The Halftime Podcast with Shai Linne

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Latest Episodes:

The Death of a Movement Sep 15, 2024

Can a movement truly revolutionize faith and culture, yet still see its influence decline in a few short years? We're exploring this compelling paradox by examining the rise and fall of a movement in the West. We'll retrace the steps of the dynamic subculture, from its humble beginnings to its peak moments of global impact. A

Drawing parallels with historical figures, we discuss the potential for future generations to reignite the movement’s core values and mission. We also draw wisdom from the biblical narrative of Joshua, highlighting the continuity of God’s divine mission through changing leaders. Join us for a discussion that bridges past and present cultural expressions of faith marked by a hope that the flame of gospel proclamation continues to birth new movements of the Holy Spirit.

About the Hosts

Shai Linne (@shailinne) (Host) is an author and recording artist who has released numerous acclaimed Christian hip-hop albums. After completing a pastoral internship at Capitol Hill Baptist Church in Washington D.C., Shai co-founded Risen Christ Fellowship, an inner-city church in his hometown of Philadelphia, PA. As an author, Shai’s most recent book is The New Reformation: Finding Hope in the Fight for Ethnic Unity (published in May 2021). Shai has been married to his wife Blair for 14 years. They have three children and live in Portland, OR.

Ben Otero (@benotero) (Co-host) is a senior web developer for a Church Plant Media, an organization that serves churches and missions organizations. Ben grew up in Tampa, Florida before moving to Philadelphia to study at the University of Pennsylvania, where he received a degree in economics. In addition to being a student of hip-hop culture, Ben is an elder at Crown and Joy Presbyterian Church in Richmond, Virginia, where He lives with Jeraldine, his wife of 19 years, and their 8 children.

William “Duce” Branch (@ambassador215) (a.k.a. The Ambassador) (Co-host) is a pioneering Christian Hip-hop artist and professor. Duce served for over a decade as a co-founder and leader, and primary spokesperson for the nationally acclaimed Christian rap ministry, The Cross Movement. He also co-planted and co-pastored an urban church in North Philadelphia from 2004-2009. Duce is currently enrolled in a doctoral program at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary in Wake Forest, N.C., where he also serves as an adjunct professor for the College at Southeastern. He and his wife Michelle have been married for 27 years. They live in Wake Forest, NC and have four children

Credits

Executive Producer - Thomas J Terry

Recorded By - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Humble Beast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Additional Production Elements - Miguel A. Iniesta

Editing and Mixing by - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Good Podcast Co.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

This season is brought to you by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Brilliance Labs

Aging in Hip-hop Sep 01, 2024

Ever had that moment when you realized you needed glasses for the first time or found yourself relying on coffee just to get through the day? This episode is an honest exploration of the Hip Hop genre’s 50-year milestone and the aging of its trailblazers. We contrast the often negative views of aging in American society with biblical teachings that celebrate growing older as part of the path to wisdom and spiritual growth.

Our discussion navigates the complex intergenerational dynamics within hip hop, examining how older artists strive to stay relevant instead of embracing maturity. We touch on the disconnect between maintaining a youthful image and the respect that should accompany age, highlighting timeless virtues like self-control and dignity. As we reflect on the beauty of aging with grace and wisdom, we suggest that aging can add meaningful depth to our lives. The episode wraps up with a hopeful prayer for aging gracefully to the glory of God, encouraging you to embrace your journey with dignity and grace.

Chapters

Navigating the Realities of Aging
Perception of Self
Aging in Hip Hop
Embracing the Glory of Old Age

About the Hosts

Credits

Executive Producer - Thomas J Terry

Recorded By - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Humble Beast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Additional Production Elements - Miguel A. Iniesta

Editing and Mixing by - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Good Podcast Co.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

This season is brought to you by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Brilliance Labs

Spiritual Disciplines Aug 18, 2024

In this episode, we reflect on the continual learning and relearning essential for a vibrant spiritual life. From the importance of Bible reading and prayer to the vital role of church involvement, we discuss how life's trials and busyness can cause these practices to gradually wane. Maintaining them is crucial for spiritual health. We share practical insights on integrating the spiritual and secular aspects of life, prioritizing communion with God, and starting each day in His presence. Drawing inspiration from Jesus' early morning prayers, we illustrate how adopting such habits can deeply enrich one's walk with the Lord.

