The Overthinkers (Nathan Clarkson & Joseph Holmes)

On this premiere episode, Joseph Holmes and Nathan Clarkson discuss the history of the term "guilty pleasures" and whether or not they are something to feel guilty about.

Co-hosts Joseph Holmes and Nathan Clarkson discuss Nathan's new book "Good Man" and explore how the depictions of men they grew up with in film and liturature--good and bad--shaped what kind of men they grew up to be.

Joseph Holmes and Nathan Clarkson invite Louis Giovino on the podcast to discuss what the catholic church really teaches about exorcisms and whether the kind depicted in Hollywood movies matches what seeming "real-life exorcisms" are like.

If being frightened is so unpleasant, why do people seek out opportunities to be scared, like in ghost stories, horror movies, and skydiving? Joseph Holmes and Nathan Clarkson discuss and come up with some potentially controversial answers.

Joseph Holmes and Nathan Clarkson are joined by Louis Giovino from The Sheen Center to discuss the history of faith and art and whether or not we can reconcile these two often contentious forces in our culture.

Everyone online uses statistics to try to convince you to think like they do. But how do you know if you can trust the statistics they're using? Joseph Holmes and Nathan Clarkson invite the brilliant Dr. Phillip Williams to help make sense of this vital and complex world.

Joseph Holmes and Nathan Clarkson discuss with podcast host and author Kat Harris whether waiting for sex till your married is possible or worthwhile--and what the biggest problems are with how Americans discuss sex and abstinence. 

Joseph Holmes and Nathan Clarkson are joined by the creators of the new Christian comedy "Church People"--filmmaker Christopher Shawn Shaw and comedian Thor Ramsey--to discuss why Christians haven't achieved mainstream success in comedy. Are Christians just not as funny as non-Christians? Find out here. 

CS Lewis and JRR Tolkien were giants of fantasy literature and Christian thought. So why haven't there been others like them since? Joseph Holmes and Nathan Clarkson invite cultural apologist Annie Crawford to discuss the conditions that created Lewis and Tolkien and how we can create those conditions again.

Joseph Holmes and Nathan Clarkson bring on film composer and author Joel Clarkson to discuss film score composing and why music is so important to our humanity.

Joseph Holmes and Nathan Clarkson discuss with Journalist Meagan Clark what fake news is and how we can fight for news media integrity in the modern world.

Joseph Holmes and Nathan Clarkson are joined once again by Joy Carkson to discuss her and Nathan's new book, "The Clubhouse", why imagination is important, why people are afraid of it... oh, and why The Green Knight is so bad. (Yeah. We go there.)

Joseph Holmes and Nathan Clarkson discuss personality tests. Why are they popular? Can we trust them? And are they bad for us?

What is toxic masculinity and is the way our culture talks about it more helpful or hurtful? Joseph Holmes and Nathan Clarkson talk with the founder of The Masculinist newsletter, website, and podcast, Aaron Renn, to discuss this highly charged and controversial topic.

Visit Aaron Renn's website at https://themasculinist.com/

Who is therapy for? Is it only people with diagnosed mental illness? Or can anyone benefit? We discuss with mental health advocate Alyssa Plock. Data and references:

https://www.forbes.com/sites/bryanrobinson/2021/02/04/47-of-americans-believe-seeking-therapy-is-a-sign-of-weakness/

https://www.scrippsnews.com/health/75-of-americans-feel-health-care-system-handles-mental-health-worse-than-physical-poll-finds

https://kindbridge.com/mental-health/why-do-people-avoid-therapy/

https://www.apa.org/news/press/releases/2012/08/psychotherapy-effective

Blesses: Allender Center Podcast

The Place We Find Ourselves Podcast

The Sixth Sense Ordinary People

Curses: Shrinking Split Moon Knight Extremes

Lots of people are stressed out by being with family for the holidays. Some are even planning not to spend holidays with their family. But is that a good idea? Nathan Clarkson and Joseph Holmes give their tips on having a positive trip home for the holidays. Links to outside references: 

15 million long-distance travelers oer Christmas in 2023: https://www.cbsnews.com/chicago/news/millions-americans-expected-to-travel-christmas-new-years-day-aaa/

How to survive going home for the holidays: https://www.vice.com/en/article/how-to-survive-going-home-for-the-holidays/

https://medium.com/youalberta/how-to-survive-home-for-the-holidays-99daba2e6e9f

https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/empowerment-solutions/202212/home-for-the-holidays-how-not-to-get-triggered 

Blesses: Elf The Best Christmas Pageant Ever Curses: The Family Stone Four Christmases National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation A Christmas Story

Joseph Holmes and Nathan Clarkson discuss whether the modern trend to replace family with friends--"the family you choose"--is a healthy trend and what unique benefits friends and family both give to you that the other can't provide.

Nathan Clarkson and Joseph Holmes welcome Blaine Eldredge on to discuss what it is about superheroes that appeals so strongly to men and whether that's a good thing. 

Are there lines artists shouldn't cross when it comes to the content they create? Can art be too violent? Too sexual? Is there a line where art can cause harm? Nathan Clarkson and Joseph Holmes welcome back award-winning director and producer Spencer Folmar to find that line in this latest episode.

