The Boundless Show

Overcommitment on church activities, plus Suzanne Gosselin on Gen Z’s apathy toward dating apps, and what if your date has mental health issues?    Featured musical artist: Jeremy Rosado Roundtable: Church Involvement Overload Sunday services. Volunteering. Helping others throughout the week. Not to mention Bible study, small group, committee meetings and discipleship. If you aren’t careful, doing good and even “godly” activities out of guilt can lead to burnout. Besides, if you’re always at church, what do you do about your neighbor and others who don’t know Christ? To help us find equilibrium, our guests share how they’re learning to pause, prioritize and even cut back on their commitments to find joy in what God actually wants from them and for them.  Leave Us a Voicemail Watch This Segment on YouTube Culture: A Young Adult Exodus From Online Dating In the early 2000s online dating sites were brand new, and heading into the 2010s and beyond, increasing numbers of couples credited digital connections for helping them find their spouse. But the latest statistics indicate Gen Z is ditching online dating apps. Boundless friend and contributor Suzanne Gosselin shares insight on why young adults aren’t as prone to swipe right as older generations.    True Love Dates: Your Indispensable Guide to Finding the Love of Your Life    Dating Apps Lose Popularity Among Gen Z Visit Suzanne’s Website Inbox: Dating and Mental Health Issues Is it possible to have a good dating relationship if you or your significant other struggles with depression, anxiety, or other forms of mental illness? Counselor Joannie DeBrito joins us to answer.  Find us on YouTube  Link to Counseling Services 

Our favorite romantic films, plus the history of St. Valentine and Valentine’s Day, and attending the wedding of someone you used to date.       Featured musical artist: Daniel Bashta    Roundtable: Best Movies for Valentine’s Day   Do you have a go-to film for Valentine’s Day? Do you prefer a rom-com or an epic romance or period drama? To help you celebrate February 14th, our panelists duke it out over the all-time best movies about love and romance. Listen in to see if your favorite makes the list and hear our opinions on what makes for a great love-centric storyline.     Leave Us a Voicemail   Watch This Segment on YouTube   Link to Plugged In Website    Culture: Will the Real St. Valentine Please Stand Up?    Where did the Valentine’s Day traditions of flowers, romantic cards and heart-shaped candies come from? It started with St. Valentine, a real person with a fascinating story. To help separate truth from legend, historian Bill Petro shares facts, fiction and legacy around the Roman priest and the holiday that shares his name.     Turning Points: Decisive Moments in the History of Christianity     Visit Bill Petro’s Blog   Inbox: Attending the Wedding of Someone You Dated   What if you’re invited to the wedding of someone you used to have feelings for? What if it was someone you actually dated? A counselor offers advice.    Find us on YouTube    Link to Counseling Services 

Encouragement when your home life isn’t ideal, plus hope for single parents, and are Christians still committed to God’s standard for sex?       Featured musical artist: David Dunn   Roundtable: Love Where You Live   What’s your current living situation and how do you feel about it? You may live by yourself, with roommates, your parents, or a married couple or family. Whatever the circumstances, each situation has pros and cons. Our panelists have lived in a variety of settings and with different types of people. They discuss lessons they’ve learned along the way as well as tips for staying encouraged and making the most of where God has you right now, even if it’s not ideal.   Leave Us a Voicemail   Culture: The Single Parent Path   Tez Brooks got the news nobody wants when his first wife left him. His divorce was both an emotional low and a spiritual wake-up call. In the years following, he navigated life as a single dad — raising two kids, adjusting to a new normal, embracing church and community in a new way, and healing relational wounds. Now remarried, Tez shares encouragement and strategies for single parents who feel overwhelmed, plus advice for trusting God when your life is turned upside down.    The Single Dad Detour: Directions for Fathering After Divorce      Tez’s Website Inbox: What Happened to Sexual Integrity?   Our listener is frustrated that almost none of his friends are obeying God’s Word when it comes to sex. What are the implications, and is it right to care? Counselor Geremy Keeton weighs in.    Find us on YouTube    Link to Counseling Services 

How to communicate to others with honesty and clarity, plus tips for adulting well, and addressing a struggle with OCD.    Featured musical artist: Nathan Tasker Roundtable: Say What You Mean You’re trying to plan an event, but you can’t get anyone to RSVP. You know you have to turn someone down, but you don’t want to hurt their feelings. You started a text trail with a friend, and now they’ve gone MIA. Sound familiar? Why is it so hard to initiate, commit, respond, be honest — all the things that are hallmarks of mature communication? Our guests discuss the importance of following up, showing up, and speaking up honestly in our relationships. There’s a reason the Bible says, “Let what you say be simply ‘Yes’ or ‘No’; anything more than this comes from evil (Matt. 5:37). Together we can learn how to do better, starting with this conversation. Leave Us a Voicemail Culture: How to Be an Adult At 19, Tez Brooks took a leap of faith and moved 1,000 miles away from home. He soon had a rude awakening that being an adult is no easy task; he couldn’t even do his own laundry. Now the author of “Adult-o-Nomics,” a fun yet practical guide to mastering life skills, Tez addresses our need to take responsibility, master necessary tasks, relate to the opposite sex, and more.   Adult-o-Nomics: How to Nail It On Your Own   Tez’s Website Inbox: A Christian Approach to OCD Our listener admittedly wrestles with OCD and is looking for help from a Christian perspective. Counselor Tim Sanford weighs in.  Find us on YouTube  Link to Counseling Services 

The perils of ghosting, plus a fitness coach’s God-centered approach to health, and should you get married if you’re poor? Featured musical artist: Aaron Shust Roundtable: Alternatives to Ghosting “I’ve been ghosted!” It’s a common complaint among daters, but it happens in friendships and other contexts as well. Whether you’re guilty of ghosting or have been on the receiving end of this annoyingly passive “dump,” we’d all agree there are better, kinder, and healthier ways to end a relationship, say no, and move on. Our guests disclose their own confessions and frustrations around ghosting, and offer alternative solutions for these awkward junctures in relationships.        Leave Us a Voicemail Culture: Putting God in Your Fitness If your January fitness goals have already been jettisoned, maybe it’s time to take a different approach. Professional fitness coach Kim Dolan Leto thinks one of our biggest diet and exercise mistakes as Christians is not inviting God into the process. But does God care about workouts and weigh-ins? What can Kim possibly be talking about? Far from a shame-based, effort-intensive plan, Kim’s approach to getting healthy is grounded in Scripture and a holistic view of how God designed our bodies to work. If you’re tired of white-knuckling your fitness goals only to fail yet again, this conversation deserves a listen.               Fit God’s Way: Your Bible-Based Guide to Food, Fitness, and Wholeness Kim’s Website Fit God’s Way Inbox: Can I Get Married if I’m Poor? Culture tells us we need to be financially secure before adding marriage to the mix. Is that true, or can you get married even if you’re poor? Counselor Joannie DeBrito weighs in.  Find us on YouTube  Link to Counseling Services 

What confidence looks like, plus a young adult’s journey with chronic pain, and how to honor God in everyday life.     Featured musical artist: Mosaic MSC   Roundtable: Confident Relationships, Work and Identity   What is confidence, and how do you get it? It’s probably more than Julie Andrews dancing around a Salzburg fountain and chirping, “I have confidence!” Yet it seems that some elements of confidence can be learned, if not merely wished into existence. Our guests share tips for being more confident on the job, in relationships, and in understanding who you are.         Leave Us a Voicemail   Culture: Young Adults and Chronic Pain   Olivia Feller started having weird symptoms in her teens. Doctor after doctor failed to provide a diagnosis, cure, or even relief, and eventually Olivia’s pain became debilitating. College was a blur of medical appointments, skipped classes and missed milestones and events. Olivia, still on her journey, learned to face pain and chronic illness head-on as she turned to the only one with the answers — God himself. She shares what worked, what didn’t work, and how God, friends and others were her strength when she had none.             Hold Hope: Encouragement for Christians with Chronic Pain   Inbox: How Do I Honor God?   What does it mean to “honor God” and others in the life we live and the choices we make? It’s a big question that one of our counselors sheds some light on.    Find us on YouTube    Link to Counseling Services 

