20 Minute Takes

This week on 20 Minute Takes, we talk with author Scott Bessenecker. His book, Bad Religion, Good News: An Honest Guide for the Spiritually Disappointed was released this past May. Scott talks with us about why engaging with disappointment is often a challenge for Western Christian spirituality, and shares stories of people who have found good news through their earnest engagement with disappointment.This is the final episode of season 8 of 20 Minute Takes—check back in the fall for our new season!Scott Bessenecker has worked in college ministry for the past 40 years, facilitating global justice immersion programs inviting young adults to discern voactional ministry alongside the urban poor. He's also the author of the New Friars.You can find his Substack here.20 Minute Takes is a production of Christians for Social ActionHosted, Produced, and Edited by David de LeonMusic by Andre Henry

This week on 20 Minute Takes, Nikki Toyama-Szeto talks with Sandra Maria Van Opstal. She's the Executive Director and Co-Founder of Chasing Justice, an organization that mobilizes a young BIPOC-led communities toward living a lifestyle of faith and justice. In this episode, they talk about about a spirituality rooted in the idea of "We got us." Sandra unpacks how she's seen her local community in Chicago care for one another amidst increased ICE activity, how she sees faith communities continuing to be a crucial space of mobilization and connection, and how a spirituality rooted in movement and action from the margins is not only through the witness of scripture, but is what's most needed in the world today.You can learn more about Sandra's work here.Listen to the whole song "We Got Us" + the rest of the Storytellers Collective Storybook Vol. 1 here.Finally, check out Chasing Justice's podcast, "We Got Us" here.__________________________________________________________________________20 Minute Takes is a production of Christians for Social ActionHosted by Nikki Toyama-Szeto Produced by David de LeonEditing and Mixing by Wiloza MediaMusic by Andre Henry

What does it mean for Christians to be accountable to their tradition's entanglement with racism, white supremacy and anti-Blackness? On this episode of 20 Minute Takes, Nikki Toyama-Szeto talks with musician and writer, Andre Henry. Andre serves as the program director for CSA's Racial Justice Institute. In this episode, they discuss the current backlash that against  racial justice efforts in the United States, and the long history of how Christians have both contributed to the upholding of racial hierarchy, as well as the prophetic actions Christians have undertaken to dismantle it.Check out this four-part series that Andre recently published on "Understanding Racism."You can listen to Andre's music here and learn more about his work here.Additionally, you can follow him on Instagram and Threads.20 Minute Takes is a production of Christians for Social ActionHosted by Nikki Toyama-Szeto Produced by David de LeonEditing and Mixing by Wiloza MediaMusic by Andre Henry

This week, Nikki Toyama-Szeto talks with Zakiya Jackson of the Expectations Project. They talk about the spiritual practice of being a good neighbor, and how good neighboring goes beyond individual relationships to considering how systems and policy affect our communities as a whole.You can follow Zakiya on Instagram and Threads.You can learn more about the Expectations Project here.20 Minute Takes is a production of Christians for Social ActionHosted by Nikki Toyama-Szeto Produced by David de LeonEditing and Mixing by Wiloza MediaMusic by Andre Henry

Faith communities have the power to help give shape to people's lives, for better, and sometimes for worse. On this episode of 20 Minute Takes, Nikki Toyama-Szeto talks with Erina Kim-Eubanks. She's the co-pastor of Bethel Community Presbyterian Church in San Leandro, CA, a multigenerational church community that she and her husband have helped to replant since the Covid-19 pandemic. In this conversation, Erina reflects on what spiritual formation looks like at their church, how the their community is intentional in their imagination and praxis, and how communal practices around liturgy and scripture nourish their congregation.You can find Erina's writing here.Follow her on Instagram.20 Minute Takes is a production of Christians for Social ActionHosted by Nikki Toyama-Szeto Produced by David de LeonEditing and Mixing by Wiloza MediaMusic by Andre Henry

Eschatology refers to the area of theological reflection that makes meaning of "the last things;" it often conjures up notions of apocalypticism, heaven, judgment, or even the book of Revelation. On this episode of 20 Minute Takes, Nikki Toyama-Szeto talks with Sara Améstegui Deik about how eschatologies help to form our broader theological imaginations. Sara is a scholar based in Bolivia, and her expertise is in Christian Zionism—an ideology that has had an outsized influence on Christian thinking and Christian ethics, particularly among Evangelicals in the West. What possibilities exist beyond this, in theologizing the future, and living justly in the present? Listen in.You can follow Sara on Instagram.20 Minute Takes is a production of Christians for Social ActionHosted by Nikki Toyama-Szeto Produced by David de LeonEditing and Mixing by Wiloza MediaMusic by Andre Henry

