See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Curiosity is both a skill and an art. Sadly, it would seem that American society lost interest in curiosity a long time ago. But what if the loneliness epidemic, family divisions, and lack of deep friendships can all be traced back to the absence of curiosity? Listen as Brian and Jannelle talk about this with author and professor Dr. Heather Holleman.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

"Power tends to corrupt and absolute power corrupts absolutely." It's a famous quote most of us have heard. But does it apply to church leadership? This week, Brian and Jannelle explore an unconventional answer to that question. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It may be hard to believe, but single people have plenty of advice for married couples. Lisa Anderson of Focus on the Family and "The Boundless Show" has a long list embarrassing issues married friends have revealed. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Do you really know who Jesus is? Many of us have created our own warped version of Jesus without realizing it. Pastor Kevin James of New Community Bible Fellowship joins Brian and Jannelle this week to discuss this fundamentally important topic. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Psychologists have officially included a brand-new disorder in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. It has to do with a particular type of grief. Listen this week as Brian and Jannelle analyze this new condition, and how it appears to connect to a familiar fairy tale. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Your ambassadorship for Christ is most on display as you live out your everyday life. In this week's episode, Brian and Jannelle take an in-depth look at one man's dilemma on an airplane. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A diagnosis of dementia is devastating. Caring for someone you love with dementia can be equally as difficult. Brian's story in the podcast series "The Grandfather Effect" is a perfect example. In today's episode, counselor Crystal Kershaw from Fieldstone Counseling examines how to navigate this trauma.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Americans love food. Large portions. Seconds. Is this really such a big deal? Today, we wrap-up our series on virtues and vices with Nancy Kane of the Caritas Center for Christian Formation.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For many decades, the church has struggled to discuss sexuality. The results are tragic and undeniable. Today, we continue our series on virtues and vices with Nancy Kane of the Caritas Center for Christian Formation.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

No, we're not talking about the curiously slow animal. Nor are we talking about laziness as you understand it. Today, we continue our series on virtues and vices with Nancy Kane of the Caritas Center for Christian Formation.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Be honest. Does your anger ever get the best of you? How do we know when anger becomes sinful? Brian and Jannelle continue their series today on virtues and vices with Nancy Kane of the Caritas Center for Christian Formation.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jannelle thinks this vice is ugly. Nancy Kane calls it diabolical. And every Christian struggles with it. Brian and Jannelle continue their series today on virtues and vices with Nancy Kane of the Caritas Center for Christian Formation.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ever heard of Avarice? It's a word we don't use very often anymore. But it points directly to a struggle many of us face. Brian and Jannelle continue their series today on virtues and vices with Nancy Kane of the Caritas Center for Spiritual Formation.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Do you struggle with pride? Brian and Jannelle continue their series today on virtues and vices with Nancy Kane of the Caritas Center for Spiritual Formation.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We all struggle with sin. But many also persistently resist brutally honest self-reflection. Is it really worth the effort and the pain? Join us as we embark on a multi-part series with Nancy Kane of the Caritas Center for Spiritual Formation. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jesus said that peacemakers would be blessed. You want to be one. But if you're not careful, you could inadvertently become something else altogether. Brian and Jannelle talk about it with Karl Vaters this week. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Many wives feel their husbands aren't emotionally available. Dr. Juli Slattery of Authentic Intimacy says that those feelings don't always reflect reality. She navigates this sensitive issue with Brian and Jannelle in this week's episode. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Nearly half of teens have persistent feelings of sadness and hopelessness. How should Christians address this reality highlighted in a new CDC report? Brian and Jannelle talk to a pastor about it. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Contrary to what you may have heard, there's tremendous hope for the Gospel in the Muslim world. Listen along with Brian and Janelle as they hear incredible stories of how Jesus transformed the lives of Muslim people.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Following Jesus isn't just a Sunday activity. And yet, statistics show that many Christians are drifting away from the church and from Jesus in the aftermath of the pandemic. In this week's episode, Brian and Jannelle talk to a pastor about what it means to apply the Gospel to our everyday lives. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Should Christians be patriotic? What about embracing nationalism? Brian and Jannelle talk about it this week with Dr. Glen Duerr of Cedarville University. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Who are you? Plenty of people think they know the answer to that question. But how many of us have truly created an accurate picture of ourselves? Brian and Jannelle take a deep dive into this uncomfortable subject. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

