
The Jim Wallis Podcast
251 episodes — Page 2 of 6

S6 Ep 106Faith, Fear, and Resistance: Rev. Carlos Malave on ICE, Immigrant Dignity, and Christian Solidarity
Join Jim Wallis in this compelling episode as he sits down with Reverend Carlos Malave, President of the Latino Christian National Network, to discuss the escalating impact of immigration enforcement, ICE militarization, and the courageous resistance rising from Latino communities and faith leaders. Drawing from powerful personal stories and urgent national developments, Rev. Malave exposes the deep fear gripping immigrant neighborhoods, the tangible effects on church life, and how Christians are responding with bold acts of compassion and nonviolent resistance. Discover how policy, faith, and human dignity intersect in today’s America and why unity, courage, and hope are more crucial than ever for a just future. Don’t miss this eye-opening conversation that challenges, inspires, and calls listeners to action.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

S6 Ep 118Chasing Hope and Truth: Jim Wallis with Nicholas Kristof
Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Nicholas Kristof joins Jim Wallis for a powerful, urgent conversation about the moral crisis facing America and the world. Together, they explore the devastating and deadly impacts of humanitarian aid cuts, the role of faith and truth in public life, and the stories of real people affected by policy decisions. Tune in for a deeply human discussion on justice, empathy, and the courage to speak out.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

S6 Ep 117Rediscovering Justice: Jim Wallis at Chautauqua – Faith, Action, and the Moral Compass for Our Times
Join Rev. Jim Wallis as he brings the spirit of Chautauqua to The Jim Wallis Podcast. This episode, recorded during his week as Chaplain and Preacher at the historic Chautauqua Institution, explores how the teachings of Jesus offer a moral compass in times of national crisis. Drawing on powerful stories from the Senate steps and personal moments with his family, Jim unpacks foundational biblical texts—like Matthew 25 and the Good Samaritan—to challenge us to love our neighbors, defend the vulnerable, and reclaim justice as central to faith.Don’t miss the full experience! Watch Jim’s Sunday Sermon and all his weekday sermons (Monday through Friday) on the Chautauqua Institution’s YouTube channel. Discover more about Chautauqua’s interfaith community and its commitment to dialogue, faith, and justice at chq.org. Chautauqua Institution’s YouTube channel has a wealth of resources for lifelong learning, faith and community. Available at www.youtube.com/chautauquainstitution/join (to join the monthly membership to watch programs for as little as $2.99/month) or watch our complimentary programs by browsing our channel at www.youtube.com/chautauquainstitution See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

S6 Ep 116Faith in the Line of Fire: Jim Wallis on Political Violence, Minnesota, and the Christian Response
Rev. Jim Wallis confronts the alarming rise in political violence since 2016, sharing personal stories from the recent Minnesota shootings and challenging Christians to reclaim nonviolence. Drawing on data, faith, and history, Wallis calls for courage, truth, and peacemaking in an age of fear and intimidation.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Ep 105Standing for a Moral Budget: Faith Leaders Demand Justice on Capitol Hill
In this powerful episode of the Jim Wallis Podcast, faith leaders from across America gather at the U.S. Capitol during Pentecost Week to protest the proposed federal budget. Through prayer, song, and prophetic witness, they call on Congress to reject policies that harm the most vulnerable. Hear stirring speeches, moving music, and a call to action for a moral budget that reflects the values of justice, compassion, and care for "the least of these." Join Jim Wallis and a diverse coalition as they demand that faith and conscience guide our nation’s leaders.Support a Moral Budget by signing an online petition here.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

S6 Ep 115Sen. Chris Coons on Pentecost Witness, Faith, Justice & the Moral Budget
Sen. Chris Coons joins Jim Wallis to expose the moral crisis in the Trump budget—devastating cuts to Medicaid & SNAP, tax breaks for the wealthy, and the urgent Pentecost Witness for a Moral Budget event at the steps of the Capitol on June 10th of Pentecost Week . Discover how faith and justice are shaping this critical debate for millions of vulnerable Americans.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