The difference between rest and procrastination, plus a challenge to go 40 days alcohol-free, and do girlfriends need to submit to their boyfriends?   Featured musical artist: Danen Kane Roundtable: Are You Resting or Procrastinating? When you’re working hard to reach new goals, it’s important to pace yourself and not burn yourself out. But can you tell the difference between true rest and straight-up procrastination? Our guests share their best insights on when it’s time to take a break versus when it’s time to get off the couch and get busy.        Leave Us a Voicemail Culture: The Case for Sobriety Christy Osborne had long been a casual drinker, but when her mother died, she became alcohol-dependent. Her downtime, social time and vacation time revolved around booze. Although Scripture isn’t absolute on the issue of drinking in moderation, Christy knew that alcohol had become central to her life. She explored what sobriety might look like: how it would affect her health, relationships and mindset. Now a sobriety coach, Christy joins us to share her journey and suggestions for making an objective assessment of our relationship with alcohol.           Love Life Sober: A 40-Day Alcohol Fast to Rediscover Your Joy, Improve Your Health, and Renew Your Mind Inbox: Should a Woman Submit to Her Boyfriend? Scripture tells wives to submit to their husbands. In dating, does that same principle apply between women and their boyfriends? Counselor Brenda Huerta weighs in. Find us on YouTube  Link to Counseling Services   

Embracing changes in a new year, plus what grief looks like, and do you hate responsibility?   Featured musical artist: Ginny Owens Roundtable: New Year, New Opportunities A new job. An engagement. Starting a dating relationship. Moving to a new place. One of the beauties of life is the chance to grow, try new things, and step into adventure. But with change comes a whole new set of challenges. To share wisdom on getting through adjustments you’ll make this year, our guests discuss what lessons they’ve learned through life’s transitions.       Leave Us a Voicemail Culture: The Process of Grief Grief comes in many forms. Whether death, injury, disappointment or betrayal, grief often arrives unannounced and without an instruction manual. Rather than progressing in a straight line or on a specific timetable, grief moves in cycles. At least that’s what counselor and educator Dr. Ray Mitsch says. The victim of a serious accident that has him in constant pain, Dr. Mitsch walks us through how to navigate the different components of grief, how to comfort the grieving, and when to know it’s time to get professional help in processing loss.           The Seasons of Our Grief: Embracing the Journey  Inbox: I Don’t Like Responsibility Being a grownup means taking responsibility for everything from life skills to decisions to how we treat others. That doesn’t mean it’s easy, though. If you’re responsibility-averse, you’ll be encouraged by the words of counselor Jeff Brown.  Find us on YouTube  Link to Counseling Services  Article: Adult Before 30?   

Intentional relationships with non-Christians, plus what happened after Jesus’ birth, and when friends deconstruct their faith.     Featured musical artist: James Peden   Roundtable: Out of the Christian Bubble   Many of us have at least one friend, family member or coworker who’s not a Christian. But if we’re honest, we tend to spend most of our time with other believers; between family, church, ministry opportunities and small group, it’s easy to stay in a faith-filled comfort zone. What are intentional ways to mix it up, branch out, and get out of the Christian “bubble”? Our guests discuss ways they’ve learned to step out of their routines, build community, and be a light for Christ.         Leave Us a Voicemail   Culture: First Christmas, Then Herod   If you were part of our Advent text experience, you heard regularly from John Greco. This week he reflects on lessons he’s learned from his extensive study of Advent, and why it’s good for Christians to think of the Christmas story in the bigger context of history. To that end, he’ll read a short excerpt from his book “Rediscovering Christmas” titled “The Nightmare After Christmas.”          Rediscovering Christmas: A Twelve-Day Journey to the Manger     Inbox: When Friends Leave the Faith    How do you respond when a friend announces, “I’m done being a Christian”? One of our counselors weighs in.    Find us on YouTube    Link to Counseling Services    Article: When a Pastor Like Josh Harris Abandons Christianity 

How to be a fun date, plus sharing Jesus with the cynical and deconstructed, and how do you accept your current situation in life?   Featured musical artist: Ellie Holcomb Roundtable: Fun Date Ideas Dating doesn’t always have to be serious. In fact, your ability to have fun as a couple is a good litmus test for whether you should marry. Our guests share their best strategies for staying chill in the dating process, as well as some of their most creative date ideas.     Leave Us a Voicemail Culture: The Gospel for Young Adults Aaron Pierce grew up a missionary kid in Amsterdam and saw his parents share the gospel with people in some of the darkest corners of the city. He’s now part of his parents’ ministry, specializing in reaching non-religious young adults with the hope of Jesus Christ. In his experience, what are the most natural, “just be yourself” ways to reach your peers? You’ll probably need to get out of your comfort zone, but chances are you’ll have conversations that are meaningful and eternity-focused. Join the conversation to hear some of Aaron’s best stories and suggestions.         Not Beyond Reach: How to Share Jesus with the Young, the Deconstructed, and the Non-Religious   Steiger International Inbox: Accepting Where You Are  Your current season of life might be great or it could be a mess. Regardless of your circumstances, how do you come to terms with where you are today? Counselor Tim Sanford weighs in.  Guest: Tim Sanford Find us on YouTube  Article: Managing Anxiety  Article: How to Develop a Resilient Mindset  Link to Counseling Services 

Sibling time over the holidays, plus trading anxiety for peace, and should you change jobs to advance your career?   Featured musical artist: About a Mile  Roundtable: Sibling Connections at Christmas What are your sibling dynamics like during the holidays? Some of us have great relationships with our brothers and sisters, but for others, interactions and conversations can be shallow, awkward, or even tense. Our guests share both good and difficult moments they’ve had with their siblings; if you aren’t sure how to connect meaningfully with your family this Christmas, you’ll be encouraged by our discussion.     Leave Us a Voicemail Culture: What God Does With Anxiety Rates of anxiety among young adults are at an all-time high. How do we cope? Do we white-knuckle it and hope things get better? Not according to Whitney Lowe, who argues that God not only can but wants to take our anxiety if we’ll bring it to Him. Join us for practical suggestions for setting our minds on God and bringing peace to our minds and hearts.         Set Your Eyes Higher: A 40-Day Reset to Slow Your Anxiety and Fix Your Focus on God Whitney’s Instagram Inbox: Will Changing Jobs Put Me Ahead?  Some suggest that if you change jobs, you’ll advance in your career more quickly. But is that actually true? Career expert Marshonda Dixon weighs in.  Find us on YouTube   

Serious strain between parents and adult children, plus why church history matters, and should you do a missions trip when your parents disapprove? Featured musical artist: Jonathan Cain Roundtable: “Mom and Dad, We’re Done” The holidays should be a joyous time of gathering with family and friends, but all too often they are marked by absence, distance and strife. For some, the choice to “cancel” family members — including your own parents — brings confusion, hurt and relational wreckage. Our guests this week are parents with strained or non-existent relationships with their adult children. They share the details behind their unique journeys, their hope for reconciliation, and how they’re choosing to rely on the Lord as they wait. Leave Us a Voicemail Link to Counseling Services Abusive Relationships Page Culture: Why Care About Church History? We know about the New Testament apostles. You’ve likely heard of Martin Luther and John Calvin. But for what purpose? Does learning about church history (and a bunch of dead guys) inform and shape our lives today? Historian and blogger Bill Petro joins us to give a crash course, explaining why church history is not only instructive, but also fascinating. Turning Points: Decisive Moments in the History of Christianity Visit Bill Petro’s Blog Inbox: My Parents Dissed My Missions Trip She wants to go on a missions trip but her parents are opposed out of concern for her safety, among other things. Is going the right or wrong decision? Missionary Wendy Hamon spent years in difficult and dangerous overseas situations; she offers advice. Find us on YouTube

