Avsnitt

  • Writer Sarah Southern joins me to share her deconstruction journey from fundamentalism to freedom. Sarah shares how her initial process was paralyzed by the infinite stakes of questioning faith, until wonder—particularly through Colorado's mountains—offered an unexpected path forward. Drawing on Abraham Heschel's wisdom about wonder as the foundation of religious experience, Sarah found that direct encounters with natural beauty provided a way to remain spiritually engaged while processing religious trauma. Rather than requiring doctrinal certainty, this approach created space for authentic exploration through direct experience of the sacred. For Patrons, our conversation continues with Sarah's travels to Salzburg and Japan, exploring how different cultural and religious traditions can expand our spiritual horizons even further.

    Sarah's Instagram | sarahbsouthern

    Sarah's Substack | @sarahsouthern

    Sarah's Article | Embracing Violence

    Highlights:
    02:01 Navigating Deconstruction and Crises of Belief
    05:50 The Impact of Fear and Violence in Faith
    10:05 Cultural Evolution and Human Connection
    15:55 Traveling Through Faith and Diversity
    22:07 The Balance of Wonder and Fear in Faith
    25:58 Finding Beauty in New Landscapes

    Dan's New Substack | Religion on the Mind
    ___________________________________________
    Follow Dan on IG: www.instagram.com/dancoke/
    Or Twitter: twitter.com/DanKoch
    Faith deconstruction resources: www.soyouredeconstructing.com/
    Edited by Josh Gilbert (joshgilbertmedia.com -- he is accepting more work!)
    Join the Patreon for exclusive episodes (and more) every month: patreon.com/dankoch
    Email about the "sliding scale" for the Patreon: [email protected]
    YHP Patron-only FB group: tinyurl.com/ycvbbf98
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    Artwork by sprungle. co/
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  • We're back with another comedian episode of YHP, this time featuring Tom Fell, whose brilliant social media videos skewer corporate speak and existential themes with painful accuracy. Our conversation centers on psychedelics and consciousness, where Tom demonstrates what I'd call "materialist wonder" - particularly in his story about encountering a whale shortly after taking mushrooms. Rather than viewing it through a supernatural or New Age lens, Tom finds deeper meaning in understanding the scientific factors that make this coincidence possible. This approach, which sees wonder in natural causes rather than divine intervention, reflects the same balance found in his comedy: a critical yet playful perspective that serves as a pressure release valve for processing life's profound and absurd aspects. And yes, we laugh a lot!

    Tom's Linktree | linktr.ee/tomfell

    Highlights:
    09:11 Truth in Comedy: The Power of Humor
    29:58 Existential Themes in Comedy
    42:16 Navigating Drug Culture and Personal Choices
    53:18 The Intersection of Science and Spirituality
    01:05:10 Spirituality Beyond Religion: Personal Revelations

    Dan's New Substack | Religion on the Mind
    ___________________________________________
    Follow Dan on IG: www.instagram.com/dancoke/
    Or Twitter: twitter.com/DanKoch
    Faith deconstruction resources: www.soyouredeconstructing.com/
    Edited by Josh Gilbert (joshgilbertmedia.com -- he is accepting more work!)
    Join the Patreon for exclusive episodes (and more) every month: patreon.com/dankoch
    Email about the "sliding scale" for the Patreon: [email protected]
    YHP Patron-only FB group: tinyurl.com/ycvbbf98
    Website: www.dankochwords.com/yhp.html
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    Artwork by sprungle. co/
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  • The You Have Permission team of Dan Koch, Josh Gilbert and Joy Vetterlein sit down to process the election a day later. Dan puts on his therapy hat and offers some general coping mechanisms and how to deal with the catastrophizing thoughts blue voters might have around a Trump presidency. We also discuss listener comments and questions, and talk through what we’re learning and taking away from the experience. Listen if you could use some friends to process with and find a bit of hope, but skip this one if you’re looking for detailed political analysis or if you just need to stay in your anger a little longer.

    Sharon McMahon's Podcast | Here's Where It Gets Interesting

    Robert Wright's Election Video | Nervous About the Election? Watch This.

