It’s a Theological World After All explores how theology shapes everything—from science and technology to culture, politics, and human identity. Join Dr. Joshua Farris and guests from around the world for deep conversations at the crossroads of faith, reason, and the big questions of our time.

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2026/10/1/18/11bb7bf5-ef91-46cb-8acf-8318d24032e1_urn_of_magic_and_the_myth_of_the_secular_world.mp3

Why are astrology, witchcraft, and psychedelics making a massive comeback in the modern, scientifically advanced West? In this episode, Joshua Farris explains why the secularization story failed and why modern disenchantment only created a hungry market for re-enchantment. We explore why supposedly material creatures remain so stubbornly interested in an unseen world, and how this persistent hunger points directly to the reality of the human soul. We discuss how every attempt to construct spiritual meaning apart from God highlights our innate design. As part of the &#34;Why Souls&#34; series, we explore the fundamental differences between the New Age desire for mastery and the Christian call to receive a truly enchanted, God-given reality. SUBSCRIBE for more deep dives into theology, philosophy, and the soul. IN THIS EPISODE:The Failure of Secularism: Why scientific advancement didn&#39;t eliminate the human longing for transcendence and the supernatural. The New Spiritual Marketplace: How modern people construct individualized spiritual worlds through astrology, psychedelics, and manifestation. Magic vs. Christianity: Understanding how scientism and magic seek mastery and control, while Christianity focuses on receiving reality. Recovering an Enchanted Faith: Why Christians don&#39;t need to manufacture a new supernatural worldview, but simply recover the rich, sacramental, and meaningful creation they already believe in. CHAPTERS:0:00 Intro: Why is magic making a comeback?1:57 The myth of secularization and the return of spirituality5:52 Disenchantment and the new spiritual marketplace10:35 How methodological science became a materialist ontology15:42 Why the soul is central to experiencing reality18:24 Astrology, psychedelics, and the hunger for transcendence22:53 Christianity&#39;s enchanted world and the reception of reality28:04 The ultimate question: What kind of beings are we? RESOURCES MENTIONED:Why Souls: A Mirror to the Universe by Joshua FarrisCheck out my book, Why Souls?, where I take a deeper look at the nature and significance of the human soul. 👉 Get your copy here: https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/Why-Souls/Joshua-R-Farris/9781903816417 Take the Next Step in Your EducationIf this conversation has sparked a desire to go deeper into the intersection of theology, science, and the soul, I want to invite you to explore our advanced programs. Equip yourself to engage the modern world with intellectual rigour and spiritual depth. Explore Our Degree Programs Here: https://degrees.soulscienceministries.com/ #WhySouls #TheologyMatters #ChristianWorldview #Transcendence #Apologetics #TheSoul

EP26 | The Return of Magic and the Myth of the Secular World

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2026/9/26/17/305adea1-b418-4314-88a0-ddfa266ab21f_t_your_brain_the_hard_problem_of_consciousness.mp3

Are you nothing more than the firing neurons inside your head? In an age where neuroscience has seemingly mapped every function of the human mind, many have concluded that the brain is the whole story of who we are. But is that actually true? In this episode of It&#39;s a Theological World After All, Joshua Farris unpacks the “hard problem of consciousness” and explains why a purely scientific, third-person perspective can never fully account for the reality of subjective, first-person experience. While the brain is unquestionably necessary for embodied human life, discovering the neural correlates of an experience is not the same thing as explaining the experiencer. IN THIS EPISODE:The Inside vs. The Outside: Why science can observe your brain, but it cannot observe you looking at the world. Correlation Does Not Equal Identity: Why demonstrating that consciousness depends on the brain doesn&#39;t prove that consciousness is the brain. The Hard Problem: Why does matter have an inside? Why isn&#39;t all of our neural processing happening in the dark? The Case for the Soul: Why the soul isn&#39;t just a &#34;God of the gaps&#34; argument, but the most robust metaphysical explanation for the human person. CHAPTERS:00:00 - Introduction: Your Brain Isn&#39;t You02:16 - Where is the &#34;You&#34; on a Brain Scan?03:57 - The Story We&#39;ve Been Told by Neuroscience08:09 - Why Correlation Does Not Equal Identity10:26 - The First-Person Perspective vs. Third-Person Science14:49 - The &#34;Hard Problem&#34; of Consciousness17:03 - Information vs. Knowledge: Who is the Knower?18:31 - What Happens When the Brain Changes?22:20 - The Soul as a Metaphysical Proposal25:46 - Reclaiming Human Anthropology in the 21st Century RESOURCES MENTIONED:Why Souls: A Mirror to the Universe by Joshua Farris Grab your copy of Joshua Farris&#39;s latest book, Why Souls: A Mirror to the Universe, available now!Check out my book, Why Souls?, where I take a deeper look at the nature and significance of the human soul. 👉 Get your copy here: https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/Why-Souls/Joshua-R-Farris/9781903816417 #TheologicalWorld #JoshuaFarris #Consciousness #PhilosophyOfMind #ChristianWorldview #Apologetics #Neuroscience #TheSoul

EP25 | You Are Not Your Brain (The Hard Problem of Consciousness)

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2026/8/31/22/46211c25-8c05-4411-b5e5-20f965fcdfe1__what_burning_man_reveals_about_the_human_soul.mp3

Is the modern world really secular, or just differently enchanted? In this episode of It&#39;s a Theological World After All, Joshua Farris explains why the cultural fascination with events like Burning Man reveals a deep, ongoing human hunger for transcendence, ritual, beauty, and meaning. We discuss how every attempt to construct meaning apart from God actually highlights our innate design as image-bearers made for communion with Him. As part of the &#34;Why Souls&#34; series, we explore the ultimate question that sits underneath every cultural debate regarding AI, consciousness, and ethics: What is a human being? If we want to navigate the future, we must recover a richer, more compelling Christian vision of the human person. SUBSCRIBE for more deep dives into theology, philosophy, and the soul. 📘 Check out my book here: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=video_description&q=https%3A%2F%2Fshorturl.at%2Fu3MGp&redir_token=QUM4Zm9rUTdZbG5WVUpuMjNzalVnLXVYcWVBSXxBTl9pYzRkMnhQdHQ3Y1BJel94blpLYkI4MTh1bzFONlNvenpCQTlxcnNZS1pqdmRKVzFIMWVJMldCd3dMS0M0V1hyMzhEb0xPbkxUV1BId1Q4dkJHR2VLVjBJYkNYVHUxQkg3&v=ZCMS8q2nB8o" rel="nofollow">https://shorturl.at/u3MGp</a> IN THIS EPISODE: The Search for Transcendence: Why humans have not stopped longing for meaning, belonging, and experiences that lift us beyond the ordinary. Differently Enchanted: How the modern world has not become disenchanted, but has simply redirected its spirituality. Created for Communion: Why our restlessness points back to the reality that men and women are created in the image of God. The Core Question: Why understanding what it means to be human must come before we can answer questions about artificial intelligence, identity, and politics. CHAPTERS:0:00 Intro: Why this conversation was never merely about Burning Man0:25 A differently enchanted world and the hunger for meaning0:40 Created in the image of God and our search for home0:55 The ultimate question: What is a human being?1:10 Upcoming topics: AI, neuroscience, and the return of spirituality RESOURCES MENTIONED:Why Souls series by Joshua Farris Take the Next Step in Your EducationIf this conversation has sparked a desire to go deeper into the intersection of theology, science, and the soul, I want to invite you to explore our advanced programs. Equip yourself to engage the modern world with intellectual rigour and spiritual depth. Explore Our Degree Programs Here: https://degrees.soulscienceministries.com/ #BurningMan #Transcendence #Theology #JoshuaFarris #ChristianWorldview #Anthropology #TheSoul

EP24 | What Burning Man Reveals About the Human Soul

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2026/8/26/16/ec5dd529-d4a8-4de4-bcd3-abac14bdb5bf_re_billionaires_obsessed_with_consciousness_v2.mp3

