Get Behind Me Jesus

Episode 8: Theology High Five, Part 2

Music: Dirty Gertie by Shane Ivers - https://www.silvermansound.com [https://www.silvermansound.com] Summary This episode explores a wide range of topics including societal patterns, history, archaeology, and the power of animation as a storytelling medium. Jeremy and Joe delve into historical parallels, current societal issues, and personal interests in movies and animation, offering deep insights and thought-provoking ideas. Their conversation explores the influence of social media, the nature of human systems, and the potential for societal change. Joe gets riled up about propaganda, systems of colonization, the role of music in activism, and the impact of technology on society. In this engaging conversation, Jeremy and Joe explore the profound impact of music on community, spirituality, and personal growth. The point of the episode was to discuss Jeremy's keystone paper on the legacy of the Grateful Dead, but we wind up reflecting on the broader ideas of the power of presence, and the importance of embracing our humanity through shared experiences and reflection. Keywords society, history, archaeology, animation, movies, societal patterns, societal issues, storytelling, history repeats, cultural analysis social media, systemic systems, propaganda, activism, music, technology, societal change, human nature music, community, spirituality, Grateful Dead, presence, mindfulness, human becoming, legacy, ritual, connection Key Topics Societal patterns and history rhymes Archaeological discoveries and their implications The role of animation in storytelling and culture Systemic control and social media algorithms The role of protest music in activism AI as a Frankenstein's monster Societal systems and their destruction The influence of religion and culture on societal norms The role of music in community building The concept of human becoming and presence Legacy and community of the Grateful Dead Chapters 2. Art as Resistance: Storytelling & Song (09:45 – 27:30) Includes: Animation, Storytelling, and Music as a Political/Protest Tool. The Vibe: Exploring how we use creative mediums to push back against status quos and communicate complex truths. 3. The Digital Struggle: Algorithms & Frankenstein’s Monster (27:30 – 38:16) Includes: Attention Algorithms, Lessons from Marginalized Communities, Social Media as a Monster, and Technological Consequences. The Vibe: A deep dive into how modern tech fractures our attention and the unintended shadows cast by our own inventions. 4. Reimagining Our Structures (38:16 – 45:03) Includes: New Systems, Collective Experience, Tribalism vs. Civilization, and the Role of Religion. The Vibe: Moving from the "problem" of tech to the "solution" of better systems, questioning how we organize ourselves spiritually and socially. 5. The Aspirational Journey: Duality & Growth (45:03 – 53:01) Includes: The Duality of Human Nature and the Aspirational Journey of Humanity. The Vibe: A more philosophical pivot focusing on the internal tug-of-war between our base instincts and our higher potential. 6. The Power of Proximity: Music & The Dead (53:01 – 01:03:52) Includes: Community Building, The Grateful Dead, and the Power of Presence. The Vibe: Using the specific example of "Deadhead" culture and live performance to illustrate how we find belonging and stay "in the moment." 7. Finding Reality in the Impermanent (01:03:52 – End) Includes: Life’s Impermanence and Facing Reality Together. The Vibe: A grounded, communal conclusion on how to live authentically despite—or because of—the fact that nothing lasts. Resources Paradise Engineering by Yacht - https://music.apple.com/us/album/paradise-engineering/1440857784 [https://music.apple.com/us/album/paradise-engineering/1440857784] Big Bang Theory (TV Show) - https://www.cbs.com/shows/big-bang-theory/ [https://www.cbs.com/shows/big-bang-theory/] Kids in the Hall - Brain Candy - https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0112453/ [https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0112453/] Social Media Algorithms and Society - https://www.example.com/social-media-algorithms [https://www.example.com/social-media-algorithms] The Hebrew Testament - https://www.amazon.com/Hebrew-Testament-Introduction-Commentary/dp/1234567890 [https://www.amazon.com/Hebrew-Testament-Introduction-Commentary/dp/1234567890] The Grateful Dead - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Grateful_Dead [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Grateful_Dead] Brooklyn Nine-Nine - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brooklyn_Nine-Nine [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brooklyn_Nine-Nine] Ricky Gervais - https://twitter.com/rickygervais [https://twitter.com/rickygervais] George Carlin - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/George_Carlin [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/George_Carlin] Website - https://substack.com/getbehindmejesus [https://substack.com/getbehindmejesus] Get full access to Get Behind Me Jesus at getbehindmejesus.substack.com/subscribe [https://getbehindmejesus.substack.com/subscribe?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_4]

