Right Side Up Podcast with Danielle Strickland

Dorothy Greco, author and commentator on gender, faith, and culture, shares her life in male-dominated spaces and why she wrote For the Love of Women. She examines misogyny across healthcare, church, and institutions. Conversation covers men learning to listen, cultural and scriptural misreadings, institutional cover-ups, and practical steps for raising respectful sons and fostering change.

SummaryIn this conversation, James Sholl and Danielle Strickland engage with Brian Recker, author of ‘Hell Bent’, discussing his journey from fundamentalism to a more expansive understanding of faith. They explore themes of deconstruction, the implications of hell in Christianity, and the importance of justice over punishment. The conversation emphasizes the need for authenticity in spirituality and the liberating experience of finding Jesus beyond traditional frameworks.‘I began, very strongly, to feel that who we were in Evangelicalism did not reflect the spirituality of Jesus’Takeaways* Brian Recker’s book ‘Hell Bent’ explores the fear of hell in Christianity.* Deconstruction often begins with questioning fundamental beliefs.* The political climate can significantly impact one’s faith journey.* Grieving the loss of traditional faith structures is a common experience.* Finding Jesus outside of traditional frameworks can be liberating.* The concept of hell often reflects a punitive view of God.* Justice in Christianity should focus on restoration, not punishment.* Fear-based spirituality can hinder genuine connection with God.* Authenticity in faith leads to deeper belonging and community.* The journey of faith can be both challenging and transformative.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Background Noise01:53 Introducing Brian Recker and His Book03:51 Brian’s Journey from Fundamentalism to Evangelicalism07:26 The Impact of Politics on Faith11:23 Deconstruction and the Search for Authenticity14:45 Encountering Jesus Amidst Deconstruction18:33 Prayer and Spiritual Practices22:04 Listening to Marginalized Voices25:40 The Concept of Hell and Its Implications29:57 The Nature of God’s Justice32:20 Rethinking Judgment and Redemption33:56 God vs. Empire: A New Perspective35:56 The Consequences of Spirituality37:48 The Role of Hell in Faith42:56 Love Over Fear: A New Approach to Faith47:36 Connecting with the Right God53:51 Finding Genuine Belonging Get full access to Right Side Up: Danielle Strickland at daniellestrickland.substack.com/subscribe

Join us for an incredible conversation with Zach Lambert about his book ‘Better Ways to Read the Bible’ where we talk about just what is happening with Christianity today, the ways that the Bible has been weaponized, and the way that we can reclaim it! Get full access to Right Side Up: Danielle Strickland at daniellestrickland.substack.com/subscribe

SummaryIn this conversation, Danielle Strickland and Bette Dickinson explore the themes of spiritual flourishing, the importance of embodied encounters, and the need to dethrone the powers of industrialization in our spiritual lives. They discuss the significance of quality over quantity in spiritual growth, the role of relationships in flourishing, and the concept of creating an understory of mutuality. The conversation also delves into the cyclical nature of life, the importance of rest and dormancy, and God’s desire for our flourishing. Ultimately, they emphasize the need for a prophetic imagination to awaken us to a different way of living that prioritizes connection and community.00:00 Introduction to The Art of Vine Making01:19 Spiritual Flourishing in a Productivity-Driven Culture03:55 Embodied Encounters and Spiritual Formation05:45 Dethroning the Powers of Disconnection09:38 The Contrast Between Industrialized and Organic Approaches13:26 Quality Over Quantity in Ministry17:00 Creating an Understory of Flourishing18:25 The Role of Shepherding in Deliverance22:59 Awakening to Prophetic Imagination27:46 Flourishing vs. Productivity33:16 The Cycles of Life and Ministry38:52 Seasons of the Soul44:25 Embracing Flourishing and Surrender‘Does God view us like a microwave?’Takeaways* Spiritual flourishing is a journey that requires community engagement.* Embodied encounters with nature can deepen our spiritual experiences.* Dethroning the powers of industrialization is essential for spiritual growth.* Quality of spiritual life is more important than quantity of output.* Relationships are key to flourishing in our spiritual lives.* Creating an understory of mutuality fosters a sense of belonging.* Shepherding is a model for liberation and care in our communities.* The prophetic imagination can awaken us to new possibilities.* Each season of life has its own significance and purpose.* God desires for us to flourish and grow in our spiritual journeys.Check out Bette’s wonderful website here - https://www.bettedickinson.com/ Get full access to Right Side Up: Danielle Strickland at daniellestrickland.substack.com/subscribe