If materialism has successfully explained the universe, why is everyone suddenly searching for the soul again? In this episode of It&#39;s a Theological World After All, Joshua Farris explores the unprecedented, renewed cultural obsession with consciousness. From Silicon Valley tech elites pouring billions into consciousness research to the cultural rise of the occult, psychedelic experimentation, and near-death experiences, society is desperately trying to rediscover the unseen realm. We discuss why the materialistic, secular worldview has failed to answer our deepest questions and how the rapid rise of Artificial Intelligence is forcing humanity to ask an ancient question: What actually makes us human? At the root of every major cultural debate today, from abortion and gender to transhumanism and AI, is a battle over anthropology. If we want to navigate the future and reclaim human dignity, we must reclaim the Christian doctrine of the human soul.  SUBSCRIBE for more deep dives into theology, philosophy, and the soul. 📘 Check out my book here: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=video_description&q=https%3A%2F%2Fshorturl.at%2Fu3MGp&redir_token=QUM4Zm9rUTdZbG5WVUpuMjNzalVnLXVYcWVBSXxBTl9pYzRkMnhQdHQ3Y1BJel94blpLYkI4MTh1bzFONlNvenpCQTlxcnNZS1pqdmRKVzFIMWVJMldCd3dMS0M0V1hyMzhEb0xPbkxUV1BId1Q4dkJHR2VLVjBJYkNYVHUxQkg3&v=ZCMS8q2nB8o" rel="nofollow">https://shorturl.at/u3MGp</a> IN THIS EPISODE: The Failure of Materialism: Why the idea that humans are merely biological machines is crumbling, leaving a &#34;thin world&#34; devoid of mystery. The AI Identity Crisis: How artificial intelligence is forcing society to reconsider what truly sets humans apart from machines. Follow the Money: Why tech leaders, billionaires, and Silicon Valley are heavily funding fringe consciousness research. The Return of the Occult: How the loss of transcendence has fueled an explosion of interest in astrology, near-death experiences, and neopaganism. Anthropology is Everything: Why debates about AI, euthanasia, and gender are ultimately arguments about human nature. CHAPTERS:0:00 Intro: Why are billionaires obsessed with consciousness?4:21 The story we&#39;ve been told by secular materialism8:02 Follow the money: funding consciousness and AI9:28 The rise of near-death experiences and psychedelic research13:20 How AI is forcing us to ask: What makes us human?21:33 The &#34;hard problem&#34; of consciousness in philosophy25:09 Silicon Valley&#39;s fascination with the occult and neopaganism32:15 The ancient questions of the soul and meaning38:57 Christianity&#39;s greatest gift: the image of God41:28 Why every cultural debate is an argument about anthropology RESOURCES MENTIONED:Why Souls by Joshua FarrisEncountering Mystery by Dale AllisonCharles Taylor on &#34;buffered selves&#34; Take the Next Step in Your EducationIf this conversation has sparked a desire to go deeper into the intersection of theology, science, and the soul, I want to invite you to explore our advanced programs. Equip yourself to engage the modern world with intellectual rigour and spiritual depth. Explore Our Degree Programs Here: https://degrees.soulscienceministries.com/ #Consciousness #ArtificialIntelligence #Theology #JoshuaFarris #ChristianWorldview #Anthropology #Transhumanism

EP23 | Why Are Billionaires Obsessed With Consciousness?

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2026/7/31/20/e0408c8b-4c27-4ed0-b820-1668d9788d0c_erson_of_the_trinity_recovering_god_the_father.mp3

While Christians spend a great deal of time talking about Jesus and the Holy Spirit, the doctrine of God the Father often remains in the background. What happens when the Father becomes little more than a name in our creeds? In this episode of It&#39;s a Theological World After All, host Joshua Farris sits down with pastor and theologian Ryan Rippee to explore this deeply neglected doctrine. We discuss why the Father has been overlooked in modern theology, how our culture&#39;s crisis of fatherhood connects to theological forgetfulness, and what it truly means to receive our identity from Him rather than inventing it ourselves. From the alluring but empty promises of transhumanism to the beauty of experiencing the church as a true family, this conversation reveals why recovering the doctrine of God the Father is vital for the church today. If you want a richer understanding of the Trinity, human identity, and the heart of God, this conversation is for you. SUBSCRIBE for more deep dives into theology, philosophy, and the soul. 📘 Check out my book here: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=video_description&q=https%3A%2F%2Fshorturl.at%2Fu3MGp&redir_token=QUM4Zm9rUTdZbG5WVUpuMjNzalVnLXVYcWVBSXxBTl9pYzRkMnhQdHQ3Y1BJel94blpLYkI4MTh1bzFONlNvenpCQTlxcnNZS1pqdmRKVzFIMWVJMldCd3dMS0M0V1hyMzhEb0xPbkxUV1BId1Q4dkJHR2VLVjBJYkNYVHUxQkg3&v=ZCMS8q2nB8o" rel="nofollow">https://shorturl.at/u3MGp</a> IN THIS EPISODE: The Neglected Doctrine: Why historical controversies focused on the Son and Spirit, leaving the Father assumed but largely unexamined. More Than a Metaphor: Why reducing &#34;Father&#34; to just a human metaphor risks dangerous Trinitarian errors. The Identity Crisis: How modern culture elevates self created identity to an idol, and how finding our identity as children of God solves this crisis. Fatherhood and the Church: Healing the cultural crisis of fatherlessness by reflecting God&#39;s fatherhood within the community of the church. Transhumanism and Technology: How the pursuit of autonomous, self created communities through technology is the ultimate rejection of transcendence. Isaiah 9:6 Explained: Unpacking why the Messiah is called &#34;Everlasting Father&#34; and what it means for the Davidic covenant. CHAPTERS:0:00 Intro: The forgotten doctrine of God the Father2:11 Introducing Ryan Rippee and his upcoming work4:12 Why is God the Father neglected in modern theology?8:50 Why Jesus constantly directs our attention to the Father14:39 Is &#34;Father&#34; just a metaphor?19:23 Human identity and receiving life from the Father25:12 The modern idol of self created identity31:24 Fatherless culture and theological forgetfulness42:48 The church as a family with refrigerator rights49:29 Consumerism in the church vs. genuine community55:33 Transhumanism, technology, and artificial communities1:13:37 How rejecting the Father distorts freedom and authority1:20:25 The loss of transcendence and cultural orphanhood1:26:42 Why is Jesus called &#34;Everlasting Father&#34; in Isaiah 9:6?1:31:30 One vital thing to remember about God the Father RESOURCES MENTIONED:Upcoming books on God the Father by Ryan Rippee (Baker Books and T&amp;T Clark)Two Ways to Live presentation by Matthias MediaGod, Human, Animal, Machine by Meghan O&#39;Gieblyn Take the Next Step in Your EducationIf this conversation has sparked a desire to go deeper into the intersection of theology, science, and the soul, I want to invite you to explore our advanced programs. Equip yourself to engage the modern world with intellectual rigour and spiritual depth. Explore Our Degree Programs Here: https://degrees.soulscienceministries.com/ #GodTheFather #Trinity #Theology #ChristianIdentity #Transhumanism #Apologetics #ChurchCommunity

EP22 | The Forgotten Person of the Trinity: Recovering God the Father | Ryan Rippee

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2026/7/20/16/91be0a75-5eca-473e-ad2c-62a9ac4af255_dq_-_podcast_ep20.mp3

