Shows
Superhuman Registration PodcastNew Whitest Thing I’ve DoneAlmost since the beginning of this podcast, Stephen has looked for a way to have the boys review the classic 90s event comic, the Age of Apocalypse. Finally, we decided to rip the Band-Aid off and just dive in. We start this week with Legionquest, and we’ll make our way through one book at a time over the course of the next several weeks.
2025-06-161h 21Superhuman Registration PodcastFill-In: Wizard’s 100 Greatest VillainsSince John’s away, Stephen decided to break out an old issue of Wizard magazine - that giant of pop-culture reporting back in the early 2000s - to spark a conversation with Aldo over who the best villains of all time are. How well do these takes from 2006 age?
2025-06-021h 29Superhuman Registration PodcastKing, Kang, MojoNo, it isn’t a crossover between malefic monkeys King Kong and Mojo Jojo. Rather, we’re exploring some curious side stories featuring everyone’s favorite villains. Kang! Kingpin! Mojo!
…well, Stephen likes Mojo.
2025-05-191h 29
Left TurnThere is No Problem with Stephen OutramJoin Marilyn and Stephen Outram in a refreshingly un-IT conversation with a splash of magic on this episode of the Left Turn Podcast as he shares his unique approach to working with technology and IT systems. Rather than seeing them as rigid, linear structures, Stephen views them as fluid, malleable systems that can be expanded far beyond their original design.
By asking "What else is possible?" and collaborating with IT rather than just using it, Stephen has unlocked incredible capabilities and created unexpected solutions. He describes how he's worked with software engineers to get systems f...2025-05-0725 minSuperhuman Registration PodcastFill-In: MCU Top (and Bottom) FiveWith the others out of commission, Stephen takes the bold stand of declaring that some of the MCU films aren’t very good, while others are pretty great. Yes, we’re still talking about this in 2025. Come for the bad takes, stay for the regrettable takes.
2025-03-1734 minSuperhuman Registration PodcastWe Are Legion, We Are DumbWe continue to slowly make our way through a pair of critically-acclaimed series: The Mighty Thor and The Immortal Hulk. Both arcs today deal with themes of superheroic theology, which excites the heck out of Stephen. But are the stories any good? Let’s rank them and see!
2025-01-131h 06Superhuman Registration PodcastFill-In: Our Top Ten Tops Your TopsPoor Aldo’s taken a sick day, so Stephen and John provide a bit of banter over the best Marvel stories as chosen by Marvel readers… in 2014. How has their selection of best Marvel stories aged? And why is ours better?
2024-11-1959 minSuperhuman Registration PodcastKeith Fight Me, Doom Demands ItHappy Halloween!
And, like every Halloween, we’re bringing you a factory sealed and packaged treat full of Marvel Zombies and other spooky stories. No razorblades here - we promise!
This season, in addition to tackling Marvel Zombies Supreme, we’ve got the recent Darkhold Saga - a Twilight Zone-esque look at darker timelines for your favorite superheroes. And also Black Bolt.
[Stephen: I actually like Black Bolt…]
2024-10-291h 16Superhuman Registration PodcastFill-In Issue: The Anime EpisodeWhen John’s away, Aldo and Stephen will play. And the game they play is “Which Marvel characters would make good guest stars in classic anime?” John’s presence never really deters the weabiness from coming forth, but be warned: this episode is just a LOT of anime.
2024-10-141h 11Superhuman Registration PodcastFill-In: The Mighty Marvel MusicalAldo spent our usual recording time at Evo, so John and Stephen were left to their own devices. So they did what any parents would do when their kid leaves town: brainstorm which Marvel characters would make for the best musicals! Featuring Chris, who is perhaps most famous (at least in our circles) for… being John’s brother-in-law.
2024-07-291h 02
Dark Matters with Don EckerMr. Stephen BradfordOn Dark Matters Radio, on May 20th, we will host Mr. Stephen Bradford. Stephen goes back to the early to mid 90's in UFO research and recently produced the documentary on long time researcher Norio Hayakawa. We will discuss recent deaths of noted UFO researchers and current history in the making. Only on KGRAdb, starting at 4 PM Pacific and 7 PM Eastern. See ya there!2024-05-211h 51Superhuman Registration PodcastStephen Loves, Aldo Kills, John LaughsThe X-Men are known for fun, world- and universe-hopping adventures with incredible dialogue and deep, interpersonal relationships. They are also known for being… just REALLY heavy. We’re here to talk about a couple of stories from the latter category, so… get ready for some bummers, I guess.
Theyre good stories, though: God Loves, Man Kills, and Worst X-Man Ever.
2024-02-191h 29Superhuman Registration PodcastFill-in Issue: “Comics” BooksThe real world has been a beast lately, so the boys are taking a week off from the grind of… reading… comics.
To help pass the time, though, Stephen is here with three recommendations for favorite comics books.
That’s “books about comics,” not “comic books.” Here’s a good opportunity to practice those language comprehension skills that may have been left fallow for a while!
2023-09-1818 min
THE SJ CHILDS SHOW-Building a Community of InclusionEpisode 207-Exploring the Rhythm of Learning: A Journey into Music Education for Special Needs Students with Stephen FlinnSend us a textEver wondered how music can transform the lives of special needs students? Tune in to this soul-stirring conversation with Stephen, an exceptional professional musician and a seasoned teacher, who unfolds the untold stories of his journey working with special needs kids. From teaching at California's largest special needs high school to mastering online teaching in New York, Stephen's commitment and passion for teaching are truly awe-inspiring. He shares insightful experiences and emphasizes the potential of these students to become significant contributors in our inclusive society. Not your regular music lesson, Stephen r...2023-07-1831 minSuperhuman Registration PodcastLusting for NamorLots of folks are curious about Black Knight after his appearance in the MCU (spoilers: Stephen hasn’t seen it yet), so the boys at the podcast decided to visit the character’s very early origins.
