The Englewood Review of Books Podcast

Chris sat down at the recent CCDA conference with two first-time podcast guests, Stephanie Vander Lugt and Kimberlee Medicine Horn Jackson, each of whom hosted CCDA workshops. They discuss their work as it relates to the religious practices of indigenous people, the importance of attentiveness, and of course, what they are currently reading.

**This episode is sponsored by InterVarsity Press, publisher of'Zion Learns to See.' When Zion joins her dad at work, she discovers that a day at the community center brings new and wonderful people into her life. Inspired by real events, this children’s book by Terence Lester and his daughter Zion, allows kids and adults to learn with Zion about people experiencing homelessness and see how she is moved to respond as she recognizes that all people matter to God. Zion Learns to See, a new IVP Kids book by Terence Lester and Zion Lester.

Books Mentioned in this Episode:

If you’d like to order any of the following books, we encourage you to do so fromHearts and Minds Books(An independent bookstore in Dallastown, PA, run by Byron and Beth Borger) 

Chris hosted a lively and interactive conversation between first-time guest David Fitch and returning guest Myles Werntz concerning the thesis of David's brand-new book from Brazos Press, the use of power in ministry and the institution of the church, whether power and conflict can be leveraged healthily in community, and of course what they are currently reading.

Books Mentioned in this Episode:

If you’d like to order any of the following books, we encourage you to do so fromHearts and Minds Books(An independent bookstore in Dallastown, PA, run by Byron and Beth Borger) 

Jen sat down (live!) with two first-time podcast guests at the recent CCDA conference: E.K. Strawser and Lisa Rodriguez-Watson. They have an impassioned discussion about the importance of contextualizing discipleship work in the setting of the local congregation, as well as the importance of Western Christians listening to the global church.

Books Mentioned in this Episode:

If you’d like to order any of the following books, we encourage you to do so fromHearts and Minds Books(An independent bookstore in Dallastown, PA, run by Byron and Beth Borger) 

Chris sat down with 3 co-authors and first-time podcast guests at the recent CCDA conference to discuss their work in the intersection of the topics of disability, inclusion, ministry leadership and the life of the church.

Books Mentioned in this Episode:

The podcast crew (Jen, Chris & Joel) is joined once again by Ashley Hales for our favorite topic: the books we enjoyed the most this year! ERB Contributors from 2023 also offer their suggestions throughout, so we cover a wide, wide range of titles. Enjoy this veritable feast of reading suggestions to keep you occupied until next year!

Books Mentioned in this Episode:

If you’d like to order any of the following books, we encourage you to do so fromHearts and Minds Books(An independent bookstore in Dallastown, PA, run by Byron and Beth Borger) 

Jen welcomes co-authors Matt Mikalatos (returning ERB podcast guest) and Kathy Khang (first-time podcast guest) for an honest and heartfelt discussion about the topic of their recent book: disagreement and Christian unity.

Books Mentioned in this Episode:

If you’d like to order any of the following books, we encourage you to do so fromHearts and Minds Books(An independent bookstore in Dallastown, PA, run by Byron and Beth Borger) 

Chris sat down with two first-time ERB Podcast guests, Soong-Chan Rah and Mark Charles, at the recent CCDA conference to discuss their work related to colonialism, race, history and the church.

Books Mentioned in this Episode:

If you’d like to order any of the following books, we encourage you to do so fromHearts and Minds Books(An independent bookstore in Dallastown, PA, run by Byron and Beth Borger) 

Joel took over the host role for a vulnerable and thoughtful conversation on the topic of forgiveness with two first-time ERB guests. They discuss their personal narratives and experiences with forgiveness, the ways dominant cultural discussions of forgiveness can distort the concept, and what they are currently reading.

Books Mentioned in this Episode:

If you’d like to order any of the following books, we encourage you to do so fromHearts and Minds Books(An independent bookstore in Dallastown, PA, run by Byron and Beth Borger) 

Jen welcomed first-time ERB guest Russell Moore alongside returning guest Karen Swallow Prior to discuss their recent writings on the state of Evangelical religion and culture in American life, as well as a fascinating and unexpected list of titles they are currently enjoying.

Books Mentioned in this Episode:

If you’d like to order any of the following books, we encourage you to do so fromHearts and Minds Books(An independent bookstore in Dallastown, PA, run by Byron and Beth Borger) 

Jen sat down with two first-time guests (and poets) to have the first-ever ERB  Podcast episode conversation focused entirely on poetry! They discuss whether the distinction between "poet" and "writer" is legitimate, their own writing processes, and even read a few selections of their recent publications.

Learn more about Heather Lanier here: https://heatherlanierwriter.com/

Learn more about Katie Manning here: https://www.katiemanningpoet.com/

Books Mentioned in this Episode:

If you’d like to order any of the following books, we encourage you to do so fromHearts and Minds Books(An independent bookstore in Dallastown, PA, run by Byron and Beth Borger) 

Jen takes a shift in a "panelist" seat for this episode, as Chris hosts a conversation between her and two other writers, Marilyn McEntyre and Ragan Sutterfield, as they reflect on the recent book on time and mortality by Oliver Burkeman. They discuss the impact of the book on their own ideas, as well as how it intersects with broader Christian thought.

Books Mentioned in this Episode:

If you’d like to order any of the following books, we encourage you to do so fromHearts and Minds Books(An independent bookstore in Dallastown, PA, run by Byron and Beth Borger) 

Joel sat down with two ERB reviewers and contributors to discuss their recent reviews, as well as what they have been reading lately. A wide swath of genres are discussed, including biography, poetry, theology, and of course, some epic fantasy!

Amy Merrick is a senior professional lecturer in journalism at DePaul University in Chicago. She is also a freelance writer and editor, and a longtime member of the Religion in Literature book group at Grace Lutheran Church in River Forest, Illinois

Aarik Danielsen is the arts and entertainment editor at the Columbia Daily Tribune and an instructor at the University of Missouri School of Journalism. He writes a weekly column, The (Dis)content, for Fathom Magazine. His work has been published in Image Journal, Think Christian, Christ and Pop Culture and more.

Books and Writing Mentioned in this Episode:

If you’d like to order any of the following books, we encourage you to do so fromHearts and Minds Books(An independent bookstore in Dallastown, PA, run by Byron and Beth Borger) 

Jen sat down at Urbana with two first-time podcast guests, Jeff Clark & Lynda MacGibbon to discuss place, habits, rhythms, and of course their own writing.

Books mentioned in this episode:

If you’d like to order any of the following books, we encourage you to do so fromHearts and Minds Books(An independent bookstore in Dallastown, PA, run by Byron and Beth Borger) 

Chris sat down at Urbana with two first-time podcast guests and recent co-authors of the recent book "Learning Our Names." They discuss the writing of this project, the importance of names, and their personal backgrounds.