    The NonZero Substack | NonZero Newsletter

    Dan's New Substack | Religion on the Mind
    ___________________________________________
    Follow Dan on IG: www.instagram.com/dancoke/
    Or Twitter: twitter.com/DanKoch
    Faith deconstruction resources: www.soyouredeconstructing.com/
    Edited by Josh Gilbert (joshgilbertmedia.com -- he is accepting more work!)
    Join the Patreon for exclusive episodes (and more) every month: patreon.com/dankoch
    Email about the "sliding scale" for the Patreon: [email protected]
    YHP Patron-only FB group: tinyurl.com/ycvbbf98
    Website: www.dankochwords.com/yhp.html
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    Artwork by sprungle. co/
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  • Take a break from election coverage and enjoy this thoughtful conversation with Brandan Robertson, a pastor in Queens, NY, about "Christian agnosticism" and navigating faith with intellectual honesty. We explore how embracing uncertainty about religious claims can actually deepen rather than diminish faith, moving beyond the rigid certainty of our evangelical backgrounds toward a more nuanced approach. We share our experiences of finding value in Christian traditions while holding space for doubt, and discuss how this approach resonates with both religious and non-religious people alike. The conversation expands to cover selective Christianity, religious commitment, trends in progressive faith communities, and even Joel Osteen's effective use of simple religious messaging. It’s a refreshing perspective on how faith can remain relevant and authentic in an increasingly complex world!

    Brandon's Website | brandanrobertson.com

    Highlights:
    02:43 Christian Agnosticism: Embracing Mystery and Wonder
    25:51 The Limits of Human Knowledge and Religious Pragmatism
    33:08 The Tension Between Deconstruction and Faith
    54:11 Challenges in Building Lasting Change in Progressive Religious Movements

    Dan's New Substack | Religion on the Mind
    ___________________________________________
    Follow Dan on IG: www.instagram.com/dancoke/
    Or Twitter: twitter.com/DanKoch
    Faith deconstruction resources: www.soyouredeconstructing.com/
    Edited by Josh Gilbert (joshgilbertmedia.com -- he is accepting more work!)
    Join the Patreon for exclusive episodes (and more) every month: patreon.com/dankoch
    Email about the "sliding scale" for the Patreon: [email protected]
    YHP Patron-only FB group: tinyurl.com/ycvbbf98
    Website: www.dankochwords.com/yhp.html
    Join Dan's email list: www.dankochwords.com/
    Artwork by sprungle. co/
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  • Today I'm joined by frequent podcast collaborators Josh Gilbert and Kristen Tideman to discuss "The Iron Claw" (2023), a film that chronicles the tragic story of the Von Erich wrestling family during the territorial wrestling era of the 1980s. At its core, the film explores how patriarch Fritz Von Erich projects his unrealized wrestling ambitions onto his sons through conditional love and emotional suppression while his sons form intense bonds supporting each other through their shared pursuit of wrestling excellence. We share our personal reactions to the film's heavy themes and explore our own boundaries with difficult content. For our Patron-only segment, we dive deep into the film's haunting afterlife scene, leading to vulnerable conversations about faith, mortality, family tragedy, and questions of legacy. I even talk about crying! Like all impactful films, "The Iron Claw" opened up avenues of conversation we might not have reached otherwise, revealing how this portrait of a family trapped in cycles of ambition, loyalty, and tragedy resonates with our own experiences.

    Highlights:
    12:40 Personal Reflections on Film and Emotional Impact
    20:05 The Intersection of Film and Personal Experience
    30:12 The Movie Method: A Therapeutic Approach to Film

    Movie | The Iron Claw

    Episode with Jenny Hamelton | Using Movies in Therapy (#265)

    Jenny's Website | jennyhamiltoncounselling.wordpress.com

    The Movies Could Be Good For You Article | https://theconversation.com/watching-movies-could-be-good-for-your-mental-health-214325

    Dan's New Substack | Religion on the Mind
    ___________________________________________
    Follow Dan on IG: www.instagram.com/dancoke/
    Or Twitter: twitter.com/DanKoch
    Faith deconstruction resources: www.soyouredeconstructing.com/
    Edited by Josh Gilbert (joshgilbertmedia.com -- he is accepting more work!)
    Join the Patreon for exclusive episodes (and more) every month: patreon.com/dankoch
    Email about the "sliding scale" for the Patreon: [email protected]
    YHP Patron-only FB group: tinyurl.com/ycvbbf98
    Website: www.dankochwords.com/yhp.html
    Join Dan's email list: www.dankochwords.com/
    Artwork by sprungle. co/
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  • Join Dan Koch and Joy Vetterlein for another "After Hours" episode of You Have Permission as they dive into Netflix's hit series "Nobody Wants This." While a rom-com might seem like an unexpected choice for YHP, this show about an agnostic podcaster (Kristen Bell) falling for a progressive rabbi (Adam Brody) offers surprisingly rich material for exploring faith, doubt, and relationships. Dan and Joy unpack several fascinating themes from the first episode: the Jewish approach to wrestling with religious uncertainty, refreshingly honest relationship dynamics that buck typical rom-com tropes, the complex dynamics of religious authority and spiritual interpretation, and thoughtful discussion of how Jewish audiences are receiving the show's cultural portrayal. While lighter than our usual fare, this episode demonstrates how pop culture can open doors to deeper conversations about faith, psychology, and human connection. Let us know if you'd like to see more episodes in this casual evening format and/or more discussion of current shows and movies!