One of the great assumptions of the modern age is that we are simply our brains, and that consciousness ceases at death. But what if the experiences of the dying tell a profoundly different story? In this episode of It&#39;s a Theological World After All, host Joshua Farris sits down with Professor Stephen Miller to explore the fascinating, heavily researched world of near-death experiences (NDEs) and deathbed visions. We dive into what the medical and historical data actually reveals about out-of-body phenomena, terminal lucidity, and visions of the afterlife. Are these just the hallucinations of a dying brain, or is God providing a glimpse beyond the veil? From the profound impact these experiences have on the grieving to the deep theological implications for the soul and apologetics, this conversation challenges us to rethink our assumptions about death and consciousness. If you want to understand how scientific research on the end of life points to a spiritual reality, this conversation is for you. SUBSCRIBE for more deep dives into theology, philosophy, and the soul. 📘 Check out my book here: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=video_description&q=https%3A%2F%2Fshorturl.at%2Fu3MGp&redir_token=QUM4Zm9rUTdZbG5WVUpuMjNzalVnLXVYcWVBSXxBTl9pYzRkMnhQdHQ3Y1BJel94blpLYkI4MTh1bzFONlNvenpCQTlxcnNZS1pqdmRKVzFIMWVJMldCd3dMS0M0V1hyMzhEb0xPbkxUV1BId1Q4dkJHR2VLVjBJYkNYVHUxQkg3&v=ZCMS8q2nB8o" rel="nofollow">https://shorturl.at/u3MGp</a> IN THIS EPISODE: Defining the Phenomena: The difference between near-death experiences, deathbed visions, and terminal lucidity. The Medical Evidence: Examining research from cardiologists, nurses, and peer-reviewed journals corroborating out-of-body experiences. Visions vs. Hallucinations: Why the consistent, lucid nature of deathbed visions defies the &#34;dying brain&#34; hypothesis. The Problem of Distressing NDEs: Acknowledging the reality of hellish or demonic encounters and the need for biblical discernment. A Call to the Church: Why Christians and theologians must stop ignoring this robust data and learn to minister to those having these experiences. Apologetics of the Soul: How NDEs and deathbed visions offer powerful evidence for God&#39;s existence and the reality of the afterlife. CHAPTERS:0:00 - Intro: Are we more than our brains?2:19 - Introducing Stephen Miller and his research on deathbed experiences4:16 - What exactly is a near-death experience (NDE) vs. a deathbed vision?12:09 - Terminal lucidity and shared death experiences18:50 - Evidence for the afterlife over the dying brain hypothesis26:52 - Survey data: How common are visionary experiences?30:36 - The history of NDE research (Raymond Moody, Dr. Sabom, and more)39:33 - Why the church often ignores or dismisses these spiritual encounters47:07 - Discernment, psychedelic drugs, and the danger of seeking out visions51:52 - The reality of distressing or hellish near-death experiences58:11 - Biblical examples of visionary experiences and the afterlife1:01:10 - Do NDEs prove the reality of the resurrection and the soul?1:08:54 - How theologians and philosophers should approach this research1:21:40 - Conclusion: A call for humility and awe regarding human consciousness RESOURCES MENTIONED:Life After Life by Raymond MoodyFaith That&#39;s Not Blind by Stephen MillerDemonic Foes by Richard GallagherEncountering Mystery by Dale AllisonWorks by Dr. Michael Sabom, Pim van Lommel, and Michael EgnorThe movie After Death Take the Next Step in Your EducationIf this conversation has sparked a desire to go deeper into the intersection of theology, science, and the soul, I want to invite you to explore our advanced programs. Equip yourself to engage the modern world with intellectual rigour and spiritual depth. Explore Our Degree Programs Here: https://degrees.soulscienceministries.com/ #NearDeathExperiences #Theology #Apologetics #Afterlife #Philosophy #Consciousness #Christianity

EP20 | Are Deathbed Visions Real? Exploring NDEs and the Afterlife | Stephen Miller

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2026/6/20/15/4c9b0c46-a851-4d54-be8a-9effa2388d32_pt_is_bullshit__partly__ai_and_human_deception.mp3

Are systems like ChatGPT really destroying the truth, or are they just reflecting our own deeply flawed human nature? In this episode of It&#39;s a Theological World After All, host Joshua Farris sits down with Professor Jimmy Alfonso Licon to explore his provocative paper, ChatGPT is bullshit partly because people are bullshitters. We dive into Harry Frankfurt’s famous concept of &#34;bullshit&#34; and ask a difficult question: is the problem with AI&#39;s lack of truth-telling a technological flaw, or does it stem from the fact that it’s trained on human language? From the utility of self-deception in our relationships to the philosophical pursuit of plausibility over truth, we unpack what AI reveals about the fragility of the human ego. If you want to understand how artificial intelligence mirrors our deepest social and spiritual struggles, this conversation is for you.  SUBSCRIBE for more deep dives into theology, philosophy, and the soul. 📘 Check out my book here: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=video_description&q=https%3A%2F%2Fshorturl.at%2Fu3MGp&redir_token=QUM4Zm9rUTdZbG5WVUpuMjNzalVnLXVYcWVBSXxBTl9pYzRkMnhQdHQ3Y1BJel94blpLYkI4MTh1bzFONlNvenpCQTlxcnNZS1pqdmRKVzFIMWVJMldCd3dMS0M0V1hyMzhEb0xPbkxUV1BId1Q4dkJHR2VLVjBJYkNYVHUxQkg3&v=ZCMS8q2nB8o" rel="nofollow">https://shorturl.at/u3MGp</a> IN THIS EPISODE:The Definition of Bullshit: Unpacking Harry Frankfurt&#39;s philosophy and how it applies to predictive AI language models. Architecture vs. Data: Is ChatGPT a &#34;bullshitter&#34; because of its predictive design, or because it&#39;s trained on the internet? The Evolution of Deception: How social media has created an evolutionary competition for attention, accelerating our culture&#39;s &#34;bullshit.&#34; Self-Deception and Society: Why a little bit of &#34;bullshit&#34; might actually be necessary for human cooperation and healthy relationships. Plausibility as a Proxy: Do philosophers really seek the truth, or just the most plausible arguments? Theological Reflections: Connecting the human tendency to deceive with classical concepts of pride, humility, and our search for ultimate meaning. CHAPTERS:0:00 - Intro: Is AI producing truth or just &#34;bullshit&#34;?2:24 - Introducing Jimmy Alfonso Licon and the philosophy of cooperation4:13 - The core claim: ChatGPT as a bullshit generator9:43 - Defining Frankfurt&#39;s concept of &#34;bullshit&#34;13:44 - Architecture vs. Training Data: Why does AI bullshit?22:19 - Are humans actually incentivized to tell the truth?26:52 - Self-deception and the utility of bullshit in relationships31:40 - Can bullshit serve a social purpose?40:53 - Plausibility as a proxy for truth in philosophy55:53 - The internet as an accelerator for bullshit (&#34;Bullshit Playoffs&#34;)1:15:27 - Theological reflections: Pride, humility, and the human ego1:31:02 - Finding ultimate meaning and grounding ourselves in reality1:35:36 - Conclusion: AI as a mirror of human nature RESOURCES MENTIONED:ChatGPT is bullshit partly because people are bullshitters by Jimmy Alfonso LiconChatGPT is bullshit by Michael Townsen Hicks, James Humphreys, and Joe SlaterOn Bullshit by Harry Frankfurt Better Not to Know: Why Knowing Less Is Sometimes Best by Jimmy Alfonso LiconThe works of Dan Sperber and Hugo Mercier on epistemic vigilanceTechnopoly by Neil Postman Take the Next Step in Your EducationIf this conversation has sparked a desire to go deeper into the intersection of theology, science, and the soul, I want to invite you to explore our advanced programs. Equip yourself to engage the modern world with intellectual rigour and spiritual depth. Explore Our Degree Programs Here: https://degrees.soulscienceministries.com/ #AI #Philosophy #ChatGPT #Theology #HumanNature #TechEthics

EP19 | Why Chat GPT is Bullshit (partly) | AI and Human Deception

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2026/5/25/14/8436e30d-270f-47f6-93e0-25b44b6cc6ef_dq_-_podcast_ep18.mp3

