A woman is dead in Minneapolis after an encounter with ICE.  Esau McCaulley, Justin Giboney, Malcolm Foley, and producer Mike sort through what we know so far, what the law actually says about deadly force and compliance, and how Christians should think about state power and the value of a human life. The conversation wrestles with fear, responsibility, split second decisions, and the narratives forming around the shooting long before the facts are settled.

The fall of a dictator feels like good news, but what if the motive matters as much as the outcome? Esau, Mike, and Sho Baraka dig into the Venezuela raid through the lens of just war theory, Trump's own comments, and the broader unseriousness of the administration. Then Sho reflects on his recent writing about AI and efficiency, asking where the line is between using new technology wisely and setting boundaries for the sake of rest, imagination, and what it means to be human.

0:00 - Theme Song

2:35 - Hard Classes That Mattered

8:03 - Venezuela

22:30 - The Donroe Doctrine

30:10 - Sponsor - Brooklyn Bedding - For a quality mattress, go to https://www.brooklynbedding.com and use promo code ESAU to get 30% off site wide!

31:08 - AI and Utilitarianism

50:39 - End Credits

Sho Baraka's Music: https://www.shobaraka.com/

https://www.instagram.com/amishobaraka/

A political fight over food assistance has sparked new debate about who deserves help in America. Esau, Justin Giboney, and Mike take a look at the SNAP situation and why Scripture consistently places God on the side of the poor and challenges us to do the same. Plus, Trump is posting about defending persecuted Christians in Nigeria, but is there more he should be doing to help? Then, Tucker Carlson's recent interview with Nick Fuentes has sparked a debate on the right about what counts as fringe beliefs these days. Also, why Justin is confused about bobbing for apples and Jennifer Lawrence.

0:00 - Theme Song

5:38 - Snap Program

17:15 - Christians in Nigeria and Nicki Minaj.

21:22 - Sponsor - Hello! My Name is Emmanuel - A Heartwarming children's book about a Haitian child learning to trust God by Emmanuel Jean Russell  https://a.co/d/8fPoRCL

30:15 - Mike's Corner: Nick Fuentes on Tucker Carlson

39:40 - Who's Jennifer Lawrence?

43:00 - End Credits

Don't Let Nobody Turn You Around: How the Black Church's Public Witness Leads Us Out of the Culture War by Justin Giboney: https://a.co/d/6dUSGTz

Esau, Skye, and Mike explore what happens when vows stop meaning anything. They discuss the Anglican Church's latest abuse allegations, the NBA's betting scandal, and the U.S. admiral who resigned rather than follow Trump's unlawful orders. What does integrity look like in an age when everyone's breaking their promises? When should one try to reform from within, and when is it time to leave? Also, Esau reveals his recurring nightmare as a kid and it involves...a pickup basketball game with the Hulk?

0:00 - Theme Song

1:30 - Skye's Scary Movies

7:05 - Anglican Church Sexual Abuse Scandal

21:08 - Sponsor - Hello! My Name is Emmanuel - A Heartwarming children's book about a Haitian child learning to trust God by Emmanuel Jean Russell  https://a.co/d/8fPoRCL

22:15 - US Attacks Boats in Caribbean Sea

34:52 - Sports Betting Scandal

50:12 - End Credits

Last week, OpenAI announced it will remove moral limits from ChatGPT and "let adults be adults," opening the door for adult content on the platform. Esau and Mike are joined by Malcolm Foley to talk about how AI is reshaping our view of relationships and making it easier to chase selfish desires resulting in destructive consequences. Then, they turn to the leaked racist group chat among young Republicans. Does it reveal anything new, or just prove that racism never disappeared—it just went underground? Finally, the "No Kings" protests drew millions last weekend, but what did they actually accomplish? Malcolm walks through Martin Luther King Jr.'s four-step process for nonviolent action and whether the No Kings protest measured up.

Critics have recently accused the Black Church of promoting "ethnic idolatry," but is that fair, or even historically accurate? Esau McCaulley is joined by Kaitlyn Schiess and producer Mike to unpack where the Black Church came from, why it exists, and what these critiques reveal about American Christianity. Then, is it ok to have joy in the midst of so much suffering and why did we talk about the Taylor Swift album when it is full of explicit material? Also, we break down the latest culture-war controversy over the Super Bowl halftime show.

0:00 - Theme Song

3:45 - Contract Demands for Holy Post

6:54 - Why is there a Black Church?

11:43 - Virality vs Conversation

16:25 - Kaitlyn Left Out of the Taylor Swift Episode?

20:30 - Is it Wrong to Be Happy?

28:16 - Talking About Secular Art

35:00 - Bad Bunny's American Half-Time

44:25 - End Credits

Federal immigration raids have swept through Chicago under "Operation Midway Blitz," leaving neighborhoods filled with fear, tear gas, and helicopters overhead. Esau McCaulley, producer Mike, and pastor Pricelis Perreaux-Domínguez ask how Christians should respond when law enforcement tactics strip away human dignity, what it means to defend the image of God in our neighbors, and how the cruelty of the Trump administration cannot be ignored. Then, what does the NFL's choice of Bad Bunny as the Super Bowl Halftime Performer say about belonging, hospitality, and who America welcomes to the stage? Also, social media usage is down everywhere but one country. Can you guess which one? And is The Princess Bride a perfect movie?

