In this episode, author, attorney, and radio show host Clay Travis discusses the issue of cancel culture and the growing fear that prevents open debate about cultural issues. From campus protests over the Israel-Palestine war to transgenderism in sports, Clay highlights the importance of the marketplace of ideas and the need for critical thinking and healthy debate. Listen in to hear how he encourages us to use our voice to engage in cultural conversations without self-censoring, and to share our honest opinions and beliefs to maintain a healthy marketplace of ideas and promote genuine, open communication. Resources Check out Clay’s books and The Clay and Buck Show. Apply the THINQ Framework to pressing cultural issues. Create a free THINQ Account to access more trusted content like this on topics from all channels of culture at thinqmedia.com. Attend THINQ events where you can gather with like-minded leaders, ask better questions and have conversations that lead to wisdom: Host Faithfulness in our Political Moment in your local community on October 3, 2024. Register for Next Gen Summit, November 8-9, 2024 in Nashville. Bring the 28-Day Digital Fast to your family, workplace, or church throughout the month of January. More from the THINQ Podcast Network: The InFormed Parent with Suzanne Phillips NeNext Up With Grant Skeldon NeuroFaith with Curt Thompson UnderCurrent with Gabe Lyons Rhythms for Life with Rebekah and Gabe Lyons

In this week's THINQ Podcast episode, we want to help you think well about the upcoming election. Author and political commentator Denise Gitsham shares her experience of working in secular media as a Christian, striving to prioritize Kingdom principles over partisan agendas. Denise shares valuable lessons she’s learned while striving to foster empathy, compassion, and unity in an increasingly polarized society. Listen in as she encourages us to "debate ideas rather than people" and urges Christians to speak truth with love, emphasizing that our true adversaries are not people, but the Enemy who seeks to sow division among us. Resources Check out Denise’s book, Politics for People Who Hate Politics. Apply the THINQ Framework to pressing cultural issues. Create a free THINQ Account to access more trusted content like this on topics from all channels of culture at thinqmedia.com. Attend THINQ events where you can gather with like-minded leaders, ask better questions and have conversations that lead to wisdom: Host Faithfulness in our Political Moment in your local community on October 3, 2024. Register for Next Gen Summit, November 8-9, 2024 in Nashville. Bring the 28-Day Digital Fast to your family, workplace, or church throughout the month of January. More from the THINQ Podcast Network: The InFormed Parent with Suzanne Phillips NextUp with Grant Skeldon NeuroFaith with Curt Thompson UnderCurrent with Gabe Lyons

In this episode, pastor, author, and Christianity Today columnist Andrew Wilson uses the acronym W.E.I.R.D.E.R. (W-western, E-education, I-industrialized, R-rich, D-democratic, E-ex-Christian, R-romantic) to explain how our Western culture is distancing itself from Christianity, even though Christianity is the foundation of Western society. He discusses seven major developments from the year 1776— globalization, the Enlightenment, the Industrial Revolution, the Great Enrichment, the American Revolution, the rise of post-Christianity, and the dawn of Romanticism—and explains their relevance to social changes happening today. Listen in as Andrew helps us understand why many aspects of our society feel unfamiliar right now and calls us to intentionally operate in our Christian values. Resources Check out Andrew’s book, Remaking the World: How 1776 Created the Post-Christian West. Apply the THINQ Framework to pressing cultural issues. Create a free THINQ Account to access more trusted content like this on topics from all channels of culture at thinqmedia.com. Attend THINQ events where you can gather with like-minded leaders, ask better questions and have conversations that lead to wisdom: Host Faithfulness in our Political Moment in your local community on October 3, 2024. Register for Next Gen Summit, November 8-9, 2024 in Nashville. Bring the 28-Day Digital Fast to your family, workplace, or church throughout the month of January. More from the THINQ Podcast Network: The InFormed Parent with Suzanne Phillips NextUp with Grant Skeldon NeuroFaith with Curt Thompson UnderCurrent with Gabe Lyons

On this episode of the THINQ Podcast, Katy Faust, the Founder and President of Them Before Us, shares a unique perspective on third-party reproduction methods such as sperm donation, egg donation, IVF, and surrogacy. She refers to these methods as “Big Fertility” and argues that they often prioritize the desires of adults over the best interests of children. Katy highlights the psychological and emotional challenges faced by children who are not raised by their biological parents. Listen to Katy as she discusses the potential exploitation and unfairness involved in these methods, and explains how they frequently benefit wealthier individuals at the expense of financially vulnerable women. Resources: Create a free THINQ Account to access more trusted content like this on topics from all channels of culture at thinqmedia.com. Attend THINQ events where you can gather with like-minded leaders, ask better questions and have conversations that lead to wisdom: Host Faithfulness in our Political Moment in your local community on October 3, 2024. Register for Next Gen Summit, November 8-9, 2024 in Nashville. Bring the 28-Day Digital Fast to your family, church or workplace throughout the month of January. More from the THINQ Podcast Network: The InFormed Parent with Suzanne Phillips NextUp with Grant Skeldon NeuroFaith with Curt Thompson UnderCurrent with Gabe Lyons  

“We have devalued and deprioritized mothering to the extent that young people today do not want to have children and if they do, they do not want to care for them," says social worker, psychoanalyst, and author Erica Komisar. In this episode of THINQ Podcast, Erica speaks about the mental health epidemic among kids and pinpoints the two things that are causing kids to break down: 1) How we’re raising our children and 2) What we’re exposing them to. She specifically speaks to the significance of mothers and the important physical and mental health foundation a mother gives her children during the ages 0-3 and again at ages 9-25. She also points to the profound ramifications of technology and social media on our children. Listen in to hear what solutions Erica proposes to help parents turn things around… Resources: Check out Erica’s book Being There: Why Prioritizing Motherhood in the First Three Years Matters andChicken Little the Sky Isn’t Falling: Raising Resilient Adolescents in the New Age of Anxiety.  Create a free THINQ Account to access more trusted content like this on topics from all channels of culture at thinqmedia.com. Attend THINQ events where you can gather with like-minded leaders, ask better questions and have conversations that lead to wisdom: Host Faithfulness in our Political Moment in your local community on October 3, 2024. Register for Next Gen Summit, November 8-9, 2024 in Nashville. Bring the 28-Day Digital Fast to your family, church or workplace throughout the month of January.  More from the THINQ Podcast Network: The InFormed Parent with Suzanne Phillips NextUp with Grant Skeldon NeuroFaith with Curt Thompson UnderCurrent with Gabe Lyons

In this week's THINQ podcast episode, Parenting and Leadership Coach Suzanne Phillips challenges us to think about who is spending time with our children and how they are influencing them. She emphasizes the importance of understanding our kids' curriculum and the agendas being promoted by different organizations. Suzanne also sheds light on corporations involved in education, such as the CDC, Pfizer Institute, Planned Parenthood, and SIECUS, which focuses on "Sex Ed for Social Change" and receives seed funding from Hugh Hefner. Tune in as Suzanne asks "who is teaching your kids" and encourages parents to educate themselves on what the public school system is teaching and what our legislators are voting for. Resources: Create a free THINQ Account to access more trusted content like this on topics from all channels of culture at thinqmedia.com. Attend THINQ events where you can gather with like-minded leaders, ask better questions and have conversations that lead to wisdom: Host Faithfulness in our Political Moment in your local community on October 3, 2024. Register for Next Gen Summit, November 8-9, 2024 in Nashville. More from the THINQ Podcast Network: The InFormed Parent with Suzanne Phillips NextUp with Grant Skeldon NeuroFaith with Curt Thompson UnderCurrent with Gabe Lyons

Grant Skeldon interviews author Trillia Newbell in this episode of the THINQ Podcast. Trillia discusses the challenges of raising kids in today's chaotic culture, particularly the impact of social media on our children's perceptions. She emphasizes the importance of countering negative societal narratives with the message of each child's identity in Christ. Trillia encourages parents to embrace the presence of God amid chaos, highlighting the reassurance that comes with serving a God who understands our struggles. She also emphasizes that despite the world's tumultuous nature, we do not have to be consumed by it. Listen in as she shares the importance of utilizing scriptural teachings to attain peace, and calls us as parents to walk confidently in the peace of Jesus Christ so we can instill the same confidence and peace in our children. Resources: Check out God’s Very Good Idea, 52 Weeks in the Word, and other titles by Trillia. Create a free THINQ Account to access more trusted content like this on topics from all channels of culture at thinqmedia.com. Attend THINQ events where you can gather with like-minded leaders, ask better questions and have conversations that lead to wisdom. Host Faithfulness in our Political Moment in your local community on October 3, 2024. Register for Next Gen Summit, November 8-9, 2024 in Nashville. More from the THINQ Podcast Network: NextUp with Grant Skeldon The InFormed Parent with Suzanne Phillips NeuroFaith with Curt Thompson UnderCurrent with Gabe Lyons

In this episode of the THINQ Podcast, Pastor Jon Tyson emphasizes the importance of unwavering faithfulness, regardless of the challenges we face—be it wars, rampant abuse, or political chaos. Originally presented during the pandemic, the message remains relevant today as it explores the question, "How do we remain faithful to what God has entrusted to us in this moment?" Jon encourages leaders to remain steadfast and unshaken in their commitment to their responsibilities. He also highlights two major pitfalls that can derail a leader's ability to finish well: "Failure of Nerve and Failure of Heart", and urges leaders to anchor their identity in Christ and rely on the power of the Holy Spirit. Listen in as Tyson urges leaders to guard their hearts and remain faithful to their calling in order to avoid the common pitfalls and lead with the same unwavering resolve that Jesus demonstrated. Resources: Create a free THINQ Account to access more trusted content like this on topics from all channels of culture at thinqmedia.com. Attend THINQ events where you can gather with like-minded leaders, ask better questions and have conversations that lead to wisdom: Host Faithfulness in our Political Moment in your local community on October 3, 2024. Register for Next Gen Summit, November 8-9, 2024 in Nashville. More from the THINQ Podcast Network: NextUp with Grant Skeldon The InFormed Parent with Suzanne Phillips NeuroFaith with Curt Thompson UnderCurrent with Gabe Lyons

What is the best way to navigate traumatic events? In this week's episode, Dr. Diane Langberg, a practicing psychologist whose clinical expertise includes 50 years of working with trauma survivors and clergy, gives a gripping perspective in her talk “Trauma as a Place of Service.” Join us as she presents the idea that trauma is a significant mission field for Christ-followers, and she encourages us to reconsider our perspectives. Resources: Create a free THINQ Account to access more trusted content like this on topics from all channels of culture at thinqmedia.com. Attend THINQ events where you can gather with like-minded leaders, ask better questions and have conversations that lead to wisdom: Register for Next Gen Summit, November 8-9, 2024 in Nashville. Host Faithfulness in our Political Moment in your local community on October 3. More from the THINQ Podcast Network: NextUp with Grant Skeldon The InFormed Parent with Suzanne Phillips NeuroFaith with Curt Thompson UnderCurrent with Gabe Lyons

How should Christians respond to reports of sexual abuse, especially within the church? In this episode, Rachael Denhollander, an attorney, author, advocate, and educator known for her work on sexual abuse, shares her journey as the first victim to publicly accuse Larry Nassar, the former USA Gymnastics team doctor who abused hundreds of young athletes. Rachael prompts us to ask better questions about our theology in order to address sexual abuse more effectively and to better protect the vulnerable in our churches and communities. Resources: Create a free THINQ Account to access more trusted content like this on topics from all channels of culture at thinqmedia.com. Attend THINQ events where you can gather with like-minded leaders, ask better questions and have conversations that lead to wisdom: Register for Next Gen Summit, November 8-9, 2024 in Nashville. Host Faithfulness in our Political Moment in your local community on October 3. Check out Rachael’s book, What is a Girl Worth: My Story of Breaking the Silence and Exposing the Truth about Larry Nasser and USA Gymnastics Research from Anna C. Salter, Predators: Pedophiles, Rapists, And Other Sex Offenders More from the THINQ Podcast Network: NextUp with Grant Skeldon The InFormed Parent with Suzanne Phillips NeuroFaith with Curt Thompson UnderCurrent with Gabe Lyons

Are you feeling unsure about how to vote in the upcoming election? In this episode, Michael Wear, Founder of the Center for Christianity and Public Life, discusses how to approach politics faithfully, using the concept of "political homelessness" to describe our current political situation. Listen as he explains how Christians can advocate for what is true, just, and good, even during this time of political division. Resources: Create a free THINQ Account to access more trusted content like this on topics from all channels of culture at thinqmedia.com. You can bring a larger political conversation to your church or community through our THINQ Local event called Faithfulness in Our Political Moment on Thursday, October 3. It’s a one-day, two-hour event in which people can gather and engage curated, trusted content and apply a biblical worldview to current political issues and the upcoming election.  Check out more from the THINQ podcast network: NextUp with Grant Skeldon The InFormed Parent with Suzanne Phillips THINQ Podcast with Gabe Lyons UnderCurrent with Gabe Lyons

Do you understand the difference between a democracy and a republic? Dave Zanotti, CEO of The American Policy Roundtable interviews political scientist and philosopher William B. Allen about the semantics of our country's governance. Listen in as they help us understand these confusing nuances of the United States’ government, specifically how the government is upheld by the authority of the people. Resources: Create a free THINQ Account to access more trusted content like this on topics from all channels of culture at thinqmedia.com. You can bring a larger political conversation to your church or community through our THINQ Local event called Faithfulness in Our Political Moment on Thursday, October 3. It’s a one-day, two-hour event in which people can gather and engage curated, trusted content and apply a biblical worldview to current political issues and the upcoming election.  Check out more from the THINQ podcast network: NextUp with Grant Skeldon The InFormed Parent with Suzanne Phillips THINQ Podcast with Gabe Lyons UnderCurrent with Gabe Lyons

Are you aware of your constitutional rights when it comes to exercising your faith? In this episode, Kristen Waggoner, the CEO, President and General Counsel of Alliance Defending Freedom, tells us about her work to protect fundamental freedoms and promote the inherent dignity of people all over the world. Currently, Kristen and her team have two cases pending at the U.S. Supreme Court protecting life, women’s health, and addressing regulatory overreach by the current administration. Listen in as Kristen helps us understand our inerrant rights, especially when it comes to our parental rights and the complicated layers of the accelerating issue of transgenderism. Resources: Free Parents' Toolkit on Critical Theory from Alliance Defending Freedom (ADF) Create a free THINQ Account to access more trusted content like this on topics from all channels of culture at thinqmedia.com. More LGBTQ content from THINQ. Register for Next Gen Summit, November 8-9, 2024 in Nashville. unChristian: What a New Generation Really Thinks about Christianity…and Why It Matters, Gabe Lyons and David Kinnaman.

Does social contagion play a part in young people's gender identity? In today's episode, we’re digging into our content library to share one of our most popular talks that we presented several years ago on the topic of Identity, Teens & Gender. Preston Sprinkle, a biblical scholar, interviews Helena Kerschner, a former transgender man who gives a powerful perspective. Tune in as Helena shares her personal story of transitioning and de-transitioning, and as they discuss the topic of rapid onset gender dysphoria, including the related social contagion and mental health impact. Resources Create a free THINQ Account to access more trusted content like this on topics from all channels of culture at thinqmedia.com. More LGBTQ content from THINQ Register for Next Gen Summit, November 8-9, 2024 in Nashville.

Do you know someone who is wrestling with wanting to transition genders? How do we navigate this complicated topic from a biblical worldview? In today’s episode, we’re featuring a talk from Vernadette Broyles, an attorney who has dedicated herself to working against the accelerating gender agenda in our culture.  Let’s listen in as she shares about representing children and parents in complicated custody cases and to learn what we can do to better understand and faithfully navigate the gender agenda in our schools, in our churches, and in our parenting.   Resources Child and Parental Rights Campaign Resources Create a free THINQ Account to access more trusted content like this on topics from all channels of culture at thinqmedia.com. More LGBTQ content from THINQ Register for Next Gen Summit, November 8-9, 2024 in Nashville. 

How do we value both male and female? Lisa Bevere, co-founder of Messenger International, helps us put into perspective the history of the LGBTQ movement and how it’s come to undermine how God very uniquely created us to be male and female. Listen in as she shares with bold conviction and encourages us to ask better questions and get informed. Resources The Fight for Female: Reclaiming Our Divine Identity Create a free THINQ Account to access more trusted content like this on topics from all channels of culture at thinqmedia.com. More LGBTQ content from THINQ Register for Next Gen Summit, November 8-9, 2024 in Nashville.