We also dip our toes back into the waters of early 2000s Fantastic Four comics and the work of creative wizard Grant Morrison. Is 1 2 3 4 as rough a read as we’ve heard?
2023-03-2059 minSuperhuman Registration PodcastWhat The Coela-canthWe’re getting a real two-for-one this week, as the boys read Aero, an adaptation of a Chinese manhua which introduces Stephen to his favorite Marvel Snap card. As a treat, this series also has a backup featuring Wave, a Marvel Snap character Stephen has yet to unlock. A single twelve-issue series that gives us BOTH our stories to rank? What a bargain!
2023-02-061h 14Superhuman Registration PodcastFill-in Issue: Chris EliopoulosWell, the plague has come to the Superhuman Registration Podcast, and none are spared. So we’re skipping our usual episode format this week, and instead Stephen is taking a closer look at the career of letterer extraordinaire Chris Eliopoulos!
2022-12-1215 minSuperhuman Registration PodcastRick O’Shea, Irish AssassinIt’s been a while coming: this week, the gang tackles John’s Holy Grail, his White Whale, the conclusion to the Hope Summers trilogy of X-events: Second Coming.
And then Stephen and Aldo put it at the bottom of the list JUST KIDDING!
…or am I?
2022-09-1957 min
Bradford Church PodcastStephen: The Movement is ExpandingThe previous chapter ended with the killing of Stephen by an angry and enraged Sanhedrin who could not tolerate the truth which he spoke and so they stoned him to death outside the city walls. Stephen was not the last. What happened that day started a wildfire of persecution that led to the scattering of believers all over the place. And what seemed to be the end of the movement is actually the beginning of God’s Expansion.
Persecution did not stop the church– it scattered it and expanded it.
Today as we study Acts 8, let...2022-06-1256 min
Bradford Church PodcastStephen: The Spirit-Filled ManThe church had to get organized.
The two greatest words in the Christian life: trust and obey. And Stephen had them both. He believed God; he did what the Spirit told him to do. His life was full of the Holy Spirit. What does it mean to be filled with the Spirit? It means to be under the control of the Holy Spirit. It means that the fruit of the Holy Spirit is evident in his life. He has that reputation. People see that in him.
Let's learn more from Stephen's example in this sermon.2022-06-0549 min
Sarah, Mick & Johnno for BreakfastChatting with Dr. Stephen Bradford Dr Stephen Bradford is in the studio with Sarah, Mick and Johnno talking all things woman’s health. Dr Bradford is a highly experienced and practised obstetrician, gynaecologist, and fertility specialist with a passion for supporting his female patients.
2022-04-1207 minTHE SJ CHILDS SHOW-Building a Community of InclusionAutism Episode-Autistic Professor, Author and Autism Advocate Dr. Stephen ShoreSend us a textDr. Stephen Shore is an autistic professor of special education at Adelphi University. Dr. Stephen Shore is one of the most acclaimed Autism Advocates and Autism Authors of our time. In this conversation, we discuss his life with Autism, his marriage, and his books! Enjoy this wonderful and informative episode! www.drstephenshore.comIf you're interested in being a guest, joining my social media groups or pages, or just want to say hello you can now email me: https://linkfly.to/30124nzS2q5info@sjchilds.org...2022-04-0326 minSuperhuman Registration PodcastStephen Got Cancelled TwiceWe’ve all had a rough year, so we scaled back on the spooky. But we couldn’t leave you completely spookless, so we still brought you Marvel Zombies part 4. Balanced that out with a lighter story in Old Man Logan…
…actually, maybe we should go back to the spooky.