S6 Ep 114Trump Budget Cuts: A $1.1 Trillion Transfer From the Least of These to the Wealthiest of Them
In this powerful episode, Jim Wallis interviews Brendan Duke, Senior Director of Federal Budget Policy at the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities to break down the Trump administration’s proposed budget cuts to SNAP (food stamps) and Medicaid. Duke explains how these changes could strip food and healthcare from millions of low-income Americans, while redirecting $1.1 trillion in benefits to the wealthiest households. Discover what these cuts mean for families, the moral implications, and why paperwork requirements are more damaging than they seem.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

S6 Ep 113How Will We Know When We’ve Lost Our Democracy? Jim Wallis & Steven Levitsky on Courage in Troubled Times
Harvard political scientist Steven Levitsky joins Jim Wallis to discuss the urgent threats facing American democracy, the rise of “competitive authoritarianism,” and why courage is needed now more than ever. Drawing on Levitsky’s recent New York Times column and global examples, this conversation explores the costs of dissent, the role of faith and universities, and practical hope for renewal. Listen for insight, challenge, and a call to action.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

S6 Ep 112A New Era: Pope Leo XIV, Francis’s Legacy, and the Future of Catholic Social Teaching – with John Carr
What does the election of the first American pope mean for the Catholic Church and the world? Jim Wallis sits down with John Carr, founder of the Initiative on Catholic Social Thought and Public Life at Georgetown, to explore the historic rise of Pope Leo XIV. Together, they reflect on the transformative legacy of Pope Francis, the significance of Pope Leo’s name, and the enduring power of Catholic social teaching. Discover how this new papacy could reshape global faith, justice, and public life-especially in the United States. Tune in for an insightful conversation on unity, hope, and the challenges ahead for Catholics everywhere.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

S6 Ep 111Faith, Justice, and the Power of Witness: Jim Wallis Interviews Dr. Barbara Williams-Skinner
Take Action: Be part of the movement! Join the Pentecost Witness for a Moral Budget and help shape a future rooted in justice and equity. Learn more and sign up here!Join Jim Wallis for a compelling conversation with Dr. Barbara Williams-Skinner-renowned faith leader, public policy strategist, and advocate for democracy-as they explore the urgent moral issues facing America today. Dr. Williams-Skinner shares her journey as a trailblazing leader in both faith and politics, her insights on protecting democracy, and the vital role of prayer and righteous resistance in the fight for justice.Discover how faith communities can respond to today’s challenges, and hear Dr. Williams-Skinner’s call to action for a more just, compassionate society. This episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about faith-driven activism and the future of our democracy.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

S6 Ep 108Trump’s Historic Unpopularity: Majority See Him as a Dangerous Dictator
In this eye-opening episode, Jim Wallis and Robert P. Jones dive deep into the latest poll data revealing President Trump’s unprecedented negative approval ratings within his first 100 days back in office. Discover how Trump ranks as the most unpopular president since World War II at this stage, with a majority of Americans-including 55% of independents-viewing him as a dangerous dictator whose power must be limited to protect American democracy. The discussion also highlights the sharp racial and religious divides in Trump’s support, with White Evangelical Protestants largely backing him, while Christians of Color and other faith groups overwhelmingly reject his leadership. Tune in for a compelling analysis of what these numbers mean for America’s political and moral future.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

S6 Ep 107Faith, Politics, and Democracy in America: A Conversation with E.J. Dionne
Join Jim Wallis and distinguished journalist E.J. Dionne as they explore the critical intersection of faith, politics, and the challenges facing American democracy today. In this episode, they dissect the rise of Christian nationalism, the role of faith communities in resisting authoritarianism, and the essential importance of journalism in upholding truth and accountability. Discover how faith traditions can inform a more just, compassionate, and inclusive politics.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

