In this episode of the Mind Shift Podcast, Aaron McManus and his father, Erwin Raphael McManus, dive into spirituality, miracles, and the reality of spiritual warfare.
Aaron opens with lighthearted banter about culture and podcasting while Erwin reflects on authenticity and critiques within faith communities.
They discuss Aaron’s approach to handling online negativity and the importance of maintaining a positive presence, especially for young people, before shifting to Erwin’s powerful personal stories—surviving near-fatal falls, being healed from paralysis, and facing a knife-wielding man driven by voices to kill him.
Together, they emphasize the role of character, the fruits of the Spirit, and spiritual “frequency” in navigating these battles, stressing that true faith is marked by authenticity and resilience.
Erwin reminds listeners that while spiritual warfare is real, the light always prevails over darkness, leaving the episode on a note of hope, faith, and courage.
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In this episode of the Mind Shift Podcast, Aaron McManus and his father, Erwin Raphael McManus, unpack the aftermath of Charlie Kirk’s assassination and the wave of firings for those who celebrated his death on social media, debating whether companies should have the power to dismiss employees for their public opinions. They explore the tension between free speech and job security, weighing the responsibilities of teachers, doctors, and public figures against the importance of protecting individual expression. The conversation then examines society’s desensitization to violence, fueled by social media and cultural narratives, and how glorifying violence can harm both public discourse and mental health. Aaron and Erwin also dive into issues of racism and cultural integration, stressing the need for honest conversations about race across cultures while addressing the challenges of blending diverse communities into Western society. Finally, they consider the dangers of totalitarian regimes, the importance of cultural pride, and the role of personal responsibility in safeguarding freedom of speech and democracy, concluding with a call for intelligent, respectful dialogue to foster a healthier cultural future.
Watch Erwin Raphael McManus’ message from last Sunday here: https://youtu.be/IFbzQDjvFFc?si=2MNW3eeMa2C5eeCL
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In episode 99 of the Mind Shift Podcast, Aaron McManus and his father, Erwin McManus, respond to the shocking assassination of Charlie Kirk in Utah, reflecting on its personal, cultural, and political weight. They emphasize the historical significance of losing such a cultural voice. They discuss Charlie Kirk’s evolution from an acerbic, often polarizing figure to a respected debater unafraid to engage opposing views, with Erwin admitting his initial dislike turned into respect for Kirk’s fearlessness. The conversation explores the toxicity of celebrating Kirk’s death online, the fear it instills in other outspoken voices, and the hypocrisy of condemning gun violence while cheering it on. They analyze the response from the left, the violent rhetoric from political leaders, and the broader implications for free speech and open debate in America. Comparing Kirk’s assassination to historical political murders, Aaron and Erwin warn of the fragility of culture when extremism replaces discourse. They call for a cultural reset—one that fosters prayer, respect, and intelligent dialogue—urging both sides to stop demonizing each other and instead create a foundation where differing ideas can be expressed without fear of violence.
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In episode 98 of the Mind Shift Podcast, Aaron McManus and his father, Erwin Raphael McManus, catch up on their recent travels and experiences, from Mosaic gatherings in New York, to a special wedding and Erwin’s birthday celebrations in New York after attending a business event in Vegas for Monat, a $3.8 billion company. They recount their time at the US Open, reflecting on the intensity of the matches, the role of mindset in athletic performance, and even the humor of overpriced stadium food. The conversation takes a serious turn as Erwin recounts a frightening home invasion attempt while his wife was inside, criticizing the mindset of criminals. This leads into a larger discussion on crime, responsibility, and the erosion of societal values, with Erwin emphasizing that character, not wealth, is what builds strong cultures and nations. They address the backlash Erwin received on social media for posting about the incident, clarifying his views on responsibility, property, and the assumptions made by critics. Together, Aaron and Erwin stress the importance of honest, passionate dialogue, personal responsibility, and the need to rebuild culture on the foundation of integrity and character, closing the episode with a commitment to continue unpacking these pressing issues in future conversations.