We also look at how the natural world's inherent rhythms are part of God's design and how routines teach us to seek nourishment and joy from Him continually. Unlike physical hunger, neglecting spiritual disciplines can lead to a diminished sense of need for God— even an increased appetite for worldly things, fostering a false sense of self-sufficiency. Conversely, consistently tapping into the means of grace, such as prayer and scripture, can increase our spiritual hunger and desire for God. Ultimately, spiritual disciplines are not mere obligations but opportunities to grow closer to God and delight in His presence.

Chapters

Spiritual Disciplines for Christian Growth
Practicing Spiritual Consistency Over Time
Nurturing a Spiritual Appetite

About the Hosts

Shai Linne (@shailinne) (Host) is an author and recording artist who has released numerous acclaimed Christian hip-hop albums. After completing a pastoral internship at Capitol Hill Baptist Church in Washington D.C., Shai co-founded Risen Christ Fellowship, an inner-city church in his hometown of Philadelphia, PA. As an author, Shai’s most recent book is The New Reformation: Finding Hope in the Fight for Ethnic Unity (published in May 2021). Shai has been married to his wife Blair for 13 years. They have three children and live in Portland, OR.

William “Duce” Branch (@ambassador215) (a.k.a. The Ambassador) (Co-host) is a pioneering Christian Hip-hop artist and professor. Duce served for over a decade as a co-founder and leader, and primary spokesperson for the nationally acclaimed Christian rap ministry, The Cross Movement. He also co-planted and co-pastored an urban church in North Philadelphia from 2004-2009. Duce is currently enrolled in a doctoral program at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary in Wake Forest, N.C., where he also serves as an adjunct professor for the College at Southeastern. He and his wife Michelle have been married for 26 years. They live in Wake Forest, NC and have four children

Credits

Executive Producer - Thomas J Terry

Recorded By - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Humble Beast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Additional Production Elements - Miguel A. Iniesta

Editing and Mixing by - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Good Podcast Co.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

This season is brought to you by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Brilliance Labs

Hitting Reset on the “Race” Discussion in the Church Aug 04, 2024

In the early 2000’s, the unlikely alliance between predominantly White Reformed evangelicals and the African American Christian hip-hop community shattered conventional church norms. Together, they embarked on a bold experiment to model unity in Christ across ethnic lines. Yet these partnerships faced multifaceted challenges. The optimism of the early 2000s gradually dissolved into frustration, significant fragmentation and disillusionment. This was largely fueled by the varying responses to the backdrop of ethnic tension in our culture.

We dissect the painful yet crucial conversations that these tensions provoked within multi-ethnic congregations. And seek to offer an honest look at the relational strife that emerged, stressing the urgency for a reset and a renewed commitment to love and understanding.

Our conversation delves into historical perspectives and the power of viewing each other through the gospel and New Creation lenses. Reflecting on figures like Martin Luther King Jr. and contrasting with Malcolm X’s approach, we discuss the importance of rejecting demonization of others and bearing witness to God’s kingdom.

Chapters

A Marriage of Movements
A Growing Divide in Gospel Rooted Partnerships
Learning From the Past
Unity Through the Gospel Amid Ethnic Injustice
Navigating a Path Forward

Referenced Resources

Sermon by Shai Lynne: Faith Alone and Ethnic Unity

About the Hosts

Shai Linne (@shailinne) (Host) is an author and recording artist who has released numerous acclaimed Christian hip-hop albums. After completing a pastoral internship at Capitol Hill Baptist Church in Washington D.C., Shai co-founded Risen Christ Fellowship, an inner-city church in his hometown of Philadelphia, PA. As an author, Shai’s most recent book is The New Reformation: Finding Hope in the Fight for Ethnic Unity (published in May 2021). Shai has been married to his wife Blair for 13 years. They have three children and live in Portland, OR.

