Mornings with Brian

It’s not a word-for-word doctrine in Scripture—but could certainty itself be sinful? That’s the bold claim made by Brother Lawrence in the Oscar-winning film Conclave. More than just stunning cinema, this moment from Ralph Fiennes’ character ignites a deep conversation about faith, doubt, and the danger of dogmatism. In this episode, we unpack one of the film’s most provocative scenes and explore what it reveals about the modern Church. We’ll hear from listeners wrestling with theological tension, gray areas in Scripture, and the unsettling (but freeing) idea that not everything is as black-and-white as we’d like it to be. Expect honest dialogue, fresh perspectives, and maybe even a little controversy. Come ready to think. Our friend Jaime Buxton from The City Mission guest stars!

In this episode, we tackle a deep and emotional question: "Has God hardened my heart because of all my doubts and questions?" We dive into the stories of Pharaoh, Saul, and the biblical concept of a hardened heart, exploring the tension between God's sovereignty and human free will. We also unpack how asking questions — even hard ones — is not a sign of rejection but often an invitation into deeper relationship with God. God isn’t afraid of your questions. In fact, Scripture shows He welcomes our doubts and seeks to meet us in them. If you’ve ever wrestled with wondering if your heart is too far gone, this episode will remind you: God is big enough for your questions — and He's not done with you yet. Scripture References: Romans 1:26–28, Exodus 8:15, 2 Peter 3:9, Isaiah 42:3 Love this episode? Check out "Wrestling with Doubt: A Journey of Faith" Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/1Zoc5mt3mk26XqTl5hQAXm?si=a1d6a8262af14ed1  Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/wrestling-with-doubt-a-journey-of-faith/id1077535978?i=1000697672584 

In this heartfelt Holy Week conversation, Daria shares a personal Bible study moment centered on Romans 5:10: "While we were still God's enemies, we were reconciled to Him through the death of His Son." What does it really mean that God loved us even when we were His enemies? And how does that shape the way we treat others? This episode explores the depth of God’s love, the power of Jesus’ sacrifice, and the way Holy Week invites us to live, love, and think differently. We also discuss: The meaning of Hosanna and the surprising history behind Palm Sunday Why Jesus' entrance on a donkey was such a bold statement What makes Good Friday services uniquely powerful The tension and quiet hope of Holy Saturday and Easter Sunday How easily we go from cheering Jesus to turning from Him—and how to stay faithful This reflective episode weaves together Scripture, history, and personal insight to help you engage more deeply with the true meaning of Easter.

What do you do when work feels draining—and change isn’t an option? In this episode, we hear from a 19-year-old who's already feeling burned out, and a 30-year-old stuck in a job they can’t stand. Sound familiar? We dive into an honest conversation about work at different stages of life, exploring what it means to find purpose, patience, and even joy in seasons that feel anything but ideal. Whether you're in your first job, mid-career, or somewhere in between, you're not alone in the struggle. Special guest Jaime Buxton from The City Mission joins us to share her insights and encouragement. If you’re looking for a real talk on burnout, hope, and what to do when work is just hard—this one's for you.

Lauren and her small group are going through the late great Pastor Tim Keller's book, "Rediscovering Jonah". She guides us through some shocking themes in the book of Jonah that most people miss. Jonah is far from the hero in his own story and, even more unsettling, many of us might have something in common with him. What does Jonah have to say about how believers should behave and treat unbelievers? Is it possible unbelievers do a better job at exhibiting God's love to their neighbors than we do? And why are some Christians hesitant to partner with unbelievers in pursuit of the common good? Join us as Lauren peels back the layers on this supposedly familiar and straightforward story.

According to studies, Gen Z women are attending church at lower rates than Gen Z men, and Daria has some theories as to why. The team also chats about how men have either lashed out or crumpled in the face of a culture that wants to demonize them. Join us as we explore why young women are stepping away from church at higher rates, the potential reasons behind this shift, and the challenges men and women face in navigating modern society, faith, and relationships. From cultural influences and generational differences to the role of women in the church, this conversation tackles it all.

Melissa Harris lives in Cleveland, Ohio with her husband and their three children. In this deeply moving episode, Melissa shares the harrowing story of a family outing that turned tragic when her 4-year-old daughter, Mia, was struck by a falling tree branch. In her book, Rewrite this Tragedy: A Beautiful Story of God’s Presence, Provision, and Divine Intervention, Melissa opens up about her family's journey through heartache, her struggles with faith, and how, through it all, she experienced God’s unwavering presence, peace, and hope. "Our family will never be the same," Melissa says. "We simply want to give God the honor and glory for everything He has done." Tune in for an inspiring conversation about resilience, faith, and the power of divine intervention.

Daria was troubled by a billboard she saw on 77 North near Canton. The billboard issues a bold statement about the teachings of Jesus. Is the statement accurate and is it the message we want to send to a hurting world that is already skeptical of Christians? We'll also reflect on the depths of Jesus's love and His blood's coverage for a multitude of sins. Join us for a deep dive into how the church should approach evangelism, and whether harsh messages are truly effective in sharing the Gospel.