    Highlights
    15:05 Cultural Reflections on Judaism and Christianity
    19:58 Faith, Doubt, and Spirituality in Relationships
    30:12 Attachment Theory and Relationship Patterns
    52:47 Cultural Stereotypes in Relationships
    01:02:14 Near-Death Experiences and Life Changes

    Joy's Website | joyvetterlein.com

    The Attachment-Based Romance Video Dan Mentions | Why We Pick Difficult Partners

    Dan's New Substack | Religion on the Mind
    ___________________________________________
    Follow Dan on IG: www.instagram.com/dancoke/
    Or Twitter: twitter.com/DanKoch
    Faith deconstruction resources: www.soyouredeconstructing.com/
    Edited by Josh Gilbert (joshgilbertmedia.com -- he is accepting more work!)
    Join the Patreon for exclusive episodes (and more) every month: patreon.com/dankoch
    Email about the "sliding scale" for the Patreon: [email protected]
    YHP Patron-only FB group: tinyurl.com/ycvbbf98
    Website: www.dankochwords.com/yhp.html
    Join Dan's email list: www.dankochwords.com/
    Artwork by sprungle. co/
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  • Therapists Hillary McBride and Preston Hill joined me discussing their Spiritual First Responders Project and the complexities of religious trauma. We explored how religious trauma uniquely impacts one's sense of meaning and community, often occurring over extended periods and becoming deeply ingrained in a person's worldview. Hillary highlighted how religious environments can inadvertently reinforce traumatic experiences, while Preston offered theological insights on how certain concepts can create conditions for spiritual abuse. We delved into their innovative project, which provides support groups for individuals renegotiating their spiritual identities. As a fellow practitioner in this field, I'm excited about their work and its potential impact.

    Highlights
    12:56 Understanding Complex Religious Trauma
    24:08 Moral Gaslighting and Spiritual Helplessness
    30:16 Cognitive vs. Embodied Therapy
    34:35 Spiritual First Responders Project Overview
    43:33 Creating Healing Spaces

    Spiritual First Responder's Project | sfrproject.org

    Hillary's Website | hillarylmcbride.com

    Hillary's New Book | Practices for Embodied Living

    Preston's Website | drprestonhill.com

    Dan's New Substack | Religion on the Mind
    ___________________________________________
    Follow Dan on IG: www.instagram.com/dancoke/
    Or Twitter: twitter.com/DanKoch
    Faith deconstruction resources: www.soyouredeconstructing.com/
    Edited by Josh Gilbert (joshgilbertmedia.com -- he is accepting more work!)
    Join the Patreon for exclusive episodes (and more) every month: patreon.com/dankoch
    Email about the "sliding scale" for the Patreon: [email protected]
    YHP Patron-only FB group: tinyurl.com/ycvbbf98
    Website: www.dankochwords.com/yhp.html
    Join Dan's email list: www.dankochwords.com/
    Artwork by sprungle. co/
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  • Musician Jayne Sugg joins the podcast to discuss her journey through faith deconstruction and its profound impact on her creative process. Raised in a charismatic, Pentecostal church where her family led worship, Jayne's faith and music were deeply intertwined from a young age. This deconstruction process resulted in a significant creative crisis as Jayne struggled to find authentic artistic expression outside the familiar framework of worship music. Her story illustrates the deep connection between belief systems and artistic expression, and how personal crises can catalyze artistic growth. Tune in to hear how Jayne ultimately rediscovered her musical voice by exploring new genres and perspectives.

    Jayne Sugg | Spotify
    Jayne's Website | jaynesugg.com

    Chapters:
    05:21 Navigating Post-Evangelical Christian Artistry
    33:27 Deconstruction in Worship Music
    53:24 Nurturing Creativity in Religious Communities
    01:10:30 The Impact of Disillusionment on Musical Development
    01:31:05 Cultural Influences on Musical Expression

