The Non-Prophets

Latest Episodes:

Prayer, Tears, and a Side of Guilt: Catholic Clickbait Apr 04, 2025

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Have Your Loved Ones Turned Their Backs on God? Do What Élisabeth Leseur Did, National Catholic Register, By Katya Fitzpatrick, May 3, 2023
https://www.ncregister.com/blog/how-to-love-nonbelievers-in-your-home
The conversation begins with a reflection on an article from the National Catholic Register about the story of Felix and Elizabeth Lassier, emphasizing sacrificial love and divine providence. The narrative is critiqued for its predictable trope of a devout woman and a skeptical man whose conversion comes after her death, portraying her suffering and prayers as transformative. The discussion shifts to the article's placement on a Catholic website and its tone of victimization despite promoting acceptance.
Personal experiences are shared, highlighting the pressure to convert loved ones to match religious beliefs, which evolved into acceptance of differing views over time. The article is criticized for perpetuating submissive stereotypes of women and guilt-driven narratives common in Catholic teachings. The conversation delves into the manipulative language used in such articles, aiming to evoke emotional responses and reinforce traditional gender roles.
As the discussion concludes, the panelists advocate for private religious beliefs and the importance of critical dialogue about societal issues. They invite feedback from viewers on their platforms and stress the need for awareness and engagement with current events.
The Non-Prophets, Episode 22.20 airing Sunday, May 21, 2023 featuring Kelley Laughlin, Timothy Bethel, Cindy Plaza and Jason Friedman.
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Using Satan to Protect Rights: Fighting for Freedom Apr 02, 2025

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Friend of Satan: how Lucien Greaves and his Satanic Temple are fighting the religious right, The Guardian, Adam Gabbatt, 1-4-2023
http://bit.ly/3DFvANk
In the aftermath of the 2022 Roe v. Wade reversal, groups like the Satanic Temple are leveraging religious freedom arguments to push back against the restrictions. The Satanic Temple claims that abortion rights align with their religious beliefs, particularly their principle that one's body is inviolable and subject to one's will alone. By filing lawsuits across various states, including Idaho, the Satanic Temple challenges the legality of these anti-abortion laws as an infringement on their religious practices.
Lucien Greaves, co-founder of the Satanic Temple, emphasizes the long-term strategy in fighting the legal battles, mirroring the years of effort the religious right invested to reshape laws in their favor. This method of fighting within the system, rather than outside it, is critical to their approach, especially given the influence of Christian ideology in the political landscape. Greaves notes the frustration in how the Satanic Temple is perceived, especially regarding its use of the Satanic image, which many find triggering. Despite the theatrics associated with the Temple's public protests and rituals, Greaves and his followers continue to press for the protection of civil liberties, specifically advocating for the separation of church and state.
Some, like Cindy, express concern over the use of Satanic imagery, which they believe detracts from the message of religious freedom and civil rights. The symbol of Baphomet, associated with the Satanic Temple, often provokes intense reactions, particularly from Christian conservatives. While this may bring attention, it sometimes overshadows the core message: the fight for religious freedom and bodily autonomy. Despite these challenges, advocates within the Temple see their efforts as a necessary resistance to the growing influence of religious doctrines in U.S. law.
The Non-Prophets Cynthia McDonald, Jordan (Reason to Doubt) , Cindy Plaza and Helen Greene.
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From Faith to Parody: Holy Spirit Ouija Board Mar 31, 2025

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The "Holy Spirit Board" is Ouija for Jesus, Boing Boing.net, By Thom Dunn, December 20, 2022
http://bit.ly/3WjYpp3
This segment delves into the comical yet intriguing notion of a “Holy Spirit Ouija Board,” a product that has sparked both amusement and controversy.
The board, which appears to be a regular Ouija board with a religious twist, has drawn attention for its bizarre nature. As the group explores the idea of using a Ouija board to communicate with the divine, they raise questions about whether this is a genuine spiritual tool or just another form of entertainment.
At the center of the conversation is the concept of faith and the role of skepticism. While some members of the group approach the board as a joke, others suggest that it could be genuinely meaningful to those who believe in it. The discussion veers into the realm of parody, with one panelist suggesting that the board might be a clever marketing strategy designed to profit from the absurdity of the idea. However, the idea that people could take something like this seriously raises a more profound question about the nature of belief and the lengths to which individuals will go to find spiritual experiences.
The conversation also touches on the power of internet reviews and viral content, with mentions of the Holy Spirit Ouija Board gaining traction due to online reactions.
As the conversation progresses, the panelists also reflect on the wider implications of spiritual commercialization. They question whether products like the Holy Spirit Ouija Board are simply products of our capitalist society, exploiting people’s beliefs for profit, or if they are part of a deeper trend of commodified spirituality. They ponder whether products like these might contribute to the blurring of the line between genuine belief and entertainment.
Ultimately, the discussion highlights the complex nature of belief, humor, and consumerism. While some view the Holy Spirit Ouija Board as a harmless joke, others see it as a reflection of the commercialization of spirituality, questioning the impact of such products on how we engage with religion. The debate raises important questions about the authenticity of spiritual experiences in an age where everything, from the sacred to the profane, is marketed for profit.
The Non-Prophets, Episode 24.13.1 featuring Phoebe Rose, Jason Sherwood, August and Mateo
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Inclusivity: Because Who Needs It Anyway? Mar 29, 2025

