Talkin‘ Politics & Religion Without Killin‘ Each Other

Latest Episodes:

Most of Us Are in the Middle — So Why Are the Extremes Controlling the Conversation? Aug 19, 2025

Show notes

Not Right. Not Left. Not Crazy. Just Real Talk About Politics and People. 43% of Us Aren’t Partisan Left or Right. This Episode Is for You.

Reflecting on what it means to be politically independent in a time of increasing polarization. Drawing on personal stories and hot-button issues like Israel/Palestine, redistricting, and public safety, host Corey Nathan makes a compelling case for the 43% of Americans who don’t fully align with the far right or progressive left—and offers guidance on how we can still talk to each other with grace and clarity.

What Is Discussed:

The 3 main categories of political identity in America
Why a plurality of us fall into a misunderstood, complex “middle”
How to approach political conversations without labeling
What really motivates voters—and why economic messaging matters
Practical ways to connect across divides without compromising your values

Episode Highlights:

[00:02:00] Defining the “three buckets”: partisan right, left, and the independent middle
[00:06:30] Mislabeling in political debates – a story about Israel and being misunderstood
[00:12:00] How to hold multiple truths in the Israel/Palestine conflict
[00:15:00] On crime, Trump, and false binaries
[00:19:30] Redistricting in Texas—and why legal doesn’t mean ethical
[00:23:00] Why cost of living, not slogans, will decide 2026 & 2028 elections
[00:27:00] Do’s & don’ts for meaningful political conversations
[00:33:00] Learning from mistakes and leading with respect

Featured Quotes:
🗣️ “Go in with the goal of connecting, not convincing.” – Corey Nathan
🗣️ “The world is not black and white. The world is not Democrat or Republican.” – Corey Nathan
🗣️ “Just because we don't agree with your particular orthodoxy doesn't mean we're part of the other side.” – Corey Nathan

📣 Calls to Action:

✅ TELL A FRIEND ABOUT TP&R!!! Bring more folks into the conversation.

✅ Subscribe to Talkin' Politics & Religion Without Killin' Each Other on your favorite podcast platform.

✅ Leave a review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen: ratethispodcast.com/goodfaithpolitics

✅ Check out our substack: coreysnathan.substack.com

✅ Watch the full conversation and subscribe on YouTube: youtube.com/@politicsandreligion

🔗 Connect on Social Media:

Corey is @coreysnathan on...

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Thanks for tuning in! Now go talk politics and religion—with gentleness and respect. 🎙️✨

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Matthew D. Taylor: The NAR's War on Democracy & The Path to Rehumanizing Faith Aug 14, 2025

Show notes

Exposing the New Apostolic Reformation's anti-democratic Seven Mountain Mandate and its profound impact on Christian nationalism, urging a return to interreligious dialogue and Jesus' core teachings to rehumanize faith and defend liberal democracy - we're joined by Dr. Matthew D. Taylor to discuss all this and more.

Dr. Matthew D. Taylor is a leading scholar and practitioner in interfaith dialogue and a fierce advocate for pluralism in American society who holds a Ph.D. in Theological and Religious Studies with a focus on comparative religion and modern radical movements within both Christianity and Islam. He currently serves at the Institute for Islamic, Christian, and Jewish Studies in Baltimore, where he works to dismantle antisemitism, Islamophobia, and Christian nationalism. Together, Corey and Matt explore the evolution of evangelicalism, the rise of Christian nationalism, the dangerous theology of the New Apostolic Reformation, and the crucial role of pluralistic democracy in a divided America.

