Soul Lab

Epizode

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  E47: What No One Tells You About Being a Christian 12.08.2026 40min

  What does it really mean to be a Christian—and why does following Jesus often look so different from what you expect? In this episode, AJ and Delaney share the lessons they wish they had learned earlier in their faith. They discuss topics like; why Christianity is more than following rules, what sin and hell actually mean, why suffering does not disappear when you follow Christ, the importance of mentorship and Christian community, and why doubt can lead to a deeper faith rather than destroy it. Whether you are new to Christianity, questioning your faith, or have followed Jesus for years, this conversation may challenge some of your assumptions about what the Christian life is supposed to look like. Subscribe for more honest conversations where faith is examined, not assumed.   Chapters:  00:00 Introduction02:47 Christianity Is More Than Rules05:34 Stop Asking “How Close Can I Get to Sin?”08:20 What Hell and Separation From God Really Mean12:45 Why Relationship Matters More Than a Checklist14:28 Can You Measure Spiritual Growth?17:22 Following Jesus Does Not Eliminate Suffering20:55 The Problem With the Prosperity Gospel23:20 Honoring Imperfect Parents25:42 Why Every Christian Needs a Mentor28:55 Church Is More Than a Building31:40 Why Mature Christians Still Struggle With Sin33:18 You Will Not Have Every Answer36:42 Knowing Scripture vs. Knowing Christ38:42 Doubt Is Not the Enemy of Faith40:05 Final Thoughts
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  E46: Why So Many Christians Are Deconstructing Their Faith (w/ Sean McDowell) 08.07.2026 51min

  In this episode, we sit down with Sean McDowell to unpack the growing trend of deconstruction—what it really means, why so many Christians are questioning their faith, and whether this process leads people closer to truth or further away. We explore the role of doubt, the impact of church experiences, and how believers can respond with both clarity and compassion. Whether you’re deconstructing, walking with someone who is, or simply trying to understand it, this conversation challenges assumptions and invites a deeper, more honest pursuit of faith.   Learn more about Sean here: ⁠https://seanmcdowell.org/⁠   Chapters: 00:00 Intro 01:00 Who Is Sean McDowell? 02:00 What Is Deconstruction Really? 05:30 Healthy vs Harmful Deconstruction 10:00 Are More Christians Leaving the Faith? 14:00 Open-Minded Faith vs Losing Truth 19:00 Why People Deconstruct (Root Causes) 26:30 How to Rebuild Your Faith the Right Way 33:00 The Role of Church, Mentorship & Community 40:00 Doubt vs Faith (Big Misconceptions) 49:00 Final Advice
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  E45: Faith vs. Mental Health? The Truth Christians Need to Hear (W/Trey Tucker) 10.06.2026 1h 4min

  What if strong faith and real mental struggles can exist at the same time? In this episode, we sit down with Trey Tucker—licensed therapist, teacher at McCallie, and founder of Rugged Counseling—to unpack the tension between faith and mental health and what Christians often get wrong.   More on Trey Here: https://www.ruggedcounseling.com/ Trey's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ruggedcounseling?igsh=bzZ3aTl1bHNteGV3 Tough Enough: Found Here   Chapters: 00:00 Intro – Faith vs Mental Health01:00 Who Is Trey Tucker?04:45 Faith, Identity & Purpose10:20 Where Faith & Therapy Meet15:00 Anxiety & Depression: What Christians Get Wrong18:30 Is This Spiritual… or Mental Health?25:00 The Real Root of Addiction & Struggle30:00 Why People Stay Stuck (Shame & Sin)34:45 Deconstruction & “Just Pray More”37:30 What Anxiety Actually Is (Mind + Body)44:00 Therapy & Church: Working Together50:00 Loneliness, Joy vs Happiness56:30 Final Advice: Silence, Reflection & Growth
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  E44: Hidden Biblical Connections Most People Miss 13.05.2026 40min

