American Awakening

Episode 71 #LoveYourNeighbor By Assuming The Best Aug 04, 2020

What is happening in our brains when we are divided? Today we’re speaking about the neuroscience of polarization. What are the meta perceptions that create anger, hate and division — politically, religiously and even as we react to disruptions from Coronavirus? Is there space for us to think the best of one another, or are we simply predisposed to separation? Discover where God and neuroscience are aligned and learn how to love your neighbor. Plus, the ‘movie line of the day’ is back!

Episode 70: There Is Only Us Aug 03, 2020

If each one of us is a dimension of God’s image, then you cannot love God unless you love your neighbor. That’s where we launch our conversation today with Pastor Hurmon Hamilton, who helped to inspire American Awakening. Diversity was intended to reflect back the total image of God. What does this mean for us as we aim to push back the broken edges of division to find true community? We don’t have to agree on everything, but can we agree Jesus is the center? Join the conversation!

Episode 69: #LoveYourNeighbor by Showing Up Jul 28, 2020

As we begin the hard work of rebuilding our country, we need to think about the greater toll in our communities beyond the virus. With issues like homelessness and domestic violence on the rise, how do we make sure we are focused on more than Corona and the economy? And how might we think about those whose voices we are not hearing as loudly? Join this conversation, plus meet our new favorite modern bluegrass (newgrass?) singer/songwriter Bryan Simpson (The Whistles & The Bells).

Episode 68: Seeing The World In Color Jul 27, 2020

Author and activist Shane Claiborne joins this must listen episode as we dig into chapter 7 of John’s new book (releasing next week!). In the conversation we’re reminded unity is not the same as uniformity and are challenged to ask, “how can we stand in solidarity with the deepest pain that is around us, kill the poison of contempt, and lean into the truth that every person is made in the image of God?” It’s a topic that will challenge and energize everyone who listens. Don’t skip this one!

Episode 67: Choose Your Own Adventure Jul 23, 2020

How does the big story work and how do we fit within it? In today’s episode the team goes DEEP on how to find answers in the midst of our struggle to find what God’s will is for our lives. If you are grappling with where you are called, this is an epic conversation we invite you to join — with three generations (almost) worth of input on the journey! Plus, Dan Haseltine introduces our new favorite roots-rocker, Stephen Wilson Jr.

Episode 66: Everyone Is Going Through Something Jul 21, 2020

How is Covid fueling us vs. them divisions in our home states? How much judgement are we casting on others and how much grace are we giving? One America Movement’s Andrew Hanauer leads a conversation about life in a pandemic from Florida, Hawaii, Massachusetts, Tennessee and Illinois. Join us as we unpack what is similar and what is unique about each of these places and the universal truths that will help you #LoveYourNeighbor. Plus music from Madisen Ward!

Episode 65: The Art of Being Together Jul 20, 2020

American Awakening IN FOCUS is back, unpacking themes from John Kingston’s new book coming July 28! This week our friend, photographer and social entrepreneur Jeremy Cowart joins Jeff Bethke and the team to discuss chapter 6 titled, “You’re Not Alone.” So many awesome conversations around this idea. How do we fight the epidemic of loneliness, and what does it look like to build communities that redeem adversity? Don’t sleep on this one. Plus incredible new music from Amanda Noel.

Episode 64: Looking for a Co-Pilot Jul 16, 2020

What is most threatening to your peace — school, election, work or financial concerns? In a new Christianity Today poll, the election is by far what people are most troubled with at the moment—though many are still struggling with race and COVID concerns. With that in mind, what are some of the best ways we can share our burdens with each other so we can carry them together and not grow weary? A great conversation ensues, plus Dan Haseltine and music from The Magi.

Episode 63: Does Polarization Make Us Stupid? Jul 14, 2020

Parents are used to being shamed for how they raise their kids, but the “COVID Mommy Wars” are reaching a new level of distortion online. The question about whether or not the time is right to send kids back to school is an important one for many of us. Our @One__America question of the day is, “How do we approach the decision about sending kids back to school with common sense — avoiding the polarization that can cloud our thinking?” Join the conversation and stay for music with Josh Jacob!

