FORREST DICKISON | Make Art Beautiful Again: The Intersection of Art and Faith

(Thanks to my bro Matt for pinch-hitting for me on the intro this week, while I've been out sick. - Will)Matt Reynolds, founder and CEO of Barbell Logic, joins The Will Spencer Podcast to discuss his new book, "Undoing Urgency." The central theme of their conversation revolves around the idea that urgency often crowds out the important aspects of life, leading to a diminished quality of existence. Reynolds emphasizes the necessity of identifying core values and prioritizing actions that align with those values, rather than succumbing to the chaos of daily demands. He shares personal anecdotes about his journey, including the challenges and failures he faced, illustrating how these experiences shaped his perspective on strength, health, and leadership. Ultimately, the discussion highlights the importance of intentional living and the pursuit of a meaningful legacy for future generations.Takeaways: Matt Reynolds discusses the importance of identifying core values to prioritize meaningful tasks over the urgent ones. He emphasizes that urgency often crowds out the significant aspects of life, such as family and health. Reynolds shares the lessons learned from personal failures and the necessity of vulnerability in leadership. The conversation highlights that true growth comes from recognizing and overcoming personal struggles. He stresses the importance of maintaining physical health as a means to fulfill one's responsibilities towards family and community. The episode illustrates the interconnectedness of faith, family, and personal well-being for long-term success. CONNECT WITH MATTMatt's WebsiteBuy "Undoing Urgency" from AmazonFollow Matt on TwitterBarbell LogicMENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST"The Hard Thing About Hard Things" - Horowitz🌟 The Will Spencer Podcast was formerly known as "The Renaissance of Men." FOLLOW US FOR MORESubstack Twitter/X YouTube Instagram Buy Me a Coffee FREE Men's Chastity Guide Communications Powered by PaxMail The Will Spencer Podcast is a weekly interview show featuring extended discussions with authors, leaders, and influencers who can help us make sense of our changing world today. I release new episodes every week on Friday.ADVERTISERS Mentioned in this episode:Puritan TreasuresReformation Heritage Books offers 16 Puritan classics full of wisdom that's sustained believers through centuries of challenge and change. Use code SPENCER for 10% off.<a...

Tilly Dillehay, author of the thought-provoking book "My Dear Hemlock," explores the complexities of women's inner lives and the unique challenges they face in today's world. Dillehay delves into the themes of self-understanding, societal expectations, and the often-overlooked struggles women encounter in their relationships and faith.The conversation highlights the importance of personal responsibility and the power of gratitude in fostering healthy relationships, making it a compelling listen for anyone interested in the intersection of gender, faith, and culture.Takeaways:'My Dear Hemlock' cleverly reimagines C.S. Lewis's 'Screwtape Letters' from a woman's perspective, exploring temptations unique to women. The book examines the struggle between modern feminism and women’s inherent design, urging readers to embrace their roles. Dillehay discusses how societal pressures can lead women to feel superior to their husbands, a damaging mindset that undermines marriage. The importance of confession and basic kindness in marriage is emphasized as a path to healing and joy. Dillehay's insights reveal how the pursuit of fame and validation can distort women's relationships, urging a return to gratitude and faithfulness. The conversation also touches on the balance between abstinence and indulgence in food.CONNECT WITH TILLYFacebookBuy "My Dear Hemlock" from Canon PressBuy "My Dear Hemlock" on AmazonWILL'S THREE MUST-LISTEN INTERVIEWSTacticsCon Podcast with Stuart AmidonOf Flames and Crowns with Lennox Kalifungwa"Guardians of the Galaxy 2" on WatchWell Pod🌟 The Will Spencer Podcast was formerly known as "The Renaissance of Men." FOLLOW US FOR MORESubstack Twitter/X YouTube Instagram Buy Me a Coffee FREE Men's Chastity Guide Communications Powered by PaxMail The Will Spencer Podcast is a weekly interview show featuring extended discussions with authors, leaders, and influencers who can help us make sense of our changing world today. I release new episodes every week on Friday.ADVERTISERS Mentioned in this episode:Cross & StripesCelebrate American craftsmanship with metalwork and apparel that's built to last. Use code SPENCER for 35% off your first order.Cross & StripesPuritan TreasuresReformation Heritage Books offers 16 Puritan classics full of wisdom that's sustained believers through centuries of challenge and change. Use code SPENCER for 10% off.<a...