This week on 20 Minute Takes, Nikki Toyama-Szeto talks with Jemar Tisby. He's a bestselling author, historian, and producer of the recently released documentary: Jesus Was A Migrant, directed by Lauren Vernea. They discuss today's political landscape surrounding immigration, the consequences of politics leading theology instead of the other way around, and the various stands of Christian thought and spirituality which have sought to seek the flourishing of migrant communities.You can learn more about Jemar's work here.Follow him on Instagram and Threads.20 Minute Takes is a production of Christians for Social ActionHosted by Nikki Toyama-Szeto Produced by David de LeonEditing and Mixing by Wiloza MediaMusic by Andre Henry

20 Minute Takes is back with a new episode featuring Kristin Lee. She's the author of the recently released book: We Mend with Gold: An Immigrant Daughter's Reckoning with American Christianity. In this conversation, she and Nikki Toyama-Szeto discuss the experience of Asian American Christians and how an exilic spirituality informs how Asian American communities can show up today.You can learn more about Kristin and her work here.Follow her on Instagram or Threads.20 Minute Takes is a production of Christians for Social ActionHosted by Nikki Toyama-Szeto Produced by David de LeonEditing and Mixing by Wiloza MediaMusic by Andre Henry

On this special episode of 20 Minute Takes, Nikki Toyama-Szeto talks with Rev. Dr.  Gabriel Salguero of the National Latino Evangelical Coalition (NaLEC) about the current state of immigration in the United States, and how Christians are called to be people of welcome. Listen in on this podcast, and check out their resource: Advent Welcome: Room in the Inn.You can follow Rev. Dr. Gabriel Salguero on Instagram, Facebook. You can also follow the work of NaLEC here.20 Minute Takes is a production of Christians for Social ActionHosted by Nikki Toyama-Szeto Produced and edited by David de LeonMusic by Andre Henry

Can a tech company be a good neighbor? In this final episode of Season 7, Nikki Toyama-Szeto talks with Chi-En Yu, Product Manager of Dayspring Technologies. They discuss how Dayspring has committed to think about compensation, their time, the clients they take on, and their responsibility to the Bayview neighborhood in San Francisco. Listen in to learn how they show up as a company that is seeking justice in its spheres of influence.20 Minute Takes is a production of Christians for Social ActionHosted by Nikki Toyama-Szeto Produced by David de LeonEditing and Mixing by Wiloza MediaMusic by Andre HenryThis episode was made in collaboration with Christian for Social Action's Storytellers Collective.

This week on 20 Minute Takes, we are sharing a part of Nikki Toyama-Szeto's conversation with Jemar Tisby and Mark Labberton on a new project and podcast: Credible Witness. They discuss the changing landscape of our world today, and the ways in which the credibility of Christian life is more important than ever. You can find the episode in its entirety here.Jemar Tisby is a historian, speaker, and New York Times best-selling author of the books "The Color of Compromise," "How to Fight Racism," and "The Spirit of Justice."You can learn more about Jemar here, and follow him on Instagram, or Threads.Mark Labberton is the Clifford L. Penner Presidential Chair Emeritus and Professor Emeritus of Preaching at Fuller Seminary. 20 Minute Takes is a production of Christians for Social ActionHosted by Nikki Toyama-Szeto This episode was edited by Evan RosaAdditional editing and production  by David de LeonMusic by Andre Henry

This week on 20 Minute Takes, we talk Avril Speaks. Avril is an accomplished film producer, showrunner, and director. She serves as Senior Program Director for Christians for Social Action's Storytellers Collective initiative. Avril shares about her journey with storytelling and how her vocation as a filmmaker is tied to her faith journey. She helps gives a glimpse of the challenges and opportunities of telling stories in Hollywood, and unpacks how compelling storytelling is authentic storytelling—and how authentic storytelling always involves a measure of creative risk. This episode is for all the TV/film nerds, and anyone who cares about learning to tell more compelling stories.You can learn more about Avril and her work here;                                                Follow Avril on Instagram and Threads,20 Minute Takes is a production of Christians for Social ActionHosted by Nikki Toyama-Szeto Produced by David de LeonEditing & Mixing by Wiloza MediaMusic by Andre Henry