S6 Ep 110Silencing Truth: Banned Books, Racism, and the Future of American Democracy
In this vital episode, leading scholars and activists explore the urgent issues of book banning, racial justice, and the role of faith in a divided America. Jim Wallis is joined by authors Anthea Butler, Robert Jones, Brian Massingale, and Michael Eric Dyson, in a discussion first streamed by the American Academy of Religion. They discuss how attacks on truth and knowledge threaten our democracy, and offer pathways toward a more just and equitable future.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

S6 Ep 106Bonhoeffer's Legacy: Confronting Injustice Today with Adam Taylor.
On the anniversary of Dietrich Bonhoeffer's death, we explore his enduring call to "costly grace" and its relevance to today's challenges with Adam Taylor, President of Sojourners. While not explicitly about Bonhoeffer, Adam's work—including his book A More Perfect Union: A New Vision for Building the Beloved Community— resonates deeply with Bonhoeffer's spirit of resistance against injustice. Adam discusses practical pathways to overcome division and build a more inclusive and just society. Inspired by Martin Luther King Jr.'s vision, this episode offers hope and a moral roadmap for confronting today's crises of race, gender, and faith." See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

S6 Ep 109Money, Lies, & God: The Plot to Destroy American Democracy
Author Katherine Stewart (Money, Lies, and God) joins Jim Wallis to expose the money, disinformation, and Christian nationalism fueling the anti-democratic movement. Discover the funders, the lies, and what we can do to fight back.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

S6 Ep 108Courts Under Siege: Dahlia Lithwick on Trump's Judicial Threats & Democracy's Future
Legal journalist Dahlia Lithwick (Slate’s Amicus podcast) exposes how Trump’s second-term agenda—and cases like Dr. Rasha Alawieh’s deportation and Mahmoud Khalil’s ICE detention—are testing judicial independence. We break down:The "metaphorical weapons" courts still have against executive overreach; Why Chief Justice Roberts’ rare public warning matters now; Project 2025’s blueprint for reshaping the judiciary; andReal-world impacts on immigrants, academics, and civil liberties.Subscribe wherever you get podcasts.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

S6 Ep 107Wolves at the Door of our Democracy
Professor Ruth Braunstein is the host of the new podcast When the Wolves Came, Evangelicals Resisting Extremism. Prof. Braunstein chronicles the American heretics who blaspheme Jesus by turning against our neighbors, whom he has commanded us to love. And she documents the courageous resistance that is rising up in Evangelical congregations across the country against the false prophets, whom the Gospel of Matthew calls “ravening wolves.”“Christian nationalism in particular is really a false gospel,” says Braunstein. “And so this is a term that has been a helpful one, particularly for Christians to use when thinking about how to deal with these ideas circulating within their own communities.”See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

S6 Ep 105Disarming Leviathan: Fighting Trump's Chaos Evil While Loving Your Christian Nationalist Neighbors
Pastor Caleb Campbell chronicles his journey from active engagement as a Neo-Nazi Skinhead to becoming Lead Pastor of Desert Springs Bible Church in Phoenix, Arizona. His work focuses on equipping Christians to minister to their Christian nationalist neighbors. He explores the reasons for its appeal, offering compassionate responses to its claims, in his new book "Disarming Leviathan: Loving Your Christian Nationalist Neighbor."Campbell explains to host Rev. Jim Wallis how and why the the Chirstian Nationalist MovementSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

S6 Ep 106Millions will Starve and Millions will Die
We began this Lenten Season in the aftermath of the virtual destruction of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). As a result, millions will starve and millions will die around the world. The scale and scope of this preventable tragedy gives added weight and significance to our observation of Lent. The Lenten tradition of discipline and fasting requires us to increase our awareness of–and strengthen our compassion for–the suffering of others. Lent also calls us to focus on reaching out in service and justice as we await to celebrate the Resurrection of Christ at Easter. In this very special episode of the Jim Wallis Podcast, we provide a window into the magnitude of the torment being inflicted upon those Jesus called “the least of these.” You can read Jim’s Commentary on this subject hereRev. Jim Wallis speaks with an eyewitness to the desperation, devastation, and imminent death that is resulting from the Trump Administration’s vicious assault on people providing life-saving humanitarian aid around the world. Rev. Tim Costello, a global expert on international humanitarian aid, is the former Chief Executive of World Vision Australia (WVA) and the current Executive Director of Micah Australia. He was in Kenya and Uganda when the Trump Administration inaugurated the irresponsible and unconscionable freeze on USAID funds. “Kenyan women, clinicians, doctors [were] in tears saying, ‘the medications, the U-S-A-I-D medications have dried up. This means we cannot treat the people who we've treated for so many years, poor Kenyan people without a chance without these medications.’” See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

