Know Why Podcast

Surveys show that Gen Z is spiritual. One study found that teens today are very interested in learning more about Jesus. And yet research also shows that young people frequently struggle with anxiety, depression, and even loneliness. Is prayer the answer? In this week’s episode, Garryt Bryant, a youth leader and pray coordinator for his church, talks about prayer. Garryt shares his own experience with mental health struggles and loneliness, and what helped him heal. He also gives practical tips for how to pray, including suggested passages of the Bible to study for anyone who wants to grow in their spiritual journey. Garryt also shares about a movement he’s a part of, Prayer at the Heart, which is aimed at helping people around the nation engage in prayer. Check out the resources Garryt recommends below: E. M. Bounds Online https://www.embounds.online/ Project Pray (Dr. Doug Small) https://www.projectpray.org/p-douglas-small The Lord's Prayer (Matthew 6:9-13) https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew%206%3A9-13&version=ESV Other Scriptures on Prayer (Isaiah 6, 1 John 5) https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Isaiah%206%3B%201%20John%205%20&version=ESV Prayer at the Heart https://prayerattheheart.org/ 

The man behind the robot vacuum has developed something new—"The Familiar," an AI-powered robot "pet" designed to bond with its owner.  While the product itself is interesting or weird, depending on how you look at it, its existence highlights deeper issues in American society today, including... The growing loneliness problem Falling fertility rates and an aging society The lie that autonomy leads to fulfillment And more. Listen to understand how we should think about many of the new AI products being pushed on everyday people and how we can build a society where AI friends, companions, and "familiars" aren't needed.  More Resources:  The Roomba Guy's Second Act: A Robot You'll Want to Snuggle https://www.wsj.com/tech/ai/familiar-machines-and-magic-robot-c8711e45?st=1KpV63&reflink=desktopwebshare_permalink Who do Americans spend time with over their lives? (Graph) https://x.com/BradWilcoxIFS/status/2050776421035905172?s=20 Does This New Study Reveal the Keys to Human Flourishing? (Know Why Podcast) https://youtu.be/g3tobGiNVvM?si=mk5vdPu1uDtnnh5E  Dismal Demographic https://pointofview.net/viewpoints/dismal-demographic/  More Gen Z Adults Say Life Can Be Fulfilling Without Marriage, Children: study https://www.christianpost.com/news/more-gen-z-adults-say-life-can-be-fulfilling-without-marriage.html?utm_source=Daily&utm_campaign=Daily&utm_medium=newsletter  

A recent survey said that 60% of Gen Zers and 50% of Millennials cut someone out of their life in the last year. In the reasons given, many survey respondents listed reasons that had to do with conflict and disagreement. At the same time, young adults report the highest rates of loneliness and poor mental health. If we're cutting out the people who stress us out, shouldn't our mental health improve? Liberty argues that young adults were raised in environments that eliminated friction, and that this has harmed expectations about conflict in relationships, and is harming young people today by isolating them from the people they need. More Resources: Why So Many Gen Z Cut Family and Friends Off Without Warning https://www.vice.com/en/article/why-so-many-gen-z-cut-family-and-friends-off-without-warning/  Jonathan Haidt — "The Anxious Generation" on the Daily Show https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tcr0yg7Mvg8&t=1s  The Coddling of the American Mind: How Good Intentions and Bad Ideas Are Setting a Generation up for Failure https://www.thecoddling.com/  How Gen Z is helping to drive a digital detox boom https://www.axios.com/2026/04/24/phone-free-spaces-digital-detox-retreats-gen-z  The Anxious Generation: How the Great Rewiring of Childhood is Causing an Epidemic of Mental Illness https://www.anxiousgeneration.com/book  Friend-Wise: Practical Ideas for Richer Relationships https://www.moodypublishers.com/friend-wise?srsltid=AfmBOoqYEKZ8Zqy8BhUWiCiVAUHATnXG2WceVojbBu3u80cjsZVLI1wV 

Sam Altman talks about uploading his brain to the cloud. Elon Musks says humans should merge biological intelligence with digital intelligence. Peter Thiel isn’t sure if the human race should continue without that kind of human-tech merger. What do these tech leaders have in common? Transhumanism—the idea that humans should be able to change, or even eradicate, their physical bodies by merging with technology. This may sound sci-fi, but the core tenets of transhumanism aren’t actually new. In fact, humans have been moving toward this idea for a long time. Some even predicted it. In this episode, Liberty discusses how ancient and classic literature and thinkers of the past, including J. R. R. Tolkien and C. S. Lewis, can help us understand transhumanism and the “brave new world” we find ourselves in. More Resources: Do You Want to Live Forever? A Tolkienian Critique of Transhumanism by Julie Miller https://press.ratiochristi.org/product/do-you-want-to-live-forever/ The Abolition of Man by C. S. Lewis https://www.amazon.com/Abolition-Man-C-S-Lewis/dp/0060652942 Christians Reading Classics by Nadya Williams https://zondervanacademic.com/products/christians-reading-classics Inside the alarming cyborg future 'transhumanists' Elon Musk, Peter Thiel, and Sam Altman are already preparing for https://nypost.com/2026/04/15/tech/inside-the-alarming-cyborg-future-transhumanists-elon-musk-peter-thiel-and-sam-altman-are-preparing-for/ How Ben Sasse is Living Now That He's Dying https://youtu.be/7CFo6-6BN9k?si=yGBbvXL3TcK-zw0E 

