Shows
MinistryWatch PodcastEp. 470: Liberty & Falwell Settlement Terms Released, Bob Jones University, Kay Arthur, and DaystarOn today’s program, Liberty University reached a settlement with disgraced former President Jerry Falwell Jr. last year, but the terms of that settlement were only disclosed this week. We’ll have details.
And, Bob Jones University names a new president just a month after its current leader announced he is stepping back. Many alumni aren’t happy with the choice. We’ll explain why.
Plus, beloved Bible study author Kay Arthur has died at 91. We’ll look back at the ministry founder’s life.
But first, police close its investigation into sexual abuse allegations against Daystar. The police department investigatin...2025-05-2333 minMinistryWatch PodcastEp. 459: Dr. Michael Brown, Bob Jones University, The Salvation ArmyOn today’s program, Dr. Michael Brown of The Line of Fire was the subject of an independent investigation late last year. The findings of that report have now been released, allegedly finding that Brown DID engage in misconduct with two women who were not his wife. We’ll have details.
And, is Bob Jones University facing closure? The school’s president says no—but alumni aren’t so sure. We’ll take a closer look.
Plus, The Salvation Army in Denver is embroiled in protests, violence, and a failed $3 million bid to provide housing to the city’s homeless population. Th...2025-04-2529 minMinistryWatch PodcastEp. 455: Bob Jones University, Trinity Evangelical Divinity School, Myanmar ReliefOn today’s program, Bob Jones University President Josh Crockett announced this week that he may be transitioning into a different role—he’s served as president of the school for less than a year. We’ll have details.
Faith Life Church in Ohio is facing backlash after sexual abuse allegations prompt further scrutiny into some of its financial and governmental practices. We’ll take a look.
Plus, Trinity Evangelical Divinity School is moving to Canada after agreeing to be acquired by another university.
But first, Pastor Rodney Finch’s Calvary Chapel Cary has sold its 9.8-acre church property in Apex, North...2025-04-1126 min
Inside Out - Family Life NewsFamily Life Inside Out: Vetting the News - 03/26/2025The number of ways we receive news has multiplied, and it can be difficult to know what's true. But there are ways to sift through the stories - and the sources - to get closer to a balanced view of what's happening in the world.
"The one thing having many different sources has done, is it gives us lots of different voices, and different points of view, and sometimes points of view that you haven't heard before," award-winning news reporter Bob Smietana told me in this recorded conversation from 2020. "So that's good. It just means it's a lot...2025-03-2617 minMinistryWatch PodcastEp. 421: Dr. Michael Brown, Bob Jones University, and PCUSA Decline ContinuesOn today’s program, author and teacher Dr Michael Brown of the radio program Line of Fire has agreed to a third-party investigation after being accused of sexual impropriety. We’ll have details.
And, we remember two anniversaries this week—the release of a GRACE investigation into Bob Jones University and their handling of sexual abuse cases, and the fall of Mars Hill Church. We take time to reflect on both—lessons learned and where things stand now.
Plus, overall membership in the Presbyterian Church USA continues to fall—except among people who identify as genderqueer. We’ll take a look.
But fi...2024-12-1328 min
Igniting ImaginationWhy Are We Talking About Church Property? with Bob SmietanaThis week, Shannon Hopkins and Rev. Mark Elsdon are taking over the Igniting Imagination podcast! They’re joined by Bob Smietana, National Reporter for Religion News Service and author, to dive into this season’s theme: “Properties with New Purpose.”As we've been partnering with churches across the country, many questions have come up. This week’s episode centers on one of the big ones: “What brought us here?”Bob points out that churches hold essential skills, like moral guidance and community-building, which are increasingly valuable in today’s world. Together, Shannon, Mark, and Bob encourage congre...2024-11-2055 min
The State Of BeliefElection 2024: No Mandate for ExtremismIn the wake of a deeply consequential election, The State of Belief this week unpacks the electoral role played by religious communities, exploring how various faith groups influenced voter turnout and political coalitions.Guests Skye Perryman, Katherine Stewart, Adelle Banks and Bob Smietana join host Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush to share critical insights into the diverse religious communities shaping our democracy. Their dedication to engaging in nuanced reporting and analysis, and fostering partnerships within and beyond faith traditions, reflects a commitment to upholding a vibrant and inclusive democracy. Their insights explore how we can value and uplift...2024-11-1059 min
The BulletinDon't Blame MeChinese adoptions halt, debate recap, and Taylor Swift.Find us on Youtube.Today’s episode considers the recent end of Chinese international adoptions with guest Aimee Welch (former journalist and an adoptive parent and advocate), who has been waiting for her adopted daughter to come stateside since before adoptions were paused during COVID-19. Then, Clarissa and Mike recap the week’s presidential debate. Finally, Bob Smietana (national reporter for Religion News Service) drops by to talk about friendship across political divides with—who else?—Taylor Swift as a case study. GO DEEPER WI...2024-09-1355 min