The final episode of the three-part series from Fight, Laugh, Feast 2024 features Andrew Bornman, a missionary farmer living among the Tarahumara Indians in Mexico, and his son Samuel, a young author with a thought-provoking fantasy book. Andrew shares his unique experiences of integrating into a remote community plagued by malnutrition and pagan beliefs, emphasizing that true transformation comes through spiritual engagement rather than just providing food. Samuel discusses his book, which addresses heavy themes like transhumanism and evil through an engaging narrative aimed at younger readers. The conversation highlights the importance of understanding cultural narratives and the need for Christians to engage thoughtfully with modern media. Additionally, Parker Brown joins to discuss the innovative Watch Well Podcast, which analyzes films from a Christian perspective, reinforcing the significance of discernment in entertainment. Together, they explore how storytelling, whether through literature or film, can impact worldview and cultural engagement.Takeaways: Andrew Bornman discusses his missionary work and how cultural engagement is essential for effective evangelism. Samuel Bornman shares insights on writing fiction that addresses serious themes for young readers. The conversation highlights the importance of understanding worldviews when discussing faith and culture. Parker Brown emphasizes the need for Christians to critically engage with popular media and entertainment. The episode explores how storytelling in movies can reflect deeper truths about morality and justice. Listeners are encouraged to actively participate in conversations about faith, culture, and entertainment. CONNECT WITH ANDREW BORNMANNewsletterCONNECT WITH SAMUEL BORNMANWebsite &amp; NewsletterBuy "Of Wizards and Warriors"CONNECT WITH PARKER BROWNPersonal X AccountWatchWell Podcast X AccountWatchWell on YouTube🌟 The Will Spencer Podcast was formerly known as "The Renaissance of Men." FOLLOW US FOR MORESubstack Twitter/X YouTube Instagram Buy Me a Coffee FREE Men's Chastity Guide Communications Powered by PaxMail The Will Spencer Podcast is a weekly interview show featuring extended discussions with authors, leaders, and influencers who can help us make sense of our changing world today. I release new episodes every week on Friday.ADVERTISERS Mentioned in this episode:Puritan TreasuresReformation Heritage Books offers 15 Puritan classics in modern language with new introductions for today’s...

My second episode from Fight Laugh Feast features conversations with Dr. James White of Alpha &amp; Omega Ministries and Jim Hunter of Alps Precious Metals Group, and opens a rich dialogue about the intersection of faith and modern economic practices. First, Jim Hunter shares his compelling journey from a successful career in high finance to running a Christian precious metals trading company. His insights into the corruption within the financial industry and the importance of investing in tangible assets like gold and silver resonate deeply, as he emphasizes the need for Christians to take control of their financial futures. Then, Dr. James White contributes his extensive knowledge of apologetics, discussing the importance of Sola Scriptura and its relevance in today's cultural debates. With nearly 200 public debates under his belt, White shares anecdotes about defending the faith against various worldviews, including Roman Catholicism and secularism. He provides insights on the Coherence-Based Genealogical Method (CBGM), which analyzes biblical texts, reinforcing the reliability of scripture and illustrating the importance of defending the faith amidst modern challenges.Takeaways: Jim Hunter discusses his transition from high finance to Christian precious metals trading, emphasizing integrity and faithfulness. Dr. James White shares his extensive experience in apologetics, highlighting the importance of sound theology and biblical criticism. The episode explores the impact of secular influences on Christian thought, particularly in debates around sola scriptura. Both guests reflect on the resurgence of Roman Catholicism and Eastern Orthodoxy in contemporary discourse, urging for a robust defense of Reformed theology. The conversation underscores the necessity for Christians to engage actively in cultural restoration, emphasizing the role of economics and faith. EPISODE 1 feat. Isaac Botkin &amp; Logan RyserWatch on YoutubeListen on SpotifyListen on AppleCONNECT WITH DR. JAMES WHITEWebsiteTwitterYouTubeCONNECT WITH JIM HUNTERWebsiteJim Hunter on CrossPolitic🌟 The Will Spencer Podcast was formerly known as "The Renaissance of Men." FOLLOW US FOR MORESubstack Twitter/X YouTube Instagram Buy Me a Coffee FREE Men's Chastity Guide Communications Powered by PaxMail The Will Spencer Podcast...