Episode 62: Sutchering Wounds of the Soul Jul 13, 2020

We’re back with our weekly 'American Awakening' IN FOCUS feature, where we unpack themes from John Kingston’s new book (out July 28). This week we welcome Activist Theology Project leader Dr. Robyn Espinoza. With Robyn, Jeff Bethke steers a conversation about chapter 5, titled, “You Need People: Engage in Person”—easier said than done! The team talks about ‘tech sabbath’, ending our slavery to algorithms, and how the chemistry of being with other humans contributes to our digital friendships.

Episode 61: How Community Creates Stability Jul 09, 2020

We’re back with another poll, Christianity Today readers were asked, “For those who are working remotely do you need physical presence to maintain stability in your relationships?” The team weighs in on what we are gaining and missing in this season of social distance. For those longing for community, how might we create space for this. And what happens when your work relationships are your deepest connections. Plus, notes on dating during the pandemic and when it’s time to make your own pancakes.

Episode 60: Jesus Wasn’t a Christian Jul 07, 2020

One of our least structured (and best) episodes yet! Join our team as we lean into a conversation about who is allowed to lead — touching upon issues of race, gender and the qualities that make for great leadership. Plus, we unpack powerful statements made by actor David Oyelowo in a new RELEVANT interview, where he calls out the Church on where it's wrong on Black Lives Matter, and the definition of true repentance. And to close out the show Josh drops a Bob Marley-inspired tribute to freedom!

Episode 59: The Superpower of Redeeming Adversity Jul 06, 2020

Episode 4 of our mini-series focusing on John Kingston’s new book 'American Awakening: Eight Principles to Restore The Soul of America' — which some are calling the “post-pandemic bounceback playbook." Jeff Bethke steers a conversation that includes Virginia Cumberbatch, who leads racial justice work at Univ. of Texas, as they explore chapter 4 on redeeming adversity and these current struggles propelling us into new awakenings and forming redemptive narratives. It’s our best ‘in focus’ segment

Episode 58: Don’t Miss The Day Jul 02, 2020

In our now regular mid-week feature, Joy Beth from Christianity Today joins with the results of this week’s survey, “Is the sudden rise of Covid cases affecting your plans or behaviors?” The team unpacks this and the difference between thriving and surviving during this season and asks if we can entertain that maybe God is providing a way for us to thrive even as our plans seem uncertain. A great conversation follows that you won’t want to miss — plus music from our man Josh Jacob!

Episode 57: America’s Divided Mind Jun 30, 2020

Today we welcome Andrew Hanauer, who talks about what it means to #LoveYourNeighbor during the most divisive election of our generation and this racial reckoning. We ask the question, “What is toxic polarization doing to our brains?” A new study says polarization literally distorts how our brains process information about society. So the real question is, are we willing to let go of narratives where we are always the good guys? Or will we choose to set aside our ‘rightness’ and seek truth?

Episode 56: Longing For Renewal Jun 29, 2020

It’s Episode 3 of our mini-series focusing on John Kingston’s upcoming book, 'American Awakening: Eight Principles to Restore The Soul of America' — a timely offering that comes out July 28, 2020. Jefferson Bethke leads a conversation that includes 'Christianity Today' president and CEO Tim Dalrymple as they explore chapter 3, which explores the tension between the never ending pursuit of happiness and the boundaries that in fact create true freedom. Plus, Dan Haseltine with Jonathan Brooke!

Episode 55: How Are You Feeling? Jun 25, 2020

On today’s show, (mostly) recorded in Nashville, the team processes the big ‘Better Together’ concert from last night and welcomes weekly contributor Joy Beth Smith with another fascinating survey to unpack from Christianity Today. This week’s question: “As the country is opening back up, while facing a racial reckoning, how are you feeling?” A deep conversation touching on processing our emotions in a healthy way, patience, sabbath and deactivated amygdalas ensues — plus new music from Hurst!

Episode 54: Better Together Jun 23, 2020

How do we stay focused on our problems, instead of the people who embody them? That’s the question for today as we explore what it looks like to #LoveYourNeighbor — with perhaps the most devise election ever on the horizon, not to mention a global pandemic! Our country is in real pain, but is it new pain? Join us as we seek answers on where we step into this conversation. Plus an Apple nerd approved movie quote of the day and music from our own Josh Jacob!