What We Discuss:

Why Dr. Taylor left evangelicalism and what drew him to interfaith dialogue
The alarming growth and influence of the New Apostolic Reformation (NAR)
How NAR theology is shaping U.S. politics and threatening democracy
The distinction between liberal and illiberal democracy
How to rehumanize political and religious discourse in polarized environments
What Christians can do to confront authoritarianism from within their own communities

Episode Highlights:
[00:01:00] Dr. Taylor’s evangelical roots and why he left the movement
[00:05:00] From aspiring missionary to interfaith scholar: Matt’s pivotal moment in Turkey
[00:15:00] Understanding spiritual manipulation in evangelical circles
[00:25:00] Introducing the New Apostolic Reformation and the Seven Mountain Mandate
[00:37:00] How Christian nationalism is reshaping America’s political landscape
[00:45:00] Trump, prophecy, and the theological foundations of MAGA
[00:54:00] What liberal democracy means—and why it’s at risk in the U.S.
[01:03:00] A call for Christians to speak theologically against authoritarianism

Featured Quotes:

"If the propaganda is theological, the response has to be theological." — Dr. Matthew D. Taylor

"We need to improve the quality of our disagreements." — Dr. Matthew D. Taylor

"Right now, the propaganda holding MAGA together is theological—and Christians have a responsibility to speak into that." — Dr. Matthew D. Taylor

"Jesus didn’t come to empower Christians to take power over others—he came to teach us to lay it down." — Dr. Matthew D. Taylor

Resources Mentioned:

Dr. Taylor's book, The Violent Take It by Force: icjs.org/the-violent-take-it-by-force
Institute for Islamic, Christian, and Jewish Studies: icjs.org
Matthew D. Taylor on Substack: substack.com/@matthewdtaylor

📣 Calls to Action:

✅ TELL A FRIEND ABOUT TP&R!!! Bring more folks into the conversation.

✅ Subscribe to Talkin' Politics & Religion Without Killin' Each Other on your favorite podcast platform.

✅ Leave a review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen: ratethispodcast.com/goodfaithpolitics

✅ Check out our substack: coreysnathan.substack.com

✅ Watch the full conversation and subscribe on YouTube: youtube.com/@politicsandreligion

🔗 Connect on Social Media:

Corey is @coreysnathan on...

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Thanks for tuning in! Now go talk politics and religion—with gentleness and respect. 🎙️✨

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Redistricting Wars: Is It Wise to Fight Fire with Fire? Lessons from a Heated Dialogue. Aug 11, 2025

Show notes

Principles, Polarization, and the Perils of Partisan Shaming.

Let's dive into the heated “Redistricting Wars” in Texas, California, and other states. Using David French’s framework of “Is it legal? Is it ethical? Is it wise?”, Corey examines the legal, moral, and strategic angles of mid-decade redistricting.

From explaining the political strategies behind Texas’s proposed map changes to defending California’s independent redistricting commissions, Corey makes the case for more competitive, purple districts. He also shares a candid and sometimes heated social media exchange about whether sticking to democratic principles is the right approach when political opponents “fight dirty.”

*CORRECTION: Corey incorrectly referred to a conversation with Dr. Matthew D. Taylor. Corey incorrectly stated his first name as Michael instead of Matthew.

What Is Discussed:

Why Texas’s mid-decade redistricting is technically legal but ethically questionable
How California’s independent commissions foster competitive districts
The strategic risks of over-gerrymandering
The dangers of toxic partisanship and abandoning core principles
Why persuasion works better than shaming in political discourse

Episode highlights:

[00:02:00] Applying the “legal, ethical, wise” framework to Texas’s actions
[00:04:00] Why breaking redistricting norms is dangerous
[00:07:00] Why Corey doubts Texas will gain five seats through gerrymandering
[00:08:00] California’s purple districts and independent commissions
[00:12:00] Polling on overturning California’s commission system
[00:14:00] A revealing online exchange about principles vs. partisanship
[00:21:00] The problem with labeling all Trump voters as enemies of democracy
[00:27:00] Sticking to nonviolent, principled engagement during political urgency
[00:33:00] Why respectful persuasion beats moral grandstanding

Featured quotes:

“Is it legal? Is it ethical? Is it wise? That’s how I’m looking at this whole thing.”
“We need more purple districts—places where voters have to talk to each other, not just live in partisan silos.”
“We don’t abandon our principles when it’s convenient or when we think it’s urgent.”
“If your approach is to shame people into agreeing with you, you’re not persuading anyone—you’re pushing them away.”