S6 Ep 1Stand Up for Jesus and The Stranger
A historic lawsuit has been filed by the Institute for Constitutional Advocacy and Protection, in partnership with the Center on Faith and Justice, on the behalf of a broad coalition of 27 national church and organization plaintiffs, whose combined membership numbers in the millions, to defend the teachings of Jesus and the traditions of all Abrahamic religions. {Subscribe to weekly Jim's Substack column here to stay up to date with our progress.}Rev. Jim Wallis speaks with two important leaders involved in the case of Mennonite Church USA VS The Department of Homeland Security: Kelsi Brown Corkran, the Supreme Court Director at the Institute for Constitutional Advocacy and Protection at Georgetown Law, and Reverend Carlos Malave, the president of the Latino Christian National Network (LCNN), which is a broad Christian Latino network in our country, including Pentecostals, evangelicals, Catholics, and mainline leaders.On the first day of his second term as President of the United States, according to Fox News, Donald Trump ordered the Department of Homeland Security to upend a decades long practice honoring sacred spaces and “sensitive locations” to allow religious leaders and congregants to obey the commandment of Jesus from Matthew 25: “As ye have done it unto one of the least of these, my brethren, ye have done it unto me.” Jesus’ words include “the stranger” which means immigrant and refugee in Greek.Immigrants and refugees, who rely on these sacred spaces for sustenance for their souls and bodies, are being deterred by the aggressive and unorthodox tactics from the Trump Administration that the lawsuit alleges are a violation of the First Amendment right to freely practice religion.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

S1 Ep 107Grieve but Do Not Despair
In the wake of the decisive victory of Donald Trump and his followers, Rev. Jim Wallis speaks with Executive Producer Paul Woodhull about what must take place before we consider what lays before us. Wallis counsels that it is appropriate and healing to feel grief and to lament where we find ourselves as a nation. But he warns against falling into despair. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Ep 104Elizabeth Neumann on Trump: The Guardrails are Completely Off
Elizabeth Neumann, Former Assistant Secretary for Counterterrorism at the Department of Homeland Security and the author of Kingdom of Rage talks with Jim Wallis about her time serving at the Trump White House. Neumann says, “This is what another four years would be. Nobody tells [Trump] no. And then you end up violating people's constitutional rights… His rhetoric was inspiring hate crimes and violence. We actually have documentation of that now.”See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Ep 103Daniel Gutierrez on Immigration: “Look at Them with the Eyes of Christ”
Daniel Gutierrez is the Bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of Pennsylvania, the second oldest and fourth largest diocese in the Episcopal Church. He also served as Chief of Staff to the Mayor of Albuquerque, New Mexico, and as Director of Economic Development there.Regarding America’s immigration policy Gutierrez analyzes the dilemma by reconciling both a practical and a Christian viewpoint.Pragmatically, Gutierrez says, “Migrants, immigrants pay taxes. And then what would happen if every worker in our fields, starting in Iowa, California, Arizona, Texas, were deported? Look at what that would do to our economy. Almost overnight, it would ruin American businesses in the agricultural industry.”More importantly, Bishop Gutierrez reflects upon the teachings of Jesus when regarding migrants and refugees. “The only way to have union with Jesus is to have union with one another.” He continues, “I want my diocese to be the diocese of the poor, compassionate, merciful, and loving.”See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

S1 Ep 106David Gushee: Democracy is the Number One Issue on the Ballot
Christian Ethhicist David Gushee explains how White Evangelicals have lost their way as religious reactionaries work to destabilize our democracy. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