Friendly Atheist PodcastEp. 536 - Reporter Bob Smietana and the Southern Baptist ConventionPatreon supporters who give $5 a month will get an ad-free version of the show!Join our private Facebook group and Discord server!This week, I spoke with religion reporter Bob Smietana about the Southern Baptist Convention's recent gathering. We talked about women pastors, IVF, the denomination's handling of sexual abuse, and so much more.SPONSOR: Go to Butcherbox.com/friendly and use code friendly at checkout and enjoy your choice of bone-in chicken thighs, top sirloins, or salmon in every box for an entire year, plus $20 off! See Privacy...2024-06-201h 00
The Non-ProphetsSBC Falls Short: Protecting Kids FailHow many churches use background checks?Baptist Standard, By Bob Smietana, on May 20, 2024https://www.baptiststandard.com/news/faith-culture/how-many-churches-use-background-checks/SBC abuse reform task force ends its work with no names on database and no long-term planReligion News Service, By Bob Smietana, on June 4, 2024https://religionnews.com/2024/06/04/sbc-abuse-reform-task-force-ends-its-work-with-no-names-on-database-and-no-long-term-future-plan/Child predators within religious institutions represent a longstanding and deeply troubling issue. While the Catholic Church often comes to mind due to its notorious...2024-06-1820 min
The Church LobbyDe-Sizing the Church (pt 4): Unintended Consequences of the Church Growth Movement, with Bob SmietanaKarl Vaters interviews Bob Smietana, a columnist for Religion News Service, and the author of Reorganized Religion: The Reshaping of the American Church and Why it Matters.Bob and Karl discuss some of unintended consequences of the Church Growth Movement from Bob's unique vantage point. They also delve into the dangers of bigness and what we can do about it.Then they discuss Smietana’s fascinating article, “There’s a Reason Every Hit Worship Song Sounds the Same,” and what it says about the current church culture.LinksReorganized Religion: The Reshaping of the A...2024-04-2544 min
The BulletinDon’t Bet the Farm On ItWhat's making rural America so angry? And why do Christians seem to hold their tongues when it comes to sports gambling? Mike, Nicole, and guest host Bob Smietana converse about the new bestselling book White Rural Rage with guest Mike Waddey, former pastor of a town of just 88 people. Mike Cosper shares his own story about the temptations of sports betting, and producer Clarissa Moll joins Cosper and Dr. Kris Bauman, former Trump administration Israel adviser for the National Security Council, to talk about the current slowdown in the Israel-Gaza war and Israel’s complicated path forward.Th...2024-04-1254 min
Things Not Seen PodcastThe Reshaping of the American Church: Bob Smietana [Rebroadcast]In his recent book, Reorganized Religion, our guest, veteran religion reporter Bob Smietana, offers an in-depth and critical look at why people are leaving American churches and what we lose as a society as it continues. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2024-02-181h 07MinistryWatch PodcastEp. 327: Samaritan Ministries, Alistair Begg, United Methodist Final Tally of DisaffiliationsOn today’s program, one of the big healthcare sharing ministries is suing New Mexico. We’ll have details. Plus, popular pastor Alistair Begg—whose radio program was dropped by American Family Radio last week—is standing by his advice about attending an LGBTQ wedding. We’ll explain. And, the deadline for churches to disaffiliate from the United Methodist Church has passed…and the results are in. We’ll look at how many congregations have left.
We begin today with news that a Texas dad has sued the Assemblies of God denomination, its North Texas District, and its college ministry Chi Alpha, for n...2024-02-0229 min
Enter the DangerBob Smietana - National Reporter for Religion News ServiceThis week I'm joined by my friend Bob, a long time journalist covering religion nationally across the United States, primarily evangelical Christianity.Links mentioned in this episode:John Scalzi: https://www.thriftbooks.com/a/john-scalzi/200932/Desert Island Discs: https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b006qnmrBob's Twitter: https://twitter.com/bobsmietanaBob's Email: bob.smietana@religionnews.com2023-12-0654 min
The Common Good PodcastBob Smietana of RNS on Scott Sauls, celebrity pastors & moreFriend of the show Bob Smietana joins to talk about a surprising news story from the week: the resignation of Scott Sauls from his Nashville-area megachurch. Brian and Aubrey react with him to the news and talk about celebrity pastor culture. Follow The Common Good on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram Hosted by Aubrey Sampson and Brian From Produced by Laura Finch and Keith ConradSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.2023-11-1812 min
Coffee with the PastorsEpisode 24 - Reorganized Religion, why people leaveEvery now and then we will review books that we have read. For the month of September, we will look at Reorganizing Religion: The Reshaping of the American Religion and Why it Matters by Bob Smietana. This week we summarize Smietana's work on why people leave the church.2023-09-1225 minCoffee with the PastorsEpisode 23 - Reorganized Religion, where we standEvery now and then we will review books that we have read. For the month of September, we will look at Reorganizing Religion: The Reshaping of the American Religion and Why it Matters by Bob Smietana. This week we will summarize some of the information Smietana shares about the state of religion in America.2023-09-0523 min
The InvestmentNews PodcastEpisode 154: Dave Ramsey and the multiple lawsuits he’s facingEpisode Notes
Bruce and Jeff speak with Bob Smietana, national reporter at Religion News Service, about Christian radio host Dave Ramsey and the multiple lawsuits he’s facing. They work through the question of how legally responsible Dave Ramsey is in these suits as someone considered a “financial guru.”
