Best Ray Kirstein Podcasts (2025)

1
From Sanctuary to Courtroom: Immigration and Religious Liberty with Legal expert Elizabeth Reiner Platt 54:12

3d ago54:12

54:12

This week, host Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush had the pleasure of interviewing Elizabeth Reiner Platt, the brilliant mind leading the Law, Rights, and Religion Project. They dive deep into her newly published report, Religious Liberty and Immigration: Legal Analysis of Past and Future Claims. Despite the administration's rhetoric about protecting …

1
Faith, followers, and the files: Jay Michaelson and the Epstein Cover-up 56:02

10d ago56:02

56:02

We are back from a brief summer break, and are ready to hit the ground running! This week on The State of Belief, the political, ethical, religious and legal aspects of the sordid case of the Jefferey Epstein files. Whether or not there are incriminating documents, the relative silence from most faith-oriented leaders raises questions. Host Rev. Pa…

1
Whither America? July 4th with Dr. Robert P. Jones 43:43

1M ago43:43

43:43

What does falling off a bike have to do with the state of our nation? Is America going through an identity crisis - just like a seventeen-year-old? This week on The State of Belief, these parallels are part of the conversation with host Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush and Dr. Robert P. Jones on America's first 249 years, and what's to come as the co…

1
On Diversity and Democracy With Wajahat Ali 1:01:22

2M ago1:01:22

1:01:22

This week on The State of Belief, popular writer and commentator Wajahat Ali joins host Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush for a thought-provoking exploration of patriotism, diversity, and democracy in today’s politically charged climate. Waj shares his unique perspective on the responsibilities that immigrants and citizens face amid the continuing soc…

1
A Pastor Reports from the Frontlines In Los Angeles: Faith and Immigration 1:09:28

2M ago1:09:28

1:09:28

This week on The State of Belief, an inspiring conversation with Rev. Noel Andersen, the National Field Director for Church World Service and a dedicated advocate for immigrant rights. In this episode, he joins host Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush to delve into the pressing issues surrounding immigration enforcement, the role of faith communities, a…

1
Leah Greenberg, Indivisible, and No Kings: "You do not need permission to get started" 54:22

2M ago54:22

54:22

This week on The State of Belief – getting ready for No Kings Day on June 14th, an initiative of the national grassroots organization Indivisible. Co-founder Leah Greenberg explains that No Kings Day is a forceful nationwide response to the royal pretensions on display in Donald Trump's demand for a multi-million dollar military parade on his 79th …

1
Jim Wallis and a Moral Budget: The June 10th Procession at the Capitol 50:54

2M ago50:54

50:54

This week on The State of Belief, you’ll hear a powerful conversation with Rev. Jim Wallis and host Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush, diving deep into his upcoming event on June 10th at the Capitol, A Pentecost Witness for a Moral Budget, which aims to address critical issues surrounding the Reconciliation Bill and its potential cuts to vital program…

1
Everybody Can Do Something: Rabbi Sharon Kleinbaum 54:24

2M ago54:24

54:24

June, traditionally Pride Month, is almost here, and this year, Pride will test the courage of our nation. It has been a challenging time for the LGBTQ+ community - with attempts to erase trans people, roll back civil rights for the wider LGBTQ community, ban Pride flags, and in 10 states there are bills to take back the right to marry... as well a…

1
Lt. Gen. Charles D. Luckey (Ret.) on the Role of the Military in Upholding Democracy 1:00:43

3M ago1:00:43

1:00:43

This week on the show, we're honored to welcome Lt. Gen. Charles D. Luckey (Retired), former Chief of the United States Army Reserve, joining host Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush. He’s a combat veteran, he’s an attorney, and he’s a pastor’s son – so he's able to cover a wide range of topics with depth and wisdom. Having sworn an oath to the Constitu…

1
Book Bans vs. the Right to Read: Kelly Jensen and Rev. Amos Brown 1:12:51

3M ago1:12:51

1:12:51

This week on The State of Belief, host Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush welcomes Kelly Jensen. She’s a passionate advocate for intellectual freedom, democracy, and the right to read. As an editor at Book Riot and a former librarian, Kelly has been at the forefront of the fight against book bans and censorship. The urgent conversation covers the growi…