  In this episode, AJ and Delaney explore some of the most fascinating and often overlooked connections woven throughout Scripture. From Abraham and Isaac to Joseph’s story, the symbolism of thorns, the meaning behind the number seven, and the parallels between Adam and Jesus, they unpack how these moments may point to a deeper, unified message across the Bible. While not all of these are explicit doctrines, each invites us to think more deeply about the design, consistency, and purpose behind Scripture—and to ask whether these connections are coincidence or something more.   00:00 Intro – Hidden Design of Scripture02:15 David & Goliath (The 5 Stones Mystery)08:30 Abraham & Isaac → Jesus Connection14:45 The Hyssop Branch (Passover to Jesus)18:00 The Meaning of the Number 723:30 Bronze Serpent (Facing What Hurts You)26:30 Joseph → Jesus (Betrayal & Redemption)34:30 First Adam vs Second Adam39:00 Final Thoughts
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  E43: Controversial Christian Theories (Part Two) 22.04.2026 28min

  In this episode AJ and Delaney dive into some of the most controversial Christian theories being discussed today. From ideas that challenge traditional interpretations to questions believers quietly wrestle with, this conversation explores where Scripture ends and speculation begins. With humility, logic, and biblical context, they examine how Christians should approach uncertain doctrines without compromising core truth. Whether you agree, disagree, or feel unsure, this episode invites you to think deeper, hold convictions wisely, and pursue truth with both faith and discernment.
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  E42: Controversial Christian Theories (Part One) 08.04.2026 34min

  In this episode AJ and Delaney dive into some of the most controversial Christian theories being discussed today. From ideas that challenge traditional interpretations to questions believers quietly wrestle with, this conversation explores where Scripture ends and speculation begins. With humility, logic, and biblical context, they examine how Christians should approach uncertain doctrines without compromising core truth. Whether you agree, disagree, or feel unsure, this episode invites you to think deeper, hold convictions wisely, and pursue truth with both faith and discernment.
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  E41: The Power of Prayer -- Ft. Tony Souder (Part Two) 25.02.2026 48min

  In this next episode of Soul Lab, AJ and Delaney sit down with Tony Souder to explore what prayer truly is, why it matters, and how it shapes our relationship with God. Together, they unpack different forms of prayer, address common misunderstandings, and share how prayer brings strength—especially in seasons of suffering. Tony also shares the heart behind his nonprofit, Pray For Me Campaign, and how intentional prayer can create belonging, hope, and lasting impact across generations.   Learn more about the Pray For Me Campaign here:http://Prayformecampaign.com    
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  E40: The Power of Prayer -- Ft. Tony Souder (Part One) 11.02.2026 52min

  In this next episode of Soul Lab, AJ and Delaney sit down with Tony Souder to explore what prayer truly is, why it matters, and how it shapes our relationship with God. Together, they unpack different forms of prayer, address common misunderstandings, and share how prayer brings strength—especially in seasons of suffering. Tony also shares the heart behind his nonprofit, Pray For Me Campaign, and how intentional prayer can create belonging, hope, and lasting impact across generations.   Learn more about the Pray For Me Campaign here:http://Prayformecampaign.com    
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  E39: Faith & Fitness -- Ft. Amber Lia (Part Two) 28.01.2026 42min

  In this episode of Soul Lab, AJ and Delaney sit down with Amber Lia—author, public speaker, and highly successful faith-driven fitness and nutrition coach —to explore what it truly means to honor God through caring for our bodies. Together, they unpack the biblical foundation for health as stewardship, the logical and scientific connections between physical, mental, and spiritual well-being, and practical, grace-filled steps anyone can take to live healthier with purpose. Amber draws from her extensive experience writing, coaching, and speaking to challenge the idea that health is all about appearance or perfection, instead reframing it as gratitude, discipline, and freedom. From Scripture to science, this conversation invites listeners to see health as an act of worship—and a way to better serve God, others, and the calling placed on their lives.   Follow Ollie Here Want to learn more about Amber? https://amberlia.com/ Her newest devotional with Ollie, You Are Seen Ambers: Instagram Ambers: Facebook Ambers: X  
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  E38: Faith & Fitness -- Ft. Amber Lia (Part One) 14.01.2026 38min

