Brian Recker shares his personal journey of faith, theology, and transformation. Raised as a pastor’s kid, Brian grew up immersed in evangelical Christianity, attended Bob Jones University, and later became an evangelical pastor himself.

In this conversation with host John Quick, Brian reflects on the theological questions that began to trouble him over time and ultimately led him to step away from institutional church life. He talks about what it was like to wrestle publicly with long held beliefs, the pressure of certainty in faith communities, and how his understanding of God and Jesus has evolved through that process.

The discussion centers on Brian’s book Hell Bent: How the Fear of Hell Holds Christians Back from a Spirituality of Love. Brian explains why he now believes fear of hell has distorted Christianity’s message and why he sees Jesus as pointing people toward love, compassion, and human flourishing rather than fear and punishment. Brian shares how these convictions shape the way he approaches faith, spirituality, and life today. This episode offers insight into Brian’s evolving theology and will resonate with anyone curious about faith, deconstruction, or a more love centered understanding of Jesus.

Brian Recker’s book
https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/771172/hell-bent-by-brian-recker/

Brian Recker’s website
https://www.brianrecker.com/

Brian Recker on social mediaSubstack: https://brianrecker.substack.com

In this episode of Stories Worth Hearing, host John Quick welcomes Surangel Whipps Jr., President of the Republic of Palau, for a wide ranging conversation about leadership, innovation, and national identity. President Whipps reflects on what makes Palau a truly unique country, from its deep cultural roots and natural beauty to its close knit communities and global outlook.

The conversation explores how President Whipps’ background in business has shaped his approach to governing, with a focus on creating opportunity, strengthening the economy, and thinking creatively about Palau’s future. He shares the vision behind Palau’s Digital Residency Program and how digital innovation can connect the country to entrepreneurs and ideas around the world, while still honoring Palau’s values of trust, responsibility, and stewardship.

They also discuss Palau’s recent economic momentum, the importance of sustainable growth, and the responsibility that comes with protecting one of the world’s most remarkable marine environments. President Whipps speaks about Palau’s role on the global stage, including why it is important for small island nations to have a strong voice in international conversations, especially around climate and long-term resilience.

This is a hopeful, thoughtful episode about leadership with purpose and how a small nation can lead by example in a rapidly changing world.

Learn more about Palau and explore the country discussed in this episode:

• Official Government of Palau
https://www.palaugov.pw/

• Tourism in Palau
https://pristineparadisepalau.com/

In this episode of Stories Worth Hearing, host John Quick sits down with Danny Murphy, a journalist, host, and pop culture commentator who has built a career by mixing humor, honesty, and hard work. Danny shares how he got started in media, the risks he took along the way, and what he learned from navigating the fast paced world of entertainment and pop culture journalism.

The conversation dives into Danny’s work with Page Six, including his shows on SiriusXM’s Page Six Radio and Virtual Reali Tea, where he brings personality and perspective to celebrity and reality television coverage. Danny also talks about launching the Reality Television Awards this year, why he felt it was important to celebrate the people behind reality TV, and what it takes to turn an idea into something real.

This episode is both entertaining and motivating, offering insight into creativity, confidence, and building a career by leaning into who you are.

Check out his shoes here: https://pagesix.com/author/danny-murphy/