THINQ Media Podcast

As a society, we are in the throes of a collective panic attack. Anxiety and loneliness are on the rise, with 77% of our population experiencing physical symptoms of stress on a regular basis. We feel pressure chasing careers, security, and keeping up. We worry about health, politics, and many other complexities we can't control. Eventually we find our minds spinning, trying to cope or manage a low hum of anxiety, unlike ever before. In this episode, Rebekah Lyons will introduce four life-giving rhythms that will help you trade your anxiety for the vibrant life you were meant to live: rest, restore, connect, and create Order your copy of Rebekah's latest book, Rhythms of Renewal today.

Can We Solve The Hunger Crisis? We're in the midst of a global hunger crisis. With the number of undernourished people around the world rising to an estimated 821 million in 2017, the need for global food security is one of the United Nations' top sustainable development goals this century. In light of this, Dan Clark, Vice President of Partner Development at Convoy of Hope, will help us understand how we might solve this global problem.

How Does the Next Generation Think? For years, our culture has been somewhat obsessed with conversations about Millennials. Meanwhile, a new generation is emerging. With the oldest members of Generation Z entering their 20s this year, social researchers are pointing out the stark differences between this generation and those who came before. Mark Matlock will help us better understand the aspirations of this increasingly influential generation. Order the latest release from David Kinnaman & Mark Matlock: Faith For Exiles: 5 Ways for a New Generation to Follow Jesus in Digital Babylon

Jeremy Cowart sits down with Gabe Lyons for a candid conversation about inspiration, creativity and the ideas that can shape culture. Jeremy also discusses his most recent book, I'm Possible: Jumping into Fear and Discovering a Life of Purpose, and he updates us on some of his current projects, including The Purpose Hotel, Help-Portrait and more. Named the "Most Influential Photographer on the Internet" by Huffington Post, Forbes and Yahoo in 2014, Jeremy Cowart is an award-winning photographer, artist and entrepreneur whose mission in life is to "explore the intersection of creativity and empathy." To watch Jeremy's Q Talk for free, download "Q Media" on your Apple TV, Roku or Amazon Fire.

Where Can We Unify On The Environment? In a world in which some continue to dispute climate change and others promote the Green New Deal, is it possible to find common ground for the sake of the world's most vulnerable? Through his work with Tearfund USA, a Christian nonprofit working globally to end poverty and injustice, these are questions Jason Fileta considers. He'll share his perspective on how we can come together and bring hope to the world's most impoverished communities.

What Other Cultures Are We Overlooking? Our conversations around race in America often center on the reparations between white and African American communities. Jose Reyes brings the third culture into perspective—sharing experiences about what it's like to be Latino in the US. He'll help us reframe our thinking on diversity, inclusion, and racial reconciliation to include groups that are often left out of these conversations.

What Is the Essence of True Love? Austin and Christi were first attracted to one another in 2004 at a National Down Syndrome Congress Youth & Adult convention. By 2008, it was apparent that the pair wanted to be together. With support from both families, they joined their lives in marriage and are living their unique future. Together, they'll help us better understand the essence of marriage and true love. View the video of this talk at Q Media where you can access hundreds of world-class, concise 9 and 18 minute talks delivered by respected thought leaders and change makers on a plethora of topics. From science, theology and the arts, to politics, business, media and education, we've curated the best of Q's library of content and personalized it to your interests. Subscribing to Q will inspire you daily as you gain the insight and courage to lead right where you are.

How Do We Live by Our True Identity? In a culture filled with questions about sexuality and gender, can Christians engage this conversation with both theological faithfulness and courageous love? Dr. Preston Sprinkle thinks so. Together with Laurie Krieg, Matthew Liu and Kat LaPrairie, they will share how Christ followers consider the difficult questions surrounding faith, sexuality and gender. View the video of this interview at Q Media where you can access hundreds of world-class, concise 9 and 18 minute talks delivered by respected thought leaders and change makers on a plethora of topics. From science, theology and the arts, to politics, business, media and education, we've curated the best of Q's library of content and personalized it to your interests. Subscribing to Q will inspire you daily as you gain the insight and courage to lead right where you are.

What does it look like to love people, even the difficult ones, without distinction and without limits? Bob Goff is the New York Times bestselling author of Love Does and Everybody, Always, as well as the founder of Love Does, a nonprofit organization that operates schools and pursues justice for children in conflict areas such as Uganda, Somalia, and Iraq. Bob is a lawyer and serves as the honorary consul for the Republic of Uganda to the United States. He is an adjunct professor at Pepperdine Law School and Point Loma Nazarene University and lives in San Diego with Sweet Maria, their kids, and extended family.

