The New Evangelicals Podcast invites you into bold, thought-provoking conversations at the intersection of faith, politics, and justice. Each week our host, Tim Whitaker, speaks with pastors, theologians, scholars, and cultural leaders who are challenging the status quo, confronting Christian Nationalism, and imagining a more inclusive and just world.
Rebroadcast: 408. I Used to Work For Turning Point. Here's How I Got Out
*This is a Rebroadcast of Episode 408. I Used to Work For Turning Point. Here's How I Got Out* Original Description: In today's episode, Tim Whitaker speaks with Caroline Stout, a former employee of Turning Point USA, about her journey from evangelical fundamentalism to a more nuanced understanding of faith and politics. Caroline shares her experiences growing up in a mega church, her involvement with Turning Point USA, and the evolution of the organization over the years. Caroline on Instagram | @Babyblue.tx Caroline on TikTok | @Babyblue.tx Chapters 05:10 Growing Up in Evangelical Culture 15:02 The Evolution of Turning Point USA 24:45 The Impact of Media and Propaganda 35:06 Navigating Complexities of Faith and Politics 40:05 Conclusion and Future Directions ____________________________________________________ TNE Podcast hosts thought-provoking conversations at the intersection of faith, politics, and justice. We’re part of the New Evangelical’s 501c3 nonprofit that rejects Christian Nationalism and builds a better path forward, rooted in Jesus and centered on justice. If you'd like to support our work or get involved, visit our website: www.thenewevangelicals.com Follow Us On Instagram @thenewevangelicals Subscribe On YouTube @thenewevangelicals This show is produced by Josh Gilbert Media | Joshgilbertmedia.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
440. Ok but is Hell Really a Thing?
In this episode, Tim Whitaker engages in an insightful interview with Brian Recker about his book 'Hellbent' and explores the concept of hell, deconstruction, and the future of Christianity. They discuss how traditional views of hell have shaped theology and how a more love-centered approach can transform faith and justice. Order Brian's Book | Hellbent Chapters 05:02 Hell as a metaphor for systemic evil 15:09 The role of metaphor and story in spirituality 25:12 The systemic roots of Christian supremacy 35:08 Practical steps toward justice and love 39:48 Closing thoughts and resources ____________________________________________________ TNE Podcast hosts thought-provoking conversations at the intersection of faith, politics, and justice. We’re part of the New Evangelical’s 501c3 nonprofit that rejects Christian Nationalism and builds a better path forward, rooted in Jesus and centered on justice. If you'd like to support our work or get involved, visit our website: www.thenewevangelicals.com Follow Us On Instagram @thenewevangelicals Subscribe On YouTube @thenewevangelicals This show is produced by Josh Gilbert Media | Joshgilbertmedia.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
439. Composting White Supremacy
In this episode, Tim Whitaker engages in an insightful interview with Ciarra Jones, also known as the Gardening Theologian, about her journey through faith, theology, and activism. They explore themes of white supremacy, deconstruction, queer theology, and the intersection of faith and social justice. Ciarra's Website | Ciarrajonesconsulting.com Chapters 05:38 Discussing white supremacy and American history in theology 11:08 Higher education and deconstruction of fundamentalist beliefs 15:27 Queer sexuality and faith reconciliation 20:02 The impact of family and community on faith and identity 43:31 The power of embodiment and marginalized voices in faith 54:53 The role of biblical interpretation and social consensus 01:01:33 Closing remarks and where to find Sierra Jones ____________________________________________________ TNE Podcast hosts thought-provoking conversations at the intersection of faith, politics, and justice. We’re part of the New Evangelical’s 501c3 nonprofit that rejects Christian Nationalism and builds a better path forward, rooted in Jesus and centered on justice. If you'd like to support our work or get involved, visit our website: www.thenewevangelicals.com Follow Us On Instagram @thenewevangelicals Subscribe On YouTube @thenewevangelicals This show is produced by Josh Gilbert Media | Joshgilbertmedia.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
438. Fundamentalism Taught Me to Obey. Progressive Faith Taught Me to Love