Is the American Dream dead for Millennials and Gen Z? Is there a version of traditional success that’s still attainable? How are young adults redefining their life dreams in the face of economic instability and loss of trust in institutions? This week on the Know Why Podcast, Cole Douglas Claybourn and Liberty discuss all this and more. A journalist and former English teacher, Cole talks about fighting back against the lies we are prone to believe on his Substack blog “The Road Home” and on his In No Hurry podcast. Both Millennials with similar backgrounds, Cole and Liberty break down why the traditional American Dream isn’t panning out for many young adults who are still struggling to pay off college loans, buy a house, and start a family. They also contrast the expectations Millennials and Gen Z grew up with—change the world, go far in life, do great things—with the realities of what makes life more fulfilling, like local connection and a slower pace of living. In short: Millennials and Gen Z are steeped in what feels like a never-ending hustle culture due to economic pressures and a societal obsession with productivity. And it’s negatively affecting everything from our diets to our creativity to our families.  If you’re a young adult wondering if you’re the only one struggling to feel successful in life, or if you’re a listener who wants to better understand the challenges facing Millennials and Gen Z, this episode is for you. More Resources: The Road Ahead (Cole’s Substack) https://coledouglasclaybourn.substack.com/ In No Hurry (Cole’s podcast) https://www.youtube.com/@innohurrypodcast The Unplugged Hours: Cultivating a Life of Presence in a Digitally Connected World by Hannah Brencher https://www.amazon.com/Unplugged-Hours-Cultivating-Digitally-Connected/dp/0310367700 Come Matter Here: Your Invitation to Be Here in a Getting There World by Hannah Brencher https://www.amazon.com/Come-Matter-Here-Invitation-Getting/dp/0310350840 To Hell with the Hustle: Reclaiming Your Life in an Overworked, Overspent, and Overconnected World by Jefferson Bethke https://www.amazon.com/Hell-Hustle-Reclaiming-Overworked-Overconnected/dp/0718039203 The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry: How to Stay Emotionally and Spiritually Alive in the Chaos of the Modern World by John Mark Comer https://www.amazon.com/Ruthless-Elimination-Hurry-Emotionally-Spiritually/dp/0525653090 Eddie LaRow on Substack https://eddielarow.substack.com/?utm_source=global-search

First Lady Melania Trump recently asked Americans to imagine a humanoid robot tutor named "Plato." Meanwhile, many schools are already incorporating AI into the classroom, in some cases eliminating human teachers altogether. Can AI help solve America's education problems? Or should we draw a line and protect the classroom from AI encroachment? In this episode, Liberty offers three reasons why AI doesn't belong in education. First, from a Christian perspective, education is discipleship, and AI can't disciple. Second, education requires relationship, which research confirms, and AI can't truly relate. Third, studies are already showing evidence of cognitive decline in AI users, and education technology has, in general, been a large failure. Learn more about these arguments in the full episode, where Liberty also shares some practical tips for parents to make sure their kids are truly learning to think in the age of AI. Dig in deeper by checking out the resources below, cited in the episode. More Resources: Ed Tech is Profitable. It is Also Mostly Useless. (The Economist) https://www.economist.com/united-states/2026/01/22/ed-tech-is-profitable-it-is-also-mostly-useless?utm_campaign=shared_article  Investment in AI is Exploding (Reuters) https://www.reuters.com/graphics/USA-ECONOMY/AI-INVESTMENT/gkvlqbgxkpb/  There's a Good Reason You Can't Concentrate (The New York Times) https://www.nytimes.com/2026/03/27/opinion/technology-mental-fitness-cognitive.html?unlocked_article_code=1.ZFA._SqR.AQ0f5SxBmABw&smid=url-shar  Does AI Belong in the Classroom? Emily Harrison on the Know Why Podcast https://youtu.be/NbSWxQKU7RQ?si=dxhJsR3OAnfO81-k  Dear Christian Parent (Emily Harrison on Substack) https://dearchristianparent.substack.com/?utm_source=global-search  First Fish Chronicles (Emily Cherkin on Substack) https://firstfish.substack.com/?utm_campaign=profile_chips   The Anxious Generation https://www.anxiousgeneration.com/ 

Historical tests affirm that the New Testament we read today accurately reflects the original documents—but were the authors of the New Testament telling the truth? Did Jesus really do the impossible—come back to life? In this interview, reposted in honor of Holy Week, Stand to Reason apologist Robby Lashua walks listeners through the historical evidence for Jesus’ resurrection, including what non-Christian historians have to say about the event.  More Resources See the following resources recommended by Robby for more historical scholarship regarding the resurrection: GaryHabermas.com The Case for the Resurrection of Jesus by Gary Habermas The Resurrection of Jesus: A New Historiographical Approach by Michael Licona The Resurrection of the Son of God by N. T. Wright  

A recent story in The Wall Street Journal includes predictions that in 20 years, AI-augmented entertainment will be so customizable that people can watch the same show and choose their own endings—or even entire plot paths—via "unobstrusive" devices like contact lenses or BCIs.  While this prediction may sound futuristic or outlandish to some, it's consistent with a trend we're already seeing: the perception of art as mere entertainment, a matter of personal taste rather than formation of character.  Does it matter that our culture largely views art this way? Yes, and in this episode, Liberty shares reasons why.  If you care about art, our understanding of humanity, the formation of moral character, and the preservation of a culture's "collective memories," listen to this episode and comment with your thoughts about where the entertainment industry is headed.    More Resources:    What Entertainment Might Look Like in 20 Years https://www.wsj.com/arts-culture/entertainment-in-20-years-d6d5ac9b?st=pycwWj&reflink=desktopwebshare_permalink   Christians Reading Classics by Nadya Williams https://zondervanacademic.com/products/christians-reading-classics   On Reading Well by Karen Swallow Prior https://bakerpublishinggroup.com/products/9781587435836_on-reading-well   

Why do some social movements seem religious in nature? Why do some even seem like a cult, where questioning the narrative is not allowed? Looking at others' actions—and our own lives—through the lens of story can help us understand. Everyone lives within a story of reality that they are either telling themselves, or that they have accepted as true. Often, we don't even realize which "story" we're living in; we just absorb the story the culture around us tells. That story is our worldview. Every story tries to answer three fundamental questions. If things aren't making sense, it's probably because you're trying to live within a false story of reality. In this episode of the Know Why Podcast, Liberty draws on philosophical insight from Nancy Pearcey's popular book, Total Truth, to analyze the different stories in our culture. She argues that there is one true story, and when we acknowledge it, the world makes sense. What story are you telling yourself? Is it true? More Resources: Confessions of a Former Climate Activist https://www.thefp.com/p/confessions-of-a-former-climate-activist?utm_source=publication-search Confessions of a Former Pro-Palestine Activist https://www.thefp.com/p/confessions-of-a-former-pro-palestine?utm_source=publication-search Total Truth: Liberating Christianity From its Cultural Captivity by Nancy Pearcey https://www.wtsbooks.com/products/total-truth-nancy-pearcey-9781433502200?srsltid=AfmBOopl4ihicqmKe1gRIpOaV9aipBT-PBgBCQwP7fn7Mse8ZdpVS0h_ Is the Bible Reliable? Josh Barnes on the Know Why Podcast https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kosxhlxC-WI&t=803s Is There Evidence for Jesus' Resurrection? https://knowwhypodcast.com/2024/01/is-there-evidence-for-jesus-resurrection-know-about-jesus/ Does This New Study Reveal the Keys to Human Flourishing? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g3tobGiNVvM&t=23s 