1
Faith is Standing Strong: Rev. Dr. Shannon Fleck 56:56

3M ago56:56

56:56

On Wednesday, April 30th, host Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush was with Faithful America Executive Director Rev. Dr. Shannon Fleck in front of the Supreme Court building, saying “No!” to tax dollars being funneled to private religious schools. That’s the issue that was before the justices as they heard arguments in St. Isidore of Seville Catholic Vi…

1
Amy Spitalnick on How Jewish Safety and Inclusive Democracy are Inextricably Linked 56:47

3M ago56:47

56:47

This week, Amy Spitalnick, CEO of the Jewish Council for Public Affairs (JCPA), is back on The State of Belief. In this episode, Amy and host Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush dig into the immediacy of antisemitism, democracy, and how our communities are connected. Among the important topics they cover: Why Jewish safety and democracy are intertwined …

1
Remembering Pope Francis: Father James Martin Reflects on LGBTQ+ Inclusion, Environmentalism, and Compassionate Leadership 40:14

4M ago40:14

40:14

Pope Francis, who led the Roman Catholic Church worldwide since 2013, has passed away at the age of 88. A tireless champion of the central social justice teachings of Jesus, Pope Francis followed his personal mantra, “don’t forget the poor,” Pope Francis – previously Cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio, Archbishop of Buenos Aires, Argentina - brought pr…

1
Easter and Passover Courage in the Fight for Democracy 46:08

4M ago46:08

46:08

This week on The State of Belief, host Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush directly takes on the critical issues facing our democracy as we reach the end of the first 90 days of the Trump-Vance-Musk administration. With the backdrop of the sacred days in both the Christian and Jewish traditions, Paul enumerates some of the anti-democratic actions the ad…

1
Michael Eric Dyson: How We Love Is To Tell the Truth 51:50

4M ago51:50

51:50

This week on The State of Belief, host Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Dr. Michael Eric Dyson, a distinguished professor at Vanderbilt University and a passionate advocate for social justice. They dive into the current political climate in America, addressing the rising tide of anti-democratic movemen…

1
National Call to Action for Faith Communities 1:08:07

4M ago1:08:07

1:08:07

On this special early-release edition of The State of Belief, you’ll hear host Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush moderate an incredible group of faith leaders, progressive organizers, and activists who came together for a National Call to Action for Faith Communities on April 2, 2025. This episode is a must-listen as we explore the urgent issues facin…

1
Faith and LGBTQ+ Rights in the Face of Adversity 1:01:44

4M ago1:01:44

1:01:44

This week, you'll hear a powerful panel discussion hosted by Rev. Paul Raushenbush and featuring four leading LGBTQ+ and faith activists: Chase Strangio (ACLU), Tahil Sharma (LGBTQ Task Force), Jon Cohen (Keshet), and Ross Keys (Interfaith Alliance of North Dakota). They discuss the intersection of faith and LGBTQ+ rights, the critical threats faci…

1
The Rule of Law and the Chaos of MAGA: Jay Michaelson 58:57

5M ago58:57

58:57

This week, Rabbi Dr. Jay Michaelson joins Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush for a deep dive into the state of U.S. politics, the role of the rule of law in preserving democracy, and political attacks against institutions of higher education. Together, they explore how faith can play a role in resistance and activism, reflecting on the deep divisions w…

1
Navigating the Narrow Bridge: Congressman Eric Swalwell and the Fight for Democracy 48:28

5M ago48:28

48:28

This week, Representative Eric Swalwell joins host Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush to discuss the ongoing challenges facing American democracy, lessons not learned in the January 6th Capitol riot, and the critical role of faith communities in this time of division. Together, they explore the importance of political engagement, especially in the face…

1
Jeff Sharlet: The Slow Civil War Is Speeding Up 49:46

5M ago49:46

49:46

In difficult times, the work of truth-telling can seem like obsessing on the negative. But the most important truths are very often uncomfortable and even frightening. This week, host Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush welcomes writer Jeff Sharlet, author of The Undertow: Scenes From A Slow Civil War, back to The State of Belief. As Jeff sees America’s…

