Good God

Many American Christians want to understand Israel–Palestine but feel overwhelmed by history, headlines, and competing narratives. In this conversation, George Mason and John Munayer cut through that noise with a grounded, deeply human look at the lived experience of Palestinian Christians, the shifts happening in Palestinian theology, and why humility and attentive listening are essential for anyone seeking clarity right now. They explore everyday metaphors like the olive tree and olive oil, the weight of Holy Saturday after Gaza, and how a theology that truly blesses one’s neighbor can guide faithful engagement.John Munayer is the Director of International Engagement at the Rossing Center for Education and Dialogue and a Jerusalem-born Palestinian Christian theologian engaged in peace-building, research, and interreligious work.

What does peacebuilding look like in a place marked by fear and trauma?George Mason speaks with Hana Bendcowsky, Program Director at the Rossing Center for Education and Dialogue in Jerusalem. Hana describes the Rossing Center’s work fostering understanding and shared society among Jews, Christians, and Muslims in Israel through mindful listening, trauma awareness, and relationship building. Reflecting on the aftermath of October 7, 2023, she shares how the war has intensified polarization while making dialogue more essential than ever.Their conversation closes with reflections on religious identity, nationalism, and compassion, as Hana and George recognize the parallels between Jewish and Christian struggles to uphold faith-based values amid political and social division.Hana Bendcowsky holds an M.A. in Comparative Religion from the Hebrew University and has nearly three decades of experience in interfaith work in Israel and abroad. She teaches in seminaries, academic programs, and government settings, and leads educational tours in Jerusalem focused on the Christian Quarter and Jewish-Christian relations in the Israeli context.

As immigration enforcement intensifies in cities like Chicago, people of faith are grappling with how to respond. In this episode, George Mason speaks with Rev. Mara Richards Bim—Justice & Advocacy Fellow at Royal Lane Baptist Church in Dallas—about what she witnessed during a recent visit, where clergy and community members are confronting tear gas, chemical agents, and tactics that feel more like military operations than targeted law enforcement. Together they explore the theological stakes: What does it mean to love our neighbors—including ICE agents—while rejecting violence and mission creep? How do Christians read Scripture faithfully in a politicized moment? Mara also shares her call story, the need for public theology, and why clergy voices matter when “keeping the peace” isn’t the same as making peace.Rev. Mara Richards Bim is an ordained minister, theater artist, and longtime advocate for justice and inclusion whose work bridges faith, art, and public engagement.

How does someone move from living in the shadows to leading in the light? In this episode, Sandra Avalos shares how her experience as a DACA recipient shaped her calling as a community organizer and advocate for immigrant families. She and her church, St. Thomas the Apostle Episcopal in Dallas, have built a network of allies accompanying migrants through court hearings and confronting the human cost of our immigration system. Her story shows how faith can take shape in the small, brave acts of showing up for others—acts that quietly push back against fear and make room for dignity to take root.Sandra Avalos is a Dallas-based community organizer, DACA recipient, and leader with Vecinos Unidos DFW and St. Thomas the Apostle Episcopal Church.

As fear and tension rise around immigration enforcement in North Texas, Rev. Eric Folkerth has helped lead an interfaith clergy vigil outside the Dallas ICE field office—an act of prayerful presence in the face of injustice.In this episode of Good God, George Mason talks with Rev. Folkerth about what happens at these weekly gatherings, how they began, and why he believes prayer can be both faithful and prophetic. Together they discuss the growing anxiety among immigrants, the tragic shooting that drew national attention to the Dallas ICE facility, and the moral toll of policies that harm both migrants and public servants.Grounded in scripture and compassion, their conversation calls people of faith to resist fear, welcome the stranger, and embody moral courage in public life.Rev. Eric Folkerth is senior pastor of Kessler Park United Methodist Church in Dallas. A longtime minister, musician, and activist, he’s known for his work at the intersection of faith and justice.

