Shows
The Third PlaceChurches, Politics & the IRS??In this episode, it’s just Brian and Lauren at the mics, diving into a surprising new shift: the IRS now allows churches to endorse candidates and "campaign" — something that challenges long-held expectations about the separation of church and state.What does this mean for pastors, congregations, and Christian leaders? Should churches get involved in political endorsements at all? We unpack the implications, the risks, and what faithful leadership might look like in a politically charged culture. Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/exjJz5bVLqsPat...2025-07-3127 minThe Third PlaceFaith, Medicine & A New BabyWe kick off this episode with a joyful update from our very own Daria Swisher, who joins us to share life and baby news! Then we dive into a powerful and emotional conversation about faith over medicine — specifically, a real-life story where a family chose to rely on prayer instead of medical intervention for their newborn.What does it mean to trust God and value modern medicine? How do we navigate those moments when faith and fear collide?This is a raw, heartfelt discussion that raises deep questions and invites compassionate conversation....2025-07-2947 minThe Third PlaceSAT Changes, Mental Health & A WCRF Reunion PicnicThis week, we kick things off with a special moment: a picnic with our friends — the recently laid-off WCRF staff and their spouses. You’ll hear from Daria, Ron, Mike, Allen, Josh, and even Paul Carter as we reflect, laugh, and share what God is doing next.Then we dive into a powerful conversation with Dr. Steve Grcevich, retired adolescent psychiatrist and founder of Key Ministry, about the recent SAT standards changes and what they mean for kids today — especially those with mental health or learning challenges.A thoughtful, practical, and hope-filled discussion about education, pressu...2025-07-241h 05The Third Place10 Year Anniversary of Obergefell and Age DiscriminationWe’re joined by Dr. Mark Caleb Smith from Cedarville University for a real and practical conversation about 10 years post Obergefell v. Hodges Supreme Court Decision and much more!Plus — we unpack the hilarious and humbling reality of accidentally talking to your spouse like you talk to your kids. (We’ve all been there, right?) Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/Iqjz7Dww8BoSpecial thanks to our sponsor: Christian Children’s Home of Ohio — we’re grateful for your support! Get bonus content...2025-07-2246 minThe Third PlaceLayoffs, the Economy & Your Financial QuestionsWe’re joined by Dave Szafranski from Edgewater Investment Group for a real and practical conversation about understanding today’s economy, and tackling the financial questions so many of us are asking right now.Whether you’re facing uncertainty or planning ahead, this episode offers insight and encouragement.Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/Ft-l4NrdtWMSpecial thanks to our sponsor: Christian Children’s Home of Ohio — we’re grateful for your support! Get bonus content + behind-the-scenes at: patreon.com/thethirdplacepodcastLearn...2025-07-171h 03The Third PlaceRobot Vacuums, Laundry Chutes & SanctificationWe’re joined by Crystal Kershaw from Fieldstone Counseling for a fun and meaningful conversation that somehow connects robot vacuums, laundry chutes, and the deep work of sanctification — with a little help from the wisdom of John Newton.From household chaos to heart transformation, this episode has it all!Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/XtMpE_AU878Special thanks to our sponsor: Christian Children’s Home of Ohio — thank you for supporting this episode!Get bonus content and behind-the-scenes extras at: patreon...2025-07-1541 minThe Third PlaceArby’s, Disqualified Pastors, and Fast Food Hot TakesWe’re joined by Pastor Leonard Tanks, Jr. from Reach Church CLE for a fun and thought-provoking conversation. We cover everything from fast food favorites (yes, including Arby’s!) to how the local church responds when pastors are disqualified from ministry.Come for the fast food takes — stay for the honest discussion on leadership and integrity in the church.Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/i6r_De-2ZSoSpecial thanks to our sponsor: Christian Children’s Home of Ohio — we appreciate your support of this episo...2025-07-1055 minThe Third PlaceParenting in the Summer, Moms in Crisis & School SuppliesWe’re joined by Jaime Buxton from The City Mission to talk about parenting through the summer months and the urgent need moms in crisis face as back-to-school approaches. Learn how you can help by donating school supplies and supporting families in need. Check out details about the Back to School Bash at thecitymission.org/events.Plus, we have some fun moments when someone admits they don’t know who Tupac is! 😲Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/OynZbEOxx2w🙏 Thanks to our sponsor: Christian Children’s Home of Ohio — we appreciate you...2025-07-0844 minThe Third Place4th of July, Doctors, and IranIn this episode, we’re joined by Dr. Glen Duerr from Cedarville University to break down the recent conflict with Iran — what it means for us today, and what it means biblically.But that’s not all…We swap stories about awkward doctor appointments, chat about 4th of July at church, and somehow, Apolo Anton Ohno makes an appearance in our conversation!Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/QyuCoNMgS1sSpecial thanks to our sponsor: Christian Children’s Home of Ohio — thank you for supporting this episode!Get bonus co...2025-07-0442 minThe Third PlaceEdChoice, Schools, and a Misbehaving CameraIn this episode, we’re diving into the recent Ohio court decision on EdChoice and unpacking what it means for Christian families. Joining us for this important conversation are two fantastic guests:Pastor Scott Lessing, Associate Pastor at Grace Church in Middleburg Heights — learn more at gracecma.orgAttorney Nathan Zion, Founder of Mulhall Zion LLC, a boutique law firm serving Northeast Ohio — visit mz-llc.comWe’re also sharing some personal updates on Brian and Lauren’s lives and ministry work. Plus — you won’t want to miss the hilarious outt...2025-07-0158 minThe Third PlaceThe Band is Back Together!The new show launches in July! In the midst of all the preparations, Brian sat down with some familiar faces to talk about how they feel about the new show. You'll probably notice a common theme...Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/NjreTZDmHhcGoFundMe - https://gofund.me/114ae107 Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/podthirdplace?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw== 2025-06-1913 minThe Third PlaceShort, Sweet & Slightly UnscriptedThe Third Place Podcast is officially launching in July!! In the meantime, Brian caught-up with some familiar faces, and couldn't resist having a little fun. NOTE - this episode is best consumed on our YouTube Channel: Watch this episode: https://youtu.be/jdae5GmDzwkGoFundMe - https://gofund.me/114ae107 Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/podthirdplace?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw== 2025-06-1706 minThe Third PlaceThe Third Place?Brian and Lauren have a new show! Listen to find out more about what they're doing, and how you can help. Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/V_S49t2w4V0GoFundMe - https://gofund.me/114ae107 Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/podthirdplace?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw== 2025-06-0106 min