Books Mentioned in this Episode:

If you’d like to order any of the following books, we encourage you to do so fromHearts and Minds Books(An independent bookstore in Dallastown, PA, run by Byron and Beth Borger) 

Chris sat down with Josh Harper and Lowell Bliss at Urbana for a thoughtful and impassioned conversation about Christianity, environmentalism and creation care, as well as their work and what they're reading.

Books Mentioned in this Episode:

If you’d like to order any of the following books, we encourage you to do so fromHearts and Minds Books(An independent bookstore in Dallastown, PA, run by Byron and Beth Borger) 

Chris sat down with Andy Crouch and Wendy Quay at Urbana 22 for a conversation about vocation, calling, purpose, and how these topics intersect with their work and writing.

Books Mentioned in this Episode:

If you’d like to order any of the following books, we encourage you to do so fromHearts and Minds Books(An independent bookstore in Dallastown, PA, run by Byron and Beth Borger) 

Chris sat down at Urbana with first-time guests Terry & Darlene Wildman for an insightful and illuminating conversation about the process of writing the First Nations Version of the New Testament, as well as the work of writing and contextualization in general.

Books Mentioned in this Episode:

If you’d like to order any of the following books, we encourage you to do so fromHearts and Minds Books(An independent bookstore in Dallastown, PA, run by Byron and Beth Borger) 

Jen sat down with two first-time podcast guests at Urbana to discuss their recent work and the topics of belonging and loneliness.

Books Mentioned in this Episode:

If you’d like to order any of the following books, we encourage you to do so fromHearts and Minds Books(An independent bookstore in Dallastown, PA, run by Byron and Beth Borger) 

Chris sat down with two first-time guests for a deeply-felt and thought-provoking conversation about Christian witness in a time of contention and social polarization.

Books and Writing Mentioned:

If you’d like to order any of the following books, we encourage you to do so fromHearts and Minds Books(An independent bookstore in Dallastown, PA, run by Byron and Beth Borger) 

Jen sat down with returning guest Marlena Graves and first-time guest Jason Gaboury at Urbana for a thoughtful discussion on the life of contemplation, particularly in our polarized and highly-activist cultural moment.

Books Mentioned:

If you’d like to order any of the following books, we encourage you to do so fromHearts and Minds Books(An independent bookstore in Dallastown, PA, run by Byron and Beth Borger) 

Chris had an energetic conversation about the topic of "revival" at Urbana with two first time guests: James Choung & Don Everts. They talk about their experiences with revival, as well as their writing on the topic.

Books & Writing Mentioned in this Episode:

If you’d like to order any of the following books, we encourage you to do so fromHearts and Minds Books(An independent bookstore in Dallastown, PA, run by Byron and Beth Borger) 

Jen sat down with two first-time guests at Urbana to discuss their personal journeys and work related to race, American history and Christianity.

Books and Writing Mentioned in this Episode:

If you’d like to order any of the following books, we encourage you to do so fromHearts and Minds Books(An independent bookstore in Dallastown, PA, run by Byron and Beth Borger) 

Chris sits down with two first-time guests, and one returning guest, for a live conversation at Urbana about the myriad ways that things like race and culture intersect with power and hierarchy in our culture.

Books Mentioned in this Episode:

If you’d like to order any of the following books, we encourage you to do so fromHearts and Minds Books(An independent bookstore in Dallastown, PA, run by Byron and Beth Borger) 

Chris had the opportunity to hold a fascinating conversation about economics, gentrification and demographic change with two ministry leaders and first-time podcast guests at CCDA. They talk about the history of their neighborhoods, as well as what they are currently reading.

Books and Writing Mentioned in this Episode:

If you’d like to order any of the following books, we encourage you to do so fromHearts and Minds Books(An independent bookstore in Dallastown, PA, run by Byron and Beth Borger) 

Chris had the opportunity to speak with 3 first-time podcast guests at CCDA. They discuss their recent books, genuinely diverse worship and the dynamics of being Latino/a in ministry leadership in our cultural moment.

Books & Writing Mentioned in this Episode:

If you’d like to order any of the following books, we encourage you to do so fromHearts and Minds Books(An independent bookstore in Dallastown, PA, run by Byron and Beth Borger) 

Jen leads a freewheeling conversation with a roundtable of guests, who all reflect on their favorite books that were released in 2022. Also, Joel briefly takes over the episode for a reflection on the state of the ERB podcast after 50 episodes. Enjoy!

Books Mentioned in this Episode:

If you’d like to order any of the following books, we encourage you to do so fromHearts and Minds Books(An independent bookstore in Dallastown, PA, run by Byron and Beth Borger) 

Chris had the chance to sit down at CCDA with two first-time podcast guests Donna Barber and Michelle Warren for a conversation themed about their new books, as well as the work they both do to mobilize people for justice and social change and what sustains them on the journey.

Special thanks to IVP for granting the space to record this conversation at the conference!

Books & Writing Mentioned in this Episode:

If you’d like to order any of the following books, we encourage you to do so fromHearts and Minds Books(An independent bookstore in Dallastown, PA, run by Byron and Beth Borger) 

Jen has an honest and animated conversation with returning guest Katelyn Beaty and first-time guest Andy Crouch on the perils of power, celebrity, platform and fame in the Christian church.

Katelyn Beaty is a journalist, editor, and keen observer of trends in the American church. She has written for a variety of publications and is cohost of the Saved by the Citypodcast. She’s the author ofCelebrities for Jesus: How Personas, Platforms, and Profits Are Hurting the Church(Brazos Press, 2022) andA Woman's Place: A Christian Vision for Your Calling in the Office, the Home, and the World(Simon & Schuster, 2016). She lives in New York City.

Andy Crouch is partner for theology and culture at Praxis, an organization that works as a creative engine for redemptive entrepreneurship. His writing explores faith, culture, and the image of God in the domains of technology, power, leadership, and the arts. He is the author of five books, most recently The Life We're Looking For: Reclaiming Relationship in a Technological World. He lives with his family in Pennsylvania.

Books/Writing Mentioned in this Episode:

If you’d like to order any of the following books, we encourage you to do so fromHearts and Minds Books(An independent bookstore in Dallastown, PA, run by Byron and Beth Borger) 

Chris had the chance to sit down at CCDA with two first-time podcast guests Alexia Salvatierra & Greg Jarrell for a conversation themed around Alexia's new book, and especially what majority-culture Christians can learn from marginalized, immigrant communities across the globe.

Special thanks to IVP for granting the space to record this conversation at the conference!