Your home is a great place to gather, plus living each day with heaven in mind, and how to make your faith your own. Featured musical artist: Love and the Outcome Roundtable: Invite People to Your Home Do you enjoy hosting parties and get-togethers, or does the thought of people at your place intimidate you? With the holidays upon us, now’s a great time to have people over. But hospitality isn’t just for special occasions. Whether big or small, planned or impromptu, creating space and structure for people to eat, connect, feel loved and heard is something the early church modeled well. But what can it look like for us — for you — today? Our guests have creative ideas for sharing their space and fostering connection with all sorts of people; listen in as they share the challenges and benefits of gospel hospitality. Leave Us a Voicemail Culture: Why Eternity Matters Today Does the reality of heaven influence the way you live right now? Do you even think about heaven and its impact on your daily choices? Pastor Mark Bates explains how where we’ll spend eternity should influence our relationships, careers, priorities, and the everyday decisions before us. If you’re wondering why heaven matters, this discussion will encourage you. Inbox: Your Parents’ Faith, or Yours? You may have grown up in church — even walked an aisle or prayed a prayer. At some point, though, you have to take ownership of your faith and make it not just something you’ve “inherited,” but something you’ve internalized. How do you do this? Pastor Mark Bates weighs in. Find us on YouTube

Living on purpose while you’re single, plus ways to help the homeless and poor around you, and what’s a Christian’s obligation to evangelize? Featured musical artist: Austin Stone Worship Roundtable: Purpose in Singleness You may want to get married, but is there a way to maximize your singleness while you wait? Our guests, all single, share their best strategies for finding community, chasing after growth, meeting people, and serving others in a season of singleness. If you feel your life lacks purpose or has stalled out, you’ll be inspired by their thoughts. Leave Us a Voicemail Culture: Wise Ways to Help the Homeless You stop at an intersection and a homeless person is there, holding a sign asking for help. How do you respond? We know the Bible tells us to love and care for the poor among us, but how can we do this with compassion and effectiveness? Travis Williams leads the multi-outreach Springs Rescue Mission, a place of hope for addicts, the mentally ill, homeless and others. Every day he sees these challenges first-hand, and he offers ideas to help Christians move the needle of care in our own communities. Listen, Love, Repeat: Other-Centered Living in a Self-Centered World The Needy Outside My Window Visit Springs Rescue Mission’s Website Inbox: Do I Need to Preach on Street Corners? Is aggressive, public evangelism the call of every believer — even to the point of preaching on street corners? Pastor Mark Bates weighs in. Find us on YouTube

Overcoming faith doubts and trials, plus Joshua Rogers on a Christian’s rights at work, and seeking healing from sexual trauma before marriage. Featured musical artist: Abandon Roundtable: When Your Faith Is Challenged What’s been the biggest test to your faith? A tragedy? Unanswered questions? Scientific claims? We’ve all faced moments that forced us to ask honest questions about God, the Bible, and the Christian faith. Our guests share about weathering big spiritual challenges, and what helped them overcome their doubts to trust God more fully. Leave Us a Voicemail Culture: A Christian’s Rights in the Workplace If you work in a secular environment, are you required to leave your faith at home? What legal rights do you have to express what you believe? Conversely, what can your employer require of you? Boundless contributor Joshua Rogers is an attorney who has these conversations every day. He gives us honest advice for living out your faith and values on the job while loving others in the process. No Reason to Hide: Standing for Christ in a Collapsing Culture Link to Article: How to Defend Your Faith Without Being a Jerk Visit Joshua Rogers’ Website Inbox: Addressing Sexual Trauma Before Marriage Past sexual trauma can do untold damage to your body, mind and emotions. If you’ve experienced this trauma, how do you appropriately seek healing before getting married? Counselor Geremy Keeton weighs in. Link to Counseling Services Mending the Soul by Steven Tracy Fearless Series Resources Find us on YouTube

Navigating dating as a woman in your 30s, plus a psychiatrist’s tips for getting mental health care, and giving church community a second chance. Featured musical artist: Hollyn Roundtable: Dating in Your 30s (Girls’ Edition) What is dating like in your 30s compared to your 20s? Is the pressure higher? The disappointments greater? Or do time and maturity actually help in the pursuit of a relationship? Join our two-part series where 30-something daters share advice from their own experiences. This week, it’s the ladies’ turn. (Men were last week!) Leave Us a Voicemail Watch This Segment on YouTube Culture: Tips for Accessing Mental Health Care We know about today’s sky-high rates of anxiety, depression and other mental health struggles, but how do you start the process of getting the care you need? Psychiatrist Karl Benzio helps us understand the ins and outs of therapy, medication, psychology vs. psychiatry, counseling vs. therapy — and most importantly, how to know what you need, and when. This will save you some copays for sure, so grab a pen and paper and listen in! Are You Really OK?: Getting Real About Who You Are, How You’re Doing, and Why It Matters Link to Counseling Services Learn About the Honey Lake Clinic More on Karl’s Work Inbox: Small Group Second Chances Our listener is feeling pressured to jump back into church community groups, but it never seems to go well for them. What’s the best approach going forward? Lisa Anderson weighs in. Hear Our Gary Thomas Interview Find us on YouTube

Navigating dating as a man in your 30s, plus sexuality and the single man, and how do you adjust to drastic life changes? Featured musical artist: Kerrie Roberts Roundtable: Dating in Your 30s (Guys’ Edition) What is dating like in your 30s compared to your 20s? Is the pressure higher? The disappointments greater? Or do time and maturity actually help in the pursuit of a relationship? Join our two-part series where 30-something daters share advice from their own experiences. This week, it’s the guys’ turn. Ladies, you’re next week! Leave Us a Voicemail Watch This Segment on YouTube Culture: Sexual Integrity for Single Men in Their 30s Bob DeMoss is a best-selling author and the founder of Focus on the Family’s Plugged In. But despite praying for a wife, he didn’t marry until age 37. In a refreshingly candid conversation, Bob and Lisa discuss staying sexually faithful in singleness, combating loneliness, and navigating the “single cycle” of contentment, restlessness, poor choices, guilt and repentance. The Men We Need: God’s Purpose for the Manly Man, the Avid Indoorsman, and Any Man Willing to Show Up Visit Bob’s Website Inbox: Weathering Drastic Life Changes We think we know where we’re going in life, yet we all deal with major changes and setbacks at some point. When they come, how should we respond? Counselor Linda Miller weighs in. Find us on YouTube

Make your roommate situation exceptional, plus a former abortion doctor’s testimony, and how to have deep relationships in a disconnected culture. Featured musical artist: David Dunn Roundtable: Crafting Great Roommate Relationships We’re all kind, reasonable and considerate until someone is in our space. This is especially magnified in a roommate situation, whether you’re rooming with one person or several. What do you need to know in choosing roommates, setting house rules, respecting boundaries and resolving conflict? Our guests break it all down based on their past and current experiences. Leave Us a Voicemail Watch This Segment on YouTube Culture: From Abortion Doctor to Pro-Life Champion Dr. Catherine Wheeler didn’t see much wrong with abortion as a choice, performing them in her practice as an OB/GYN. But facts, circumstances and a new-found faith changed her mind. This week she tells her amazing story alongside a compelling argument for why abortion simply can’t be an answer for women who want ultimate health and wholeness. She’ll also break down the politics of abortion in a climate that is increasingly confusing and polarized. Abortion Survivors Break Their Silence Considering Abortion? Inbox: Real Relationships After College Forming deep relationships with real people post-college can be a challenge. Lisa Anderson weighs in with feasible options for building community. Find us on YouTube

Trusting God with your election anxiety, plus Gary Thomas helps you find your worship “personality,” and how to ask for a raise at work. Featured musical artist: Nathan Tasker Roundtable: Managing Election Anxiety Candidate switches, assassination attempts, war escalations, policy battles and the inevitable name-calling and slander. Who’s ready for this election to be over? Our guests share their feelings around November 5th and how they are navigating conversations leading up to the big day. Is it fracturing their relationships? Are they just staying silent? And what about the outcome? How do we move forward in trusting God if our candidate doesn’t win? With anxiety levels at an all-time high, this timely conversation (including mental health advice from psychiatrist Karl Benzio) will help quell your fears and turn your heart to the One who holds the outcome. Leave Us a Voicemail Sacred Pathways: Nine Ways to Connect with God Culture: Find Your Spiritual Temperament The Bible tells us that God is everywhere. But the way you connect with Him might be very different from the way your best friend does. How can you discover the beauty of worshiping the Lord in a way that is especially meaningful to you? It may be through discovering your unique spiritual temperament. Pastor and author Gary Thomas shares the nine ways we can connect with God in study, worship and experience. He’ll also talk about how these pathways dovetail with standard spiritual disciplines to foster our maturity and sanctification. Sacred Pathways: Nine Ways to Connect with God Inbox: How to Ask for a Raise If you think you deserve a raise at work, how do you approach the topic with confidence and professionalism? Career expert Marshonda Dixon weighs in. Find us on YouTube