Guest Bio:
Bob Smietana is a national reporter at Religion News Service with more than two decades of experience covering the intersection of faith, values and everyday life. His work is fueled by a wide range of sources, deep subject knowledge, a knack for finding stories that attract a large audience online...2023-08-1731 min
Adventist Voices by Spectrum: The Journal of the Adventist ForumReligion Reporter Bob Smietana on the Changes AheadBob Smietana has been senior editor of Christianity Today, religion writer at The Tennessean, correspondent for Religion News Service, and contributor to OnFaith, USA TODAY, and The Washington Post.In his conversation with Spectrum, he discusses his interactions with Adventism and what we could be going better. We also discuss the current landscape of Christianity that he researched for his new book, Reorganized Religion: The Reshaping of the American Church and Why it Matters.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.2023-07-2144 minMinistryWatch PodcastEp. 253: Compassion International and Hillsong’s Multi-Million Dollar Deal, Plus More Upheaval at Bob Jones UniversityOn today’s program, Compassion International paid Hillsong $1-million a year to sponsor its concert tour. We’ll have details. Have you ever wondered why all the songs on Christian radio sound the same? There’s a reason, and that reason is money. We’ll explain. We begin today with the resignation of the chairman of the board of Bob Jones University.
FINAL THOUGHTS: A quick shout-out to the folks in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. I’m there this week, and I had a chance to meet with supporters of MinistryWatch who live in the area. That was such an encouraging time for me. We had...2023-04-1423 minMinistryWatch PodcastEp. 251: Bob Jones University, Convoy of Hope, and the United Methodist ChurchOn today’s program, the president of Bob Jones University resigns in what some media reports have called a coup by some of the hardline fundamentalist board members at the school. We also look at the remarkable growth of the relief and development ministry Convoy of Hope. We also look at why so many ministry leaders have been resigning lately. Is it part of a trend, and – if so – why?
We begin today with a major lawsuit against the United Methodist Church. More than 180 churches have joined together to sue the North Georgia Conference and its leaders, seeking to leave The Uni...2023-04-0731 min
Marc Jolicoeur (aka "Jolly Thoughts")Episode Forty-Four // Conversation with Bob SmietanaFaith harms and heals. It pulls us apart and binds us together. It builds cathedrals and burns down cities. It gives life and brings death. Asking if religion is good is like asking if music is good. Or food. Or politics. Or baseball or books or art or science or any other human endeavor. Religion is human. And it matters. (Reorganized Religion, pg 39)Bob Smietana has covered a LOT of “bad news” stories when it comes to organized religion in the US. But he still has hope for the institution. So much so that he wrote an exce...2023-02-241h 03
Untangled Faith70: Whistleblowing On The Record: Lori Harding & Lori Adams-Brown’s ExperienceWhat happened when Lori Adams-Brown and Lori Harding courageously revealed the truth about abuse of power in the church? Lori Adams-Brown shares more about speaking on the record with Julie Roys about her experience with Pastor Andy Wood, successor to Rick Warren at Saddleback Church. Lori Harding shares about speaking on the record with Julie Roys about her experience with Coral Ridge Presbyterian Church. "We do what we can with what we know, and that is a courageous act of faith." -Lori Adams-Brown Lori Adams-Brown and Lori Harding are two courageous women who have gone...2023-02-1530 min
The Better Samaritan PodcastThe Changing Landscape of Religion in America: What Does It Mean for Us?In this wide-ranging episode, Jamie and Kent sit down with Bob Smietana, a veteran news reporter and author of Reorganized Religion: The Reshaping of the American Church and Why It Matters. Together they discuss why people are leaving American churches, examine the loss of resources from current trends (and scandals), and discuss what we can do to continue moving forward. Listen in to learn more about:
Crises that Jamie and Kent are not prepared for—like cat-worshiping cults.
