Shows
Good GodJohn Munayer: Understanding Israel–Palestine Through a Theology of NeighborMany American Christians want to understand Israel–Palestine but feel overwhelmed by history, headlines, and competing narratives. In this conversation, George Mason and John Munayer cut through that noise with a grounded, deeply human look at the lived experience of Palestinian Christians, the shifts happening in Palestinian theology, and why humility and attentive listening are essential for anyone seeking clarity right now. They explore everyday metaphors like the olive tree and olive oil, the weight of Holy Saturday after Gaza, and how a theology that truly blesses one’s neighbor can guide faithful engagement.John Munayer is the...
2025-11-1325 min
Access to Excellence PodcastServing those who serve: A deployment of education and researchGeorge Mason University proudly proclaims that we are All Together, Different. We are a school where non-traditional students are traditional students. And though they face unique challenges, these students bring important perspectives and experiences to our classrooms. Nowhere is this clearer than with our population of students connected to the military.
On this episode of Access to Excellence, Senior Associate Provost for Undergraduate Education and Professor of Psychology Keith Renshaw joins President Gregory Washington to discuss the role George Mason plays in providing service members, veterans, and their families the means to find community, purpose, and fulfillment beyond their mili...
2025-11-1037 min
Good GodBuilding Peace Through Dialogue: A Conversation with Hana BendcowskyWhat does peacebuilding look like in a place marked by fear and trauma?George Mason speaks with Hana Bendcowsky, Program Director at the Rossing Center for Education and Dialogue in Jerusalem. Hana describes the Rossing Center’s work fostering understanding and shared society among Jews, Christians, and Muslims in Israel through mindful listening, trauma awareness, and relationship building. Reflecting on the aftermath of October 7, 2023, she shares how the war has intensified polarization while making dialogue more essential than ever.Their conversation closes with reflections on religious identity, nationalism, and compassion, as Hana and George recognize th...
2025-11-0625 min
Good GodMara Richards Bim on What Chicago Is Teaching UsAs immigration enforcement intensifies in cities like Chicago, people of faith are grappling with how to respond. In this episode, George Mason speaks with Rev. Mara Richards Bim—Justice & Advocacy Fellow at Royal Lane Baptist Church in Dallas—about what she witnessed during a recent visit, where clergy and community members are confronting tear gas, chemical agents, and tactics that feel more like military operations than targeted law enforcement. Together they explore the theological stakes: What does it mean to love our neighbors—including ICE agents—while rejecting violence and mission creep? How do Christians read Scripture faithfully in a politi...
2025-10-2925 minAccess to Excellence PodcastThe modern grid: the intersection of energy and the environment“Infrastructure” is one of those words that can mean a lot of different things to different people. At George Mason, we’re focused on infrastructure in terms of sustainability – how can we help innovate new systems for the world’s infrastructure that will be resilient and flexible enough to support a changing world.
On this episode of Access to Excellence, President Gregory Washington is joined by two guests working at the intersection of innovation and sustainability to develop George Mason’s capabilities as a living laboratory for students, faculty, and staff to find solutions to our grand challenges: Li...
2025-10-2033 min
Good GodFaith Over Fear: Rev. Eric Folkerth on Prayer, Immigration, and Moral CourageAs fear and tension rise around immigration enforcement in North Texas, Rev. Eric Folkerth has helped lead an interfaith clergy vigil outside the Dallas ICE field office—an act of prayerful presence in the face of injustice.In this episode of Good God, George Mason talks with Rev. Folkerth about what happens at these weekly gatherings, how they began, and why he believes prayer can be both faithful and prophetic. Together they discuss the growing anxiety among immigrants, the tragic shooting that drew national attention to the Dallas ICE facility, and the moral toll of policies that ha...
2025-10-0930 minAccess to Excellence PodcastBest of Access to ExcellenceFor this special "Best Of" episode, we've compiled some of our most thought-provoking and compelling conversations between President Washington and our accomplished faculty. We'll revisit discussions that are more relevant than ever—from the vast mysteries of the cosmos to the hidden power of coffee grounds—to see how George Mason is blazing a path of innovation to develop bold solutions for our world's grand challenges.
2025-08-2743 minAccess to Excellence PodcastA Small Cup with Big Impact in the Fight Against Lyme DiseaseOne small bite from a deer tick can lead to debilitating symptoms and a lifelong battle with Lyme disease. At George Mason University, researchers are developing innovative diagnostic technologies that are changing the landscape of Lyme disease detection. In this episode of the Access to Excellence podcast, George Mason President Gregory Washington speaks with Alessandra Luchini, professor in the School of Systems Biology in the College of Science, about the development of cancer and Lyme disease detection technologies, and the importance of international collaboration in scientific progress.
2025-07-1426 minAccess to Excellence PodcastA Future We Want: One Grand Challenge. Six Grand SolutionsDrawing on our roots as the university that overcame adversity to become the nation’s youngest-ever R1 institution—and one whose sponsored research funding has grown 64 percent since 2020—George Mason University is launching a university-wide strategy to sharpen our focus on humanity’s most pressing issues while maximizing our competitiveness for external research funding: the Grand Challenge Initiative. For this episode of Access to Excellence, Andre Marshall, vice president for research, innovation, and economic impact at George Mason, joins President Gregory Washington to discuss this new initiative and how it will shape the future of our university.
2025-06-0336 min
Good GodFrom Private Equity to Public Good: Peter Brodsky on Housing and HopePeter Brodsky wasn’t always a real estate developer—but when he saw an opportunity to use his business experience to help transform southern Dallas, he stepped in. In this season finale of Good God, George Mason speaks with Peter about his work at the Shops at Redbird, his leadership at Housing Forward, and why homelessness, food access, and affordable housing demand both moral clarity and practical solutions.Together, they explore the structural causes of poverty, the challenge of changing public narratives, and how Peter’s Jewish faith and commitment to tikkun olam—repairing the world—have shaped his...
