Shows
Observations from LifeChristianity Deconstructed - Observations with TheoBro ExtraordinaireA conversation between me and another exvangelical and former seminarian who runs a parody account on Twitter knows as TheoBro Extraordinaire. We talk about Christianity and the process of deconstruction. We explore quite a few topics, such as Christian Twitter, TheoBros, and the modern evangelical movement and the impact it has on those around it.Note: Pardon some of the technical difficulties during the discussion.2025-02-081h 29
Observations from LifeThe Alpha MaleMy observations about insecure men, often calling themselves“Alpha Males” and how they pretty much ruin everything.2025-02-0825 min
Observations from LifeObservations with Constance MarieConstance Marie, best known for her long-time run on the ABC comedy, “George Lopez,” joins me to talk about her career, some of life’s challenges and how she has used them to help others. We also talk about her Latinx romantic comedy series, “With Love.”2025-02-0837 min
Observations from LifeObservations with a RabbiRabbi Michael Harvey and I discuss Judaism, Christianity, antisemitism, anti-Judaism, and so much more! 2025-02-081h 06
Observations from LifeThe TheoBrosMy observations on a group of Christians known as TheoBros, their theology, and how their behavior impacts those around them.2025-02-0830 min
Observations from LifeThe Church is BrokenA follow up to my blog post about the church. I also talk about being a recovering fundamentalist and how that impacts my approach to religious discussion.2025-02-0826 min
Observations from LifeWho or What is God?Borrowing unashamedly from Marcus Borg, I give my observations on God. Who or what God is and what it means for us in our lives.2025-02-0831 min
Observations from LifeQueer Eye Love and Evangelical HateMy observations on the beauty of the Queer Eye folks and how modern day evangelicalism is rooted in white supremacy and oppression. Trigger warning: you probably won’t like this one if you are a conservative or evangelical Christian. 2025-02-0823 min
Observations from LifeCults, Fundamentalism, and Why People Get Trapped In ThemMy observations on the similarities of cults and fundamentalism and why people get trapped in them. Drawing from Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs, I walk through the five levels of his pyramid and talk about how these groups exploit and seem to fulfill those needs, but they are based on lies.2025-02-0848 min
Observations from LifeObservations with Stephen MartinThis was a fascinating conversation covering everything from reincarnation to the meaning of life to trying to figure out why those UFOs show up in our lives. Stephen had great insight, research, and stories to share.2025-02-0851 min
Observations from LifeBe A Hero In Your UniverseI reflect back on January 6th and talk about wisdom from a Buddhist monk. 2025-02-0809 min
Observations from LifeChariots of the GodsMy observations about ancient civilizations, the gods, aliens, UFOs, and all those mysterious supernatural things that fascinated me as a child and still do.2025-02-0844 min
Observations from LifeCreating a Space of Love and Acceptance in the ChurchA conversation with Zach Lambert, Meg Wise, and Kevin Young - three very active and vocal voices of Christianity found on Twitter. Each share aspects of their spiritual journeys, observations about the state of the Christianity and the church, and provide unique insight into where they believe the Christian faith is headed. You don't want to miss this engaging discussion! 2025-02-081h 47
Observations from LifeWhy do victims become bullies?My observations on the continuing cycle of oppressors and the oppressed.2025-02-0811 min
Observations from LifeShould Christians have enemies?My observations about a billboard I saw this past weekend - “Real Christians love their enemies.” 2025-02-0805 min
Observations from LifeLessons of ChildhoodMy thoughts and observations about memories, childhood, and nostalgia.2025-02-0808 min
Observations from LifeSex, Evangelicalism, and the PatriarchySheila Gregoire is an author, podcaster, and researcher into evangelicalism and sex. On this episode, she shares her research and observations about how evangelical Christianity has often taken a toxic and harmful approach to sexuality in marriage, especially when it comes to women. This is an important discussion, covering how the patriarchy often turns a blind eye to research and to those it harms in order to continue the status quo, often leading to unhealthy and unhappy relationships. 2025-02-0852 min
Observations from LifeLiving in the Bonus RoundSteve is a multi-award winning composer, lyricist, pianist, and performer who believes in the healing power of music, crediting the writing of the score of his Off-Broadway hit musical The Last Session, as having saved his life. He shares his life story, a gay man who grew up in a very conservative, fundamentalist home and church who found his purpose after coming back from the brink of death in the 90s battling AIDS. Steve's story is both inspirational and spiritually engaging. Bonus: He's my brother!2025-02-081h 37