Books & Writing Mentioned in this Episode:

If you’d like to order any of the following books, we encourage you to do so fromHearts and Minds Books(An independent bookstore in Dallastown, PA, run by Byron and Beth Borger) 

Chris sits in the host seat for a wide-ranging discussion of asceticism with three fantastic panelists. They talk about the place of asceticism in Christian history and tradition, as well as the relevance of ascetic practices in our cultural context.

Books & Writing Mentioned in this Episode:

If you’d like to order any of the following books, we encourage you to do so fromHearts and Minds Books(An independent bookstore in Dallastown, PA, run by Byron and Beth Borger) 

Joel takes over the podcast for a Biblical Studies-themed discussion with two fantastic scholars. They discuss their scholarly work, but also consider the challenges and blessings of writing for both academic and popular-level audiences.

Michael J. Gorman is the Raymond E. Brown Professor of Biblical Studies and Theology at St. Mary's Seminary & University in Baltimore, Maryland, USA, where he has taught since 1991. He is a New Testament scholar who specializes especially in the letters, theology, and spirituality of the apostle Paul. He is the author of many articles on biblical interpretation and on ethics, and nearly 20 books, most recently Romans: A Theological and Pastoral Commentary from Eerdmans.

Nijay Gupta is a second-time guest on the ERB podcast! He is currently professor of New Testament at Northern Seminary, and has also written much on the Apostle Paul including Worship That Makes Sense to Paul and Paul and the Language of Faith. He has also written numerous academic articles for journals such as Journal for the Study of the New Testament and The Catholic Biblical Quarterly and is co-editor of the planned second edition of the Dictionary of Paul and His Letters (InterVarsity Press). His most recent book is "15 New Testament Words of Life" from Zondervan.

Books/Writing Mentioned in this Episode:

If you’d like to order any of the following books, we encourage you to do so fromHearts and Minds Books(An independent bookstore in Dallastown, PA, run by Byron and Beth Borger) 

Chris sits in the host seat to welcome a brand-new guest, James K. A. Smith, alongside a very familiar panelist to those who follow ERB, Jen Pollock Michel, for a discussion on the subject of "living faithfully in time." Enjoy!

Books & Writing Mentioned in this Episode:

If you’d like to order any of the following books, we encourage you to do so fromHearts and Minds Books(An independent bookstore in Dallastown, PA, run by Byron and Beth Borger) 

Joel takes over the podcast for another wide-ranging "reviewer round-up" with two excellent first-time guests. They talk a lot about books that intersect with the conversation about race in America, and of course, list off the titles they are currently reading.

Joshua E. Livingston is a writer and community developer currently residing in Indianapolis. He is the director of Cultivating Communities and the author of Sunrays on the Beachhead of the New Creation (Wipf & Stock, 2021).

Myles Werntz is associate professor of theology and director of Baptist studies at Abilene Christian University in Abilene, Texas. He is the author or editor of several books, including Bodies of Peace, A Field Guide to Christian Nonviolence, and the brand new book, From Isolation to Community: A Renewed Vision for Christian Life Together (Baker Academic).

Books and Writing Mentioned in this Episode:

If you’d like to order any of the following books, we encourage you to do so fromHearts and Minds Books(An independent bookstore in Dallastown, PA, run by Byron and Beth Borger) 

This episode is all about celebrating and reading great literary works. Jen is joined by first-time guest Jessica Hooten Wilson, as well as repeat guest Karen Swallow Prior, who are both outstanding guides through the world of classic literature. They discuss the value of great literature, the historical difference between Catholic and Protestant novelists, and of course what they are currently reading.

Jessica Hooten Wilson is the Louise Cowan Scholar in Residence at the University of Dallas. She is the author of numerous books, including The Scandal of Holiness: Renewing Your Imagination in the Company of Literary Saints, published in 2022 by Brazos Press. Her book,Giving the Devil his Due: Flannery O’Connor and The Brothers Karamazov, received a 2018 Christianity Today Book of the Year Award in the Culture & the Arts.

Karen Swallow Prior is Research Professor of English and Christianity and Culture at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary. She’s the author, most recently, of On Reading Well: Finding the Good Life through Great Books and hosts the recently launched podcast Jane and Jesus. She lives in rural Virginia with her husband and sundry dogs, horses, and chickens. 

Books & Writing Mentioned in this Episode:

If you’d like to order any of the following books, we encourage you to do so fromHearts and Minds Books(An independent bookstore in Dallastown, PA, run by Byron and Beth Borger) 

Joel hops into the host seat for a fun and freewheeling conversation with a few ERB reviewers about recent publications they've written about, what they are looking forward to in publishing, and of course, what we are all currently reading.

Justin Cober-Lake is a pastor in central Virginia. He holds an M.A. in American Studies from the University of Virginia and has worked in academic publishing for the past 15 years. His editing and freelance writing have focused mostly on cultural criticism, particularly pop music.

Sara Easterly is an adoptee and the author of the award-winning memoir, Searching for Mom, and a member of the Redbud Writers Guild and Freedom Road Institute’s Global Writers’ Group. Her adoption- and faith-focused articles and essays have been published by Psychology Today, Red Letter Christians, Godspace, Her View From Home, and Severance Magazine, to name a few. Sara is also the founder of Adoptee Voices, leading writing groups and managing an e-Zine to help other adoptees express their stories. Find her online at saraeasterly.com.

Books Mentioned in this Episode:

If you’d like to order any of the following books, we encourage you to do so fromHearts and Minds Books(An independent bookstore in Dallastown, PA, run by Byron and Beth Borger) 

Chris takes over the podcast today for a thoughtful and incisive discussion on the insidious nature of hierarchy and how it impacts so much of human society and structures. He is joined by two first-time guests, Beth Allison Barr and Jonathan Brooks, who bring a wealth of personal experience and academic rigor to the conversation.

Books/Writing Mentioned in this Episode:

If you’d like to order any of the following books, we encourage you to do so fromHearts and Minds Books(An independent bookstore in Dallastown, PA, run by Byron and Beth Borger) 

Jen is joined by two first-time guests, Jamin Goggin and Kyle Strobel, to discuss the new re-release of their 2017 bookThe Way of the Dragon or The Way of the Lamb,while also touching on the more general concept of healthy or toxic uses of power in the church in our culture today.

Jamin Goggin serves as a pastor at Mission Hills Church. He has been in pastoral ministry for seventeen years. Jamin speaks and writes in the areas of spiritual formation, ministry and theology. He holds two Masters degrees and a PhD in systematic theology. He lives in Southern California with his wife, Kristin, and their four children.

Kyle Strobel is a professor of spiritual theology and formation at Talbot School of Theology, Biola University and writes on spiritual formation, theology, and Jonathan Edwards. Kyle lives in Southern California with his wife, Kelli, and their two children, and serves on the preaching team of Redeemer Church.