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In this archival episode of the Mind Shift Podcast, Aaron McManus and his father, Erwin McManus, sit down in Mexico City to reflect on trauma, mental health, faith, and the vision of Mosaic Church. Aaron opens with personal reflections on his years visiting Mexico City, his early 20s, and the origins of the podcast, born from his fear of speaking on stage alone. Together, he and Erwin revisit defining experiences—Erwin’s battle with stage four cancer, Aaron’s seasons of anxiety in New York, and the threats their family once faced—using them to highlight the importance of addressing trauma and mental health, especially in cultures and churches where it is often silenced. They discuss how faith and trauma intertwine, with Aaron sharing his struggles in reconciling hurt within the church, and Erwin stressing the need to confront pain honestly to create healthier spiritual environments. The conversation turns toward healing, personal growth, and emotional mastery, as Aaron reflects on his intentional pursuit of change and Erwin underscores the responsibility to design positive environments and replace painful memories with new ones. They also explore the balance between spiritual gifts and character, reminding listeners that maturity, integrity, and love matter more than talent. Finally, they share the unique story of Mosaic Church, founded in a nightclub in LA, with a vision to help people connect deeply with Jesus, reclaim their humanity, and create a community shaped by authenticity and compassion. The episode closes with Aaron and Erwin inviting listeners to join future gatherings, support Mosaic’s mission, and continue pursuing healing, growth, and deeper faith.
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In episode 97 of the Mind Shift Podcast, Aaron and Erwin McManus share their Arena Community Call where they introduce the concept of the Five Ds—Drive, Discipline, Decisiveness, Detail, and Diplomacy—exploring how each plays a crucial role in leadership. Erwin highlights drive as the fuel for leadership, discipline as the foundation, decisiveness as the ability to adapt in chaos, detail as the power of precision, and diplomacy as doing hard things with kindness. Through questions from participants, the discussion covers situational leadership styles, building discipline, balancing vision with detail, navigating the tension between artistry and entrepreneurship, increasing drive while living a textured life, and approaching tough conversations with grace and respect. Erwin emphasizes small, intentional changes as the key to growth and reminds leaders to see details not as criticisms but as opportunities for clarity and improvement. As the session closes, Erwin shares he has a call with the White House before he and Aaron thank the group, encouraging participants to continue reflecting on the Five Ds, share their insights, and keep building stronger, more intentional leadership in their community.
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In episode 96 of the Mind Shift Podcast, Aaron and Erwin Raphael McManus dive into a wide-ranging conversation that blends leadership, faith, and authenticity. They open by discussing Erwin’s recent interview with Lecrae, who described him as both respected and misunderstood in the Christian world. From there, they unpack theological debates, including Erwin’s stance on fully believing the Bible without reading it literally, and his critique of the “Christian industrial complex” that prioritizes commercialization over genuine spiritual experience. They reflect on Erwin’s early years serving the urban poor, building his own wealth outside the church to sustain ministry, and pushing back against unhealthy expressions of faith that distort real miracles. Both emphasize Jesus as the true center of faith—above promises of heaven or supernatural signs—while sharing personal stories that challenge conventional motivations for belief. The conversation moves through topics like the purity of faith without the promise of heaven, the role of integrity in spiritual leadership, and the need for authentic community, ending with an invitation for listeners to join the discussion, contribute ideas, and become part of the Mind Shift journey.
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In this episode of the Mind Shift Podcast, Aaron and Erwin McManus sit down in London to explore what it means to start over, especially in a post-pandemic world where anxiety, purposelessness, and doubt are widespread. Erwin shares the origin story of Mosaic—a church launched in a nightclub designed to welcome atheists, agnostics, and believers alike—and how creating a space where people could belong before they believed became a radical act of inclusion. The conversation dives deep into mental health, personal trauma, and the healing power of community, emphasizing that true transformation must begin from within. They discuss the balance between faith and action, the dangers of waiting for permission to do good, and the importance of proactivity in living out one’s purpose. Creativity and spirituality are woven together as vital expressions of human potential, and Erwin challenges the notion that religious institutions should separate the two. From overcoming creative blocks and embracing imperfection to the fragile, essential work of building authentic community, the episode offers a vision of life rooted in self-acceptance, courage, and connection. As the discussion closes, Erwin extends an invitation to join Mosaic London and take the next step—whether in faith, creativity, or becoming part of something bigger than yourself.
