This week The State of Belief features the fascinating Scott Carter, creator, executive producer, and host of the Ye Gods with Scott Carter podcast. In this episode, host Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush and Scott explore the intersections of belief, doubt, and the moral codes that guide us. Notable ideas include: The Power of Intentional Curiosity: Scott shares his transformative journey following a near-death experience due to asthma. This epiphany moment led him to make a profound commitment: to engage openly with discussions about religion and spirituality without sarcasm or dismissal. His intentional curiosity opened doors to understanding diverse beliefs and perspectives, showing that being open-hearted can lead to deeper connections and insights. Art as a Spiritual Medium: Throughout the conversation, Scott emphasizes the role of art in exploring spirituality. He believes that creativity can serve as a powerful conduit for understanding and expressing our beliefs. Whether through theater, comedy, or storytelling, art allows us to engage with complex themes of existence and morality. Navigating Life 's Challenges with Compassion: Scott's experiences in the competitive world of television, particularly on shows like Politically Incorrect, taught him the importance of compassion in every interaction. He shares how he strives to treat everyone—guests, colleagues, and audiences—with respect and love. Be sure to hear this enlightening episode as we explore these themes and more! Scott’s insights are not only thought-provoking but also serve as a guide for navigating our own beliefs and interactions in a complex world. More About Scott Carter and Ye Gods Scott Carter is the creator, executive producer, and host of the Ye Gods with Scott Carter podcast, where he invites comedians, writers, thinkers, and artists to talk about belief, doubt, and the moral codes that guide them. Scott has 21 Emmy nominations and many, many industry awards for his work in television, where he served as producer and writer for shows like Politically Incorrect with Bill Maher and Real Time with Bill Maher. He's been a stand-up comedian. He's also a playwright whose works cover culture, spirituality, and storytelling. They've been produced in cities all across the US and abroad. The Ye Gods podcast gets into the spiritual beliefs and guiding principles of a variety of guests, going in depth with notable individuals from various fields with no judgment and no agenda. Ye Gods is created with Southwest Florida's WGCU Public Media and is distributed by the NPR Network. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

"The feeling of not being alone is probably one of the most powerful tools we have." The latest episode The State of Belief features Dr. Diana Butler Bass. As an award-winning author, speaker, and theologian, Diana brings a wealth of insight to the intersection of faith, spirituality, and contemporary issues. In this episode, we dive deep into her new book, A Beautiful Year: 52 Meditations on Faith, Wisdom, and Perseverance, and explore the importance of community, the power of alternative narratives, and the call to courage in these challenging times. The conversation includes: The Power of Gathering: Diana shares her journey of creating community through her online newsletter, The Cottage. Initially hesitant to see herself as a gatherer, she discovered the profound impact of bringing people together, especially during the isolating times of the pandemic. Reclaiming the Christian Calendar: Host Paul Brandeis Raushenbush and Diana discuss how the Christian calendar offers an alternative structure of time that can ground us in hope and resilience. She emphasizes that this calendar is not just a relic of the past but a living tradition that can help us navigate the complexities of our current world. Courage to Stand Against Injustice: Diana encourages us to tap into our best selves and draw inspiration from historical figures who have stood up for justice and peace. She reminds us that while Christianity has often been misused to support oppressive systems, there is a rich tradition of resistance and compassion within the faith. This call to courage is not just for Christians but for all of us, as we seek to help each other get through these challenging times. It's a thought-provoking episode about exploring how we can reclaim our narratives, foster community, and find the courage to stand up for what is right. Diana Butler Bass is an award-winning author, speaker, and theologian whose books include Christianity after Religion: The End of Church and the Birth of a New Spiritual Awakening, and Freeing Jesus, among many others. The latest, A Beautiful Year: 52 Meditations on Faith, Wisdom, and Perseverance, will be published on November 4. Her Substack, The Cottage, remains among the top five religion-oriented newsletters on the site. Please share this episode with at least one person you think would enjoy the conversation! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