Peter Brodsky wasn’t always a real estate developer—but when he saw an opportunity to use his business experience to help transform southern Dallas, he stepped in. In this season finale of Good God, George Mason speaks with Peter about his work at the Shops at Redbird, his leadership at Housing Forward, and why homelessness, food access, and affordable housing demand both moral clarity and practical solutions.Together, they explore the structural causes of poverty, the challenge of changing public narratives, and how Peter’s Jewish faith and commitment to tikkun olam—repairing the world—have shaped his decision to invest his time, money, and energy in building a more equitable city.Peter Brodsky is a Dallas-based philanthropist, real estate investor, and chair of the board of Housing Forward, the lead agency coordinating homelessness response in Dallas and Collin counties.

What does it mean to report with compassion in a culture driven by clicks and controversy? George Mason sits down with veteran journalist Sharon Grigsby to talk about her newest venture—The Lab Report Dallas—a bold, nonprofit newsroom rooted in data, equity, and solutions for reducing child poverty in Dallas. They reflect on her decades of writing with kindness and accountability, the changing landscape of media, and how Sharon’s own evolving faith informs her work and voice.Sharon Grigsby is a longtime Dallas journalist, former metro columnist for The Dallas Morning News, and co-founder of The Lab Report Dallas, a new publication powered by the Child Poverty Action Lab.

At the heart of downtown Dallas lies Thanks-Giving Square—a place designed to inspire gratitude, foster interfaith understanding, and call an entire city toward the common good. In this episode, George Mason sits down with Kyle Ogden, President and CEO of The Thanks-Giving Foundation, to talk about the Square’s origins, its bold civic vision, and its evolving role in today’s divided cultural landscape. Together, they explore how gratitude functions as a foundational virtue, why nonprofits matter in a healthy democracy, and what it means to shift from personal success to public significance. Kyle also shares his own story of professional transition—from leading a family business to helping reshape Dallas through civic reflection, spiritual hospitality, and the quiet power of place.Kyle Ogden is the President and CEO of The Thanks-Giving Foundation, where he leads efforts to cultivate gratitude, bridge community divides, and promote human flourishing in the city of Dallas.

What does it look like to bring your whole self—your values, your faith, your history—into public life? Councilmember Jaynie Schultz joins George Mason for a candid conversation about her years in public service, the joys and challenges of representing a diverse district, and the values that have shaped her decisions along the way. Together, they reflect on civic responsibility, zoning and housing justice, faith-rooted ethics, and the spiritual soul of Dallas. Jaynie also shares why she’s stepping away from elected office and what comes next.Jaynie Schultz is a Dallas City Council member representing District 11. First elected in 2021, she has served two terms and will conclude her tenure in 2025.

When the COVID-19 pandemic upended lives and livelihoods, attorney Mark Melton found himself unexpectedly answering thousands of questions about eviction law—and discovered just how broken the system really was. In this episode, George talks with Mark about the origins of the Dallas Eviction Advocacy Center, the legal myths we cling to, and why ensuring due process for all renters is both a legal and moral imperative. They also explore the intersection of law, poverty, politics, and personal values—whether grounded in faith or not.Mark Melton is a Dallas-based tax attorney and founder of the Dallas Eviction Advocacy Center, a nonprofit organization that provides legal representation to tenants facing eviction.

Beril Berk, Executive Director of the Dialogue Institute of Dallas, joins George Mason to explore how intentional relationship-building—across faiths, cultures, and communities—creates lasting impact. In this conversation, she reflects on the power of sitting at shared tables, the rich meaning of Ramadan, and the role of art and youth leadership in cultivating empathy. From feeding neighbors at shelters to launching a youth group called “Salam Shalom,” Berk’s work is rooted in the values of the Hizmet movement: education, service, and mutual understanding.A lawyer by training, Beril Berk also practices immigration law and brings her personal journey as a Turkish immigrant to her work in both legal and community spaces.

Restrictive voting laws and immigration policies shape who has a voice in our democracy. Attorney and activist Eric Cedillo joins Good God to discuss his work expanding voting access, advocating for Latino communities, and pushing for immigration reform. He and George Mason explore the systemic obstacles that keep people from the ballot box, the political roadblocks to reform, and the power of grassroots action to create change. With the Super Mega Marcha approaching, this conversation is a powerful reminder that democracy depends on those who show up.Cedillo is the founder of The Law Offices of Eric Cedillo, a professor at SMU Dedman School of Law, and a longtime advocate for victims' rights, civic engagement, and access to justice.

