Observations from Life

Satanic Panic, Trauma, and the Value of Faith Rooted in Ambiguity

Sat, 08 Feb 2025 16:00:00 -0600

Dave Canfield, a former member of Jesus People USA, shares his journey from being a holiday Catholic to joining the Christian counterculture community. He discusses the vibrant music scene, the impact of Christian rock and roll, and his involvement in promoting concerts and working backstage. Dave also talks about his experience with Mike Warnke, a Christian comedian and author who claimed to be a former Satanist high priest, and the role he played in helping expose Warnke's fraudulent ministry. Other topics include the influence of books and movies, such as Hal Lindsey's "The Late Great Planet Earth" and the Pirkle-Ormond films, in promoting fear and trauma within the Christian community. Dave talks about the idea that faith is rooted in ambiguity and the importance of not rejecting faith based on negative experiences. Finally, the conversation touches on the need for relationships, connections, and empathy in faith communities.

Beyond Fear: Healing from Religious Trauma

Sat, 08 Feb 2025 16:00:00 -0600

In this episode, I dive into fundamentalism and fear-based Christianity. This includes a revisit of the Satanic Panic of the 70s and 80s, Jack Chick, and movies like The Burning Hell and A Thief in the Night. What's it like to grow up in a church that uses the fear of Hell to convert lost souls? How does it impact people later in adulthood and what is the path to heal from it?

Why do victims become bullies?

Sat, 08 Feb 2025 16:00:00 -0600

My observations on the continuing cycle of oppressors and the oppressed.

Should Christians have enemies?

Sat, 08 Feb 2025 16:00:00 -0600

My observations about a billboard I saw this past weekend - “Real Christians love their enemies.”

Lessons of Childhood

Sat, 08 Feb 2025 16:00:00 -0600

My thoughts and observations about memories, childhood, and nostalgia.

Christianity, the American Enterprise

Sat, 08 Feb 2025 16:00:00 -0600

My observations on the church and how it has become a money making enterprise.

Be A Hero In Your Universe

Sat, 08 Feb 2025 16:00:00 -0600

I reflect back on January 6th and talk about wisdom from a Buddhist monk.

Queer Eye Love and Evangelical Hate

Sat, 08 Feb 2025 16:00:00 -0600

My observations on the beauty of the Queer Eye folks and how modern day evangelicalism is rooted in white supremacy and oppression. Trigger warning: you probably won’t like this one if you are a conservative or evangelical Christian.

Who or What is God?

Sat, 08 Feb 2025 16:00:00 -0600

Borrowing unashamedly from Marcus Borg, I give my observations on God. Who or what God is and what it means for us in our lives.

The Alpha Male

Sat, 08 Feb 2025 16:00:00 -0600

My observations about insecure men, often calling themselves“Alpha Males” and how they pretty much ruin everything.

Observations with Constance Marie

Sat, 08 Feb 2025 16:00:00 -0600

Constance Marie, best known for her long-time run on the ABC comedy, “George Lopez,” joins me to talk about her career, some of life’s challenges and how she has used them to help others. We also talk about her Latinx romantic comedy series, “With Love.”

Observations with a Rabbi

Sat, 08 Feb 2025 16:00:00 -0600

Rabbi Michael Harvey and I discuss Judaism, Christianity, antisemitism, anti-Judaism, and so much more!

The TheoBros

Sat, 08 Feb 2025 16:00:00 -0600

My observations on a group of Christians known as TheoBros, their theology, and how their behavior impacts those around them.

The Church is Broken

Sat, 08 Feb 2025 16:00:00 -0600

A follow up to my blog post about the church. I also talk about being a recovering fundamentalist and how that impacts my approach to religious discussion.

Cults, Fundamentalism, and Why People Get Trapped In Them

Sat, 08 Feb 2025 16:00:00 -0600

My observations on the similarities of cults and fundamentalism and why people get trapped in them. Drawing from Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs, I walk through the five levels of his pyramid and talk about how these groups exploit and seem to fulfill those needs, but they are based on lies.

Observations with Stephen Martin

Sat, 08 Feb 2025 16:00:00 -0600

This was a fascinating conversation covering everything from reincarnation to the meaning of life to trying to figure out why those UFOs show up in our lives. Stephen had great insight, research, and stories to share.