“What we will do will not be enough. That, however, is not the reason for not doing anything." The latest episode of The State of Belief features the inspiring Rev. Dr. Chloe Breyer, Executive Director of the Interfaith Center of New York. Rev. Chloe and host Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushebush dive deep into the intersection of faith, activism, and community engagement in today's complex landscape. Here are three key takeaways: The Power of Nonviolent Resistance: Rev. Chloe emphasizes the importance of nonviolence in our current socio-political climate. Drawing from historical figures like Gandhi and Martin Luther King Jr., she highlights how faith communities can harness the strength of peaceful protest to stand against violence and injustice. Interfaith Collaboration is Essential: The episode sheds light on the vital role that interfaith work plays in fostering understanding and solidarity among diverse communities. Rev. Chloe shares insights from the Interfaith Center of New York, which has been a beacon of hope and collaboration since its founding. Courage in the Face of Adversity: Rev. Chloe speaks candidly about the weight of responsibility that comes with being a faith leader in today's world. She defines courage not just as the absence of fear, but as the willingness to act despite it. This perspective is particularly relevant as we navigate the challenges posed by authoritarianism and social division. For 18 years, Rev. Dr. Chloe Breyer has been leading the Interfaith Center of New York, the most religiously diverse and civically engaged network of grassroots and immigrant religious leaders across the five boroughs of New York City. Ordained in the Episcopal tradition, Rev. Chloe has also been a priest at St. Philip's Episcopal Church in Harlem since 2011. As a member of the Council on Foreign Relations, she has participated in interfaith dialogues and humanitarian initiatives in countries such as Afghanistan and Iran. And Rev. Chloe served as a clergy advisor on transition teams for New York City's mayor and Manhattan District Attorney. Rev. Chloe is the daughter of retired Supreme Court Justice Stephen Breyer. Please share this episode with one person you think would enjoy the conversation! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The latest episode of The State of Belief features Adam Friedman, organizing and election strategist at Interfaith Alliance. In this episode, host Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush and Adam dive deep into the significance of the upcoming No Kings demonstration on October 18th and the vital role of faith communities in advocating for democracy. The discussion emphasizes: ·      The Power of Collective Action: Adam emphasizes that democracy is under threat, and now is the time to take to the streets and assert a commitment to a government "of the people, by the people, for the people." The No Kings demonstration is not just a protest; it's a celebration of democratic values and a powerful reminder that authoritarianism is not a foregone conclusion. ·      Faith as a Catalyst for Change: Adam highlights the essential role that people of faith play in social movements. Faith traditions have a rich history of advocating for justice, and by showing up, we can bring our moral voices to the forefront of the fight for democracy. ·      Know Your Rights and Stay Safe: In preparing for the NoKings demonstration, it's crucial to understand everyone’s fundamental rights as protesters. Adam reminds us that the rights to free speech, assembly, and religious expression are fundamental to our identity as Americans. Don’t miss the Interfaith Alliance webinar on The Sacred Tradition of Protest on Tuesday, October 14th.  All the details are available at interfaithalliance.org

This week, host Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush is joined by Celina Stewart, Chief Executive Officer of the League of Women Voters. They get into the way the League’s work has evolved over the past 105 years, with a focus on expanding access to the ballot, as well as on voter education, protecting voter rights, and strengthening civic engagement. Celina traces her own journey from discovering the League during her college years to leading it as a voting rights attorney. She reflects on the League's history, including its founding in 1920 and its progressive role in enfranchising women and marginalized communities. She emphasizes the organization’s current focus on voter protection and civic courage in the face of modern voter suppression tactics. Celina advocates for widespread participation in democracy through actions like the League's “Unite and Rise 8.5” initiative, aiming to mobilize millions of voters, as well as the national Vote 411 campaign. The conversation also highlights the importance of knowledge in reducing misinformation as well as combating disinformation, and underscores the civic duty to show up courageously against injustices – even if one has to do it in circumstances that can sometimes be scary. The episode also includes the comments of Lt. Gen. Charles D. Luckey (Ret.), reacting to the extraordinary gathering of our military's leaders from around the world to hear remarks from Secretary Pete Segheth and the nation's commander-in-chief.  More about Celina Stewart Celina joined the League in 2018 as director of advocacy and litigation, and later served as senior director and chief counsel. Appointed CEO just three months before the 2024 election, she guided the organization through one of the most consequential election cycles in modern history. A creative legal strategist, Celina has led litigation to protect voters from intimidation and disinformation. Before joining the League, she served as chief operating officer and director of philanthropy at FairVote, where she advanced structural election reform and organizational growth. More about Charles D. Luckey Lt. Gen. Charles D. Luckey (Ret.) served in the US Army and Army National Guard for 43 years. He retired from the Army as its oldest Green Beret in uniform after serving as the Commanding General of the United States Army Reserve Command from 2016 to 2020. Charles is a graduate of the University of Connecticut School of Law.