Observations from LifeChristianity, the American EnterpriseMy observations on the church and how it has become a money making enterprise.2025-02-0815 min
Observations from LifeSurviving and Thriving!Hannah Smith shares her incredible journey from being trapped in an abusive cult to engaging in many self-destructive behaviors that nearly ended her life. She had a true Dark Night of the Soul experience that led to her finding her way back to spiritual health. She spent the last decade or more studying how God has wired us and has developed training programs for therapists.Last year, Hannah had an incident happen that really tore the veil from her eyes about the oppression that is happening, especially with LGBTQ people. Now, her passion is to help those...2025-02-081h 24
Observations from LifeBeyond Fear: Healing from Religious TraumaIn this episode, I dive into fundamentalism and fear-based Christianity. This includes a revisit of the Satanic Panic of the 70s and 80s, Jack Chick, and movies like The Burning Hell and A Thief in the Night. What's it like to grow up in a church that uses the fear of Hell to convert lost souls? How does it impact people later in adulthood and what is the path to heal from it?2025-02-081h 08
Observations from LifeSatanic Panic, Trauma, and the Value of Faith Rooted in AmbiguityDave Canfield, a former member of Jesus People USA, shares his journey from being a holiday Catholic to joining the Christian counterculture community. He discusses the vibrant music scene, the impact of Christian rock and roll, and his involvement in promoting concerts and working backstage. Dave also talks about his experience with Mike Warnke, a Christian comedian and author who claimed to be a former Satanist high priest, and the role he played in helping expose Warnke's fraudulent ministry. Other topics include the influence of books and movies, such as Hal Lindsey's "The Late Great Planet Earth" and the P...2025-02-081h 46
Observations from LifeDemons, Ghosts, and Evil Spirits: Part III - Cross-Cultural Beliefs and Alternative TheoriesIn the final episode of this three part series on Demons, Ghosts, and Evil Spirits, I explore how different cultures and traditions view demons and spirits. I also examine alternative theories, like Carl Jung's concept of the shadow and how the collective consciousness carries forward myths and traditions.2024-12-091h 03
Observations from LifeDemons, Ghosts, and Evil Spirits: Part II - Famous Exorcisms, Demonologists, and HauntingsIn Part II of my series on Demons, Ghosts, and Evil Spirits, I discuss famous exorcisms, demonologists, and hauntings. This includes the story of the exorcisms of Anneliese Michel and Anna Ecklund. I also talk about famous demonologists Father Malachi Martin and Ed and Lorraine Warren. Finally, I'll cover two famous hauntings - The Enfield Poltergeist and the Smurl Haunting. 2024-10-281h 21
Observations from LifeDemons, Ghosts, and Evil Spirits: Part I - The Exorcist and the Cultural Shift on PossessionThis is the first of three episodes covering demons, ghosts, and evil spirits. Do they exist? Can a person be possessed? How do our own fears shape our interpretation of events around us? Part I starts with The Exorcist and cultural impact it had on our beliefs in possession.2024-09-3048 min
Observations from LifeA Kiwi in America: David Farrier's Weird and Wild JourneyDavid Farrier, journalist and documentary filmmaker, shares insights about his life and career, including behind the scenes events while discussing his films "Tickled" and "Mister Organ" as well as his Netflix series, "Dark Tourist." He also talks about Webworm, his email newsletter and the community around it. Topics range from the importance of speaking up for marginalized people and taking on bullies to exploring the themes of religious abuse, including his coverage of ARISE church in New Zealand, a megachurch where he uncovered a culture of abuse. Overall, the conversation highlights the importance of storytelling and the power of m...2024-05-1741 min
Observations from LifeOnce Upon A NightmareWhat happens when your fairy tale story turns into a nightmare? Rebecca Craig talks about this very thing - how she, a female pastor, survived a relationship with a narcissistic, abusive man who had perfected gaslighting, lying, and manipulation. Her vulnerability and honesty make this a gripping true life tale as described in her upcoming book release, Once Upon a Nightmare: Through the Looking Glass of Narcissistic Abuse. Rebecca explores the connection between fairy tales and faith, drawing on her experience working at Disney and her background in seminary. She highlights the charm and manipulation tactics used b...2024-05-121h 42