Episode 53: The Purpose of Awakening Jun 22, 2020

Episode 2 of our mini-series focusing on John Kingston’s new book 'American Awakening: Eight Principles to Restore The Soul of America' — a timely offering that speaks directly to the tensions that continue to divide us along racial (and other) lines. Jefferson Bethke leads a conversation that includes author and editor Anne Snyder Brooks as they explore chapter 2, which explores the journey of ‘purpose’. Plus, Dan Haseltine with Thad Cockrell, who shares music from his new album out next week.

Episode 52: Take Me To Church Jun 18, 2020

What’s your relationship with church right now? Has physical distance affected how you are worshipping? As we wait to see how quickly people will go back to (physical) church, the American Awakening team explores if the online experience is exposing weaknesses that we are better able to see from home? And as importantly, where does the murder of George Floyd fit in? Plus a “pettifogging Tammany Hall hucksters” movie line of the day — can you guess the film? It’s all here, join the conversation!

Episode 51: Love (All) Your Neighbors Jun 16, 2020

Today we welcome Joel Rainey from Covenant Church in West Virginia, who is on the frontlines of the tensions we’re struggling with today. Pastor Joel reminds us when injustice happens at the hands of those who are supposed to be protecting us, we need more than a sermon. And we need to listen to both our African American brothers and sisters and those in the law enforcement community — all are image bearers of God. A challenging and encouraging conversation. Plus, music from Sandra McCracken.

Episode 50: We Need To Remember Jun 15, 2020

This is the first episode of a new 8-part series focusing on John Kingston’s forthcoming book, 'American Awakening: Eight Principles to Restore The Soul of America' — a timely offering that speaks directly to the tensions that continue to divide us along racial (and other) lines. Jefferson Bethke leads a conversation that includes activist David Bailey as they explore chapter 1, “We Need to Remember: The Cost of Forgetting.” Plus Dan Haseltine with Brandon Heath, who shares new music.

Episode 49: It’s Not OK To Do Nothing Jun 11, 2020

What are some of the best ways for us to use our voices well and influentially? While many white folks are feeling pressure about the right things to say and do, a new Christianity Today survey provides surprising results about how people are engaging with protests and rallies. How do we have conversations with friends of color? We know doing nothing is not the answer. Join the conversation as the team, along with musician Devon Gilfillian, searches for answers.

Episode 48: Get In The Fight for Justice Jun 09, 2020

Pastor Chuck Mingo joins us from Crossroads Church where he is leading 'Undivided,' an initiative bringing black and white Christians from Cincinnati together creating tangible ways to engage in justice — and encouraging people to not sit on the sidelines. Also, the team talks about some of the rhetoric that seems resistant to fully embracing our need to repent. Plus the Daily Dose, Jefferson on trusting the Gospel of grace and Dan Haseltine invites Isaac Pittman to share his music and thoughts.

Episode 47: A Change Is Gonna Come Jun 08, 2020

Defunding police departments is a hot topic right now. And many institutions are suggesting they will no longer contract with municipal police departments for private security. With all of these issues coming to a head, is it time to try another way to bring order in our communities — other than policing? Join the conversation as we unpack the issue and ask, “Is there a restorative solution?” Plus, Dan Haseltime and Grammy Song of the Year award winning songwriter Tommy Sims.

Episode 46: Everyone Is Fighting a Battle of Their Own Jun 04, 2020

Tensions are high in many American cities, and our military is engaged in keeping the peace and at times actively suppressing rallies and protests. Today our diverse team asks, “Do we as citizens support military action in our streets? Are we beyond effective communication, or is this the only way for real change to take place in our country?” It’s a sobering conversation, but an important one as we consider what’s next. Dan Haseltine and K.S. Rhoads wrap the show with thoughts and music.

Episode 45: Fighting For Our Neighbors Jun 02, 2020

On a difficult day in America following the killing of George Floyd in Minneapolis and the worldwide protests that have ensued the team responds and asks the question, “What are we willing to fight for?” Plus Joel Searby gives us a reminder on ‘righteous anger’, Jefferson Bethke on the ripple effects of Jesus laying aside his power for the sake of others and Andrew Hanauer shares a #LoveYourNeighbor story from Flint, MI you will not want to miss. Josh Jacob closes out the show with music.