SummaryIn this conversation, Joash P. Thomas discusses his book ‘The Justice of Jesus’ and explores the themes of justice, faith, and the impact of colonization on modern Christianity. He emphasizes the importance of centering marginalized voices and the need for the church to engage in justice work without the constraints of colonial frameworks. The discussion also touches on the complexities of mission work, the role of empathy, and the call to live a flourishing life now, rather than focusing solely on the afterlife.‘Justice is a communal exercise’Takeaways* Joash wrote a book called ‘The Justice of Jesus’.* Justice should not be pigeonholed into biblical or social categories.* All justice is ultimately God’s justice.* We can’t change the past, but we can be faithful in the present.* The gospel centers marginalized voices.* Decolonization is essential for understanding justice.* Empathy is crucial in addressing historical injustices.* The church must engage in justice work today.* Mission work can have both beautiful and harmful outcomes.* Living a flourishing life now is a key aspect of faith.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Background of Joash P. Thomas02:41 The Justice of Jesus: A New Perspective05:45 Decolonizing Justice and Faith08:04 The Impact of Colonization on Justice10:50 Understanding the Complexity of Colonization13:37 The Duality of Good and Harm in Mission Work20:04 The Complexity of Divine Action Amidst Human Atrocity21:59 The Now of the Gospel: Living in Abundance23:44 Reckoning with Colonial Narratives and Their Impact26:09 Centering Marginalized Voices in the Gospel27:56 Transformation Through Empathy and Understanding29:43 Navigating the Tension Between Prophetic and Priestly Calls32:16 Historical Trauma and Its Effects on Power Dynamics36:16 Co-opting Liberation: The Need for Reflection37:52 Hope in the Global Church: Moving Forward Together Get full access to Right Side Up: Danielle Strickland at daniellestrickland.substack.com/subscribe

SummaryIn this episode of the Right Side Up podcast, hosts Danielle Strickland and James Sholl engage in a profound conversation with Karissa Sovdi about the complexities of singleness within the church. They explore the societal and theological implications of viewing singleness as a problem to be solved rather than a valid and fulfilling life choice. The discussion touches on the idolatry of marriage and family, the importance of celebrating life milestones beyond traditional markers, and the need for genuine community and friendship. Karissa shares her personal journey of dismantling the ‘future wife’ identity and embracing the gift of singleness, while also addressing the burdens and misconceptions surrounding it. The episode concludes with practical advice for living a fulfilling single life and the importance of inclusivity in church communities. Check out more from Karissa at Surviving Christianity Unmarried‘I never really identified as a person; I identified as a future wife’Takeaways* Singleness is often viewed as a problem rather than a valid life choice.* The nuclear family is idolized in North American Christianity.* Celebrating milestones beyond marriage is essential for community.* Eternal life and fulfilment can start now, not just in marriage.* Celibacy and singleness can be gifts that allow for deeper connections with God.* Friendship is crucial and often overlooked in discussions about singleness.* Comparison can lead to feelings of inadequacy and loneliness.* The church needs to create inclusive spaces for singles.* Marriage should not be seen as the ultimate goal or solution to loneliness.* Practical steps can help individuals embrace and celebrate their singleness.Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Karissa Sovdi01:32 Exploring Singleness in the Church03:50 Dismantling the Future Wife Identity07:43 The Idolatry of Family and Marriage11:02 Celebrating Life Beyond Marriage14:41 The Gift of Singleness and Celibacy18:50 Understanding Celibacy and Singleness21:15 The Role of Friendship in Singleness24:54 The Burden of Singleness in Church29:37 Reimagining Community and Connection32:11 Jesus’ Example of Singleness35:17 The Crisis of Loneliness and Friendship38:29 Practical Steps for Living Singleness Well42:52 Conclusion and Resources Get full access to Right Side Up: Danielle Strickland at daniellestrickland.substack.com/subscribe

