

Faithful Politics
Faithful Politics Podcast
Dive into the profound world of Faithful Politics, a compelling podcast where the spheres of faith and politics converge in meaningful dialogues. Guided by Pastor Josh Burtram (Faithful Host) and Will Wright (Political Host), this unique platform invites listeners to delve into the complex impact of political choices on both the faithful and faithless.Join our hosts, Josh and Will, as they engage with world-renowned experts, scholars, theologians, politicians, journalists, and ordinary folks. Their objective? To deepen our collective understanding of the intersection between faith and politics.Faithful Politics sets itself apart by refusing to subscribe to any single political ideology or religious conviction. This approach is mirrored in the diverse backgrounds of our hosts. Will Wright, a disabled Veteran and African-Asian American, is a former atheist and a liberal progressive with a lifelong intrigue in politics. On the other hand, Josh Burtram, a Conservative Republican and devoted Pastor, brings a passion for theology that resonates throughout the discourse.Yet, in the face of their contrasting outlooks, Josh and Will display a remarkable ability to facilitate respectful and civil dialogue on challenging topics. This opens up a space where listeners of various political and religious leanings can find value and deepen their understanding.So, regardless if you're a Democrat or Republican, a believer or an atheist, we assure you that Faithful Politics has insightful conversations that will appeal to you and stimulate your intellectual curiosity. Come join us in this enthralling exploration of the intricate nexus of faith and politics. Add us to your regular podcast stream and don't forget to subscribe to our YouTube Channel. Let's navigate this fascinating realm together! Not Right. Not Left. UP.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Jan 28, 2025 • 1h 5min
Becoming the Pastor's Wife: Challenging the Norms with Beth Allison Barr
Have a comment? Send us a text! (We read all of them but can't reply). Email us: Will@faithfulpoliticspodcast.com In this insightful episode of Faithful Politics, hosts Josh Burtram and Will Wright welcome back historian and best-selling author Beth Allison Barr. Known for her groundbreaking book, The Making of Biblical Womanhood, Dr. Barr delves into her newest work, Becoming the Pastor’s Wife: How Marriage Replaced Ordination as a Woman’s Path to Ministry. The discussion explores the historical evolution of women's roles in the church, the intertwining of patriarchy with church culture, and the societal shifts that led to the emergence of the pastor’s wife as a key figure in evangelical spaces. Drawing parallels to medieval history and the Reformation, Dr. Barr provides a compelling narrative about the sacrifices and challenges women have faced in ministry. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in gender, faith, and the shifting dynamics of power within religious institutions.Pre-Order Beth's book: https://bakerpublishinggroup.com/books/becoming-the-pastor-s-wife/414910Guest Bio: Dr. Beth Allison Barr is a distinguished historian and the James Vardeman and Dow Chair of History at Baylor University in Waco, Texas. With a PhD from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, she is an expert in medieval history, women’s history, and church history. Her writing has been featured in prominent outlets such as USA Today, The Washington Post, and Christianity Today. She is best known for her bestselling book, The Making of Biblical Womanhood: How the Subjugation of Women Became Gospel Truth. Dr. Barr’s latest book, Becoming the Pastor’s Wife: How Marriage Replaced Ordination as a Woman’s Path to Ministry, examines the historical shifts that reshaped women’s roles in ministry and their enduring impact on contemporary church culture.Support the show🎧 Want to learn more about Faithful Politics, get in touch with the hosts, or suggest a future guest?👉 Visit our website: faithfulpoliticspodcast.com📚 Check out our Bookstore – Featuring titles from our amazing guests:faithfulpoliticspodcast.com/bookstore❤️ Support the show – Help us keep the conversation going:https://www.patreon.com/cw/FaithfulPolitics📩 Reach out to us:Faithful Host, Josh Burtram: Josh@faithfulpolitics.comPolitical Host, Will Wright: Will@faithfulpolitics.com📱 Follow & connect with us:Twitter/X: @FaithfulPolitikInstagram: faithful_politicsFacebook: FaithfulPoliticsPodcastLinkedIn: faithfulpolitics📰 Subscribe to our Substack for behind-the-scenes content:faithfulpolitics.substack.com