God is our heavenly father. However, our view of Him can often be impacted by the imperfections of our earthly father. How do we sort out the differences? In this week's episode, Brian and Jannelle talk about this with Moody Bible Institute professor Elizabeth Smith. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Some Christians struggle with the unfairness of their particular temptations. Specifically, followers of Jesus who battle same sex attraction may long for relationship and intimacy. But their Christian convictions leave them feeling disappointed and alone. Dr. Juli Slattery of the Java with Juli Podcast talks with Brian and Jannelle about this complicated issue in this week's episode. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Debate continues to rage in America about abortion. While there are important moral and philosophical implications to discuss, we can't lose sight of the individual women who find themselves pregnant. In this week's episode, Brian and Jannelle talk to a trusted friend about her work in a Christian pregnancy center. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Bible says that pure religion looks after orphans in their distress. In this week's episode, Brian and Jannelle encounter an inspiring and dramatic example of what this looks like in the midst of war. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Many Americans have become dependent on Amazon deliveries. As demand increases, Amazon is transitioning to delivering orders 7 days per week. That's creating problems for some Christians. Brian and Jannelle talk about it this week. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

They're both named Roman. But they're Ukrainian. And their work to save lives in the midst of war in Ukraine is incredible. Listen to Brian and Jannelle discover what these two followers of Jesus are doing with their church community to defend the oppressed. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Life is complicated. And busy. But maybe that's the problem? In the fourth and final episode in this series, we examine the spiritual discipline of simplicity. Guiding us on the journey is our friend Nancy Kane. Nancy is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, a retired Moody Bible Institute Professor, and Founder of the Caritas Center for Christian Formation. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

He was born into one of New York’s most violent and feared Colombo crime families. But what happens when a mob boss encounters Jesus? This week, Brian and Jannelle have a conversation with Michael Franzese.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How can we truly grow in our relationship with Jesus? In part 3 of this series, we explore the spiritual discipline of listening prayer. Guiding us on the journey is our friend Nancy Kane. Nancy is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, a retired Moody Bible Institute Professor, and Founder of the Caritas Center for Christian Formation. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It’s far too easy to rush toward Easter. But we shouldn’t. In fact, Brian and Jannelle don’t think we can truly grasp the significance of the resurrection without taking time to properly process what Jesus went through on Friday. Take a listen as they examine Good Friday through the eyes of a Physician, and ponder the price Jesus truly paid for our sins.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How can we truly grow in our relationship with Jesus? In part 2 of this series, we explore the spiritual discipline of fasting. Guiding us on the journey is our friend Nancy Kane. Nancy is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, a retired Moody Bible Institute Professor, and Founder of the Caritas Center for Christian Formation. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How can we truly grow in our relationship with Jesus? Over the next four episodes, we will explore the beauty, depth, and joy of spiritual disciplines. Guiding us on the journey is our friend Nancy Kane. Nancy is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, a retired Moody Bible Institute Professor, and Founder of the Caritas Center for Christian Formation. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Followers of Jesus believe in the value of human life. This ethic informs our view of anything from abortion to assisted suicide. But to what extent should it also influence our thinking on the concept of paid parental leave? Brian, Ron, and guest host Wayne Morgret of Man in the Mirror talk about it this week. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Can you recognize beauty? Not when it's pointed out to you. Rather, when it simply exists in the midst of your everyday life? An experiment involving a busy subway station and a world-famous violinist tried to answer this basic question. The results have deep implications for followers of Jesus. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Social media companies say they're bringing people together. But they aren't saying what their platforms are doing to kids. Brian and Jannelle talk about this key issue in this week's episode. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