1
One Month of Trump's Attacks on Faith: Policymakers, Faith Leaders, and Legal Experts Take Action 1:09:31

5M ago1:09:31

1:09:31

This week, Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush is joined by a panel of faith leaders, legal experts, and policymakers to discuss the urgent threats facing democracy and religious freedom under the Trump administration. Together, they explore how faith communities can take action against executive overreach, attacks on religious institutions, and efforts…

1
Unfiltered: The Gen Z Revolution with Olivia Julianna 58:28

5M ago58:28

58:28

This week, Gen Z activist Olivia Julianna joins Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush to discuss the importance of political engagement and the pursuit of social justice at an incredibly difficult moment in our history. Together, they explore how a rising generation of young leaders is doing critical work to address systemic injustice and inequality – and…

1
Black History Month In the Time of Trump: Rev. Jacqui Lewis 56:10

6M ago56:10

56:10

This week, activist and theologian Rev. Dr. Jacqui Lewis joins host Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush to discuss the celebration and reflection of Black history, and the intersection of faith and activism. Together, they explore the ongoing fight for racial equality, the powerful influence of Black history on contemporary social justice movements, and…

1
Money, Lies, and God: Katherine Stewart Inside the Movement to Destroy American Democracy 52:22

6M ago52:22

52:22

This week, author and journalist Katherine Stewart joins host Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush to discuss the rise of Christian Nationalism, Trump’s authoritarian tendencies, and the weaponization of faith for political gain. Together, they dive into the current political climate, the deep divisions within American society, and how knowledge and orga…

1
Can Religion Save Democracy? Maggie Siddiqi on Pluralism, Policy, and Resistance 53:42

6M ago53:42

53:42

This week, Maggie Siddiqi, new senior fellow at Interfaith Alliance, is with host Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush discussing Donald Trump’s efforts to dismantle the Department of Education, Bishop Budde’s model of faithful resistance, and the importance of coalition-building to stand up for democracy and religious freedom. Maggie joins Interfaith Al…

1
Skye Perryman: There's No Way Out of This But Through 53:54

6M ago53:54

53:54

This week, host Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush reflects on the courage of Episcopal Bishop Rt. Rev. Mariann Budde, who spoke faithfully on behalf of the victims of the incoming administration’s policies at the inagural prayer service, attended by the president and vice president. Then Paul is joined by Skye Perryman, President and CEO of Democracy …

1
King's Non-Violence Trumps Christian Nationalism 56:36

7M ago56:36

56:36

This week, we focus on the confluence of the inauguration of Donald Trump on the day we observe Martin Luther King Day, January 20th. Host Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush brings attention to the dichotomy of these two pivotal events, reflecting on the contrasting paths that America finds itself on—one leading towards justice, equality, and liberatio…

1
Christian Nationalism and Hate Violence: What Can We Do? 51:52

7M ago51:52

51:52

This week, Zev Mishell, National Programs Associate at Interfaith Alliance, joins host Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush to discuss the intersection of systemic violence, hate crimes, and religious and political ideologies in America. Zev is the author of Interfaith Alliance’s new report, Together Against Hate, which closely analyzes how interfaith mo…

1
Special Episode - Remembering Jimmy Carter 21:48

7M ago21:48

21:48

Perhaps more than any other modern president, Jimmy Carter identified himself very publicly and explicitly as a person guided by faith. At the same time, he was also a consistent defender of healthy boundaries between government and religion, who made clear that he would never allow his personal faith to dictate or interfere with the public interes…

1
January 6th: Bad Theology, Bad for Democracy 1:12:35

7M ago1:12:35

1:12:35

This week, Dr. Robert P. Jones, president and founder of the Public Religion Research Institute, joins host Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush to discuss the intersection of race, religion, and politics in America, focusing on the rewriting of history regarding the January 6, 2021 attacks, and the impact of shifting demographics and the influence of po…