On this episode of 20 Minute Takes, we speak with Eugene Cho, the President and CEO of Bread for the World—"a nationwide Christian advocacy organization that educates on hunger and equips people to advocate for policies to end it in the U.S. and around the world." He shares about how his ministry as a church pastor is deeply connected to his advocacy and justice work today, and how a vision for human flourishing here and abroad requires that people of faith take the problem of hunger & poverty seriously. Listen in to learn how you can take practical, faith-empowered steps to advocate for policies that address hunger today.You can follow him on Instagram @eugenecho; follow Bread for the World @bread4theworld20 Minute Takes is a production of Christians for Social ActionHosted by Nikki Toyama-Szeto Produced by David de LeonEditing & Mixing by Wiloza MediaMusic by Andre Henry

This week on 20 Minute Takes, Nikki Toyama-Szeto speaks with Lauren Kim, National Organizer and Spokesperson for Young Evangelicals for Climate Action. In this conversation, Lauren shares about how climate action became a crucial part of her faith journey,  shares stories of how young people are caring for creation, and gives some practical first steps for people looking to integrate creation care into their personal lives and faith communities.You can learn more about Lauren Kim and her work here.Follow Young Evangelicals for Climate Action on Instagram @yecaction20 Minute Takes is a production of Christians for Social ActionHosted by Nikki Toyama-Szeto Produced by David de LeonEditing & Mixing by Wiloza MediaMusic by Andre Henry

This week on 20 Minute Takes, Nikki Toyama-Szeto talks with Malcolm du Plessis and Jalen Seawright of Common Hymnal, a songwriting collaborative that writes music of praise and protest, centering especially the voices of people who've been historically marginalized by Christianity. They discuss their music, the landscape of the Christian music industrial complex, and what it means to write believable music that is prophetic and affirming. This conversation is thick with theology and tunes, so you won't want to miss it.You can learn more about Common Hymnal here; follow them on Instagram @commonhymnal.Learn more about Jalen Seawright, and follow him on Instagram @seawright_.Read some of Malcolm du Plessis' writing/reflections here.Explore Common Hymnal's music here.20 Minute Takes is a production of Christians for Social ActionHosted by Nikki Toyama-Szeto Produced by David de LeonEditing & Mixing by Wiloza MediaMusic by Andre Henry

This week on 20 Minute Takes, Nikki Toyama-Szeto talks with Michael Kim-Eubanks. Michael is a musician and co-pastor of Bethel Community Church in San Leandro, CA. They discuss the passage and signing into law of California's SB 4 (which allowed faith institutions among others to build multi-family homes on their properties, allowing for the development of 170,000 acres of land for development toward addressing housing insecurity in the state), their church's journey in pursuing this new opportunity to care for their homeless neighbors, and how confronting the realities of homelessness shape one's spirituality. You can learn more about Pastor Michael Kim-Eubanks and his music here.20 Minute Takes is a production of Christians for Social ActionHosted by Nikki Toyama-Szeto Produced by David de LeonEditing & Mixing by Wiloza MediaMusic by Andre Henry

This week on 20 Minute Takes, Nikki Toyama-Szeto talks with Dr. Jenny Dyer, the founder of The 2030 Collaborative. They discuss the reality of foreign aid from the United States, how the recent funding cuts have directly impacted global health and the lives of HIV/AIDS patients around the world, and how it came to be that the American Christians in the early 2000s began to address the global HIV/AIDS emergency. This is a critical episode that you don't want to miss.Jenny Dyer is the Founder of The 2030 Collaborative. She also directs the Faith-Based Coalition for the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis, and Malaria in partnership with Friends of the Global Fight.Dyer has taught in the Department of Health Policy at Vanderbilt School of Medicine, as well as at Vanderbilt’s School of Divinity. She lives in Franklin, Tennessee with her husband, John, and two boys, Rhys and Oliver.You can learn more about her and her work here.20 Minute Takes is a production of Christians for Social ActionHosted by Nikki Toyama-Szeto Produced by David de LeonEditing & Mixing by Wiloza MediaMusic by Andre Henry

