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Shifting Culture

Shifting Culture

Joshua Johnson

We have conversations about the culture we create and the impact we can make. With different guests each episode, we have in-depth interviews with leaders into what it looks like to live in the Kingdom of God, embody Jesus and impact the culture around us. We long to see the body of Christ look like Jesus.
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Top 10 Shifting Culture Episodes

Goodpods has curated a list of the 10 best Shifting Culture episodes, ranked by the number of listens and likes each episode have garnered from our listeners. If you are listening to Shifting Culture for the first time, there's no better place to start than with one of these standout episodes. If you are a fan of the show, vote for your favorite Shifting Culture episode by adding your comments to the episode page.

This conversation with Gareth Higgins is an exploration of how storytelling, empathy, and a commitment to love can transform even the most entrenched conflicts. Gareth shares his personal journey growing up in Northern Ireland, where the dominant narrative was one of division, fear, and violence. But through the transformative power of films like 'One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest,' Gareth discovered the importance of seeing the humanity in those we might otherwise label as 'other.' He realized the need to become an ally - not by imposing his own vision, but by listening and allowing those he seeks to support to define what true allyship looks like. Gareth goes on to unpack a profound insight - that all conflict is rooted in fear, and beneath that fear lies love. By learning to love and accept ourselves, we open the door to a new kind of storytelling, one that moves beyond 'us vs. them' narratives and towards a vision of liberation, reconciliation, and interdependence. This conversation is a masterclass in the power of imagination, empathy, and a willingness to embrace the complexity of the human experience. Whether you're navigating personal struggles or seeking to understand the roots of societal conflict, Gareth's wisdom offers a roadmap towards a more just, compassionate, and connected world. So join us.

Gareth Higgins was born in Belfast in 1975, grew up during the northern Ireland Troubles, and now lives in the US. He writes and speaks about the power of storytelling to shape our lives and world, peace and making justice, and how to take life seriously without believing your own propaganda. He has been involved in peace-building and violence reduction in northern Ireland and helping address the legacy of conflict, received a Ph.D. in Sociology from Queen’s University Belfast, and helped teach the world’s first graduate course in Reconciliation Studies at Trinity College Dublin. He also helped found the Wild Goose, New Story and Movies & Meaning festivals. Gareth leads retreats in North America and Ireland; and he founded The Porch Magazine.

Brian McLaren says Gareth’s new book How Not to be Afraid is “a beautiful book”, Kathleen Norris says it’s “a necessary book”, and Micky ScottBey Jones says it’s “a much-needed resource for skill-building through our fear and trauma, so that we might create the belonging and communities we desire”. Find out more at www.hownottobeafraid.com