0:00 - Theme Song

0:15 - Producer Mike's Car Wreck

3:55 - What Movies Shouldn't Be Remade?

8:25 - Chicago's ICE Raids

16:37 - Apartment Raids

24:10 - Bad Bunny SuperBowl Controversy

36:13 - Social Media Use is Going Down?

Being a Sanctuary: The Radical Way for the Body of Christ to Be Sacred, Soft, and Safe by Pricelis Perreaux-Dominguez: https://a.co/d/gLSFArw

Taylor Swift just dropped her 12th studio album, and everyone's talking about it—including us. Esau, producer Mike, and our resident Swift correspondent Lindsey Goetz break down their first impressions, favorite tracks, and the themes that make the album worth more than just pop-culture buzz. What does it mean to stay tender in a world that hardens us? How do we rebuild trust after disappointment? And how can art, even from outside the church, help us recognize the beauty of grace in the rubble of our failures? Whether or not you're a Swifty, this conversation offers insight into why music matters for faith and why the questions in her songs are also questions for the people of God.

0:00 - Theme Song

1:45 - Esau's New Shirt

2:17 - Initial Impressions

8:42 - The Eras

18:53 - What's Taylor's Music About?

22:03 - Why Engage with Secular Art?

25:30 - Pushing Back on Taylor

29:57 - End Credits

Matt Forte is remembered as one of the Chicago Bears' all-time greats, but now he's tackling something different: helping people find purpose that lasts beyond their career. Esau McCaulley and producer Mike sit down with Forte to talk about his new book Staying in the Game: Making the Most of Every Season. Forte opens up about walking away from the NFL, redefining success, and why our identity can't be built on stats, fame, or jersey numbers.

0:00 - Theme Song

0:15 - Are Esau and Mike athletes?

6:15 - Why'd He Get Into Writing?

10:56 - Matt's Spiritual Development

18:20 - Sponsor - God's Colorful Kingdom Storybook Bible - Available now, a kid's storybook Bible from Esau McCaulley: https://a.co/d/hVy8aUl

19:15 - Resisting Vanity

25:17 - Ministering to Athletes

37:12 - End Credits

Stay in the Game: Making the Most of Every Season by Matt Forte: https://a.co/d/3AYKev7

A foul ball at a Phillies game turns into a viral outrage story. Esau, Malcolm Foley, and producer Mike unpack why the internet can't tell the difference between minor annoyances and real injustice. Then, Florida decided to end the vaccine requirements for kids. What's really at stake in the parental rights debate? Also, the crew looks at how Disney has gone from a family vacation destination to now overly catering to the wealthy, and what that reveals about greed, inequality, and the middle class. And, Esau channels his inner Michael Jordan and pulls off his own flu game.

0:00 - Theme Song

6:20 - Woman Labeled, "Philly Karen"

15:56 - Sponsor - God's Colorful Kingdom Storybook Bible - Available now, a kid's storybook Bible from Esau McCaulley: https://a.co/d/hVy8aUl

18:40 - Mandated Vaccines and Regulation

26:32 - Invoking Slavery in Public Discourse

31:17 - Disney and the Middle Class

46:23 - End Credits

In the wake of Charlie Kirk's assassination, Americans are left reeling. The violence is shocking and upsetting, but it also reveals the depth of our country's divides. Esau is joined by Christina Edmondson of Truth's Table to reflect on what this moment means for the church and the wider culture. They consider the tension between honoring Kirk's dignity and confronting his harmful rhetoric, why Black Christians experience these events differently, and what it means to love enemies without excusing injustice.

0:00 - Theme Song

1:34 - Being a Pastor During the Charlie Kirk Assassination

11:38 - Threats Towards Black Schools

31:07 - Sponsor - God's Colorful Kingdom Storybook Bible - Available now, a kid's storybook Bible from Esau McCaulley: https://a.co/d/hVy8aUl

32:51 - Student Evaluations Disrupting Colleges?

48:45 - End Credits

Preorder Christina Edmondson's book now: https://a.co/d/6IVi10n

Conservative Political Activist and CEO of Turning Point USA, Charlie Kirk, was assassinated yesterday while speaking on a college campus in Utah. Esau is joined by Sharon McMahon and Justin Giboney to talk about this horrific and tragic story. They explore the history of political violence in the country, and discuss why this moment feels different and uniquely troubling. They also discuss what comes next and how both the country, and christians, should move forward in a way that tries to ratchet down the temperature and see the humanity in all.

Please join us in praying for the Kirk family and all those grieving his death.

Medically assisted suicide is on the rise in Canada, and it's no longer limited to those who are terminally ill. Esau, Malcolm, and Mike examine what this shift reveals about modern assumptions around autonomy, dignity, and choice, and how Christian convictions about suffering and care for the vulnerable complicate the logic behind assisted dying policies. Also, after Travis Kelce recently claimed that he and Taylor Swift have never fought, the team asks whether conflict-free marriage is actually a sign of health. They explore why disagreement can be formative rather than destructive, and why couples should be cautious about overusing therapy language—like "gaslighting" or "narcissism"—without fully understanding what those terms mean.