Books & Writing Mentioned in this Episode:

If you’d like to order any of the following books, we encourage you to do so fromHearts and Minds Books(An independent bookstore in Dallastown, PA, run by Byron and Beth Borger) 

Jen hosts a freewheeling conversation with Chris and Joel about their collective reading habits in 2021, how they identify books for "lists" like this, and of course, which titles rose to the top as their favorite reading experiences in 2021. A host of various ERB contributors also chime in with their favorites of the year.

Books and Writing Mentioned:

If you’d like to order any of the following books, we encourage you to do so fromHearts and Minds Books(An independent bookstore in Dallastown, PA, run by Byron and Beth Borger) 

Chris sits in the host chair again for a conversation all about Willie Jenning's commentary on Acts. He is joined by two first-time guests who are pastors that have found Jenning's commentary particularly helpful in their local church work. They discuss what it is about Jenning's approach that is so innovative and helpful, and especially why this is a timely commentary for a post-covid church.

Books Mentioned in this Episode:
If you’d like to order any of the following books, we encourage you to do so fromHearts and Minds Books(An independent bookstore in Dallastown, PA, run by Byron and Beth Borger) 

Chris sits in the host chair to speak with two outstanding first-time podcast guests: Andy Root and John Swinton. They have a sharp and philosophically-informed discussion on our experience of time, modernity, and the social concepts of "acceleration" and "resonance."

John Swinton is professor of theology at the University of Aberdeen, and author of numerous books. Some listeners may remember that we ran an interview last year with John about his book, Finding Jesus in the Storm: The spiritual lives of people with mental health challenges. However, today’s conversation will highlight an earlier book of John’s: Becoming Friends of Time: Disability, Timefullness, and Gentle Discipleship.

Andrew Root is professor at Luther Seminary, and author of, among other books, The Congregation in a Secular Age: Keeping Sacred Time against the Speed of Modern Life, the third and final book in his Ministry in a Secular Age series, which engages Charles Taylor’s A Secular Age, exploring what Taylor’s work might mean for our life together in the church.

Books & Writing Mentioned in this Episode:

If you’d like to order any of the following books, we encourage you to do so fromHearts and Minds Books(An independent bookstore in Dallastown, PA, run by Byron and Beth Borger) 

Joel takes the host seat again for a "round-up" conversation with Chris Smith and John Wilson for a freewheeling conversation about recent ERB content, intriguing upcoming book releases, and of course lots of discussion about what we are current reading!

Books & Content Mentioned:

If you’d like to order any of the following books, we encourage you to do so fromHearts and Minds Books(An independent bookstore in Dallastown, PA, run by Byron and Beth Borger) 

Joel takes over the podcast for an episode focused on writing book reviews! He is joined by repeat podcast guest John Wilson and first-time guest Tamara Hill Murphy for a discussion of the form of the book review, the tensions involved in writing reviews, and of course what they are currently reading.

John Wilson was the founding editor of Books & Culture (1995–2016). He is Contributing Editor for the Englewood Review of Books. He frequently writes a column every other week for First Things, and his reviews and essays have appeared in a wide variety of publications, including The New York Times Book Review, The Wall Street Journal, Christianity Today, Commonweal, The Christian Century, Triangle, National Review, The American Conservative, Weekly Standard, and The Boston Globe. He was the editor of five volumes in the Best Christian Writing series. He and his wife, Wendy, live in Wheaton, Illinois, where they are members of Faith Evangelical Covenant Church.

Tamara Hill Murphy lives with her husband Brian, an Anglican priest, in Bridgeport, Connecticut. Her writing has appeared in Plough, Think Christian, and The Englewood Review of Books. She is a Spiritual Director and Selah fellow with Leadership Transformations and is currently learning how to parent her four adult children. Find her at www.tamarahillmurphy.com

Books & Writing Mentioned in this Episode:

If you’d like to order any of the following books, we encourage you to do so fromHearts and Minds Books(An independent bookstore in Dallastown, PA, run by Byron and Beth Borger) 

Jen is joined by two great first-time guests to discuss the current evangelical reckoning with destructive spiritual leadership, narcissism, humility, and of course lots of books on the subject!

Hannah Anderson lives in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia where she spends her days  writing and reading and caring for her family.  She is the author of multiple books, including All That’s Good: Recovering the Lost Art of Discernment and Humble Roots: How Humility Grounds and Nourishes Your Soul. Hannah is also the co-host of the Persuasion Podcast. You can follow Hannah on Twitter @sometimesalight.

Chuck DeGroat is Professor of Counseling and Christian Spirituality at Western Theological Seminary in Holland, Michigan. His academic specialization is in the intersection of psychology and the Bible, and he co-founded the Newbigin House of Studies in San Francisco where he continues to serve as Senior Fellow. His book, When Narcissism Comes to Church, was published with IVP in 2020. You can follow Chuck on Twitter @chuckdegroat. 

Books Mentioned in this Episode:

If you’d like to order any of the following books, we encourage you to do so fromHearts and Minds Books(An independent bookstore in Dallastown, PA, run by Byron and Beth Borger) 

The ERB Podcast is back after our summer reprieve! Jen is joined by returning guest Ashley Hales, and first-time guest Nathan Oates, to discuss the ways their writing interacts with the themes of stability, limits, and the work of ministry in our current cultural climate.

Ashley Hales is the author of two books. Her first book, Finding Holy in the Suburbs, released in 2018. Her second book, A Spacious Life: Trading Hustle and Hurry for the Goodness of Limits,releases on September 14, 2021. Ashley has a PhD in English from the University of Edinburgh. She is a pastor’s wife and mother of four as well as host of the Finding Holy podcast.

Nathan Oates writes, speaks, and serves as lead pastor of Emmaus Church Community. For more than a decade, Nathan has been captivated by the Rule of St. Benedict, and this curiosity and life practice informed his book also releasing in September. That book is titled, Stability: How an ancient monastic practice can restore our relationships, churches and communities. Nathan holds a masters degree in spiritual formation from Wheaton College and lives in Northern California with his wife, three children, and a dog named True.

Books Mentioned in this episode:

If you’d like to order any of the following books, we encourage you to do so fromHearts and Minds Books(An independent bookstore in Dallastown, PA, run by Byron and Beth Borger) 

Jen is joined by 3 great first-time guests for a lively and wide-ranging conversation. In this episode (part 2), they continue their conversation about ongoing projects, as well as talk about their reactions to Diana's newest work, "Freeing Jesus."

Diana Butler Bass is an award-winning author, popular speaker, and inspiring preacher. She holds a doctorate in religious studies from Duke University. Her most recent book is Freeing Jesus: Rediscovering Jesus as Friend, Teacher, Savior, Lord, Way, and Presence.Diana and her husband live in Alexandria, Virginia, with their dog and their sometimes-successful backyard garden.

