Good God Project

A podcast with George Mason about faith and public life

“Good God is a podcast for people with open hearts.” - D Magazine

Posts in Faith

Bringing Faith to Dallas Civic Life with Jaynie Schultz

Bringing Faith to Dallas Civic Life with Jaynie Schultz

What does it look like to bring your whole self—your values, your faith, your history—into public life? Councilmember Jaynie Schultz joins George Mason for a candid conversation about her years in public service, the joys and challenges of representing a diverse district, and the values that have shaped her decisions along the way. Together, they reflect on civic responsibility, zoning and housing justice, faith-rooted ethics, and the spiritual soul of Dallas. Jaynie also shares why she’s stepping away from elected office and what comes next.

Jaynie Schultz is a Dallas City Council member representing District 11. First elected in 2021, she has served two terms and will conclude her tenure in 2025.

Faith, Judaism, politicsGood God ProjectApril 10, 2025Dallas, Faith, Good Politics

How to End Christian Nationalism: A Conversation with Amanda Tyler

How to End Christian Nationalism: A Conversation with Amanda Tyler

In this episode of Good God, George Mason sits down with Amanda Tyler, Executive Director of the Baptist Joint Committee for Religious Liberty and lead organizer for Christians Against Christian Nationalism. Amanda shares insights from her new book, How to End Christian Nationalism, exploring the steps needed to dismantle this dangerous ideology while promoting religious freedom for all. From defining Christian nationalism to addressing its impact on public schools and political power, Amanda calls us to engage deeply in protecting democracy and fostering pluralism.

Amanda Tyler is a lawyer, religious liberty advocate, and leader in the fight against Christian nationalism, working to ensure the separation of church and state and to promote justice for all.

Faith, Christianity, politics, advocacyGood God ProjectJanuary 14, 2025Faith, Democracy, Advocacy, Christian Nationalism

This Is Going to Hurt: Faith, Division, and Radical Love with Bekah McNeel

This Is Going to Hurt: Faith, Division, and Radical Love with Bekah McNeel

In this episode of Good God, George Mason sits down with journalist Bekah McNeel to discuss her latest book, This Is Going to Hurt: Following Jesus in a Divided America. Together, they explore the profound intersections of faith, suffering, and public life, challenging us to move beyond binaries and embrace self-sacrificial love in the face of division. From reframing stories about immigration and race to understanding the call of the cross as a daily act of radical compassion, Bekah invites listeners to go deeper into their convictions and rethink what it means to love their neighbors.

Bekah McNeel is a San Antonio-based journalist and storyteller who writes on education, faith, and society for publications such as Texas Monthly, Sojourners, and Christianity Today.

Faith, Christianity, politicsGood God ProjectJanuary 7, 2025Faith, Justice, Compassion

State of our Faith | Light in the Darkness: Reflections on Faith in this Season

State of our Faith | Light in the Darkness: Reflections on Faith in this Season

In this special year-end episode of State of Our Faith, Rev. George Mason, Rabbi Nancy Kasten, and Mara Richards Bim reflect on themes of light and darkness across their faith traditions.

As the holidays and new year approach, they discuss the significance of embracing both light and shadow, the importance of community and rest, and how faith calls us to be active participants in bringing hope to the world. Together, they offer insights and encouragement for finding light in challenging times.

Faith, interfaith, multifaith, SpiritualityGood God ProjectDecember 19, 2024Faith, Holidays, Light

10 for 10: Voting Vision Not Division | From the Ballot to Action: Building Unity After the Election

10 for 10: Voting Vision Not Division | From the Ballot to Action: Building Unity After the Election

In this special post-election episode of the "10 for 10: Voting Vision, Not Division" series, Rabbi Nancy Kasten and Rev. Dr. George Mason reflect on the surprises and challenges of the election results. They discuss how faith values can guide responses to shifting political landscapes, the importance of addressing local issues like housing and food access, and why advocating for good governance remains essential. Together, they emphasize the need for persistence and collaboration to create meaningful change, even when political winds shift. As the dust settles, this conversation invites listeners to stay engaged, persevere, and work toward unity and justice in their communities.

