Working with Dan Doriani

What if the Christian life is less about your spiritual performance and more about the life God gives?In this episode, Dan Doriani talks with theologian Dr. Kelly Kapic about his book Christian Life, a rich theology of how God the Father, Son, and Spirit shape our daily lives. Instead of a “how-to” guide for prayer and Bible reading, Kapic invites us to see the Christian life as a response to God’s love and grace.Buy Kelly's latest book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/0310523583/

Dane Ortlund, pastor and author best known for Gentle and Lowly, explores Jesus as tender and welcoming toward the weary. He discusses why he wrote the book, the meaning of “gentle and lowly,” how Christ’s kindness shapes our kindness, and applying enduring love in marriage, parenting, work, and forgiveness.

How do we know when a war is not only necessary, but truly just?In this episode, Dan Doriani sits down with former U.S. Senator Jim Talent, who served on the House and Senate Armed Services Committees, to discuss 'just war theory' in today’s world. Together, they examine what counts as war in an age of cyberattacks and proxy conflicts, revisit the classic Christian criteria for a just war, and apply those principles to current events, from Russia–Ukraine to Israel’s conflicts with Hamas and Iran-backed groups, as well as the ongoing, undeclared tensions between the U.S. and Iran.

What does it really mean to be a conservative, and how should Christians think about power, politics, and the common good? In this episode, Dan Doriani talks with writer and former White House advisor Pete Wehner about the moral roots of conservatism, the dangers of tribalism, the importance of character in leaders, and why a market economy can both lift people from poverty and cultivate virtue.

What does real connection look and feel like in our closest relationships? In this episode, Dan Doriani talks with counselor Jennifer Ware about Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), how patterns of connection and disconnection shape marriages and families, and simple practices couples can use to deepen their bond. Jennifer also shares about STL Storytell, s St. Louis-based live storytelling event that helps people process and share their stories in community. Dan and Jenn discuss what it means to be a good listener and how storytelling can help us break out of loneliness.

What happens when the very economic systems that lift millions out of material poverty also contribute to rising anxiety and depression? In part 2 of this 2-part episode, Dan Doriani sits down with Dr. Brian Fikkert - economist and co-author of When Helping Hurts - to integrate theological insight with sociological research, pushing against the limits of economic theory to participate in the broader Christian call to promote human flourishing.

What does it really mean to help the poor in ways that lead to lasting change? In this episode, Dan Doriani sits down with Dr. Brian Fikkert - economist, author, and co-author of 'When Helping Hurts, - to rethink how we approach poverty alleviation.Brian challenges the common assumption that poverty is primarily a material problem, arguing instead that it is rooted in broken relationships - psychological, social, and spiritual as much as economic. Together, Dan and Brian explore why well-intended material solutions often address symptoms rather than causes, and why effective help must begin with a deeper, holistic diagnosis.

Mark Vroegop, president of The Gospel Coalition and nearly 30 years as a pastor, brings seasoned leadership and pastoral insight. He talks about writing on lament and waiting, how technology short-circuits spiritual rhythms, and the first steps for leaders entering turbulent organizations. Practical topics include rebuilding trust with small wins, clear communication, and when perseverance becomes harmful.

Private equity is infamous for the often-destructive "Buy, Lever, Strip, Flip" strategy. In this episode of Working with Dan Doriani, entrepreneur and investor Brent Beshore joins Dan to discuss why Permanent Equity takes a different approach—avoiding debt, embracing long-term ownership, and prioritizing the well-being of employees, communities, and investors. Tune in to this episode to hear Brent share his personal faith journey and how Jesus helps him be the best version of himself in every area of his life.

In this podcast, Dan interviews Bob Doll, former executive at BlackRock and Merrill Lynch and now CEO and CIO of Crossmark. As a successful large-cap U.S. equity investor, Bob shares insights into leadership “at the top.” He urges Dan and listeners to recognize and value the unique resources God has given them, encouraging them to use these gifts to make a meaningful, lasting impact. While we can't choose how long we live, we can choose how deeply we connect with others. We should strive to create meaningful legacies, not just impressive résumés, by being present for the people that God has placed in our lives.