"Implicit Racial Bias" refers to subconscious preferences for members of our own group. This silent and subtle tendency to "otherize" has loud and lasting effects, from perpetuating racial prejudices inside society to reinforcing personal hidden biases. David Bailey talks about how diversity within the Kingdom is a reason for cultural celebration not separation. His ministry, Arrabon, a word that means "a foretaste of things to come." inspires Christ-centered reconciliation in worshipping communities.

In this interview, Matt Rusten shares practical ideas on how to empower leaders, pastors and their churches to integrate faith, work and economic wisdom for the flourishing of their communities.

Natasha Sistrunk Robinson explores the spiritual and physical tensions of truth-telling, character and leadership development, and bridge building across racial/ethnic, socioeconomic, and gender lines.

How Can We Orient Our Professions To Serve Others? God designed every human being to find agency in his or her vocation. If we understand the "common good" as the truest good for all people, how can our work play a role in renewing the world? Author, speaker, and pastor Skye Jethani helps us contemplate how our work is not primarily for the gain of wealth and pleasure—but ultimately an opportunity to cultivate a better world for our neighbors.

How Do We Learn To Listen Again? In the days of social media where everyone has their own platform, we are tempted to vocalize our own voice and state opinions. Bobette Buster suggests it's time to relearn a lost art. Recovering this human skill will be essential to recovering civility, respect and understanding.

What does science say about how constraints introduced into a system can breed innovation and new ideas? What role does fear have in the iconoclast's life? What are poor habits or better disciplines that might improve iconoclastic thinking? Listen, as Dr. Gregory Berns elaborates on the evidence that neuroscience is providing on how to think differently.

For decades, it's been described as "holy" and "disciplined" for Christians to remove themselves from anything corrupt, evil or broken about society. But Christians are left wondering how to navigate the terrain of being salt and light in a twenty-first century world. How are followers of Christ called to respond to sin and corruption found all around them? Do we run towards it or preserve our purity and holiness in the midst of a fallen world?

In a globalized world where ideas, religions and ethnic groups collide, the question remains, can we find a way through? Even former President Bill Clinton recently remarked, "We only have one remaining bigotry. We don't want to be around anybody who disagrees with us." In this talk, historian and social observer Os Guinness warns that in a public square with competing views, learning to listen and respect people, while supporting the freedom for people to live by their conscience is the only way to experience a productive peace. We can't inspire others to a more free existence unless we know how to model it ourselves.

One of the most powerful virtues in our society, is also one of our least known virtues: gratitude. Gratitude is the key to not only experiencing what communities want, an authentic, thriving joy — but is what Chesterton called the highest form of thinking. Thinking that is bedrock foundational to healthy relationships, strong communities, and vibrant culture. At a time when it seems easy to point out all that's wrong with the world, advancing the common good requires a lens through which one actually sees the good. Finding, celebrating and cultivating the good, true and beautiful, is key to how we will shape the future of our neighborhoods, cities and communities. How can we alter our perspectives and be known for what we are for, instead of what we are against? New York Times Bestselling Author of One Thousand Gifts, and The Broken Way, Ann Voskamp unpacks with us what can dynamically transform our communities.

How should Christians relate to politics in a divisive and polarized time? As Americans grapple with the results of the most recent midterm election, Gabe Lyons sits down with Michael Wear to discuss the answer to this question. Michael served as one of the youngest White House staffers in modern American history and directed faith outreach for President Obama's historic 2012 re-election campaign. He also authored the book "Reclaiming Hope," founded Public Square Strategies, currently serves as chief strategist at The AND Campaign. Together, Michael and Gabe discuss the most significant midterm results, the effects of political polarization and partisan identity, and what it means for American believers to live out a faithful witness in the political sphere.

How can we help our youth in a violent age? With the prevalence of shooting in our schools, a culture of violence is seemingly becoming the culture of the norm in the lives of our children. Through Judge Sheila Calloway's experience within the Nashville Court System, she invites us to consider how we offer hope and solutions to young people seeking a lifeline in an era of conflict.

What is countercultural living in a transactional world? We are the most powerful generation in history, but also the loneliest, most anxious, and most depressed. We're meant to flourish in heart, soul, mind, strength, and relationship — yet culture asks us undermine our personhood to acquire power. Andy Crouch, author and partner at Praxis, reminds us what we have to offer in this unique moment.

How can God make His home in a heart that is lacking beauty by rage, jealousy, or pain? In this talk, Trina talks about how God came upon her trials and showed her how He intended her life to be whole with an eternal beauty. We must learn to behold the goodness of God and strive to always remember that beauty is still present in the midst of pain.

Where will we allow Jesus to lighten our load? Following the way of Jesus in contemporary culture is challenging – the amount of needs and opportunities to pursue can feel overwhelming. In this talk and subsequent interview, pastor and author Jon Tyson offers insight into how we can allow Jesus to shoulder this burden for us, and how that empowers us to more freely and fully seek God's kingdom on earth.