2021-10-1854 min
Sacred TensionMini Episode: I'm An Intellectual Groupie and You Probably Are TooFind the transcript of this mini-episode here: https://stephenbradfordlong.com/2021/05/12/im-an-intellectual-groupie-and-you-probably-are-too/ This episode is written and performed by Stephen Bradford Long and produced, edited, and scored by Dante Salamone. Become a patron so I can continue my crippling content creation addiction: https://www.patreon.com/StephenBradfordLongMy work is sponsored by The Satanic Temple TV: a streaming platform featuring documentaries, livestreams, conversation, rituals, and more. Use my code SACREDTENSION at checkout to get one month free. https://thesatanictemple.tv/Read my dozens of articles on Satanism, skepticism, reli...2021-06-0505 min
Sacred TensionSatanic Abortion Ritual, feat. Jane Essex of The Satanic TempleIn this episode of Sacred Tension I'm joined by Jane Essex, spokesperson for the Reproductive Rights Campaign of The Satanic Temple, to discuss TST's controversial new abortion ritual. Learn more about the abortion ritual at https://announcement.thesatanictemple.com/rrr-campaign41280784Let me know your thoughts by leaving a comment or writing an email: https://stephenbradfordlong.com/contact/Become a patron so I can continue my crippling content creation addiction: https://www.patreon.com/StephenBradfordLongRead my dozens of articles on Satanism, skepticism, religion, etc.: https://stephenbradfordlong.com/Joi...2020-08-121h 06
Sacred TensionPanpsychism, feat. Philip GoffIn this episode of Sacred Tension I talk to philosopher Philip Goff about Panpsychism, which posits that consciousness is a fundamental feature of the universe. Find Philip Goff at https://www.philipgoffphilosophy.com/Let me know your thoughts by leaving a comment or writing an email: https://stephenbradfordlong.com/contact/Become a patron so I can continue my crippling content creation addiction: https://www.patreon.com/StephenBradfordLongRead my dozens of articles on Satanism, skepticism, religion, etc.: https://stephenbradfordlong.com/Join my Discord server: https://discord.gg/PrD...2020-08-051h 09
Sacred TensionWhat's Going On With Evangelicals? Feat. John MoreheadIn this episode of Sacred Tension I'm joined once again by my favorite Evangelical John Morehead to discuss the psychology of evangelicals and why they do what they do. John details his research into the emotions that drive toxic evangelical behavior. Pew Research Center - "How Americans Feel About Religious Groups," July 16, 201https://www.pewforum.org/2014/07/16/how-americans-feel-about-religious-groups/ Pew Research Center - "Americans Express Increasingly Warm Feelings Toward Religious Groups," February 15, 2017https://www.pewforum.org/2017/02/15/americans-express-increasingly-warm-feelings-toward-religious-groups/ Pew Research Center - "US Evangelical Christians are Chilly Toward Atheists, and the Fee...2020-07-281h 00
Sacred TensionWhat Took You So Long? Feat. Ally HennyIn this episode of Sacred Tension Ally Henny gives an intro on how to be good allies to the black community. She defines basic terms and gives white people some hard, probing questions. If you are new to conversations about race, this episode is for you. Ally has been writing about race, identity, culture, and racial conciliation on Twitter, her personal Facebook profile, and on her blog, The Armchair Commentary, since 2014. She is a regular contributor for The Witness: A Black Christian Collective, where she writes about black motherhood and other topics related t...2020-07-221h 16
Sacred TensionQAnon, Satanic Panic, and New Religious Movements with Prof. Megan GoodwinIn this episode of Sacred Tension, I'm joined by religious studies professor Megan Goodwin to discuss abuse within religious communities, Satanic Panic, New Religious Movements, QAnon, her new book Abusing Religion, and more. Find Professor Goodwin here. My work is sponsored by The Satanic Temple TV: a streaming platform featuring documentaries, livestreams, conversation, rituals, and more. Use my code SACREDTENSION at checkout to get one month free.Let me know your thoughts on this episode by leaving a comment or writing me an emailBecome a patron so I can conti...2020-07-1459 min
Sacred TensionBubble&Squeak, feat. Peterson ToscanoIn this episode of Sacred Tension I'm joined by actor, quaker, and LGBTQ/climate activist Peterson Toscano to discuss his show Bubble&Squeak. We talk about formative queer experiences, the importance of storytelling, our awkward gay sex experiences, and more. Listen to Bubble&Squeak here.My work is sponsored by The Satanic Temple TV: a streaming platform featuring documentaries, livestreams, conversation, rituals, and more. Use my code SACREDTENSION at checkout to get one month free.Let me know your thoughts on this episode by leaving a comment or writing me an email2020-07-0756 min
Sacred TensionHellfireside Chat with Black Mass AppealIn this episode of Sacred Tension I'm joined by the hosts of Black Mass Appeal -- the largest Satanic podcast on the planet -- to discuss Satanism, cats, conspiracy theories, theism, and so much more. Find Black Mass Appeal at blackmassappeal.com.Note: this episode was recorded prior to the BLM protests.Let me know your thoughts on this episode by writing me an email.Become a patron so I can continue my crippling content creation addiction here. Read my dozens of articles here.Join...2020-06-301h 44
Sacred TensionProtests, Racism, and ViolenceThis episode of Sacred Tension is from my patrons-only podcast House of Heretics. My cohost Timothy and I discuss the recent protests, misguided liberal narratives about "violence," how we as white people can elevate black voices, the Satanic Temple's response to the protests, and much more.Let me know your thoughts on this episode by writing me an email.Visit my bookshop here.Become a patron so I can continue my crippling content creation addiction here. Read my dozens of articles here.Join my Disco...2020-06-091h 01
Sacred TensionHouse of the Devil, feat. Common CreativesIn this cross-over episode I'm joined by Will and Joe from the Common Creatives podcast to discuss the brilliant horror movie House of the Devil. We talk about religious horror, Satanism, The Satanic Panic, growing up Evangelical, and much more. If you love this show, please go check out their other episodes and subscribe to them on your favorite podcast app.Find Common Creatives here.Let me know your thoughts on this episode by writing me an email.Visit my bookshop here.Become a patron so I c...2020-05-251h 24
