JACKIE ALWAYS UNPLUGGED

Unplugged, authentic conversations with a preacher, pastor, and thought leader who has walked with women of faith for decades.

Asking the hard questions, dealing with the real issues, seeing the Scriptures from a new lens. These conversations put words to your female experience, ennoble you as Jesus intended, and encourage you to bring your full self to the table. We’re reshaping our view!

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Marcella Project 3/12/25 Marcella Project 3/12/25

#124 - Faith, Power, and Abuse: Confronting Narcissism in the Church and Politics

On today’s episode, I’m joined by my friend Sarah Bucy Klingler , a tireless advocate for victims of church-related harm, as we explore the harrowing stories and systemic failures that often leave survivors marginalized and voiceless.

On today’s episode, we’re talking about: •Abuse in Evangelical Churches – The episode highlights widespread abuse scandals in Protestant churches, exposing how power and secrecy enable harm.

• Narcissism in Church Leadership – Chuck DeGroat explains how churches can foster narcissistic cultures that prioritize image, suppress dissent, and protect abusive leaders.

• The Cost of Whistleblowing – Speaking out against abuse has heavy consequences, yet biblical prophets and faith leaders model the courage to do so.

• Parallels in Politics – The Trump administration mirrors narcissistic church leadership, using chaos, gaslighting, and media manipulation to maintain control.

• A Call to Action & Hope—Inspired by faith leaders and activists, this episode encourages listeners to resist oppression and work toward a more just and compassionate world.

Links:

Chuck DeGroat, When Narcissism Comes to Church

https://www.amazon.com/When-Narcissism-Comes-Church-Community/dp/0830841598

The Ezra Klein Show https://youtu.be/K8QLgLfqh6s?si=ApVdkYjcVE57pJ1O

Scot McKnight and Cody Matchett

https://zondervanacademic.com/products/revelation-For-the-rest-of-us

Marcella Project 2/26/25 Marcella Project 2/26/25

#123 - Beyond Borders: A Journey into Franciscan Teaching

In today’s episode, Shawn Small explains the difference between frontier and border teaching. Similar to geographical borders, border storytelling is clear and definite. Figuratively speaking, borders are designed to contain people or keep them out. Border teaching aims to stop the flow of movement and imagination.

When we discuss frontiers, we're referring to a more dynamic and adventurous context. Every explorer we study embraces the idea of venturing into the frontiers. There’s an ebb and flow, along withthe excitement and uncertainty of discovery in this frontier language. Frontier teachers can make us feel uneasy because they lead us into unexplored territory and expect us to take responsibility for our discoveries along the way.

Today, we will explore the woods of Franciscan teaching. Some of what you will hear about original goodness and the primacy of the Incarnation may challenge your understanding.

However, Jackie will guide us through Church history, reassuring us that these concepts are not new but quite ancient. If we embrace this journey, we may find our faith expanding and our perception of God much more significant than we ever imagined.