Shows
That Makes Total Sense!Episode 300 – Alexis & SethEek! THIS MARKS 300 EPISODES!!! First of all, THANK YOU for listening to That Makes Total Sense! It really is one of the most fun things I get to do and I am *thrilled* to share it with each of you! Second, for this conversation, I got to interview my best friend, husband, editor, and … Continue reading Episode 300 – Alexis & Seth2025-05-1250 min
That Makes Total Sense!Episode 297 – Resurrection Reflections (re-release)A short reflection on the day after Easter…and doubt. Mentioned in this episode: Matthew 28 You might also enjoy: Ep. 191 with Alexis Busetti Ep. 150 with Jason Porterfield Ep. 140 with Alexis Busetti2025-04-2013 min
The Substance172: Pursuing Generosity, Justice, and Restoration feat. Alexis BusettiIt's always great having a returning guest and this week we're welcoming back a friend we talked to back in 2021. Alexis Busetti is a seminary student and podcaster who we've been following and engaging with for several years. Her weekly show That Makes Total Sense!, is a wonderful listen and always has interesting and thoughtful people on. This week, she's back to discuss what we've both learned over the last few years of making our shows, how we're preparing to love our neighbors through a socially and politically difficult time, how high control faith...2025-04-091h 26
That Makes Total Sense!Episode 276 – Kaitlyn Schiess (re-release!)Producer’s choice! Here’s a note from my producer (and husband) Seth Busetti about this week’s re-release. Enjoy! I thought this episode with Kaitlyn Schiess might be helpful to our listeners. When this was first recorded the political landscape was still very uncertain and Kaitlyn’s wisdom regarding how Christians can faithfully engage in civil discourse and … Continue reading Episode 276 – Kaitlyn Schiess (re-release!)2024-11-2556 min
That Makes Total Sense!Episode 242 – Alexis BusettiA short reflection on the day after Easter…and doubt. Mentioned in this episode: Matthew 28 You might also enjoy: Ep. 191 with Alexis Busetti Ep. 150 with Jason Porterfield Ep. 140 with Alexis Busetti2024-04-0113 min
That Makes Total Sense!Episode 207 – Martin DoblmeierTo say that the world (and us in it) are busy isn’t news. For centuries, some religious communities have found solace in the instruction to rest in the midst of busyness. Filmmaker, Martin Doblmeier, has captured some of these traditions in his newest film by Journey Films, Sabbath. In this project, Jewish and Christian scholars … Continue reading Episode 207 – Martin Doblmeier2023-07-3059 min
That Makes Total Sense!Episode 206 – Kate BoydI am so stoked to have Kate Boyd on the podcast! For anyone who is curious about the word “deconstruction,” is going through it, or knows someone who is – this conversation is for you! While Kate’s story of faith and mine have some overlap (primarily in the Bible Belt experiences), hers also includes interacting … Continue reading Episode 206 – Kate Boyd2023-07-2445 min
That Makes Total Sense!Episode 205 – Karen Swallow PriorEven though the student in me was initially a bit nervous (she is an English professor after all!), I had an absolute blast talking with Karen Swallow Prior for this episode! Her newest book, and our conversation, explore the question of what is biblical/Christian versus what is just Victorian, specifically in the evangelical context. Who … Continue reading Episode 205 – Karen Swallow Prior2023-07-1758 min
That Makes Total Sense!Episode 204 – Kaitlyn SchiessI can’t tell you how excited I am to have Kaitlyn Schiess BACK on the podcast! (She was here for on Ep. 063 discussing her first book.) Her latest book, The Ballot and the Bible highlights how the Bible has been utilized in politics, for better or worse, over the course of our nation’s history. … Continue reading Episode 204 – Kaitlyn Schiess2023-07-1056 min
That Makes Total Sense!Episode 203 – Ally HennyMy guest this week is no stranger to the mic – Ally Henny is on the podcast! Ally’s book, I Won’t Shut Up, is incredible and I am so grateful for her generosity to share her story. Written with Black women in mind, Ally recounts her experiences and what she has learned about the world, … Continue reading Episode 203 – Ally Henny2023-07-031h 27
That Makes Total Sense!Episode 202 – John BlakeCNN journalist John Blake is on the podcast! His newest book, More Than I Imagined, tells his personal story. John is bi-racial, the son of a Black father and a White mother he grew up not knowing anything about. For a man who has been reporting on race for decades (and by his own admission … Continue reading Episode 202 – John Blake2023-06-2650 min
That Makes Total Sense!Episode 201 – Terence LesterI am so thrilled to have the newly declared Dr. Terence Lester back on the podcast (if you missed his first episode, we’ve got you covered!). Terence has written a beautiful book on racial solidarity through the lens of his own experience as someone who was unhoused for a season and his work for over … Continue reading Episode 201 – Terence Lester2023-06-191h 00
That Makes Total Sense!Episode 200 – Jack SaraRev. Dr. Jack Sara is the President of Bethlehem Bible College. I met Jack on what was my 8th (?) trip to the Holy Land, but only my first trip to Palestine. If you think about it (and we mention it a bit in the episode), that fact alone is pretty remarkable. That someone could … Continue reading Episode 200 – Jack Sara2023-06-1246 min