In this episode, Tim Whitaker engages in an insightful interview with Rev. Rachel Kessler, aka the Nerdy Priest, shares her journey from evangelical roots to Anglican priesthood, her work advocating for Palestine, and insights into deconstruction, faith, and social justice. A compelling conversation for anyone exploring faith beyond traditional boundaries. Rachel's Book | Nerd Faith The Nerdy Priest Chapters 02:08 Rachel's Background and Deconstruction Journey 08:35 Why Stay in the House of Faith? 15:06 Memorization vs. Understanding the Fruits of the Spirit 28:11 Deconstructing End Times and Christian Nationalism 44:09 The 2016 Election and Faith Perspectives ____________________________________________________ TNE Podcast hosts thought-provoking conversations at the intersection of faith, politics, and justice. We’re part of the New Evangelical’s 501c3 nonprofit that rejects Christian Nationalism and builds a better path forward, rooted in Jesus and centered on justice. If you'd like to support our work or get involved, visit our website: www.thenewevangelicals.com Follow Us On Instagram @thenewevangelicals Subscribe On YouTube @thenewevangelicals This show is produced by Josh Gilbert Media | Joshgilbertmedia.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
437. Pastor by Day. Influencer by Night
In this episode, Tim Whitaker engages in an insightful interview with Rev. Gerlyn Henry who shares her journey into ministry, her experience as a woman of color in the church, and how she leverages social media to expand her impact. We explore the challenges and opportunities of online faith leadership, the influence of social media algorithms, and the future of church engagement. Rev. Gerlyn Henry on Instagram | @gerlynhenry Chapters 02:00 The Journey into Ministry and Content Creation 10:03 The Evolution of Online Presence and Public Theology 20:02 The Impact of Metrics on Self-Worth 27:17 The Complexity of Content Creation 32:51 The Importance of Community and Connection 40:16 Merging Modern Worship with Tradition ____________________________________________________ TNE Podcast hosts thought-provoking conversations at the intersection of faith, politics, and justice. We’re part of the New Evangelical’s 501c3 nonprofit that rejects Christian Nationalism and builds a better path forward, rooted in Jesus and centered on justice. If you'd like to support our work or get involved, visit our website: www.thenewevangelicals.com Follow Us On Instagram @thenewevangelicals Subscribe On YouTube @thenewevangelicals This show is produced by Josh Gilbert Media | Joshgilbertmedia.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
436. The Cost of Being Queer in the Church and How to Heal
In this episode, Tim Whitaker engages in an insightful interview with psychotherapist Justin Oberste, who shares insights on deconstructing faith, LGBTQ+ affirming therapy, and innovative approaches like ketamine-assisted psychotherapy for healing trauma. A deep dive into navigating faith, sexuality, and mental health. Justin's Website | Justinoberste.com Chapters 02:24 Justin's background in LGBTQ+ affirmative therapy 15:16 Leaving fundamentalist environments and family safety 20:40 Navigating community, rejection, and finding belonging 50:35 Integrating protector parts and emotional release 54:39 Justin’s work and how to connect with him ____________________________________________________ TNE Podcast hosts thought-provoking conversations at the intersection of faith, politics, and justice. We’re part of the New Evangelical’s 501c3 nonprofit that rejects Christian Nationalism and builds a better path forward, rooted in Jesus and centered on justice. If you'd like to support our work or get involved, visit our website: www.thenewevangelicals.com Follow Us On Instagram @thenewevangelicals Subscribe On YouTube @thenewevangelicals This show is produced by Josh Gilbert Media | Joshgilbertmedia.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
435. Queering History
In this episode, Tim Whitaker engages in an insightful interview with Dr. Peter Carlson who shares their journey as a medievalist studying gender and queer history, challenging traditional views on marriage, gender, and biblical stories. Dr. Peter Carlson's Faculty Page Chapters 08:12 Exploring Gender and Marriage in the Medieval Period 19:58 Queer History vs. Gay History 20:54 The Role of Myth in Understanding Truth 26:23 Exploring Genesis: Chaos, Order, and Creation 29:34 Queering the Creation Narrative 42:32 The Queer Lectionary Project ____________________________________________________ TNE Podcast hosts thought-provoking conversations at the intersection of faith, politics, and justice. We’re part of the New Evangelical’s 501c3 nonprofit that rejects Christian Nationalism and builds a better path forward, rooted in Jesus and centered on justice. If you'd like to support our work or get involved, visit our website: www.thenewevangelicals.com Follow Us On Instagram @thenewevangelicals Subscribe On YouTube @thenewevangelicals This show is produced by Josh Gilbert Media | Joshgilbertmedia.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