Video Games Don’t Cause Violence

https://www.theguardian.com/games/2020/jul/22/playing-video-games-doesnt-lead-to-violent-behaviour-study-shows

Harms of Porn:

https://www.bbc.com/future/article/20170926-is-porn-harmful-the-evidence-the-myths-and-the-unknowns

Harms of Movie Violence

https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/the-baby-scientist/201801/violent-media-and-aggressive-behavior-in-children

https://oxfordre.com/criminology/display/10.1093/acrefore/9780190264079.001.0001/acrefore-9780190264079-e-189;jsessionid=CF7391319EEDCB072410BB4C7AD9E649

Representation

https://www.vice.com/en/article/zmwq3x/why-diversity-on-screen-is-important-black-panther

Everyone wants to overcome fear. But is fear ever something to embrace rather than reject? Nathan Clarkson and Joseph Holmes discuss in their latest episode - the first of scary thinking month. Links to referenced resources:

Fear Definition:

https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/fear

Fear is one of our most powerful emotions:

https://www.mentalhealth.org.uk/explore-mental-health/publications/face-fear

Rise in anxiety: 

https://www.psychiatry.org/news-room/news-releases/annual-poll-adults-express-increasing-anxiousness#:~:text=Washington%2C%20D.C.,2023%20and%2032%25%20in%202022.

At least 60% have at least one unreasonable fear:

https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/fear

How to manage fear:

https://www.mentalhealth.org.uk/explore-mental-health/publications/how-overcome-anxiety-and-fear

How to cope with fear:

https://www.mentalhealth.org.uk/explore-mental-health/publications/how-overcome-anxiety-and-fear

Overcome fear of failure:

https://hbr.org/2018/12/how-to-overcome-your-fear-of-failure?utm_medium=paidsearch&utm_source=google&utm_campaign=domcontent&utm_term=Non-Brand&tpcc=paidsearch.google.dsacontent&gad_source=1&gclid=Cj0KCQjw9Km3BhDjARIsAGUb4nwDJRKY-UqTLI2l-f2j_V2lDqJbzLPSBCH9F-rauYz0tIz42SGFOPUaAuUTEALw_wcB

Overcome fear of change: 

https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/the-adaptive-mind/201809/how-overcome-the-fear-change

Fear and authoritarianism:

https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2020/jan/02/authoritarian-leaders-people-safe-voters

No fear in love: 

https://www.biblegateway.com/verse/en/1%20John%204%3A18

Fear - Costs and Benefits:

https://healthcare.utah.edu/healthfeed/2022/10/fear-when-it-rational-and-when-it-unhealthy

https://www.huffpost.com/entry/why-fear-is-a-good-thing_b_8258746

Blesses:

Video Game: Outlast

Movie: A Quiet Place

Curses: The Terrifier  Texas Chainsaw Massacre 

With recent months giving people a lot of time at home, Joseph Holmes and Nathan Clarkson ask the question: is isolation good for artists? Or are there some dangers to watch out for?

People always tell you to follow your dreams. But is that actually good advice? Joseph Holmes and Nathan Clarkson start the new year by deconstructing the good and bad of this common American refrain and what you could possibly do instead of "following your dreams".

There's a rise in interest and practice of witchcraft among young people. Is that worth being concerned about? We discuss with journalist Mary Jackson. Notes from the show:

Witchcraft definition: 

https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/witchcraft

Witchcraft history: 

https://www.britannica.com/topic/witchcraft

Mary Jackson's article on rise of witchcraft and its harms:  https://wng.org/articles/out-of-darkness-1713232697

More modern witchcraft trends

https://www.elle.com/uk/life-and-culture/culture/a42798881/magic-touch-witchcraft/

https://www.nbcnews.com/think/opinion/paganism-witchcraft-are-making-comeback-rcna54444

https://www.brandeis.edu/now/2021/september/wicca-berger-conversation.html#:~:text=It%20is%20estimated%20that%20there,approximately%20800%2C000%20Americans%20are%20Wiccans

Blesses The Crucible The Village  Talk to Me The Screwtape Letters Curses The Witch The Front Room The Wicked Witch character Contact and Websites:

Nathan Clarkson: nathanclarkson.me

Joseph Holmes: josephholmesstudios.com

Mary Jackson at World Magazine: https://wng.org/authors/mary-jackson

Mary Jackson on X: https://x.com/mbjackson77

Joseph Holmes and Nathan Clarkson welcome Pastor and author Dr. Glenn Packiam to discuss why so many young people are leaving the church and what church leaders should do if they want to win them back.

Joseph Holmes and Nathan Clarkson welcome relationship and dating expert Kait Warman (host of The Heart of Dating podcast) on the show to discuss the best and worst advice out there on how to find love and what things might be holding you back.

What do Christians mean when they talk about "The Kingdom of God" or "The Kingdom of Heaven"?  Nathan Clarkson and Joseph Holmes break down one of their favorite phrases and ideas in this latest episode.