The changing landscape of religion in America; it's not your grandmother’s church anymore.
How churche...2023-02-0948 min
Untangled Faith69:Going On The Record with Lori Adams-Brown & Lori Harding: Trust, Trauma & Telling Your Story"We did this out of love to protect sheep. Exposing the darkness to the light is how it happens." - Lori Adams-Brown Some of you have a story to tell that you’ve never told anyone. And some of you are wondering if that story should find it’s way to a journalist. Where would you go? How does that even work? What all goes into the process and what do you need to know to make it out on the other side? Today I’m joined by two...2023-02-0840 min
Things Not Seen PodcastThe Reshaping of the American Church: Bob SmietanaIn his recent book, Reorganized Religion, our guest, veteran religion reporter Bob Smietana, offers an in-depth and critical look at why people are leaving American churches and what we lose as a society as it continues. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2023-01-081h 07
The UpWords PodcastJournalism as More Than Writing | Bob SmietanaHere at Upper House, we read our fair share of news on religion. Recently, Dan Hummel got the opportunity to sit down for a conversation with Bob Smietana, one of the most insightful and distinguished reporters on religion in the country. Bob discusses how he got into the small, tight knit field of religion reporting and what makes it endlessly fascinating for him. Bob was a guest at Upper House to speak about his new book: Reorganized Religion: The Reshaping of the American Church and Why It Matters. You can check out the video of the event on our...2022-12-261h 18
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 00The Common Good PodcastRNS editor Bob Smietana, Christmas author Bob Lepine and getting back to Bible basics(00:00-09:01) - What does it look like to be pro-life at the end of life? Brian talks about medically assisted suicide in Canada. (09:01-17:15) - Brian talks about a new piece by Trevin Wax at The Gospel Coalition: Love Your Unorthodox Neighbor. (17:15-28:26) - Bob Smietana, veteran religion writer, national reporter for Religion News Service, and author of the new book, Reorganized Religion. (28:26-37:16) - Troy Aikman called out over 'Monday Night Football' comment (nypost.com) (37:16-45:13) - Bob Lepine joins to talk about his new book, The Four Emotions of...2022-10-1453 min
The Vicars' CrossingSeason 7 Episode 3: Bob SmietanaBob Smietana is an award-winning religion reporter and editor who has spent two decades producing breaking news, data journalism, investigative reporting, profiles, and features for magazines, newspapers, trade publications, and websites. Most notably, he has served as a senior writer for Facts & Trends, senior editor of Christianity Today, religion writer at The Tennessean, correspondent for Religion News Service, and contributor to OnFaith, USA TODAY, and The Washington Post.He is best known for his coverage of Islam and Islamophobia, including his comprehensive reporting on the Murfreesboro mosque conflict, and on evangelical Christianity. We’ll discuss His new boo...2022-09-261h 15
Untangled Faith56: Reorganized Religion with Bob SmietanaBob Smietana swings by the Untangled Faith podcast to talk to Amy about his new book, Reorganized Religion, how he was able to land an interview with Beth Moore that broke the news that she was no longer in the SBC, and his hope for the future of religion. Subscribe to my newsletter: https://untangledfaith.substack.com In this episode Issues facing modern churches "Only a fool fights in a burning house." The Beth Moore interview The need for organized religion Featured Guest...2022-09-211h 04
Listen to Best Full Audiobooks in Non-Fiction, Social ScienceReorganized Religion: The Reshaping of the American Church and Why it Matters by Bob SmietanaPlease visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/1/audiobook/562429 to listen full audiobooks. Title: Reorganized Religion: The Reshaping of the American Church and Why it Matters Author: Bob Smietana Narrator: Aw Miller Format: Unabridged Audiobook Length: 6 hours 37 minutes Release date: August 30, 2022 Genres: Social Science Publisher's Summary: Uncover the ways the Christian church has changed in recent years—from the decline of the mainline denominations to the mega-churchification of American culture—and a hopeful reimagining of what the church might look like going forward. The United States is in the middle of an unprecedented spiritual, technological, demographic, political and social transformation—moving from an old...2022-08-3003 min
Listen to Best Full Audiobooks in Non-Fiction, Social ScienceReorganized Religion: The Reshaping of the American Church and Why it Matters by Bob SmietanaPlease visithttps://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/1/audiobook/562429to listen full audiobooks.
