Restorative Faith

Welcome to the Restorative Faith podcast. The goal of this series is to recast Christianity in a new light. If you’re the type of person who questions and doubts; if you’ve strayed from the Christian faith because there’s certain things that don’t seem to add up, then this podcast is for you.

Restorative Faith Trailer (Season 4) 07/01/2025

Restorative Faith Trailer (Season 4) Each season of Restorative Faith revolves around a specific theme that has caused people to walk away from the Christian faith. Season 4 is about science. We will be discussing the science of evolution, climate change, free will, disease, healing, memory and consciousness. Each episode includes human interest stories along with experts in history, biology, physics, astrophysics, medicine, addiction, sociology and psychology, and biblical scholars. Join us as we explore the ways in which the Christian faith needs to change and adapt to the scientific discoveries driving the 21st century. /episode/index/show/restorativefaith/id/37238665

(S4E6) - Tunnel of Light 07/01/2025

(S4E6) - Tunnel of Light In the final episode of Season 4, we discuss the science of consciousness and what it reveals about life on our planet, life in our universe and life beyond death. We start with Dr. Eben Alexander III, a Harvard trained neurosurgeon who had a remarkable Near-Death Experience after falling into a coma due to bacterial meningitis. From there, we discuss how consciousness might be a fundamental property of the universe with Dr. Gregory Matloff, professor of physics at New York City College of Technology. Next, we interview Dr. Avi Loeb, professor of science at Harvard University, who is leading the charge in the search for extraterrestrial intelligence and extraterrestrial technology near Earth. Finally, we spoke with Dr. James Bernat, professor of neurology at Dartmouth University, who was instrumental in developing the medical definition of brain death that has been adopted by legislatures and physicians all around the world. Featured Guests (in order of appearance): Dr. Eben Alexander III Dr. Gregory Matloff Dr. Avi Loeb Dr. James Bernat /episode/index/show/restorativefaith/id/37238550

(S4E5) - Resurrected Memory 07/01/2025

(S4E5) - Resurrected Memory In episode 5 of Season 4, we explore the science of memory in connection with the accounts of Jesus’ resurrection. We start with Meredith Maran, an activist and journalist, who found herself at the center of the recovered memory movement in the late 1980s. We then interview Dr. Elizabeth Loftus, an experimental psychologist and distinguished professor at UC Irvine who is responsible for conducting ground-breaking studies in the reliability of human memory. Tying the episode together, we talk to Dr. Dale Allison, professor of New Testament at Princeton Theological Seminary, one of the foremost scholars on the history of the resurrection about what likely happened after Jesus’ death. Featured Guests (in order of appearance): Meredith Maran Dr. Elizabeth Loftus Dr. Dale Alison /episode/index/show/restorativefaith/id/37238430

(S4E4) - Mundane Miracles 07/01/2025

(S4E4) - Mundane Miracles In episode 4 of Season 4, we discuss the inherent skepticism that many Christians still maintain towards modern medical treatment. We speak with Lauren Hunter who was raised as a Christian Scientist, a denomination of Christianity that, rather ironically, does not acknowledge the science of disease. We also interview Dr. John Horgan, assistant professor of history at Concordia University in Wisconsin who specializes in the history of diseases and epidemics, about the genesis of germ theory. Finally, we sit down with Dr. Mark Lewis, a gastrointestinal oncologist who describes the role of faith and prayer when his patients undergo treatment for cancer. Featured Guests (in order of appearance): Lauren Hunter Dr. John Horgan Dr. Mark Lewis /episode/index/show/restorativefaith/id/37238335

(S4E3) - Illusions of Freedom 07/01/2025

(S4E3) - Illusions of Freedom In episode 3 of Season 4, we explore the science of free will and to what degree God exerts control over our lives. We begin with Mike Genna, a prominent musician in the 1980s who spiraled into drug addiction after tragedy. Helping us to fully understand the science of addiction, we interview Joseph Caravella, an addiction specialist at the Betty Ford Clinic in St. Paul, Minnesota. From there, we delve into what physics tells us about free will with Dr. Robert Bishop, Professor of Physics and Philosophy at Wheaton College. Finally, we caught up with Dr. Raymond A. Blacketer, a scholar in the area of biblical exegesis, about the Christian perspective on free will and suffering. Featured Guests (in order of appearance): Mike Genna Joseph Caravella Dr. Robert Bishop Dr. Raymond Blacketer /episode/index/show/restorativefaith/id/37238200