That Makes Total Sense!Episode 199 – Dorcas Cheng-TozunYou know that feeling when you’ve been able to sense something for a while and then someone gives you language for that thing? This is exactly what happened to me when I read Dorcas Cheng-Tozun’s new book! In Social Justice for the Sensitive Soul, Dorcas helps those of us who might be Highly Sensitive People … Continue reading Episode 199 – Dorcas Cheng-Tozun2023-06-0545 min
That Makes Total Sense!Episode 198 – Jen RosnerIt is always a joy to welcome one of my professors to the podcast! This conversation with Jen Rosner was a true gem. Jen is a Messianic Jewish believer, which means she is Jewish and follows Jesus as her Messiah. Her unique perspective gives her a rich lens with which to view her faith and … Continue reading Episode 198 – Jen Rosner2023-05-291h 12
That Makes Total Sense!Episode 197 – Alexis BusettiJust a short little sermon on the center part of the Sermon on the Mount where Jesus gives us quite a few “do not” statements on giving, praying, and fasting. Thankfully, he doesn’t leave the discussion there though. Because he’s a good teacher, he also gives us some “how to” examples. There’s also talk of … Continue reading Episode 197 – Alexis Busetti2023-05-2122 min
That Makes Total Sense!Episode 196 – Jon WardJon Ward is a journalist who has spent the last twenty years covering American politics. He’s also a Christian. And, like so many of us, he was raised in the evangelical culture that is continuing to supply ample obstacles in the terrain as we seek to navigate questions of faith and life. Jon writes about … Continue reading Episode 196 – Jon Ward2023-05-151h 07
That Makes Total Sense!Episode 195 – Tasha JunI had a fabulous time talking with Tasha Jun! She has written an incredible memoir called Tell Me the Dream Again. Tasha’s experiences as a biracial woman often made a challenge, including in Christian spaces. As you’ll hear in our conversation, as a mixed Hispanic woman, I can totally relate to much of what Tasha … Continue reading Episode 195 – Tasha Jun2023-05-0846 min
That Makes Total Sense!Episode 194 – David TaylorIt was such a joy to speak with Dr. David Taylor! Every time I get to speak with him (he’s a professor at Fuller, btw), I come away feeling encouraged in the Lord and ready to explore some new way of interacting with my own faith. This conversation was no different! We talked about his … Continue reading Episode 194 – David Taylor2023-05-011h 04
That Makes Total Sense!Episode 193 – Robert Chao RomeroRobert Chao Romero is back! (In case you missed him the first time around, you’ll wanna catch up on that one!) This time Robert and I talk about the new book just released with his co-author, Jeff Liou, Christianity and Critical Race Theory. As referenced in our conversation (like when Robert read a not-so-nice Twitter … Continue reading Episode 193 – Robert Chao Romero2023-04-241h 03
That Makes Total Sense!Episode 192 – David LambDr. David Lamb is a biblical scholar and professor at Missio Seminary. His most recent book, The Emotions of God, is the topic of our discussion for this episode. As noted in the brief intro to our conversation, there are places where David and I don’t see eye to eye and that’s okay. The subjects … Continue reading Episode 192 – David Lamb2023-04-161h 11
That Makes Total Sense!Episode 191 – Alexis BusettiHappy Resurrection Day! Thanks for joining me as I offer a short homily on Luke 24:1-12. This is one of the gospel passages that describes the women and the other disciples’ discovery that the tomb where they expected to find Jesus was empty on Sunday morning! If you’ve ever been left like them, wondering what … Continue reading Episode 191 – Alexis Busetti2023-04-1011 min
That Makes Total Sense!Episode 190 – Lyndsey MedfordOne of the areas I have found myself exploring more in the past few years is the theology of disability. What does it mean to be embodied? What does it look like when we come to terms with the fact that most of us will face disability in our lifetimes? How do we experience God … Continue reading Episode 190 – Lyndsey Medford2023-04-031h 00
That Makes Total Sense!Episode 189 – Nijay GuptaThis conversation had me feeling both excited and a bit nervous. Nijay Gupta, who is gracious in every way, has written a new book on the ministry of women in the early church and historically, this subject has been a sensitive one for me. Maybe like you, I was discipled in a tradition that held … Continue reading Episode 189 – Nijay Gupta2023-03-271h 01
That Makes Total Sense!Episode 188 – Jasmine Bellamy (re-release!)In 2021, my amazing friend, Jasmine Bellamy, was named in Sports Illustrated’s series Elle-evate: 100 Influential Black Women in Sports! She works with Reebok as the lead for the U.S. Direct to Consumer department and as the Head of Change Management for Reebok’s United Against Racism. In that role, Jasmine has initiated Courageous Conversations as a … Continue reading Episode 188 – Jasmine Bellamy (re-release!)2023-03-201h 02
That Makes Total Sense!Episode 187 – Natalia Kohn Rivera (re-release!)Natalia Kohn Rivera is a pastor with InterVarsity’s LeFe ministry and co-author of Hermanas. This beautiful book takes the journeys of 12 biblical women and explores them through the lenses of Latina women. In this conversation, Natalia and I discuss the importance of our ethnic identities and our faith as well as what it means to see … Continue reading Episode 187 – Natalia Kohn Rivera (re-release!)2023-03-1357 min
