Shows
Right Side Up Podcast with Danielle StricklandHell Bent - How the fear of Hell holds Christians back from a Spirituality of Love with Brian ReckerSummaryIn this conversation, James Sholl and Danielle Strickland engage with Brian Recker, author of ‘Hell Bent’, discussing his journey from fundamentalism to a more expansive understanding of faith. They explore themes of deconstruction, the implications of hell in Christianity, and the importance of justice over punishment. The conversation emphasizes the need for authenticity in spirituality and the liberating experience of finding Jesus beyond traditional frameworks.‘I began, very strongly, to feel that who we were in Evangelicalism did not reflect the spirituality of Jesus’Takeaways* Brian Recker’s...
2025-12-2955 min
The Ron ShowA Re-Ron: Author, theologian Brian Recker on white nationalist evangelism + Joshua Doss piles onFirst, from June 19, 2025: Brian Recker, a former Marine, former evangelical pastor, current theologian, speaker and writer, has developed a healthy social media following and solid presence on Substack. His focus? Deconstructing his faith to find a more inclusive spirituality - which often runs afoul of today's right-wing aligned American evangelical movement.He's just the kind of guest to discuss the 'Ted Cruz v. Tucker Carlson' dust-up over Cruz' limp grasp on scripture he believes commands him (and the U.S. apparently) to support Israel unequivocally.Recker and I discuss this at length, along with the use of...
2025-12-2444 min
Brother and WhatnotBrian Recker - "Hell Bent" - Interview Follow-Up and Book DiscussionThis is a follow up discussion about the interview we did with author, Brian Recker. In his new book, Hell Bent, Recker argues that the fear of hell is the "black hole" warping Christian spirituality. He re-examines scripture to assert that hell is not real and that God's universal love is radically inclusive, inviting readers to replace fear with a spirituality rooted in love. Each episode, we discuss a different book. Brian, with eight years as Lead Pastor at Hope Community Church in St. Paul, MN, provides thoughtful theological insights. His older brother, Matt, has many questions...
2025-12-241h 31
Turek Books PodcastEscaping Punitive Christianity with Brian ReckerHost Joshua Turek is joined by guest Brian Recker, author of the new book "Hell Bent" (How the Fear of Hell Holds Christians Back from a Spirituality of Love). They discuss the books Brian read while researching his own, which details redefining his own spirituality and Christian beliefs. Discussing masculinity and softening the world, the two detail their own unique paths toward similar conclusions.to sign up for Josh’s next Zoom weekend poetry workshop on Jan 18&19 check joshuaturek.comBooks Talked About Include:Debt by David GraeberHell Be...
2025-12-2256 min
Don’t F*kn Shrink16: Deconstructing Faith and Letting Go of Fear with Brian ReckerSend us a textWhat happens when staying “acceptable” costs you your integrity? In this episode, Daffney talks with public theologian and bestselling author of Hell Bent, Brian Recker, for an honest conversation about faith, fear, and the moment you stop contorting yourself to belong. Brian unpacks his journey from growing up as a fundamentalist pastor’s kid to walking away from the pulpit when curiosity, conscience, and love could no longer fit inside rigid religious systems. Together, they discuss how fear has been used to control belief, why politics and religion became dangerously intertwined, and what it rea...
2025-12-1936 min
BookwildWhen Faith Becomes Fear: Hell, Control, and the Loss of Love with Brian ReckerThis week, I talk with Brian Recker about his book Hell Bent, which examines how fear-based teachings about hell distort Christian spirituality, replacing love, connection, and moral discernment with control, shame, and punishment avoidance. Drawing from his upbringing in fundamentalism and later work as an evangelical pastor, he shares how early indoctrination around hell fractures relationships with God, self, and others, discourages intuition and questioning, all while propping up systems of domination—from abusive religious authority to political movements rooted in fear. Rather than abandoning spirituality altogether, he reclaimed Jesus from these systems, reframing faith as a practice of lo...
2025-12-161h 06
Workers' LitBonus Interview: Hell Bent with Brian ReckerIt's a bonus author interview!We're joined by author, public theologian, and all-around cool guy Brian Recker to talk about his new book, "Hell Bent: How the Fear of Hell Holds Christians Back from a Spirituality of Love"If you were raised evangelical, this one will hit hard, but even if you weren't, this is a great discussion (and book!) about the politics of hell, liberatory (and anti-liberatory) forms of Christianity, and the way a fear of divine punishment hangs over our society...and how we all deserve to escape that fear.Buy...
2025-12-0629 min
Mission: TexasEp. 9: Confronting Christian Nationalism in Texas (Brian Recker, author of Hell Bent)Texas is one of the most deeply churched states in America—67% of adults here identify as Christian. So understanding how to navigate the entrenched evangelical culture that shapes so much of Texas politics is at the heart of today’s episode.Kate and Alex sit down with Brian Recker—writer, creator, and former evangelical pastor—whose book Hell Bent is reshaping the national conversation about the intersection of faith, fear, and political power in America.Brian explains how teachings centered on fear, exclusion, and “in-group vs. out-group” thinking have fueled modern Christian nationalism—and how that dynamic s...
2025-12-041h 01Brother and WhatnotInterview with Brian Recker, author of "Hell Bent"Brian Recker joins us to discuss his new book, Hell Bent. Recker argues that the fear of hell is the "black hole" warping Christian spirituality. He re-examines scripture to assert that hell is not real and that God's universal love is radically inclusive, inviting readers to replace fear with a spirituality rooted in love. Each episode, we discuss a different book. Brian, with eight years as Lead Pastor at Hope Community Church in St. Paul, MN, provides thoughtful theological insights. His older brother, Matt, has many questions about God, the Bible, mysticism, and theology. Expect candid conversations...