0:00 - Theme Song

1:40 - Scheduling Wedding for Money?

7:00 - Do Couples Need to Fight? 1

7:26 - Therapy Talk

22:34 - Medical Assistance in Dying 

30:52 - Dying with Dignity

38:28 - What to Leave Behind in 2026?

45:00 - End Credits

#HolyPostMedia #hpm

Esau is joined by New Testament scholar Paul Sloan to talk about his new book Jesus and the Law of Moses. They dig into big questions: Did Jesus and Paul disagree about the law? Did Jesus expect his Jewish followers to keep Torah? What about Gentiles? And what if our picture of the Pharisees as strict legalists is all wrong? Plus, they dive into the debate on whether we're expected to follow the commands in the Sermon on the Mount, or if it's merely supposed to show us our need for grace. Plus, old tech and old athletes.

0:00 - Theme Song

2:22 - AOL Just Got Canned?

6:20 - Do We Treat Hymns Like AOL?

18:13 - Sponsor - No Small Endeavor - Award-winning podcast where theologians, philosophers, and best-selling authors talk about faith with Lee C. Camp. Start listening today: https://pod.link/1513178238

19:22 - Is the Law Here to Make Us Want Grace?

26:40 - Jesus and Ritual Purity

41:44 - End Credits

Jesus and the Law of Moses: The Gospels and the Restoration of Israel Within First-Century Judaism by Paul T. Sloan: https://a.co/d/5gnNBBQ

Recently, Donald Trump criticized the Smithsonian for focusing too much on slavery, insisting that America's history should be more "positive" and less "woke." But can we really tell the story of America without telling the story of human bondage? Esau and Justin Giboney dig into the politics of memory, the temptation to idolize America, and why Christians in particular must insist on telling the truth about our history, both the glory and the shame. Plus, the myth of cancel culture from Paula Deen to Colin Kaepernick, Cracker Barrel outrage, and should we all be corny like Russel Wilson?

0:00 - Theme Song

1:33 - Who gets called "Corny?" Why Russell Wilson?

8:05 - Trump on Smithsonian and Slavery

25:40 - They're rich, travel, and love to complain

33:10 - Self-Help Makes You a Jerk?

43:02 - End Credits

When the military becomes a political pawn? As Esau and Producer Mike break down Trump's decision to deploy the National Guard to D.C., Esau reflects on his family's experience in the military and the heavy cost of deployments for morale, families, and democracy itself. Then, adult summer camps are on the rise. Are they the answer to America's loneliness epidemic, or is there an easier and less expensive way to make friends after college? Plus, listener questions about faith in difficult workplaces, the value of liturgy, and the beliefs Esau has changed his mind on over time. 

0:00 - Theme Song

7:30 - National Guard in DC

19:45 - Summer Camp for Adults

24:08 - Do Men Need Activity to Socialize?

29:27 - Top TV shows/movies?

33:17 - Vocation and Faith

45:22 - End Credits

Enter to win a copy of Esau's Children's Bible and support the podcast! https://holypost.com/esau

Sydney Sweeney's "Great Jeans" ad sparked a culture war. Was it clever marketing, coded eugenics, or just outrage for clicks? Esau, Malcolm, and Mike break down who really wins when we fight over denim. Also, Taylor Swift has a new album, a Hollywood actor claims to have been blacklisted for his christian principles, and why old school gospel music should still be relevant today.

0:00 - Theme Song

2:00 - Making Malcolm a Swiftie

10:35 - Sydney Sweeney's Jeans

22:40 - Neil McDonough Playing the Victim?

21:55 - Sponsor - No Small Endeavor - Award-winning podcast where theologians, philosophers, and best-selling authors talk about faith with Lee C. Camp. Start listening today: https://pod.link/1513178238

34:50 - CEO Disses Gospel Music?

49:20 - End Credits

What does it mean to be Black and evangelical in a moment when both words carry so much baggage? Esau is joined by theologian and longtime Wheaton professor Dr. Vince Bacote, whose new documentary Black + Evangelical traces the overlooked history of African Americans in evangelical institutions. They talk about what it means to carry a Black church heritage into white evangelical spaces, why so many Black voices are celebrated until they speak up about race, and how many of today's tensions are echoes of the past.

0:00 - Theme Song

3:25 - Highest-Grossing Documentary

6:18 - Black and Evangelical

13:22 - Struggles Being Black and Evangelical

24:18 - Sponsor - No Small Endeavor - Award-winning podcast where theologians, philosophers, and best-selling authors talk about faith with Lee C. Camp. Start listening today: https://pod.link/1513178238

25:33 - Tom Skinner

28:30 - Tone Policing

33:33 - Emotion and Intellect

37:42 - Promise Keepers

45:45 - Hopeful Future for Black Evangelicalism

50:30 - End Credits

Black + Evangelical Documentary:

https://pages.christianitytoday.com/black-evangelicals-documentary-lp

On a recent Holy Post episode, Ryan Burge claimed the data shows that Gen Z is not experiencing a revival, but Carey Nieuwhof says otherwise. Esau and Sharon Hodde Miller compare the competing narratives and reflects on what true revival looks like and why we care so much whether a revival is happening. Then, a recent New York Times piece questions the so-called "boy crisis," Are boys really falling behind or have girls just always done better in school? Plus: what food or coffee shop would make you change your last name? Why Uber's new feature for women riders is long overdue. And Esau's final question: is being mad about Halloween in July grumpy or principled?