Title: Reorganized Religion: The Reshaping of the American Church and Why it Matters
Author: Bob Smietana
Narrator: Aw Miller
Format: Unabridged Audiobook
Length: 6 hours 37 minutes
Release date: August 30, 2022
Genres: Social Science
Publisher's Summary:
Uncover the ways the Christian church has changed in recent years—from the decline of the mainline denominations to the mega-churchification of American culture—and a hopeful reimagining of what the church might look like going forward. The United States is in the middle of an unprecedented spiritual, technological, demographic, political and social transformation—moving from an older...2022-08-306h 37Grab the Top Full Audiobooks in Religion & Spirituality, Counseling & InspirationalReorganized Religion: The Reshaping of the American Church and Why it Matters by Bob SmietanaPlease visithttps://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/1/audiobook/562429to listen full audiobooks.
Title: Reorganized Religion: The Reshaping of the American Church and Why it Matters
Author: Bob Smietana
Narrator: Aw Miller
Format: Unabridged Audiobook
Length: 6 hours 37 minutes
Release date: August 30, 2022
Genres: Counseling & Inspirational
Publisher's Summary:
Uncover the ways the Christian church has changed in recent years—from the decline of the mainline denominations to the mega-churchification of American culture—and a hopeful reimagining of what the church might look like going forward. The United States is in the middle of an unprecedented spiritual, technological, demographic, political and social transformation—moving from an older...2022-08-306h 37Download Latest Full Audiobooks in Religion & Spirituality, ChristianityReorganized Religion: The Reshaping of the American Church and Why it Matters by Bob SmietanaPlease visithttps://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/1/audiobook/562429to listen full audiobooks.
Title: Reorganized Religion: The Reshaping of the American Church and Why it Matters
Author: Bob Smietana
Narrator: Aw Miller
Format: Unabridged Audiobook
Length: 6 hours 37 minutes
Release date: August 30, 2022
Genres: Christianity
Publisher's Summary:
Uncover the ways the Christian church has changed in recent years—from the decline of the mainline denominations to the mega-churchification of American culture—and a hopeful reimagining of what the church might look like going forward. The United States is in the middle of an unprecedented spiritual, technological, demographic, political and social transformation—moving from an older, mostly...2022-08-306h 37
The Barely Saved Podcast102. Hippos, Reorganized Religion, and BeardsThis week Caleb, Matt, and Bob Smietana talked about Hippos in the new world, Bob's new book Reorganized Religion: The Reshaping of the American Church and Why It Matters, a tweet about men having beards, and In God We Trust signs in Texas Schools.
Animal Story
https://www.patheos.com/blogs/jesuscreed/2007/07/28/weekly-meanderings-63/
https://www.jessicahippo.com/
https://animals.sandiegozoo.org/animals/hippo
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hippopotamus#/media/File:Hippo_distribution.gif
https://www.cnn.com/2021/10/18/americas/colombia-hippos-drug-gonacon-intl-latam/index.html
T...2022-08-291h 24The Common Good PodcastWhy do people leave Christianity? Plus, Bob Smietana from Religion News Service(00:00-08:58): Why do people leave Christianity? Brian and Aubrey shared a variety of perspectives on the issue. (08:58-17:33): Heather Caliri wrote a piece called “God Takes Joy Seriously (And So Should You). Brian and Aubrey shared their reaction. (17:33-25:31): Greg Laurie posted on Twitter: "When the Barna Group asked nonbelievers what they value most when talking about spiritual things, a majority said they want people to listen without judgement. Some believers want to condemn and yell at people. But that isn’t how we’re going to reach them with the Gospel." (25:31-34:17): Accord...2022-07-1451 min
The Barely Saved Podcast68. Slide the Cow, Bob Smietana, and the “Meaning” of OmicronMatt, Caleb, Mike, and Bob Smietana talk about a cow on a water slide in Brazil, the history of this podcast, what has been happening in religious news, the SBC, the average church size, the letter omicron, sinning in the rain, and a blizzard warning for Hawaii.
Pastor Becky’s Animal Corner
https://www.travelandleisure.com/travel-news/cow-gets-stuck-on-a-waterslide-brazil
The Malcolm Section
https://wnyt.com/albany-new-york-news/jimmy-macdonald-of-albany-was-rescued-from-lake-george-by-paulist-fathers-priests-on-a-floating-tiki-bar/5850670/
https://religionnews.com/2021/03/09/bible-teacher-beth-moore-ends-partnership-with-lifeway-i-am-no-longer-a-southern-baptist/
https://religionnews.com/2021/10/05/sbc-committee-waives-privilege-abuse-investigation-moves-forward/
https://religionnews.com/2021/11/16/why-the-minichurch-is-the-latest-trend-in-american-religion/
Tweet of the Week
...2021-12-091h 04
Reliable SourcesDecember 5, 2021: The timeline of events leading to Chris Cuomo’s firing; the White House speaks out against the press; reporter Lara Logan makes shocking Nazi comparison.Plus…Julie K. Brown on the Ghislaine Maxwell trial giving rise to new conspiracies; an anti-vax Christian broadcast network CEO died from complications due to Covid-19 after downplaying the virus; former Republican Senator and Presidential candidate Bob Dole dies at the age of 98; and more. Mara Schiavocampo, Sara Fischer, David Zurawik, Bob Smietana, Eric Boehlert, Julie K. Brown join Brain Stelter.