What Attributes Represent God's Ways on Earth? The Kingdom of God enables people to live their fullest life within God's love and provision, and Tony Evans seeks to bring this message and reality to diverse groups of people. Tony will help us think through what it means to be Kingdom-oriented in our thinking, actions, and faith to bring the rule of God's love to earth.

What does comedy teach us about ourselves? Using humor to convey truth is as timeless as the medium of comedy. Used to solicit laughter, encourage relaxation, and relieve stress, comedy also has the unique ability to tell deeper truths in a way that's accessible and convicting. Emmy Award-Winning Comedian and actor Tony Hale has ideas for how we can bring light – both in levity and illumination – to difficult situations to elicit a smile.

What do we do when we feel helpless? As Andy Crouch says, we only "change culture by creating more of it." For decades, the problem of starving children in third world countries has been known to many, but most have never felt a tangible way to engage. Michael Chitwood, the founder of Team World Vision (the fastest-growing charity endurance program in the U.S) decided to do something about it. He shares his story of using his own story and pain to show up in the lives of others.

How can partners mutually thrive? It can be hard for husbands and wives to work together in a way that is respectful and beneficial. As married co-pastors working together, Alex and Henry Seely model what it looks like to submit to one another in a relationship that shares a similar calling. Whether you work with your spouse or not, their stories and real-life experiences provide encouragement for couples who feel compelled to journey together in advancing good.

How do relationships transform people? When probation officer Tiffany Whittier was assigned to self-avowed white supremacist Michael Kent, an unlikely friendship developed, eventually leading Michael away from a life of racism. Tiffany and Michael will talk about building relationships in unexpected places and finding safe spaces to grow while standing firm in our convictions.

How is distrust eroding the sacred? In what Barna calls "an erosion of the sacred," Americans find it harder to trust authorities for guidance, including God. But in a society plagued by skepticism, "fake news," and distrust, where can people turn for comfort and direction? David Kinnaman, president of the Barna Group, details these trends, offers hope in the midst of uncertainty, and explains how Christians can provide a hopeful presence for a culture that is floundering.

Sex. In a world overwhelmingly obsessed with it, why is the church so silent about it? While our secular culture twists, perverts, cheapens, and idolizes sex, there are gaping holes in the church's guidance of young people. The result is generations of sexually illiterate people drowning in the repercussions of overwhelming sin struggles. With raw vulnerability and a bold spirit, Mo Isom shares her own sexual testimony, opening up the conversation about misguided rule-following, virginity, temptation, porn, promiscuity, false sex-pectations, sex in marriage, and more and calling readers back to God's original design for sex–a way to worship and glorify him.

How Do We Overcome Our Prejudice? In society, racism is more prevalent than ever, engendering doubts, fears, suspicions, and even hostility about the "other." LaTasha Morrison leads an organization dedicated to building bridges that span racial, experiential, and socio-economic divides. Her stories provide a framework through which we can engage others in a way that leads to reconciliation, peace, and mutual benefit to one another.

Does God form us in all circumstances? Many of us who have experienced painful challenges know that God can find us in any place and any moment of our lives. Bianca Olthoff knows the depth of this truth firsthand. Working and worshipping with incarcerated women, Bianca speaks about creating church in prison and witnessing the power of God to forgive and bring new life.

Understanding our current cultural climate may feel like an impossible quest. Yet as Christians, we are called to be the ones who understand the times and know how to lead and offer hope. How can we make sense of the confusion and think soundly about the chaos? Greg Thompson, with a Ph.D in Theology, Ethics and Culture and as director of Thriving Cities, helps us find clarity and perspective so we are equipped to help others make sense of our unique cultural moment.

Maps show how the poor disproportionately live in some of the worst environmental places. Resource economist and Tearfund advisor Rusty Pritchard helps us focus our understanding of place and space toward an awareness of the geography in which we live. He helps us understand how past decisions have created unjust environments for under-resourced people groups, and our opportunity to change this reality. What responsibilities do we have to ensure safe, healthy environments?

How do we navigate ideological diversity? Existing in an ideologically-diverse culture can be challenging, and often leads to individuals retreating behind their battle lines. David Coleman, President and Chief Executive Officer of The College Board, believes that institutional diversity, civil disagreement, and patience with others whose beliefs differ from yours creates the best learning environments.

We've seen over the last year the devastation inflicted on cities by natural disasters such as hurricanes and flooding. We'll hear from two voices — a Houston pastor who helped mobilize resources in the wake of Hurricane Harvey, and a founder of a technology company helping people volunteer to meet the needs of their city. Rob and Chris will share their story of responding to local need.

What is possible when we risk in relationship? Krish Kandiah is the author of God is Stranger and the founding director of Home for Good, a charity seeking to make a real difference in the lives of vulnerable children. Believing we meet God when we welcome the stranger, Krish shares how an unscripted life helps us experience and trust God more fully.