Faith isn’t just a belief—it’s a way of life. Almas Muscatwalla, a dedicated interfaith leader and advocate for social justice, joins Good God to share how her Ismaili Muslim faith calls her into service. In conversation with George Mason, she reflects on the meaning of pluralism, the importance of understanding across differences, and the role of faith in shaping a more just and compassionate society.Muscatwalla co-founded Faith Forward Dallas at Thanks-Giving Square to bring faith leaders together in action on issues like homelessness, racial equity, and refugee support. She has served in leadership roles with the Texas Muslim Women’s Foundation, Project Unity, and the Center for Asian Studies at UT Dallas, among others, working to build bridges across communities and create lasting change.

In this episode of Good God, George Mason sits down with Amanda Tyler, Executive Director of the Baptist Joint Committee for Religious Liberty and lead organizer for Christians Against Christian Nationalism. Amanda shares insights from her new book, How to End Christian Nationalism, exploring the steps needed to dismantle this dangerous ideology while promoting religious freedom for all. From defining Christian nationalism to addressing its impact on public schools and political power, Amanda calls us to engage deeply in protecting democracy and fostering pluralism.Amanda Tyler is a lawyer, religious liberty advocate, and leader in the fight against Christian nationalism, working to ensure the separation of church and state and to promote justice for all.

In this episode of Good God, George Mason sits down with journalist Bekah McNeel to discuss her latest book, This Is Going to Hurt: Following Jesus in a Divided America. Together, they explore the profound intersections of faith, suffering, and public life, challenging us to move beyond binaries and embrace self-sacrificial love in the face of division. From reframing stories about immigration and race to understanding the call of the cross as a daily act of radical compassion, Bekah invites listeners to go deeper into their convictions and rethink what it means to love their neighbors.Bekah McNeel is a San Antonio-based journalist and storyteller who writes on education, faith, and society for publications such as Texas Monthly, Sojourners, and Christianity Today.

In this special year-end episode of State of Our Faith, Rev. George Mason, Rabbi Nancy Kasten, and Mara Richards Bim reflect on themes of light and darkness across their faith traditions. As the holidays and new year approach, they discuss the significance of embracing both light and shadow, the importance of community and rest, and how faith calls us to be active participants in bringing hope to the world. Together, they offer insights and encouragement for finding light in challenging times.

In this special post-election episode of the "10 for 10: Voting Vision, Not Division" series, Rabbi Nancy Kasten and Rev. Dr. George Mason reflect on the surprises and challenges of the election results. They discuss how faith values can guide responses to shifting political landscapes, the importance of addressing local issues like housing and food access, and why advocating for good governance remains essential. Together, they emphasize the need for persistence and collaboration to create meaningful change, even when political winds shift. As the dust settles, this conversation invites listeners to stay engaged, persevere, and work toward unity and justice in their communities.What is 10 for 10: Voting Vision not Division? Starting on September 2, 2024 and continuing every Monday for ten weeks through November 4, Faith Commons is offering ten 10-minute reflections on topics related to the upcoming election through the lens of religion. Our premise is that religion should be used to unite people and groups of people rather than to divide them, and that the founders of our country shared our view.

In the final episode of our "10 for 10: Voting Vision, Not Division" series, Faith Commons reflects on the importance of character in leadership as we approach Election Day. Through a lens of faith, George, Mara, and Nancy explore how integrity, responsibility, and truthfulness in our leaders shape our collective identity and influence our values. From local offices to the highest levels of government, this conversation underscores the impact of character on policies that affect our communities. As you head to the polls, consider how each candidate’s character reflects the future you envision for our nation, grounded in shared moral principles. And as we move past this election, consider the role you can play in shaping that future.What is 10 for 10: Voting Vision not Division? Starting on September 2, 2024 and continuing every Monday for ten weeks through November 4, Faith Commons is offering ten 10-minute reflections on topics related to the upcoming election through the lens of religion. Our premise is that religion should be used to unite people and groups of people rather than to divide them, and that the founders of our country shared our view.