    Dan's new Substack | Religion on the Mind
    ___________________________________________
    Get Tickets for the PREGAME EVENT before Theology Beer Camp!
    Get Tickets for Theology Beer Camp 2024
    Use Code ReturnofYHP for $50 off your ticket!
    ___________________________________________
    Follow Dan on IG: www.instagram.com/dancoke/
    Or Twitter: twitter.com/DanKoch
    Faith deconstruction resources: www.soyouredeconstructing.com/
    Edited by Josh Gilbert (joshgilbertmedia.com -- he is accepting more work!)
    Join the Patreon for exclusive episodes (and more) every month: patreon.com/dankoch
    Email about the "sliding scale" for the Patreon: [email protected]
    YHP Patron-only FB group: tinyurl.com/ycvbbf98
    Website: www.dankochwords.com/yhp.html
    Join Dan's email list: www.dankochwords.com/
    Artwork by sprungle. co/
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  • In this special "after hours" episode of "You Have Permission," Dan and his old friend Lindsay share their biggest regrets from evangelical purity culture. They explore how this nonbiblical but influential sexual ethic affected both men and women during adolescence, acknowledging that women bore the brunt of its impact. Dan and Lindsay reminisce about cringeworthy memories, like bizarre sex ed object lessons and being used as "purity examples" in youth group. They discuss how purity culture shaped their limited sex education and filtered their understanding of sexuality and relationships. The conversation touches on the lasting effects of purity culture on mental health, physical well-being, and current relationships. The first half of this more personal and casual episode is available for free, with the deeper, more candid discussion reserved for Patrons.

    Lindsay's Website | www.stranniganandsons.com
    Lindsay on Instagram | @lindsaystrannigan

    Episode #187 with Lindsay | Walk Me Through: Jesus Movement Music '67-'79 (Part 1)

    Highlights
    05:55 Personal Regrets and Experiences
    12:08 The Impact of Purity Culture on Relationships
    18:09 Sex Education and Its Gaps
    23:55 Navigating Sexuality and Shame
    35:50 Health Consequences of Purity Culture


    Dan's new Substack | Religion on the Mind
    ___________________________________________
    Get Tickets for the PREGAME EVENT before Theology Beer Camp!
    Get Tickets for Theology Beer Camp 2024
    Use Code ReturnofYHP for $50 off your ticket!
    ___________________________________________
    Follow Dan on IG: www.instagram.com/dancoke/
    Or Twitter: twitter.com/DanKoch
    Faith deconstruction resources: www.soyouredeconstructing.com/
    Edited by Josh Gilbert (joshgilbertmedia.com -- he is accepting more work!)
    Join the Patreon for exclusive episodes (and more) every month: patreon.com/dankoch
    Email about the "sliding scale" for the Patreon: [email protected]
    YHP Patron-only FB group: tinyurl.com/ycvbbf98
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  • This is a Patreon Preview | *The exclusive half starts around the 53 min mark*

    In this special episode, Dan brings together his "Big Five" friends—Tripp Fuller, Myron Penner, Sarah Concepcion, and Sarah Lane Ritchie—to playfully mock and critically examine the Enneagram. Dan introduces the "Danneagram," an AI-generated personality system, sparking a lively discussion that oscillates between humorous riffs on personality typing and serious critiques. The group debates the value of such systems, even if not scientifically valid, and covers other topics like birth order, religious anthropology, and even "Lord of the Rings" characters. Join in for a thought-provoking and entertaining dive into the allure and limitations of personality assessments.

    Previous Enneagram Episodes:
    Ep #101 | Is the Enneagram Real?
    Ep #161 | The Enneagram Doesn't Hold Up

    Dan's new Substack | Religion on the Mind
    ___________________________________________
    Get Tickets for the PREGAME EVENT before Theology Beer Camp!
    Get Tickets for Theology Beer Camp 2024
    Use Code ReturnofYHP for $50 off your ticket!
    ___________________________________________
    Follow Dan on IG: www.instagram.com/dancoke/
    Or Twitter: twitter.com/DanKoch
    Faith deconstruction resources: www.soyouredeconstructing.com/
    Edited by Josh Gilbert (joshgilbertmedia.com -- he is accepting more work!)
    Join the Patreon for exclusive episodes (and more) every month: patreon.com/dankoch
    Email about the "sliding scale" for the Patreon: [email protected]
    YHP Patron-only FB group: tinyurl.com/ycvbbf98
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  • Dr. Kirk Honda of Psychology in Seattle returns to discuss the intersection of psychology and popular media. We explore the world of reality TV through a psychological lens, where Dr. Honda makes a compelling case for using these shows as tools for psychoeducation and cultural insight. According to him, even heavily edited content can serve as a springboard for discussing broader psychological concepts. From relationship dynamics in "Love is Blind" to personality assessments discussed during the Johnny Depp-Amber Heard trial, we examine how popular culture can be leveraged to increase psychological literacy among the public. This conversation offers a fresh perspective on the potential of reality TV as a vehicle for understanding human behavior and mental health, demonstrating how clinicians and educators can engage thoughtfully with popular media to foster greater psychological awareness.