2025-05-1530 min
Good GodSharon Grigsby on Journalism, Justice, and the Power of Paying AttentionWhat does it mean to report with compassion in a culture driven by clicks and controversy? George Mason sits down with veteran journalist Sharon Grigsby to talk about her newest venture—The Lab Report Dallas—a bold, nonprofit newsroom rooted in data, equity, and solutions for reducing child poverty in Dallas. They reflect on her decades of writing with kindness and accountability, the changing landscape of media, and how Sharon’s own evolving faith informs her work and voice.Sharon Grigsby is a longtime Dallas journalist, former metro columnist for The Dallas Morning News, and co-founder of The La...
2025-04-3027 min
Good GodGratitude and the Common Good: Reimagining Community with Kyle OgdenAt the heart of downtown Dallas lies Thanks-Giving Square—a place designed to inspire gratitude, foster interfaith understanding, and call an entire city toward the common good. In this episode, George Mason sits down with Kyle Ogden, President and CEO of The Thanks-Giving Foundation, to talk about the Square’s origins, its bold civic vision, and its evolving role in today’s divided cultural landscape. Together, they explore how gratitude functions as a foundational virtue, why nonprofits matter in a healthy democracy, and what it means to shift from personal success to public significance. Kyle also shares his own...
2025-04-2428 minAccess to Excellence PodcastBuilding community and conversation through the artsGeorge Mason has a long history of supporting the arts on campus and in the community. With seven academic programs, seven galleries, six community arts programs, two major venues, and the digital venue Mason Arts Amplified, Mason Arts continues to create a thriving artistic community right here in Northern Virginia.
On this episode of Access to Excellence, President Gregory Washington is joined by Rick Davis, dean of the College of Visual and Performing Arts at George Mason and the executive director of the Hylton Performing Arts Center. An accomplished director, author, professor, and George Mason baseball cap collec...
2025-04-2140 min
Good GodBringing Faith to Dallas Civic Life with Jaynie SchultzWhat does it look like to bring your whole self—your values, your faith, your history—into public life? Councilmember Jaynie Schultz joins George Mason for a candid conversation about her years in public service, the joys and challenges of representing a diverse district, and the values that have shaped her decisions along the way. Together, they reflect on civic responsibility, zoning and housing justice, faith-rooted ethics, and the spiritual soul of Dallas. Jaynie also shares why she’s stepping away from elected office and what comes next.Jaynie Schultz is a Dallas City Council member representing Distri...
2025-04-1031 min
Good GodBeril Berk on Building Bridges through Dialogue, Art, and EmpathyBeril Berk, Executive Director of the Dialogue Institute of Dallas, joins George Mason to explore how intentional relationship-building—across faiths, cultures, and communities—creates lasting impact. In this conversation, she reflects on the power of sitting at shared tables, the rich meaning of Ramadan, and the role of art and youth leadership in cultivating empathy. From feeding neighbors at shelters to launching a youth group called “Salam Shalom,” Berk’s work is rooted in the values of the Hizmet movement: education, service, and mutual understanding.A lawyer by training, Beril Berk also practices immigration law and brings her person...
2025-03-2727 min
Good GodVoting Rights, Immigration, and the Fight for Justice with Eric CedilloRestrictive voting laws and immigration policies shape who has a voice in our democracy. Attorney and activist Eric Cedillo joins Good God to discuss his work expanding voting access, advocating for Latino communities, and pushing for immigration reform. He and George Mason explore the systemic obstacles that keep people from the ballot box, the political roadblocks to reform, and the power of grassroots action to create change. With the Super Mega Marcha approaching, this conversation is a powerful reminder that democracy depends on those who show up.Cedillo is the founder of The Law Offices of Eric...
2025-03-2040 minAccess to Excellence PodcastPeace building amid the rise of global conflictThe December 2024 conflict index by the Armed Conflict Location and Event Data initiative reported that global conflicts have doubled over the past five years. Now more than ever, we need experts in conflict analysis and peacebuilding. And George Mason University is ready to meet that call.
On this episode of Access to Excellence, President Gregory Washington is joined by Marc Gopin, the James H. Laue Professor of World Religions, Diplomacy and Conflict Resolution in George Mason’s Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter School for Peace and Conflict Resolution, to discuss the art of diplomacy by building one relationship at a...
2025-03-1750 min
Good GodLiving Faith: Almas Muscatwalla on Pluralism, Service, and the Power of CommunityFaith isn’t just a belief—it’s a way of life. Almas Muscatwalla, a dedicated interfaith leader and advocate for social justice, joins Good God to share how her Ismaili Muslim faith calls her into service. In conversation with George Mason, she reflects on the meaning of pluralism, the importance of understanding across differences, and the role of faith in shaping a more just and compassionate society.Muscatwalla co-founded Faith Forward Dallas at Thanks-Giving Square to bring faith leaders together in action on issues like homelessness, racial equity, and refugee support. She has served in leadership roles...
2025-03-1332 minAccess to Excellence PodcastNavigating AI’s risks and rewardsIn 2024, artificial intelligence dominated conversations across the globe from copyright lawsuits against AI art generators to developing legislation for artificial intelligence regulation. On this episode of Access to Excellence, President Gregory Washington and George Mason’s inaugural vice president and chief AI officer Amarda Shehu discuss the research possibilities of AI and the role of higher education in AI training and development.
2025-01-2150 min
Good GodHow to End Christian Nationalism: A Conversation with Amanda TylerIn this episode of Good God, George Mason sits down with Amanda Tyler, Executive Director of the Baptist Joint Committee for Religious Liberty and lead organizer for Christians Against Christian Nationalism. Amanda shares insights from her new book, How to End Christian Nationalism, exploring the steps needed to dismantle this dangerous ideology while promoting religious freedom for all. From defining Christian nationalism to addressing its impact on public schools and political power, Amanda calls us to engage deeply in protecting democracy and fostering pluralism.Amanda Tyler is a lawyer, religious liberty advocate, and leader in the fight...