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In this episode, Aaron McManus and Erwin Raphael McManus sit down to reflect on their recent Mosaic gathering in New York and the upcoming launch of the Ghost Artifacts collection, developed with Arturo and Jess in Brooklyn. Diving into the journey of new believers, they share guidance on first steps after deciding to follow Jesus—like sharing your faith immediately, reading the Bible starting with John, praying throughout the day, and inviting God into your daily life. Erwin highlights how physical expressions like raising hands, kneeling, and baptism serve as outward symbols of inward transformation, stressing the importance of finding a church community that shapes you toward the life you want to live. They reflect on personal stories of declaring faith, the pitfalls of self-righteous communities, and the need to continually recommit to a vibrant relationship with Jesus at every stage of life. They close with encouragement to join the Mind Shift community, share the podcast, and look ahead to future episodes featuring a wider range of guests and themes.
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Aaron McManus and Erwin McManus sit down in Brooklyn with Arturo Castaneda, founder of Storytellers and Creators, to explore his remarkable journey from small beginnings to becoming a creative force in the fashion industry. Arturo shares his nervousness about this being his first podcast, while Erwin praises his profound creativity. They discuss how people often seek advice from those without expertise, highlighting the importance of voices like Arturo’s in creative industries. Arturo opens up about his upbringing, learning sewing from his mother at a young age, making his first pair of shorts at 12, and facing challenges that shaped his resilience. He recounts moving to New York in his late 20s, enduring homelessness while working multiple jobs, and how a chance meeting at a deli introduced him to the fashion world, showing how small moments can lead to life-changing opportunities. He describes his breakthrough at J Crew, starting in the stockroom and rising toward a director of merchandising role before receiving an unexpected interview at Ralph Lauren. Arturo details his evolution from receiving clerk to concept designer on Ralph Lauren’s creative services team, contributing to Olympic uniforms, Wimbledon collections, and showroom concepts, and reflects on how Ralph Lauren’s leadership cultivated creativity and gave him global opportunities. The conversation shifts to Storytellers and Creators, the company he founded in 2014, initially focusing on tailoring before expanding to wider creative services. During COVID-19, they pivoted to produce 30,000 PPE gowns weekly for New York City hospitals, with Arturo highlighting Jessica, who emerged as a vital team member, and reinforcing his commitment to community, simplicity, and analog creativity. Arturo concludes by sharing his design philosophy, valuing discipline over talent and simplicity over excess, discussing the teaching culture where everyone is seen as a creator and mentorship is central, staying rooted in heritage while pushing creative boundaries, and maintaining a human touch in design. His vision for the future includes expanding into new areas while remaining authentic to his values, leaving listeners inspired by a life built on craftsmanship, humility, and love for the process.
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In this Archival Episode of "The Mind Shift Podcast," Erwin and Aaron McManus dive into the interconnectedness of creativity and spirituality, sharing insights from their personal journeys and their work at Mosaic - a church that embodies these principles. This episode, explores how creativity flows naturally from a spiritual life and the impact of this blend on personal and community growth. Recorded live in KL, Malaysia.Creativity is the Natural Result of Spirituality: Erwin begins by affirming that creativity is a direct result of spirituality, challenging the notion that churches are traditionally the least creative institutions. He argues that since human beings are inherently created in the image of a creative God, it follows that spirituality should inspire creativity, not stifle it.Challenges of Leadership and Faith: Erwin shares the challenges he faced when founding Mosaic, a church that aligns with his unique leadership style. He discusses the delicate balance of managing fame and family, particularly highlighting a significant moment when a young Aaron questioned his faith. This story underscores the importance of allowing children the space to explore and express their beliefs authentically.The Significance of Hearing God’s Voice: A major part of their discussion focuses on the necessity of being attuned to God’s voice and the role this plays in guiding one’s creative and spiritual journey. Erwin emphasizes that hearing God’s voice is essential not just for personal guidance but also for maintaining vitality within the church’s mission to reach a creatively evolving world.Family and Professional Life Balance: They also touch on the critical aspect of maintaining close family relationships amidst professional demands. Erwin and Aaron share personal reflections on how they manage this balance, stressing the importance of prioritizing family while fulfilling their roles in ministry and leadership.Invitation to Future Gatherings: The conversation concludes with an invitation to listeners to participate in future gatherings at Mosaic Church. This call to action is aimed at those looking to deepen their engagement with a community that values creativity and spirituality intertwined.