That Makes Total Sense!Episode 186 – Caryn ReederReading Caryn Reeder‘s new book had me feeling mad, relieved, curious, and hopeful. She explores one of my all-time favorite stories in the Gospels – The Samaritan Woman in John 4. Caryn reminds readers and listeners of the classic interpretation of the story, which has remained much the same throughout history, and examines how it … Continue reading Episode 186 – Caryn Reeder2023-03-061h 04
That Makes Total Sense!Episode 185 – Kyle Meyaard-SchaapA conversation on climate change straight from Texas! I am so grateful to Kyle Meyaard-Schaap for joining me on the podcast and for writing his awesome new book, Following Jesus in a Warming World. Like Kyle, I grew up inside a cultural context that largely did not encourage Christians to care about the environment. But … Continue reading Episode 185 – Kyle Meyaard-Schaap2023-02-271h 00
That Makes Total Sense!Episode 184 – Drew JacksonI am so stoked to welcome Drew Jackson back to the podcast! His first book, and this volume two are some of my favorite books of poetry. What Drew has done by putting the Gospel of Luke in conversation with his own context is theological art at its finest. The problem is, this kind of … Continue reading Episode 184 – Drew Jackson2023-02-201h 12
That Makes Total Sense!Episode 183 – Bekah McNeelBekah and I had a fabulous conversation (she’s hilarious, btw!) about her book Bringing Up Kids When the Church Lets You Down. But trust me, if you’re not a parent….don’t flip to the next episode in your queue just yet! This conversation is for anyone whose life and faith have been impacted by the church, … Continue reading Episode 183 – Bekah McNeel2023-02-131h 23
That Makes Total Sense!Episode 182 – Jenny Booth PotterThis conversation with Jenny Booth Potter was so rich and full! Jenny’s story is particular to her own experiences and circumstances and familiar to many of us at the same time, especially if we grew up inside white, American evangelicalism. She brings to light the reality that racism, as Beverly Tatum states, is a moving … Continue reading Episode 182 – Jenny Booth Potter2023-02-061h 18
That Makes Total Sense!Episode 181 – Craig GreenfieldCraig Greenfield joins me on the podcast to talk about something I’ve been processing lately – missions. Specifically, Craig has written a book called Subversive Mission on how to serve well as outsiders. In the history of Christianity, Western missionary work has often equaled colonialism, and we need to be aware of how we still … Continue reading Episode 181 – Craig Greenfield2023-01-3058 min
That Makes Total Sense!Episode 180 – Sara BillupsThe story Sara Billups shares in Orphaned Believers is her own and in a way, it’s mine too. It might also be yours if you were a child of the 1980’s and 1990’s growing up anywhere near white American evangelicalism. She writes (and we chat) about how she was shaped by teachings on the end … Continue reading Episode 180 – Sara Billups2023-01-2356 min
That Makes Total Sense!Episode 179 – Ashlee Eiland (re-release!)This episode originally aired on July 20, 2020, and trust me when I say it is just as timely and relevant today, in January of 2023, as it was then. Pastor and author Ashlee Eiland and her husband, Delwin, are both on staff at Mars Hill Bible Church in Grand Rapids, MI where Delwin leads worship and … Continue reading Episode 179 – Ashlee Eiland (re-release!)2023-01-1654 min
That Makes Total Sense!Episode 178 – Beth Birmingham & Eeva Sallinen SimardIt’s not every day that so much wisdom and experience is found in one place, but today is that day! Beth Birmingham and Eeva Sallinen Simard have decades of combined experience in working in and with faith-based organizations. It is because of their commitment in these spaces that they are doing everything they can to … Continue reading Episode 178 – Beth Birmingham & Eeva Sallinen Simard2023-01-0956 min
That Makes Total Sense!Episode 177 – Michelle Ferrigno WarrenWe’re back with a brand-new episode to begin the new year! Michelle Ferrigno Warren has been involved in justice work for decades and her wisdom is priceless. In her newest book, Join the Resistance, she speaks to those of us who are interested in becoming more involved, but may not know exactly where to start. … Continue reading Episode 177 – Michelle Ferrigno Warren2023-01-011h 14
That Makes Total Sense!Episode 176 – Sarah Quezada (re-release!)On this day after Christmas, I am so excited to bring you this re-release from December 20, 2021. This beautiful conversation with Sarah Quezada reminds us of the many ways we live in the tension of the now and not yet as citizens of God’s kingdom. Sarah Quezada, author of Love Undocumented joins me on … Continue reading Episode 176 – Sarah Quezada (re-release!)2022-12-261h 05
That Makes Total Sense!Episode 175 – Scott Erickson (re-release!)This episode originally aired on October 19, 2020. (This statement is as true in 2022 as it was in 2020!) Advent couldn’t come soon enough for me this year; and I don’t think I’m alone! Scott Erickson (known to many of us as Scott the Painter) helps bring the season a little closer to home … Continue reading Episode 175 – Scott Erickson (re-release!)2022-12-191h 04