Sacred TensionSatanic Ritual, feat. Shiva HoneyIn this unedited, stripped episode of Sacred Tension I talk to Shiva Honey, author of The Devil's Tome: A Book of Modern Satanic Ritual. We discuss her liberation from an abusive religious setting, the fusion of nontheism and ritual, how ritual can bring empowerment and catharsis into an individual's life, and much more.Find Shiva Honey here. Let me know your thoughts on this episode by writing me an email.Become a patron so I can continue my crippling content creation addiction here. Join my Discord server here...2020-05-191h 12
Sacred TensionSelf Care, Politics, and Big Data with Priest PenemueIn this stripped-down, unedited episode of Sacred Tension, I'm joined by my friend Priest Penemue for a long conversation about leftist politics, how we are practicing self care during the COVID-19 pandemic, and his insider perspective on digital privacy and big data.you can watch the video version of this conversation on Penemue's patreon Here.Become a patron so I can continue my crippling content creation addiction here. Join my Discord server here.Find other Rock Candy podcasts here.Join my mailing list here.2020-05-122h 16
Sacred TensionMusic, Bad Movies, and Blasphemy with Lucien GreavesIn this stripped down, unedited episode of Sacred Tension I hang out with Lucien Greaves to discuss terrible Christian movies, Satanic blasphemy, the corruption of social media, his new music project Satanic Planet, and much more. Find Lucien Greaves here.Become a patron so I can continue my crippling content creation addiction here. Join my Discord server here.Read my articles and send me hate mail here.Find other Rock Candy podcasts here.Join my mailing list here.Follow m...2020-05-042h 09
Sacred TensionBit Tyrants, feat. Rob LarsonIn this episode of Sacred Tension I'm joined by socialist economist, professor, and author Rob Larson to discuss the horrors of big tech, and what we can do about it. While we are all social distancing and more reliant on technology than ever, now is the best time to think deeply about how we can socialize the tech and digital worlds. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic and my heightened work load/stress level/existential horror, these episodes are unedited. That means they are a bit more rough around the edges than they normally are. However, I w...2020-04-271h 34
Sacred TensionWhy Nontheistic Religion is Essential, feat. Lucien GreavesIn this episode of Sacred Tension, I'm joined by Lucien Greaves, co-founder and spokesperson for the Satanic Temple. We discuss the challenge of maintaining a religious community during the COVID-19 pandemic, common misunderstandings about the Satanic Temple, and why nontheistic religion is essential. Find Lucien Greaves here.Join my Discord server here.Read my articles and send me hate mail here.Find other Rock Candy podcasts here.Become a patron so I can continue my crippling content creation addiction here. Join my mai...2020-04-201h 29
Sacred TensionBeing An Essential Worker During COVID-19Welcome to the new, stripped down, unedited Sacred Tension. Due to the incredible stress I've been under in recent weeks, I'm now releasing chill, unedited conversations for your listening pleasure. In this episode, I'm joined by longtime friend and occasional Sacred Tension co-host Danielle, who interviews me about what it's like being an essential grocery store worker during the COVID-19 pandemic. In a word, it's terrifying. Join my Discord server here.Read my articles and send me hate mail here.Find other Rock Candy podcasts here.Become a pa...2020-04-1353 min
Sacred TensionBasic Glitches Pt. 4: We're the Ones With the Shelf LifeIn this episode, Matt and I conclude our commentary of Eleventyseven's new album Basic Glitches. Listen to Basic Glitches on Spotify here.Join my Discord server here.Read my articles and send me hate mail here.Find other Rock Candy podcasts here.Become a patron so I can continue my crippling content creation addiction here. Join my mailing list here.Follow me on twitter here.Follow me on Instagram here. This is a public...2020-04-0744 min
Sacred TensionBasic Glitches, Pt. 3: Put a Fist Through a Rich Kid's MouthMatt Langston and I continue our conversation about his latest album Basic Glitches, which explores themes of religious trauma, deconversion, the digitization of our world, and much more. In this episode, we get to the silly half of the album.Listen to Basic Glitches on Spotify here.Join my Discord server here.Read my articles and send me hate mail here.Find other Rock Candy podcasts here.Become a patron so I can continue my crippling content creation addiction here. Join my ma...2020-03-1043 min
Sacred TensionBasic Glitches, Pt. 2: Toxic Inner MythologyMatt Langston and I continue our conversation about music, evangelicalism, religious trauma, and more. Listen to Basic Glitches on Spotify here.Read my articles and send me hate mail here.Find other Rock Candy podcasts here.Become a patron so I can continue my crippling content creation addiction here. Join my mailing list here.Follow me on twitter here.Follow me on Instagram here. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with oth...2020-03-0355 min
Sacred TensionBasic Glitches, Pt. 1: You're Killing my VibeIn this episode of Sacred Tension, I'm joined by friend and colleague Matt Langston to discuss his latest album Basic Glitches. We talk about our long and traumatic journeys out of evangelical Christianity, sexual purity culture, and much more. Listen to Basic Glitches on Spotify here.Read my articles and send me hate mail here.Find other Rock Candy podcasts here.Become a patron so I can continue my crippling content creation addiction here. Join my mailing list here.Follow me on twi...2020-02-2457 min
Sacred TensionOn Satanism and AtheismFind the transcript of this mini episode here. Read my articles and send me hate mail here.Find other Rock Candy podcasts here.Become a patron so I can continue my crippling content creation addiction here. Join my mailing list here.Follow me on twitter here.Follow me on Instagram here. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit sacredtension.substack.com/subscribe2020-02-1707 min