Episode 44: Faith Over Fear Jun 01, 2020

How do we resist living in fear, when our cities are burning and the economy has turned upside down? Jefferson Bethke brings a word on scripture’s promise that God is close in our pain, Dan Haseltine talks about the myth of security and Calvin Lee references the story of David & Goliath to remind us that God comes through and we have the tools to succeed. Plus worship from Josh Jacob and the movie line of the day!

Episode 43: Contagious Courage May 29, 2020

“Don’t ever underestimate the importance you can have. History has shown us that courage can be contagious and hope can take on a life of its own.” These words from Michelle Obama begin our conversation today. Where are we finding light and hope while we consider the news of 100,000 coronavirus deaths in the U.S.? Join our crew as we share some signs of life. Plus, Dan Haseltine and Joel Hansen (PFR) join for the full show and share some music.

Episode 42: Repairing The Fabric May 28, 2020

We’ve been talking about rebuilding trust. Combating divisiveness and anxiety through purpose and togetherness — modeling unity with our diverse team. But how do we respond on days like today when the news is overwhelming? When we’re reminded of inequality that still exists? When it feels like justice is absent? If these are questions you’re asking we invite you to join us in this conversation. Plus, a new Daily Dose, Jefferson Bethke, and Dan Haseltine with Sarah Masen in Nashville.

Episode 41: Rebuilding Trust, Finding Truth May 27, 2020

Today our conversation is centered on how we pursue accountability and real relationships in moments of crisis. What would it look like if we called our leaders to serve all, rather than just a few? What is our responsibility as citizens — as Christians? And is there room for grace in this conversation? It’s a big topic as we look to the future and begin to transition out of quarantine and back to our communities. Plus the Daily Dose, Jefferson Bethke and worship from Josh Jacob.

Episode 40: Holding On To The Presence May 26, 2020

Our 40th podcast! Since the beginning of COVID we’ve been bringing light and life every day with our diverse crew of leaders — leaning into the big questions we’re all wrestling with in this unique moment. In today’s episode the big question is: how do we move forward when we don’t know what’s to come? Come for the conversation and stay for musician Marc Martel, who covered vocals for a certain huge movie star in the film Bohemian Rhapsody.

Episode 39: Don’t Call It A Comeback! May 22, 2020

In today’s episode, the team engages in a lively conversation on the art of the comeback. What are the elements that make a comeback? And how are we writing our own comeback stories as we transition out of total quarantine? Plus, Joel Searby’s Daily Dose, Jeff Bethke talks about the big impact of 1%, some good news from Calvin Lee, worship from Josh Jacob, Mr. Miyagi debuts on the Movie Quote of the Day and a lullaby not to miss (yes they’re for adults too!) from JJ Heller. It’s a big show!

Episode 38: Everything Is (Not) Awesome May 21, 2020

Marisa Prince asks if there are ways we can use what we have learned in this season to get people to open up and share their needs. In other words, how can we encourage people to share so we can help? Plus, Joel Searby reminds us to keep our focus on today’s bread, Jeff Bethke shares a lesson on spiritual blessing in heavenly places — and confesses to being an AFOL (Adult Fan of LEGO) — and Dan Haseltine introduces us to the enchanting sounds of Ella Mine.

Episode 37: A Time for Grit? May 20, 2020

Now that the entire world has been impacted by COVID-19, is now the time for grit? Marisa Prince invites us to consider how we can use this moment to develop a bit more — or can we? What are some tangible steps we can take to grow more persistent in our hope and faith? We’re all going through something. How we come out of this season feels important. Join us as we discuss how! Plus Kendall Payne shares some powerful music from her home studio in Dallas.

Episode 36: The Last Dance May 19, 2020

In this episode, the crew leans into doubt, with Psalms 77 as a guide for how to express our emotions and remember where God has shown up for us. Jeff Bethke brings a word on intimacy, and how God’s pursuit of us might be a model for how we reach out to others. Andrew Hanauer joins for #LoveYourNeighbor, and a story that reminds us there are good people out there doing great things. Will Smith makes his first appearance on the Movie Quote of the Day, 'The Last Dance,' plus worship with Josh!