Resources mentioned:

Reuters article on Texas redistricting fight: www.reuters.com/world/us/trump-led-texas-redistricting-gambit-ignites-national-arms-race-control-congress-2025-08-05/
Politicology with Ron Steslow and Mike Madrid: podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/cartographic-warfare-the-weekly/id1514968525?i=1000721241146

📣 Calls to Action:

✅ TELL A FRIEND ABOUT TP&R!!! Bring more folks into the conversation.

✅ Subscribe to Talkin' Politics & Religion Without Killin' Each Other on your favorite podcast platform.

✅ Leave a review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen: ratethispodcast.com/goodfaithpolitics

✅ Check out our substack: coreysnathan.substack.com

✅ Watch the full conversation and subscribe on YouTube: youtube.com/@politicsandreligion

🔗 Connect on Social Media:

Corey is @coreysnathan on...

Our Sponsor:

Meza Wealth Management: www.mezawealth.com

Thanks for tuning in! Now go talk politics and religion—with gentleness and respect. 🎙️✨

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Thomas Chatterton Williams - SUMMER OF OUR DISCONTENT: The Age of Certainty and the Demise of Discourse Aug 08, 2025

Show notes

What happened between the election of the first black president in 2008 and the reelection of Donald Trump in 2024 that's led to "the age of certainty and the demise of discourse"? Well, as the brilliant writer Thomas Chatterton Williams recounts in his new book, there was the SUMMER OF OUR DISCONTENT.

In this episode, we get to sit down with Thomas—staff writer at The Atlantic and also author of Losing My Cool and Self-Portrait in Black and White. We explore race, identity, cancel culture, and the importance of preserving liberal values in a polarized society.

What We Discuss:

How Thomas’s biracial upbringing shapes his worldview
The story behind the “Letter on Justice and Open Debate” in Harper's
What happened with the Poetry Foundation and cancel culture
Why “moral clarity” can be dangerous when journalism becomes activism
How 2020’s protests shaped national politics and the rise of MAGA

Episode Highlights:

[00:01:00] Thomas shares the story of his parents’ interracial marriage
[00:07:00] Growing up in a household full of debate and thick skin
[00:09:00] Drafting and publishing the Harper’s letter and its backlash
[00:13:00] The Poetry Foundation controversy and institutional capture
[00:25:00] Why “moral clarity” fails when we don’t agree on morality
[00:39:00] The link between 2020 protests and January 6th
[00:45:00] Can Democrats win the center—and what candidates can break through?
[00:48:00] The toxic effects of social media on how we see each other

Featured Quotes:

"You can't really have social justice without tolerance for viewpoint diversity." – Thomas Chatterton Williams
"No one agrees on what’s morally clear. That’s why objectivity still matters." – Thomas Chatterton Williams
"People don't talk that way in person. Social media strips us of our ability to imagine someone’s humanity." – Corey Nathan

Resources Mentioned:

The Summer of Our Discontent by Thomas Chatterton Williams: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/704632/summer-of-our-discontent-by-thomas-chatterton-williams/
Harper’s Letter: https://harpers.org/a-letter-on-justice-and-open-debate/
Thomas’s work at The Atlantic: https://www.theatlantic.com/author/thomas-chatterton-williams/
Thomas on IG: www.instagram.com/chattertonwilliams
Thomas on Twitter: x.com/thomaschattwill

📣 Calls to Action:

✅ TELL A FRIEND ABOUT TP&R!!! Bring more folks into the conversation.

✅ Subscribe to Talkin' Politics & Religion Without Killin' Each Other on your favorite podcast platform.

✅ Leave a review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen: ratethispodcast.com/goodfaithpolitics

✅ Check out our substack: coreysnathan.substack.com

✅ Watch the full conversation and subscribe on YouTube: youtube.com/@politicsandreligion

🔗 Connect on Social Media:

Corey is @coreysnathan on...