“We are not just people who bounce back; we are people who weather storms throughout the entirety of our lives.” In this THINQ episode, author and speaker Rebekah Lyons brings a powerful message on Building Resilience in a time where we continue to see a growing mental health epidemic and the rise of suicide. Listen in as she unpacks the 5 Rules of Resilience she’s discovered in her personal journey and pursuit of building a resilient life. If you want to learn more on this topic, you can check out her book Building a Resilient Life at rebekahlyons.com. Create a free THINQ Account to access more trusted content like this on topics from all channels of culture at thinqmedia.com.

What does it look like to live a life of true freedom? In this episode, Author and Pastor Jonathan “JP” Pokluda draws us nearer to God and the freedom He has for us. JP brings the hard truth of the gospel and challenges us to submit to God's authority. Listen in as JP tells us about the healing and freedom God intends for us to have and have abundantly. Resources: Sign up for Next Gen Summit, November 8-9, 2024 in Nashville. Create a free THINQ Account to access more trusted content like this on topics from all channels of culture at thinqmedia.com.

Do you live in a "fast faith" or a "sacred slow"? Author and speaker Alicia Britt Chole calls out how we’ve normalized being busy and distracted in our culture. But what is that doing to our hearts, minds, and souls? Tune in as she encourages us to embrace boredom, become more attentive to God's presence, and understand He is with us in every moment. Resources: Sign up for Next Gen Summit, November 8-9, 2024 in Nashville. Create a free THINQ Account to access more trusted content like this on topics from all channels of culture at thinqmedia.com.

If you aren't convicted about the small things in your life, will you be convicted about the big things? Revivalist Luke LeFevre gives a unique perspective as a young adult ministry leader about how the next generation is gradually descending into compromise because they don’t realize how far they are from God and His Word. Tune in to this episode of the THINQ Podcast as Luke challenges us to consider our calling toward being a holy people in a culture that is controversial to our faith. Resources: Sign up for Next Gen Summit, November 8-9, 2024 in Nashville. Create a free THINQ Account to access more trusted content like this on topics from all channels of culture at thinqmedia.com.

Do you believe science has its roots in Christian thought? In this episode, Gabe talks with Dr. Denis Alexander, Emeritus Director of The Faraday Institute for Science and Religion and Emeritus Fellow of St Edmund's College, Cambridge. They discuss what science can and can’t tell us. They also discuss Dr. Alexander’s books, including his latest, Coming to Faith Through Dawkins, which is a compilation of the faith journeys of 12 men and women from different backgrounds who all reached the same conclusion: that Christianity is more intellectually undeniable than New Atheism. Listen in as they highlight a few of these stories and how Christian theology dispels even the strongest arguments New Atheism makes. Resources: Coming to Faith Through Dawkins Is There Purpose in Biology?: The Cost of Existence and the God of Love Create a free THINQ Account to access more trusted content like this on topics from all channels of culture at thinqmedia.com.

Since Biblical times, God has used dreams to talk to people.  In this episode, Gabe interviews Connie Svob, Assistant Professor of Clinical Psychology (in Psychiatry) at Columbia University Irving Medical Center and the Whitaker Scholar in Developmental Neuropsychiatry. They discuss the significance of dreams and memories and how they intersect our faith and mental health. Connie shares from her research and makes the distinction between nightmares, existential and transcendent dreams. She also describes her work to bridge autobiographical memory, religious beliefs and mental health. Listen in as Connie reveals how dreams can help us make sense of the world around us. Resources: Learn about LifePlan Create a free THINQ Account to access more trusted content like this on topics from all channels of culture at thinqmedia.com.

Is there intelligent life outside of earth? In this episode, Gabe poses this question and many others to Dr. Luke Barnes, a theoretical astrophysicist, cosmologist and postdoctoral researcher at Western Sydney University. Dr. Barnes is a Christian whose faith inspires him in his work to explore God’s unique creation and look for patterns and reasons behind what’s happening in the universe as a whole. Tune in as they talk about stars, planets, galaxies, and supercomputer simulations that reveal what would happen if even one particle or force is changed in the universe. Resources: A Fortunate Universe: Life in a Finely Tuned Cosmos Closer to Truth episodes Create a free THINQ Account to access more trusted content like this on topics from all channels of culture at thinqmedia.com.

In this episode, Gabe discuss people’s perceptions of God with Dr. Kathryn Johnson, an associate research professor in the Department of Psychology at Arizona State University. Dr. Johnson has developed a scale for measuring how people think about God, based on the theory that people generally view God as either authoritarian or benevolent. Listen in as they discuss how these perceptions direct people’s values, beliefs, and behaviors. Plus, hear how non-human agents, like diseases, artificial intelligence, and demons, also play into people’s perceptions and how they interface with God. Resources: Exorcisms & Demonology - Adam Blai  Spiritual Warfare Q&A – Adam Blai and Gabe Lyons Confronting Demons – Fr. Carlos Martins Demons and Exorcisms Q&A – Fr. Carlos Martins and Ryan Bethea Create a free THINQ Account to access more trusted content like this on topics from all channels of culture at thinqmedia.com.

In this episode, Gabe speaks with Dr. Ian Hutchinson, Professor of Nuclear Science and Engineering at MIT, about his research in the field of fusion energy and how it relates to his faith in God. As a plasma physicist, Dr. Hutchinson describes the marvels in the universe created by God he’s witnessed through his work. Dr. Hutchinson dispels several cultural myths that science is somehow at odds with the Christian faith. From his own research and that of several famous scientists throughout history, such as Galileo and Isaac Newton, Dr. Hutchinson shows us there is in fact a deep consonance between science and Christianity. Tune in to find out how he encourages parents to cultivate environments for children where science and faith are compatible. Resources: Dr. Hutchinson’s Book: Can a Scientist Believe in Miracles?: An MIT Professor Answers Questions on God and Science Create a free THINQ Account to access more trusted content like this on topics from all channels of culture at thinqmedia.com.

Do you remember your very first image or concept of God? Your first thoughts about death and the afterlife? In this episode, Gabe talks to Dr. Melanie Nyhof, a developmental psychologist at Carthage College who conducts cross-cultural developmental research examining the development of religious and cultural concepts. Gabe and Melanie specifically discuss her research of children’s cognitive development related to how they view God and the afterlife. She explains that in addition to different religious and cultural practices, various other sources can influence a child’s first interpretations and understanding of God, such as TV shows, movies, and even cartoon-like drawings of God in children’s bibles. Tune in to learn what advice Melanie offers to parents as they help their children cultivate an understanding of and belief in God. Resources: Create a free THINQ Account to access more trusted content like this on topics from all channels of culture at thinqmedia.com.

“...in no way could [the theory of evolution] replace, much less undermine, morality,” says Dr. David Lahti, Assistant Professor of Biology at Queens College, City University of New York. In this episode, Gabe has a fascinating conversation with David, covering everything from the learned behaviors of birds and what makes birds happy to why young people are leaving the church. They dive into the age-old nature-nurture debate and discuss why scientism cannot explain away morality. Tune in to hear more about Dr. Lahti’s research and the complexities he’s found at the intersection of idealism, scientism, and cultural relativism. Resources: Create a free THINQ Account to access more trusted content like this on topics from all channels of culture at thinqmedia.com. Lahti Lab Veery Bird Song

In this episode, Gabe interviews Dr. Rosalind Picard, a renowned scientist, inventor, engineer, and member of the faculty of MIT's Media Lab. Rosalind helps us define and understand affective computing and what role empathy, emotion, and human connection have in relation to A.I. and other technologies. They talk about the relational and ethical tensions in building technologies that people come to rely on. Rosalind also shares a powerful example of how wearable technologies can save lives.  Listen in as Gabe and Rosalind ask the tough questions around affective computing and discern whether or not we’re becoming more or less human with the help of these technologies. Resources: Create a free THINQ Account to access more trusted content like this on topics from all channels of culture at thinqmedia.com. Rosalind’s Ted Talk: An AI Smartwatch that Detects Seizures MIT's Media Lab Affective Computing Research Group MIT's MindHandHeart Initiative Center for Neurobiological Engineering

“…the Bible gives us a grounding for what it means for us to be human, but science can give us a bigger window into the mechanics of how we then apply that meaning on a day-to-day basis,” says psychiatrist and author Dr. Curt Thompson. In this episode, Gabe continues our Science and Faith series with Curt, discussing how God has designed our brains to function and how much this design reveals the unique nature of every human being. Curt draws neurobiological correlations to the biblical narrative, specifically about our human need for relationship in order to flourish. He shares how our lack of relationship and community caused by our cell phone and social media usage is driving the mental health crisis. Tune in to hear what Curt suggests we can do to simplify our lives and foster community, comfort and confidence in ourselves and our children. Resources:  https://curtthompsonmd.com THINQ Talk: Mental Health Practices, Curt Thompson THINQ Talk: Q&A: Mental Health + Suicide, Curt Thompson, Scott Sauls, Rebekah Lyons NeuroFaith with Dr. Curt Thompson, a THINQ Media Podcast Create an account to access more trusted content on topics from all channels of culture at thinqmedia.com. 

“In the United States, we wait for people to bottom out,” says New York Times bestselling author and psychologist Lisa Miller. But she reminds us “we were built for this,” describing how God designed and equipped us with an awakened brain made of three circuits that we can access: We are guided. We are loved and held. And we are never alone.  THINQ Co-Founder, Gabe Lyons, kicks off our special Science and Faith Series with Lisa, discussing the compelling science and data behind our human capacity for spirituality and how our brains literally become more resilient and robust as we engage in our faith and relationships. Tune in as Gabe and Lisa dig into how important this truth is for combatting suicide and mental health issues, specifically in our military and our children. You’ll learn ways to encourage and prioritize spiritual development and promote mental and physical health. Resources: The Awakened Brain: The New Science of Spirituality and Our Quest for an Inspired Life The Spiritual Child: The New Science on Parenting for Health and Lifelong Thriving US Army TRADOC Leadership Professional Development Webinar: Spirituality and Health with Dr. Lisa Miller

People seem to be waking up. Awake to God’s heart, to hope and to the possibilities that what we’ve read about in days of old could happen again. Asbury University represents a place where the veil became thin and we want to have a conversation about it and what it may mean for all of us. What God is doing in Asbury wasn’t meant to stay in Kentucky, it’s meant to permeate our families, our churches and our homes. Engage with a special edition podcast where Rebekah Lyons and Grant Skeldon discuss their inspiring and challenging experience visiting Asbury.

In this episode, Q Ideas president Gabe Lyons reflects on some of the most important moments at our events this year. As the year comes to a close, we've appreciated being able to go back, slow down, and think about some of this year's big ideas. While there are prevailing cultural narratives, as Christians we have a unique place to stand due to our access to eternal truth. May that truth sustain us as we head into the new year.  As our gift to you, watch any of these full talks in its entirety. Visit qideas.org/top10 to find them all.

Technology is forming us. Our longing for relationship makes our devices seem especially alluring, but do they give us what we long for? Moreover, who is technology inspiring us to become? Felicia Wu Song, professor at Westmont University, joins us to talk about these very questions. This episode is the last episode in our 5 part series on character and virtue. 

In one way or another, we've all experienced pieces of the loneliness epidemic in our nation. While there's a myriad of reasons we can attribute this to, professor and author Todd Hall has a keen insight. Perhaps we're in the way of our own success. We seek information when what we need is relational connection. Join us as we talk with Dr. Hall about connection, relationships, and attachment theory. This is episode 4/5 in our series on science and virtue. 

Over the past few years, there's been an explosion in personality theories. Do these theories help us love our neighbor and communities better? Rev. Dr. Tony Cook from Lutheran Hour Ministries, has helped put together a guide to help Christians discern their tangible gifts. Gifts should be used both at work and in the Church, not one or the other and everyone has something to contribute. In this episode, Rev. Dr. Cook talks about how we can better learn and utilitize our gifts for the glory of God. Take the free quiz to learn your gifts at lhm.org/everygift and learn more at https://purpose.lhm.org

As James K.A. Smith says, "you are what you love." In a similar manner, what you pay attention to forms how you think. Justin Barrett, founder of Blueprint 1543, joins us to talk about how we think and process new ideas. What ideas do we hold that we should keep? How do we discern when we should change our mind? Dr. Barrett explains how we can create a framework for this type of thinking. This episode is part 3 of our 5 part series on science and virtue.

With rising costs from inflation, President Biden announcing student loan forgiveness, and questions about an impending recession, the economy has been on the forefront on many people's minds. What should Christians be thinking about in regards to all these issues? Anne Rathone Bradley, author, professor, and economist joins us to talk about these issues. This the second episode on our series on science and virute. 

Polarization is at the center of many of the national and local conversations we're having. What we lack in commonality feels like a hinderence. But what if our differences could come together in a confident pluralism? John Inazu, co-editor of Uncommon Ground, tackles some of these questions in today's first part of our 5 episode series on science and virtue. Subscribe for free to John's Substack to see his recent thoughts on pluralism in America: https://johninazu.substack.com/

Barna research has shown that 42% of pastors have considered quitting full-time ministry in the past year. Issues like stress, loneliness, and political divisions are driving factors in these considerations. In this tumultuous few years, pastors are needing encouragement, both personally and professionally. Josh Zeichik, director of church engagement at Focus on the Family, is looking to walk alongside pastors to do just that. 

Every smartphone will let you check your screen time. Many find the weekly reminder of the copious amounts of time spent jarring. For parents, the amount of screen time kids are consuming is even more front of mind. In this week's episode, Sissy Goff and David Thomas from Daystar Counseling Ministries are joined by Erick Goss from Minno, to talk about how parents can manage their kids' screen time in a healthy and accessible way.  Learn more and try Minno for free at gominno.com.

Why has Christianity become more known for what it stands against than the love it invites people into? How did the world's greatest love story become known as a hate group?  Many of the current issues we're facing were directly addressed by the words and life of Jesus. Jason Vanderground has been working on a project called He Gets Us, where they have attempted to answer these questions. Listen in as he explains how they've been changing the script on modern evangelism.  Find out more about the project at hegetsus.com or start a free Bible reading plan on YouVersion.

In world bogged down by the 24/7 news cycle, cultivating happiness can seem like an impossible thing to do. It seems like there is always something bad happening no matter where we look. Joy Marie Clarkson, author of Aggressively Happy, shares 3 ways that she has found to begin to be a person truly content.  Use promo code QIDEAS at check out at bakerbookhouse.com for your exclusive 40% off the Aggressively Happy book.

Many of us spend a lot of time thinking about what our calling is and how we can live fully into how God created each of us uniquely. Whether you're considering a change in life or helping someone else discover their giftings, this short talk will help lay out some practical steps to moving that direction. Dr. Stephanie Shackelford, senior fellow at Barna, explains 3 practical steps to take to help discern your calling.  Learn more about You on Purpose at barna.org/youonpurpose

In this episode, Amy Sherman, director of Sagamore Institute's Center on Faith in Communities, talks about what it means to participate in God's redemptive call in every aspect of life. In this brief breakout, Sherman tells stories of hope to encourage Christians to keep fighting for the good, beautiful, true, just, prosperous, and sustainable- and why these matter. Amy Sherman's new book Agents of Flourishing: Pursuing Shalom in Every Corner of Society is out now.  Get 30% off and free shipping by using code QIDEAS22 at ivpress.com. Hurry, the code expires 8/25/2022.

Whether you're looking to hire someone or be hired yourself, the process can be exhausting to find the right fit. William Vanderbloemen, founder of Vanderbloemen Search Group, is the expert in staffing churches and values-based businesses. In this episode, he will offer 3 pieces of advice for those looking for the perfect candidate or those looking for a new career path. Learn more about their work at vanderbloemen.com/get-started. 

The rise of the internet has stifled parents' ability to control the types of ideas children are exposed to. This exposure has led to children losing their innocence faster than ever before. How much stock should we put into a local church’s children’s ministry rather than discipling our kids? Matt Markins, president and CEO of Awana, joins us to discuss the necessity of child discipleship and how we can best play a role in faithfully raising children. Learn more about Awana and Barna's newest project Children's Ministry in a New Reality at awana.org/shop.

With the increase in both personal and national security threats, cybersecurity has become a major cause of concern in our culture. Moreso, the need for qualified, ethical workers to fight these threats is at an all time high. Paul J. Maurer, president of Montreat College, has been equipping his students to do just that. Through their cybersecurity program, Montreat aims to train their students with a technical, ethical, and moral framework necessary to become trusted leaders in the cybersecurity field. Paul will join us to help us better understand this issue and what we can do to protect our data. Watch this talk on Q Media. Start your free trial at qideas.org/trial

Human trafficking is one of the great evils of our time and often seems like an issue so big we don’t know how to respond. Is there a root cause behind human trafficking, and can the Church make a difference in stopping it? Agape International Missions (AIM) has been doing this, rescuing those in trafficking and helping with the arrest of traffickers. Co-founder Don Brewster will talk to us about this mission and how he has seen Jesus’ command to love our enemies play itself out in his organization. Visit aimfree.org/qideas to receive a free resource on how you can fight human trafficking right where you are. 