Isaac Botkin (TRex Arms) and Logan Reyser (Crux Art) join Will Spencer for a compelling discussion—live at the 2024 Fight Laugh Feast Conference!—that delves into the intersection of faith, creativity, and the evolving landscape of gun culture. The conversation begins with Reyser's journey into glassblowing, where he shares the transformative power of art in glorifying God and engaging with culture. He discusses creating significant pieces like a 30-foot glass oak tree and an eight-foot cross featuring the Gospel of Mark, and explores the challenges and triumphs of being an artist in a modern world.Then, Isaac Botkin of TRex Arms explains how the rise of Gun Culture 2.0 reflects broader societal changes, emphasizing the importance of community and collaboration among diverse groups within the movement. The conversation highlights the need for Christians to engage thoughtfully in cultural conversations around firearms, the significance of maintaining a strong foundation in faith. Takeaways: Isaac Botkin and Logan Ryser discuss the significance of creativity in faith-driven work. The evolution of gun culture is highlighted, showcasing its increasing maturity and diversity. The challenges of rapid growth in a business are explored, emphasizing the importance of relationships. Both guests reflect on how personal experiences shape their perspectives in their respective industries. They emphasize the need for community support and accountability in creative endeavors. The discussion highlights the role of prayer and spiritual guidance in overcoming challenges. CONNECT WITH THE GUESTSLogan RyserWebsiteInstagramIsaac BotkinTRex ArmsTwitter/XYouTubeMy Interview On Isaac's Podcast🌟 The Will Spencer Podcast was formerly known as "The Renaissance of Men." FOLLOW US FOR MORESubstack Twitter/X YouTube Instagram Buy Me a Coffee FREE Men's Chastity Guide Communications Powered by PaxMail The Will Spencer Podcast is a weekly interview show featuring extended discussions with authors, leaders, and influencers who can help us make sense of our changing world today. I release new episodes every week on Friday.ADVERTISERS Mentioned in this episode:Puritan TreasuresReformation Heritage Books offers 15 Puritan classics in modern language with new introductions for today’s readers. Use code SPENCER for 10% off.https://heritagebooks.org/Cross & StripesCelebrate American craftsmanship with metalwork and apparel that's built to last. Use code SPENCER for 35% off your first order.<a...

Pastor Doug Wilson returns to The Will Spencer Podcast for his fifth appearance, bringing an insightful analysis of the recent election results and the cultural landscape of America. He emphasizes the importance of understanding ideological idolatry as outlined in Herbert Schlossberg's book, "Idols for Destruction," which Wilson strongly recommends as essential reading. The conversation delves into the implications of the election outcomes for evangelical Christians and discusses the potential for a renewed focus on economic freedom and deregulation under a Trump presidency. Wilson also reflects on the need for a thoughtful engagement with culture, encouraging Christians to avoid the pitfalls of celebrity status and to root their faith in community worship. With a call to action, the episode underscores the importance of integrating faith into all aspects of life while confronting contemporary challenges with a robust biblical worldview.Takeaways: Wilson emphasizes the importance of understanding cultural idols and their impact on society, particularly how they have seeped into the church. The podcast discusses the shifting political landscape in America, reflecting on the recent election and its implications for the future of evangelical influence. Wilson shares insights on the necessity for Christians to engage in the public sphere while maintaining a solid theological foundation to guide their actions. The conversation highlights the potential for deregulation under a Trump presidency to stimulate economic growth and support for church planting and community initiatives. A key theme is the call for evangelical leaders to return to foundational biblical truths rather than getting caught up in celebrity culture. The influence of Herbert Schlossberg's book 'Idols for Destruction' is stressed, advocating for a worldview that recognizes the dangers of ideological idolatry in contemporary ChristianityCONNECT WITH PASTOR WILSONYouTubeDougWils.comTwitterCanon PressMENTIONED IN THIS PODCAST"Books for Head and Heart" talk"Idols for Destruction" by Herbert Schlossberg"The Basic Laws of Human Stupidity" by Carlo Cipolla"We Become What We Worship" by GK Beale🌟 The Will Spencer Podcast was formerly known as "The Renaissance of Men." FOLLOW US FOR MORESubstack Twitter/X YouTube Instagram Buy Me a Coffee FREE Men's Chastity Guide Communications Powered...