What determines the quality of a movie? Or is all artistic quality subjective? We bring on defender of movie quality Kevin McCreary on The Overthinkers show. 

Rogerebert.com’s Much More Than The Movies - The Best of Rogers Journals

https://www.rogerebert.com/features/much-more-than-movies-the-best-of-rogers-journal#:~:text=Roger%20writes%2C%20%E2%80%9CIf%20I%20have,That's%20what%20it%20does%20best.%E2%80%9D

What Makes A Film Great

By Simon Dillon

https://medium.com/fan-fare/what-makes-a-film-great-f208de3f03a5

In Depth Cine

https://www.indepthcine.com/videos/what-makes-a-movie-great

Dead Poet’s Society Is A Terrible Defense of The Humanities

https://www.theatlantic.com/education/archive/2014/02/-em-dead-poets-society-em-is-a-terrible-defense-of-the-humanities/283853/

In Defense of the Pritchard Scale

https://integraphy.co/in-defense-of-the-pritchard-scale/

This episode The Overthinkers overthink... each other! Join the whole Overthinkers team for a casual Christmas episode where everyone asks each other their favorite Christmas movies and says what they think that movie choice says about them. 

Joseph Holmes and Nathan Clarkson are joined by Cru Content Strategist Marilette Sanchez to discuss whether Christmas is too materialistic and what parents can do to fight back against greed and entitlement in their kids during the holidays.

Do we have a moral obligation to vote for the lesser of two evils? Do we have a moral obligation not to? Joseph Holmes and Nathan Clarkson discuss in the lead up to the American presidential  Election.

St. Francis advises voting for lesser of two evils, and why: https://www.msnbc.com/opinion/msnbc-opinion/pope-francis-kamala-harris-donald-trump-rcna171092

History of American “Lesser of Two Evils” debates: https://www.thenation.com/article/politics/lesser-of-two-evils-history-voting/

Reasons to not vote lesser of two evils:

https://www.cato.org/commentary/why-voting-lesser-two-evils-waste-vote

https://www.thedartmouth.com/article/2023/08/karty-the-lesser-of-two-evils-argument-needs-to-die

Americans disatisfied with choices: https://www.reuters.com/world/us/americans-dismayed-by-biden-trump-2024-rematch-reutersipsos-poll-finds-2024-01-25/

Federalist 51 - Why lesser of two evils thinking is built into American government:

https://founders.archives.gov/documents/Hamilton/01-04-02-0199#:~:text=If%20men%20were%20angels%2C%20no,on%20government%20would%20be%20necessary.

Blesses:

The Righteous Mind

Eye in the Sky

Lincoln

13 Days

Curses: X/Twitter/Threads

God’s Not Dead: In God We Trust

Conclave

Contact and Websites:

Nathan Clarkson: nathanclarkson.me

Joseph Holmes: josephholmesstudios.com

If you're having relationship troubles, how do you know if you should break up with someone or stick it out? Joseph Holmes and Nathan Clarkson give their takes. 

Articles mentioned in the episode:

ttps://www.google.com/amp/s/www.insider.com/why-do-breakups-hurt-so-much-2019-2%3famp

https://www.pewresearch.org/fact-tank/2020/08/20/key-takeaways-on-americans-views-of-and-experiences-with-dating-and-relationships/

https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/high-octane-women/201108/the-hidden-health-hazards-toxic-relationships

https://www.pewresearch.org/social-trends/2021/10/05/rising-share-of-u-s-adults-are-living-without-a-spouse-or-partner/

What is the right balance between self sacrifice and self care? Joseph Holmes and Nathan Clarkson discuss:

Links to further reading:

https://medium.com/@treadmilltreats/sacrificing-your-own-happiness-for-another-person-cc7abdc6907f

https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/fulfillment-any-age/202012/how-much-are-you-willing-sacrifice-your-relationship

What is the difference between equity and equality? And which is more important? Joseph Holmes and Nathan Clarkson discuss.

Equity vs Equality definitions: 

Merriam Webster: 

https://www.merriam-webster.com/grammar/equality-vs-equity-difference

George Washington University: https://onlinepublichealth.gwu.edu/resources/equity-vs-equality/

"Adulting" is a tough hill to climb for Millenials and Gen Z. Most in these generations struggle with feeling like they are truly an adult. So what things does one need to do to really achieve adulthood? Nathan Clarkson and Joseph Holmes discuss on this first episode of 2023.

Below are the list of things we advise you to do to be an adult, with the resources we mention in the episode.