This week, Nikki Toyama-Szeto talks with author, theologian, and pastor, Gary VanderPol. They discuss climate justice, and practical ways that faith communities can approach Christ-centered climate action prayerfully, personally, and politically. If you're interested in learning more about how to start up climate action small groups at your church, you can email Gary here: [email protected] Minute Takes is a production of Christians for Social ActionHosted by Nikki Toyama-Szeto Produced by David de LeonEditing & Mixing by Wiloza MediaMusic by Andre Henry

On this episode of 20 Minute Takes, Nikki Toyama-Szeto talks with Kevin Nye. Kevin is a writer and advocate working toward ending homelessness by engaging best practices. He's the author of the 2022 book, "Grace Can Lead Us Home: A Christian Call to End Homelessness." In this conversation, Kevin challenges listeners to think about homeless systemically, dispels some common myths about the problem of homelessness, and shares stories of communities who have taken steps of faithfulness to care for their neighbors experiencing housing insecurity. You can learn more about Kevin Nye here.Find him on Instagram or Threads.20 Minute Takes is a production of Christians for Social ActionHosted by Nikki Toyama-Szeto Produced by David de LeonEditing & Mixing by Wiloza MediaMusic by Andre Henry

Welcome to 20 Minute Takes Season 7! What happens when we have learned to distrust our desires? And how does that get in the way of our pursuits to live in whole and just ways in our world today? Listen in as Nikki Toyama-Szeto interviews author, coach, and consultant Tracey Gee talk about her new book The Magic of Knowing What You Want: A Practical Guide to Unearthing the Wisdom of Your Desires.You can learn more about Tracey and her work here.Find her on Instagram, TikTok, and Threads.20 Minute Takes is a production of Christians for Social ActionHosted by Nikki Toyama-Szeto Produced by David de LeonEditing & Mixing by Wiloza MediaMusic by Andre Henry

In this final episode of season six, Nikki talks with Tony Deik. Tony is a Palestinian Christian from Bethlehem, Palestine. He is on faculty at Bethlehem Bible College, and currently resides in Bolivia with his family. Tony talks about the centrality of justice in the Christian scriptures, and how Christians might begin to understand justice as an act of worship and witness. They also discuss Christian Zionism, and how theologies have the potential to actualize either oppressive or just realities. Catch us in early 2025 for our upcoming season.You can learn more about Tony and his work here.20 Minute Takes is a production of Christians for Social ActionHost: Nikki Toyama-Szeto Edited & Produced by: David de LeonMusic: Andre Henry

How can churches be good neighbors to families experiencing housing insecurity? This week on 20 Minute Takes, Nikki talks with Edith Yoder. She's the CEO of Bridge of Hope, an organization that has equipped Christian faith communities to end and prevent homelessness since 1987. Edith shares stories of transformation and empowerment as churches have learned to extend meaningful relationships to their homeless neighbors.If you are interested in learning more about Bridge of Hope and how they might be able to partner with your church community, you can learn more here.Additionally, find you can find them on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and Youtube.20 Minute Takes is a production of Christians for Social ActionHost: Nikki Toyama-Szeto Edited & Produced by: David de LeonMusic: Andre Henry

This week on 20 Minute Takes, Nikki talks with Rev. Janna Louie, co-founder of the Coalition for Asian American and Pacific Islander Churches (CAAPIC). In this episode, they discuss the complex historical dynamics that affect Asian American/Pacific Islander (AAPI) voters, and the work that CAAPIC does to encourage AAPI Christians to show up as engaged citizens who participate robustly in the democratic process here in the United States. In a Presidential election year when the AAPI vote is arguably the most significant swing vote, this is an episode you don't want to miss.You can learn more about CAAPIC and access their resources here. 20 Minute Takes is a production of Christians for Social ActionHost: Nikki Toyama-Szeto Edited & Produced by: David de LeonMusic: Andre Henry

Please enjoy this encore presentation of this episode (originally aired on March 16, 2022).This week, Nikki Toyama-Szeto talks with Kristyn Komarnicki (CSA's Director of Dialogue & Convening / Program Manager for Oriented to Love) about practical tips for transforming conflict through curiosity.After listening to this episode of 20 Minute Takes, your ability to handle conflict, have difficult conversations, and engage in meaningful dialogue will level up; your friends and family will certainly thank you.You can learn more about Oriented to Love Here.20 Minute Takes is a production of Christians for Social ActionHost: Nikki Toyama-Szeto Edited & Produced by: David de LeonMusic: Andre Henry