The Faith Commons team unpacks what freedom means in a society bound by shared values and responsibilities. Reflecting on individual conscience, faith-based values, and the role of community, they discuss how freedom is shaped by both personal and collective responsibility, urging voters to consider the delicate balance between rights and obligations. Together, they explore how true freedom involves respecting others’ autonomy while living by example and fostering a spirit of connection.What is 10 for 10: Voting Vision not Division? Starting on September 2, 2024 and continuing every Monday for ten weeks through November 4, Faith Commons is offering ten 10-minute reflections on topics related to the upcoming election through the lens of religion. Our premise is that religion should be used to unite people and groups of people rather than to divide them, and that the founders of our country shared our view.

In this episode, the Faith Commons team discusses how faith shapes our understanding of economic systems. From fair treatment of workers to addressing inequality, the conversation highlights how public policy can uphold dignity and fairness, encouraging voters to reflect on the ethical impact of economic choices as they head to the polls. The team emphasizes the importance of creating an economy that serves everyone, not just the privileged few.What is 10 for 10: Voting Vision not Division? Starting on September 2, 2024 and continuing every Monday for ten weeks through November 4, Faith Commons is offering ten 10-minute reflections on topics related to the upcoming election through the lens of religion. Our premise is that religion should be used to unite people and groups of people rather than to divide them, and that the founders of our country shared our view.

This episode reflects on immigration through the lens of faith, with the Faith Commons team exploring how religious stories emphasize compassion for migrants. Drawing on biblical narratives and personal experiences, the conversation addresses the realities of an unknown future and the complexities of immigration policy today, urging voters to consider the values of hospitality, justice, and care for the vulnerable as they head to the polls.What is 10 for 10: Voting Vision not Division? Starting on September 2, 2024 and continuing every Monday for ten weeks through November 4, Faith Commons is offering ten 10-minute reflections on topics related to the upcoming election through the lens of religion. Our premise is that religion should be used to unite people and groups of people rather than to divide them, and that the founders of our country shared our view.

In this special episode, the Faith Commons team reflects on the one-year anniversary of the war between Israel and Hamas. Drawing from their own experiences in the region and their faith traditions, Rev. Dr. George Mason, Rabbi Nancy Kasten, and Mara Richards Bim grapple with the complexities of ongoing violence and the pursuit of peace. They discuss the difficulties of peacemaking, the limits of our understanding, and the importance of solidarity and compassion in a world divided by conflict. As they consider the impact of faith on public policy and voting, they challenge listeners to reflect on what makes a land holy and how to work toward a future rooted in justice and peace.What is 10 for 10: Voting Vision not Division? Starting on September 2, 2024 and continuing every Monday for ten weeks through November 4, Faith Commons is offering ten 10-minute reflections on topics related to the upcoming election through the lens of religion. Our premise is that religion should be used to unite people and groups of people rather than to divide them, and that the founders of our country shared our view.

In this episode, the Faith Commons team discusses how faith traditions call us to care for the planet and address the urgent challenges of climate change. Drawing on Jewish and Christian teachings, they explore how public policy can promote renewable energy, reduce carbon emissions, and protect vulnerable communities already facing the impacts of a changing climate. As Election Day approaches, this conversation challenges us to reimagine our role in environmental stewardship and the concrete steps we can take to safeguard the Earth for future generations.What is 10 for 10: Voting Vision not Division? Starting on September 2, 2024 and continuing every Monday for ten weeks through November 4, Faith Commons is offering ten 10-minute reflections on topics related to the upcoming election through the lens of religion. Our premise is that religion should be used to unite people and groups of people rather than to divide them, and that the founders of our country shared our view.

In this episode of "10 for 10: Voting Vision Not Division," Rev. Dr. George Mason, Rabbi Nancy Kasten, and Mara Richards Bim dive into the complexities of family and what it means to support families in today’s world. From the diverse family structures seen in religious texts to the modern policies needed to uplift all families, they discuss how faith calls for a broader, more inclusive understanding of family. The conversation covers essential topics like childcare assistance, paid leave, and family unity, urging voters to reflect on how public policies can strengthen families in all forms.What is 10 for 10: Voting Vision not Division? Starting on September 2, 2024 and continuing every Monday for ten weeks through November 4, Faith Commons is offering ten 10-minute reflections on topics related to the upcoming election through the lens of religion. Our premise is that religion should be used to unite people and groups of people rather than to divide them, and that the founders of our country shared our view.