What is 10 for 10: Voting Vision not Division? Starting on September 2, 2024 and continuing every Monday for ten weeks through November 4, Faith Commons is offering ten 10-minute reflections on topics related to the upcoming election through the lens of religion. Our premise is that religion should be used to unite people and groups of people rather than to divide them, and that the founders of our country shared our view.

politics, voting, FaithGood God ProjectNovember 25, 2024elections, voting, Good Politics, Ethics

10 for 10: Voting Vision Not Division | The Character of a Nation

10 for 10: Voting Vision Not Division | The Character of a Nation

In the final episode of our "10 for 10: Voting Vision, Not Division" series, Faith Commons reflects on the importance of character in leadership as we approach Election Day. Through a lens of faith, George, Mara, and Nancy explore how integrity, responsibility, and truthfulness in our leaders shape our collective identity and influence our values. From local offices to the highest levels of government, this conversation underscores the impact of character on policies that affect our communities. As you head to the polls, consider how each candidate’s character reflects the future you envision for our nation, grounded in shared moral principles. And as we move past this election, consider the role you can play in shaping that future.

What is 10 for 10: Voting Vision not Division? Starting on September 2, 2024 and continuing every Monday for ten weeks through November 4, Faith Commons is offering ten 10-minute reflections on topics related to the upcoming election through the lens of religion. Our premise is that religion should be used to unite people and groups of people rather than to divide them, and that the founders of our country shared our view.

politics, voting, FaithGood God ProjectNovember 4, 2024elections, voting, Good Politics, Ethics

10 for 10: Voting Vision Not Division | Balancing the Rights and Responsibility of Freedom

10 for 10: Voting Vision Not Division | Balancing the Rights and Responsibility of Freedom

The Faith Commons team unpacks what freedom means in a society bound by shared values and responsibilities. Reflecting on individual conscience, faith-based values, and the role of community, they discuss how freedom is shaped by both personal and collective responsibility, urging voters to consider the delicate balance between rights and obligations. Together, they explore how true freedom involves respecting others’ autonomy while living by example and fostering a spirit of connection.

What is 10 for 10: Voting Vision not Division? Starting on September 2, 2024 and continuing every Monday for ten weeks through November 4, Faith Commons is offering ten 10-minute reflections on topics related to the upcoming election through the lens of religion. Our premise is that religion should be used to unite people and groups of people rather than to divide them, and that the founders of our country shared our view.

politics, voting, FaithGood God ProjectOctober 28, 2024elections, voting, Good Politics, Freedom

10 for 10: Voting Vision Not Division | Aligning Our Values with Economic Policies

10 for 10: Voting Vision Not Division | Aligning Our Values with Economic Policies

In this episode, the Faith Commons team discusses how faith shapes our understanding of economic systems. From fair treatment of workers to addressing inequality, the conversation highlights how public policy can uphold dignity and fairness, encouraging voters to reflect on the ethical impact of economic choices as they head to the polls. The team emphasizes the importance of creating an economy that serves everyone, not just the privileged few.

What is 10 for 10: Voting Vision not Division? Starting on September 2, 2024 and continuing every Monday for ten weeks through November 4, Faith Commons is offering ten 10-minute reflections on topics related to the upcoming election through the lens of religion. Our premise is that religion should be used to unite people and groups of people rather than to divide them, and that the founders of our country shared our view.

politics, voting, Faith, Judaism, equalityGood God ProjectOctober 21, 2024elections, voting, Good Politics, Economy

10 for 10: Voting Vision Not Division | On Immigration - Faith at the Border

10 for 10: Voting Vision Not Division | On Immigration - Faith at the Border

This episode reflects on immigration through the lens of faith, with the Faith Commons team exploring how religious stories emphasize compassion for migrants. Drawing on biblical narratives and personal experiences, the conversation addresses the realities of an unknown future and the complexities of immigration policy today, urging voters to consider the values of hospitality, justice, and care for the vulnerable as they head to the polls.

