The Speakeasy

Biblical scholar, New York Times bestselling author, speaker and podcaster Preston Sprinkle joins Blake to discuss his new book on same-sex marriage from a historically Christian perspective. He talks about his journey into studying this topic, acknowledging the challenges of engaging in contentious conversations. He highlights the importance of being a curious listener and understanding the motiv...

Author, wife and mom Katie Westenberg joins Blake to discuss the challenge of living in a distracted world, where social media, technology, and other distractions prevent people from fully engaging with their day-to-day lives and faith. In her book, she talks about her personal journey surrounding this topic and emphasizes the importance of aligning one's thoughts with truth and obedience to God....

Former counter-terrorism expert and devout Muslim for over 20 years, Hedieh Mirahmadi joins Blake to share her journey from Islam to Christianity and how it transformed her life. She talks about the difference between her previous religious beliefs and her newfound relationship with God in Christianity. She also emphasizes the importance of being a good witness and how the Holy Spirit helps her na...

Author, speaker, and podcaster, Rebekah Lyons joins Blake to discuss the concept of resilience in the face of adversity. Listen in as Rebekah shares her personal experience with panic disorder and how she learned to view anxiety as a friend rather than an enemy. She emphasizes the importance of community support and finding meaning in difficult circumstances to build resilience. In this episode, y...

Heather Brown |  Episode 257   Blogger, podcaster, author and content creator, Heather Brown joins Blake to discuss the concept of health and how it has been defined by society, particularly in relation to women. Listen in as they challenge the conventional ideas of health based on external appearances and instead advocate for a new definition of health that prioritizes mental, physical, and spiri...

Professional counselor, artist & follower of Jesus, Brandi K. Harris delves into a thought-provoking conversation about the prevalent sex myths that Christians believe. Brandi shares her expertise and personal experiences, discussing the challenges faced by female Christians in navigating their sexuality. She highlights the damaging effects of purity culture and emphasizes the need for better teac...

In this episode of Confessions of a Crappy Christian, Blake speaks with Will and Courtney, the owners and creators of Crew + Co., a business that started with kids' t-shirts and expanded to include scripture cards and other products for families. They discuss their journey of creating their own products and the importance of simplicity and gratitude in their family. They also talk about their firs...

In this episode of the Speakeasy, we discuss a recent Supreme Court decision that directly impacts practicing Christians. The decision, in the case of 303 creative LLC versus Alainis, ruled that a Christian graphic designer in Colorado was not legally obligated to create wedding websites for same-sex couples. The First Amendment's protection of freedom of speech and religion was a key factor in th...

Author, mother and content creator Leslie Means joins Blake to discuss her journey and the origins of her brand which features heartfelt contributor stories on motherhood, marriage, faith and grief. Leslie explains how her passion for storytelling led her to start Her View From Home and the challenges she faced along the way, including a time when she almost shut it down. Despite the struggles, Le...

Author, Bible teacher and speaker Ines Franklin shares personal stories from her life and upbringing, highlighting her journey of faith and the challenges she faced. She discusses how the Christian life is not always perfect or without struggles, emphasizing the importance of faith and the understanding that God's presence is with us through the messy and uncertain times. Ines explores the concept...

In this heartfelt reflection, Blake shares her personal journey of walking with God and deepening her relationship with Him. She highlights the transformative power of understanding Scripture in a new light and how familiar verses can take on a profound meaning. Blake recounts a difficult business dealing where she experienced injustice and anger. However, through her connection with Jesus, she wa...

In this episode, Blake engages in an authentic conversation with Jodie about her writing career and her latest book, "Praying the Scriptures for Your Marriage." Jodie shares how she unexpectedly entered the world of writing and discovered her passion for writing books about prayer. They discuss the importance of using scripture as a guide in prayer and how it can bring excitement and depth to one'...

