Not Religious Podcast

*Originally Aired June 5, 2020* These are scary times. In the midst of a global pandemic, more videos have surfaced of senseless killings that resulted from racial profiling. In this episode, we celebrate the lives of George Floyd, Ahmaud Arbery, and others who’s time was cut short in such devastating ways. We’ll also get into our thoughts on the protests, the “All Lives Matter” comments, and what you can do to make a difference. **we do not own any of the music used in this episode and no copyright infringement is intended**

Well, it happened again. Another Christian musician is claiming that they don’t believe in God anymore. And as usual, the response from the Christian community is very negative. Instead of hoping for the best for Jon Steingard (lead singer of Hawk Nelson), some fans are turning their backs on the band and getting rid of all their music. We’ll get into why we think this is a common occurrence these days, try to dissect his decision to turn away from Christianity, and our thoughts on obligations in the faith. Also, YOU CAN GO TO CONCERTS AGAIN...if you have a fancy hazmat suit. Bring on the summer festivals!! **we do not own any of the music used in this episode and no copyright infringement is intended**

The fifth and final installment (for now, at least) of our Megachurch series is here and ready to be streamed. We’re going down under this week as we take a look into Hillsong Church. Everything from the
80 affiliated campuses around the world, to the controversial hiccups, to the music OF COURSE! Also, we tell the heart-felt tale of a marriage on the rocks saved by a “synthetic partner.” Aaaaand we’re celebrating 20,000 streams! **we do not own any of the music used in this episode and no copyright infringement is intended**

Welcome to the fourth installment of our Megachurch series! This week, we’re learning about the rise and fall of Mars Hill in Seattle. The controversy cup overfloweth with this place. Even though Mars Hill is long gone, former pastor Mark Driscoll is still in ministry to this day, but we’ll take a look back at all of his antics including plagiarism, bullying, and his favorite form of punishment-SHUNNING PEOPLE! Also, Aliens really do exist according to the pentagon and we can all thank Tom Delonge. **we do not own any of the music used in this episode and no copyright infringement is intended**

Part tres of our Megachurches series is up in your feeds! This week, we’re exploring the good, the bad, and the ugly of Elevation Church. You most likely know who Steven Furtick is. And if you don’t, take a look at the @preachersnsneakers page. He shows up quite a bit BUT THE DRIP NEVER STOPS 👟 They’re known for their generous outreach programs, but the not everyone is on board with this influential church. Also, we talk about an LA mother who found an old photo of her family on Facebook and apparently they’re all dead? **we do not own any of the music used in this episode and no copyright infringement is intended**

Welcome to the 2nd installment of our Megachurch series! We’re keeping it in our home state this time. Join us as we dive into a church that is no stranger to controversy, NewSpring Church. Perry Noble was able to put together the largest church in South Carolina, but just couldn’t seem to hold on to it forever. It’s the ultimate story of success, rock bottom, redemption, and, of course, grace. Plus, the news story of a pastor that claimed to have machines capable of curing the coronavirus and ignored orders of social distancing. **we do not own any of the music used in this episode and no copyright infringement is intended**

WE’RE BACK!! 🎉 After almost a month off due to circumstances beyond our control, we’re finally back to usher in the first part of our Megachurches series. Join us as we dive into the history, beliefs, and controversies surrounding Lakewood Church. Pastored by everyones favorite televangelist and prosperity preacher Joel Osteen, Lakewood has been in the public eye for a while now. We’ll tackle some of the most well-known stories involving the church and Osteen himself. 🎶 Discover the champion in you! 🎶 **we do not own any of the music used in this episode and no copyright infringement is intended**

Churches are popping up left and right these days. Megachurches are slowly on the rise as well. After a listener sent in a video of a YouTuber visiting a megachurch with cultish vibes, she asked if churches have the right idea in striving to become a megachurch. We answered her by making a whole episode out of it. 😀 We’re weighing out the pros and cons of the modern day megachurch and attempt to break down how we really feel about them. **we do not own any of the music used in this episode and no copyright infringement is intended**

Happy Valentine’s Day! Nothing says “I love you” like diving into some wild conspiracies surrounding the coronavirus that’s all up in the news right now. But have you noticed the trend that we have massive outbreaks of disease and then suddenly, they’re GONE?! Don’t worry, we’ll get into that. Also, some conspiracies surrounding the disease and its origins. Plus, the finger-lickin’ KFC/Crocs mashup you didn’t know you needed. **we do not own any of the music used in this episode and no copyright infringement is intended**

