Joanna Whaley Podcast

Send us Fan MailAfter nearly 3 years, the Joanna Whaley Podcast is coming to a close. Joanna will still be making podcasts, but more project-limited series material. Follow her on all social media channels for more information. Support the show

Send us Fan MailToday on the show, we discuss how important it is to lead when it all hits the fan. Stepping up to lead when things are fun and cute is needed, but can you step up when it's all going wrong? DONATE TO THE CAMPAIGN: https://secure.actblue.com/donate/joannawhaleySupport the show

Send us Fan MailToday on the show, Joanna discusses the ways in which we operate when something is bigger than one person. We all have a mode of operation in large settings or in movements. Today, Joanna discusses her evolution of self in the whole picture. DONATE TO THE CAMPAIGN HERE: https://secure.actblue.com/donate/joannawhaleySupport the show

Send us Fan MailToday, Joanna shares some major news. She is running for the Michigan House of Representatives!! Joanna shares the journey from LGBTQ+ rights advocacy to running for office. In this difficult time in America and in Michigan, she is running to get the government to lead and not hate. GIVE TO THE CAMPAIGN: https://secure.actblue.com/donate/joannawhaleySupport the show

Send us Fan MailToday on the show, Joanna discussed lessons learned in the last year. As she celebrates her birthday, she shares ideas of loving more and how difficult lessons have shaped who she is today. SUPPORT  THE SHOW: https://www.joannawhaley.com/donateJOIN JOANNA'S TEAM: https://www.joannawhaley.com/teamGET SUPPORT: https://www.joannawhaley.com/supportSupport the show

Send us Fan MailEPISODE ORIGINALLY AIRED: March 2nd, 2025The concept of "freedom" has become a battleground, often weaponized by voices of bigotry and a narrow, Christian heteronormative worldview. Today, we delve into this complex issue, unpacking how this appropriation impacts queer individuals of faith. Join us as we explore navigating this challenging landscape, finding strength in our intersectional identities, and reclaiming the true meaning of liberation. SUPPORT  THE SHOW: https://www.joannawhaley.com/donateMERCH FROM THE HOST: https://www.joannawhaley.com/storeGET SUPPORT: https://www.patreon.com/joannawhaleyREFERENCES:AP News. (2024, March 2). Trump administration reverses Obama-era transgender protections in new order. Associated Press. Bible, New Revised Standard Version. (1989). Malachi 3:3. In The Holy Bible (p. 1195). National Council of Churches of Christ. Dobson, J. (n.d.). Purity. Dr. James Dobson Family Institute. https://www.drjamesdobson.org/broadcasts/tag/purity. Harris, J. (1997). I kissed dating goodbye: A new approach to relationships and romance. Multnomah Books.  Mark Allen Powell (2014). Introducing the New Testament: A historical, literary, and theological introduction. Baker Academic. Pg 548-549. Salamon, M. (2024, September 1). Doomscrolling dangers. Harvard Health Blog. Harvard Health Publishing. HRC. (2023). Meta’s new policies: How they endanger LGBTQ+ communities and our tips for staying safe online. Human Rights Campaign. Folkenflik, D. (2013, August 12). Murdoch's Fox News sued by ex-workers over alleged bias against women, blacks, and gays. HuffPost. Strain, J. (2022, November). Strain of media overload. Monitor on Psychology, 43(10). McCammon, S., & Campbell, N. (2020, October 12). We asked Americans how they feel about the U.S. flag. It got interesting. NPR. Support the show

Send us Fan MailToday on the show, we discuss the epidemic of school shootings in America. The ability of lawmakers to do nothing on this topic is mind-numbingly ridiculous, and we need to demand our leaders do more, and do it now. Joanna shares her thoughts on how to go after this problem. SUPPORT  THE SHOW: https://www.joannawhaley.com/donateJOIN JOANNA'S TEAM: https://www.joannawhaley.com/teamGET SUPPORT: https://www.joannawhaley.com/supportSupport the show