  In this episode of Soul Lab, AJ and Delaney sit down with Amber Lia—author, public speaker, and highly successful faith-driven fitness and nutrition coach —to explore what it truly means to honor God through caring for our bodies. Together, they unpack the biblical foundation for health as stewardship, the logical and scientific connections between physical, mental, and spiritual well-being, and practical, grace-filled steps anyone can take to live healthier with purpose. Amber draws from her extensive experience writing, coaching, and speaking to challenge the idea that health is all about appearance or perfection, instead reframing it as gratitude, discipline, and freedom. From Scripture to science, this conversation invites listeners to see health as an act of worship—and a way to better serve God, others, and the calling placed on their lives.   Follow Ollie Here Want to learn more about Amber? https://amberlia.com/ Her newest devotional with Ollie, You Are Seen Ambers: Instagram Ambers: Facebook Ambers: X  
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  E37: Has the Church Overpromised and Underdelivered? — Ft. Mike Patton (Part Two) 24.12.2025 53min

  In this eye-opening episode of Soul Lab, AJ and Delaney sit down with Mike Patton, founder of Faces of Dreams, to explore what it truly means to be the Church—not just go to one. Together, they unpack where the modern church may have drifted from its mission and how believers can rediscover the heart of service, community, and evangelism that defined the early Church. Mike also shares powerful stories from his non-profit and evangelical work in Honduras, where faith is lived out through action, relationship, and love for people. If you’ve ever felt that the Church should look more like the hands and feet of Jesus, this episode will challenge and inspire you to take your faith beyond the walls.   Learn more about Faces of Dreams: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1GL6kzgKxa/?mibextid=wwXIfr Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/facesofdreams.mpm?igsh=a3ZmdGlkNTRtODY0 Website: https://www.mpmonline.org/contact/
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  E36: Has the Church Overpromised and Underdelivered? — Ft. Mike Patton (Part One) 10.12.2025 50min

  In this eye-opening episode of Soul Lab, AJ and Delaney sit down with Mike Patton, founder of Faces of Dreams, to explore what it truly means to be the Church—not just go to one. Together, they unpack where the modern church may have drifted from its mission and how believers can rediscover the heart of service, community, and evangelism that defined the early Church. Mike also shares powerful stories from his non-profit and evangelical work in Honduras, where faith is lived out through action, relationship, and love for people. If you’ve ever felt that the Church should look more like the hands and feet of Jesus, this episode will challenge and inspire you to take your faith beyond the walls.   Learn more about Faces of Dreams: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1GL6kzgKxa/?mibextid=wwXIfr Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/facesofdreams.mpm?igsh=a3ZmdGlkNTRtODY0 Website: https://www.mpmonline.org/contact/
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  E35: Faith Through the Storm — Ft. Dr. Marie Cosgrove (Part Two) 19.11.2025 50min

  In this powerful episode, AJ and Delaney sit down with Dr. Marie Cosgrove—renown speaker, published author, and successful entrepreneur—to explore how faith and perseverance can transform even the hardest seasons of life. Dr. Cosgrove shares her incredible story of overcoming loss, betrayal, and impossible odds through prayer and unshakable trust in God. If you’ve ever wondered how to stand firm when everything falls apart, this episode will reignite your faith and remind you that God always has a plan.   Learn more about Dr. Marie Cosgrove: http://drcosgrove.com Greater Fortune: https://www.amazon.com/Greater-Fortune-Essential-Lessons-Entrepreneur/dp/1950665380  
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  E34: Faith Through the Storm — Ft. Dr. Marie Cosgrove (Part One) 05.11.2025 50min

  In this powerful episode, AJ and Delaney sit down with Dr. Marie Cosgrove—renown speaker, published author, and successful entrepreneur—to explore how faith and perseverance can transform even the hardest seasons of life. Dr. Cosgrove shares her incredible story of overcoming loss, betrayal, and impossible odds through prayer and unshakable trust in God. If you’ve ever wondered how to stand firm when everything falls apart, this episode will reignite your faith and remind you that God always has a plan.   Learn more about Dr. Marie Cosgrove: http://drcosgrove.com Greater Fortune: https://www.amazon.com/Greater-Fortune-Essential-Lessons-Entrepreneur/dp/1950665380  
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  E33: What If Your'e Wrong About God? (Part Two) 22.10.2025 33min