0:00 - Theme Song

2:35 - Naming Yourself After a Brand?

7:55 - Boyhood Crisis Overblown?

19:10 - Gen Z Revival or Retreat?

27:20 - Piety vs Churchgoing Stats

35:35 - Uber Gender Policy

42:20 - Grumpy or Principled

46:15 - End Credits

God's Colorful Kingdom Storybook Bible: The Story of God's Big Diverse Family by Esau McCaulley: https://a.co/d/iQjqMeB

A Coldplay concert kiss cam became the most viral moment of the week. Esau, and bestselling author Nancy French unpack the now-infamous clip of an affair caught on camera. Was it hilarious or heartbreaking, and what does it say about our appetite for public shame? They also debate whether a World War II hero should also be remembered as a TikTok star, whether celebrity-branded Crumbl cookies are harmless fun or late-stage capitalism in dessert form, and if Walmart might actually be... beautiful. Plus, Esau discovers there's a wrong way to invite your producer to a Cubs game.

0:00 - Theme Song

4:00 - D-Day Veteran and TikTok Star

10:25 - Coldplay Outs CEO Affair—Funny or Tragedy?

21:08 - Benson Boone Cookies and Parasocial Relationships

31:24 - An Ode to Wal-Mart?

Ghosted: An American Story by Nancy French: https://a.co/d/0UhumZ5

A controversial new IRS regulation just opened the door for churches to endorse political candidates from the pulpit. Esau McCaulley and Justin Giboney weigh in on if this a win for religious freedom, a threat to the church's public witness, or just business as usual? Then they unpack the unexpected reunion of hip-hop duo The Clipse. One brother found faith. The other kept rapping about dealing drugs. So what happens when grace and drug bars share the same tracklist? Can Christian artists operate in secular spaces without compromise?

Plus: Black vs. African American, summer recommendations, and is Mike secretly the voice of the Bible Project?

0:00 - Theme Song

1:52 - Churches Endorsing Candidates

14:50 - African American or Black?

17:05 - Sponsor - No Small Endeavor - Award-winning podcast where theologians, philosophers, and best-selling authors talk about faith with Lee C. Camp. Start listening today: https://pod.link/1513178238

24:40 - Is Mike the Bible Project guy?

26:35 - Drugs and Gospel on the Same Album

41:11 - Summer Plans

45:00 - End Credits

Don't Let Nobody Turn You Around: How the Black Church's Public Witness Leads Us out of the Culture War by Justin Giboney: https://a.co/d/cMMUHlQ

What do Black churches, Catholics, and evangelicals all agree on? That Trump's "Big Beautiful Bill" is a big, problematic mess. Esau is joined by Malcolm Foley to unpack the sweeping legislation that slashes aid to the poor while delivering massive tax cuts to the wealthy. What does this reveal about our national values and how should the church respond to a policy so openly shaped by greed? Plus, the team reflects on the devastating flash floods in Texas that killed over 100 people. How long should we wait before asking the hard questions about accountability and whether this tragedy could have been prevented?

0:00 - Theme Song

1:20 - Hot Dog Eating Content

3:30 - AI and Racism

18:10 - Church Response to Trump's "Big Beautiful Bill"

22:38 - Sponsor - No Small Endeavor - Award-winning podcast where theologians, philosophers, and best-selling authors talk about faith with Lee C. Camp. Start listening today: https://pod.link/1513178238

23:52 - Employment vs Proof of Employment

52:47 - End Credits

As the Fourth of July approaches, Esau and Tish Harrison Warren reflect on what patriotism means today, especially for Christians who feel caught between critique and love of country. Then, Tish introduces the idea of "big church privilege," and explores what's gained and lost in the shift from large, well-resourced congregations to smaller, more intimate communities. Finally, they break down Peter Thiel's recent comments about stagnation, progress, and humanity's future. What happens when tech leaders try to achieve perfection without God?

0:00 - Theme Song

0:58 - 4th of July

12:16 - Small Church Privilege

26:08 - Sponsor - No Small Endeavor - Award-winning podcast where theologians, philosophers, and best-selling authors talk about faith with Lee C. Camp. Start listening today: https://pod.link/1513178238

27:35 - Peter Tiel's Eschatology

43:38 - End Credits

No new episode this week, but here are three more episodes of the HP+ exclusive series, 66 Verse to Explain the Bible. We'll be back next week with Malcolm Foley for a brand new episode. Merry Christmas!

0:00 - Producer Mike's Discount Code Challenge

2:40 - Theme Song

2:45 - Numbers

7:05 - Deuteronomy

14:30 - Sponsor - Brooklyn Bedding - For a quality mattress, go to https://www.brooklynbedding.com and use promo code ESAU to get 30% off site wide!