Good habits as a newlywed, plus a former White House staffer explains the 1960s’ influence on America, and navigating singleness beyond your 20s. Featured musical artist: Aaron Shust Roundtable: Good Marriage Habits Getting married is a big transition. Life rhythms are interrupted, and some of them change altogether. What you could do as a single — and when — is sometimes no longer an option. With that in mind, what are good habits to establish in the early weeks and months of marriage? Our guests recount their seasons as newlyweds and give ideas for establishing and maintaining rhythms with God, friends and others after you walk the aisle. Leave Us a Voicemail The 5 Love Languages: The Secret to Love That Lasts Culture: What the ‘60s Teach Us About Today The 1960s were a time of extreme political and social change in America. In many ways the changes weren’t good, and today’s citizens are reaping the consequences. How can we learn from the past and have hope for a better future? A proud history and culture nerd, Tim Goeglein has worked in the White House and beyond. He joins us for a thought-provoking conversation on how with God’s help, we can right our nation’s wrongs — one faith-filled citizen at a time. Stumbling Toward Utopia: How the 1960s Turned Into a National Nightmare and How We Can Revive the American Dream Link to Daily Citizen Inbox: Singleness Beyond Your 20s She’s neither married nor a parent. On top of wanting those things, she needs encouragement for how to do singleness well, especially now that she’s in her late 20s. Lisa Anderson weighs in. Find us on YouTube

Changing family dynamics during engagement and beyond, plus a continued conversation on stress, and focusing on your own faith walk before dating. Featured musical artist: All Sons & Daughters Roundtable: Cutting the Apron Strings Before Marriage The Old Testament book of Genesis describes how you’re supposed to leave your family of origin when you get married and “cleave” to your spouse. But how do you practically work through family dynamics? What do you do with clingy or controlling parents? How do you set habits, rhythms and traditions that define your new union? Our panel of marrieds shares ways they’ve learned to maintain a good relationship with their parents and in-laws while building and prioritizing their new life and relationships. Leave Us a Voicemail Culture: Stress Reduction (Part 2) Stressors are all around us: bills to pay, work deadlines, sorting through friend and family dynamics, and news headlines galore. What effect is stress having on our brains and bodies, and how do we cope with the fallout? Licensed professional counselor Eliza Huie discusses how you can tackle stress and find peace through lifestyle, helpful practices, and active dependence on God. In part two of our discussion, she brings up the need to recognize your limitations and she walks through the acronym NEAR, a helpful primer for dealing with anxiety. I’m Stressed: A Path from Pressure to Peace (Ask the Christian Counselor) Visit Eliza’s Website Inbox: He Ended a Relationship to Sort Out His Faith Our listener would grade his faith walk as a D-. As a result, he broke off a dating relationship, concerned that he has to figure out his faith first. Was this the right thing to do? Lisa Anderson weighs in. Find us on YouTube

Separating feelings from fact when it comes to love, plus what to do about stress, and coming to terms when something good didn’t happen. I’m Stressed: A Path from Pressure to Peace (Ask the Christian Counselor) Featured musical artist: Love and the Outcome Roundtable: How Do I Know I Love Someone? The feelings and excitement of being “in love” are celebrated everywhere from movies to music. But is love deeper than a mere feeling? Are feelings even an indicator that you actually love someone? Our guests get honest about how they’ve struggled with discerning the difference between love as a feeling and love as a choice. They’ll also explain love in the tough times and (yikes) loving the hard to love, including our enemies. Leave Us a Voicemail Watch This Segment on YouTube Culture: Stress Reduction (Part 1) Stressors are all around us: bills to pay, work deadlines, sorting through friend and family dynamics, and news headlines galore. What effect is stress having on our brains and bodies, and how do we cope with the fallout? Licensed professional counselor Eliza Huie discusses how you can tackle stress and find peace through lifestyle, helpful practices, and active dependence on God. In part one of our conversation she addresses good vs. bad types of stress and how to recognize the repercussions of stress on our lives. I’m Stressed: A Path from Pressure to Peace (Ask the Christian Counselor) Visit Eliza’s Website Inbox: I Had Faith but It Didn’t Happen Our listener had faith for something that was genuinely good, but he prayed and things still didn’t go as he’d hoped. How can he trust that God really cares? Counselor George Stahnke weighs in. Link to Counseling Services Find Tara Sun’s Story in Brio Magazine Find us on YouTube

Ideas for getting out and making friends, plus author Jerry Jenkins on boundaries with the opposite sex, and signs you’re in an abusive relationship. Featured musical artist: JJ Heller Roundtable: Make New Friends You may be asking, “Where are all the great people to hang out with?” Maybe, just maybe, they’re outside your front door? In order to find them, you may need to get creative. You may need to try something new. Visit new places. Join a new group. This week we discuss ways to step out of your comfort zone and meet quality people. Plus, if you’re single and looking for potential dates, we’ll offer thoughts on how to look without obsessing over whether every cute person could be the one. Leave Us a Voicemail Culture: Boundaries With the Opposite Sex Marriage experts talk often about creating boundaries when you’re married to guard against infidelity. But great boundaries with the opposite gender work best when you start early — when you’re dating someone, or even before. Setting up what bestselling novelist and author Jerry Jenkins calls “hedges” can be a great and practical way to do that. In our interview, he shares what hedges might look like in dating and marriage, how to set them, and how to avoid potential excuses and pitfalls when temptation strikes. Hedges: 7 Ways to Love Your Wife and Protect Your Marriage Visit Jerry’s Website Inbox: Am I in a Toxic Relationship? The word toxic is too often tossed around to describe people we simply don’t like. But what are signs that you’re in a truly toxic or abusive relationship? Counselor Tim Sanford weighs in. Link to Counseling Services Article: Just Annoying or Truly Unsafe?: How to Navigate Get-Togethers With Difficult Family Link: Help for Abusive Relationships Article: Destructive Conflict: Recognize It. Stop It. Link to Show: Setting Boundaries in Toxic Relationships Find us on YouTube

Weird things Christians should stop saying, plus trusting God in a waiting season, and how to own your behavior in a world that shrugs responsibility. Featured musical artist: About a Mile Roundtable: Enough With the Spiritual Platitudes God helps those who help themselves. I’m praying a hedge of protection. God will never give you more than you can handle. Some of our Christian clichés, while well-intentioned, can actually do more harm than good. Our guests share their least-favorite Christian cliches — plus ones they’re guilty of. They’ll also suggest better ways to encourage, exhort, and instruct others with our words. Article: 5 Christian Clichés that Need to Die Leave Us a Voicemail Culture: Waiting (Well) on God So much of life is spent waiting. Not just waiting in line or for your next Netflix series, but waiting to find a spouse, to have kids, to achieve your career goals and more. When your patience and even your faith is tested, how do you wait well? Pastor Mark Vroegop reminds us that waiting is a normal part of life and something that God uses to refine us. It’s not easy, though, so this conversation will give you things to cling to as you sort and struggle through your next wait. Waiting Isn’t a Waste: The Surprising Comfort of Trusting God in the Uncertainties of Life Visit Mark’s Website Inbox: Owning My Decisions and Behavior As a Christian, how do you stay accountable for your thoughts and actions in a world that would rather make excuses? Counselor Kari A weighs in. Link to Counseling Services Find us on YouTube