2025-12-031h 17
Right There With YouHell, Whiteness, and the Myth of Punishment: A Conversation with Tamice Spencer-Helms & Brian ReckerWhat if God was never a punisher—and hell was never the point?In this powerful episode of Right There With You, hosts Cass Cooper and Ciarra Jones sit down with public theologians Tamice Spencer-Helms (Faith Unleavened) and Brian Recker (Hell Bent) to explore how fear, whiteness, and Christian supremacy have shaped American Christianity and the spiritual lives of millions.Together, they unpack:How hell theology produces fear, shame, and controlWhy a punitive view of God leads to a...
2025-12-0250 min
Spirituality AdventuresHell Bent - Spirituality Adventures feat. Brian ReckerIn this episode, Fred interviews Brian Recker - Author of Hell Bent: How the Fear of Hell Holds Christians Back from a Spirituality of Love.
Learn more at: https://www.brianrecker.com/
Meet Brian Recker:
A former Marine Officer, the son of a Baptist preacher, and an alum of the fundamentalist Bob Jones University, Brian spent eight years as an evangelical pastor before deconstructing his faith to find a more inclusive spirituality. He now speaks about following Jesus without fear of hell on his popular Instagram account and...
2025-12-011h 06
Shifting CultureEp. 367 Brian Recker - How the Fear of Hell Holds Christians Back from a Spirituality of LoveIn this episode, I talk with Brian Recker about his new book Hell Bent and the ways fear-based theology has shaped so many of our spiritual imaginations. Brian grew up learning about hell and God in the same breath, and he unpacks how that fusion created a system built on binary thinking, punishment, and spiritual insecurity. We explore his journey from fundamentalism to evangelical ministry to a reimagined faith centered on love, liberation, and a vision Jesus preached. We get into Gehenna, apocalyptic language, why evangelicals cling to certainty, how fear distorts our understanding of God, and what it...
2025-11-251h 03
G(od)-Spot PodcastS9 - Episode 12 - Hell Bent - Brian ReckerBrian Recker is a public theologian, speaker, and writer on Christian spirituality without exclusionary dogma. He is a former evangelical pastor and we talk about his story of life and faith. Most of all we talk about his book Hell Bent in which he explains why we can stop worrying about hell and start focusing on love.
A great conversation and a lot of laughter. Enjoy this episode.
Like and share this episode on Social media and to your friends. Follow the podcast on Facebook; Instagram and the Blog and if you want, w...
2025-11-2338 min
WGKMThe Michael Knowles Show - 2 Liberals vs. 1 Conservative: BAR FIGHT | Michael Knowles, Brian Recker, & Ryan BashamMichael Knowles goes head-to-head with Brian Recker, & Ryan Basham in this episode of Bar Fight, where the fired-up live audience chooses the hottest topics to cover. From wives owing husbands sex and leftwing violence no subject is off-limits with live questions from the rowdy Nashville crowd live from John Rich's Redneck Riviera.
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Today's Sponsors:
Good Ranchers - Visit https://goodranchers.com for an additional $100 off your first three orders– $40 off your first, $30 off your second, $30 off your third– with code KNOWLES and f...
2025-11-181h 17The Michael Knowles Show2 Liberals vs. 1 Conservative: BAR FIGHT | Michael Knowles, Brian Recker, & Ryan BashamMichael Knowles goes head-to-head with Brian Recker, & Ryan Basham in this episode of Bar Fight, where the fired-up live audience chooses the hottest topics to cover. From wives owing husbands sex and leftwing violence no subject is off-limits with live questions from the rowdy Nashville crowd live from John Rich's Redneck Riviera.
- - -
Today's Sponsors:
Good Ranchers - Visit https://goodranchers.com for an additional $100 off your first three orders– $40 off your first, $30 off your second, $30 off your third– with code KNOWLES and f...
2025-11-181h 17
Reconnect Pod14: Hell, Fear, and a Spirituality of Love with Brian ReckerDeedra and Megan sit down with public theologian and author Brian Recker to unpack his new book, Hellbent: How the Fear of Hell Holds Christians Back from a Spirituality of Love. Brian shares his journey from fundamentalism and eight years in the evangelical pastorate to a more inclusive way of following Jesus—one that replaces fear, punishment, and gatekeeping with curiosity, reclamation, and love. Together they explore how doctrines of eternal torment shape our image of God, our bodies, and our communities—and why removing hell from the center can actually deepen faith and free us to do t...
2025-11-1352 min
Christ Community Church Messages277 — Leaving Fundamentalism: Brian Recker’s StoryIn this episode, we sit down with Brian Recker to talk about his story of leaving the world of fundamental Christianity.Brian grew up deep in the culture of fundamentalism. He eventually became a full–time vocational pastor and gave his life to ministry. But over time… questions he wasn’t allowed to ask… pain he couldn’t ignore… and theological systems that could not stand up to honest scrutiny… led him down a long and winding journey of deconstruction.In this conversation, Brian shares honestly about what led him to step away from vocational ministry, how...
2025-11-071h 06
jonathan_fosterA Hell Bent Conversation with Brian ReckerLoved catching up with Brian Recker about both his work and his USA Today bestselling book, Hell Bent: How the Fear of Hell Holds Christians Back from a Spirituality of Love. Subscribe to Brian’s substack publication and find him on Instagram (with a few hundred thousand other people!)Thanks everyone. This will likely be our last Substack Live of the year for Tori and I, but we’re already talking about 2026 plans.Hey, if you resonate with some of the stuff we were talking about today and you’re a faith leader, you should know a...
2025-11-0658 min
Healed-ish34. Were We Lied To About Hell? (Brian Recker's Story)Were we lied to about hell?This week, I am joined by Brian Recker, a pastor's kid, former minister, and author of Hell Bent. Brian asked the question most of us were taught to fear: Is the hell we grew up with actually biblical?Brian shares how studying Scripture and church history unraveled fear-based theology and led him into a deeper and more loving experience of God. We talk about the harm of "turn or burn" messaging, what Jesus really taught, and how letting go of hell did not destroy Brian's faith, it healed it.