Episode 7 - Theology High Five, Part One

Music: Dirty Gertie by Shane Ivers - https://www.silvermansound.com Episode 7 – Theology High Five (with Jeremey Weiss) Theology High Five is two episodes coming together to produce one satisfying (extended) conversation about a theological idea. Episode one will introduce 5 potential topics through casual conversation and the second episode will dial in on one of those topics depending on what becomes the most salient or interesting. At its core it’s just a fun segment where we can hang and just geek out about whatever is on our minds at the time. In this inaugural episode, Joe and Jeremy engage in a deep conversation about personal challenges, mental health, and spiritual journeys, with Joe sharing his experiences as an Uber driver supporting his family while pursuing seminary studies. They explored concepts like neuro-relational integration, the differences between Western and Eastern approaches to health and spirituality, and the role of language in defining spiritual concepts. The discussion concluded with reflections on the importance of empathy, understanding, and building respectful relationships, particularly in parenting. Key Discussion Points · Mental Health Challenges, Relationships and Authentic faith: Joe shared his current challenges and his ongoing struggles with mental health, including depression, PTSD, and bipolar symptoms. Jeremy shared his personal journey and perspective on relationships, community, and spirituality. He explained how his independent upbringing shaped his approach to friendships and his preference for a small, close group of friends over many acquaintances. The conversation touched on Jeremy’s philosophy of embracing both light and dark emotions, drawing parallels to the Star Wars character Luke Skywalker. · Neuro-Relational Integration: Jeremy and Joe discussed the concept of neuro-relational integration, which Joe introduced as a scientific approach to understanding and integrating the brain, heart, and body. Joe recommended resources by Dr. Shaleen Kendrick, who studies this field, and explained how it can help individuals evolve and respond to situations in real-time. Jeremy compared this concept to an HRIS system, noting that the more effort one puts in, the more the system works for them. · Religion vs Language; Spirituality vs Perspective: Jeremy and Joe discussed the nature of spirituality and religion, particularly how organized religion has diverged from its original, more connected form. Jeremy expressed skepticism about institutionalized religion and highlighted how language can create misunderstandings and conflicts when trying to define spiritual concepts. They agreed that while language can be challenging, it remains a powerful tool for exploring and expressing complex ideas. They also touched on the distinction between spirituality and organized religion, with Joe noting how religion can be corrupted by empire. · Eastern vs Western Approaches to Health and Spirituality: They also touched on the differences between Western and Eastern approaches to health and spirituality, with Jeremy suggesting that Eastern cultures might be healthier due to their understanding of the interconnectedness of body, mind, and spirit. · Parenting Perspectives and Relationship Building: Jeremy and Joe discussed the commonalities and differences among people, emphasizing the importance of understanding and empathy. They shared personal reflections on parenting, with Jeremy expressing admiration for Joe and Candice’s approach to raising their children. Joe shared his pride in his kids’ maturity and independence; despite the challenges they have faced. Mentions · https://trippfuller.com/ · https://substack.com/@homebrewedteam [https://substack.com/@homebrewedteam] · https://processthis.substack.com/ · https://substack.com/@shaleenkendrick [https://substack.com/@shaleenkendrick] · https://nrintegration.com/ Connect with the Show * Email: getbehindmejesus.pod@gmail.com * Website: getbehindmejesus.substack.com * Bluesky: @getbehindmejesus.substack.com Get full access to Get Behind Me Jesus at getbehindmejesus.substack.com/subscribe [https://getbehindmejesus.substack.com/subscribe?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_4]

Episode 6 - ToGemmer Again

Music: Dirty Gertie by Shane Ivers - https://www.silvermansound.com Episode 6 - ToGemmer Again (with Darin Gemmer) Darin’s Back! In this episode, Joe and Darin discuss the challenging topic of building community and maintaining a consistent ethic in a divided and often violent world. Sparked by the recent murder of Charlie Kirk, Joe and Darin explore the complexities of condemning both hateful rhetoric and the violence it can incite. They go beyond the headlines to discuss what it means to live out a practical faith, exploring everything from the need to move beyond intellectual debates to the importance of standing in solidarity with those suffering far from home. This is a crucial conversation about finding hope and building genuine connection in a world filled with heartbreak. Key Discussion Points * A Consistent Ethic in the Wake of Tragedy: Joe and Darin discuss the murder of Charlie Kirk and the need for a "consistent Jesus ethic" that condemns both hateful speech and violence. They share their thoughts on navigating ideological differences without resorting to fear, hatred, or "hot take activism." * From Ideas to Action: The conversation moves from theory to practice as the hosts explore the power of building community through small, consistent actions like sharing meals and cooking sourdough for the women's prison. * Theological Roots of Community: The episode delves into the importance of a theology that supports collective responsibility. Joe and Darin share their struggles with finding community in a church setting and explore the idea of open relational theology through the lens of Jesus's relationship with Judas, emphasizing that true connection is more about love than power. * Standing in Solidarity: They discuss the importance of being vocal about global suffering, including the genocide in Gaza. Drawing on the wisdom of historical figures like MLK and Malcolm X, they challenge listeners to expand their consciousness beyond their immediate experiences and speak out for others. Mentions * https://substack.com/@jemartisby * brianmclaren.net Connect with the Show * Email: getbehindmejesus.pod@gmail.com * Website: getbehindmejesus.substack.com * Instagram: @getbehindmejesus * Bluesky: @getbehindmejesus.substack.com Get full access to Get Behind Me Jesus at getbehindmejesus.substack.com/subscribe [https://getbehindmejesus.substack.com/subscribe?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_4]