Episode 35: The Courage To Be Great Neighbors May 18, 2020

In this episode, we get back to one of the key themes from John Kingston’s new book “American Awakening” — about leadership, change and finding the courage to care. JK and the team give examples of those who model this courage in the present and throughout history. Plus, Joel Searby shares about seeking satisfaction, Jeff Bethke reminds us that winning an Oscar is not the only path to meaning (but it doesn’t hurt), and Dan Haseltine introduces music from Stephen Deloupolous (Burlap to Cashmere).

Episode 34: What Are We Fighting For? May 15, 2020

Close your eyes. Yes you! In today’s episode, our own Marisa Prince asks us to envision a society that, despite its brokenness in light of Coronavirus, is actually healthy and whole. What does that look like? What do we see when we think about what really matters — what is worth saving and holding onto? The team takes a shot at reframing the conversation and changing our entry point on how we think about community. Plus, the Watkins Family Hour joins us from California to share some music!

Episode 33: All Things New May 14, 2020

Covid-19 is permanently changing how we live — every generation is confronting an unprecedented “new normal.” But we know from Scripture that God is all about new things. So does this mean we as people of faith have an advantage as we consider how we individually go forward? The team unpacks this idea, plus a parable of the daylily from Joel Searby, tips for managing conflict with your quarantine partner from Jeff Bethke and music from 14-time Grammy Award winning musician Ron Block. Join us!

Episode 32: Zooming in. Zooming Out. May 13, 2020

What is God up to right now? And what does sacrifice look like in the midst of this pandemic? Those are the questions of the day as the team zooms in (and out) to see the big picture — and consider what we as people of faith have to offer in this moment. Compassion. Grace. Hidden joy! Join us as we uncover how to show up for our neighbors. Plus Bono’s birthday present, and Dan Haseltine introduces new music from Aussie Paul Coleman. Press play!

Episode 31: Making Your Day Count May 12, 2020

Today’s episode is all about hope. It’s about the waiting, the doing and the faith that it takes to hope. We talk about an extraordinary young Asian American woman who hoped to make the world a better place in #LoveYourNeighbor. We talk about the many ways hope shows up in our lives — as we endeavour to make a difference, as we trust God for his provision, even aboard a ship headed towards an iceberg. Hope is everywhere, even in this broken-hearted moment and we’re going to take it!

Episode 30: Radical Togetherness May 11, 2020

In the first of several upcoming episodes, the steam unpacks one of the core themes from John Kingston’s forthcoming book American Awakening: Eight Principles to Restore the Soul of America. How does seeing each other help us see God? And how does our value as a collective community transform our view of God’s kingdom. Plus worship from Josh Jacob, a devo from Calvin Lee and Jeff Bethke gives us something to chew on. Out of the Grey closes out the show from their home studio in Nashville.

Episode 29: In The Shelter of Each Other May 08, 2020

Even while we are fighting the common enemy in the Coronavirus, we are seeing violence flare against Asian Americans, law enforcement and even an innocent black man jogging through a neighborhood in Georgia. How do we reconcile these tensions, what do we do with our anger and where do we go from here as people of faith? Plus Josh, Joel, Jeff and Dan bring the heat with worship, devotion and insight from across the U.S. — and David Leonard (All Sons & Daughters) performs ‘Signs of Life’!

Episode 28: Dangerous Things for the Greater Good May 07, 2020

Today we wrestle with the ethics behind ‘challenge trials’ — are we okay if people want to sacrifice their health (or life) in the name of medical science for the purpose of finding a vaccine for Corona? What exactly is a justifiable risk and how far would you be willing to go? Plus, music from Josh Jacob, a Daily Dose from Joel Searby, Jeff Bethke checks in from Maui and Dan Haseltine introduces American Aquarium (BJ Barham) who performs songs from his excellent new album ‘Lamentations’.