2025-01-1434 min
Good GodThis Is Going to Hurt: Faith, Division, and Radical Love with Bekah McNeelIn this episode of Good God, George Mason sits down with journalist Bekah McNeel to discuss her latest book, This Is Going to Hurt: Following Jesus in a Divided America. Together, they explore the profound intersections of faith, suffering, and public life, challenging us to move beyond binaries and embrace self-sacrificial love in the face of division. From reframing stories about immigration and race to understanding the call of the cross as a daily act of radical compassion, Bekah invites listeners to go deeper into their convictions and rethink what it means to love their neighbors.Bekah...
2025-01-0738 min
Good GodState of Our Faith | Light in the Darkness: Reflections on Faith in this SeasonIn this special year-end episode of State of Our Faith, Rev. George Mason, Rabbi Nancy Kasten, and Mara Richards Bim reflect on themes of light and darkness across their faith traditions. As the holidays and new year approach, they discuss the significance of embracing both light and shadow, the importance of community and rest, and how faith calls us to be active participants in bringing hope to the world. Together, they offer insights and encouragement for finding light in challenging times.
2024-12-1913 min
Good God10 for 10: Voting Vision Not Division | From the Ballot to Action: Building Unity After the ElectionIn this special post-election episode of the "10 for 10: Voting Vision, Not Division" series, Rabbi Nancy Kasten and Rev. Dr. George Mason reflect on the surprises and challenges of the election results. They discuss how faith values can guide responses to shifting political landscapes, the importance of addressing local issues like housing and food access, and why advocating for good governance remains essential. Together, they emphasize the need for persistence and collaboration to create meaningful change, even when political winds shift. As the dust settles, this conversation invites listeners to stay engaged, persevere, and work toward unity and justice in...
2024-11-2513 minAccess to Excellence PodcastCan dirty coffee grounds be the key to clean water?Every day at George Mason University, faculty like assistant professor Jeffrey Moran develop innovative solutions to the world’s grand challenges. And sometimes those grand challenges can have small solutions that come from the most unlikely of places. In this episode of Access to Excellence, join Moran and President Gregory Washington as they discuss the water-cleaning powers of spent coffee grounds, aerosol experiments on the International Space Station, and finding inspiration for innovation in jazz.
2024-10-2153 min
Good God10 for 10: Voting Vision not Division | On War, "What Makes This Land Holy?"In this special episode, the Faith Commons team reflects on the one-year anniversary of the war between Israel and Hamas. Drawing from their own experiences in the region and their faith traditions, Rev. Dr. George Mason, Rabbi Nancy Kasten, and Mara Richards Bim grapple with the complexities of ongoing violence and the pursuit of peace. They discuss the difficulties of peacemaking, the limits of our understanding, and the importance of solidarity and compassion in a world divided by conflict. As they consider the impact of faith on public policy and voting, they challenge listeners to reflect on what makes...
2024-10-0720 min
Good God10 for 10: Voting Vision not Division | On FamilyIn this episode of "10 for 10: Voting Vision Not Division," Rev. Dr. George Mason, Rabbi Nancy Kasten, and Mara Richards Bim dive into the complexities of family and what it means to support families in today’s world. From the diverse family structures seen in religious texts to the modern policies needed to uplift all families, they discuss how faith calls for a broader, more inclusive understanding of family. The conversation covers essential topics like childcare assistance, paid leave, and family unity, urging voters to reflect on how public policies can strengthen families in all forms.What is 10 fo...
2024-09-2310 min
Good God10 for 10: Voting Vision not Division | On HealthcareIn this episode of "10 for 10: Voting Vision Not Division," Rev. Dr. George Mason, Rabbi Nancy Kasten, and Mara Richards Bim reflect on the role of healthcare in a faith-driven society. From the holistic healing ministry of Jesus to the ethical teachings of Maimonides, the discussion highlights the importance of universal healthcare access and the intersection of faith, medicine, and policy. As Election Day approaches, this episode invites voters to consider healthcare policies through the lens of compassion and justice, addressing issues like prescription drug costs, maternal health, and public safety.What is 10 for 10: Voting Vision not Division...
2024-09-1610 min
Good God10 for 10: Voting Vision not Division | On EducationIn this episode of "10 for 10: Voting Vision Not Division," Rabbi Nancy Kasten, Rev. Dr. George Mason, and Mara Richards Bim examine the vital role education plays in shaping our values and beliefs, both as individuals and as a society. They reflect on the importance of public education, the separation of church and state, and the influence of faith on education policy. As the election approaches, this episode encourages voters to consider how their religious convictions can inform their decisions about educational equity, government oversight, and the protection of diverse perspectives in our schools.What is 10 for 10...
2024-09-0909 min
Good God10 for 10: Voting Vision not Division | On LaborIn this inaugural episode of "10 for 10: Voting Vision Not Division," Rev. Dr. George Mason is joined by Rabbi Nancy Kasten and Mara Richards Bim to explore the significance of labor through the lens of faith. As we reflect on Labor Day, the discussion delves into how religious traditions emphasize the dignity of work, the necessity of rest, and the importance of fair labor practices. This episode challenges listeners to think critically about how their beliefs can shape their voting decisions on issues related to labor and employment. Join us as we kick off this series with a conversation that...
2024-09-0209 min
Research RemixKate Shuster and George Washington's HairWelcome to the fall season of the Research Remix, your one-stop shop for arts and humanities research at George Mason University. To get us started, Kate Shuster shares her fascinating, sometimes creepy research into George Washington's hair, and the many ways people have obtained and presented it as a patriotic souvenir. Don't forget to check out her contribution to our companion playlist (https://spoti.fi/3Zgsg6O) and follow us so you never miss an episode! Download episode transcripts and resources (including images of George's hair) at https://bit.ly/remix-season-2.
2024-08-2708 min
Good GodGrowing Hope: Joppy Momma's FarmGeorge Mason joins in conversation with Kim High, the passionate founder of Joppy Momma's Farm—a grassroots initiative tackling food insecurity in South Dallas. Kim shares her inspiring journey from corporate life to community farming, driven by her personal battle with diabetes and a leap of faith. Joppy Momma's Farm is not just feeding a community but also preserving the rich heritage of one of Dallas's historic Freedmen's towns. Joppy Momma's Farm vows to empower, educate, and create greater opportunities for health, wellness, and self-sufficiency through sustainable, regenerative agriculture. Kim's work is a testament to the power of fai...
