We look at the intriguing and often heated situation surrounding St. Anthony's Catholic Church. Once a church built for Polish immigrants, this historic building has been at the center of debate since it closed in 2005. SHoWLE didn't support the forced sale to the county. Now, with the Lucas County Land Bank planning to turn the 131-year-old building into a community center, there is a question whether preserving history meets the real needs of the Junction community.

Next, we have Ohio's statehouse returning to work, where House Bill 57, meant to help schools provide overdose reversal drugs, has been changed by controversial amendments promoting released time religious education. The original bipartisan bill was hijacked by Christian Nationalists continuing their campaign to infect public schools.

We expand our focus to a national issue: a recent national security executive order from President Trump targeting organizations considered "disruptive," including those labeled "anti-Christian." We discuss the significant effects of this memorandum on secular and humanist groups, linking it to historical abuses of power and questioning the legality and ethics of such monitoring.

Full Show Notes & Links Used

Subscribe to our free newsletter

Check out our merch

Our host, Douglas, is a seasoned leader in the humanist movement, starting his third decade of experience navigating internal debates, schisms, and the challenges of maintaining unity.

Discover the intentional strategies used to foster constructive discussions, drawing parallels with the unified messaging of the right-wing and Christian nationalists. Learn about the diverse makeup of humanist groups, including the inclusion of Unitarians, Buddhists, pagans, and liberal Christians, and the personal journey of a militant atheist who has learned to respect different beliefs.

We highlight the importance of treating everyone with dignity, focusing on ideas rather than personal attacks, and the crucial humanist principle of acknowledging that one could be wrong, especially in today's polarized climate. Tune in to hear about a recent meeting that tested these principles, focusing on divestments, boycotts, and living humanist values without hypocrisy.

Full show notes & links used

Subscribe to our free newsletter

Check out our merch

We're joined by Jake Via, the new Organizing Director for the American Humanist Association. Our conversation explores Jake's journey from his conservative Christian upbringing to his eventual embrace of humanism. We look at how his early experiences shaped his values and laid the foundation for his current work, highlighting themes of community engagement and ethical living.

Jake shares his thoughts on the role of an organizer at the AHA, explaining how grassroots mobilization and collaborative training efforts play a crucial part in advancing humanist values across the country. He points out the need for diverse programming that connects with a broader audience, recognizing that not everyone is drawn to traditional group formats. Jake expresses excitement for the initiatives he’s leading, including the recently launched Humanist Creator Fund aimed at sponsoring secular content creators. The project shows a smart way to expand humanism's reach and appeal, especially among younger generations who may not identify with traditional labels or organizations.

Jake shares ideas about various outreach strategies, including programs for LGBTQ young humanists and the need for flexibility in how people can participate. He stresses that creating a welcoming environment is key for newcomers who might otherwise feel disconnected from formal humanist movements. Jake’s insights provide a clear path for building collaborative, supportive spaces that connect with individuals from many different backgrounds and experiences.

Full show notes & links used

Subscribe to our free newsletter

Check out our merch

Recognizing the finite nature of human existence, humanists are inspired to maximize their time and consider the lasting legacies they will leave behind. This reflection was particularly meaningful due to the recent passing of our friend, Ford B Cauffiel Sr., an accomplished entrepreneur and community leader. Ford profoundly impacted those around him through his diverse contributions, including a notable classic car collection and philanthropic efforts supporting various charities and environmental causes.

The discussion also touches upon the societal tendency to honor historical figures who may have had problematic aspects. The removal of the Christopher Columbus statue in Columbus, Ohio, was presented as a contemporary example of a cultural reevaluation where confronting uncomfortable historical truths is necessary. We advocated for a more thoughtful approach to commemoration, emphasizing the celebration of individuals who have genuinely worked towards the betterment of humanity, moving beyond glorified historical interpretations to embrace those whose actions align with humanistic values.

The launch of the Secular Vote Project was also discussed, an initiative designed to empower the growing demographic of secular individuals in America. Led by figures such as Sarah Levin and Dr. Juhem Navarro-Rivera, this project aims to provide a focused voice for the often-overlooked non-religious population in political discourse, fostering a deeper understanding of secularism through research and discourse led by those who embody this identity.

Full show notes and links used

Subscribe to our free newsletter

Check out our merch

We have a critical examination of the hypocrisy within the Christian nationalist movement, particularly concerning the lack of response to revelations from the Epstein files. We highlight the dissonance between the public pronouncements of moral leadership and arguing that partisan interests often supersede ethical accountability. Specific examples of political figures leveraging family values rhetoric while ignoring or downplaying serious moral crises are analyzed, exposing the devastating consequences of such double standards.

We then explore the complex web of connections between Jeffrey Epstein and politically influential figures, particularly within the Republican Party. The episode analyzes the implications of past associations and the ongoing debate surrounding the release of Epstein's investigative files, underscoring the need for accountability and transparency. The discussion acknowledges the moral complexities inherent in this situation, advocating for a reckoning that prioritizes the rights and well-being of victims over the protection of powerful individuals. The narrative highlights the power dynamics that shield perpetrators and the urgent need to challenge these systems.

If you wear your religion on your sleeve then We demand moral integrity from political leaders, particularly those who claim to champion family values and child protection.

We also promote a Toledo screening of "The Last Class," a documentary featuring Robert Reich, focusing on education and economic justice. Proceeds from ticket sales will benefit our local humanist community.