Send us Fan MailToday we discuss the tensions of church being a business, when Jesus turned over tables in the temple. Join me for a talk about how to navigate this tension in a world where costs are rising and our churches ask for more. Also we have a a snip from one our favorite shows "Queer Theology Podcast".SUPPORT  THE SHOW: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2291916/supportMERCH FROM THE HOST: https://www.joannawhaley.com/storeREFERENCES:Joanna Whaley, Exegesis on ACTS 2:42-47 From a Queer Theological Frame (Debuque, IA: Wartburg Theological Seminary, 2024). Mark Allan Powell, Introducing The New Testament (Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Academic Publishing, 2018) pg 30,31,32. Linda Tatro Herzer, The Bible and the Transgender Experience (Cleveland, OH: The Pilgrim Press, 2016) pg 75. John Bowker, World Religions: The Great Faiths Explored and Explained (New York, NY: DK Publishing, 2021) pg 266. Rev Elizabeth M. Edman, Queer Virtue (Boston, MA: Beacon Press Books, 2016) pg 140,145.Eric Froner, Give Me Liberty: An American History (New York, NY: WW. Norton and Company, 2017) pg 95. Music & Production property of Whaley Media. All inquiries can be forwarded to [email protected] the show

Send us Fan MailToday on the show a special guest, Emme Zanotti who is the Senior Director of Movement Building & Political Affairs at Equality Michigan, joins the show to talk all things LGBTQ rights in the state of Michigan. She brings wisdom and care to the community and is making Michigan a safe place in the face of christian nationalist ideas becoming common place. Connect with Equality Michigan: https://equalitymi.org/SUPPORT  THE SHOW: https://www.joannawhaley.com/donateJOIN JOANNA'S TEAM: https://www.joannawhaley.com/teamGET SUPPORT: https://www.joannawhaley.com/supportSupport the show

Send us Fan MailToday on the show Joanna discusses the rising costs of going back to school and how the State of Michigan can't pass a school budget. Plus other topics form around town. SUPPORT  THE SHOW: https://www.joannawhaley.com/donateJOIN JOANNA'S TEAM: https://www.joannawhaley.com/teamGET SUPPORT: https://www.joannawhaley.com/supportSupport the show

Send us Fan MailToday on the show we have a discussion with a City Council Canidate for Trenton, MI. Celina Peters is a passionate and strong local leader who cares to see her community thrive. Listen as we discuss how to lead well at the local level. Support Celina's Campaign here > https://secure.actblue.com/donate/celina-for-trentonSUPPORT  THE SHOW: https://www.joannawhaley.com/donateJOIN JOANNA'S TEAM: https://www.joannawhaley.com/teamGET SUPPORT: https://www.joannawhaley.com/supportSupport the show

Send us Fan MailToday on the show, Joanna discussed how to navigate the "Old Boys Club" and how to use passion to push back against it. SUPPORT  THE SHOW: https://www.joannawhaley.com/donateJOIN JOANNA'S TEAM: https://www.joannawhaley.com/teamGET SUPPORT: https://www.joannawhaley.com/supportSupport the show

Send us Fan MailToday on the show Joanna discusses the big beautiful bill and how to look at it from a liberation theological lens. SUPPORT  THE SHOW: https://www.joannawhaley.com/donateJOIN JOANNA'S TEAM: https://www.joannawhaley.com/teamGET SUPPORT: https://www.joannawhaley.com/supportSupport the show

Send us Fan MailToday on the podcast, we interview Brian Kelly, president of the EPA Workers Union in the Great Lakes Region. We discuss the impact of the Trump administration on mental health, focusing on workers caught in the decline of DEI initiatives and how we can better support marginalized communities who strive to serve our local areas.SUPPORT  THE SHOW: https://www.joannawhaley.com/donateJOIN JOANNA'S TEAM: https://www.joannawhaley.com/teamGET SUPPORT: https://www.joannawhaley.com/supportSupport the show

Send us Fan MailToday on the podcast, we hear a message from Joanna that she gave at a church in Chelsea, Michigan. Today's message is about the Lord's Prayer and how patriarchal systems have entangled us in flawed systems of gender binary.SUPPORT  THE SHOW: https://www.joannawhaley.com/donateJOIN JOANNA'S TEAM: https://www.joannawhaley.com/teamGET SUPPORT: https://www.joannawhaley.com/supportSupport the show

Send us Fan MailOn the podcast, we discuss how the Michigan House of Representatives and the Republicans in the Michigan House are cutting funding to our children's schools without considering their futures. We draw theological parallels to the light and disregard shown for our children's well-being. On today's show, we argue that being pro-life is actually just being pro-birth.SUPPORT  THE SHOW: https://www.joannawhaley.com/donateJOIN JOANNA'S TEAM: https://www.joannawhaley.com/teamGET SUPPORT: https://www.joannawhaley.com/supportSupport the show