Religious freedom and public education: how do these issues come together? This week on The State of Belief, we hear leading voices make a compelling argument for ensuring the latter comes with a healthy dose of the former: Labor leader Randi Weingarten, activist Rabbi Sharon Kleinbaum, and Democracy Forward's Skye Perryman. Most of this episode was recorded live in Dallas, Texas, at a Religious Freedom in Public Schools Summit convened by Interfaith Alliance. In dialogue with host Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush, who moderated the conversation, Rabbi Sharon stresses how important separation of Church and State has been to the full inclusion of people who confess minority religions, including Judaism, in our country. A cornerstone of that is ensuring that public education remains a neutral ground where children from diverse backgrounds can learn together. Randi highlights the immense pressure placed on teachers when faced with mandates for religious instruction. Teachers find themselves in a challenging position, often caught between differing parental beliefs and the need to create an inclusive environment for all students. Randi emphasizes the importance of supporting our educators, ensuring they have the resources and backing to foster critical thinking and respect for diverse beliefs without imposing any one ideology. Then we hear Skye Perryman, President and CEO of Democracy Forward, offer eye-opening facts about the shifting global landscape of democracy. Marking International Democracy Day, Skye offers vital insights into how grassroots activism can counter the global drift toward autocracy - a trend affecting countries across the globe, including the United States, where she sees it playing out in public education policies, among other places. With compelling urgency, she underscores the importance of confronting extremism, misinformation, and regressive judicial decisions that threaten the very core of democratic principles, and the role of public schools in that struggle. More about the speakers: The longtime leader of the largest LGBTQ synagogue in the world, Congregation Beit Simchat Torah in New York City, Rabbi Sharon holds the title of Senior Rabbi Emerita and is now leading The Beacon, a nationwide grassroots movement of public witness. Rabbi Sharon is married to Randi Weingarten, President of the American Federation of Teachers. AFT represents 1.8 million educators and health care professionals across the country. Randi has just released a brand-new book, titled Why Fascists Fear Teachers. Skye Perryman is the President and CEO of Democracy Forward, “working tirelessly every day to safeguard our enduring, yet fragile, democracy.” That’s the description Time Magazine included in listing Skye as one of the 100 most influential people of 2025. We hope you'll take the time to listen - and share this insightful episode with at least one person you think would benefit from hearing it!

This week, host Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush is joined by Jonathan Jacoby, National Director of the Nexus Project. The compelling conversation highlights Jonathan's unique insights on confronting antisemitism and fostering a pluralistic democracy. Drawing from his family history as the descendant of Holocaust survivors and his intrinsic connection to Israel, he provides a thoughtful examination of the challenges that arise when discussing Israel, especially within progressive communities. He makes clear the fine line between legitimate critique and antisemitism, guided by the influential Nexus Document's criteria. By spotlighting crucial distinctions like antisemitic tropes and the problematic imposition of collective responsibility on Jews for Israel's actions, Jonathan champions the power of informed discourse. The episode also ventures into the complex territory of Jewish identity and advocacy amid the ever-shifting political landscape. Jonathan candidly addresses the emotional and ethical dilemmas tied to Israel's policies, especially concerning Gaza and the potential for a Palestinian state, and how these issues resonate with the broader Jewish community. Highlighting the strength and guidance found in both religious and cultural Judaism, he also emphasizes the indispensable role of interfaith solidarity, particularly between Jewish and Christian communities, in combating antisemitism and advocating for peace. Jonathan's call for perseverance, respect, and open dialogue within the Jewish community itself offers a powerful reminder of the importance of unity and understanding in addressing both internal and external challenges. About Jonathan Jacoby: Jonathan is the National Director of the Nexus Project. He was the founding Executive Director of the New Israel Fund and founding President of the Israel Policy Forum. He also held leadership positions at the Jewish Federation of Greater Los Angeles and Americans for Peace Now. Jonathan has pioneered new models for public-private partnerships in the field of rare disease research as a co-founder of SOAR (Support Of Accelerated Research.) About the Nexus Project: The Nexus Project works to fight antisemitism, uphold democracy, and protect free speech - and recognizes that these tasks are intertwined. The Nexus team takes all accusations of antisemitism seriously, which is why they also speak out when fears of antisemitism are cynically exploited to stifle legitimate criticism of Israel or US policy. The Nexus Document is a framework for understanding antisemitism, Israel, and Zionism, detailing what does and what does not constitute antisemitism. We hope you'll take the time to listen - and share this timely episode with at least one person you think would appreciate hearing it!

This week on The State of Belief - a conversation with Sam Helmick, the newly inaugurated president of the American Library Association. Sam and host Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush mark National Library Card Sign-up Month by discussing the importance of libraries in advocating for intellectual freedom and access to information, noting that libraries are far more than just books - they are spaces for shared experiences and understanding differences. Sam shares the personal journey from feeling libraries were not meant for them to falling in love with the library as a pivotal community space. Emphasizing the theme “Our stories are worth sharing,” Sam highlights the transformative power of libraries and the need for community involvement. The conversation covers challenges faced by libraries, including censorship and misinformation, and the essential role libraries play in supporting democracy, freedom of expression, and education. Paul and Sam also underscore the importance of faith communities in supporting libraries and librarians, suggesting practical steps like using libraries, joining library boards, advocating against censorship - and of course, getting a library card! Interfaith Alliance, together with Unite Against Book Bans, has released a resource titled Banned Books, Banned Beliefs, and is preparing to roll out a major initiative, Faith for Libraries. And as Paul says, there is so much to learn about the American Library Association’s work at www.ala.org. Sam Helmick (they/them) is the 2025-26 president of the American Library Association. Sam is a librarian, advocate, and community leader known for their work defending intellectual freedom and expanding library access. We'd love to have you listen to and share this gripping episode with at least one person you think would appreciate hearing it!