434. Discovering Better Logics in a Binary World
In this episode, Tim Whitaker engages in an insightful interview with Dr. Tamice Spencer-Helms about their journey through faith, race, sexuality, and spirituality. They explore the intersections of whiteness, queerness, blackness, and the kingdom of God, challenging traditional narratives and advocating for a radical, love-centered faith. Dr. Tamice's Website | Blackmodernmystic.com Chapters 01:26 Journey of Faith Reconstruction 06:03 Intersectionality of Identity 17:55 The Nature of Power and Love 30:16 Navigating Whiteness and Competition 43:39 Living in Trust and Abundance ____________________________________________________ TNE Podcast hosts thought-provoking conversations at the intersection of faith, politics, and justice. We’re part of the New Evangelical’s 501c3 nonprofit that rejects Christian Nationalism and builds a better path forward, rooted in Jesus and centered on justice. If you'd like to support our work or get involved, visit our website: www.thenewevangelicals.com Follow Us On Instagram @thenewevangelicals Subscribe On YouTube @thenewevangelicals This show is produced by Josh Gilbert Media | Joshgilbertmedia.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
433. I Risked My Marriage to Come Out as Trans
In this episode, Tim Whitaker engages in an insightful interview with Billie Hoard shares her journey as a trans woman, her faith, and her perspective on Pride Month amidst current social and political challenges. The conversation explores themes of identity, faith, activism, and resilience, offering a nuanced view of the queer experience within faith communities. Billie on Substack | Billieiswriting.substack.com Chapters 05:06 The Spectrum of Pride: Celebration vs. Rage 18:15 The Personal Journey of Activism 24:00 Faith and Identity: A Trans Woman's Theology 31:15 Understanding Gender Identity and Personal Journey 49:50 The Importance of Therapy and Open Communication ____________________________________________________ TNE Podcast hosts thought-provoking conversations at the intersection of faith, politics, and justice. We’re part of the New Evangelical’s 501c3 nonprofit that rejects Christian Nationalism and builds a better path forward, rooted in Jesus and centered on justice. If you'd like to support our work or get involved, visit our website: www.thenewevangelicals.com Follow Us On Instagram @thenewevangelicals Subscribe On YouTube @thenewevangelicals This show is produced by Josh Gilbert Media | Joshgilbertmedia.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
432. Christian Anarchy and Gender. How to Create a More Beautiful World
In this episode, Tim Whitaker engages in an insightful interview with Dr. Mae Forrest Barnes. She reveals how questioning hierarchy and coercive power can ignite transformative social change—fueling movements that build community from the ground up. Mae's Substack | Maeforrestbarnes.substack.com ____________________________________________________ TNE Podcast hosts thought-provoking conversations at the intersection of faith, politics, and justice. We’re part of the New Evangelical’s 501c3 nonprofit that rejects Christian Nationalism and builds a better path forward, rooted in Jesus and centered on justice. If you'd like to support our work or get involved, visit our website: www.thenewevangelicals.com Follow Us On Instagram @thenewevangelicals Subscribe On YouTube @thenewevangelicals This show is produced by Josh Gilbert Media | Joshgilbertmedia.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
431. The Psychology of Play and Why it Matters
In this episode, Tim Whitaker engages in an insightful interview with Paul Hoard. Together they explore the profound importance of play for adults, its psychological roots, and how it fosters joy, creativity, and community. This conversation challenges societal norms about maturity and highlights play as a vital tool for mental health and resistance. Chapters 03:09 Understanding Play: A Psychological Perspective 08:54 Societal Views on Play and Adult Engagement 14:54 The Chase: Motivation and Meaning in Play 17:48 Subjective vs. Objective Value in Games 30:46 The Power of Joy in Community 46:39 Joy as a Path to Thriving ____________________________________________________ TNE Podcast hosts thought-provoking conversations at the intersection of faith, politics, and justice. We’re part of the New Evangelical’s 501c3 nonprofit that rejects Christian Nationalism and builds a better path forward, rooted in Jesus and centered on justice. If you'd like to support our work or get involved, visit our website: www.thenewevangelicals.com Follow Us On Instagram @thenewevangelicals Subscribe On YouTube @thenewevangelicals This show is produced by Josh Gilbert Media | Joshgilbertmedia.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