In a nine-minute talk, Anthony Hendricks covers 500+ years of history, starting in 1453 and ending in our present day. This not only provides us with context to better understand the long legacy of American racism; it also challenges us to create a more hopeful future where all are treated equally and equitably. Watch this talk and more from leaders like Lecrae, Danielle Coke, Duke Kwon, LaTasha Morrison and more on Q Media. Start your free trial at qideas.org/trial

Have you wondered how the intersection of mental health, science and faith converge? How we can strengthen our relationship with God, ourselves and others? Join Dr. Curt Thompson, board-certified psychiatrist, as he explores themes of interpersonal neurobiology and Christianity. NeuroFaith invites listeners to discover how their minds were built to function and how to implement healthy practices that confront fear and encourage mindfulness. In this episode, Jon Collins, co-founder of BibleProject, and his wife Tristen Collins, LPC, join Curt to talk about why emotions matter to God and how our emotions show our humanity.  Find NeuroFaith wherever podcasts are found. Presented by Q Ideas.

As changes to abortion laws continue to pervade the news every day, what can the Church do to help promote life and healing within culture? Studies show that while the majority of people on both sides of the political aisle support adoption, fewer actually adopt. Elizabeth Kirk, Director of the Center for Law and research associate at the Columbus School of Law at The Catholic University of America, joins us to discuss why adoption is one way we can help remedy the issue and redeem childrens’ lives. Watch this talk and hundreds more on Q Media. Get a free trial at qideas.org/trial.

Often, there is confusion surrounding the United States’ governmental structure. With taglines like the Washington Post’s “Democracy Dies in Darkness” or the protest rally cry, “This is what democracy looks like!” it’s easy to see why. Where does the term “democratic republic” fit into all of this? In light of that, how does it change how we interact with the government? William B. Allen, professor of Political Philosophy at Michigan State University, will offer his insights in this conversation and help us understand these terms more clearly. Find hundreds of talks like this one on Q Media. Start your free trial at qideas.org/trial

At the pace our world moves, it’s often difficult to live in the moment. We would rather look forward to the next meeting, next gadget, or next vacation. Is there an alternate way to live as a Christian? Can contentment become real and tangible in our lives? Pastor Scott Sauls concludes our event by admonishing us to live from a place of wholeness and trust in where God has placed us. Find hundreds of talks like this on Q Media. Start a free trial at qideas.org/trial

Rashawn Copeland, founder of I’m So Blessed Daily and Without Walls Ministries, has spent his adult life teaching millions of people through social media and online content. Through his TikTok and social media accounts, he proclaims the gospel to people he runs across, asking them to share what Jesus has done in their life. He joins us to share his testimony and give an encouraging word on how we can partner with God in sharing the gospel and using our testimonies to bring signs of life to our communities. Find hundreds of talks like this on Q Media. Start your free trial at qideas.org/trial

Minimalism may be something you read about in self-help books or see on TV, but Jesus himself led a minimalist lifestyle. Many modern day Westerners, fed up with the consumerism of our day have embraced tiny house living as an alternative. Matt and Elizabeth Impola own a company called Handcrafted Movement, striving to go against the grain and build beautiful, sustainable tiny houses. Both Matt and Elizabeth will share their story with us and how they’ve seen their company bring signs of new life into our culture. Want more talks like this? Join our online learning community, Q Media, for a free 30-day trial at qideas.org/trial

It seems like the ideological, religious, and political divide has become wider and wider in the last few years. Rather than disagreeing and having thoughtful conversations, people of all sides have decided to leave conversations they don’t agree with. Is this the way of Jesus? Should we let these differences divide us? Rebekah Lyons, author and podcast host, encourages us to become people of peace, bridging the divide and bringing unity among the body of Christ. Find all talks from this year's event at qideas.org/2022.

What can we do? It's the natural question after a disaster. Our hearts break for the hurting and the grieved. We want to reach out, to help. As citizens of planet earth, we are regularly and often confronted with the problem of pain, with the reality of human suffering. Natural disasters occur with increasing frequency and force. The number of slaves in the world lingers at an unacceptably high number. Abuse is in our churches. Children are dying. In this challenging talk from 2012, Diane Langberg argues that trauma is perhaps the most important place for service and mission in the 21st century.

In an increasingly secular, chaotic and uncertain cultural moment, how must Christians believe, think and act? In this Q Talk, Gabe Lyons sets up the Q 2020 Virtual Summit by educating us about “the Spirit of Babylon” present in our own society.  Want to hear more talks like this and connect with like-minded leaders? Join us April 28 & 29 for The Culture Summit. We'll be hosting 35+ conversations surrounding issues of our time. Find out more at qideas.org/2022.

Here in the United States, we've been watching as inflation is quickly changing the marketplace. Is there a way we could have anticipated this rate of inflation? When we think about money, is there a better way forward? Bitcoin expert, Jimmy Song, shares his thoughts on how he sees Bitcoin as the future of currency.  Want more talks like this? Join us virtually for our annual Culture Summit event, April 28-29. Find more information at qideas.org/2022

Is it possible that we see ourselves as more moral than we actually are? How can we remedy this gap? What can we learn from history and Scripture? Dr. Christian Miller joins Gabe Lyons to talk about his work on character and virtue formation. Interested in more conversations like this? Join us at The Culture Summit happening April 28-29. Find out more on how you can join us at qideas.org/2022

The Christian world is continually rocked by sexual abuse and harassment allegations against well-known people and organziations. What can we do to prevent these tragedies from occuring? Are theology, culture and policies causing these issues? And can we be a part of identifying solutions? Attorney and advocate Rachael Denhollander shares how we can create systems and structures that prevent abuse. This interview was given at last year's Culture Summit. Interested in hearing more conversations like this? This year's event event is coming up quickly, April 28-29, 2022. Find out more on how you and your church can join us at qideas.org/2022

It's been almost 15 years since the book Culture Making released. In this interview with Andy Crouch and Sho Baraka, hosted by Grant Skeldon, they talk about what it looks like to create culture. Do the same rules still apply? How can we create in a way that keeps us relevant? Andy and Sho answer these questions in this week's episode.  Want to hear more talks like these? Join us in Nashville or virtually for The Culture Summit, April 28-29. Find out more at qideas.org/2022.

In a world that rejects masculinity as toxic, what does it mean to follow in the footsteps of Jesus and his version of what it means to be a man? Brant Hansen, author of The Men We Need, reminds men and women alike of man's first role, to be keepers of the garden. He proposes a renewed vision of what it means to be a man in the 21st century and petitions all men to be ambitious about the right things. Brant's book is the latest selection in the Q Ideas Book Tour series. Have questions for Brant? Submit them at qideas.org/booktour and also find additional resources.

In many ways, the events of the last year completely disrupted and upended our lives. It can be tempting, then, to try to merely endure or ignore this disruption. But instead, Danielle Strickland challenges us to see the disruption of this moment as an invitation and an opportunity for something greater. How will you respond? This talk was given at The Culture Summit in 2021. If you want to hear more talks like these consider joining us as in-person, virtually, or with your church this April 28-29. Find out more at qideas.org/2022.

In this talk from the 2013 Q Women and Calling event, Kathy Keller discusses the way that gender roles have misused in the past. The antidote has been to throw the whole idea away. Is this the correct response?  Keller argues that to reject our genders—as women and men—is to push away a great gift from God, given to us to reflect his nature more fully. The key to a fuller understanding of these ideas is an understanding of "ontological equality," which Keller explains in this clip.

Through a year marked by confusion, chaos, and polarization, Gabe, Rebekah and Grant talk about what the Church has to offer in this moment. They spend time talking about what it means to connect and gather together as a body of believers in the midst of this cultural confusion. They also share a first look at The Culture Summit happening this April along with some of the topics we'll be talking about. Want to see the current list of presenters or learn more on how to join us? Visit qideas.org/2022 to find out more.

The inauguration of Barack Obama led to conjecture that America was officially a post-racial society. Over the past few years, it's evident that it will take more than the election of a person of color to move our nation past the systemic racism existing in workplaces, schools, and prisons. In this talk from 2016, Adam Thomason leads a conversation on how we can dismantle unjust structures still so prevalent in society - and encourages us to think about how and what to build in their place. If you like talks like these, join us this April at our 16th annual Culture Summit in downtown Nashville. Learn more about how you can join us at qideas.org/2022.

We’re living in a time in which more and more people seem to believe no truth is absolute and all authority is suspect. In light of these cultural trends, how can we reclaim and hold fast to an appropriate understanding of the power, authority and truth of God’s Word? That’s a critical question that Gen Z leader Gabrielle Odom helps us wrestle with in this talk. Join us April 28-29 in Nashville, TN for our annual Culture Summit conference where we're diving into the tough issues. Register and find out more at qideas.org/2022

We all have felt the temperature rise over the last few years around the topic of race. As we are experiencing a once in a generation moment, how can we think well and commit to being a part of the solution that brings reconciliation and healing for all? Soledad O’Brien, an award winning journalist, documentarian, news anchor and producer dedicated to uncovering and producing empowering stories that take on a challenging look at the issues of race, class, wealth, poverty and opportunity through personal stories.

What lessons can Christians learn from the African American legacy and experience? Tyler Burns, president of The Witness, challenges us to see the gift of the black Christian experience in this powerful talk.  This talk was given at the 2021 Culture Summit. If you're interested in ideas and conversations like these, join us this year, April 28-29 in downtown Nashville. 

Even before the chaos of the last couple years, we were already facing many troubling statistics surrounding mental health. Now, with the added stress of a pandemic and various cultural tensions, mental health struggles have become a reality for even more people. In light of this, psychiatrist Curt Thompson shares a conversation with Q President Gabe Lyons with some practical tips for caring for our mental health. Dr. Curt Thompson is partnering with Q Ideas to launch a new podcast entitled Neurofaith. Neurofaith is launching with the theme, "Thinking Well in the Pandemic." He will spend time interviewing experts exploring how the Christian faith informs our mental and emotional health. Available wherever podcasts are found, February 2022.  

In a culture that demands our time and efficiency, how can Christians slow down? Is it possible to have emptier calendars, more rest, and still live faithful and productive lives? Kelly M. Kapic, professor of theological studies at Covenant College, explores these questions and more in his new book, You're Only Human. Listen in as he discusses some of his ideas from the book and gives wisdom on how our human limitations can glorify God. Kelly's book is the latest selection in the Q Ideas Book Tour series. To read along with us, participate in a Live Q&A and get access to additional resources, visit qideas.org/booktour.

Leading well in our current cultural moment can feel exhausting. But in this powerful talk, pastor Jon Tyson reminds us that this is the very time and place God has called us to lead. He challenges us to consider how this truth might build our courage and help us live more faithfully—wherever we’ve been called. Hear more talks from Jon Tyson and many other leaders by starting a free trial to Q Media. Get started at qideas.org/trial.

In this episode, Q Ideas president Gabe Lyons reflects on some of the most important Q Moments from 2021. As another chaotic year comes to a close, we know you’ll appreciate the chance to take a step back and reflect on some of the most important ideas of the year, so you can prepare well for what might lie ahead in 2022. Want to watch these full talks and conversations? Visit qideas.org/top10 to view any of these talks in their entirety. 

In countries around the world, Christian communities are facing intense persecution. Yet at the same time, these “underground” churches are growing exponentially as the gospel spreads in some of the most unlikely places. What can we learn from our brothers and sisters in Christ who are living out their faith where it’s most difficult to do so—and how can we continue to support the spread of the gospel? Sharing his own experience with persecuted churches around the world, David Platt helps us answer this question. Want to participate in conversations like these? Join us in Nashville on April 28-29 for our annual Culture Summit event. Over two days, you will hear 35+ talks on the most important ideas for Christians to engage in the season ahead. Register now: qideas.org/2022.

There comes small moments and decisions that end up impacting our lives for years to come. Dr. Michael Lindsay calls them "hinge moments". How do we identify these moments? As Christians, what practices can I adopt to wisely navigate them? In this interview, Dr. Lindsay discusses these questions and more from his newest book, Hinge Moments. Hear more converations like these at our annnual Culture Summit April 28-29 in Nashville. Register now at qideas.org/cs2022  

Although we are more connected than ever before, loneliness seems to be plaguing our modern society more and more each passing year. Why do people, particularly young people, feel more lonely than ever? How can we as Christians respond to the problem of loneliness amongst our friends, families, and churches? Guided by current research from Barna Group, Susan Mettes explores these questions and more in her new book, The Loneliness Epidemic. Listen in to this interview to hear her tackles some of these tough questions. The Loneliness Epidmeic is our latest selection in the Q Ideas Book Tour series. To read along with us, participate in a Live Q&A and get access to additional resources, visit qideas.org/booktour. 

Thanks to documentaries like The Social Dilemma and an abundance of eye-opening research, we’re all-too aware of the pitfalls surrounding social media. But is there a better way for us to engage? Is it possible for us to succeed at social media without losing our souls? Author and podcaster Annie F. Downs argues the answer is yes. She shares her insights and best practices with us in this talk. To engage in more culturally important conversations like this one, make plans to join us at the Culture Summit, taking place in Nashville on April 28-29, 2021. Over two days, you will hear 35+ talks on the most important ideas for Christians to engage in our moment. Register now: qideas.org/cs2022. 

In a culture focused on outcomes and success, are Christians called to live any differently? Author and spoken word artist Hosanna Wong argues the answer is yes. Through an original spoken word poem and a powerful talk, Hosanna challenges us to be those who are intentional about listening to God—first and foremost.   Want more talks like these? Start a free trial to Q Media, our online learning platform for Christian leaders. Get started at qideas.org/trial.

We were designed to create and co-create. How do feelings stemming from shame prohibit our ability to fulfill that calling? How does human desire play into this conversation? Dr. Curt Thompson helps us connect ideas between shame, desire and creating.   Find more talks like this, including more from Dr. Curt Thompson, on Q Media. Start a free trial at qideas.org/trial.

Over the past few years, our culture has watched at the #MeToo and #ChurchToo movements rock our institutions. How can we, as Christians, be a people that champions the vunerable, protects the weak and redeems the God-given place of power? Dr. Diane Langberg offers her clinical and theological perspective on these questions and how Chrisitans can navigate these sensitive issues. Her book, Redeeming Power, is our latest selection in the Q Ideas Book Tour series. To read along with us, participate in a Live Q&A and get access to additional resources, visit qideas.org/booktour. 

In our culture, it’s cool to talk about justice. But are we actually advancing good? In this powerful talk, artist and activist Danielle Coke challenges us to move beyond performative allyship and live into our true calling as Christ-followers. Want more talks like these? Start a free trial to Q Media, our online learning platform for Christian leaders. Get started at qideas.org/trial. 

It can feel unproductive and hopeless to talk about the state of public life in America today. The upcoming generations are increasingly disillusioned that the world is going in a positive direction. Is it possible to overcome the divide in our nation and fight for a society that encourages the diverse thought? AEI's Faith & Public Life Director, Jeff Pickering, encourages us with what the Christian brings to the table and how college students are productively engaging the conversations of our day.   Interested in learning more about the issues facing the next generation? Join us for our free digital event, Nxt Gen Summit, at qideas.org/nxtgen.

How is God moving in the next generation? In this episode of the Q Ideas Podcast, Luke LeFevre shares the powerful ways he’s seen God move in his city, pointing to hope for revival in this generation. Luke leads a local movement among teenagers in Nashville that has led hundreds to respond to the gospel, and he also founded Revival Coalition, which focuses on inspiring and mobilizing young adults to see this generation reached with the gospel and set on fire for God.   To engage in more conversations like these, check out Q Media, our online learning platform for Christian leaders. Get your first month free at qideas.org/trial. 

How can we faithfully engage the specific lane of culture we have been called into? This is a question Christian battle rapper Street Hymns challenges us to consider in this episode of the Q Ideas Podcast. As one of the founding members of the Christian battle rap group IV Horseman, Street Hymns encourages us as he shares his own story.  For more talks like this, start a 30-day free trial to Q Media, our online learning platform for Christian leaders. Get started at qideas.org/trial.

Is it possible to have it all? Jeff & André Shinabarger talk with Gabe Lyons to provide practical insight and address the complexities of juggling careers, family and marriage in our modern era. Jeff & André founded Plywood People in Atlanta, GA and co-authors of the book Love or Work: Is it Possible to Change the World, Stay in Love, and Raise a Healthy Family? To learn more about Jeff & André's work, find their book wherever books are sold. Find hundreds of talks and conversations like this one on Q Media, our online learning platform for thoughtful Christian leaders. Get started at qideas.org/trial.