The Trump administration’s federal takeover of the nation’s capital is having a profound impact on Washington, DC’s 700,000 residents - and on our very democracy. That’s according to this week’s guest on The State of Belief, Keya Chatterjee. Keya’s the co-founder and executive director of Free DC, a civic campaign defending Washington, DC’s home rule and protecting the civil liberties and democratic dignity of its residents. In this episode, Keya and host Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush take an unflinching look at the current challenges facing Washington DC and the broader implications for democracy and civil liberties. Here are three key takeaways that are particularly noteworthy: The Importance of Listening and Believing: Keya emphasizes the critical need to take political rhetoric seriously. She highlights how the warnings from political leaders about authoritarianism should not be dismissed as mere rhetoric. Instead, we must listen and prepare for the potential consequences of their actions. Community and Collective Action: One of the most inspiring aspects of the conversation is Keya's focus on the strength of community. She shares how the people of DC and diverse organizations—including faith groups - are coming together to resist federal overreach and protect their rights. From training sessions to grassroots organizing, the emphasis on collective action is vital. As Keya states, "It is only in community that we will turn this around." Prioritizing Joy in Activism: Keya reminds us of the importance of joy in our activism. She discusses how Free DC incorporates joy into their organizing efforts, emphasizing that taking care of ourselves and each other is crucial for sustaining long-term resistance. This perspective is a reminder that while we fight for justice, we must also celebrate our victories and find joy in our shared humanity. After hearing this episode, you’ll have a deeper understanding of the current state of Washington DC, and the inspiring work being done by Free DC. The experiences Keya describes are a stark warning for other American cities, and for each of us. Learn more about the organization at www.freedcproject.org Keya Chatterjee has an impressive background in social and climate justice, having previously led the U.S. Climate Action Network, worked at World Wildlife Federation, USAID, and NASA. Under her leadership, Free DC has become a prominent voice opposing federal overreach - a very big job indeed, in the face of the Trump Administration’s forcing federal law enforcement on the district and expanding detention powers. Before the in-depth conversation with Keya Chatterjee, Paul spends a few minutes with Rev. Andy Oliver, pastor of Allendale United Methodist Church. He and a fellow clergyman were arrested this past week in St. Petersburg, Fla., while praying on a “Black History Matters” street mural - that was about to be destroyed - in front of the city’s Woodson African American Museum. We'd love to have you listen to and share this thought-provoking episode with at least one person you think would appreciate hearing it.

She's a Jewish woman who has spent countless hours undercover, impersonating the White supremacist, misogynistic, antisemitic extremists she was researching for her first book. She's also brought an outsider's view to the growing dominance of Christian Nationalism in our society and our government for her second. This week on The State of Belief, journalist and author Talia Lavin explains how the groups she covers in those two impactful books, Culture Warlords: My Journey into the Dark Web of White Supremacy, and Wild Faith: How the Christian Right is Taking Over America, in her words, "Got together and made the worst government ever." Three important additional points that emerge from the conversation: The Invisible Influence of Christian Hegemony: Talia discusses how Christian hegemony often goes unnoticed by those who grew up within it, while it remains glaringly obvious for those outside the faith - especially when it becomes more militant. This awareness is crucial for understanding the current political landscape and the implications of Christian nationalism. The Authoritarian Family Structure: One of the most striking aspects of Talia's research is her examination of how authoritarian parenting styles within certain Christian communities can shape broad societal attitudes. She highlights the works of influential figures like James Dobson, who died earlier this month. She sees his teachings on child-rearing as promoting a model of obedience and submission that can lead to accepting authoritarianism in adulthood. The Need for a Diverse Coalition Against Extremism: Talia emphasizes the importance of embracing a cacophony of voices in the fight against the rigid and coordinated forces of the Christian right. She advocates for a coalition that includes people of various faiths and those with no faith at all, working together to uphold the values of a multiracial democracy. We'd love to have you listen to and share this thought-provoking episode and reflect on these critical issues. Talia's newsletter is titled The Sword and the Sandwich.