Jan 25, 2025 • 38min
POV: Post-Inauguration Reflections: Pardons, Politics, and Personal Routines
Have a comment? Send us a text! (We read all of them but can't reply). Email us: Will@faithfulpoliticspodcast.comIn this lively episode of Faithful Politics, hosts Will Wright and Pastor Josh Burtram discuss the whirlwind of events following Donald Trump’s return to the White House, including his controversial use of presidential pardons and the broader implications for American politics. The duo also dives into the complexities of immigration policies, media consumption, and strategies for maintaining mental health amidst political chaos. Along the way, they share personal routines, perspectives on political discourse, and insights on balancing faith and politics in an increasingly polarized world.Staying Grounded: Ten Rules for Engaging in Politics Without Losing Your Mind: https://faithfulpolitics.substack.com/p/staying-grounded-ten-rules-for-engagingSupport the show🎧 Want to learn more about Faithful Politics, get in touch with the hosts, or suggest a future guest?👉 Visit our website: faithfulpoliticspodcast.com📚 Check out our Bookstore – Featuring titles from our amazing guests:faithfulpoliticspodcast.com/bookstore❤️ Support the show – Help us keep the conversation going:https://www.patreon.com/cw/FaithfulPolitics📩 Reach out to us:Faithful Host, Josh Burtram: Josh@faithfulpolitics.comPolitical Host, Will Wright: Will@faithfulpolitics.com📱 Follow & connect with us:Twitter/X: @FaithfulPolitikInstagram: faithful_politicsFacebook: FaithfulPoliticsPodcastLinkedIn: faithfulpolitics📰 Subscribe to our Substack for behind-the-scenes content:faithfulpolitics.substack.com

Jan 21, 2025 • 1h 2min
Walking Through Deconstruction: Ian Harber on Faith, Doubt, and Reconstruction
Have a comment? Send us a text! (We read all of them but can't reply). Email us: Will@faithfulpoliticspodcast.comIn this episode of Faithful Politics, hosts Josh Burtram and Will Wright sit down with Ian Harber, a Christian writer and media producer, to discuss his latest book, Walking Through Deconstruction. Ian shares his deeply personal journey of faith, doubt, and ultimate reconstruction, offering profound insights into the challenges of navigating a crisis of faith. From growing up in a strict Christian environment to questioning core doctrines and enduring profound personal loss, Ian's story sheds light on the complexities of deconstruction. The conversation delves into the cultural and doctrinal drivers of deconstruction, the role of suffering in spiritual growth, and the importance of patience and community during such transformative periods. Ian also provides actionable advice for churches and individuals supporting those grappling with faith crises, making this a must-listen episode for anyone seeking to understand or assist in the process of spiritual reconstruction.Purchase Walking Through Deconstruction: https://a.co/d/4DD3NbvGuest Bio:Ian Harber is a writer, Christian media producer, and the author of Walking Through Deconstruction. He has contributed to prominent outlets like the Gospel Coalition, Relevant, and Mere Orthodoxy. Through his newsletter, Back Again, Ian explores topics of faith, media, and technology, offering hope and guidance for those navigating the complexities of deconstruction and reconstruction. Residing in Denton, Texas, Ian lives with his wife and sons, passionately engaging with the intersection of faith and cultural dynamics.Support the show🎧 Want to learn more about Faithful Politics, get in touch with the hosts, or suggest a future guest?👉 Visit our website: faithfulpoliticspodcast.com📚 Check out our Bookstore – Featuring titles from our amazing guests:faithfulpoliticspodcast.com/bookstore❤️ Support the show – Help us keep the conversation going:https://www.patreon.com/cw/FaithfulPolitics📩 Reach out to us:Faithful Host, Josh Burtram: Josh@faithfulpolitics.comPolitical Host, Will Wright: Will@faithfulpolitics.com📱 Follow & connect with us:Twitter/X: @FaithfulPolitikInstagram: faithful_politicsFacebook: FaithfulPoliticsPodcastLinkedIn: faithfulpolitics📰 Subscribe to our Substack for behind-the-scenes content:faithfulpolitics.substack.com