News agencies are focused on the war in Ukraine. But few are paying attention to what followers of Jesus are doing in and around the conflict. Gratefully, Charles Morris of Haven Today is in Poland at the Ukrainian border. Don’t miss the chance to hear what he shared with Brian and Jannelle about how the church is responding in this crisis.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What's actually happening in Ukraine as Russia invades? What are Christian intellectuals saying about it? Brian and Jannelle discuss this and more with Dr. Glen Duerr, Associate Professor of International Studies at Cedarville University. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What’s the most popular place to find a spouse? And what impact does that reality have on followers of Christ? Brian and Jannelle talk about it this week. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Most Christians pray for themselves a lot. But is that inherently bad? A pastor explores the issue today with Brian and Jannelle.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tensions are high between Russia and Ukraine. If it leads to war, should Christians support the conflict? Take a listen as we explore this question with an International Studies professor. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A shocking number of people find themselves to be exceptionally compelling. Brian is disturbed. Decide for yourself if a new statistic is as unhealthy as he suspects. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Venture capitalists have lots of money. Of course, their goal is to make more. So they invest in ideas and products that could be highly profitable. Well, they're starting to turn their attention to...Christians. And this makes Brian uncomfortable. Maybe he's wrong?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A staggering number of pastors have considered quitting ministry in the last year. Gratefully, new research reveals their greatest needs. But will we listen?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How do you feel when you're driving home from church? A recent study determined that the answers vary. But how SHOULD we feel after a worship service? Brian and Jannelle search for the answer. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Most people struggle with this sin. But few are willing to admit it. Are you?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Many experts claim that there are essentially four parenting styles. But Brian and Jannelle recently discovered there are actually six. What are they, and which should Christians embrace? See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Merry Christmas! Brian and Ron created a special Christmas episode for you. You're welcome. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The pandemic has changed all our lives. Some think it has even caused irreparable damage to our Christian witness. In fact, there's one particular character quality that seems to be missing.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How should Christians handle family drama? Whether we like it or not, we've all been impacted by it to some degree. A friend and pastor talk through it with Brian and Jannelle. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Lately, it seems America is essentially defined by division. Christians certainly aren't immune to the divisiveness. But could America truly be headed toward another civil war as some suggest? Brian and Jannelle talk about it with the Chair of the Political Science Department at Cedarville University. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Wedding traditions vary among cultures. Sometimes they change over time as well. So, who is responsible for paying for a Christian wedding in 2021? Brian and Jannelle try to figure it out. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There's a new Boogeyman in town. Christians across America are fearful of him and are doing whatever they can to stop him. But is he really that much of a threat? Brian and Jannelle are about to turn the lights on for a closer look at the Boogeyman. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

GPS tracking on cell phones makes it easy to keep track of your kids. But teens hate it. At what point does this parenting trend become an invasion of privacy? See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Developing healthy Christian community can be challenging. Particularly for men. A friend stops by to help Brian and Jannelle figure out how to cultivate it. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Remember life before Google searches and social media? Finding information took way more time and effort. But could there be a subtle yet seismic consequence to the ease at which we can consume information online?  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