Episode 27: Stand Together, Fly Together May 06, 2020

As many Americans grapple with whether or not to wear face masks in light of the pandemic, some vigilantes are taking matters into their own hands — reporting neighbors and co-workers, shaming strangers and even at times provoking violence. In today’s episode, John, Marisa and the team consider the ethical and spiritual ramifications of this debate and what a thoughtful and just response might be. Plus, ‘healthcare athletes,’ why you should rip out your wildflowers, and music from Lainey Wright.

Episode 26: Rising and Falling, Together May 05, 2020

In our regular feature with One America Movement, we learn about an extraordinary restaurant owner who is taking #LoveYourNeighbor very seriously. Which begs the question: as people of faith, how do we assess how much to give of ourselves, our time, our resources? Where do the patterns we see intersect with the mystery of God? In short, how much is too much? Plus worship from Josh Jacob, good news with Calvin Lee, and Joel Searby & Jeff Bethke team up for a Daily Dose double-shot.

Episode 25: Living Between The Future and the Past May 04, 2020

Marisa Prince leads a conversation about how we rely on our past to give us comfort in the present — especially when we feel out of control. Reunion shows from Parks and Rec, Fresh Prince of Bel Air and The Goonies are reminders of what feels good, but might we be missing what God has planned for us if we’re spending too much energy looking backwards? Or put another way, “Can you separate mac & cheese from the Kingdom of God?” Plus, music from Leigh Nash (Sixpence None the Richer).

Episode 24: We Decide How We Live May 01, 2020

Are we willing to give up some privacy for the health and safety of our communities? That is the big question of the day. While tech giants Apple and Google are unveiling plans for an app that tracks our movements and contacts for the purpose of preventing the spread of Covid, how far are we willing to go for this possible invasion of our freedom? How might we respond as people of faith? Plus, songwriter Gordon Kennedy performs his Grammy Award-winning Song of the Year “Change The World."

Episode 23: 100 Days of Corona and the Lord’s Prayer Apr 30, 2020

It’s been 100 days since the first U.S. citizen tested positive for Coronavirus. In today’s episode, the team reflects on this unique time, what we are learning along the way and some takeaways we might apply to our post-Covid lives. Plus ‘good news’ from Calvin, Joel’s Daily Dose, a hot take from Jeff Bethke on the surprising outcome of eating three meals per week as a family, and Tenth Avenue North’s Mike Donehey shares some music and his recent song & book writing adventures.

Episode 22: UFOs, Aliens and God Apr 29, 2020

In today’s episode we turn away from the Coronavirus for a moment to ponder: Is there life beyond our planet? Are UFOs real, and are aliens visiting earth simply to bring together God’s creation? In other words, “Are they ‘radical us’ -ing, us?” It’s a fascinating conversation with our crew bringing their unique perspectives. Back in our solar system, Dan Haseltine welcomes multi-Grammy Award winning singer/songwriter Ashley Cleveland & Kenny Greenberg to close out the show.

Episode 21: Getting Back On Track Apr 28, 2020

It’s #LoveYourNeighbor day, and Chris Hall from Houston Northwest Church joins Andrew Hanauer from the One America Movement to discuss their work serving folks during Coronavirus and reaching out beyond Christian communities. Jeff Bethke returns with an encouragement about ‘sensory gating’ and why this season of quarantine is good for our brains. Joel Searby brings a Daily Dose, Calvin catches us up on some good news and Kris Carter closes the show with a stirring rendition of ‘Amazing Grace.’

Episode 20: Awakening, Live From Q Apr 27, 2020

If you are new to Signs of Life, this is a great place to start! Our own John Kingston recently had the opportunity to share about the American Awakening vision to nearly 10,000 people at the Q Virtual Summit. In today’s episode we share his talk recorded from OQ Farms in Bridgewater, Vermont — and the team unpacks with JK some of the ideas presented and how this team came together in the first place. Plus worship from Josh Jacob and Joel Searby’s ‘Daily Dose’.

Episode 19: Instruments of Peace Apr 24, 2020

What might our lives look like if we add one more choice to decisions we’re confronting — what is the third way when the choices appear to be binary? We’re watching standoffs between activists pushing to open up state economies and government officials considering what is best for the health and safety of their citizens. Through that lens the team asks, “How do we become ‘instruments of peace’ in these moments?” Plus Dan Haseltine brings us new music with John Mark McMillan!