Did you notice the ads for sports betting apps during the Super Bowl? Maybe you've seen them pop up on your favorite social media platform or YouTube streamer's videos. In this episode featuring returning Know Why Podcast guest Philip Bunn, we answer questions about the online sports phenomenon, including... Why does it seem like sports betting is suddenly everywhere? How popular is online sports betting? What are some of the individual and cultural side effects of pervasive gambling? How is the men's loneliness epidemic connected to the rise in online gambling? Why should Christians, including pastors, care about addressing this issue? Listen for a conversation that addresses on the legal background of legalized sports betting, the "why" behind many states' support for legalized gambling, a Christian angle on the issue, and more. More Resources: Pastors, Please Take Sports Betting Seriously (article by Philip Bunn) https://byfaithonline.com/pastors-please-take-sports-betting-seriously/ Addiction By Design (book by Natasha Dow Schull) https://www.amazon.com/Addiction-Design-Machine-Gambling-Vegas/dp/0691160880 Why My Generation Is Turning to 'Financial Nihilism' (The Wall Street Journal) https://www.wsj.com/personal-finance/financial-nihilism-gen-z-gambling-meme-stocks-options-kyla-scanlon-7ae4f2aa?st=AQH3GB&reflink=desktopwebshare_permalink Meet the Young Men Rushing Into Betting Markets (The Wall Street Journal) https://www.wsj.com/business/media/meet-the-young-men-rushing-into-betting-markets-f135de39?st=DMq19k&reflink=desktopwebshare_permalink  

James Talarico is a Texas State Representative and senatorial primary candidate, a Democrat, and a Christian. In recent viral podcast interviews with both Joe Rogan and The New York Times' Ezra Klein, Mr. Talarico sparked some controversy with his claims about religion, Jesus, and the nature of truth. Mr. Talarico's comments garnered attention in part because he has made his Christian faith a large part of his progressive political platform. But they're worth examining, because his comments touch on sincere questions that many people have about faith in general and Christianity in particular. For instance... Is ultimate truth a mystery, or can it be known? Are all religions ultimately pointing to the same universal truth, just (to use Mr. Talarico's metaphor) in different languages? What's most important to understand about Jesus? And what is the point of religion, anyway? Is it to understand the story of reality—or to understand the story within ourselves? Atheist-turned-Christian apologist Jon Noyes joins the Know Why Podcast to examine these questions closely and reveal that ultimate truth can be known, and share why finding it matters. More Resources: How Should We Then Live? By Francis Shaeffer https://www.amazon.com/Should-Then-Live-LAbri-Anniversary/dp/1581345364 Total Truth by Nancy Pearcey https://www.amazon.com/dp/1433502208/?bestFormat=true&k=total%20truth%20book&ref_=nb_sb_ss_w_scx-ent-bk-v2_k0_1_12_de&crid=2XDVND7YFVESB&sprefix=total%20truth%20 Stand to Reason https://www.str.org/home 

Young men are craving mentors. But in an era of AI companions, social isolation, and for many, an uncertain economic future, finding the kind of guidance and support a mentor provides can be a challenge. That's where CBMC comes in. Christian Business Men's Connection was founded during the Great Depression, another time period that found many men struggling with disenfranchisement, discouragement, and a lack of direction. In this episode of the Know Why Podcast, CBMC Program Director Matt Trayler talks about... The problems facing many young men today Why men need community Why spiritual mentorship matters Practical tips for finding connection as a mentor or mentee And more. Listen and check out the free programs and resources at the link below, or share them with a man in your life. More Resources https://cbmc.com/ 

Through travel and research, historian Richard Lim discovered something most Americans don't know: people around the world are still huge fans of George Washington. Why? In this episode, Richard explains why Washington's decision to step down from power at the dawn of the republic still reverberates around the world. He shares historical insight about the American Revolution and other parts of American history, and argues that Washington's vision for the USA can offer hope and encouragement for a cynical generation. More Resources: https://www.richardmlim.com/ https://www.thisamericanpresident.com/ 

Should Christians use chatbots like ChatGPT, Claude, and Grok? Is AI simply a neutral tool that humans can use for either good or evil? How does the book of Genesis offer clarity to the AI conversation?  Kicking off Know Why's 2026 season is Doug Smith, longtime software engineer, lifelong student of the Bible, and author of [Un]Intentional: How Screens Are Secretly Shaping Your Desires and How You Can Break Free, and the forthcoming [Un]Intelligence: The Lies Behind Today's AI and the Truths You Need to Thrive. In this deep-dive interview, Doug helps us think through the following topics:  What epistemology means and how it helps us understand AI How large language models (LLMs) fundamentally differ from other search engines Whether the "neutral tool" trope applies to AI Why Big Tech founders use spiritual terms to talk about AI And much more.  Listen to this fascinating conversation for a unique perspective on AI and chatbots that is thoroughly informed by a biblical worldview and relevant for every human being.  More Resources:  https://thatdougsmith.com/  https://www.estherlightcapmeek.com/  How People Are Really Using AI (Harvard Business Review) Empire of AI by Karen Hao That Hideous Strength by C. S. Lewis How Bad Are AI Delusions? We Asked the People Treating Them (The New York Times) Against the Machine by Paul Kingsnorth  