You think you understand forgiveness. You don't. In fact, you're probably harboring some unforgiveness. We explore that idea this week. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Teenagers have an attitude problem. How do we teach them to be respectful? More importantly - to what extent do parents have to earn the respect of their children? See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Contentment is elusive. Probably because many followers of Christ don't properly understand it. Brian and Jannelle dig deeper with a friend.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Skye Jethani is a popular Christian speaker, author, and podcaster. As a guest in this week's episode, he confirms Brian's slightly excessive awkwardness. He also helps us contemplate whether Jesus was actually serious in the Sermon on the Mount.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There's far too much misinformation out there about refugees. And many Christians don't realize how many are headed our way. An expert talks about it with Brian and Jannelle this week from a local perspective. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Many Christians are aware of the life and influence of preacher Charles Spurgeon. But how much do you know about his wife? Her influence is greater than you might imagine. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Reading is a gateway to another world for kids. And it's an essential part of an education. But should boys be reading books where girls are the heroine? Brian and Jannelle discuss one author's perspective on the books we have kids read.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How much control do we really have over our own happiness? A recent study tried to find out. Brian and Jannelle see how well the results line-up with Scripture.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In the second final part of this series, Brian and Jannelle explore an uncomfortable truth about marriage. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Yup - you read that right. Conflict is GOOD for your marriage. And it's inevitable in a healthy relationship. Dr. Juli Slattery breaks it down in Part 1 of a two-part series.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Guys struggle with intimacy in their friendships with other guys. Yes, we said intimacy. And there are consequences for this in the Christian life. What do healthy male friendships look like for followers of Jesus? Brian and Jannelle try to figure it out.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Classified government documents about UFO's were finally released. What does this mean for the truth about life on other planets? What are the Biblical and scientific implications of this information? Brian and Jannelle talk to an astrophysicist about it.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today's episode is short and sweet. And it's essential for regular listeners of this podcast. Don't skip it!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A popular Instagram account made lots of Christian uncomfortable. The photos posted there quickly prompted deeper questions about pastor salaries, and how they spend their money. Brian and Jannelle try to find the moral and ethical line on these thorny issues. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Who is best suited to solve community problems? Barna research asked both Christians and non-Christians this question. Some of the answers were a bit shocking, and sparked an important conversation among the team.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

People are both excessively isolated and engaged. Sound like a contradiction? It isn't. Brian and Jannelle talk about it this week with Pastor and writer Karl Vaters.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There's a significant number of people who aren't the picture of mental health. They aren't clinically depressed either. But they're experiencing something that has a name, and needs to be addressed. Take a listen as Brian and Jannelle talk about it. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Vaccines. There's no shortage of controversy about them. But when it comes to distribution of the COVID vaccine, one of the more unique debates relates to prisoners. Take a listen to hear Brian and Jannelle talk about it. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Former Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin was found guilty for the death of George Floyd. As the world reacts, how should Christians process what's taking place? This week, Brian and Jannelle introduce you to a number of experts who help us make Biblical sense of what's happening. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A church you've never heard of made national headlines. Why? The pastor made controversial declarations in his sermon about women, body image, and weight. This week, Brian and Jannelle try to figure out what in the world he was thinking, and what we can all learn from it.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Christian celebrities. We keep following them, and they keep falling. Why? What's going on that so many famous Christians keep falling from grace due to scandal and wickedness? Brian and Jannelle try to unravel the mystery.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Why did he do it? Was it racism? Misogyny? Sex addiction? In this week's episode, Brian and Jannelle talk with Dr. Juli Slattery of the "Java with Juli" Podcast about the Atlanta shootings. Specifically, they examine the theological implications of the shooter's professed motive. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Walter Cronkite was the most trusted voice in America. But he was anchoring the evening news before cable networks like CNN and Fox became a thing. So, do we have a trusted voice now? Do we need one? Take a listen as Brian and Jannelle grapple with trust and bias in the media.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Life is full of circumstances that don't feel balanced. But what do you do when the imbalance extends into areas of emotion and faith? Listen as Jannelle shares a perspective changing lesson she learned from a friend. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Want to improve your marriage? There are ways to do so without even talking to your spouse. Take a listen as the team digs into some introspective marriage advice.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Christian women face a tremendous amount of internal and external pressure. But is this what God really intended for them? Brian and Jannelle talk about an unconventional call to be...ordinary. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The best day of her life, was also the worst day of his. Listen as Brian and Jannelle speak candidly with evangelist Ron Hutchraft about grieving the death of his wife. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A really famous woman said something edgy about marriage. She said there's been times she's wanted to push her husband out of a window. And long seasons where she couldn't stand him. Does this happen in Christian marriage? Brian and Jannelle have an honest conversation about it.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Americans are exhausted and anxious. The future seems increasingly uncertain. Sadly, Christians aren't always a voice of calm in the midst of cultural storms. Maybe we've lost sight of Jesus, and what He expects of us? Brian and Jannelle try to figure that out in this week's episode.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