1. Workout three times a week

• According to the CDC (How much physical activity do adults need?), you should be exercising 150 hours a week, or 30 minutes a day for five days a week.
• https://www.cdc.gov/physicalactivity/basics/adults/index.htm
• CDC.Gov “Benefits of Physical activity” 
• https://www.cdc.gov/physicalactivity/basics/pa-health/index.htm

2. Cook most of your own meals

- It’s tastier, it’s healthier, it’s cheaper. https://medium.com/@kevin18lee/3-reasons-why-you-should-cook-your-own-meals-1142ce292fad

3. Eat healthily 

4. Read one book a month

• According to a Pew Research study, the typical American has read 5 books in the past 12 months, while 75% have read at least one book. The average is 12 or 14 if you include the avid bookworms. 
• https://www.pewresearch.org/fact-tank/2022/01/06/three-in-ten-americans-now-read-e-books/

5. Be financially independent

6. Live below your means (be financially stable)

7.  Regularly build savings 

8. Work in your preferred field/get paid to do what you want to do

9. Have good credit

• According to the Forbes article “What Is A Good Credit Score?” a good credit score is at least a 700.
• https://www.forbes.com/advisor/credit-score/what-is-a-good-credit-score/

10. Have three close, long-term friends

-According to the Survey Center on American Life, Americans today have fewer friends and talk to them less often than they did 30 years ago. In 1990, less than one-third (27 percent) said they had three or fewer close friends, while today that number is close to half (49 percent).

- The Washington Post Piece, Americans Are Choosing To Be Alone

- Psychology Today’s The Dangers of Loneliness. 

11. Be in a long-term committed relationship (or have chosen willingly to be single)

• The Atlantic: “The Happiness Recession”
• https://www.theatlantic.com/ideas/archive/2019/04/happiness-recession-causing-sex-depression/586405/

12. Are hygienic (take showers, brush teeth, etc)

13. Keep a relatively clean, organized living space

• According to Elite Daily, studies show that having a clean room makes you happier, sleep better, makes you more likely to exercise, and makes you feel positive and accomplished. 
• https://www.elitedaily.com/wellness/cleaning-your-room-important-for-your-health/1466353

14. Give a portion of your income or time to charitable causes

15. Travel out of state (or country) once a year

16. Get yearly medical checkups

17. Get semi-regular counseling/therapy (mental health)

18. Maintain familial relationships (if possible/healthy)

• The Atlantic: “A Shift in Family Values Is Fueling Estrangement”
• https://www.theatlantic.com/family/archive/2021/01/why-parents-and-kids-get-estranged/617612/
• The Atlantic: “The Nuclear Family Was A Mistake”
• https://www.theatlantic.com/magazine/archive/2020/03/the-nuclear-family-was-a-mistake/605536/

Nathan Clarkson and Joseph Holmes invite Producer and theologian Lou Giovino back on the show to discuss whether people are fundamentally good or evil, and what that means. Links to further resources below.

Pope Francis Interview: https://x.com/60Minutes/status/1792337978313802225

Pope Francis Controversy: https://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2024/may/20/pope-francis-tells-cbs-norah-odonnell-that-all-peo/

Are we born evil or good controversy: https://bigthink.com/thinking/are-we-born-evil/

Richard Dawkins on awfulness of original sin: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5QkZ8_mLCoA&ab_channel=AlexO%27Connor

Richard Trembly on violence of two-year-old males: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FjUnWvP0A2E&ab_channel=JordanBPetersonClips

Psychology of serial killers: https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2018/aug/10/what-makes-a-serial-killer

What does Hollywood get right and wrong about God when they try to talk about him and his followers? Nathan Clarkson and Joseph Holmes bring on journalist Cody Benjamin to discuss.

What does it mean to be smart and how do you know you're smart? Joseph Holmes and Nathan Clarkson discuss the idea of multiple intelligences and how to determine what you're particular smart at.

It's our 200th episode! We bring both Nathans back together to discuss how you can make (and keep) friends as an adult.

Links for more info:

https://www.independent.co.uk/life-style/americans-fewer-friends-survey-b1890794.html

https://www.pbs.org/newshour/show/researchers-find-strong-relationships-protect-long-term-health-and-happiness#:~:text=But%20the%20longest%20running%20study,healthy%20in%20the%20long%20term.

https://fortune.com/well/2023/06/15/loneliness-comparable-to-smoking-up-to-15-cigarettes-a-day/ 

What do we as a culture get wrong when it comes to discussing race? Are colorblind advocates and antiracism advocates missing something to have productive racial discussions? If not, why aren't we making any progress? Sociologist and author Dr. George Yancey joins Joseph Holmes and Nathan Clarkson to discuss a new approach to racial conversations that he believes will help make real racial progress.

https://www.newsweek.com/race-relations-gotten-worse-1960s-30-percent-americans-say-poll-1078690

https://www.pewresearch.org/politics/2021/08/12/deep-divisions-in-americans-views-of-nations-racial-history-and-how-to-address-it/

What are Americans most afraid of? And what does that say about us? Nathan Clarkson and Joseph Holmes discuss. Top ten list for 2024:

https://www.chapman.edu/wilkinson/research-centers/babbie-center/survey-american-fears.aspx 

Conversation around Americans fears: https://www.nytimes.com/2024/01/19/science/sociology-fear-uncertainty.html

Top ten list for 2014: https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/wonk/wp/2014/10/30/clowns-are-twice-as-scary-to-democrats-as-they-are-to-republicans/ Blesses The Village Nope Where's God When I'm Scared

It: Part One

Curses Beau is Afraid It: Part Two

Contact and Websites:

Nathan Clarkson: nathanclarkson.me

Joseph Holmes: josephholmesstudios.com

Joseph Holmes and Nathan Clarkson ask whether or not our society--far from not being empathetic enough--is putting us under pressure to care too much about others and doing damage to us as a result.