We live in a culture that worships celebrity and idolizes platform. But what happens when this ideology infiltrates the Church? In this powerful talk, pastor Rich Villodas confronts our tendency to gravitate towards celebrity Christianity. Want to watch more talks like this one? Start a free trial to Q Media, our online learning platform for thoughtful Christian leaders. Get started at qideas.org/trial. 

What is freedom of conscience—and why is it such an important concept for us to understand? On this episode of the Q Ideas Podcast, Montse Alvarado educates us on this key topic. Montse serves as the Vice President and Executive Director of the Becket Fund for Religious Liberty, a non-profit, public-interest legal and educational institute with a mission to protect the free expression of all faiths.  If you want to learn more about this topic, check out Becket Fund’s podcast, Stream of Conscience, which just launched its second season. You can find it now on Apple, Spotify or wherever you listen to podcasts.  To watch hundreds of more Q Talks, start a free trial to Q Media, our online learning platform for thoughtful Christian leaders. Get started at qideas.org/trial. 

How can we raise sons of courage and character? That’s the focus of Jon Tyson’s new book, The Intentional Father. In a culture wrestling with deep father wounds and toxic masculinity, Jon shares an intentional vision for raising the next generation. His book is our latest selection in the Q Ideas Book Tour series. To read along with us, participate in a Live Q&A and get access to additional resources, visit qideas.org/booktour. 

Our modern culture is obsessed with identity. However, theologian Carl Trueman argues that no historical phenomenon is its own cause. From Augustine to Marx, various views and perspectives have contributed to the modern understanding of the self. In his timely book, The Rise of the Modern Self, Carl analyzes the development of the sexual revolution as a symptom rather than the cause of the human search for identity. In this episode of the Q Ideas Podcast, he explains what that means for the Church’s witness today, and he gives guidance for the future as Christians navigate our culture amidst humanity’s ever-changing quest for identity. Want to participate in more conversations like these? Join The Collaborative, our brand-new cohort experience designed for passionate Christian leaders. Over eight months, we'll build community and take a deep dive into the most important conversations for our moment. Learn more and register at qideas.org/cohort.

In 2018, social scientist Lisa Littman published a study on “rapid-onset gender dysphoria.” The study pointed to an increasing trend of adolescent girls suddenly identifying themselves as transgender and seeking treatment, perhaps due to social pressure and media influence. The study was met with controversy and left many debating this new idea. Together, Preston Sprinkle (President of the Center for Faith, Sexuality and Gender) and Helena Kerschner (a former transgender man who is now de-transitioned) discuss this topic and provide practical guidance for parents and teens. Want to engage in more conversations like these? Join us for The Collaborative, an eight-month cohort for Christian leaders. Learn more and register: qideas.org/cohort.

What does our modern, secular culture get wrong about the Bible? That’s a question Dan Kimball helps us wrestle with on this episode of the Q Ideas Podcast. Dan is a pastor at Vintage Faith Church in Santa Cruz, California and the author of the recent book, How (Not) to Read the Bible. In this conversation, Dan brings clarity to some of the more confusing parts of Scripture. He also shares why it’s so important that Christians understand the Bible and teach others—especially the next generation—to do the same.  If you’re a leader who cares about these conversations, don’t miss the chance to participate in The Collaborative, our brand-new cohort experience. Learn more and register at qideas.org/cohort. 

How are Christians called to contribute to flourishing? This is a question Sho Baraka helps us engage on this episode of the Q Ideas Podcast. In addition to being a globally recognized artist and activist, Sho is also the author of the new book, He Saw That It Was Good: Reimagining Your Creative Life to Repair a Broken World. In this conversation, Sho challenges us to take seriously the call to cultivate our creativity, understand our history and contribute to the common good—regardless of our vocation. Want to engage in more conversations like these alongside a select group of Christian leaders? Register now for The Collaborative, our brand-new cohort experience kicking off in September. Visit qideas.org/cohort to learn more and register. 

How has the past year affected the most vulnerable communities around the world—and how can Christians step in and advance good? On today’s episode, Jordan Gustafson joins Gabe Lyons to share his perspective. Jordan leads church mobilization and partnership efforts at Food for the Hungry, a global Christ-centered NGO working in over 20 countries with the vision of seeing all forms of poverty ended through sustainable holistic community development and disaster relief.  To learn more about Food for the Hungry’s efforts and how your church can get involved, visit fh.org/qideas.  Want to join The Collaborative, our new eight-month cohort experience? Limited space remains, so learn more and register at qideas.org/cohort.

In our unique cultural moment, how is the local church being equipped to advance the common good? In this episode of the Q Ideas Podcast, Luke Bobo joins Gabe Lyons to engage this question. Luke serves as director of strategic partnerships for Made to Flourish, an organization that empowers pastors and their churches to integrate faith, work and economic wisdom for the flourishing of their communities. Together, Luke and Gabe share an honest conversation about how our churches can champion these ideas as a way to advance good. To learn more from Made to Flourish, make plans to participate in the Common Good Conference on October 1. Learn more and register at commongoodconference.com.  Don't miss the opportunity to join The Collaborative, our new eight-month cohort experience convening 100 like-minded leaders this September. Limited space remains, so reserve your spot now at qideas.org/cohort. 

How is the digital revolution shaping the way churches reach their communities? Slingshot Group’s Keith Robinson believes the digital disruption has given us the greatest opportunity for evangelism in 2,000 years. In this episode, he shares more about this idea and challenges church leaders to take online evangelism seriously while also making space for life-on-life discipleship. Want to learn more about Slingshot Group? Check out their work—and some free resources they’re creating for church leaders—at slingshotgroup.com. If you’re a leader who cares about these conversations, don’t miss the chance to participate in The Collaborative, our brand-new cohort experience. Learn more and register at qideas.org/cohort.

In a post-Christian culture, how can we equip our children to become resilient disciples of Christ? That’s a question Matt Markins helps us wrestle with on this episode of the Q Ideas Podcast. As the Chief Strategy Officer at Awana, Matt is a leading expert in the world of children’s ministry. In this episode, Matt shares his own story, highlights key research on what our kids really need and points us toward a hopeful future of the Church.  To learn more and register for the Child Discipleship Forum, visit resilientdisciples.com Want to listen to Matt's talk from the Culture Summit + hundreds more centered on how we can live faithfully in this cultural moment? Start a free trial at qideas.org/trial.

As Christians, we're confident in the gospel’s power to redeem us as individuals. But perhaps what we don’t talk about enough is the gospel’s power to transform larger systems, structures and cultures. This is a truth Heather Rice-Minus challenges us to see. As a senior vice president at Prison Fellowship, Heather articulates the case for restorative criminal justice solutions and explains how churches play a critical role in meeting the needs of those impacted by crime and incarceration. 
Want to go deeper in this conversation? Get your free copy of Outrageous Justice and sign up for Prison Fellowship's virtual small group study at www.prisonfellowship.org/outrageousjustice. To listen to more talks like this one, start a free trial to Q Media, our online learning platform for Christian leaders, at qideas.org/trial.

When we read the news, we are not merely informed—we’re also formed. In his new book, Reading the Times, author Jeffery Bilbro helps us gain a theological and historical perspective on the nature and very purpose of news. Offering an alternative vision of the rhythms of life, he suggests thoughtful practices for media consumption in order to cultivate healthier ways of reading and being. To learn more from Jeffery Bilbro, find his new book available now wherever books are sold.

How can we move from shallow Christianity to deep transformation? Pete Scazzero argues it starts in our discipleship. Author of the new book Emotionally Healthy Discipleship, Pete shares his own journey toward emotional health and casts a hopeful vision for how the global Church can overcome its current discipleship crisis. Pete’s new book is available now wherever books are sold. You can also learn more about his organization at emotionallyhealthy.org. Want to engage more conversations about how Christians can live faithfully in our current cultural moment? Start a 30-day free trial to Q Media, our online learning platform for Christian leaders, at qideas.org/trial.

We were made for intimacy—spiritual intimacy with God that brings oneness and bears powerful fruit. We were made to know Him and be known by Him, fully. So why do we often feel burnt-out, distant and disheartened in our journey of faith? Sharing her own story, Mo Aiken helps us wrestle with this question in today’s episode of the Q Ideas Podcast. Author of the new book Fully Known: An Invitation to True Intimacy with God, Mo helps us see why this message is so important—especially for our current cultural moment. This conversation is part of our Q Ideas Book Tour, where each month we feature authors who share ideas important for this cultural moment. Want to join us for additional resources and conversations as part of the Q Ideas Book Tour? Get connected at qideas.org/booktour.

In the U.S. Senate now, the Equality Act is a proposed piece of legislation that would add sexual orientation and gender identity as protected classes under federal civil rights law. However, this bill has been met with significant controversy as many believe it would go too far to inhibit individual religious freedom. In light of this, how should Christians respond? Kristen K. Waggoner, who serves as general counsel with Alliance Defending Freedom, shares her perspective in this episode of the Q Ideas Podcast. Want to get access to hundreds more talks like this? Start a 30-day free trial to Q Media, our online learning platform for Christian leaders, at qideas.org/trial.

When you think about orphans, what comes to mind? Maybe you think of kids living in orphanages who have no parents or family. Maybe you think of this as a global problem, not affecting the United States. And maybe you think this is a problem that is simply too big to be solved. In today’s episode of the Q Ideas Podcast, Lindsay Hadley and Elli Oswald dispel each of these myths with the truth about the global orphan crisis—and they share how we can help be part of the solution. Together, they are part of Orphan Myth, a campaign that unites NGOs, child advocacy specialists, influencers, faith leaders and businesses dedicated to help every child belong in a safe loving family. Want to get instant access to more talks like these? Start a free trial to Q Media, our online learning platform for Christian leaders, at qideas.org/trial.

Since the beginning of the pandemic, research has revealed a troublesome uptick in mental health concerns. In light of these trends, how can we best respond to those who may be struggling with their mental health and contemplating suicide? Brooke Keels, executive director of counseling services for Mercy Multiplied, shares her perspective with us on this episode of the Q Ideas Podcast. Want to get instant access to the entire Culture Summit? Get your on-demand digital pass now at qideas.org/culturesummit. For $49, this gives you access to every single talk and conversation from the Culture Summit + 30 Expert Q&As.

Do you know where your food comes from? Jason Streubel, also known as “Dr. Dirt,” asks us to consider this question in today’s episode of the Q Ideas Podcast. As the senior director for agriculture and food security at Convoy of Hope, he helps us see the ways in which our food is complex, political and spiritual, and he challenges the Church to lead the way in pursuing food security in our local communities. Want to get instant access to the entire Culture Summit? Get your on-demand digital pass now at qideas.org/culturesummit.For $49, this gives you access to every single talk and conversation from the Culture Summit + 30 Expert Q&As.

How should Christians be thinking well about the state of the pandemic? In this episode of the Q Ideas Podcast, we bring you four conversations from the Culture Summit, the fifteenth annual conference hosted by Q Ideas, where no topic is off-limits and we’re not afraid to ask difficult questions. In this segment, Gabe Lyons interviews Dr. Francis Collins (director of the NIH), Dr. Martin Kulldorff (Harvard epidemiologist and vaccine safety evaluator), Alex Berenson (journalist & author), and Naomi Schaefer Riley (child welfare expert) about their perspectives on everything from vaccines and covid passports to lockdowns, masks and more. Want to get instant access to the entire Culture Summit? Get your on-demand digital pass now at qideas.org/culturesummit. For $49, this gives you access to every single talk and conversation from the Culture Summit + 30 Expert Q&As.

What’s happened to critical thinking in our society? In this episode of the Q Ideas Podcast, Gabe Lyons shares his talk from this year’s Culture Summit. In this talk, he challenges Christian leaders to be more intentional about asking good questions and thinking critically—a skill that is perhaps more needed than ever in our current cultural moment. Stay tuned as we share more talks and conversations from the Culture Summit over the next few weeks. Want to get instant access to the entire Culture Summit? Get your on-demand digital pass now at qideas.org/culturesummit. For $49, this gives you access to every single talk and conversation from the Culture Summit + 30 Expert Q&As.

For thousands of years, prayer has been understood as both a powerful and essential Christian discipline—but in today’s culture, do we still understand, appreciate and revere this practice as we should? Since 2013, Dimas Salaberrios has served as the president of Concerts of Prayer Greater NY, which is a Christ-centered network of pastors and churches promoting a culture of prayer across ethnic, economic and denominational lines. In this episode of the Q Ideas Podcast, Dimas shares what he’s learned with us, and he will encourage and challenge us to embrace the labor of prayer in our daily lives. Want to hear more talks like these? It’s not too late for you to join us for the Q 2021 Culture Summit! Register now at qideas.org/culturesummit.

Jo Saxton understands the power of hospitality—an ancient practice, rooted in Scripture, that can transform our lives, our relationships and our communities in even the most challenging moments. Drawing from the depths of her own personal story, Jo shares what it means for Christians to embrace the true gift of hospitality, reaching out to those beyond the walls of our churches and inviting them in. Want to gather your people together to experience the Q 2021 Culture Summit? It's not too late to sign up to host a Watch Party! Register now at qideas.org/culturesummit.

John Mark Comer joins Gabe Lyons on this episode of the Q Ideas Podcast for a conversation about what Christian leaders need to understand about deconstruction and progressive Christianity. John Mark is one of 70+ leaders joining us at this year’s Culture Summit, taking place April 22-23 in Nashville and online. Want to participate? Register now at qideas.org/culturesummit to participate live or watch on-demand.

How can we heal the racial divide in our time? Duke Kwon and Gregory Thompson argue the answer lies in reparations. Together, they are the authors of the new book, Reparations: A Christian Call for Repentance and Repair. In this episode, Duke and Greg are joined by pastor Mika Edmondson to examine both the theological and practical elements of this conversation and how we can productively engage. This conversation is part of our Q Ideas Book Tour, where each month we feature authors who share ideas important for this cultural moment. Want to join us for additional resources and conversations as part of the Q Ideas Book Tour? Get connected at qideas.org/booktour.

In this episode, pastor Jon Tyson joins Gabe Lyons for a conversation about the issues he sees as being most important for our current cultural moment. Originally from Adelaide, Australia, Jon moved to the United States twenty years ago with a passion to seek and cultivate renewal in the Western Church. He now serves as lead pastor of Church of the City New York, and he is one of the experts you have the opportunity to learn from at the Culture Summit, taking place in Nashville and online April 22-23. Want to join us for Culture Summit? Register now at qideas.org/culturesummit. Want to check out the books Jon and Gabe discussed in this episode? Visit these links: The Rise & Triumph of the Modern Self by Carl Trueman, Ordering Your Private World by Gordon MacDonald, 2084: Artificial Intelligence and the Future of Humanity by John C. Lennox.

Across America, many church buildings are sitting on acres and acres of unused green space. Quite literally, Joey Lankford sees this as an untapped mission field. His organization, Cul2vate, grows and delivers local produce to those in need of food while offering jobs and training to those in need of a second chance. In this episode, Joey shares how something as simple as a community garden can be a source of restoration and flourishing in our communities. Want to join us for the Q 2021 Culture Summit (April 22-23) to hear more talks like these? Register now for in-person or online access at qideas.org/culturesummit.

Dr. Preston Sprinkle joins Gabe Lyons for a timely and important dialogue on gender identity and the Church’s role in this complex conversation. Through his work as a biblical scholar and president of the Center for Faith, Sexuality and Gender, Preston is a leading expert in this conversation. He is also the author of the new book Embodied: Transgender Identities, the Church and What the Bible Has to Say. Want to go deeper into this conversation? Preston is one of the experts joining us for the Q 2021 Culture Summit taking place in Nashville and homes, offices and churches around the world this April 22-23. Register and learn more at qideas.org/culturesummit.

On this episode of the Q Podcast, Gabe and Rebekah Lyons sit down to discuss our opportunity to unite with other believers and lead well in this cultural moment. They also share a first look at Culture Summit—this year’s Q Conference taking place in Nashville and in communities around the world this April 22-23. Want to learn more about how you can participate in Culture Summit? Learn more and register at qideas.org/culturesummit.

Perhaps the most central calling for any Christian is to “go and make disciples.” However, there remains a lack of true discipleship in so many western churches. In a season when everything’s gone online, it’s more important than ever for us to learn the strategies and principles necessary for effective digital discipleship. We dive into what this looks like in this episode, featuring a portion of an extended conversation with pastor Jon Tyson, author Annie F. Downs and IF: Gathering founder Jennie Allen. Want to hear this full Q&A on digital discipleship? Get free access to this conversation and more when you start a free trial to Q Media at qideas.org/qa.