(S4E2) - Glacial Shift 07/01/2025

(S4E2) - Glacial Shift In episode 2 of Season 4, we consider how the science of climate change has become one of the key issues defining the evangelical mindset. We speak with Jon Peerbolt, an international aid worker for the NGO Novi who was raised among onion farmers in Michigan by parents who were deeply entrenched in the conservative Christian ecosystem. We also interview Dr. Ryan Juskus, assistant professor and faculty director at Notre Dames’ Institute for Social Concerns who walks us through the historical roots of environmentalism within the evangelical movement. Finally, we talk with Dr. Paul Thagard, distinguished professor of philosophy emeritus at the University of Waterloo, who spent his career working in the cognitive sciences, explaining why the human mind is so susceptible to misinformation. Featured Guests (in order of appearance): Jon Peerbolt Dr. Ryan Juskus Dr. Paul Thagard /episode/index/show/restorativefaith/id/37238065

(S4E1) - Survival of the Fittest 07/01/2025

(S4E1) - Survival of the Fittest In our opening episode of Season 4, we explore how the theory of evolution sparked the modern schism between science and Christianity. We speak with Hannah Pynn and Leah Davis, sisters who grew up in the anti-science fundamentalist movement, People of Praise. We also talk with Pulitzer Prize winning author Dr. Edward Larson about the history of Darwin’s journey to the Galapagos Islands, his development of the theory of evolution and its impact on the church. Finally, we interview Dr. Anne Stone, Regents professor at Arizona State University in the School of Human Evolution and Social Change about the modern science surrounding evolution and what it has to teach us about the propagation of life on our planet. Featured Guests (in order of appearance): Hannah Pynn Leah Davis Dr. Edward Larson Dr. Anne Stone /episode/index/show/restorativefaith/id/37237965

Restorative Faith Trailer (Season 3) 11/19/2022

Restorative Faith Trailer (Season 3) Each season of Restorative Faith revolves around a specific theme that has caused people to walk away from the Christian faith. Season 3 is about discrimination. We will be discussing sexism, patriarchy, mental illness, racism, antisemitism, Christian Nationalism and defrauding the poor and destitute. Each episode includes human interest stories along with experts in sociology and psychiatry, and biblical scholars. Join us as we explore the ways in which the Christian faith needs to change and adapt to the social ethics the 21st century. /episode/index/show/restorativefaith/id/25071153

(S3E6) - It's All About the Benjamins 11/19/2022

(S3E6) - It's All About the Benjamins In the final episode of Season 3, we discuss the predatory practices of the prosperity gospel in targeting poor and desperate individuals. We hear the story of Lawrence Fardette who gave tens of thousands of dollars to televangelists over decades only to be rejected by them when his family was in desperate need. We interview Dr. Phillip Lucas, professor emeritus of religious studies at Stetson University, about the history of the prosperity gospel. Lastly, we speak with Pete Evans, the director of the Trinity Foundation and Barry Bowen, a staff investigator for Trinity, about their work to uncover the unethical and often illegal tactics employed by the ministries of prosperity gospel preachers. Featured Guests (in order of appearance): Lawrence Fardette Dr. Phillip Lucas Barry Bowen Pete Evans /episode/index/show/restorativefaith/id/25071102

(S3E5) - Destiny's Child 11/19/2022

(S3E5) - Destiny's Child In episode 5 of Season 3, we explore the connection between Christianity and nationalism. We begin by speaking with Nick Stutzman, a radio host who found himself sucked into the underground world of the QAnon conspiracy. We also interview Dr. Leigh Ann Perry, associate professor of psychology and behavioral science at the United States Naval War College, who explains the psychological factors undergirding the belief in conspiracy theories. Tying the episode together, we talk to Dr. John Wilsey, associate professor of church history at Southern Baptist Theological Seminary in Louisville, Kentucky, who discusses the connection between Christian Nationalism and Manifest Destiny. Featured Guests (in order of appearance): Nick Stutzman Dr. Leigh Ann Perry Dr. John Wilsey /episode/index/show/restorativefaith/id/25071057

(S3E4) - Heart of Darkness 11/19/2022

(S3E4) - Heart of Darkness In episode 4 of Season 3, we discuss how the white Christian church is one of the primary drivers of racism in America. We speak with Dr. Bernard Lafayette, a central activist and leader of the original Civil Rights Movement of the 1950s and 60s. We also interview the Rev. Dr. Julian Cook, the Director of Houghton University Buffalo, who outlines the role of the white church and Christian theology in the development of systemic racism in American culture. In conclusion, we speak with Charmaine Pruitt, a black Christian who reflects on being part of a white evangelical church in Texas during Donald Trump’s rise to power. Featured Guests (in order of appearance): Dr. Bernard Lafayette Rev. Dr. Julian Cook Charmaine Pruitt /episode/index/show/restorativefaith/id/25070991