Sacred TensionScience, Satanism, and Supernaturalism, feat. Priest PenemueIn this episode of Sacred Tension, I’m joined once more by Priest Penemue of the Satanic Temple to discuss supernaturalism, theism, and the Fifth tenet of the Satanic Temple. The fifth tenet reads, “Beliefs should conform to our best scientific understanding of the world. We should take care never to distort scientific facts to fit our beliefs.”Find Priest Penemue here.Support Priest Penemue on Patreon here.Read my articles and send me hate mail here.Find other Rock Candy podcasts here.Become a patr...2020-02-101h 10
Sacred TensionLove and Quasars, feat. Paul WallaceIn this episode of Sacred Tension, I speak with pastor, author, and astrophysicist Paul Wallace about his journey as an astrophysicist who can't shake his faith in God. We discuss Galileo, quantum physics, the interactions between faith and science, why I personally don't believe in God, and much more. Find Paul Wallace's work here. Join my Discord community here.Read my articles and send me hate mail here.Find other Rock Candy podcasts here.Become a patron so I can continue my crippling content cr...2020-02-0356 min
Sacred TensionThe Satanic Temple vs. Church of Satan, feat. Priest PenemueIn this episode of Sacred Tension I'm joined by Priest Penemue -- a Satanic content creator and director of ministry at The Satanic Temple. We discuss the difference between Church of Satan and The Satanic Temple, and why those differences matter.Find Priest Penemue here.Support Priest Penemue on Patreon here.Read TST vs. CoS article here.Read my articles and send me hate mail here.Find other Rock Candy podcasts here.Become a patron so I can continue my crippling...2020-01-1448 min
Sacred TensionOn Forfeiting the Word "Atheist"Find the transcript to this mini episode here This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit sacredtension.substack.com/subscribe2020-01-0715 min
The GamerpreneurStephen Machuga's Non-Profit Shows What It Means To Stack Up While Serving Veterans Through GamingLearn more about The Gamerpreneur at: www.thegamerpreneur.com
Stephen Machuga has started not one, but TWO different non-profits focused on helping veterans/active duty troops to heal through the power of video games (of which he currently runs one of them). That is in addition to the countless systems and games his non-profit, Stack Up, donates to troops every year. Thankfully, Stephen was gracious enough to give us some of his time so we could ask him about the process of starting, and then managing a non-profit business. Stephen is a true Gamerpreneur! Check it out!
L...2020-01-0754 min
Sacred TensionDebunking Conspiracy Theories with Logic and Respect feat. Mick WestIn this episode of Sacred Tension, I speak with professional conspiracy theory debunker Mick West about cognitive biases, aliens, real conspiracies, and much more. You can find Mick West here. Read my articles and send me hate mail here.Find other Rock Candy podcasts here.Become a patron so I can continue my crippling content creation addiction here. Join my mailing list here.Follow me on twitter here. This is a public episode. If you'd like...2019-12-3156 min
Sacred TensionAn Evangelical and a Satanist Have a ConversationIn this episode of Sacred Tension, I'm joined by evangelical John W. Morehead for an ecumenical conversation about Satanism, Evangelicalism, multiculturalism, and more.Love my work and want to support it? Please consider becoming a patron so I can continue to bring you interesting content every week. Also, don’t forget to sign up for my mailing list so you don’t miss another podcast, blog post, or cat picture. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit sacredtension.substack.com/subs2019-12-1655 min
Sacred TensionFighting the ApocalypseEnvironmental scientist Melissa Wilson joins me to talk environmental collapse, and how we can fight it. Find Melissa hereDrawdown ProjectFind other Rock Candy Shows here.Read my work, comment, or get in touch with me here.Support me on Patreon. Join my mailing list. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit sacredtension.substack.com/subscribe2019-11-051h 08
Sacred TensionThe Satanic ConversionFind the full transcript of this mini episode here. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit sacredtension.substack.com/subscribe2019-10-2908 min
Sacred TensionSatanic Q&A with Jack MatirkoIn this episode of Sacred Tension, Jack Matirko of For Infernal Use Only answers questions about modern religious Satanism. Love my work and want to support it? Please consider becoming a patron so I can continue to bring you interesting content every week. Also, don’t forget to sign up for my mailing list so you don’t miss another podcast, blog post, or cat picture. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit sacredtension.substack.com/subscribe2019-10-081h 09
Sacred TensionMeaning in a Godless UniverseFind the full transcript of this mini episode here. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit sacredtension.substack.com/subscribe2019-09-2409 min
Sacred TensionSex WorkIn this episode of Sacred Tension, I speak with sex worker Kit Bauer. We discuss the stigma of sex work, a day in the life of a sex worker, the benefits and importance of sex work, and much more. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit sacredtension.substack.com/subscribe2019-09-1754 min
Sacred TensionWhen People Tell You You're Deceived, Damned, Or SinfulFind the transcript to this mini episode here. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit sacredtension.substack.com/subscribe2019-09-0907 min
Sacred TensionVaush the Nazi FighterIn this episode of Sacred Tension, I talk to controversial online leftist provocateur, edgelord, and de-radicalizer Vaush. We discuss his methods of argumentation with the far right, why he does what he does, and how the Left often fails in responding to our critics. We also address his recent sexual misconduct allegations.Content warning: this episode does address sexual abuse.You can find Vaush’s work here.My article about Sam Harris. My interview with Professor Ben BurgisListen to other Rock Candy shows.2019-09-031h 17
Sacred TensionI Won't Leave Church Because I'm a SatanistFind the full transcript of this mini episode here. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit sacredtension.substack.com/subscribe2019-08-2707 min