Episode 17: What Have We Learned? Apr 23, 2020

It’s been three months since the first Coronavirus case was confirmed in the US — what have we learned? The team unpacks some take-aways that have impacted many of us. Plus, Jefferson Bethke reminds us we are created to be in tribes, Joel shares a “Daily Dose,” Calvin brings us the news and worship from Josh Jacob. And Dan Haseltine ponders opening bowling alleys before being joined by Andy Gullahorn, who shares music and the spiritual discipline of the high five.

Episode 16: Stepping Up Apr 21, 2020

It’s another packed show with Jefferson Bethke referencing Chick-fil-A in hopes of getting free sandwiches or to make a point about trusting God — we’re not sure which. Calvin Lee tells us about leaders who are ‘stepping up’ (looking at you Shake Shack!), One America’s Andrew Hanauer stops by to talk about #LoveYourNeighbor and the team chats about how we might approach our financial resources in this context. Plus ‘How To Live Well’, the ‘Daily Dose’ and worship from Josh Jacob.

Episode 15: A Whole New World Apr 20, 2020

In today’s episode, the Signs Of Life crew talks about how our faith could influence our actions in this unique moment. Is this when we reveal who we really are? Marisa Prince amplifies the point, “If we’re not going to hoard the toilet paper, then let’s not hoard the peace!” Joel Searby checks in with the Daily Dose, and Jefferson Bethke shares how we can get closer while we’re spending time apart. Plus, Jonathan Noel brings some new music from his home studio in Raleigh.

Episode 14: Help Is On The Way Apr 17, 2020

The team digs in on how family and work worlds are colliding in this moment and asks the question, “What are some of the advantages and challenges in accepting this new reality?” Calvin Lee catches us up on the latest news, Joel Searby brings a Daily Dose and Jefferson Bethke talks about moving from “suck, to not suck.” Plus worship from Josh Jacob and a very moving performance from songwriter Jason Gray, which includes a new song co-written with our own Dan Haseltine!

Episode 13: You Are Not In This Alone Apr 16, 2020

Our daily whip around the U.S. brings us from Boston to Florida, Hawaii, Nashville and back — working through what we do in moments like this, how to make it through the loneliness and isolation we’re all experiencing, and some deeper ideas connected to identity and purpose for these times. Plus Dan Haseltine interviews Grammy & Tony Award winning songwriter and composer Wayne Kirkpatrick, who shares about his upcoming Broadway musical “Mrs. Doubtfire.”

Episode 12: Teamwork Makes The Dream Work Apr 15, 2020

The squad unpacks some of the great teams throughout history and reminds us why even now we need great team work to thrive and survive. Joel Searby brings a Daily Dose, Jefferson Bethke checks in from Hawaii, Calvin Lee gets us caught up on the news and to close out the show our man Dan Haseltine welcomes Mac Powell. After reminiscing about some old school Jars of Clay/Third Day road stories, Mac shares new music and a classic from his home in Atlanta.

Episode 11: Love Your Neighbor Apr 14, 2020

Joel Searby brings a Daily Dose about how we can experience freedom, even while we’re all locked down. It’s a message for now or anytime. Jefferson Bethke checks in from Maui with a reminder that Easter isn’t just one day — reminding us to ‘sit in’ the resurrection story, and the stories behind our scars. And our friend Andrew Hanauer from the One America Movement joins us to share about #loveyourneighbor and modeling positivity during the Coronavirus crisis. Plus worship from Josh Jacob.

Episode 10: Reflections On The Resurrection Apr 13, 2020

The Signs Of Life team shares their thoughts on the disorienting journey between Good Friday and Easter Sunday — a reminder that, like many of our lives right now, everything feels uncertain but God’s plan is bigger than our imagination. Plus Marisa attempts a very serious conversation about the best Easter dinner food, which devolves into a competition over what is the best Easter candy. And Derek Webb & Abbie Parker share some incredible new music from Nashville.