What is 10 for 10: Voting Vision not Division? Starting on September 2, 2024 and continuing every Monday for ten weeks through November 4, Faith Commons is offering ten 10-minute reflections on topics related to the upcoming election through the lens of religion. Our premise is that religion should be used to unite people and groups of people rather than to divide them, and that the founders of our country shared our view.

politics, voting, Faith, Judaism, ImmigrationGood God ProjectOctober 14, 2024elections, voting, Good Politics, Immigration

10 for 10: Voting Vision not Division | "What Makes This Land Holy?" Reflections on the Israel/Hamas War One Year Later

10 for 10: Voting Vision not Division | "What Makes This Land Holy?" Reflections on the Israel/Hamas War One Year Later

In this special episode, the Faith Commons team reflects on the one-year anniversary of the war between Israel and Hamas. Drawing from their own experiences in the region and their faith traditions, Rev. Dr. George Mason, Rabbi Nancy Kasten, and Mara Richards Bim grapple with the complexities of ongoing violence and the pursuit of peace. They discuss the difficulties of peacemaking, the limits of our understanding, and the importance of solidarity and compassion in a world divided by conflict. As they consider the impact of faith on public policy and voting, they challenge listeners to reflect on what makes a land holy and how to work toward a future rooted in justice and peace.

What is 10 for 10: Voting Vision not Division? Starting on September 2, 2024 and continuing every Monday for ten weeks through November 4, Faith Commons is offering ten 10-minute reflections on topics related to the upcoming election through the lens of religion. Our premise is that religion should be used to unite people and groups of people rather than to divide them, and that the founders of our country shared our view.

politics, voting, Faith, Judaism, Peace & ResolutionGood God ProjectOctober 7, 2024elections, voting, Good Politics, War

10 for 10: Voting Vision not Division | On Climate - Faith and Our Responsibility to the Earth

10 for 10: Voting Vision not Division | On Climate - Faith and Our Responsibility to the Earth

In this episode, the Faith Commons team discusses how faith traditions call us to care for the planet and address the urgent challenges of climate change. Drawing on Jewish and Christian teachings, they explore how public policy can promote renewable energy, reduce carbon emissions, and protect vulnerable communities already facing the impacts of a changing climate. As Election Day approaches, this conversation challenges us to reimagine our role in environmental stewardship and the concrete steps we can take to safeguard the Earth for future generations.

What is 10 for 10: Voting Vision not Division? Starting on September 2, 2024 and continuing every Monday for ten weeks through November 4, Faith Commons is offering ten 10-minute reflections on topics related to the upcoming election through the lens of religion. Our premise is that religion should be used to unite people and groups of people rather than to divide them, and that the founders of our country shared our view.

advocacy, politics, voting, FaithGood God ProjectSeptember 30, 2024elections, voting, Good Politics, climate

10 for 10: Voting Vision not Division | On Family

10 for 10: Voting Vision not Division | On Family

In this episode of "10 for 10: Voting Vision Not Division," Rev. Dr. George Mason, Rabbi Nancy Kasten, and Mara Richards Bim dive into the complexities of family and what it means to support families in today’s world. From the diverse family structures seen in religious texts to the modern policies needed to uplift all families, they discuss how faith calls for a broader, more inclusive understanding of family. The conversation covers essential topics like childcare assistance, paid leave, and family unity, urging voters to reflect on how public policies can strengthen families in all forms.

What is 10 for 10: Voting Vision not Division? Starting on September 2, 2024 and continuing every Monday for ten weeks through November 4, Faith Commons is offering ten 10-minute reflections on topics related to the upcoming election through the lens of religion. Our premise is that religion should be used to unite people and groups of people rather than to divide them, and that the founders of our country shared our view.

advocacy, politics, voting, FaithGood God ProjectSeptember 23, 2024elections, voting, Good Politics

Talking Faith: Christianity & Politics

Talking Faith: Christianity & Politics

In this pivotal election year, Rev. Dr. George Mason led the participants at Saint Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church’s Pub Theology in a reflective exploration of the role Christianity has played and should play in the realm of politics.

From navigating contentious issues to grappling with the concept of Christian nationalism, he delved into the complexities and challenges of faith-based engagement in the public sphere.