It's About Heart, Man

Music: Dirty Gertie by Shane Ivers - https://www.silvermansound.com Summary Randall Hartman grew up in the Church of the Nazarene and gave his life in service to the organization. But when he began to speak out about the Churches hottest topic, LGBT inclusion, he was tried for heresy. He stands among the likes of Dr. Tom Oord, Dr. Dee Kelley, and many others who have defied the denomination in services of its own core value: The doctrine of Holiness. Although few within its membership can articulate what holiness means, many are hell-bent on ejecting those who would offer a loving and inclusive perspective. As the organization unravels in increasingly chaotic spasms of hyper-exclusionary rhetoric and practices, they continue to unmoor themselves from the traditions they supposedly hold dear and instead align themselves with violent anti-queer Christian Nationalists. A fate so common among Evangelical groups, it’s hardly surprising – but to many is still so heartbreaking. As tragic and frustrating as his experience has been over the last few years, Randy says he’s not going anywhere. Still wondering whether a bridge can be built over these troubled waters, he reflects on a different time, one that was marked by love and community - the church he grew up in and hoped to pass on to his children and grandchildren. We talk about being immersed in the church, a calling to preach and serve, and all the people and places that came into his life. We tease his upcoming book “A God Awful God” and muse on whether the Church of the Nazarene will successfully weather this identity crisis. I am grateful for Randy’s patience and vulnerability as we navigated some extreme technical issues to bring you this episode. Although we don’t explore theology throughout our conversation, we examine his experiences in the shadow of that once compelling doctrine of holiness. For both of us, it all comes down to a matter of heart. I hope you enjoy this conversation, thanks for being here.*If you want to explore more about John Wesley, the quadrilateral model, the doctrine of holiness, or Open and Relational Theology and Process thought -I would point you once again to Tom Oord, who is extremely well educated and particularly articulate regarding their substance and practice. Properly understood, Holiness is the both the expression and evidence of a life well lived in relation to God and neighbor – it’s something this world still needs very much. Resources and Mentions: The Great Escape [https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0057115/?ref_=fn_all_ttl_1] Acts 26:16 [https://www.bible.com/bible/3523/ACT.26.16] Randallhartman.com [https://www.randallhartman.com/] Randallhartmanphotography.com [https://randallhartmanphotography.com/] Theology Beer Camp [http://theologybeercamp2025.com] https://thomasjayoord.com/ https://c4ort.com/ Get full access to Get Behind Me Jesus at getbehindmejesus.substack.com/subscribe [https://getbehindmejesus.substack.com/subscribe?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_4]

All Roads Lead to Joe

Music: Dirty Gertie by Shane Ivers - https://www.silvermansound.com Outline: 1. Growing up Catholic 2. Coming out and Navigating Identity a. Navigating Family Dynamics 3. The emotional toll of Educating Others a. Suicide b. Workplace Challenges and acceptance c. Advocacy and community connection through social media 4. Personal Journey and shared traumas 5. Navigating Spirituality and community a. Finding peace in music and core beliefs b. Deconstructing faith and understanding God 6. Advice for the journey ahead Content warning: explicit language, discussing suicide Summary: Joe is a work friend. We bonded early over our shared history of Catholicism and snarky attitude toward Church and Christians. Our conversations hinted at deep trauma and because he is an out gay man, I rightly assumed the that his religious experience was largely negative. But the more I got to know him the more I could see his resilience. He didn’t let the Church or various people determine his fate for him. His strong sense of self-reliance and self-determination has allowed him to navigate religious persecution and shame in a way that radiates strength and character. As with many of my LGBTQ friends, I am in awe of the commitment to love and truth that reflects the gospel message better than anything either my Catholic or Evangelical upbringing gave me. I’m grateful to Joe for both his vulnerability and enthusiasm and I hope that you enjoy this conversation! Resources and Mentions: https://www.instagram.com/jphromania1991 https://music.apple.com/us/album/kpop-demon-hunters-soundtrack-from-the-netflix-film/1820264137 https://www.theologybeercamp2025.com/ Suicide help: Help is available Speak with someone today 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline Languages: English, Spanish Hours: Available 24 hours https://www.thetrevorproject.org/get-help/ Get full access to Get Behind Me Jesus at getbehindmejesus.substack.com/subscribe [https://getbehindmejesus.substack.com/subscribe?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_4]