This week on 20 Minute Takes, Nikki talks with Jesse Rudy. Trained as an attorney, Jesse is the Founder and CEO of Redeem International, a Christian faith-based nonprofit that protects some of the world's most vulnerable widows and orphans from violent abuse and exploitation. They talk about the phenomenon of land theft in Uganda, its effects on women and children, and how their organization's deterrence strategy has broad societal effects throughout the country. Jesse also shares his reflections on the type of spiritual formation necessary for engaging in justice work.You can learn more about Redeem International's work at their LinkedIn page and their website.  20 Minute Takes is a production of Christians for Social ActionHost and Producer: Nikki Toyama-Szeto Edited by: David de LeonMusic: Andre Henry

This week, David de Leon interviews CSA Executive Director and 20 Minute Takes host, Nikki Toyama-Szeto. Nikki shares what it looks like to lead a justice organization justly. She unpacks her organizational leadership theory anchored in intercession, and gives advice for how new leaders might integrate their spirituality into their leadership practice. Follow Nikki on Instagram, X (formerly Twitter).20 Minute Takes is a production of Christians for Social Action.Host, Producer, Editor: David de LeonMusic: Andre Henry

Please enjoy this encore presentation of this episode (originally aired on June 29, 2022).This week, David de Leon chats with Tim Ignacio. He's a Pilipino American community worker (and rapper!) in Metro Manila, in the Philippines. In this conversation, Tim shares about his story and vocation, the power of a ministry of tambay (loitering), and why he considers himself a balikbayan, and not a missionary. Listen in.Find Tim on Instagram @sobrangitmYou can find his music on Spotify and BandcampAnd check out his BALIKBAYAN NOT MISSIONARY vlog series on his YouTube channel.20 Minute Takes is a production of Christians for Social Action.Host: David de LeonProducer/Editor: David de LeonMusic: Andre Henry

This week, Nikki talks with Bill White. Bill is co-pastor of City Church Long Beach. Bill shares the story of his son coming out and how that experience challenged his theology and ultimately deepened his faith in Jesus. He discusses his church's journey of transformation through challenging conversations, and how critical it is for church communities to practice healthy modes of disagreement.You can also check out Bill's work at Small Church, Big Table.20 Minute Takes is a production of Christians for Social ActionHost and Producer: Nikki Toyama-Szeto Edited by: Wiloza Media + David de LeonMusic: Andre Henry

This week, Nikki talks with Rick Barry, the executive director of the Center for Christian Civics. Rick helps Christians to think about what it looks like for their communities to show up in the public square, and in this episode, he helps us to wrap our minds around what civic discipleship looks like and helps to break down the variety of ways people understand "politics" today.  You can follow @therickbarry and @christiancivics on Instagram.20 Minute Takes is a production of Christians for Social ActionHost and Producer: Nikki Toyama-Szeto Co-producer and Editor: David de LeonMusic: Andre Henry

July 27, 2024 will mark two years since Ron Sider, founder and President Emeritus of Christians for Social Action (originally Evangelicals for Social Action), passed away.Please enjoy this encore presentation of this episode with Ron (originally aired on March 9, 2022).This week, Nikki Toyama-Szeto chats with Ron Sider, the author of the acclaimed book Rich Christians in an Age of Hunger and the founder and President Emeritus of Christians for Social Action. Nikki and Ron talk about lessons learned from his 50+ years of scholar-activism—from the fight against apartheid in South Africa to non-violent resistance, to understanding the graduated tithe, this conversation is one you do not want to miss.20 Minute Takes is a production of Christians for Social ActionHost and Producer: Nikki Toyama-Szeto Edited by: David de LeonMusic: Andre Henry

This week, Nikki interviews Jasmin Shupper, the CEO and Founder of the Greenline Housing Foundation, a non-profit organization that aims to close the racial wealth and homeownership gaps and reverse the effects of systemic racism in housing by granting access to homeownership for people of color. Jasmin talks about the history of housing, economic, and racial justice, as well as her journey from working as a financial analyst for a Fortune 500 company to real estate, and eventually non-profit work confronting the generational harm of discriminatory redlining practices in the 20th century.You can learn more about the Greenline Housing Foundation here.Follow their work on Instagram @greenline_housing.20 Minute Takes is a production of Christians for Social ActionHost and Producer: Nikki Toyama-Szeto Edited by: David de LeonMusic: Andre Henry