    Highlights
    02:56 The Role of Movies in Personal Development
    11:55 The Intersection of Therapy and Media Representation
    23:52 The Ethics of Reality TV and Therapy

    Previous Episode with Kirk:
    Episode 88 | Secular Therapy's Religion Blind Spot

    https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/you-have-permission/id1448000113?i=1000491974985

    Kirk's Past Episodes:

    Kirk's Podcast | Psychology In Seattle Podcast
    Kirk's YouTube Channel | Psychology in Seattle
    Psychology In Seattle Website | psychologyinseattle.com

    Dan's new Substack | Religion on the Mind
    ___________________________________________
    Get Tickets for the PREGAME EVENT before Theology Beer Camp!
    Get Tickets for Theology Beer Camp 2024
    Use Code ReturnofYHP for $50 off your ticket!
    ___________________________________________
    Follow Dan on IG: www.instagram.com/dancoke/
    Or Twitter: twitter.com/DanKoch
    Faith deconstruction resources: www.soyouredeconstructing.com/
    Edited by Josh Gilbert (joshgilbertmedia.com -- he is accepting more work!)
    Join the Patreon for exclusive episodes (and more) every month: patreon.com/dankoch
    Email about the "sliding scale" for the Patreon: [email protected]
    YHP Patron-only FB group: tinyurl.com/ycvbbf98
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    Join Dan's email list: www.dankochwords.com/
    Artwork by sprungle. co/
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  • In this special episode, Dan brings together his "Big Five" friends—Tripp Fuller, Myron Penner, Sarah Concepcion, and Sarah Lane Ritchie—to playfully mock and critically examine the Enneagram. Dan introduces the "Danneagram," an AI-generated personality system, sparking a lively discussion that oscillates between humorous riffs on personality typing and serious critiques. The group debates the value of such systems, even if not scientifically valid, and covers other topics like birth order, religious anthropology, and even "Lord of the Rings" characters. Join in for a thought-provoking and entertaining dive into the allure and limitations of personality assessments.

    Previous Enneagram Episodes:
    Ep #101 | Is the Enneagram Real?
    Ep #161 | The Enneagram Doesn't Hold Up

    Dan's new Substack | Religion on the Mind
    ___________________________________________
    Get Tickets for the PREGAME EVENT before Theology Beer Camp!
    Get Tickets for Theology Beer Camp 2024
    Use Code ReturnofYHP for $50 off your ticket!
    ___________________________________________
    Follow Dan on IG: www.instagram.com/dancoke/
    Or Twitter: twitter.com/DanKoch
    Faith deconstruction resources: www.soyouredeconstructing.com/
    Edited by Josh Gilbert (joshgilbertmedia.com -- he is accepting more work!)
    Join the Patreon for exclusive episodes (and more) every month: patreon.com/dankoch
    Email about the "sliding scale" for the Patreon: [email protected]
    YHP Patron-only FB group: tinyurl.com/ycvbbf98
    Website: www.dankochwords.com/yhp.html
    Join Dan's email list: www.dankochwords.com/
    Artwork by sprungle. co/
    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

  • In this week's episode, I sit down with Katelyn Dixon and Sarah Almodovar, co-hosts of the Still Christian podcast, for another installment in my Still Christian series. We explore our diverse religious backgrounds and experiences questioning faith, from Katie's "dark night of the soul" to Sarah's period of rebellion in New York City. We also discussed the idea of "undeniable" spiritual experiences. Drawing from my philosophy background, I propose a more nuanced approach to these experiences, suggesting we treat them as important data points in our spiritual lives rather than irrefutable proof. While our approaches to faith differ — with Katie and Sarah emphasizing personal, subjective experiences and my leaning towards a more analytical view — this conversation showcases the presence of diversity within Christian spirituality and the value of open, engaging dialogue about faith.

    In the patron-only second half of the episode, we dive deeper into the role of suffering in faith, different approaches to religion, the interplay between art and faith, and our shared experience of hosting podcasts about Christianity in contemporary contexts. Join or log on to your Patreon account to hear the full, ad-free version of this episode.

    Highlights
    09:08 Dark Nights of the Soul
    11:57 Questioning Christian Identity
    14:49 Experiences of God's Presence
    17:53 Spiritual Experiences and Interpretation
    20:48 The Intersection of Faith and Modern Life