Are we witnessing the rise of a neo-pagan culture? In this episode, Dr. Joshua R. Farris sits down with Carl and Anthony to explore how pantheism and ancient pagan worldviews are actively reshaping modern society and politics. From the intensely polarized rhetoric of Christian Nationalism to Dr. Michael Heiser&#39;s &#34;Deuteronomy 32 worldview,&#34; we unpack the unseen spiritual realities driving today&#39;s cultural shifts. We also dive deep into the theology of &#34;sacred space,&#34; highlighted by Carl&#39;s chilling firsthand account of witnessing a dark Luciferian ritual. If you want to understand how to maintain a robust, biblical response to a world increasingly hungry for the supernatural, this conversation is for you. SUBSCRIBE for more deep dives into theology, philosophy, and the soul. 📘 Check out my book here: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=video_description&q=https%3A%2F%2Fshorturl.at%2Fu3MGp&redir_token=QUM4Zm9rUTdZbG5WVUpuMjNzalVnLXVYcWVBSXxBTl9pYzRkMnhQdHQ3Y1BJel94blpLYkI4MTh1bzFONlNvenpCQTlxcnNZS1pqdmRKVzFIMWVJMldCd3dMS0M0V1hyMzhEb0xPbkxUV1BId1Q4dkJHR2VLVjBJYkNYVHUxQkg3&v=ZCMS8q2nB8o" rel="nofollow">https://shorturl.at/u3MGp</a> IN THIS EPISODE:- The Return of Paganism: How modern culture has moved past secularism and is embracing pantheistic and neo-pagan spiritualities.- Politics as Spiritual Warfare: Why political rhetoric is shifting toward cosmic battles and what that reveals about our metaphysical decline.- The Deuteronomy 32 Worldview: Understanding the biblical framework that the nations are ruled by lesser, created gods (elohim).- Paul at the Areopagus: Unpacking the intense spiritual and political reality of Acts 17, where Paul stood before a pagan court.- A Luciferian Ritual: Carl recounts a disturbing double ritual involving a Luciferian and a &#34;Christian&#34; mystic, and the spiritual lessons learned.- The Theology of Sacred Space: Should Christians treat physical locations as spiritually neutral, or can spaces hold demonic presence and require consecration?. CHAPTERS:0:00 - Intro: Culture&#39;s openness to Paganism2:43 - Are Christians equipped to respond today?4:01 - The rise of explicit religious rhetoric in politics10:31 - How entertainment and the attention economy led to moral decline14:57 - Is the political right reacting to a pagan left?22:04 - Michael Heiser and the Deuteronomy 32 Worldview30:56 - Acts 17: Paul before the Pagan Court of the Areopagus37:53 - Desacralization vs. the Sacramental view of nature47:02 - Carl’s experience witnessing a Luciferian ritual52:52 - Defining &#34;Sacred Space&#34; and spiritual intentionality1:02:20 - Conclusion: The importance of a robust biblical response RESOURCES MENTIONED:Witchcraft Goes Mainstream by Brooks AlexanderPagan America by John Daniel DavidsonGod&#39;s Rivals by Gerald McDermottThe Unseen Realm (Deuteronomy 32 Worldview) by Michael HeiserClinton Arnold&#39;s work on spiritual powers and Ephesians Take the Next Step in Your EducationIf this conversation has sparked a desire to go deeper into the intersection of theology, science, and the soul, I want to invite you to explore our advanced programs. Equip yourself to engage the modern world with intellectual rigour and spiritual depth. Explore Our Degree Programs Here: https://degrees.soulscienceministries.com/ #Theology #NeoPaganism #SpiritualWarfare #Apologetics #ChristianPhilosophy #SacredSpace

EP18 | The Rise of Neo-Paganism, Sacred Spaces, and the Unseen Realm

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2026/4/30/19/9945fb90-4c2a-4fe0-9bed-7217f12b06d9_n_reason_and_science_with_andrew_hollingsworth.mp3

Can the doctrine of the Trinity explain the very structure of human consciousness and the natural world? In this episode, I sit down with Fr. Andrew Hollingsworth to explore why the Trinity isn&#39;t just an abstract theological puzzle—it’s the &#34;grammar&#34; of reality itself. From the &#34;triadic&#34; philosophy of Charles Sanders Peirce to a scathing critique of AI and materialism, we dive deep into how the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit shape how we know truth, experience science, and inhabit the world. If you’ve ever wondered how ancient theology survives in the age of machines, this conversation is for you. SUBSCRIBE for more deep dives into theology, philosophy, and the soul. 📘 Check out my book here: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=video_description&q=https%3A%2F%2Fshorturl.at%2Fu3MGp&redir_token=QUM4Zm9rUTdZbG5WVUpuMjNzalVnLXVYcWVBSXxBTl9pYzRkMnhQdHQ3Y1BJel94blpLYkI4MTh1bzFONlNvenpCQTlxcnNZS1pqdmRKVzFIMWVJMldCd3dMS0M0V1hyMzhEb0xPbkxUV1BId1Q4dkJHR2VLVjBJYkNYVHUxQkg3&v=ZCMS8q2nB8o" rel="nofollow">https://shorturl.at/u3MGp</a> IN THIS EPISODE:The Philosophy of Signs: How Charles Sanders Peirce’s &#34;Firstness, Secondness, and Thirdness&#34; mirrors the Triune God.The Failure of AI: Why machines can process data but lack the &#34;phenomenology&#34; of a living soul.A Defense of the Soul: Why physicalism (the idea that we are just brains) is inconsistent with the Christian faith.Liturgy as Knowledge: How the Anglican Book of Common Prayer &#34;teaches&#34; us the Trinity through participation. CHAPTERS:0:00 - Intro: Dragon Ball Z &amp; Icons1:45 - Does the Trinity shape how we think about Truth?3:40 - Charles Sanders Peirce &amp; The &#34;Phaneron&#34;6:00 - The Triadic Sign: Object, Representamen, Interpretant11:45 - Substance Dualism vs. Materialism16:30 - Can a machine actually &#34;know&#34; anything?25:30 - Biosemiotics: The Trinity in Biology36:00 - How Liturgy does the &#34;Heavy Lifting&#34; of Theology41:00 - Why Anglicanism? (Suprema Scriptura)44:30 - Conclusion: Doctrine is a Grammar to be Inhabited RESOURCES MENTIONED:God and the World of Signs by Andrew RobinsonThe Doctrine of the Knowledge of God by John FrameSpirit Word Community by Amos Yong Take the Next Step in Your EducationIf this conversation has sparked a desire to go deeper into the intersection of theology, science, and the soul, I want to invite you to explore our advanced programs. Equip yourself to engage the modern world with intellectual rigour and spiritual depth. Explore Our Degree Programs Here: https://degrees.soulscienceministries.com/ #Theology #Philosophy #Trinity #AI #Christianity #Apologetics #Anglicanism #Dualism #Peirce #StAugustine

EP17 | How the Trinity Shapes Human Reason and Science With Fr. Andrew Hollingsworth

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2026/4/17/16/a7f9d8b4-8910-41c2-b718-6a0c05ae1619_dq_-_podcast_ep16.mp3

As materialism fails to explain human consciousness, a new and ancient &#34;Liturgy of Self-Making&#34; is rising. In this deep-dive, Anthony Costello, Carl Teichrib and myself, Joshua Farris, explore how AI, Neo-Paganism, and the sexual revolution are converging to redefine what it means to be human. Is the world becoming more technological, or more theological? In this episode, we go behind the scenes of SXSW and Paganicon to witness the birth of a new cultural era. We move beyond surface-level politics to examine the &#34;Sexual Monism&#34; and &#34;Radical Individualism&#34; driving today’s headlines. From the failure of physicalism in AI labs to the &#34;bestial ethics&#34; of modern fantasy literature, our speakers provide a chilling diagnosis of a society that has detached sex from creation and the self from the Logos. What you will learn in this episode:The Failure of Materialism: Why top scientists are abandoning physicalism for mysticism.The AI Mirror: How technology is becoming a tool for modern divination and &#34;Digital Animism.&#34;The Pagan Ethic: Why a worldview without a transcendent standard inevitably leads to a &#34;Might Makes Right&#34; power dynamic.The Narcissism of Modern Sex: How the detachment of gender and sexuality from the body is impacting the future of civilization. 📘 Check out my book here: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=video_description&q=https%3A%2F%2Fshorturl.at%2Fu3MGp&redir_token=QUM4Zm9rUTdZbG5WVUpuMjNzalVnLXVYcWVBSXxBTl9pYzRkMnhQdHQ3Y1BJel94blpLYkI4MTh1bzFONlNvenpCQTlxcnNZS1pqdmRKVzFIMWVJMldCd3dMS0M0V1hyMzhEb0xPbkxUV1BId1Q4dkJHR2VLVjBJYkNYVHUxQkg3&v=ZCMS8q2nB8o" rel="nofollow">https://shorturl.at/u3MGp</a> Timestamps:00:00 – Intro: It’s a Theological World After All12:15 – SXSW Report: Why AI Experts are Desperate for Humanity24:30 – Paganicon 2026: Using AI for Tarot and Rituals36:45 – The Aesthetic Ethic: Beauty vs. Ugliness in Neo-Paganism48:20 – Sexual Monism: The Goal of &#34;Gender Alchemy&#34;01:05:10 – The Power Trap: Why Paganism Can&#39;t Condemn &#34;The Hawk vs. The Squirrel&#34;01:18:30 – Stoicism &amp; The Logos: Is There a Rational Alternative?01:32:45 – The Marketing of the Occult: Fantasy Fiction and Young Women01:45:10 – Conclusion: The Deconstruction of the Sexual Narrative Connect with the Kirkwood Center:Website: https://www.kirkwoodcenter.org/ Take the Next Step in Your EducationIf this conversation has sparked a desire to go deeper into the intersection of theology, science, and the soul, I want to invite you to explore our advanced programs. Equip yourself to engage the modern world with intellectual rigour and spiritual depth. Explore Our Degree Programs Here: https://degrees.soulscienceministries.com/ #Theology #ArtificialIntelligence #NeoPaganism #Worldview #ChristianApologetics #CultureWar #Ethics #Philosophy