In this episode of "10 for 10: Voting Vision Not Division," Rev. Dr. George Mason, Rabbi Nancy Kasten, and Mara Richards Bim reflect on the role of healthcare in a faith-driven society. From the holistic healing ministry of Jesus to the ethical teachings of Maimonides, the discussion highlights the importance of universal healthcare access and the intersection of faith, medicine, and policy. As Election Day approaches, this episode invites voters to consider healthcare policies through the lens of compassion and justice, addressing issues like prescription drug costs, maternal health, and public safety.What is 10 for 10: Voting Vision not Division? Starting on September 2, 2024 and continuing every Monday for ten weeks through November 4, Faith Commons is offering ten 10-minute reflections on topics related to the upcoming election through the lens of religion. Our premise is that religion should be used to unite people and groups of people rather than to divide them, and that the founders of our country shared our view.

In this episode of "10 for 10: Voting Vision Not Division," Rabbi Nancy Kasten, Rev. Dr. George Mason, and Mara Richards Bim examine the vital role education plays in shaping our values and beliefs, both as individuals and as a society. They reflect on the importance of public education, the separation of church and state, and the influence of faith on education policy. As the election approaches, this episode encourages voters to consider how their religious convictions can inform their decisions about educational equity, government oversight, and the protection of diverse perspectives in our schools.What is 10 for 10: Voting Vision not Division? Starting on September 2, 2024 and continuing every Monday for ten weeks through November 4, Faith Commons is offering ten 10-minute reflections on topics related to the upcoming election through the lens of religion. Our premise is that religion should be used to unite people and groups of people rather than to divide them, and that the founders of our country shared our view.

In this inaugural episode of "10 for 10: Voting Vision Not Division," Rev. Dr. George Mason is joined by Rabbi Nancy Kasten and Mara Richards Bim to explore the significance of labor through the lens of faith. As we reflect on Labor Day, the discussion delves into how religious traditions emphasize the dignity of work, the necessity of rest, and the importance of fair labor practices. This episode challenges listeners to think critically about how their beliefs can shape their voting decisions on issues related to labor and employment. Join us as we kick off this series with a conversation that invites you to see voting as a powerful way to live out your values and contribute to a just and compassionate society.What is 10 for 10: Voting Vision not Division? Starting on September 2, 2024 and continuing every Monday for ten weeks through November 4, Faith Commons is offering ten 10-minute reflections on topics related to the upcoming election through the lens of religion. Our premise is that religion should be used to unite people and groups of people rather than to divide them, and that the founders of our country shared our view.

George Mason joins in conversation with Kim High, the passionate founder of Joppy Momma's Farm—a grassroots initiative tackling food insecurity in South Dallas. Kim shares her inspiring journey from corporate life to community farming, driven by her personal battle with diabetes and a leap of faith. Joppy Momma's Farm is not just feeding a community but also preserving the rich heritage of one of Dallas's historic Freedmen's towns. Joppy Momma's Farm vows to empower, educate, and create greater opportunities for health, wellness, and self-sufficiency through sustainable, regenerative agriculture. Kim's work is a testament to the power of faith in action.

In this Good God episode, Tammy Johnson—Executive Director and Founder of Empowering the Masses in South Dallas—shares her inspiring journey from childhood poverty to leading an organization that addresses food insecurity through its CommUNITY Market, offering nutritious and culturally appropriate food to those in need. Empowering the Masses provides career training and certification programs, equipping individuals to increase their earning potential and engage more deeply with their neighbors. Discover how faith, dignity, and practical support are transforming lives and entire communities in South Dallas.

Join host George Mason as he visits For Oak Cliff to discuss food security, access, and justice in Southern Dallas. Meet Julianna YeeFoon and Raven Shankle, leaders in the community's fight against food apartheid, and explore For Oak Cliff's innovative approaches to creating a sustainable and equitable food system. Discover how partnerships, education, and a vision for food sovereignty are transforming lives and neighborhoods.For Oak Cliff's mission is to provide culturally responsive initiatives in South Oak Cliff to liberate the community from systemic oppression, create a culture of education, and increase social mobility and social capital.

In this pivotal election year, Rev. Dr. George Mason led the participants at Saint Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church’s Pub Theology in a reflective exploration of the role Christianity has played and should play in the realm of politics.From navigating contentious issues to grappling with the concept of Christian nationalism, he delved into the complexities and challenges of faith-based engagement in the public sphere.“Patriotism is love of country. Nationalism is hatred of the other.”

