Complexified Podcast Por Institute of Religion Politics and Culture Amanda Henderson Iliff School of Theology arte de portada

Complexified

Complexified

De: Institute of Religion Politics and Culture Amanda Henderson Iliff School of Theology
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For too long we have avoided talking about religion and politics. But the truth is, religion and politics are about daily life. When we avoid the hard topics connected to religion and politics, we become stuck in the status quo. On Complexified we dive into the places where religion and politics collide with real-life, so we can get unstuck- so we can make real change. We dive into our most entrenched problems to better understand the hidden histories and experiences of real people on the front lines. We look at the ways religion has shaped our systems - and the ways we see ourselves and others– from there, we work together to imagine new paths forward. Ciencia Política Ciencias Sociales Espiritualidad Política y Gobierno
Episodios
  • Faith, Labor, and a DOJ Reversal: Inside the BAPS Temple Case

    Faith, Labor, and a DOJ Reversal: Inside the BAPS Temple Case
    Sep 29 2025
    When the DOJ drops a high-profile case, what truths—and tensions—remain? A clash of cultures, a legal saga, and a spiritual community under scrutiny. In this episode of Complexified, Amanda Henderson talks with RNS reporter Richa Karmarkar about the Department of Justice’s decision to drop its investigation into the BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham in Robbinsville, New Jersey—the largest Hindu temple in the Western Hemisphere. Together, they trace how forced-labor allegations emerged, what “seva” (selfless service) means inside this tradition, and why cultural assumptions about work, visas, and volunteering can misfire in the U.S. context. Along the way, they explore community pride, rising vandalism of Hindu temples, and the complicated intra-Indian debates that shadow the story. It’s an invitation to slow down, listen across differences, and see faith—and labor—more clearly.
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    19 m
  • Pulpit Politics: Why the Johnson Amendment Still Sparks Political Drama

    Pulpit Politics: Why the Johnson Amendment Still Sparks Political Drama
    Sep 22 2025
    What happens when politics steps into the pulpit? The Johnson Amendment has been around since the 1950s, but it’s still a political lightning rod today. In this episode of Complexified, Amanda Henderson sits down with RNS columnist and historian Mark Silk to unpack why the IRS recently announced it won’t enforce the law that bars nonprofits and churches from endorsing candidates. What’s at stake when sermons start sounding like campaign rallies? Is this really about religious freedom, political theater, or just another way to keep donors happy? With humor, insight, and some surprising history lessons, we dive into the messy intersection of faith, money, and politics.
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    25 m
  • What Charlie Kirk’s Life and Death Reveal About Religion and Politics

    What Charlie Kirk’s Life and Death Reveal About Religion and Politics
    Sep 15 2025
    What does it mean to mourn someone who thrived on conflict? Charlie Kirk’s assassination sent shockwaves through America’s already polarized political and religious landscape. In this episode of Complexified, Amanda Henderson talks with veteran religion reporter Bob Smietana and cultural critic Karen Swallow Prior about Kirk’s complicated legacy. Together they explore his rise among young evangelicals, his merger with Trump-era politics, and the charisma that drew both admiration and outrage. Karen reflects on her personal encounters with Kirk, while Bob examines the broader religious and cultural shifts that made him such a lightning rod. What does it mean to grieve a provocateur, honor free speech, and still name the real harm of incendiary rhetoric?
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    18 m
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Amanda thank you for bringing Rob Schenck to your platform. And Rob, thank you for your authenticity and honesty. These hidden stories (as I refer to them) are important to hear to understand how we can make a difference!

Hidden stories

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If I may take a quote out of context, I’d say this show is “…shaped inside of a wide horizon.” (Dr. Willie J. Jennings. Imagine a land of belonging. June 2024. Min 17:25)
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I like to joke that even tho Iliff is a small school it takes forever to get down the hallway cause you overhear and join all these incredible conversations.

Complexified shares insight into the mindset at Iliff School of Theology thru these conversations with professors and fantastic philosophical minds from other spaces. I love how it addresses local and international issues thru lived experience and then remixes it with theological hindsight and study. (Alumna 2020, MDiv. emily n)

Like walking thru the halls of Iliff School of Theology

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