His newest book "A Whole Life in Twelve Movies: A Cinematic Path to a Deeper Spirituality", co-authored with Kathleen Norris explores movies and the meaning of our lives.
Gareth's Book:
A Whole Life in Twelve Movies
Gareth's Recommendations:
Sun House
Perfect Days
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Ask Me Anything | EP. 4 "Faith + Politics"
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Today, we have a fantastic conversation with Hal Donaldson, the founder and president of Convoy of Hope, a global humanitarian organization that has helped over 200 million people in need. Hal has an incredible personal story - growing up in poverty after his father was tragically killed, experiencing the kindness of strangers, and then feeling called to dedicate his life to serving the poor and marginalized. What I found so compelling about this conversation is how Hal has wrestled with the tension between ambition, drive, and burnout. As Convoy of Hope has grown into one of the largest charities in the US, Hal has had to learn hard lessons about the importance of self-care, boundaries, and staying grounded in his relationship with God. He shares practical tips he's implemented, like no problem-solving after 8pm, no dinner meetings, and protecting vacation time. Hal also reflects deeply on the role of humility and dependence on God for leaders - how success can actually be more dangerous than failure, if it leads to self-reliance. His insights on the difference between acting humble and truly embodying a humble spirit are really thought-provoking. Ultimately, this is a conversation about how to sustain a life of service and compassion over the long haul. Hal has some hard-won wisdom to share, and I think his story will resonate with anyone trying to make a difference in the world while also caring for their own wellbeing. It's a delicate balance, but one that Hal has clearly wrestled with and learned from.
Hal Donaldson is the founder and CEO of Convoy of Hope, a nonprofit organization that leads humanitarian initiatives across the United States and around the world. The author of more than 30 books, Hal has degrees in journalism and biblical studies. He and his wife, Doree, have four daughters.
Hal's Book:
What Really Matters
Hal's Recommendation:
The Lincoln Conspiracy
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Connect with Joshua: [email protected]
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Ask Me Anything | EP. 4 "Faith + Politics"
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In this episode, Jenai Auman covers her personal experience of feeling othered within the church, and how that led her to write the book "Othered". She discusses the biblical themes of othering and marginalization, and how God pursues and cares for the marginalized. Jenai also shares insights on building healthy communities that welcome and embrace those who are different, centered on the "hesed" or steadfast love of God. We talk about the importance of self-compassion, forgiveness, and creating space for people to be in process as they journey together. Whether you’ve been othered or are learning how to see the marginalized, this is the episode for you.
Jenai Auman is a Filipina American writer and artist. She draws from her years in church leadership as well as her trauma-informed training to write on healing, hope, and the way forward. She is passionate about providing language so readers can find a faith that frees. She received her bachelor's degree in behavioral health science and is currently pursuing a master's in spiritual formation at Northeastern Seminary. Jenai lives in Houston, Texas, with her husband, Tyler, and their sons, Quinn and Graham.
Jenai's Book:
Othered
Jenai's Recommendation:
The Lord of the Rings as read by Andy Serkis
Join Our Patreon for Early Access and More: Patreon
Connect with Joshua: [email protected]
Go to www.shiftingculturepodcast.com to interact and donate. Every donation helps to produce more podcasts for you to enjoy.
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Ask Me Anything | EP. 4 "Faith + Politics"
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In this conversation, Russ Ramsey talks about the power of art, beauty, and storytelling - and how they can help us make sense of the brokenness in our world. Russ is the author of books like "Rembrandt is in the Wind" and "Van Gogh Has a Broken Heart," where he dives into the lives and works of these iconic artists. And what he uncovers is so much more than just the paintings themselves. It's about the human experience - the joy, the suffering, the hope that these artists poured into their art. We talk about how engaging with beauty and art, can actually be a window into understanding the glory of God. And how even in the midst of tragedy and heartbreak, art can help us find language for our own struggles and emotions. Russ also shares some incredible stories behind famous works of art - like the Mona Lisa and why it became so famous. Spoiler alert: it's not because of the painting itself! So get ready for a rich, thought-provoking conversation about the intersection of faith, art, and the human experience. Russ has so much wisdom to share, so join us.
Russ Ramsey grew up in the wheatfields of Indiana. He studied at Taylor University and Covenant Theological Seminary (MDiv, ThM) before becoming a pastor. He and his family live in Franklin, Tennessee. Russ is the author of Van Gogh has a Broken Heart: What Art Teaches Us About the Wonder and Struggle of Being Alive (Zondervan 2024) and Rembrandt is in the Wind: Learning to Love Art through the Eyes of Faith (Zondervan, 2022).
Russ' Book:
Van Gogh Has a Broken Heart
Russ' Recommendation:
Mary Oliver
Join Our Patreon for Early Access and More: Patreon
Connect with Joshua: [email protected]
Go to www.shiftingculturepodcast.com to interact and donate. Every donation helps to produce more podcasts for you to enjoy.
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https://www.youtube.com/@shiftingculturepodcast
Consider Giving to the podcast and to the ministry that my wife and I do around the world. Just click on the support the show link below