David Dark serves as Assistant Professor of Religion and the Arts in the College of Theology at Belmont University. He is the author of several book including “Life’s Too Short To Pretend You’re Not Religious” and “The Sacredness of Questioning Everything.” His work has appeared in MTV News, Books & Culture, Pitchfork, and the Oxford American. He lives with his singer-songwriter wife, Sarah Masen, and their three children in Nashville.

Cathleen Falsani is an award-winning religion journalist, photojournalist, and author of several nonfiction books including the critically acclaimed The God Factor.She was co-editor of and a contributing author to Disquiet Time: Rants and Reflections on the Good Book by the Skeptical, the Faithful and a Few Scoundrels and most recently was co-general editor of and contributing author to The End of Hunger: Renewed Hope for Feeding the World.Cathleen is the co-host of the Artist Care and Feeding podcast, and she lives with her family in Laguna Beach, CA.

Books Mentioned in this Episode:

If you’d like to order any of the following books, we encourage you to do so fromHearts and Minds Books(An independent bookstore in Dallastown, PA, run by Byron and Beth Borger) 

**This is the corrected version of episode 29. There was a technical glitch with the episode that was originally uploaded on 6/21 which left most of the episode blank. Please listen to this episode instead. We apologize for the confusion!**

Jen is joined by 3 great first-time guests for a lively and wide-ranging conversation. In this episode (part 1), they talk about reading during the Covid-year and what they are currently reading, researching, and working on.

Diana Butler Bass is an award-winning author, popular speaker, and inspiring preacher. She holds a doctorate in religious studies from Duke University. Her most recent book is Freeing Jesus: Rediscovering Jesus as Friend, Teacher, Savior, Lord, Way, and Presence.Diana and her husband live in Alexandria, Virginia, with their dog and their sometimes-successful backyard garden.

David Dark serves as Assistant Professor of Religion and the Arts in the College of Theology at Belmont University. He is the author of several book including “Life’s Too Short To Pretend You’re Not Religious” and “The Sacredness of Questioning Everything.” His work has appeared in MTV News, Books & Culture, Pitchfork, and the Oxford American. He lives with his singer-songwriter wife, Sarah Masen, and their three children in Nashville.

Cathleen Falsani is an award-winning religion journalist, photojournalist, and author of several nonfiction books including the critically acclaimed The God Factor.She was co-editor of and a contributing author to Disquiet Time: Rants and Reflections on the Good Book by the Skeptical, the Faithful and a Few Scoundrels and most recently was co-general editor of and contributing author to The End of Hunger: Renewed Hope for Feeding the World.Cathleen is the co-host of the Artist Care and Feeding podcast, and she lives with her family in Laguna Beach, CA.

Books Mentioned in this Episode:

If you’d like to order any of the following books, we encourage you to do so fromHearts and Minds Books(An independent bookstore in Dallastown, PA, run by Byron and Beth Borger)

Jen is joined by 3 great first-time guests for a lively and wide-ranging conversation. In this episode (part 1), they talk about reading during the Covid-year and what they are currently reading, researching, and working on.

Diana Butler Bass is an award-winning author, popular speaker, and inspiring preacher. She holds a doctorate in religious studies from Duke University. Her most recent book is Freeing Jesus: Rediscovering Jesus as Friend, Teacher, Savior, Lord, Way, and Presence.Diana and her husband live in Alexandria, Virginia, with their dog and their sometimes-successful backyard garden.

David Dark serves as Assistant Professor of Religion and the Arts in the College of Theology at Belmont University. He is the author of several book including “Life’s Too Short To Pretend You’re Not Religious” and “The Sacredness of Questioning Everything.” His work has appeared in MTV News, Books & Culture, Pitchfork, and the Oxford American. He lives with his singer-songwriter wife, Sarah Masen, and their three children in Nashville.

Cathleen Falsani is an award-winning religion journalist, photojournalist, and author of several nonfiction books including the critically acclaimed The God Factor.She was co-editor of and a contributing author to Disquiet Time: Rants and Reflections on the Good Book by the Skeptical, the Faithful and a Few Scoundrels and most recently was co-general editor of and contributing author to The End of Hunger: Renewed Hope for Feeding the World.Cathleen is the co-host of the Artist Care and Feeding podcast, and she lives with her family in Laguna Beach, CA.

Books Mentioned in this Episode:

If you’d like to order any of the following books, we encourage you to do so fromHearts and Minds Books(An independent bookstore in Dallastown, PA, run by Byron and Beth Borger)

Jen is joined by Liuan Huska and Amy Julia Becker for a thoughtful and honest conversation about the integration of spirituality, health and wholeness, particularly when experiencing chronic pain, brokenness and different abilities in our bodies.

Liuan Huska is a freelance writer and speaker focusing on topics of embodiment, ecology, and spirituality. Her first book, Hurting Yet Whole: Reconciling Body and Spirit in Chronic Pain and Illness was published with InterVarsity Press in December 2020. Liuan lives with her husband and their three little boys in the Chicago area.

Amy Julia Becker is an award-winning author and speaker on faith, family, disability and privilege. She is the author of four books and also hosts the Love is Stronger than Fear podcast. A graduate of Princeton University and Princeton Theological Seminary, Amy Julia lives with her husband and their three children in western Connecticut.

Books Mentioned:

If you’d like to order any of the following books, we encourage you to do so fromHearts and Minds Books(An independent bookstore in Dallastown, PA, run by Byron and Beth Borger)

Joel takes over the podcast for a chance to touch-base with a few contributing reviewers for Englewood. This time they talk about authors and recent books that are somewhat thematically connected to the "Inklings."

Erin Feldman is a content writer for The Austin Stone Institute, at The Austin Stone Community Church. Her recent projects include liturgies in Words for Winter and An Introduction to REAP: A Method for Studying the Bible. Find her online at: www.writerightwords.com

Sarah Blascovich Brown lives, reads, and writes in Lithonia, Georgia, just east of Atlanta. A former classroom teacher, she is passionate about education and literacy. Mom to three and wife to one, Sarah spends most of her online time on Instagram, where you can find her @readitmakeit.

Books and Reviews Mentioned in this Episode:
If you’d like to order any of the following books, we encourage you to do so fromHearts and Minds Books(An independent bookstore in Dallastown, PA, run by Byron and Beth Borger)

Jen is joined by A.J Swoboda and Nijay Gupta (who have recently launched their very own podcast called "In Faith and Doubt," which we highly recommend to ERB listeners!) to discuss the role of reading, especially slow reading, in the journey through doubt and deconstruction.