God has clear expectations for human sexuality. But what should Christian singles do with their sexual desires? Dr. Juli Slattery of Authentic Intimacy and the Java with Juli Podcast joins Brian and Jannelle this week for a conversation about sexual expression, both inside and outside of marriage.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Far too many Christians are spewing political conspiracy theories, and enthusiastically embracing lies about the election. The church desperately needs courageous leaders willing to submit to Jesus, and speak bold and uncomfortable truths. Dr. Russell Moore is one of those men. He's the President of the Southern Baptist Convention's Ethics and Religious Liberty Commission. Don't miss his passionate conversation with Brian and Jannelle about political division, violence, and conspiracy in America.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The relationship between father and son is both powerful and impactful. A dad has the wonderful opportunity to be a Godly influence, but also can be the source of pain and trauma. What causes some men to overcome the weaknesses of their dad, and others to fall victim to them? Brian and Jannelle try to figure it out.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

January 6th, 2021. Yet another date in American history that will live in infamy. Why did it happen? Who did it? How should Christians respond? Brian and Jannelle talked about all of this and more with a leading political scientist.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We all make mistakes. And mistakes often lead to intense feelings of regret. But is it wrong for us as followers of Jesus to carry regret? Dr. Crawford Loritts shared passionate thoughts with Brian and Jannelle about it.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Here it is! As 2020 draws to a close, we've been counting down our top four most downloaded episodes of all time. We've finally arrived at the #1 most downloaded episode of our podcast! He's a rapper, record producer, fashion designer, and songwriter. He's got 21 Grammys. And he's prone to controversial behavior. His latest endeavor? Following Jesus and releasing a Gospel album. What should the church do with Kanye West? Do we welcome him with open arms? Hold him at arm's length? Lift him up as a leader? Guest host Hannah Nitz joins Brian for this timely discussion.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As 2020 draws to a close, we'll be counting down our top four most downloaded episodes of all time. This week, we've arrived at #2 on the list. Rumors are swirling. Conspiracy theorists are running rampant. Average Americans are fearful. In the midst of this, followers of Jesus need reliable facts through the lens of faith. In this episode, Brian and Jannelle have a concise and in-depth discussion about the COVID-19 virus with Dr. John Marino. He’s an infectious disease specialist, epidemiologist, and professor. Most importantly, he’s a follower of Jesus. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As 2020 draws to a close, we'll be counting down our top four most downloaded episodes of all time. This week, we've reached #3. We're all constantly connected. Rarely alone. And yet it's easy to feel an overwhelming sense of isolation. That's where Jannelle found herself recently. And relief came through the wise words of an 80-year-old woman.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As 2020 draws to a close, we'll be counting down our top four most downloaded episodes of all time. This week, we start with #4 on the list. Today is Juneteenth. It’s an important day in American history when the last African American slaves were finally told they’re free. This is particularly impactful as our country is in a cultural moment where we’re finally confronting systemic racism. Brian and Jannelle have been unashamedly discussing these issues from a Biblical perspective with both love and hope. But then June 12th happened. Someone called, and his words altered the course of the entire morning.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Anonymous was desperate. At the end of her rope. Some days, she just wanted to end it all. Why? She's suffering from a disease many feel is too shameful to discuss in the church. Brian and Jannelle decided to jettison the stigma.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We make life so complicated. Does it really have to be that difficult to connect with people who don't know Jesus? A ministry leader in Ohio has a powerful reminder about the beauty and simplicity of an invitation.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.