Nathan Clarkson and Joseph Holmes are joined by author Dominic Done to discuss whether it's sinful to doubt God, or if it's actually a healthy thing.

https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/faith

https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/doubt

https://www.barna.com/research/two-thirds-christians-face-doubt/

Everyone's talking about AI. Is it something we should be scared of? If so, what should we be scared of about it? Nathan Clarkson and Joseph Holmes discuss.

https://www.ibm.com/topics/artificial-intelligence

https://www.forbes.com/sites/cognitiveworld/2019/10/31/should-we-be-afraid-of-ai/?sh=2b90d8274331

https://www.cnbc.com/2023/05/06/youre-right-to-be-scared-of-ai-white-house-advisor-ivy-league-expert.html#:~:text=Among%20the%20other%20concerns%3A%20AI,countless%20human%20jobs%20to%20machines

Many people feel like they have to choose between science and faith. But do they really? What is the history of science and faith, and when did this supposed conflict start? Joseph Holmes and Nathan Clarkson welcome author and scholar Dr. Spencer Klavan to discuss this topic and Klavan's new book on the subject "Light of the Mind, Light of the World. Further Resources:

https://www.pewresearch.org/science/2015/10/22/science-and-religion-2/#:~:text=Some%2073%25%20of%20adults%20who,religion%20are%20often%20in%20conflict.

https://www.samharris.org/blog/science-must-destroy-religion https://scienceforthechurch.org/2020/11/10/a-conversation-with-john-lennox/ Blesses Summa Theologica God's Undertaker Netflix's The Three-Body Problem Curses The Theory of Everything Freud's Last Session MIxed Bless/Curse Dark Matter

With artificial intelligence becoming more and more humanlike each year, will there ever come a time they will become so human they will need human rights? We discuss with author and theologian of the personhood of robots expert Joshua K. Smith.

Joseph Holmes and Nathan Clarkson invite on illustrious film critic and podcast host Tyler Smith to discuss the history of faith-based films and why they have such a mixed reputation.

Are spiritual rhythms important in everyday life? Not just on Sundays? Joseph Holmes discusses with author and artist Douglas McKelvy his series "Every Moment Holy" about how to bring the sacred into ordinary life.  Referenced Links:

Barna Study - How liturgical are today’s American Christians? https://www.barna.com/research/liturgical-todays-christians/ 

Liturgy as an idol: https://au.thegospelcoalition.org/article/liturgy-word-god-enough/

Liturgy detached from theology: https://www.christianitytoday.com/2022/07/church-liturgy-trends-history-tradition-theology-popular/

Church makes you give more to charity: https://religionunplugged.com/news/2023/12/12/are-religious-areas-more-charitable

Frequent church attendance means better mental health: https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/article/frequent-churchgoers-better-mental-health/ Blesses Book - Desiring the Kingdom Movie - Wildcat Anime - Barakamon Book - The Book of Common Prayer/The Daily Office Book - Everything Sad is Untrue Curses Book - Living in Wonder Book - The Daily Stoic

Overthinkers Team Contact and Websites: The Overthinkers: theoverthinkersjournal.world

Nathan Clarkson: nathanclarkson.me

Joseph Holmes: josephholmesstudios.com Douglas McKelvey and Every Moment Holy links Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/quothdouglas/?hl=en Every Moment Holy Website: https://www.everymomentholy.com/about-the-series

Joseph Holmes and Nathan Clarkson ask whether you or your kids should go to college, and give their answers based on their personal experience and research as a college grad and non-college grad respectively.

The Devil (or Satan, or Lucifer) is the most famous villain in history, religion, and fiction. But is he real? And if so, what's he like? Louis Giovino, the unofficial official senior fellow for history and theology at The Overthinkers, weighs in with regular co-hosts Joseph Holmes and Nathan Clarkson.

What does The Bible really teach about heaven? Is it what we've been taught? Joseph Holmes and Nathan Clarkson invite Biblical scholar Dr. J. Richard Middleton for an inspiring discussion about what The Bible really teaches about the Christian hope for when we die.

Is beauty just in the eye of the beholder? Or is there some objectivity in what beauty is? Joseph Holmes and Nathan Clarkson discuss the science and philosophy of beauty on this latest episode. 

https://plato.stanford.edu/entries/beauty/

https://www.philosophytalk.org/blog/beautiful-and-metaphysics-beauty#:~:text=The%20word%20%E2%80%9Cbeauty%E2%80%9D%20(and,It%20can%20work%20both%20ways.

The psychology of awe - https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/natured-nurture/202207/the-awesome-psychology-awe

Joseph Holmes and Nathan Clarkson sit down with writer and actress Keelia Clarkson to discuss the different lies that Hollywood has taught us about sex and love--and how they can do better.

Joseph Holmes and Nathan Clarkson discuss whether the world is getting better or worse, and what that means for how we engage with it.

