E182 | Brian Zhand | Christian Nationalism, the Kingdom of Jesus, and a More Beautiful Christianity
Release Date: 02/18/2026
E182 | Brian Zhand | Christian Nationalism, the Kingdom of Jesus, and a More Beautiful Christianity
Face to Face Podcast
Brian Zahnd on Christian Nationalism, the Kingdom of Jesus, and a More Beautiful Christianity | Face to Face Podcast Ep. 182 In episode 182 of the podcast, Melinda interviews pastor, author, and theologian Brian Zahnd (Word of Life Church, St. Joseph, Missouri), while co-host Cathy is absent due to losing her voice and shares updates on Immanuel Institute trainings and the standalone Understanding Trauma Course. Zahnd recounts leading one congregation for 44 years, the church’s early rapid growth, and a major theological recalibration that moved them toward the Christian tradition and...
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E181 | Inside the Man Cave: The Heartsmith's Journey with Jason Twombly
Face to Face Podcast
Welcome to another inspiring episode of the Face to Face Podcast. In episode 181, we are honored to introduce Jason Twombly, also known as the Heartsmith. Jason is a spiritual development coach working primarily with men to transform their pain into power, hurt into healing, and wounds into wisdom. Dive deep into discussions about emotional maturity, trauma processing, and the journey of healing with God. Discover how Jason’s personal journey and professional guidance are helping men reconnect with their true selves and cultivate meaningful relationships. Join us for an exploration of...
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E180 | Bill Vanderbush | Rediscovering the Simple Gospel
Face to Face Podcast
In this enlightening episode of the Face to Face Podcast, we sit down with Bill Vanderbush to explore the simplicity and depth of the gospel. Bill dives deep into the contrast between modern Western Christianity and the early church teachings, emphasizing the importance of understanding our identity through Christ. We discuss the pitfalls of performance-based faith, the transformative power of grace, and the importance of awakening to our true relationship with God as a loving Father. Bill also shares his thoughts on the current reformation in the church and how it’s reshaping...
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E179 | Discovering the Self with Adam Young: The Role of Neuroscience in Faith
Face to Face Podcast
E179 | Discovering the Self with Adam Young: The Role of Neuroscience in Faith (Exploring Attachment and Brain Science with Adam Young) In this episode we welcome therapist and author Adam Young to discuss the profound impact of early caregiver relationships on how we relate to God. Young explains the importance of understanding our attachment history and the significant influence of early life experiences on brain development. We delve into topics such as narrative therapy, the role of the nervous system, and the importance of paying attention to one's body and internal experiences....
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E178 | Unveiling the Self: Internal Family Systems with Jenna Riemersma
Face to Face Podcast
In this episode of the Face to Face Podcast, we welcome bestselling author and professional counselor Jenna Riemersma to discuss Internal Family Systems (IFS). Dropping during Christmas week, the episode focuses on deeper connection and healing practices. Jenna explains the significance of IFS, a therapeutic model emphasizing the importance of embracing all aspects of oneself, even those that are challenging. She shares insights on welcoming and understanding these parts through self-compassion and curiosity, aligning them with one's divine essence. The conversation also touches on critical...
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E178 | Michael John Cusick Part 2 | Embracing Sacred Attachment
Face to Face Podcast
The Journey to Wholeness with Michael John Cusick - Part 2 In this episode of the Face to Face Podcast, we continue our insightful conversation with Michael John Cusick. We are excited to invite you to join our Level 1 and Level 2 Immanuel Approach training sessions starting in December and January. Michael delves into various topics, including spiritual disciplines, mysticism, and the importance of understanding our inherent brokenness through five Ws: wretchedness, weakness, woundedness, warfare, and wiring. He emphasizes the need to reframe our perceptions of spiritual performance and...
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E177 | Michael John Cusick, Part 1 | Authenticity: The Path to Wholeness
Face to Face Podcast
E177 | Michael John Cusick | Authenticity: The Path to Wholeness Welcome to Episode 177 of the Face to Face Podcast! Today we discuss their Immanuel Approach course levels and introduce their special guest, Michael John Cusick. Cusick, an author, podcaster, and therapist, shares his remarkable story of overcoming early-life trauma. The conversation delves into themes of vulnerability, the importance of embodied spirituality, and doing personal work for healing. Practical insights and valuable advice on experiencing God's love and navigating trauma are key highlights. ...
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E176 | Chuck DeGroat | Navigating the Journey of Healing, Vulnerability and Growth
Face to Face Podcast
Today we sit down and have a compelling conversation with Chuck DeGroat, a licensed therapist, spiritual director, and author of six books including 'Leaving Egypt'. Chuck shares his journey of emotional and spiritual transformation, the significance of vulnerability, and practical exercises for achieving a deeper sense of safety and connection. Special topics include insights on the Immanuel Approach, Understanding Trauma courses, and the challenge of maintaining genuine vulnerability within leadership roles. Don't miss this insightful episode filled with practical steps for lasting freedom...
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E175 | Chris Green | Bridging Theology and Life: A Conversation with Chris Green Part 2
Face to Face Podcast
In Episode 175 we share part two of our enlightening discussion with Bishop Chris Green. This episode covers significant topics such as understanding trauma, the role of suffering in life, and the differences between tenderness and vulnerability. Chris provides profound insights into how one’s view of God affects their emotional responses and emphasizes the importance of leaning into our humanity and finite nature. The episode also underscores the importance of embracing one’s unique way of experiencing God, whether as a 'sea' or a 'cup,' and finding peace within that framework....
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E174 | Chris Green | Bridging Theology and Life: A Conversation with Chris Green Part 1
Face to Face Podcast
Welcome to episode 174 of the Face to Face Podcast, hosted by Melinda Wilson and Cathy Little. We are excited to share with you an in-depth conversation with theologian and professor Chris Green, discussing the interplay between theology and everyday life. Chris Green shares his journey into theology, influenced by scholars like Stanley Hauerwas and Robert Jensen. Our discussion shifts to the role of theology in daily life and the importance of aligning head knowledge with heart experience. Chris also delves into his latest book, 'All Life Comes From Tenderness,' exploring the necessity of...
info_outline02:08 Meet Brian Zahnd: Pastor, Author, Pilgrim
04:05 44 Years at One Church: Calling, Team Leadership & Generations
07:56 A Midlife Faith Shift: From Mega-Growth to Recalibrating Christianity
10:48 Critiquing America, Losing 1500 People & Finding Healing on the Camino
13:39 Kingdom of Jesus vs. Christian Nationalism: Where Allegiance Belongs
19:29 America as Nation, Empire, and “Religion” + The Discipleship Challenge
24:37 ‘Christian Nation’ Myths, Founding Fathers & Why You Can’t Baptize a Country
27:33 Global Perspective: Sweden, Trump, Team-Sport Politics & Choosing Love
33:52 Creating a Kind Church Culture Across Political Differences
35:42 Seeing God Through Jesus (Not Culture or Politics)
37:14 John’s Prologue: Why Jesus Is the Clearest Revelation of God
40:35 Undoing the ‘Angry God’ Imagination: Jesus Doesn’t Save Us From God
43:44 Creeds, Control, and the ‘Heretic’ Label: Keeping Christianity Generous
47:04 Making Room for Mystery: Truth, Goodness, and the Power of Beauty
51:43 Cruciform Beauty in Practice: Open Hands, Leading Without Coercion
55:20 Staying With the Church: Family, Calling, and Local Influence
57:21 Books, New Release, and Reclaiming a Non-Escapist Heaven
01:02:40 What Christ Can Bless + The ‘Christian’ Label + A Final Blessing
https://brianzahnd.com/