Helping your church navigate the biggest communication shift in 500 years. Hosted by Brady Shearer and Alexander Mills.
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Learn how to use online marketing strategies to grow your internet presence and reach more people. The Pro Church Marketing Podcast is a podcast that brings you the latest in Church marketing and Non-Profit growth strategies. Join me as I interview Church marketing experts and share actionable tips for growing your organization. The Pro Church Marketing Podcast is designed to equip Non-Profits and Church leaders to use their website, email, social media, and online marketing to reach more pe ...
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Politics and Religion. We’re not supposed to talk about that, right? Wrong! We only say that nowadays because the loudest, most extreme voices have taken over the whole conversation. Well, we‘re taking some of that space back! If you’re dying for some dialogue instead of all the yelling; if you know it’s okay to have differences without having to hate each other; if you believe politics and religion are too important to let ”the screamers” drown out the rest of us and would love some engagin ...
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Best Church Cameras For 2025 [Great New Options!]
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34:24Our 2025 church camera buying guide is here, featuring the best new options of the year. We’ll break down top picks across mirrorless, cinema, studio, PTZ, and camcorders—plus, grab our downloadable camera catalog. 2025 CAMERA CATALOG HERE: https://prochurchtools.com/best-church-cameras-buying-guide ============================= Table of Contents: …
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How to Discuss Ukraine: First Principles, Facts, and Formulating Reasoned Positions
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33:54
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33:54In this episode we dive into the complex issue of Ukraine, America's involvement, and the broader implications for democracy and global alliances. This episode is an exploration of how we can develop reasoned positions on global conflicts, engage in informed discussions, and recognize the limitations of our own expertise. What We Discuss How to app…
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Google Ad Grant 2025 Updates (Part 1): Performance Max, AI & Church Marketing
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29:25This is the first episode in our multi-part series on how churches can navigate the new changes to Google Ad Grants in 2025! 👀 In this episode, we cover: ✅ The #1 mistake churches make with Google Ad Grants (and how to avoid it) ✅ Performance Max campaigns – what they are & how they help your church grow ✅ Why AI is a tool—not a replacement for sma…
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Rep. Ritchie Torres on Israel, Trump, and Political Extremism: A Congressman's Fight for Moral Clarity
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31:18
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31:18In this episode we sit down with Congressman Ritchie Torres, a fighter from the Bronx who has spent his life advocating for his community. We discuss pressing issues such as the social safety net, housing inequality, mental health, bipartisanship, and Rep. Torres’ personal journey from public housing to Congress. We also touch on Israel, antisemiti…
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Can we bridge the partisan divide and have constructive dialogue about politics and religion with "them" - people who have different beliefs about democracy, politics and religion? Are we able to simply have civil, civic conversations? (We're grateful to have a number of new listeners. So we thought it'd be good to revisit this episode that was fir…
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Bishop Mariann Edgar Budde on Faith, Politics, and Ethical Conversations in a Polarized Nation
1:06:54
1:06:54
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1:06:54In this timely edition of Talkin' Politics & Religion Without Killin' Each Other, host Corey Nathan welcomes Bishop Mariann Edgar Budde, the Bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of Washington, D.C., and the Washington National Cathedral. Bishop Budde is a well-respected spiritual leader who has appeared on PBS NewsHour, Meet the Press, Good Morning Amer…
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In this episode, host Corey Nathan takes on one of the biggest challenges in today’s society: toxic partisanship. He explores how political and social divisions have deepened, fueled by media, social networks, and entrenched ideological battles. But rather than just diagnosing the problem, Corey offers a powerful antidote—getting local and engaging…
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🚀 Why Churches Must Embrace Social Media for Evangelism | Pastor George Ashford & Jono Long
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28:27How can churches use social media and digital marketing to spread the gospel more effectively? In this episode, Jono Long sits down with Pastor George Ashford of Journey Church to discuss how he’s using platforms like Facebook, YouTube, and TikTok to reach more people. Pastor George shares insights from his background in marketing, the role of soci…
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Social Media's New Hack That's Actually Helpful
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32:57Recently, I made a social media discovery I never saw coming. We're calling it a hack, but that doesn't quite capture it. This isn't a shortcut—it actually makes social media more human. And for churches, it's a game changer. ============================= Table of Contents: ============================= 0:00 - Intro 0:50 - DM Automation 5:18 - Push…
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MONEY, LIES, AND GOD: INSIDE THE MOVEMENT TO DESTROY AMERICAN DEMOCRACY with author and investigative journalist Katherine Stewart
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49:26In this episode, host Corey Nathan welcomes investigative journalist and author Katherine Stewart back to the show. Katherine has spent over 15 years researching and reporting on religious nationalism and its impact on American democracy. Her new book, Money, Lies, and God: Inside the Movement to Destroy American Democracy, exposes the deep financi…
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Have Christians Forgotten the First Commandment?