Jan 18, 2025 • 1h 10min
Unpacking the Administrative State: With Constitutional Scholar Eric Berger
Have a comment? Send us a text! (We read all of them but can't reply). Email us: Will@faithfulpoliticspodcast.comIn this enlightening episode of Faithful Politics, Will Wright and Pastor Josh Burtram welcome back Eric Berger, a distinguished constitutional scholar and professor of law specializing in administrative and constitutional law. Together, they delve into the intricate workings of the administrative state, focusing on how key legal doctrines like the Chevron and Major Questions doctrines shape its role. Berger shares critical insights into the implications of President Trump's proposed Schedule F changes, the risks of centralized power, and recent Supreme Court decisions reshaping regulatory frameworks. Through thoughtful discussions, the hosts and guest explore the tension between governance, democracy, and efficiency, offering a must-listen primer for those concerned about the future of American governance.Guest Bio:Eric Berger is a constitutional scholar and professor of law with expertise in administrative law, constitutional interpretation, and the separation of powers. As a seasoned educator and legal thinker, Berger has contributed extensively to understanding the dynamics of modern governance. His insightful commentary on pivotal Supreme Court decisions and regulatory practices has made him a trusted voice in the field. He is also a featured lecturer for The Great Courses, sharing his knowledge with broader audiences.Support the show🎧 Want to learn more about Faithful Politics, get in touch with the hosts, or suggest a future guest?👉 Visit our website: faithfulpoliticspodcast.com📚 Check out our Bookstore – Featuring titles from our amazing guests:faithfulpoliticspodcast.com/bookstore❤️ Support the show – Help us keep the conversation going:https://www.patreon.com/cw/FaithfulPolitics📩 Reach out to us:Faithful Host, Josh Burtram: Josh@faithfulpolitics.comPolitical Host, Will Wright: Will@faithfulpolitics.com📱 Follow & connect with us:Twitter/X: @FaithfulPolitikInstagram: faithful_politicsFacebook: FaithfulPoliticsPodcastLinkedIn: faithfulpolitics📰 Subscribe to our Substack for behind-the-scenes content:faithfulpolitics.substack.com

Jan 14, 2025 • 1h 4min
American Heretics: Religion, Politics, and the Fragility of Democracy with Jerome Copulsky
Have a comment? Send us a text! (We read all of them but can't reply). Email us: Will@faithfulpoliticspodcast.comIn this thought-provoking episode of Faithful Politics, hosts Will Wright and Pastor Josh Burtram welcome back Jerome Copulsky, a research fellow at the Berkley Center for Religion, Peace, and World Affairs at Georgetown University. They delve into the themes of Copulsky's book, American Heretics: Religious Adversaries of Liberal Order, which examines religious critiques of America's political foundations from the Revolutionary era to the present. Copulsky unpacks how various religious thinkers have rejected liberal democracy and envisioned alternative political and theological systems, including theocracy and biblically centered governance. The discussion navigates the intersections of faith, politics, and pluralism, exploring the fragility of liberal democracy and the tensions between religious liberty and political authority. The episode challenges listeners to critically examine the evolving role of religion in America's political landscape.Buy American Heretics: Religious Adversaries of Liberal Order: https://yalebooks.yale.edu/book/9780300241303/american-heretics/Guest Bio:Jerome Copulsky is a research fellow at the Berkley Center for Religion, Peace, and World Affairs at Georgetown University. He is the author of American Heretics: Religious Adversaries of Liberal Order, a groundbreaking exploration of the theological critiques of America’s founding principles and their implications for liberal democracy. Copulsky’s scholarship focuses on political theology, religious pluralism, and the historical intersections of religion and politics.Support the show🎧 Want to learn more about Faithful Politics, get in touch with the hosts, or suggest a future guest?