Alex Kocman, the Director of Communications for the Association of Baptists for World Evangelism and co-host of the Missions Podcast, joins host Will Spencer to discuss the evolving landscape of global missions, particularly in light of recent political changes in the United States. They emphasize the importance of grounding missionary work in community and family values, moving away from hyper-individualism towards a more collective approach that prioritizes the local church's role in sending and supporting missionaries. As they explore the implications of the recent election, Kocman expresses optimism about the renewed openness to traditional values and the potential for churches to engage more deeply in both local and global missions. The discussion underscores the necessity of fostering strong, interconnected communities that can sustain missionaries and support impactful work at home and abroad. Takeaways: Alex discusses the changing landscape of missions in America post-election. The conversation emphasizes the importance of focusing on family and community as foundational elements for effective mission work, rather than relying solely on individual emotional experiences. Listeners are encouraged to recognize the value of building enduring relationships and sustaining a support system for missionaries, highlighting a shift away from hyper-individualism. The podcast highlights the need for patience in missions, as true growth often takes time and requires a long-term commitment to nurturing communities. There is a call for Christians to engage in their local communities and to foster connections that can lead to fruitful mission work both at home and abroad. Watch on YouTube.CONNECT WITH ALEXWebsiteTwitter/XABWE.orgThe Missions PodcastAlex's Personal Website🌟 The Will Spencer Podcast was formerly known as "The Renaissance of Men." FOLLOW US FOR MORESubstack Twitter/X YouTube Instagram Buy Me a Coffee FREE Men's Chastity Guide Communications Powered by PaxMail The Will Spencer Podcast is a weekly interview show featuring extended discussions with authors, leaders, and influencers who can help us make sense of our changing world today. I release new episodes every week on Friday.ADVERTISERS Mentioned in this episode:Puritan TreasuresReformation Heritage Books offers 15 Puritan classics in modern language with new introductions for today’s readers. Use code SPENCER for 10% off.https://heritagebooks.org/Cross & StripesCelebrate American craftsmanship with metalwork and apparel that's built to last. Use code SPENCER for 35% off your first order.<a...

Forrest Dickison, a fine artist and author, joins Will Spencer to discuss his new children's book, "Crispin's Rainy Day," and the unique artistic journey that brought it to life. The conversation explores the essence of creativity, emphasizing that everyone possesses some artistic talent and can find fulfillment in expressing it, regardless of their medium. Dickison shares insights into the importance of recognizing one's gifts and using them to glorify God, while also reflecting on the moral complexities often found within the creative world. As they delve into the process of creating "Crispin's Rainy Day," Dickison highlights the balance he achieved in portraying the dynamic relationship between the book's siblings, Crispin and Rose, without resorting to stereotypes. The discussion touches on the challenges of maintaining artistic integrity in a world that often prioritizes commercial success over genuine expression. Listeners are encouraged to embrace their failures as essential learning experiences and to cultivate a thick skin in the face of critique, ultimately recognizing that the true value of art lies in its capacity to bless and inspire others.Takeaways: Forrest emphasizes the importance of recognizing and cultivating one's artistic gifts for God's glory. The creative process involves trial and error, and artists should focus on delivering value to their audience rather than seeking personal praise. True artistic growth comes from accepting constructive criticism, which provides valuable insights for improvement and learning. Balancing character roles in storytelling, particularly in children's books, can highlight both feminine and masculine strengths effectively. Creating art is a discipline that requires consistent practice, much like sports or other skills, to achieve excellence. Artists should aim to make their work about blessing others rather than seeking validation for themselves. CONNECT WITH FORRESTBuy "Crispin's Rainy Day" on Canon PressTwitterInstagramWebsite🌟 The Will Spencer Podcast was formerly known as "The Renaissance of Men." FOLLOW US FOR MORESubstack Twitter/X YouTube Instagram Buy Me a Coffee FREE Men's Chastity Guide Communications Powered by PaxMail The Will Spencer Podcast is a weekly interview show featuring extended discussions with authors, leaders, and influencers who can help us make sense of our changing world today. I release new episodes every week on Friday.ADVERTISERS Mentioned in this episode:Puritan TreasuresReformation Heritage Books offers 15 Puritan classics in modern language with new introductions for today’s readers. Use code SPENCER for 10% off.https://heritagebooks.org/Cross & StripesCelebrate American craftsmanship with metalwork and apparel...