Chariots of the Gods

Sat, 08 Feb 2025 16:00:00 -0600

My observations about ancient civilizations, the gods, aliens, UFOs, and all those mysterious supernatural things that fascinated me as a child and still do.

Christianity Deconstructed - Observations with TheoBro Extraordinaire

Sat, 08 Feb 2025 16:00:00 -0600

A conversation between me and another exvangelical and former seminarian who runs a parody account on Twitter knows as TheoBro Extraordinaire. We talk about Christianity and the process of deconstruction. We explore quite a few topics, such as Christian Twitter, TheoBros, and the modern evangelical movement and the impact it has on those around it.Note: Pardon some of the technical difficulties during the discussion.

Creating a Space of Love and Acceptance in the Church

Sat, 08 Feb 2025 16:00:00 -0600

A conversation with Zach Lambert, Meg Wise, and Kevin Young - three very active and vocal voices of Christianity found on Twitter. Each share aspects of their spiritual journeys, observations about the state of the Christianity and the church, and provide unique insight into where they believe the Christian faith is headed. You don't want to miss this engaging discussion!

Sex, Evangelicalism, and the Patriarchy

Sat, 08 Feb 2025 16:00:00 -0600

Sheila Gregoire is an author, podcaster, and researcher into evangelicalism and sex. On this episode, she shares her research and observations about how evangelical Christianity has often taken a toxic and harmful approach to sexuality in marriage, especially when it comes to women. This is an important discussion, covering how the patriarchy often turns a blind eye to research and to those it harms in order to continue the status quo, often leading to unhealthy and unhappy relationships.

Living in the Bonus Round

Sat, 08 Feb 2025 16:00:00 -0600

Steve is a multi-award winning composer, lyricist, pianist, and performer who believes in the healing power of music, crediting the writing of the score of his Off-Broadway hit musical The Last Session, as having saved his life. He shares his life story, a gay man who grew up in a very conservative, fundamentalist home and church who found his purpose after coming back from the brink of death in the 90s battling AIDS. Steve's story is both inspirational and spiritually engaging. Bonus: He's my brother!

Surviving and Thriving!

Sat, 08 Feb 2025 16:00:00 -0600

Hannah Smith shares her incredible journey from being trapped in an abusive cult to engaging in many self-destructive behaviors that nearly ended her life. She had a true Dark Night of the Soul experience that led to her finding her way back to spiritual health. She spent the last decade or more studying how God has wired us and has developed training programs for therapists.

Last year, Hannah had an incident happen that really tore the veil from her eyes about the oppression that is happening, especially with LGBTQ people. Now, her passion is to help those in church leadership who want to become affirming find a safe way to "come out" - and if not safe, then strategic, supported, and skillful.

This is truly a journey you'll want to hear her share!

Demons, Ghosts, and Evil Spirits: Part III - Cross-Cultural Beliefs and Alternative Theories

Sun, 08 Dec 2024 18:00:00 -0600

In the final episode of this three part series on Demons, Ghosts, and Evil Spirits, I explore how different cultures and traditions view demons and spirits. I also examine alternative theories, like Carl Jung's concept of the shadow and how the collective consciousness carries forward myths and traditions.

Demons, Ghosts, and Evil Spirits: Part II - Famous Exorcisms, Demonologists, and Hauntings

Sun, 27 Oct 2024 19:00:00 -0500

In Part II of my series on Demons, Ghosts, and Evil Spirits, I discuss famous exorcisms, demonologists, and hauntings. This includes the story of the exorcisms of Anneliese Michel and Anna Ecklund. I also talk about famous demonologists Father Malachi Martin and Ed and Lorraine Warren. Finally, I'll cover two famous hauntings - The Enfield Poltergeist and the Smurl Haunting.

Demons, Ghosts, and Evil Spirits: Part I - The Exorcist and the Cultural Shift on Possession

Sun, 29 Sep 2024 18:00:00 -0500

This is the first of three episodes covering demons, ghosts, and evil spirits. Do they exist? Can a person be possessed? How do our own fears shape our interpretation of events around us?