If cults are so bad, why do so many people join them? Nathan Clarkson and Joseph Holmes dig into the psychology behind the appeal of cults on this latest episode. 

What is "hook-up culture" and why is it so controversial? We chat with beloved author and podcast host Kat Harris about the good, the bad, and the ugly of casual sex in relationships.

References in episode: https://www.apa.org/monitor/2013/02/ce-corner https://www.theatlantic.com/health/archive/2018/10/sexual-partners-and-marital-happiness/573493/?utm_campaign=the-atlantic&utm_content=true-anthem&utm_medium=social&utm_source=facebook&fbclid=IwAR3OlM7br8k2CKPpKDEdceYPmAHBqf221a5szkkFcl66MfeEWjuVwrFLgMw

Is AI Dangerous? Nathan Clarkson and Joseph Holmes look at the evidence and discuss. 

AI Definition: https://www.britannica.com/technology/artificial-intelligence

Why AI is Dangerous: https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/heres-why-ai-may-be-extremely-dangerous-whether-its-conscious-or-not/

Why Experts Disagree: https://www.vox.com/future-perfect/2024/3/13/24093357/ai-risk-extinction-forecasters-tetlock

It's the season of Love and everyone's looking for their soulmate. But do soulmates exist? Joseph Holmes and Nathan Clarkson discuss and dish some hard but hopeful truths. 

Joseph Holmes and Nathan Clarkson discuss their homeschool upbringing and how the experience helped shape their creative lives.

Is watching harmful things like violence or terror bad for us? Joseph Holmes and Nathan Clarkson bring on film critic Tyler Smith to discuss.

Click the link below to donate to Tyler Smith's family during his time of illness.

https://www.gofundme.com/f/support-for-tyler-smith-and-family?member=21781955&utm_campaign=p_cp+share-sheet&utm_medium=copy_link_all&utm_source=customer

Check out these links for further reading: https://www.apa.org/pi/prevent-violence/resources/tv-violence#:~:text=While%20media%20violence%20exposure%20may%20have%20short-term%20effects,development%20of%20aggressive%20and%20violent%20behavior%20in%20adulthood.

https://fightthenewdrug.org/

https://www.history.com/news/kkk-birth-of-a-nation-film

https://faithlifetv.com/reel-redemption

Joseph Holmes and Nathan Clarkson invite author Sarah Clarkson on the show to discuss why--in a world of movies, TV, theater and video games--reading still matters.

Joseph Holmes and Nathan Clarkson talk with special guest Sharonne Lanier about what special challenges there are being an actress of faith in both secular and faith-based films.

As fewer people are getting married, many people are arguing that single people are happier than married people. But is that true? Joseph Holmes and Nathan Clarkson interview sociologist and author Dr. Brad Wilcox on this deeply relevant topic. 

Joseph Holmes and Nathan Clarkson welcome back fellow Overthinker Nathan Sherrer to discuss Nathan Sherrer's new article about overthinking and whether whether "overthinking" is actually bad for you.

One of the highest compliments we can give someone is to call them relatable. But should it be? Do we prize being relatable too much? Keelia Clarkson joins Nathan Clarkson and Joseph Holmes to explain why our desire for "relatability" might be problematic.

Joseph Holmes and Nathan Clarkson discuss the good and bad of true crime and how you know if your love of true crime might be problematic.

https://today.yougov.com/entertainment/articles/43762-half-of-americans-enjoy-true-crime-yougov-poll?redirect_from=%2Ftopics%2Fentertainment%2Farticles-reports%2F2022%2F09%2F14%2Fhalf-of-americans-enjoy-true-crime-yougov-poll

https://www.nytimes.com/2021/10/28/opinion/true-crime-petito.html

https://health.clevelandclinic.org/psychological-effects-of-watching-crime-shows/

https://www.mirror.co.uk/news/health/psychologist-warns-watching-true-crime-30268448

Joseph Holmes and Nathan Clarkson discuss with film critic and YouTube personality Kevin McCreary what the film critic adds the world. Do they help audiences and filmmakers? Or are they just bitter they can't make their own movie?

Joseph Holmes and Nathan Clarkson talk with Trevor Tyson of the "Trevor Talks" podcast about depictions of mental health and mental illness in pop culture and what storytellers can do better.

Joseph Holmes and Nathan Clarkson continue their discussion of spooky for October subjects by discussing whether they think ghosts and haunted houses are real.

From Rick and Morty to Depression Memes, Nihilism is huge in pop-culture today. Joseph Holmes and Nathan Clarkson discuss why, why it's a problem, and what can be done about it.

Is Halloween The Devil's Holiday? Harmless fun? Joseph Holmes and Nathan Clarkson give their take as two millennial Christian men who grew up in Christian subculture.

Joseph Holmes and Nathan Clarkson sit down with Chris Pierdomenico of Dork Daily to discuss whether being a nerd is a positive thing or an unhealthy sign of immaturity.

Nathan Clarkson and Joseph Holmes welcome back Nathan Sherrer to discuss why guys like sports and video games so much. Is that something we should be concerned about or celebrate? Or somewhere in between?