That Makes Total Sense!Episode 174 – Kelley NikondehaThis advent book (and conversation!) is not just for the Christmas season. I promise you will be blessed by Kelley Nikondeha‘s words all year long! Her new book, The First Advent in Palestine tells of some of the forgotten stories surrounding Jesus’ birth. We know he was born in first century occupied Palestine, but what … Continue reading Episode 174 – Kelley Nikondeha2022-12-1259 min
That Makes Total Sense!Episode 173 – Kelly FlanaganGenerally speaking, I am *not* a novel-reading, fiction-loving kind of girl, but….I loved Kelly Flanagan’s new release The Unhiding of Elijah Campbell! And, I am so thrilled to welcome Kelly back to the podcast. He first came on to speak about his book, True Companions which was a game-changer for me as well. Kelly is … Continue reading Episode 173 – Kelly Flanagan2022-12-0558 min
That Makes Total Sense!Episode 172 – Marlena GravesThree words at the top of Marlena Grave‘s website sum it up: Jesus. Formation. Justice. These are the foci of what she does as a writer, professor, thinker, mother, wife, community activist, advocate, speaker, and so much more. She and her husband, Shawn, have co-edited a book along those lines called The Gospel of Peace … Continue reading Episode 172 – Marlena Graves2022-11-2856 min
That Makes Total Sense!Episode 171 – Josh BuckJosh Buck is back on the podcast! The last time Josh joined me, he shared about his dissertation research into the Charleston Massacre. He also let us know he had a book set to release and now it’s here! When I began reading Everyday Activism, I surprised myself at how many dog-eared pages and underlined … Continue reading Episode 171 – Josh Buck2022-11-2155 min
That Makes Total Sense!Episode 170 – Blaine HoganBlaine Hogan writes, acts, directs, and was formerly on staff at a megachurch. He has also honored us in writing a book holding his deepest, darkest secrets and allowing us to learn from his experiences and reflections. In this conversation, we talk about the hard work of healing, recovery, and ministry in the midst of … Continue reading Episode 170 – Blaine Hogan2022-11-1455 min
That Makes Total Sense!Episode 169 – Soong-Chan RahSoong-Chan Rah is a professor at Fuller Theological Seminary (I took a course with him and it was a total blast!). He has also served in ministry as a pastor and studied American Evangelicalism. One of the topics Soong-Chan is known for is the church and social justice. In Return to Justice, he explores the … Continue reading Episode 169 – Soong-Chan Rah2022-11-0757 min
That Makes Total Sense!Episode 168 – Bob SmietanaIf you’ve read anything from the Religion News Service, chances are you’ve already been introduced to Bob Smietana. Bob is a journalist and author of the book Reorganized Religion. Politics, demographics, and lifestyle are all affecting our churches and how they look and feel in America. In this episode, we talk about organized religion, American … Continue reading Episode 168 – Bob Smietana2022-10-301h 00
That Makes Total Sense!Episode 167 – Jim WallisThe one and only Jim Wallis is on the podcast! Most recently Jim came on as the director of the Center on Faith + Justice at Georgetown University. He and I met over the summer when the Center hosted its inaugural summer academy and I was blessed enough to attend. For those who may not … Continue reading Episode 167 – Jim Wallis2022-10-2455 min
That Makes Total Sense!Episode 166 – Jennifer TuckerIt was only a few years ago that I was introduced to breath prayers. In the beginning of the pandemic, Osheta Moore, spiritual director and pastor, hosted morning times of Scripture-reading and breath prayers and these practices were so much of what kept me during those times. Now, we have another resource to encourage us … Continue reading Episode 166 – Jennifer Tucker2022-10-1747 min
That Makes Total Sense!Episode 165 – Jasmin ShupperJasmin Shupper is the founder and president of Greenline Housing Foundation. Educated in business and a licensed realtor, Jasmin has always been fascinated by and drawn to homes. She is aware though, that due to our country’s intentional legislation and policies, people of color have consistently and systemically been denied the opportunity to participate in … Continue reading Episode 165 – Jasmin Shupper2022-10-1057 min
That Makes Total Sense!Episode 164 – Don SchoendorferDon Shoendorfer is a biomedical engineer with a PhD from MIT and the founder of Free Wheelchair Mission. Part of what I *love* about Don’s story is that he utilized the skills God had already given him to help people with a profound problem – immobility caused by disability. As you’ll hear, Don didn’t set … Continue reading Episode 164 – Don Schoendorfer2022-10-031h 00
That Makes Total Sense!Episode 163 – Kat ArmasIn honor of Hispanic Heritage Month, we are re-playing this amazing episode with Kat Armas. Enjoy! Kat Armas, author of Abuelita Faith: What Women on the Margins Teach Us about Wisdom, Persistence, and Strength, is on the podcast this week! Kat is a Fuller grad, on her way to Vanderbilt Divinity School, and is a wrestler in the faith. … Continue reading Episode 163 – Kat Armas2022-09-2654 min
That Makes Total Sense!Episode 162 – Karen GonzálezI am so delighted to welcome Karen González back on the podcast! Her new book, Beyond Welcome, is a beautiful combination of biblical investigation, personal narrative, and the edification we need, especially in the United States, today. We hit the current news right away, with talk of Florida and Texas governors flying and bussing immigrants … Continue reading Episode 162 – Karen González2022-09-1951 min