15:25 - Joshua

22:42 - End Credits

Marine biologist and author Rachel Jordan joins Esau McCaulley in studio to talk about her new book If the Ocean Has a Soul. They dive into the deep waters of science and theology, discussing coral reefs, climate change, and why the ocean might be one of the most overlooked witnesses to God's glory. Rachel shares how a tenth-grade biology class changed her life, how she navigates faith in scientific spaces (and vice versa), and what the church often misses about the natural world. Plus: jellyfish football teams, Titanic conspiracies, and the surprising spirituality of sea creatures.

0:00 - Theme Song

0:52 - Low-Stakes Conspiracy Theory

6:07 - Aquatic Sports Mascots

17:18 - Sponsor - No Small Endeavor - Award-winning podcast where theologians, philosophers, and best-selling authors talk about faith with Lee C. Camp. Start listening today: https://pod.link/1513178238

18:35 - Scientists and Faith

26:12 - The Ocean and God's Glory

32:35 - Can Fish Talk?

46:25 - End Credits

If the Ocean Has a Soul: A Marine Biologist's Pursuit of Truth through Deep Waters of Faith and Science by Rachel G. Jordan: https://a.co/d/f0hLtQZ

Pastor and author Sharon Hodde Miller joins Esau McCaulley for a surprising conversation about the live-action Lilo & Stitch and how a children's film quietly captures the realities of single motherhood, economic pressure, and communal grace. Then, Esau and Sharon talk about the challenges of pastoring in a polarizing time and how their online persona compares to their pastoral persona. Also, we have a Disney movie draft and a winner is declared.

0:00 - Theme Song

1:25 - Disney Movie Draft

13:40 - Lilo and Stitch

15:48 - Why Does Sharon Prefer the Remake?

22:42 - Single Motherhood

25:03 - Sponsor - No Small Endeavor - Award-winning podcast where theologians, philosophers, and best-selling authors talk about faith with Lee C. Camp. Start listening today: https://pod.link/1513178238

27:10 - Being a Pastor with a Platform

40:45 - Free of Me

50:36 - End Credits

Free of Me: Why Life is Better When It's Not About You by Sharon Hodde Miller:

https://www.amazon.com/dp/0801075238?ref_=cm_sw_r_ffobk_cp_ud_dp_R7GWYC5AW573Y1AZXT64&bestFormat=true

It's officially summer, and things are heating up. Esau is joined by Justin Giboney and producer Mike to swap summer playlists, celebrate Kirk Franklin's unexpected honor at the BET Awards, talk about what kids should do during the summer, and unpack the recent protests in Los Angeles following aggressive ICE raids. What does faithful protest look like? How do Christians respond when political theater overshadows human dignity? And can you really call it a cookout without Earth, Wind & Fire?

0:00 - Theme Song

1:17 - Cookout Playlist Mount Rushmore

5:35 - BET Music Awards and Kirk Franklin

11:55 - Kid Rock

18:36 - Sponsor - No Small Endeavor - Award-winning podcast where theologians, philosophers, and best-selling authors talk about faith with Lee C. Camp. Start listening today: https://pod.link/1513178238

19:46 - Summer Protests

38:30 - Coco Gauff and Black Accomplishment

46:12 - End Credits

NBA Finals. Trump's sledgehammer policies. A Bible debate over sex. Esau, Justin Giboney, and Producer Mike truly tackle it all this week. First, why do small markets (and small churches) keep getting overlooked? Then, what's really driving the fight over international students on U.S. campuses? Also, a popular pastor claims the Bible does not say sex before marriage is wrong, but we aren't convinced. Finally, sports heartbreak, Taylor Swift, and Mike (kind of) makes his co-host debut.

1:04 - NBA Finals and Small Markets/Churches

9:22 - The Bible Sexual Immorality Debate

25:11 - Mike's Corner: International Students on Campus and Trump

46:48 - Taylor Swift

Elite universities are trying something new, or maybe not so new. To attract more conservative faculty, they're adopting diversity strategies once used to support marginalized communities. So now that DEI is working for the right, is it still "woke"? Plus, fake Pope quotes are everywhere. Why is everyone trying to make the new Pope say what they want to hear? And in other news: a plantation burns, prom has officially lost its mind, and Producer Mike is in need of some friends.

0:00 - Theme Song

2:11 - Big Budget Proms

14:18 - Sponsor - No Small Endeavor - Award-winning podcast where theologians, philosophers, and best-selling authors talk about faith with Lee C. Camp. Start listening today: https://pod.link/1513178238

15:40 - Fake Pope Quotes

25:18 - DEI for Conservatives

39:51 - The Plantation Fire

47:12 - End Credits

Author and mother of six, Katie Blackburn joins Esau for a conversation around single parenting, disability, and faith. Katie shares her experience raising a son with severe autism, the grief and grace that come with it, and how the church has responded, sometimes with welcome, other times with unintentional exclusion. Together, they explore why single parents and families affected by disability often feel unseen in church spaces, and what communities can do to change that. They also talk about Katie's new children's book The Very Best Baseball Game, inspired by a local disability league, and how stories can help us better understand diversity, empathy, and belonging.

0:00 - Show Starts

2:15 - Mount Rushmore of Family Films

7:55 - Single Motherhood

10:42 - Writing as Therapy

18:09 - Sponsor - No Small Endeavor - Award-winning podcast where theologians, philosophers, and best-selling authors talk about faith with Lee C. Camp. Start listening today: https://pod.link/1513178238

19:21 - Church with Single People

24:28 - The Very Best Baseball Game

33:20 - What Can Churches Do for Disabled Children?