2025-11-041h 23
Cascade Church PortlandBrian Recker:: Hell on EarthBrian Recker visits and talks about how Hell has been utilized culturally today and the disconnects from the source material in the scriptures. This is part of his newly released book "Hell Bent", which you can purchase here.
2025-10-2836 min
And Also With YouAre we all Hell Bent? With Brian ReckerJust in time for Halloween, we're talking about the spookiest thing of all: HELL. Or better yet - a belief in hell. Christianity's obsession with hell has us missing out on love, freedom, connection, and justice without punishment. We're joined today by bestselling author Brian Recker to talk about hell, how we unravel its chokehold on our faith, and what life can look like free from this fear. Brian's book Hell Bent is here!Lizzie's book (which we also talk about in this episode) is here! We have one more fun seasonal episode ne...
2025-10-271h 04
Church on MorganBrian ReckerA sermon for the 19th Sunday after Pentecost on Genesis 32:22-31 by author Brian Recker.
2025-10-1933 min
Wellspring Message PodcastAlso Known As... Part 5 - The Men with the Issue of Blood: Brian ReckerContinuing our series on retitling stories in the Bible, guest speaker Brian Recker shares his perspective on Luke 8:42-48 and The Woman with the Issue of Blood, AKA the Men with the Issue of Blood. Originally preached October 5, 2025, this sermon follows a book launch party held at Wellspring the previous evening for Brian's book Hell Bent, and Joash Thomas' book The Justice of Jesus.
2025-10-1737 min
The Marianne Williamson PodcastA PROGRESSIVE CHRISTIAN'S RESPONSE TO CHRISTIAN NATIONALISM: My interview with Brian ReckerWhen hate is loud, love cannot afford to whisper. When forces of oppression are on the move, lovers of freedom must respond. When those who seek to replace democracy with theocracy are gaining ground, those who are sworn to preserve and protect democracy must stand our ground. Jesus, of course, was neither oppressor nor hater nor promoter of theocracy. There are those who claim to speak for him at times, however, who are all of those things. One of the primary forces behind Project 2025 is a political movement called Christian Nationalism. Christian Nationalism speaks not of the t...
2025-10-1657 min
river NYCHow the Fear of Hell Holds Christians Back From a Spirituality of Love (10.12.25, Brian Recker)How the Fear of Hell Holds Christians Back From a Spirituality of Love (10.12.25, Brian Recker) by River NYC Sermons
2025-10-1438 min
Amateur Activist with Isabela HerreraAmateur Book Club: Hell Bent by Brian ReckerWelcome to the Amateur Book Club! In this episode, Isabela talks about Hell Bent: How the Fear of Love Holds Christians Back from a Spirituality of Love by Brian Recker. Isabela explains what the book is about and why she thinks it’s an important book for both Christians and non-Christians. She talks about the big takeaways and the confronting moments and feelings she’s decided to sit with and explore. This is the last book for the Amateur Book Club 2025. Follow us on Instagram @amateuractivistpod or on TikTok @belagi...
2025-10-1420 min
Grub & GraceHell Bent w Brian ReckerWhat comes to mind when the word “hell” is mentioned? Demons with pitchforks? Endless torment? Listening to ASMR of your grandparents eating sandwiches while they breathe through their nose?My guest today is Brian Recker, author of the new book Hellbent. Brian is a former evangelical pastor, public theologian, speaker, and writer on Christian spirituality without exclusionary dogma and he helps explain why we can stop worrying about hell and start focusing on love.You can find Brian on his website https://www.brianrecker.com/As well as Instagram @bereckerFind out...
2025-10-1352 min
Faithful PoliticsDeconstructing Hell: Brian Recker on Fear, Faith, and a Spirituality of LoveHave a comment? Send us a text! (We read all of them but can't reply). Email us: Will@faithfulpoliticspodcast.comWhat happens to Christian faith when hell is no longer the centerpiece of the story? In this episode of Faithful Politics, Will Wright and Pastor Josh Burtram talk with Brian Recker—public theologian, former evangelical pastor, and author of the upcoming book Hellbent—about how a fixation on hell distorts the Christian life.Brian shares his powerful journey from fundamentalist Baptist roots and Bob Jones University, through service as a Marine officer and years...
2025-09-3058 min
Honoring the JourneyBrian Recker is Back to Discuss "Hell Bent" on Honoring the Journey!In this episode, Leslie welcomes back Brian Recker to discuss his new book, "Hell Bent: How the Fear of Hell Holds Christians Back from a Spirituality of Love." Together, they dive into Brian’s journey from a strict evangelical upbringing to a more open, love-focused faith, exploring how fear-based teachings—especially the concept of hell—shape personal beliefs, relationships, and community dynamics. The conversation is honest, empathetic, and often humorous, offering practical tools for deconstructing harmful beliefs and encouraging listeners to embrace a spirituality rooted in love rather than fear. Whether you’re questioning your faith or just curious about ne...
2025-09-2953 min
The Sacred Slope20. Brian Recker (Ex-Evangelical Pastor) – Hell Bent on Reclaiming Love20. Brian Recker (Ex-Evangelical Pastor) – Hell Bent on Reclaiming LoveAlexis Rice welcomes Brian Recker (@berecker) — former evangelical pastor, founding voice of Beloved on Substack, and author of Hellbent: How the Fear of Hell Holds Christians Back from a Spirituality of Love (out Sept 30)👉 Order on ThriftBooksWith honesty and pastoral clarity, Brian explores why hell-talk became the center of so many Christian upbringings—and how returning to Jesus’ core command to love can free our faith from fear, control, and gatekeeping.Alexis and Brian dive into:What fear-b...
2025-09-2952 min
Preacher Boys PodcastDoes the Fear of Hell Hold Christians Back from a Spirituality of Love? | Brian ReckerSupport the Show: Patreon.com/PreacherBoys✖️✖️✖️🔥 What if the fear of hell has been holding you back from experiencing true spirituality rooted in love?In this thought-provoking interview, Brian Recker (former evangelical pastor and author of Hell Bent: How the Fear of Hell Holds Christians Back from a Spirituality of Love) shares his journey from Independent Fundamental Baptist (IFB) upbringing to progressive Christianity. Along the way, he unpacks how doctrines of eternal punishment warp faith, relationships, and even our definition of love.We ex...