That Makes Total Sense!Episode 161 – Phil Allen, Jr.My friend Phil is back! Phil Allen has written a second book and it is incredible! The Prophetic Lens takes us back in history to the infamous racist film shown at the White House all the way through the Civil Rights movement of the 1960’s to Darnell Frazier’s courageous capturing and posting of George Floyd’s … Continue reading Episode 161 – Phil Allen, Jr.2022-09-121h 08
That Makes Total Sense!Episode 160 – Scott SunquistScott Sunquist and I just missed crossing each other’s paths at Fuller Theological Seminary. Shortly before I registered as a student, Scott wrapped up his time as the Dean of Intercultural Studies at Fuller where he also was a professor of church history. Now, Scott serves as president of Gordon Conwell Theological Seminary where he … Continue reading Episode 160 – Scott Sunquist2022-09-051h 00
That Makes Total Sense!Episode 159 – Steven HarrisSteven Harris has a resume that could fill this screen, including positions at prestigious institutions you may recognize like Harvard and Georgetown, but I was first introduced to him as the guy who helped my friends and I carry our luggage after a late-night flight to D.C. As the Senior Director of Academic Programs at … Continue reading Episode 159 – Steven Harris2022-08-291h 03
That Makes Total Sense!Episode 158 – Christina EdmonsonMy guest for this incredible episode is none other than Dr. Christina Edmonson of the Truth’s Table podcast! Some of my all-time favorite interviews come from conversations with podcasters, but this one just may take the cake! Christina joined me to talk about the new book she co-wrote with researcher Chad Brennan, Faithful Anti-Racism. What … Continue reading Episode 158 – Christina Edmonson2022-08-221h 06
That Makes Total Sense!Episode 157 – Sabrina Chan & Linson DanielWhat a joy to speak with Sabrina Chan and Linson Daniel about Learning Our Names! This new book was written along with their co-authors E. David de Leon and La Thao all about Asian American Christian identity. As we discussed in the podcast, the title is a double meaning – while the work was written … Continue reading Episode 157 – Sabrina Chan & Linson Daniel2022-08-151h 15
That Makes Total Sense!Episode 156 – Amy ShermanAmy Sherman, Senior Fellow at the Sagamore Institute, has written an exquisite book called Agents of Flourishing. Looking at the biblical mandate for believers to seek the flourishing of our communities, Amy delves into half a dozen endowments, think areas or spheres, where we can focus our energies to contribute to that happening. Each section … Continue reading Episode 156 – Amy Sherman2022-08-0856 min
That Makes Total Sense!Episode 155 – Sandra Maria Van OpstalWhat a joy to speak with Sandra Van Opstal again for the podcast! This time we talked about her timeless book that’s getting a new release, The Next Worship. Originally published in 2016, this message is as relevant for the church today as it was when it first appeared in bookstores (in some ways, maybe … Continue reading Episode 155 – Sandra Maria Van Opstal2022-08-011h 06
That Makes Total Sense!Episode 154 – Dr. Dwight RadcliffDr. Dwight Radcliff is the academic dean for the William E. Pannell Center for Black Church Studies at Fuller Seminary (and one of my favorite professors!). Last term, I took his class on the Theology of Hip Hop Culture and it was life-altering (I don’t say that lightly!). As Christians, not just those of training … Continue reading Episode 154 – Dr. Dwight Radcliff2022-07-251h 05
That Makes Total Sense!Episode 153 – Lamar HardwickThis is a re-release of an incredible conversation I had with pastor Lamar Hardwick in February of 2021. In honor of Disability Pride Month, I wanted to share this episode again because Lamar’s work in this space challenged me in my theology like nothing else had until that point. Lamar Hardwick, aka The Autism Pastor, is … Continue reading Episode 153 – Lamar Hardwick2022-07-1759 min
That Makes Total Sense!Episode 152 – Phil Allen, Jr.To say I am moved by this conversation and project by Phil Allen, Jr. would be an understatement. Phil Allen, Jr. is an author, speaker, filmmaker, PhD candidate, friend, and incredibly generous advocate. When, as an adult, he first heard the truth about his grandfather’s tragic death that took place in 1953, he knew the … Continue reading Episode 152 – Phil Allen, Jr.2022-07-111h 09
That Makes Total Sense!Episode 151 – Paul D. MillerPaul D. Miller is a scholar and professor at Georgetown University. He is a veteran and also served on the National Security Council. As a Christian, and deeply patriotic, Paul’s is a valuable voice on the topic of Christian nationalism. His most recent book, The Religion of American Greatness is the topic of our conversation … Continue reading Episode 151 – Paul D. Miller2022-07-0450 min
That Makes Total Sense!Episode 150 – Jason PorterfieldWhat a pleasure to read Jason Porterfield‘s book and to have him on the podcast! Jason, who has written Fight Like Jesus, describes himself as an aspiring peacemaker which is exactly how I know many of us would love to be identified! In this conversation, we talked about the concept that Jesus’ last week on … Continue reading Episode 150 – Jason Porterfield2022-06-271h 12