Send us Fan MailOn the show, we discuss recent events in a city near where I live that has faced issues with police brutality and has been struggling with trust in the police force from its citizens. Today, we will discuss how generational mistrust in police institutions is amplified and how we can step into the mess to unify our communities.SUPPORT  THE SHOW: https://www.joannawhaley.com/donateJOIN JOANNA'S TEAM: https://www.joannawhaley.com/teamGET SUPPORT: https://www.joannawhaley.com/supportSupport the show

Send us Fan MailIn the podcast, we kick off Pride 2025 by exploring some of the mischaracterizations that people have about LGBTQ+ individuals and the perception of the divine, and how that affects our policies.SUPPORT  THE SHOW: https://www.joannawhaley.com/donateJOIN JOANNA'S TEAM: https://www.joannawhaley.com/teamGET SUPPORT: https://www.joannawhaley.com/supportSupport the show

Send us Fan MailREPLAY FROM AUGUST 18TH, 2024: Today on the show we discuss the complex issue of the Israel & Palestine conflict, and how the endless wave of end times prophecy works for the privileged among us and harms LGBTQ people in our world. By reflecting on the complexities of this conflict in the middle east we can see how binaries of religious thought can be harmful to all.GET FURTHER SUPPORT: https://www.joannawhaley.com/supportJOIN THE PATREON COMMUNITY: https://patreon.com/JoannaWhaleyDONATE TO THE SHOW: https://www.joannawhaley.com/donateASK A QUESTION ON AIR: https://www.joannawhaley.com/live REFERENCES: Rohr, Richard. The Universal Christ: How a Forgotten Reality Can Change Everything We See, Hope For, and Believe. Convergent Books, 2019, p20. Dennett, Daniel C. Breaking the Spell: Religion as a Natural Phenomenon. Viking Penguin, 2006, p337. Powell, Mark. Introducing the New Testament. Baker Academic, 2009, p398. “The Rapture is not coming.” Data Over Dogma, hosted, Apple, Apple Podcasts, Aug 12, 2024. Israel Palestine 101, Bro History, Podbay, episode , May 23, 2021. Collis, Simon. “Diplomacy and War in the Middle East.” CWD Lancaster Podcast, Spotify, Jan 22, 2021. Support the show

Send us Fan MailToday on the show, we listen to a panel discussion that took place at Gracepointe Church in Nashville, Tennessee. Gracepointe is Joanna's home church, which she attends online. In this discussion, the panel explores the tension between patriotism and faith, as well as how to be politically active as a progressive Christian.SUPPORT  THE SHOW: https://www.joannawhaley.com/donateJOIN JOANNA'S TEAM: https://www.joannawhaley.com/teamGET SUPPORT: https://www.joannawhaley.com/supportSupport the show

Send us Fan MailToday on the show, we discuss how many MAGA Republicans have been mocking former President Joe Biden after he went public with his cancer diagnosis. In this episode, we explore thoughts on the difference between public knowledge and politicians' right to privacy, as well as how mocking someone with cancer reflects a lack of competency to lead.SUPPORT  THE SHOW: https://www.joannawhaley.com/donateJOIN JOANNA'S TEAM: https://www.joannawhaley.com/teamGET SUPPORT: https://www.joannawhaley.com/supportSupport the show

Send us Fan MailToday we replay an old episode of the show: In this week's episode we dive into the complex story of Imane Khelif, an intersex athlete whose journey in the Olympics has sparked a significant conversation about identity and inclusivity. We discuss how Christianity has failed at checking facts and believing in flawed sources. We also discuss the demise of the Heritage Foundation and talk about the positive impacts of defeating Christian Nationalism can have on society. SUPPORT  THE SHOW: https://www.joannawhaley.com/donateJOIN JOANNA'S TEAM: https://www.joannawhaley.com/teamGET SUPPORT: https://www.joannawhaley.com/supportSupport the show

Send us Fan MailToday on the podcast, we listen to some infuriating interviews from Trump administration staffers who continually insist that they are not experts. However, many in Christian circles have been told to trust Republicans exclusively, even if they hear things that drive them crazy.SUPPORT  THE SHOW: https://www.joannawhaley.com/donateJOIN JOANNA'S TEAM: https://www.joannawhaley.com/teamGET SUPPORT: https://www.joannawhaley.com/supportSupport the show