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Updated A West Ada teacher was asked to remove signs promoting inclusivity. Controversy ensued.
Idaho Education News, By Idahoednews, on March 13, 2025
https://www.idahoednews.org/top-news/a-west-ada-teacher-was-asked-to-remove-signs-promoting-inclusivity-controversy-ensued/
In Idaho, a teacher’s classroom posters promoting inclusivity sparked significant controversy when they were asked to be removed by the West Ada School District. The posters, which carried messages of acceptance, diversity, and unity, were deemed incompatible with district policies, leading to pushback from both the community and advocacy groups. Supporters of the teacher argued that the signs created a positive and welcoming environment, fostering a sense of safety for students, while critics believed they could be seen as political statements. The controversy highlights the ongoing debate about freedom of expression in schools, teacher rights, and the balance between inclusivity and maintaining a neutral educational space. The district's policies, which support the display of the American flag and other content-neutral materials, seem to clash with the teacher's efforts to promote inclusivity, creating confusion about what is considered acceptable in the classroom. The teacher’s decision to stand by her message, despite opposition, has drawn support from students and local organizations, demonstrating the power of community activism in the face of restrictive policies. As national attention grows, the incident underscores the larger conversation about how public schools handle issues of diversity and inclusivity.
The Non-Prophets, Episode 24.12.4 featuring Jimmy Jr., AJ, and Infidel64.
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DOGE: Cut Aid, Keep Billionaire Welfare Mar 26, 2025

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Johns Hopkins laying off more than 2,000 workers after dramatic cut in USAID funding
CNN, By Kaanita Iyer, on March 13, 2025
https://www.cnn.com/2025/03/13/politics/johns-hopkins-layoffs-usaid-funding/index.html
This discussion delves into the financial cuts at John Hopkins University, following the U.S. administration’s decision to slash $800 million in funding from the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID). These cuts are set to impact not only thousands of jobs across 44 countries but also critical global health programs, such as maternal health and disease prevention. The cuts threaten projects combating HIV, malaria, and tuberculosis, which disproportionately affect international populations. These layoffs come as part of a broader pattern of attacks on education systems, particularly scientific research, which have been targeted by conservative political agendas. This assault on international health programs is portrayed as hypocritical, especially considering the administration's “pro-family” stance, which contradicts the harm caused to mothers and children worldwide by these cuts. The conversation highlights how such actions harm both global goodwill and U.S. interests, pointing out that scientific research and international health aid serve U.S. self-interest by helping to combat global health crises like pandemics. Additionally, the conversation touches on the broader impacts of these financial decisions on higher education, which is facing cuts and political interference, such as the targeting of universities like Columbia for allowing protests, which further exemplifies the administration’s efforts to control speech and suppress certain viewpoints. The broader theme is one of harmful political agendas being prioritized over human well-being and education, and how these actions have both immediate and long-term negative consequences on vulnerable populations.
The Non-Prophets, Episode 24.12.2 featuring Jimmy Jr., AJ, and Infidel64.
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SCOTUS: Is LGBTQ Suffering a Religious Right? Mar 24, 2025