Why is “fun” something we should be paying attention to, especially as Christian leaders? Annie F. Downs shares her perspective—and why this conversation matters—in this podcast interview with Q Ideas president Gabe Lyons. This conversation is part of our new Q Ideas Book Tour, where each month we go deeper with your favorite authors—and maybe some you haven’t even heard of yet—for bonus content + extended conversations centered around their latest work. Learn more at qideas.org/booktour.

In the wake of the horrific racial injustice that came to light in 2020, we've been forced to reckon with the reality of racism and injustice in American society. From protests in the streets to social media campaigns, this is a moment that demands our attention, but still, many pastors and church leaders remain unsure of how to best engage. This podcast episode features three leaders—David Bailey, Mika Edmondson and Rasool Berry—who help guide us in this conversation. Want to hear this full Q&A on race + justice? Get free access to this and more when you start a free trial to Q Media at qideas.org/qa.

With its oldest members now filling college campuses and entering the workforce, Gen Z is emerging as an increasingly influential generation—a trend that is only likely to continue in the years to come. In the midst of this, what do pastors and church leaders need to know to best reach and engage this new generation? That a question we engage on this episode of the Q Podcast, featuring a portion of a conversation with Gen Z leaders Sadie Robertson Huff and Gabrielle Odom. Want to hear this full Q&A? Get free access to this and more when you start a free trial to Q Media at media.qideas.org/trial.

Perhaps more than ever, it seems many western Christians are feeling the need to deconstruct their faith. Amid this reality, many questions remain. Where do we get our desire to deconstruct? How can we know when this deconstruction is a helpful practice—and when can it negatively impact our faith? These are questions we dive into on this episode of the Q Podcast as we feature an excerpt of a conversation with John Mark Comer from our recent Q&A event. Want to go deeper into this conversation with John Mark Comer? Start a free trial to Q Media to get access to this full Q&A and more at media.qideas.org/trial.

In this episode, Gabe and Rebekah Lyons come together to reflect on some of their favorite Q Moments from 2020. As this chaotic year comes to a close, we know you’ll appreciate the chance to take a step back and reflect on what the Q Community learned this year, so you can prepare well for what might lie ahead in 2021. Want to watch these full talks and conversations? Join the Q Media community! Get your first month free with code "freemonth" at qideas.org/about-qmedia.

In a year of racial unrest, what can we learn from the stories of two men who challenged segregation in the 1950s? That’s a question we engage in this episode of the Q Podcast. Gabe Lyons is joined by Rev. Freddie Augustine and Gary Fleming. Now in their 70s, these two men played in one of the first integrated Little League baseball games when they were 12 years old. In this conversation, they talk about what that experience meant to them, how it’s shaped their understanding of race in America, and the hope they have for the tensions we face now. To go deeper into this conversation, check out Long Time Coming—a documentary that tells the story of this historic baseball game. You can stream it on Q Media when you start a subscription at qideas.org/about-qmedia.

How should Christians think about the environment? That’s a question Dr. Rusty Pritchard helps us engage in this episode of the Q Podcast. Rusty serves as Vice President of Tearfund USA, an organization that works alongside the local church to overcome poverty and injustice. He is also a resource economist who has worked at the interface between international economic development and global environment sustainability for nearly 30 years. In this conversation, Rusty helps us dive deep into the legacy of environmental injustice, the threat of climate change around the world, and the reality of skepticism in this conversation—pointing us to our unique role and worldview as Christians.

In our current moment, what is hindering the breakthrough of authentic prayer and revival? That’s a question we dive into in this episode of the Q Podcast. Featuring an excerpt from a longer conversation on this critical topic from our recent Q&A gathering, this episode brings together leaders like Jon Tyson, Christine Caine and Corey Russel to get to the root of the problem in our churches and communities of faith when it comes to prayer and revival. To get access to this full conversation, plus seven more on the topics critical for Christian leadership in the year ahead, purchase a digital pass to watch Q&A on-demand at qideas.org/QA.

It’s no secret that the isolation we’ve experienced in 2020 has led to a significant impact on mental health—particularly for pastors and church leaders. In this episode of the Q Podcast, we’ll go deeper by listening to an excerpt from an important and timely conversation on mental health and suicide with psychiatrist Curt Thompson, pastor Scott Sauls and author Rebekah Lyons from our recent Q&A gathering. As the pandemic continues to affect our society—and our churches—in a myriad of ways, this conversation helps us understand how we can pursue a better way forward together. To get access to this full conversation, plus seven more on the topics critical for Christian leadership in the year ahead, purchase a digital pass to watch Q&A on-demand at qideas.org/QA.

Following the divisiveness of the U.S. Presidential election, Don Everts joins Gabe Lyons for a helpful and hopeful conversation about how we can create a better future by pursuing the common good in our neighborhoods. Don is the author of the new book, The Hopeful Neighborhood, and he serves as content developer for The Hopeful Neighborhood Project. In this interview, Don shares why he believes our neighborhoods are so important and the opportunity we have—particularly in a moment like this—to love and serve our neighbors well.

In this episode, Rod Dreher sits down with Gabe Lyons for an honest and sobering conversation about his new book, Live Not by Lies: A Manual for Christian Dissidents. In this book, Rod draws upon the wisdom of Christian survivors of Soviet persecution to warn American Christians of approaching dangers. Rod shares what inspired this book, why he believes America is moving toward “soft” totalitarianism, and how we can prepare to live faithfully as Christians in a challenging season ahead.

More than ever in our lifetimes, the pandemic has forced us to consider the question—“what is the purpose of the Church?” Francis Chan helps us engage this topic on today’s episode. Francis is perhaps most well-known for leaving his thriving megachurch in Northern California to start smaller, gospel-focused house churches. However, as the coronavirus began its spread around the globe, Francis and his family relocated to Hong Kong to serve as missionaries and spark a similar movement. In this episode, Francis shares how this pandemic moment might help the American Church become what he believes it ought to be.

How can parents best engage conversations about race with their kids? As the author of the children’s book God’s Very Good Idea, Trillia Newbell helps children and families learn to celebrate diversity, see how people from all ethnic and social backgrounds are valuable to God and understand how Jesus came to rescue all kinds of people. In this episode, Trillia points us toward theologically faithful, culturally smart and practical ways for us to teach our kids these important truths.

We are living in a culture that doesn’t often like to talk about sin, but it is a very real and active problem that affects every aspect of our lives and our world. In this episode of the Q Podcast, Addison Bevere shares about the effects of sin in our culture and challenges us to recover an understanding of what it means to be saved from sin’s power and penalty. Addison is the author of Saints: Becoming More Than “Christians.”

Christian leaders and pastors within the American Church are debating whether to open, shut, stay virtual or enact civil disobedience. Through Q Sessions: Church & State, we recently hosted the only conversation brining all of these perspectives to bear in this essential moment. You can listen to an excerpt from that conversation on this episode of the Q Podcast. From John MacArthur to Andy Stanley, hear two conflicting opinions on how churches and pastors should move forward in a confusing moment.

As we wrestle with the global coronavirus pandemic, pastor and New York Times bestselling author Tim Keller offers thoughtful context, reflections and hope for the way forward. In this episode, he helps us better understand the larger trends shaping our current culture, and he points toward a post-pandemic future for the Church and the world.

In today’s culture, what does it look like for faithful Christ-followers to never settle? That’s a question Greg Holder helps us consider in this episode of the Q Podcast. Greg is the author of a new book called Never Settle: Choices, Chain Reactions and the Way Out of Lukewarminess. In this conversation, Greg helps us see how our everyday decisions, habits and relationships have incredible potential for world-changing, redemptive impact—especially amid a challenging, uncertain season like the one we’re all currently living through.

In a divided, isolated and confusing cultural moment, what can we learn from the history of our country and those who came before us? From its founding to now, Pat Murdock argues that throughout American history, we see a long line of leaders, visionaries and change-makers who were inspired by the values of faith and liberty. As the executive director of the new Faith & Liberty Discovery Center coming to Philadelphia in 2021, Pat shares why this historical perspective is so important for our current moment—and how we can apply those same values to advance good today.

Nick Hall joins Gabe Lyons on this episode of the Q Podcast for a powerful conversation about our opportunity for evangelism and discipleship in this new cultural moment. Nick Hall serves as an evangelistic voice to this generation. He is the visionary of Together, author of the book Reset and the Founder and Chief Communicator for Pulse Movement, which exists to make Jesus known and to equip His followers to be disciples who multiply.

How can Christians reach their cities for the gospel—especially at a time when tensions, distrust and fear are high? This is something Kevin Palau and his team at City Gospel Movements have been working toward for 15+ years. As a branch of the Luis Palau Association, City Gospel Movements provides best practices to leaders who unite the Church in cities around the world. In this conversation with Gabe Lyons, Kevin shares what he and his team are currently learning in their own city of Portland, Oregon, and he challenges us to consider how we might ignite gospel movements in our local context.

How can the Church step up to better serve the most vulnerable children and families during a pandemic? This is a question Chris Palusky helps us consider in this episode of the Q Podcast. Chris serves as president and CEO of Bethany Christian Services, a global nonprofit with a mission to stand up for vulnerable children, refugees and families around the world, because family holds an incredible power to connect us, lift us up and transform lives. In this interview, Chris shares the most pressing needs in this moment, how COVID-19 has affected Bethany's work and how we can all be part of the solution.

What makes a Christian’s perspective unique during a time of crisis, such as our global coronavirus pandemic? In this Q Talk, New York Times bestselling author Priscilla Shirer points to the hope we have in Christ that transforms the way we believe, think and act in this uncertain moment.

In a tense cultural moment, it can be hard for Christians to know how to best engage challenging and complex conversations about race and repair. In this episode, Arrabon founder David M. Bailey joins Gabe Lyons to reflect on our recent Q Session featuring ten talks on this one topic. David shares what stuck out the most to him from this live event, and he offers some hopeful, practical and productive ways we can continue to pursue racial justice this week, this year and over the next decade. To watch the talks David & Gabe mention in this episode, start a free trial to Q Media at qideas.org/sessions.

In a confusing and uncertain moment, leadership is needed now more than ever. But how can you lead well through a type of cultural crisis none of us have ever lived through before? Slingshot Group’s David Miller argues, “there’s no script for effective leadership. But you don’t need one.” In this podcast episode, David shares five core competencies that leaders need to navigate our new moment.

John Kingston joins Gabe Lyons for a candid, passionate and hopeful conversation about our current cultural moment and the future of America. A lawyer by training and a businessman by experience, John is a social entrepreneur at the forefront of a new campaign called American Awakening. Kingston first gained national attention in the 2016 and 2018 political cycles, with innovative and inclusive campaigns positioned at the extremes of American politics. With the core of his team, John later launched American Awakening, a campaign for the soul of America. He shares the heart behind this initiative, what we can learn from our current season, and how we can engage in awakening together.

Even before the pandemic, our culture felt increasingly complex and disruptive, leaving many pastors and church leaders unsure how to see clearly, lead confidently and engage effectively. That’s why, in partnership with gloo, Barna Group embarked on its most comprehensive look at the state of the Church in its 35-year history. Barna president David Kinnaman introduced us to this idea in a talk he gave at the Q 2020 Virtual Summit. In today’s podcast, David Kinnaman revisits the talk he gave at the Q 2020 Virtual Summit and goes deeper, updating us on the latest insights his team is learning.

Following up on her talk at the Q 2020 Virtual Summit, Valerie Bell shares a timely and necessary conversation with Gabe Lyons about discipleship among children and the future of the church. Valerie serves as the CEO of Awana, a world-wide nonprofit ministry focused on providing Bible-based evangelism and discipleship solutions for ages 2-18. Valerie is also the author of the book, Resilient: Child Discipleship and the Fearless Future of the Church.

Rev. Dr. Tony Cook joins Gabe Lyons for a hopeful conversation about why our neighborhoods matter now more than ever. Tony serves as the executive director of The Hopeful Neighborhood Project, a collaborative network committed to improving neighborhood well-being around the world. In this episode, Tony shares some of their insights, and he encourages us to not miss the opportunity to pursue the common good of our neighborhoods in this cultural moment.

In this episode, Mercy Multiplied founder Nancy Alcorn shares her story with the Q Community. Through a residential counseling program and outreach services, Mercy Multiplied equips people to live free and stay free through Jesus Christ. She shares what she’s learned through this journey and offers practical advice for those leading their families, communities and churches.

JP DeGance joins Gabe Lyons for a thoughtful dialogue on how we advance good and overcome the polarization in our cities. JP is the founder of an organization called Communio, which consults with churches to equip them with data insights and ministry best practices to foster healthier relationships for singles, those preparing for marriage, married couples and those in marital crisis. 

As COVID-19 continues to spread and alter the daily lives of many around the world, Gabe Lyons addresses the new reality we find ourselves in, pointing us toward the unique opportunities we have in this moment and the hope we can hold onto for the future. Gabe also gives the latest update on how Q is responding to these quickly changing times through the creation of the Q 2020 Virtual Summit, taking place this April 22-23. Learn how you and your family, church or community can be part of this two-day, unifying experience at qideas.org/2020.

How Can Liturgy Inform Our Faith? Almost four in 10 practicing Christians (38 percent) say they’ve never heard of or are not too familiar with the concept of Christian liturgy, and that statistic is even higher among evangelicals, according to 2017 research from Barna Group. However, for centuries Christians have grounded their faith with this practice. Douglas McKelvey, author of Every Moment Holy, and Justin Whitmel Earley, creator of the Common Rule, will lead us in a conversation about the impact of daily liturgical rhythms.

In our divided and isolated cultural moment, it can feel easy for us to become skeptical, jaded and distrustful of others. But Malcolm Gladwell argues that perhaps we’re wired for just the opposite; perhaps we’re wired to enter into deep relationship, trusting one another. Sharing research and stories from his newest book, Malcolm helps us understand why this is so essential and how we can improve in how we relate to others.

Special Release from Gabe Lyons: In this episode, Gabe Lyons Gabe Lyons takes a deep dive into some of the most important issues for the year ahead and reminds us why it’s so important for Christians to gather, prepare and engage these critical topics and ideas. In a complicated and confusing cultural moment, Gabe argues that being educated and informed about these top issues equips us to lead more faithfully wherever we’ve been called. Gabe shares how this is the heart behind Q Conference (April 22-24 in Nashville, TN), and he invites listeners to make plans to attend Q 2020 for increased conversation, collaboration, connection and community. Learn more and register here.

Author, pastor and professor of intercultural studies D.A. Horton joins Gabe Lyons for a candid and hopeful conversation about how we can embrace Kingdom ethnicity in a divided world. Through this conversation, D.A. helps us step into the tension that so often surrounds conversations about race and ethnicity to offer us vision and practical guidance for Christians longing to embrace our Kingdom ethnicity, combating the hatred in our culture with the hope of Jesus Christ. D.A.’s latest book, Intensional: Kingdom Ethnicity in a Divided World, goes deeper into each of these topics and is available now.

How do we see and think beyond stereotypes?  Americans on either side of the aisle have long been divided by party lines, but in recent years, this has filtered into our public square of relationships. The labels and the divisions continue to grow, causing more and more voters to feel entrenched or disenfranchised. Does it have to be this way? Justin Giboney, attorney and co-founder of the AND Campaign, will examine the reality — and the limits — of identity politics.

How Do We Move Forward From Tragic Decisions? Abortion-it's a polarizing issue in American discourse, but what happens when we go beyond the talking points and listen to someone's personal story? At 19, April Hernandez-Castillo found herself in an abusive relationship, she escaped, but shortly after, she discovered she was pregnant. Feeling like she had no other choice, she had to consider all options. She'll share about that experience-and its effects-with us.

Preacher, teacher, scholar and bestselling author Leonard Sweet joins Gabe Lyons for a thought-provoking conversation about our chaotic cultural moment and how Christians ought to prepare for an uncertain future. In his newest book, Rings of Fire, Leonard maps out the future for the church in a sweeping survey of the twenty-first century. In the face of eruptive and disruptive culture changes from economics and communications to bioethics and beyond, Len helps us understand how we fight fire with fire, not only catching up to our culture but leading our friends and neighbors to the feet of Christ. 

Writer Seth Haines joins Gabe Lyons for a candid conversation about how we handle the inevitable pain of life and where we can find healing, wholeness and freedom. Seth is the author of the award-winning book, Coming Clean: A Story of Faith, and the newly released title, The Book of Waking Up: Experiencing the Divine Love That Reorders a Life. Seth shares how we can “wake up,” embarking on a journey toward the only Love worth adoring, the only Love that cures a soul.  Amid life’s inevitable pain, author Seth Haines shares how we can find healing, wholeness and freedom.

How Do We Leave Things Better Than We Found Them? In a tired and cynical world, what if Christians became the best advertisement for Jesus? Over time, their movements would become irresistible to every nation, tribe and tongue. Building on ideas expressed in his recently released book, Irresistible Faith, Scott Sauls will give us a blueprint for pursuing this vision in our current moment, of redeemed individuals and a renewed community working for a restored world.