Honestly assessing your life as a 20-something, plus more with Debra Fileta on soul care, and how do you address personal shame after you’ve sinned? Featured musical artist: Tauren Wells Roundtable: Lessons Learned in Our 20s For some of us on this week’s panel, our 20s provided new opportunities, fun adventures, and lots of growth; for others, that decade is loaded with regrets. Yet all of us agree that our 20s were filled with trial and error as we learned to navigate life. As you review your 20s, how can you assess them honestly and learn from your mistakes without beating yourself up? We’ll give advice based on our lessons learned. Leave Us a Voicemail Culture: Caring for Your Soul (Part 2) Millennials and Gen Z report unprecedented rates of burnout and exhaustion. When our to-do lists keep growing and our frustrations add up, how do we find strength and stamina to continue? Our friend Debra Fileta shares how to create life-giving rhythms of caring for your soul, and why doing so honors God. In part two of our discussion, she outlines how to establish good boundaries, maintain your inner world, and savor life. Soul Care: Find Life-Giving Rhythms, Live Restored, Avoid Burnout, Discover Unspeakable Joy Visit Debra’s Website Inbox: What to Do With Sin and Shame We tend to isolate ourselves when we sin, especially if we can’t shake the sense of shame that lingers. Is it possible to break free? Counselor Tim Sanford offers hope. Link to Counseling Services Find us on YouTube

Living out your faith in a dark world, plus Debra Fileta on Jesus’ example of soul care, and dating someone in a different life stage. Soul Care: Find Life-Giving Rhythms, Live Restored, Avoid Burnout, Discover Unspeakable Joy Featured musical artist: Zach Williams Roundtable: When the World Is Messed Up Inflammatory news headlines, political division, divorce, abuse, people denying their Christian faith. When our world feels especially dark, what’s the godliest and most loving way for Christians to respond? Our guests wrestle with this topic, discuss how to have hope, and show us where Jesus is in all the chaos. Leave Us a Voicemail Culture: Caring for Your Soul (Part 1) Millennials and Gen Z report unprecedented rates of burnout and exhaustion. When our to-do lists keep growing and our frustrations add up, how do we find strength and stamina to continue? Our friend Debra Fileta shares how to create life-giving rhythms of caring for your soul, and why doing so honors God. In part one, she discusses sources of burnout and how we can learn from Jesus’ example of rest. Soul Care: Find Life-Giving Rhythms, Live Restored, Avoid Burnout, Discover Unspeakable Joy Visit Debra’s Website Inbox: Too Much Drama to Date? They started dating after he picked her up from a car accident. But he’s currently in grad school and she just finished her master’s degree. With these and other factors at play, is pursuing a dating relationship the best move? Counselor Glenn Lutjens weighs in. Link to Counseling Services Find us on YouTube

Processing sadness, plus how our bodies glorify our Creator, and should you barter with God? Featured musical artist: Covenant Worship Roundtable: When Sorrow Runs Deep The loss of a loved one; betrayal by a trusted friend; local and international tragedies. We live in a broken world, and heartbreaking things happen. When grief and tragedy strike, how do you process the sadness? Is it possible to continue your work, your commitments, your routines as you seek to make sense of things? Our guests share how they’ve learned to find comfort from God in the midst of deep sorrow. Leave Us a Voicemail Link to Counseling Services Culture: How a Healthy Body and Mind Glorify God The human body is incredibly complex. Science keeps revealing new truths about how God has designed us, leading to insights in how we can best steward how we’re made. Stephen Ko is a medical doctor, public health specialist and pastor. He offers motivation and methods for taking care of our physical and mental health, and why doing so is connected to our spiritual well-being. Faith Embodied: Glorifying God with Our Physical and Spiritual Health Visit Stephen Ko’s Website Inbox: Can I Barter With God? Our listener really wants to be married, but he also wants his dad to get saved. Is it OK to offer up a chance at marriage as a barter to God so his dad can come to Christ? Counselor Jerry Jones weighs in. Link to Counseling Services Donate Now Find us on YouTube

When others don’t seem to understand you, plus the pros and cons of artificial intelligence, and God-honoring ways to spend your free time. Featured musical artist: Hollyn Roundtable: That’s Not What I Meant We’ve all felt misunderstood — whether in our personalities, friendships, opinions or even intentions. So how do we respond when that happens? If you feel like people don’t get you, you’ll be encouraged to know you’re not alone. This week’s guests share personal stories and tips for navigating the frustrations of misunderstanding. Leave Us a Voicemail Culture: How Should We Engage With A.I.? Artificial intelligence is here to stay. From medicine to transportation to Bible translation, innovators rely on the marvels of A.I. to expedite searches, aggregate information, and push the boundaries of invention. But are there dangers that A.I. could kill creativity and even relationships? What does the Bible say about it? John Greco shares his researched perspective on using A.I. appropriately without letting it run our lives. God, Technology, and the Christian Life Article by John Greco: The Promise of AI Visit John Greco’s Website Inbox: Is My Free Time Honoring God? The time we call our own — away from work and other obligations — can be some of our most treasured moments. But does it matter that your free time is being used for God’s glory? If so, how can you be confident that it is? Lisa Anderson weighs in. Find us on YouTube

The goal in dating, plus how to process the 2024 U.S. election, and is there too much intimacy in studying the Bible with your date? Featured musical artist: Phil Wickham Roundtable: The Purpose of Dating Why should you date? Is it to casually have fun or to seek a marriage partner? What are the pitfalls of each, and is there a balance between the two? Our guests share their opinions on what dating should look like, what it means to get serious, and how to not get too worked up in the process. Leave Us a Voicemail Culture: Confidence and Compassion for Election Season The landscape of the 2024 election season is changing daily. What doesn’t seem to change is the collective mudslinging, hand-wringing and doomsday-predicting among candidates, pundits and voters. How can Christians rise above the fray and trust God in all things? How do we make God-honoring choices from the ones laid before us? And how do we love others in the process? Summit Ministries’ Dr. Jeff Myers helps us frame our perspective and navigate election season with confidence and grace. Truth Changes Everything: How People of Faith Can Transform the World in Times of Crisis Summit Ministries Website Politics Without the Passion Inbox: If you and your boyfriend or girlfriend want to grow spiritually, praying and reading Scripture together can be a great step. But is there a danger in becoming too spiritually intimate before marriage? Counselor Jerry Jones weighs in. Link to Counseling Services Find us on YouTube

Being content in every circumstance, plus tips for connecting with your neighbors, and responding when someone confesses a sin struggle. Featured musical artist: Je’kob Roundtable: Finding Contentment Opportunities to buy into the lie, “I’d be happy if I had (fill in the blank),” surround us everywhere we go. But what if there were a way to truly be content regardless of the circumstance or season? Our guests share their struggles with contentment and how they’ve learned to seek trust and gratitude instead. Leave Us a Voicemail Culture: Neighborhood Watch In a world of increasing isolation, it’s easy to overlook our neighbors. But what if you discovered creative opportunities to connect with and be a light to the people on your street and in your community? Chris and Elizabeth McKinney felt God’s call to do just that. They’re here this week to share their best strategies for becoming a friend to the people (literally) around you. Neighborhoods Reimagined: How the Beatitudes Inspire Our Call to be Good Neighbors Placed for a Purpose Podcast Inbox: When a Friend Confesses Sin What should you do if a friend confesses a sin struggle to you? Counselor George Stahnke weighs in. Link to Counseling Services Find us on YouTube

How to really get to know people, plus Kris Swiatocho gives advice to her 20-something self, and why are many Christians OK with gossip? Featured musical artist: Darlene Zschech Roundtable: Study Others to Show You Care When you meet someone, he or she makes an impression on you. But truly getting to know someone takes intention, time and effort. Our guests discuss lessons they’ve learned in forming connections and going deeper in their understanding of others. They also share some of the hallmarks of a good friendship. Leave Us a Voicemail Culture: Lessons From a Lifelong Single (Part 2) Kris Swiatocho had a rough start as a young adult. She admits she wasn’t walking with the Lord, so after a season of partying and poor relationship choices, Kris saw the chance to join a Christian community — and took it. After witnessing what churches do well and not so well in ministering to the unmarried, she started The Singles Network Ministries. Looking back on all she’s learned, she shares advice she’d give to her young adult self. Intentional Relationships for Singles: Prepare, Plan, Pursue, Propose Visit Kris’s Website Inbox: Why Are Christians OK With Gossip? Does it seem like Christians in your church and friend groups are OK with gossip and white lies? Why is this, and what can we do about it? Counselor Angel Perez weighs in. Guest: Angel Perez Link to Counseling Services Find us on YouTube