The way we think about our life's work has the potential to advance good or to become self-referential. If we focus on understanding God's purposes and where we can join His work in the world, the results will be very different from self-focused individualism. Jo Saxton looks at the thin line between calling and narcissism offering Christians a way of viewing calling through the eyes of God.

How can the church be bold, yet beautiful? On the heels of the #metoo movement came #churchtoo — exposing the abuse, harassment, and misogyny taking place in churches, places where people should experience mutual support, leadership, and empowerment. Lisa Bevere shares how the New Testament shows people of different genders working together for the good of all.

We live in a world of broken relationships. From parent to child, employee to boss, neighbor to co-worker and husband to wife, we long for harmony but often it escapes us. New York Times bestselling author Lysa Terkeurst, wonders if the relationship disappointments we experience are opportunities for something more. Could God be at work in the unmet expectations, the misunderstood words and the long distances that creep in between life long friends?

Theologian Stanley Hauerwas says that "the heart of the gospel is that you don't know Jesus without the witness of the Church." As church membership declines, will this witness be dampened? Writer and hip-hop artist, Sho Baraka, explores the history of the Christian faith, why its growth has slowed in western societies, and how the Church can reclaim our role as witnesses of Christ.

As a special episode release, Sho Baraka and Gabe Lyons discuss the vision and mission behind the upcoming Q Conference, April 11-13 in Nashville. Listen in on a challenging conversation that sets up many of the important conversations we should be having as we thoughtfully navigate our changing culture. Q 2018 will prepare you to explore what renewal and faithfulness might look like in society.

Research suggests that pornography is a "new narcotic" with equally powerful effects on the brain as addictive drugs. In a globalized world, how can we overcome the temptations and tragedies of technology? Jefferson Bethke believes the answer lies within the problem. The voice of the viral YouTube video "Why I Love Jesus but Hate Religion," Jeff uses the internet as a positive means of confession and expression. His challenging talk will address a serious issue in today's society. One-third of people viewing porn are women, but this demographic is largely unaddressed when pornography addictions are discussed. Audrey Assad, a singer/songwriter and worship leader, is seeking to change that by transparently sharing her journey to overcome porn addiction. Audrey gives voice to an issue too often kept quiet, and bears witness to the power of freedom from addiction, even amidst a culture that condones porn and exploitation.

A journalist for The New York Times and author of The Road to Character, David Brooks is an expert in communicating the role of character in our society and how it brings about positive change. In a culture that worships the celebrity yet is decreasing in any religious commitment (32% of millennials claim no religious affiliation according to Barna), Brooks provides relevant commentary on how virtue is a key entry point to larger spiritual conversations that ultimately contribute to society's flourishing.

Contrary to popular understanding, Islam's populations and influence reaches far beyond the Middle East. Muslims make up a majority of the population in 49 countries around the world, and is the fastest growing religion according to the Pew Research Center. As Islam integrates into Western Societies, is peace and pluralism really possible? Listen in as Paul Marshall suggests a way forward that addresses this very question and Shadi Hamid, a New York Times bestselling author and expert on Islamist movements explains what Christians could learn from Islam.

Renown artist, Dana Tanamachi, is a self-defined, "Texas-bred, Seattle-based graphic designer who enjoys living a quiet life and working with her hands." In this interview, Dana shares her story and insights into what compels her to create, with a focus on the creative process of her most recent commissioned work in partnership with Crossway, designing an illuminated Bible for the modern eye. See more about the Illuminated Bible, Art Lettering Edition from Dana Tanamachi at illuminatedbible.org

Listen in as Jordan Raynor provides a framework for how to embrace entrepreneurship and creativity as a means of glorifying God, loving others, and making disciples of Jesus Christ.

By many metrics, incarceration rates are growing in America with valid concerns about a "cradle-to-prison" pipeline in certain regions. With thirty-one states currently supporting the death penalty backed by a moral, "an eye for an eye," position, how should Christians engage? Author and activist, Shane Claiborne, believes the Church must be pro-life no matter who is under threat. As an advocate for the abolition of the death penalty, he explains how prison reform is the natural outflow of every Christian's call to value and protect life.

In our culture, he who tells the best story wins. Creating great narratives that produce epiphanies involves a particular talent that applies far beyond film and changes the way you write books, marketing copy, funding proposals, research reports, sermons, and so much more. Bobette Buster has built and sustained a long, respected career in the film industry by being the best at finding and developing epiphanies in some of the greatest movies we've all enjoyed.

The majority eat only one meal together as a family during regular work week due to conflicting schedules, and many are waking up to the harm our bodies experience from fast, manufactured food. Danielle Walker, New York Times bestselling author of the Against All Grain series of recipe books, gives perspective on how food brings people together to connect, build relationships, and nourish our bodies and spirits.