Observations from LifeFinding Your Spiritual CommunityIn this episode, I interview Reverend Joanna Fontaine Crawford, lead minister for the Live Oak Unitarian Universalist Church in Cedar Park, Texas. Joanna talks about her experience growing up a UU in Texas, how she came into the ministry, and the importance of building a spiritual community outside of traditional religions. 2024-03-131h 08
Anxiety At Work? Reduce Stress, Uncertainty & Boost Mental HealthAuthor Recap: Navigate Mental Wellness by Leading with Empathy Post-PandemicIf you missed episode # 185 with Scott Schalchlin, here is a bonus recap with Adrian Gostick & Chester Elton.Key Highlights: 📌Impact of the Pandemic on Mental Health: the increase in people seeking mental health services post-pandemic due to trauma experienced during the pandemicStrategies for Staff Wellness and Retention: the importance of creating a supportive and respectful work culture.Engaging with Younger Generations in the Workplace: the importance of listening to younger employees and understanding their perspectives.We encourage you to listen to the full episode and...2023-12-2905 minAnxiety At Work? Reduce Stress, Uncertainty & Boost Mental HealthNavigate Mental Wellness by Leading with Empathy Post-PandemicDoes empathy play a part in your leadership journey?🎙️ Hello and welcome to Anxiety at Work. 🎙️ We hope the time you spend with enlightens and helps shatter the stigma around anxiety and mental health in the workplace and your personal life.Key Highlights: 📌Impact of the Pandemic on Mental Health: the increase in people seeking mental health services post-pandemic due to trauma experienced during the pandemicStrategies for Staff Wellness and Retention: the importance of creating a supportive and respectful work culture.Engaging with Younger Generations in the Workplace...2023-12-2731 min
Observations from LifeThe Akashic RecordsWhat are the Akashic Records and how do they work? I talk about them, another experience with Emily, and a surprising discovery about one of my past lives. 2023-12-2444 min
Observations from LifeBeyond the Veil: Exploring the Spiritual Side of Emily's Journey and Passing From This LifeThis is the second episode related to my daughter, Emily's, recent death. In it, I discuss a series of Tarot and Oracle card readings, a couple of dreams, and Emily's surprise drop in to send me a message a couple of weeks after her death. I have also posted a series of blog posts with pics of the drawings so you can see what they look like as you listen. 2023-11-121h 30
Observations from LifeLessons in Love and Loss: Reflecting on My Relationship with Emily and the Power of CompassionThis is the first of two episodes, talking about the recent passing of my daughter, Emily, and how, in the midst of it, I learned alot about love, empathy, and compassion and just how powerful they are. It's probably a little all over the place as I continue to work through the grief and loss of her in my life.2023-11-051h 04
Observations from LifeFacing Infertility Challenges in the ChurchA conversation with Karen Tarrazas, who shares her and her husband's challenges with infertility. We discuss the church's (lack of) response to this very important issue that impacts a significant number of women and couples. Karen also talks about her research into the topic, dealing with the patriarchy, and gives tips to individuals and churches on how to better support and serve people who deal with infertility.2023-04-241h 30
Observations from LifeHolding SpaceI give my observations on holding space for someone - what it means and how we can do it. How does one truly listen to others without judgment or opinion? What does it mean to listen? To truly listen? Find out on on this episode.2022-12-2136 min
Observations from LifeLife, Death, Spirit Guides, and MoreJoin me as I share an amazing Tarot experience, talk about spirit guides and reincarnation, then send my mom off on her next journey. This one might be a little woo woo, so buckle up!2022-10-2652 min
From the ForefrontHas the American Church Become an Enterprise?Has the American Church become an enterprise?In this eye-opening episode, Scott Schalchlin and I explore the tension that exists between excellence for the sake of the Gospel and excellence for performance sake.We discuss how some churches are becoming more like marketing presentations and shows, rather than being focused on helping hurting people. This is a must-listen for anyone who wants to better understand the state of the Church in America today.Listen now!➡️ Click for full show notesFOLLOW & SUBSCRIBE➡️ Apple Podcasts➡️ Google Podcasts...2022-10-0329 min
Observations from LifeExamining Your ShadowFinding the good in others starts with a thoughtful and honest look at yourself. In this episode, I talk about the shadow side of our nature and how we need to understand it and deal with it in order to be a light for others.2022-09-1146 min