What Does It Mean To Be The Salt Of The Earth? Researching her latest book, Taste and See, Margaret Feinberg traveled far and wide - even 410 feet down into a salt mine - to understand how our appreciation of food affects the way we consume Scripture. In her talk, Margaret shares this experience and its spiritual implications.

What Responsibilities Come with Privilege? The notion that some might have it better than others, for no good reason, offends our sensibilities. Yet, until we talk about privilege, we'll never fully understand it or find our way forward. Through her own story, Amy Julia Becker will show us how a life behind a white picket fence can restrict even as it protects, preventing us from loving our neighbors well.

What is the future of evangelism? As attendance and membership at American churches continue to decline, the Pinetops Foundation estimates that within the next 30 years, between 28 to 42 million young people raised in Christian homes will choose to leave the faith. While some may see this as a discouraging statistic, Joshua Crossman sees it instead as a great opportunity—the single largest gospel opportunity in the history of America, in fact. In this episode of the Q Podcast, he shares his research and optimism for the future. Joshua Crossman shares what he believes to be the single-largest gospel opportunity in the history of America.

Entrepreneur and activist Bob Dalton joins Gabe Lyons for a candid conversation about how we can advance good in the midst of complicated issues. Bob is the founder of Sackcloth & Ashes, a social enterprise that donates a blanket to your local homeless shelter for every blanket you purchase. He shares how he was inspired to engage the homelessness issue, why blankets are so strategic and how his journey of social entrepreneurship has impacted his faith. Sackcloth & Ashes founder Bob Dalton shares how we can advance good in the midst of complicated issues.

As a college student, Blythe Hill decided to wear a dress every day for a month. What started as a simple style challenge has since blossomed into a global anti-human trafficking movement known as Dressember, raising $7.5 million for organizations like International Justice Mission, A21, Saving Innocence and more. In this episode of the Q Podcast, Blythe joins Gabe Lyons to share how the movement gained traction, what she’s learned in the process and how others can join in their efforts. Dressember’s founder shares how a simple style challenge grew to raise $7.5 million for anti-trafficking efforts.

Journalist Tom Junod joins Gabe Lyons for a conversation about the new movie, A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood. The film, which releases on November 22, focuses on Tom’s real-life friendship with Fred Rogers, which began when Tom was assigned to write a profile on Mister Rogers for Esquire magazine in 1998. Tom shares how Mister Rogers’ friendship shaped his own life, what made Mister Rogers unique, and why his legacy is needed today more than ever.

Gabe Lyons sits down with Alex Lerza, co-founder of the innovative app rTribe, which offers online counseling, coaching and healing in community to help anyone and everyone heal. Together, Gabe and Alex share a candid conversation surrounding what we misunderstand about technology and the redemptive opportunities within this space.

A decade after the release of his foundational book, When Helping Hurts, author Dr. Brian Fikkert has teamed up with Dr. Kelly Kapic to offer deeper reflections on the topics of poverty, human flourishing, and God’s story of change for the poor and ourselves. In this podcast episode, Brian and Kelly sit down with Gabe Lyons to discuss these ideas and why they believe the opposite of poverty isn’t the American dream. Get 30% off their new book, Becoming Whole, and its companion resource, The Field Guide to Becoming Whole, when you use promo code “Chalmers” at MoodyPublishers.com.

What Can One Person Do? Guided by the strength of her beliefs and convictions, Shannon Sedgwick Davis formed an unlikely alliance that helped stop the atrocities of Joseph Kony and his Lord's Resistance Army, which is responsible for terrorizing communities in four countries across Central and East Africa. It's an inspiring true story that proves there is no limit to what we can do, even in the face of impossible odds and unspeakable injustice. Learn more about her story in the book, To Stop A Warlord, available now.

As a society, we are in the throes of a collective panic attack. Anxiety and loneliness are on the rise, with 77% of our population experiencing physical symptoms of stress on a regular basis. We feel pressure chasing careers, security, and keeping up. We worry about health, politics, and many other complexities we can't control. Eventually we find our minds spinning, trying to cope or manage a low hum of anxiety, unlike ever before.  In this episode, Rebekah Lyons will introduce four life-giving rhythms that will help you trade your anxiety for the vibrant life you were meant to live: rest, restore, connect, and create Order your copy of Rebekah's latest book, Rhythms of Renewal today.

Can We Solve The Hunger Crisis? We're in the midst of a global hunger crisis. With the number of undernourished people around the world rising to an estimated 821 million in 2017, the need for global food security is one of the United Nations' top sustainable development goals this century. In light of this, Dan Clark, Vice President of Partner Development at Convoy of Hope, will help us understand how we might solve this global problem.

How Does the Next Generation Think? For years, our culture has been somewhat obsessed with conversations about Millennials. Meanwhile, a new generation is emerging. With the oldest members of Generation Z entering their 20s this year, social researchers are pointing out the stark differences between this generation and those who came before. Mark Matlock will help us better understand the aspirations of this increasingly influential generation. Order the latest release from David Kinnaman & Mark Matlock: Faith For Exiles: 5 Ways for a New Generation to Follow Jesus in Digital Babylon  

Jeremy Cowart sits down with Gabe Lyons for a candid conversation about inspiration, creativity and the ideas that can shape culture. Jeremy also discusses his most recent book, I’m Possible: Jumping into Fear and Discovering a Life of Purpose, and he updates us on some of his current projects, including The Purpose Hotel, Help-Portrait and more. Named the “Most Influential Photographer on the Internet” by Huffington Post, Forbes and Yahoo in 2014, Jeremy Cowart is an award-winning photographer, artist and entrepreneur whose mission in life is to “explore the intersection of creativity and empathy.” To watch Jeremy’s Q Talk for free, download “Q Media” on your Apple TV, Roku or Amazon Fire.

Where Can We Unify On The Environment? In a world in which some continue to dispute climate change and others promote the Green New Deal, is it possible to find common ground for the sake of the world’s most vulnerable? Through his work with Tearfund USA, a Christian nonprofit working globally to end poverty and injustice, these are questions Jason Fileta considers. He’ll share his perspective on how we can come together and bring hope to the world’s most impoverished communities.

What Other Cultures Are We Overlooking? Our conversations around race in America often center on the reparations between white and African American communities. Jose Reyes brings the third culture into perspective—sharing experiences about what it’s like to be Latino in the US. He’ll help us reframe our thinking on diversity, inclusion, and racial reconciliation to include groups that are often left out of these conversations.

What Is the Essence of True Love? Austin and Christi were first attracted to one another in 2004 at a National Down Syndrome Congress Youth & Adult convention. By 2008, it was apparent that the pair wanted to be together. With support from both families, they joined their lives in marriage and are living their unique future. Together, they'll help us better understand the essence of marriage and true love. View the video of this talk at Q Media where you can access hundreds of world-class, concise 9 and 18 minute talks delivered by respected thought leaders and change makers on a plethora of topics. From science, theology and the arts, to politics, business, media and education, we’ve curated the best of Q’s library of content and personalized it to your interests. Subscribing to Q will inspire you daily as you gain the insight and courage to lead right where you are.

How Do We Live by Our True Identity? In a culture filled with questions about sexuality and gender, can Christians engage this conversation with both theological faithfulness and courageous love? Dr. Preston Sprinkle thinks so. Together with Laurie Krieg, Matthew Liu and Kat LaPrairie, they will share how Christ followers consider the difficult questions surrounding faith, sexuality and gender. View the video of this interview at Q Media where you can access hundreds of world-class, concise 9 and 18 minute talks delivered by respected thought leaders and change makers on a plethora of topics. From science, theology and the arts, to politics, business, media and education, we’ve curated the best of Q’s library of content and personalized it to your interests. Subscribing to Q will inspire you daily as you gain the insight and courage to lead right where you are.

What does it look like to love people, even the difficult ones, without distinction and without limits? Bob Goff is the New York Times bestselling author of Love Does and Everybody, Always, as well as the founder of Love Does, a nonprofit organization that operates schools and pursues justice for children in conflict areas such as Uganda, Somalia, and Iraq. Bob is a lawyer and serves as the honorary consul for the Republic of Uganda to the United States. He is an adjunct professor at Pepperdine Law School and Point Loma Nazarene University and lives in San Diego with Sweet Maria, their kids, and extended family. 

"Implicit Racial Bias" refers to subconscious preferences for members of our own group. This silent and subtle tendency to "otherize" has loud and lasting effects, from perpetuating racial prejudices inside society to reinforcing personal hidden biases. David Bailey talks about how diversity within the Kingdom is a reason for cultural celebration not separation. His ministry, Arrabon, a word that means "a foretaste of things to come." inspires Christ-centered reconciliation in worshipping communities.

In this interview, Matt Rusten shares practical ideas on how to empower leaders, pastors and their churches to integrate faith, work and economic wisdom for the flourishing of their communities.

Natasha Sistrunk Robinson explores the spiritual and physical tensions of truth-telling, character and leadership development, and bridge building across racial/ethnic, socioeconomic, and gender lines.

How Can We Orient Our Professions To Serve Others? God designed every human being to find agency in his or her vocation. If we understand the “common good” as the truest good for all people, how can our work play a role in renewing the world? Author, speaker, and pastor Skye Jethani helps us contemplate how our work is not primarily for the gain of wealth and pleasure—but ultimately an opportunity to cultivate a better world for our neighbors.

How Do We Learn To Listen Again? In the days of social media where everyone has their own platform, we are tempted to vocalize our own voice and state opinions. Bobette Buster suggests it's time to relearn a lost art. Recovering this human skill will be essential to recovering civility, respect and understanding.

What does science say about how constraints introduced into a system can breed innovation and new ideas? What role does fear have in the iconoclast’s life? What are poor habits or better disciplines that might improve iconoclastic thinking? Listen, as Dr. Gregory Berns elaborates on the evidence that neuroscience is providing on how to think differently.

For decades, it’s been described as “holy” and “disciplined” for Christians to remove themselves from anything corrupt, evil or broken about society. But Christians are left wondering how to navigate the terrain of being salt and light in a twenty-first century world. How are followers of Christ called to respond to sin and corruption found all around them? Do we run towards it or preserve our purity and holiness in the midst of a fallen world?

In a globalized world where ideas, religions and ethnic groups collide, the question remains, can we find a way through? Even former President Bill Clinton recently remarked, “We only have one remaining bigotry. We don’t want to be around anybody who disagrees with us.” In this talk, historian and social observer Os Guinness warns that in a public square with competing views, learning to listen and respect people, while supporting the freedom for people to live by their conscience is the only way to experience a productive peace. We can't inspire others to a more free existence unless we know how to model it ourselves.

One of the most powerful virtues in our society, is also one of our least known virtues: gratitude. Gratitude is the key to not only experiencing what communities want, an authentic, thriving joy — but is what Chesterton called the highest form of thinking. Thinking that is bedrock foundational to healthy relationships, strong communities, and vibrant culture. At a time when it seems easy to point out all that’s wrong with the world, advancing the common good requires a lens through which one actually sees the good. Finding, celebrating and cultivating the good, true and beautiful, is key to how we will shape the future of our neighborhoods, cities and communities. How can we alter our perspectives and be known for what we are for, instead of what we are against? New York Times Bestselling Author of One Thousand Gifts, and The Broken Way, Ann Voskamp unpacks with us what can dynamically transform our communities.

How should Christians relate to politics in a divisive and polarized time? As Americans grapple with the results of the most recent midterm election, Gabe Lyons sits down with Michael Wear to discuss the answer to this question. Michael served as one of the youngest White House staffers in modern American history and directed faith outreach for President Obama’s historic 2012 re-election campaign. He also authored the book “Reclaiming Hope,” founded Public Square Strategies, currently serves as chief strategist at The AND Campaign. Together, Michael and Gabe discuss the most significant midterm results, the effects of political polarization and partisan identity, and what it means for American believers to live out a faithful witness in the political sphere.

How can we help our youth in a violent age? With the prevalence of shooting in our schools, a culture of violence is seemingly becoming the culture of the norm in the lives of our children. Through Judge Sheila Calloway's experience within the Nashville Court System, she invites us to consider how we offer hope and solutions to young people seeking a lifeline in an era of conflict.

What is countercultural living in a transactional world? We are the most powerful generation in history, but also the loneliest, most anxious, and most depressed. We’re meant to flourish in heart, soul, mind, strength, and relationship — yet culture asks us undermine our personhood to acquire power. Andy Crouch, author and partner at Praxis, reminds us what we have to offer in this unique moment.

How can God make His home in a heart that is lacking beauty by rage, jealousy, or pain? In this talk, Trina talks about how God came upon her trials and showed her how He intended her life to be whole with an eternal beauty. We must learn to behold the goodness of God and strive to always remember that beauty is still present in the midst of pain.

Where will we allow Jesus to lighten our load? Following the way of Jesus in contemporary culture is challenging – the amount of needs and opportunities to pursue can feel overwhelming. In this talk and subsequent interview, pastor and author Jon Tyson offers insight into how we can allow Jesus to shoulder this burden for us, and how that empowers us to more freely and fully seek God’s kingdom on earth.

What Attributes Represent God's Ways on Earth? The Kingdom of God enables people to live their fullest life within God’s love and provision, and Tony Evans seeks to bring this message and reality to diverse groups of people. Tony will help us think through what it means to be Kingdom-oriented in our thinking, actions, and faith to bring the rule of God’s love to earth.

What does comedy teach us about ourselves? Using humor to convey truth is as timeless as the medium of comedy. Used to solicit laughter, encourage relaxation, and relieve stress, comedy also has the unique ability to tell deeper truths in a way that’s accessible and convicting. Emmy Award-Winning Comedian and actor Tony Hale has ideas for how we can bring light – both in levity and illumination – to difficult situations to elicit a smile.

What do we do when we feel helpless? As Andy Crouch says, we only “change culture by creating more of it.” For decades, the problem of starving children in third world countries has been known to many, but most have never felt a tangible way to engage. Michael Chitwood, the founder of Team World Vision (the fastest-growing charity endurance program in the U.S) decided to do something about it. He shares his story of using his own story and pain to show up in the lives of others. 

How can partners mutually thrive? It can be hard for husbands and wives to work together in a way that is respectful and beneficial. As married co-pastors working together, Alex and Henry Seely model what it looks like to submit to one another in a relationship that shares a similar calling. Whether you work with your spouse or not, their stories and real-life experiences provide encouragement for couples who feel compelled to journey together in advancing good.

How do relationships transform people? When probation officer Tiffany Whittier was assigned to self-avowed white supremacist Michael Kent, an unlikely friendship developed, eventually leading Michael away from a life of racism. Tiffany and Michael will talk about building relationships in unexpected places and finding safe spaces to grow while standing firm in our convictions.

How is distrust eroding the sacred? In what Barna calls “an erosion of the sacred,” Americans find it harder to trust authorities for guidance, including God. But in a society plagued by skepticism, “fake news,” and distrust, where can people turn for comfort and direction? David Kinnaman, president of the Barna Group, details these trends, offers hope in the midst of uncertainty, and explains how Christians can provide a hopeful presence for a culture that is floundering.

Sex. In a world overwhelmingly obsessed with it, why is the church so silent about it? While our secular culture twists, perverts, cheapens, and idolizes sex, there are gaping holes in the church’s guidance of young people. The result is generations of sexually illiterate people drowning in the repercussions of overwhelming sin struggles. With raw vulnerability and a bold spirit, Mo Isom shares her own sexual testimony, opening up the conversation about misguided rule-following, virginity, temptation, porn, promiscuity, false sex-pectations, sex in marriage, and more and calling readers back to God’s original design for sex–a way to worship and glorify him.

How Do We Overcome Our Prejudice? In society, racism is more prevalent than ever, engendering doubts, fears, suspicions, and even hostility about the “other.” LaTasha Morrison leads an organization dedicated to building bridges that span racial, experiential, and socio-economic divides. Her stories provide a framework through which we can engage others in a way that leads to reconciliation, peace, and mutual benefit to one another.

Does God form us in all circumstances? Many of us who have experienced painful challenges know that God can find us in any place and any moment of our lives. Bianca Olthoff knows the depth of this truth firsthand. Working and worshipping with incarcerated women, Bianca speaks about creating church in prison and witnessing the power of God to forgive and bring new life.

Understanding our current cultural climate may feel like an impossible quest. Yet as Christians, we are called to be the ones who understand the times and know how to lead and offer hope. How can we make sense of the confusion and think soundly about the chaos? Greg Thompson, with a Ph.D in Theology, Ethics and Culture and as director of Thriving Cities, helps us find clarity and perspective so we are equipped to help others make sense of our unique cultural moment.