Sacred Tension#Metoo and Confronting Evangelical AbuseIn this episode of Sacred Tension, environmental scientist Melissa Wilson returns to the show to tell us a harrowing story of abuse at a small Christian college in Appalachia. Instead of assuming this incident is an anomaly, or a tempest in a teacup, it is best to see it as a microcosm of the abuse and crisis sweeping all of evangelical Christian culture. Melissa B. Wilson, A.L.M and M.S. is an active conservationist and environmentalist who happily lives in paradise (the U.S. Virgin Islands) working to create STEM career pathways and networks f...2019-08-211h 06
Sacred TensionCreative Wells and Getting BoredThe good news: my partner and I are buying a house this week, and soon I will have a brand new studio space. The bad news: I'm way behind on the show because of the move. Instead of a Sacred Tension episode, here is an interview I did with Matt Langston of Eventylife. We talk about creativity, love, coming of age as a queer person, and much more. We will be back to regular Sacred Tension episodes soon. Join the Sacred Tension community here.Find...2019-07-221h 13
Sacred TensionAmerican HereticsIn this episode of Sacred Tension, I talk to Reverend Lori Walke: a badass lady preacher, public theologian, and social activist who is prominently featured in the new documentary American Heretics: The Politics of the Gospel. We discuss her work as an activist fighting against encroaching theocracy in Oklahoma, her journey to becoming a heretical female pastor, and her work to provide sanctuary for our undocumented fellow human beings. American Heretics: The Politics of the Gospel takes audiences into the buckle of Bible belt where a group of defiant Oklahomans are rising up to...2019-07-1558 min
Sacred TensionHouse of HereticsThis is an episode of my patrons-only podcast House of Heretics. If you like what you hear, please go support my work on Patreon, and you will help me grow this show and pay the bills. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit sacredtension.substack.com/subscribe2019-07-021h 00
Sacred TensionWhy Satan?In which I explain why Satanism works for me.Find the full transcript of this mini episode and comment on it here. Find other Rock Candy Podcasts here.Read my dozens of articles, comment on this episode, or contact me here.Love my work and want to support it? Please consider becoming a patron so I can continue to bring you interesting content every week. Also, don’t forget to sign up for my mailing list so you don’t miss another podcast, blog post, or cat picture.2019-06-2415 min
Sacred TensionOdin Meets JesusIn this episode of Sacred Tension, Kodiak joins us once again to explain his sudden and unexpected conversion from Odinism to Christianity. Find other Rock Candy Podcasts here.Read my dozens of articles, comment on this episode, or contact me here.Love my work and want to support it? Please consider becoming a patron so I can continue to bring you interesting content every week. Also, don’t forget to sign up for my mailing list so you don’t miss another podcast, blog post, or cat picture. This...2019-06-1849 min
Sacred TensionGiving Up on Calling Myself ChristianFind the full transcript of this mini episode here.Love my work and want to support it? Please consider becoming a patron so I can continue to bring you interesting content every week. Also, don’t forget to sign up for my mailing list so you don’t miss another podcast, blog post, or cat picture. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit sacredtension.substack.com/subscribe2019-06-1006 min
Sacred TensionPraise OdinIn this episode of Sacred Tension, I talk to my longtime friend Kodiak about his journey into Odin worship. Along the way, we talk about the significance of ritual, blood sacrifice, and the rise of white nationalism in some pagan circles.Love my work and want to support it? Please consider becoming a patron so I can continue to bring you interesting content every week. Also, don’t forget to sign up for my mailing list so you don’t miss another podcast, blog post, or cat picture.Other Rock Candy Shows: Bible Bash, El...2019-06-0357 min
Sacred TensionDestroying the Right with Facts and LogicIn this episode of Sacred Tension I sit down with author and logic professor Ben Burgis to discuss his latest book, Give Them an Argument, and what figures on the right like Peterson, Harris, and Shapiro get wrong.Other Rock Candy Shows: Bible Bash, Eleventylife. Love my work and want to support it? Please consider becoming a patron so I can continue to bring you interesting content every week. Also, don’t forget to sign up for my mailing list so you don’t miss another podcast, blog post, or cat picture. ...2019-05-211h 07
Sacred TensionThe Satanic ReformationIn this episode of Sacred Tension, Jack Matirko joins me to talk atheism, nontheistic religion, and Satanism. We discuss the rise of the Satanic Temple, what his own personal Satanism looks like, why religion does not mean supernaturalism, and much more. Jack Matirko is a Satanist, activist, and creative professional in Arizona. As a member of The Satanic Temple, he tries to champion ideals of rational inquiry, personal sovereignty, separation of church and state, and individual freedom. Since 2012 he has co-hosted and produced podcasts including Left Hemispheres and his current show, Naked Diner. He is also th...2019-05-0652 min
Sacred TensionLeatherbound TerrorismChris Kratzer wants you to know that conservative evangelicalism is destroying the world. In this episode of Sacred Tension, he tells us why.Chris Kratzer is a husband, father, pastor, author, and speaker. Captured by the pure Gospel of God’s Grace, his focus is communicating the message of wholeness, equality, affirmation, and the beauty of Jesus particularly as it relates to life, culture, and church.As a pastor of 22 years, he enjoys being a husband, father of four children, writer, and spiritual encourager. Find his work here.I'd love to...2019-04-3053 min
Sacred TensionHail, Satan?The excellent film Hail, Satan? released to select theaters over the weekend (Easter weekend, no less) and to celebrate I had director Penny Lane come onto Sacred Tension to talk atheism, religion, and Satanism.Hail, Satan?is a marvel of a film: funny, provocative, beautifully shot, and unexpectedly moving. It chronicles the rise of The Satanic Temple (of which I am a member) and it was everything I hoped it would be. In this episode, Penny Lane talks about what led to her interest it the Satanic Temple and how the process of making the film cha...2019-04-2231 min