Why do humans fear something as inevitable as death? How do we overcome the anxiety and depression of facing our own mortality? Joseph Holmes and Nathan Clarkson discuss the data, the philosophy, and the way forward.

Why don't Millennials and Zoomers feel like adults even though they are? Nathan Sherrer joins the show once again to discuss.

Articles mentioned in the episode:

https://time.com/4361866/adulting-definition-meaning/

https://www.npr.org/2022/06/11/1104056661/disney-adults

https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2021/sep/23/economy-millennials-children-low-birthrate

https://aninjusticemag.com/understanding-our-queer-obsession-with-childish-things-9aede4c1f418

https://www.theatlantic.com/magazine/archive/2023/05/millennial-generation-financial-issues-income-homeowners/673485/

https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2007/05/070501112023.htm?fbclid=IwAR3PHASAEgSzEFOHFzPt9XWHS-c3TJuwtl1Zi579Lg42nsPg-cmD4Q63Zno

Why do so many creative people turn out to be mentally ill? Does being mentally ill make you more creative? Nathan Clarkson and Joseph Holmes give their hot takes on this live debate.  Links to articles cited:

https://www.bbc.com/future/article/20160225-does-mental-illness-enhance-creativity

https://blogs.scientificamerican.com/beautiful-minds/the-real-link-between-creativity-and-mental-illness/ 

https://www.insider.com/the-link-between-creativity-and-mental-health-2018-7

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z-mJEZbHFLs&t=2999s&ab_channel=JordanBPeterson

Vegans are widely both celebrated and made fun of in modern society. But what is veganism? Should we all be vegans? Writer, podcast host, and adjunct theology professor Jessica Schroeder joins Nathan Clarkson and Joseph Holmes to discuss her vegan journey, and wrestle with the dietary, ethical and theological reasons one might advocate for veganism.

A Brief History of Veganism: https://time.com/3958070/history-of-veganism/

History of Veganism: https://genv.org/history-of-veganism/

Veganism Might Not Be the Most Sustainable Diet: https://www.theatlantic.com/science/archive/2022/08/meat-veganism-climate-change-agriculture-environment/671200/

Eden + Me: https://edenandme.com/ This Real Journey: http://thisrealjourney.com Jessica's IG: https://www.instagram.com/jessicajschroeder/

@jessicajschroeder

The Proof podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-proof-with-simon-hill/id1367773989

What is the true spirit of Christmas? How do we define it? We discuss this and more on 2023's annual Christmas episode. 

https://www.history.com/topics/christmas/history-of-christmas

https://www.statista.com/topics/3216/national-holidays-in-the-us/#topicOverview

https://www.pewresearch.org/religion/2022/09/13/how-u-s-religious-composition-has-changed-in-recent-decades/

Antiheroes are everywhere in pop culture today, from Rick and Morty to Harley Quinn to Breaking Bad. Why are we drawn to antiheroes and is it a bad thing? Joseph Holmes and Nathan Clarkson discuss with their usual depth and humor.

In what ways do Hollywood movies perpetuate bad messages about women? And what do those messages look like? And are they all from sexists or are some from feminists? Joseph Holmes and Nathan Clarkson invite the amazing Alyssa Plock on the latest episode of The Overthinkers. (Also, we review the new movie: Men. Check us out to see if it got a bless or curse from us.)

Joseph Holmes and Nathan Clarkson go on a long-ranging discussion about the nature of humans by asking whether people are more essentially good or bad.

Getting offended is very common today--particularly online. But is being offended off-limits for Christians? Nathan Clarkson and Joseph Holmes discuss.

Definition of “Offended”: https://www.dictionary.com/browse/offended

Why Christians Shouldn’t Be Offended:

https://www.desiringgod.org/articles/blessed-are-the-unoffendable

https://www.christianitytoday.com/karl-vaters/2016/december/im-offended-by-easily-offended-christians.html

https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/blogs/scotty-smith/easily-offended-isnt-a-fruit-of-the-holy-spirit/

Why do most people work a 9-5? And should we get rid of it? Joseph Holmes and Nathan Clarkson discuss in the latest episode of The Overthinkers.

Further reading:

History and the origin of the 9-5. https://hbr.org/2021/07/breaking-free-from-a-9-to-5-culture

Arguments against 9-5: https://www.forbes.com/sites/jackkelly/2021/07/25/working-9-to-5-is-an-antiquated-relic-from-the-past-and-should-be-stopped-right-now/

Remote workers aren’t as productive: https://www.latimes.com/business/story/2024-01-04/2024-year-employers-clamp-down-on-remote-work-not-so-fast#:~:text=It's%20true%20that%20widespread%20studies,be%20factors%20in%20the%20decline

Benefits of a 9-5: https://medium.com/@lester03g/5-reasons-why-its-good-to-work-9-5-d4c41df9a3ee#:~:text=Working%209%E2%80%935%20builds%20are,between%20work%20and%20personal%20life.

