74: How can we cure the loneliness epidemic?
Curious Living
Our church participated in a demographic survey last year and we were astonished at how many people shared that they feel incredibly lonely. And what surprised us the most was that the largest demographic experiencing loneliness was young adults. So we were excited to talk with Dr. Jake Thurston to get his perspective. He is a young adult and works with young adults so he can speak directly to our curious question. Guest Info Dr. Jake Thurston is the lead pastor and church planter of Resilient Church, a growing ministry that serves a large number of students and young adults in the college...
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73: How can I get my spouse to change for the better?
Curious Living
When we get married or enter into a long-term relationship, we soon realize the stark differences between ourselves and our mate. The flaws that were invisible to us at the beginning are now, perhaps, all we see. This goes both ways because our significant other sees those flaws in us as well. Couples tend to spend a great deal of energy looking for ways to "change" their mate, when, in fact, they don't have the power to create change in others. So, what do you do? How can you encourage your partner to make positive changes? Our guest on this episode has written two amazing devotional...
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72: How can we learn to communicate better across our differences?
Curious Living
In today’s world, clear communication feels increasingly challenging. With so many differences and divides among us, it’s harder to express ourselves honestly and lovingly while being understood as we intend. This challenge is especially visible on social media, where misunderstandings often deepen the divisions between us. Scripture speaks profoundly to this struggle, particularly in the book of Acts, where the Holy Spirit empowers the disciples to communicate across divides. In the Christian tradition, we call this moment "Pentecost." This year, we celebrate Pentecost on June 8, 2025....
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71: Where can we find God in Classic Rock?
Curious Living
This episode guest hosts, Rev. Wesley Smith and Kevin Ward, dicuss the curious question; Where can we find God in Classic Rock? Our two guests this week are both avid rock enthusiasts and musicians, playing guitar in their spare time. Let's here them dive into our latest curious topic on how God relates to rock and roll greats.
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70: What are the blessings and challenges that come with adopting a child?
Curious Living
Our guest host, Mary Ana Smith, sits down with Rev. Carrie Wright to discuss her journey as an adoptive mom. Adoption seems to many as more of a challenge than a blessing, but Carrie feels the opposite having not only adopted two children, but also having fostered many. If you have considered fostering or adopting then this episode is a must listen! Guest Info What gives Carrie life is spending her days with people of all ages learning to give praise to God. We are all on this journey in different stages but each of us are called to praise in one way or another. The arts are...
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69: Can helping those in need actually hurt them?
Curious Living
It certainly feels good to help others in need. We donate food, money, and even time to help those who are less fortunate than ourselves. And, oftentimes we assume that we have done what's best for them. But was it the best for them? Or, was it something that made us feel good in the moment? This is a tough question to ponder and our guest on this episode shares some incredible insights and wisdom to help us tackle it. Guest Info Kevin Ward is the Director of Youth, Young Adults, and Missions at Williamson's Chapel UMC in Mooresville, NC. He is married to Amy Ward and has two children,...
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68: Does Questioning Christianity Mean I'm Not A True Christian?
Curious Living
Is it acceptable to question God or Christianity if you call yourself a Christian? Does doubt mean you're not truly a Christian? Should faith be so unwavering that questioning is off-limits? These were questions I wrestled with in my youth, and I believe that misconception still lingers today. In this episode, our guest will help us explore the beauty of curiosity and how asking questions can deepen our faith. Guest Info Mandy Pallock passionately believes that lives will change as people engage with God’s Word. She is happily married to the man of her dreams, Peter, and they are...
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67: Why Does It Seem Like Christianity Is Absent From Hollywood?
Curious Living
We all love TV or movies in some way, shape, or form. Entertainment is a form of enjoyment for most of us. I believe we'd all agree, however, that a movie or TV show today looks vastly different than it did just 20 or 30 years ago. Our guest on this episode produces wonderful and educational Christian films and even worked in Hollywood for a time. His insight is invaluable and he provides us with great things to consider as we mull over our curious question. Guest Info Craig Dehut is a seasoned freelance video producer with over fifteen years of experience. In 2015, he co-founded Appian Media...
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66: How can we love those who believe so differently than we do?
Curious Living
This episode is intentionally released just before election day. We know that voting season can sometimes bring out the worst in even the kindest and most loving individuals. In quieter moments, it’s easy to love and accept others. However, when those around us express beliefs and feelings that differ greatly from our own—especially when they openly voice those differences—it can be challenging to maintain that "loving feeling." How do we navigate the complexities of loving others in a time of such diverse opinions? Our guest is here to help us explore this topic, offering valuable...
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65: How can I stay faithful when I'm angry with my church and the people in it?
Curious Living
This is an uncomfortable topic - especially for clergy and others who serve the church. We understand anger toward the church. We get it. But how do we help those who are angry at the church and angry at those within the church keep their faith strong? It's hard ... especially in today's divisive world. Our guests today have some amazing insights to share and they do a great job exploring this curious question! Guest Info Pastors Wes and Toni Ruth Smith are the lead pastors of Williamson's Chapel United Methodist Church in Mooresville, North Carolina. They have been serving the church...
info_outlineIt certainly feels good to help others in need. We donate food, money, and even time to help those who are less fortunate than ourselves. And, oftentimes we assume that we have done what's best for them. But was it the best for them? Or, was it something that made us feel good in the moment? This is a tough question to ponder and our guest on this episode shares some incredible insights and wisdom to help us tackle it.
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