We update a school busing dispute with implications regarding church and state separation. We also look into the expansion of school vouchers in Ohio, revealing that the program primarily benefits higher-income families already in private schools rather than helping low-income students in struggling public schools. 00:50 School Busing Dispute Update 15:45 Ohio School Vouchers Not Helping With School Choice Show Notes Get our free newsletter Check out our merch and support the show...
Apr 05, 2024•30 min•Ep. 75
A recent survey of people and their religion saw an increase in the number of people who picked 'no preference'. These 'nones' make up over 20% of the population yet only 1 in 5 chooses to label themselves an atheist/agnostic/humanist. What can we do to help increase the number of Humanists? One solution advocated by some in the Humanist movement is to have Humanist congregations - Humanist churches. It is believed that people are looking for rituals, meeting on Sundays, singing hymns, and other...
Mar 19, 2024•34 min•Ep. 74
Have you ever walked into a room and felt like the only one who didn't belong? That's the feeling DEI initiatives aim to eradicate, and today, we're peeling back the layers of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, explaining its critical importance against a backdrop of legislative pushback here in Ohio. As universities come under fire, we debunk myths that paint DEI as a one-sided agenda. Within our humanist values, we argue for communities where everyone, irrespective of race or other identifiers,...
Feb 26, 2024•32 min•Ep. 73
When the steadfast beliefs of a small-town church collide with the rigidity of municipal codes, the result is a legal labyrinth worthy of a deep exploration. That's why Bruce Gerencser, a former evangelical minister, will share the saga of his friend Pastor Chris Avell and his federal lawsuit drama with the city of Bryan, Ohio. Amidst the clash of ideologies and legalities, we dissect the pivotal issues at play — from the constitutional guarantees of the First Amendment to the civic responsibili...
Feb 11, 2024•50 min•Ep. 72
When Ohio's political landscape takes a turn that sends shivers down the spine of every advocate for trans rights, it demands a response—mine is unapologetically fiery. The recent override of Governor DeWine's veto on House Bill 68 is more than just a legislative move; it's a cold shoulder to the well-being of trans kids who deserve gender-affirming care and the right to participate in sports. In this episode, we propose legislative changes that champion the rights of all children. From challeng...
Jan 22, 2024•36 min
We discuss the 2023 Freedom of Thought Report by Humanist International. We explore the bias in the International Religious Freedom Act and the need for more representation of atheistic and humanistic voices. We highlight discrimination faced by humanists worldwide and the challenges of mandatory religious instruction in schools. We emphasize the importance of protecting secularism and pluralism and call for collective action to dismantle barriers to freedom of thought. Show Notes 05:17 History ...
Dec 27, 2023•54 min•Ep. 70
What if the Christmas tree had more to do with paganism than Christianity? What if your favorite holiday celebrations were more inclusive, less religious, and yet equally festive? We explore secular alternatives like Human Light and Festivus, and address the 'Happy Holidays' vs 'Merry Christmas' debate in an attempt to foster inclusivity and respect for everyone's beliefs during this festive season. Strap in as we journey back to the rise of the religious right in the 70s and 80s, a movement not...
Dec 13, 2023•38 min•Ep. 69
Join us for a captivating conversation with the esteemed Andrew Seidel, vice president of strategic communications for Americans United. Andrew, a seasoned attorney and ardent defender of the First Amendment, takes us through his remarkable journey in law and his dedication towards upholding the separation of church and state. He offers intriguing insights into the legal concept of 'standing' and the pivotal role of this church-state separateness in shaping many contemporary issues. Our discours...
Nov 21, 2023•36 min•Ep. 68
Join us for a deeply moving conversation with Dawne Knoch Anthony, a courageous survivor of domestic abuse and religious trauma, who has redefined her life with resilience and strength. Dawne openly shares her experiences from her conservative religious upbringing to her transformation into an author and advocate. The narrative unfolds with Dawne unspooling her early years in a religious household and her struggle-filled journey through relationships in a conservative environment. Hear her talk ...
Nov 05, 2023•36 min•Ep. 67
Growing up a punk rock fan, I've always admired the raw emotion and honesty embedded in the genre. Reflecting this, we dive into the life of punk rock legend Henry Rollins and uncover the turbulent family dynamics that shaped him. You'll learn how those experiences shed light on the importance of families choosing to remain together out of love, not obligation, unearthing the implications of societal and religious pressures on family ties. Whether it’s Rollins’ strained relationship with his mot...
