In this episode, we share an eye-opening experience from our recent trip to Norway that made us reflect on the intersection of faith, culture, and happiness. We dive deep into the contrasts between Norway’s largely secular society and the evangelical culture we’re familiar with in the U.S. How does a society with low religious involvement maintain one of the highest happiness scores in the world? And what can we learn about evangelism, faith, and public expression from this cultural clash?

Topics: cultural clash religion, evangelicalism in secular countries, life without religion, deconstruction and faith, religious freedom, secularism vs religion, religion in America vs Europe, public evangelism in secular countries, faith and culture

Why are young men across America rediscovering religion? In this episode, we dive into the growing trend of young men embracing faith, from Orthodoxy to Catholicism and beyond. We discuss the societal pressures, online communities like Jordan Peterson’s influence, and the appeal of traditional values in a modern, chaotic world. Learn how this movement reflects deeper cultural shifts and what it means for the future of spirituality.

Send us some questions for our new segment: thebeyondbeliefnetwork@gmail.com

Topics: young men and religion, rise of orthodoxy, young men converting to faith, religion and masculinity, traditional values resurgence, Jordan Peterson and faith, Gen Z religion trends, modern faith movements, Catholic conversion stories, cultural shift towards religion

Christmas traditions often feel timeless, but many of them were borrowed—or outright stolen—from ancient pagan festivals. In this holiday episode, we explore the origins of beloved customs like gift-giving, trees, and even Santa Claus himself. Plus, we share ideas for creating your own meaningful traditions that celebrate connection and joy, no matter your beliefs. It’s a fresh take on the season that’ll have you rethinking what it means to celebrate!

Topics: Christmas traditions, Pagan holiday origins, Non-religious Christmas, Creating new holiday traditions, Secular Christmas ideas, Winter solstice celebrations, Christian holidays and paganism, Holiday traditions for atheists, Cultural evolution of Christmas

When one partner faces a health challenge, it affects both people in the relationship. In this episode, we explore how couples share physical, mental, and emotional burdens through the lens of living with PCOS. Drawing on personal experience and fascinating research, we discuss how long-term couples develop biological similarities, why optimism is a secret weapon, and how shared struggles can strengthen your bond. From gluten-free holiday adjustments to the grief of changing expectations, we uncover the ways couples can adapt, thrive, and celebrate small wins—together.

Topics: couples health journey, PCOS relationships, living with PCOS, couples facing illness, shared health challenges, optimism in relationships, chronic illness and marriage, grief in relationships, adapting to health issues

In part two of our deep dive into post-deconstruction, we tackle the challenges of rebuilding your identity after leaving faith. How do you confront lingering guilt, reclaim your values, and navigate relationships with those still in the church? Join us as we unpack the tools you need to heal, grow, and thrive beyond belief.

Topics:

post-deconstruction, leaving religion, rebuilding identity, healing from faith, ex-Christian journey, religious trauma recovery

Leaving your faith can feel like losing years of your life—but what if those experiences weren’t wasted? In this episode, we explore how to navigate post-deconstruction with a sense of purpose and gratitude. Learn how to reframe your past, find value in your journey, and avoid bitterness as you move forward."

Topics:
post-deconstruction, religious deconstruction, life after religion, finding purpose after faith, healing after leaving church, ex-Christian journey, reframing faith experience, personal growth after religion, overcoming bitterness

In this timely episode of Love Beyond Belief, we explore a critical yet often overlooked group in American politics: non-religious and atheist voters. With the 2024 presidential election as our backdrop, we examine how religious identity continues to shape political campaigns and why atheists, agnostics, and secular Americans remain largely unrepresented.

From historical context to the risks faced by openly non-religious people, both in the U.S. and globally, we discuss the current political landscape, the influence of Christian voters, and what a future led by secular voices might look like. Tune in as we uncover the challenges and possibilities of embracing true religious freedom—including freedom from religion—in America’s democracy.

Topics:
atheist voters, non-religious demographic, American politics, presidential election, atheist representation, religious freedom, church and state, evangelical voters, atheists in politics, freedom from religion, 2024 election

In this episode of Love Beyond Belief, we’re moving past surface-level relationship advice to dive into the science-backed concepts of bid theory and emotional command systems. Join us as we explore how our emotions function like trains on tracks, each guided by distinct systems—like the playful Jester, protective Sentry, and nurturing Nest-Builder—that shape our unique responses to love, conflict, and intimacy.

We’ll also introduce Gottman’s bid theory, which reveals how subtle moments of connection and responsiveness are key to healthy relationships. Tune in to learn how understanding these emotional systems and recognizing your partner’s bids can deepen empathy, foster connection, and help you build a more fulfilling partnership.

Topics: emotional command systems, bid theory, Dr. John Gottman, relationship advice, emotional connection, building intimacy, Gottman Institute, couples communication, understanding emotions, healthy relationships, relationship psychology, love languages, deepening connection