It's time for Know Why Podcast's annual "Best Of" Episode! In 2025, most popular episodes among Know Why listeners and viewers included... "Is the Bible Reliable?" With Josh Barnes https://youtu.be/kosxhlxC-WI?si=QJvsjc7rwO1Vh4HW "Does AI 'Perfection' Harm Our Souls?" With Philip Bunn https://youtu.be/Zp_fVegLcx0?si=qhxuawgVb4EkwrTO "What Should Christians Think About the 'Charlie Kirk Effect?'" https://youtu.be/LuZgzFwcLr8?si=nVX4IAFfRirFILJO "Neither Trans nor Tradwife: Understanding True Femininity" with Rachel Schroder https://youtu.be/eVuEz6KKLr8?si=NUAP9zw6sxruGtwK "Is it Ok to be Mediocre?" https://youtu.be/rQiFswisHIY?si=KxAamuuCU_ysECGI These top 5 most popular episodes are a great representation of the kinds of topics and series Know Why has covered in 2025. If you've enjoyed the Know Why Podcast or found any episode helpful or informative, let us know by emailing [email protected], and let us know what you'd like to see the Know Why Podcast cover in 2026. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

At the beginning of the Know About Family Formation Series, we asked why marriage is good. In today’s episode with Andrea Crum, we wrap up the series talking once again about marriage—specifically the God’s design for marriage and sex that is articulated in the Bible. Andrea addresses questions such as… Why do Christians often avoid talking about sex? Why is biblical marriage described as a covenant between one man and one woman? What would happen if everyone followed a biblical sexual ethic? How does healthy marriage represent God to the world? Despite secular cultural narratives, there is spiritual significance to God’s design for sex and marriage. Listen to know why. More Resources: AndreaCrum.com GenuineFamilyMinistries.com

In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) accounts for 2 percent of births in the United States, and that percentage is expected to grow. In the U.S., it’s a largely unregulated, multi-billion dollar industry which more and more families are utilizing to form their families. But there are ethical questions that can’t be ignored, which Liberty explores in this episode, including… Is it ok that the vast majority of living embryos created through IVF will never be implanted? Are vulnerable, grieving couples being taken advantage financially, without giving informed consent of the whole process? How is the prevalence of IVF giving rise to 21st century eugenics? Listen and decide whether you agree that the IVF process as it currently exists is unethical, and comment with your thoughts. More Resources The missing fine print on IVF (World Magazine) https://wng.org/opinions/the-missing-fine-print-on-ivf-1761622557 Championing a little-known IVF alternative (World Magazine) https://wng.org/roundups/championing-a-little-known-ivf-alternative-1759865267 What I Went Through to Meet My Daughter (The Free Press) https://www.thefp.com/p/what-i-went-through-to-meet-my-daughter-ivf-fertility The Next Parenting Trend Starts Before Conception (The New York Times) https://www.nytimes.com/2025/08/07/opinion/genetics-children-noor-siddiqui.html Secular Pro-Life Resources on Personhood and IVF https://secularprolife.org/index/#You_arent_a_person_until Are All Pro-Lifers Religious? Know About Pro-Lifers (Interview With Monica Snyder, Part 1) (Know Why Podcast) https://www.podbean.com/eas/pb-g8t6t-14893e3 Are All Pro-Lifers Religious? Know About Pro-Lifers (interview With Monica Snyder, Part 2) (Know Why Podcast) https://www.podbean.com/eas/pb-m9ker-1491a02

"It takes a village." Parents often hear this old adage, and having a community to help with childcare or call on during emergencies sounds nice. But the reality for many parents today is that their "village" is nowhere to be found. Author, academic, and homeschooling mother Nadya Williams joins the Know Why Podcast to discuss an overlooked village source that historically played a major role in more Americans' lives—the local church. Reflecting on the state of parenthood today, Nadya offers practical advice for building a village right where you are. She reminds parents that villages are about more than "insurance friends" to call during an emergency...they're about thriving. More Resources: What's a Village For? A Response to Olga Khazan by Nadya Williams (IFS) Nadya Williams on Substack The Gospel Comes With a House Key: Practicing Radical Ordinary Hospitality in Our Post-Christian World by Rosaria Butterfield Scruffy Hospitality — Google Search

Many young adults are worried that having children will overburden a planet that’s already overpopulated and further damage the environment. They’re also worried about what kind of environment their kids will be born into. Are these valid concerns — and if not, why not? In this episode of the Know Why Podcast (originally aired in 2023), Liberty takes listeners through research and perspectives from millennials, parents, climate scientists, and more, exploring a question many young adults are asking. More Resources: Why I Stopped Being a Climate Catastrophist  Three tough truths about climate by Bill Gates Anxiety over climate warming is leading some young adults to say they don't want children (AP) Climate Anxiety vs. Reality (The Free Press)

News outlets have reported Harvard University's students' reactions to the threat of stricter academic standards, after a commission found that grades were massively inflated despite a decline in academic involvement at the college. Some reacted by worrying they wouldn't find their classwork enjoyable or fulfilling if academic standards were raised. Beyond Harvard, is there an underlying assumption in modern culture that life is to be enjoyed? Liberty examines that assumption, identifies why it's problematic in everything from education to relationships, and recalls research that points to what makes humans more deeply fulfilled. More Resources: All A's at Harvard (World) https://wng.org/opinions/all-as-at-harvard-1762387132 The Perverse Consequences of the Easy A (The Atlantic) https://www.theatlantic.com/ideas/archive/2025/08/harvard-college-grade-inflation/684021/ Does This Study Reveal the Key to Human Flourishing? (Know Why Podcast)  https://youtu.be/g3tobGiNVvM?si=iTTyLQRqobwWKmGQ 