To learn more about how CNN protects listener privacy, visit cnn.com/privacy2021-12-0543 min
Veterans of Culture Wars012: "I'll Fire Your Butt" Dave Ramsey's Empire and the Demonic Danger of Christian VentroliquismZach and Dave chat about Dave Ramsey's financial guru empire that grew out of the Evangelical Church with a syncretistic blend of faith and American capitalism. Also Zach shares a warning about the inherent demonic danger of Christian ventriloquial performance.
On Ventriloquism:
-Liberty Gospel Tracts - "What does the Bible say about ventriloquism?" - http://www.libertygospeltracts.com/question/prequest/ventriloquism.htm?fbclid=IwAR0iBlt5vDPhjhghnVNXFVisXy1NXc1FMIYFAd2-XvKq-YCyo3CqpmBZvxE
Articles on Dave Ramsey mentioned or used as source material on the pod:
-Matthew Paul T...2021-02-021h 19
Religion UnpluggedDave Ramsey's Baby Steps to RuinThis week, evangelical finance advisor Dave Ramsey’s organization fired off a sarcastic email to Religion News Service’s Bob Smietana that you don’t want to miss. The rant was in response to Smietana’s robust report on toxic workplace culture at Ramsey’s company.2021-02-0142 min
Fun Sexy Bible TimeDave Ramsey vs Bob Smietana, Would You Rather (ep 163)We dive into the recent brouhaha involving Dave Ramsey and his company's surprising email to journalist Bob Smietana (8:00) before Matthew winds up reading the email as Alex Jones (36:00). Finally, we cleanse the palate by playing Would You Rather (40:30)2021-01-2157 min
Tales From A Cult InsiderEpilogue 6: Reactions from Me and Others to the Religion News Service ArticleBack in January of 2020, before all the crazy, I was contacted by Bob Smietana, who was then the Editor-in-Chief of Religion News Service, a rather impressive and wonderful news outlet that reports on the religious angle of all the newsworthy stuff going down. Bob had found this podcast and was interested in discussing my childhood and experiences and we ended up doing an interview some weeks later. He also talked to my dad and sister. The article ultimately came out on October 14 and you can find it here: https://religionnews.com/2020/10/14/process-church-final-judgment-best-friends-animal-rescue-foundation-faith-jared-garett-latter-day-saint-cult-scientology-satanist-pet-rescue/
I shared it around and h...2020-10-3140 min
The Drew Marshall ShowWTF! (W.here\'s T.he F.aith?)Join Drew and various religion reporters from an assortment of news outlets, as they catch up on happenings in the world of Religion & Faith & Cults (Oh My!)
Today\'s W.T.F. Guest: Bob Smietana – Editor-in-Chief, Religion News Service
Smietana is an award-winning religion reporter and editor who has spent two decades producing breaking news, data journalism, investigative reporting, profiles and features for magazines, newspapers, trade publications and websites. He is best known for his coverage of Islam and Islamophobia, including his comprehensive reporting on the Murfreesboro mosque conflict, and of evangelical Christianity, including the emotional journey of Pearl Joy Br...2019-04-0600 min
BeliefsRNS Editor-In-Chief Bob Smietana: Why religion journalism matters nowHost Bill Baker sits with RNS Editor-In-Chief Bob Smietana for a conversation regarding the history and future of religion reporting in America and why religion journalism matters now.
2018-12-0325 min
The Fourth EstateThe Incredibles 2 rant, family separation, and Episcopal church property woes—The Fourth Estate, Ep.31On this episode Marty and Bob review a movie review, discuss the recent family separations at the border, and explore an Episcopal church property dispute.
The post The Incredibles 2 rant, family separation, and Episcopal church property woes—The Fourth Estate, Ep.31 first appeared on Marty Duren.2018-06-2537 minThe Fourth EstateMarty and Bob Talk About the News—The Fourth Estate, Ep.30On this delayed episode Marty and Bob discuss various topics that were in the news three weeks ago.
The post Marty and Bob Talk About the News—The Fourth Estate, Ep.30 first appeared on Marty Duren.2018-06-2237 minThe Fourth EstateWaffle House Hero, Gaza Mass Protests, the Bible in California—The Fourth Estate, Ep.29On this episode Marty and Bob discuss James Shaw, hero of the Waffle House shooting; the IDF response to the Gaza protests; and several God Beat stories.