This week on 20 Minute Takes, Nikki chats with Dr. Gabrielle Clowdus of Settled, an organization that addresses long-term homelessness through research-based holistic and communal approaches. In this conversation, they talk about why traditional interventions for homelessness often fail, and how local church communities are uniquely positioned to address the challenges of homelessness and to be good neighbors to their homeless siblings.Dr. Gabrielle Clowdus is the CEO and Founder of Settled. You can learn more about their research and Sacred Settlement projects here.You can find Settled on YouTube and Instagram.20 Minute Takes is a production of Christians for Social ActionHost and Producer: Nikki Toyama-Szeto Edited by: David de LeonMusic: Andre Henry

This week on 20 Minute Takes, we hear from economist Nishan de Mel. In front of a live audience, Nishan talks about how he and his organization Verité Research attempted to tackle corruption in governance in Sri Lanka, as well as what it means to participate in inherently unjust structures with an eye toward truth and transformation. Rick Barry, executive director of the Center for Christian Civics hosts this episode. Excerpts for this episode were recorded at an event put on by the Center for Christian Civics and Christians for Social Action entitled "Faith that Makes Our Politics Better" that took place in Washington DC, earlier this summer.Dr. Nishan de Mel is the executive director of Verité Research. He has taught and researched economics at both Harvard and Oxford, and in the 1990s, sat on multiple presidential task forces in Sri Lanka, helping to shape a wide array of public policies.You can follow Nishan on X (formerly Twitter).20 Minute Takes is a production of Christians for Social ActionHost: Rick Barry Producer: Nikki Toyama-Szeto Editor: David de LeonMusic: Andre Henry

Welcome to Season 6!In this episode, Nikki talks with Dr. Ruth Padilla DeBorst of the International Fellowship for Mission as Transformation (INFEMIT). They discuss how a global, interdenominational, and intergenerational community like INFEMIT is helping Christians all over the world think about how the church is showing up in their own contexts, as well as the upcoming Stott-Bediako Forum coming up in Medellín, Colombia this July 15-17. Listen in for a rich conversation on the role of gospel imagination in mission and transformation.Dr. DeBorst is a professor of World Christianity at Western Theological Seminary,  part of the networking team for INFEMIT (a gospel-centered fellowship of mission theologian-practitioners), serves in leadership of the Comunidad de Estudios Teológicos Interdisciplinarios (CETI), and a member of Casa Adobe (an intentional Christian Community with deep concern for right living in relation to the whole of creation). You can find Dr. DeBorst on LinkedIn, YouTube, Facebook, and Seminary Now.20 Minute Takes is a production of Christians for Social ActionHost and Producer: Nikki Toyama-Szeto Edited by: David de LeonMusic: Andre Henry

Join us in this episode as we talk to Dr. Ruth Padilla DeBorst about intentional community and ecological justice & how it's lived out at Casa Adobe in Costa Rica. Dr. DeBorst is a professor of World Christianity at Western Theological Seminary,  part of the networking team for INFEMIT (a gospel-centered fellowship of mission theologian-practitioners), serves in leadership of the Comunidad de Estudios Teológicos Interdisciplinarios (CETI), and a member of Casa Adobe (an intentional Christian Community with deep concern for right living in relation to the whole of creation).  You can find Dr. DeBorst on LinkedIn, YouTube, Facebook, and Seminary Now. 20 Minute Takes is a production of Christians for Social ActionHost and Producer: Nikki Toyama-Szeto Edited by: Wiloza MediaMusic: Andre Henry

Join us in this episode as we talk to Reverend Adam Taylor about the role churches can have in this divided society and examples of how faith can intersect with public policy. Reverend Adam Taylor is the President of Sojourners, an ecumenical Christian organization that works to advance justice and peace, and the author of "A More Perfect Union: A New Vision for Building the Beloved Community".He has led the Faith Initiative at the World Bank Group, served as vice president of Advocacy at World Vision US, executive director of Global Justice, and selected as a White House Fellow and served in the White House Office of Cabinet Affairs and Public Engagement. You can find Adam @revadamtaylor on X (Twitter), Facebook, and Instagram. 20 Minute Takes is a production of Christians for Social ActionHost and Producer: Nikki Toyama-Szeto Edited by: Wiloza MediaMusic: Andre Henry