2025-09-281h 02Preacher Boys PodcastDoes the Fear of Hell Hold Christians Back from a Spirituality of Love? | Brian ReckerSupport the Show: Patreon.com/PreacherBoys✖️✖️✖️🔥 What if the fear of hell has been holding you back from experiencing true spirituality rooted in love?In this thought-provoking interview, Brian Recker (former evangelical pastor and author of Hell Bent: How the Fear of Hell Holds Christians Back from a Spirituality of Love) shares his journey from Independent Fundamental Baptist (IFB) upbringing to progressive Christianity. Along the way, he unpacks how doctrines of eternal punishment warp faith, relationships, and even our definition of love.We ex...
2025-09-281h 02
Spiritual Misfits PodcastBrian Recker: Reframing Hell, Exchanging Fear for LoveBrian Recker used to be an evangelical pastor. Growing up fundamentalist, hell was always core to his experience of Christianity. But when he started questioning the doctrine as a pastor, it unraveled more than he expected. His new book 'Hell Bent' argues that fear of hell fundamentally distorts Christian spirituality, disconnecting us from God, ourselves, and others. We discuss the power of hell-based religion, how it shapes our politics and relationships, and what a love-centred spirituality looks like when you're no longer afraid of punishment.Check out the book, 'Hell Bent' here.Connect with more...
2025-09-271h 04
Cabernet and PrayHell Bent (with Brian Recker) | Ep. 56What happens when Christians start rethinking the very idea of hell? In this episode of Cabernet and Pray, we sit down with Brian Recker to ask the questions many of us were told we weren’t allowed to ask. Is hell really eternal conscious torment? What about annihilation? Could universalism actually be more faithful to Jesus? And how do history, culture, and scripture all play into the pictures we’ve inherited? We pour a glass of wine, get honest about our doubts, and wrestle with what kind of God we actually believe in. If good theology is theology that look...
2025-09-241h 23
Faith and FeminismHell Bent with Brian ReckerOn today's podcast with Brian Recker, he shares about his new book Hell Bent (coming out next week) about how a theology of hell has bent Christianity into a religion of fear and control, and how this doesn't come close to what he thinks Christ envisioned for the Church.
2025-09-221h 07
The Local Church PodcastSermon: Baggage Claim | Week 3: Hell // Brian ReckerDateSeptember 21, 2025SynopsisIn this sermon from the "Baggage Claim" series, we confront one of Christianity's heaviest burdens: the doctrine of hell and divine punishment. Brian Recker reveals how fear-based theology creates devastating spiritual baggage in our relationships with God, ourselves, and others. Through fresh historical and biblical insights, he reframes Jesus's teachings about Gehenna not as threats of eternal torment, but as urgent calls to build loving communities in the present. Drawing from Matthew 7:12, Luke 19:10, and 1 John 4:18, Recker invites us to exchange our fear-laden baggage for the transformative truth of our belovedness.
2025-09-2139 min
Becoming ChurchBrian Recker: Hell BentIf heaven is our ticket outta here and hell is our punishment for not living good enough lives, is the whole point of following Jesus just to prove that we can do a good job? What does it mean for our lives here on earth in the meantime?
Brian Recker is here to propose how maybe Christianity has leaned a little too hard on the existence of a literal place called hell and how it’s gotten in the way of what it really means to know, follow and live out the gospel of Jesus.
...
2025-09-211h 02
The Substance185: Rethinking Hell, a Spirituality of Fear, and a God of Radical Love feat. Brian ReckerIt's been a crazy week, so the show notes will be short and sweet.Brian Recker is a public theologian, has a new book on Hell coming out at the end of the month, and I had a great time talking with him. In our conversation we cover:Our mutual love of movies (and solo theater visits)The extremely conservative colleges we attendedHell as a foundational principle Coercive, fear based spiritualityKeeping up relationships with family with whom we disagreeProgressive purity testsMen's Fall fashionAnd MORE!We hope you enjoy the...
2025-09-161h 16
The AkkeriReal Spirituality: A Conversation with Ex-Evangelical Pastor Brian ReckerBrian Recker is a former Marine Officer, the son of a Baptist preacher, and an alum of the fundamentalist Bob Jones University. Brian spent eight years as an evangelical pastor before deconstructing his faith to find a more inclusive spirituality. He now speaks about following Jesus without the fear of hell, and has written about this in his new book, HellBent: How the Fear of Hell Holds Christians Back from a Spirituality of Love.We talk about why he deconstructed his faith and what spirituality looks like to him now. He shares why he believes that hell...
2025-09-141h 03
Tell Me More with Nicole WaltersAbout... Christian Nationalism (with Brian Recker)“The two things you're not supposed to talk about are politics and religion. But if you don't talk about those things, what are we even doing?”Former evangelical pastor Brian Recker is here to share his lived experience with modern Christianity, the Christian Nationalism movement, and why maybe Hell isn’t what we thought it was.Brian shares his experiences transitioning from a fundamentalist background to becoming an evangelical pastor, and the turning points he faced within the church, especially during the first election of Donald Trump.
2025-09-091h 12
The Whole Church PodcastReckoning with Hell: A Journey Through Brian Recker's 'Hellbent'Brian Recker joins us to discuss his forthcoming book, "Hellbent," which critically examines the doctrine of Hell and its ramifications on Christian spirituality. At the forefront of our conversation is the assertion that the traditional understanding of Hell as eternal punishment has proven to be detrimental, fostering fear and alienation rather than love and reconciliation. Through thoughtful dialogue, we explore how these harmful beliefs distort our perception of God and our relationships with others. Brian's insights challenge listeners to reconsider the implications of Hell on their faith and to embrace a more inclusive spirituality that prioritizes connection and healing...