Ask Me Anything | EP. 4 "Faith + Politics"
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In this captivating conversation, we dive deep into the intersection of bread, theology, and community with guest Kendall Vanderslice. Kendall shares her lifelong love of baking, which began as a way to process emotions and eventually blossomed into a vocational calling. But her journey took an unexpected turn when she discovered the rich theological and cultural dimensions of food, particularly bread. As Kendall studied the anthropology of food and explored biblical narratives around sustenance, she uncovered powerful parallels. The chemical process of bread-making, with its cycle of death and resurrection, mirrors the gospel story. And the act of breaking bread together has long been a way for diverse communities to bridge divides and find common ground. Perhaps most compelling is Kendall's experience with a "dinner church" - a community that held their services around the table, sharing meals and communion despite varying political and theological backgrounds. The way this group navigated their differences while breaking bread offers a powerful model for us all. Kendall also delves into the symbolic significance of bread in the communion table, explaining how the humble loaf can represent nourishment, community, and the transformative work of God. Whether you're a bread enthusiast or simply curious about the deeper meaning of everyday things, this conversation is sure to leave you with a fresh perspective. Prepare to have your eyes opened to the hidden spiritual and communal depths of the humble loaf of bread.
Kendall Vanderslice is a baker, writer, speaker, and the founder of the Edible Theology Project, a ministry that connects the Communion table to the kitchen table. She is a graduate of Wheaton College (BA anthropology), Boston University (MLA gastronomy), and Duke Divinity School (master of theological studies). Kendall is the author of By Bread Alone and We Will Feast and lives (with her big-eared beagle named Strudel) in Durham, North Carolina, where she teaches workshops on bread baking as a spiritual practice.
Kendall's Book:
Bake & Pray
Kendall's Recommendations:
Remarkably Bright Creatures
The Spirit of Our Politics
Join Our Patreon for Early Access and More: Patreon
Connect with Joshua: [email protected]
Go to www.shiftingculturepodcast.com to interact and donate. Every donation helps to produce more podcasts for you to enjoy.
Follow on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, or Threads at
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https://www.youtube.com/@shiftingculturepodcast
Consider Giving to the podcast and to the ministry that my wife and I do around the world. Just click on the support the show link below

Ask Me Anything | EP. 4 "Faith + Politics"
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In this conversation, Kristin Kobes Du Mez dives deep into the hidden crisis of abuse and cover-ups within the church. She pulls back the curtain on the disturbing patterns she's uncovered - where abusers are often quickly forgiven and restored, while victims are shamed and silenced. Kristin shares how her research for the acclaimed book "Jesus and John Wayne" led her to uncover these systemic issues, and how she felt compelled to give a platform to the brave women who have come forward with their stories. We explore the complex dynamics at play - the fear of losing power and reputation that drives the cover-ups, the authoritarian tendencies that enable abuse, and the urgent need for true accountability and justice within the church. This is a conversation that challenges us to confront hard truths, to stand up for the vulnerable, and to imagine a path forward where the church truly reflects the radical love and justice of Christ.
Kristin Kobes Du Mez is a New York Times bestselling author and Professor of History and Gender Studies at Calvin University. She holds a PhD from the University of Notre Dame and her research focuses on the intersection of gender, religion, and politics. She has written for The New York Times, The Washington Post, NBC News, Religion News Service, and Christianity Today, and has been interviewed on NPR, CBS, and the BBC, among other outlets. Her most recent book is Jesus and John Wayne: How White Evangelicals Corrupted a Faith and Fractured a Nation.
Kristin's Documentary:
For Our Daughters
Kristin's Book:
Jesus and John Wayne
Join Our Patreon for Early Access and More: Patreon
Connect with Joshua: [email protected]
Go to www.shiftingculturepodcast.com to interact and donate. Every donation helps to produce more podcasts for you to enjoy.
Follow on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, or Threads at
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https://www.youtube.com/@shiftingculturepodcast
Consider Giving to the podcast and to the ministry that my wife and I do around the world. Just click on the support the show link below

Ask Me Anything | EP. 4 "Faith + Politics"
The podcast where we answer IT ALL! Watch or Stream