Sacred TensionFailed MissionaryIn this episode of Sacred Tension, I talk to Corey Pigg, producer and host of the excellent Failed Missionary podcast. We discuss our post-Christian journeys, Buddhist spirituality, and his harrowing experience as a missionary in Youth With a Mission.Other Rock Candy Podcasts: EleventylifeLove my work and want to support it? Please consider becoming a patron so I can continue to bring you interesting content every week. Also, don’t forget to sign up for my mailing list so you don’t miss another podcast, blog post, or cat picture.stephe...2019-04-1545 min
Sacred TensionWhite Supremacy and the Christchurch ShootingIn this episode of Sacred Tension I talk to multi-faith activist Tahil Sharma about white supremacy, violence, and overcoming oppression. Tahil Sharma is a Southern California native born to a Hindu and Sikh Indian family. He is a nationally recognized leader promoting religious and secular pluralism, human rights, social justice. Tahil works as the Faith Outreach Manager for Brave New Films, an organization that champions social justice issues by using a model of media, education, and grassroots volunteer involvement that inspires, empowers, motivates and teaches civic participation. Tahil also serves as an Interfaith Minister in Residence f...2019-04-0859 min
Sacred TensionBlack, Trans, QueerJ Mase III is a Black/trans/queer poet & educator based in Seattle, by way of Philly. He is the author of “If I Should Die Under the Knife, Tell my Kidney I was the Fiercest Poet Around”, as well as “And Then I Got Fired: One Transqueer’s Reflections on Grief, Unemployment, and Inappropriate Jokes about Death”. As an educator, J Mase has worked with thousands of community members in the US, the UK, and Canada on the needs of LGBTQIA youth and adults in spaces such as K-12 schools, universities, faith communities, and restricted care facili...2019-03-2649 min
Sacred TensionDismantling Supremacy CultureIn this episode of Sacred Tension, I talk to Robyn Henderson-Espinoza, PhD about the process of dismantling toxic power within our culture. We talk about my gradual journey of understanding what, exactly, racism and sexism are, and the process of overcoming them. Robyn ultimately advocates for radical courage and imagination, and I found this conversation deeply moving.Knowing intimately that the borderlands are a place of learning and growth, Dr. Robyn draws on their identity and heritage as a queer Latinx in everything that they do. From doubt to divine and everywhere in between, their call...2019-03-1255 min
Sacred TensionFrazzleDrip, Satanists, and Other Moral PanicsThe history of the United States is dotted by moral panics: delusional mass hysterias over complete fictions like the Illuminati, 9/11 trutherism, Stranger Danger, and Pedophilic Satanists. Now, in a climate in which the fertile jungle of the internet seems to produce new conspiracy theories by the day, we need to understand the importance of moral panics, how they warp minds, and destroy lives.Joining me today is Chelsea Webber-Smith, producer of the excellent podcast American Hysteria. In this conversation we explore the causes of moral panic, the current moral panics in our culture, what led Chelsea...2019-03-0556 min
Sacred TensionThe Theology of Heaven's GateIn March of 1997, Heaven’s Gate committed ritual suicide to the astonishment and horror of the world. Over 20 years later, we are still piecing together the mystery of this fringe UFO religion: who were they, what did they believe, and why did they end so horribly? Joining me for today’s Sacred Tension podcast is Benjamin Zeller, widely considered the leading authority on Heaven’s Gate.Zeller walks us through why he calls Heaven’s Gate a religion and not a cult, the theology of Heaven’s Gate and how it is, at its most basic level, Chr...2019-02-1956 min
Sacred TensionA Theist and a Nontheist Have a ConversationOur culture is rife with unproductive conversations about God and religion. Donald and I attempt to rectify this by sitting down and talking about our belief and unbelief in God. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit sacredtension.substack.com/subscribe2019-02-1258 min
Sacred TensionWhen Maggie Met MollyDespite the social taboo against certain psychedelic and psychoactive drugs, the medical world is now experimenting on previously forbidden drugs with promising results. In this episode of Sacred Tension, I speak with Maggie Eli about her clinical trial on MDMA, AKA Molly or Ecstasy. We talk about PTSD, living with mental illness, religious trauma, Christianity, and how MDMA helped her heal from debilitating mental illness.If you love my work and want to support it, please go to my Patreon page and pledge a monthly amount for some exclusive perks. You can also f...2019-02-0450 min
Sacred TensionOn Not Believing in God but Experiencing Him Anywayhttps://stephenbradfordlong.com/2019/01/24/on-not-believing-in-god-but-experiencing-him-anyway/#more-5805 This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit sacredtension.substack.com/subscribe2019-02-0105 min
Sacred TensionWhy I Still Call Myself a ChristianFind the full transcript of this mini episode here: https://stephenbradfordlong.com/2019/01/17/why-i-still-call-myself-a-christian/ This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit sacredtension.substack.com/subscribe2019-01-2503 min
Sacred TensionDemon PossessionIn this episode, Joseph Laycock joins us again to discuss demon possession. What is it? why do humans experience it? What does the experience of demon possession say about religion and human nature in general? Joseph and I discuss these issues and more.Love this show and want to support it? Please support my work at Patreon.com/stephenbradfordlongOther Rock Candy podcasts: EleventyLife This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit sacredtension.substack.c...2019-01-2253 min
Sacred TensionMini Episode: A Few Questions You Might Have About SatanismFind the link to this blog post here. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit sacredtension.substack.com/subscribe2019-01-1817 min