2025-09-031h 16The Whole Church PodcastReckoning with Hell: A Journey Through Brian Recker's 'Hellbent'Brian Recker joins us to discuss his forthcoming book, "Hellbent," which critically examines the doctrine of Hell and its ramifications on Christian spirituality. At the forefront of our conversation is the assertion that the traditional understanding of Hell as eternal punishment has proven to be detrimental, fostering fear and alienation rather than love and reconciliation. Through thoughtful dialogue, we explore how these harmful beliefs distort our perception of God and our relationships with others. Brian's insights challenge listeners to reconsider the implications of Hell on their faith and to embrace a more inclusive spirituality that prioritizes connection and healing...
2025-09-031h 16Anazao PodcastsReckoning with Hell: A Journey Through Brian Recker's 'Hellbent'Brian Recker joins us to discuss his forthcoming book, "Hellbent," which critically examines the doctrine of Hell and its ramifications on Christian spirituality. At the forefront of our conversation is the assertion that the traditional understanding of Hell as eternal punishment has proven to be detrimental, fostering fear and alienation rather than love and reconciliation. Through thoughtful dialogue, we explore how these harmful beliefs distort our perception of God and our relationships with others. Brian's insights challenge listeners to reconsider the implications of Hell on their faith and to embrace a more inclusive spirituality that prioritizes connection and healing...
2025-09-031h 16
Fresh Start Family ShowEp. 289: Is Fear the Foundation? Rethinking Indoctrination in Children with Brian ReckerWe’re kicking off Season 7 of the Fresh Start Family Show with a powerful, thought-provoking conversation! Wendy & Terry sit down with theologian, writer, and former evangelical pastor Brian Recker to explore how fear has been woven into the spiritual and parenting narratives of so many families—and what it looks like to begin breaking free.
Brian shares his personal journey from growing up in fundamentalism, to leading as a pastor, to courageously deconstructing fear-based theology and re-imagining faith through the lens of love. Together, we talk about how indoctrination in childhood shapes our view of G...
2025-09-031h 07
IndoctriNationHell Bent with Brian ReckerIn this episode, host Rachel Bernstein speaks with Brian Recker, a former evangelical pastor who has transitioned away from fundamentalist beliefs. Brian discusses his journey of self-discovery and deconstruction from the religion that defined his upbringing. The conversation covers his early life, the impact of fundamentalist teachings, and the transition to more inclusive spirituality. Brian shares the concepts from his book 'Hell Bent,' which examines the metaphor of hell and the importance of living a life rooted in love and connection instead of fear and punishment. Rachel and Brian also delve into the challenges of leaving a high-control...
2025-08-201h 17
Shadow Mike PodcastHell Bent: How the Fear of Hell Holds Christians Back from a Spirituality of Love with Brian ReckerDescriptionIn this episode, Shadow Mike interviews Brian Recker about his highly anticipated book, Hell Bent: How the Fear of Hell Holds Christians Back from a Spirituality of Love. Hell Bent s available for pre-order (link below), and hits the shelfs officially September 30th.LinksPre-order Hell Bent: https://www.amazon.com/Hell-Bent-Holds-Christians-Spirituality/dp/0593853199/ref=tmm_hrd_swatch_0Brian's Substack: https://brianrecker.substack.comBrian's website: https://www.brianrecker.comMike's Substack: https://substack.com/@shadowmikeMike's Website: https://www.shadowmike.com/
2025-08-131h 00
Spirit OutspokenEpisode 42 - Deconstructing Hell - Breaking Free from a Fear Based Faith w/ Brian Recker (Part 2)Send us a textIn this episode of Spirit Outspoken, we sit down with Brian Recker as he shares his personal reflections on hell and introduces his new book, Hell Bent: How the Fear of Hell Holds Christians Back from a Spirituality of Love.We also discuss the harm caused by fear‑based theology, especially toward the LGBTQ community, and how re‑centering faith on love and inclusion can bring freedom and healing.Whether you’re questioning old beliefs, exploring faith deconstruction, or seeking a more c...
2025-08-0632 minSpirit OutspokenEpisode 41 - Deconstructing Evangelicalism - A Former Pastor’s Journey w/ Brian Recker (Part 1)Send us a textWhat happens when an evangelical pastor starts asking the questions the Church avoids? In this powerful episode, we sit down with Brian Recker—a former evangelical pastor who walked away from the pulpit to pursue a more honest, inclusive form of Christianity. Brian shares his personal journey through deconstruction, the inner tension of leaving behind deeply ingrained beliefs, and how he found a deeper connection to Jesus outside the constraints of his fundamentalist upbringing and the lens of evangelicalism.We talk about the cost of questioning long-held doctrines, the fear that co...
2025-07-3047 min
Unconventional LeadersIs Hell Even Biblical? Brian Recker on Queer-Affirming, Fear-Free Faith | Brian ReckerBrian Recker is a former evangelical pastor turned public theologian who's challenging the very foundations of Christianity. In his viral content and new book Hell Bent, Brian unpacks why so many of us were handed a spirituality rooted in punishment and how that’s distorted our relationships with God, others, and even ourselves.In this conversation, Brian shares his personal story of deconstruction and what it means to rebuild a faith based on love, curiosity, and mutual respect. From publicly affirming LGBTQ+ people to questioning hell itself, Brian invites us to rethink everything we thought we knew ab...
2025-07-2947 min
Parkside Church at Historic Saint Barnabas | Charleston, SCSummer Hot Takes | "Where Are the Real Demons Hiding?" Brian ReckerSummer Hot Takes | "Where Are the Real Demons Hiding?" Brian Recker
2025-07-2137 min
Shift HappensBrian Recker: Healthy Masculinity and other stuffToday, we talk to Brian Recker about healthy masculinity and a ton of other things. Make sure to click the link below to preorder his upcoming book Hellbent. To follow Brian, check out his work, invite him to speak, preorder his book and much more, click HERE. To help support the ongoing work of Shift Happens, click HERE. Wild Goose Festival is a transformational community grounded in faith-inspired social justice. Click the link to get all the info about this year's festival. Make sure to use the code A - MZN at check ou...