Full show notes & links used

Subscribe to our free newsletter

Check out our merch

We address a recent editorial from the Toledo Blade that mischaracterizes the failed merger between Kroger and Albertsons. Contrary to the editorial’s claims, it was not the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) but a federal judge who blocked the merger due to concerns about market competition. We discuss the broader implications of allowing massive grocery chains to consolidate, particularly the potential harms to consumer choice, pricing, and local economies.

Then we look at a developing legal case involving LifeWise Academy, a religious group seeking to conduct Christian education for public school kids during the school day. Their lawsuit against the Ohio Civil Rights Commission centers on the ministerial exemption, a legal doctrine that exempts religious institutions from certain employment laws. We explore how this exemption, while designed to protect religious freedom, it should only apply to groups that actually preach a religion or are incorporated as religious. Lifewise is not that at all.

Our main topic concerns the Johnson Amendment, a pivotal law that prevents tax-exempt organizations—including churches—from engaging in political endorsements. A recent court filing proves what church and state advocates have been saying for decades about the non-enforcement of the Johnson Amendment. We discuss the history and intent of the Johnson Amendment, its role in preserving the neutrality of religious institutions in politics, and the risks of increased religious influence on electoral processes if this safeguard is finally officially thrown away.

Rounding out the episode, we invite listeners to reflect on broader humanist themes through the lens of two influential thinkers. We discuss Robert Reich’s advocacy for economic justice, framed by his new documentary The Last Class, which will be screening soon in Toledo. His insights on inequality and education resonate with humanist values of fairness and dignity. We also share actor and Humanist Stephen Fry’s contemplations on mortality and the search for meaning—an uplifting reminder of the importance of living authentically and compassionately, even in uncertain times.

01:00 The Last Class Toledo Showing invite and promo

07:54 Update on Lifewise lawsuit

11:13 Correcting Toledo Blade Editorial about failed merger

19:36 A Bit of Stephen Fry

25:17 The Johnson Amendment Is Officially Dead

Full show notes & Links used

Subscribe to our free newsletter

Check out our Merch

A recent ruling from Franklin County has called into question the constitutionality of the Ohio EdChoice voucher program, which has long been a point of debate for its impact on public school funding. The detailed 47-page decision found that the program violates the Ohio Constitution by diverting public funds away from public schools and into private institutions, effectively creating a dual education system. This thoughtful ruling not only invites a renewed conversation about the state’s funding priorities but also sets the stage for a meaningful legal review, as proponents of the voucher system prepare to appeal. It's a critical opportunity to reflect on how we invest in education and ensure equitable access for all students.

We turn our attention to a story involving LifeWise Academy, an organization promoting Bible-based educational programs in the middle of the public school day. Recently, LifeWise faced allegations of labor law violations and responded by attempting to invoke a ministerial exemption—a legal concept usually reserved for recognized religious institutions. This case raises important questions about the balance between religious freedom and employee rights, and the responsibilities organizations must uphold when operating in public education spaces. By examining these legal nuances, we can better understand the boundaries of religious exemptions and how they intersect with employment protections. It’s a chance to think critically about maintaining fairness and accountability in all institutions, regardless of their religious affiliation.

Finally, we look at the broader discussions about the role of government in supporting those in need, particularly in light of views expressed by Pastor Ralph Drollinger, who leads Bible studies for members of Congress. Drollinger advocates a model where aid to the poor is first the responsibility of individuals and families, rather than the state. While this perspective emphasizes personal and community involvement, it raises important concerns about whether such a framework is sufficient to address systemic poverty. We explore the history and importance of public social safety nets and argue for their continued necessity alongside private and charitable efforts. By drawing on historical and ethical perspectives, we make the case for policies that reflect compassion, equity, and collective responsibility—ensuring that no one is left behind.

01:00 News Update
11:07 Update of the News Update
17:21 Systemic Poverty Needs Systemic Solutions: A Response to Religious ConservativesFull Show Notes & Links Used

Subscribe to our free newsletter

Check out our merch

Support the show

We look into the implications of the inaugural meeting of President Trump's Religious Liberty Commission. The makeup of this commission suggests that true religious liberty may not be its primary focus, but rather an agenda of promoting Christian nationalism. The commission is chaired by Texas Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick, with key figures such as Dr. Ben Carson and Paula White lending their voices to a narrative that prioritizes the rights and beliefs of Christians while sidelining the concerns of non-Christian and non-religious individuals.

The commission features predominantly Christian members, alongside just one rabbi, with no representatives from other faiths or from the growing population of secular Americans. Then there is the absurdity of including controversial figures like television personality Dr. Phil, while critically assessing the narratives promoted by other commission members. Their rhetoric suggests a belief that religious ideologies must permeate all aspects of public life, framing the absence of Christianity in education as a significant societal threat. This perspective raises alarm bells about the direction in which they seek to steer the American landscape.

Then we discuss the proposed Ohio state budget that has been hailed by a Christian nationalist group as pro-life and pro-family, despite its evident cuts to vital community services, including education and social support programs. Drawing on an insightful piece from columnist Marilou Johanek, we unpack how this budget undermines the very families it claims to protect, while simultaneously prioritizing religious agendas over critical humanitarian needs. This connects these issues to broader national narratives, such as the recent Supreme Court ruling on Tennessee's gender-affirming care ban, highlighting the discriminatory nature of these laws and the religious motivations behind them.

Full show notes and links used

Subscribe to our free newsletter

Check out our merch