Do men really assume a woman is interested in him if she's being nice to him? Should women act cold to avoid this? Lisa Anderson, Director of Young Adults and host of The Boundless Show for Focus on the Family, discusses the dos and don'ts of prospective dating for single men and women. She discusses being genuine and kind as Christ would want us to be and how to communicate clearly so the other sex understands your intentions. 

In this powerful episode, we sit down with Dr. Jason Kolb, an Akron native and former ER doctor, whose life was forever changed by a tragic skiing accident. Dr. Kolb opens up about his journey of faith, how the accident reshaped his life, and the unwavering love he found for Jesus through it all. His story is one of resilience, hope, and how God can turn even the most difficult circumstances into a platform to glorify Him. Don’t miss this incredible conversation about overcoming adversity and finding strength in faith! Learn more about Jason's incredible story at drjasonkolb.com

In this episode, we dive deep into the hilarious world of secondhand embarrassment — the moments when you feel for someone else so deeply that it makes you want to disappear. From awkward church performances to cringe-worthy situations at work, we discuss how we react when others make embarrassing mistakes. Join us as we reminisce about the most memorable internet moments that made us laugh and cringe, including a pastor's unintentional slip of the tongue and our boss's embarrassing mishap at the office. Plus, we share hilarious stories of awkward encounters in public and the workplace, where the cringe is palpable. Tune in for a good laugh, and remember, we’re all a little awkward sometimes!

Are you running from God? The book of Jonah describes two distinct paths we often take. With insights from scripture and personal experiences, we discuss how both paths can shape our relationship with God and the importance of true, honest connection with Him. Whether you're a rule-follower or a rebel, this conversation will challenge you to reflect on how you might be running from God—intentionally or not—and how to find your way back.

In this episode, we dive deep into the complexities of faith, doubt, and the ongoing journey of spiritual growth. We explore how it's completely normal to experience seasons of doubt and how wrestling with God is part of the process. Through a heartfelt conversation with a listener named Bill, who shares his struggles with anger towards God and confusion about his faith, we discuss how to navigate those tough emotions and find peace. We talk about the importance of finding a Bible translation that works for you, how God is big enough to handle our emotions, and how living in community can provide the support needed to keep moving forward in faith. Whether you're dealing with doubt, wrestling with difficult emotions, or just seeking clarity in your walk with God, this episode offers encouragement, practical advice, and a reminder that you're not alone in your journey. Tune in for an honest, relatable conversation on faith, struggle, and trusting in God’s timing.

In this episode, we dive deep into the Parable of the Wheat and Weeds, as told in Matthew 13. Join us as we explore the meaning behind this powerful story, where Jesus teaches about the kingdom of heaven and the ultimate separation of the righteous (the wheat) from the unrighteous (the weeds) at the end of time. The conversation reflects on the nature of faith, the challenges of identifying true believers, and the importance of focusing on being the "wheat" rather than hunting for the "weeds." We discuss why this parable, though often overlooked, carries a timely and relevant message about vigilance, grace, and trust in God's ultimate judgment. Tune in for insightful reflections and an honest conversation about living as true followers of Christ in a world filled with distractions.

Curiosity is both a skill and an art. Sadly, it would seem that American society lost interest in curiosity a long time ago. But what if the loneliness epidemic, family divisions, and lack of deep friendships can all be traced back to the absence of curiosity? Listen as Brian and Jannelle talk about this with author and professor Dr. Heather Holleman.  

"Power tends to corrupt and absolute power corrupts absolutely." It's a famous quote most of us have heard. But does it apply to church leadership? This week, Brian and Jannelle explore an unconventional answer to that question. 

It may be hard to believe, but single people have plenty of advice for married couples. Lisa Anderson of Focus on the Family and "The Boundless Show" has a long list embarrassing issues married friends have revealed. 

Do you really know who Jesus is? Many of us have created our own warped version of Jesus without realizing it. Pastor Kevin James of New Community Bible Fellowship joins Brian and Jannelle this week to discuss this fundamentally important topic. 

Psychologists have officially included a brand-new disorder in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. It has to do with a particular type of grief. Listen this week as Brian and Jannelle analyze this new condition, and how it appears to connect to a familiar fairy tale. 

Your ambassadorship for Christ is most on display as you live out your everyday life. In this week's episode, Brian and Jannelle take an in-depth look at one man's dilemma on an airplane. 

A diagnosis of dementia is devastating. Caring for someone you love with dementia can be equally as difficult. Brian's story in the podcast series "The Grandfather Effect" is a perfect example. In today's episode, counselor Crystal Kershaw from Fieldstone Counseling examines how to navigate this trauma.

Americans love food. Large portions. Seconds. Is this really such a big deal? Today, we wrap-up our series on virtues and vices with Nancy Kane of the Caritas Center for Christian Formation.  

For many decades, the church has struggled to discuss sexuality. The results are tragic and undeniable. Today, we continue our series on virtues and vices with Nancy Kane of the Caritas Center for Christian Formation.  

No, we're not talking about the curiously slow animal. Nor are we talking about laziness as you understand it. Today, we continue our series on virtues and vices with Nancy Kane of the Caritas Center for Christian Formation.  