2025-07-091h 09
The Happily Never AfterS1E5: A New Kind of Faith, with Brian ReckerToday, Heather McG and Brian Recker explore their shared experiences growing up in fundamentalist Christianity and the journey of deconstructing their faith. While Heather became and atheist, Brian has forged the path to a kinder, more universal faith. They discuss the challenges of navigating identity, shame, and the impact of evangelicalism on their lives. Brian shares his personal journey of leaving the pastorate, the struggles of divorce, and the importance of finding a supportive community. They also delve into the intersection of spirituality and politics, emphasizing the need for love and compassion in faith practices.TAKEAWAYSEvangelicalism can rebrand fundamentalism...
2025-07-0141 min
Honoring the JourneyDeconstructing Dogma: Honoring the Journey of Brian ReckerToday we honor the journey of Brian Recker, an influential figure in the Deconstruction community. Leslie and Brian dive into a heartfelt and candid discussion about Brian's journey away from fundamentalism and evangelicalism, sharing personal and relatable stories and reflections on faith, spiritual growth, and empathy. They explore the challenges and revelations that come with deconstruction, the importance of authentic connections, and the liberating shift from certainty to curiosity. With a focus on mutual understanding and human unity, this episode offers introspective insights into evolving faith journeys.Learn more about Brian at his website! www.brianrecker.com
2025-06-3054 min
Flipping Tables21. Hell Bent - with Brian ReckerIf you're familiar with the online deconstruction space, you've probably encountered Brian Recker or @brecker on Instagram. As a former evangelical pastor, he's been very vocal about his deconstruction and transformation.In this episode, Brian and I talk about our growing up years, our faith and how thats evolved from narrow and rigid mindsets into who we became today.I wasn't going to release this podcast for a few more weeks but I felt that some people needed reminded today that people can change. I was an open and passionate Christian Nationalist. Brian was raised in the...
2025-06-241h 01
The Ron ShowThursday, June 19, 2025 - Brian Recker on Cruz, Carlson & 'Hell Bent' American EvangelicalsBrian Recker, a former Marine, former evangelical pastor, current theologian, speaker and writer, has developed a healthy social media following and solid presence on Substack. His focus? Deconstructing his faith to find a more inclusive spirituality - which often runs afoul of today's right-wing aligned American evangelical movement.
He's just the kind of guest to discuss the 'Ted Cruz v. Tucker Carlson' dust-up over Cruz' limp grasp on scripture he believes commands him (and the U.S. apparently) to support Israel unequivocally.
Recker and I discuss this at length, along with the use of religion as a tool of manipulation by pols like Cru...
2025-06-2044 minThe Ron ShowBrian Recker on Cruz, Carlson & 'Hell Bent' American EvangelicalsBrian Recker, a former Marine, former evangelical pastor, current theologian, speaker and writer, has developed a healthy social media following and solid presence on Substack. His focus? Deconstructing his faith to find a more inclusive spirituality - which often runs afoul of today's right-wing aligned American evangelical movement. He's just the kind of guest to discuss the 'Ted Cruz v. Tucker Carlson' dust-up over Cruz' limp grasp on scripture he believes commands him (and the U.S. apparently) to support Israel unequivocally. Recker and I discuss this at length, along with the use of religion...
2025-06-2044 min
MegaSymbol Boy with Brian ReckerAuthor and influencer Brian Recker takes Day and Gray to hell and back. @berecker
Pre-order Brian's new book Hell Bent: How the Fear of Hell Holds Christians Back from a Spirituality of Love. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
2025-05-1852 min
Holy Shift#21 - "I'm being paid to not change my mind" with Brian ReckerIn this episode we sat town with Brian Recker, an ex-pastor and author of the forthcoming book Hell Bent to talk abouthis journey into and out of ministry,the pressure pastors face to not change their minds,and the ways that disappointment can become our greatest teacher.
2025-04-231h 02
Mind Love™ • Consciousness, Spirituality, and Science for AwakeningHell, Guilt, and Control: How Fear-Based Religion Keeps You Stuck with Brian Recker • 392In this episode, you’ll learn:
Why the concept of hell might be more about control than truth
How fear-based faith blocks real spiritual growth
What it actually means to reclaim your beliefs in a way that serves you
What happens when the foundation of your beliefs starts to crack? When the things you were raised to accept without question suddenly don’t make sense? Maybe you've felt it—that moment when your gut tells you something is off, but everything in you resists pulling the thread. Because you know if you do, the whole...
2025-03-111h 10
Dance Dad With John CorellaEP 27: How to Help Our Dance Dads with Brian ReckerMasculinity built on dominance leaves men stuck in a cycle of insecurity and disconnection. John sat down with Brian Recker to unpack the false masculinity that keeps men trapped and explore how breaking free from patriarchy leads to something real.
Brian, a former evangelical pastor turned social media voice, shared his journey of challenging the outdated expectations placed on men. They talked about why traditional masculinity so often revolves around dominance and how that pressure keeps men from forming real connections. Patriarchy doesn’t just harm women and marginalized communities. It also forces men into rig...
2025-03-061h 10
Ministry Forum PodcastS2E8: Interview with Theologian, Writer and Influencer, Brian Recker
In this episode of the Ministry Forum Podcast, guest host Rachel Kennedy-Proctor sits down with Brian Recker and Rev. John Borthwick to discuss faith, deconstruction, and what it means to follow Jesus outside of traditional evangelical spaces. Brian shares his journey from being a pastor to rethinking his beliefs, navigating shifts in theology, and building a platform that fosters inclusive conversations about faith. Together, they explore the challenges of evolving spiritually, the future of the church, and the importance of authenticity in ministry. Whether you're questioning, reconstructing, or simply curious, this conversation offers thought-provoking insights and encouragement for your...