👉 Visit our website: faithfulpoliticspodcast.com📚 Check out our Bookstore – Featuring titles from our amazing guests:faithfulpoliticspodcast.com/bookstore❤️ Support the show – Help us keep the conversation going:https://www.patreon.com/cw/FaithfulPolitics📩 Reach out to us:Faithful Host, Josh Burtram: Josh@faithfulpolitics.comPolitical Host, Will Wright: Will@faithfulpolitics.com📱 Follow & connect with us:Twitter/X: @FaithfulPolitikInstagram: faithful_politicsFacebook: FaithfulPoliticsPodcastLinkedIn: faithfulpolitics📰 Subscribe to our Substack for behind-the-scenes content:faithfulpolitics.substack.com

Jan 11, 2025 • 53min
From Jerry Springer to Trump: The Legacy of '90s Pop Culture with Ross Benes
Have a comment? Send us a text! (We read all of them but can't reply). Email us: Will@faithfulpoliticspodcast.comStep into the cultural whirlwind of the late '90s with Ross Benes, author of 1999: The Year Low Culture Conquered America and Kickstarted Our Bizarre Times. In this episode, Will Wright and Ross dive deep into how pop culture phenomena—from Insane Clown Posse and Jerry Springer to Pokémon and Beanie Babies—shaped today’s political and societal landscape. They explore how "low culture" influences modern politics, religion, and consumer behavior, revealing surprising parallels between 1999 trends and current events. Whether it’s dissecting the "kayfabe" tactics of pro-wrestling or connecting moral panics like the satanic scare to today's misinformation epidemics, this conversation is a nostalgic yet critical look at how the '90s still echo in our world today.Pre-Order the book, "1999 The Year Low Culture Conquered America and Kickstarted Our Bizarre Times": https://kansaspress.ku.edu/9780700638574/Guest BioRoss Bennis is a critically acclaimed author and cultural commentator with expertise in media analysis and journalism. His work has been featured in renowned publications like Rolling Stone, Entertainment Weekly, and The Wall Street Journal. His latest book, 1999: The Year Low Culture Conquered America and Kickstarted Our Bizarre Times, delves into the cultural, political, and societal shifts of the late '90s that continue to influence America. Known for his keen insights and engaging storytelling, Ross brings a fresh perspective to understanding pop culture's profound impact on contemporary life.Support the show🎧 Want to learn more about Faithful Politics, get in touch with the hosts, or suggest a future guest?👉 Visit our website: faithfulpoliticspodcast.com📚 Check out our Bookstore – Featuring titles from our amazing guests:faithfulpoliticspodcast.com/bookstore❤️ Support the show – Help us keep the conversation going:https://www.patreon.com/cw/FaithfulPolitics📩 Reach out to us:Faithful Host, Josh Burtram: Josh@faithfulpolitics.comPolitical Host, Will Wright: Will@faithfulpolitics.com📱 Follow & connect with us:Twitter/X: @FaithfulPolitikInstagram: faithful_politicsFacebook: FaithfulPoliticsPodcastLinkedIn: faithfulpolitics📰 Subscribe to our Substack for behind-the-scenes content:faithfulpolitics.substack.com

Jan 7, 2025 • 53min
"When Blue Lives Mattered" w/Capitol Police Officer Harry Dunn
Have a comment? Send us a text! (We read all of them but can't reply). Email us: Will@faithfulpoliticspodcast.com*We originally aired this episode in 2021 after the insurrection at the Capitol*January 6th is a date that, before 2021, was a somewhat obscure date in the minds of most Americans. Many months after the general election, the victor of that contest has but one more hurdle to overcome, and until recently, was a benign and quiet event; the certification of the election. We talk with a Capitol Police Officer, Harry Dunn, who thought that day would unfold like all the others had over his 14 year career. But the events that occurred that day has shown us how fragile our democracy really is. Special co-host, and previous guest, Corinna Lain sits with Will to chat with one of the courageous officers who experienced that day first hand. They discuss issues of racisms, religion, and talk about what everyday Americans can do to ensure it doesn't happen again. It's an interview that focuses less on the details of that day, and more on the moments before, after, and the future. Support the show🎧 Want to learn more about Faithful Politics, get in touch with the hosts, or suggest a future guest?