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34:04In this edition, Corey Nathan challenges listeners—especially his fellow Christians—to consider whether they have forgotten the first commandment: "Thou shalt have no other gods before Me." He explores how idolatry has evolved beyond worshiping wooden idols and now manifests in politics, ideology, and the way Christians engage with their faith in a…
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Social Media for Youth Ministry: The 2025 Approach
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31:10
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31:10Here’s what’s working for youth groups on social media in 2025. We’re breaking down strategy, post ideas, and the best youth group accounts to follow for inspiration. Let’s dive in. ============================= Table of Contents: ============================= 0:00 - Intro 2:17 - Guiding Principle #1: Student Driven 9:19 - Guiding Principle #2: Sho…
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California’s Path to Independence? A Conversation about CalExit with Marcus Ruiz Evans
1:06:36
1:06:36
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1:06:36In this episode, host Corey Nathan engages in a timely and candid discussion with Marcus Ruiz Evans, the leader of the CalExit movement. Marc has been spearheading efforts to make California an independent nation for over a decade, publishing California’s Next Century 2.0 in 2012. With the California Secretary of State recently approving a petition…
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The Homeless Conservative: Blake Fischer
1:15:08
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1:15:08In this episode, host Corey Nathan sits down with Blake Fischer, the creator and host of The Homeless Conservative podcast. Blake describes himself as a constitutional conservative who feels politically "homeless" in today’s climate. They dive deep into politics, faith, and media, all while challenging ideological silos in an engaging and candid co…
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Underrated Methods To Build Reliable Church Teams
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43:58Strong teams are the backbone of every thriving church. But let’s be honest—building them isn’t always easy. Today, we’re sharing underrated strategies and practical exercises that can help your church cultivate competent, healthy teams that last. ============================= Table of Contents: ============================= 0:00 - Intro 1:45 - Gui…
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Jonathan Rauch: Christianity’s Broken Bargain with Democracy
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1:30:00In this episode, we welcome back Jonathan Rauch, senior fellow at the Brookings Institution and a contributing writer at The Atlantic. Jon joined us to discuss his new book, Cross Purposes: Christianity’s Broken Bargain with Democracy. We dive deep into the intersection of faith, democracy, and civic engagement (that's our jam!), exploring how Amer…
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Is it possible to have decent conversations across political differences. Short answer: Yeah! In this episode, host Corey Nathan explores how we can have meaningful, respectful, and productive conversations with those who think differently from us—politically, religiously, and ideologically. After four years of hosting the show and speaking with a …
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Your Toughest Church Social Media Questions Answered
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24:35Got tough church social media questions? Today, we're tackling the most obscure, specific, and church-centric challenges you won’t find answers to in search engines. Let’s bring clarity to your social strategy! ============================= Table of Contents: ============================= 0:00 - Intro 1:30 - Tips for creating a modular, welcoming, …
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Sussing out Excellent Journalism from All the Crap with Julie Mason, SiriusXM Radio Host and Former White House Reporter
59:36
59:36
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59:36In this episode, host Corey Nathan reconnects with Julie Mason, renowned journalist and host of The Julie Mason Show on SiriusXM’s POTUS channel. Julie brings decades of experience in journalism, spanning local, state, and national politics, and shares her sharp insights on the evolving media landscape, political discourse, and the state of journal…
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How Pro-Democracy Patriots Can Persist in an Anti-Democratic Time
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32:36In this episode, host Corey Nathan addresses the pressing issue of how pro-democracy patriots - the large coalition of folks who believe in this American experiment - can endure during times when anti-democratic tendencies are metastasizing. Drawing from personal experiences, philosophical insights, and cultural reflections, we explore ways of main…