In case you missed it, there was a football game last weekend. Jennifer Lopez and Shakira were the performers for the halftime show. During the halftime show, they did what any singer/dancer would do and sang/danced. But the response from the Christian community was, of course, quite negative. Not everyone thought it was too risqué though. In fact, some praised it for multiple reasons. But what does the Bible really say about modesty? This leads us to a deep discussion about “modesty culture” and where everyone’s getting it wrong. **we do not own the music used in this episode and no copyright infringement is intended**

It didn’t take very long for Bethel Church in Redding, CA to make its way back into our show. This time, they’re drawing some attention to themselves after praying for God to raise a little girl from the dead. After she didn’t wake up, the whole ordeal was swept under the rug, but we felt like this was something that needs to be discussed. Is it a lack of faith on our side? Or are they just a little “Cuckoo for Cocoa Puffs?” Also, we have a special message from our friend Michael Pulser (Personal Upgrade Podcast) regarding the Australian bushfires. **we do not own the music used in this episode and no copyright infringement is intended**

Happy New Year! Yeah, we’re a little late. But 2020 is here and we wanted to update everyone on what’s to come this year. What better time to record than on the way home from the amazing Emery and Hawthorne Heights we just witnessed?! 🤯 Get ready for a great year with NRP!

It’s that time of year again, you filthy animals! We’re back this week with another NRP Christmas Bracket Showdown to determine the greatest Christmas movie of all time. We compiled a list of your favorite movies and narrowed it down to one movie that takes the fruit cake. HA! See who came out on top and enjoy a little nostalgia along the way. **we do not own any of the music used in this episode and no copyright infringement is intended**

We’re back after a little bit of a break and much contemplation about the heaviest topic we’ve ever covered: will committing suicide send you to hell? WOAH. We took some extra time to research suicide in the Bible, viewpoints from different religions, and more importantly, would it prevent you from getting into heaven? Also in this episode: Celine Dion’s satanic clothing line for kids and our undying love for The Greatest Showman. 🎩 **we do not own any of the music used in this episode and no copyright infringement is intended**

Happy Thanksgiving! We figured you might need a little something to ponder on while the holiday break closes out. With all the boycotting threats and misconstrued information floating around, we really wanted to explain what’s going on with Chick-fil-A, not just what you’ve heard Greg Locke ramble about. **we do not own any of the music used in this episode and no copyright infringement is intended**

If you’re still scratching your head trying to think of who Keith Getty is, don’t worry, so are we. He’s a Christian music artist himself, but Getty believes that we need to get back to the good ol’ days of writing hymns because modern worship and contemporary Christian music is “utterly dangerous” and “de-Christianizing God’s people.” Could Keith Getty just be super jealous of the successful careers of those like Hillsong United or even Kanye West? Take a listen and let us know what you think! **we do not own the music used in this episode and no copyright infringement is intended**

Happy Halloween! Our Spooky Series concludes this week with our deep dive into the history of the Ouija Board and it’s use of communicating with the dead. Already creeped out? Just wait, it gets worse. Brian tells us his own personal experience with using one in high school and it’s sure to give you the heebie jeebies. Stay Spooky! **we do not own any of the music used in this episode and no copyright infringement is intended**

As we near the end of our Halloween series for this month, we wanted to revisit our zombie apocalypse episode from last year. Fire up the ol’ time machine once again as we learn about the possibility of it ACTUALLY happening, what the government is prepared to do, and, of course, vegan zombies. **we do not own any of the music used in this episode and no copyright infringement is intended**

To continue our Halloween series for this month, we revamped our Hell House episode from last year. It’s no surprise that many churches do not support Halloween or haunted houses. Instead, they came up with a way to draw in the secular crowd by creating “Hell Houses” in order to scare people into salvation. These houses use dramas with scenes of mass shootings, abortions, and a visit to Hell in hopes of converting people to Christianity. Some call it a ministry, others call it a joke. Take a listen and decide for yourself! **we do not own the music used in this episode and no copyright infringement is intended**

