The Esau McCaulley Podcast

Preorder Esau's New Children's Book: https://esaumccaulley.com/books/isaiah-johnson-and-the-big-game/   The Supreme Court's latest Voting Rights Act decision has reignited an old debate: does discrimination only matter when racist intent can be proven, or do the results matter too? Esau McCaulley, Skye Jethani and Producer Mike break down the history behind the Voting Rights Act, why this Louisiana redistricting case matters, and what it could mean for Black political representation across the South. They also wrestle with whether America's institutions are actually progressing on race or simply finding new ways to protect power. Then, Sharon Hodde Miller joins the show to unpack the Newsboys lawsuit and the uncomfortable questions it raises about Christian music, nonprofit partnerships, and money in evangelical culture.   0:00 - Theme Song   0:33 - Esau's New Book!   2:00 - Voting Rights Act Supreme Court Decision   8:47 - Moral Progress and Original Sin   23:09 - Newsboys Suing Charities   40:38 - Downsizing Friendships?   53:42 - End Credits  

After another assassination attempt on President Trump, Esau McCaulley, Malcolm Foley and Mike Stralow wrestle with what it means that political violence is starting to feel normal, and why Christians must reject any attempt to justify it in Jesus' name. They unpack the so-called "Christian" logic behind the attacker's manifesto, and explain why the story of Jesus fundamentally undermines violence as a tool for change. Then the conversation turns to the backlash around DEI, where real concerns, bad ideas, and political overreactions have all been thrown into one messy debate. Also this week: why people quietly leave churches, and Producer Mike might need a new nickname.   0:00 - Theme Song   3:02 - Assassination Attempt   6:11 - Christian Non-Violence   9:05 - Identifying with the State   17:35 - Conspiracy Theories   20:53 - Where DEI Backfires   29:48 - The "DEI Bundle"   34:52 - Critiquing DEI Without Being MAGA   39:00 - Pastors and Congregation Numbers   55:24 - End Credits

We used to all watch the same thing, but now our entertainment options to our church options are more dived and fragmented than ever. Justin Giboney joins Esau McCaulley and Mike Stralow to discuss the collapse of monoculture. Then, Dave Chappelle recently took criticism for performing at a comedy festival in Saudi Arabia, but he made the claim that there is no such thing as clean money anymore. The crew discusses if that's true and how should Christians think about spending, giving, and participating in a system that's already broken. Also, is it fair to tax the rich and does it actually improve society if we do?   P Lewis Art Collection: https://www.instagram.com/plewiscollection/   0:00 - Theme Song   1:45 - The Love of Missing Out, LOMO   7:45 - Is Monoculture Dead?   12:28 - Ideology and Entertainment   22:45 - Sponsor - Tyndale - On The BEMA Podcast, Marty Solomon dives deep into the Bible. Learn more at https://navpress.com   23:56 - Sponsor - Brooklyn Bedding - For a quality mattress, go to https://www.brooklynbedding.com and use promo code ESAU to get 30% off site wide!   24:46 - Dave Chappell and Clear Money   37:10 - Mamdani and Housing Taxes in New York City   49:50 - End Credits

It was the AI image heard around the world. Esau and Mike are joined by Christine Jeske to talk about Trump's infamous AI image depicting him as a Christ figure, and whether it signals a real shift in his evangelical support or just a passing blip. They also dig into Justin Bieber's Coachella performance, asking whether it tapped into something deeper about longing, vulnerability, and public faith. Then the conversation turns to Anthropic's gathering of Christian leaders to explore whether AI could ever be considered a child of God. Finally, Christine shares about her new book, Racial Justice for the Long Haul, and what gives her hope in the midst of so much turmoil right now.   0:00 - Theme Song   2:00 - Justin Bieber's Coachella Laptop Performance   12:13 - The Pope Vs. the President   25:38 - Sponsor - Tyndale - On The BEMA Podcast, Marty Solomon dives deep into the Bible. Learn more at https://navpress.com   26:56 - Can AI Have a Soul?   31:18 - AI and Human Value   55:33 - End Credits

A government official claims God teleported him to a Waffle House, and somehow that is not the strangest part of this conversation. Esau is joined by producer Mike and Stephen Harris to discuss Holy Week at the White House, where the language of resurrection, sacrifice, and salvation was tangled up with politics, power, and some very questionable comparisons. They also wrestle with how Christians can believe in the miraculous without losing their grip on wisdom, and why performative faith keeps missing the point of the gospel. Finally, Esau and Stephen disagree about the casting of Paapa Essiedu as Snape in the new Harry Potter series, raising questions about storytelling, representation, and when creative changes actually make a story worse.   0:00 - Theme Song   1:55 - Teleporting to Waffle House!   11:38 - Comparing Trump to Christ   15:23 - Trump's Easter Tweet   20:21 - God and the State   28:42 - Sponsor - Tyndale - On The BEMA Podcast, Marty Solomon dives deep into the Bible. Learn more at https://navpress.com   30:05 - Saul and Performative Christianity   38:42 - HBO Cast a Black Actor as Snape?   55:55 - End Credits  

A sci-fi blockbuster about the end of the world is somehow the most hopeful movie in years. What does Project Hail Mary's success say about a culture drowning in cynicism? Esau McCaulley, Malcolm Foley, and Mike Stralow dig into why audiences are craving optimism again and whether the church (and Holy Post Media) has something to learn from it. Then the conversation turns to all the recent talk about "revival." Is something actually happening, or are we just reading the signs we want to see? They unpack why Christians are so fixated on growth, what we might be measuring wrong, and whether real renewal looks less like hype and more like repentance. Plus, Holy Week reflections, what's bringing them joy right now, and a pair of red Air Force Ones.   0:00 - Theme   0:21 - Holy Week with Esau   12:22 - Revival or Not?   17:56 - Curiosity Around Religion   26:10 - Endurance and the Black Church   30:05 - Slavery is a Crime Against Humanity   46:55 - End Credits

War used to be something a nation mourned. Now it's about banger memes. Esau is joined by Natasha Sistrunk Robinson and Producer Mike to talk about why the Trump Administration seems to prioritize its social media strategy over its war strategy. They also talk about Trump's response to Robert Mueller's death and reflect on new allegations about Cesar Chavez and what they reveal about leadership, abuse, and the danger of protecting movements over people. Also this week, Esau forgets a very important day.    Learn more about Natasha here - www.natashasrobinson.com   0:00 - Theme Song   4:47 - Trump's Glad Mueller's Dead   11:06 - Trump's Lasting Impact   19:31 - Pastors and Politics   24:07 - Sponsor - Brooklyn Bedding - For a quality mattress, go to https://www.brooklynbedding.com and use promo code ESAU to get 30% off site wide!   26:35 - White House War Memes   31:12 - Targeting Immature Young Men   42:03 - Caesar Chavez Scandal   53:26 - End Credits

A new study suggests Americans distrust each other more than almost any other nation, and Esau, Malcolm and Mike wrestle with whether we've crossed a line we can't come back from. They dig into the deeper spiritual roots of our outrage, asking what it actually means to love your enemies in an age of constant political combat. Then the conversation turns to Hollywood's obsession with youth and what our fear of aging reveals about us. They also take on the controversy over an unqualified Surgeon General nominee and what it says about leadership, loyalty, and truth. Also this week: Mike shoots his shot, Malcolm runs late, and somehow height insecurity becomes a real topic.   0:00 - Malcolm's Too Famous   1:37 - Theme Song   4:17 - Oscars and Plastic Surgery   8:54 - Mike's Too Tall   12:17 - End Stage Polarization   24:46 - Ideological Purity   32:40 - Unqualified Surgeon General   49:24 - End Credits

Are the latest headlines about Iran a sign that the end times are near? Esau, producer Mike, and pastor Sharon Miller examine why Christians often interpret global conflict through the lens of biblical prophecy and why the book of Revelation may challenge that instinct. Then, the group talks about a viral cultural moment involving a McDonald's CEO whose awkward burger bite sparked debate about authenticity and leadership in the influencer age. What does it say about our culture when even CEOs are expected to perform relatability online? Sharon also introduces the "relationship gap," a trend suggesting dating apps may actually reduce the differences between people who end up together. Plus, defending movie trailers and more Disney debates.   0:00 - Theme Song   1:38 - Chalamet Angers Ballet Fans   8:36 - Is the Iran War God-Appointed?   16:24 - Memeification of War   27:03 - CEO Eats Hamburger Weirdly   40:04 - Dating Gaps Getting Weird?   52:33 - End Credits

The United States and Israel have launched strikes against Iran and the world is trying to figure out what happens next. Justin Giboney joins the show to help unpack the politics, the constitutional questions, and the potential fallout both overseas and at home. Also, Esau looks at how America's relationship with Israel shaped the conflict and why some Christians see events like this through the lens of biblical prophecy. Plus: we give marriage advice to Tom Holland and Zendaya.   0:00 - Theme Song   1:02 - Does Justin Know Zendaya?   6:40 - At War with Iran   11:47 - Are We Liberating Iran?   18:12 - Sponsor - With & For: Psychology and Spirituality for Thriving Podcast. Check it out now! https://pod.link/1712333330   19:21 - Sponsor - Public Good Generation - In high school and looking to lead in faith? Check out this Summer Civics Program in Washington DC: https://ccpubliclife.org/holypost   21:03 - Israel's Influence on Trump   26:19 - Prophecy ad Abraham's Sin   31:20 - Trump's Broken Promises   42:42 - End Credits

The U.S. hockey team wins gold, but the celebration sparked bigger questions. Esau, Malcolm, and Mike discuss if America become the bully to the rest of the world? Also, Ben Sasse's public reflections on his terminal cancer diagnosis bring a different kind of clarity about faith, family, and what actually matters when time runs short. Then, with the passing of Jesse Jackson, we consider how to remember leaders who shaped history by honoring real progress without pretending perfection.   0:00 - Theme Song   2:10 - Parking Spot   5:36 - Canada Vs US Hockey   9:07 - Did David Become Goliath?   17:21 - Ben Sass and Facing Mortality   21:10 - Sponsor - Nazarene Theological Seminary - Looking for a program grounded in black theology? Check out the Doctor of Ministry in Black Leadership and Ministry at https://nts.edu/podcast   22:24 - Sponsor - With & For: Psychology and Spirituality for Thriving Podcast. Check it out now! https://pod.link/1712333330   25:44 - What's Worth Our Time?   35:42 - Jesse Jackson   50:34 - End Credits

Ash Wednesday forces us to acknowledge that some day we will die. For some, that truth is abstract. For others, it is painfully personal. Esau and Mike are joined by Hannah Miller King, author of Feasting on Hope: How God Sets a Table in the Wilderness, to talk about what happens to faith when prayers for healing go unanswered. After losing her father to cancer as a teenager, Hannah began wrestling with a question many believers quietly carry: What does hope look like when God doesn't do what you asked? They explore the difference between a "transaction of goods" gospel and the communion of persons, the role of the Lord's Supper in shaping Christian imagination, and how Lent invites us to hold suffering and resurrection together. Also, can Hannah and Esau convince Mike to become anglican?   0:00 - Theme Song   1:19 - Making Mike Anglican   7:21 - King's New Book on Ash Wednesday   14:40 - The Book's Thesis   18:10 - Grief   26:07 - Community and Grief   39:22 - End Credits   Feasting on Hope: How God Sets a Table in the Wilderness by Hannah Miller King: https://amzn.to/4aHAvgh

A video shared by Donald Trump depicting Barack and Michelle Obama with a racist trope sparked outrage, swift defenses, and eventually, quiet deletion. Esau, Malcolm, and Mike explore the long history of dehumanizing imagery, the theological weight of the image of God, and why the refusal to repent may matter more than the original post. Then the conversation turns to rhetoric at the National Prayer Breakfast and the danger of blending national power with the language of the gospel. What does it mean to follow a crucified king in an age that prizes dominance?   0:00 - Theme Song   2:00 - Can You Beat Middle Schoolers at Basketball?   6:56 - Trump's Racist Obama Video   24:23 - Sponsor - With & For: Psychology and Spirituality for Thriving Podcast. Check it out now! https://pod.link/1712333330   25:26 - The Military and Religion   35:27 - What's Part of the Gospel?   46:00 - End Credits

Students aren't just using AI to finish assignments. They're using it to manage social interactions, from emails to professors to conversations on dating apps. Esau, Justin, and Mike explore how that might spare a little awkwardness, but also skips the stage of failure where real growth usually happens. Then, are small liberal arts colleges actually better at forming students, and are universities still teaching people how to think rather than what to think? Also, sports gambling continues to cause problems and why Y2K culture, including the return of CDs, is making a surprising comeback.   0:00 - Theme Song   0:18 - Black History Month Present   2:23 - CDs Are Coming Back?   9:23 - Physical Media in a Digital World   13:29 - A.I. Keeps Us from Failing   22:12 - Sponsor - Glorify - Get full access all year for $29.00 at https://www.glorify-app.com/esau   23:33 - Sponsor - With & For: Psychology and Spirituality for Thriving Podcast. Check it out now! https://pod.link/1712333330   24:50 - Avoiding A.I. Entirely?   34:09 - Liberal Art's Inefficiency is Its Strength   40:54 - Sports Betting's Return   51:50 - End Credits   Resources: God's Colorful Easter: The Good News Is for Everyone by Esau McCaulley: https://www.tyndale.com/p/gods-colorful-easter/9798400501029?srsltid=AfmBOopFr6DDhzFFW4jVivkDhEgT3FNiuzM1cc8xmhgBCDtMuXLNVBSZ

The killing of Alex Pretti by federal agents in Minneapolis has become another moment where violence, misinformation, and political certainty collide. As video evidence contradicts official narratives, Esau, Malcolm Foley, and Mike wrestle with what this death reveals about power, propaganda, and the erosion of public trust. Then the three discuss Esau's recent article for the New York Times to ask a harder question: how do Christians name injustice without being consumed by rage? What does faithful witness look like when anger feels justified but spiritually dangerous?   0:00 - Theme Song   1:10 - American Girl Doll Nostalgia   9:36 - Dark New Normal   14:45 - Justifying Violence with "Woke" Accusations   23:52 - Sponsor - With & For: Psychology and Spirituality for Thriving Podcast. Check it out now! https://pod.link/1712333330   25:02 - Sponsor - Brooklyn Bedding - For a quality mattress, go to https://www.brooklynbedding.com and use promo code ESAU to get 30% off site wide!   25:53 - Why Do We Believe Things?   33:25 - Not Living with Rage   47:40 - End Credits

Greenland is suddenly back on the menu of American foreign policy, raising real questions about conquest, NATO, and whether Christians can ever justify taking land that isn't theirs. Then, J. Cole's fear of "the fall off" becomes a window into ambition, calling, and the strange psychology of decline. And when Druski lampoons megachurch culture, it forces an uncomfortable look at why the church keeps becoming an easy punchline, and how Christians should respond when they are the butt of the joke. Plus, will Instagram be the thing that finally tears apart Esau and Mike?   0:00 - Theme Song   0:50 - Hills to Die On   7:03 - Why Are We Against Invading Greenland?   16:05 - Sponsor - Glorify - Get full access all year for $29.00 at https://www.glorify-app.com/esau   18:50 - J Cole's Retiring   27:55 - Pastors Falling Off   33:53 - Satirizing Megachurches   48:50 - End Credits

New footage and reporting about the Minneapolis ICE shooting of Renée Good have complicated the story. Esau, Mike and Taelor Gray revisit the incident one week later and ask how political power shapes the narratives we're given, and what it means for Christians to tell the truth when the truth is inconvenient. Then, they turn to the surprising posthumous "ordination" of DMX and consider what it reveals about the nature of pastoral ministry, proximity, and presence in an age obsessed with platforms.   0:00 - Theme Song   2:25 - Wall Street Journal Complains About Sushi for Kids   8:15 - Renee Good and the ICE Stop   21:00 - Sponsor - Glorify - Get full access all year for $29.00 at https://www.glorify-app.com/Esau   22:19 - DMX Ordained After His Death?   43:44 - End Credits   66 Verse to Explain the Bible - Ezra: https://www.patreon.com/posts/148221073/   Wall Street Journal Article on ICE and shootings: https://www.wsj.com/us-news/videos-show-how-ice-vehicle-stops-can-escalate-to-shootings-caf17601?gaa_at=eafs&gaa_n=AWEtsqcM4suCejir2XhY_aFDJ2--sqzFMzLxUYZ4SWneBn28PnkIFR-SG7O92GaLvw%3D%3D&gaa_ts=6967c046&gaa_sig=POa3tPcvJz_pC4-M5-e4uWuWjboR_sO0jyfq1BCM0XWAAXYxeb8OSWlKQ2SbkOYLAfCMr-_WetVC1fqY1L8b3g%3D%3D

A woman is dead in Minneapolis after an encounter with ICE.  Esau McCaulley, Justin Giboney, Malcolm Foley, and producer Mike sort through what we know so far, what the law actually says about deadly force and compliance, and how Christians should think about state power and the value of a human life. The conversation wrestles with fear, responsibility, split second decisions, and the narratives forming around the shooting long before the facts are settled.

The fall of a dictator feels like good news, but what if the motive matters as much as the outcome? Esau, Mike, and Sho Baraka dig into the Venezuela raid through the lens of just war theory, Trump's own comments, and the broader unseriousness of the administration. Then Sho reflects on his recent writing about AI and efficiency, asking where the line is between using new technology wisely and setting boundaries for the sake of rest, imagination, and what it means to be human.   0:00 - Theme Song   2:35 - Hard Classes That Mattered   8:03 - Venezuela   22:30 - The Donroe Doctrine   30:10 - Sponsor - Brooklyn Bedding - For a quality mattress, go to https://www.brooklynbedding.com and use promo code ESAU to get 30% off site wide!   31:08 - AI and Utilitarianism   50:39 - End Credits   Sho Baraka's Music: https://www.shobaraka.com/ https://www.instagram.com/amishobaraka/

Medically assisted suicide is on the rise in Canada, and it's no longer limited to those who are terminally ill. Esau, Malcolm, and Mike examine what this shift reveals about modern assumptions around autonomy, dignity, and choice, and how Christian convictions about suffering and care for the vulnerable complicate the logic behind assisted dying policies. Also, after Travis Kelce recently claimed that he and Taylor Swift have never fought, the team asks whether conflict-free marriage is actually a sign of health. They explore why disagreement can be formative rather than destructive, and why couples should be cautious about overusing therapy language—like "gaslighting" or "narcissism"—without fully understanding what those terms mean. 0:00 - Theme Song 1:40 - Scheduling Wedding for Money? 7:00 - Do Couples Need to Fight? 1 7:26 - Therapy Talk 22:34 - Medical Assistance in Dying  30:52 - Dying with Dignity 38:28 - What to Leave Behind in 2026? 45:00 - End Credits #HolyPostMedia #hpm

No new episode this week, but here are three more episodes of the HP+ exclusive series, 66 Verse to Explain the Bible. We'll be back next week with Malcolm Foley for a brand new episode. Merry Christmas!   0:00 - Producer Mike's Discount Code Challenge   2:40 - Theme Song   2:45 - Numbers   7:05 - Deuteronomy   14:30 - Sponsor - Brooklyn Bedding - For a quality mattress, go to https://www.brooklynbedding.com and use promo code ESAU to get 30% off site wide!   15:25 - Joshua   22:42 - End Credits

In the wake of the tragic murder of Rob and Michele Reiner, Trump's response on Truth Social reveals a striking lack of empathy. Esau, Mike, and Justin Giboney reflect on how his reaction once again exposes a failure of compassion at the highest level of leadership.   Then the conversation turns to Wake Up Dead Man, the latest film in the Knives Out franchise, which unexpectedly offers a sharp and thoughtful portrayal of Christianity in America. What does the movie get right about sin, confession, and grace, and could it be one of the most theologically insightful secular films in years?   0:00 - Theme Song   3:33 - Christmas Movie Character Equivalents   10:05 - Wake Up Dead Man   22:48 - Sponsor - Exclusive $45-off Carver Mat at https://www.AuraFrames.com. Use code ESAU at checkout to save!   23:50 - Sponsor - Tyndale - The Life Application Study Bible is here to give you resources to help you understand why scripture matters and how it applies today! Check it out now at: https://www.tyndale.com/sites/lasb/?utm_campaign=Bibles%20-%20NLT%20Life%20Applicati[…]ource=Holy%20Post%20Podcast&utm_medium=Microsite%20Nov%202025   24:48 - Trump on the Reiner Murder   34:30 - Australia and Gun Laws   Esau Article on School Shootings: https://www.nytimes.com/2023/03/28/opinion/how-can-we-be-a-country-that-does-this-to-our-children.html

Esau is live in Boston with producer Mike and Dr. Amy Peeler for a conversation on whether today's chaos means we're living in the end times. Amy and Esau talk about how Christians should think about apocalyptic anxiety, why every generation believes it's the generation, and what Scripture actually gives us—hope, perseverance, and a call to faithfulness. Then, Amy and Esau talk about how they manage being a scholar and a pastor, past regrets they have, and Amy's former life as a tv commercial star.   Q&A Bonus Segment on Holy Post Plus: https://www.patreon.com/posts/145553700/   0:00 - Theme Song   7:30 - Are We in the End Times?   15:00 - America and Eschatology 20:00 - Sponsor - Exclusive $45-off Carver Mat at https://www.AuraFrames.com. Use code ESAU at checkout to save!   21:03 - Sponsor - Tyndale - The Life Application Study Bible is here to give you resources to help you understand why scripture matters and how it applies today! Check it out now at: https://www.tyndale.com/sites/lasb/?utm_campaign=Bibles%20-%20NLT%20Life%20Applicati[…]ource=Holy%20Post%20Podcast&utm_medium=Microsite%20Nov%202025   22:10 - Scholars and Pastors   30:35 - How Learning Adds Depth to Faith   39:30 - Being a Pastor in Scotland   42:47 - What We Learn from Hebrews   51:37 - End Credits   Amy (Beverage) Peeler's Commercial: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-dXsbEtUq9E

Trump's latest comments on immigration turn a single tragic incident into a sweeping indictment of entire communities. Esau, Malcolm, and Mike examine why some crimes are framed as isolated events while others are weaponized to justify exclusion. They then dig into new research on crime shows that consistently misrepresent Black communities as dangerous, exploring how entertainment shapes public fear and reinforces old myths that refuse to die. Finally, a surprising essay about "good divorces" sparks a deeper conversation about the purpose of marriage, the kind of love Christian marriage is meant to form in us, and why covenant isn't built on frictionless happiness.   0:00 - Theme Song   1:45 - Ragebaiting's the Word of the Year   5:30 - National Guard Shooting and Immigration   21:38  - Sponsor - Brooklyn Bedding - For a quality mattress, go to https://www.brooklynbedding.com and use promo code ESAU to get 30% off site wide!   22:22 - Sponsor - Exclusive $45-off Carver Mat at https://www.AuraFrames.com. Use code ESAU at checkout to save!   23:30 - Cursification of Politics   27:30 - Race in Crime Shows   35:00 - Marriage   48:20 - Malcolm's Marriage Advice   52:10 - End Credits

Esau and Mike are celebrating Thanksgiving this week, but we still have a special treat for you all. Enjoy four episodes of Esau's HP+ series, 66 Verses to Explain the Bible. If you want to hear the all the episodes in the series, sign up for Holy Post Plus today! New and returning subscribers can get 50% off their subscription! Deal ends December 2nd

Newly released Epstein files raise fresh questions about the moral compromises of the powerful and the willingness of Christians to look away when politics makes clarity inconvenient. Esau, Malcolm, and Producer Mike examine what the emails do and don't reveal and how the church's credibility erodes when it excuses the inexcusable. Plus, a viral SNL sketch about AI-animated photos and the reveal of the villain in Toy Story 5 leads to a broader conversation about technology, the disappearing art of boredom, and whether it's possible to reclaim silence and imagination in a distracted age. Plus, Malcolm debuts his own new segment this week. Can it compete with Mike's Corner and Miller Time?   0:00 - Theme Song   2:35 - SNL AI Skit   11:40 - Toy Story 5's About Tablets?   23:55 - The Catholic Church and Immigration   32:17 - Epstein Files   47:03 - End Credits

On a recent press tour, Jennifer Lawrence recently said she's done with political outrage. Esau, Sharon Hodde Miller, and producer Mike talk about what happens when the adrenaline of activism runs out and the fatigue sets in. What does faithfulness look like after the hashtags stop trending? Then, we all know the dangers of the purity culture craze, but have overcorrected in trying not to repeat our mistakes? What do we do when the church hands people a good gift with broken handles? Also, thanks to science we may never have to load the dishwasher or eat a bad steak again.   0:00 - Theme Song   2:25 - Robot Companion   4:47 - What Could a Robot Do for You?   7:50 - Jennifer Lawrence and Internet Activism   23:23 - Sponsor - Brooklyn Bedding - For a quality mattress, go to https://www.brooklynbedding.com and use promo code ESAU to get 30% off site wide!   24:12 - Miller Time   25:46 - Purity Culture Aftermath   32:30 - Christian Sexual Ethic   36:15 - Did You Eat Cloned Steak?   41:20 - The Atomic Bomb and Cloning   48:33 - End Credits

A political fight over food assistance has sparked new debate about who deserves help in America. Esau, Justin Giboney, and Mike take a look at the SNAP situation and why Scripture consistently places God on the side of the poor and challenges us to do the same. Plus, Trump is posting about defending persecuted Christians in Nigeria, but is there more he should be doing to help? Then, Tucker Carlson's recent interview with Nick Fuentes has sparked a debate on the right about what counts as fringe beliefs these days. Also, why Justin is confused about bobbing for apples and Jennifer Lawrence.   0:00 - Theme Song   5:38 - Snap Program   17:15 - Christians in Nigeria and Nicki Minaj.   21:22 - Sponsor - Hello! My Name is Emmanuel - A Heartwarming children's book about a Haitian child learning to trust God by Emmanuel Jean Russell  https://a.co/d/8fPoRCL   30:15 - Mike's Corner: Nick Fuentes on Tucker Carlson   39:40 - Who's Jennifer Lawrence?   43:00 - End Credits   Don't Let Nobody Turn You Around: How the Black Church's Public Witness Leads Us Out of the Culture War by Justin Giboney: https://a.co/d/6dUSGTz

Esau, Skye, and Mike explore what happens when vows stop meaning anything. They discuss the Anglican Church's latest abuse allegations, the NBA's betting scandal, and the U.S. admiral who resigned rather than follow Trump's unlawful orders. What does integrity look like in an age when everyone's breaking their promises? When should one try to reform from within, and when is it time to leave? Also, Esau reveals his recurring nightmare as a kid and it involves...a pickup basketball game with the Hulk?   0:00 - Theme Song   1:30 - Skye's Scary Movies   7:05 - Anglican Church Sexual Abuse Scandal   21:08 - Sponsor - Hello! My Name is Emmanuel - A Heartwarming children's book about a Haitian child learning to trust God by Emmanuel Jean Russell  https://a.co/d/8fPoRCL   22:15 - US Attacks Boats in Caribbean Sea   34:52 - Sports Betting Scandal   50:12 - End Credits

Last week, OpenAI announced it will remove moral limits from ChatGPT and "let adults be adults," opening the door for adult content on the platform. Esau and Mike are joined by Malcolm Foley to talk about how AI is reshaping our view of relationships and making it easier to chase selfish desires resulting in destructive consequences. Then, they turn to the leaked racist group chat among young Republicans. Does it reveal anything new, or just prove that racism never disappeared—it just went underground? Finally, the "No Kings" protests drew millions last weekend, but what did they actually accomplish? Malcolm walks through Martin Luther King Jr.'s four-step process for nonviolent action and whether the No Kings protest measured up.

Critics have recently accused the Black Church of promoting "ethnic idolatry," but is that fair, or even historically accurate? Esau McCaulley is joined by Kaitlyn Schiess and producer Mike to unpack where the Black Church came from, why it exists, and what these critiques reveal about American Christianity. Then, is it ok to have joy in the midst of so much suffering and why did we talk about the Taylor Swift album when it is full of explicit material? Also, we break down the latest culture-war controversy over the Super Bowl halftime show.   0:00 - Theme Song   3:45 - Contract Demands for Holy Post   6:54 - Why is there a Black Church?   11:43 - Virality vs Conversation   16:25 - Kaitlyn Left Out of the Taylor Swift Episode?   20:30 - Is it Wrong to Be Happy?   28:16 - Talking About Secular Art   35:00 - Bad Bunny's American Half-Time   44:25 - End Credits

Federal immigration raids have swept through Chicago under "Operation Midway Blitz," leaving neighborhoods filled with fear, tear gas, and helicopters overhead. Esau McCaulley, producer Mike, and pastor Pricelis Perreaux-Domínguez ask how Christians should respond when law enforcement tactics strip away human dignity, what it means to defend the image of God in our neighbors, and how the cruelty of the Trump administration cannot be ignored. Then, what does the NFL's choice of Bad Bunny as the Super Bowl Halftime Performer say about belonging, hospitality, and who America welcomes to the stage? Also, social media usage is down everywhere but one country. Can you guess which one? And is The Princess Bride a perfect movie?   0:00 - Theme Song   0:15 - Producer Mike's Car Wreck   3:55 - What Movies Shouldn't Be Remade?   8:25 - Chicago's ICE Raids   16:37 - Apartment Raids   24:10 - Bad Bunny SuperBowl Controversy   36:13 - Social Media Use is Going Down?   Being a Sanctuary: The Radical Way for the Body of Christ to Be Sacred, Soft, and Safe by Pricelis Perreaux-Dominguez: https://a.co/d/gLSFArw

Taylor Swift just dropped her 12th studio album, and everyone's talking about it—including us. Esau, producer Mike, and our resident Swift correspondent Lindsey Goetz break down their first impressions, favorite tracks, and the themes that make the album worth more than just pop-culture buzz. What does it mean to stay tender in a world that hardens us? How do we rebuild trust after disappointment? And how can art, even from outside the church, help us recognize the beauty of grace in the rubble of our failures? Whether or not you're a Swifty, this conversation offers insight into why music matters for faith and why the questions in her songs are also questions for the people of God.   0:00 - Theme Song   1:45 - Esau's New Shirt   2:17 - Initial Impressions   8:42 - The Eras   18:53 - What's Taylor's Music About?   22:03 - Why Engage with Secular Art?   25:30 - Pushing Back on Taylor   29:57 - End Credits

Matt Forte is remembered as one of the Chicago Bears' all-time greats, but now he's tackling something different: helping people find purpose that lasts beyond their career. Esau McCaulley and producer Mike sit down with Forte to talk about his new book Staying in the Game: Making the Most of Every Season. Forte opens up about walking away from the NFL, redefining success, and why our identity can't be built on stats, fame, or jersey numbers.   0:00 - Theme Song   0:15 - Are Esau and Mike athletes?   6:15 - Why'd He Get Into Writing?   10:56 - Matt's Spiritual Development   18:20 - Sponsor - God's Colorful Kingdom Storybook Bible - Available now, a kid's storybook Bible from Esau McCaulley: https://a.co/d/hVy8aUl   19:15 - Resisting Vanity   25:17 - Ministering to Athletes   37:12 - End Credits   Stay in the Game: Making the Most of Every Season by Matt Forte: https://a.co/d/3AYKev7  

A foul ball at a Phillies game turns into a viral outrage story. Esau, Malcolm Foley, and producer Mike unpack why the internet can't tell the difference between minor annoyances and real injustice. Then, Florida decided to end the vaccine requirements for kids. What's really at stake in the parental rights debate? Also, the crew looks at how Disney has gone from a family vacation destination to now overly catering to the wealthy, and what that reveals about greed, inequality, and the middle class. And, Esau channels his inner Michael Jordan and pulls off his own flu game.   0:00 - Theme Song   6:20 - Woman Labeled, "Philly Karen"   15:56 - Sponsor - God's Colorful Kingdom Storybook Bible - Available now, a kid's storybook Bible from Esau McCaulley: https://a.co/d/hVy8aUl   18:40 - Mandated Vaccines and Regulation   26:32 - Invoking Slavery in Public Discourse   31:17 - Disney and the Middle Class   46:23 - End Credits

In the wake of Charlie Kirk's assassination, Americans are left reeling. The violence is shocking and upsetting, but it also reveals the depth of our country's divides. Esau is joined by Christina Edmondson of Truth's Table to reflect on what this moment means for the church and the wider culture. They consider the tension between honoring Kirk's dignity and confronting his harmful rhetoric, why Black Christians experience these events differently, and what it means to love enemies without excusing injustice.   0:00 - Theme Song   1:34 - Being a Pastor During the Charlie Kirk Assassination   11:38 - Threats Towards Black Schools   31:07 - Sponsor - God's Colorful Kingdom Storybook Bible - Available now, a kid's storybook Bible from Esau McCaulley: https://a.co/d/hVy8aUl   32:51 - Student Evaluations Disrupting Colleges?   48:45 - End Credits   Preorder Christina Edmondson's book now: https://a.co/d/6IVi10n

Conservative Political Activist and CEO of Turning Point USA, Charlie Kirk, was assassinated yesterday while speaking on a college campus in Utah. Esau is joined by Sharon McMahon and Justin Giboney to talk about this horrific and tragic story. They explore the history of political violence in the country, and discuss why this moment feels different and uniquely troubling. They also discuss what comes next and how both the country, and christians, should move forward in a way that tries to ratchet down the temperature and see the humanity in all. Please join us in praying for the Kirk family and all those grieving his death.

Esau is joined by New Testament scholar Paul Sloan to talk about his new book Jesus and the Law of Moses. They dig into big questions: Did Jesus and Paul disagree about the law? Did Jesus expect his Jewish followers to keep Torah? What about Gentiles? And what if our picture of the Pharisees as strict legalists is all wrong? Plus, they dive into the debate on whether we're expected to follow the commands in the Sermon on the Mount, or if it's merely supposed to show us our need for grace. Plus, old tech and old athletes.   0:00 - Theme Song   2:22 - AOL Just Got Canned?   6:20 - Do We Treat Hymns Like AOL?   18:13 - Sponsor - No Small Endeavor - Award-winning podcast where theologians, philosophers, and best-selling authors talk about faith with Lee C. Camp. Start listening today: https://pod.link/1513178238   19:22 - Is the Law Here to Make Us Want Grace?   26:40 - Jesus and Ritual Purity   41:44 - End Credits   Jesus and the Law of Moses: The Gospels and the Restoration of Israel Within First-Century Judaism by Paul T. Sloan: https://a.co/d/5gnNBBQ  

Recently, Donald Trump criticized the Smithsonian for focusing too much on slavery, insisting that America's history should be more "positive" and less "woke." But can we really tell the story of America without telling the story of human bondage? Esau and Justin Giboney dig into the politics of memory, the temptation to idolize America, and why Christians in particular must insist on telling the truth about our history, both the glory and the shame. Plus, the myth of cancel culture from Paula Deen to Colin Kaepernick, Cracker Barrel outrage, and should we all be corny like Russel Wilson?   0:00 - Theme Song   1:33 - Who gets called "Corny?" Why Russell Wilson?   8:05 - Trump on Smithsonian and Slavery   25:40 - They're rich, travel, and love to complain   33:10 - Self-Help Makes You a Jerk?   43:02 - End Credits

When the military becomes a political pawn? As Esau and Producer Mike break down Trump's decision to deploy the National Guard to D.C., Esau reflects on his family's experience in the military and the heavy cost of deployments for morale, families, and democracy itself. Then, adult summer camps are on the rise. Are they the answer to America's loneliness epidemic, or is there an easier and less expensive way to make friends after college? Plus, listener questions about faith in difficult workplaces, the value of liturgy, and the beliefs Esau has changed his mind on over time.  0:00 - Theme Song 7:30 - National Guard in DC 19:45 - Summer Camp for Adults 24:08 - Do Men Need Activity to Socialize? 29:27 - Top TV shows/movies? 33:17 - Vocation and Faith 45:22 - End Credits Enter to win a copy of Esau's Children's Bible and support the podcast! https://holypost.com/esau

Sydney Sweeney's "Great Jeans" ad sparked a culture war. Was it clever marketing, coded eugenics, or just outrage for clicks? Esau, Malcolm, and Mike break down who really wins when we fight over denim. Also, Taylor Swift has a new album, a Hollywood actor claims to have been blacklisted for his christian principles, and why old school gospel music should still be relevant today.   0:00 - Theme Song   2:00 - Making Malcolm a Swiftie   10:35 - Sydney Sweeney's Jeans   22:40 - Neil McDonough Playing the Victim?   21:55 - Sponsor - No Small Endeavor - Award-winning podcast where theologians, philosophers, and best-selling authors talk about faith with Lee C. Camp. Start listening today: https://pod.link/1513178238   34:50 - CEO Disses Gospel Music?   49:20 - End Credits

What does it mean to be Black and evangelical in a moment when both words carry so much baggage? Esau is joined by theologian and longtime Wheaton professor Dr. Vince Bacote, whose new documentary Black + Evangelical traces the overlooked history of African Americans in evangelical institutions. They talk about what it means to carry a Black church heritage into white evangelical spaces, why so many Black voices are celebrated until they speak up about race, and how many of today's tensions are echoes of the past.   0:00 - Theme Song   3:25 - Highest-Grossing Documentary   6:18 - Black and Evangelical   13:22 - Struggles Being Black and Evangelical   24:18 - Sponsor - No Small Endeavor - Award-winning podcast where theologians, philosophers, and best-selling authors talk about faith with Lee C. Camp. Start listening today: https://pod.link/1513178238   25:33 - Tom Skinner   28:30 - Tone Policing   33:33 - Emotion and Intellect   37:42 - Promise Keepers   45:45 - Hopeful Future for Black Evangelicalism   50:30 - End Credits   Black + Evangelical Documentary: https://pages.christianitytoday.com/black-evangelicals-documentary-lp

On a recent Holy Post episode, Ryan Burge claimed the data shows that Gen Z is not experiencing a revival, but Carey Nieuwhof says otherwise. Esau and Sharon Hodde Miller compare the competing narratives and reflects on what true revival looks like and why we care so much whether a revival is happening. Then, a recent New York Times piece questions the so-called "boy crisis," Are boys really falling behind or have girls just always done better in school? Plus: what food or coffee shop would make you change your last name? Why Uber's new feature for women riders is long overdue. And Esau's final question: is being mad about Halloween in July grumpy or principled?   0:00 - Theme Song   2:35 - Naming Yourself After a Brand?   7:55 - Boyhood Crisis Overblown?   19:10 - Gen Z Revival or Retreat?   27:20 - Piety vs Churchgoing Stats   35:35 - Uber Gender Policy   42:20 - Grumpy or Principled   46:15 - End Credits   God's Colorful Kingdom Storybook Bible: The Story of God's Big Diverse Family by Esau McCaulley: https://a.co/d/iQjqMeB

A Coldplay concert kiss cam became the most viral moment of the week. Esau, and bestselling author Nancy French unpack the now-infamous clip of an affair caught on camera. Was it hilarious or heartbreaking, and what does it say about our appetite for public shame? They also debate whether a World War II hero should also be remembered as a TikTok star, whether celebrity-branded Crumbl cookies are harmless fun or late-stage capitalism in dessert form, and if Walmart might actually be... beautiful. Plus, Esau discovers there's a wrong way to invite your producer to a Cubs game.   0:00 - Theme Song   4:00 - D-Day Veteran and TikTok Star   10:25 - Coldplay Outs CEO Affair—Funny or Tragedy?   21:08 - Benson Boone Cookies and Parasocial Relationships   31:24 - An Ode to Wal-Mart?   Ghosted: An American Story by Nancy French: https://a.co/d/0UhumZ5

A controversial new IRS regulation just opened the door for churches to endorse political candidates from the pulpit. Esau McCaulley and Justin Giboney weigh in on if this a win for religious freedom, a threat to the church's public witness, or just business as usual? Then they unpack the unexpected reunion of hip-hop duo The Clipse. One brother found faith. The other kept rapping about dealing drugs. So what happens when grace and drug bars share the same tracklist? Can Christian artists operate in secular spaces without compromise? Plus: Black vs. African American, summer recommendations, and is Mike secretly the voice of the Bible Project?   0:00 - Theme Song   1:52 - Churches Endorsing Candidates   14:50 - African American or Black?   17:05 - Sponsor - No Small Endeavor - Award-winning podcast where theologians, philosophers, and best-selling authors talk about faith with Lee C. Camp. Start listening today: https://pod.link/1513178238   24:40 - Is Mike the Bible Project guy?   26:35 - Drugs and Gospel on the Same Album   41:11 - Summer Plans   45:00 - End Credits   Don't Let Nobody Turn You Around: How the Black Church's Public Witness Leads Us out of the Culture War by Justin Giboney: https://a.co/d/cMMUHlQ

What do Black churches, Catholics, and evangelicals all agree on? That Trump's "Big Beautiful Bill" is a big, problematic mess. Esau is joined by Malcolm Foley to unpack the sweeping legislation that slashes aid to the poor while delivering massive tax cuts to the wealthy. What does this reveal about our national values and how should the church respond to a policy so openly shaped by greed? Plus, the team reflects on the devastating flash floods in Texas that killed over 100 people. How long should we wait before asking the hard questions about accountability and whether this tragedy could have been prevented?   0:00 - Theme Song   1:20 - Hot Dog Eating Content   3:30 - AI and Racism   18:10 - Church Response to Trump's "Big Beautiful Bill"   22:38 - Sponsor - No Small Endeavor - Award-winning podcast where theologians, philosophers, and best-selling authors talk about faith with Lee C. Camp. Start listening today: https://pod.link/1513178238   23:52 - Employment vs Proof of Employment   52:47 - End Credits

As the Fourth of July approaches, Esau and Tish Harrison Warren reflect on what patriotism means today, especially for Christians who feel caught between critique and love of country. Then, Tish introduces the idea of "big church privilege," and explores what's gained and lost in the shift from large, well-resourced congregations to smaller, more intimate communities. Finally, they break down Peter Thiel's recent comments about stagnation, progress, and humanity's future. What happens when tech leaders try to achieve perfection without God?   0:00 - Theme Song   0:58 - 4th of July   12:16 - Small Church Privilege   26:08 - Sponsor - No Small Endeavor - Award-winning podcast where theologians, philosophers, and best-selling authors talk about faith with Lee C. Camp. Start listening today: https://pod.link/1513178238   27:35 - Peter Tiel's Eschatology   43:38 - End Credits

Marine biologist and author Rachel Jordan joins Esau McCaulley in studio to talk about her new book If the Ocean Has a Soul. They dive into the deep waters of science and theology, discussing coral reefs, climate change, and why the ocean might be one of the most overlooked witnesses to God's glory. Rachel shares how a tenth-grade biology class changed her life, how she navigates faith in scientific spaces (and vice versa), and what the church often misses about the natural world. Plus: jellyfish football teams, Titanic conspiracies, and the surprising spirituality of sea creatures.   0:00 - Theme Song   0:52 - Low-Stakes Conspiracy Theory   6:07 - Aquatic Sports Mascots   17:18 - Sponsor - No Small Endeavor - Award-winning podcast where theologians, philosophers, and best-selling authors talk about faith with Lee C. Camp. Start listening today: https://pod.link/1513178238   18:35 - Scientists and Faith   26:12 - The Ocean and God's Glory   32:35 - Can Fish Talk?   46:25 - End Credits   If the Ocean Has a Soul: A Marine Biologist's Pursuit of Truth through Deep Waters of Faith and Science by Rachel G. Jordan: https://a.co/d/f0hLtQZ

Pastor and author Sharon Hodde Miller joins Esau McCaulley for a surprising conversation about the live-action Lilo & Stitch and how a children's film quietly captures the realities of single motherhood, economic pressure, and communal grace. Then, Esau and Sharon talk about the challenges of pastoring in a polarizing time and how their online persona compares to their pastoral persona. Also, we have a Disney movie draft and a winner is declared.   0:00 - Theme Song   1:25 - Disney Movie Draft   13:40 - Lilo and Stitch   15:48 - Why Does Sharon Prefer the Remake?   22:42 - Single Motherhood   25:03 - Sponsor - No Small Endeavor - Award-winning podcast where theologians, philosophers, and best-selling authors talk about faith with Lee C. Camp. Start listening today: https://pod.link/1513178238   27:10 - Being a Pastor with a Platform   40:45 - Free of Me   50:36 - End Credits   Free of Me: Why Life is Better When It's Not About You by Sharon Hodde Miller: https://www.amazon.com/dp/0801075238?ref_=cm_sw_r_ffobk_cp_ud_dp_R7GWYC5AW573Y1AZXT64&bestFormat=true

It's officially summer, and things are heating up. Esau is joined by Justin Giboney and producer Mike to swap summer playlists, celebrate Kirk Franklin's unexpected honor at the BET Awards, talk about what kids should do during the summer, and unpack the recent protests in Los Angeles following aggressive ICE raids. What does faithful protest look like? How do Christians respond when political theater overshadows human dignity? And can you really call it a cookout without Earth, Wind & Fire?   0:00 - Theme Song   1:17 - Cookout Playlist Mount Rushmore   5:35 - BET Music Awards and Kirk Franklin   11:55 - Kid Rock   18:36 - Sponsor - No Small Endeavor - Award-winning podcast where theologians, philosophers, and best-selling authors talk about faith with Lee C. Camp. Start listening today: https://pod.link/1513178238   19:46 - Summer Protests   38:30 - Coco Gauff and Black Accomplishment   46:12 - End Credits