Make It Simple artwork

Make It Simple

82 episodes - English - Latest episode: 6 days ago - ★★★★★ - 56 ratings

Matt Popovits and Rachel Ryder take complicated issues and, with the help of an expert, breaks them down into ideas we can understand, truths we can apply, and questions worth pondering--and he does it all through the lens of faith. Through thoughtful insights and interesting conversations, they move through topics ranging from parenting, anxiety, and racism, to gender identity, the enneagram, politics and more.

Christianity Religion & Spirituality religion christianity bible culture politics gender jesus racism parenting enneagram
Homepage Apple Podcasts Google Podcasts Overcast Castro Pocket Casts RSS feed

Episodes

2.5 Marijuana and Jonathan Merritt

November 23, 2021 06:00 - 50 minutes - 34.6 MB

In this episode, Jonathan Merritt joins Rachel and Matt to talk all about marijuana, and how a person of faith can wrestle with differing perspectives. Jonathan shares his personal experience and discusses his article, "A Christian Case for Marijuana."  They look at the history, criminalization, and research around marijuana, and share how we can take a position of mercy and justice no matter where we land on the issue. It's a beautiful conversation filled with compassion. You don't want to ...

2.5 Medicinal Marijuana with Jonathan Merritt

November 23, 2021 06:00 - 50 minutes - 34.6 MB

In this episode, Jonathan Merritt joins Rachel and Matt to talk all about marijuana, and how a person of faith can wrestle with differing perspectives. Jonathan shares his personal experience and discusses his article, "A Christian Case for Marijuana."  They look at the history, criminalization, and research around marijuana, and share how we can take a position of mercy and justice no matter where we land on the issue. It's a beautiful conversation filled with compassion. You don't want to ...

Medicinal Marijuana with Jonathan Merritt

November 23, 2021 06:00 - 50 minutes - 34.6 MB

In this episode, Jonathan Merritt joins Rachel and Matt to talk all about marijuana, and how a person of faith can wrestle with differing perspectives. Jonathan shares his personal experience and discusses his article, "A Christian Case for Marijuana."  They look at the history, criminalization, and research around marijuana, and share how we can take a position of mercy and justice no matter where we land on the issue. It's a beautiful conversation filled with compassion. You don't want to ...

2.4 Grace with Kirsten Powers

November 16, 2021 06:00 - 1 hour - 43.3 MB

Kirsten shares all about her journey with grace, and what it looks like to treat others with humanity despite hurtful discourse. She breaks down how living a life of grace is more than just “being nice,” but rather leads to kindness and accountability. It’s a great conversation, and we’re so glad to share it with you! Kirsten Powers is a senior political analyst at CNN and a NYT bestselling author. He latest book is "Saving Grace: Speak Your Truth, Stay Centered and Learn to Coexist with Pe...

Grace with Kirsten Powers

November 16, 2021 06:00 - 1 hour - 43.3 MB

Kirsten shares all about her journey with grace, and what it looks like to treat others with humanity despite hurtful discourse. She breaks down how living a life of grace is more than just “being nice,” but rather leads to kindness and accountability. It’s a great conversation, and we’re so glad to share it with you! Kirsten Powers is a senior political analyst at CNN and a NYT bestselling author. He latest book is "Saving Grace: Speak Your Truth, Stay Centered and Learn to Coexist with Pe...

Climate Change with Katharine Hayhoe

November 09, 2021 06:00 - 1 hour - 42 MB

This week, Matt and Rachel are talking all about climate change with Katharine Hayhoe. Katharine is leading the way in helpful, hope-filled conversations about the environment, diving into the ins and outs of climate change, and offering tangible solutions that we can all do, big and small, to turn things around. Her care for the environment and this planet all stems from one place- her love for Jesus. Katharine Hayhoe is an atmospheric scientist whose research focuses on understanding what...

2.3 Climate Change with Katharine Hayhoe

November 09, 2021 06:00 - 1 hour - 42 MB

This week, Matt and Rachel are talking all about climate change with Katharine Hayhoe. Katharine is leading the way in helpful, hope-filled conversations about the environment, diving into the ins and outs of climate change, and offering tangible solutions that we can all do, big and small, to turn things around. Her care for the environment and this planet all stems from one place- her love for Jesus. Katharine Hayhoe is an atmospheric scientist whose research focuses on understanding what...