EP16 | The Rise of Tech-Paganism: How AI and Ancient Rituals are Merging

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2026/3/27/14/bf43d256-b3e9-4966-a16d-6a0accb143dd_valuing_the_soul_a_new_defense_for_being_human.mp3

Is technology changing what it means to be human? Today I sit down with Matthew Burford (Founder of Tactical Faith) to discuss why modern apologetics is shifting from &#34;winning arguments&#34; to &#34;reclaiming wonder.&#34; As we move deeper into the age of AI and digital distraction, Burford argues that we are facing a crisis of disembodiment. Drawing on neuroscientist Ian McGilchrist’s work on the left and right brain, we explore how the &#34;Left-Brain&#34; obsession with data and control is hollowing out our spiritual lives—and why the physical, &#34;Right-Brain&#34; practices of the Church and the Eucharist are the only cure for modern anxiety. 📘 Check out my book here: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=video_description&q=https%3A%2F%2Fshorturl.at%2Fu3MGp&redir_token=QUM4Zm9rUTdZbG5WVUpuMjNzalVnLXVYcWVBSXxBTl9pYzRkMnhQdHQ3Y1BJel94blpLYkI4MTh1bzFONlNvenpCQTlxcnNZS1pqdmRKVzFIMWVJMldCd3dMS0M0V1hyMzhEb0xPbkxUV1BId1Q4dkJHR2VLVjBJYkNYVHUxQkg3&v=ZCMS8q2nB8o" rel="nofollow">https://shorturl.at/u3MGp</a> Inside the Episode:The Evolution of Apologetics: Why the &#34;syllogisms&#34; of the 90s aren&#39;t reaching Gen Z.The AI Threat: How Large Language Models (LLMs) force us to redefine human uniqueness.The Master and His Emissary: Applying Ian McGilchrist’s brain hemisphere theory to theology.The School of Attention: How the Eucharist retrains our minds to see reality truthfully.Re-enchanting the World: Moving from abstract ideas to concrete, lived practices. Chapters:0:00 – Introduction: Meeting Matthew Burford2:15 – What is Tactical Faith? Bridge between Ivory Tower &amp; Church6:42 – The Shift: From Evidence-Based to Story-Driven Apologetics11:30 – Why &#34;winning the argument&#34; isn&#39;t enough anymore15:45 – The &#34;Fragmented Self&#34;: Addressing Gen Z &amp; Alpha20:10 – Living in a Post-Christian &#34;Disillusionment&#34;28:45 – Cultural Liturgies: What the Mall taught us about worship35:10 – AI &amp; The Crisis of Embodiment: What makes us unique?41:30 – The Danger of Normalizing Artificial Relationships45:20 – The Eucharist as a &#34;Shared Attention Habit&#34;51:40 – Left-Brain vs. Right-Brain: Ian McGilchrist’s Impact57:15 – Reclaiming the Mystery: How the Church can serve the world now Resources Mentioned:Tactical Faith: https://tacticalfaith.com/Ian McGilchrist - The Master and His Emissary What do you think is the biggest threat AI poses to our humanity? Let us know in the comments below! Take the Next Step in Your EducationIf this conversation has sparked a desire to go deeper into the intersection of theology, science, and the soul, I want to invite you to explore our advanced programs. Equip yourself to engage the modern world with intellectual rigour and spiritual depth. Explore Our Degree Programs Here: https://degrees.soulscienceministries.com/ #Apologetics #FaithAndTech #IanMcGilchrist #Christianity #AI #Philosophy #Theology #TacticalFaith

EP15 | Is AI Devaluing the Soul? A New Defense for Being Human

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2026/3/13/16/3df4d876-1c27-4b48-a174-f2639e713efb_terialism_why_panpsychism_is_the_new_worldview.mp3

Is the universe a mindless machine, or is it alive? In this episode, we explore the dramatic collapse of materialism and the rise of Panpsychism—the radical idea that consciousness is a fundamental feature of all matter. From the &#34;Hard Problem of Consciousness&#34; to the return of ancient animism in the modern lab, we sit down with Anthony Costello and Carl Teichrib to deconstruct how modern philosophy is &#34;re-enchanting&#34; the world. Are we unified souls created by a transcendent God, or are we merely temporary &#34;eddies&#34; in a cosmic river of mind? 📘 Check out my book here: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=video_description&q=https%3A%2F%2Fshorturl.at%2Fu3MGp&redir_token=QUM4Zm9rUTdZbG5WVUpuMjNzalVnLXVYcWVBSXxBTl9pYzRkMnhQdHQ3Y1BJel94blpLYkI4MTh1bzFONlNvenpCQTlxcnNZS1pqdmRKVzFIMWVJMldCd3dMS0M0V1hyMzhEb0xPbkxUV1BId1Q4dkJHR2VLVjBJYkNYVHUxQkg3&v=ZCMS8q2nB8o" rel="nofollow">https://shorturl.at/u3MGp</a> In this episode, we discuss:Galileo’s Error: How science accidentally &#34;shaved off&#34; the soul.The New Paganism: Why elite academics are suddenly sounding like ancient animists.The &#34;Combination Problem&#34;: The logical flaw that panpsychists can&#39;t explain.Psychedelics &amp; Magic: Are altered states revealing reality or just altering perception?The Theology of Gender: Why the shift toward &#34;Internal Experience&#34; is feminizing the church.The Moral Motivation: Why some philosophers prefer a &#34;Conscious Universe&#34; over a Personal God. Timestamps0:00 - Intro: The Death of Materialism12:45 - Thomas Nagel &amp; The Hard Problem of Consciousness28:30 - What is Panpsychism? (Bottom-Up vs. Top-Down)45:15 - The &#34;Epstein Connection&#34; and Controlling Consciousness58:00 - Is the Universe Divine? Panentheism vs. Pantheism01:15:30 - Modern Animism: Why your computer might have &#34;feelings&#34;01:30:45 - The &#34;Feminization&#34; of Spirituality &amp; The Deification of Nature01:45:20 - Why Panpsychism is &#34;Ad Hoc&#34; (The Theistic Critique)02:00:10 - Final Verdict: Soul vs. Cosmic Eddy Key Resources MentionedGalileo&#39;s Error by Philip GoffMind and Cosmos by Thomas NagelKnowledge and the Case for Dualism by Richard FumertonThe Argument from Consciousness by J.P. Moreland Take the Next Step in Your EducationIf this conversation has sparked a desire to go deeper into the intersection of theology, science, and the soul, I want to invite you to explore our advanced programs. Equip yourself to engage the modern world with intellectual rigour and spiritual depth. Explore Our Degree Programs Here: https://degrees.soulscienceministries.com/ #Panpsychism #PhilosophyOfMind #Theology #Apologetics #Consciousness #HardProblem #NewPaganism #ChristianPhilosophy #Metaphysics