Our Sponsor:

Meza Wealth Management: www.mezawealth.com

Thanks for tuning in! Now go talk politics and religion—with gentleness and respect. 🎙️✨

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Cheering Murder, Losing Our Soul: A Call Back to Our Shared Humanity Aug 05, 2025

Show notes

How Did We Get Here? From Outrage to Applauding Atrocity

In this edition, host Corey Nathan offers a timely and deeply personal reflection on a disturbing trend in society: the growing tendency to dehumanize one another. We unpack two tragic incidents that sparked widespread and even celebratory reactions online—mass murders of corporate executives—and explore what these reactions say about our collective soul. Using real-life examples, scriptural references, and philosophical insights, the challenge is to consider how we might reclaim our shared humanity.

What Is Discussed:

How online culture enables dehumanization and moral numbness
The emotional and spiritual toll of celebrating harm toward others
Practical ways to recognize and preserve each other's humanity
The concept of Imago Dei and how it applies in daily life, even beyond religious contexts
How to model grace and kindness, even in the face of hostility

Episode Highlights:

[00:02:00] — Corey introduces the idea of a “vicious cycle” of dehumanization and how it suffocates our soul and hardens our hearts
[00:04:00] — The story of Wesley LePatner, CEO of Blackstone Real Estate Income Trust and the horrifying online reactions to her murder
[00:08:00] — The “Free Luigi” movement and how the celebration of violence has become normalized
[00:13:00] — A personal experience with a vile online comment and the power of grace in response
[00:18:00] — Explanation of “online disinhibition” and echo chambers as systemic drivers of dehumanization
[00:24:00] — Introduction of Imago Dei and secular philosophies that affirm basic human dignity
[00:29:00] — How Corey chose to respond thoughtfully rather than react angrily to an offensive comment
[00:34:00] — A call to action: practical steps to disrupt the cycle of dehumanization in our personal lives and broader discourse

Resources Mentioned:

📣 Calls to Action:

✅ TELL A FRIEND ABOUT TP&R!!! Bring more folks into the conversation.

✅ Subscribe to Talkin' Politics & Religion Without Killin' Each Other on your favorite podcast platform.

✅ Leave a review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen: ratethispodcast.com/goodfaithpolitics

✅ Check out our substack: coreysnathan.substack.com

✅ Watch the full conversation and subscribe on YouTube: youtube.com/@politicsandreligion

🔗 Connect on Social Media:

Corey is @coreysnathan on...

Our Sponsor:

Meza Wealth Management: www.mezawealth.com

Thanks for tuning in! Now go talk politics and religion—with gentleness and respect. 🎙️✨

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Fires, ICE, and Faith — Rev. Dr. Matthew Colwell on Immigration, Loss, and Rebuilding Community Aug 01, 2025

Show notes

What if ICE visits our church? How are we doing after the LA Fires? And how can the Church help to rebuild and heal?

In this heartfelt episode of Talkin’ Politics & Religion Without Killin’ Each Other, host Corey Nathan welcomes back the Reverend Dr. Matt Colwell, Senior Pastor of Knox Presbyterian Church in Pasadena, CA. A theologian, author, and community leader, Matt opens up about losing his home in the devastating Eaton Fire, his deeply personal approach to immigrant justice, and the evolving role of the Church in times of social and political crisis. A long-time friend and spiritual guide to Corey, Matt shares how Scripture and lived experience converge to shape his ministry and public witness.