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In this conversation we get to the heart of the divisions and fractures we're seeing in our society and in the church. Heather Gorman and Mark Nelson, the authors of the book "Lunchroom Theology," paint a vivid picture of the polarization all around us - the way we sort ourselves into different tables and groups, often suspicious or distrustful of those who aren't like us. But what's so compelling is how Heather and Mark point us back to the radical, subversive vision of Jesus - the way he broke down barriers, invited the unexpected to his table, and called his followers to a radical unity. They unpack how the early church struggled with this, but also found creative, improvisational ways to live it out. Ultimately, this is a conversation about recovering the imagination to see the world differently, to tell better stories, and to participate in the restoration that Jesus inaugurated. It's a call to intellectual humility, to curiosity about those who are different from us, and to a faith that is rooted in the mystery and wonder of God, not just a set of propositions. Heather and Mark offer a compelling alternative to the fear-driven, tribal mentality that so often dominates our public discourse. It's a vision of community, of neighbor-love, of pushing tables together - even when it's messy and uncomfortable. This is the kind of conversation we need more of. Join us at the table.
Mark Nelson and Heather Gorman co-authored Lunchroom Theology: Pushing Tables Together in a Fractured World.

Mark is the executive director of Three Rivers Collaborative and a coauthor of Reframation: Seeing God, People, and Mission Through Reenchanted Frames with Alan Hirsch. Mark is the founding pastor of Crossings, a faith community in Knoxville, Tennessee, where he served for fifteen years.

Heather (PhD, Baylor University) is Professor of New Testament at Johnson University and author of Interweaving Innocence: A Rhetorical Analysis of Luke’s Passion Narrative as well as numerous journal articles and essays on the Gospels, Acts, ancient rhetoric, and reception history.
Heather & Mark's Book:
Lunchroom Theology
Heather's Recommendation:
The Kingdom, the Power, and the Glory
Mark's Recommendation:
A Burning in my Bones
Join Our Patreon for Early Access and More: Patreon
Connect with Joshua: [email protected]
Go to www.shiftingculturepodcast.com to interact and donate. Every donation helps to produce more podcasts for you to enjoy.
Follow on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, or Threads at
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https://www.youtube.com/@shiftingculturepodcast
Consider Giving to the podcast and to the ministry that my wife and I do around the world. Just click on the support the show link below

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In this conversation, Scot McKnight explores the deconstruction movement happening in the church today. Scot argues that this deconstruction is a prophetic work of the Spirit, calling the church back to a more faithful following of Jesus. Scot shares his own personal journey of shedding aspects of his fundamentalist upbringing to find a more Jesus-centered faith. He unpacks how the "I Am" statements of Jesus in the Gospel of John are key for deconstructors who are seeking to rediscover the true center of Christianity. We also discuss the surprising research showing that the majority of those going through deconstruction are not abandoning their faith, but rather searching for a church that better reflects the teachings and person of Jesus. Scot offers wisdom on navigating disagreements and maintaining unity amidst this transformative movement. If you or someone you know is wrestling with doubts and disillusionment with the institutional church, this conversation offers hope and guidance for finding your way back to the heart of the gospel.
Scot McKnight (PhD, University of Nottingham) is a world-renowned speaker, writer, professor, and equipper of the Church. He is a recognized authority on the historical Jesus, early Christianity, and the New Testament. His books have been translated into Chinese, Korean, Russian, and Portuguese. He is the author of The Jesus Creed, The Blue Parakeet, The King Jesus Gospel, Revelation for the Rest of Us, numerous commentaries, and is now writing a sixteen-volume series of reflections called The Everyday Bible Study.
Scot and Tommy's Book:
Invisible Jesus
Join Our Patreon for Early Access and More: Patreon
Connect with Joshua: [email protected]
Go to www.shiftingculturepodcast.com to interact and donate. Every donation helps to produce more podcasts for you to enjoy.
Follow on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, or Threads at
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https://www.youtube.com/@shiftingculturepodcast
Consider Giving to the podcast and to the ministry that my wife and I do around the world. Just click on the support the show link below