Books Mentioned in this episode:

If you’d like to order any of the following books,
we encourage you to do so fromHearts and Minds Books
(An independent bookstore in Dallastown, PA, run by Byron and Beth Borger)

Joel takes over the hosting role for a freewheeling conversation with the ERB editors (Chris Smith, John Wilson and Erin Wasinger). We discuss content from the website, upcoming books we are looking forward to, and as always, what we are reading right now. Enjoy!

Books and Writings mentioned in this episode:

If you’d like to order any of the following books,
we encourage you to do so fromHearts and Minds Books
(An independent bookstore in Dallastown, PA, run by Byron and Beth Borger)

John Pattison is co-author of Slow Church: Cultivating Communityas well as Besides the Bible. He is also the content manager for Strong Towns and co-host for The Membership podcast, a podcast about the life and work of Wendell Berry. John writes and speaks frequently on topics related to the neighborhood, the church, and the creative life. He lives with his family in rural Oregon.

Christie Purifoy is a writer, gardener, podcast host, and placemaker. She is the author of two memoirs: Roots and Sky and Placemaker,and she also has a book of garden essays and photographs forthcoming from Harvest House. Christie earned her PhD in English Literature from the University of Chicago but traded the classroom for an old Pennsylvania farmhouse, Maplehurt, where she lives with her family.

Books Mentioned in this Episode:

If you’d like to order any of the following books,
we encourage you to do so fromHearts and Minds Books
(An independent bookstore in Dallastown, PA, run by Byron and Beth Borger)

If you’d like to order any of the following books,
we encourage you to do so fromHearts and Minds Books
(An independent bookstore in Dallastown, PA, run by Byron and Beth Borger)

SUBSCRIBE to the ERB podcast on iTunes, Google, Spotify or wherever you access your favorite podcasts.

Joel takes over as podcast host for our first "reviewer round-up" episode. He is joined by two regular ERB contributors to discuss their recent book reviews, as well as what they're currently enjoying and reading.

Ope Bukolais a founder of Behold, an app that helps Christians practice stillness and pray the scriptures every day. You can learn more and get the app on iPhone or Android.

Jamie A. Hughes is a writer/editor living in Atlanta, Georgia with her husband, two sons, and a pair of needy cats. She has written for Christianity Today, The Bitter Southerner, CT Women, Comment Magazine and more. You can read more of her writing at tousledapostle.com and follow her on Twitter at @tousledapostle.

Books Mentioned:

Jen is joined by two great guests to continue discussing the theme of our previous episode: reading and mental wellness. This time, her conversation partners look at this important topic through the lens of church history.

Diana Gruver writes about spiritual formation and discipleship in the everyday. She is the author of Companions in the Darkness: Seven Saints Who Struggled with Depression and Doubt. 

Laura Fabrycky is an American writer, diplomatic spouse, and mother of three. Her book, Keys to Bonhoeffer’s Haus,is a historically grounded memoir of her experience as a volunteer guide at the Bonhoeffer-Haus in Berlin. She was a guest on a previous episode, so you’ll hopefully recognize her voice.

Books Mentioned in this Episode:

Jen kicks off 2021 with a thoughtful and timely discussion of the reading life, and the connections between one's sense of place and mental wellness. The poet Tania Runyan joins Jen and Chris for this conversation.

Tania Runyan is the author of many poetry collections: What Will Soon Take Place, Second Sky, A Thousand Vessels, Simple Weightand Delicious Air, which was awarded Book of the Year by the Conference on Christianity and Literature in 2007.  She’s also written the guides, How to Read a Poem, How to Write a Poem, and How to Write a College Application Essay. When she is not writing, Tania plays fiddle and mandolin, drives her kids to appointments, and gets lost in her Midwestern garden.

C. Christopher Smith is the Founding Editor of The Englewood Review of Books and the author of a number of books, including most recently How the Body of Christ Talks, published by Brazos in 2019.

Books discussed in this episode:

Jen is joined by three great guests for a live conversation (as well as an abundance of recorded contributions from other guests) for a wide-ranging and freewheeling conversation about our favorite books of 2020.

C. Christopher Smith is the Founding Editor of The Englewood Review of Books and the author of a number of books, including most recently How the Body of Christ Talks, published by Brazos in 2019.

John Wilson is the former editor of Books & Culture. He is now Contributing Editor for The Englewood Review of Books.

Sarah Arthur is the author of a dozen books on the intersection of faith and great literature, including the award-winning A Light So Lovely: The Spiritual Legacy of Madeleine L’Engle. She served as co-director of the first-ever Madeleine L’Engle Conference “Walking on Water” at the end of 2019 and will co-lead the L’Engle Writing Retreat in northwest CT, tentatively rescheduled for November 2021. You can learn more about her work at her website saraharthur.info. Sarah is currently writing fiction and a preliminary fiction judge of the CT Book awards

Books mentioned in this episode:

Joel takes over the podcast for an episode all about speculative fiction! He is joined by two first-time guests for a wide-ranging and enthusiastic conversation about the importance of reading speculative fiction, and the crucial role such literature can play in our culture. 

Christina Bieber Lake is the Clyde S Kilby professor of English at Wheaton College where she teaches courses in subjects like contemporary American literature and literary theory. Her work helps readers explore the moral imagination, particularly through deep engagement with fiction and poetry. She also has a passion for helping teachers succeed in their work, evidenced by her most recent book: The Flourishing Teacher: Vocational Renewal for a Sacred Profession (which was just published this past summer by IVP Academic). Her other books are: Beyond the Story: American Literary Fiction and the Limits of Materialism, The Incarnational Art of Flannery O'Connor, and Prophets of the Posthuman: American Fiction, Biotechnology and the Ethics of Personhood. 

Matt Mikalatos, a resident of Portland, Oregon with his wife and three daughters, has been engaged with non-profit work all over the world for over 20 years, and is a co-host of the Fascinating Podcast, in addition to being a prolific writer. His writing has been featured in publications like Time, Relevant, Nature and Daily Science Fiction, and his wide array of books include titles like: Sky Lantern: The Story of a Father's Love for his Children and the Healing Power of the Smallest Act of Kindness; Good News for a Change: How to Talk to Anyone About Jesus; The Sunlit Lands fantasy book series (currently including The Crescent Stone and The Heartwood Crown).

Books mentioned in this episode:

Jen is joined by repeat-podcast guest Amy Peterson and first-time guest Lee Camp, for a heartfelt discussion of political and ethical formation in the wake of the disorienting 2020 election in the U.S.

Amy Peterson is a writer, teacher, and postulant living in North Carolina. Her first book, Dangerous Territory: My Misguided Quest to Save the World was published in 2017. Her second book, Where Goodness Still Grows: Reclaiming Virtue in an Age of Hypocrisy, released in January of this year. Amy’s work has also appeared in Image, The Millions, Washington Post, Christianity Today, and Christian Century. She was a guest with Tim Hoiland in our second episode of the podcast.