EP14 | The Death of Materialism: Why Panpsychism is the New Worldview

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2026/2/27/22/c7bccccf-6503-4180-9a4c-e32e844f210c__the_secret_pagan_roots_of_modern_green_policy.mp3

Is environmentalism the new global religion? In this deep-dive discussion, we explore the shocking shift from traditional Christian stewardship to a &#34;Dark Green&#34; neo-paganism that is quietly reshaping our churches, our laws, and our view of what it means to be human. From the &#34;Pachamama&#34; rituals in the Vatican to the deification of &#34;Mother Earth&#34; in global policy like Agenda 21, we dismantle the Lynn White thesis and reveal why the &#34;Population Crater&#34; is the crisis no one is talking about. If you’ve noticed your church or culture shifting toward nature worship over the Creator, this episode explains exactly why—and how to respond. 📘 Check out my book here: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=video_description&q=https%3A%2F%2Fshorturl.at%2Fu3MGp&redir_token=QUM4Zm9rUTdZbG5WVUpuMjNzalVnLXVYcWVBSXxBTl9pYzRkMnhQdHQ3Y1BJel94blpLYkI4MTh1bzFONlNvenpCQTlxcnNZS1pqdmRKVzFIMWVJMldCd3dMS0M0V1hyMzhEb0xPbkxUV1BId1Q4dkJHR2VLVjBJYkNYVHUxQkg3&v=ZCMS8q2nB8o" rel="nofollow">https://shorturl.at/u3MGp</a> CHAPTERS:0:00 – The Population Bomb vs. The Population Crater12:45 – 3 Christian Doctrines Under Attack by &#34;Deep Ecology&#34;28:30 – The Infiltration: How Earth Worship Entered the Liturgy45:10 – Agenda 21 &amp; The Rio Summit: Environmentalism as Policy1:02:15 – Pachamama &amp; The Vatican: A Crisis of Identity1:18:40 – Transhumanism vs. Post-Humanism: The Future of Man1:35:10 – The Return of the Goddess: Feminism &amp; Neo-Paganism1:50:20 – Why Pastors Are Silent (And Why That’s Dangerous)2:01:00 – Challenging the Assumptions: A Gospel Response SUMMARY:In this episode, we connect the dots between historical theology, modern environmental science, and globalist policy. We discuss how the &#34;Gaia Hypothesis&#34; has moved from a scientific metaphor to a spiritual reality for millions, and why the rejection of the Imago Dei (Image of God) leads directly to anti-natalism and the devaluation of human life. We also take a hard look at the &#34;German Catholic&#34; model where altars are replaced with soil, and explore why a return to a &#34;Supernatural Worldview&#34; is the only way to safeguard the Truth in a re-paganized West. RESOURCES MENTIONED:The Population Bomb by Paul EhrlichThe Unseen Realm by Michael HeiserHitler’s Monsters by Eric KurlanderThe 1992 Rio Earth Summit (Agenda 21) Take the Next Step in Your EducationIf this conversation has sparked a desire to go deeper into the intersection of theology, science, and the soul, I want to invite you to explore our advanced programs. Equip yourself to engage the modern world with intellectual rigour and spiritual depth. Explore Our Degree Programs Here: https://degrees.soulscienceministries.com/ #Environmentalism #Paganism #Christianity #Theology #Agenda21 #GaiaHypothesis #ChurchHistory #Worldview #Apologetics #SpiritualWarfare #Posthumanism

EP 13 | From the Bible to Gaia: The Secret Pagan Roots of Modern Green Policy

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2026/2/20/13/4a8d49c8-fae3-4dfc-9286-0755f771c1cd_ive_into_the_wests_emerging_spiritual_identity.mp3

Is the West Returning to Paganism? In this deep-dive episode, I sit with Carl Teichrib and Anthony Costello to peel back the layers of the modern Neo-Pagan revival. Far from being just &#34;Halloween costumes&#34; or &#34;Burning Man nostalgia,&#34; we argue that we are witnessing a massive ontological shift in the Western soul—moving from the Christian Creator-creature distinction to a &#34;One-ist&#34; metaphysical monism. From the history of Gardnerian Wicca and the rise of the Gaia Hypothesis to the political activism of Black Lives Matter and the LA School District, this conversation explores how the &#34;Goddess&#34; is replacing the &#34;Father&#34; in our cultural and spiritual structures. 📘 Check out my book here: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=video_description&q=https%3A%2F%2Fshorturl.at%2Fu3MGp&redir_token=QUM4Zm9rUTdZbG5WVUpuMjNzalVnLXVYcWVBSXxBTl9pYzRkMnhQdHQ3Y1BJel94blpLYkI4MTh1bzFONlNvenpCQTlxcnNZS1pqdmRKVzFIMWVJMldCd3dMS0M0V1hyMzhEb0xPbkxUV1BId1Q4dkJHR2VLVjBJYkNYVHUxQkg3&v=ZCMS8q2nB8o" rel="nofollow">https://shorturl.at/u3MGp</a>  In This Episode, We Explore:The Metaphysics of Monism: Why &#34;Matter is Mother&#34; is the foundation of every pagan worldview.The &#34;White Magic&#34; Trap: Why therapeutic, &#34;benevolent&#34; magic can be more deceptive than dark magic.Environmentalism as Religion: How the 1970 Earth Day charge forced the Church to defend its Theology of Creation.Ritual vs. Prayer: The chilling difference between &#34;bending the universe to your will&#34; and &#34;Thy will be done.&#34;Paganism Goes Mainstream: How publishing houses and pop culture targeted a new generation of practitioners. Timestamps:00:00 – Intro: The Rise of the &#34;Meta-Divine&#34;12:45 – Gerald Gardner and the Invention of Modern Wicca25:30 – Is Modern Paganism just &#34;Cosplay&#34; or a Real Faith?38:15 – The Political Turn: Activism, BLM, and Education52:10 – Magic Defined: Crowley’s Will vs. Christian Petition01:15:00 – The Environmental Challenge: Defending a Theology of Creation01:35:40 – Why the &#34;Goddess&#34; is the Future of Secularism Resources Mentioned:Hitler’s Monsters: A Supernatural History of the Third Reich – Eric Kurlander - https://a.co/d/0fDU7xvgDrawing Down the Moon – Margot Adler - https://a.co/d/06zyKQnJNazi Oaks – Mark Musser - https://a.co/d/0hd7xE1g Join the ConversationDo you think the rise of nature-based spirituality is a reaction to a &#34;sterile&#34; modern world, or is it a return to ancient spiritual dangers? Let us know in the comments below! Don&#39;t forget to: Subscribe for more deep-dives into theology and culture. Hit the Bell to never miss an episode. Like this video to help the algorithm reach more people! Take the Next Step in Your EducationIf this conversation has sparked a desire to go deeper into the intersection of theology, science, and the soul, I want to invite you to explore our advanced programs. Equip yourself to engage the modern world with intellectual rigour and spiritual depth. Explore Our Degree Programs Here: https://degrees.soulscienceministries.com/ #Christianity #Paganism #Theology #Wicca #Metaphysics #Worldview #CultureWar #SpiritualWarfare #Apologetics

EP 12 | The New Paganism: A Deep Dive into the West’s Emerging Spiritual Identity

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2026/1/29/21/2f00a142-ece4-457f-b8e8-c24fcdc7f465__of_secularism_and_the_rise_of_modern_paganism.mp3