S1 Ep 105Test of Faith: Defending Democracy
Jim Wallis convenes a roundtable of thought and faith leaders to discuss our responsibilities for the upcoming 2024 Presidential election:Jemar Tisby--New York Times bestselling author, national speaker, and public historian on a mission to deliver truths from the Black experience with depth and clarityKristen DuMez--New York Times bestselling author and Professor of History and Gender Studies at Calvin University. Diana Butler Bass,Ph.D.--Award-winning author, speaker, preacher, commentator on religion and contemporary spiritualityRobert P. Jones --the president and founder of Public Religion Research Institute (PRRI) and a leading scholar and a New York Times bestselling author.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

S1 Ep 104Jocelyn Benson: Be Heard and Be Counted
As threats of deadly violence are mounted against election officials across the country, Jocelyn Benson, the Secretary of State and Chief Election Officer of Michigan, analyzes the unique challenges they face in 2024. Despite an onlslaught of efforts to intimidate, Benson shares her commitment to ensure all votes are counted and the true electors are certified.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

S1 Ep 103Ian Bassin: Donald Trump’s Authoritarian Playbook
In this election special Faith Factor season, we will be releasing weekly in-depth exclusive interviews focused on the most consequential Presidential Election of our lifetimes.Ian Bassin, the co-founder of Protect Democracy, outlines how Donald Trump and his radical right-wing enablers plan to subvert the democratic institutions of our country in order to amass and maintain power. Trump’s well-documented and self-proclaimed policies adhere to what Bassin calls The Authoritarian Playbook, the well-worn tactics executed by the most brutal dictators in world history, including:Policize Institutions Spread Disinformation Aggrandize Executive Power Quash Dissent Target Vulnerable Communities Corrupt Elections Incite Violence See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