Is autonomy the default state of human existence? Is freedom from other's neediness a human right? If the answer to those first two questions is "yes," where does that leave individuals who, through no fault of their own, are not autonomous? In her book The Dignity of Dependence: A Feminist Manifesto, Leah Libresco Sargeant argues that modern society has been built on a "false anthropology," which is the lie that we are autonomous creatures by nature. Liberty shares insights from the book, as well as a recent interview with Leah on Point of View Radio Talk Show. Listen to learn how accepting the reality of our own needs and learning to live in mutual dependence can create a more just society for every member of the family. More Resources: Full Interview With Leah Libresco Sargeant on Point of View Radio Talk Show: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/point-of-view-november-03-2025-hour-2-the/id333209607?i=1000735119200  The Dignity of Dependence: A Feminist Manifesto by Leah Libresco Sargeant https://www.amazon.com/Dignity-Dependence-Feminist-Manifesto-Catholic/dp/0268210330/ref=sr_1_1?dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.OYjUX7bQQ2aHfZB2uJEnDFB3F2twIAOA8X_w2LOGsPvvRVdJ1q-Icgm_4lS1ibjPZC6s5n4yAjSgwtBItBdBcbC8rRK6goSeWyYF1KP8SIm_7HN8ESn1e1vXIL3hMQ5Vm6Jx4UnKyJBKVRXQKs6B5w.hkExGOsWMFpP1aTpR3hOujTLHjHfq-iF5WDCRC3Ewwk&dib_tag=se&hvadid=580694231644&hvdev=c&hvexpln=0&hvlocphy=9026959&hvnetw=g&hvocijid=15896085238039775592--&hvqmt=e&hvrand=15896085238039775592&hvtargid=kwd-2424453398105&hydadcr=20588_13321902&keywords=the+dignity+of+dependence&mcid=f8bd510d0b4f3bb6a918931f280808cb&qid=1762300177&sr=8-1 

The "Know About Family Formation" series is highlighting the good of marriage and family. But what if you already know family is good, and you desire family, but for one reason or another, that desire remains unfulfilled? Chelsea Sobolik understands what it is like to wrestle with that kind of grief. Author "Longing for Motherhood: Holding Onto Hope in the Midst of Childlessness," Chelsea joins the Know Why Podcast to share her story—as well as hope for those who may be walking through infertility, prolonged singleness, or other kinds of grief and suffering. In this episode, Chelsea addresses topics including: Why we shouldn't idolize marriage and motherhood What stepping in and out of different family roles throughout life can look like How churches can promote the goodness of family while supporting those grieving infertility and loss How Jesus relates to and comforts us in the midst of embodied brokenness How individuals can be an advocate, a mother figure, and a vital member of church and local communities in different seasons of life And so much more. Listen or share with someone you know who is longing for family.   More Resources: Chelsea's Books, including Longing for Motherhood: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Chelsea-Patterson-Sobolik/author/B07CP1LPCX?ref=ap_rdr&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true&ccs_id=f24ad87a-b543-4beb-9993-19a4274fbd28 Dads Hurt Too: A Father's Memoir of Miscarriage by Eric Shumacher https://www.amazon.com/Dads-Hurt-Too-Fathers-Miscarriage/dp/1736408038 Abbey Wedgeworth https://www.abbeywedgeworth.com/all-books Brittany Lee Allen https://brittleeallen.com/miscarriage-and-infertility/

Many millennials and Gen Zers are intentionally avoiding parenthood, and the number one reason cited is cost. But when it comes to kids, can crunched numbers really capture the gamut of costs AND benefits, stresses AND joys that one experiences over a lifetime? As it turns out, spreadsheets fail to convey the lived experience of many mothers, who, statistically, report being happier than their childless counterparts. That doesn’t mean people must have kids to be happy, but media warnings about daycare costs and lost wages fail to capture the full picture of parenthood. Ivana Greco is an attorney and homeschooling mom of four who writes about women, children, families, and family policy. She joins the Know Why Podcast to discuss her article, “What is the Price of Parenting?” published with Commonplace Magazine.   More Resources:   What is the Price of Parenting? https://www.commonplace.org/cp/172950941

Do you believe in soulmates? In finding "the One?" If so, you're not alone—according to surveys, a majority of young singles hold some version of the soulmate view of marriage. Unfortunately, that's also the marriage view most likely to lead to divorce. In this episode, Liberty summarizes research compiled by Dr. Brad Wilcox in his book "Get Married," explaining why soulmates are a myth and why a different view of marriage—"family first," or mission-minded—aligns better with our overall purpose and function as human beings made in God's image. P.S. Liberty also mentions a resource for parents in this episode—a discount code for $10 off registration to the Raising Biblical Kids Conference for Parents in Grapevine, Texas! See more information below. P.P.S. Comment to share your thoughts—or if you listen long enough to understand what "yellow butterflies" means! More Resources: Get Married: Why Americans Must Defy the Elites, Forge Strong Families, and Save Civilization by Brad Wilcox https://www.amazon.com/Get-Married-Americans-Families-Civilization/dp/0063210851 Raising Biblical Kids Conference https://raisingbiblicalkidsconference.com/ 

Almost everywhere you look online, conspiracy theories abound. Recent events are no exception. In this episode Liberty addresses three questions: Why are people drawn to conspiracy theories? Why is it a problem to default to conspiracy theories (especially for Christians)?  How can we evaluate conspiracy theories with clarity? Listen and let us know what you think in the comments. More Resources: How to approach conspiracy theories by Dr. Merrill Mathews (The Hill) https://thehill.com/opinion/white-house/5516547-plausibility-proof-evaluating-conspiracies/

In the three weeks since the assassination of Charlie Kirk, something is rippling across the nation that many are calling the “Charlie Kirk Effect.” On social media, individuals are professing Christian faith, returning to church, or going to church for the first time, citing Charlie Kirk’s life and public death as their inspiration. While many Christians are celebrating this effect and even calling it a revival, others are wrestling with Kirk’s full legacy, even expressing dissatisfaction with other Christians' public admiration of Kirk's life and work. In this episode, Liberty asks the question: How should Christians think about the “Charlie Kirk Effect?” Looking at Scripture and history can help, because when we look closely at the so-called “heroes” of the faith, what we see are people who have failed again and again...and still been used by God. And maybe that’s the point. Share your thoughts below.