Lee Camp is professor of theology and ethics at Lipscomb University. He has an MDiv from Abilene Christian University and a PhD in Moral Theology and Christian Ethics from Notre Dame. He writes and speaks about being human: the habits and ways of life that lead to flourishing, including ways that transcend various hostilities and partisanships. He has published three popular books: Mere Discipleship, Who Is My Enemy?and most recently, Scandalous Witness. 

Books & Writing Mentioned:

Jen is joined by first-time podcast guest Laura Fabrycky and ERB editor Chris Smith for a rich and impassioned conversation about the life of Dietrich Bonhoeffer, political theology, and the role of reading in a contentious political culture.

Laura Fabrycky is an American writer, diplomatic spouse, and mother of three, currently residing in Brussels, Belgium. Her book, Keys to Bonhoeffer’s Haus: Exploring the World and Wisdom of Dietrich Bonhoeffer, is a historically grounded memoir of her experience as a volunteer guide at the Bonhoeffer-Haus in Berlin. Laura has also published a book of poetry called Give Me the Word, and she has recently been accepted as a PhD student at the Evangelical Seminary of Leuven.

Books & Articles Mentioned:

Jen is joined by Tish Harrison Warren and Stina Kielsmeier-Cook for a deep and heartfelt conversation about reading through doubt, suffering and vulnerability.

Stina Kielsmeier-Cook is a writer living in Minneapolis.  (You may remember her from Episode 3!) She has a graduate diploma in Forced Migration and Refugee Studies and loves to talk about public policy, parenting, and her neighborhood. She works as Director of Communications at the Collegeville Institute, where she is also the managing editor of Bearings Online. Her first book, Blessed Are the Nones: Mixed-Faith Marriage and My Search for Spiritual Community released earlier this year with InterVarsity Press.

Tish Harrison Warren is a priest in the Anglican Church in North America. She has worked in a variety of ministry settings and is currently Writer in Residence at Church of the Ascension in Pittsburgh. She is the author of the bestselling and award-winning book Liturgy of the Ordinary: Sacred Practices in Everyday Life, and her widely anticipated second book will be releasing this coming January. It’s called Prayer in the Night: For Those Who Work or Watch or Weep.

Books mentioned in this conversation:

Jen is joined by prolific writers Lauren Winner and Marilyn McEntyre for a thoughtful and wide-ranging conversation about the role of words, empathy and reading during such a disorienting season.

Marilyn McEntyre has spent many years teaching American literature, Medical Humanities, and a variety of writing courses. She’s recently left full-time teaching to spend more time writing. She is the author of 14 books, which include Caring for Words in a Culture of Lies, Make a List, Word by Word,and A Long Letting Go.On her website, she writes that her deepest interests lie in connections between spirituality, language, healing earth and each other. You can learn more about her work at www.marilynmcentrye.com. 

Lauren Winner is Associate Professor of Christian Spirituality at Duke Divinity School. She writes and lectures widely on Christian practice, the history of Christianity in America, and Jewish-Christian relations. Her books include Girl Meets God, Mudhouse Sabbath, Still,and Wearing God. Her most recently published book, The Dangers of Christian Practice, examines the effects of sin and damage on Christian practice. Dr. Winner, an Episcopal priest, is vicar of St. Paul's Episcopal Church in Louisburg, N.C. 

Books mentioned in this episode:

Jen is joined by two experienced and talented publishers to discuss topics like diversity of voices and writing in Christian publishing, the state of publishing in 2020, and what they are currently reading.

Katelyn Beaty is a writer, editor, and speaker. She was the youngest and first female managing editor of Christianity Today, and she is also the author of A Woman’s Place. She currently works as an acquisitions editor for Brazos Press, a division of Baker Books. She lives in Brooklyn, NY.

Al Hsu is senior editor for IVP Books at InterVarsity Press. He is the author of Singles at the Crossroads, Grieving a Suicide,and The Suburban Christian. Al earned his PhD in educational studies from Trinity Evangelical Divinity School and lives in the western suburbs of Chicago.

Books mentioned in this episode:

Jen is joined by ERB editors Chris Smith and John Wilson, as well as podcast producer and ERB contributor Joel Wentz, for a free-wheeling conversation about what we are all reading right now. We cover a wide span of genres, styles, and authors, so there's bound to be a recommendation in here for almost everyone!

Books mentioned in this episode:

Jen is joined by Marlena Graves and Tim Soerens for a great conversation about counter-cultural reading practices and listening to voices on the margins. Plus, we are excited to offer a book giveaway sponsored by InterVarsity Press! Check out the episode for details.

Marlena Graves is a writer, deep thinker, and speaker passionate about the eternal implications of our life with God. She received her M.Div. from Northeastern Seminary in Rochester, New York, and is pursuing her PhD in American Culture Studies at Bowling Green State University in Ohio. In 2014, she released her first book, A Beautiful Disaster: Finding Hope in the Midst of Brokenness. Her newest book, The Way Up is Down: Becoming Yourself by Forgetting Yourselfreleased last month with InterVarsity Press. She lives in Ohio with her husband and three daughters.

Tim Soerens is a pastor, social entrepreneur, and co-founding director of the Parish Collective, a global movement which reimagines what it means to be the church in, with, and for the neighborhood. Tim has also launched sold-out conferences including the  Inhabit Conference. In 2014, he co-authored The New Parish: How Neighborhood Churches Transform Mission, Discipleship, and Community. His new book, Everywhere You Look: Discovering the Church Right Where You Are recently released with InterVarsity Press. Tim lives in Seattle with his wife and two sons.

Books mentioned in this episode:

Jen is joined by David Swanson and Esau McCaulley to continue the conversation about the reading life and the current cultural moment.

David W. Swanson is the founding pastor of New Community Covenant Church, a multiracial congregation on the South Side of Chicago. He also serves as the CEO of New Community Outreach, a non-profit organization working to reduce causes of trauma and raise opportunities for equity in Chicago. He previously served as a Director of Church Planting for the Evangelical Covenant Church. David and Maggie have been married for 21 years and have two amazing sons. David’s book, Rediscipling the White Church: From Cheap Diversity to True Discipleship, published by InterVarsity Press, released in May.

David sends out an occasional newsletter to email subscribers about race, justice, and theology. And as our listeners might be especially keen to learn, David keeps a lists of books he’s reading on his website, www.dwswanson.com.

Esau McCaulley is an assistant professor of New Testament at Wheaton College and a priest in the Anglican Church in North America. His second book, Reading While Black: African American Biblical Interpretation as an Exercise in Hope, releases on September 1. Esau looks at the tradition of African American biblical interpretation and argues that the Bible rightly understood and read from a decidedly black perspective can speak a word of hope to African Americans in the United States. Alongside his more academic works, Esau also writes popular pieces for numerous outlets including Christianity Today, The Washington Post, and The New York Times.