430. Your Family is MAGA, Now What?
In this episode, Tim Whitaker engages in an insightful interview with psychotherapist and policy analyst Dushyanthi Satchi. She shares her expertise on how education and proximity can foster empathy and drive social change, especially within conservative and evangelical communities. Chapters 10:09 Political Ideologies and Accountability 17:38 Understanding the Manosphere 21:49 Personal Reflections on White Male Privilege 28:11 Empathy as a Catalyst for Change 36:12 The Power of Proximity and Personal Stories 43:08 Navigating Relationships with MAGA Family Members ____________________________________________________ TNE Podcast hosts thought-provoking conversations at the intersection of faith, politics, and justice. We’re part of the New Evangelical’s 501c3 nonprofit that rejects Christian Nationalism and builds a better path forward, rooted in Jesus and centered on justice. If you'd like to support our work or get involved, visit our website: www.thenewevangelicals.com Follow Us On Instagram @thenewevangelicals Subscribe On YouTube @thenewevangelicals This show is produced by Josh Gilbert Media | Joshgilbertmedia.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
429. The Empathy Paradigm
In this episode, Tim Whitaker engages with Anna Clark Miller, a counselor and author of 'For God's Sake, Recovering from Religious Trauma,' shares her journey through high-control religion, the impact of spiritual abuse, and pathways to healing. Discover practical advice for navigating faith recovery, understanding empathy's role, and recognizing the influence of religious trauma on mental health. Learn more about Anna | Empathyparadigm.com Chapters 02:54 Understanding Spiritual Abuse 08:54 Navigating Trust and Community 12:03 The Role of Worship in Healing 18:02 Curiosity as a Tool for Recovery 21:07 Self-Compassion and Judgment 23:52 Conclusion and Resources ____________________________________________________ TNE Podcast hosts thought-provoking conversations at the intersection of faith, politics, and justice. We’re part of the New Evangelical’s 501c3 nonprofit that rejects Christian Nationalism and builds a better path forward, rooted in Jesus and centered on justice. If you'd like to support our work or get involved, visit our website: www.thenewevangelicals.com Follow Us On Instagram @thenewevangelicals Subscribe On YouTube @thenewevangelicals This show is produced by Josh Gilbert Media | Joshgilbertmedia.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
428. How to Overcome Religious Trauma
In this episode, Tim Whitaker engages with psychotherapist SC Neely about her new book 'Healing Sacred Wounds' and explores religious and spiritual trauma, its impact on mental health, and pathways to healing. They discuss how childhood religious environments shape adult beliefs, the neurological effects of trauma, and practical steps for recovery. SC Nealy's Website | Lgbtcounselingdmv.com Chapters 05:55 The Impact of High Control Religions 12:08 Navigating Parenting and Religion 23:20 Navigating Trauma and Resilience 28:59 Building Healthy Relationships and Community 37:42 From Victim to Survivor: Redefining Identity 43:44 LGBTQ+ Counseling and Community Support ____________________________________________________ TNE Podcast hosts thought-provoking conversations at the intersection of faith, politics, and justice. We’re part of the New Evangelical’s 501c3 nonprofit that rejects Christian Nationalism and builds a better path forward, rooted in Jesus and centered on justice. If you'd like to support our work or get involved, visit our website: www.thenewevangelicals.com Follow Us On Instagram @thenewevangelicals Subscribe On YouTube @thenewevangelicals This show is produced by Josh Gilbert Media | Joshgilbertmedia.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
427. A Rabbi Speaks to Christians