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Supreme Court will hear challenge to Colorado conversion therapy ban
Axios, By Avery Lotz, on Mar 10, 2025
https://www.axios.com/2025/03/10/supreme-court-conversion-therapy-challenge
In Colorado, a legal challenge is underway against a state ban on gender conversion therapy for minors. The case centers on Christian counselor Kaylee Charles, who argues that the state's prohibition of conversion therapy infringes on her free speech rights. The law, House Bill 19-1129, which came into effect in 2019, was designed to protect minors from potentially harmful practices that aim to change an individual’s sexual orientation or gender identity. The case raises the question of whether this ban is a form of forced religious indoctrination or a necessary measure to protect vulnerable children.
AJ and Infidel 64 discussed the issue, with AJ expressing the view that conversion therapy is not about free speech, as counselors are free to discuss various topics but should not force clients to conform to specific beliefs. Infidel emphasized the harm caused by conversion therapy, likening it to other forms of medical malpractice. Both agreed that such therapy is rooted in religious ideologies, and it’s crucial to consider the potential harm to children, particularly when families pressure minors into undergoing conversion therapy.
AJ highlighted that conversion therapy is banned in some states but remains legal in others, underscoring the need for broader protections. Infidel and AJ both pointed out that conversion therapy is primarily associated with religious organizations and driven by conservative ideologies that often reject the validity of LGBTQ+ identities. Infidel further criticized the conservative majority on the U.S. Supreme Court, expressing concern that their stance on issues like same-sex marriage and LGBTQ+ rights could jeopardize the progress made in protecting these communities.
Infidel concluded by emphasizing the scientific consensus against conversion therapy, which has been shown to harm LGBTQ+ youth and increase mental health risks, including suicide. Both agreed that conversion therapy should be banned and that the focus should be on supporting LGBTQ+ individuals' identities to promote their well-being.
The Non-Prophets, Episode 24.12.1 featuring Jimmy Jr., AJ, and Infidel64.
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Is the Bible 100% Correct? Mar 22, 2025

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Iowa's "legal" Civil Rights Crackdown Mar 22, 2025

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AntiTrans Bill in Iowa Gets Final OK , Despite Protests
TIME, By Hannah Fingerhut Ap, on February 27, 2025
https://time.com/7262485/protesters-iowa-capitol-gender-identity/
In this episode, the panel delves into the controversial legislative actions in Iowa, where lawmakers swiftly passed discriminatory laws against transgender individuals. Tracy begins by highlighting how politicians exploit children's vulnerability in political rhetoric, illustrating Iowa Representative Step Holt's swift enactment of a bill removing gender identity from protected classes against discrimination. Signed into law by Governor Reynolds, this bill, effective July 1, sparked immediate backlash and protests. Tracy and Kelley discuss the absurd speed at which such discriminatory legislation can pass, contrasting it with the sluggish pace of justice. They criticize the pretext of bathroom safety and sports equity used to justify the bill, arguing it masks underlying misogyny and misplaced fears of cisgender men posing as transgender women for nefarious purposes. They highlight the hypocrisy and lack of scientific basis in these arguments, particularly in the context of transgender participation in sports, which has been managed internationally without issue for decades. The panel acknowledges the limited effectiveness of existing civil rights laws in preventing such bills from passing swiftly. They express hope for legal challenges despite the conservative tilt of the federal judiciary in recent years. Eli adds that these bills reflect a dangerous trend of legislating from a narrow worldview that excludes and harms marginalized groups, using legal means to enforce societal conformity rather than protect individual rights. In discussing the political dynamics, they speculate on the motives behind such legislation, suggesting it panders to a voter base with little regard for the actual impact on transgender individuals. They criticize politicians who adopt stances contrary to their personal beliefs for electoral gain, contributing to the polarization and division within society. The panel praises the few dissenting voices within the GOP but laments their ineffectiveness in preventing the bill's passage. They warn of the long-term consequences of such divisive legislation, predicting further social fragmentation and erosion of civil rights. Tracy emphasizes the importance of unity and justice in legislation, envisioning a society where laws benefit everyone, not just the majority. In conclusion, they call on viewers to consider the broader implications of such legislation and advocate for human rights, urging collective action against discriminatory practices. They encourage engagement with advocacy organizations and support for legal challenges to ensure equal protection under the law for all individuals.
The Non-Prophets, Episode 24.11.3 featuring Helen Greene, Eli Slack, Kelley Laughlin and Tracy Wilbert
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No Need for Vaccines. God will Cure Us! Mar 19, 2025

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West Texans , Mennonites at center of measles outbreak choose medical freedom over vaccine mandates