He is a military spouse and is married to his beautiful wife, Mandy, a pediatrician. Together, they have four wonderful children.

Books Mentioned in this Episode:

Cara Meredith is a writer, speaker, and activist. She is the author of The Color of Life: A Journey Toward Love and Racial Justice, which released in 2019. As a white woman, Cara journeys toward understanding the racial realities of individual and systemic racism through falling in love with the son of a black icon and raising two mixed-raced sons. Cara, a former high school English teacher and outreach director, lives with her husband and two sons in Oakland, California.

Josina Guess is the assistant editor of The Bitter Southerner. She has contributed to an anthology called Fight Evil with Poetry as well as to a forthcoming book called Rally: Communal Prayers for Lovers of Justice and Jesus. Josina grew up in Washington, D.C., and now lives in northeast Georgia in an old farmhouse with her husband, four children, and lots of animals.

Cara and Josina join Jen to talk about the reading life in our cultural moment. They bring a wide range of recommendations, especially for following writers of color. They also recommend some fantastic children's books!

Books Mentioned in this Episode:

Jen is joined by Mitali Perkins and Erin Wasinger to discuss the reading life of children. They talk about the power of stories in the lives of kids, as well as the surprising tension and conflict in the discussion concerning what literature children should have access to, as well as how to encourage a love for reading as children grow. This is a fantastic conversation for those readers who have little ones in their lives!

Books Mentioned in this Episode:

Jen is joined by writers Alex Joyner and Karen Stiller to discuss reading in the life of ministry. They talk about how reading has shaped them as ministers, as well as the people they've led. They also talk about the perils of recommending books, and Karen coins the term "book bully." Fans of Annie Dillard will particularly appreciate this thoughtful episode.

Books mentioned:

After a special announcement about the future of the podcast, Jen continues the conversation about "reading under quarantine," with two very special guests: John Wilson and Karen Swallow Prior. They discuss what their reading experience is like right now in this disorienting time, and what types of books and authors they're gravitating towards.

Books mentioned in this episode:

In the first of a two-part conversation about reading under the Covid "quarantine," Chris and Jen have a lively discussion with writers Ashley Hales and Brandon O'Brien. They discuss what their reading experience is like right now, what types of books and authors they're gravitating to, and get pretty honest about the challenges of home life during this season.

Books mentioned in this episode:

**Note: all 4 initial episodes of the ERB Podcast were recorded before the COVID-19 outbreak in the US. This is why this important event is not mentioned.**

On this episode Chris and Jen welcome essayist and ERB contributor Meghan Florian to discuss more favorite books from 2019, their own reading habits, and what it's like to be a "professional reader." They also highlight the Redbud Writer's Guild and have a discussion about the idea of intentionally-slow reading, and, of course, they talk about a few books they are currently enjoying.

Books/Writing mentioned in this episode:

Special thanks to Brazos Press, sponsor of this episode, and publisher of the new book, Exiles on Missionbit.ly/ExilesOnMissionERB.

Many Christians in the West sense that traditional Christian teaching is losing traction in the public square. What does faithful Christian witness look like in a post-Christian culture? 

In Exiles on Mission, Paul Williams invites readers to embrace the language of exile and imagine a hopeful mission of the church in the post-Christian West. He shows a clear pathway for fruitful missional engagement for the whole people of God, helping Christians make sense of the world in which they live, more authentically integrate faith with everyday life, and orient all of their efforts within God’s missional purpose for the world.

**Note: all 4 initial episodes of the ERB Podcast were recorded before the COVID-19 outbreak in the US. This is why this important event is not mentioned.**

On this episode Chris and Jen welcome back John Wilson, and are joined by ERB contributor Stina Kielsmeier-Cook to discuss Stina's upcoming book, their own reading habits, and readings in monastic spirituality. They also highlight the important work of the Collegeville Institute in supporting thoughtful writing, and, of course, they talk about a few books they are currently enjoying.

Books/Writing mentioned in this episode:

Special thanks to Brazos Press, sponsor of this episode, and publisher of the new book, On the Road with Saint Augustineby James K.A. Smith.

In On the Road with Saint Augustine, popular speaker and award-winning author James K. A. Smith invites us to take a journey with Augustine, who he calls ‘the patron saint of restless hearts.’

Following Smith’s successful You Are What You Love, this book shows how Augustine can be a pilgrim guide to a spirituality that meets the complicated world we live in. Augustine, says Smith, is a guide who has been there, asked our questions, and knows our frustrations and failed pursuits. Augustine spent a lifetime searching for his heart’s true home and he can help us find our way.

**Note: all 4 initial episodes of the ERB Podcast were recorded before the COVID-19 outbreak in the US. This is why this important event is not mentioned.**

On this episode Chris and Jen are joined by ERB contributors Tim Hoiland and Amy Peterson to discuss their own reading habits, various media for reading, venues for reading well. The panelists have a lively discussion about Amy's new book, "Where Goodness Still Grows," the nature of virtue, and, of course, they talk about a few books they are currently enjoying.

Books mentioned in this episode:

Thanks to our sponsor for this episode, Brazos Press, publisher of the new book, The Church of Us vs. Them by David Fitch.

In his book The Church of Us vs. Them, David Fitch takes a close look at what drives the divisions in our congregations. He traces the enemy-making patterns in church history and diagnoses the divisiveness that marks the contemporary evangelical church. Fitch shows a way for the church to unwind the antagonisms of our day and make space for Christ’s reconciling presence in our day-to-day lives. He offers new patterns and practices that move the church beyond making enemies to being the presence of Christ in the world, helping us free ourselves from a faith that feeds on division.

**Note: all 4 initial episodes of the ERB Podcast were recorded before the COVID-19 outbreak in the US. This is why this important event is not mentioned.**

We are excited to bring you the first episode of the Englewood Review of Books podcast! This podcast is going to be an ongoing panel discussion about books, culture and the reading life. Chris and Jen are joined by former Books and Culture editor John Wilson to discuss their own reading habits, various media for reading, venues for reading well, and, of course, a few books they are currently enjoying.

Books mentioned in this episode:

Thanks to our sponsor for this episode, Brazos Press, publisher of the new book, "How the Body of Christ Talks," by C. Christopher Smith.

In today’s highly charged environment, we often don’t know how to talk well with others—especially with people whose backgrounds differ from our own. In How the Body of Christ Talks, C. Christopher Smith addresses why conversation has become such a challenge for us and argues that it is perhaps the most-needed spiritual practice of our individualistic age.

Smith shows how church communities can be where we learn to talk with and listen to one another with kindness and compassion. In community, we learn what it means to belong to others and to a story that is bigger than ourselves.