Aaron McManus opens this episode of the Mind Shift Podcast by introducing its theme, “Under Construction,” referencing both their house renovation due to mold and the idea of lives under construction through scripture. He and his father, Erwin Raphael McManus, record amidst the noise of ongoing repairs, using it as a metaphor for spiritual growth. Erwin humorously admits his tendency to get granular with the Bible, spending weeks on a single chapter, while Aaron explains that this episode marks a shift into deeper conversations around scripture – a new focus for the podcast.
They dive into the often snarky comments on social media. Erwin encourages listeners to engage with kindness rather than negativity, aiming to create a positive and inclusive space. Aaron shares how people frequently attempt to educate Erwin on theology despite his background, prompting a discussion about humility in spiritual conversations and the importance of listening over lecturing when it comes to scripture.
The conversation turns deeply personal as Erwin shares his journey with the Bible, starting with the Gospel of John, which emotionally transformed his understanding of Jesus, and moving into Acts, which gave him a sense of being part of an ongoing movement. Aaron recalls a dinner conversation about the visible changes Jesus brought to his life, reflecting on how scripture reshapes identity and purpose. They emphasize that engaging with the Bible is not just academic but transformative when approached relationally and reflectively.
Erwin recounts his surprising experience accidentally enrolling in a PhD Hebrew course at UNC Chapel Hill and how his classmates supported him through it. He explains the literary and cultural distinctions between the Old and New Testaments, highlighting how the Old Testament’s stories build a worldview and the New Testament calls for interpretation and application. Aaron and Erwin suggest reading different Gospels based on personality type to cultivate a personal connection to Jesus' life and teachings.
They conclude by discussing the need for action and community in Bible study. Erwin shares his preparation method for talks: finding truth, experiencing it, and acting on it, while Aaron describes his use of the SOAP method (Scripture, Observation, Application, Prayer) for daily integration. They reflect on theological debates that miss the heart of scripture and stress that understanding the Bible is incomplete without practical obedience and community engagement. The episode ends with an encouragement to listeners: build your life on the living truths of scripture, stay rooted in community, and let action transform knowledge into a life aligned with God’s heart.
ARCHIVAL episode originally released Apr 19, 2024
In this archival episode of the Mind Shift Podcast, Aaron McManus and his father, Erwin McManus, dive into a conversation about staying centered in a chaotic world. They reflect on the difference between internal character and external appearances, highlighting how what's within shapes the world around us. Erwin shares insights on the challenges of remaining focused amidst cultural, political, and economic distractions, especially on the West Coast. They explore how the identity of a place is shaped by factors like roads, taxes, and weather, and how these external realities often mirror deeper societal struggles.
The discussion turns to global influences as Erwin shares a story from his wife, Kim, who works with refugees and recently met three people financed by George Soros and the Catholic Church to migrate illegally to the U.S. Aaron and Erwin unpack the implications of these stories, questioning global power structures and the surprising consistency of these refugee accounts. Aaron points out that Soros is linked to funding various political actors, a fact some consider evidence of his negative influence. The conversation highlights the fine line between conspiracies and hidden truths in the modern political landscape.
Aaron reflects on growing up as a pastor’s kid and developing a heightened sensitivity to spiritual darkness, sharing how certain dark music and art still unsettle him. Erwin adds his own childhood story of avoiding a KISS concert due to fears of satanic influence, leading to a broader discussion on how dark media shapes minds and souls. They emphasize the importance of guarding what we consume visually and aurally, suggesting that internal peace and spiritual health are deeply connected to the media and art we allow into our lives.
The conversation deepens as they discuss cultural shifts in defining good and evil. Erwin explains that evil is when we make destructive choices against others, while sin is making destructive choices against ourselves. They explore societal trends, including controversial topics like gender transitions in children, reflecting on the long-term spiritual and psychological consequences. Erwin argues that the greatest evil is when innocence is intentionally destroyed, while Aaron reflects on humanity's natural tendency to simplify life into binaries of darkness and light, urging listeners to actively choose goodness in their daily lives.
Finally, Aaron shares a story of a Swedish speaker quoting Jesus to frame her talk on AI, illustrating how empathy rooted in Jesus' teachings can guide us toward goodness, regardless of religious belief. Erwin explains that redemption through Jesus realigns us with our original intention to reflect God's goodness in the world. They close by discussing the power of choice in creating beauty and purpose, emphasizing personal responsibility in shaping society for the better. This episode is a powerful call to live intentionally, engage deeply, and create good in a world full of distractions and moral complexities.