S1 Ep 59Rep. Jim Clyburn: Project 2025 is Jim Crow 2.0
In this election special Faith Factor season, we will be releasing weekly in-depth exclusive interviews focused on the most consequential Presidential Election of our lifetimes.In our first episode, Rep. Jim Clyburn discusses with Rev. Jim Wallis:The attempts of Trump supporters to revive Jim Crow practices; The historical import of the Kamala Harris candidacy; andHis private conversations with President Joe Biden regarding withdrawing his candidacy; andWhat he means when says “we can never go back.”See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Ep 102Meet The Exvangelicals: A Journey Through Faith and Politics
Join host Jim Wallis in a live and enlightening conversation at Georgetown University with Sarah McCammon, esteemed Political Correspondent at NPR and author of the thought-provoking book, "The Exvangelicals." Delve into Sarah's personal narrative as she shares her upbringing within the evangelical church and the profound intersections of faith and politics. Together, they unravel the intricate layers of White Christian Nationalism and its resonance within the presidency of Donald Trump, exploring its profound impacts on Sarah's faith and the broader American religious landscape. Tune in to this compelling episode of The Soul of the Nation as they navigate through the complex terrain of belief, identity, and the soul of America.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Ep 101Unveiling 'The False White Gospel' with Jim Wallis
Join us for a riveting episode of The Soul of the Nation, where the spotlight turns on our esteemed host, Jim Wallis, as he becomes the guest of the hour. In this compelling conversation, Jim Wallis, the renowned New York Times bestselling author, unveils the profound insights from his latest groundbreaking book, The False White Gospel.Hosted by Daniel Burke, the Director of Communications at the Center on Faith and Justice, this episode delves deep into the heart of Wallis' thesis, which argues that the antidote to detrimental religious ideologies lies in cultivating true faith. Wallis presents a compelling case for how authentic spirituality can serve as the cornerstone for revitalizing democracy in our nation.Tune in as Burke guides the discussion, unraveling the layers of Wallis' thought-provoking narrative and exploring its implications for the future of our society. Prepare to be enlightened, challenged, and inspired as we navigate the intersection of religion, politics, and the soul of our nation.You can pre-order The False White Gospel as well as check the upcoming book tour to see if Rev. Jim Wallis is coming to a city near you here!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Ep 100Inside the Christian Movement Threatening Our Democracy.
In this week's Soul of the Nation, Reverend Jim Wallis engages in a profound conversation with author and Senior Scholar Matthew Taylor about his upcoming book, "THE VIOLENT TAKE IT BY FORCE: The Christian Movement That Is Threatening Our Democracy." Together, they delve into the intricate world of the New Apostolic Reformation (NAR), exploring its "prophets" and the controversial 7 Mountains Mandate of dominion theology.Matthew Taylor sheds light on the complexities surrounding the NAR movement and its potential impact on democratic principles. The discussion spans the influence of key figures such as Mike Johnson and the broader implications of a movement that intertwines faith and politics.Join us as Rev. Jim Wallis and Matthew Taylor navigate through the theological landscape, examining the intersections of religion, power, and democracy. Gain insights into the challenges posed by movements like NAR and how they shape the narrative of our contemporary political climate. This episode is a compelling exploration of the delicate balance between faith and democracy, raising crucial questions about the future of our society.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Ep 99Inside the Great Evangelical Crackup with Tim Alberta
This week The Soul of the Nation welcomes Tim Alberta, an award-winning journalist, staff writer for The Atlantic magazine and author of the bestselling new book “The Kingdom, the Power and the Glory: American Evangelicalism in an Age of Extremism” Alberta is also the son of an evangelical pastor who was raised in Michigan. His new book raises the important questions: What is the purpose of the Christian church? And why have so many white evangelicals sold their souls for Donald Trump? See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Ep 98Senator Chris Coons on the 'Higher Calling' of Public Service
This week on Soul of the Nation, we bring you a conversation with Senator Chris Coons at Georgetown University. The event was part of the "Higher Calling" series hosted by the Center on Faith and Justice at Georgetown. In this conversation, Senator Coons, a Democrat from Delaware who earned a degree in ethics from Yale Divinity School, speaks candidly about his Presbyterian upbringing, confronting former President Donald Trump and how he stays spiritually centered in a place like the U.S. Senate. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Ep 97The Rev. James Martin on Advent, His New Book on Lazarus, and a Big Vatican Meeting
This week on Soul of the Nation we welcome the Rev. James Martin, a Jesuit priest, editor at large of America magazine, consultant to the Vatican's Dicastery for Communication, and author of numerous books, including the New York Times bestseller Jesus: A Pilgrimage. His new book is called “Come Forth: The Promise of Jesus’ Greatest Miracle.” In this episode Father Martin shares his insights on the biblical story of Lazarus, an important Vatican meeting and how to stay spiritually centered and hopeful in a dark and turbulent world. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Ep 96Bishop Mariann Budde on How to Be Brave