William “Duce” Branch (@ambassador215) (a.k.a. The Ambassador) (Co-host) is a pioneering Christian Hip-hop artist and professor. Duce served for over a decade as a co-founder and leader, and primary spokesperson for the nationally acclaimed Christian rap ministry, The Cross Movement. He also co-planted and co-pastored an urban church in North Philadelphia from 2004-2009. Duce is currently enrolled in a doctoral program at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary in Wake Forest, N.C., where he also serves as an adjunct professor for the College at Southeastern. He and his wife Michelle have been married for 26 years. They live in Wake Forest, NC and have four children

Credits

Executive Producer - Thomas J Terry

Recorded By - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Humble Beast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Additional Production Elements - Miguel A. Iniesta

Editing and Mixing by - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Good Podcast Co.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

This season is brought to you by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Brilliance Labs

Fatherhood Jul 21, 2024

In this episode, we navigate the emotional journey of fatherhood, from the initial excitement of expecting a child to the overwhelming sense of responsibility that comes with it. I share my personal story of preparing for the birth of my first child, reflecting on my own upbringing without a father figure and the anxiety that ensued. My friends Ben and Duce also share their own experiences — both the good and the difficult.

Reflecting on our fathers' influence, we discuss the balance of discipline and love that shaped our upbringing and how it has informed how we father our own children. We also explore the elements of fatherhood and parenting that are needed to raise a godly generation.

There is a critical importance of understanding fatherhood through scripture rather than cultural norms so we highlight how earthly fatherhood reflects God's design — we, as earthly fathers, have the privilege and responsibility to mirror God’s fatherhood. And by God’s grace we will be faithful to model that incredible reality.

Chapters

Navigating Fatherhood
Reflections and Legacy
Guiding Children With Discipline and Wisdom
Divine Model of Fatherhood

About the Hosts

Shai Linne (@shailinne) (Host) is an author and recording artist who has released numerous acclaimed Christian hip-hop albums. After completing a pastoral internship at Capitol Hill Baptist Church in Washington D.C., Shai co-founded Risen Christ Fellowship, an inner-city church in his hometown of Philadelphia, PA. As an author, Shai’s most recent book is The New Reformation: Finding Hope in the Fight for Ethnic Unity (published in May 2021). Shai has been married to his wife Blair for 13 years. They have three children and live in Portland, OR.

William “Duce” Branch (@ambassador215) (a.k.a. The Ambassador) (Co-host) is a pioneering Christian Hip-hop artist and professor. Duce served for over a decade as a co-founder and leader, and primary spokesperson for the nationally acclaimed Christian rap ministry, The Cross Movement. He also co-planted and co-pastored an urban church in North Philadelphia from 2004-2009. Duce is currently enrolled in a doctoral program at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary in Wake Forest, N.C., where he also serves as an adjunct professor for the College at Southeastern. He and his wife Michelle have been married for 26 years. They live in Wake Forest, NC and have four children

Credits

Executive Producer - Thomas J Terry

Recorded By - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Humble Beast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Additional Production Elements - Miguel A. Iniesta

Editing and Mixing by - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Good Podcast Co.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

This season is brought to you by ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Brilliance Labs

Marriage and Legacy Jul 07, 2024

Can a godly marriage truly break generational patterns and create a legacy of faith? In our latest episode, I talk about growing up without marital role models and how the idea of leaving a legacy shaped my pursuit of my wife. Ben and Duce also weigh in with their rich experiences from 18 and 27 years of marriage, respectively, sharing invaluable insights on building a multi-generational legacy steeped in faith.