There’s two groups of people that we can thank for the Halloween that we know and love today: the Irish and Christians. That’s right. Christians. But wait a second? Aren’t most Christians detested by the celebration of this pagan holiday? Well friends, let us explain to you how we can actually thank the Christian church for preserving All Hallows’ Eve. On this episode, we’ll learn about Samhain, Halloween symbolism origins, where the traditions started, and old myths that have been debunked.
**we do not own the music used in this episode and no copyright infringement is intended**

...I mean, probably not. But there’s an awful lot of similarities between Kanye’s Sunday Service and the Rajneesh Movement. Our failed attempt at uploading an episode last week led to us doing more research on Kanye West’s new endeavors and honestly, we’re glad we did. Hear about what we discovered, find out about Justin Bieber’s possible new Christian album, and Blake’s rant about lazy church folk who don’t wanna work on Sundays. **we do not own any of the music used in this episode and no copyright infringement is intended**

So we watched “The Family” on Netflix and honestly, we’re shook. Being suckers for conspiracies and secret organizations, a documentary series about a Christian group living in the shadows with multiple political figures thrown in the mix just tickles our fancy. We’ll discuss the history of The Fellowship, who was involved, how controversies were handled, and exactly what they mean by “Jesus plus nothing.”
**we do not own the music used in this episode and no copyright infringement is intended**

Hey there, planet earth. Miss us? Of course you did. Fret not ‘cause we’re baaaack! With all the recent controversy surrounding Marty Sampson and his “abandonment of Christianity,” we felt the need to address this AGAIN since the man just said that he still loves Jesus. We’ll get into what John Cooper (Skillet) had to say about young Christian leaders and their apostasy, hear Blake butcher Priscilla Shirer’s last name, and ghost pirates weddings that’ll melt your heart. 💑🏴‍☠️ **we do not own the music used in this episode and no copyright infringement is intended**

We’re in the big state of Texas this week (because we’re great husbands) and we had the pleasure of meeting up with our good friend Eric Doral from California. He’s been a supporter of the podcast since our early beginnings and just a hella good dude. We talk about how things are done differently on the west coast when it comes to Christianity, uncover some more disturbing Bethel stuff, and touch on the SUPER recent Marty Sampson controversy. **we do not own any of the music used in this episode and no copyright infringement is intended**

The Christian community lost their friggin’ minds this week when former pastor/Christian author Joshua Harris renounced his faith by saying that he wasn’t a Christian by definition. But there is no evidence anywhere that suggests he no longer believes in God or doesn’t have a personal relationship with Him anymore. Also, we discuss the band Gideon and how they dropped the Christian title and created their best album yet. **we do not own any of the music used in this episode and no copyright infringement is intended**

This week on NRP, we’re taking a look at Mary Magdalene and how much the church has downplayed her importance in the story of Jesus. Was she really a prostitute? Was she married to Jesus? Does it really even matter? Also, we use the first half of this episode to dive into Americanism and how it’s becoming a religion in itself. **we do not own any of the music used in this episode and no copyright infringement is intended**

WE FINALLY DID IT! 👽 With the recent surge in popularity, we used our 51st episode to geek out about aliens and tell all you fine folks about Area 51. Bob Lazar, Art Bell’s mystery caller(s), the government pulling all funding from the Independence Day movie, the list goes on. There’s tons of mystery surrounding Area 51 and we’re only scratching the surface this week. Also, we get into a discussion about how God is an extraterrestrial. 🤯 **we do not own any of the music used in this episode and no copyright infringement is intended**

It’s the fourth installment of our ongoing Conspiracy Theories series! We took some of our favorite music conspiracies and made one huge sandwich that Mama Cass may or may not have choked on. We’re covering tons this week! Did Elvis fake his death? Did David Bowie predict the rise of Kanye West? Did Phil Collins really watch a man drown and then decide to write an air drummers anthem? It’s all here folks and we can’t wait to fill you in. 😀 Also, we’ll have a brief history lesson on the origins of America in the Bible. Just in case you were too busy stuffing your face with hotdogs. 🇺🇸 **we do not own any of the music used in this episode and no copyright infringement is intended**

We’re sure you’ve heard about the recent story of Grayson Fritts, the Knoxville preacher/detective who went on a rant during one of his sermons about how all homosexuals should be executed by the government. This week, we’re taking a dive into his background with law enforcement, his church’s doctrinal statement, and try to piece together how preaching hate can be justified in the eyes of some Christians. Also, we learn about the dangers of keeping a meth-fueled attack squirrel in your apartment is actually a bad idea. **we do not own any of the music used in this episode and no copyright infringement is intended**