42:38 - End Credits

Why does everything feel like a reboot? In this episode, Esau is joined by producer Mike and historian Malcolm Foley for a wide-ranging conversation on the current state of American pop culture. From promising films like Sinners and Thunderbolts to the creative fatigue behind endless reboots and auto-tuned algorithms, they explore whether we're stuck in a cycle of stagnation and cynicism, and why Beyoncé's country album might provide a glimmer of hope for the future of the pop culture industry.

0:00 - Show Starts

0:45 - Theme Song

2:55 - Uninformed Takes on Ryan Coogler's Sinners

10:16 - Movies with Anit-Christian Elements?

18:16 - Worst Pop Culture Era

26:15 - How in-Person Classes Change Things

33:55 - Revitalization of Pop Culture

47:15 - End Credits

Everyone needs a life coach sometimes and Esau is here to play the role. In today's episode, he answers the internet's questions about friendship, marriage, calling, AI, church, and, yes, the ethics of eating your kid's leftovers. Joined by Producer Mike and Holy Post Community Coordinator Emerson, the trio tackles everything from existential crises to the proper number of slices you're allowed to take from a pie. Whether you're wondering how to make friends as a tired parent or if your marriage is weird because you don't fight, Esau's got takes, and lots of them.

0:00 - Theme Song

2:10 - Are Leftovers Fair Game?

5:32 - A.I. and Writing Careers

9:50 - Adult Friendships

17:35 - A Marriage with No Fights?

21:45 - Sponsor - Northern Seminary - Through Taste of Northern, you can experience the richness of a theological education for free, with leading New Testament scholars. Visit https://www.seminary.edu/taste to join a class today!

23:08 - Unfulfilling Job

35:18 - Is four "a few?"

37:45 - Church Disappointment

47:00 - End Credits

0:00 - Theme Song

2:03 - Last Time Your Church Made You Feel Loved

7:10 - Paul and Love?

13:50 - Sponsor - No Small Endeavor - Award-winning podcast where theologians, philosophers, and best-selling authors talk about faith with Lee C. Camp. Start listening today: https://pod.link/1513178238

14:50 - Sponsor - Fabric by Gerber Life - Join the thousands of parents who trust Fabric to protect their family. Apply today in just minutes at https://www.meetfabric.com/ESAU

17:00 - The Bible's Emotional!

27:50 - Covenant vs. Court

40:04 - Was He Rehabilitating Paul's Image?

49:32 - End Credits

The Affections of Christ Jesus: Love at the Heart of Paul's Theology by NIjay Gupta: https://a.co/d/82LsTS0

Paul and the Language of Faith by Nijay Gupta: https://a.co/d/bROX4lx

My Hill to Die On - In-N-Out Burger is Overrated:

https://www.patreon.com/posts/my-hill-to-die-n-125861271

Why do some successful people inspire us while others ignite our outrage? Esau is joined by John Onwuchekwa to unpack our complicated relationship with wealth, celebrity, and privilege. From Katy Perry and her trip to space, to Deon Sanders' son, Shedeur Sanders' jersey retirement controversy, we explore what our inconsistent reactions reveal about ourselves and what we prioritize. Also, we introduce a brand new segment - Low Stakes Conspiracy Theories. Mike wonders if Stevie Wonder is actually blind and John is just asking if we actually went to the moon...

0:00 - End Credits

0:34 - Low Stakes Conspiracy Theories

9:56 - Going to Space

19:56 - Sponsor - No Small Endeavor - Award-winning podcast where theologians, philosophers, and best-selling authors talk about faith with Lee C. Camp. Start listening today: https://pod.link/1513178238

33:35 - Fantastic Four Trailer

48:12 - End Credits

We Go On by John Onwuchekwa: https://a.co/d/5BRpREP

In the wake of the tragic murder of Rob and Michele Reiner, Trump's response on Truth Social reveals a striking lack of empathy. Esau, Mike, and Justin Giboney reflect on how his reaction once again exposes a failure of compassion at the highest level of leadership.

Then the conversation turns to Wake Up Dead Man, the latest film in the Knives Out franchise, which unexpectedly offers a sharp and thoughtful portrayal of Christianity in America. What does the movie get right about sin, confession, and grace, and could it be one of the most theologically insightful secular films in years?

0:00 - Theme Song

3:33 - Christmas Movie Character Equivalents

10:05 - Wake Up Dead Man

22:48 - Sponsor - Exclusive $45-off Carver Mat at https://www.AuraFrames.com. Use code ESAU at checkout to save!