What does it mean to build bridges amidst the turmoil of the second Trump Administration? How have interfaith communities moved forward with productive dialogue post-October 7th? Is there a more nuanced way to think about Christian Nationalism and the MAGA constituency? In this episode of The State of Belief, Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenush and Interfaith America CEO Rev. Adam Nicholas Phillips explore these critical issues and much more. Adam's personal journey into interfaith work is compelling. He describes his upbringing in a non-traditional religious environment, his exploration of various faiths, and his eventual identification with evangelical Christianity. His experiences, including planting a church and getting through the consequences of advocating for LGBTQI+ inclusion, have shaped his understanding of faith and public life. Listen for an in-depth look at:• Interfaith America’s work on managing conflict in classrooms and workplaces, creating opportunities for groups to move beyond just coexisting and rather collaborating for a common cause.• How the inspiration of Live Aid and Adam’s past experience in leadership at USAID during the Biden-Harris administration, as well as as a faith leader, inform his current position as CEO at Interfaith America.• Navigating our polarized environment: “We find ourselves at a crossroads of sorts where the politicization of a number of our traditions has become quite difficult and untenable. But I keep trying to come at this with some sense of curiosity and not contempt.” Where to find Adam:• Check out his book, Love, Light, Joy & Justice: How To Be A Christian Now• Embrace the “power of pluralism,” and get involved with Interfaith America.• Hear more from Adam in his Ted Talk, “Inclusion: the ancient idea that just might save all of us.” There’s a lot to learn from this conversation. I hope you’ll share it with someone you know who’ll enjoy hearing it!

This week on The State of Belief, host Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush sits down with Ani Zonneveld,  feminist Muslim activist, musician, and Grammy-winning songwriter. Ani’s journey from Malaysia to Germany, Egypt, India and eventually Los Angeles - and the lessons learned along the way - is nothing short of inspiring. And she lays it all out in her brand-new memoir, titled The Unlikely Social Justice Warrior: Making My Life Count as a Muslim Feminist. As a diplomat’s daughter, Ani nurtured her social justice consciousness despite a privileged upbringing. From witnessing the aftermath of the Sinai War to playing soccer with a Dalit child in India, these moments shaped her anti-war and anti-racist beliefs. It was after 9/11 that Ani delved deep into Islam, discovering its egalitarian and inclusive roots and founding Muslims for Progressive Values, championing LGBTQ+ inclusion, gender equality, and human rights from a faith-based perspective. Music is a cornerstone of Ani’s spiritual journey. While pursuing a professional music career in LA, she faced sexism and racism, and experienced suppression of the diverse musical heritage of Muslim immigrants in the American context. Ani sees a conservative swing in Islam, which she describes as quite different from the religious tradition she grew up in. Ani hopes to inspire young people to channel their anger constructively and build alliances across differences, based on being exposed as students to diverse cultures and traditions in public schools, countering conservative efforts to restrict such content. There’s a lot of value in this conversation. I hope you’ll share it with someone you know who’ll enjoy hearing it!

This week on The State of Belief, truth through comedy. Host Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush welcomes comedic genius John Fugelsang, author of the new book Separation of Church and Hate: A Sane Person's Guide to Taking Back the Bible from Fundamentalists, Fascists, and Flock-Fleecing Frauds coming September 9th. Together, they delve into the tension between progressive values and mainstream Christianity, or as John puts it, being “too Christian for the liberals and way too liberal for the Christians.” As they explore this topic, John summarizes the teachings of Jesus: “Welcome the stranger, man. I mean, that's about it.” The child of a former Catholic priest and former Catholic nun, John aims his sharp wit and brilliant mind at a topic he is deeply passionate about: using Scripture to challenge the all-too-often unchallenged claims to godliness by Christian Nationalists and fundamentalist Christians. "I was raised in a Christianity that was about service, that was about love, that was about forgiveness, that guided us to the margins. What are you doing for the least among us? Are you welcoming the stranger? Are you caring for the poor? Are you trying to help those who are hated and despised on the lowest rungs? Because that was Jesus's whole ministry. You reach out to the marginalized.” “And, of course, as you know, the nice Christians don't get the airtime. You don't see the Christians on cable news talking about how war is bad or how homophobia is bad. You see the other kind - because villains make for better TV than nice people.” - Actor, author, comedian, commentator John Fugelsang. You can preorder his book that comes out September 9th,  Separation of Church and Hate: A Sane Person's Guide to Taking Back the Bible from Fundamentalists, Fascists, and Flock-Fleecing Frauds Check out his daily show Tell Me Everything with John Fugelsang on Sirius/XM Subscribe to his Substack to get political commentary right to your inbox. Keep up with his almost-daily podcast, the Sanity-Cast, which covers politics, religion, and pop culture. Also in this episode: an excerpt of Texas State Rep. James Talarico's definition of Christian Nationalism from a public conversation last week with Interfaith Alliance Vice President of Programs and Strategy Guthrie Graves-Fitzsimmons, who's also a senior fellow at the Center for American Progress. The event was co-sponsored by the Center for American Progress Action Fund and Interfaith Alliance. The full recording is available here. Please share this episode with one person who would enjoy hearing this conversation, and thank you for listening!