1
Democracy Defying Gravity: WICKED as Movie and Metaphor 44:45

7M ago44:45

44:45

Resisting authoritariansim. Not succumbing to the mass reverence for “the man behind the curtain.” Recognizing the value of those who are different, even if shunned by the majority. Staying true to one’s beliefs no matter what. These themes could just as easily reference American politics and culture on the cusp of 2025 as they do the hit movie mus…

1
Top Religion News 2024: NYT Reporter Ruth Graham 55:33

8M ago55:33

55:33

In 2024 America, almost every major news story was a religion story in some way. Important stories call for compelling storytelling, and we take a look back at 2024 in the company of a leading religion journalist who’s expert at telling those stories. Host Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush is joined by Ruth Graham, New York Times National Reporter cov…

1
Timothy Snyder On Religion, Power, and Freedom 58:22

8M ago58:22

58:22

This week, renowned historian and author Timothy Snyder joins host Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush to discuss the complex relationship between religion, freedom, and democracy. His new book, On Freedom, explores what freedom truly means, how it has been misunderstood, and why it is critical for our collective survival. It debuted as an instant New Y…

1
Did Christian Nationalism Win? Matthew Taylor on the Vote and the Future 1:01:51

8M ago1:01:51

1:01:51

Christian Nationalism has seemingly grabbed the levers of power in America. With an overt passion for power over democracy, the agenda of this authoritarian, exclusionary movement needs to be examined now, more than ever. This week on The State of Belief, host Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush turns to concerned experts who have been telling this stor…

1
The Subversive Power of Gratitude with Diana Butler Bass 54:33

8M ago54:33

54:33

Happy Thanksgiving! This week on The State of Belief, we look at gratitude and appreciation from several angles: through the eyes of children, and of a theologian who literally wrote the book on giving thanks. Host Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush welcomes the youngest guests ever to appear on The State of Belief, his sons Walter and Glenn. Together,…

1
Antisemitism: Canary in the Coal Mine to Destroying Democracy With Rabbi Jill Jacobs 51:07

9M ago51:07

51:07

This week, we dive into the Israel-Palestine crisis, reflecting on the struggles and the urgent call for peace. Recorded just before Rosh Hashanah and the one-year mark of the October 7th attacks, the conversation focuses on the need for moral leadership to stand against violence and authoritarianism. The State of Belief host Rev. Paul Brandeis Rau…

1
How to End Christian Nationalism with Amanda Tyler 47:20

9M ago47:20

47:20

Faced with the surging threat of Christian nationalism, The State of Belief this week explores the urgent need for resistance against authoritarian theocracy, focusing on the roles that faith communities, and particularly Christians, can play in defending religious freedom and multi-faith democracy. Guest Amanda Tyler joins host Rev. Paul Brandeis …

1
Election 2024: No Mandate for Extremism 59:11

9M ago59:11

59:11

In the wake of a deeply consequential election, The State of Belief this week unpacks the electoral role played by religious communities, exploring how various faith groups influenced voter turnout and political coalitions. Guests Skye Perryman, Katherine Stewart, Adelle Banks and Bob Smietana join host Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush to share criti…

1
The Vote Is Sacred Bus Tour 1:11:02

9M ago1:11:02

1:11:02

This week’s episode of The State of Belief features interviews with guests along Interfaith Alliance’s “The Vote is Sacred Bus Tour.” Host Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush visits with Karim Khayati, Rabbi Deanna Sussman, Rev. Sarah Jones, Dan Osborn, Connie Ryan, State Sen. Rev. Sarah Trone Garriott, Rt. Rev. Betsey Monnot, Rhonda Lindner, Rev. Brean…

1
Democracy and Faith Hit The Road 58:44

9M ago58:44

58:44

This fall, a number of faith- and values-driven organizations have taken to the road, bringing a positive message to communities across the country aboard colorful, activist-filled buses. From the Nuns On The Bus & Friends Vote Our Future Tour, to the Revolutionary Love Tour, to the Faith & Democracy Tour, to the Vote Common Good Confronting Christ…