Join us in this episode as we talk to Eboo Patel about what a pluralistic nation needs from Christians. Eboo Patel is the Founder and President of Interfaith America, the leading interfaith organization in the United States. Under his leadership, Interfaith America has worked with governments, universities, private companies, and civic organizations to make faith a bridge of cooperation rather than a barrier of division. Eboo served on President Obama's Inaugural Faith Council, has given hundreds of keynote addresses, and has written five books. You can find Eboo & Interfaith on social media: X (Twitter) @EbooPatel Facebook @EbooPatelLinkedInX (Twitter) @interfaithusa Facebook @interfaithamericaInstagram @interfaithamerica20 Minute Takes is a production of Christians for Social ActionHost and Producer: Nikki Toyama-Szeto Edited by: Wiloza MediaMusic: Andre Henry

Join us in this episode as we talk to Brian Zahnd about the role of the cross as well as new ways of looking at the cross as a kaleidoscope, in order to inform how we respond to aspects of Christian life and to justice issues in our society. Many of the insights he shares can be found in his latest book entitled The Wood Between the Worlds. Brian Zahnd is the founder and lead pastor of Word of Life Church in St. Joseph, Missouri. In addition to his most recent book, he has authored several other books including When Everything's On Fire and Sinners in the Hands of a Loving God. You can find Brian on his website and blog & follow him on X (Twitter) @BrianZahnd.20 Minute Takes is a production of Christians for Social ActionHost and Producer: Nikki Toyama-Szeto Edited by: Wiloza MediaMusic: Andre Henry

Join us in this episode as we talk to Dr. Melissa Borja about what the Christian church can learn to host and welcome refugees. She offers advice on how churches can be better hosts to refugees and talks about how her book, Follow the New Way, examines the good and bad of church refugee resettlement. She encourages us to be curious about the stories of why refugees come to the U.S., recognize U.S. complicity, and change our posture from charity to reparations. Dr. Melissa Borja is a professor in the Asian/Pacific Islander American Studies Program at the University of Michigan. She researches and teaches about religion, migration, race, ethnicity, and politics in the United States and the Pacific World. You can follow Dr. Borja on X (Twitter) @melissamayborja. 20 Minute Takes is a production of Christians for Social ActionHost and Producer: Nikki Toyama-Szeto Edited by: Wiloza MediaMusic: Andre Henry

Join us in this episode as we talk to Justin Fung about spiritual formation, activism, and opportunities we have to be formed in God's image. Rev. Dr. Justin Fung serves as the  Pastor of Leadership & Spiritual Formation at Christ City Church in Washington, DC & is an Affiliate Assistant Professor of Missional Leadership at Fuller Theological Seminary. He has also authored Learning to Live, a curriculum for cultivating spiritual transformation in multiethnic contexts. You can follow Justin @justinbfung on Instagram and Threads.20 Minute Takes is a production of Christians for Social ActionHost and Producer: Nikki Toyama-Szeto Edited by: Wiloza MediaMusic: Andre Henry

Join us in this episode as we talk to Darren Calhoun about his experience collecting stories of black queer Christians as they journey into and out of the church. Darren is a co-host on the Second Sunday podcast and producer for online shows that are reaching BIPOC Queer audiences with messages of support and healing. He is also the Digital Pastor and Worship Leader at Urban Village Church in Chicago. Follow Darren on social media at @heyDarren or on his blog, DarrenCalhoun.com.20 Minute Takes is a production of Christians for Social ActionHost and Producer: Nikki Toyama-Szeto Edited by: Wiloza MediaMusic: Andre Henry

Please enjoy this encore presentation of this episode (originally aired on January 26, 2022).Since the United States pulled out of Afghanistan in August 2021, 76,000 Afghan refugees have been brought to the United States for resettlement. On this episode of 20 Minute Takes, Nikki Toyama-Szeto chats with Jenny Yang, Vice President of Policy & Advocacy on Refugee Resettlement for World Relief on what it means to extend hospitality to (and receive hospitality from) refugees and displaced peoples in our communities.You can find her on Twitter @JennyYangWR.20 Minute Takes is a production of Christians for Social ActionHost: Nikki Toyama-SzetoProduced by: David de Leon Music: Andre Henry

This week on 20 Minute Takes, Nikki Toyama-Szeto talks with Kristyn Komarnicki about facilitating dialogue across difference. She works primarily in the divisions that emerge in the church and LGBTQ+ Christians and speaks on what it takes to move toward unity beyond agreement. Kristyn is the Senior Director of Dialogue and Convening at Christians for Social Action. 20 Minute Takes is a production of Christians for Social ActionHost and Producer: Nikki Toyama-Szeto Edited by: Wiloza MediaMusic: Andre Henry