Oct 20, 2023•35 min•Ep. 65
Join us as we delve into an insightful conversation with Dr. Reverend David Breeden, senior minister at the First Unitarian Society of Minneapolis. Listen as he walks us through the fascinating history of congregational humanism and shares the ways in which his congregation has been a part of the humanist community since 1916. Discover how his poetic writing has shaped liturgies for a secular audience, and get a better understanding of the difference between religious and secular humanism. Liste...
Oct 04, 2023•34 min•Ep. 65
Listen in as we unravel the story of St. Anthony's Catholic Church in Toledo, a once-abandoned church that was saved from demolition by the tireless efforts of Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur and the Lucas County Land Bank. We discuss the process of determining what the building could be used for, guided by the wishes of the community and the ideas generated by a focus group. We talk about potential uses for the space, such as a health and athletics center, a museum, and a focal point for the neighbo...
Sep 15, 2023•33 min•Ep. 64
We talk about our recent experience at the Maumee Summer Fair. We don't have a lot of money for advertising and instead rely on setting up booths at festivals. The layout was different this year due to street construction. Despite this, we were able to meet new people and reconnect with some former group members. A new addition to the booth, a wheel with humanist values that people can spin for the chance to win a prize, helped educate people about Humanism and was a great activity for kids who ...
Aug 29, 2023•43 min•Ep. 63
We're venturing into a discussion about renowned Professor Lee Strang, a symbolic figure of Christian Nationalism in Northwest Ohio. From his significant role in academia as a law professor at the University of Toledo to his controversial advocacy for so-called Intellectual Diversity centers at Ohio law schools, Strang's influence is widespread and thought-provoking. His recent participation in State Issue One showcases his role at the core of significant legal and societal debates. Our discussi...
Aug 09, 2023•1 hr 1 min•Ep. 62
Join us in our captivating dialogue with the dynamic Greer Aeschbury, Ohio's senior campaign manager with All Voting is Local Action. She provides her expert perspective on the essential work the Ohio Voter Rights Coalition is doing to ensure voting accessibility and fairness. Together, we dive deep into their battle against State Issue 1 and the repercussions of the new voter ID law. A significant part of our discussion centers on the implications of Ohio's collaboration ban. We unravel how it ...
Jul 26, 2023•30 min•Ep. 61
Join us as we sit down with Josie Schreiber, a regional organizer for Rank the Vote Ohio, to uncover how the implementation of ranked choice voting can shift the dynamics of our current election system. Listen as Josie reveals the mechanisms of ranked choice voting, highlighting its potential to secure a majority vote for winning candidates and eliminate voter apathy. Our enlightening discussion explores the organization’s mission and efforts to promote a stronger voice and greater choice for al...
Jul 14, 2023•21 min•Ep. 60
Join us for a riveting discussion with Allison Gill, Vice President of Legal and Policy for American Atheists. Listen in as we discuss the mission of American Atheists and their ongoing fight for religious equality. We also touch on the case of an incarcerated person in West Virginia being forced to undergo religious substance abuse treatment in order to qualify for parole, as well as a Fifth Circuit case in Mississippi on the state's license plate motto reading “In God We Trust”. We also discus...
Jun 28, 2023•42 min•Ep. 59
What happens when you combine the power of women voters with a dedication to inclusivity and advocacy? You get the incredible League of Women Voters, Toledo, Lucas County! We had the pleasure of talking with Anne Fabazac Payne, the organization's co-president, who shared her insights on the league's mission and we dove into the new voter restrictions in the state, highlighting hidden barriers like government-issued ID requirements and the need for birth certificates to verify name changes. Show ...
Jun 15, 2023•43 min•Ep. 58
As the weather turns warmer, Humanists look to attend various conferences, events, and fairs. We gather in groups for affirmation, networking and the fun of socializing. We speak to Bob Barnes, President of Bluewater Atheists Humanists and Agnostics in Sarnia Ontario, about their conference coming up in August. Show Notes Subscribe to our free newsletter Check out our Merch...
May 31, 2023•24 min•Ep. 57
We talk to the interim executive director of the American Humanist Association, Nicole Carr, about her journey to Humanism, why social justice is important (it's about church and state), and what goes into awarding the Humanist of the Year honor. Show Notes Subscribe to our free newsletter Check out our Merch 01:55 Intro/Journey To Humanism 09:44 Social Justice Is About Church And State Issues 16:18 Deciding How To Award The Humanist Of The Year 21:19 The 82nd AHA Conference...