That Makes Total Sense!Episode 149 – Andre HenryI always love it when I get to interview someone associated with Fuller Seminary and this conversation with Andre Henry is definitely no exception! Andre is a musician, artist, activist, and author of All the White Friends I Couldn’t Keep. We cover a lot of ground in this episode, but some of the highlights for … Continue reading Episode 149 – Andre Henry2022-06-1955 min
That Makes Total Sense!Episode 148 – Eric CostanzoEric Costanzo is a pastor in my home state of Oklahoma! Together with previous guest, Matt Soerens, and Daniel Yang, he has written a fantastic book called Inalienable about how imperative it is for the American church to engage and learn from the global church, especially from voices we have historically sought to marginalize. We … Continue reading Episode 148 – Eric Costanzo2022-06-1356 min
That Makes Total Sense!Episode 147 – Amy KennyAmy Kenny is a disabled scholar and author of the new book, My Body Is Not a Prayer Request. I am incredibly thankful for Amy and her voice on disability, diversity, and justice in the church. From “prayerful perpetrators,” to ableism, to designing spaces for disabled people actually being the more inclusive way, we covered … Continue reading Episode 147 – Amy Kenny2022-06-0652 min
That Makes Total Sense!Episode 146 – Claude AtchoPastor and author Claude Atcho joined me for this podcast episode to discuss his debut book, Reading Black Books. On this journey into novels and poetry from Black authors, Claude brings voices from Black literature and theology together to explore Black American experiences and the result is rich! What Claude does through his work in … Continue reading Episode 146 – Claude Atcho2022-05-3056 min
That Makes Total Sense!Episode 145 – Michelle Ami ReyesI’m so thrilled to welcome Dr. Michelle Ami Reyes back to the podcast! Michelle is the vice president of the Asian American Christian Collaborative and co-author of new book The Race-Wise Family with Helen Lee. In this incredibly thoughtful and practical text, Michelle and Helen offer us a “road map” of sorts toward loving our … Continue reading Episode 145 – Michelle Ami Reyes2022-05-2251 min
That Makes Total Sense!Episode 144 – Gail Song Bantum & Brian BantumGail Song Bantum, lead pastor of Quest Church in Seattle, WA and Brian Bantum, Theologian in Residence, joined me in a conversation on their newest book, Choosing Us. Having been married 25 years and in vocational ministry almost as long, they have learned a thing or two about navigating their relationship in this “world of … Continue reading Episode 144 – Gail Song Bantum & Brian Bantum2022-05-1650 min
That Makes Total Sense!Episode 143 – J.W. BuckJ.W. (Josh) Buck is the Executive Director and one of the founders of Pax, a Christian organization designed to inspire and equip the next generation through slow, beautiful, Jesus-centered content created by people of color. While his first book is available for pre-order now (!), in this interview, we focused on his dissertation work on the … Continue reading Episode 143 – J.W. Buck2022-05-091h 05
That Makes Total Sense!Episode 142 – Idelette McVickerIdelette McVicker is a native of South Africa, currently living in Canada with her family, and ministering to Christians like me (in America and globally) on how to fight against white supremacy in our societies. She is the author of Recovering Racists, the founder of She Loves Media Society, and the Dangerous Women community. In … Continue reading Episode 142 – Idelette McVicker2022-05-021h 07
That Makes Total Sense!Episode 141 – Stephen MattsonFor the past couple of months, I have been reading my way through an incredible book in my morning prayer time, On Love & Mercy: A Social Justice Devotional. In this beautiful work, Stephen Mattson takes the time to define social justice for Christians and touches on dozens of areas where our attention is needed. … Continue reading Episode 141 – Stephen Mattson2022-04-2453 min
That Makes Total Sense!Episode 140 – Don’t ClingPart of the story of the resurrection has bothered me as I looked back on the text this week. Why does Jesus tell Mary not to cling to him after he calls out to her outside his empty tomb? You’d think he would welcome her embrace, hold on to her with all his might and … Continue reading Episode 140 – Don’t Cling2022-04-1813 min
That Makes Total Sense!Episode 139 – Ines FranklinInes Franklin is a speaker, pastor, ministry leader, and graduate of Fuller Theological Seminary. All of these roles are ones her abuelita would have hoped and dreamed for Ines, but in her early adult life, they seemed unlikely. It wasn’t until she had turned 40, with failed marriages behind her, that she found herself back … Continue reading Episode 139 – Ines Franklin2022-04-1148 min
That Makes Total Sense!Episode 138 – Rev. Dr. Malcolm FoleyOn March 29, 2022, President Biden signed into law the “Emmett Till Antilynching Act.” While this is historic, it is also over 100 years and 200 failed votes in the making. There are mixed emotions following the bill’s unanimous passing in the Senate and in light of the moment, I’m taking this opportunity to re-air … Continue reading Episode 138 – Rev. Dr. Malcolm Foley2022-04-041h 24
That Makes Total Sense!Episode 137 – Amy Julia BeckerWriter, author, and speaker Amy Julia Becker is on the podcast this week talking about healing. Her new book, To Be Made Well is a beautiful reflection on the nature of, barriers to, and how we can participate with God in healing, both our own and that of the people around us. Threading through her … Continue reading Episode 137 – Amy Julia Becker2022-03-2758 min