Be honest. Does your anger ever get the best of you? How do we know when anger becomes sinful? Brian and Jannelle continue their series today on virtues and vices with Nancy Kane of the Caritas Center for Christian Formation.  

Jannelle thinks this vice is ugly. Nancy Kane calls it diabolical. And every Christian struggles with it. Brian and Jannelle continue their series today on virtues and vices with Nancy Kane of the Caritas Center for Christian Formation.  

Ever heard of Avarice? It's a word we don't use very often anymore. But it points directly to a struggle many of us face. Brian and Jannelle continue their series today on virtues and vices with Nancy Kane of the Caritas Center for Spiritual Formation.  

Do you struggle with pride? Brian and Jannelle continue their series today on virtues and vices with Nancy Kane of the Caritas Center for Spiritual Formation.  

We all struggle with sin. But many also persistently resist brutally honest self-reflection. Is it really worth the effort and the pain? Join us as we embark on a multi-part series with Nancy Kane of the Caritas Center for Spiritual Formation. 

Jesus said that peacemakers would be blessed. You want to be one. But if you're not careful, you could inadvertently become something else altogether. Brian and Jannelle talk about it with Karl Vaters this week. 

Many wives feel their husbands aren't emotionally available. Dr. Juli Slattery of Authentic Intimacy says that those feelings don't always reflect reality. She navigates this sensitive issue with Brian and Jannelle in this week's episode. 

Nearly half of teens have persistent feelings of sadness and hopelessness. How should Christians address this reality highlighted in a new CDC report? Brian and Jannelle talk to a pastor about it. 

Contrary to what you may have heard, there's tremendous hope for the Gospel in the Muslim world. Listen along with Brian and Janelle as they hear incredible stories of how Jesus transformed the lives of Muslim people.  

Following Jesus isn't just a Sunday activity. And yet, statistics show that many Christians are drifting away from the church and from Jesus in the aftermath of the pandemic. In this week's episode, Brian and Jannelle talk to a pastor about what it means to apply the Gospel to our everyday lives. 

Should Christians be patriotic? What about embracing nationalism? Brian and Jannelle talk about it this week with Dr. Glen Duerr of Cedarville University. 

Who are you? Plenty of people think they know the answer to that question. But how many of us have truly created an accurate picture of ourselves? Brian and Jannelle take a deep dive into this uncomfortable subject. 

God is our heavenly father. However, our view of Him can often be impacted by the imperfections of our earthly father. How do we sort out the differences? In this week's episode, Brian and Jannelle talk about this with Moody Bible Institute professor Elizabeth Smith. 

Some Christians struggle with the unfairness of their particular temptations. Specifically, followers of Jesus who battle same sex attraction may long for relationship and intimacy. But their Christian convictions leave them feeling disappointed and alone. Dr. Juli Slattery of the Java with Juli Podcast talks with Brian and Jannelle about this complicated issue in this week's episode. 

Debate continues to rage in America about abortion. While there are important moral and philosophical implications to discuss, we can't lose sight of the individual women who find themselves pregnant. In this week's episode, Brian and Jannelle talk to a trusted friend about her work in a Christian pregnancy center. 

The Bible says that pure religion looks after orphans in their distress. In this week's episode, Brian and Jannelle encounter an inspiring and dramatic example of what this looks like in the midst of war. 

Many Americans have become dependent on Amazon deliveries. As demand increases, Amazon is transitioning to delivering orders 7 days per week. That's creating problems for some Christians. Brian and Jannelle talk about it this week. 

They're both named Roman. But they're Ukrainian. And their work to save lives in the midst of war in Ukraine is incredible. Listen to Brian and Jannelle discover what these two followers of Jesus are doing with their church community to defend the oppressed. 

Life is complicated. And busy. But maybe that's the problem? In the fourth and final episode in this series, we examine the spiritual discipline of simplicity. Guiding us on the journey is our friend Nancy Kane. Nancy is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, a retired Moody Bible Institute Professor, and Founder of the Caritas Center for Christian Formation. 

He was born into one of New York’s most violent and feared Colombo crime families. But what happens when a mob boss encounters Jesus? This week, Brian and Jannelle have a conversation with Michael Franzese.  

How can we truly grow in our relationship with Jesus? In part 3 of this series, we explore the spiritual discipline of listening prayer. Guiding us on the journey is our friend Nancy Kane. Nancy is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, a retired Moody Bible Institute Professor, and Founder of the Caritas Center for Christian Formation. 

How can we truly grow in our relationship with Jesus? In part 2 of this series, we explore the spiritual discipline of fasting. Guiding us on the journey is our friend Nancy Kane. Nancy is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, a retired Moody Bible Institute Professor, and Founder of the Caritas Center for Christian Formation. 

How can we truly grow in our relationship with Jesus? Over the next four episodes, we will explore the beauty, depth, and joy of spiritual disciplines. Guiding us on the journey is our friend Nancy Kane. Nancy is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, a retired Moody Bible Institute Professor, and Founder of the Caritas Center for Christian Formation.