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Church leadership can be challenging, especially when negativity creeps into your team. Whether it’s one disruptive member or a broader cultural issue, it’s tough to navigate. Today, we’re sharing a practical framework for both preventing and addressing these challenges, based on our combined experiences in ministry and serving churches. ==========…
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Church for the Rest of Us in a Post-Evangelical World | with Joe Smith, Lead Pastor of Shift GNV
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1:18:18Is there a church that can be for the rest of us? Are we living in a "post-evangelical" world? In this episode, we welcome Joe Smith, lead pastor of Shift GNV in Gainesville, Florida, and host of the Shift Happens Podcast. Known for creating "a church for the rest of us," Joe shares his journey through faith deconstruction and reconstruction, build…
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The L.A. Wildfires Brought Out the Best of Us and Worst of Us
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22:54What has our response been to the wildfires in Los Angeles? Frankly, it's brought out some of the worst of us. But thankfully, there have also been many heroes from LA's firefighters and firefighters who came here from neighboring counties and states, to other countries including Mexico and Canada who lent manpower, vehicles and equipment, to every…
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The Power of Storytelling in Church Marketing: Connecting People to Purpose
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35:33Join host Jono Long on the Pro Church Marketing Podcast as he chats with Jorgen Strycharz of Story Thread Media about the art of storytelling in the church. Discover how compelling narratives and community testimonies can bridge gaps, foster engagement, and amplify your church's mission. Jorgen shares actionable tips for pastors on identifying and …
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03It’s a new year, so let’s dive into the top social media trends for 2025! We’re tracking six key trends that could shape how your church engages online. And trust us, the first one is a game-changer you’re probably not expecting. ============================= Table of Contents: ============================= 0:00 - Intro 0:45 - The Anti-Trend 3:25…
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Wajahat Ali: Navigating Chaos and Divisiveness with Hope and Humanity
1:04:36
1:04:36
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1:04:36When there's such chaos amd divisiveness all around us, what can we do to cultivate a sense of hope and humanity? In this episode, we welcome back Wajahat Ali, celebrated writer, editor of The Left Hook Substack, co-host of Democracy-ish Podcast, and author. Known for his humor and insight, Waj brings his unique perspective as a father, storyteller…
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As we welcome in a new year, what is this moment about? What have we been leading up to? And what will the coming months and years be about? In this episode, Corey reflects on the importance of democracy and decency in today's polarized climate. Emphasizing respectful dialogue and the significance of national and local political involvement, we exp…
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Best of 2024 | Renovating Democracy with Danielle Allen: Democracy Advocate, Harvard Professor and Nonprofit Leader
1:02:18
1:02:18
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1:02:18(Given that yesterday was the 4 year anniversary of Jan. 6, 2021, an attempted violent disruption of the peaceful transfer of power, one of our nation's most cherished traditions, we thought it would be a good time to refresh our conversation with Prof. Danielle Allen who has been ensconced in the work of renovating our democratic institutions.) Ou…
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Be Known Before You're Needed: Innovative Outreach Strategies for Churches
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45:49In this episode of the Pro Church Marketing Podcast, host Jono Long welcomes Doug Garasic, the passionate pastor of Rust City Church in Youngstown, Ohio. Doug talks about his two decades of ministry, including planting a thriving church in the heart of the Rust Belt. Learn how Doug’s church became a beacon of hope by meeting real community needs, t…
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Best of 2024 | Anne Applebaum, Pulitzer-prize winning historian on AUTOCRACY, INC.: THE DICTATORS WHO WANT TO RUN THE WORLD
1:07:53
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1:07:53(Getting to speak with Anne Applebaum was such an honor. She's not only one of the world's most prominent historians and writers, Anne's focus on the fragility of democracy and emerging autocracies couldn't be more timely.) In the 20th Century, we had Cold War adversaries. In the early 2000s, George W. Bush talked about the Axis of Evil. But are th…
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Best of 2024 | Nancy French: NY Times best selling author, investigative journalist, storyteller... yet still gloriously feral!