That Makes Total Sense!Episode 136 – Shane BlackshearShane Blackshear is the host of Seminary Dropout podcast and the author of a new book full of wisdom from the life of civil rights leader and co-author John Perkins. Go and Do is a wonderful mingling of stories from the lives of John and Shane as well as practical, solid content to help us … Continue reading Episode 136 – Shane Blackshear2022-03-211h 04
That Makes Total Sense!Episode 135 – Alicia AkinsAlicia Akins has written a beautiful book called Invitations to Abundance and came on the podcast to talk about it! Alicia serves as a deaconess at her church, is a biblical studies graduate student at Reformed Theological Seminary, and works in international education in Washington D.C. Her gorgeous book narrates the feasts of the Bible … Continue reading Episode 135 – Alicia Akins2022-03-131h 00
That Makes Total Sense!Episode 134 – Paul ZachPaul Zach is a music minister who loves writing music for the church to sing. And I, for one, love singing his music! Full time, Paul serves at Christ Episcopal Church in Charlottesville, Virginia. He also collaborates with other artists, musicians, and song writers for projects like those released by The Porter’s Gate. In this … Continue reading Episode 134 – Paul Zach2022-03-0748 min
That Makes Total Sense!Episode 133 – Michelle Clifton-SoderstromMichelle Clifton-Soderstrom is the Dean of Faculty and a professor of theology and ethics at North Park Seminary. She is also the Director of the School of Restorative Arts, which is the primary topic in this episode. The School of Restorative Arts is located inside Stateville Correctional Center outside of Chicago and offers a master’s … Continue reading Episode 133 – Michelle Clifton-Soderstrom2022-02-271h 00
That Makes Total Sense!Episode 132 – Dennis EdwardsDr. Dennis Edwards, professor of New Testament at North Park Seminary in Chicago, is on the podcast! His book, Might From the Margins, specifically addresses and encourages Christians who have found themselves marginalized within American Evangelicalism, including Christians of color and women. One of the things I appreciate most about this text and conversation is … Continue reading Episode 132 – Dennis Edwards2022-02-2153 min
That Makes Total Sense!Episode 131 – Young-Sam WonDr. Young-Sam Won is the Associate Director of Ministry Formation and an Adjunct Professor of Old Testament at Dallas Theological Seminary. He’s also a hoot to follow on Twitter! Sam loves to explore the topics of justice and ethnicity from a biblical (specifically Old Testament) perspective and I am here for it. In this conversation, … Continue reading Episode 131 – Young-Sam Won2022-02-131h 10
That Makes Total Sense!Episode 130 – David SwansonDavid Swanson is back on the podcast! David is the pastor of New Community Covenant Church in Chicago, the author of Rediscipling the White Church, and regularly speaks and writes on matters of racial justice and reconciliation. The last time David and I recorded was in October of 2020 and as you know a lot … Continue reading Episode 130 – David Swanson2022-02-071h 01
That Makes Total Sense!Episode 129 – Natalia Kohn RiveraNatalia Kohn Rivera is a pastor with InterVarsity’s LeFe ministry and co-author of Hermanas. This beautiful book takes the journeys of 12 biblical women and explores them through the lenses of Latina women. In this conversation, Natalia and I discuss the importance of our ethnic identities and our faith as well as what it means … Continue reading Episode 129 – Natalia Kohn Rivera2022-01-3057 min
That Makes Total Sense!Episode 128 – Ashley HalesAshley Hales is the author of A Spacious Life: Trading Hustle and Hurry for the Goodness of Limits. When I read this book, I felt myself give a big exhale. You mean we’re not meant to do it all? Limits are God’s design for goodness for our lives? Yes! If you have found yourself overwhelmed … Continue reading Episode 128 – Ashley Hales2022-01-2348 min
That Makes Total Sense!Episode 127 – Sandra Maria Van OpstalYou do not have to be an Enneagram 8 (or even know what the Enneagram is) to enjoy this episode! Sandra Maria Van Opstal has written an incredible devotional as part of a series published by InterVarsity Press called Forty Days on Being an Eight. The point of our conversation in this episode was not … Continue reading Episode 127 – Sandra Maria Van Opstal2022-01-1649 min
That Makes Total Sense!Episode 126 – April FietApril Fiet is a pastor and author of The Sacred Pulse: Holy Rhythms for Overwhelmed Souls. In this conversation we explore the daily, weekly, and yearly rhythms of life. God has given us this sacred pulse in his generosity, both modeled in creation and, in order to help us sustain this abundant life. From the … Continue reading Episode 126 – April Fiet2022-01-1051 min
That Makes Total Sense!Episode 125 – New Year, New GrowthAs the new year rolls in, I’m as tempted as the next person to spend a brief time celebrating and then lean into the expectations. Expectations of myself, people close to me, circumstances…a new year means a new beginning, right? So it’s time to turn over a new leaf as they say and hit the … Continue reading Episode 125 – New Year, New Growth2022-01-0315 min