In this episode, Tim Whitaker engages in a profound conversation with Rabbi Sandra Lawson. She shares her journey, explains the core principles of Judaism, and discusses how interfaith collaboration can combat rising hate groups and Christian nationalism. Chapters 02:04 Rabbi Sandra Lawson's Background and Work 10:53 The Role of the Torah and Talmud in Judaism 13:42 The Rise of Hate Groups and White Nationalism 21:49 The Dangers of Media Narratives and Anti-Semitism 29:40 Grassroots Movements and Political Change 34:05 Hope for the Future: Lessons from Global Politics ____________________________________________________ TNE Podcast hosts thought-provoking conversations at the intersection of faith, politics, and justice. We’re part of the New Evangelical’s 501c3 nonprofit that rejects Christian Nationalism and builds a better path forward, rooted in Jesus and centered on justice. If you'd like to support our work or get involved, visit our website: www.thenewevangelicals.com Follow Us On Instagram @thenewevangelicals Subscribe On YouTube @thenewevangelicals This show is produced by Josh Gilbert Media | Joshgilbertmedia.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
426. Meet the Skeptic Pastor of Not Church
In this episode, Tim Whitaker engages in a profound conversation with Jeremy Steele, aka The Skeptic Pastor. Jeremy shares his journey from evangelical roots to a more open, inclusive spiritual community. He discusses deconstruction, the power of rituals, and how his online community 'Not Church' models a new way of spiritual connection beyond traditional boundaries. Chapters 13:32 The Evolution of Beliefs and Spirituality 16:54 Navigating Deconstruction and Reconstruction 22:32 Exploring the Not Church Community 26:47 Exploring the Digital Not Church Community 32:28 Building Bridges Across Beliefs 36:43 The Importance of Embodied Community 39:01 Rituals for Heretics: Reclaiming Spiritual Practices 47:00 Navigating Identity and Tradition 52:22 The Neuroscience of Spiritual Practices ____________________________________________________ TNE Podcast hosts thought-provoking conversations at the intersection of faith, politics, and justice. We’re part of the New Evangelical’s 501c3 nonprofit that rejects Christian Nationalism and builds a better path forward, rooted in Jesus and centered on justice. If you'd like to support our work or get involved, visit our website: www.thenewevangelicals.com Follow Us On Instagram @thenewevangelicals Subscribe On YouTube @thenewevangelicals This show is produced by Josh Gilbert Media | Joshgilbertmedia.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
425. Judaism is More Complicated than You Think
**United Theological Seminary | https://bit.ly/united-tne ** ** Apply for the fall 2026 term by July 1** In this episode, Tim Whitaker engages in a profound conversation with Dr. Shaul Magid, a Harvard Divinity School professor and expert in modern Jewish studies, shares his journey from post-war America to studying in Israel and becoming a scholar. The conversation explores the history of Judaism, Zionism, and the complex relationship between Christianity and Judaism, offering nuanced perspectives on faith, identity, and interfaith dialogue. Chapters 03:24 Shaul's Journey and Academic Background 19:06 Judaism as Ethnicity vs. Religion 30:50 The Evolution of Jewish Zionism 38:38 Zionism: Secularism and Religious Tensions 45:08 The Shifting Dynamics of Evangelical Support for Israel 50:43 Navigating Complex Conversations on Israel and Palestine ____________________________________________________ TNE Podcast hosts thought-provoking conversations at the intersection of faith, politics, and justice. We’re part of the New Evangelical’s 501c3 nonprofit that rejects Christian Nationalism and builds a better path forward, rooted in Jesus and centered on justice. If you'd like to support our work or get involved, visit our website: www.thenewevangelicals.com Follow Us On Instagram @thenewevangelicals Subscribe On YouTube @thenewevangelicals This show is produced by Josh Gilbert Media | Joshgilbertmedia.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
424. Islam 101 with Qasim Rashid