This week on the Soul of the Nation, we welcome Bishop Mariann Edgar Budde, the Episcopal Bishop of Washington, DC. Bishop Budde serves as spiritual leader for Episcopalians in the District of Columbia and Maryland, the first woman elected to this position. Bishop Budde is also the author of several books, including, “How We Learn to Be Brave: Decisive Moments in Life and Faith.” In this episode, Bishop Budde talks about standing up to Donald Trump, "dangerous unselfishness," and how to be Good Samaritans during bad times. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Ep 95Steven Levitsky Explains How U.S. Democracy Reached a Breaking Point
In this live recording of Soul of the Nation, Rev. Jim Wallis and the Center on Faith and Justice hosted Harvard University political scientist Steven Levitsky for a discussion on his new book “Tyranny of the Minority.” In the book, Levitsky argues that authoritarianism threatens the foundations of the U.S. political system, which the Constitution prevents from becoming a true multi-racial democracy. Levitsky is co-author of the New York Times bestseller How Democracies Die and the David Rockefeller Professor of Latin American Studies and Professor of Government at Harvard University. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Ep 94Faith in Action: Following Jesus in a Warming World
This week on Soul of the Nation, our host, Rev. Jim Wallis, engages in a profound conversation with climate advocate and author Kyle Meyaard-Schaap. Together, they explore the timely and pressing subject of climate change through the lens of faith and Christian values.Meyaard-Schaap, author of the thought-provoking book "Following Jesus in a Warming World: A Christian Call to Climate Action," delves into the intersection of spirituality and environmental stewardship. This enlightening discussion looks into how followers of Jesus can rise to the challenge of the climate crisis, recognizing it as a moral imperative.Rev. Jim Wallis and Kyle Meyaard-Schaap explore the key themes of the book, providing insight into how faith communities can play a pivotal role in addressing climate change. They discuss practical steps, advocacy, and the spiritual awakening needed to combat the warming world. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Ep 93Unearthing The Hidden Roots of White Supremacy with Robert P. Jones, Vann Newkirk II, and Jennifer Rubin
In this episode of Soul of the Nation, Rev. Jim Wallis and the Center on Faith and Justice host a conversation about Robert P. Jones' groundbreaking new book, "The Hidden Roots of White Supremacy: And the Path to a Shared American Future." Delving deep into the history of white supremacy in America, Jones takes us on a journey back to 1493 and guides us through the examination of contemporary communities that offer models of racial repair. Joining the conversation are Vann Newkirk II, a staff writer for The Atlantic, and Jennifer Rubin, a columnist for The Washington Post. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Ep 92Faith, Climate, and Action: A Conversation with Rev. Jim Wallis and Bill McKibben
This week, Soul of the Nation welcomes Bill McKibben, an American environmentalist, author, and journalist who has written extensively on the impact of global warming. He is the Schumann Distinguished Scholar at Middlebury College and leader of the climate campaign group 350.org. In this episode, they discuss the historical and ongoing struggles for racial equity in America, shedding light on the important work of faith-based communities in promoting justice, diversity, and inclusion. Their conversation highlights the power of unity and collective action in the fight for social equality and justice. The episode also explores the urgent need for environmental stewardship and how we can repay our debt to the environment. Rev. Wallis and McKibben emphasize the ethical and moral dimensions of taking responsibility for the impact of human activity on the planet. They discuss the imperative of mitigating climate change and the practical steps we can take to protect our environment for future generations.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Ep 91The Enduring Moral Power of MLK's Letter From Birmingham Jail
This week on Soul of the Nation, our host Jim Wallis is joined by two of the country’s preeminent Christian leaders to celebrate and discuss the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King’s “Letter From Birmingham Jail.” Bishop Vashti Murphy McKenzie, Interim President and General Secretary of the National Council of Churches, and the Rev. Dr. Otis Moss III, Senior Pastor of Trinity United Church of Christ in Chicago, join to reflect on King’s famed epistle and its lessons for our day. Sixty years after its publication, “Letter From Birmingham Jail” continues to challenge Christians – and all people of faith – to understand that, as King warned, “injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.”See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Ep 90Towards a More Just Future with Rev Dr. Kelly Brown Douglas
This week on Soul of the Nation features a public conversation with Rev Dr. Kelly Brown Douglas, Dean of the Episcopal Divinity School at Union Theological Seminary. In this Q&A moderated by Rev. Ebony Grisom of Georgetown University, Douglas explores the role of Black women in the church, discusses the importance of maintaining hope against what seems at times as insurmountable odds and lays out a pathway towards moving beyond the white imaginary.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Ep 89"The Fierce Urgency of Now" Rev. Jim Wallis | Villanova University Dr. Martin Luther King Jr Lecture