In this episode of the Mind Shift Podcast, Aaron and Erwin McManus reflect on a major transition as Mosaic moves out of its long-time Hollywood home. They recount the final worship night where nearly 900 people gathered and 70–80 baptisms took place, marking the end of an era. The conversation touches on the new campuses now emerging in Calabasas, South Pasadena, Culver City, and Studio City. Erwin shares emotional reflections on the legacy of the building and the many lives transformed there, while Aaron underscores how movement and growth have always been part of Mosaic’s DNA.
The episode also dives into the ongoing exploration of Genesis and the growing interest from new audiences, with a notable 60–80% of listeners being first-time participants. Erwin explains why staying in Genesis offers endless opportunities for reflection and theological curiosity. They emphasize the importance of disagreement and diversity of thought within their community, encouraging listeners to engage, question, and wrestle with scripture. This ethos of open dialogue and mutual respect shapes their approach to both the Bible and the people engaging with it.
As the discussion unfolds, Aaron shares a moment where he called out performative criticism in church culture, and Erwin unpacks how terms like “heretic” are often weaponized to enforce conformity. Drawing from history, they discuss how ideas once deemed heretical—like heliocentrism—eventually reshaped how we understand truth. Erwin stresses the necessity of intellectual honesty and the courage to question long-held traditions. The conversation becomes a call to spiritual integrity, where truth is not inherited but discovered through inquiry and faith.
Throughout the episode, Erwin shares his own theological journey and how he starts with Jesus—not a system—when interpreting scripture. Using analogies like Oppenheimer’s role as a theorist, he explains his focus on deep questions over surface answers. This leads into a thoughtful reflection on the Old Testament, which he compares to stories like *Braveheart* and *Gladiator*, noting how its themes of freedom, honor, and struggle mirror real human experience. He reminds listeners that the Bible was written by the oppressed, not the powerful, and that its messiness is part of its authenticity.
Finally, the conversation turns toward the future of theology and the church. Erwin critiques the stagnating effect of the phrase “there’s nothing new under the sun,” arguing that it limits innovation and imagination in faith communities. He shares his own experience being blacklisted for advocating creativity and change, and stresses the urgent need for early adopters and innovators to influence theology today. The episode closes with talk of future long-form episodes, community events in different cities, and a shared excitement to keep exploring faith, scripture, and transformation—starting with Jesus and moving outward from there.
In this episode, Aaron McManus and his father, Erwin McManus, dive into a deeply engaging Q&A, taking on listener-submitted questions around theology, scripture, and spiritual formation. They begin by opening up the format, inviting the community into the conversation, and encouraging engagement beyond the podcast through live discussions and the Mind Shift community platform. Aaron shares the structure for the episode, giving Erwin space to unpack major theological ideas while also fielding more personal and philosophical inquiries about belief, interpretation, and spiritual leadership. Their dynamic sets the tone for an open, curious, and deeply reflective exchange of ideas.
A core question raised early in the episode is whether the Bible is infallible. Erwin answers by distinguishing between the perfection of truth and the imperfection of its human messengers. He explains that though written by fallible individuals, the Bible’s intent is not deception but revelation—it is true in what it reveals about God and humanity. Drawing parallels to scientific principles, he likens scripture to the discovery of infallible truths by imperfect people. This launches a broader conversation about the purpose of the Bible—not just to know scripture, but to know God through it.
As the episode deepens, Aaron and Erwin explore resources and tools for better understanding scripture. Erwin emphasizes learning in community, where questions are not only allowed but necessary for growth. He reflects on his own early study practices, which included studying Greek and Hebrew and relying on commentaries and physical books. Their discussion touches on how historical and cultural context shapes interpretation and how staying connected to the original languages can preserve nuance often lost in translation. They also reflect on the influence of decisions made at the Council of Nicaea and how certain texts were excluded from the canon.
The episode also tackles big theological concepts, including the Trinity, the nature of heaven and hell, and the role of Satan in Genesis. Erwin breaks down the idea of the Trinity with metaphors and references to scripture, highlighting the relational and dynamic nature of God. When asked why Satan was allowed in the garden, Erwin suggests that love demands freedom and trust. Regarding the afterlife, he stresses that the Kingdom of God is a present reality, more pressing than abstract speculation about heaven or hell. He offers a bold view on Jesus’ descent into hell and the possibility of it being “emptied,” emphasizing grace over fear.