Maps show how the poor disproportionately live in some of the worst environmental places. Resource economist and Tearfund advisor Rusty Pritchard helps us focus our understanding of place and space toward an awareness of the geography in which we live. He helps us understand how past decisions have created unjust environments for under-resourced people groups, and our opportunity to change this reality.  What responsibilities do we have to ensure safe, healthy environments?

How do we navigate ideological diversity? Existing in an ideologically-diverse culture can be challenging, and often leads to individuals retreating behind their battle lines. David Coleman, President and Chief Executive Officer of The College Board, believes that institutional diversity, civil disagreement, and patience with others whose beliefs differ from yours creates the best learning environments.

We’ve seen over the last year the devastation inflicted on cities by natural disasters such as hurricanes and flooding. We’ll hear from two voices — a Houston pastor who helped mobilize resources in the wake of Hurricane Harvey, and a founder of a technology company helping people volunteer to meet the needs of their city. Rob and Chris will share their story of responding to local need.

What is possible when we risk in relationship? Krish Kandiah is the author of God is Stranger and the founding director of Home for Good, a charity seeking to make a real difference in the lives of vulnerable children. Believing we meet God when we welcome the stranger, Krish shares how an unscripted life helps us experience and trust God more fully. 

The way we think about our life's work has the potential to advance good or to become self-referential. If we focus on understanding God's purposes and where we can join His work in the world, the results will be very different from self-focused individualism. Jo Saxton looks at the thin line between calling and narcissism offering Christians a way of viewing calling through the eyes of God.

How can the church be bold, yet beautiful? On the heels of the #metoo movement came #churchtoo — exposing the abuse, harassment, and misogyny taking place in churches, places where people should experience mutual support, leadership, and empowerment. Lisa Bevere shares how the New Testament shows people of different genders working together for the good of all.

We live in a world of broken relationships. From parent to child, employee to boss, neighbor to co-worker and husband to wife, we long for harmony but often it escapes us. New York Times bestselling author Lysa Terkeurst, wonders if the relationship disappointments we experience are opportunities for something more. Could God be at work in the unmet expectations, the misunderstood words and the long distances that creep in between life long friends?

Theologian Stanley Hauerwas says that "the heart of the gospel is that you don't know Jesus without the witness of the Church." As church membership declines, will this witness be dampened? Writer and hip-hop artist, Sho Baraka, explores the history of the Christian faith, why its growth has slowed in western societies, and how the Church can reclaim our role as witnesses of Christ.

As a special episode release, Sho Baraka and Gabe Lyons discuss the vision and mission behind the upcoming Q Conference, April 11-13 in Nashville. Listen in on a challenging conversation that sets up many of the important conversations we should be having as we thoughtfully navigate our changing culture. Q 2018 will prepare you to explore what renewal and faithfulness might look like in society.

Research suggests that pornography is a "new narcotic" with equally powerful effects on the brain as addictive drugs. In a globalized world, how can we overcome the temptations and tragedies of technology? Jefferson Bethke believes the answer lies within the problem. The voice of the viral YouTube video "Why I Love Jesus but Hate Religion," Jeff uses the internet as a positive means of confession and expression. His challenging talk will address a serious issue in today's society. One-third of people viewing porn are women, but this demographic is largely unaddressed when pornography addictions are discussed. Audrey Assad, a singer/songwriter and worship leader, is seeking to change that by transparently sharing her journey to overcome porn addiction. Audrey gives voice to an issue too often kept quiet, and bears witness to the power of freedom from addiction, even amidst a culture that condones porn and exploitation.

A journalist for The New York Times and author of The Road to Character, David Brooks is an expert in communicating the role of character in our society and how it brings about positive change. In a culture that worships the celebrity yet is decreasing in any religious commitment (32% of millennials claim no religious affiliation according to Barna), Brooks provides relevant commentary on how virtue is a key entry point to larger spiritual conversations that ultimately contribute to society’s flourishing.

Contrary to popular understanding, Islam's populations and influence reaches far beyond the Middle East. Muslims make up a majority of the population in 49 countries around the world, and is the fastest growing religion according to the Pew Research Center. As Islam integrates into Western Societies, is peace and pluralism really possible? Listen in as Paul Marshall suggests a way forward that addresses this very question and Shadi Hamid, a New York Times bestselling author and expert on Islamist movements explains what Christians could learn from Islam.

Renown artist, Dana Tanamachi, is a self-defined, "Texas-bred, Seattle-based graphic designer who enjoys living a quiet life and working with her hands." In this interview, Dana shares her story and insights into what compels her to create, with a focus on the creative process of her most recent commissioned work in partnership with Crossway, designing an illuminated Bible for the modern eye. See more about the Illuminated Bible, Art Lettering Edition from Dana Tanamachi at illuminatedbible.org

Listen in as Jordan Raynor provides a framework for how to embrace entrepreneurship and creativity as a means of glorifying God, loving others, and making disciples of Jesus Christ.

By many metrics, incarceration rates are growing in America with valid concerns about a "cradle-to-prison" pipeline in certain regions. With thirty-one states currently supporting the death penalty backed by a moral, "an eye for an eye," position, how should Christians engage? Author and activist, Shane Claiborne, believes the Church must be pro-life no matter who is under threat. As an advocate for the abolition of the death penalty, he explains how prison reform is the natural outflow of every Christian's call to value and protect life.

In our culture, he who tells the best story wins. Creating great narratives that produce epiphanies involves a particular talent that applies far beyond film and changes the way you write books, marketing copy, funding proposals, research reports, sermons, and so much more. Bobette Buster has built and sustained a long, respected career in the film industry by being the best at finding and developing epiphanies in some of the greatest movies we've all enjoyed.

The majority eat only one meal together as a family during regular work week due to conflicting schedules, and many are waking up to the harm our bodies experience from fast, manufactured food. Danielle Walker, New York Times bestselling author of the Against All Grain series of recipe books, gives perspective on how food brings people together to connect, build relationships, and nourish our bodies and spirits.

Growing up with parents who were gay, Caleb Kaltenbach was part of the gay rights movement from an early age. But when he became a Christian, his parents were furious, having seen so much hatred aimed at them from the Christian community. Caleb - who eventually became a pastor - shares his story of how he journeyed through this disagreement with his parents and gained empathy for those who think differently.

VOMO is powering today's movement of volunteers to change the world. Listen in as Rob Peabody, CEO of VOMO, and Gabe Lyons discuss the importance of volunteering in community and ways you, and your networks can better engage your city for good. VOMO makes volunteering easy and effortless. Join the movement for good at https://www.vomo.org Powering today’s movement of volunteers to change the world. VOMO is powering a global volunteer movement by providing people and organizations with the technology needed to initiate projects, connect to community causes, and to measure and amplify the impact of community volunteering.

America was a divided nation since her founding. How can we understand the differences and appreciate their origins? Bestselling author, Colin Woodard suggests that America is an amalgamation of 11 different regions. While many still wonder what led to a Trump election, Colin saw the writing on the wall through his research and understanding of how America works. Hear his unique perspective on overcoming our differences by understanding where we come from and where we’re going. 

What are the rights all women should possess and live out? Noel Yeatts of World Help shares the state of women across the world today and the opportunity that can come from focusing on the true global issues facing women. What are you doing with your freedom of choice?

We live in an age of innovation, and a debate is raging about whether technology is improving our lives or making them worse. But Kevin Kelly, co-founder of Wired Magazine, says we’re not asking the right questions. He believes we need to find out what technology is really after. Can technology be a force for the greater good, and if so, how do we thoughtfully engage new inventions? Kevin will attempt to construct a radically fresh answer to one of culture’s nagging questions.

When have you felt moments of freedom in your life? Most of us glimpse this freedom less and less as we pursue other endeavors: achievement, career, family, or success. Author Rebekah Lyons reminds us that God has created us — at the core of who we are — to be someone unique and beautiful, and free. Through sharing her own story and search for freedom, Rebekah will encourage us to uncover who we already are: free in Christ and deeply loved.

Our lives are increasingly complex and so is our modern world. As a result, Christians often struggle to connect what they believe with what they do day by day. Paul Williams and Terry Timm share their vision for how ReFrame provides a Biblical foundation for how God is renewing all of creation. How does our story and day to day life fit into God's story? Learn how Christians can better connect faith with all of life.

Forty-six percent of Americans believe religion is part of the problem in our society. Yet faith is the motivation for many of the critical social services and programs that benefit the most vulnerable populations. Congregations, faith-based businesses, and charities lift people up in times of need in ways that few other institutions or government programs can. In this conversation, you will see the important role faith-based organizations play in renewing civil society.

Listen in as Gabe Lyons shares a conversation with Jason Pamer, filmmaker, producer and writer of the upcoming film, The Heart of Man, releasing in theaters for a one-night only special event on September 14. The Heart of Man is a story inviting the sons and daughters of God to leave behind our broken, moralistic and religious way of thinking and relating to God and to others. Once we begin to know who God is (and as a result who we are), we have something to invite the world into. Freedom from performance. Freedom from managing our behavior so we appear acceptable to God. Freedom from our addictions, compulsive behaviors, secrecy and double lives. This film tears the veil of confusion over the church's current identity crisis and enables it to invite the rest of the world to the banquet God is throwing all of us.

A study by The Design Council found that companies who emphasize design in their business dealings perform 200 percent better on the Stock Exchange than those who don't. Design isn't just about graphics and colors; it's in the aesthetics of a space. Danae Dougherty speaks from her background in designing spaces that create environments for real connection. She reflects on why beauty and design matter, and why it is so important to use design to foster relationships.

Much of what's happening in the American justice system remains overlooked. America boasts the highest rate of incarceration in the world, but even more alarming are the system’s endemic injustices. Minority communities are far more afflicted by the justice system, a reality that affects the psyches of the children who grow up in them. Additionally, our system treats you much better if you’re rich and guilty than if you are poor and innocent. Bryan Stevenson believes these realities are fundamentally changing our world, and he’s devoted his life’s work to finding solutions.

Jackie Hill-Perry knows that a life well lived speaks volumes in a world of contradiction. As individualism becomes common and pursuing your deepest feelings and desires is perceived as heroic, denying one's self is revolutionary. Her story of denying sexual desires to pursue true flourishing gives witness to a better way. A spoken word artist, Jackie will help us think through how self-denial can be what it was always meant to be inside our churches.

Over half of children think their parents check their phone too often, with a quarter of parents agreeing they want to look at their devices less. Yet it's difficult to pry ourselves away from technology, so social media is in large part making us less social. Andy Crouch reflects on these issues in his forthcoming book, The Techwise Family, and will help us think through utilizing tech in a way that contributes to relationships instead of taking away from them.

Drought. Food shortages. Conflict. These are deadly forces that children throughout East Africa are facing. Areas in South Sudan and Somalia are on the brink of catastrophe. Kenya and Ethiopia face severe drought. Tens of thousands of children could starve to death because of food and water shortages. But this crisis isn't hitting the news as it should. 25.5 million people, our brothers and sisters, are at risk of starvation. This hunger crisis is likely to be the most devastating since we were kids and witnessed Ethiopia's famine. Rich Stearns (President, World Vision US) and Gabe Lyons share a heartfelt conversation on the details and scope of this hunger crisis and what you can directly do about it today and the days to come. Want to learn more about the hunger crisis and what you can do? FAMINE & HUNGER IN AFRICA: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW MAKE AN IMPACT THROUGH GIVING & SHARING

The very last words of Jesus in the Gospel of Matthew are summed up in The Great Commission, a call for the Church to make disciples. Yet the Church has approached this process in different ways throughout history. How are today’s Christians carrying out the Great Commission, and what are the unique challenges to disciple-making in the 21st Century? Ed Stetzer presents new research on this topic as he paints a portrait of the future of discipleship. 

Gabe Lyons had a conversation with Jeremy Courtney about how the idea of loving anyway is changing lives in Iraq and Syria. Jeremy is the founder and president of Preemptive Love, an organization serving the refugee, the oppressed and the most vulnerable. 

For thousands of years, mystics and Church fathers have understood the havoc the seven deadly sins reap in the human heart. But in a culture disinterested in a vocabulary of sin, these shadow sides can fester. Author and Enneagram expert, Ian Cron, suggests we each have blind spots—areas of temptation we’re uniquely prone to—that keep us from being who God has made us to be. 

We are increasingly losing touch with what it means to be human: how we treat one another, where meaning is derived from, and what purpose we are here to serve. Mark Sayers sees this not as a reason to despair, but as an opportunity for the church to meet the needs of this moment through discipleship. As the culture fails to meaningfully address what it means to be human, what opportunities might that create? 

Forty percent of Americans believe that those with opposing political views pose a threat to the nation. In many ways, we are more divided than ever before: from race, to women’s rights, to conservative and liberal policies. But when we focus on differences it’s impossible to move toward creating community. Hip-hop artist, Propaganda, reminds us that the solution is to be intersectional. As a prophetic voice for reconciliation, he encourages us to find common ground.

In a wide-ranging conversation interspersed with song, author of The Sacredness of Questioning Everything David Dark and musician Dave Bazan (formerly, of Pedro the Lion) will discuss the struggles of a questioning faith. They’ll wrestle with the joys and tensions of attempting to sustain a creative and neighborly livelihood without lying or going crazy.

There are 1.9 billion children in the world, 400 million of which live in extreme poverty. With so many suffering the consequences of war, displacement, and circumstances outside of their control, how can we inject life, hope and promise for a future they can hardly imagine? Rich Stearns, President of World Vision, and Khalil Sleiman, who grew up as a Syrian refugee, will remind us how we take care of the world’s most vulnerable matters—not only for this moment, but for generations to come.

From the Psalmist to the astronomers, people for centuries have suggested that the natural world is a portal to the transcendent (Ps. 19:1). But it has always been difficult for the average earth dweller to grasp the breadth of such assertions - that is, until world-class telescopes like the Hubble Space Telescope started showing us a universe we never dreamed of. Astronomer Jennifer Wiseman shares the latest astronomical images and discoveries and talks with Louie Giglio about how galaxies, stars, and planets form, what they can teach us about God, and how good science strengthens our faith.

How do you live out your faith in the public eye? Gabe Lyons has a conversation with Ernie Johnson, Jr. as they discuss what Ernie has learned from over 28 years of sports commentating with some of the most well-known figures in the NBA. 

In this week's episode, Gabe had a conversation with Heather Avis, author of 'The Lucky Few.' She shares her story of adoption and finding out that our plans are not like God's plans. Listen in as she talks about advocating for the vulnerable, cheering on one another and loving those with special needs. 

While we enjoy products from around the world, someone else is paying the price. How can we make a difference in the world when we aren't always sure what is helping the issues of the world. Justin Dillon talks to Gabe Lyons about his new project, "A Selfish Plan to Change The World."

In this episode, Gabe Lyons interviews John Mark Comer, the author of 'God Has A Name' as they discuss the importance of thinking well about who God is. What does it mean to know God and to know Him in truth and with understanding? 

Today, the typical local church is not disruptive; rather, it has been disrupted. In what should otherwise be the church’s finest hour, our collective witness has been undermined by a lack of thoughtful, proactive, and holistic engagement on matters of race, class, culture, and community. Gabe Lyons sat down with author of "Disruption" Mark DeYmaz to discuss this important moment. 

In an earlier series, we talked about the Six Practices over a number of weeks. Now, we've got the entire talk by Greg Thompson available in one podcast. How can the Church respond to this cultural moment? What does it mean to live out our faith in the public arena? 

What are the implications for the community when we consider the legalization of marijuana? What are the ways it could potentially contribute in positive ways and other ways that it might fall short? Gabe Lyons introduces some compelling conversations from a few people with different backgrounds surrounding the subject. 

What is success? And is our definition of success making us poor? In his talk at Q Nashville in 2014, economist Brian Fikkert says that it's our flawed understanding of success that's making us sick, tired, and mentally ill. The solution, he says, is to better understand what God says human flourishing looks like. It starts from understanding what it means to be made in the image of God. Listen in as we discuss what this looks like in our real lives. 

Over the past half century, America has moved from a culture of self-effacement to a culture of self-expression: think Twitter, Instagram, Tumblr, etc. A TIME magazine cover once called out the "Me, Me, Me Generation" and the ways today's culture and technologies feed a present narcissism. But even with this apparent rise of self-love, there's also an institutional bent in Millennials that wasn't there in Gen X. So is it "me" or "we"? No matter the answer, it's time to rediscover the power of humility.

What does it mean to think well about singleness? It's easy for the church to make marriage into an idol, but our single friends have much to offer and are a vital part of the conversation. Listen in as Annie F. Downs shares about her experience and how she's striving for fulfillment in singleness, whatever the outcome. 