What does it mean to be a woman? The culture has wrestled with this point for decades. Ironically, diametrically opposed sides often make the same mistake: conflating the aesthetics of femininity with its definition. Many who embrace transgender ideology argue that feeling feminine and dressing the part are all it takes to identify oneself as “woman.” On the other hand, many reacting against modern feminism display their “trad wife” life on Instagram, striving to divide household labor along stereotypically gendered lines. Joining the Know Why Podcast, Rachel Schroder argues that both camps miss the true definition of femininity, trading its aesthetics for its full meaning and purpose. She helps us know why the full definition of femininity is broader than what is often portrayed by “trad wife” extremes, and also more family-oriented than modern feminism allows. Listen for a thought-provoking and encouraging conversation about what it means to be a woman, how women can embrace both their biological nature and their God-given talents inside the home and in the workforce, what balancing family and career might look like, and how developing virtue matters more than following stereotypes. More Resources: The Truth Between Trad Wife and Trans (New Guard Press) by Rachel Schroder https://newguardpress.com/the-truth-between-trad-wife-and-trans/

You can’t have healthy marriages without healthy individuals, and healthy individuals are people who understand themselves and their purpose in life. Perhaps one reason more young men aren’t getting married, despite many desiring to do so, is because they lack understanding about who they are and what they were made for. The left tells men that being masculine is “toxic.” On the far right, misogynistic influencers like Andrew Tate respond by telling young men to embrace those “toxic” traits without apology. Often missing from the masculinity conversation is a character trait that provides the much needed balance: meekness. In this episode, guest Andrew Warthen explains why “Meek is not Weak,” why good should not always equal safe, and how men can find purpose in fully understanding the meaning of their masculinity. Listen to this next installment of our “Know About Family Formation” series, and check out the links below if you’d like to dive deeper into this topic. Be sure to rate the podcast, subscribe, and comment or email Know Why with your thoughts or requests for future topics!   Articles Referenced: Meek is Not Weak, It’s Masculine by Andrew Warthen https://newguardpress.com/meek-is-masculine/ ‘Life Without a Father’: Less College, Less Work, And More Prison For Young Men Growing Up Without Their Biological Father https://ifstudies.org/blog/life-without-father-less-college-less-work-and-more-prison-for-young-men-growing-up-without-their-biological-father Study: Gen Z Now Leads in Church Attendance https://www.christianitytoday.com/2025/09/study-gen-z-leads-church-attendance-average/ Gen Z Men and Women Divided Over Getting Married, Having Kids https://www.newsweek.com/gen-z-men-women-divide-kids-marriage-poll-donald-trump-kamala-harris-republican-democrat-2126843   Andrew’s Recommended Resources: Father Mike Schmitz on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/fathermikeschmitz/?hl=en Bishop Robert Barron on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@BishopBarron Ryan T. Anderson at the Ethics and Public Policy Center https://eppc.org/author/ryan_anderson/ The Heritage Foundation https://www.heritage.org/ The Daily Wire https://www.dailywire.com/ Theology of the Body by John Paul II https://stmarys-waco.org/documents/2016/9/theology_of_the_body.pdf Love and Responsibility by John Paul II (Karol Wojtyla) https://www.amazon.com/Love-Responsibility-Karol-Wojtyla/dp/0898704456

Young men on the far right and young women on the far left have little in common—except for their views on marriage. Leading voices in the “manosphere” argue that marriage is of no benefit to men, especially when it comes to finances. Many women believe the same lie. According to a robust body of research compiled by Dr. Brad Wilcox in his book “Get Married,” men who get married experience a significant financial boost called the “marriage premium,” and women who get married are less likely to experience poverty. While financial gain isn’t and shouldn’t be ultimate reason for marriage, it’s important to combat pervasive lies with facts. Listen to for the specifics in this latest installment of Know Why’s “Know About Family Formation” series. More Resources: Get Married by Brad Wilcox https://www.amazon.com/Get-Married-Americans-Families-Civilization/dp/0063210851 Why is Marriage Good? Interview with John Mancini https://youtu.be/F7TCmdtHN-U?si=B_SXvjRdwe_O2dE8 Why Men (And All Humans) Need Sacrificial Relationships https://youtu.be/Is6MldDYnFg?si=RYietztZO-Lre3bb  

Why is marriage good? Is it only good for the material benefits it may provide individuals, like relational security and legal protection? Or is there an intrinsic good to marriage that can't be analyzed with science? Social and political philosopher John Mancini joins the podcast to kick off the next series, Know About Family Formation. John argues that there is a transcendent good to marriage that can't be fully explained by its extrinsic benefits, and invites us to understand why in this conversation. More Resources: How to Make Marriage Great Again by John Mancini (Institute for Family Studies)  Institute for Family Studies  Get Married: Why Americans Must Defy the Elites, Forge Strong Families, and Save Civilization by Brad Wilcox 

A 22-year-old founder of two multi-million dollar businesses recently made headlines for claiming that "Work-Life Balance Will Keep You Mediocre." In this last episode of Know Why's 2025 summer series, Liberty looks at whether Emil Barr's extreme sacrifices, including giving up relationships and even sleep, are worth it. Noting that Mr. Barr makes a few good points, Liberty argues that such an extreme focus on future material success can distract from our true purpose as human beings. In fact, the life some call "mediocre" could be a life of immeasurable eternal impact. Listen to know why. More Resources: 'Work-Life Balance' Will Keep You Mediocre — The Wall Street Journal  Know About Creating: Why We Write Stories (And Why You Don't Have to Rush) || Interview With Chelsea and Jonathan Boes — Know Why Podcast  

This episode looks at the issues of medically-assisted suicide, also called doctor- or physician-assisted death, and euthanasia. Referring to a recent feature in The Atlantic, Liberty uses examples from Canada to show three problems that arise when medically-assisted death is legalized in a society, and three reasons why it is wrong. TW: The episode includes several mentions of medically-assisted death, including real-life anecdotes, and mentions of suicidal ideation. More Resources: Canada is Killing Itself (The Atlantic)  How Can I Help a Friend Struggling With Suicidal Thoughts? (Know Why Podcast)  988 Lifeline

Are you trying to find your calling in life? Are you just trying to find a job? Either way, it can be a frustrating time. The job market is changing. AI is threatening many collar jobs. A bachelor’s degree isn’t the ticket to success it once was. Meanwhile, culturally accepted wisdom about passion, vocation, and job satisfaction isn’t always rooted in the truth—about happiness, about God, or even about ourselves. Thankfully, Karen Swallow Prior offers wisdom and clarity in her new book, “You Have a Calling: Finding Your Vocation in the True, Good, and Beautiful.” In this episode, Liberty shares some key takeaways from the book, tying them into previous series on the Know Why Podcast. More Resources: You Have a Calling by Karen Swallow Prior Know About Thriving At Work, a Know Why Podcast Series What Gen Z’s Work Priorities Reveal About Human Needs, Longing, and Purpose (Know Why Podcast, Summer Series 2025)