This week, host Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush had the pleasure of interviewing Elizabeth Reiner Platt, the brilliant mind leading the Law, Rights, and Religion Project. They dive deep into her newly published report, Religious Liberty and Immigration: Legal Analysis of Past and Future Claims. Despite the administration's rhetoric about protecting religious liberty, their actual immigration policies have been directly attacking faith communities. Paul and Liz discuss the revocation of the “sensitive locations” policy, which previously protected places like houses of worship from ICE enforcement actions. This has had a direct impact on people of faith feeling safe to practice their religion in community. Faith leaders like Bishop Marion Budde have been targeted for their modest pleas consistent with gospel teachings. This administration has even gone after Catholic bishops for simply caring for refugees and immigrants. Faith communities have long been central to immigration justice movements, from the sanctuary movement of the 1980s to organizations like HIAS, which started by helping persecuted Jews during the 1880's and now supports refugees of all faiths. They explore the question of whether religious freedom is being applied equally to all faiths or just a narrow slice of the Christian right. This is a crucial point in understanding the broader implications of religious liberty claims. There’s been an increase in litigation tactics relying on the expansive interpretation of religious liberty created under the Roberts Court. Paul and Liz discuss cases like Masterpiece Cakeshop and how these precedents intersect with immigration contexts. Elizabeth Reiner Platt has been leading the Law, Rights & Religion Project since 2015. Her publications have included the report, “Whose Faith Matters? The Fight for Religious Liberty Beyond the Christian Right”, which is just incredibly relevant today. Liz is a legally trained scholar and advocate who leads efforts to reframe religious liberty in the U.S., especially in relation to gender justice, reproductive rights, and racial equity. Just last month, the Law, Rights & Religion Project moved from Columbia Law School  to Union Theological Seminary in New York, and this week it published Liz’s latest comprehensive report, titled Religious Liberty & Immigration: Legal Analysis of Past and Future Claims. If you enjoy the episode, please consider sharing it with your friends and family. Your support helps us continue these important conversations!

We are back from a brief summer break, and are ready to hit the ground running! This week on The State of Belief, the political, ethical, religious and legal aspects of the sordid case of the Jefferey Epstein files. Whether or not there are incriminating documents, the relative silence from most faith-oriented leaders raises questions. Host Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush is joined by author and attorney Rabbi Dr. Jay Michaelson. A visiting professor at Harvard Law School and a field scholar at the Emory Center for Psychedelics and Spirituality, Jay brings a wealth of knowledge and a unique perspective to our discussion. Paul and Jay dive deep into the ongoing saga surrounding the Epstein files and the implications for the current administration. They explore the ambivalence many progressives feel about discussing this topic, especially when there are so many pressing issues at hand. However, Jay argues that understanding the Epstein case is crucial, not just for its political ramifications but also for the fundamental issues of trust and transparency that it raises. You'll hear about the legal maneuvers surrounding the Epstein case, including the recent attempts to unseal grand jury transcripts and what that could mean for accountability. Jay provides clarity on the complex legal landscape and the potential consequences for those involved, including Donald Trump. Paul and Jay also reflect on the broader implications for democracy and the role of higher education. Jay shares his thoughts on how the current administration is reshaping the federal government and the challenges we face as a society. Rabbi Dr. Jay Michaelson is the author of ten books and a journalist whose work appears on CNN, in Rolling Stone, and in his weekly Substack newsletter, Both/And with Jay Michaelson. For twenty years, Jay's work has focused on the intersections of politics and religion. If you enjoy the episode, please consider sharing it with your friends and family. Your support helps us continue these important conversations!

What does falling off a bike have to do with the state of our nation? Is America going through an identity crisis - just like a seventeen-year-old? This week on The State of Belief, these parallels are part of the conversation with host Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush and Dr. Robert P. Jones on America's first 249 years, and what's to come as the country approaches 250. All while they ask themselves the question: “How Bad Is It?” On this Independence Day episode, Paul and his guest, who is president and founder of Public Religion Research Institute (PRRI), explore: PRRI’s recent polling on the Trump Administration: “Democracy at Crossroads: How Americans View Trump’s first 100 Days in Office,” and some of the misconceptions that have arisen. From De Tocqueville to Trump, how the notion of “creed” has developed over time, shaping the current state of religious freedom in America.  How we can meaningfully celebrate Juneteenth and July 4th together - and why we should! Towards the end of the episode, Robby leaves us with a powerful reminder of civic responsibility: “... whether it's inside a home, inside a business, inside a church or a synagogue or a mosque, there are roles for all of us to play because there is a fight going on, for - I know Biden used this term maybe a little too much, but I do think it's true - this kind of the soul of America really is, in many ways, at stake right now.” Where to find Robby Jones: Bookmark the PRRI website, where a wealth of invaluable research is regularly posted for free. Check out Robby’s bestselling books, The Hidden Roots of White Supremacy, and the Path to a Shared American Future; White Too Long: The Legacy of White Supremacy in American Christianity; and The End of White Christian America. Subscribe to his Substack, White Too Long, where he frequently posts on religion, White Christian Nationalism, and protecting a pluralistic democracy. Have you heard these recent episodes of The State of Belief?  June 24, 2024: On Diversity and Democracy with Wajahat Ali June 14, 2025: A Pastor Reports from the Front Lines in Los Angeles: Faith and Immigration Please share this episode with one person who would enjoy hearing this conversation, subscribe, and thank you for listening!