23:50 - Sponsor - Tyndale - The Life Application Study Bible is here to give you resources to help you understand why scripture matters and how it applies today! Check it out now at:

https://www.tyndale.com/sites/lasb/?utm_campaign=Bibles%20-%20NLT%20Life%20Applicati[…]ource=Holy%20Post%20Podcast&utm_medium=Microsite%20Nov%202025

24:48 - Trump on the Reiner Murder

34:30 - Australia and Gun Laws

Esau Article on School Shootings:

https://www.nytimes.com/2023/03/28/opinion/how-can-we-be-a-country-that-does-this-to-our-children.html

What if the resurrection isn't just a matter of faith—but of history? In this special Holy Week episode, Esau McCaulley sits down with New Testament scholar Craig Keener to explore the historical evidence for Jesus' crucifixion and resurrection, Rome's brutal use of the cross, and why the earliest witnesses to the empty tomb were women. They also reflect on the personal and political meaning of the cross, and how the resurrection reshapes our understanding of suffering, hope, and what it means to be human.

0:00 - Theme Song

11:11 - Crucifixion in the Ancient World

20:28 - Sponsor - No Small Endeavor - Award-winning podcast where theologians, philosophers, and best-selling authors talk about faith with Lee C. Camp. Start listening today: https://pod.link/1513178238

25:25 - The Woman and the Empty Tomb

35:00 - Romans and Afterworld Belief

40:50 - The Importance of the Crown of Thorns

44:46 - End Credits

DEI is all over the news right now. The Right hates it and the Left idolizes it, but what if there was a different way to approach the controversial topic? Esau McCaulley is joined by writer and cultural commentator Marie Beecham for a candid conversation about what happens when DEI and antiracism efforts go off the rails—and what it looks like to chart a better path forward. They talk about Marie's journey through progressive anti-racism, her disillusionment with parts of the movement, and how her faith shaped a more nuanced, hopeful approach. 

Want to hear more from Marie? Listen to her podcast, Know Better Do Better.
https://mariebeecham.com/podcast

0:00 - Theme Song

13:00 - Faith and Racial Justice

20:06 - Sponsor - Northern Seminary - Through Taste of Northern, you can experience the richness of a theological education for free, with leading New Testament scholars. Visit https://www.seminary.edu/taste to join a class today!

22:10 - Ignoring Relevancy

39:25 - DEI

46:50 - Moment of Cultural Shame

52:05 - End Credits

Esau, Justin Giboney, and Tish Harrison Warren explore the recent Target boycott led by Black church leaders during Lent and what it reveals about how Christians think (or don't think) about money. They unpack the role of ethical spending, the challenges of discipleship in a convenience-driven culture, and whether the Church should be speaking more directly about where and how we spend. Along the way: the Barbie Movie is Christian, nature is good, and Lebron broke Esau's heart.

Holy Post Plus:

Esau McCaulley on Podcast on Negative World:

https://www.patreon.com/posts/125787958/

0:00 - Theme Song

3:13 - Barbie is a Christian Movie?

8:35 - The Target boycott

17:35 - Sponsor - No Small Endeavor - Award-winning podcast where theologians, philosophers, and best-selling authors talk about faith with Lee C. Camp. Start listening today: https://pod.link/1513178238

22:56 - Marvin Sapp and Tithing

39:08 - Lebron broke Esau's heart

43:35 - End Credits

Sarita Lyons is here to tell us about her book, Church Girl. She and Esau talk about her journey, from how she was pulled from her faith to what brought her back. She explains why she wrote a book specifically about being a Black Christian woman and why that specificity matters. And, this week in Holy Sports, should there be spaces where you can't discuss race and politics?

0:00 - Sponsor - Fabric by Gerber Life - Join the thousands of parents who trust Fabric to protect their family. Apply today in just minutes at https://www.meetfabric.com/ESAU

2:00 - Theme Song

3:31 - Are You Washed, Church Girl Edition

10:15 - Can You Separate Accomplishments from Race?

18:52 - Church Girl and Coming Back to Jesus

38:25 - Favorite chapter of Church Girl

47:53 - End Credits

Church Girl: A Gospel Vision to Encourage and Challenge Black Christian Women by Sarita T. Lyons: https://a.co/d/5zt4gfM

LeBron James made headlines for confronting ESPN's Stephen A. Smith after criticism of his son, Bronny. Esau and Malcolm Foley unpack the moment and ask: What's a parent's role in their child's success, and when does helping become too much? They also explore the growing backlash against empathy and wrestle with how we should use power and privilege for the good of others. Plus, in our new "Freezing Cold Takes" segment, we admit seasonal depression is real… and maybe soccer is actually good?

0:34 - Show Begins

1:20 - Freezing Cold Takes

6:05 - Holy Sports

17:52 - The Sin of Empathy Book

26:27 - Is This a Real Problem?

38:45 - Our Moment of Cultural Shame

44:14 - End Credits

The internet has become an angry place, but how did it get here and is there any fixing it? Esau is joined by Hannah Anderson and Hannah King to unpack why everyone on the timeline seems ready to fight, how rage has become its own online currency, and whether we're all just really, really lonely. Also, Esau may or may not have tried a social media experiment that has now turned into an ethical crisis.

Rolling Stones Article on Rage Bait:

https://www.rollingstone.com/culture/culture-features/what-is-rage-bait-influencers-making-people-angry-1234976621/

Goodbye Billy Graham and Tim Keller. Hello...um...well, we're not sure. Esau McCaulley is joined by Justin Giboney and Tish Harrison Warren to discuss whether Christianity still has a public face, or if the era of unifying spiritual leaders is over. They explore the rise of social media influencers in faith spaces, why young people may be returning to church, and whether the church is fairly represented in the media. Plus, they share why there's still reason for hope, even in a time of overwhelming bad news.