**United Theological Seminary | https://bit.ly/united-tne ** ** Apply for the fall 2026 term by July 1** In this episode, Tim Whitaker engages in a profound conversation with Qasim Rashid discusses the core principles of Islam, its history, and how it promotes peace, religious freedom, and interfaith understanding. He addresses misconceptions about Sharia law, the diversity within Islam, and the importance of unity in a pluralistic society. Chapters 02:59 Understanding Islam: Myths and Realities 08:56 The Quran: Its Significance and Preservation 12:04 Sharia Law: Misconceptions and Realities 21:11 Understanding Religious Extremism and Its Context 25:45 Historical Perspectives on Islam and Coexistence 30:37 The Role of Faith in Interfaith Relations 35:40 Concepts of Afterlife and Justice in Islam 40:44 Building a Pluralistic Society Against Extremism ____________________________________________________ TNE Podcast hosts thought-provoking conversations at the intersection of faith, politics, and justice. We’re part of the New Evangelical’s 501c3 nonprofit that rejects Christian Nationalism and builds a better path forward, rooted in Jesus and centered on justice. If you'd like to support our work or get involved, visit our website: www.thenewevangelicals.com Follow Us On Instagram @thenewevangelicals Subscribe On YouTube @thenewevangelicals This show is produced by Josh Gilbert Media | Joshgilbertmedia.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
423. Setting the Table for What's Next
In this episode, Malynda Hale reflects on the themes of faith, deconstruction, community, and inclusion, emphasizing the importance of building a more intersectional and inclusive faith community. The discussion highlights the need for honest conversations, healing, and active participation in creating a better future. Chapters 03:05 The Importance of Deconstruction and Healing 05:49 Building Community and Intersectionality 09:11 Setting the Table Together for Inclusivity ____________________________________________________ TNE Podcast hosts thought-provoking conversations at the intersection of faith, politics, and justice. We’re part of the New Evangelical’s 501c3 nonprofit that rejects Christian Nationalism and builds a better path forward, rooted in Jesus and centered on justice. If you'd like to support our work or get involved, visit our website: www.thenewevangelicals.com Follow Us On Instagram @thenewevangelicals Subscribe On YouTube @thenewevangelicals This show is produced by Josh Gilbert Media | Joshgilbertmedia.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
422. Faith Unlynched with Dr. Angela Parker
In this episode, Tim Whitaker engages in a profound conversation with Dr. Angela Parker shares her journey as a biblical scholar, her approach to interpreting scripture, and how her work challenges fundamentalist perspectives. She discusses the importance of nuance, historical context, and the Black liberation tradition in understanding the Bible and resisting white Christian nationalism. Chapters 02:09 Dr. Parker's Journey in Biblical Scholarship 06:42 Navigating the Complexity of Biblical Texts 17:01 Faith and Certainty in Biblical Interpretation 26:01 Experiences of Black Women in Academia 35:54 Reframing the Biblical Narrative ____________________________________________________ TNE Podcast hosts thought-provoking conversations at the intersection of faith, politics, and justice. We’re part of the New Evangelical’s 501c3 nonprofit that rejects Christian Nationalism and builds a better path forward, rooted in Jesus and centered on justice. If you'd like to support our work or get involved, visit our website: www.thenewevangelicals.com Follow Us On Instagram @thenewevangelicals Subscribe On YouTube @thenewevangelicals This show is produced by Josh Gilbert Media | Joshgilbertmedia.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
