On Becoming a Research Institute

In this episode, Fr Lorenzo Lebrija and Dr. Josh Packard discuss the transition of TryTank from an experimental research laboratory to an applied research institute. They explore the importance of data-driven research in understanding faith communities, particularly focusing on the role of sacred listening and the challenges of faith transmission among young adults. The conversation emphasizes the need for churches to adapt to changing dynamics and leverage research to inform action, ultimately aiming to recognize and harness God's abundance in their communities. Josh Packard, Ph.D.Dr. Josh Packard is the co-founder of Future of Faith and one of the foremost experts in the spiritual lives of American youth and religious trends in the United States. He is an accomplished researcher in the sociology of religion and new forms of religious expression. He has authored numerous books and articles in both popular and academic outlets including Church Refugees: Sociologists reveal why people are DONE with church but not their faith and Meaning Making: 8 Values That Drive America’s Newest Generations.  Josh was previously a professor, founding Executive Director of Springtide Research Institute and Vice President of Strategy with the National Catholic Educational Association.  He has a B.A. in English from Texas Lutheran University and Ph.D. in Sociology from Vanderbilt University. He lives in Greeley, Colorado with his wife and teenage son where he is quickly becoming the third best golfer in his family of three. Website: www.futureoffaith.org LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshpackard/ Twitter: @drjoshpackard