This week on The State of Belief, popular writer and commentator Wajahat Ali joins host Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush for a thought-provoking exploration of patriotism, diversity, and democracy in today’s politically charged climate. Waj shares his unique perspective on the responsibilities that immigrants and citizens face amid the continuing societal impacts of the Trump administration's policies. Together, they unravel the moral and ethical dilemmas of maintaining integrity in chaotic times, while drawing on historical and religious narratives to emphasize the importance of long-term justice and equality. Life is more than serving a cause we believe in, no matter how urgent that may be. And so they reflect on balancing professional aspirations with personal commitments. Waj opens up about his daughter’s passion for dance and her journey as a cancer survivor, juxtaposed with his career in writing and advocacy. They also tackle the power of storytelling in political activism and its role in challenging misinformation and fear-based tactics. The conversation delves into important themes, including: Navigating Patriotism, Diversity, and Democracy: Paul and Waj discuss the challenges faced by immigrants and citizens in a fascist political climate, emphasizing the importance of ethical grounding and personal responsibility. Finding Purpose and Superpowers: Waj has inspiring things to say about the roles available to each of us, if we’re truly interested in making a difference. There are strengths everyday citizens bring, even if that’s integrity and honesty as an act of resistance to corruption and lies. Christian Nationalism and Authoritarianism: Christian Nationalism demands the suppression of diverse stories in the service of a single self-serving narrative. It uses fear and ignorance to advance a specific  kind of White Christian agenda, targeting, in turn, LGBTQ, Black, Muslim, and Jewish communities – and leaving no room, in the end, even for dissenting White Christians like Mike Pence. Wajahat Ali is the author of Go Back to Where You Came From and Other Helpful Recommendations on How to Become an American. He has a very popular Substack, The Left Hook With Wajahat Ali, and co-hosts The Democracy-ish Podcast. Waj is a Daily Beast columnist, a writer, television commentator and keen observer of what this country seems to be doing to itself. The child of immigrants, he's an invaluable contributor to the conversation around patriotism, diversity and democracy.

This week on The State of Belief, an inspiring conversation with Rev. Noel Andersen, the National Field Director for Church World Service and a dedicated advocate for immigrant rights. In this episode, he joins host Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush to delve into the pressing issues surrounding immigration enforcement, the role of faith communities, and the ongoing fight for justice in the face of adversity. Here are three key takeaways that stand out: The Reality of Court Raids: Noel shares firsthand accounts of ICE agents conducting raids at courthouses, targeting asylum seekers who are simply following the legal process. This alarming trend highlights the urgent need for awareness and action within our communities. The Power of Faith Communities: Throughout the episode, the focus is on the vital role that faith leaders and religious organizations play in advocating for immigrant rights. Noel emphasizes the importance of building relationships with impacted communities and using our moral voices to challenge unjust policies. The Broader Fight for Democracy: The conversation also touches on the intersection of immigration and democracy. Noel articulates how the current administration's tactics are part of a larger strategy to destabilize democratic values. This is a call to action for all of us to engage in the fight for democracy, not just for immigrants but for the integrity of our society as a whole. The episode wraps up with Paul’s words from the June 10th Faith Rally for a Moral Budget at the US Capitol, as well as a conversation he recorded at that event with two of the leaders attending from Iowa: Interfaith Alliance of Iowa Executive Director Connie Ryan and Rev. Heather Wachendorf. Listen to this powerful episode and reflect on how you can contribute to the ongoing struggle for justice and equality. Together, we can amplify the voices of those who are often silenced and work towards a more inclusive future. Rev. Noel Andersen is the National Field Director for Church World Service where he has developed a national network of faith communities taking action in solidarity with immigrants and refugees. He is ordained in the United Church of Christ (UCC) and is the lead organizer and co-founder of the UCC National Collaborative on Immigration, a grassroots network of UCC leaders taking action for immigrants’ rights. Noel works at the intersection of faith and justice, mobilizing religious communities to resist unjust immigration enforcement, including ICE raids in Los Angeles and beyond. Please share this episode with one person who would enjoy hearing this conversation, subscribe, and thank you for listening!