Send us Fan MailIn today's show, we discuss how the Trump administration prioritized white refugees from South Africa while systematically closing down avenues for people of color to seek refugee status in America. This week, the Episcopal Church in America stood up to the administration regarding this issue.SUPPORT  THE SHOW: https://www.joannawhaley.com/donateJOIN JOANNA'S TEAM: https://www.joannawhaley.com/teamGET SUPPORT: https://www.joannawhaley.com/supportSupport the show

Send us Fan MailOn the podcast, we discuss the historical significance of the first American pope, Pope Leo XIV, and how his election to the highest seat in the Catholic Church will challenge Christian nationalism, and why we should be cautiously optimistic.SUPPORT  THE SHOW: https://www.joannawhaley.com/donateJOIN JOANNA'S TEAM: https://www.joannawhaley.com/teamGET SUPPORT: https://www.joannawhaley.com/supportSupport the show

Send us Fan MailToday we replay one of the most popular episodes of the show with Joanna's best friend and oldest ally in her journey of holding onto faith and being LGBTQ. You will hear discussions about the struggles of of her journey and the victories she is fighting for to this day.SUPPORT  THE SHOW: https://www.joannawhaley.com/donateJOIN JOANNA'S TEAM: https://www.joannawhaley.com/teamGET SUPPORT: https://www.joannawhaley.com/supportSupport the show

Send us Fan MailToday Joanna sits down with a dear friend who is also an LGBTQ affirming pastor. We have a fascinating conversation about theology and approach from a pastor who fully accepts and affirms LGBTQ people.FOLLOW ALYSA: https://www.tiktok.com/@alysazavalaoffmanSUPPORT  THE SHOW: https://www.joannawhaley.com/donateJOIN JOANNA'S TEAM: https://www.joannawhaley.com/teamGET SUPPORT: https://www.joannawhaley.com/supportSupport the show

Send us Fan MailHave you ever felt like the weight of religious rules and expectations was holding you back from a deeper, more authentic connection with your spirituality? In this powerful and insightful episode, we bring you a recording of a recent live talk given by Joanna at a local church, where she dives into the often-complex relationship between religious doctrine and genuine spiritual freedom. Joanna thoughtfully explores how rigid interpretations and an overemphasis on external rules can sometimes obscure the very essence of faith and hinder our personal journey towards spiritual liberation. She delves into the potential pitfalls of legalism, examining how it can lead to feelings of guilt, inadequacy, and a disconnect from the true heart of spiritual experience.SUPPORT  THE SHOW: https://www.joannawhaley.com/donateJOIN JOANNA'S TEAM: https://www.joannawhaley.com/teamGET SUPPORT: https://www.joannawhaley.com/supportSupport the show

Send us Fan MailToday on the show, we address the Department of Health and Human Services' new guidelines regarding the treatment of gender dysphoria. The U.S. government is trying to compel transgender individuals to undergo publicly sanctioned Conversion Therapy, undermining all established scientific evidence that helps alleviate the suffering of trans people. Join us as we explore the specifics of Conversion Therapy and its effects on individuals. SUPPORT  THE SHOW: https://www.joannawhaley.com/donateJOIN JOANNA'S TEAM: https://www.joannawhaley.com/teamGET SUPPORT: https://www.joannawhaley.com/supportSupport the show

Send us Fan MailOn today’s show, we evaluate Donald Trump’s first 100 days in office. America feels vastly diminished, and we’ll discuss the reasons behind this perception. Join us as we dive into reviews and updates regarding the turmoil unfolding in Washington, DC. SUPPORT  THE SHOW: https://www.joannawhaley.com/donateJOIN JOANNA'S TEAM: https://www.joannawhaley.com/teamGET SUPPORT: https://www.joannawhaley.com/supportSupport the show

Send us Fan MailIn this replay episode, we dive into the chilling intersection of Christian nationalism and Project 2025. We'll explore how this right-wing movement is targeting LGBTQ+ rights and freedoms, and what it means for the future of equality. Join us as we unpack the rhetoric, the policies, and the real-world impact on LGBTQ+ lives. We'll also discuss ways to fight back and protect our communities. This show originally aired on July 7th, 2024.SUPPORT  THE SHOW: https://www.joannawhaley.com/donateJOIN JOANNA'S TEAM: https://www.joannawhaley.com/teamGET SUPPORT: https://www.joannawhaley.com/supportSupport the show