2024-08-1518 minAccess to Excellence PodcastMarking a decade of success at Mason KoreaTen years ago, Mason Korea opened its doors at the Incheon Global Campus in Songdo, South Korea. Now, the campus offers degrees in six undergraduate and two graduate disciplines to students from around the world. To recognize this anniversary, President Gregory Washington is joined by former campus dean Robert Matz and associate professor Gyu Tag Lee to discuss the growth of Mason Korea, the influence of Korean pop on global culture, and the future of Mason at the Incheon Global Campus.
2024-08-0249 min
Good GodBuilding a Food Justice Future: Transforming South Oak CliffJoin host George Mason as he visits For Oak Cliff to discuss food security, access, and justice in Southern Dallas. Meet Julianna YeeFoon and Raven Shankle, leaders in the community's fight against food apartheid, and explore For Oak Cliff's innovative approaches to creating a sustainable and equitable food system. Discover how partnerships, education, and a vision for food sovereignty are transforming lives and neighborhoods.For Oak Cliff's mission is to provide culturally responsive initiatives in South Oak Cliff to liberate the community from systemic oppression, create a culture of education, and increase social mobility and social capital.
2024-08-0123 minAccess to Excellence PodcastCybersecurity and the global threats of tomorrowJamil Jaffer, founder and executive director of the National Security Institute and assistant professor of law at George Mason University's Antonin Scalia Law School, knows better than anyone the growing threats to national security during these rapidly changing times. In this fast-paced episode of Access to Excellence, Jaffer and George Mason President Gregory Washington discuss the U.S.'s position on the global stage, the power of the American Dream, and what we as citizens can do to start solving some of the country's stickiest problems.
2024-07-051h 02
Good GodTalking Faith: Christianity and PoliticsIn this pivotal election year, Rev. Dr. George Mason led the participants at Saint Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church’s Pub Theology in a reflective exploration of the role Christianity has played and should play in the realm of politics.From navigating contentious issues to grappling with the concept of Christian nationalism, he delved into the complexities and challenges of faith-based engagement in the public sphere.“Patriotism is love of country. Nationalism is hatred of the other.”
2024-07-011h 03Access to Excellence PodcastWhat will become of the Amazon?Jeremy Campbell, associate director for strategic engagement in George Mason University’s Institute for a Sustainable Earth, says that at its current pace the vast Amazon rainforest, in five to 10 years, could pass a tipping point in which it could transform into grasslands. That process, fueled by deforestation and climate change, is a threat to the biodiversity and socio-cultural aspects that define the region, and has global implications as well. In this fascinating conversation, Campbell explains to Mason President Gregory Washington the magnitude of what the loss of the Amazon rainforest would really mean.
2024-04-2252 minAccess to Excellence PodcastCatherine Read, mayor of Fairfax City, Va., is outspoken, unfilteredCatherine Read is the first woman and first George Mason University alum to be mayor of Fairfax City, Va., the university’s hometown, and she isn’t shy about touting an institution she says helped teach her how to think critically. Want to know why it’s good to “disrupt the system,” why it’s important to get more women into policy-making decisions, and why our educational system doesn’t reward bold ideas? Read tells you in this conversation with Mason President Gregory Washington. She also is adamant that “if we can’t maintain democracy, if we can’t preserve our country...
2024-03-2546 min
Good GodCourageous Conversations: Chris Walsh and William McKenzie on PluralismGeorge is joined by Chris Walsh and William McKenzie, both of the George W. Bush Institute where they engage in the advancement of freedom and democracy in the world.In this second episode of the Courageous Conversations series, they discuss what they call "the pluralism challenge," the role of pluralism in strengthening our democracy, the importance of a vibrant religious pluralism, and what American democracy means—even when it falls short of its own ideals.Chris Walsh serves as Director, Global Policy at the George W. Bush Institute. In this role, Mr. Walsh manages comm...
2024-02-2131 minAccess to Excellence PodcastA view from the pulpitWith oratory flair, Rev. Jeffery Johnson, pastor at Mount Calvary Baptist Church in Fairfax, Virginia, and Dr. Vernon Walton, pastor at First Baptist Church in Vienna, Virginia, guide us through some of the history and aspirations of the Black community using the lens of Black and African American History Month, Dr. King’s “I have a dream” speech, the dissolution of Black-only communities, and their perspectives as leaders of their parishes, which were founded by formerly enslaved people. George Mason University President Gregory Washington and the pastors also examine the unique, but intertwined, roles the university and churches can play t...
2024-02-1649 minAccess to Excellence PodcastWhere the bodies are buriedForensic research on human donors is not for the faint of heart, Mary Ellen O’Toole, director of the Forensic Science Program in George Mason University’s College of Science, admitted to Mason President Gregory Washington. But the university’s new outdoor research and training laboratory—or “body farm,” as O’Toole, a former FBI profiler, calls it—is a valuable addition to the study of human decomposition in various environmental conditions for the purpose of solving crimes. It also positions O’Toole’s program as a national leader in forensic science and forensic anthropology.
2024-01-1142 min
Rams RewindVCU at George MasonVCU picks up its first Atlantic 10 conference win, its first Quad 1 win, and its first true away game win of the season, taking down George Mason in Fairfax. George Templeton is elated in this Rams Rewind recap.
We do not have a sponsor, so we are asking for help from our listeners. To help us keep bringing to you the best VCU Basketball podcast on the planet, will you consider making a donation? If you'd like to help us keep the show going, here is the link to securely donate: https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=G...
2024-01-1029 min
Good GodRestorative Farms: Community Supported Agriculture in South DallasGeorge pays a visit to Restorative Farms where he meets with co-founder Brad Boa. He tours the farm and learns how this Community Farm is working to address the issues of food access by growing food and creating jobs for the community. Later, co-founder Owen Lynch joins George online and tells the origin story of Restorative Farms. In South Dallas where a population of people has to leave their community to get access to healthy food, Restorative Farms works to support systematically underdeveloped communities. The farm's focus is on food sustainability but is also creating a network o...