👉 Visit our website: faithfulpoliticspodcast.com📚 Check out our Bookstore – Featuring titles from our amazing guests:faithfulpoliticspodcast.com/bookstore❤️ Support the show – Help us keep the conversation going:https://www.patreon.com/cw/FaithfulPolitics📩 Reach out to us:Faithful Host, Josh Burtram: Josh@faithfulpolitics.comPolitical Host, Will Wright: Will@faithfulpolitics.com📱 Follow & connect with us:Twitter/X: @FaithfulPolitikInstagram: faithful_politicsFacebook: FaithfulPoliticsPodcastLinkedIn: faithfulpolitics📰 Subscribe to our Substack for behind-the-scenes content:faithfulpolitics.substack.com

Jan 4, 2025 • 1h 15min
Righteous Anger and White Christianity: A Conversation with Robert Callahan, II
Have a comment? Send us a text! (We read all of them but can't reply). Email us: Will@faithfulpoliticspodcast.comThis episode of Faithful Politics features Robert Callahan II, a Texas attorney, writer, and advocate, discussing his book, Fire in the Hole: Embracing Our Righteous Anger with White Christianity and Reclaiming Our Wholeness. The conversation explores the intersection of race, faith, and politics, focusing on the challenges faced by marginalized groups within white Christian spaces. Callahan shares how personal experiences, including the racial and political turmoil of 2020 and his struggles with spiritual abuse, inspired his writing. He highlights the role of righteous anger as a tool for transformation and discusses the systemic racism and prejudice often embedded in church culture. Alongside hosts Will Wright and Pastor Josh Burtram, Callahan dives into theological perspectives on reconciliation, activism, and maintaining faith amid injustice. This thought-provoking dialogue examines how Christians can embrace love, justice, and inclusion while addressing deep-seated cultural and institutional issues.Learn more about our Guest: https://www.robertgcallahan.comGuest Bio:Robert is an accomplished attorney and author, dedicated to fighting for justice in his practice at Callahan & King, PLLC in Waco, Texas. He earned a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from Gonzaga University and a Juris Doctorate at Baylor University School of Law where he teaches a course entitled Integrating Faith and Legal Practice. In 2020, Robert was named Lawyer of the Year by the Texas Criminal Defense Lawyers' Association. As a writer, Robert has an undeniable talent for blending humor and insight as he tackles the issues of law, race, and religion. Robert and his wife celebrate an interracial marriage which has gifted them with three beautiful children, two demanding dogs, and a mountain of student loan debt.Support the show🎧 Want to learn more about Faithful Politics, get in touch with the hosts, or suggest a future guest?👉 Visit our website: faithfulpoliticspodcast.com📚 Check out our Bookstore – Featuring titles from our amazing guests:faithfulpoliticspodcast.com/bookstore❤️ Support the show – Help us keep the conversation going:https://www.patreon.com/cw/FaithfulPolitics📩 Reach out to us:Faithful Host, Josh Burtram: Josh@faithfulpolitics.comPolitical Host, Will Wright: Will@faithfulpolitics.com📱 Follow & connect with us:Twitter/X: @FaithfulPolitikInstagram: faithful_politicsFacebook: FaithfulPoliticsPodcastLinkedIn: faithfulpolitics📰 Subscribe to our Substack for behind-the-scenes content:faithfulpolitics.substack.com

Dec 31, 2024 • 1h 13min
Turning Point USA, Christian Revival, and Masculinity with Bryce Eddy