From navigating the complexities of young love to the deeper qualities that sustain long-term relationships, we look at God's blueprint for marriage. We also reflect on the challenges and blessings of early commitments, informed by our personal experiences in Philadelphia. Hear how prayer and pursuit of Christ served as cornerstones in seeking godly spouses, and why inner qualities triumph over physical beauty for enduring love. We also delve into hip-hop culture’s evolving narrative around marriage, offering a fresh perspective on the contrast between public personas and private lives.

The evolving dynamics of marriage require us to adapt and grow. We share personal anecdotes about recognizing and embracing changes in our partners, and the role of sacrificial love and gospel-centered conflict resolution in maintaining a healthy union. By prioritizing the needs of our families and embracing forgiveness and reconciliation, we can build a multi-generational legacy through committed, godly marriages. Join us for this insightful conversation on cultivating a committed, godly marriage that leaves a lasting legacy.

Chapters

Legacy Shaping Marriage
God's Blueprint for Marriage
Shifting Perspectives on Marriage in Hip-Hop
Embracing Change in Marriage
Sacrificial Love and Gospel-Centered Conflict

About the Hosts

Shai Linne (@shailinne) (Host) is an author and recording artist who has released numerous acclaimed Christian hip-hop albums. After completing a pastoral internship at Capitol Hill Baptist Church in Washington D.C., Shai co-founded Risen Christ Fellowship, an inner-city church in his hometown of Philadelphia, PA. As an author, Shai’s most recent book is The New Reformation: Finding Hope in the Fight for Ethnic Unity (published in May 2021). Shai has been married to his wife Blair for 13 years. They have three children and live in Portland, OR.

William “Duce” Branch (@ambassador215) (a.k.a. The Ambassador) (Co-host) is a pioneering Christian Hip-hop artist and professor. Duce served for over a decade as a co-founder and leader, and primary spokesperson for the nationally acclaimed Christian rap ministry, The Cross Movement. He also co-planted and co-pastored an urban church in North Philadelphia from 2004-2009. Duce is currently enrolled in a doctoral program at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary in Wake Forest, N.C., where he also serves as an adjunct professor for the College at Southeastern. He and his wife Michelle have been married for 26 years. They live in Wake Forest, NC and have four children

Credits

Executive Producer - Thomas J Terry

Recorded By - ⁠⁠⁠⁠Humble Beast⁠⁠⁠⁠

Additional Production Elements - Miguel A. Iniesta

Editing and Mixing by - ⁠⁠⁠⁠The Good Podcast Co.⁠⁠⁠⁠

This season is brought to you by ⁠⁠⁠⁠Brilliance Labs

Male Friendships Jun 23, 2024

What happens when you reach the midpoint of your life and look around to realize you didn’t know who your true friends were anymore? In this episode, I share my personal journey of navigating the complexities of male friendships post-40, exploring why it’s so challenging to establish new bonds at this stage in life. Through reflections on life events, social media influences, and political differences, Ben, Duce and I discuss the reasons behind so many broken relationships. We discuss how men are socialized to prioritize activities over genuine emotional connections, often leading to superficial, transactional friendships.

We also hit the value of meaningful friendships within Christian communities — emphasizing the importance of finding a close-knit group of true friends who share the bond of Christ. Moreover, we underline the role of the local church in fostering these connections. Christ during His time on earth modeled what genuine friendship looks like and we want to encourage you to seek for and endure in brotherly bonds that sharpen and encourage you in the Lord.

Chapters

- Male Friendships Over 40

- Dealing with the loss of Friendship

- The Value of Meaningful Friendships

- Restoring Broken Friendships

About the Hosts

Shai Linne (@shailinne) (Host) is an author and recording artist who has released numerous acclaimed Christian hip-hop albums. After completing a pastoral internship at Capitol Hill Baptist Church in Washington D.C., Shai co-founded Risen Christ Fellowship, an inner-city church in his hometown of Philadelphia, PA. As an author, Shai’s most recent book is The New Reformation: Finding Hope in the Fight for Ethnic Unity (published in May 2021). Shai has been married to his wife Blair for 13 years. They have three children and live in Portland, OR.