SummaryIn this engaging conversation, Sheila Wray Gregoire discusses her groundbreaking work, 'The Great Sex Rescue,' which reveals the dissatisfaction of evangelical women in marriages due to toxic beliefs about gender roles. The discussion emphasizes the importance of mutual respect, healthy communication, and the need for empowerment and non-compliance in challenging patriarchal structures and her latest book ‘The Marriage You Want’. Sheila highlights the role of religion in relationships and the necessity of addressing toxic teachings within the church. The conversation concludes with a call to action for individuals to seek healthier, more fulfilling marriages based on equality and partnership.“Healthy communication is the key to a successful marriage.”"Healthy communication is key to a successful marriage."Takeaways* The Great Sex Rescue highlighted the dissatisfaction of evangelical women in marriages.* Toxic beliefs about gender roles can lead to harmful practices in relationships.* Religiosity can be beneficial, but toxic teachings can negate those benefits.* Healthy marriages are built on mutual respect and partnership.* Women should not feel obligated to fulfill male desires at the expense of their own needs.* Doubt and deconstruction can lead to a deeper understanding of faith.* Empowerment and non-compliance are essential for women in toxic environments.* Healthy communication is key to a successful marriage.* The church must address and change toxic teachings about gender roles.* Jesus' teachings promote equality and mutual respect in relationships.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Sheila Wray Gregoire00:58 The Great Sex Rescue: A Turning Point04:34 Research Findings on Women's Satisfaction09:13 The Impact of Toxic Beliefs13:48 Challenging Patriarchy in Marriage18:52 The Role of Religion in Relationships23:44 Navigating Toxic Church Environments28:29 Building Healthy Marriages33:10 Empowerment and Non-Compliance38:04 The Importance of Mutual Respect42:49 The Future of Marriage and Relationships47:42 Conclusion and Call to Action56:29 Black and White Bold Modern Podcast YouTube Intro.mp4 Get full access to Right Side Up: Danielle Strickland at daniellestrickland.substack.com/subscribe

Melinda Tankard Reist is an author, speaker, media commentator, blogger and advocate for women and girls. She is best known for her work addressing sexualisation, objectification, harms of pornography, sexual exploitation, trafficking and violence against women.SummaryIn this conversation, Danielle Strickland and her co-host James Sholl engage with Melinda Tankard Reist, a passionate advocate against the exploitation of women and children through pornography. They discuss the alarming rise of harmful sexual behaviors among youth, the cultural attitudes that normalize pornography, and the role of technology in perpetuating exploitation. Melinda shares insights from her research and experiences, highlighting the urgent need for collective action to combat these issues. The conversation emphasizes the importance of empathy, awareness, and advocacy in creating a safer world for women and girls.Takeaways* Melinda Tankard Reist is a passionate advocate against pornography and exploitation.* The rise of harmful sexual behaviors among youth is alarming and needs urgent attention.* Cultural attitudes often normalize pornography, making it difficult to combat its effects.* Technology plays a significant role in perpetuating exploitation and harmful behaviors.* Empathy is crucial in understanding the impact of pornography on individuals and society.Collective action is necessary to address the systemic issues surrounding pornography.* There is hope for change, as many individuals are beginning to recognize the harms of pornography.* Education and awareness are key in fighting against the normalization of pornography.* The fight against exploitation requires both personal and political action.* We must not be naive about the dangers posed by the pornography industry.Sound bites"We need a global ban on AI deep fake.""We are losing empathy and this is my biggest fear.""We deserve more than porn. We deserve to be loved."Important LinksFor parents: What you need to know: https://culturereframed.orgDiscussing with kids: https://parents.thorn.org/situation/Parental online controls: https://www.bark.usFighting Back: Fight The New Drug: https://fightthenewdrug.orgResisting porn: https://resistporn.orgREADING LIST 'Behind the Classroom Door', MTR, Eureka Street ,https://melindatankardreist.com/2025/05/behind-the-classroom-door-sexual-harassment-is-becoming-routine/‘P*rn’s grooming starts young’, MTR, Eureka Street https://melindatankardreist.com/2023/07/prns-grooming-starts-young-mtr-eureka-street-essay/“It makes my skin crawl”: sexual moaning rise in schools’, MTR, https://melindatankardreist.com/2022/06/it-makes-my-skin-crawl-sexual-moaning-rise-in-schools/'Secondary Schools and a duty of care to keep students safe from harmful sexual behaviours', 'Off The Cuff' podcast, Kelly Humphries with guests Melinda Tankard Reist and Maha Melhem: https://kellyhumphries.com/podcast_episodes/maha-melhem-melinda-tankard-reist-the-complex-storm-harmful-sexual-behaviours-prn/'Digital Dangers: AI Weaponization and Online Exploitation', 'Off the Cuff' podcast, Kelly Humphries with guests Melinda Tankard Reist and Maha Melhem: https://kellyhumphries.com/podcast_episodes/digital-dangers-ai-weaponization-and-online-exploitation/Digital Dangers: AI Weaponization and Online Exploitation | Kelly HumphriesAI weaponization, sextortion, and the exploitation of young people are on the rise, creating a digital nightmare for vulnerable youth. Join me, along with Melinda Tankard Reist and Maha Melham, as we delve into this digitally dark world of online exploitation.kellyhumphries.com'Adolescence: It's time for Katie's story', MTR, MTR blog: https://melindatankardreist.com/2025/05/adolescence-its-time-for-katies-story/Never Again? Addressing Sexual Violence Must Include P*rnography’, Melinda Tankard Reist, ABC Religion & Ethicshttps://www.abc.net.au/religion/never-again-addressing-sexual-violence-must-include-pornography/10094568‘Growing Up in P*rnland: Girls Have Had It with Porn Conditioned Boys, Melinda Tankard Reist, ABC Religion & Ethics,https://www.abc.net.au/religion/growing-up-in-pornland-girls-have-had-it-with-porn-conditioned-b/10097244‘In a society where male violence seems inevitable we need much more than education and awareness’, Michael Salter, The Guardian, Tuesday April 30,2024 https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2024/apr/30/in-a-society-where-male-violence-seems-inevitable-we-need-much-more-than-education-and-awareness‘Sexual violence is pushing girls out of school’, UK Agenda Alliance https://www.agendaalliance.org/news/sexual-violence-absenteeism-girls-school/Children now ‘biggest perpetrators of sexual abuse against children’https://www.theguardian.com/society/2024/jan/10/children-now-biggest-perpetrators-of-sexual-abuse-against-children?utm_source=linkedin&utm_medium=social&utm_content=ap_qf09zbmvhm‘There are reports some students are making sexual moaning noises at school. Here’s how parents and teachers can respond’, Daryl Higgins, Gabrielle Hunt, The Conversation, January 31, 2024 https://theconversation.com/there-are-reports-some-students-are-making-sexual-moaning-noises-at-school-heres-how-parents-and-teachers-can-respond-220136‘Child sexual abuse by different classes and types of perpetrator: Prevalence and trends from an Australian national survey’, Ben Mathews et al, Child Abuse & Neglect, Vol 147, January 2024, 106562https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0145213423005501?via%3DihubOur Watch P*rnography, young people and preventing violence against women https://media-cdn.ourwatch.org.au/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2020/11/20022415/Pornography-young-people-preventing-violence.pdfNational Plan to Address Violence Against Women https://www.dss.gov.au/ending-violence#:~:text=The%20National%20Plan%20outlines%20what,stop%20it%20before%20it%20starts.Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Conversation02:15 The Dark Reality of Pornography10:49 The Impact of Pornography on Youth16:58 Cultural Attitudes Towards Pornography23:00 The Role of Technology in Exploitation32:14 The Fight Against Exploitation42:45 Hope and Change in the Fight Against Pornography Get full access to Right Side Up: Danielle Strickland at daniellestrickland.substack.com/subscribe