Adam Coleman, founder of Wrong Speak Publishing and author of "From Black Victim to Black Victor," joins Will Spencer to discuss the importance of personal empowerment and the responsibility that comes with having a voice in today's digital landscape. Coleman shares his journey from agnosticism to faith, emphasizing how his experiences shaped his perspective on truth and grace. The conversation touches on the challenges of navigating social media, the necessity of sincerity in communication, and the profound impact of sharing personal stories. Coleman highlights the significance of empathy and understanding in addressing complex social issues, urging listeners to engage thoughtfully rather than react impulsively. Through their dialogue, both Spencer and Coleman advocate for a more compassionate approach to discourse, recognizing the power of their platforms to inspire and uplift others.Takeaways: Adam discusses the cultural narratives around victimhood and personal empowerment, emphasizing the need for personal responsibility in the digital age. He highlights the importance of using social media responsibly, viewing it as a platform to inspire and uplift others rather than to promote self-glorification. The episode delves into the significance of authenticity and integrity in both personal and online interactions, showcasing how true character shines through amidst scrutiny. Coleman shares his personal journey from agnosticism to faith, illustrating how transformative experiences can lead to deep spiritual insights and a renewed sense of purpose. The conversation stresses the value of empathy and understanding in discourse, urging listeners to engage with differing viewpoints without losing sight of their humanity. CONNECT WITH ADAMTwitterSubstackWebsiteYouTube🌟 The Will Spencer Podcast was formerly known as "The Renaissance of Men." FOLLOW US FOR MORESubstack Twitter/X YouTube Instagram Buy Me a Coffee FREE Men's Chastity Guide Communications Powered by PaxMail The Will Spencer Podcast is a weekly interview show featuring extended discussions with authors, leaders, and influencers who can help us make sense of our changing world today. I release new episodes every week on Friday.ADVERTISERS Mentioned in this episode:Puritan TreasuresReformation Heritage Books offers 15 Puritan classics in modern language with new introductions for today’s readers. Use code SPENCER for 10% off.https://heritagebooks.org/Cross & StripesCelebrate American craftsmanship with metalwork and apparel that's built to last. Use code SPENCER for 35% off your first order.Cross & Stripes

This podcast episode features a deep discussion on the impact of feminism within the church and society, highlighting how the traditional roles of men and women have been challenged over the decades. Zach Garris, author of "Honor Thy Fathers" and "Masculine Christianity" emphasizes the importance of adhering to the teachings of the Reformation, specifically regarding male headship and the roles assigned to women in the home, church, and commonwealth. Through an exploration of historical figures like John Knox and William Gouge, the conversation underscores the dangers of deviating from these foundational principles, which can lead to a feminization of the church and society. The episode also critiques contemporary leaders, including Tim Keller and his wife, for their narrow complementarian stance and the implications of their teachings on church practices today. Listeners are encouraged to consider the historical context of these discussions and the potential for reforming modern practices to align more closely with traditional Christian teachings.Takeaways: Garris argues that the church has been slow to address feminist ideologies effectively. Evidence from history shows that traditional gender roles have been upheld by Reformers. Tim Keller's approach to gender roles has been criticized for being too lenient on feminism. The conversation highlights the importance of understanding historical Christian perspectives on gender. CONNECT WITH ZACHTwitterPurchase "Honor Thy Fathers" (Digital on Amazon)Purchase "Honor Thy Fathers" (Hardback from New Christendom)Purchase "Masculine Christianity" (Amazon)KnowingScripture.com🌟 The Will Spencer Podcast was formerly known as "The Renaissance of Men." FOLLOW US FOR MORESubstack Twitter/X YouTube Instagram Buy Me a Coffee FREE Men's Chastity Guide Communications Powered by PaxMail The Will Spencer Podcast is a weekly interview show featuring extended discussions with authors, leaders, and influencers who can help us make sense of our changing world today. I release new episodes every week on Friday.ADVERTISERS Mentioned in this episode:Puritan TreasuresReformation Heritage Books offers 15 Puritan classics in modern language with new introductions for today’s readers. Use code SPENCER for 10% off.https://heritagebooks.org/Cross & StripesCelebrate American craftsmanship with metalwork and apparel that's built to last. Use code SPENCER for 35% off your first order.Cross & Stripes