2.2 Politics with Michael Wear

November 02, 2021 05:00 - 53 minutes - 37.1 MB

In this episode, Michael Wear joins Rachel and Matt to talk all about politics. Michael offers advice about how to approach personal opinions, the role politics should play in our lives, and how to approach political discourse. Michael also suggests at at its core, our political views are just another way we can love our neighbors.  You don't want to miss it! Michael Wear is a leading strategist, speaker and practitioner at the intersection of faith, politics and public life. Michael was al...

Politics with Michael Wear

November 02, 2021 05:00 - 53 minutes - 37.1 MB

In this episode, Michael Wear joins Rachel and Matt to talk all about politics. Michael offers advice about how to approach personal opinions, the role politics should play in our lives, and how to approach political discourse. Michael also suggests at at its core, our political views are just another way we can love our neighbors.  You don't want to miss it! Michael Wear is a leading strategist, speaker and practitioner at the intersection of faith, politics and public life. Michael was al...

2.1 Halloween with Frank Hart

October 26, 2021 05:00 - 43 minutes - 29.8 MB

In this episode, Frank Hart joins Rachel and Matt to discuss Halloween and his article Christians & Halloween, A Biblical Perspective From Frank Hart.  They discuss origins,  how believers can approach these festivities, and the importance of good candy. Frank gives us this to consider : "It's scary out there, but we don't have to be afraid."  You don't want to miss it! Frank Hart is the Pastor of NewChurch in Katy, Texas. He is an author, recording artist, frontman for Atomic Opera, public...

Halloween with Frank Hart

October 26, 2021 05:00 - 43 minutes - 29.8 MB

In this episode, Frank Hart joins Rachel and Matt to discuss Halloween and his article Christians & Halloween, A Biblical Perspective From Frank Hart.  They discuss origins,  how believers can approach these festivities, and the importance of good candy. Frank gives us this to consider : "It's scary out there, but we don't have to be afraid."  You don't want to miss it! Frank Hart is the Pastor of NewChurch in Katy, Texas. He is an author, recording artist, frontman for Atomic Opera, public...

1.10 Conflict Resolution with Michelle Thompson

September 07, 2021 05:00 - 41 minutes - 28.8 MB

Join us for our last episode of season 1, episode 10, where will be talking all about Conflicts with Michelle Thompson. We dive into all aspects of conflict, and discuss how to move through conflict in productive ways. What do we do about conflict, what does healthy versus unhealthy conflict look like, and what are some practical ways to handle conflict? We get into all of it with our good friend Michelle Thompson. About the Expert: Michelle Thompson is the Director of the Executive Coachi...

Conflict Resolution with Michelle Thompson

September 07, 2021 05:00 - 41 minutes - 28.8 MB

Join us for our last episode of season 1, episode 10, where will be talking all about Conflicts with Michelle Thompson. We dive into all aspects of conflict, and discuss how to move through conflict in productive ways. What do we do about conflict, what does healthy versus unhealthy conflict look like, and what are some practical ways to handle conflict? We get into all of it with our good friend Michelle Thompson. About the Expert: Michelle Thompson is the Director of the Executive Coachi...

1.9 Science & Faith with Sarah Salviander

August 31, 2021 05:00 - 45 minutes - 31.3 MB

Join us for episode 9, where will be talking about Science & Faith with Sarah Salviander. We dive into the relationship with Science and Faith, and why science can seem to be, at times, at odds with God. Dr. Sarah Salviander brings a unique perspective to the conversation, as we discuss creation, burden of proof, and the importance of looking into things for yourself. You won't want to miss it! ++++ To support Make It Simple, head to mpm.simpledonation.com Check out "What Matters Most," d...

Science & Faith with Sarah Salviander

August 31, 2021 05:00 - 45 minutes - 31.3 MB

Join us for episode 9, where will be talking about Science & Faith with Sarah Salviander. We dive into the relationship with Science and Faith, and why science can seem to be, at times, at odds with God. Dr. Sarah Salviander brings a unique perspective to the conversation, as we discuss creation, burden of proof, and the importance of looking into things for yourself. You won't want to miss it! ++++ To support Make It Simple, head to mpm.simpledonation.com Check out "What Matters Most," d...

1.8 Human Trafficking with Raleigh Sadler

August 24, 2021 05:00 - 35 minutes - 24.7 MB

Join us for episode 8, where will be talking about Human Trafficking with Raleigh Sadler. In this episode, Raleigh brings education and awareness to this often politicized issue in our culture today, and discusses how we can help those around us who are vulnerable. It's a great conversation, and we are excited to share it with you! ++++ To support Make It Simple, head to mpm.simpledonation.com Check out "What Matters Most," daily teachings from Matt Popovits, available wherever you get yo...

