Lead Balloons: The Alchemy of Unpopular Opinions

Genesis vs. Science

Trent and Joel discuss the conflicts between biblical and scientific claims.  Can the creation story in Genesis be reconciled with Big Bang cosmology and evolutionary theory?  Why is it important to understand genre when approaching biblical texts?  Join Trent and Joel for an intriguing, closer look at the topic of science and religion.

Are Comedians our Modern Day Prophets?

Joel and Trent enumerate some parallels between biblical prophets and comedians of the modern day.  They discuss the value and necessity of poking fun at the powerful and offering alternatives to the single narrative that the powerful present.  Comedians like Dave Chappelle, Bill Burr, George Carlin, and the comedic writing of Laura Kipnis are examined.

The Idolatry of Patriotism

Joel and Trent discuss the pro's and con's of patriotism.  They share their experiences of the intersection between Christianity and national pride.  Liturgies of patriotism, such as the Pledge of Allegiance and The Star-Spangled Banner, feature in the discussion as well.  

Calvin’s God is a Dick

Joel and Trent discuss Calvinism, an approach to theology that centers on God's supreme will and humanity's inability to approach God apart from grace.  They recount a spirited debate they had many years ago, when Trent was at the height of his zeal for Christianity.  Whether or not Calvinism is true and what are the real-world consequences are also covered.

Less Working, More Twerking

Joel and Trent discuss Bob Black's famous essay, "The Abolition of Work".  They expand on the concept of life as play and wonder why freedom and democracy seem absent in the workplace.  They also discuss viable ways forward in this important cultural conversation.

Devilish Advocates: Bad Ways of Doing Good

Zealots often pursue good goals in harmful ways.  Joel and Trent discuss how this is playing out in today's society.  They cover the concept of imperial energy, as well as word policing and fundamentalisms of all stripes.  What is the role of love and wisdom in the effort to change the world for the better?  Why is absolutism halting progress?  

How Religion F#&ked Up Sex

Joel and Trent talk about how religion can repress good human sexuality.  They discuss Old Testament moral codes, the Church's historical attitudes towards sex, as well as the ways Joel and Trent have grown in their thinking in recent years regarding sexuality.

Medicinal Masculinity

Joel and Trent enter the frothy waters of discussing masculinity.  What are the differences between masculine and feminine energies?  What are some worthy examples of masculinity?  What caused Joel to get excited about the concept of medicinal masculinity?  

Losing Faith: Atheism is so HOT Right Now

Joel interviews Trent to learn more about Trent's deconversion from Christianity and resultant atheism.  They discuss Trent's theologically conservative pedigree and when that paradigm began to dissolve.  Trent also shares what his experience was like "coming out" as an atheist.  

Post-Pastoral: The Path of a Resident Philosopher

Trent interviews Joel to learn more about Joel's years of work in pastoral ministry.  Joel tells about how he felt called to ministry, how his context shaped him, and how he began to move in a unique direction theologically.