This week on 20 Minute Takes, Nikki Toyama-Szeto talks with Eddie Kaufholz about storytelling in community, advice for gatekeepers of stories, and how stories fuel the Christian imagination for a just future. Eddie leads the communications and marketing team at Bread for the World and previously worked for International Justice Mission. You can find Eddie at:https://eddiekaufholz.comInstagram: @edwardoreddieTwitter: @edwardoreddie 20 Minute Takes is a production of Christians for Social ActionHost and Producer: Nikki Toyama-Szeto Edited by: Wiloza MediaMusic: Andre Henry

This week on 20 Minute Takes, Nikki Toyama-Szeto and activist Heidi Weaver-Smith talk about the power of presence and unpack some of the dynamics around Ohio's recent anti-trans laws. They discuss the power of presence, of curiosity and provide tips for what Christian witness looks like, regardless of one's position on the issues. You can find Heidi and Amplify Impact Consulting at https://www.amplifyimpactconsulting.com20 Minute Takes is a production of Christians for Social ActionHost and Producer: Nikki Toyama-Szeto Edited by: Wiloza MediaMusic: Andre Henry

This week on 20 Minute Takes, we talk with Leroy Barber about his work as the Executive Director of Neighborhood Economics. Listen in as he and Nikki discuss how Christians can show up in their neighborhoods for good, the importance of convening economic resources with practitioners, and how to integrate economics as a communal practice. You can find Leroy:Website: https://neighborhoodeconomics.org/Instagram: @leroybarber Twitter: @leroybarber His most recent book: Embrace: God’s Radical Shalom for a Divided World 20 Minute Takes is a production of Christians for Social ActionHost and Producer: Nikki Toyama-Szeto Edited by: Wiloza MediaMusic: Andre Henry

This week on 20 Minute Takes, Nikki takes us on a history lesson to mark the 50th anniversary of the Chicago Declaration of Evangelical Social Concern.  In Chicago, 50 years ago, over Thanksgiving weekend, a group of concerned Christian leaders gathered to ask how their faith should inform how they show up in the public space.  The result was the drafting of a statement about Christian commitment to social justice that some view as one of the most influential documents, for the church, of the decade.  It became the founding document for Christians for Social Action, and influenced many others.20 Minute Takes is a production of Christians for Social ActionHost and Producer: Nikki Toyama-Szeto Edited by: Wiloza MediaMusic: Andre Henry

This week on 20 Minute Takes, we talk with authors Kathy Khang and Matt Mikalatos about their new book, "Loving Disagreement".  They discuss ways to move beyond civility, to engage across difference.  Their new book, "Loving Disagreements" was released in October, 2023.You can find Kathy  on all social media platforms:  @mskathykhangMatt can be found at: FB: facebook.com/matthew.mikalatosBlueSky:@mattmikalatos.bsky.socialinstagram.com/mattmikalatos20 Minute Takes is a production of Christians for Social ActionHost and Producer: Nikki Toyama-Szeto Edited by: Wiloza MediaMusic: Andre Henry

This week on 20 Minute Takes, we talk with Jason Chu. He's a rapper, public theologian, and activist.  He and Nikki talk about Gospel imagination, and having a Christian faith that navigates today's complexities and contradictions.  He shares from his new album "We Were the Seeds."You can listen to Jason's music on streaming platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube, Amazon, etc.Catch him @jasonchumusic (on all social media): Instagram, TikTok,  Twitter/XAnd learn more about him at jasonchumusic.com20 Minute Takes is a production of Christians for Social Action.Host: Nikki Toyama-SzetoEdited by: Wiloza MediaMusic: Andre Henry

This week on 20 Minute Takes, we talk with Olatunde Sobomhein. He's  co-author of the book Creative Hustle and CEO of Streetcode Academy. He and Nikki talk about the interplay of imagination, ambition, and reflection, as well as his organization's work at empowering communities of color through tech and innovation in rapidly changing communities like East Palo Alto.This is the final episode of season four! If there's a particular guest, episode, or subject that you enjoyed hearing from this season, or if you have any comments or feedback for us, please send us an email at [email protected]  with the subject line "20 Minute Takes." We look forward to hearing from you! Be on the lookout for season five this fall.