1
The Freedom to Read is an Essential Human - and Religious - Right! 1:13:30

10M ago1:13:30

1:13:30

Marking the Freedom to Read Day of Action, this week’s episode of The State of Belief, Interfaith Alliance's weekly radio program and podcast, features interviews with Qiana Johnson, Rev. Kim Coleman, and Rabba Rori Picker Neiss – influential leaders working at the intersection of faith and activism to combat censorship and book bans. They join hos…

1
The Christian Movement That Is Threatening Our Democracy, with Matthew Taylor 1:03:27

10M ago1:03:27

1:03:27

In his new book, Dr. Matthew D. Taylor sheds light on the alarming rise of authoritarianism in Christian nationalist movements. In The Violent Take It By Force: The Christian Movement That Is Threatening Our Democracy, Matthew explores the rise of the New Apostolic Reformation, a radical movement within American evangelicalism that is mobilizing in…

1
Interfaith Since 10/7/23: Challenges and Promise 53:15

10M ago53:15

53:15

October 7th marks the one-year anniversary of the Hamas attacks on Israel and the subsequent war in Gaza – a war that is still raging and even spreading, costing tens of thousands of lives and untold suffering and trauma for so many in the region. This week, The State of Belief, Interfaith Alliance's weekly radio program and podcast, focuses on mar…

1
Strong Women Speaking Truth to Power: Kristin Du Mez and Mary J. Novak 1:13:26

10M ago1:13:26

1:13:26

Mary J. Novak and Kristin Du Mez are two incredible women whose work at the intersection of activism and faith is driving critical change in our society. This week, they join host Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush on The State of Belief, Interfaith Alliance's weekly radio program and podcast, to explore how faith can be used as a tool for tremendous s…

1
Interfaith Action at the State Level: Florida, North Dakota, Pennsylvania 59:24

11M ago59:24

59:24

In states and communities across the country, people of diverse religious and secular beliefs are coming together to fight for freedom of conscience for all. Many are doing it under the banner of Interfaith Alliance, organizing local affiliates to address pressing challenges to our constitutional liberties and pluralistic values. Rev. Dr. Sharon Ha…

1
Demographics, Democracy, and Destiny: Dr. Robert P. Jones 58:47

11M ago58:47

58:47

As American society evolves, Dr. Robert P. Jones explores how rigid, traditional norms are losing their influence, leading to a growing need for greater religious and racial diversity and inclusion. His latest book, The Hidden Roots of White Supremacy and the Path to a Shared American Future, analyzes the historical and ongoing legacy of White supr…

1
Faith, Power, and Victimhood: the evolution of Christian Nationalism 59:44

11M ago59:44

59:44

As Christian nationalism and the far right’s influence on American politics grow, historian Randall Balmer offers a critical examination of evangelicalism and the surprising shifts within its ranks. In his book Bad Faith: Race and the Rise of the Religious Right, he reveals how far-right religious lobbying in the 1970s, fueled by efforts to defend …

1
The Past Isn't Even Past: The Trial That Riveted A Nation With Brenda Wineapple 58:19

11M ago58:19

58:19

As book bans and religious censorship again become increasingly prevalent, America is witnessing an alarming repetition of patterns from our history. Brenda Wineapple's most recent book, Keeping the Faith: God, Democracy, and the Trial That Riveted a Nation, is a compelling account of censorship and successful far-right religious lobbying during th…

1
Changemakers at the DNC 53:57

12M ago53:57

53:57

Throughout the week of the Democratic National Convention, Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush and the Interfaith Alliance team were all over Chicago for events, discussions and meet-ups, representing the views of a powerful movement of people of diverse faiths and beliefs across the country. On this week’s State of Belief, Interfaith Alliance's weekly …

1
Passion & Policy: Guthrie Graves-Fitzsimmons 51:39

12M ago51:39

51:39

Guthrie Graves-Fitzsimmons, one of the country’s top advocates and experts working at the intersection of religion, politics and policy, has just this week joined Interfaith Alliance as the organization’s new Senior Director of Policy and Advocacy. To start off his tenure, he joined host Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush on The State of Belief, Interf…

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