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Givers, Doers, & Thinkers—A Podcast on Philanthropy and Civil Society

Givers, Doers, and Thinkers introduces listeners to the fascinating people and important ideas at the heart of American civil society. We speak with philanthropists, foundation leaders, reformers, social entrepreneurs, nonprofit executives, religious believers, historians, sociologists, philosophers, journalists, and anyone else who will help us understand contemporary civil society’s achievements and failures. We also sprinkle in practical advice for nonprofit leaders and fundraisers. This is the podcast for anyone interested in that vital space where philanthropy and civil society intersect.

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Givers, Doers, & Thinkers—A Podcast on Philanthropy and Civil Society

Rusty Reno & the return of strong gods

September 07, 2022 • Jeremy Beer • Season 4 • Episode 8

This week on Givers, Doers, & Thinkers, Jeremy sits down with theologian and journalist Rusty Reno about how and why the strong gods are reappearing in American society and what that means for our common future.

R.R. Reno is the editor of First Things, a journal of religion and public life, and serves on the board of advisers of the Edmund Burke Foundation. After earning his doctorate in religious studies from Yale, he taught theology at Creighton University for twenty years. He is the author of several books, including Genesis: A Theological Commentary, Fighting the Noonday Devil, and Resurrecting the Idea of a Christian Society.

To kick start the conversation, Jeremy discusses Rusty’s recent book, Return of the Strong Gods: Nationalism, Populism, and the Future of the West. How do we devote ourselves to something greater than ourselves? Rusty outlines what these strong (and weak) gods are. He also touches on hot topics like woke culture, true justice, and the crisis in Ukraine. To close, they discuss the danger of half-truths and the pride of America.

Jessica Cooper is a consultant with American Philanthropic and has extensive experience with government grants. You’ll want to listen to these three tips before applying for your next government grant.

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