Are we at risk of live streaming our lives away? In a world where large amounts of young people spend more time "connecting" online than in physical life, where we are constantly plagued by FOMO and the urge to share every moment on social media, we risk losing the very life we are trying to preserve in digital memory. While convenient and sometimes helpful tools, social media and smart technology can present a counterfeit to our needs for identity, connection, and purpose if we're not careful. Do you agree or disagree? Share your thoughts below! More Resources: If I Don't Post About My Vacation, Did It Even Happen?  Teens Are Spending Nearly 5 Hours Daily on Social Media 

What makes people happy in life? In this episode, Liberty highlights research from the Global Flourishing Study, a 5-year research project that measures human flourishing using a broad range of questions. Led by social scientists from Harvard and Baylor University, and in partnership with Gallup and the Center for Open Science, the Global Flourishing Study has produced findings indicating that our idea of what makes someone “happy” could be all wrong. Listen to find out what it really takes to flourish, and how this new evidence underscores what the Know Why Podcast has previously highlighted: namely, the importance of relationships, meaningful connection, and religious belonging.   More Resources: Global Flourishing Study The Happiest Country in the World Isn’t What You Think (NYT) Why are the Wealthy So Unhappy? (World)  

Young men are in crisis. A recent article argues that married fatherhood is the key to solving the masculinity crisis, because married fatherhood gives men the meaning in life they inherently desire. It's true that humans need human relationships to be fulfilled, and that marriage incentivizes fathers to invest in their children. But is there more to it that that? What if our need for other people is more than an evolutionary accident, and actually a sacred design? What if marriage is more than a cultural construct that incentivizes paternal involvement, and actually a demonstration of the highest form of love? What if all of us—not just men—need to know that we are needed, and find our greatest fulfillment in sacrificial love over selfish pursuits? Listen to know why, and don't forget to check out past series at KnowWhyPodcast.com. More Resources: Married Fatherhood Is the Key To Solving The Masculinity Crisis  Is looking for a "best friend" getting in the way of building a village? 

How politically diverse is your friend group? If your answer is "not very," you're not alone. Nearly half of U.S. voters view their political opponents as "downright evil," according to a 2024 poll. Fewer and fewer people live in politically diverse areas, and digital media exacerbates our ideological bubbles. But Americans miss out on a lot of good things when we avoid people who think differently than we do. In this episode, Liberty discusses why political polarization has worsened, why it's a problem, and how we can fix it. More Resources: You Don't Need the Same Politics to Surf Together How Can I Keep Faith Above Partisanship? Interview With Chris Butler  Them: Why We Hate Each Other—And How to Heal by Ben Sasse 

Are your opinions based more on hot takes or real ideas? Liberty spends the first half of this episode discussing why young adults are more likely to build their worldview on a foundation of "takes" rather than carefully considered ideas. This results from things like social media algorithms to the way modern classrooms teach English and literature. Then, she switches gears to commemorate that this is Know Why Podcast's 100th episode! You'll hear short clips from Know Why's top five most popular episodes, which showcase the range of topics and perspectives featured on the podcast. We don't want you to have takes, but ideas you can hold with confidence, which is why the Know Why Podcast started in the first place. Help us celebrate episode 100 by liking, commenting, subscribing, and sharing Know Why with a friend! More Resources: The Elite College Students Who Can't Read Books (The Atlantic) KnowWhyPodcast.com Why is Anger Unhealthy? Know About Jesus: Interview with Brant Hansen (Part 2)  Is Social Media Robbing Me of a Richer Life? Know About Healthy Tech Habits: Interview With Dr. Brad East Does Christmas Have Pagan Origins? Interview with Joshua Barnes  Did Jesus Prescribe Gender Roles? Know About Jesus: Interview with Dr. Sandra Glahn (Part 2) Are All Pro-Lifers Religious? Know About Pro-Lifers: Interview With Monica Snyder (Part 1) 

If you're on social media apps like TikTok and Instagram, you've seen the videos—reels using satire, sarcasm, and dark humor to react to recent events in the Middle East. Cynical, offbeat humor is typical of a generation accustomed to "unprecedented times," but is often used to mask a deeper sense of fear and anxiety about what's going on. In this episode, Liberty draws on principles found in the Bible and often repeated by mental health experts for truly coping with anxiety about global events. It is possible to find inner peace with Jesus in a dangerous, unstable world. More Resources: Gen Z, Iran, and the Mass Panic Happening on TikTok - USA Today How Can I Feel Safe in an Unstable World? Interview With Dr. Tanita Maddox  What Did Jesus Say About Overcoming Anxiety? Interview With Lauren McAfee  Is it Possible to Thrive With Anxiety and Depression? Interview With Ben Bennett 

For decades, religious affiliation has dropped off with each new generation. But with Gen Z, that trend appears to be stalling. Why are young adults returning to religion, especially traditionally conservative expressions of religion like Catholicism? Liberty suggests that in today's chaotic world, young people want more than vague spirituality and moral relativism, and they're finding it in the pews their parents abandoned. More Resources: Why is Gen Z More Religious Than Previous Generations? (Northeastern Global News) How Catholicism Got Cool (The Free Press)  "Know About Creating," Know Why Podcast Series "Know About Jesus," Know Why Podcast Series "Know Why God is Good," Know Why Podcast Series 

Deloitte's 2025 Global survey of Gen Zs and millennials reveals that at work, young adults prioritize mentorship, meaning, and financial security. But survey answers reveal deeper themes at play, including strong needs for a secure identity and a sense of purpose. What do these deeper themes reveal about who we are as humans? That's what Liberty tackles in this 20-minute episode, drawing on experts featured in Know Why's past series, "Know About Thriving at Work." More Resources: Deloitte 2025 Global Survey on Gen Z and Millennials Know About Thriving At Work: A Know Why Podcast Series The Religion of Workism is Making Americans Miserable The Secret to Happiness at Work 

Liberty recaps this season's two series, Know Why God is Good and Know About AI. Then, she previews what viewers can expect from the Know Why Podcast over the summer and in the months ahead. Don't forget to subscribe, rate, review, and share! More Resources: Know Why God is Good series Know About AI series Contact Liberty