William “Duce” Branch (@ambassador215) (a.k.a. The Ambassador) (Co-host) is a pioneering Christian Hip-hop artist and professor. Duce served for over a decade as a co-founder and leader, and primary spokesperson for the nationally acclaimed Christian rap ministry, The Cross Movement. He also co-planted and co-pastored an urban church in North Philadelphia from 2004-2009. Duce is currently enrolled in a doctoral program at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary in Wake Forest, N.C., where he also serves as an adjunct professor for the College at Southeastern. He and his wife Michelle have been married for 26 years. They live in Wake Forest, NC and have four children

Credits

Executive Producer - Thomas J Terry

Recorded By - ⁠⁠⁠Humble Beast⁠⁠⁠

Additional Production Elements - Miguel A. Iniesta

Editing and Mixing by - ⁠⁠⁠The Good Podcast Co.⁠⁠⁠

This season is brought to you by ⁠⁠⁠Brilliance Labs

Christo-Urbanite Jun 08, 2024

On this episode, I introduce the concept of the "Christo Urbanite," a term that perfectly encapsulates individuals who are immersed in urban hip-hop culture but are transformed by a profound Christian faith. We discuss how iconic albums like Illmatic and hip-hop pioneers like Run DMC coupled with a faith in Jesus Christ led to a synthesis that became the catalyst for the Christian Hip-Hop (CHH) movement of the early 2000’s — a pivotal period that shaped today's fusion of faith and beats.

We tackle the nuances of teaching our kids to view hip-hop through a Christ-centered lens and balancing cultural identity with theological integrity. Sharing personal stories and reflections, we talk about the long-standing conversation on integrating faith with hip-hop, emphasizing the diverse community of urbanites who have embraced this blend. Whether you're an artist, parent, scholar, or professional, this episode celebrates maintaining your cultural and theological distinctives while striving to honor the Lord in every aspect of life.

Chapters

Exploring Christo Urbanite Concept

Hip-Hop Culture Transformed by Christ

Hip-Hop and the Urban Community

About the Hosts

Shai Linne (@shailinne) (Host) is an author and recording artist who has released numerous acclaimed Christian hip-hop albums. After completing a pastoral internship at Capitol Hill Baptist Church in Washington D.C., Shai co-founded Risen Christ Fellowship, an inner-city church in his hometown of Philadelphia, PA. As an author, Shai’s most recent book is The New Reformation: Finding Hope in the Fight for Ethnic Unity (published in May 2021). Shai has been married to his wife Blair for 13 years. They have three children and live in Portland, OR.

William “Duce” Branch (@ambassador215) (a.k.a. The Ambassador) (Co-host) is a pioneering Christian Hip-hop artist and professor. Duce served for over a decade as a co-founder and leader, and primary spokesperson for the nationally acclaimed Christian rap ministry, The Cross Movement. He also co-planted and co-pastored an urban church in North Philadelphia from 2004-2009. Duce is currently enrolled in a doctoral program at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary in Wake Forest, N.C., where he also serves as an adjunct professor for the College at Southeastern. He and his wife Michelle have been married for 26 years. They live in Wake Forest, NC and have four children

Credits

Executive Producer - Thomas J Terry

Recorded By - ⁠⁠Humble Beast⁠⁠

Additional Production Elements - Miguel A. Iniesta

Editing and Mixing by - ⁠⁠The Good Podcast Co.⁠⁠

This season is brought to you by ⁠⁠Brilliance Labs

Embracing the Second Act May 26, 2024

A particularly challenging season of trials produced a personal crucible that birthed a shift in my perspective on life. The difficulties of that season demanded I consider what I truly valued as I entered the “midpoint” of my life — my halftime.