What We Discuss:

How the Eaton Fire profoundly impacted Pastor Matt and his congregation
What it looks like for a church to take a public stand on immigration and ICE enforcement
The intersection of Scripture, politics, and social ethics in Matt’s faith journey
Why churches are legally preparing for ICE visits—and how they’re doing it
The essential role of community, memory, and physical space in recovering from trauma
Strategies for engaging in tough conversations across ideological lines

Episode Highlights:
[00:01:00] Matt opens up about life after losing his home in the Eaton Fire
[00:03:00] How experiences in Guatemala and seminary shaped Matt’s understanding of faith and justice
[00:07:00] Corey and Matt explore deriving political views from scripture and the ethical challenge of self-trust
[00:14:00] Book recommendations: Lincoln’s Greatest Speech, The Dearly Beloved, and more
[00:18:00] The emotional aftermath of losing a home and the power of community response
[00:31:00] What the grieving process looks like when you lose not just a house, but identity-defining memories
[00:42:00] ICE visits to churches in Downey prompt new sanctuary policies at Knox Presbyterian
[00:47:00] How the church legally designated private spaces to protect undocumented individuals
[01:03:00] Corey’s candid reflection on preparing emotionally for hard political and religious conversations

Featured Quotes:
"When a pillar is pulled out from under you, it’s powerful to feel like God is present—and the church community is present." – Rev. Dr. Matt Colwell
"I don’t trust myself either. That’s why I need to hear different voices and read Scripture in community." – Rev. Dr. Matt Colwell
"I prepare for difficult conversations by rehearsing a mindset—not what I’ll say, but how I’ll listen." – Corey Nathan
"It’s not just stuff—it’s tied to relationships. Losing those memories feels like losing part of your identity." – Rev. Dr. Matt Colwell

Resources Mentioned:

Our God is Undocumented by Ched Myers and Matthew Colwell: orbisbooks.com/products/our-god-is-undocumented
Knox Presbyterian Church, Pasadena: knoxpasadena.org
Pastor Matt goes viral: www.instagram.com/p/DLP84OWM-4c/
Clergy and Laity United for Economic Justice: www.cluejustice.org

📣 Calls to Action:

✅ TELL A FRIEND ABOUT TP&R!!! Bring more folks into the conversation.

✅ Subscribe to Talkin' Politics & Religion Without Killin' Each Other on your favorite podcast platform.

✅ Leave a review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen: ratethispodcast.com/goodfaithpolitics

✅ Check out our substack: coreysnathan.substack.com

✅ Watch the full conversation and subscribe on YouTube: youtube.com/@politicsandreligion

🔗 Connect on Social Media:

Corey is @coreysnathan on...

Our Sponsor:

Meza Wealth Management: www.mezawealth.com

Thanks for tuning in! Now go talk politics and religion—with gentleness and respect. 🎙️✨

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Misunderstood, Mislabeled, and Still Thinking About It: What to Do About Rumination Jul 30, 2025

Show notes

Ever get stuck in those mental loops after heated conversations around politics and religion? Let's talk about it!

In this episode, host Corey Nathan opens up about the all-too-common habit of rumination—going over those difficult conversations or moments of conflict again and again. Drawing from a powerful personal story, Corey explores what rumination is, how it differs from healthy reflection, and what we can do about it.

What Is Discussed:

The difference between obsessive rumination and productive reflection
Practical strategies for self-awareness and emotional regulation
How mindfulness and meditation can help manage intrusive thoughts
Why labeling others (or being labeled) damages relationships
How to shift from argument to connection using curiosity and empathy

Episode Highlights:

00:00:50 – Introducing the topic of rumination and why it matters
00:02:00 – A personal story about a triggering interaction
00:06:00 – “My brain broke”—Corey reflects on emotional fallout
00:10:00 – Inward vs. outward strategies for interrupting rumination
00:13:00 – Self-awareness, triggers, and managing the moment
00:15:00 – Meditation and the practice of “noting”
00:18:00 – Relationship management: choose connection over being right
00:27:00 – Labeling vs. seeing someone in their full humanity

Featured Quotes:

“My brain broke. That’s how I describe it—because in that moment, something really triggered me.”
“The thought is not my identity. It’s just a thought—and I can allow it to pass.”
“If someone insists on labeling me, that’s not a relationship I want. Or at least, I’ll love them from far away.”