2023-08-1732 min
Good GodCity of Dallas: Sustainable Hunger Solutions through Food Distribution and EducationGeorge pays a visit to the West Dallas Multipurpose Center where he tours the grounds, meets with Center Manager Ashley Hutto, and learns how the city of Dallas is addressing the issues of food access and insecurity.In a part of the city where access to grocery stores and fresh produce is limited, the Center offers emergency food assistance, bilingual SNAP application support, a teaching kitchen, a Neighbors' Community Garden, and more. Follow along as George and Ashley explore the importance of seeking out sustainable and long-term solutions to hunger that arise from the community and maintain t...
2023-08-0319 minAccess to Excellence PodcastMissy Cummings: Artificial intelligence is artificial and not intelligentMissy Cummings, one of the country’s first female fighter pilots and director of George Mason University's Autonomy and Robotics Center, calls herself a tech futurist, charged with making tech work better and safer. In a conversation with Mason President Gregory Washington, Cummings is unflinching in her critique of AI’s strengths, weaknesses and shortcomings, as well as that of humans. There is a lot to like about AI, Cummings says, but she calls out bad tech where she sees it, including in the vision systems of self-driving cars and Tesla’s Autopilot. There's also a lot to like, Cummin...
2023-01-2547 min
Remote RubyRubygem Idea for Juniors, Modern Assets in Rails & George Jetson's Birthday [00:07:35] Andrew shares a free gem idea for Juniors or people who’ve never built a gem before. [00:10:20] Jason brings up a previous episode with Konnor Rogers where they talked about migrating Podia off Webpacker, and the guys chat more about that.[00:17:56] Jason was looking something up for JavaScript and he tells us he couldn’t get Google to give him any results that weren’t for jQuery, and Chris talks about the interesting idea that Rails could sort of simplify Webpack with Webpacker, which they’ve done with jQuery, Prototype...
2022-08-1244 min
Distant ReplayMarch 26, 2006 - NCAA Tournament Elite 8 - 11 George Mason vs 1 UConnThe 2006 NCAA Tournament East Regional Final between the Connecticut Huskies and George Mason Patriots was a true David vs. Goliath matchup. UConn came in as the 1-seed steeped in tradition having won two of the previous si NCAA Tournament championships. George Mason was the Cinderella 11-seed looking to make their first Final Four in program history. The #1 question from a basketball strategy standpoint entering this game is if George Mason could hang with the UConn frontline of Rudy Gay, Josh Boone, and Hilton Armstrong when the tallest GMU player stood just 6'7" tall. Not only did t...
2020-11-1946 min
Good GodJen Hatmaker talks risking it all for the sake of your neighborProlific author, co-pastor and equality activist, Jen Hatmaker bonds with George Mason over their paralleled experience becoming LGBTQ affirming at their churches.
2020-09-1700 min
Good GodInterfaith Friendship with Omar SuleimanWhat makes Imam Omar Suleiman and Reverend George Mason such good friends? The two reflect on their roles as faith leaders amidst the police brutality of the last decade and the effect it has had on their interfaith friendships. Whether it’s offering a shoulder for each others’ sorrow when their global communities are attacked, or working as co-conspirators for justice, Omar and George are an example for everyone on how to join hands with your interfaith allies and power up in the pursuit of peace.
2020-08-2730 min
Good GodGreg Garrett on the film BlackkklansmanGreg Garrett and George Mason analyze the Spike Lee joint Blackkklansman, and discuss the role films play in the history of race in this country.
2020-08-1330 min
Good GodGary Simpson on the craft of preachingGary Simpson is the 30-year pastor of Concord Baptist Church, a historic Black church in the Bedford Stuyvesant neighborhood of Brooklyn. George and Gary -- two renowned practitioners of preaching -- talk about their craft and the future generation of preachers that they are bringing up. If you ever listen to sermons and wonder what it's like to prepare for that week after week, you'll be interested in this episode.
2020-07-2330 min
Good GodGerald Britt on the history of racial justice in DallasGerald Britt was at the front lines with civil rights leaders like Peter Johnson, Zan Holmes, Martin Luther King III and many others, fighting for equality and opportunity for the black community. He and George have been friends for years, and they discuss the evolution of their relationship, and how to be pastors who speak up about social justice, even if it means making people uncomfortable.
2020-07-1630 min
Good GodMichael W. WatersMichael W. Waters is a pastor, author and activist leader in the Black community. He speaks with George about the need for confederate monuments to come down, his work on the Poor People’s Campaign, and the racial and economic injustices in Dallas.
2020-06-2530 min
Good GodJen Hatmaker on why pushing for change is inherently ChristianProlific author, co-pastor and equality activist, Jen Hatmaker, bonds with George Mason over moments in their ministry when they risked their security for the sake of their integrity.
2020-06-0430 min
Good GodMichael Sorrell on the racial and economic disparities infecting our nationMichael Sorrell is back to talk with George about everything from the continued need for HBCU's, the tragic racial disparities revealed by COVID-19, and that campus football field he turned in to a farm.
2020-05-2830 minGood GodJody Dean on how his faith shapes his work in the mediaJody Dean talks to George more about how his faith connects with his life's work in television and radio, including the reasons behind his new "good news" program: More Life, on Saturdays at 11am on CBS11.
2020-04-3030 minGood GodGreg Garrett on film and raceWe often take for granted the role that film plays in shaping our cultural and racial awareness. Greg Garrett and George Mason discuss Spike Lee's film BlacKkKlansman, as well as other epic American films, Gone with the Wind and even the Big Lebowski, for the important conversations they inspire for people of all races.
2020-03-1230 minGood GodVanita Halliburton on suicide preventionThis is a story everyone needs to know. Vanita Halliburton shares about the loss of her son's life and the work of the Grant Halliburton Foundation to prevent suicide. Vanita and George explore the theological depths of grief and how our faith can be shattered and restored.