“Patriotism is love of country. Nationalism is hatred of the other.”

Faith, America, Christianity, politicsGood God ProjectJuly 1, 2024Christian Nationalism, American Faith

Rachel Laser: Abortion rights are a religious freedom issue.

Rachel Laser: Abortion rights are a religious freedom issue.

This episode features a conversation with Rachel Laser, President & CEO of Americans United for Separation of Church and State, protecting the foundational American principle of freedom of religion—including the right to believe or not believe—for all.

George & Rachel discuss the intersection of religious freedom and abortion laws. Rachel highlights the importance of church-state separation in preserving religious freedom and democracy. They unpack the role of religious pluralism in America and the necessity of protecting the rights of all citizens, regardless of their faith. The episode also touches on the challenges of motivating moderate voices and fostering meaningful dialogue across differences.

The discussion serves as a prelude to an upcoming event in Dallas focusing on these critical issues.

Faith, America, Christianity, politicsGood God ProjectJune 3, 2024Abortion, Reproductive Rights

Brian Kaylor: The Surprising Origin Story of Christian Nationalism

Brian Kaylor: The Surprising Origin Story of Christian Nationalism

George is joined by Brian Kaylor, author of the book "Baptizing America: How Mainline Protestants Helped Build Christian Nationalism"—a critique of the concept of civil religion, arguing that such expressions are far more dangerous than we realize.

In this conversation, they discuss his new book; the dangers of a softer, friendlier Christian Nationalism present in many mainline protestant churches; and the difficult work of figuring out what is American and what is Jesus's teachings. To make this distinction, we must ask ourselves, "What are they trying to accomplish? And how are they treating our fellow citizens in our increasingly pluralistic society?"

"It's cathartic to point at...evangelicals, and say, 'Look at them.' Right? But what if we actually did something in our own circles of influence, in our own communities to reduce Christian Nationalism?" - Brian Kaylor

Faith, America, Christianity, politicsGood God ProjectMay 10, 2024Christian Nationalism

Courageous Conversations: Jeff Sharlet on American Failures and American Possibility

Courageous Conversations: Jeff Sharlet on American Failures and American Possibility

Meet Dr. Jeff Sharlet, Professor in the Art of Writing at Dartmouth College and author of the recently released The Undertow: Scenes from a Slow Civil War. In it, he journeys into the corners of our national psyche in an attempt to understand how, over the last decade, reaction has morphed into delusion, social division into distrust, distrust into paranoia, and hatred into fantasies—sometimes realities—of violence.

In this conversation, George and Jeff discuss the religious dimensions of American politics, and the role of grief and uncertainty in the midst of plague and rising fascism. Sharlet offers insight into both the human condition and into our country today, bringing to light a decade of American failures as well as a vision for American possibility,

Jeff Sharlet is the New York Times bestselling author or editor of eight books. His latest is The Undertow: Scenes from a Slow Civil War (2023), a National Book Critics Circle Award Finalist for Nonfiction, one of The New York Times 100 Books of the Year, and a New Republic book of the year.

America, Faith, Christianity, politicsGood God ProjectMarch 21, 2024Democracy

Courageous Conversations: Chris Walsh and William McKenzie on Pluralism

Courageous Conversations: Chris Walsh and William McKenzie on Pluralism

George is joined by Chris Walsh and William McKenzie, both of the George W. Bush Institute where they engage in the advancement of freedom and democracy in the world.

In this second episode of the Courageous Conversations series, they discuss what they call "the pluralism challenge," the role of pluralism in strengthening our democracy, the importance of a vibrant religious pluralism, and what American democracy means—even when it falls short of its own ideals.

Chris Walsh serves as Director, Global Policy at the George W. Bush Institute. In this role, Mr. Walsh manages communications, evaluation, and public policy research projects that advance freedom and democracy in the world.

William McKenzie is senior editorial advisor at the George W. Bush Institute, where he is working on editorial projects on democracy and freedom and education reform.

America, Faith, multifaithGood God ProjectFebruary 21, 2024Democracy, Pluralism, Freedom