(S3E3) - The Jewish Problem 11/19/2022

(S3E3) - The Jewish Problem In episode 3 of Season 3, we examine the role of Christianity in perpetuating anti-Semitism and anti-Jewish hate. We speak with Derek Black, a former White Nationalist, who illuminates the inner workings of the white supremacy movement. We also interview Rabbi Yehiel Poupko, a scholar at the Jewish Federation of Metropolitan Chicago, who talks about the long history of Christian oppression of the Jews. Finally, we speak with Dr. Amy-Jill Levine, distinguished professor of New Testament and Jewish Studies at Hartford International University, about the roots of anti-Jewish thought woven into the New Testament documents. Featured Guests (in order of appearance): Derek Black Rabbi Yehiel Poupko Dr. Amy-Jill Levine /episode/index/show/restorativefaith/id/25070934

(S3E2) - Mind Over Matter 11/19/2022

(S3E2) - Mind Over Matter In episode 2 of Season 3, we consider the prejudice faced by those suffering from mental illness. We speak with Patricia Tomasi, a mental health advocate who spent most of her young adult life swinging between bouts of mania and depression. We also interview Dr. Frieda Fatouh, a clinical psychiatrist, who explains the neurological science behind mental illness. In the same vein, we interview Rev. Mary Jane Inman, the Director of Pastoral Services at Trenton Psychiatric Hospital about what happens when individuals with severe mental illness require hospitalization. Lastly, we talk with Ayana Lage whose severe anxiety and depression were seen as demonic forces by the Pentecostal church in which she was raised. Featured Guests (in order of appearance): Patricia Tomasi Dr. Frieda Fatouh Rev. Mary Jane Inman Ayana Lage /episode/index/show/restorativefaith/id/25070799

(S3E1) - A Man's World 11/19/2022

(S3E1) - A Man's World In our opening episode of Season 3, we explore the roots of sexism and patriarchy in the church. We speak with Jennifer Tillman, who grew up as a Jehovah’s Witness, about how the men in her church used their authority to control and suppress her claims of sexual abuse. We also talk with Dr. Elaine James, associate professor of Old Testament at Princeton Theological Seminary, about the interpretation of gender roles in the Bible. Finally, we interview Rev. Susan Victor, the director of Women’s Space, a non-profit organization that specializes in helping those who are the victims of domestic and sexual violence. Featured Guests (in order of appearance): Jennifer Tillman Dr. Elaine James Rev. Susan Victor /episode/index/show/restorativefaith/id/25070748

Restorative Faith Trailer (Season 2) 12/06/2020

Restorative Faith Trailer (Season 2) Each season of Restorative Faith revolves around a specific theme that has caused people to walk away from the Christian faith. This season is about sexuality. /episode/index/show/restorativefaith/id/17080358

(S2E6) - The New Frontier 12/06/2020

(S2E6) - The New Frontier In the final episode of Season 2, we explore the future of sexuality in America. We speak with Tiffany, who is utilizing sex work to pay for her education. We also interview Dan Leal, who has been a major player in the porn industry for 20 years. Finally, we ask experts and scholars how the church needs to change to remain a relevant force for good. /episode/index/show/restorativefaith/id/17080229

(S2E5) - Broken Trust 12/06/2020

(S2E5) - Broken Trust In episode 5 of Season 2, we explore the roots and impact of clergy sexual abuse. We speak with Larry Antonsen, who tells his story of being abused by an Augustinian priest. We interview Dr. Melissa Perrin, who specializes in working with victims and perpetrators of clergy sexual abuse. Finally, we speak with Rev. Mark Francis, who discusses clergy sexual abuse in the Roman Catholic Church. /episode/index/show/restorativefaith/id/17080145

(S2E4) - Degrading Passions 12/06/2020

(S2E4) - Degrading Passions In episode 4 of Season 2, we discuss the treatment of the LGBTQ+ community. We speak with Juan Pablo Herrera who was sent three separate times to conversion therapy. We also discuss the history of homosexuality in the Bible with Dr. Kate Ott. Finally, we interview Miranda Fanella about the stigma she endured as a result of her relationship with her girlfriend. /episode/index/show/restorativefaith/id/17080085