Human Trafficking with Raleigh Sadler

August 24, 2021 05:00 - 35 minutes - 24.7 MB

Join us for episode 8, where will be talking about Human Trafficking with Raleigh Sadler. In this episode, Raleigh brings education and awareness to this often politicized issue in our culture today, and discusses how we can help those around us who are vulnerable. It's a great conversation, and we are excited to share it with you! ++++ To support Make It Simple, head to mpm.simpledonation.com Check out "What Matters Most," daily teachings from Matt Popovits, available wherever you get yo...

Purity Culture with Rachel Joy Welcher

August 17, 2021 05:00 - 48 minutes - 33.3 MB

In episode 7, we talk with author Rachel Joy Welcher about Purity Culture. We discuss what we mean when we say "purity culture," and breakdown the impacts from the movement, as well as how we move forward in healing. You won't want to miss it. Bonus: This week we will have a giveaway! Listen to the podcast to find out more. ++++ To support Make It Simple, head to mpm.simpledonation.com Check out What Matters Most, daily teachings from Matt Popovits, available wherever you get your podcas...

1.7 Purity Culture with Rachel Joy Welcher

August 17, 2021 05:00 - 48 minutes - 33.3 MB

In episode 7, we talk with author Rachel Joy Welcher about Purity Culture. We discuss what we mean when we say "purity culture," and breakdown the impacts from the movement, as well as how we move forward in healing. You won't want to miss it. Bonus: This week we will have a giveaway! Listen to the podcast to find out more. ++++ To support Make It Simple, head to mpm.simpledonation.com Check out What Matters Most, daily teachings from Matt Popovits, available wherever you get your podcas...

1.6 The Enneagram with AJ Sherrill

August 10, 2021 05:00 - 37 minutes - 26 MB

AJ Sherrill joins us for episode 6 of the podcast to teach us The Enneagram - What is it and how do we use it?! This week, AJ speaks with Matt and Rachel about the enneagram, and how this tool can be useful in our own Spiritual formation and in our relationships. AJ is the author of "The Enneagram for Spiritual Formation" and is the lead pastor at St. Peter's Church in Mount Pleasant, South Carolina. He is an adjunct professor at Fuller Theological Seminary, where he teaches popular course...

The Enneagram with AJ Sherrill

August 10, 2021 05:00 - 37 minutes - 26 MB

AJ Sherrill joins us for episode 6 of the podcast to teach us The Enneagram - What is it and how do we use it?! This week, AJ speaks with Matt and Rachel about the enneagram, and how this tool can be useful in our own Spiritual formation and in our relationships. AJ is the author of "The Enneagram for Spiritual Formation" and is the lead pastor at St. Peter's Church in Mount Pleasant, South Carolina. He is an adjunct professor at Fuller Theological Seminary, where he teaches popular course...

Parenting with Kathy Eggers

August 03, 2021 05:00 - 47 minutes - 33 MB

Kathy Lee Eggers is an award winning author and has been dedicated to the well-being of young children for more than 30 years. Kathy has extensive experience in the field of child development and early childhood education. In this episode, Kathy shares her insights about common things that overwhelm parents, how to deal with guilt, and teaches us how to be present for our kids in the day-to-day busy-ness of our lives. You don't want to miss it! ++++ To support Make It Simple, head to mpm....

1.5 Parenting with Kathy Eggers

August 03, 2021 05:00 - 47 minutes - 33 MB

Kathy Lee Eggers is an award winning author and has been dedicated to the well-being of young children for more than 30 years. Kathy has extensive experience in the field of child development and early childhood education. In this episode, Kathy shares her insights about common things that overwhelm parents, how to deal with guilt, and teaches us how to be present for our kids in the day-to-day busy-ness of our lives. You don't want to miss it! ++++ To support Make It Simple, head to mpm....

Addiction with Shane Ramer

July 27, 2021 05:00 - 30 minutes - 21.3 MB

Shane Ramer is the host of That Sober Guy Podcast, a recovery platform used to help others stay sober. In this episode, Shane answers common questions around addiction and recovery. Matt and Shane discuss the biggest misconceptions about sober living, how to support an addict that we love, and what it takes to love someone well who is on the road to recovery. You can listen to Shane's podcast and learn more by heading to thatsoberguy.com. ++++ To support Make It Simple, head to mpm.simpl...