2020-03-0530 minGood GodJack Levison on the Spirit (spirit?) of GodShould the spirit of God be capitalized, like in the Holy Spirit? Is the Spirit for personal experience like salvation or for corporate transformation? Did it come to us at Pentecost or has the Spirit been working for eternity? If you are confounded by questions like these about the elusive Spirit of God, particularly in the Judeo-Christian tradition, you'll love this conversation between George and Jack Levison, who writes books and teaches theology about the Spirit. His newest book has just been released, Boundless God: the Spirit according to the Old Testament.
2020-02-2030 minGood GodCameron Mason Vickrey on RootEd & public educationGeorge talks with his daughter Cameron about her nonprofit organization, RootEd, in San Antonio that promotes public schools to families navigating the world of school choice.
2020-02-1330 minGood GodCameron Mason Vickrey on growing up in the churchJoin us in a feel-good conversation between father and daughter. Cameron Mason Vickrey is George's oldest daughter. They talk about their shared interests in theology and art and how growing up in the church has helped her navigate her call.
2020-02-0630 minGood GodGary Simpson on the craft of preachingGary Simpson is the 30-year pastor of Concord Baptist Church, a historic Black church in the Bedford Stuyvesant neighborhood of Brooklyn. George and Gary -- two renowned practitioners of preaching -- talk about their craft and the future generation of preachers that they are bringing up. If you ever listen to sermons and wonder what it's like to prepare for that week after week, you'll be interested in this episode.
2020-01-2330 minGood GodMark Wingfield on being an LGBTQ AllyGeorge talks with Mark Wingfield about their experience of becoming a fully inclusive church to people without regard to sexual or gender identity. Mark wrote a narrative style book about it, which was recently published, titled "Why Churches Need to Talk about Sexuality." They also talk about how Mark became an ally and friend to many transgender people and what that has meant to him.
2020-01-1630 minGood GodPastor Gary Simpson from historic Brooklyn churchPastor Gary Simpson of Concord Baptist Church of Christ in Brooklyn, New York, joins George on his 30th anniversary at Wilshire Baptist in Dallas to talk about their shared experiences of long-term pastoral ministry, and what makes their churches so wonderful.
2019-12-0530 min
Loose, Vague, and IndeterminateHitchhiking and HazlittOn the second episode of Loose, Vague, and Indeterminate, I am accompanied in my hosting duties by Econ Society member George Minning as we interview Caleb Petitt. Caleb is a fellow undergraduate at George Mason University who went on an exchange trip to Spain. On that trip, he acquired one of the wildest stories you’ll ever hear about hitchhiking his way through Europe.
Inspired by Henry Hazlitt’s famous book, George, Caleb, and I teach economics in one lesson using the hitchhiking story. We cover marginalism, subjectivism, state vs. private ownership, and much more.
2019-10-311h 09Good GodInterfaith Friendship with Omar SuleimanWhy is it so important for people of faith to have relationships with those of another faith tradition? Today, George continues a conversation with his good friend, Imam Omar Suleiman, about how they became friends and what that means for making a difference in their communities.George says: “To have gotten to know one another and to have a proximity to pain and to stand beside one another over time and to listen to one another made it morally impossible to be a responsible person and a religious leader and not to speak [about racial and religious in...
2019-09-1230 minGood GodMiguel Solis and Latino LeadershipMiguel Solis, DISD Trustee and president of the Latino Center for Leadership Development - LCLD, discusses the challenges of education, immigration and leadership facing Latinos as they become the majority of the U.S. population in coming years, with Dr. George Mason on Good God.
2019-06-2030 min
GMU Cultural Studies ColloquiumEp 9 - "Everything is Connected" with Sheila Watt-CloutierIn the ninth episode of the "Capitalism, Climate Change, and Culture" podcast series from GMU Cultural Studies, Christine Rosenfeld talks with Sheila Watt-Cloutier, an Inuit advocate who has worked on issues related to climate change and Persistent Organic Pollutants. Watt-Cloutier was a Nobel nominee and has receive the prestigious Right Livelihood Award for her work addressing climate change as a question of collective human rights. Her memoir The Right to Be Cold narrates her life, beginning as a youth in a remote Inuit village.Watt-Cloutier and Rosenfeld discuss some ways to highlight the cultural and human dimensions...
2019-06-0800 minGMU Cultural Studies ColloquiumEp 8 - "Just Urban Futures" with Ashley DawsonIn the eighth episode of the "Capitalism, Climate Change, and Culture" podcast series from GMU Cultural Studies, Eric Ross talks with Ashley Dawson, who has written about climate change in The Boston Review, The Guardian, In These Times, Jacobin, and elsewhere. He's the author of the books Extreme Cities: The Peril and Promise of Urban Life in the Age of Climate Change, Extinction: A Radical History, and others. Ross and Dawson discuss what we can learn about climate politics by paying attention to cities and urban social movements. This podcast series is associated with George Mason University...
2019-06-0400 minGMU Cultural Studies ColloquiumEp 7 - "The Storm State" with Christian Parenti
In the seventh episode of the "Capitalism, Climate Change, and Culture" podcast series from GMU Cultural Studies, Richard Todd Stafford talks with Christian Parenti, who has written about climate change in The New York Times, The London Review of Books, The Nation, Jacobin, Dissent, and elsewhere. Parenti is an associate professor of economics at John Jay College of CUNY. Among others, he's the author of the book Tropic of Chaos: Climate Change and the New Geography of Violence and is working on books about Alexander Hamilton as a political theorist and about the state as an environment-making force. Stafford and Parent...