- Sponsor - Fabric by Gerber Life - Join the thousands of parents who trust Fabric to protect their family. Apply today in just minutes at https://www.meetfabric.com/ESAU

For too long, the history of Black Christianity in America has been told in incomplete or misleading ways. Esau sits down with theologian and author Walter Strickland to discuss his new book, Swing Low: A History of Black Christianity in the United States. They explore the theological foundations of the Black church, the overlooked figures who shaped its legacy, and why its story is about more than just politics.

Swing Low, volume 1: A History of Black Christianity in the United States by Walter Strickland - https://a.co/d/0Q4YUJr

Sponsor - Fabric by Gerber Life - Join the thousands of parents who trust Fabric to help protect their family - www.meetfabric.com/ESAU

What really happened at the Council of Nicaea? Did Constantine force Christians to declare Jesus as God? Was the Bible invented there? And why does the Nicene Creed still matter today? Esau McCaulley sits down with Dr. George Kalantzis, Professor of Theology at Wheaton College, to clear up the biggest misconceptions about Nicaea, the divinity of Christ, and the role of the early church in shaping Christian belief. They also discuss why the early Romans thought Christianity was too "soft,"  and how the church resisted the empire.

What's it like being married to someone the internet loves to hate? Esau McCaulley sits down with Nancy French (wife of David French) and Jonathan Warren (husband of Tish Harrison Warren) to talk about love, marriage, and surviving the chaos of public life. From meeting their spouses in unexpected ways to navigating online backlash, they share candid stories, hilarious moments, and hard-won wisdom on commitment, faith, and keeping your sanity when strangers have opinions about your relationship. Plus, a deep dive into romantic comedies, an impromptu marriage advice segment, and a surprise cameo from Esau's wife, Mandy.

Esau is live in Boston with producer Mike and Dr. Amy Peeler for a conversation on whether today's chaos means we're living in the end times. Amy and Esau talk about how Christians should think about apocalyptic anxiety, why every generation believes it's the generation, and what Scripture actually gives us—hope, perseverance, and a call to faithfulness. Then, Amy and Esau talk about how they manage being a scholar and a pastor, past regrets they have, and Amy's former life as a tv commercial star.

Q&A Bonus Segment on Holy Post Plus:

https://www.patreon.com/posts/145553700/

0:00 - Theme Song

7:30 - Are We in the End Times?

15:00 - America and Eschatology

20:00 - Sponsor - Exclusive $45-off Carver Mat at https://www.AuraFrames.com. Use code ESAU at checkout to save!

21:03 - Sponsor - Tyndale - The Life Application Study Bible is here to give you resources to help you understand why scripture matters and how it applies today! Check it out now at:

https://www.tyndale.com/sites/lasb/?utm_campaign=Bibles%20-%20NLT%20Life%20Applicati[…]ource=Holy%20Post%20Podcast&utm_medium=Microsite%20Nov%202025

22:10 - Scholars and Pastors

30:35 - How Learning Adds Depth to Faith

39:30 - Being a Pastor in Scotland

42:47 - What We Learn from Hebrews

51:37 - End Credits

Amy (Beverage) Peeler's Commercial:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-dXsbEtUq9E

For years, we've been told that racism is about hate. But what if it's actually about money? Like… a lot of money? Esau McCaulley sits down with Dr. Malcolm Foley—historian, author, and expert on racial violence—to break down how greed, not just racism, has been running the show all along. From lynchings as economic control to modern capitalism's obsession with exploitation, we follow the money and ask: Why does nobody preach about greed? What did Ida B. Wells figure out that we keep ignoring? And how did Frederick Douglass have better jokes about injustice than we do now?

Anti-Greed Gospel: Why the Love of Money Is the Root of Racism and How the Church Can Create a New Way Forward by Malcolm Foley: https://a.co/d/aMG5CNy

When disaster strikes, what should Christians do? Esau sits down with Jamie Aten, a disaster relief expert, and the Blanchard Chair of Humanitarian and Disaster Leadership at Wheaton College. They talk about the devastating wildfires in California, how climate change and policy decisions are making disasters worse, and why churches play a crucial role in relief efforts.

List of Ways to Contribute:

https://www.holypost.com/post/ways-to-contribute-to-la-fire-relief

What happens when a Korean drama holds up a mirror to the world? Esau sits down with Cultural Critic, Rebecca Sun to talk about Squid Game—the Netflix phenomenon that just released its second season. Esau and Rebecca break down how the show's brutal, beautifully shot narrative forces us to wrestle with big questions: What is the show actually saying about capitalism? What happens when art critiques its own existence? And what does Squid Game's creator really want us to take away from all the chaos?

Rebecca Sun's Articles:

There's a Reason 'Squid Game' Hit a Global Nerve"

https://www.nytimes.com/2025/01/04/opinion/squid-game-season-2-essential-twist.html

'Squid Game' Returns: Inside Netflix's Darker, Terrifyingly Relevant Season 2:

https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/tv/tv-features/squid-game-season-two-creator-lee-jung-jae-interview-1236058780/