That Makes Total Sense!Episode 124 – Dan StringerDan Stringer is a pastor in Hawai’i and the author of Struggling with Evangelicalism. Like many of us who grew up in American evangelicalism, Dan recognizes the problems. But he doesn’t stop there; he challenges us to look at the good, the bad, and the ugly and encourages us to locate ourselves in relationship with … Continue reading Episode 124 – Dan Stringer2021-12-2748 min
That Makes Total Sense!Episode 123 – Sarah QuezadaSarah Quezada, author of Love Undocumented joins me on the podcast this week! With Christmas coming, what better way to begin our week than with a story from the beautiful tradition of Las Posadas? If you’re not familiar, it is a Latin American Christmas tradition where friends, family, and neighbors reenact Mary and Joseph looking … Continue reading Episode 123 – Sarah Quezada2021-12-191h 05
That Makes Total Sense!Episode 122 – Robert Chao RomeroRobert Chao Romero is a professor, pastor, and attorney. At heart, he is an evangelist. He is also the author of Brown Church (a book that had me teary-eyed in the introduction). In this conversation, Robert and I discuss the birth and history of what he calls the Brown Church as well as the origins … Continue reading Episode 122 – Robert Chao Romero2021-12-1358 min
That Makes Total Sense!Episode 121 – Mae Elise CannonWelcome back to the podcast, Mae Cannon! Mae and I last spoke when her most recent book, Beyond Hashtag Activism, released and I knew then I wanted to have her back. This time she talks peace and politics in the Middle East. As far as knowledge and activism are concerned, Mae and the organization she … Continue reading Episode 121 – Mae Elise Cannon2021-12-061h 03
That Makes Total Sense!Episode 120 – Cindy WuMy guest this week is fellow Houstonian, Cindy Wu, Program Manager with Houston Welcomes Refugees. Cindy studied at Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary and has written an incredible workbook for believers looking to expand their practical theology on the topic of refugees called A Better Country. Cindy’s passion for serving refugees was birthed in her at a … Continue reading Episode 120 – Cindy Wu2021-11-2955 min
That Makes Total Sense!Episode 119 – Alan NobleAlan Noble joins me to talk about his latest book, You Are Not Your Own. The concept is simple, but as we know simple does not usually mean easy to live out. As believers we understand that we belong to Christ and to each other, not to ourselves, but culture tells us something very different. … Continue reading Episode 119 – Alan Noble2021-11-2258 min
That Makes Total Sense!Episode 118 – Matthew SoerensMatthew Soerens of World Relief and the Evangelical Immigration Table joins me today on the podcast to talk about immigration from a biblical perspective. Welcoming the Stranger, one of the books Matt co-authored on the subject, was recently released in a revised and updated edition in order to stay current with the laws and policies … Continue reading Episode 118 – Matthew Soerens2021-11-1548 min
That Makes Total Sense!Episode 117 – The Substance PodcastOh how the tables have turned! Philip, Vince, and Trevor over at The Substance podcast asked me to come on their show. This host ended up on the other side of the interview and…it was so much fun! These three friends and theology buffs have produced dozens of episodes aiming at being biblical, thoughtful, and … Continue reading Episode 117 – The Substance Podcast2021-11-081h 04
That Makes Total Sense!Episode 116 – Jasmine BellamyJasmine Bellamy, was just named in Sports Illustrated’s series Elle-evate: 100 Influential Black Women in Sports! She works with Reebok as the lead for the U.S. Direct to Consumer department and most recently as the Head of Change Management for Reebok’s United Against Racism. In that role, Jasmine has initiated Courageous Conversations as a way … Continue reading Episode 116 – Jasmine Bellamy2021-11-011h 01
That Makes Total Sense!Episode 115 – Karen GonzálezKaren González joins me on the podcast to talk about immigration and the Bible. Karen’s experiences as an immigrant and her seminary education bring unique perspectives I hope we will all take the time and space to consider. As a child, Karen immigrated to the U.S. with her family from Guatemala. In her book, The … Continue reading Episode 115 – Karen González2021-10-2452 min
That Makes Total Sense!Episode 114 – A Word on FeelingsThis week on the podcast, I offer a little reflection on feelings. Sometimes it’s hard to comprehend that God actually cares about our emotions. We may have been discipled into a tradition or church culture where we learned God expects us to be happy all the time or he only cares about our circumstances not … Continue reading Episode 114 – A Word on Feelings2021-10-1821 min
The Substance71: Interview | Alexis Busetti on Podcasting & Restorative JusticeThis week we're joined by longtime friend of the podcast, Alexis Busetti. We connected with Alexis around our relaunch and really appreciate her consistency and focus on restorative justice. She's put out over 100 weekly episodes with some incredible guests (a number of whom you've heard on our show as well) and has a helpful perspective on encouraging folks in their journey of understanding God's heart for justice.
Enjoy and be sure to comment on the episode post on our new website!
Shoutouts:
Madam Secretary
Welcoming The Stranger (Book)
The Porter's Gate Justice Songs & Lament Songs
The Daily podcast
Church Politics
T...2021-10-171h 11