  In the second part of What If You’re Wrong About God, AJ and Delaney wrap up the Christian perspective on being open minded then turn to skeptics, atheists, and seekers with one simple challenge: what if your assumptions about God aren’t the whole story? Through respectful dialogue, they unpack common objections, wrestle with big questions, and share why an open mind is critical when considering who God really is. If you’ve ever dismissed faith as irrelevant or outdated, this conversation may surprise you.   Books Referenced:  I Don't Have Enough Faith to Be An Atheist - Frank Turek Mere Christianity - C.S. Lewis The Sin of Certainty - Peter Enns Finding Jesus - Herb Montgomery
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  E32: What If Your'e Wrong About God? (Part One) 08.10.2025 35min

  In this thought-provoking first part of What If You’re Wrong About God, AJ and Delaney invite both Christians and Skeptics to take a closer look at the assumptions we often carry into our religious views. Have we misunderstood who God is? In part one the hosts focus on the Christian's perspective. Have we confused cultural tradition with biblical truth? Through honest conversation, they explore why humility and curiosity are essential to spiritual growth. If you’ve ever wondered whether your picture of God is too small—or maybe even incomplete—this episode is for you.   Books Referenced:  I Don't Have Enough Faith to Be An Atheist - Frank Turek Mere Christianity - C.S. Lewis The Sin of Certainty - Peter Enns Finding Jesus - Herb Montgomery
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  E31: Obedience That Changes Lives, The Story Behind Special Kids 06.08.2025 50min

  In this inspiring episode of Soul Lab, AJ and Delaney sit down with Carrie Goodwin—founder of Special Kids, a nonprofit transforming the lives of children with special needs. Together, they explore what true obedience to God looks like, how saying “yes” to His call can change lives, and share exciting new updates about the incredible impact Special Kids is having. If you’ve ever struggled with fear, doubt, or wondering whether obedience is worth it—this episode is for you!   Learn more about Special Kids here: specialkidstn.com Feel called to support Special Kids financially? secure.qgiv.com/for/sktherapyassociates    The Circle Maker: markbatterson.com/books/the-circle-maker/  
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  E30: When Prayers Feel Empty, Faith In The Wake of Loss (Part Two) 23.07.2025 42min

  In Part 2 of this heartfelt conversation, AJ and Delaney continue their discussion with Christopher Beason, diving deeper into how Christians can process grief without losing faith. Together, they explore the tension between unanswered prayers and enduring trust, the unexpected ways God speaks in silence, and how personal loss can ignite global impact. Christopher shares powerful insights on healing, hope, and the long journey toward purpose after pain—offering encouragement to anyone navigating grief in the light of faith.   Learn more about Mission SONlight here: http://MissionSONlight.org https://n7mc.org Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@Network7mediacenter/featured Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mission_sonlight/?hl=en Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MissionSONlight      
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  E29: When Prayers Feel Empty, Faith In The Wake of Loss (Part One) 09.07.2025 46min

  In this powerful two-part episode, AJ and Delaney sit down with Christopher Beason—renowned Christian media producer and founder of Mission SONlight—to explore how deep grief can become fertile ground for unshakable faith. Christopher opens up about the life-altering losses he’s endured and how God met him in the middle of unimaginable pain. Through honest conversation and spiritual insight, this episode unpacks what it truly means to walk through grief as a Christian—and how God’s presence can transform sorrow into purpose.   Learn more about Mission SONlight here: http://MissionSONlight.org https://n7mc.org Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@Network7mediacenter/featured Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mission_sonlight/?hl=en Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MissionSONlight      
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  E28: The Truth About Discipleship, Are Christians Getting It Wrong? (Part Two) 26.03.2025 48min

  In Part 2 of our discipleship discussion, AJ and Delaney, alongside special guest Marc, dive deeper into the common mistakes Christians and churches make when it comes to discipleship. Are we prioritizing attendance over transformation? Have we made discipleship too comfortable? We tackle hard conversations, expose the biggest excuses believers use, and offer practical tips on how to make true discipleship a daily reality. If you’ve ever wondered why discipleship feels lacking in modern Christianity—or how to fix it—this episode is for you!