Sacred TensionGod and Gay SexIn this episode of Sacred Tension, Donald and I sit down to answer questions from patrons of the show. We talk about why I went into yoga, what parts of my faith remain intact after going through deconstruction, how straight allies can better serve the LGBT community, what we wish someone had told us about gay sex, and much more.You can become a patron of Sacred Tension by going to patreon.com/stephenbradfordlong, and for $5 a month you will get a separate, patrons-only podcast.Other Rock Candy Shows: EleventyLife ...2019-01-151h 09
Sacred TensionMini Episode: This is What I Mean When I Say I Don't Believe In GodFind the full transcript to this mini episode here: https://stephenbradfordlong.com/2019/01/03/this-is-what-i-mean-when-i-say-i-dont-believe-in-god/ This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit sacredtension.substack.com/subscribe2019-01-1009 min
Sacred TensionGamification and the SingularityIn this episode, I talk to Douglas Lain about his latest novel Bash Bash Revolution: a young adult novel that explores Marxism, revolution, artificial intelligence, and the gamification of human society. We discuss utopia, mental health, the consequences of digitization and gamification on the mind and spirituality, and much more.Douglas Lain is the publisher of Zero Books, a novelist, a podcaster, and most recently a youtuber.Lain’s previous novel After the Saucers Landed was nominated for the Philip K Dick Award. Douglas Lain is also the host of the Zero Books podcast. His...2019-01-0856 min
Sacred TensionEvangelicalism's BetrayalIn this episode I talk to film-maker Christopher Maloney about his latest documentary, In God We Trump, which explores the confounding relationship between Trump and the evangelical world.Evangelicals — one of the largest voting blocks in the United States — are wedded to Trump, and are largely responsible for getting him into office. Despite their supposed commitment to sexual morality, family values, humility, and truth-telling, they have gotten into bed with one of the most dishonest, immoral, and arrogant con-men the presidency has ever seen.Christopher’s documentary attempts to understand this betrayal — how can a gr...2018-12-1854 min
Sacred Tension(Repost) Cults and New Religious MovementsThis holiday season has been crazy, so I am reposting this fascinating conversation with cult expert Joseph Laycock about New Religious Movements. We will be back on schedule with new shows next week. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit sacredtension.substack.com/subscribe2018-12-1158 min
Sacred TensionFace the Music and Dance: Responding to Climate ChangeEarlier this year, the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change dropped a horrifying ultimatum on the world: we have a mere 12 years to to mobilize a World War II level effort to change the effects of climate change to avoid a cataclysmic future.Like many people, I try to be a conscientious and informed citizen. I try to stay abreast of all that is happening in the world, and I try to effect change in my own small way. But this IPCC report completely paralyzed me with terror. How do we even begin to effect change in...2018-12-041h 04
Sacred TensionInside the Catholic Sex Abuse ScandalI'm joined by former priest David Yocis to discuss the Catholic sex abuse scandal and the recent Pennsylvania Grand Jury Report. Find the Grand Jury Report here: https://www.washingtonpost.com/apps/g/page/local/report-on-pennsylvania-church-sex-abuse/2319/ This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit sacredtension.substack.com/subscribe2018-11-191h 06
Sacred TensionWhat is Marxism? Feat. Rob LarsonIn this episode of Sacred Tension I sit down with socialist professor and author Rob Larson to give some basic definitions for oft-misrepresented terms, primarily Marxism and Socialism. We also discuss the existential threat of capitalism as it relates to climate change, why figures like Jordan Peterson are so popular, and much more. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit sacredtension.substack.com/subscribe2018-11-121h 13
Sacred Tension(Repost) Christian Movies Suck, feat. Say Goodnight Kevin(Repost) I talk to YouTuber Say Goodnight Kevin about why Christian movies are so horrible. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit sacredtension.substack.com/subscribe2018-11-0558 min
Sacred TensionAfter School Satan, feat. Chalice Blythe of The Satanic TempleLogic, science, and reason are coming for your children. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit sacredtension.substack.com/subscribe2018-10-3046 min
Sacred TensionTheology and Social Justice Pt. 2Danielle and I conclude our conversation on social justice and the gospel. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit sacredtension.substack.com/subscribe2018-10-231h 32
Sacred TensionTheology and Social Justice Pt. 1Danielle and I sit down to discuss the recent statement on social justice and the gospel from various evangelical leaders. In the process, we talk about priviledge, race, science, and much more. For more resources on this subject: Minoirty Korner PodcastThe New Jim Crow White RageContraPoints This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit sacredtension.substack.com/subscribe2018-10-151h 27
Sacred TensionOut of Evangelicalism, feat. Blake ChastainIn this episode of Sacred Tension, I talk to Exvangelical Podcast host Blake Chastain about recovering from evangelicalism, the importance of ritual, the harms of purity culture, and much more. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit sacredtension.substack.com/subscribe2018-10-0853 min
Sacred TensionGetting Naked With the Naked PastorDavid Hayward, AKA the Naked Pastor, is a retired minister who now helps guide people through the challenges of theological deconstruction. He leads the Lasting Supper online community, and is the cartoonist behind the Naked Pastor comics. In this conversation we discuss his journey out of traditional Christianity, his deconstruction, and the road to healthy spirituality.Love my show and want to support it? Please take a moment to give this show five stars on itunes. You can also financially support my work at www.patreon.com/stephenbradfordlong, where you will receive a se...2018-10-0248 min