Don’t be fake while dating, plus Kris Swiatocho’s testimony as a single adult, and should a guy ask a girl out even after he’s been friendzoned? Featured musical artist: Jeremy Rosado Roundtable: Dating as the Real You It’s great to date someone who’s comfortable in their own skin. So why do so many of us try to impress a date by acting like someone else? Whether we fake interest in their hobbies or we exaggerate (lie) about our accomplishments, we think becoming a version of someone they might like is better than being just plain old us. But no one wants to date a poser, so our panel delves into a spirited discussion on the topic and gives encouragement to be real, whatever the cost. Leave Us a Voicemail Culture: Lessons From a Lifelong Single (Part 1) Kris Swiatocho had a rough start as a young adult. She admits she wasn’t walking with the Lord, so after a season of partying and poor relationship choices, Kris saw the chance to join a Christian community — and took it. After witnessing what churches do well and not so well in ministering to the unmarried, she started The Singles Network Ministries. Today she speaks to singles around the world about friendship, dating, finding community, and following Jesus — whatever your relationship status. Intentional Relationships for Singles: Prepare, Plan, Pursue, Propose Visit Kris’s Website Inbox: After She’s Friendzoned You A girl at church has already friendzoned him. Should he still try to ask her out, or just let it be? Counselor Patrick Hill weighs in. Link to Counseling Services Find us on YouTube

A quiz to celebrate America’s birthday, plus Dr. Ken Wilgus on relating to your parents as an adult, and should you be passionate about your job? Featured musical artist: Daniel Bashta Roundtable: How Well Do You Know the U.S.A.? How many Justices of the Supreme Court can you name? What was the last state admitted to the Union? What was the first U.S. capital city? In honor of Independence Day, we’re taking a quiz on these and other fun United States trivia questions. So grab a pen and paper, keep track of your answers, and test your knowledge of United States history and government. Leave Us a Voicemail Culture: We’re All Adults Here Getting along with your mom and dad as an adult has its challenges. What do your parents want from you, and what if they’re having a hard time letting go? Conversely, are you taking ownership of your life and responsibilities? Do you care about them and their interests? Dr. Ken Wilgus has counseled families for decades. He joins us this week to provide guidelines for healthy conversations and behaviors between parents and adult children. Praying the Scriptures for Your Adult Children: Trusting God with the Ones You Love Visit Ken’s Website Inbox: Should I Feel “Called” to My Job? You want fulfilling work, but does that mean you have to be passionate about your job? Lisa Anderson shares from her career experience. Link to Counseling Services Find us on YouTube

Women discuss the implications of modesty, plus more with Dr. Jake Porter on singles and sexuality, and can you save money in a spend-centric culture? Guests: Georgia Dunham, Megan Linser, Taylor Loftus, Jake Porter, Glenn Lutjens Featured musical artist: Kerrie Roberts Roundtable: Men and Women Talk Modesty (Part 2) Many of us heard about the importance of modesty growing up: “Dress appropriately.” “Don’t cause your friend to stumble.” “What would Jesus do?” But what is modesty, what’s the biblical instruction on it, and is it just about clothes (or a lack of them)? This week we conclude a two-part discussion on the underlying motivations and practical application of modesty. A panel of women shares how modesty is a matter of the heart, what they appreciate from brothers in Christ, and some of the challenges women face in the world of fashion. Guests: Georgia Dunham, Megan Linser, Taylor Loftus Leave Us a Voicemail Culture: Singles and Sexuality (Part 2) What if sexuality is about so much more than having sex and not breaking the rules? What are the unique takeaways for singles in particular? Dr. Jake Porter is a therapist who has researched extensively on sexuality, especially as it manifests apart from marriage and sex. He joins us for a provocative discussion featuring findings from his own background and the state of singleness in the United States today. Guest: Jake Porter Featured resource: Rethinking Sexuality: God's Design and Why It Matters Visit Jake's Website Inbox: Saving Money in a Spending Culture How can you save money when your friends and others are spending at the drop of a hat? Counselor Glenn Lutjens weighs in. Guest: Glenn Lutjens Link to Counseling Services Find us on YouTube

Men discuss the implications of modesty, plus Dr. Jake Porter on singles and sexuality, and what about dating couples who act married? Featured musical artist: Nathan Tasker Roundtable: Men and Women Talk Modesty (Part 1) Many of us heard about the importance of modesty growing up: “Dress appropriately.” “Don’t cause your friend to stumble.” “What would Jesus do?” But what is modesty, what’s the biblical instruction on it, and is it just about clothes (or a lack of them)? This week we begin a two-part discussion on the underlying motivations and practical application of modesty. In part one, a panel of guys shares how modesty is a matter of the heart, what they appreciate from sisters in Christ, and their encouragement to girls who feel overlooked. (Next week, the women have their turn.) Leave Us a Voicemail Culture: Singles and Sexuality (Part 1) What if sexuality is about so much more than having sex and not breaking the rules? What are the unique takeaways for singles in particular? Dr. Jake Porter is a therapist who has researched extensively on sexuality, especially as it manifests apart from marriage and sex. He joins us for a provocative discussion featuring findings from his own background and the state of singleness in the United States today. Rethinking Sexuality: God’s Design and Why It Matters Visit Jake’s Website Inbox: Should a Dating Couple Act Married? Is there a point in a dating relationship where a couple can and should act married? Why or why not? Counselor Jenny Coffey weighs in. Link to Counseling Services Find us on YouTube Link To Hope Restored

What will make this a great summer? Plus, a biblical approach to grief and trauma, and does sporadic Bible reading make you a bad Christian? Featured musical artist: Aaron Shust Roundtable: Summer Planning Tips Summer is upon us, and that means long days, warm weather, outdoor activities and vacations (except for you southern hemisphere folks — sorry!). In order to maximize the season, should you plan your every decision or be as spontaneous as possible? Our guests share what they’re excited about doing this summer, how they pace themselves with summer obligations, and they’ll offer ideas for making summer unique, fun and fulfilling. Leave Us a Voicemail Culture: Healing What You Can’t Erase All of us have experienced grief, hardship, and even trauma. When your soul feels exhausted, where do you go for help? Christopher Cook is candid about how the death of his mother followed by an unexpected medical diagnosis sent him into a tailspin. He was faced with giving in or pushing through. Biblical truth plus concrete strategies for addressing toxic thoughts helped him choose the latter. Learn about it all in this week’s conversation. Healing What You Can’t Erase: Transform Your Mental, Emotional, and Spiritual Health from the Inside Out Inbox: Should I Read the Bible Daily? If you don’t read the Bible every day, does that make you a terrible Christian? Counselor Rob Jackson weighs in. Link to Counseling Services Find us on YouTube

Questions for the Boundless team, plus part two of Joshua Broome’s journey out of the porn industry, and interacting with LGBT coworkers. Featured musical artist: Mosaic MSC Roundtable: Your Questions, Our Answers We’re mixing it up on this week’s Roundtable by answering questions you sent to us on a wide variety of topics. Some of what you’ll hear: Is love transactional? How do I move on from a situationship? Can I stay connected to siblings who live far away? Tune in for answers to these questions and more! Leave Us a Voicemail Culture: My Journey Out of the Porn Industry (Part 2) Joshua Broome was one of the porn industry’s top stars — but he was lonely, depressed, and without purpose. He eventually contemplated suicide, but an encounter with a bank teller put him on a different path. Where he went from there is the substance of his miraculous story. In part two of his testimony, Joshua shares about leaving the sex industry, meeting his future wife, and coming to Christ. 7 Lies That Will Ruin Your Life: What My Journey from Porn Star to Preacher Taught Me About the Truth That Sets Us Free Watch Our Bonus Interview with Joshua Broome Inbox: Your Relationship With LGBT Coworkers As a Christian, how can you interact with and show Christ’s love to coworkers who identify as LGBT? Our friend Jeff Johnston weighs in. Link to Counseling Services Find us on YouTube