We will be watching a new multi-part podcast series that examines a major cultural and spiritual shift in the West. Rather than moving toward disbelief, contemporary culture is experiencing a renewed interest in spirituality—particularly forms resembling paganism, New Age beliefs, occult practices, altered states of consciousness, and alternative cosmologies. This shift challenges the long-standing assumption that Christianity’s primary intellectual opponent is atheistic materialism or secular skepticism.                       Drawing on insights from theology, philosophy, historical analysis, and on-the-ground research, it is argued that the West is entering a “re-enchanted” spiritual landscape—a crowded marketplace of beliefs rather than a secular void.                                                                                                    This podcast aims to help the church recognize and seriously engage this new environment by rethinking apologetics and theological priorities. Instead of responding mainly to unbelief, Christian engagement must now address alternative spiritual worldviews that are actively shaping culture, politics, psychology, technology, and discussions of consciousness and artificial intelligence.                                                                                                                        Overall, the aim is to diagnose the current moment with clarity and realism, encouraging thoughtful, informed, and constructive engagement rather than fear or reactionary responses, and equipping Christians to understand and respond to the spiritual questions now emerging in contemporary culture. 📘 Check out my book here: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=video_description&q=https%3A%2F%2Fshorturl.at%2Fu3MGp&redir_token=QUM4Zm9rUTdZbG5WVUpuMjNzalVnLXVYcWVBSXxBTl9pYzRkMnhQdHQ3Y1BJel94blpLYkI4MTh1bzFONlNvenpCQTlxcnNZS1pqdmRKVzFIMWVJMldCd3dMS0M0V1hyMzhEb0xPbkxUV1BId1Q4dkJHR2VLVjBJYkNYVHUxQkg3&v=ZCMS8q2nB8o" rel="nofollow">https://shorturl.at/u3MGp</a> #SpiritualShift #CulturalRenewal #PaganCulture #CulturalShift

EP 11 | The Death of Secularism and the Rise of Modern Paganism

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2026/1/23/22/d82224d9-643f-4e0e-b81b-1f240f3389ec_m_i_my_body_a_robust_response_to_gregg_allison.mp3

Today, we&#39;re joined by Lauren Ponder, a professional Death Doula, to pull back the curtain on the &#34;Death Positive&#34; movement, Swedish Death Cleaning, and how to reclaim your dignity at the end of life. In this episode of It&#39;s a Theological World After All, we explore why our culture is so &#34;death-avoidant&#34; and how we can transform the end-of-life process from a moment of fear into a spiritual and transcendent experience. Whether you&#39;re curious about &#34;Death Cafes&#34; or want to know how to start your own &#34;Death Cleaning&#34; legacy project, this conversation is for anyone who wants to live—and die—with intention. 📘 Check out my book here: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=video_description&q=https%3A%2F%2Fshorturl.at%2Fu3MGp&redir_token=QUM4Zm9rUTdZbG5WVUpuMjNzalVnLXVYcWVBSXxBTl9pYzRkMnhQdHQ3Y1BJel94blpLYkI4MTh1bzFONlNvenpCQTlxcnNZS1pqdmRKVzFIMWVJMldCd3dMS0M0V1hyMzhEb0xPbkxUV1BId1Q4dkJHR2VLVjBJYkNYVHUxQkg3&v=ZCMS8q2nB8o" rel="nofollow">https://shorturl.at/u3MGp</a> Timestamps00:00 - Introduction: The role of a Death Doula05:30 - The Big Secret: Is death a revelation?12:15 - Reclaiming the “Art of Dying Well”18:40 - The Death Positive Movement explained25:10 - Why we equate &#34;spending money&#34; with &#34;loving the dead&#34;32:00 - Swedish Death Cleaning (Döstädning) &amp; Legacy Projects40:15 - What is a Death Cafe? (And why you should join one)48:50 - Personal reflections: Dying with Dignity Connect with Lauren Ponder: https://withlove.events Books Mentioned:The Gentle Art of Swedish Death Cleaning by Margareta MagnussonBodies in Motion and at Rest by Thomas Lynch  What does &#34;dying with dignity&#34; mean to you? We&#39;d love to hear your thoughts. #DeathPositive #DeathDoula #SwedishDeath Cleaning #EndofLife #LegacyPlanning #TheologyPodcast

EP10 | Am I My Body? A Robust Response to Gregg Allison

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2025/12/27/18/6475b9c1-5866-4328-a656-2f94da1f51f2__movement_is_growing_and_what_is_a_death_doula.mp3

Today, we&#39;re joined by Lauren Ponder, a professional Death Doula, to pull back the curtain on the &#34;Death Positive&#34; movement, Swedish Death Cleaning, and how to reclaim your dignity at the end of life. In this episode of It&#39;s a Theological World After All, we explore why our culture is so &#34;death-avoidant&#34; and how we can transform the end-of-life process from a moment of fear into a spiritual and transcendent experience. Whether you&#39;re curious about &#34;Death Cafes&#34; or want to know how to start your own &#34;Death Cleaning&#34; legacy project, this conversation is for anyone who wants to live—and die—with intention. Timestamps00:00 - Introduction: The role of a Death Doula05:30 - The Big Secret: Is death a revelation?12:15 - Reclaiming the “Art of Dying Well”18:40 - The Death Positive Movement explained25:10 - Why we equate &#34;spending money&#34; with &#34;loving the dead&#34;32:00 - Swedish Death Cleaning (Döstädning) &amp; Legacy Projects40:15 - What is a Death Cafe? (And why you should join one)48:50 - Personal reflections: Dying with Dignity Connect with Lauren Ponder: https://withlove.events Books Mentioned:The Gentle Art of Swedish Death Cleaning by Margareta MagnussonBodies in Motion and at Rest by Thomas Lynch  What does &#34;dying with dignity&#34; mean to you? We&#39;d love to hear your thoughts. 📘 Check out my book here: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=video_description&q=https%3A%2F%2Fshorturl.at%2Fu3MGp&redir_token=QUM4Zm9rUTdZbG5WVUpuMjNzalVnLXVYcWVBSXxBTl9pYzRkMnhQdHQ3Y1BJel94blpLYkI4MTh1bzFONlNvenpCQTlxcnNZS1pqdmRKVzFIMWVJMldCd3dMS0M0V1hyMzhEb0xPbkxUV1BId1Q4dkJHR2VLVjBJYkNYVHUxQkg3&v=ZCMS8q2nB8o" rel="nofollow">https://shorturl.at/u3MGp</a> #DeathPositive #DeathDoula #SwedishDeath Cleaning #EndofLife #LegacyPlanning #TheologyPodcast

EP09 | Why the "Death Positive" Movement is Growing and What is a Death Doula?

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2025/12/12/21/b8dd9fa7-12ba-4fe1-b3a5-bfcdde5f2d19_dq_-_podcast_ep8_-_how_philosophy_revealed_god.mp3

Is God just an abstract idea, or is He the literal &#34;Now&#34; that holds your reality together? In this deep-dive finale, philosopher Dr. Stephen Priest explains how &#34;fundamental ontology,&#34; the study of pure being, leads logically from atheism to the Trinitarian God. We move beyond abstract theory into the &#34;Eternal Now,&#34; exploring why the present moment is the closest we get to the Divine. Plus, Dr. Priest shares a powerful, practical Christian breathing meditation to replace anxiety with divine presence (&#34;God in, Devil out&#34;). If you are interested in the intersection of consciousness, existentialism, and deep theology, this episode is the masterclass you’ve been waiting for. 📘 Check out my book here: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=video_description&q=https%3A%2F%2Fshorturl.at%2Fu3MGp&redir_token=QUM4Zm9rUTdZbG5WVUpuMjNzalVnLXVYcWVBSXxBTl9pYzRkMnhQdHQ3Y1BJel94blpLYkI4MTh1bzFONlNvenpCQTlxcnNZS1pqdmRKVzFIMWVJMldCd3dMS0M0V1hyMzhEb0xPbkxUV1BId1Q4dkJHR2VLVjBJYkNYVHUxQkg3&v=ZCMS8q2nB8o" rel="nofollow">https://shorturl.at/u3MGp</a>  IN THIS EPISODE:Why &#34;Being&#34; and &#34;Presence&#34; point directly to the Trinity.How Heidegger’s Being and Time misunderstands the &#34;Now.&#34;Why God is not an optional &#34;add-on&#34; to the universe, but its foundation.Practical Application: A breathing technique for Christian mindfulness. TIMESTAMPS00:00 – Intro: Does the argument for God entail the Trinity?01:17 – Heidegger, Time, and the &#34;Eternal Now&#34;02:40 – Why the Trinity is the &#34;Fundamental Ontology&#34;04:20 – Stephen’s Journey: From Atheism to Pure Being06:40 – The Philosophical Debate: Is &#34;Existence&#34; a real property?09:05 – Does a physical object (like a desk) have &#34;Presence&#34;?11:30 – How to live in the &#34;Now&#34; (Practical Theology)13:00 – Eastern Meditation vs. Christian Contemplation17:00 – The &#34;God In, Devil Out&#34; Breathing Technique21:10 – Why Atheism is a &#34;Lack of Understanding&#34; of Being23:55 – The Immanence of God: Closer than you think25:00 – Conclusion: Why Metaphysics is plausible again RESOURCES &amp; LINKSListen to Part 1: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jfXgo8h5QaEDr. Stephen Priest’s Work: https://stephenpriest99.wixsite.com/website Please consider supporting Soul Science Ministries: https://donorbox.org/soul-science-ministries  #Philosophy #Theology #Consciousness #Christianity #StephenPriest #Existentialism #Trinity #Apologetics #Meditation #Metaphysics

