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What We Love, What We Fear, What Comes Next

As America approaches its 250th birthday, Betsey Newenhuyse and I take some time on Beach Talk to reflect on what we love most about this remarkable and complicated nation. We talk about the ideals that have inspired generations of Americans—democracy, freedom of conscience, a free press, equal rights, and the ongoing work of building "a more perfect union." Along the way, we share personal memories, from patriotic songs and high school choir performances to family stories and reflections on the values that continue to shape our lives.

But this conversation isn't just nostalgic. We also explore some of the deeper challenges facing our country today. Why have so many evangelicals embraced Donald Trump so enthusiastically? What does that reveal about the relationship between faith, power, and leadership in America? Drawing on the insights of writers and thinkers such as Pete Wehner, Kristin Kobes Du Mez, David Gushee, and others, we examine the rise of Christian nationalism and the choices facing American Christians in this cultural moment.

We also discuss the importance of strong institutions, higher education, religious liberty, and the freedom to worship according to one's conscience. Add a few personal updates—including my upcoming trip to Costa Rica—and you have another thoughtful, candid, and engaging conversation with friends on the beach.

More about Betsey Newenhuyse

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NEW! I’m delighted to welcome back a familiar guest and friend of the podcast, Dalaina May. This is Dalaina’s third appearance with us, and every conversation leaves me challenged, inspired, and more aware of realities that most of us rarely see.

Dalaina is the founder and executive director of Dark Bali, an organization serving people on the front lines of the fight against human trafficking throughout Indonesia and beyond. Her journey has taken her across continents, through academia, deep personal questioning, and into some of the most difficult places imaginable. Along the way, she discovered not only her calling but also the courage to pursue it despite obstacles, setbacks, and institutions that often underestimated her.

Today, we'll discuss the changing realities of human trafficking in 2025, the global impact of geopolitical shifts and the loss of USAID funding, the power of collaboration, and how Dark Bali continues to equip and strengthen anti-trafficking leaders across Asia. SHOW NOTES

RESOURCES:

WEBSITE: darkbali.org

ANNUAL REPORT

THE GLOBAL LEARNING COMMUNITY

SCAM COMPOUNDS

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Become a Patron - Click on the link to learn how you can become a Patron of the show. Thank you!

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The Podcast Official Site: TheBeachedWhiteMale.com

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Ken welcomes back professor, author, and activist Dr. David Dark to discuss his new book, We Become What We Normalize. David shares the recent tragedy on Belmont University's campus in the shooting of the popular freshman, accomplished musician Jillian Ludwig . He tells us about the impact of this horrible incident on his students. The entire nation took note - raising the issue of gun control. David asks a provocative question: "Am I responsible for the lies that other people voice in my presence unchallenged?" When we are silent, we normalize. The conversation picks up Part I - discussing David's assertion that all of us -because we are human - are "religious." There exists good and bad/toxic and healthy religion. We must apply critical thinking to discern. Dr. Dark agrees with Christopher Hitchens that there is a form of religion that "poisons everything." To illustrate, they consider a diverse collection of individuals including Colin Kaepernick, Howard Thurman, Rush Limbaugh, and Donald Trump. In conclusion, David shares his long-time work in the Tennessee prison system - regrettably, a for-profit enterprise.

David Dark - PART 1 Life's Too Short To Pretend We Aren't Religious

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Become a Patron - Click on the link to learn how you can become a Patron of the show. Thank you!

Ken’s Substack Page

The Podcast Official Site: TheBeachedWhiteMale.com