The post Waffle House Hero, Gaza Mass Protests, the Bible in California—The Fourth Estate, Ep.29 first appeared on Marty Duren.2018-05-0432 minThe Fourth EstateFlight 1308, Pearl Joy Brown, and the Disintegration of Bill Hybels—The Fourth Estate, Ep.28On this episode Marty and Bob discuss the heroic pilot, Tammie Jo Shults, the beautiful life and haunting death of Pearl Joy Brown, and the disintegration of Bill Hybels.
The post Flight 1308, Pearl Joy Brown, and the Disintegration of Bill Hybels—The Fourth Estate, Ep.28 first appeared on Marty Duren.2018-04-2835 minThe Fourth EstateDead Russians in Syria, Frankenstein, and What is a fact?—The Fourth Estate, Ep.27On this episode Marty and Bob discuss the misunderstood Frankenstein, the blessing of the AK-47s, Russian deaths in a skirmish in Syria, and the meaning of "facts."
The post Dead Russians in Syria, Frankenstein, and What is a fact?—The Fourth Estate, Ep.27 first appeared on Marty Duren.2018-03-1443 minThe Fourth EstateThe Media Bias Chart, feat. Vanessa Otero—The Fourth Estate, Ep.26On this episode Marty and Bob welcome Vanessa Otero, creator of the Media Bias Chart, and founder of the All Generalizations are False blog, to talk about news, reporting, and bias.
The post The Media Bias Chart, feat. Vanessa Otero—The Fourth Estate, Ep.26 first appeared on Marty Duren.2018-03-0223 minThe Fourth EstateBilly Graham, and more struggles at Newsweek—The Fourth Estate Podcast, Ep.25On this episode Marty Duren and Bob Smietana discuss the life of Billy Graham, and struggles at Newsweek magazine.
The post Billy Graham, and more struggles at Newsweek—The Fourth Estate Podcast, Ep.25 first appeared on Marty Duren.2018-02-2335 minThe Fourth Estate“Fawning” Kim Yo-Jong, NYT hiring problems, and Kate Bowler’s grace—The Fourth Estate Podcast, Ep.24On this episode Marty and Bob discuss "fawning over" Kim Yo-Jong's Olympics visit, a bad NYT hire, and the grace of Kate Bowler.
The post “Fawning” Kim Yo-Jong, NYT hiring problems, and Kate Bowler’s grace—The Fourth Estate Podcast, Ep.24 first appeared on Marty Duren.2018-02-1633 minThe Fourth EstateMoody Blues and Russia Truth—The Fourth Estate Podcast, Ep.23On this episode Marty and Bob discuss the problems at Moody Bible Institute and whether the Russia story can ever be untangled.
The post Moody Blues and Russia Truth—The Fourth Estate Podcast, Ep.23 first appeared on Marty Duren.2018-02-1339 minThe Fourth EstateNigerian Megachurch Cities, Snake News, and the News Process—The Fourth Estate Podcast, Ep.22On this episode Marty and Bob discuss the a Nigerian church that morphed into a city, the pope's take on fake news, and the journalistic process.
The post Nigerian Megachurch Cities, Snake News, and the News Process—The Fourth Estate Podcast, Ep.22 first appeared on Marty Duren.2018-01-2546 minThe Fourth EstateFake Missiles, Crazed Parents, Friends on Trial, and Bob’s Music—The Fourth Estate Podcast, Ep.21On this episode we discuss the erroneous missile attack on Hawaii, friends who break the law, support for Israel among younger evangelicals, and two deranged California parents.
The post Fake Missiles, Crazed Parents, Friends on Trial, and Bob’s Music—The Fourth Estate Podcast, Ep.21 first appeared on Marty Duren.2018-01-1849 minThe Fourth EstateCat Cults, Tom Brady, Mormon Obit, and Michael Wolff—The Fourth Estate Podcast, Ep.20Old host Marty Duren is joined by new co-host Bob Smietana to talk about news and reporting.
The post Cat Cults, Tom Brady, Mormon Obit, and Michael Wolff—The Fourth Estate Podcast, Ep.20 first appeared on Marty Duren.2018-01-1142 minThe Fourth EstateT4E Drive Time – October 25, 2016: The Polling WarsOne thing is clear: we won't know which poll to trust until it's all said and done.
The post T4E Drive Time – October 25, 2016: The Polling Wars first appeared on Marty Duren.2016-10-2514 minThe Fourth EstateT4E Drive Time – September 28, 2016: The Debate and Going to MarsWho won the first presidential debate? Depends on who you ask. But, who cares? Elon Musk is sending us to Mars!
The post T4E Drive Time – September 28, 2016: The Debate and Going to Mars first appeared on Marty Duren.2016-09-2813 minThe Fourth EstateT4E Drive Time – September 1, 2016: Why I’m 75/25 on Evan McMullinIn which I talk about the 25% in Evan McMullin's campaign that he needs to address to secure my vote.