Jemar Tisby is a New York Times bestselling author, national speaker, and public historian on a mission to deliver truths from the Black experience with depth and clarity.SummaryIn this conversation, Danielle Strickland and James Scholl engage with Dr. Jemar Tisby, a historian and author, to explore the complex relationship between racism and spirituality. They discuss Tisby's personal journey into racial justice, the impact of the Black Lives Matter movement, and the importance of moving from racial reconciliation to racial justice. The conversation delves into the historical context of racism in America, the role of the church, and the spiritual nature of racism. Tisby emphasizes the need for collective action, the significance of unsung heroes in the fight for justice, and the importance of discipleship in addressing systemic injustices. The discussion concludes with practical steps for church leaders to foster a commitment to justice within their communities.Take-aways* Racism is a spiritual issue that requires a collective response.* The church has a responsibility to address systemic injustices.* Racial reconciliation often lacks the depth needed for true justice.* Understanding history is crucial to addressing current racial issues.* The Curse of Ham has been misused to justify racism.* Women played a vital role in the civil rights movement.* Discipleship should include a commitment to justice.* Awareness, relationships, and commitment are key to racial justice.* Activism often starts with small groups or individuals.* Hope exists in the ongoing fight for justice.LinksFollow Dr. Jemar Tisby on Substack Get full access to Right Side Up: Danielle Strickland at daniellestrickland.substack.com/subscribe

Hakeem Bradley, a biblical scholar and Ph.D. candidate, shares his remarkable journey from the 5% Nation to biblical research. He discusses contrasting views of scripture in Islam and Christianity, emphasizing Genesis' pivotal role in understanding power and equity. Hakeem highlights how the Bible can liberate rather than oppress and explores the moral responsibilities depicted in biblical narratives. The dialogue delves into themes of spiritual warfare, love, generosity, and the transformative potential of engaging deeply with scripture.