Resources Mentioned:

BUDDHA'S BRAIN by Rick Hanson - rickhanson.com/writings/books/buddhas-brain
Tara Brach’s resources – www.tarabrach.com

📣 Calls to Action:

✅ TELL A FRIEND ABOUT TP&R!!! Bring more folks into the conversation.

✅ Subscribe to Talkin' Politics & Religion Without Killin' Each Other on your favorite podcast platform.

✅ Leave a review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen: ratethispodcast.com/goodfaithpolitics

✅ Check out our substack: coreysnathan.substack.com

✅ Watch the full conversation and subscribe on YouTube: youtube.com/@politicsandreligion

🔗 Connect on Social Media:

Corey is @coreysnathan on...

Our Sponsor:

Meza Wealth Management: www.mezawealth.com

Thanks for tuning in! Now go talk politics and religion—with gentleness and respect. 🎙️✨

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Finding Purpose, Building Wealth, and Staying Grounded in Uncertain Times with Jorge Meza Jul 24, 2025

Show notes

In today's economic and political climate, how can we all keep our heads while everyone else is losing theirs? Talkin' tariffs, budget deficits, the Fed, interest rates, and all kinds of fun stuff!

In this episode of Talkin' Politics & Religion Without Killin' Each Other, host Corey Nathan welcomes long-time friend and investment advisor Jorge Meza, CEO of Meza Wealth Management. Jorge shares his inspiring journey—from navigating a family medical crisis to building a boutique investment firm grounded in accessibility and service. The two also dive into today’s economic and political climate, and how we can all keep our heads while everyone else is losing theirs.

What We Discuss:

How Jorge’s personal experiences shaped his professional philosophy
Why investing is about more than money—it’s about people
Practical insights into tariffs, inflation, and the future of AI
How to have tough political conversations with respect and grace

Episode Highlights:

[00:01:10] – Jorge shares his daughter Jessica’s remarkable transplant story
[00:04:45] – From construction to finance: Jorge’s path to founding Meza Wealth Management
[00:07:15] – The immigrant journey that shaped Jorge’s worldview
[00:13:00] – How Jorge coaches clients through political and market volatility
[00:15:30] – Tariffs, inflation, and AI: What it all means for your money
[00:38:15] – Why an independent Federal Reserve matters
[00:41:45] – Jorge’s take on how we can disagree without division

Featured Quotes:

“We’re in the business of changing people’s lives. Someone helped me early on, and I’ve never forgotten that.” – Jorge Meza
“Very few people can outwork me. If you work hard, things can happen.” – Jorge Meza
“People are starving for respectful dialogue. We just don’t hear enough from the folks in the middle.” – Jorge Meza
“You see something to be afraid of—I see opportunity.” – Corey Nathan

Resources Mentioned:

Meza Wealth Management: https://www.mezawealth.com
Watch full episodes on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@PoliticsAndReligion

📣 Calls to Action:

✅ TELL A FRIEND ABOUT TP&R!!! Bring more folks into the conversation.

✅ Subscribe to Talkin' Politics & Religion Without Killin' Each Other on your favorite podcast platform.

✅ Leave a review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen: ratethispodcast.com/goodfaithpolitics

✅ Check out our substack: coreysnathan.substack.com

✅ Watch the full conversation and subscribe on YouTube: youtube.com/@politicsandreligion

🔗 Connect on Social Media:

Corey is @coreysnathan on...

Our Sponsor:

Meza Wealth Management: www.mezawealth.com

Thanks for tuning in! Now go talk politics and religion—with gentleness and respect. 🎙️✨

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Mastering the Minefield: How to Spot Escalation, Avoid Traps & Build Better Dialogue Jul 22, 2025

Show notes

In this episode, host Corey Nathan explores how we can navigate difficult conversations around politics and religion with more grace and effectiveness. Drawing on personal experiences, spiritual grounding, and practical techniques, Corey shares what to look out for when a conversation is going sideways and how to communicate better even in the most challenging moments.