If this podcast was a hockey game, this would be our hat trick. Three guests in a row! This week, our good buddy Andrew Johansen returns to talk about whatever we want. He had no idea what the topic was for this week, so we put him in the hot seat and played 20 Questions. We cover everything from dinosaurs, superheroes, aliens, and a heck of a lot more. Enjoy! **we do not own any of the music used in this episode and no copyright infringement is intended**

Happy Father’s Day, Daddio’s! The one, the only, the beardful Travis Curry returns this week to talk all about fatherhood and what it’s like being a single dad. We’ll get into Brian’s experience with fatherhood, and Blake’s difficulty of losing a dad at a young age. Also, we read a review from another mystery texter who had some harsh words about the podcast. **we do not own the music used in this episode and no copyright infringement is intended**

Feelin’ HOT HOT HOT! 🔥 Well...kinda. This week, we’re taking a deep dive into scripture for some answers on Hell. Is it really a place of eternal conscious torment? Or is it the ultimate finality? Orrrr was it a metaphor used by Jesus? Where is it and who exactly will spend all of eternity burning in it? So many questions! Good thing our friend Claire Estep was in town and stopped by for a chat to help answer some of these. Crank those AC/DC jams and lets get into it! 😈 **we do not own any of the music used in this episode and no copyright infringement is intended**

This week, we’re talking all about EVOLUTION. Theistic evolution, that is. Maybe God created the Big Bang? You’re sweating bullets, we know. But hear us out! It’s not as far fetched as you’d think. Also, we’re looking at the “Missing Link” and how it all comes back to, you guessed it...aliens. 👽 So sit back, chug some cold brew, and let’s get into it. The Lord definitely intervened this week. 🕊 **we do not own any of the music used in this episode and no copyright infringement is intended**

It’s obvious that white evangelicals cannot get enough of Donald Trump. But what’s the appeal? Someone who is prone to cruelty, bigotry, vanity, adultery and serial deception doesn’t fit the mold for what they consider a righteous leader. Today we take a deep dive into President Trump’s antics and try to piece together their obsession. 🇺🇸 Side note: sincerest apologies for Brian’s audio towards the end. But does anyone find it funny that it happened when we started talking about Hillary Clinton? 🤔 **we do not own the music used in this episode and no copyright infringement is intended**

Some people just do not need Facebook. With the changing of the times, more and more Christian websites are inspired to write articles that mislead their readers. Wait a second-Christians? Misleading?? 😱 Shocking, right? All in hopes of generating some traffic, getting a ton of shares, and hopefully having the comment section erupt. This week, we basically go on one long rant about the dangers of Christians not investing more research into these articles before sharing them on their own Facebooks in hopes of “stirring the pot.” **we do not own any of the music used in this episode and no copyright infringement is intended**

WAKEY WAKEY! We’re back this week with a brand spankin’ new episode about Bethel Church in Redding, CA. Could it be that this well-known megachurch is a cult? While this isn’t a seventh installment of our CULTS series, we did find some information about Bethel’s School of Supernatural Ministry and it was a little concerning. Take a listen and decide for yourself. Robot Dave encourages you. 🤖 **we do not own any of the music used in this episode and no copyright infringement is intended**

Cha-ching!! 💰 That’s right folks. We are currently knee-deep in K-LOVE’s semi annual Pledge Drive and if you haven’t had the urge to change the station, you’ve heard them beg for your $40 a month so you can “keep your K-LOVE on the air.” SPOILER ALERT 🚨: They’re doing just fine. Join us this week as we dive into the Christian radio giants annoying tactics for getting some cash flow and find out where all that money is really going. *we do not own any of the music used in this episode and no copyright infringement is intended**

As we wrap up our Easter series, we conclude with our favorite subject: music! 🎶 We’ve seen the stress surrounding worship leaders as they prepare for Easter Sunday, but maybe you haven’t. In fact, you may not think it’s that big of a deal at all. Well sit back and let us fill you in on just how big of a deal it is, ya jerk. We’re also doing a walkthrough of the top 10 songs selected by Hillsong for Easter. And yes, some are cringe-worthy. 😬 **we do not own any of the music used in this episode and no copyright infringement is intended**