Episode 9: Dying Is Easy, Living Is Harder Apr 10, 2020

A special Holy Week episode celebrating Good Friday. In today’s episode the Signs of Life squad confronts the juxtaposition of this holy day — death, resurrection and hope — including a reminder of Christ’s Passion, and the revelations of who we are set against this backdrop. Dan Haseltine references the Rwandan genocide to remind us of our need for Jesus to be who he says He is when we’re facing our own fear, and drops a surprise Jars of Clay classic to close out the show.

Episode 8: Stripping Away Apr 09, 2020

Joel Searby speaks about how solitude and silence bring us into God’s presence. Jefferson Bethke talks about how there is stength in vulnerability, even when the plane is going down. And John, Marisa, Calvin and the team reflect upon the weight of Maundy Thursday, and the loneliness Jesus may have felt when his disciples abandoned him. Plus, Dan Haseltine introduces us to singer/songwriter Jenn Bostic, who closes the show with a fitting tribute to the great John Prine.

Episode 7: Peace, Purpose and What’s in Your Hands Apr 08, 2020

Joel and Jeff bring a word about fasting and feasting respectively (Doritos, honeybuns, pizza, Chipotle and guacamole all make an appearance). John, Calvin, Marisa and the team discuss, “How do we know when we’re standing in the middle of our purpose?” Plus worship from Josh Jacob, and Dan Haseltine takes a quick snack break and invites Sara Groves to share some music from her home in Minnesota.

Episode 6: Keep Fighting The Good Fight Apr 07, 2020

Joel Searby quotes Richard Foster and unpacks why “joy is the keynote of all the disciplines” — Jefferson Bethke asks, “Is your life more like a factory or a farm”, and all agree that these two ideas somehow fit together like peanut butter and jelly. Calvin catches us up on the latest headlines and the team discusses death, life, Holy Week and the Coronavirus. Plus how the Girl Scouts have come to save the day, worship with Josh Jacob and the movie quote of the day!

Episode 5: The Gift of Time (God With Us) Apr 06, 2020

In today’s episode, Joel Searby challenges us to ‘do community’, even in this moment. Jefferson Bethke quoting Henry Nouwen says “Silence is where your old self goes to die.” And the team discusses sacred time vs. commodified time and asks the question, “Have we turned time into a product?” Plus worship with Josh Jacob, Dan Haseltine introduces the incomparable singer and songwriter Cindy Morgan and a tribute to the great Bill Withers!

Episode 4: All Rise Together Apr 03, 2020

In today’s episode Joel Searby reminds us that God is with us even in this sober moment, Jefferson Bethke makes up a word to explain the idea of ‘sacred time’ and being not doing. Calvin catches us up on the latest headlines and John, Marisa and the team use a story set in the Amish community to ask the question, “Can you remember a time when someone has gone out of their way to help you?”. Plus worship with Josh Jacob and Dan Haseltine introduces new music from talented Kentucky duo, HuDost!

Episode 3: Making Idols Out of Outcomes Apr 02, 2020

In today’s episode Joel Searby shares a ‘Daily Dose’ on making idols out of outcomes, Jefferson Bethke examines whether we are working to rest or resting to work, Calvin catches us up on the latest headlines and John, Marisa and the team leans into some listener feedback related to something many of are feeling: loneliness. Plus Dan Haseltine introduces new music from Nashville featuring SHEL’s Hannah Holbrook!

Episode 2: How to be Authentic While Social Distancing Apr 01, 2020

Joel Searby brings a Daily Dose on peace in the midst of uncertainty, Jefferson Bethke unpacks identity and surrender in the moment we’re facing, Calvin catches us up on the headlines and the team discusses what it means to truly and authentically be with one another while we are social distancing. Plus Dan Haseltine shares new music from Andrew Osenga!

Episode 1: Divergent Thinking, Daily Dose and Legacy Mar 31, 2020

Jeff introduces the concept of ‘divergent thinking’, Joel brings today’s Daily Dose from scripture, Columbia’s CEO takes huge pay cut to keep employees paid and the team discusses the idea of ‘legacy' in the time of the Coronavirus. Plus music from our own Josh Jacob!

Trailer Mar 30, 2020

Hear the heart behind Signs of Life, a new daily podcast exploring headlines and stories of hope, reminding us that we are all in this together. Featuring Jefferson Bethke, Dan Haseltine, John Kingston, Marisa Prince and Calvin Lee.

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