What Is Discussed:

How to recognize when a conversation is escalating
Common communication traps and how to avoid them
How to prepare your heart and mind to actively listen
What it means to “rehearse” understanding instead of comebacks
Why identifying shared values can change the entire conversation

Episode Highlights:

[00:00:50] Signs of emotional escalation and how to spot them
[00:05:00] A simple tool to slow down: breathing
[00:07:00] The mistake of rehearsing a verbal takedown
[00:09:30] A better way: Practice being a great listener
[00:13:00] Why “shoulding” on people makes things worse
[00:15:00] The dangers of mischaracterizing entire groups
[00:21:00] Are you really listening—or just waiting to talk?
[00:24:30] Avoiding ad hominem attacks and gaslighting

Featured Quotes:

“When the emotion is so heightened that I can no longer think… that’s something to recognize before it gets out of hand.”
“Don’t rehearse the perfect burn. Rehearse listening.”
“You can reverse the neurochemical reaction of anger and fear—and induce the feeling of being heard and loved.”
“If your goal is to cause pain in a conversation, this program isn’t for you.”

📣 Calls to Action: ✅ TELL A FRIEND ABOUT TP&R!!! Bring more folks into the conversation. ✅ Subscribe to Talkin' Politics & Religion Without Killin' Each Other on your favorite podcast platform. ✅ Leave a review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen: ratethispodcast.com/goodfaithpolitics ✅ Check out our substack: coreysnathan.substack.com ✅ Watch the full conversation and subscribe on YouTube: youtube.com/@politicsandreligion 🔗 Connect on Social Media:

Corey is @coreysnathan on...

Our Sponsor:

Meza Wealth Management: www.mezawealth.com

Thanks for tuning in! Now go talk politics and religion—with gentleness and respect. 🎙️✨

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Trump 2.0, John MacArthur, and America's Numbed Conscience: A Special Roundtable with Lori Adams-Brown and William Wright Jul 18, 2025

Show notes

Trump 2.0 - 6 months in. How's it going? (And other light comedy...)

In this milestone 300th episode, Corey is joined by two insightful friends: Lori Adams-Brown, host of A World of Difference podcast, and William Wright, co-host of the Faithful Politics podcast. Together, they reflect on six months of the Trump 2.0 administration, rising Christian nationalism, immigration policy impacts, and the legacy of influential evangelical leaders. It’s a deep, wide-ranging, and thought-provoking roundtable about our politics, our faith, and how we can still find hope and human connection across differences.

What We Discuss:

The real-life impacts of recent immigration policies
What’s fueling political tribalism and conspiracy culture
How trauma can influence dogmatism in both politics and religion
A candid look at John MacArthur’s controversial legacy
How we can better communicate across ideological divides

Episode Highlights:
• [00:01:00] Celebrating episode 300 with Lori and Will
• [00:02:00] Lori shares real stories of deportation affecting families in California
• [00:05:00] Corey’s church discusses ICE raid response policy
• [00:08:00] Will details surprising legal shifts and executive orders
• [00:13:00] Backlash over Chip and Joanna Gaines and identity politics
• [00:23:00] How polarization and pain are intertwined
• [00:39:00] Where can we still find hope, even now?
• [00:51:00] Reflecting on John MacArthur’s impact and abuse cover-ups
• [01:03:00] How to talk politics and religion without killing each other

Featured Quotes:
“Dogmatism is often a response to trauma.” — Lori Adams-Brown
“Bad people can sometimes do things that help good people.” — William Wright
“You don’t have a depression issue, you have a sin issue — that’s what they told me. And that was crushing.” — Corey Nathan
“It’s not about what you think, it’s about who you hate. That’s how people are being politically labeled now.” — Corey Nathan

Resources Mentioned:
• Faithful Politics Podcast – faithfulpoliticspodcast.com
• A World of Difference Podcast – www.loriadamsbrown.com/podcast
• Book: White Evangelical Racism by Anthea Butler - uncpress.org/book/9781469681511/white-evangelical-racism-second-edition/

Lori is