If you're feeling the frustration and disappointment of tirelessly praying and seeking God's guidance during difficult times, yet still facing seemingly insurmountable challenges, then you are not alone. Meet Michelle Cushatt, a dynamic speaker, seasoned author, and engaging podcast host with a heart for helping others build their faith and resilience in the face of adversity. In this episode, Mic...

Meet Tasha Layton, a gifted singer and writer on a mission to share the life-changing power of Christianity with others. Her journey has taken her through various spiritual paths and in this episode, we discuss how she came to know the true power of Jesus that eventually led her back to her faith. Tasha's unique perspective and genuine heart for those who are searching make her a powerful voice in...

In recent weeks, there has been notable tension within the Christian conservative space following Target's 2023 Pride campaign, which many feel is unnecessarily aimed at children and has even partnered with a controversial Satanist graphic designer. The controversial campaign, which includes contentious items like tuck-friendly bathing suits for adolescents and questionable partnerships with organ...

Rhonda Stoppe, a seasoned mother, author, and speaker has dedicated her life to helping other moms navigate the complex world of parenting. In her book, she teaches practical insights and guidance for parenting as you guide your children towards their purpose and passion. Join us as we discuss authenticity, vulnerability, and seeking guidance from older, wiser women in motherhood. In this episode,...

Former US Federal law enforcement officer John Benjamin Jones shares his wealth of experience in both military and local law enforcement. Working in high-pressure professions can take a significant toll on individuals' mental health and John shares his own experiences with stress, emphasizing that the support of loved ones, such as his wife, has been instrumental in his well-being. Listen in as we...

In the midst of an ongoing and complex immigration debate, it is essential to approach the topic with nuance and open-mindedness. Immigration policies, their implications, and their impact on nations have long been subjects of controversy and heated discussions. Recognizing the need for a more productive conversation, this text aims to delve into the multifaceted nature of immigration, specificall...

Dietitian Kristen Bunger reveals the powerful and restorative process of uncovering emotional needs and healing the spiritual aspect of disordered eating, offering a solution for those who have done all the things and still hate their bodies. In this episode, you will be able to: Embrace a comprehensive approach to healing that accounts for physical cues and emotional demands. Examine personal his...

Speaker and author Joel Malm joins Blake to talk about trusting in God's sovereignty through the ups and downs of life. In his book, he talks about how he has experienced firsthand the power of surrendering to God's plan and understanding the struggle to slow down and trust in God's timing. Listen in as they talk about how God always knows what is ahead and His grace will always come at the perfec...

Growing up in a religiously conservative home, Austin Noll had been conditioned to believe certain truths were absolute. But when he began to question these teachings, he discovered something unexpected: a greater understanding of faith, and a space to share his story with others. What he didn't expect was the ripple effect of healing and growth it would create.   In this episode, you will be able...

Abby Roth joins Blake to talk about the idea of being classic: Becoming the best version of yourself in every possible way; constantly improving and constantly trying to accept reality for what it actually is. Listen in as they talk about rediscovering womanhood and femininity in today's day and age and what it looks like when we listen to what God calls us to prioritize instead of the world. Abby...

Writer, spiritual director, and award-winning musician Strahan Coleman joins Blake to talk about how his journey of pain, depression, and anxiety moved his working relationship with God to a deep friendship. In his book, he invites readers into a richer life of prayer by giving up consumer Christianity for a beautiful life of seeing and being seen by God. Listen in as they talk about why prayer is...

Do you feel heavy, restless, and less safe? Do you know of people in your life who have started to experience panic attacks despite never having them before? After discussing this with friends and followers on Instagram, we need to consider that this could be related to the spiritual realm. The upcoming episode of the Speakeasy will delve into the two spectrums of the unseen realms. Do you know wh...

Social researcher and relationship expert Shaunti Feldhan joins Blake to talk about one of the most common marriage issues: Sex. In her book, she provides insight into what helps couples maintain a healthy relationship in both physical intimacy and the larger context of general marital intimacy overall. Listen in as they talk about how we can get on the same page and create a thriving intimate lif...