EP 08 | How Philosophy Revealed God with Dr. Stephen Priest

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2025/11/29/11/8a41a7fb-a85d-4ac7-827f-3c70ffe2d380__problem_to_solve_mourning_memory_and_the_soul.mp3

In modern culture, we treat loss like a problem to be solved, something we&#39;re told to hurry through so we can &#34;move on.&#34; But what if this mindset, which I trace back to the Enlightenment&#39;s focus on individual happiness, is actually making our society impoverished? I sat down with the brilliant philosopher Mikolaj Slawkowski-Rode (University of Oxford) to challenge the prevailing Freudian and secular views on grief. Mikolaj argues that mourning is a virtue we need to recover, and a portal not just into memory, but into transcendence. This is a must-watch conversation for anyone seeking deeper meaning, struggling with loss, or questioning the self-help culture&#39;s quick-fix approach to suffering. 📘 Check out my book here: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=video_description&q=https%3A%2F%2Fshorturl.at%2Fu3MGp&redir_token=QUM4Zm9rUTdZbG5WVUpuMjNzalVnLXVYcWVBSXxBTl9pYzRkMnhQdHQ3Y1BJel94blpLYkI4MTh1bzFONlNvenpCQTlxcnNZS1pqdmRKVzFIMWVJMldCd3dMS0M0V1hyMzhEb0xPbkxUV1BId1Q4dkJHR2VLVjBJYkNYVHUxQkg3&v=ZCMS8q2nB8o" rel="nofollow">https://shorturl.at/u3MGp</a> What We Covered:0:01:14 Is Mourning a Problem to Solve or a Virtue? 0:05:34 The Relevance of Philosophy (And Why I&#39;m Interested in It!) 0:21:39 Why Freud Got Grief Fundamentally Wrong 0:38:10 The Enlightenment Shift: Why Individual Happiness Is an Insufficient Goal 0:42:25 The Danger of &#34;Toxic Relationship&#34; Talk: How Utilitarianism Ruins Love 0:55:48 Mourning as a Moral Practice: Rituals that Keep the Dead Present 01:01:15 Kierkegaard&#39;s Test of Love: Expressing True Love After Loss 01:23:25 The Two Extremes of Death: The Macabre vs. The Overly Joyful 01:26:45 Why God Wants Our Outrage: The Appropriate Response to Loss 01:34:20 Grief, Transcendence, and Spiritual Perception Mikolaj&#39;s Insight That Hit Me Hardest:&#34;Your mourning is not about you, it&#39;s about the person you&#39;ve lost.&#34; Connect with Us:Mikolaj Slawkowski-Rode: https://www.bfriars.ox.ac.uk/people/dr-mikolaj-slawkowski-rode/ Check out his excellent edited book: The Meaning of Mourning: https://www.amazon.com/Meaning-Mourning-Perspectives-Death-Grief/dp/1666908924 Subscribe &amp; Follow:Don&#39;t forget to subscribe to It&#39;s a Theological World, After All! We&#39;re here to dive deep into culture, God, and the soul, and I appreciate you joining the conversation. #grief #mourning #philosophy #death #loss #theology #meaningoflife #griefsupport #Blackfriars #MacauleySchakowsky

EP 07 | Grief is NOT a Problem to Solve: Mourning, Memory, and the Soul w/ Philosopher Mikolaj Slawkowski-Rode

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2025/11/14/23/1bda736c-6a83-47d4-9e71-515718c4131e_perfection_time_and_emotion_in_modern_theology.mp3

I sat down with theologian Dr. R.T. Mullins (The Reluctant Theologian, author of Eternal in Love: A Little Book About a Big God) for a radical discussion that challenged centuries of tradition. We broke down why the idea of a timeless, unmoving God is not only logically incoherent but also deeply damaging to our spiritual health and personal relationships. If you suspect your theology is causing anxiety, I think it&#39;s time for an upgrade. Dr. Mullins argues for a temporal, fully emotional, and personal God who is actively responsive to your life and genuinely cares about your flourishing, a God we can actually have a friendship with. What We Discussed: Why the traditional view of a Timeless God is logically and scripturally flawed.How God&#39;s perfection requires Him to be changing and responsive.The connection between Divine Impassibility and the emotional profile of a psychopath—a bold claim we had to explore.How your current Theology of Time might be fueling your anxiety and exhaustion.The true meaning of God&#39;s Patience in an age of speed.Why the trend toward AI Girlfriends and Religious Bots reveals a deep, unmet human need for a personal God. 📘 Check out my book here: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=video_description&q=https%3A%2F%2Fshorturl.at%2Fu3MGp&redir_token=QUM4Zm9rUTdZbG5WVUpuMjNzalVnLXVYcWVBSXxBTl9pYzRkMnhQdHQ3Y1BJel94blpLYkI4MTh1bzFONlNvenpCQTlxcnNZS1pqdmRKVzFIMWVJMldCd3dMS0M0V1hyMzhEb0xPbkxUV1BId1Q4dkJHR2VLVjBJYkNYVHUxQkg3&v=ZCMS8q2nB8o" rel="nofollow">https://shorturl.at/u3MGp</a> Timestamps: | Time | Topic || 00:00 | Intro: The Problem of Acceleration and Time| 03:20 | Dr. Mullen&#39;s New Book: Eternal in Love|08:17| Temporal God vs. Timeless God Defined|11:07| The Link Between Divine Temporality and Patience|17:50| The Myth of Immutability: Does Perfection Require God to be Unchanging?|23:30| The Incoherence of the &#34;Analogous Time&#34; Argument|26:43| The Problem with Divine Accommodation (Why Impassibility is Deceptive)|36:57| Divine Emotion: Why Sarcasm Can &#34;Wake Up&#34; Exhausted Minds|40:42| Defining Emotion: Why Love, Anger, and Compassion are Moral Virtues in God|45:18| The &#34;Psychopath God&#34; Critique of Classical Theism|55:00| The Problem of Evil: Does God Care About You?|01:02:28| AI, Depersonalization, and the Need for a Personal Creator|01:11:14| Knowing About God vs. Being Known By God|01:18:27| I Think Te Teed to Empathize with God Too!|01:21:08 | Practical Takeaways: How a Temporal God Changes Your Prayer Life|01:22:42| It&#39;s Okay to Go Slow: Finding Rest in an Eternal God Follow Dr. R.T. Mullen&#39;s / The Reluctant Theologian: Book: Eternal in Love: A Little Book About a Big God (https://www.amazon.com/Eternal-Love-Little-Studies-Doctrine/dp/1666730971)Podcast: &#34;The Reluctant Theologian&#34; (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-reluctant-theologian-podcast/id1455521623)Website/Social: (https://www.rtmullins.com/) Join the Conversation! What is your immediate reaction to the idea of an emotional, temporal God? Drop a comment below and let me know! Subscribe for more challenging theology: https://www.youtube.com/@soulscienceminShare this with a friend who, like me, needs to slow down! #Theology #GodandTime #DivineEmotion #Christianity #PhilosophyofReligion #AgeofAcceleration #Anxiety #SpiritualLife #TheReluctantTheologian #EternalinLove

EP 06 | The Psychopath God? Rethinking Perfection, Time, and Emotion in Modern Theology w/ Dr. R.T. Mullins

*It’s a Theological World After All* explores how theology shapes everything—from science and technology to culture, politics, and human identity. Join Dr. Joshua Farris and guests from around the world for deep conversations at the crossroads of faith, reason, and the big questions of our time.