Being fun vs. serious in dating, plus part one of Joshua Broome’s journey out of the porn industry, and when a woman wants marriage but not kids. Featured musical artist: Danen Kane Roundtable: Balancing Fun and Intention in Dating Some of us gravitate toward lightheartedness and fun, while others are naturally more measured and serious. When it comes to dating, how do you enjoy spending time with a person while also getting to know important information about them? Our guests share ideas for finding the balance between fun and facts in a growing relationship. Leave Us a Voicemail Culture: My Journey Out of the Porn Industry (Part 1) Joshua Broome was one of the porn industry’s top stars — but he was lonely, depressed, and without purpose. He eventually contemplated suicide, but an encounter with a bank teller put him on a different path. Where he went from there is the substance of his miraculous story. In part one of his testimony, Joshua shares how his difficult home life as a child and teen influenced decisions he made later on. 7 Lies That Will Ruin Your Life: What My Journey from Porn Star to Preacher Taught Me About the Truth That Sets Us Free Inbox: She Doesn’t Want Kids Is it wrong if a woman wants to get married but doesn’t want kids? Counselor Kari A weighs in. Link to Counseling Services Find us on YouTube

Mental health strategies for everyday life, plus more on how singles can make the most of today, and handling awkward same-gender friend dynamics. Featured musical artist: Ginny Owens Roundtable: Mental Health Self-Care May is Mental Health Awareness Month. Whether or not you have a particular mental health diagnosis, we all need to practice self-care in this area. Our panelists discuss guarding our minds and spirits with helpful strategies including good sleep, friendships, boundaries and more. Leave Us a Voicemail Culture: Loving Singleness Today (Part 2) There are two enemies of enjoying your single season: yesterday and tomorrow. When you fixate on either one for too long, you miss opportunities to make the most of today. Ryan Wekenman is a single young adult, pastor, and author of the book, “Single Today.” In part two of our conversation, he’ll answer questions sent in by show listeners. Single Today: Conquer Yesterday’s Regrets, Ditch Tomorrow’s Worries, and Thrive Right Where You Are Inbox: She’s Making Me Uncomfortable She met a girl at a dance class who is acting in a way that makes our listener uncomfortable. Is this a reason for concern or suspicion? What should our listener do? Counselor Joannie DeBrito weighs in. Link to Counseling Services Find us on YouTube

Choosing peace when you are angry, plus Ryan Wekenman challenges singles to make the most of today, and how should we respond when God seems silent? Featured musical artist: James Peden Roundtable: Choosing Peace Over Contention You hear some news you don’t like, the person whose behavior drives you crazy just called you out, or you have to deal with a difficult family member. These situations are prime opportunities to get you riled up, so how do you prioritize peace when you’d rather lash out? Our guests describe their biggest triggers, why they react, and how they manage their emotions and behaviors with God’s help. Leave Us a Voicemail Culture: Loving Singleness Today (Part 1) There are two enemies of enjoying your single season: yesterday and tomorrow. When you fixate on either one for too long, you miss opportunities to make the most of today. Ryan Wekenman is a single young adult, pastor, and author of the book, “Single Today.” In part one of our conversation, he’ll discuss some of his own journey in singleness, plus why we’re so prone to fixate on regrets and fears instead of the joys right in front of us. Single Today: Conquer Yesterday’s Regrets, Ditch Tomorrow’s Worries, and Thrive Right Where You Are Inbox: When God Seems Silent Most of us go through seasons where it feels like God is distant and refuses to answer our questions. When this happens, how can we stay hopeful and keep our hearts in a healthy place? Counselor Linda Miller weighs in. Link to Counseling Services Find us on YouTube

Learning from a breakup, plus part two on finding joy in difficulty, and a correct interpretation of Jesus’ command to “turn the other cheek.” Featured musical artist: Ellie Holcomb Roundtable: Overcoming a “Square One” Dating Mindset Going through a breakup can be one of the toughest things to work through emotionally. Many daters refer to it as feeling back at “square one.” But what if there’s a more constructive way to view a breakup than taking an all-or-nothing approach? Our panel talks about the pitfalls of a “square one” mindset in dating, and how breakups can actually teach you valuable relationship lessons. Leave Us a Voicemail Culture: Finding Joy in a Messed-Up World (Part 2) Everyone’s chasing happiness, but do you sometimes feel like everything around you is falling apart? The fact is: Life is hard, but God is good. Brant Hansen reminds us of this as he challenges us to live in joy despite our circumstances. In part two of our discussion, he’ll encourage you to laugh at yourself and live with eternal hope as a Christian. Life is Hard. God is Good. Let’s Dance.: Experiencing Real Joy in a World Gone Mad Inbox: Set Boundaries or Turn the Other Cheek? Jesus said that if someone strikes you on the cheek, to turn the other one to them as well. But we also are to create good boundaries with others, so what’s a correct response when people treat us with disrespect and even violence? Counselor George Stahnke weighs in. Link to Counseling Services Find us on YouTube

How to use alone time productively, plus Brant Hansen on seeking joy in discouraging circumstances, and what to do when you feel devalued as a single. Featured musical artist: About a Mile Roundtable: The Value of Being Alone If you’re an introvert, you cherish being alone, while extroverts may find alone time more challenging. Regardless of personality type, all of us can benefit from solitude — or be in danger of using it excessively or unwisely. Our guests discuss what helps them enjoy time alone, why silence can be a wonderful thing, and how they use solo time to recharge, process and create, rather than simply escape. Leave Us a Voicemail Culture: Finding Joy in a Messed-Up World (Part 1) Everyone’s chasing happiness, but do you sometimes feel like everything around you is falling apart? The fact is: Life is hard, but God is good. Brant Hansen reminds us of this as he challenges us to live in joy despite our circumstances. In part one of our conversation, he explains that he’s naturally a pessimist, and shares how he overcame a difficult childhood. Inbox: When You Feel Looked Down On As a Single Adult Many Christian singles feel as if marriage is put on a pedestal while their own relationship status is looked down upon. If you’re in that spot, how do you walk with God faithfully and maintain a sense of hope? Lisa Anderson weighs in. Find us on YouTube

Fun Books and Serious Books: Episode 847 Reading both fun and thought-provoking books, plus Jordan Raynor answers career questions, and should you fall into a relationship or pursue one? Featured musical artist: Jonathan Cain Roundtable: Reading to Think — Or for Fun? What’s on your reading list? What genres do you gravitate toward? Whether fiction or nonfiction, most books tend to either make us think and learn, or they allow us to relax and escape. It’s good to have a balance of both types, so our guests share their preferences, how they stretch their reading horizons, and what books they recommend you add to your reading lineup. Leave Us a Voicemail Culture: The Sacredness of Secular Work (Part 2) It’s easy to think your job matters to God only if you’re a pastor, missionary, or ministry worker. But what does God think of “secular” jobs? What if our jobs are just “average”? What if we’re not even sure what we want to do for a career? Jordan Raynor is an expert at helping people get connected to their calling, and this week he answers listener questions about navigating your workplace and career options. The Sacredness of Secular Work: 4 Ways Your Job Matters for Eternity (Even When You’re Not Sharing the Gospel) Inbox: Can a Relationship “Just Happen”? When it comes to romantic journeys, some people seem to unexpectedly meet someone, while other relationships are the result of intentional pursuit. Is one way better? What’s the balance between providence and effort? Counselor Glenn Lutjens weighs in. Link to Counseling Services Find us on YouTube