(S2E3) - Until Death Do Us Part 12/06/2020

(S2E3) - Until Death Do Us Part In episode 3 of Season 2, we examine the connection between sex and marriage. We speak with Liz, who was ostracized by her church community for divorcing her husband. We also discuss the history of human sexuality with Dr. William Jankowiak and the history of marriage with Dr. Agustin Fuentes. Finally, we discuss the dynamics of being in an open marriage of Doug and Lynn. /episode/index/show/restorativefaith/id/17080031

(S2E2) - Unspoken Rules 12/06/2020

(S2E2) - Unspoken Rules In episode 2 of Season 2, we consider the moral connection between sex and life. We speak with Felicia Bruce, who was sexually assaulted as a teenager. We also interview Dr. Melissa Perrin, a clinical psychologist, who discusses the role of repression in our lives. Finally, we catch up with Dr. Dixon Sutherland, who helps us to understand the theology behind the modern abortion debate. /episode/index/show/restorativefaith/id/17079959

(S2E1) - Let's Talk About Sex 12/06/2020

(S2E1) - Let's Talk About Sex In our opening episode of Season 2, we explore the roots purity culture. We speak with Linda Kay Klein, the author of Pure. We also speak with Rev. TC Anderson, who is reforming the way youth are taught about sex and sexuality in the church. Finally, we interview Dr. Gregory Sapp, about why the church has traditionally been so fearful of sexuality. /episode/index/show/restorativefaith/id/17079779

Restorative Faith Trailer (Season 1) 07/24/2019

Restorative Faith Trailer (Season 1) The goal of this series is to recast Christianity in a new light. If you’re the type of person who questions and doubts; if you’ve strayed from the Christian faith because there’s certain things that don’t seem to add up, then this podcast is for you. /episode/index/show/restorativefaith/id/10637012

(S1E6) - Stop Talking! 07/24/2019

(S1E6) - Stop Talking! In the final episode of Season 1, after exploring all the various ways that the Christian faith has fallen short when it comes to defining evil, we ask the question: does Christianity still have something to offer when it comes to our understanding of right and wrong as we enter into a future where organized religion is becoming less and less relevant? /episode/index/show/restorativefaith/id/10636889

(S1E5) - Destroying Creation 07/24/2019

(S1E5) - Destroying Creation In episode 5 of Season 1, we discuss the idea of corporate sin. Perhaps the greatest corporate sin in which all humans participate is climate change. We are going to explore climate change science as well as the theology behind why the evangelical Christian movement is so committed to the denial of climate change. /episode/index/show/restorativefaith/id/10636760

(S1E4) - The Evil Gene 07/24/2019

(S1E4) - The Evil Gene In episode 4 of Season 1, we discuss what is perhaps the most cited reason for rejecting God and the church—the atrocity of genocide. We speak with Magda Brown, a survivor of the Auschwitz concentration camp and Dr. Peter Lourgos, a forensic psychiatrist who explores the psychology behind the Holocaust. Finally, Rabbi Lisa Bellows explains the Jewish reaction to the Holocaust via post-Holocaust theology. /episode/index/show/restorativefaith/id/10636715

(S1E3) - Breaking the Cycle 07/24/2019

(S1E3) - Breaking the Cycle In episode 3 of Season 1, we explore the role of generational sin (the idea that God passes a curse from one generation to the next) in how Christians account for evil in the world. We explore the theological roots of this idea while also delving into the psychological science that causes parents to pass both positive and negative behaviors down to their children. /episode/index/show/restorativefaith/id/10636619

(S1E2) - The Devil Made Me Do It 07/24/2019

(S1E2) - The Devil Made Me Do It In episode 2 of Season 1, we explore the role of angels and demons in how Christians account for evil in the world. We speak with Dawn Bruce who grew up in a very conservative church. When she unexpectedly became pregnant at the age of 14, the members of her church told her that she was carrying the Devil's child. We also interview Dr. Donald Kaasch about how angels and demons became intertwined in the Christian faith. /episode/index/show/restorativefaith/id/10636547

(S1E1) - Forbidden Fruit 07/24/2019

(S1E1) - Forbidden Fruit In our opening episode of Season 1, we explore why the story of Adam and Eve has been such an enduring explanation of the genesis of evil in our world. We speak with Francie Taylor who grew up believing the Bible was literal, factual history. We also interview Dr. Gregory Sapp, professor of religious studies at Stetson University about why modern Christians are so wedded to a literal reading of the Adam and Eve story. /episode/index/show/restorativefaith/id/10636487

Restorative Faith

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