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1:15:18(Speaking with Nancy was such a highlight of this year. In addition to all we discussed in this raw, beautiful, candid, downright funny conversation, I'm glad to report that subsequent to when we spoke, Nancy was able to "ring the bell" as a cancer survivor!) We’re joined by author, essayist, investigative journalist and the gloriously feral Nancy …
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Best of 2024 | Bill Kristol: Director of Defending Democracy Together and Editor at Large at The Bulwark
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1:02:18Yeah, this ages well. Seriously... This conversation with Bill Kristol was from April of this year. Some of the discussion applied to that moment in time (eg. bemoaning the Mets tepid start to the 2024 season); but much of it still applies even given the outcome of the latest election. With that, here are the notes from one of our "Best of 2024" co…
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Best of 2024 | Dr. Francis S. Collins: Are science and faith at odds? Or two different ways of understanding God's creation?
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1:11:36Are science and belief in God incompatible? Dr. Francis S. Collins, renowned for having led the Human Genome Project and the former Director of the National Institutes of Health (NIH), says science and faith are two different ways of understanding God's creation. We dove right in and had so much to explore! His father's folk music collection that i…
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Best of 2024 | Tom Nichols on Harris-Walz vs. Trump-Vance... and as a special bonus, some Robert DeNiro Jeopardy!
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59:56(This was one of my favorite conversations of 2024 partly because Tom and I both did our best Robert DeNiro impressions toward the end.) Let's talk candidly about why Gov. Josh Shapiro of PA wasn't chosen as Kamala Harris's running mate. Let's also assess the merits and potential drawbacks of Gov. Tim Walz of MN as the Democratic VP candidate. Oh, …
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AI Tools for Churches: Harnessing AI for Effective Church Marketing
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36:52In this episode of the Pro Church Marketing Podcast, host Jono Long welcomes Dustin Stout, founder of Magai, to discuss the transformative power of AI in marketing and ministry. Dustin shares his journey from running a marketing agency to creating Magai, a cutting-edge AI platform designed to enhance productivity and creativity without limiting the…
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How Saddleback Does Online Church Differently
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37:10Today, we sit down with Jay Kranda, the online pastor of Saddleback Church since 2013. As one of the pioneers of online ministry since the early 2000s, Saddleback has developed unconventional approaches to online church—challenging the conventional wisdom in fascinating ways. IMPORTANT LINKS - Jay Kranda: https://www.jaykranda.com/ - Alpha Omega Di…
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Rabbi Sharon Brous, Founder of IKAR and Author of the AMEN EFFECT: Ancient Wisdom to Mend Our Broken Hearts and World
1:06:54
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1:06:54“All who entered the Temple Mount entered by the right, circled to the right and exited by the left, except for one to whom something had happened, who entered and circled to the left...” (Mishnah Middot) We're on YouTube! https://www.youtube.com/@politicsandreligion Rabbi Sharon Brous, the founding rabbi of IKAR and author of THE AMEN EFFECT, delv…
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How should we respond to the election? Fight? Surrender? Or is there another way?
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54:05How should we respond to the election? Fight? Surrender? Or is there another way? Let's "Meet the Majority" and see if we can figure it out! We're on YouTube! https://www.youtube.com/@politicsandreligion As part of our "Meet the Majority" series, this is a candid conversation on ideological differences, election surprises, and friendship. In this e…
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Lanhee Chen, Public Policy Expert: "Coherence is overrated."
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53:16Is there any coherence to Trumpism from a policy standpoint? Public policy expert, Lanhee Chen, says coherence is overrated... at least at this moment. We're on YouTube! https://www.youtube.com/@politicsandreligion In this conversation with Lanhee Chen, we explore some hard questions in today's fraught political moment. As a key policy advisor to b…
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Matt Lewis on Trump, Politics, Faith and Holiday Movies
1:10:29
1:10:29
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1:10:29Do you find yourself generally hopeful or really concerned about this 2nd Trump Administration? Or are you just grabbing your popcorn and buckling up for the ride? Author, Columnist and Podcaster, Matt Lewis helps us work through all this and more. We're on YouTube! https://www.youtube.com/@politicsandreligion We’re joined on this episode by Matt L…
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Let’s address some unpopular truths about church online—conversations many avoid but need to have. By confronting these realities, we can better focus our church's efforts and resources for greater impact. ============================= Table of Contents: ============================= 0:00 - Intro 0:37 - Aesthetic Mismatch 8:08 - Social Media Is A M…
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