Your willingness to change, plus Jordan Raynor on why your job’s important, and when a ministry leader is dating a non-Christian. Featured musical artist: Love and the Outcome Roundtable: What Do You Need to Change? One of the most difficult yet rewarding things about adulthood is being honest with yourself when change needs to happen. Whether it’s making better choices, breaking bad habits, spending time with God, or improving your relationships, it’s healthy to own your stuff and start making adjustments. Our guests admit some of the struggles they’ve had to overcome, how they became aware of them, and what motivated them to push forward toward change and growth. Boundless Article: I Want Honest Feedback - But Not Really Boundless Article: God’s Sovereignty Doesn’t Excuse My Lazy Boundless Article: God’s Promptness is Worth Practicing Leave Us a Voicemail Culture: The Sacredness of Secular Work (Part 1) It’s easy to think your job matters to God only if you’re a pastor, missionary, or ministry worker. But what does God think of “secular” jobs? What if our jobs are just “average”? What if we’re not even sure what we want to do for a career? Jordan Raynor is an expert at helping people get connected to their calling, and this week he joins us to explain why your job has eternal value, even if it seems insignificant. The Sacredness of Secular Work: 4 Ways Your Job Matters for Eternity (Even When You’re Not Sharing the Gospel) Inbox: When a Ministry Leader Is Dating a Non-Christian She recently found out one of her friends, who happens to be a church ministry leader, is now dating a non-believer. Is it time for a hard conversation? Our counselor friend Kari weighs in. Link to Counseling Services Boundless Article: Why I’m Attracted to Guys Who Aren’t Good for Me

The influence of music, plus more from Jeanine Amapola on healthy perspectives, and Lisa Anderson shares life-altering moments in her walk with God. Featured musical artist: Austin Stone Worship Roundtable: The Power and Influence of Music It’s nearly impossible to escape the influence of music in today’s world, and with so many streaming services, curating your own sound experience is easier than ever. While there are enough styles of music to suit every mood, it’s also wise to use discernment on how we consume and internalize the songs we hear. Our guests share what music they like, how they find it, what’s nostalgic and what’s new — then they finish by each listing some of their favorite songs. Leave Us a Voicemail Culture: Healthy Perspectives for Young Adults (Part 2) What does it look like to be a truly happy and healthy person? Podcaster and young adult influencer Jeanine Amapola shares what it took for her to become a better version of who God made her to be. In part two of our conversation, she addresses the need for good habits, how to make godly choices, and living with a sense of adventure. Becoming Happy & Healthy: Real Life Advice on Friendship, Dating, Career, and Everything Else You Care About Inbox: Lisa’s Big “God Moments” The longer you walk with God, the more you will experience life-changing moments in your faith and how you live it out. Lisa Anderson recaps what some of those moments have been for her.

How long should my quiet time be? Plus Jeanine Amapola on healthy perspectives, and when someone ill withholds the news from family and friends. Featured musical artist: Abandon Roundtable: Am I Spending Enough Time With God? Read the Bible. Go to church. Listen to worship music. Pray. All of these are encouraged in our Christian walk. But is there a “magic number” of how much time we should dedicate to God when our schedules are loaded with work, friends, family and other activities? Our guests share strategies that have helped them make time for God, what “enough time” looks like for them, and why prioritizing God matters. Leave Us a Voicemail Culture: Healthy Perspectives for Young Adults (Part 1) What does it look like to be a truly happy and healthy person? Podcaster and young adult influencer Jeanine Amapola shares what it took for her to become a better version of who God made her to be. In part one of our conversation, she shares about a life-changing trip she took in 2019, how to submit your expectations to God, and embracing the life He gave you with confidence. Becoming Happy & Healthy: Real Life Advice on Friendship, Dating, Career, and Everything Else You Care About Inbox: Should Someone Who’s Sick Inform Others? When someone gets a serious diagnosis, should they tell family and friends or is it OK to keep quiet? Counselor Tim Sanford weighs in.

Unique ways to enjoy spring, plus trusting God with your vocational dreams, and why should we pray if God’s plan will happen anyway? Featured musical artist: Hollyn Roundtable: Spring is Here! What’s your favorite part about spring? For some, it’s the warm weather; for others it may be flowers blooming, spring activities or something else. This week we gather around the table to share why we love this time of year, what we look forward to, and what common and unique activities might inspire you to make the most of spring. Leave Us a Voicemail Culture: Making Sense of Your Big Dreams Are your dreams big enough? Maybe you have big dreams but are afraid to admit them. You want to follow God anywhere, use your talents and passions, and see lives changed — but what about being comfortable? What about family? What about earning a paycheck and building your 401K? Wai Jia Tam felt the call as a teenager to help underserved children around the world. She also wanted to be a doctor, earn money and please her parents. She shares her incredible story of how God unfolded and enabled her dream one step at a time. God has used Wai Jia in ways she never imagined, and her encouragement to us is to never underestimate what God can do to move us for His purposes and kingdom. Dream Brave: A Dare to Live by Faith When You Feel Too Small Find Wai Jia’s Website Wai Jia’s Instagram Articles by Wai Jia Tam Inbox: Why Pray if God’s in Control? We know that God is sovereign and His plans will prevail. If that’s the case, why should we pray? Counselor Jerry Jones weighs in.

How to maximize your weekends, plus Nancy Pearcey talks toxic masculinity, and should you tell a guy at church you want him to ask you out? Featured musical artist: Kerrie Roberts Roundtable: Ready for the Weekend! We all look forward to the weekend, but how should we make the best use of our time and freedom? Our guests share what they love about Saturdays and Sundays, plus a few helpful ideas for prioritizing and managing our time, and common pitfalls to avoid that can gobble up precious hours and leave us feeling unproductive. Leave Us a Voicemail Culture: The Truth About Toxic Masculinity Men today hear cultural messages on what it means to be a man: make lots of money, drive a nice car, date a beautiful girl; in short, be powerful and successful. But these things are self-driven and the opposite of what God calls masculinity: leading selflessly; protecting, providing for, and serving others. Professor Nancy Pearcey is a well-known researcher and writer on this topic, and joins us to separate the truth from the lies when it comes to appropriate manifestations of manhood in our families, churches and communities. The Toxic War on Masculinity: How Christianity Reconciles the Sexes Find Nancy’s Website Inbox: Should I Tell Him I Like Him? She’s known a guy at her church for two years and has hung out with him socially many times. She really wants him to ask her out, so is it time to admit her feelings? Lisa Anderson weighs in. Boundless Episode: I’ll Ask You Out If…: Episode 138 Boundless Article: Is it OK for a woman to ask out a man?

Know if the person you’re dating is maturing or not, plus overcoming body image issues, and favorite foods of the Boundless team. Featured musical artist: David Dunn Roundtable: Prioritizing Growth in Dating Maturing together can be one of the greatest joys of dating someone. But how can you tell if the person you’re seeing is truly pursuing growth — or if they’re all talk and no action? Our panel shares strategies for assessing if your significant other is actually maturing, how to not be someone’s Holy Spirit, and why you need to be humble and teachable yourself. Leave Us a Voicemail Culture: A Conversation About Body Image Dr. Becky Taylor battled disordered eating and body image as a teenager and young adult — a struggle that still has ramifications in her life today. She’s now an eating disorder expert and professor at Colorado Christian University where she daily counsels young adults on body image issues of all kinds (e.g. not just food). In our conversation, she shows us how to embrace our God-given identities, how to recognize wrong perspectives, and where to start on a journey toward healing — including a powerful lesson from the children’s book “When God Made You.” Table for Two: Biblical Counsel for Eating Disorders Link to Counseling Services Find Becky Taylor Inbox: What’s Your Favorite Food? We received a light-hearted question about our favorite foods. The entire Boundless team weighs in with our opinions!

What your style aesthetic says about you, plus finding value in entertainment, and how to be a better listener. Featured musical artist: Nathan Tasker Roundtable: Trendsetters and Old Souls Fashion choices, home decor, life hacks, music and more. All of these are indicators of our culture — or our resistance to it. When it comes to being current or wishing for times past, where do you fit in? Our guests describe their place on the cultural continuum, talk through the pros and cons, and suggest how to appreciate people who are different from yourself. Leave Us a Voicemail Culture: What Good Entertainment Teaches Us We can learn a lot from the entertainment we consume — especially films and television. Understanding a culture, or someone’s unique experience, or even learning about history — all of these can be accomplished by watching a well-told story. This week our Plugged In experts address how movies can be good conversation starters, and they’ll give us some of their best recommendations to get us going. Becoming a Screen-Savvy Family: How to Navigate a Media-Saturated World–and Why We Should Link to Plugged In Website Inbox: Am I Talking Too Much? Our listener says that when she gets together with friends, she finds herself talking too much. She wants to be a better listener, but how? One of our counselors weighs in. Link to Counseling Services