2019-05-2300 minGMU Cultural Studies ColloquiumEp 6 - "Planning The Good Anthropocene" with Leigh Phillips
In the sixth episode of the "Capitalism, Climate Change, and Culture" podcast series from GMU Cultural Studies, Richard Todd Stafford talks with Leigh Phillips, a science and politics writer who may be read in Nature, Scientific American, The Guardian, and Jacobin. He's the author of the books Austerity Ecology and the Collapse Porn Addicts: A Defense of Growth, Progress, Industry and Stuff and, with Michal Rozworski, The People's Republic of Walmart: How the World's Biggest Corporations are Laying the Foundations for Socialism. Stafford and Phillips focus on how Phillips' broader concerns intersect with the arguments he advanced in "Planning the Good Ant...
2019-04-2800 minGood GodNeil Cazares ThomasNeil Cazares Thomas is the pastor of Cathedral of Hope in Dallas, a mostly LGBTQ faith community. He and George talk about the theology behind affirming LGBTQ identifying people and their faith. Here’s an excerpt from their conversation:Neil: It's incumbent on us if we really want to follow the way, the truth, the life, then we have to take up that place of discipline or discipleship and to understand that personally. I don't think the role of the church is to tell people how to live. I think the role of the church is to po...
2019-04-1830 minGood GodGood God Episode 49: Peggy WehmeyerFake news. A biased media. It seems this is all we hear about when discussing the role of media these days. Today’s guest on Good God was America’s first religion reporter, Peggy Wehmeyer. She and George talk about the role of the media, how to keep objectivity, and the importance of reporting on religion to help us understand one another better. George sums it up when he says to Peggy: “What you were trying to do in the mainstream media is to drive us toward the center, when so many forces are pushing us towar...
2019-03-2830 minGMU Cultural Studies ColloquiumEp 5 - "Greenwashing Culture" with Toby MillerIn the fifth episode of the "Capitalism, Climate Change, and Culture" podcast series from GMU Cultural Studies, Pavithra Suresh talks with Toby Miller, renowned cultural studies scholar, and author of Greenwashing Culture (2017), Greenwashing Sport (2017), Greening the Media (2012) with Richard Maxwell, and Technologies of Truth: Cultural Citizenship and the Popular Media (1997), among other books
This podcast series is associated with George Mason University Cultural Studies' Colloquium Series. This year's series is called "Capitalism, Climate Change, and Culture." The industrial revolution liberated human beings from the cycles of nature — or so it once seemed. It turns out that greenhouse ga...
2019-03-1400 minGMU Cultural Studies ColloquiumEp 4 - "Cheap Nature; or, the Cultural Logic of Historical Capitalism" with Jason W. MooreIn the fourth episode of the "Capitalism, Climate Change, and Culture" podcast series from GMU Cultural Studies, Richard Todd Stafford talks with Jason W. Moore, Associate Professor at the Binghamton University Sociology Department, and author of Capitalism in the Web of Life: Ecology and the Accumulation of Capital (2015) and, with Raj Patel, A History of the World in Seven Cheap Things: A Guide to Capitalism, Nature, and the Future of the Planet.
This podcast series is associated with George Mason University Cultural Studies' Colloquium Series. This year's series is called "Capitalism, Climate Change, and Culture." The industrial revolution...
2019-03-1300 minGMU Cultural Studies ColloquiumEp 3 - "Toxic risk, Corporate Negligence, Public Reckoning" with Merlin Chowkwanyun
In the third episode of the "Climate, Capitalism, and Culture" podcast series from GMU Cultural Studies, Tauheeda Yasin talks with Merlin Chowkwanyun, the Donald H. Gemeson Assistant Professor of Sociomedical Sciences at the Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health about his work creating the archive "Toxic Docs." "Toxic Docs" makes documents provided during the discovery process in environmental lawsuits concerning pollution searchable. As it turns out, many of the same techniques used to generate doubt about climate change were previously used by companies seeking to hide the harms of lead, asbestos, and the manufacture of PVC. They also talk...
2019-03-0400 minGMU Cultural Studies ColloquiumEp 2 (rebroadcast) - "Petrocultures and the Energy Humanities" with Imre SzemanIn the second episode of the "Climate and Capitalism" podcast series from GMU Cultural Studies, Amy Zhang talks with Imre Szeman, University Research Chair and Professor of Communication Arts at the University of Waterloo about his work individually and as part of the Petrocultures Research Cluster concerning oil, energy, and culture.
This podcast series is associated with George Mason University Cultural Studies' Colloquium Series. This year's series is called "Climate and Capitalism." The industrial revolution liberated human beings from the cycles of nature — or so it once seemed. It turns out that greenhouse gases, a natural byproduct of co...
2019-03-0300 minGMU Cultural Studies ColloquiumEp 1 (rebroadcast) - "Climate Science Denial and Information Inoculation" with John CookIn the first episode of the "Climate and Capitalism" podcast series from GMU Cultural Studies, Richard Todd Stafford talks with John Cook, research assistant professor at the Center for Climate Change Communication, about climate change denial and what can be done to inoculate the public against misinformation in "post-truth" society.
This podcast series is associated with George Mason University Cultural Studies' Colloquium Series. This year's series is called "Climate and Capitalism." The industrial revolution liberated human beings from the cycles of nature — or so it once seemed. It turns out that greenhouse gases, a natural byproduct of coal- an...
2019-03-0200 minGood GodGood God Episode 45: Sports Personality Matt Mosley Part 2George Mason and Sports Personality Matt Mosley talk about the ever-changing world of journalism. At center of this fascinating conversation is Matt’s journey from print journalism at the The Dallas Morning News to a contributor online at Dallasnews.com and from a weekday show on 103.3 ESPN radio to his ventures in podcasting with Ed Werder and The Doomsday Podcast and Brent Musberger and "You Are Looking Live." Matt reveals how his faith, friends, family and church uplifted him through difficult decisions he had to make along the way.
2019-02-2830 minGood GodGood God Episode 44: CitySquare's Larry James Part 2George Mason and Larry James from CitySquare talk about how faith leads people to address poverty and into a relationship with the poor and how faith can change the relationships of those that have and those that don't.