    Katelyn and Sarah's Podcast | Still Christian


    Still Christian Instagram | @stillchristianpodcast


    Sarah's Yoga Page | sarahjoalmo.com


    Katelyn's Website and Writing Page | katelynjdixon.com

    Dan's new Substack | Religion on the Mind
    ___________________________________________
    Get Tickets for the PREGAME EVENT before Theology Beer Camp!
    Get Tickets for Theology Beer Camp 2024
    Use Code ReturnofYHP for $50 off your ticket!
    ___________________________________________
    Follow Dan on IG: www.instagram.com/dancoke/
    Or Twitter: twitter.com/DanKoch
    Faith deconstruction resources: www.soyouredeconstructing.com/
    Edited by Josh Gilbert (joshgilbertmedia.com -- he is accepting more work!)
    Join the Patreon for exclusive episodes (and more) every month: patreon.com/dankoch
    Email about the "sliding scale" for the Patreon: [email protected]
    YHP Patron-only FB group: tinyurl.com/ycvbbf98
    Website: www.dankochwords.com/yhp.html
    Join Dan's email list: www.dankochwords.com/
    Artwork by sprungle. co/
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  • John and Linn Haralson discuss their journey from complementarianism to egalitarianism regarding women in ministry. As long-time members of their church community, I've witnessed their progression firsthand, making this behind-the-scenes look particularly interesting. We explore the complexities of changing deeply held beliefs within a marriage and church leadership context. Lynn shares how events like the Charleston massacre in 2016 catalyzed her shift in perspective, while John describes his more gradual journey, influenced by leaving the PCA and reading William Witt's "Icons of Christ." The couple candidly discussed their "don't ask, don't tell" period and the personal costs of their former beliefs. We also delve into the challenges of guiding a congregation through such a significant doctrinal change, including the anxiety preceding the church vote and the intentional process of education and discussion. Their story illuminates how changing one's mind on theological issues is a deeply personal process affecting relationships, community dynamics, and individual spiritual journeys.

    Highlights:
    05:14 Different Perspectives on Gender Roles
    19:42 The Cost of Changing Beliefs
    35:24 Living with Complementarianism within Marriage
    59:03 Validating Grief and Loss within Complementarian Beliefs


    John and Linn's Church | graceseattle.org
    Dan's new Substack | Religion on the Mind
    ___________________________________________
    Get Tickets for the PREGAME EVENT before Theology Beer Camp!
    Get Tickets for Theology Beer Camp 2024
    Use Code ReturnofYHP for $50 off your ticket!
    ___________________________________________
    Follow Dan on IG: www.instagram.com/dancoke/
    Or Twitter: twitter.com/DanKoch
    Faith deconstruction resources: www.soyouredeconstructing.com/
    Edited by Josh Gilbert (joshgilbertmedia.com -- he is accepting more work!)
    Join the Patreon for exclusive episodes (and more) every month: patreon.com/dankoch
    Email about the "sliding scale" for the Patreon: [email protected]
    YHP Patron-only FB group: tinyurl.com/ycvbbf98
    Website: www.dankochwords.com/yhp.html
    Join Dan's email list: www.dankochwords.com/
    Artwork by sprungle. co/
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  • In this episode, I welcomed back Dr. Pam Ebstyne King to discuss her framework of six facets for spiritual health. We focused on "transcendence and spirituality," where Pam expanded on Dr. Lisa Miller's definition to include not just experiencing something beyond oneself, but also responding to it. This resonated deeply with me, prompting thoughts on evolving my two-item model of spirituality and religiosity into a three-item model including transcendence. Pam's research on "spiritual exemplars" illustrated how individuals allow transcendent experiences to shape their identity, beliefs, and actions. This conversation sparked ideas about a more holistic model of spiritual life, acknowledging the initial experience of transcendence, the personal spiritual journey, and the communal religious practices that often follow. 

    Highlights
    09:13 Six Facets of Spiritual Health
    19:30 Transcendence and Spirituality
    23:13 Habits and Rhythms
    25:59 Relationships and Community
    30:45 Vocation and Purpose
    35:49 Identity and Narrative
    41:49 Ethics and Virtues

    Pam's Thrive Center | thethrivecenter.org
    Pam's Podcast | With & For
    Past YHP Episode with Pam King:
    #129 | Religion, Virtue & Human Thriving

    Dan's new Substack | Religion on the Mind
    ___________________________________________
    Get Tickets for the PREGAME EVENT before Theology Beer Camp!
    Get Tickets for Theology Beer Camp 2024
    Use Code ReturnofYHP for $50 off your ticket!
    ___________________________________________
    Follow Dan on IG: www.instagram.com/dancoke/
    Or Twitter: twitter.com/DanKoch
    Faith deconstruction resources: www.soyouredeconstructing.com/
    Edited by Josh Gilbert (joshgilbertmedia.com -- he is accepting more work!)
    Join the Patreon for exclusive episodes (and more) every month: patreon.com/dankoch
    Email about the "sliding scale" for the Patreon: [email protected]
    YHP Patron-only FB group: tinyurl.com/ycvbbf98
    Website: www.dankochwords.com/yhp.html
    Join Dan's email list: www.dankochwords.com/
    Artwork by sprungle. co/
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  • In the second episode of our series of conversations with comedians about religion and spirituality, comedian Maggie Lally joined me to share her genuinely unique religious experiences and how they inform her comedy and worldview. 