This episode features a conversation with Rachel Laser, President & CEO of Americans United for Separation of Church and State, protecting the foundational American principle of freedom of religion—including the right to believe or not believe—for all.George & Rachel discuss the intersection of religious freedom and abortion laws. Rachel highlights the importance of church-state separation in preserving religious freedom and democracy. They unpack the role of religious pluralism in America and the necessity of protecting the rights of all citizens, regardless of their faith. The episode also touches on the challenges of motivating moderate voices and fostering meaningful dialogue across differences.The discussion serves as a prelude to an upcoming event in Dallas focusing on these critical issues:Under G-d: Screening and Discussion on Why Abortion Bans Violate Religious FreedomJune 17 @ 7:30 pm - 9:00 pmhttps://faithcommons.org/event/under-g-d-screening-and-discussion-on-why-abortion-bans-violate-religious-freedom/

George is joined by Brian Kaylor, author of the book "Baptizing America: How Mainline Protestants Helped Build Christian Nationalism"—a critique of the concept of civil religion, arguing that such expressions are far more dangerous than we realize.In this conversation, they discuss his new book; the dangers of a softer, friendlier Christian Nationalism present in many mainline protestant churches; and the difficult work of figuring out what is American and what is Jesus's teachings. To make this distinction, we must ask ourselves, "What are they trying to accomplish? And how are they treating our fellow citizens in our increasingly pluralistic society?""It's cathartic to point at...evangelicals, and say, 'Look at them.' Right? But what if we actually did something in our own circles of influence, in our own communities to reduce Christian Nationalism?" - Brian Kaylor

Meet Sandy Ovalle Martínez, Sojourners' Director of Campaigns and Mobilizing. A mujerista theologian and an organizer, Sandy oversees mobilization and activist engagement around different justice areas including climate and environmental justice, immigration, women and girls, and peace and nonviolence.In this conversation, Sandy and George explore how individuals and communities can equip themselves to respond effectively to social injustice, drawing on the rich teachings of faith to guide their actions. They trace the historical roots of immigration and examine the role of religion in shaping attitudes towards human mobility. Finally, they reflect on how we can harness our faith to navigate uncertainty and step boldly into a world in need of courageous advocates for justice and compassion.

Fr. Lapsley is currently the Director of the Institute for the Healing of Memories in Cape Town, South Africa. He is an Anglican priest and social justice activist who was severely injured by a letter bomb sent to him in Zimbabwe where he had been exiled by the South African government for his anti-apartheid work. He founded the Institute for the Healing of Memories in 1998 to seek to contribute to lasting and collective healing that makes possible a more peaceful and just future.In this fourth episode of the Courageous Conversations series, George and Fr. Lapsley explore pain's role as a catalyst for healing and collective transformation. They discuss the intrinsic capacity within every individual for healing and the transcendent nature of pain that binds us together. Together, they confront the spiritual wound of racism, delving into the intricate process of intergenerational unlearning it necessitates.

Meet Dr. Jeff Sharlet, Professor in the Art of Writing at Dartmouth College and author of the recently released The Undertow: Scenes from a Slow Civil War. In it, he journeys into the corners of our national psyche in an attempt to understand how, over the last decade, reaction has morphed into delusion, social division into distrust, distrust into paranoia, and hatred into fantasies—sometimes realities—of violence.In this conversation, George and Jeff discuss the religious dimensions of American politics, and the role of grief and uncertainty in the midst of plague and rising fascism. Sharlet offers insight into both the human condition and into our country today, bringing to light a decade of American failures as well as a vision for American possibility.Jeff Sharlet is the New York Times bestselling author or editor of eight books. His latest is The Undertow: Scenes from a Slow Civil War (2023), a National Book Critics Circle Award Finalist for Nonfiction, one of The New York Times 100 Books of the Year, and a New Republic book of the year.