Each year at Q, we partner with Praxis Labs to hear from some of the best up-and-comping visionaries. These people want to present their big idea to the room and our hope is that they will change the world with their incredible ideas. Listen in as Gabe Lyons introduces a few Praxis talks from Q Conferences past and consider joining us this year at #Q2017 by visiting www.qideas.org2017

Q Founder and President Gabe Lyons sits down for a conversation with James K.A. Smith about his upcoming book, "You Are What You Love." What does it mean to view our world holistically and how can Christians reclaim some lost practices? 

What if you found your life's work when you were middle-aged? In this episode, we get the chance to listen to a compelling talk by Shauna Niequest as she explores her mother's journey into calling.

What does it mean to really invest in a city? How can we be better influences in our communities? This week, we're listening to a talk by Wayne Gordon in Chicago and another by Chris Horst in Denver as they explain how they see God moving in their cities. 

Join us as we sit down with Rebekah Lyons, Q Co-Founder and author of "You Are Free: Be Who You Already Are." She talk about calling and how her life has been shaped by paying attention to where her "burden and talents collide." 

What does it mean to live in a pluralistic society? How can we engage with those who do not believe the same things we do? The religious climate of the world we live in diverse, so we sat down with Miroslav Volf to hear about what it means to live alongside others well. 

A generation passionate about authentic faith has given rise to a new golden age of Christian optimism and social activism. But as a dizzying number of organizations call for our attention and engagement, Christians are beginning to see the pitfalls that dot this landscape: slacktivism, cause faddishness, empathy fatigue, burnout and cynicism. Tyler Wigg-Stevenson argues to do activism well means carrying with us the awareness that our activism cannot fix everything—it cannot erase a broken past, even as it imagines a better future.

We are in danger of losing a new generation to the numbing agents of electronics. Dr. Kara Powell, executive director of Fuller Youth Institute, wonders what it means to raise children in a digital age. She argues that stewardship of technology doesn't start with kids; it starts with parents. If parents are addicted to technology and are not fully present as a result, that's the posture children will mimic.

In a nation in which the church was once a dominant and unifying mainstay in America life, what does it look like to be the minority?

How Christians think of politics, how we relate the machinations of politics to the promises of God and reality of the gospel, will determine how we respond to the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. Listen in as Michael Wear discusses his new book, "Reclaiming Hope" and what it means to think well about politics as a person of Faith. 

How can Christians approach conversations about transgender identity? Q President Gabe Lyons sits down with Melinda Selmys, who lives with gender dysphoria, and Dr. Mark Yarhouse, a professor of psychology at Regent University to answer questions about this important topic.

We're in the middle of the largest refugee crisis since World War II, and it's easy to feel overwhelmed by what is happening all over the world. As we consider how we can respond both in action and in awareness, we hope you're encouraged by these two conversations with Richard Stearns of World Vision and Jeremy Courtney of Preemptive Love Coalition. 

How do childhood experiences shape our calling? Dr. Una Mulale is the first Pediatric Critical Care Specialist from Botswana. Her goal is to implement tertiary healthcare structures in low-resource countries in Africa and around the world. This is her story. 

People of faith differ on how much concern we should pay to the culture at hand, questioning what good can we really do engaging in a broken world. Can we really make a significant difference? Does God share these concerns? Every generation must answer these questions in the same way creatives, artisans, industry and civic leaders have done for two millennia. Tim Keller, New York Times Bestselling Author and Pastor of Redeemer Presbyterian Church in New York City provides a fundamental perspective on why culture matters to God and therefore must matter to us.

How can we work toward racial reconciliation in America? We live in a nation that at times feels more divided than ever. In this conversation, we'll explore the history of racism in America, how to better engage with our community and what blindspots we have when it comes to racial bias. To work for unity means taking time to listen well and take steps toward healing. 

We are all involved in some sort of vocation. No matter where or what it is, we know that God calls us to be faithful in those places. From home to office and beyond, we have the opportunity to practice vocation well in a way that makes the world a better place. 

What does it mean to be part of a community? Is it different to invest in the Church or in the places you live and work? In this Episode, we talk about the importance of community, what it is and what it means to be a people of hospitality.

The way that we build character depends on how we approach even the littlest habits and moments of our days. When we form habits that are good, they build up in our lives in positive ways, and when we foster habits that are not good, they can slowly destroy us. As we look at the practice of formation, we're asking about how what we believe influences how we live. What does it mean to live out our faith in the daily habits?

The core of who we are is our identity. In the 4th episode of "Six Practices of the Church," Greg Thompson speaks to the importance of knowing who we are. When we lose sight of identity, we stray away from our God-given purpose. What does that identity entail? Who does God say we are? And how does our identity inform our culture?

The origins of the Church are thousands of years old. Through generations that span cultures and millennia, we see that though history has changed the face of the broader world, the Church has always clung to core beliefs. In this time of turmoil, how can can the Church lead by example?  How can we become reacquainted with what Christians have always believed? 

This week, we discuss the importance of Context in the Six Practices of the Church. How do we love our neighbors well in this cultural moment?

The Christian church in the West is struggling to embody faithfulness in a culture that is rapidly changing. Many church leaders labor under a nagging sense that they need help—both in the work of understanding their culture and in the work of teaching their people to live faithfully within it. The goal of this series is to help leaders understand the character of our secular age, identify some specific challenges and highlight the opportunities that exist for the Church to bring hope wherever she exists. This seven-part series unveils the six practices of the church that have always brought hope to the faithful and love to their surrounding community. This Q series, hosted by Gabe Lyons, features an exclusive, commissioned Q Talk delivered by Dr. Greg Thompson and divided into segments for easy consumption. Each segment builds on the last and helps establish how the church can lead with love even in the midst of dramatic change within society.

One of the nation's foremost experts on Holocaust denial and modern anti-Semitism, Lipstadt's 2005 book, "History on Trial: My Day in Court with David Irving," is the story of her libel trial in London against Irving, who sued her for calling him a Holocaust denier and right wing extremist.The now-famous libel trial occurred when Irving sued Lipstadt over her 1993 book, "Denying the Holocaust: The Growing Assault on Truth and Memory," the first full-length study of the history of those who attempt to deny the Holocaust. The case grew into a six-year legal battle in which Lipstadt prevailed.  

Many of us struggle to discern our role in God’s bigger plan for the world; some of us even struggle to see God’s plan at all. We’re unsure of our purpose, or uncertain of how we can use that purpose to bring renewal to our communities. Pete Richardson helps executive, church, and cultural leaders hone in on their life purpose and perspective. He reveals some of the questions we need to ask ourselves, and the results we can expect when we respond to God’s very personal assignment for each of us.

Culture, creatives, and the marketplace are becoming more interested in the development of Artificial Intelligence. In 2014, AI startups saw a 302 percent increase in funding. The potential to better our lives, solve global problems, and innovate completely new fields of study is exciting and humbling. But how should we think about these trends through the lens of spiritually? Kevin Kelly of WIRED magazine helps us understand what AI means for how our culture can and will change, and challenge us to consider the implications for religion, spirituality, and faith. 

One-hundred-five people leveraged Oregon's "Death with Dignity" law last year. Some argue that compassion requires support of assisted suicide, that avoiding pain is a worthy pursuit. How should people of faith consider death and dying? Kimberly Kuo, writer and advocate, personally understands the agony of this choice and will help us explore whether it's more courageous to die as we please or trust God with our final days. 

Who or what deems an idea legitimate? Many people of faith think because their ideas are true, everyone should listen, pay attention, and do as they suggest. Malcolm Gladwell helps us understand how the process by which ideas are debated, opinions are formed, and a process is communicated can have more to do with whether the idea is embraced as truthful. But Gladwell also helps us understand why the truthfulness of an idea isn't always as important as the legitimacy of it. 

As the electorate in America evolves and red states and blue states compete for control, one critical observation remains: cities overwhelmingly vote Democratic while rural, less populous counties vote Republican. The gap between urban and rural sensibilities is widening, leaving many questioning how unified can America really be? In an increasingly divisive political and partisan environment, lies a breakthrough story of leaders from different political ideologies working together to serve the people in their care. Tennessee Governor, Bill Haslam and Nashville's Mayor, Karl Dean, discuss the tensions and successes of working together, giving our country a model of how leaders can get along, despite their differences. 

Public safety coordinator for the city of Chattanooga, Paul David Smith, discusses Chattanooga's response to gang-related issues, community safety and mentoring. Smith is the former principal of Howard High School in downtown Chattanooga and the proud father of two children.

This week we talked with Nik and Ruth Ripken, an ordinary couple with an extraordinary story. After the death of their son, they journeyed into the depths of the persecuted church around the world asking the question - Is Jesus Worth It? The film based off their true story of faith and persecution, "The Insanity of God," releases Tuesday, August 30th. Find out more and buy tickets at insanityofgodmovie.com.

In a culture where religious pluralism has become widely accepted, there is a tendency to back away from evangelism—after all, it’s kind of aggressive and could be seen as intolerant. How do we communicate our faith in a way that resonates and does not offend—especially for those who might have built-in anti-Christian attitudes? Jon Tyson, founding pastor of Trinity Grace Church in New York City, offers insights into what it means to do evangelism in an urban, pluralistic, often hostile context. He says it takes recognizing a long-term view—that evangelism isn't the work of a moment and it cannot be about counting "how many" were saved today or this month or this year.

Since the Enlightenment, Europe has observed the slow divorce of the church from the university. The same phenomenon has taken place in the United States, which we witness today in the religious ambivalence of schools like Harvard, Princeton, and Yale, all originally founded as Christian institutions. What does it look like to be an educated Christian in an age in which the intellectual elite have written off faith as bad scholarship? Paul Lim talks from experience and gives insight into faithfulness amongst academia's elite. 

From plays like the Sound of Music and movies like Sister Act, we have seen a wide array of interpretations of a nun's typical lifestyle. Sister Joan of Arc from the Dominican Sisters of St. Cecilia, will explain how their convent located in Nashville creates a monastic framework for a daily life that stimulates growth of the interior life and directs minds to the things of God. Her story will grant the Q audience insight on a schedule filled with prayer and work, silence and students, laughter and quiet acts of community kindness. 

Often Christians complain about being misrepresented by mainstream media, but could that change with intentional efforts? Michael Cromartie, Vice President of the Ethics and Public Policy Center, has created opportunities for members of the national media to meet with evangelical leaders in hopes of getting the stories right. Filling a gap between faith, politics, and journalism, Michael promotes mutual understanding around the toughest, and many times misunderstood, issues of our time. 

Christians face an unprecedented landscape at the intersection of faith and public life. Over 46% of our neighbors believe religion and people of faith are part of the problem in our communities, not the solution. As a growing list of contentious issues present themselves on the cultural front—such as racism, gender, euthanasia, sexuality, religious freedom and more—the Church finds itself on the margins of the mainstream conversation perplexed about how to engage. Public opinion suggests our views and beliefs are irrelevant and extreme, so how should Christians respond? David Kinnaman will equip you to confidently engage the most difficult conversations in the days ahead with courage, conviction and compassion. 

Fashion matters. It influences the imagination and drives the way people uniquely represent themselves. The evolution of the women’s swimsuit is one place where there has been a visible shift away from modesty. In the current world of swimwear, small is often beautiful and less is considered more desirable. But designer and actress Jessica Rey asks, “Who says it has to be itsy bitsy?” Rey argues that within the construct of modesty, there is a freedom—that modesty isn't about covering up what's bad, but about revealing dignity. 

With a Cinderella story of drug-dealer-turned-Jesus-lover, Lecrae is the only artist to ever debut an album that simultaneously topped the Billboard 200 and Gospel charts. For any musician, such an accomplishment is simply an Anomaly, the very title of the album that got him there. Lecrae inspires us all to see the magic inside a personal story put to poetry and a poem put to song.

The world is facing the worst refugee crisis since WWII. Over 11 million Syrians have been displaced, and while some try to seek safe harbor in Europe, the vast majority will never leave the region. In the face of human depravity and under an enormous threat of violence, some are leading the way. How is the Church responding? What are the ways we can continue to help and ensure Christian love is experienced even in the worst of conditions?

As adopted children of God, how can we reflect that relationship to the world we serve? Action must be taken to provide care for children in the foster system who’ve never experienced the love of a family to call their own. Adopt Colorado Kids executive, Julie Mavis, shares the results being achieved as communities respond to foster, adopt, and care for kids. She and her husband, Brian, are transforming foster care in Colorado and providing a vision on how every state can offer a turnaround story to children who need it.

What if following your passion leads to worldly success, to weatlh, fame, and power? What does service look like from here? Can you balance the pressures of success while seeking to make disciples? Snowboarder/Olympic Gold medalist Kelly Clark has wrestled with these questions while blazing a trail of calling as an athlete. In this episode, hear how her Christian faith pushes her toward excellence, as well as how she fosters a servant’s heart.

The term “secular” is perhaps overused when referring to government, schools, business and western culture in general. But is the secular something “out there?” Or are we all “secular” now? What’s changed? And is secularism the last word? In this episode of the Q Podcast, Philosopher and theologian James K.A. Smith gives us context for this shift and how Christians can effectively engage it. 

We’ve been drawing religious lines in the sand for hundreds of years, using varying standards to determine who’s “in” and who’s “out.” How can Christians work for peace within culture if we can’t get it right amongst ourselves? Ted Trimpa, gay rights activist, and Jim Daly, president of Focus on the Family, provide a model for peace-making, as two very different people working together to advance good. They recently worked on anti-human trafficking laws in Colorado, and in this episode, they’ll share wisdom on working with people that differ greatly from us.

This week, Preston Sprinkle is back interviewing Gabe Lyons on the vision and mission behind the upcoming Q Conference, April 21-23 in Denver. Did you know that 42% of Americans believe people of faith are part of the problem in our world? Q Denver will prepare you to engage this new reality and a changing culture, we will explore what renewal and faithfulness might look like in society today—for both you and those you love.

In this episode we respond to several questions from you, our listeners. While this series invokes many passionate responses, we offer our opinions on a few of the questions that keep rising to the top. New York Times Bestselling Author, Preston Sprinkle, author of People To Be Loved joins Gabe Lyons, Founder of Q and author of Good Faith to discuss.

How should Christians faithfully engage our political system when the government is at odds with historic Christian belief? Is our role to win legal decisions or simply to bear witness to God’s kingdom through the way we live and love? In the wake of the Supreme Court's Obergefell ruling, questions remain about the role of Christians institutions in our changing public square. Russell Moore, President of the Ethics and Religious Liberty Commission of the Southern Baptists joins us to discuss the legislative landscape around religious freedom, LGBT rights, pluralism and the future of Christian institutions in America. Key Contributors: Claude Alexander, Os Guinness, Russell Moore, Rod Dreher, Stanley Carlson-Thies, Dee Allsop.

Many people who identify as gay have had a poor experience in their local church. In this episode we discuss the term “gay Christian”, the science behind the “born this way” theory and practical ways the church can be a more welcoming place in general. In addition, we will hear personal reflections from Christians who experience same-sex attractions yet choose to live a celibate life. We’ll also learn hear how the Church can fulfill relational longings that go beyond sexual expression. Key Contributors: Tim Keller, Justin Lee, Eve Tushnet, Mark Yarhouse, Christopher Yuan, Ann Voskamp, Annie Downs.

Most people today have a personal friend who identifies as gay. For some Christians, this can create unique tensions and dilemmas about how to best support and love friends, family members and co-workers well, even while holding to the historic Christian position. In this episode we hear practical wisdom on handling invitations to gay weddings, how to respond if your child—or parent—comes out, the limits of theology and what it means to truly display Christian love to someone with whom you may disagree.  Key Contributors: Jefferson Bethke, Russell Moore, Caleb Kaltenbach, Tim Keller.

One’s theology will determine everything about how they engage the gay conversation. In this episode, the Christian view of identity, sexual ethics and historic belief about human flourishing comes under the microscope. We define terms and consider how historic Christian arguments interact with the newer, gay-affirming points of view. From Leviticus to Paul, we address Jesus’ words around this topic and explore the Christian perspective on sexual design, gender difference and marriage. Key contributors: David Gushee, Wesley Hill, Tim Keller, Scot McKnight, Preston Sprinkle

As our culture’s affirmation of gay sexuality grows, what does this mean for Christians and the Church? In this episode, we address why we created this series and the tensions that exist around the Church’s posture towards this conversation. David Kinnaman, President of the Barna Group and co-author of the forthcoming book, Good Faith, is one of several contributors giving insight on the latest research on Christians and extremism. Key Contributors: Debra Hirsch, David Kinnaman, Caleb Kaltenbach, Tim Keller, Julie Rodgers

"Implicit Racial Bias" refers to subconscious preferences for members of our own group. This silent and subtle tendency to "otherize" has loud and lasting effects, from perpetuating racial prejudices inside society to reinforcing personal hidden biases.