This week on The State of Belief – getting ready for No Kings Day on June 14th, an initiative of the national grassroots organization Indivisible. Co-founder Leah Greenberg explains that No Kings Day is a forceful nationwide response to the royal pretensions on display in Donald Trump's demand for a multi-million dollar military parade on his 79th birthday. Leah joins Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush to discuss the importance of getting involved rather than discouraged, share past Indivisible successes and lessons learned, and the essential role faith leaders and communities play in giving credibility to public actions like this. Leah traces the origins of Indivisible, where she serves as co-executive director, back to authoring The Indivisible Guide in the wake of the 2016 election. The conversation highlights the importance of: The Power of Local Organizing: Leah emphasizes how grassroots movements can effectively challenge the status quo. After the 2016 election, many individuals who had never been politically active stepped up to organize in their communities. This surge of local activism powered the growth of Indivisible, and it continues to be a driving force in the fight for democracy today. Building Coalitions Across Differences: To be seen as serious, a coalition needs diverse voices and perspectives. Leah points out that while we may not agree on every issue, we can unite around shared values, such as the dignity of all human life and the commitment to a pluralistic democracy. This approach is essential, especially in a time when divisiveness can easily fracture movements. Mobilization as a Strategy: Leah shares insights on the significance of mass mobilization in the current political climate. With the upcoming No Kings initiative, Indivisible aims to demonstrate that there is a strong and growing opposition to authoritarianism. Mobilization is not just about numbers; it's about sending a message, building community, and preparing for future actions. As Leah noted, "We are building muscles to mobilize," which is crucial for sustaining momentum in the fight for democracy. Leah Greenberg is co-founder and co-executive director of Indivisible, a grassroots movement with over one million participants – and counting. A former congressional staffer, she co-authored We Are Indivisible: A Blueprint for Democracy After Trump. Leah has been recognized for her leadership in civic engagement and was named one of Time magazine’s 100 most influential people in 2019. Indivisible is partnering with many groups - including Interfaith Alliance - for the upcoming No Kings initiative on June 14, 2025. Please share this episode with one person who would enjoy hearing this conversation, subscribe, and thank you for listening!

This week on The State of Belief, you’ll hear a powerful conversation with Rev. Jim Wallis and host Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush, diving deep into his upcoming event on June 10th at the Capitol, A Pentecost Witness for a Moral Budget, which aims to address critical issues surrounding the Reconciliation Bill and its potential cuts to vital programs like Medicaid and SNAP. Just a couple of highlights: How Can Faith and Action Unite? Jim connects the Christian tradition of Pentecost and the current moment we find ourselves in. Just as the early followers of Jesus found courage to speak out in the streets, we too are called to rise above fear and take action. This event is not just a protest; it’s a public witness to our values as people of faith, transcending partisan politics. Why is the Budget a Moral Document? Wallis emphasizes that the choices we make in our budgets reflect our values and priorities as a society. So we’re not just advocating for specific programs; we’re advocating for a moral budget that aligns with the teachings of Jesus and supports the most vulnerable among us. What Does a Call to Collective Action Look Like? There are still ways for all of us to engage in the democratic process. Whether you can attend the event in person or not, there are numerous ways to participate. From writing letters to your senators to mobilizing your community, every action counts. Jim reminds us that moments like these can change the narrative and impact votes. Together, we can show that faith communities are not silent but are actively engaged in shaping a more just and compassionate society. You’ll also hear an excerpt from Sen. Cory Booker’s marathon Senate speech last month, where he and Sen. Chris Coons raised up Scripture as a guide toward the values our federal budget should truly embody as a moral document. Listen to this episode and join in this important movement. Let’s come together to advocate for a budget that reflects our shared values and supports those in need. The Pentecost Witness for a Moral Budget is Tuesday, June 10th, at the US Capitol in Washington, DC. Rev. Jim Wallis is the founder of Sojourners Magazine and the Sojourners Christian Community, and has been at the forefront of bringing together faith and social justice activism for decades, advocating for for issues such as racial equality, poverty alleviation, peace, and environmental stewardship as a preacher, teacher, best-selling author, and theologian. He currently serves as the founding Director of the Center on Faith and Justice at Georgetown University. Jim’s books include God’s Politics: Why the Right Gets It Wrong and the Left Doesn’t Get It, and The False White Gospel: Rejecting Christian Nationalism, Reclaiming True Faith, and Refounding Democracy. Please share this episode with one person who would enjoy hearing this conversation, subscribe, and thank you for listening!