2025-02-251h 03
Divorce HappensMessy Middles and New Beginnings: Finding Love After Divorce as a Single Parent with Brian Recker and Scarlett LongstreetIn this heartfelt and insightful episode of Divorce Happens, host Olivia Howell sits down with Brian Recker and Scarlett Longstreet to explore the challenges and joys of dating as a single parent post-divorce. Brian, a former pastor, author, and father, and Scarlett, a writer and mother, share their personal journey of finding love after separation, from meeting on Instagram to navigating the complexities of long-distance relationships and blending families. Their candid stories and reflections offer hope, humor, and practical advice for anyone wondering if it’s possible to start fresh and build meaningful connections after divorce.Tune in...
2025-01-1725 min
Behind the SeenS4 Ep 2: Deconstructing Evangelicalism with Brian ReckerIn this episode, Mark and Branden delve into the complex layers of identity with guest Brian Recker, who has critically reexamined the evangelical environment. Brian shares his personal journey of deconstructing deeply rooted beliefs, shedding light on biases related to race, religion, and identity. The conversation explores the need for environments that facilitate the exploration of biases, the courage to challenge ingrained beliefs, and the importance of belonging. They also discuss the impact of evolving perspectives on community, ministry, democracy, and the tension between holding onto traditional values and embracing progressive change.
2024-12-261h 09
Sacred CounselSeason 2 Episode 10: Star Spangled Jesus with April AjoyOn this episode of the pod, Brian and Meg speak with April Ajoy, author of the upcoming book, “Star Spangled Jesus: Leaving Christian Nationalism and Finding True Faith.” They discuss April’s wild journey out of Christian Nationalism, relationships with family who are still stuck, how April got the nickname ‘condom girl,’ and what faith looks like for her now.
Check our April’s book!
2024-11-2052 minSacred CounselSeason 2 Episode 9: The Mystic Jesus with Marianne WilliamsonBrian interviews the one and only Marianne Williamson about her new book, The Mystic Jesus. Marianne is a best selling author, speaker, political activist and former presidential candidate. Marianne's background is not in Christianity, but in the Course in Miracles, which is not a religion exactly- Marianne describes it as "spiritual psychotherapy," and it informs her universal, mystical approach to Christ. In this wide ranging conversation, Brian and Marianne discuss how our spirituality should inform our political engagement, how to walk in love and forgiveness towards our enemies in a divisive political climate, what Jesus can still mean for tho...
2024-11-1351 min
The Connected Way™ PodcastEpisode 10: What would Jesus do? Deconstructing Christianity & Politics with Brian ReckerHow are so many Christians in this country voting Republican? How would Jesus vote and what did he really teach? When we remove the fear-tactics of the threat of Hell, what were the actual teachings of Jesus and how can we learn from them? In this episode, we connect with Brian Recker, a former evangelical pastor who has been deconstructing his own faith and understanding of Christianity (his departure was catalyzed by Donald Trump’s rise in politics). We discuss Heaven, Hell, Sin, Abortion, Taxes, Trans rights, Healthcare and lots in between. And Brian and...
2024-09-151h 10
Parkside Church at Historic Saint Barnabas | Charleston, SC"What Is the Foundation of Your Spirituality?" Summer Hot Takes with Brian Recker 07/14/2024"What Is the Foundation of Your Spirituality?" Summer Hot Takes with Brian Recker 07/14/2024
2024-07-1528 minSacred CounselSeason 2 Episode 8: There's Nothing Like FamilyBrian and Meg answer two listener letters, each discussing family dynamics. How do we care less about whether or not we are accepted by our parents? How do we help family members understand that they are making us feel rejected? Meg shares some very poignant advice born from her own experience. We also discuss the presidential debate and Brian gets excited about ranked choice voting.
2024-07-1038 minSacred CounselSeason 2 Episode 7: PURE with Stephanie StalveyBrian and Meg dive into purity culture with Stephanie Stalvey, a graphic novelist who mines her own story and describes the intricacies of navigating purity culture, as well as showing a path towards reclaiming sexual autonomy on the other side. Her book shines a light on experiences many of us resonate with, and she is just as insightful in this brilliant conversation!
2024-06-2639 minSacred CounselSeason 2 Episode 6: A Conversation With Sally OsborneBrian and Meg are joined by Sally Osborne, a former Mormon who left the church and came out as a lesbian. She now works to help people come out into their truest selves. We discuss her journey out of high control religion, and how we can support people in all kinds of coming out journeys.
2024-06-1953 minSacred CounselSeason 2 Episode 5: Why Pride MattersIn this episode, Brian and Meg acknowledge and celebrate Meg’s first Pride since coming out, and reflect on what Pride means, and how we have each evolved in our relationship with Pride celebrations. We also discuss Trump’s indictment, the wasteland of the US political environment, and the dehumanization that allows a continuing genocide in Gaza.
2024-06-1233 minSacred CounselSeason 2 Episode 4: Why Queer Churches Can't Be Mega Churches With Rev. Brandan RobertsonBrian and Meg are joined by Brandan Robertson, a queer pastor, to discuss his upcoming book on 'queering' the Bible! Brandan tells us his favorite queer Bible stories, and answers questions like; should queer people care about the Bible at all?
2024-06-0543 minSacred CounselSeason 2 Episode 3: Trans Rights & Psychics/Mediums Brian and Meg dive into a listener letter about psychics and mediums, and have some fun discussion and disagreement about skepticism and spirituality. They also discuss trans rights, and why it's so important to let parents and doctors make decisions for children, rather than religious organizations enforcing their agendas.
2024-05-2938 min
Daring to DadBrian Recker on Navigating Fatherhood Amidst Shifting BeliefsHow do we navigate raising kids while experiencing shifts and evolution in our own understanding of the world? Brian Recker shares his upbringing in Christian fundamentalism and how it shaped his idea of masculinity and fatherhood, and how the authoritarian parenting style he experienced defined gender roles within his community. Brian reflects on his struggle to fit into the masculine stereotype and his desire to please his father and the challenges of stepping away from the church and the loss of community and purpose. He discusses the impact of these changes on his identity and how he navigates fatherhood...
