partnership, and companionship in all aspects of life from neighboring to international missions.
Jacob and Barney interview Lee Miller Matsos about experiencing healing and hope through music, seasons of grief and recovery, and his upcoming concert, Metamorphosis.
Jacob and Barney reflect on how they have grown and changed after one year of the Two World Podcast.
Barney, Ken, and Jacob dive into inspiring stories and insights from an episode of Northern Exposure entitled "Things Become Extinct."
Barney and Jacob talk about their unexpected experiences while traveling and ways they have seen God working through those around them.
Barney and Jacob reflect on the benefits and challenges of their personality types and the value of resources like Myers–Briggs and 16Personalities.
Barney, Ken, and Jacob talk about relationships, hobbies, and cultural expectations in the fourth season of Northern Exposure.
Barney and Jacob share stories about their favorite vacations and the value of rest for a healthy life.
Barney and Jacob explore the text of the Bible including its transmission, canon, and several modern translations.
Barney and Jacob share family stories and talk about their favorite Bible translations.
Barney and Jacob interview Chris Matsos about his vision and experience of theatre as a professor, director, and actor over many years.
Barney and Jacob interview John Roth about his path to becoming a scholar of Anabaptism and his work with Mennonite World Conference and the Institute for the Study of Global Anabaptism.
Ken, Barney, and Jacob talk about an outsider’s journey into the culturally diverse, fictional town of Cicely, Alaska from Northern Exposure, season 1, episode 2.
Barney and Jacob explore the impact of gardens on their families in creating space for hospitality, growth, and connection.
Barney and Jacob reflect on the meaning and events of Holy Week and gain a new understanding of Psalm 22 by looking at its Hebrew text.
Join Barney, Lena, and Jacob as they share impressions of the Legend of Zelda series and how it offered them treasured memories and experiences.
Jacob shares with Barney about his experience at Wheeling Central Catholic High School and his appreciation for its spirituality, community, and academic life.
Barney and Jacob take a deep dive into the circumstances and relationships surrounding Barney's move to Japan.
In this episode, Barney and Jacob reflect on the importance of play, enjoying video games as a hobby, and the search for balance in life.
In this episode, Barney and Jacob talk with Ken Nanes about the TV show Northern Exposure and explore some of its themes of hope and reconciliation.
In this episode, Barney and Jacob interview Katrina about her work in Pharmacy and the impact of family and living abroad on her story.
In this episode, Barney and Jacob interview Dr. Lena Franklin about her experience with practicing medicine and the impact of faith and family on her profession.
Barney and Jacob interview Zhen about her experiences with celebrating Chinese New Year.
Barney and Jacob interview Shawn about his passion for vintage Volkswagens, his uncle who inspired him, and his children with whom he enjoys his hobby.
Barney and Jacob interview Ron Martin about his experience of serving with Mennonite Central Committee in Brazil. Ron highlights the importance of respecting and meeting people where they are in forming partnerships and building relationships.
Barney and Jacob talk about their experiences of learning a new perspective on faith from other family members and friends.
Barney and Jacob share reflections on 2021 and hopes for 2022, including potential future directions for the podcast.
Jacob and Barney invite Shawn onto the show to discuss what it's like to do a podcast with Barney (or did Shawn and Barney invite Jacob onto their show, English All Over the Place?). Get a glimpse of the two sides of Barney that people get to know thanks to the two very different podcasts he's a part of. The full audio version of their conversation is available at English All Over the Place: https://anchor.fm/eaotp
Barney shares with Jacob the story of how he began learning the Ukulele and the two talk about music and explore the theme song of the podcast.
Barney and Jacob interview Ken Nanes about the free Christmas Eve Dinner offered by Wooster Mennonite Church to the community. It is inspiring how the event draws participants into a deeper experience of hospitality and gratitude that honors in a special way the birth of Jesus.
Barney and Jacob interview Bill Seymour about Monday Meals at Orrville Mennonite Church. Bill reveals that the desire to bless others accompanied by reliance on God, partnership, and the opportunity for action can create deeper connection with one's neighborhood and broader community.
Barney and Jacob interview Julie about her experience teaching English in China. Julie shares her gratitude for those who shaped her life by trusting her, welcoming her into their lives, and inviting her into their space.
Barney and Jacob interview Thomas Dunn about his experiences with the Swahili Community Mennonite Church of Akron. Much can be learned about life and faith in the giving and receiving of hospitality among friends from different parts of the world.
Barney and Jacob share stories about naming children in their families. Often these names carry deeper meaning and continue to inspire joy.
Join Barney and Jacob as they reflect on three types of bread (bread of family, bread of culture, and bread faith) and the impact of each on their lives.
In this episode, Jacob and Barney reflect on their weddings and the new significance they have come to hold after many years.
Jon shares with Jacob and Barney about his experiences with traveling to China and adopting two boys. Jon highlights his appreciation for Chinese culture and his desire for his sons to know and experience the culture and heritage of their birthplace.
In today's episode Jacob and Barney share about their experiences with Wooster Mennonite Church. Barney speaks as one who grew up in the church and Jacob as one who has served as pastor in the congregation for over a decade.
In this episode, Jacob and Barney talk about their experiences with Yachiyo Bible Baptist Church and its connection with Wooster Mennonite Church.
In this episode Jacob and Barney share about their experiences with the forming of a sister church relationship between Wooster Mennonite Church and Yachiyo Bible Baptist Church.
In this episode Jacob and Barney share about their experiences visiting Hiroshima, a city that embodies a powerful message of peace and forgiveness.
Jacob and Barney dive deeper into one another's experiences overseas and find a number of shared ways in which their experiences impacted both the course of their lives and in their journeys in faith.
In this episode we'll learn about Jacob's time studying in Israel and the many ways it impacted and directed his life.
Learn about Barney's time of service in Thailand and the connections that he and Jacob make regarding broader issues of faith.