Ask Me Anything | EP. 4 "Faith + Politics"
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Today, we have a fascinating conversation about a figure who has long been misunderstood and overlooked in the Christian tradition - Mary Magdalene. Our guest is Jennifer Powell McNutt, a scholar of church history and theology who has dedicated years to uncovering the true story of this remarkable woman. As Jennifer explains, Mary Magdalene was not just a penitent prostitute, as she's often been portrayed, but a devoted disciple of Jesus, one of the women who traveled with him and financially supported his ministry. She was present at the crucifixion, the first witness to the resurrection, and the one Jesus chose to send back to the other disciples with the news. In many ways, she was the "apostle to the apostles." Yet her story has been obscured and distorted over centuries of Christian history, shaped by cultural biases and theological agendas. Jennifer takes us on a deep dive into the Gospels and the complex history of how Mary Magdalene has been remembered - and forgotten - in the church. It's a rich and illuminating conversation that challenges us to reconsider what we think we know about this pivotal figure and her significance for our understanding of Jesus and the early Christian movement. I think you'll find it as fascinating as I did.
Jennifer Powell McNutt (PhD, The University of St. Andrews) is the Franklin S. Dyrness Chair of Biblical and Theological Studies and Professor of theology and history of Christianity at Wheaton College. She is an award-winning author, a fellow of the Royal Historical Society, an ordained teaching elder in the Presbyterian church, and a fellow of the Center for Pastor Theologians.
Jennifer's Book:
The Mary We Forgot
Join Our Patreon for Early Access and More: Patreon
Connect with Joshua: [email protected]
Go to www.shiftingculturepodcast.com to interact and donate. Every donation helps to produce more podcasts for you to enjoy.
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https://www.youtube.com/@shiftingculturepodcast
Consider Giving to the podcast and to the ministry that my wife and I do around the world. Just click on the support the show link below

Ask Me Anything | EP. 4 "Faith + Politics"
The podcast where we answer IT ALL! Watch or Stream

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We are marked for kingdom transformation. But how do we actually get there? In this episode, Rich Robinson returns to share insights from his new book "All Change" - a roadmap for unlocking kingdom potential in a rapidly changing world. Rich has spent decades coaching leaders and organizations through disruptive seasons of change. He unpacks a powerful framework of dream, discover, design, and deploy that mirrors the journey Jesus took with his disciples. Rich shares how to cultivate childlike curiosity, prototype new ideas, and empower teams to multiply impact. If you're feeling stuck in survival mode or frustrated by the pace of change, this conversation will inspire you to reimagine what's possible and take courageous steps forward. Prepare to have your imagination unlocked for the kingdom work you're called to.
Rich Robinson has led pioneering work in missional disciple-making, kingdom innovation, Christian entrepreneurship, and organizational change across the globe. He is a cofounder of Movement Leaders Collective, Creo, and Catalyse Change.
Rich's Book:
All Change
Rich's Recommendation:
Sacred Fire
Join Our Patreon for Early Access and More: Patreon
Connect with Joshua: [email protected]
Go to www.shiftingculturepodcast.com to interact and donate. Every donation helps to produce more podcasts for you to enjoy.
Follow on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, or Threads at
www.facebook.com/shiftingculturepodcast
https://www.instagram.com/shiftingculturepodcast/
https://twitter.com/shiftingcultur2
https://www.threads.net/@shiftingculturepodcast
https://www.youtube.com/@shiftingculturepodcast
Consider Giving to the podcast and to the ministry that my wife and I do around the world. Just click on the support the show link below

Ask Me Anything | EP. 4 "Faith + Politics"
The podcast where we answer IT ALL! Watch or Stream

Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify

Support the show

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FAQ

How many episodes does Shifting Culture have?

Shifting Culture currently has 243 episodes available.

What topics does Shifting Culture cover?

The podcast is about Culture, Christianity, Society & Culture, Change, Leadership, Interview, Discipleship, Religion & Spirituality, Christian Leadership, Growth, Podcasts, Leader, Jesus, Church and Christian.

What is the most popular episode on Shifting Culture?

The episode title 'Ep. 227 Mandy Smith Returns - The Power of Confession and Reliance on God's Spirit' is the most popular.

What is the average episode length on Shifting Culture?

The average episode length on Shifting Culture is 53 minutes.

How often are episodes of Shifting Culture released?

Episodes of Shifting Culture are typically released every 7 days.

When was the first episode of Shifting Culture?

The first episode of Shifting Culture was released on May 4, 2021.

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