Is it possible for men and women to be "just friends"? Or will sex always get in the way? We discuss with returning guest Keelia Clarkson on this latest episode: Articles and Data Referenced:

https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/articles/200109/can-men-and-women-be-friends

https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/men-and-women-cant-be-just-friends/

https://www.huffpost.com/entry/why-opposite-sex-friendships-will-destroy-your-marriage_b_61087505e4b0497e670270c7

https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/buddy-system/201204/opposite-sex-friendships-in-couples#:~:text=Men%20reported%20an%20average%20of%20five%20men%20and,than%20men%2C%20this%20was%20not%20born%20out%20here.

https://www.huffpost.com/entry/can-men-and-women-really-just-be-friends_b_5631325

Joseph Holmes and Nathan Clarkson discuss are joined by special guest writer-actress Keelia Clarkson to discuss Keelia and Nathan's experiences as actors in an over-sexualized Hollywood, and whether or not there is a non-objectifying way to portray human sexuality in film and TV.

What is envy? Why do we all agree it's bad, and how do we overcome it? Nathan Clarkson and Joseph Holmes discuss on this latest episode. 

Article Links:

https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/envy

https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/anxiety-files/201510/envy

https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/anxiety-files/201511/coping-your-envy-turning-envy-its-head

Joseph Holmes and Nathan Clarkson invite author and media founder Jake Doberenz to discuss why our culture is so obsessed with identity and what the good and bad sides are of that.

Breaks up and divorces everywhere make young people despair of ever having a lasting relationship. Nathan Clarkson and Joseph Holmes welcome back beloved author and speaker Sally Clarkson to discuss the real secrets to making a relationship last.

https://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/home-news/marriage-rate-uk-latest-figures-lowest-record-ons-a9464706.html

https://www.theatlantic.com/ideas/archive/2019/04/happiness-recession-causing-sex-depression/586405/

Joseph Holmes and Nathan Clarkson discuss how Christians should handle politics and if there's a way to lower political polarization.

How does one reach this new generation with the truth of Christianity? We discuss with authors Daniel and Michael Blackaby.  Links for more info:

https://www.pewresearch.org/religion/2022/09/13/how-u-s-religious-composition-has-changed-in-recent-decades/

https://news.gallup.com/opinion/polling-matters/406544/slowdown-rise-religious-nones.aspx

https://religionunplugged.com/news/2023/10/24/the-great-dechurching-a-must-read-game-changer-on-church-decline

Joseph Holmes and Nathan Clarkson discuss with film critic Tyler Smith the various ways that horror films can teach us about faith, doubt, and life.

Joseph Holmes and Nathan Clarkson discuss why so many people believe in aliens and monsters--and the answers get pretty deep.

Joseph Holmes and Nathan Clarkson are joined again by fellow video game nerd Nathan Sherrer to discuss whether or not video games can be called "art" and why.

Joseph Holmes and Nathan Clarkson are joined by famous CS Lewis scholar Michael Ward (author of Planet Narnia and After Humanity) to discuss why CS Lewis remains so popular and what we can learn from his example.

Does mental illness not exist like some people suggest? Nathan Clarkson and Joseph Holmes discuss why some people think mental illness is a myth and how to best love people in your life who struggle with mental health problems. 

Links to resources for further overthinking: 

https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/mental%20illness(definition)

https://www.apa.org/news/press/releases/2019/05/mental-health-survey

https://www.christianpost.com/news/john-macarthur-criticized-for-claiming-mental-illness-isnt-real.html (John McCarthur Story)

https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/statistics/mental-illness

(Percentage of people struggling with mental illness.)

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4409431/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7310534/ (scuicide ideation remains same across religious and non, but not attempts) 

https://religionunplugged.com/news/2024/1/8/political-ideology-religious-attendance-and-mental-illness  (rates of mental illness between religious/non conservative/liberal)

Joseph Holmes and Nathan Clarkson discuss one of the most difficult--and timely--questions in the history of philosophy: is war ever justified?

Can words change reality? Or are words just labels we put on things. We talk to translator and philosopher Matas Gelezauskas on this latest episode. 

https://www.goodreads.com/quotes/7246-the-basic-tool-for-the-manipulation-of-reality-is-the#:~:text=%E2%80%9CThe%20basic%20tool%20for%20the%20manipulation%20of%20reality%20is%20the,people%20who%20must%20use%20them.%E2%80%9D

https://psychcentral.com/blog/words-can-change-your-brain

https://www.businessinsider.com/what-is-blue-and-how-do-we-see-color-2015-2

Joseph Holmes and Nathan Clarkson take on hustle culture and the anti-work movement and discuss what's toxic about both and how you know whether you're working too hard or not hard enough.

Can positivity be toxic? How can you be positive without denying reality? Dr. Joy Clarkson joins Joseph Holmes and Nathan Clarkson to discuss positivity, toxic positivity, grief, reality, and beauty.

Joseph Holmes and Nathan Clarkson talk with special guest Boze Herrington about why we love mysteries so much and what that says about us as human beings.

Why is Jesus so popular that he is beloved by everyone, even those who aren't Christians or belong to rival faiths? Joseph Holmes and Nathan Clarkson welcome back showrunner behind "The Chosen" Dallas Jenkins to discuss this question and many more.