President Donald Trump has pledged to “solidify our position as the global leader in AI and secure a brighter future for all Americans.” “It is the policy of the United States to sustain and enhance America’s global AI dominance in order to promote human flourishing, economic competitiveness, and national security,” an Executive Order from January 2025 states. But how will enhanced “global AI dominance” affect the American family? Drastically and negatively, if we’re not careful. That’s what Michael Toscano and Jared Hayden of the Institute for Family Studies argue. But there is hope if government officials are willing to incorporate family-focused safeguards in their AI policies and investments. Michael and Jared join this episode of the Know Why Podcast to discuss their public comment submitted to the Trump administration, which details “5 Recommendations for the White House’s AI Action Plan.”   More Resources: Report Brief: Protecting the Family in the Age of Artificial Intelligence Institute for Family Studies A Future For the Family  

Some AI enthusiasts argue that artificial intelligence will usher in a new age of human thriving, even sparking a renaissance of deeper and more meaningful human connection. Others argue that AI chatbots can offer social benefits, providing a "friend" to those in need. Are these optimistic takes on AI's potential impact valid? Or are they the result of delusion? Liberty considers these arguments in light of existing evidence on how AI is already impacting humans, and discusses why we have the need for relationship at all. More Resources: AI Will Change What it is to be Human. Are We Ready? Your Chatbot Won't Cry if You Die? 

A recent Teen Vogue article explores common ways college students are using ChatGPT. The anecdotes in the article align with other reporting on common uses for AI, leading Liberty to explore three trends... Using AI to replace or assist in interpersonal conversations Using AI to replace brainstorming solutions for difficult situations Using AI in place of or in addition to a therapist for mental health purposes. Are there valid aspects to these uses, or just risks? Liberty discusses the alleged pros and potential cons of each trend, with a focus on how each use of AI impacts social connections and responsibilities in our individualistic society.  More Resources:  How Are Students Using ChatGPT? For Therapy, Breakups, and Even Texting Friends (Teen Vogue) When There's No School Counselor, There's a Bot (The Wall Street Journal) Our Epidemic of Loneliness and Isolation: The U.S. Surgeon General's Advisory on the Healing Effects of Social Connection and Community (2023) Can Localism Ease Partisanship (And Even Anxiety?) Know About Political Engagement: Interview With Dr. Mark T. Mitchell (Episode 51) How Will Chatbots Affect My Soul? Know About Healthy Tech Habits: Interview With Kate Lucky (Part 1) (Episode 26) Should Chatbots Scare Me? Know About Healthy Tech Habits: Interview With Kate Lucky (Part 2) (Episode 27)  

Next up in our series "Know About AI," Liberty recalls three past interviews on the Know Why Podcast with illustrators who addressed the purpose of creation and the affect of artificial intelligence on art. Featured artists are best-selling author and illustrator John Hendrix, author, illustrator, and mechanical engineer Ross Boone, and illustrator Jared Boggess, the art director for Christianity Today. This episode features clips from each of their interviews, which you can find in full at KnowWhyPodcast.com, or anywhere else you get your podcasts. More Resources: Know About Creating: Why Should Christians Value Art? Interview With John Hendrix (Know Why Podcast, Episode 56) Know About Creating: How Can Artists Use AI and Other Digital Tools Wisely? Interview With Ross Boone (Part 1) (Know Why Podcast, Episode 57) Know About Creating: Does AI Threaten the Process of Making? Interview With Jared Boggess (Know Why Podcast, Episode 59)

The efficiency of generative AI can be tempting. But Philip Bunn, assistant professor of political science at Covenant College, argues that we may be sacrificing part of our humanity—and eventually our freedom—for the apparent perfection of AI results. When we allow ourselves do things badly instead of relying on AI, we're forming important parts of ourselves, Philip argues. Don't miss this latest installment in the series "Know About AI" where Liberty and Philip discuss the AI crisis in academia, the purpose of education, 18th century economist Adam Smith's predictions about technology and "mental mutilation," and tips for preserving independent judgement in a culture that increasingly depends on AI. More Resources: Digital Liturgies: Rediscovering Christian Wisdom in an Online Age by Samuel James The Common Rule: Habits of Purpose for an Age of Distraction by Justin Whitmel Earley A Web of Our Own Making: The Nature of Digital Formation by Anton Barba-Kay EverythingWasBeautiful.Substack.com

Is it cheating to have ChatGPT give feedback on your research paper?  What if you just ask ChatGPT to check your math homework? Should professors stop fighting the use of AI and incorporate it into collegiate-level assignments?  How can teachers mitigate the negative effects of technology overload in their classrooms?  We cover all these questions and more in the second installment of our Know About AI series, featuring Emily Harrison, author of the resource-heavy website Dear Christian Parent on Substack. Whether you're a parent, a teacher, or a student yourself, you won't want to miss this episode on artificial intelligence and education.  More Resources:  Dear Christian Parent on Substack Amusing Ourselves to Death: Public Discourse in the Age of Show Business by Neil Postman From the Garden to the City: The Place of Technology in the Story of God by John Dyer  

In the kick-off to our Know About AI series, Peter Goeman of The Bible Sojourner YouTube channel joins the Know Why Podcast to talk about artificial intelligence from a Christian perspective. Specifically, Peter explains what it means when the Bible says humans are made in the image of God, and what implications that has for our relationship with AI technology. Don't miss this conversation, which provides a helpful framework for our future episodes on AI! More Resources: Artificial Intelligence and the Christian: Understanding AI's Promises and Pitfalls by Peter Goeman The Bible Sojourner (YouTube Channel)

Chances are you know someone who has deconstructed their faith or is in that process. Maybe that person is you. Wherever you are in your faith journey, you'll appreciate this interview with Ian Harber, who has experienced deconstruction of faith first hand. Ian shares his own story, including what led to his crisis of faith and how he managed to rebuild belief in God's goodness after his lowest moment. He also discusses his "brutally honest, defiantly hopeful" book: Walking Through Deconstruction: How to Be a Companion in a Crisis of Faith. It tackles common misconceptions about deconstruction, provides tips for supporting loved ones through a spiritual crisis, and offers hope and advice for reconstructing a healthy faith. More Resources: Walking Through Deconstruction by Ian Harber Confessions by St. Augustine of Hippo