Send us Fan MailToday on the show, we replay an episode from the week after the inauguration of Donald Trump. We dive deep into a thought-provoking exploration of societal and spiritual decline, beginning with a powerful passage from Isaiah 1:21-23. The prophet's lamentation over a "faithful city" turned into a "prostitute" offers a striking parallel to America's own struggles with justice, righteousness, and corruption. How have we gone from a society built on ideals of justice to one where "rulers are rebels" and “partners with thieves”?Join us for a conversation that connects ancient wisdom with modern-day struggles and challenges us to reflect on where we’ve gone wrong—and how we might find our way back.SUPPORT  THE SHOW: https://www.joannawhaley.com/donateJOIN JOANNA'S TEAM: https://www.joannawhaley.com/teamGET SUPPORT: https://www.joannawhaley.com/supportSupport the show

Send us Fan MailToday we replay one of the most listened to episodes of the podcast.  We discuss the marriage of Christianity and gun ownership rights. We also discussed in depth about how the employment of "Thoughts and Prayers" is unhelpful after major mass shooting events.SUPPORT  THE SHOW: https://www.joannawhaley.com/donateJOIN JOANNA'S TEAM: https://www.joannawhaley.com/teamGET SUPPORT: https://www.joannawhaley.com/supportSupport the show

Send us Fan MailToday on the podcast, we discuss how many dehumanizing public policies are being signed into law by politicians who know nothing about the demographics that they're attempting to regulate. We discussed how anti-trans legislation affects sis gender women and the full spectrum of minority groups.SUPPORT  THE SHOW: https://www.joannawhaley.com/donateJOIN JOANNA'S TEAM: https://www.joannawhaley.com/teamGET SUPPORT: https://www.joannawhaley.com/supportSupport the show

Send us Fan MailOn the show today we discuss the Trump administration's task force aimed at eradicating anti-Christian bias. We delve into how these ideas are crafted to silence any voice that falls outside a specific interpretation of Christianity. This task force raises significant concerns regarding freedom of expression and the potential marginalization of diverse viewpoints in public discourse.SUPPORT  THE SHOW: https://www.joannawhaley.com/donateJOIN JOANNA'S TEAM: https://www.joannawhaley.com/teamGET SUPPORT: https://www.joannawhaley.com/supportSupport the show

Send us Fan MailThe Supreme Court of the United States has begun hearing a case between the Delaware school district and a group of parents who have religious objections to LGBTQ content being shared in the schools. Today on the show, we discuss why being LGBTQ and our narratives have nothing to do with religion. SUPPORT  THE SHOW: https://www.joannawhaley.com/donateJOIN JOANNA'S TEAM: https://www.joannawhaley.com/teamGET SUPPORT: https://www.joannawhaley.com/supportSupport the show

Send us Fan MailPope Francis, who recently passed away at the age of 88, leaves behind a profound legacy characterized by his unwavering commitment to social justice and the care of marginalized communities. His papacy was marked by a progressive vision that sought to bridge the gap between traditional Catholic values and contemporary societal challenges.Throughout his tenure, he championed the rights of the poor and advocated for environmental stewardship, recognizing the interconnectedness of social and ecological issues. This approach stands in stark contrast to the growing influence of Christian nationalist movements, which often prioritize political power over compassion and inclusivity.In comparing Pope Francis’s legacy with these movements, one observes a fundamental divergence in focus: while the Pope emphasized love, acceptance, and progress, Christian nationalism frequently resorts to exclusionary practices that undermine the very tenets of Christianity.As we reflect on his life and contributions, it becomes imperative to consider how Pope Francis’s ideals can guide future generations toward a more equitable and just society, thereby ensuring that his legacy endures.SUPPORT  THE SHOW: https://www.joannawhaley.com/donateJOIN JOANNA'S TEAM: https://www.joannawhaley.com/teamGET SUPPORT: https://www.joannawhaley.com/supportSupport the show

Send us Fan MailToday, we hear from Joanna's pastor, Josh Scott, from Gracepointe Church in Nashville, TN. In today's live episode, Josh discusses how the Easter story is less about the forgiveness of sins or about Jesus pulling himself up by his bootstraps, but rather a call to create justice in the face of an empire that devalues the marginalized.CHECK OUT GRACEPOINTE CHURCH: https://www.gracepointe.net/SUPPORT  THE SHOW: https://www.joannawhaley.com/donateJOIN JOANNA'S TEAM: https://www.joannawhaley.com/teamGET SUPPORT: https://www.joannawhaley.com/supportSupport the show