Finally, they touch on more speculative areas like the Nephilim and the Book of Enoch, while anchoring their theological foundation in the canonical scriptures. Erwin encourages curiosity but warns against letting non-canonical texts distract from what’s central to faith. They also explore differing views on salvation and the dangers of weaponizing theology for control. Throughout, Erwin underscores the radical freedom of grace and love as the most transformative forces. The episode closes with a glimpse into Erwin’s sermon prep routine, shaped by decades of immersion in scripture, and an encouragement to approach theology not as a fixed system, but as a living conversation with God, guided by humility and wonder.
In this episode of the Mind Shift Podcast, Aaron McManus and his father, Erwin Raphael McManus, dive into the turbulence in Los Angeles, reflecting on the city’s long history of unrest and social disorder. From the 1992 riots to recent immigration protests and political tensions, they describe LA as a city in constant flux. Erwin contrasts this with his recent travel experiences across the country, while Aaron reflects on the emotional impact of ongoing chaos and the deep gratitude he feels for the people anchoring his life. The episode opens by framing these reflections as a backdrop for a deeper exploration of meaning, purpose, and faith.
Aaron introduces a new chapter in the podcast: a scriptural series beginning with the book of Genesis. Drawing from Erwin’s decades of theological teaching, they set the tone for a thoughtful and disruptive exploration of the Bible. They discuss the relevance of Genesis in both literal and metaphorical terms, highlighting the importance of mythology in shaping belief systems. Erwin pushes back against rigid interpretations, inviting listeners into a conversation that values mystery, imagination, and the power of narrative in uncovering spiritual truths.
Focusing on Genesis 1:1–3, Erwin breaks down the creation story by emphasizing the symbolic roles of the four elements—earth, wind, fire, and water—and their resonance with modern scientific ideas. He draws parallels between Genesis and concepts in quantum physics, like energy and light, suggesting that the ancient text contains insights consistent with contemporary science. The discussion highlights the phrase “formless and empty,” with Erwin urging listeners to view it through a symbolic lens rather than a strictly physical one. This segment reveals how scripture and science can coexist as complementary frameworks for understanding our origins.
The episode then turns to the sequence of creation, specifically the importance of water and the emergence of light. Erwin explains that water’s presence before light speaks to its foundational role in life, while the delayed creation of the sun reshapes how we interpret biblical time. He critiques the literal seven-day creation view, arguing that “days” in Genesis don’t equate to modern 24-hour periods. This opens a discussion on energy, light, and the gradual unfolding of creation, presenting a more layered and expansive view of Genesis that bridges faith and physics.
Toward the end, Aaron and Erwin explore the creation of stars and the concept of time, leading into a conversation about astrology and sacred signs. They emphasize that the stars are not meant to predict fate but to signal the rhythm of sacred time. The episode closes with reflections on humanity being made in God’s image—imbued with purpose and interconnected with all creation—setting the stage for future episodes that will continue unpacking Genesis as both a spiritual and cosmic roadmap.
In episode 89 of the Mind Shift Podcast, Aaron McManus joins his father, Erwin Raphael McManus, to discuss the release of two powerful podcast episodes, including a now-viral clip with Tim Ross. The episode, originally recorded at the Mosaic Conference in Los Angeles, sparked massive engagement online, drawing millions of views and hundreds of thousands of interactions. Aaron reflects on the confusion surrounding its release timing, while Erwin offers a behind-the-scenes look at the discussion’s origins. The episode sets the tone for a thought-provoking exploration of theology, mythology, and the radical act of questioning long-held assumptions.
The viral clip, centered on the provocative question “Did Eve Sin?”, ignited waves of online dialogue. Erwin dives into the story’s complexity, challenging how traditional interpretations may have oversimplified it. Aaron highlights how the clip’s traction signals a cultural appetite for deeper, less dogmatic conversations around faith. They tease another clip in which they question whether humans may have once possessed capabilities like flight or aquatic life, referencing the biblical mandate to rule over land, sea, and sky. These conversations push the boundaries of conventional theological thinking, inviting listeners to engage their imaginations.