Part I starts with The Exorcist and cultural impact it had on our beliefs in possession.

A Kiwi in America: David Farrier's Weird and Wild Journey

Fri, 17 May 2024 15:00:00 -0500

David Farrier, journalist and documentary filmmaker, shares insights about his life and career, including behind the scenes events while discussing his films "Tickled" and "Mister Organ" as well as his Netflix series, "Dark Tourist." He also talks about Webworm, his email newsletter and the community around it. Topics range from the importance of speaking up for marginalized people and taking on bullies to exploring the themes of religious abuse, including his coverage of ARISE church in New Zealand, a megachurch where he uncovered a culture of abuse. Overall, the conversation highlights the importance of storytelling and the power of media in exposing truth and creating awareness.

Once Upon A Nightmare

Sun, 12 May 2024 12:00:00 -0500

What happens when your fairy tale story turns into a nightmare? Rebecca Craig talks about this very thing - how she, a female pastor, survived a relationship with a narcissistic, abusive man who had perfected gaslighting, lying, and manipulation. Her vulnerability and honesty make this a gripping true life tale as described in her upcoming book release, Once Upon a Nightmare: Through the Looking Glass of Narcissistic Abuse.

Rebecca explores the connection between fairy tales and faith, drawing on her experience working at Disney and her background in seminary. She highlights the charm and manipulation tactics used by narcissists and the challenges of recognizing and leaving such relationships. Throughout this difficult journey, Rebecca found support and strength from her faith community, who provided emotional and practical support.

Finding Your Spiritual Community

Wed, 13 Mar 2024 17:00:00 -0500

In this episode, I interview Reverend Joanna Fontaine Crawford, lead minister for the Live Oak Unitarian Universalist Church in Cedar Park, Texas. Joanna talks about her experience growing up a UU in Texas, how she came into the ministry, and the importance of building a spiritual community outside of traditional religions.

The Akashic Records

Sun, 24 Dec 2023 16:00:00 -0600

What are the Akashic Records and how do they work? I talk about them, another experience with Emily, and a surprising discovery about one of my past lives.

Beyond the Veil: Exploring the Spiritual Side of Emily's Journey and Passing From This Life

Sat, 11 Nov 2023 19:00:00 -0600

This is the second episode related to my daughter, Emily's, recent death. In it, I discuss a series of Tarot and Oracle card readings, a couple of dreams, and Emily's surprise drop in to send me a message a couple of weeks after her death. I have also posted a series of blog posts with pics of the drawings so you can see what they look like as you listen.

Lessons in Love and Loss: Reflecting on My Relationship with Emily and the Power of Compassion

Sun, 05 Nov 2023 16:00:00 -0600

This is the first of two episodes, talking about the recent passing of my daughter, Emily, and how, in the midst of it, I learned alot about love, empathy, and compassion and just how powerful they are. It's probably a little all over the place as I continue to work through the grief and loss of her in my life.

Facing Infertility Challenges in the Church

Sun, 23 Apr 2023 17:00:00 -0500

A conversation with Karen Tarrazas, who shares her and her husband's challenges with infertility. We discuss the church's (lack of) response to this very important issue that impacts a significant number of women and couples. Karen also talks about her research into the topic, dealing with the patriarchy, and gives tips to individuals and churches on how to better support and serve people who deal with infertility.

Holding Space

Tue, 20 Dec 2022 17:00:00 -0600

I give my observations on holding space for someone - what it means and how we can do it. How does one truly listen to others without judgment or opinion? What does it mean to listen? To truly listen? Find out on on this episode.

Life, Death, Spirit Guides, and More

Tue, 25 Oct 2022 19:00:00 -0500

Join me as I share an amazing Tarot experience, talk about spirit guides and reincarnation, then send my mom off on her next journey. This one might be a little woo woo, so buckle up!

Examining Your Shadow

Sat, 10 Sep 2022 20:00:00 -0500

Finding the good in others starts with a thoughtful and honest look at yourself. In this episode, I talk about the shadow side of our nature and how we need to understand it and deal with it in order to be a light for others.