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, we dive into how governments have interacted with religion, from ancient empires to modern democracies. Discover how these relationships have evolved and what they mean for us today. Does the government need to defend God? SUPPORT  THE SHOW: https://www.joannawhaley.com/donateJOIN JOANNA'S TEAM: https://www.joannawhaley.com/teamGET SUPPORT: https://www.joannawhaley.com/supportSupport the show

Send us Fan MailToday on the show, we discuss how Donald Trump scolded a CNN reporter in the Oval Office for their honest inquiries and reporting. We'll examine the dangers of assuming the leader is infallible, particularly when he views others as the source of problems. Join us as we explore the media landscape and how religious power dynamics have fostered an atmosphere of unquestioningly following authoritarian leaders.SUPPORT  THE SHOW: https://www.joannawhaley.com/donateJOIN JOANNA'S TEAM: https://www.joannawhaley.com/teamGET SUPPORT: https://www.joannawhaley.com/supportSupport the show

Send us Fan MailToday, on the show, we discuss the effects of the Trump administration's withdrawal of federal grant money from Harvard University for not complying with its political wishes. In today's episode, we discuss some history and how many of these ideas stem from religious mistrust of educational systems.SUPPORT  THE SHOW: https://www.joannawhaley.com/donateMERCH FROM THE HOST: https://www.joannawhaley.com/storeGET SUPPORT: https://www.joannawhaley.com/supportSupport the show

Send us Fan MailIn certain factions of American Christianity, a troubling narrative has emerged that equates empathy with sin. This perspective, primarily propagated by some evangelical and right-wing Christian nationalists, asserts that the act of empathizing with others can lead individuals astray, tempting them toward deception and ultimately, Hell. Such beliefs pose a significant danger, not only to the individuals who subscribe to them but also to the broader society that thrives on compassion and understanding.Empathy, the ability to recognize and share the feelings of another, is a fundamental human quality that fosters connection, understanding, and community. When individuals are taught to view empathy as sinful, they are stripped of a vital tool that enables them to build relationships and support one another through life’s challenges. This erosion of compassion can lead to a culture of judgment and isolation, where individuals are discouraged from reaching out to those in need.As we navigate these precarious beliefs, it is crucial to challenge the notion that empathy is a vice. Instead, we must advocate for a worldview that embraces empathy as a strength, fostering a more compassionate and inclusive society. In doing so, we not only counter the dangerous rhetoric but also cultivate an environment where love and understanding prevail.SUPPORT  THE SHOW: https://www.joannawhaley.com/donateMERCH FROM THE HOST: https://www.joannawhaley.com/storeGET SUPPORT: https://www.joannawhaley.com/supportSupport the show

Send us Fan MailToday's show presents an analytical overview of the intricate relationship between Christian nationalism and contemporary political discourse in the United States. It particularly scrutinizes the narrative found in Luke 23, drawing parallels between the trial of Jesus and the modern acceptance of Donald Trump as a controversial figure akin to Barabbas. Today we seek to illuminate the implications of such acceptance, positing that the Christian nationalist movement has prioritized political power over the welfare of marginalized communities. By systematically dissecting these dynamics. SUPPORT  THE SHOW: https://www.joannawhaley.com/donateMERCH FROM THE HOST: https://www.joannawhaley.com/storeGET SUPPORT: https://www.joannawhaley.com/supportSupport the show

Send us Fan MailWhat happens when a nation is run like a corporation instead of a community? In this episode, we confront the dangerous ideas behind Donald Trump’s tariff policies and his broader strategy of treating America like a profit-driven enterprise. This isn’t just bad economics — it’s a spiritual crisis.Rooted in progressive Christian values, we call out the false ideas of capitalism-as-salvation and challenge the idea that national success is measured in dollars instead of dignity. Tune in as we push back against policies that exploit the poor, widen global inequality, and distort the soul of a nation that was never meant to be a business — but a beloved community.SUPPORT  THE SHOW: https://www.joannawhaley.com/donateMERCH FROM THE HOST: https://www.joannawhaley.com/storeGET SUPPORT: https://www.joannawhaley.com/supportSupport the show