As Easter approaches, churches all across the world are gearing up for the largest church attendance they’ll see all year. Some will have regular sermons, some will have sunrise services, and some will put on dramas. But is there still a need to have a re-enactment of the Easter story that people already know? We’re diving into the many methods approached by churches on Easter in order to make an impact and trying to find the intentions. **we do not own any of the music used in this episode and no copyright infringement is intended**

It’s April! Spring has sprung, pastel colors are everywhere, and the pollen is literally killing Blake. But all this means that Easter is rapidly approaching! And guess what. We got its origin all wrong! Imagine that. This week, we’re looking at the most notable Easter traditions and their pagan roots. That’s right! One of Christianity’s most loved holidays takes it name from the spring goddess Eostre..but there’s so much more! Settle on in and get ready for Easter themed episodes all this month! **we do not own any of the music used in this episode**

You may be familiar with the story of John Chau. He felt led to evangelize to the isolated people of North Sentinel Island. After many warnings of danger ahead, Chau met his demise at the hands of the Sentinelese people for trying to invade their land. So the big question is, should John Chau have just left them alone? We’re taking a look at Chau’s story and the motivation of many modern day missionaries. Is it ministry or a gimmick? **we do not own any of the music used in this episode and no copyright infringement is intended**

It’s been a long time coming, but we are finally covering the Westboro Baptist Church! Oh yes. That hate-filled, bigoted, sorry excuse for a church is at the center of our discussion this week as we look at the reasoning behind their protests. Apparently, they love these people more than you’d think. Who knew? 🤷‍♂️ So let’s sit back, sip on some cold brew, and prepare to be #triggered as we get into the infamous Westboro Baptist Church. **we do not own any of the music used in this episode and no copyright infringement is intended**

Do you still believe we walked on the moon in 1969? We’re willing to bet you think the earth is round too. Ever heard of chemtrails? And is fluoride making us dumber by the minute? Claire returns this week to bring us some of her favorite theories and drop some knowledge on us! So sit tight, grab some cold brew, and prepare yourselves for Conspiracy Theories part 3! **we do not own any of the music used in the episode and no copyright infringement is intended**

LET’S OPEN UP THIS PIT.. For the Lord! This episode is all about Christian Metal aka “White Metal” aka “Heavenly Metal” aka “ChristCore.”🤘 Get ready to have your faces melted as we take a look into the origins of the Christian Metal sub-genre, its rise in popularity, and what led to its ultimate demise. Also, we go on some rants about people who complain on Facebook and why parents are making life harder with this Momo Challenge scare. **we do not own any of the music used in this episode and no copyright infringement is intended**

It’s the end of the world as we know it...or is it? Let’s face it. For those who have attended a church, you’ve probably heard this a few times. Preachers have even gone so far as to predict when Jesus will return. This week, Andrew joins us to talk about the Rapture, signs of the end times, and how frustrating it is when people won’t admit that they just don’t know when it’ll happen. Eat your heart out, Kirk Cameron. **we do not own any of the music used in this episode and no copyright infringement is intended**

Believe it or not, our episodes have a purpose. After 6 weeks of cults research, it’s time to ask yourself: “Am I in a cult?” 🤔 Maybe you’ve seen some cult-like tendencies with an establishment you’re a part of and now’s a perfect time to ask some questions. Take a listen for seven strong signs that you may be in a cult and draw your own conclusions.

IT’S FINALLY HERE! 🎉 Our Cults series comes to a catastrophic ending this week as we take a look into the infamous Jim Jones and The People’s Temple, informally known as Jonestown. We’ll learn about how Jones promised a paradise to his people in Guyana, put them through absolute hell, and what ultimately led to the deaths of over 900 people. We’re also going to touch on MKUltra and the CIA involvement with the People’s Temple so prepare to have your minds blown. 🤯 Stop drinking the Kool-Aid and let’s hop right into Jonestown as we wrap up this Cults series! **we do not own any of the music used in this episode and no copyright infringement is intended**

UFOs, apple sauce, the World Wide Web...pretty much sums up what Heaven’s Gate was all about. This week in our Cults series, we’re talking all about Marshall Applewhite and how he convinced 38 people to commit suicide with him in hopes of hitching a ride on a spacecraft tailing a comet. Lace up your Nike Decades and grab favorite your purple blankie. We present to you, part 5 of our Cults series: Heaven’s Gate. 🛸 **we do not own any of the music used in this episode and no copyright infringement is intended**