AP News, By Devi Shastri, on March 4, 2025
https://apnews.com/article/measles-outbreak-texas-rfk-vaccines-8cf4641b04731c713edb524ca943490c
The discussion opens with the old saying, "God helps those who help themselves," but the Mennonite community in rural Texas appears to have missed that memo. Under RFK Jr.'s leadership in the Department of Health, the United States is seeing a rise in measles and other supposedly eradicated diseases. This resurgence is largely due to a rejection of medical science based on faith, a lack of trust in institutions, and inadequate public health education in isolated communities. The consequences of anti-vaccine ideology are dire, particularly in areas with limited health outreach. Faith-based decision-making is leading to preventable deaths, all because of a refusal to vaccinate.
The conversation shifts to the tension between parental rights and public health. Many argue that parents should have the right to raise their children as they see fit, but when parental decisions cause harm to others, there’s a problem. The issue arises in part from many adults ceasing to learn after leaving school, making them susceptible to misinformation. People focus on the small risks of vaccines without comparing them to the far greater risks of preventable diseases. It's like claiming water is deadly because it appears in autopsy results—misinterpreting basic facts without context leads to unnecessary fear and poor decisions.
The hosts discuss RFK Jr.’s credibility—or lack thereof—regarding vaccines. Despite his skepticism, Kennedy has no medical background. His experience is in environmental law, not medicine or immunology, and his history includes youthful delinquency, drug use, and a complete lack of medical education. While his efforts in fighting corporate pollution are commendable, they do not qualify him to make medical determinations. The irony is clear: a pastor dismisses rigorously tested vaccines but trusts an unqualified figurehead without expertise in medicine.
The conversation also addresses whether a lack of education can justify health negligence, particularly in isolated religious communities such as the Mennonites and Amish. One host argues that even uneducated parents should be able to recognize rising child mortality rates and take steps to address them. The problem is not total ignorance but being misinformed. Many parents reject vaccines because they fear their children will develop autism, despite no scientific evidence linking the two. This misinformation is pervasive and convincing, even for those who otherwise trust science.
A personal story from the early 2000s highlights the straightforward decision to vaccinate when the chickenpox vaccine became available. In contrast, the modern age of the internet has made it harder for parents to distinguish fact from fiction. One speaker shares that their time in EMT school helped develop critical thinking skills and a trust in medical expertise. Trusting a pediatrician, someone with years of education, should be the default, but many parents instead turn to dubious online sources, trusting "Kevin from Facebook" over trained doctors.
The conversation also explores the generational gap in vaccine awareness. Older generations remember the devastating effects of diseases like measles, polio, and chickenpox, while younger parents have never witnessed these outcomes. As a result, they underestimate the importance of vaccines, treating them as optional rather than essential. Adding to this problem is a rise in religious rhetoric framing vaccines as a challenge to faith, convincing people that true followers of Jesus wouldn’t accept foreign substances in their bodies. This mix of ignorance, selfishness, and misinformation creates a dangerous situation.
The discussion closes by revisiting the Mennonite community’s position between isolation and engagement with modern society. Unlike the Amish, who are entirely separate from secular culture, Mennonites interact with the outside world but resist certain aspects of it. This raises the question: how much information are they really receiving, and can they verify its accuracy? It seems clear that, like many others, they cannot. The challenge is to bridge this knowledge gap before more preventable deaths occur.
The Non-Prophets, Episode 24.11.2 featuring Helen Greene, Eli Slack, Kelley Laughlin and Tracy Wilbert
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Don't go to Jesus for Medical Help! Mar 18, 2025

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Oklahoma GOP advances bill letting Christian doctors deny services to patients
The Friendly Atheist, By Hemant Mehta, on March 5, 2025
https://www.friendlyatheist.com/p/oklahoma-gop-advances-bill-letting
The ongoing discussion centers around House Bill 1006 in Oklahoma, which would allow medical professionals to refuse care based on personal ethical, moral, or religious beliefs. This controversial bill is perceived as a direct attack on individual autonomy, placing people's well-being at risk in favor of religious freedom. The debate escalates into questions about the ethics of healthcare, especially regarding religious objections to certain treatments like abortion or gender-affirming care. Panelists discuss the implications of such a bill, with Tracy arguing that this stems from entitlement and a refusal to empathize with those in need of care. The conversation expands to the broader issue of personal beliefs interfering with professional duties. One panelist points out that if religious beliefs are allowed to dictate medical practice, it opens the door for prejudices based on race, gender, or sexual orientation, which could further harm marginalized groups. There's also the concern that emergency care could be undermined if doctors interpret situations in ways that align with their personal beliefs. The Hippocratic Oath, which doctors take to promise "do no harm," is brought into question. The law's potential to undermine this oath is a serious concern, as medical professionals could choose to withhold care based on subjective ethical reasoning. While some argue that religious freedoms should allow for such refusals, others see this as a dangerous precedent. Emergency situations might provide an exception, but the vagueness of what constitutes an emergency leads to further potential abuse. Ultimately, the bill would create a system where healthcare is treated as a privilege rather than a right, accessible only to those whose values align with those of their doctors.
The Non-Prophets, Episode 24.11.1 featuring Helen Greene, Eli Slack, Kelley Laughlin and Tracy Wilbert
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