Love, Accept, Forgive and The Nature of Humankind

Tue, 23 Aug 2022 18:00:00 -0500

My observations on the nature of humankind and how we need to find a way to love, accept, and forgive people. Finding the divine nature in people can be hard as we spend so much time looking on the outside. We must look within to truly know the essence of the person - their very soul.

Observations of Kids

Sun, 17 Apr 2022 17:00:00 -0500

I spend some time talking with children about their views of the world. We cover everything from school shooter drills, the impact of COVID on their education, and bullies to sex and drugs. This is not one to be missed.

Observations with Amy Nordhues

Sun, 27 Mar 2022 15:00:00 -0500

Amy Nordhues and I talk about her book, Preyed Upon: Breaking Free from Therapist Abuse. We discuss different aspects of emotional, spiritual, and sexual abuse and her journey from victim to victor in her own life.

Observations with Deborah Driggs

Fri, 11 Mar 2022 18:00:00 -0600

Deborah and I talk about her life as a model, Playboy centerfold and cover girl and how she has learned through life’s challenges to succeed and be a resource for others.

The Hillsborough Disaster

Mon, 07 Mar 2022 17:00:00 -0600

My observations on the Hillsborough Disaster, from police incompetency and corruption to media recklessness, this story is heartbreaking. This episode is dedicated to the victims and their families, who fight so hard for justice. Justice for the 97.

What Happens When We Die?

Mon, 28 Feb 2022 17:00:00 -0600

My observations on what I think happens after you die. This involves sharing a very personal experience I had with past life regression.

The Olympic Abuse of Children

Sat, 19 Feb 2022 13:00:00 -0600

My observations on this year’s Olympic figure skating debacle and how it is just part of a bigger problem.

Follow Your Fernweh

Tue, 15 Feb 2022 19:00:00 -0600

Kindle Smyth, author of the new book, Follow Your Fernweh, joins me to talk about her book and how she took an extraordinary leap that changed her life.

Lonely People

Sat, 05 Feb 2022 10:00:00 -0600

My observations on the song Eleanor Rigby and the lonely people who are among us every day.

Be Like Ted (Lasso)

Sat, 05 Feb 2022 10:00:00 -0600

My observations on this Christmas and Ted Lasso.

Observations with Romany Malco

Fri, 04 Feb 2022 20:00:00 -0600

I spend some time with Romany Malco, discussing empathy through introspection.

Living Life with Passion

Sun, 30 Jan 2022 11:00:00 -0600

I give my observations on how to live life with passion and how immersing yourself in new things can give you amazing experiences.

Cats and What I Love About Them

Sat, 15 Jan 2022 18:00:00 -0600

My observations on cats - an episode only cat lovers may be able to appreciate.

A Hidden Life

Mon, 10 Jan 2022 17:00:00 -0600

My observations on the movie A Hidden Life, directed by Terrance Malick, and the incredible sacrifice of Franz Jagerstatter, someone I might have never learned about. A powerful, beautiful, and tragic story that must be told.

Addicted to Anger

Sat, 01 Jan 2022 22:00:00 -0600

My observations on anger (anger in our culture, anger in the media, anger on social media) and how it can be addictive.

The Time I Attended an AA Meeting

Thu, 30 Dec 2021 08:00:00 -0600

My observations on AA, authenticity, and trusting others enough to bare your soul.

You’ll Never Walk Alone

Mon, 27 Dec 2021 21:00:00 -0600

My observations about how when we look for things we have in common with others, life’s journey is so much better.

Leave Your Shoes

Mon, 13 Dec 2021 17:00:00 -0600

My observations about God, church, and the spiritual life, inspired by the poem Leave Your Shoes, by Chelan Harkin.

George Clooney vs the Homeless Guy

Wed, 17 Nov 2021 16:00:00 -0600

My observations on how we treat people who we admire vs those we look down upon.

Don’t Be A Hater

Sun, 14 Nov 2021 16:00:00 -0600

My observations about people who spend more time talking about what they hate instead of what they love.

The Spiritual Superman aka Santa Clause aka God

Sat, 13 Nov 2021 08:00:00 -0600

Is God really just a big Santa Clause in the sky? My observation of how God is often viewed.