Have a comment? Send us a text! (We read all of them but can't reply). Email us: Will@faithfulpoliticspodcast.com*Note: This conversation was recorded right after America Fest (https://www.amfest.com)*In our last episode of 2024, hosts Will Wright and Pastor Josh Burtram are joined by Bryce Eddie , cultural and political commentator and host of The Bryce Eddy Show. The conversation explores Bryce's perspectives on the intersections of faith, politics, and societal challenges. Topics include the cultural shifts around masculinity, the role of Christians in political engagement, and the generational differences in values and priorities. They also discuss the implications of artificial intelligence and examine how the modern church navigates societal pressures and controversies. This conversation provides an opportunity to hear a distinct perspective on issues related to culture and politics from someone deeply involved in conservative activism. About Our Guest: Bryce EddyBryce Eddy is the host of The Bryce Eddy Show, where he delves into cultural and political topics with a blend of blunt honesty and deep inquiry. A passionate advocate for Christian political engagement, Bryce serves on the boards of The White Rose Resistance, America’s Turning Point, and the Center for Security Policy.Beyond his commentary, Bryce is a fourth-degree black belt in Brazilian jiu-jitsu and a CrossFit coach, championing strength, discipline, and character as essential pillars of masculinity. He is known for his dedication to faith, liberty, and the preservation of foundational Christian principles in today’s challenging cultural landscape.Support the show🎧 Want to learn more about Faithful Politics, get in touch with the hosts, or suggest a future guest?👉 Visit our website: faithfulpoliticspodcast.com📚 Check out our Bookstore – Featuring titles from our amazing guests:faithfulpoliticspodcast.com/bookstore❤️ Support the show – Help us keep the conversation going:https://www.patreon.com/cw/FaithfulPolitics📩 Reach out to us:Faithful Host, Josh Burtram: Josh@faithfulpolitics.comPolitical Host, Will Wright: Will@faithfulpolitics.com📱 Follow & connect with us:Twitter/X: @FaithfulPolitikInstagram: faithful_politicsFacebook: FaithfulPoliticsPodcastLinkedIn: faithfulpolitics📰 Subscribe to our Substack for behind-the-scenes content:faithfulpolitics.substack.com

Dec 28, 2024 • 55min
End Times, Pets in Heaven, and America in Prophecy with Steve Wohlberg
Have a comment? Send us a text! (We read all of them but can't reply). Email us: Will@faithfulpoliticspodcast.comIn this episode of Faithful Politics, hosts Will Wright and Pastor Josh Burtram welcome Steve Wohlberg, a renowned apocalyptic expert, Bible scholar, and director of White Horse Media. Together, they explore a wide range of topics, including biblical prophecy, America’s role in the end times, and how faith intersects with politics in today’s world. Steve shares insights from his 40+ books, including The United States in Bible Prophecy and End Time Delusions, diving deep into how biblical texts may point to America’s role in prophetic history. The conversation also touches on lighter, heartfelt topics, such as whether our beloved pets might be with us in heaven. Packed with theological insights, thought-provoking ideas, and moments of levity, this episode offers a unique perspective on the intersection of faith, culture, and the future.Guest BioSteve Wohlberg is an international speaker, Bible scholar, and director of White Horse Media, based in Priest River, Idaho. Known for his expertise in apocalyptic prophecy, Steve has authored over 40 books, including The United States in Bible Prophecy, End Time Delusions, and Will My Pet Go to Heaven?. He has appeared on more than 500 radio and television shows, spoken by special invitation at the Pentagon and U.S. Senate, and been featured in multiple History Channel and National Geographic documentaries. Steve’s work focuses on unpacking biblical truths, end-time events, and the transformative power of faith. When he’s not writing or speaking, he enjoys the great outdoors with his wife, Kristin, and their two children.Support the show🎧 Want to learn more about Faithful Politics, get in touch with the hosts, or suggest a future guest?👉 Visit our website: faithfulpoliticspodcast.com📚 Check out our Bookstore – Featuring titles from our amazing guests:faithfulpoliticspodcast.com/bookstore❤️ Support the show – Help us keep the conversation going:https://www.patreon.com/cw/FaithfulPolitics📩 Reach out to us:Faithful Host, Josh Burtram: Josh@faithfulpolitics.comPolitical Host, Will Wright: Will@faithfulpolitics.com📱 Follow & connect with us:Twitter/X: @FaithfulPolitikInstagram: faithful_politicsFacebook: FaithfulPoliticsPodcastLinkedIn: faithfulpolitics📰 Subscribe to our Substack for behind-the-scenes content:faithfulpolitics.substack.com