George is joined by Chris Walsh and William McKenzie, both of the George W. Bush Institute where they engage in the advancement of freedom and democracy in the world.In this second episode of the Courageous Conversations series, they discuss what they call "the pluralism challenge," the role of pluralism in strengthening our democracy, the importance of a vibrant religious pluralism, and what American democracy means—even when it falls short of its own ideals.Chris Walsh serves as Director, Global Policy at the George W. Bush Institute. In this role, Mr. Walsh manages communications, evaluation, and public policy research projects that advance freedom and democracy in the world.William McKenzie is senior editorial advisor at the George W. Bush Institute, where he is working on editorial projects on democracy and freedom and education reform.

Rabbi Hanan Schlesinger and Noor A’wad are leaders of the West Bank-based Roots/Shorashim/Judur, an Israeli-Palestinian initiative for understanding, non-violence, and transformation.Even in this time of unprecedented violence, distrust, and division, Roots is persisting in a vision of a future that upholds the humanity of all Israelis and Palestinians. In this conversation, our guests discuss with George how they are moving beyond the present reality, the role of identity in this conflict, and ways to resist the further entrenchment of hatred between these two peoples, who are forever destined to live together. "We have a saying that comes from the founder of Roots on the Palestine side … that we have to find a way to fit two truths into one heart." - Rabbi Hanan Schlesinger

Meet Pamela Cooper-White, MDiv, PhD, LCPC, author of the recently released The Psychology of Christian Nationalism, which uncovers the troubling extent of Christian nationalism, explores its deep psychological roots, and discusses ways in which advocates for justice can safely and effectively attempt to talk across the deep divides in our society.In this conversation, George and Pamela discuss what Christian nationalism is, the difference between nationalism and patriotism, the cult of personality and the fragility of democracy, and how to channel our energy and outrage into education and advocacy for social change.Pamela Cooper-White, MDiv, PhD, LCPC is the Christiane Brooks Johnson Professor Emerita of Psychology and Religion and Dean Emerita, Union Theological Seminary, New York, an Episcopal priest in the Diocese of New York, and a licensed psychotherapist.

George is joined by his friend and colleague Rev. Dr. Amy Butler, author of the recently released Beautiful and Terrible Things on the necessity of community, the inevitability of conflict, and the transformative power of radical love.They discuss her book and her story, how the weaponizing of religion today is similar to the political situation Jesus encountered, and the need for crossing boundaries and for doing the hard work.“Religious communities can be good and redemptive and world-changing if we'll only do the hard work.” - Amy Butler

George pays a visit to Restorative Farms where he meets with co-founder Brad Boa. He tours the farm and learns how this Community Farm is working to address the issues of food access by growing food and creating jobs for the community. Later, co-founder Owen Lynch joins George online and tells the origin story of Restorative Farms. In South Dallas where a population of people has to leave their community to get access to healthy food, Restorative Farms works to support systematically underdeveloped communities. The farm's focus is on food sustainability but is also creating a network of local farmers who are working their land in an environmentally responsible manner. The farm provides job opportunities and fresh food, ingrains a pride of ownership, and fosters collaboration. This episode is the fourth in the new series “More than Food for Thought: Community-Based Solutions to Hunger in South Dallas."In a part of the city where access to grocery stores and fresh produce is limited, the Center offers emergency food assistance, bilingual SNAP application support, a teaching kitchen, a Neighbors' Community Garden, and more. Follow along as George and Ashley explore the importance of seeking out sustainable and long-term solutions to hunger that arise from the community and maintain the dignity and independence of its members.This episode is the third in the new series “More than Food for Thought: Community-Based Solutions to Hunger in South Dallas.”

George pays a visit to the West Dallas Multipurpose Center where he tours the grounds, meets with Center Manager Ashley Hutto, and learns how the city of Dallas is addressing the issues of food access and insecurity.In a part of the city where access to grocery stores and fresh produce is limited, the Center offers emergency food assistance, bilingual SNAP application support, a teaching kitchen, a Neighbors' Community Garden, and more. Follow along as George and Ashley explore the importance of seeking out sustainable and long-term solutions to hunger that arise from the community and maintain the dignity and independence of its members.This episode is the third in the new series “More than Food for Thought: Community-Based Solutions to Hunger in South Dallas.”