    From a sheltered Catholic upbringing by a former Jesuit priest to becoming a “teen witch” in adolescence, Maggie was raised with a sense of spiritual openness that she still carries with her today. We discussed all the various therapeutic approaches she has experienced (including one who inspired a comedy bit about “overly empathetic white female therapists”) and connected on the practice of centering prayer.

    Highlights
    06:33 The Journey of Maggie's Father: From Jesuit to Family Man
    36:33 The Impact of Teenage Witchcraft
    43:38 The Role of Therapy and Spiritual Direction
    50:31 Cultivating a Meditation Practice
    01:00:23 Exploring Spirituality and Religion

    Maggie's Linktree

    Dan's new Substack | Religion on the Mind
    ___________________________________________
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    Get Tickets for Theology Beer Camp 2024
    Use Code ReturnofYHP for $50 off your ticket!
    ___________________________________________
    Follow Dan on IG: www.instagram.com/dancoke/
    Or Twitter: twitter.com/DanKoch
    Faith deconstruction resources: www.soyouredeconstructing.com/
    Edited by Josh Gilbert (joshgilbertmedia.com -- he is accepting more work!)
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  • In this follow-up to our discussion on the Apostle's Creed, Thomas Jay Oord and I delve into the Nicene Creed, examining its history, language, and theology through a progressive Christian lens. We grapple with complex concepts like the Trinity, the nature of Christ, and the Holy Spirit, questioning traditional interpretations and exploring how our diverse backgrounds shape our understanding of these ideas. While acknowledging the historical significance of the Creed, we also confront the challenge of interpreting ancient texts in a modern context. Our conversation highlights the tension between appreciating theological tradition and prioritizing practical expressions of faith that address contemporary issues. Ultimately, we reflect on the value of critically engaging with our religious heritage to cultivate a faith that is both historically grounded and relevant to today's world.

    Highlights
    00:00 Introduction and Recap of Previous Episode
    03:14 The Role of Theology: Faith Seeking Understanding
    11:50 The Limitations of Language in Theological Discourse
    19:10 Decoding the Language of the Nicene Creed
    23:57 The Tension Between Theological Precision and Language

    Tom's Previous Episode list:
    #7 | To Change Your Mind: Healing Prayer
    #23 | To Be a Postmodern Christian
    #42 | Is the "Supernatural" Actually Just Natural?

    Matthew Novenson Episode on "Pneuma:
    #163 | Apocalyptic Expectations, the Resurrection & More

    Dan's new Substack | Religion on the Mind
    ___________________________________________
    Get Tickets for the PREGAME EVENT before Theology Beer Camp!
    Get Tickets for Theology Beer Camp 2024
    Use Code ReturnofYHP for $50 off your ticket!
    ___________________________________________
    Follow Dan on IG: www.instagram.com/dancoke/
    Or Twitter: twitter.com/DanKoch
    Faith deconstruction resources: www.soyouredeconstructing.com/
    Edited by Josh Gilbert (joshgilbertmedia.com -- he is accepting more work!)
    Join the Patreon for exclusive episodes (and more) every month: patreon.com/dankoch
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  • In this first part of our discussion, Thomas Jay Oord and I take a deep dive into the Apostle’s Creed, exploring its origins, language, and theology through a progressive Christian lens. We examine foundational beliefs about God, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit, questioning traditional interpretations and considering how our experiences and backgrounds influence our understanding of these core tenets of faith. As we navigate the historical significance of the Creed, we also grapple with the challenge of applying these ancient declarations to a modern, evolving faith context. Our conversation reflects the ongoing tension between honoring theological tradition and pursuing a faith that resonates with contemporary concerns. Ultimately, we emphasize the importance of critically engaging with our religious heritage to cultivate a faith that is both deeply rooted in history and responsive to the realities of today’s world.

    Highlights:
    03:15 Discussion on the Apostles Creed
    13:06 Challenges and Personal Responses to the Creeds
    23:47 Interpreting the Phrase 'Believe in Jesus Christ'
    28:02 Understanding the Uniqueness of Jesus
    34:20 Exploring the Concepts of 'Descended to the Dead' and 'Resurrection'
    40:33 The Significance of the Resurrection in Christianity
    52:26 Exploring the Possibility of Mass Experiences
    56:45 Continuation of Subjective Experience Beyond Death


    Tom's Previous Episode list:
    #7 | To Change Your Mind: Healing Prayer
    #23 | To Be a Postmodern Christian
    #42 | Is the "Supernatural" Actually Just Natural?