Jim Wallis, the Founding Director of the Georgetown University Center on Faith, advocates spirituality and social change in America. Under Wallis’ leadership, Sojourners has had international acclaim as a group of Christians who work together to live a gospel life that integrates spiritual renewal and social justice. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Ep 88Matthew Desmond on America's "Sinful" Treatment of Poor People
This week, Soul of the Nation welcomes Matthew Desmond, a sociologist at Princeton University whose research focuses on poverty in America. He is the author of four books, including “Evicted: Poverty and Profit in the American City,” which won the Pulitzer Prize. Desmond’s new bestselling book is called “Poverty, By America.” In this episode, Desmond explains why the United States has more poverty than any other advanced democracy, calls the Republicans' plan to reduce federal spending by cutting poverty programs "sinful and shameful," and offers five ways we can all become "poverty abolitionists." See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Ep 87Higher Calling: A Conversation with Representative Nancy Pelosi
This week on Soul of the Nation features a public conversation Jim Wallis had recently with former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi about the role her Catholic faith plays in her public and personal life. The conversation was part of a new series called Higher Calling Jim just launched at the Center on Faith and Justice at Georgetown University. During this conversation, Nancy Pelosi opens up about the Catholic values she learned growing up in Baltimore, how she deals with relentless political attacks and the Bible verse that inspired her to move, as she says, “from the kitchen to the Congress; from housewife to house speaker.” See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Ep 86A White Christian Nationalist Hotbed
This week on Soul of the Nation, we continue our series on White Christian Nationalism by welcoming Jack Jenkins to the podcast. Jenkins is a national reporter for Religion News Service (RNS) covering U.S. Catholics and the intersection of religion and politics. Earlier this year, Jenkins ventured west to northern Idaho to explore the rise of White Christian Nationalists staking up a claim in the state and published a piece with RNS documenting his findings. In their conversation, Jenkins discusses his discoveries on how deeply entrenched the White Christian Nationalist movement has become in the local politics of northern Idaho, how he thinks these trends will affect other libertarian minded states, and how current residents are responding to the influx of this movement in their communities. You can read Jack's article from RNS here.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Ep 85The Looming Threat of White Nationalist' Political Violence
This week on Soul of the Nation, we continue our series on White Christian Nationalism by welcoming Rachel Kleinfeld to the podcast. Kleinfeld is a senior fellow in Carnegie’s Democracy, Conflict, and Governance Program. Her work on troubled democracies facing problems such as polarized populations, violence, corruption, and poor governance bridges the United States and international cases. In their conversation, Rachel discusses the rising threats facing modern democracy in America and what can be done to subvert these attempts to overthrow democracy as we know it.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Ep 84Evangelicals' Dangerous Amnesia
This week on Soul of the Nation, we continue our series on White Christian Nationalism by welcoming cultural sociologist Ruth Braunstein to the podcast. Braunstein is an Associate Professor of Sociology at the University of Connecticut, where she is Director of Undergraduate Studies and Director of the Meanings of Democracy Lab, which studies the moral and cultural foundations of American democratic life. Braunstein reveals the types of people who are attracted to White Christian Nationalism, what the phrase "Judeo-Christian" really means, and offers insights on how to persuade people away from Christian nationalist views. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Ep 83How to Talk About Racism with Your Kids
Jemar Tisby, a historian and author of "How to Fight Racism: Young Readers Edition," as well as several other books, joins the podcast to talk about his personal history with white evangelicalism, how he came to feel unwelcome in the tradition and how to talk to your kids about racism. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Ep 82What a New Survey Reveals About White Christian Nationalism
This week on Soul of the Nation, we continue our series on White Christian Nationalism by welcoming pollster Robert P. Jones to the program. Jones is the president and founder of the Public Religion Research Institute, and the author of White Too Long: The Legacy of White Supremacy in American Christianity. The Public Religion Research Institute takes the pulse of Americans each fall on a range of issues at the intersection of religion, culture and politics. This year, they covered attitudes about white Christian nationalism, systemic racism, abortion, gender and gender identity, QAnon, and critical issues for voting among others. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Ep 81Four Orientations Toward White Christian Nationalism
This week on Soul of the Nation we continue our series on White Christian Nationalism by welcoming Andrew Whitehead, one of the foremost scholars of the movement in the United States. Andrew is the lead author of Taking America Back for God: Christian Nationalism in the United States, and a sociologist at Indiana University–Purdue University in Indianapolis. Whitehead’s research on Christian nationalism has been featured across several national outlets including The New York Times, NPR, The New Yorker and The Washington Post.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.