Observations from LifeLove, Accept, Forgive and The Nature of HumankindMy observations on the nature of humankind and how we need to find a way to love, accept, and forgive people. Finding the divine nature in people can be hard as we spend so much time looking on the outside. We must look within to truly know the essence of the person - their very soul.2022-08-2442 min
Observations from LifeObservations of KidsI spend some time talking with children about their views of the world. We cover everything from school shooter drills, the impact of COVID on their education, and bullies to sex and drugs. This is not one to be missed.2022-04-1840 min
Observations from LifeObservations with Amy NordhuesAmy Nordhues and I talk about her book, Preyed Upon: Breaking Free from Therapist Abuse. We discuss different aspects of emotional, spiritual, and sexual abuse and her journey from victim to victor in her own life. 2022-03-2743 min
Observations from LifeObservations with Deborah DriggsDeborah and I talk about her life as a model, Playboy centerfold and cover girl and how she has learned through life’s challenges to succeed and be a resource for others.2022-03-1246 min
Observations from LifeThe Hillsborough DisasterMy observations on the Hillsborough Disaster, from police incompetency and corruption to media recklessness, this story is heartbreaking. This episode is dedicated to the victims and their families, who fight so hard for justice. Justice for the 97.2022-03-0842 min
Observations from LifeWhat Happens When We Die?My observations on what I think happens after you die. This involves sharing a very personal experience I had with past life regression. 2022-03-0131 min
Observations from LifeThe Olympic Abuse of ChildrenMy observations on this year’s Olympic figure skating debacle and how it is just part of a bigger problem.2022-02-1930 min
Observations from LifeFollow Your FernwehKindle Smyth, author of the new book, Follow Your Fernweh, joins me to talk about her book and how she took an extraordinary leap that changed her life.2022-02-1645 min
Observations from LifeBe Like Ted (Lasso)My observations on this Christmas and Ted Lasso.2022-02-0514 min
Observations from LifeLonely PeopleMy observations on the song Eleanor Rigby and the lonely people who are among us every day.2022-02-0506 min
Observations from LifeObservations with Romany MalcoI spend some time with Romany Malco, discussing empathy through introspection.2022-02-0528 min
Observations from LifeLiving Life with PassionI give my observations on how to live life with passion and how immersing yourself in new things can give you amazing experiences.2022-01-3032 min
Observations from LifeCats and What I Love About ThemMy observations on cats - an episode only cat lovers may be able to appreciate.2022-01-1610 min
Observations from LifeA Hidden LifeMy observations on the movie A Hidden Life, directed by Terrance Malick, and the incredible sacrifice of Franz Jagerstatter, someone I might have never learned about. A powerful, beautiful, and tragic story that must be told.2022-01-1114 min
Observations from LifeAddicted to AngerMy observations on anger (anger in our culture, anger in the media, anger on social media) and how it can be addictive.2022-01-0215 min
Observations from LifeThe Time I Attended an AA MeetingMy observations on AA, authenticity, and trusting others enough to bare your soul.2021-12-3014 min
Observations from LifeYou’ll Never Walk AloneMy observations about how when we look for things we have in common with others, life’s journey is so much better.2021-12-2807 min
Observations from LifeLeave Your ShoesMy observations about God, church, and the spiritual life, inspired by the poem Leave Your Shoes, by Chelan Harkin.2021-12-1416 min
Observations from LifeThe Obligatory COVID PodcastI give my observations on the COVID pandemic and how modern advances in healthcare may have made it worse.2021-12-0907 min
Observations from LifeGeorge Clooney vs the Homeless GuyMy observations on how we treat people who we admire vs those we look down upon.2021-11-1707 min
Observations from LifeDon’t Be A HaterMy observations about people who spend more time talking about what they hate instead of what they love.2021-11-1406 min
Observations from LifeThe Spiritual Superman aka Santa Clause aka GodIs God really just a big Santa Clause in the sky? My observation of how God is often viewed.2021-11-1307 min
Nighthawks' PodcastWhat Do Movies Mean to Us? (Nighthawks 100th Episode Special)Credits:Mark Ball (Podcaster- Doing the Nasty, Action Figure PhotographerChris Bucheit (Chef, Musician- Middle Class Joe)Susan Burke (Comedian, actor, director, writer- Southbound, Stan Against Evil)C. Robert Cargill (Novelist, podcaster, writer- Marvel’s Doctor Strange, Sinister)Rebecca Frost (Podcaster, critic)Steven DeGennaro (Podcaster, writer, director- Found Footage 3D, Stop)Lucas Lee Graham (Producer, director, cinematographer- Escape from Tomorrow)Cameron Maris (Oscar Czar, musician- Middle Class Joe)Matt Peters (Comedian, actor- Orange is the New Black, Weeds)Maxim Pozderic (Video clerk, live trivia game show host) Charity O’...2020-04-162h 49