1.4 Addiction with Shane Ramer

July 27, 2021 05:00 - 30 minutes - 21.3 MB

Shane Ramer is the host of That Sober Guy Podcast, a recovery platform used to help others stay sober. In this episode, Shane answers common questions around addiction and recovery. Matt and Shane discuss the biggest misconceptions about sober living, how to support an addict that we love, and what it takes to love someone well who is on the road to recovery. You can listen to Shane's podcast and learn more by heading to thatsoberguy.com. ++++ To support Make It Simple, head to mpm.simpl...

1.3 Racism with Dr. Gerard Bolling

July 20, 2021 05:00 - 39 minutes - 27.2 MB

Rev. Dr. Gerard Bolling is an LCMS pastor and Lutheran university educator. Dr. Bolling currently serves as pastor of Bethlehem Lutheran Church in St. Louis, Missouri, and as assistant professor of leadership and theology and coordinator of multicultural engagement at Concordia University Texas. He works with Lutherans for Racial Justice and is the co-host of The (Im)Partial Church podcast available on apple podcasts, Google, and Spotify. ++++ To support Make It Simple, head to mpm.simpl...

Racism with Dr. Gerard Bolling

July 20, 2021 05:00 - 39 minutes - 27.2 MB

Rev. Dr. Gerard Bolling is an LCMS pastor and Lutheran university educator. Dr. Bolling currently serves as pastor of Bethlehem Lutheran Church in St. Louis, Missouri, and as assistant professor of leadership and theology and coordinator of multicultural engagement at Concordia University Texas. He works with Lutherans for Racial Justice and is the co-host of The (Im)Partial Church podcast available on apple podcasts, Google, and Spotify. ++++ To support Make It Simple, head to mpm.simpl...

Vaccines with Dr. Anjeanette Roberts

July 13, 2021 05:00 - 46 minutes - 32 MB

Dr. Anjeanette (AJ) Roberts is a molecular biologist and virologist and a public advocate for the Christian faith. Dr. Roberts conducted SARS research at the National Institutes of Health and holds degrees in chemistry, cell and molecular biology (PhD, U. of Pennsylvania), and Christian apologetics (MA, Biola University). Dr. Roberts has co-authored over 40 articles published in peer-reviewed scientific journals, contributed to two books with RTB Press: "Thinking about Evolution" and "Buil...

1.2 Vaccines with Dr. Anjeanette Roberts

July 13, 2021 05:00 - 46 minutes - 32 MB

Dr. Anjeanette (AJ) Roberts is a molecular biologist and virologist and a public advocate for the Christian faith. Dr. Roberts conducted SARS research at the National Institutes of Health and holds degrees in chemistry, cell and molecular biology (PhD, U. of Pennsylvania), and Christian apologetics (MA, Biola University). Dr. Roberts has co-authored over 40 articles published in peer-reviewed scientific journals, contributed to two books with RTB Press: "Thinking about Evolution" and "Buil...

Managing Anxiety with Steve Cuss

July 06, 2021 05:00 - 53 minutes - 36.7 MB

Steve Cuss is the author of Managing Leadership Anxiety: Yours and Theirs. He’s also the founder of Capable Life which helps leaders live a calm, aware, present, and able existence at work and at home. In this first ever episode of Make It Simple, Matt and Steve break down anxiety: what it is, how to manage our own, and how to help others. For more from Steve, head to: stevecusswords.com and capablelife.me. ++++ To support Make It Simple, head to mpm.simple donation.com Check out What ...

1.1 Anxiety with Steve Cuss

July 06, 2021 05:00 - 53 minutes - 36.7 MB

Steve Cuss is the author of Managing Leadership Anxiety: Yours and Theirs. He’s also the founder of Capable Life which helps leaders live a calm, aware, present, and able existence at work and at home. In this first ever episode of Make It Simple, Matt and Steve break down anxiety: what it is, how to manage our own, and how to help others. For more from Steve, head to: stevecusswords.com and capablelife.me. ++++ To support Make It Simple, head to mpm.simple donation.com Check out What ...

Trailer: Make It Simple; Season 1

June 17, 2021 20:00 - 1 minute - 1.12 MB

Matt and Rachel explain the big idea behind Make It Simple and introduce some of the tough topics they'll tackle in Season One. (Launching July 6th, 2021) Support the show ****** To support Make It Simple, head to mpm.simple donation.com Check out What Matters Most, daily teachings from Matt Popovits, available wherever you get your podcasts. For more information on MPM, head to mattpopovits.com Support the show