In this episode, Nate, Tony and guest Michael Schlender discuss the concept of biblical heroes, questioning traditional Sunday school portrayals of various characters from the Bible. They highlight the flawed nature of many figures such as Samson, David, Solomon, and Gideon, reflecting on how their understanding of these characters has evolved. The conversation also touches on lesser-known figures like Ananias and Barnabas, who played crucial roles in the early Christian church. The session underscores the importance of discerning genuine models of faith and trust in God by comparing the lives of Joseph and Jesus, both seen as embodiments of true humanity through their unwavering trust in Yahweh.

In episode three, hosts Tony and Nate are joined by Michael Schlender to discuss what it means to be a Christian in modern times. They examine the evolution of the term 'Christian' and contrast it with its origins and historical context. The conversation delves into the changes in cultural perception, the significance of terms like 'disciple,' and the statistics highlighting the disparity between self-identifying Christians and those actively following Jesus' teachings. The episode concludes with reflections on the necessity of balancing belief, personal experience, and actionable behavior in faith, and the ongoing challenge of finding and living out a healthy expression of Christianity.

In this episode, Nate and Tony embark on a discussion about dealing with suffering and hardship. They explore the universal question of how to handle life's difficult moments without falling apart. Tony shares personal anecdotes about his tendency to isolate himself during tough times and how recognizing and addressing his reflexive negative responses has been crucial. Nate emphasizes the importance of community and personal reflection in coping with hard times. Both hosts advocate for building emotional intelligence and maintaining strong support networks. They touch on their faith as Christians and how it informs their approach to suffering. The episode concludes with a teaser for the next discussion on the topic of defining what it means to be a Christian.

In this episode, hosts Nate and Tony delve into the topic of why change is so difficult, coining the term 'the discipline of hard things.' They discuss the significance of discipline, particularly from a Christian perspective, and reflect on how consistent physical fitness has played a role in their personal development. Nate highlights insights from Dallas Willard's teachings on discipline, while both share their experiences with fitness routines and the challenges of maintaining them. They also explore the concept of willpower as a muscle that can be strengthened through regular practice, and how this can have a ripple effect on other areas of life. The conversation includes practical tips on avoiding burnout, the importance of community and accountability, and the incremental steps one can take to achieve long-term success and self-improvement.