On The Halftime Podcast I’ll be joined by my good friends Ben Otero and William “Duce” Branch — old friends with a wealth of wisdom. We will explore what it means to be 'Christo-Urbanites' at life's midpoint. And we're not just waxing nostalgic about our early days in Christian hip hop; we're dissecting the teachings of the Bible, contemplating the finite nature of our time here, and the intentional steps we must take as we tiptoe into the second act of our lives. It's a candid conversation, steeped in the realities we all face and the wisdom we hope to pass on to the generations that follow.

Chapters

Journey Through Caregiving
Halftime Adjustments
Christo-Urbanite

About the Hosts

Shai Linne (@shailinne) (Host) is an author and recording artist who has released numerous acclaimed Christian hip-hop albums. After completing a pastoral internship at Capitol Hill Baptist Church in Washington D.C., Shai co-founded Risen Christ Fellowship, an inner-city church in his hometown of Philadelphia, PA. As an author, Shai’s most recent book is The New Reformation: Finding Hope in the Fight for Ethnic Unity (published in May 2021). Shai has been married to his wife Blair for 13 years. They have three children and live in Portland, OR.

William “Duce” Branch (@ambassador215) (a.k.a. The Ambassador) (Co-host) is a pioneering Christian Hip-hop artist and professor. Duce served for over a decade as a co-founder and leader, and primary spokesperson for the nationally acclaimed Christian rap ministry, The Cross Movement. He also co-planted and co-pastored an urban church in North Philadelphia from 2004-2009. Duce is currently enrolled in a doctoral program at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary in Wake Forest, N.C., where he also serves as an adjunct professor for the College at Southeastern. He and his wife Michelle have been married for 26 years. They live in Wake Forest, NC and have four children

Credits

Executive Producer - Thomas J Terry

Recorded By - ⁠Humble Beast⁠

Additional Production Elements - Miguel A. Iniesta

Editing and Mixing by - ⁠The Good Podcast Co.⁠

This season is brought to you by ⁠Brilliance Labs⁠

Season 1 Trailer May 23, 2024

The Halftime Podcast with Shai Linne tackles important life and cultural issues from the perspective of three "OGs" who are well-versed in culture and theology. Shai Linne, William “Duce” Branch, and Ben Otero are three middle-aged men of color who are products of the Christian hip-hop movement of the late '90s and early 2000s, and have decades of friendship between them.

Episode 1 drops Sunday, May 26th. Don't miss it.

About the Hosts

Shai Linne (@shailinne) (Host) is an author and recording artist who has released numerous acclaimed Christian hip-hop albums. After completing a pastoral internship at Capitol Hill Baptist Church in Washington D.C., Shai co-founded Risen Christ Fellowship, an inner-city church in his hometown of Philadelphia, PA. As an author, Shai’s most recent book is The New Reformation: Finding Hope in the Fight for Ethnic Unity (published in May 2021). Shai has been married to his wife Blair for 13 years. They have three children and live in Portland, OR.

William “Duce” Branch (@ambassador215) (a.k.a. The Ambassador) (Co-host) is a pioneering Christian Hip-hop artist and professor. Duce served for over a decade as a co-founder and leader, and primary spokesperson for the nationally acclaimed Christian rap ministry, The Cross Movement. He also co-planted and co-pastored an urban church in North Philadelphia from 2004-2009. Duce is currently enrolled in a doctoral program at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary in Wake Forest, N.C., where he also serves as an adjunct professor for the College at Southeastern. He and his wife Michelle have been married for 26 years. They live in Wake Forest, NC and have four children

Credits

Executive Producer - Thomas J Terry

Recorded By - Humble Beast

Additional Production Elements - Miguel A. Iniesta

Editing and Mixing by - The Good Podcast Co.

This season is brought to you by Brilliance Labs