May 10, 2023•33 min•Ep. 56
Part memoir, part step-by-step guide, 'On Drowning Rats: How Two Women Took Down A Sexual Harasser and How You Can Too' tells the triumphant story of Rachel Richardson and Cami Roth Szirotnyak, two women who discovered they were sexually harassed by the same man (one of Toledo’s most prominent nonprofit founders and fundraisers), and how they successfully—and publicly—sought justice. Show Notes Subscribe to our free newsletter Check out our merch 00:59 Introduction And Learning They A Lot In Com...
Apr 19, 2023•41 min•Ep. 55
The Missouri Legislature enacted a total ban on abortion and were not subtle about writing and supporting it because of their religious beliefs. Rachel Laser, President of Americans United for the Separation of Church and State is our guest. She will explain why her group joined with faith leaders in a lawsuit to block the ban why separation of church and state is the foundation of democracy and we learn about an upcoming Religious Freedom conference hosted by her group. Show Notes Subscribe to ...
Apr 06, 2023•39 min•Ep. 54
Toledo found out about algal blooms when they caused the water supply to shut down for three days in 2014. Mike Ferner, activist and former Toledo city council member, and his group, Lake Erie Advocates, have the solution to the blooms but the Ohio statehouse isn't listening. Is it too late? Show Notes Subscribe to our free newsletter Check out our merch 00:50 Why We Should Oppose Factory Farming 12:19 Maumee Dumps Sewage And What We Can Do To Help 23:25 Mike's Thoughts On East Palatine And Cart...
Mar 17, 2023•39 min•Ep. 53
At our January meeting, we had Jill Burdick from Camp Quest Michigan via Zoom to tell us all about the only summer camp for kids not based on religious beliefs. Camp Quest has many locations around the country and it's time to sign up to be a camper or volunteer or to donate so more kids can attend. Show Notes Subscribe to our free newsletter Check out our merch 00:49 Prolog & WAKT Announcement 07:24 Overview of Camp Quest 25:03 Camp Quest is inclusive 42:39 General costs and communication...
Mar 01, 2023•47 min•Ep. 52
We learn about the recent Ohio law that forces colleges and universities to do what many already do - make accommodations for religious believers. A push for safe housing in Maumee gets a push back from landlords not wanting to spend the money to comply. March 1st brings an end to the pandemic allotment of food stamps. People shouldn't have to worry about paying for food. Show Notes Subscribe to our free newsletter Check out our merch 00:55 Does the Government Test Your Faith? 19:54 Safe Housing...
Jan 21, 2023•46 min•Ep. 51
We look at why Humanism doesn't belong in Interfaith spaces and we hear a letter to the editor about addressing violent crime in Toledo. We also take time out to acknowledge a show milestone. Show Notes Subscribe to our free newsletter Check out our merch 00:46 Episode 50! 05:13 Say No To Interfaith 25:31 Letter to the Editor...
Dec 23, 2022•38 min•Ep. 50
We look at critical thinking. What does it include and how do we not misuse it. Then we take a look at another church and state issue at a local school during election day. Was it on purpose? Show Notes Subscribe to our free newsletter Check out our Merch 00:45 Critical Thinking Can Save The World 19:37 Bible Quotes At A Public School On Election Day...
Nov 19, 2022•42 min•Ep. 49
Michael Werner, longtime member of the Unitarian Church and a past President of the American Humanist Association, believes an effort to finally update the church's bylaws will extinguish the strong history of Humanism and leave the church open to the evils of post modernism. Werner also believes that the church is abandoning Enlightenment principles of reason, science, tolerance, affirming the inherent worth of all people, and replacing it with work on social and racial justice issues. Is that ...
Oct 18, 2022•1 hr•Ep. 48
Religious conservatives are performing school assemblies and funneling kids to church all at taxpayer expense and earlier this month the SHoWLE Board voted to ban weapons at meetings. Doug explains why. Show Notes Subscribe to our newsletter Check out our merch 00:45 Fake School Assemblies 16:14 SHoWLE bans guns at meetings...
Sep 23, 2022•29 min•Ep. 47
How can one sell Humanism to the public without appropriating suspect tactics used by the religious to recruit to their groups? Doug talks about his experiences selling Humanism over the years and how we can reach people and bring them to us. Finally we give an update about a busing dispute involving religious school kids and a public school district. Show Notes Subscribe to our free newsletter Check out our merch...
Aug 31, 2022•45 min•Ep. 46
