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Aaron and Erwin McManus unveil a new Arena Space for pastors and ministry leaders, offering weekly two-hour sessions for spiritual growth, leadership training, and church development. Erwin explains the evolution of the Arena from a business-centered community to a ministry-focused hub designed to strengthen leaders through Scripture and shared experience. Guest Eric Johnson, former pastor at Bethel and now leading Studio Church, shares his journey of vision, transition, and rebuilding infrastructure from the ground up. He reflects on leadership timing, the challenge of backlash, and the importance of clear vision and emotional resilience when pastoring through change. Together, they discuss the delicate balance between innovation and tradition, the integration of AI tools into church systems, and the need for community-based decision-making. The conversation expands to the psychological demands of leadership, the tension between self-care and service, and the cultural shift toward emotional health in ministry. Erwin and Eric emphasize that great leadership is rooted not in preference but in purpose—requiring humility, adaptability, and a deep commitment to the people being led. The episode closes with an invitation to join the Arena Pastors Call, a space for ongoing growth, collaboration, and mentorship among spiritual leaders.
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In this episode of Mind Shift, Aaron McManus and his father, Erwin Raphael McManus, celebrate the 20th anniversary re-release of The Barbarian Way, revisiting its call to reject the domestication of faith and embrace a raw, courageous spirituality. Erwin reflects on how the book challenged believers to reclaim their untamed faith and masculine spirit—an idea that remains deeply relevant in a culture that often rewards comfort over conviction. They share stories of global leaders whose lives were shaped by the book’s message and explore its continued resonance in today’s search for authenticity and meaning. The conversation expands into current global and ethical issues, including the release of Israeli hostages from Hamas, the moral complexities within Middle Eastern politics, and Erwin’s firsthand observations about cultural and religious narratives in places like Abu Dhabi and Istanbul. Together, they unpack the contrasts between moral frameworks across civilizations and the differing values placed on human life. The discussion turns stateside with reflections on American politics—Trump’s unconventional leadership, the corruption within the Black Lives Matter organization, and the tangled role of government funding in social and healthcare systems. Through it all, they return to The Barbarian Way’s central theme: the need for individuals to live with courage, clarity, and conviction in an age of confusion. The episode closes with an invitation to join the upcoming book club discussions and rediscover the wild, untamed faith that still calls believers to live beyond safety.
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RMI (Regenerative Medicine Institute) combines decades of expert medical, administrative, and lab experience with state-of-the-art innovation to craft a care experience that’s both advanced and deeply personal. Every team member is dedicated to guiding you through a seamless journey of renewal, ensuring that each interaction supports your path to restored vitality. They tailor solutions that empower you to reclaim your health and embrace a vibrant, rejuvenated life.
In this episode of Mind Shift, Erwin McManus sits down with Dr. Victor Urzola, co-founder of RMI in Costa Rica, to explore the transformative world of regenerative medicine and stem cell therapy. Dr. Urzola, shares about RMI: a cutting-edge facility dedicated to rejuvenating health and extending lifespan through plasma replacement and stem cell infusions. Together, they discuss the philosophy behind regenerative medicine, the importance of early intervention to prevent age-related degeneration, and the strict protocols RMI has refined. Erwin recounts his personal experience with stem cell therapy, including increased energy and pain relief, while Dr. Sola illustrates its benefits with powerful stories, from treating severe scars to helping his own father. They also address ethical considerations, clarifying that no embryos are used, and explain the safe and controlled processes they use. Looking ahead, Dr. Sola introduces the team’s work on cognitive enhancement, pointing to new frontiers in brain health and individualized treatments. The conversation blends science, personal testimony, and future hope, highlighting the power of regenerative medicine to fight inflammation, restore function, and unlock human potential.
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In this episode of The Mind Shift Podcast, Erwin and Aaron McManus take a hard look at the fine line between failed ideas and fraudulent schemes. From Tai Lopez’s $112M SEC indictment to Elizabeth Holmes and the fall of Theranos, they explore how ambition can devolve into deception, and why proof of concept is critical in business, leadership, and communication. Along the way, they even break down the illusion behind Amazon’s early wireless shopping system and what it teaches us about trust.The conversation then turns to the world of media and public discourse, sparked by Jimmy Kimmel’s apology after his recent controversial remarks that led to his suspension and subsequent reinstatement. Was his apology on his show sincere, or just self-preservation? Erwin and Aaron dig into the language of apologies, the role of sincerity in public life, and what it reveals about our cultural climate. From there, they dive deep into censorship, free speech, and the hypocrisy of how different figures, like President Trump, are treated depending on political affiliation, unpacking the legal and cultural ripple effects of his battles with media companies.Finally, the episode broadens into questions of corruption, political polarization, and the role of education in shaping the next generation. Erwin argues that without free speech, truth and accountability crumble, while Aaron highlights how media bias continues to fuel division. Together they make the case for rebuilding trust, protecting free expression, and investing in education as the path toward a healthier, more hopeful future.
--Love the episodes? Join the Mind Shift community! Check it out here: http://erwinmcmanus.com/mindshiftpod--🔓Unlock the secret language of human connection with Erwin McManus’ groundbreaking new book, "The Seven Frequencies of Communication." Are you a Maven, a Seer, a Commander, a Professor, a Healer, a Challenger, or a Motivator? When you unlock your frequency, you unleash your potential. 7️⃣ The Seven Frequencies of Communication is for everyone who wants their message to be heard. Whether you are a leader, a parent, a CEO, a speaker, a coworker, or a friend - this book is for you. This book will enable you to harness your unique communication frequency to build deeper relationships, influence more effectively, and navigate life’s challenges with greater ease.📘 Order now to discover your true communicative power and transform the way you connect with the world around you. Order now: http://shop.erwinmcmanus.comMore info: https://www.thesevenfrequencies.com--Follow On Socialhttps://www.youtube.com/@ErwinRaphaelMcManushttps://instagram.com/mindshiftpodhttps://instagram.com/erwinmcmanushttps://instagram.com/aaroncmcmanus--🚀 FREE GIFT: Boost Your Growth with "The Arena Bundle"! 🌟Dive into 3 powerful resources, including Erwin McManus' talk from The Arena Conference, Phil M. Jones' "Exactly What to Say", and an exclusive live "Overthinking" Arena community call, all for FREE. Embark on a transformative journey to elevate your personal and professional life. 💡🔥Grab your bundle today and unleash your potential! 📈👇http://erwinmcmanus.com/thearenabundle--LINKS:Join us for our annual Arena Conference:https://www.thearenasummit.com/conferenceUse promo code "MINDSHIFT" for a 30% discount on your ticket.🗻 Join us for our Arena Live Summits:Https://erwinmcmanus.com/summit 📈 If you want to grow in your leadership, communication and character, then The Arena is the perfect place for you.Check it out:https://www.erwinmcmanus.com/thearena--#ErwinMcManus#AaronMcManus#MindShiftPod#MindShiftPodcast
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.
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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.