2024-05-2849 minSacred CounselSeason 2 Episode 2: What Christians Can Learn From Atheism & A Listener Letter About A Gay WeddingEpisode 2 of season 2 is a continuation of the first episode where Meg and Brian catch up and discuss what Meg believes Christians can learn from atheism. Brian and Meg also respond to a listener letter about a woman who's in a gay relationship and getting married (love!) who's struggling with family members not wanting to attend the wedding.
2024-05-0854 minSacred CounselSeason 2 Episode 1: Catching Up & How Hell Is Ruining ChristianityBrian and Meg return to the podcast after a 3-month hiatus to catch up and talk about their opinions on hell and how Meg has been getting so much ate on IG now that she's posting deconstruction videos.
2024-05-0841 minShift HappensBrian Recker: Instagram’s Ex-Evangelical PastorIn today’s episode, Joe talks to Brian Recker. You may know Brian from his gut punchingly honest IG reels and posts.They get into how Brian grew up in the IBC, his deconstruction into evangelicalism and what brought him to the work he does now.Click the links below to follow Brian and keep up with his work.BrianRecker.comInstagramTo help support the ongoing work of Shift Happens, click HERE. Wild Goose Festival is a transformational community grounded in faith-inspired social justice. Click the li...
2024-05-081h 00
I Tried to Be StraightEvangelical Pastor Gives Up Everything to Accept LGBTQ - Brian ReckerSpeaker and ex evangelical pastor Brian Recker shares why he couldn't keep rejecting gay people in his church, and how he lost everything when he started accepting them.
2024-04-1859 min
Flip Your Lid with Kim HoneycuttFlipping Beliefs: Brian Recker's Spiritual TransformationIn this episode, Kim interviews former evangelical pastor Brian Recker and discusses his journey of self-discovery amid political shifts during Donald Trump's rise. Brian reflects on leaving his pastoral role during the COVID-19 pandemic, reevaluating his beliefs, and advocating for LGBTQ+ rights within Christianity. This episode emphasizes authenticity and embracing diversity in religious contexts. Here's a sneak peek into what they discuss:Brian's transformation and self-discovery journey Advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights within Christianity and efforts to foster inclusivityImportance of creating inclusive spiritual environments where individuals can authentically express themselves without judgment or exclusionChallenges faced by Brian af...
2024-04-1159 min
The Reactionary Christian w/ Gabriel FinochioGeorge Janko Needs to Preach the Gospel! - Brian Recker, The View, and More!In this episode, we explore a plethora of insanity, including...
Not living a generous life
George Janko not Preaching the Gospel
Brian Recker coming after Gabe's brother
And what happens when Christians go on the View
2024-03-082h 19
A Third WayPeace in the Middle East: A Christian Perspective Episode 6 - Brian ReckerThis is Peace in the Middle East: A Christian Perspective in
which we dive into the conflict between Israel and Palestine through the lens of the subversive way of Jesus. Through curiosity and an openness to learn, we have conversations that provide a fresh perspective for a third way.
In this episode, we are joined by former evangelical pastor,
coach, deconstruction and reconstruction thinker Brian Recker. Brian shares his journey away from dispensationalist evangelicalism and how that has shaped his view on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Keri and Brian talk about the views of biblical prophecy they were...
2024-02-1237 minSacred CounselEpisode 12: What Makes You Bloom? With Kevin GarciaBrian and Meg interview Kevin Garcia, a mystic theologian, queer spiritual coach, and all-around amazing human being, and discuss picking your battles when going home for the holidays, and learning how to celebrate your whole self. We also answer a listener letter from a “validation addict” who wants to stop having to justify his sexuality to his family and himself. We also discuss Kevin’s amazing new book, “What makes you bloom,” coming out this January! This episode is filled with amazing nuggets of spiritual wisdom. Enjoy!
2024-01-0358 minSacred CounselEpisode 11: Christmas Grab Bag!In this special episode, Brian and Meg tackle 3 very different listener letters, packing in all sorts of juicy counsel, covering: 1. how to deal with conservative family members at Christmas-time, 2. how divorce impacts kids and some of our best advice on co-parenting, and 3. How to work through harmful religious programing, replacing old thoughts with new thoughts. Don’t forget to send listener letters to sacredcounselpod@gmail.com!
2023-12-2748 minSacred CounselEpisode 10: SOS – My Boyfriend Has a Feminine Side in Bed and I Don’t Know How I Feel About It!Brian and Meg discuss Meg’s horrible Thanksgiving, and answer a listener letter about someone navigating big news about their partner’s sexuality, and trying to figure out how to feel about it or what she should do. We discuss how evangelicals can falsely blame any non-heterosexual sexuality on trauma, and how kink and sexual exploration can be healthy.
2023-12-2032 minSacred CounselEpisode 9: Eve Was FramedTrigger warning- this episode mentions a rape. We interview Eve from @eve_wasframed about her background in Bethel and her journey out of evangelicalism into atheism. We talk about stereotypes of atheists, evangelical shame around virginity and divorce, and other various highly relatable traumas of American evangelicalism. Find Eve on instagram at @eve_wasframed
2023-12-0645 min2023-11-2950 minSacred CounselEpisode 7: I Will Never Betray Myself AgainJo Luehmann takes us to church in this episode!! She preaches about why she refuses to abandon herself, how each of us are called to be liberators, why she ultimately left Christianity, the possibilities for beauty inside of the idea of “church,” her advice to those who remain Chrisitan, and creating safety for people to listen to their intuition. Jo Luehmann is a Colombian born and raised (former) pastor with a masters degree in ministry and theology. Jo speaks and teaches about decolonizing church, theology, spirituality and faith, as well as the importance of dismantling white supremacy, patri...
2023-11-2252 min