This episode is the second in the new series “More than Food for Thought: Community-Based Solutions to Hunger in South Dallas.” In it, George introduces us to 4DWN’s Sunday Service and its leaders.4DWN is a skate park, an organization, and a service-driven community that meets the needs of hundreds of kids and families each week. It creates upward mobility opportunities, and through its “Sunday Service” distributes with the help of its volunteers thousands of pounds of nutritious food—eliminating waste and feeding bodies, minds, and souls throughout this area food desert. It’s good for people, and good for the planet.4DWN “is a metaphor, right? About four wheels down and rolling. It’s a sort of celebration of movement…all moving forward together.” - Rob Cahill

This episode is the first in the new series “More than Food for Thought: Community-Based Solutions to Hunger in South Dallas.” In it, George introduces us to Joey Darwin, Executive Director of Bridge Builders and the group’s South Dallas Community Market. Together, they explore what a grocery store would look like if the neighbors who shop there got to say what they needed and wanted.In partnership with Brother Bill’s Helping Hand, that’s exactly what this market does; it offers nutritious food chosen by clients right in the community of South Dallas.BridgeBuilders engages, equips, and empowers individuals, families, and communities in South Dallas. 

This episode is the final installment of a three-part series on redemption and renewal. Imam Omar Suleiman describes redemption as a change in the cravings of the soul, and underscores the importance of generosity and charity for Muslims—especially at this time. He also speaks to the experience of Muslims living as a minority in the United States while fasting during Ramadan.Imam Omar Suleiman is the Founder and President of the Yaqeen Institute for Islamic Research, and an Adjunct Professor of Islamic Studies in the Graduate Liberal Studies Program at SMU (Southern Methodist University). He is also the Resident Scholar at Valley Ranch Islamic Center and Co-Chair Emeritus of Faith Forward Dallas at Thanks-Giving Square.

This episode is the second installment of a three-part series on redemption and renewal. Dr. Curtis Freeman discusses the significance of how Christians keep time and why the events of Holy Week are integral to the Christian faith.Dr. Curtis W. Freeman is a research professor of theology and Baptist studies and director of the Baptist House of Studies at Duke Divinity School. His research and teaching explores areas of Free Church theology.Rabbi Zelony has been the senior Rabbi for Congregation Beth Torah in Richardson, Texas since 2014. Her rabbinate emphasizes pluralism, inclusion, interfaith work, spirituality, and involvement with the community. She is the first female rabbi in the Conservative Movement to lead a synagogue in the state of Texas.

This episode begins a three-part series on redemption and renewal. Rabbi Elana Zelony unpacks the historical significance of Passover and its role in forming the Jewish consciousness, how it has become part of the rhythm of Jewish life. More broadly, she explains how the spiritual practice of rituals is a reminder and celebration of her faith’s core values. Rabbi Zelony has been the senior Rabbi for Congregation Beth Torah in Richardson, Texas since 2014. Her rabbinate emphasizes pluralism, inclusion, interfaith work, spirituality, and involvement with the community. She is the first female rabbi in the Conservative Movement to lead a synagogue in the state of Texas.

In this third episode on civil rights, Skye and George look at the question of marriage equality in our country. They discuss the notion that in a democracy people have a right to basic dignity that "does not draw distinctions because of the color of your skin, because of who you love, because of your sexual orientation, because of your gender identity." They also consider the complications of religiously-affiliated organizations receiving federal money, the civil rights history of religious traditions, and what it means to build a more perfect union.Skye Perryman is the President and CEO of Democracy Forward. She is a lawyer, advocate, and leader with a track record of taking on and winning critical fights that advance democratic values, stop abuses of power, and improve the wellbeing of people and communities.

Join Skye and George as they unpack the consequences of the Dobbs decision, how Christian nationalism influenced the ruling, the future of reproductive rights and what we can all do to protect them.Skye Perryman is the President and CEO of Democracy Forward. She is a lawyer, advocate, and leader with a track record of taking on and winning critical fights that advance democratic values, stop abuses of power, and improve the wellbeing of people and communities.

Skye Perryman is the President and CEO of Democracy Forward. She is a lawyer, advocate, and leader with a track record of taking on and winning critical fights that advance democratic values, stop abuses of power, and improve the wellbeing of people and communities. In this episode, she talks perfecting our democracy, what we can learn from the most recent midterm elections, and creating conditions where people can pursue their faith, their spiritual commitments, their dreams.