Send us Fan MailJoin us today as we dive into the journey of Joanna thinking of stepping up to run for political office. With a vision for a more inclusive and equitable future, Joanna shares her determination to confront the rising tide of Christian nationalism and champion the values of democracy, diversity, and justice. Discover the strategies she plans to implement to ensure that all voices are heard and that government remains a space for everyone, regardless of belief. SUPPORT  THE SHOW: https://www.joannawhaley.com/donateMERCH FROM THE HOST: https://www.joannawhaley.com/storeGET SUPPORT: https://www.joannawhaley.com/supportSupport the show

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of the podcast, we discuss the overconfidence of Trump’s tariff policy and how certain theology can inform conservative mindsets. We'll examine how the Trump administration used the American people to pursue policies in a belief of greater power by punishing other nations. We'll also look at how Biblical figures were immigrants and why we should honor immigrants rather than heap more trouble on them.SUPPORT  THE SHOW: https://www.joannawhaley.com/donateMERCH FROM THE HOST: https://www.joannawhaley.com/storeGET SUPPORT: https://www.joannawhaley.com/supportSupport the show

Send us Fan MailToday on the show I share my experience of confronting the dissonance between outward displays of political support and the lived reality of LGBTQ+ individuals in my community. The prevalence of "Trump swag" created a false sense of security, while conversations with fellow LGBTQ+ people revealed shared experiences of religious-based prejudice and the ever-present threat of conversion therapy. Join me as I explore the importance of staying vigilant and active in the fight for equality, even when hate seems to be winning. The "Hands Off" rallies serve as a reminder that we must never give up, and that solidarity within the LGBTQ+ community is essential in the face of ongoing discrimination.SUPPORT  THE SHOW: https://www.joannawhaley.com/donateMERCH FROM THE HOST: https://www.joannawhaley.com/storeGET SUPPORT: https://www.joannawhaley.com/supportSupport the show

Send us Fan MailThis week, as we honor Trans Day of Visibility, we're diving deep into Psalm 51:10-12. These verses, a plea for renewal and restoration, resonate powerfully with the journey of trans and queer individuals. 'Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me.' We'll discuss how this ancient text speaks to the profound experience of aligning one's inner self with their outward expression. We'll explore how the prayer for a 'steadfast spirit' and the restoration of 'joy' can be a source of strength and affirmation for trans people and their allies. Join us as we reflect on the beauty of authentic identity, and the divine call to embrace our true selves. We will be talking about how God's love is with all of us, and how that love helps us to be our true selves.SUPPORT  THE SHOW: https://www.joannawhaley.com/donateMERCH FROM THE HOST: https://www.joannawhaley.com/storeGET SUPPORT: https://www.joannawhaley.com/supportSupport the show

Send us Fan MailThis week, we're focusing on the parable of the Pharisee and the tax collector from Luke 18:9-14, and exploring it through a queer theological lens. Who are we in this story? Are we the Pharisee, boasting of our righteousness and judging others, or are we the tax collector, standing in our vulnerability and seeking mercy? For queer folks, this parable resonates deeply. We know what it's like to be judged, to be told we're "other," to be excluded from sacred spaces. But we also know the power of humility, of acknowledging our broken systems, and of finding God in them. We'll delve into how this parable speaks to the queer experience of living authentically, of finding spiritual connection in the face of judgment, and of valuing vulnerability over performative piety. We'll also reflect on a prayer that emphasizes humility and love, urging us to move beyond religious labels and embody grace in our actionsSUPPORT  THE SHOW: https://www.joannawhaley.com/donateMERCH FROM THE HOST: https://www.joannawhaley.com/storeGET SUPPORT: https://www.joannawhaley.com/supportSupport the show

Send us Fan MailThis week, we're diving into Matthew 6:16-18, but we're looking at it through a queer lens. Jesus talks about fasting and how it shouldn't be a performance for others, but a deeply personal act of connection with the Divine. How often are we pressured to perform our faith, or even our identities, for the approval of others? How often are we told that our authentic selves, our "hidden" selves, are somehow less worthy? We'll explore how this passage speaks to the queer experience of living authentically, of finding spiritual connection in the face of judgment, and of valuing the quiet, internal work of faith over outward displays. We'll also reflect on a prayer that encourages us to find God in the "hidden places," reminding us that our true selves, our queer selves, are sacred and seenSUPPORT  THE SHOW: https://www.joannawhaley.com/donateMERCH FROM THE HOST: https://www.joannawhaley.com/storeGET SUPPORT: https://www.joannawhaley.com/supportSupport the show