The post T4E Drive Time – September 1, 2016: Why I’m 75/25 on Evan McMullin first appeared on Marty Duren.2016-09-0113 minThe Fourth EstateEpisode 19 – The Fourth Estate Podcast – The use of languageTodd Littleton, host of the /pa-theo-logical/ podcast, joins me today on this crossover episode. We are discussing the use of language in the public arena (for most of my listeners) and in the church (for many of his).
The post Episode 19 – The Fourth Estate Podcast – The use of language first appeared on Marty Duren.2016-08-2629 minThe Fourth EstateT4E Drive Time – August 23, 2016: TV and Election 2016Electioneering by Reality TV?
The post T4E Drive Time – August 23, 2016: TV and Election 2016 first appeared on Marty Duren.2016-08-2311 minThe Fourth EstateT4E Drive Time – August 22, 2016: Welfare, ISIS, DeportationWelfare, ISIS, Deportation. Subscribe via iTunes • Subscribe via RSS • Subscribe via Stitcher Sponsors Sponsor/advertiser slots for September 2016 are available. Contact me via the contact form for rates. If you enjoy T4E Drive Time, or the full length podcasts, consider a positive rate and review on iTunes! Thanks for reading and sharing. Don’t forget to subscribe to email […]
The post T4E Drive Time – August 22, 2016: Welfare, ISIS, Deportation first appeared on Marty Duren.2016-08-2214 minThe Fourth EstateT4E Drive Time – August 16, 2016: Fighting ISISWhose plan differs from Obama's?
The post T4E Drive Time – August 16, 2016: Fighting ISIS first appeared on Marty Duren.2016-08-1610 minThe Fourth EstateT4E Drive Time – August 10, 2016: Evan McMullinWhat in the world is Evan McMullin doing?
The post T4E Drive Time – August 10, 2016: Evan McMullin first appeared on Marty Duren.2016-08-1010 minThe Fourth EstateT4E Drive Time – August 2, 2016: Crime and FreedomNo nation of liberty and law will ever be 100% from threat of terrorism.
The post T4E Drive Time – August 2, 2016: Crime and Freedom first appeared on Marty Duren.2016-08-0209 minThe Fourth EstateT4E Drive Time – July 27, 2016: Is the GOParty over?Is GWB the last Republican president? He thinks it could be true.
The post T4E Drive Time – July 27, 2016: Is the GOParty over? first appeared on Marty Duren.2016-07-2712 minThe Fourth EstateT4E Drive Time – July 25, 2016: Third Party VotingMore thoughts on why to consider a 3rd party or Independent candidate for president.
The post T4E Drive Time – July 25, 2016: Third Party Voting first appeared on Marty Duren.2016-07-2513 minThe Fourth EstateT4E Drive Time – July 14, 2016: Turkey in TurmoilJournalist assassinated, Turkey in turmoil, North Korea acting out.
The post T4E Drive Time – July 14, 2016: Turkey in Turmoil first appeared on Marty Duren.2016-07-2010 minThe Fourth EstateT4E Drive Time – July 14, 2016: Talking about raceWhy is it so hard to talk about race?
The post T4E Drive Time – July 14, 2016: Talking about race first appeared on Marty Duren.2016-07-1412 minThe Fourth EstateT4E Drive Time – July 11, 2016: Sterling and CastileThoughts on speculation about the deaths of Alton Sterling and Philando Castile.
The post T4E Drive Time – July 11, 2016: Sterling and Castile first appeared on Marty Duren.2016-07-1113 minThe Fourth EstateT4E Drive Time – June 27, 2016: Cali Rally and BrexitCalifornia rally fight, Brexit and Fallujah.
The post T4E Drive Time – June 27, 2016: Cali Rally and Brexit first appeared on Marty Duren.2016-06-2711 minThe Fourth EstateT4E Drive Time – June 21, 2016: Guns and TrumpGun bills go down in flames, Trump doesn't seem to campaign.
The post T4E Drive Time – June 21, 2016: Guns and Trump first appeared on Marty Duren.2016-06-2114 minThe Fourth EstateT4E Drive Time – June 7, 2016: Terrorism UpdateTerrorism is down, Iran isn't helping, Stanford rape case.
The post T4E Drive Time – June 7, 2016: Terrorism Update first appeared on Marty Duren.2016-06-0713 minThe Fourth EstateT4E Drive Time – May 31, 2016: ISIS StrugglingFallujah surrounded, ISIS struggling, Snowden.
The post T4E Drive Time – May 31, 2016: ISIS Struggling first appeared on Marty Duren.2016-05-3110 min