    Matthew Novenson Episode on "Pneuma:
    #163 | Apocalyptic Expectations, the Resurrection & More

    Dan's new Substack | Religion on the Mind
    ___________________________________________
    Get Tickets for the PREGAME EVENT before Theology Beer Camp!
    Get Tickets for Theology Beer Camp 2024
    Use Code ReturnofYHP for $50 off your ticket!
    ___________________________________________
    Follow Dan on IG: www.instagram.com/dancoke/
    Or Twitter: twitter.com/DanKoch
    Faith deconstruction resources: www.soyouredeconstructing.com/
    Edited by Josh Gilbert (joshgilbertmedia.com -- he is accepting more work!)
    Join the Patreon for exclusive episodes (and more) every month: patreon.com/dankoch
    Email about the "sliding scale" for the Patreon: [email protected]
    YHP Patron-only FB group: tinyurl.com/ycvbbf98
    Website: www.dankochwords.com/yhp.html
    Join Dan's email list: www.dankochwords.com/
    Artwork by sprungle. co/
    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

  • In this inaugural episode of the new "God Songs AKA Songs in the Key of G-O-D" series, Dan Koch and fellow musician (and returning guest) Tyson Motsenbocker explore spiritually significant songs that aren't overtly religious. Dan shares his encounter with Jim James of My Morning Jacket and delves into James' song "Believe (Nobody Knows)," examining how it expresses belief amidst uncertainty. The conversation weaves through topics like evangelical "friendship evangelism," the psychological impact of absolutist beliefs, and the concept of "infinity withdrawal." Dan and Tyson discuss connections between James' music and Transcendental Meditation, touching on TM-inspired songs by The Beatles, Donovan, and the Beach Boys. This wide-ranging discussion explores the intersection of spirituality, culture, and art, grappling with deep questions about belief, community, and the human need for meaning, while contrasting ascetic traditions with worldly expressions of spirituality.

    Highlights:
    06:44 Analyzing 'Believe (Nobody Knows)' by My Morning Jacket
    23:11 The Nuances And Limits Of Faith And Belief
    33:26 The Influence of Transcendental Meditation on Popular Music

    Tyson on Instagram
    Where the Waves Turn Back Book
    Tyson's Website

    Dan's new Substack | Religion on the Mind
    ___________________________________________
    Get Tickets for the PREGAME EVENT before Theology Beer Camp!
    Get Tickets for Theology Beer Camp 2024
    Use Code ReturnofYHP for $50 off your ticket!
    ___________________________________________
    Follow Dan on IG: www.instagram.com/dancoke/
    Or Twitter: twitter.com/DanKoch
    Faith deconstruction resources: www.soyouredeconstructing.com/
    Edited by Josh Gilbert (joshgilbertmedia.com -- he is accepting more work!)
    Join the Patreon for exclusive episodes (and more) every month: patreon.com/dankoch
    Email about the "sliding scale" for the Patreon: [email protected]
    YHP Patron-only FB group: tinyurl.com/ycvbbf98
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    Artwork by sprungle. co/
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  • In this episode, I sit down with previous-guest-turned-colleague Joy Vetterlein to explore the intricate relationship between disgust psychology, Christian faith, and attitudes towards LGBTQ+ individuals. We discuss how evolutionary disgust mechanisms influence reactions to sexuality, and the challenge of balancing intuitive responses with consciously held values. The conversation delves into personal experiences of conservative Christian upbringing, the importance of integrating mind and intuition, and finding a middle ground through discernment. We examine how disgust psychology affects Christian interactions with LGBTQ+ individuals, questioning whether such reactions are divine guidance or natural responses requiring examination. The episode emphasizes the crucial role of critical thinking and self-reflection in navigating complex moral and social issues, regardless of one's religious beliefs.

    Highlights
    07:20 The Importance of Discernment in Navigating Beliefs
    12:14 Exploring the Psychology of Disgust
    21:03 Controversy and Perspectives: The Opening Ceremony of the Olympics
    31:28 Disgust as a Physical Reaction
    48:08 The Culture War and Disgust Psychology

    Dan's new Substack | Religion on the Mind
    ___________________________________________
    Get Tickets for the PREGAME EVENT before Theology Beer Camp!
    Get Tickets for Theology Beer Camp 2024
    Use Code ReturnofYHP for $50 off your ticket!
    ___________________________________________
    Follow Dan on IG: www.instagram.com/dancoke/
    Or Twitter: twitter.com/DanKoch
    Faith deconstruction resources: www.soyouredeconstructing.com/
    Edited by Josh Gilbert (joshgilbertmedia.com -- he is accepting more work!)
    Join the Patreon for exclusive episodes (and more) every month: patreon.com/dankoch
    Email about the "sliding scale" for the Patreon: [email protected]
    YHP Patron-only FB group: tinyurl.com/ycvbbf98
    Website: www.dankochwords.com/yhp.html
    Join Dan's email list: www.dankochwords.com/
    Artwork by sprungle. co/
    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices