The Central Cast

This episode explores how beliefs about demons shaped evangelical childhoods during the Satanic Panic, the harm of fear-based theology, and how deconstruction can feel like deliverance. Through stories, scripture, and audience conversation, the host reframes the demonic as inward fears, oppressive ideologies, and cultural control, ending with a communal benediction.

This episode explores lineage—who taught us it was OK to be ourselves—through personal stories: a pilgrimage to Matthew Shepard's murder site in Laramie, reflections on erasure and visibility, and memories of Indigo Girls shows that helped the host reconcile queer identity and faith.   Julie also shares a niece's coming-out essay about 'swimming' between faith and identity, and a...

In this episode we wrestle with fear, anger, and despair in today’s political moment, exploring how faith and a broad spiritual sensibility can provide resilience. Drawing on history, philosophy (Gabriel Marcel, Paul Tillich), Indigenous worldview, and personal practices like loving‑kindness meditation, they argue that seeing life as connected and centering ultimate concerns—love, just...

This episode explores the story of Doubting Thomas and argues that doubt can lead to a deeper, more authentic encounter with the divine. The hosts introduce the idea of the “fidelity of betrayal,” drawing on Jesus’ challenges to religious law and thinkers like Peter Rollins and Meister Eckhart to show how critiquing or leaving institutions can be an act of faith. Conversation moves into modern con...

Aaron opens with a humorous chimpanzee "resurrection" story and uses it to examine how the resurrection has shaped Christian belief—contrasting early Christian social-justice roots with modern evangelical otherworldliness. The episode critiques "religion-induced psychosis," the role of social media and political figures in spreading magical thinking, and urges listeners to hold beliefs with...

This episode explores what Charlie Kirk's assassination reveals about modern American Christianity: the tension between being Christian and being Christ‑like, how religion can be molded by culture, the rise of cult‑like evangelicalism, and the danger of theological movements that seek political dominance. Hosts reflect on grief, outrage, boundary‑setting, and reasons for cautious hope that epistem...

This episode explores change and spiritual growth as the church celebrates its first service in a new space. Aaron shares a stargazing story—how starlight becomes part of us—to illustrate that life and faith are always evolving, and invites the community to reflect on deconstruction, healing, and adaptability. Members share personal stories of transition, loss, and renewal, highlightin...

This episode follows the host's journey from seminary doubt to spiritual re-discovery. He recounts wrestling with atonement, the collapse of traditional beliefs, and the friendships that shaped his faith. The conversation explores what it means to take ownership and responsibility for your beliefs, how we project ourselves onto gods, and why freedom to choose can feel overwhelming. Drawing on stor...

This episode explores the collapse of American and religious myths, drawing parallels between political crisis and spiritual deconstruction. Aaron reflects on Jesus' myth-shattering ministry, historical examples of renewal after failure, and the fragility of national narratives. The conversation turns to hope found in small, committed communities, practical resistance, and the possibility of reinv...

In this episode, we delve into the life and legacy of Mary Magdalene, exploring the misconceptions that have long clouded her true role in biblical history. Our guest, Madison, shares insights on how Mary Magdalene’s identity was shaped by historical and biblical misunderstandings, and how she was ultimately a powerful witness to Jesus’ resurrection. We discuss the historical silencing of women in...

In this episode Julie discusses the power of humility in our lives and in the church and how spiritual arrogance and ego often dominates the church scene, especially the lives of pastors. She details how we can spot and resist such individuals and institutions, and why they often proliferate unchecked. 

In this episode of the Central Cast Podcast, we delve into the profound teachings of St. John of the Cross and his emphasis on inner illumination. We explore the concept of the 'dark night of the soul' as a pathway to divine love and unity, transcending traditional religious constraints. The discussion flows into contemporary themes, comparing the classic mystical journey with modern deconstructio...

Join us in this intriguing episode of the Central Cast as we delve into the heart of Christian mysticism and its rebellious spirit. Discover the early Christian mystical movement of Gnosticism and how it contrasted with proto-Orthodox Christianity, redefining the human journey from repentance to enlightenment. Explore the provocative teachings of Jesus, who challenged established religious and soc...

Welcome to the first episode of our three-week series "VBS for Mystics," where we explore profound questions about our existence, consciousness, and our inherent connection to the universe. Drawing from the wisdom of philosopher Gabriel Marcel, we discuss the idea that we are not only a part of the infinite but are the infinite itself, manifesting as living beings. This episode invites you to cont...

Join us this week as Julie Davis, our community pastor, speaks about vulnerability and transparency as essential elements of community building. Julie shares an honest, personal story of a transformative moment in her spiritual journey, where she confronts her relationship with the Bible and embraces a new way of seeing faith. This pivotal experience leads her to question traditional scripture and...

This thought-provoking episode examines the role of evangelical churches and conservative politics in shaping societal attitudes towards the trans, intersex, queer, and non-binary communities today. It highlights the historical and cultural patterns of scapegoating minority groups, emphasizing the complexities surrounding gender identity in our current socio-political climate. Join us as we engage...

Join us in this compelling episode of the Central Cast as we welcome Julie Davis, the new community pastor, who delves into the transformative power of queer theology and its potential to revitalize modern Christianity. Reflecting on her personal journey and struggles within the evangelical church as a queer Christian, Julie advocates for embracing non-binary perspectives and honoring the process...

In this episode, we delve into the profound impact of crisis on faith formation, tracing back to how socio-political upheavals like the Babylonian conquest of Judah led to the creation of the Old Testament. The discussion explores how these challenges not only birthed the Hebrew Bible but also shaped its theological narratives. The episode further examines how similar themes of crisis re-emerge in...

In this week's discussion, we delve into the inspirational words of philosopher Ayodeji Timi Williams, exploring the concept of life as a wave meant to pass through us rather than being held onto. Join us as we uncover the beauty of fleeting moments and the significance of living in the present. Our journey takes a personal turn as we hear insights from a hospice chaplain's perspective on embracin...

In this week's episode of the Central Cast, we honor the life and legacy of Rachel Held Evans, celebrating her contributions as a significant voice in progressive Christianity. Recorded live at our church in Glendale, California, we explore her influence on many, particularly Millennials and Gen Xers, as both a spiritual leader and a personal inspiration to our community. We reflect on Rachel's jo...