Building on these themes, Erwin and Aaron speculate on the human condition before the biblical fall. Erwin suggests that stories like Aquaman or Superman might be more than fiction—they could be remnants of ancient memory. The act of Adam naming every animal becomes a focal point for exploring humanity’s pre-fall brilliance and creative authority. Erwin stresses that exploring such possibilities is not heretical but deeply biblical when approached with humility and curiosity. Rather than seeking to prove mythologies, he emphasizes the need to rediscover wonder in the scriptural narrative.
A core tension in the conversation is between systematic theology and biblical theology. Erwin critiques systematic theology as a structure of invented truths that can exclude or delegitimize those who don’t fit its mold. In contrast, biblical theology is framed as a pursuit of discovered truth—a lived relationship with God that transcends doctrinal rigidity. They share stories of theological gatekeeping and reflect on how some religious systems elevate intellectual frameworks over genuine spiritual transformation. Erwin advocates for a theology that starts with love and leads to relationship, not just belief.
The episode culminates in a passionate defense of free will as essential to love and God’s character. Erwin challenges deterministic frameworks like Calvinism, arguing that a God who orchestrates everything for His own glory alone is not consistent with the radical love of Jesus. He expresses a deep trust in the truth of scripture but resists the layers of orthodoxy that have ossified around it. As Aaron reads a quote about the difference between belief and truth, Erwin affirms that Jesus is the truth he builds his life on—not a theory, but a living foundation that invites constant growth, humility, and the freedom to ask better questions.
In this episode of the Mind Shift Podcast, Erwin McManus sits down with longtime friend and podcaster Tim Ross to explore the deeply personal and often overlooked qualities of vulnerability and integrity in leadership. Drawing from Tim’s extensive experience across various church communities and media platforms, they reflect on how these foundational values are frequently missing in modern leadership—even in spiritual spaces where they should be most essential. From the outset, Tim defines integrity as being the same person in private as in public, and the two lament how rare that consistency has become. Their conversation quickly turns candid, setting the tone for an honest exploration of what it truly means to lead with character.Together, Erwin and Tim examine the roots of duplicity in leadership, citing the biblical story of Adam and Eve as the origin of humanity’s tendency to hide the truth. Tim calls out the church culture that often prioritizes talent over character, fostering environments where young pastors feel compelled to fake perfection. This discussion reveals a painful tension: the systems designed to promote spiritual growth can sometimes create pressure for leaders to project false images. They agree that the very structures that should protect integrity often enable its erosion, making the practice of vulnerability both risky and revolutionary.As the dialogue deepens, the conversation shifts to the challenges of maintaining authenticity in the digital age. Tim and Erwin explore how social media amplifies both mistakes and expectations, often punishing honest leaders while rewarding those who hide behind curated personas. They highlight how the fear of public judgment has led many to conceal struggles instead of seeking healing, and how sincerity itself has become a liability. The issue isn't only moral—it's systemic. The pair critiques how church institutions have historically managed scandal: focusing more on image management than heart restoration.As the episode winds down, Tim shares how personal challenges and failures—including struggles with burnout and his past addiction—shaped his path toward becoming a more honest leader. He encourages leaders to surround themselves with communities capable of handling vulnerability and emphasizes the value of therapy, self-awareness, and rest. The conversation expands to balancing humility with confidence, navigating exhaustion, and being open to unexpected vocational turns. Tim’s final reflections—and an impromptu farewell rap—offer humor and heart, reinforcing the episode’s core message: leadership doesn’t require perfection, but it does demand honesty, resilience, and the courage to be seen.
In this episode of the Mind Shift Podcast, Aaron McManus and Erwin Raphael McManus, dive into the theme of alignment—the idea that intimacy, generosity, and humanity must work in harmony to create a meaningful life. Building on a talk Erwin gave at the recent Mosaic gathering, the two reflect on how alignment is more than a spiritual ideal; it’s a practical framework for understanding values, relationships, and purpose. They begin the episode with updates about the Mosaic community, Erwin’s extensive writing journey, and their excitement for the conference.
The conversation quickly returns to a concept from Dr. Henry Cloud. The triangle of persecutor, rescuer, and victim. Erwin revisits this cultural lens and introduces his own alternative triangle, with humanity at the top, supported by intimacy and generosity. This shift reframes the narrative, encouraging people to move beyond reactive postures and into proactive alignment. Drawing on demographic data from Mosaic, Erwin shares why the shift in mindset matters, especially in an urban context where financial, emotional, and spiritual challenges collide.