2019-02-2131 minGood GodGood God Episode 43: Sharon Groves of Auburn Theological SeminaryIn this episode of Good God, George Mason talks to Sharon Grovesabout her work in the world of progressive social justice activism. The hunger for faith and religion is strong in this sphere. Faith teaches us how to cross divides--social, political, and religious divides--to find true healing.Sharon speaks about her personal journey to find faith, as a lesbian in the midst of a post 9/11 anti-war movement. She spent a decade working for the Human Rights Campaign, bringing faith leaders into that space. She now works at Auburn Theological Seminary, bringing people of moral courage together to...
2019-02-1431 minGood GodGood God Episode 42: D Magazine Publisher Wick Allison, Part 2In the second part of George Mason’s conversation with D Magazine publisher @Wick Allison, they talk about how political language like conservative, progressive and liberal have broken down political ideologies and have divided us as a country. How can we use our shared experiences to come together for our common good and what role does religion play in this? Also learn why Wick describes himself as a Hindu Catholic. All this and more on this week’s episode of Good God.
2019-02-0731 minGood GodGood God Episode 41: D Magazine Publisher Wick AllisonWhat are the things that stand in the way of Dallas being an even greater city and what are the things that we can do together to allow all people in Dallas to flourish? George Mason sits down with D Magazine Publisher Wick Allison to discuss this and more on this week's episode of Good God.
2019-01-3131 minGood GodGood God Episode 39: Former WFAA Weatherman Troy DunganCan faith and work come together in a positive way? George Mason and longtime WFAA weatherman Troy Dungan discuss this and more on this week's episode.
2019-01-1731 minGood GodGood God Episode 38: Father Joshua WhitfieldHow does the Church address social issues without losing its own soul? Tune into George Mason's conversation with Father Joshua Whitfield in this week's episode of Good God to explore that and other issues facing the Church today.
2019-01-1031 minGood GodGood God Episode 34: Tony Campolo Part 2Are Christians doing enough to support those on the margins? Tony Campolo and George Mason continue their discussion, with the focus on Christian advocacy for the poor.
2018-12-0631 minGood GodGood God Episode 31: Part 2 with Charlie Johnson, Executive Director, Pastors For Texas ChildrenPastor Charlie Johnson and George Mason talk about the importance of advocacy and funding public schools and the expanding role of Pastors For Texas Children.
2018-11-0831 minGood GodGood God Episode 30: Larry James, CEO of CitySquareLongtime friends and colleagues George Mason and Larry James talk about the perceptions and realities of homelessness and the importance of community involvement in finding a solution.
2018-11-0131 minGood GodGood God Episode 29: Part 2 of Todd Williams, Executive Director of the Commit PartnershipGeorge Mason and Todd Williams of the Commit Partnership talk about the amazing improvements in Dallas ISD and the work towards equity throughout all Texas public schools.
2018-10-2531 minGood GodGood God Episode 28: Todd Williams, Executive Director of the Commit PartnershipGeorge Mason and Todd Williams of the Commit Partnership talk about the amazing improvements in Dallas ISD and why you should support Dallas Votes 4 Kids in the upcoming election.
2018-10-1831 min
Good GodGood God Episode 24: Noel Castellanos, President of the Christian Community Development AssociationWatch this fascinating conversation between George Mason and CCDA - Christian Community Development AssociationPresident Noel Castellanos and the interconnection between immigration, faith and the Biblical calling to love our neighbors.
2018-09-2031 minGood GodGood God Episode 23: Brad Sham, Voice of The Dallas Cowboys, Part 2As our Jewish brothers and sisters observe the High Holy Days from Rosh Hashanah to Yom Kippur, we are honored to hear more from the voice of the Dallas Cowboys, Brad Sham. He and George Mason continue their conversation from last week about the Jewish faith, Israel, and of course...football.
2018-09-1333 minGood GodGood God Episode 22: Brad Sham, Voice of The Dallas CowboysReady for some Dallas Cowboys football? So are we! Check out George Mason and the voice of the Dallas Cowboys Brad Sham discuss faith and football this week on Good God.
2018-09-0633 minGood GodGood God Episode 20: Hannah McMahan, Executive Director - New Baptist CovenantMeet Hannah McMahan, Executive Director of New Baptist Covenant. She's from all over the South, lives in DC, and likes woodworking, farming, and history. Ten years ago, she helped bring a vision of President Jimmy Carter's to life. New Baptist Covenant brings black and white Baptist churches in America together to unite in worship and service. Listen to her conversation with George Mason to hear about NBC and particularly how it has helped effect change in Dallas.
2018-08-3033 min
Good GodGood God Podcast Episode 8: Ambassador Ron KirkGeorge Mason and Ambassador and Former Dallas Mayor Ron Kirk
2018-05-2400 minGood GodGood God Podcast Episode 7: Carry The Load Co-Founder Stephen Holley part 2George Mason and Carry the Load Co-Founder Stephen Holley continue their conversation about life after the Navy Seals, starting a non-profit and a company, depression and how Faith plays a role in all of it.
2018-05-1700 minGood GodGood God Podcast Episode 6: Carry The Load Founder Stephen HolleyGeorge Mason and Carry The Load Founder Stephen Holley discuss how faith played a major role in growing up, playing football for the Naval Academy and his service in combat.
2018-05-1000 minGood GodGood God Episode 5: Omar SuleimanGeorge Mason and Omar Suleiman discuss the relationship between Christians and Muslims and the important work of Faith Forward Dallas.
2018-05-0330 minGood GodGood God Podcast Episode 3: Michael WatersGeorge Mason and Michael W. Waters of Joy Tabernacle AME Church discuss economic justice, poverty, race relations in Dallas and America, and how we can address it with our faith.
2018-04-1930 minGood GodGood God Podcast Episode 1: Gordon KeithDr. George Mason interviews KTCK The Ticket’s Gordon Keith on growing up as a preacher’s kid and how that has shaped him personally and professionally.
2018-04-0530 min
Truett Seminary PodcastDr. George Mason - What to Preach?This week we welcomed Dr. George Mason for our Community Gathering for Worship. Dr. Mason currently serves as senior pastor of Wilshire Baptist Church in Dallas. The title for his sermon is "What to Preach?."
2016-02-2318 min