As the dialogue deepens, Erwin opens up about the unique challenges facing Mosaic Church, particularly after the loss of their Hollywood Boulevard location. He shares the importance of recognizing who makes up the core community and how generosity often follows alignment. A powerful example is offered through a story of a couple who, after finding financial success, gave a significant gift to Mosaic—not out of obligation, but out of a deeply personal sense of alignment with their values and faith. Erwin and Aaron contrast the giving cultures of suburban megachurches and urban churches, pointing out the complexities and opportunities that come with each.
The father-son duo continues exploring how alignment informs every part of life, especially the way we give. Erwin suggests that when intimacy with God is present, questions about generosity answer themselves. They unpack how our values and priorities naturally fall into place when our inner world is in sync with divine love. Aaron shares moments from his own journey, and together they challenge listeners to examine the stories they tell themselves about scarcity, abundance, and what it means to live generously in a self-centered culture. It’s a call to shed limiting beliefs and embrace a mindset rooted in trust and purpose.
Rounding out the episode, Erwin and Aaron shift into a series of thought-provoking discussions—on the dangers of unchecked technology, the future of AI, generational trauma, and the need for personal agency. They ponder whether AI will reflect the best or worst of humanity, and Erwin shares chilling examples like the embedded kill switches in Chinese solar panels. Despite the heavy topics, the message remains clear: while external threats exist, the greatest obstacle—and opportunity—lies within ourselves. The episode ends with a call to courage, responsibility, and forward momentum.
In this episode of the Mind Shift Podcast, Aaron and Erwin McManus reflect on Erwin’s recent trip to Birmingham, Alabama, where he attended the Leadership Factor Conference. Despite a whirlwind of travel from Los Angeles to Houston to Birmingham and back, Erwin shares his excitement about connecting with influential leaders like Chris Hodges, Dave Ramsey, Henry Cloud, and Patrick Lencioni. He emphasizes the power of systems in leadership and entrepreneurship, pointing to Chris Hodges’ approach as a model of clarity and effectiveness. Drawing from the principles of "The E-Myth," Erwin highlights how structure and systems are key to scaling vision with excellence.
Their conversation turns personal as Erwin recounts his interactions with leaders like Dave Ramsey and reflects on the impact of his own writing and work. He shares moments of recognition from fans at the airport and talks about the global reach of his books, such as The Seven Frequencies of Communication and Mind Shift. Aaron recalls seeing John Maxwell promote books during his youth, sparking memories of the long journey they’ve both taken through leadership spaces. These reflections underscore the influence of consistent work over time and the power of meaningful connections.
Erwin and Aaron also touch on current religious and cultural events, including the appointment of the new Pope with American roots and a love for the Chicago White Sox. This leads to Erwin’s own story and his early draw to the story of Jesus. He recounts his hunger for spiritual truth and his fond experiences within the Catholic Church, recognizing how those early moments helped shape his open-hearted search for faith. The segment paints a fuller picture of Erwin’s spiritual journey and openness to diverse expressions of belief.
The episode deepens with Erwin’s retelling of Henry Cloud’s insights about the pervasive cultural narrative of victim, persecutor, and rescuer. They explore how this psychological triangle plays out in movements like Me Too or immigration debates and discuss the danger of being trapped in any of those roles. Erwin stresses the importance of refusing to see oneself as a victim or aggressor, instead championing a mindset rooted in ownership, personal responsibility, and mutual empowerment. This philosophy extends to his broader leadership approach, particularly in coaching and ministry.
The episode wraps with several forward-looking discussions, including Mosaic Church’s evolving future, Erwin’s leadership during high-pressure transitions, and the launch of Ghost Artifacts. Aaron and Erwin describe the uniqueness of the hoodie’s Japanese fabric and what makes a product costly versus expensive, tying in themes of quality and intention. Aaron shares excitement for upcoming releases and the ethos behind their creative projects. They close the episode with gratitude for their community, a call to engage with the new Ghost Artifacts collection, and a reminder about the upcoming Mosaic Conference—a celebration of vision, creativity, and the next chapter ahead.
