Faith Under Construction Podcast

Our Daily Bread Ministries
  • 5.0 (4)
  • Christianity

What if faith isn’t about pretending to have it all figured out? Faith Under Construction centers Black Millennials and Gen Z voices wrestling openly with Christianity — its beauty, its baggage, and its place in our culture. As they engage in thoughtful conversations with experts at the intersection of faith and culture, the hosts Rasool Berry and Christin Thorpe dive deep into the big questions so many in the Black community are wrestling with—questions about God, justice, the church, and identity. Things like: • If I have Jesus, do I really need the church? • Is Christianity a white, oppressive religion? • What do I do with my doubts? … and so much more. This isn’t church PR. It’s real people navigating belief in public. Whether you’re committed, curious, skeptical, or somewhere in between — there’s space for you here. #FaithUnderConstruction #FaithAndCulture #BlackVoices #SpiritualQuestions

Episodes

  1. Beyond the Verse: How to Study the Bible & Actually Apply It (Kaydene Grant)

    Jun 1

    Beyond the Verse: How to Study the Bible & Actually Apply It (Kaydene Grant)

    Have you read the TEA that the Bible spills?! There’s drama over family inheritance, sibling rivalry, bitter betrayals, stolen identities, surprise reveals, enslavement . . . and that’s just the book of Genesis! The 66 books that make up Scripture each add something unique to God’s story, but they all point to the same truth: no matter how messy we humans get, the invitation to be redeemed, restored, and remade through Christ’s love is available to everyone. Join this special conversation with hosts Rasool Berry, Dr. Christin Thorpe, and guest Kaydene Grant as they share their experiences and tips for learning and living out God’s Word.      Guest Bio:   Kaydene Grant, also known as Coach K, is a businesswoman, viral content creator, ministry leader, and author who brings Bible stories to life with humor, heart, and bold authenticity. She is the creative force behind Bible Tea, a viral digital platform known for its captivating, humorous, and biblically accurate storytelling that makes Scripture accessible to a new generation.     Kaydene wrote Bible Tea Volume One: Genesis for everyone who ever felt the Bible was boring, confusing, or out of touch. Written in African American Vernacular English (AAVE), the book reflects her voice, our culture, and her conviction that God’s Word is always relevant and relatable. With a background in education, ministry, and entrepreneurship, she is passionate about helping people grow closer to God in ways that reflect today’s culture, challenge religious norms, and stay rooted in Scripture.     Raised in a Caribbean Pentecostal church as the daughter of Bishop James Chalwell and Lady D, Kaydene now lives in Philadelphia with her husband, Antonio Grant, and their son, AJ. With more than 100k followers and hundreds of books sold, she is fulfilling her childhood prophecy to be a mighty woman of God with a church without walls.     Verses Mentioned:   Matthew 6:33 Proverbs 27:17 Proverbs 4:23 Deuteronomy 31:6 Featured Links:   Keep the conversation going with the Discussion Guide from this episode! Learn more about Kaydene’s work with Bible Tea. Order Kaydene’s book, Bible Tea: Genesis, from Amazon. Follow Kaydene on Instagram and Patreon. Faith Under Construction Landing Page: https://www.odbm.org/en/voices/faith-under-construction VOICES Community: https://www.odbm.org/en/voices Follow VOICES on Instagram

    51 min
  2. Am I Doing this Right?: Navigating Doubt, Disappointment & Faith (Lisa Fields)

    May 25

    Am I Doing this Right?: Navigating Doubt, Disappointment & Faith (Lisa Fields)

    It’s time to address the elephant—or doubt—in the room. You know those big questions we’re afraid to say out loud, ones like, “Is the Bible true?” or “Why does a good God let bad things happen?” Everybody has them, even when we’re afraid to admit it to one another. But what if those doubts we try to avoid thinking about at all costs are the very things God might use to help us know Him better? What if wrestling with them—and God—is the same place where we feel His presence the most? Join Christin, Rasool, and special guest Lisa Fields as we shine a light on some of the doubts and questions we’d rather keep in the dark.     Guest Bio:   Lisa Fields is the CEO and founder of Jude 3 Project, a leading apologetics organization dedicated to equipping the Black community with the tools to know what they believe and why they believe it. As a renowned Christian apologist, speaker, author, and film producer, she has been a driving force in shaping conversations on faith, theology, and culture. She uses innovative content to engage diverse audiences and challenge them to think critically about their beliefs.     Verses Mentioned:   Philippians 4:7 Genesis 32:22–28 James 5:16 2 Timothy 4:6–10 2 Corinthians 1:3–4 Psalm 73 Mark 9:23–24 Featured Links:   Keep the conversation going with the Discussion Guide from this episode! Follow Lisa Fields on Instagram. You can order a copy of Lisa’s book, When Faith Disappoints, through Amazon. Learn more about Lisa’s work with Jude 3 Project Follow Jude 3 Project on Facebook and Instagram Faith Under Construction Landing Page: https://www.odbm.org/en/voices/faith-under-construction VOICES Community: https://www.odbm.org/en/voices Follow VOICES on Instagram

    57 min
  3. Why Are They Running: Breaking Down the Black Christian Experience (Pastor Kellen Brooks)

    May 18

    Why Are They Running: Breaking Down the Black Christian Experience (Pastor Kellen Brooks)

    If King David, the man after God’s own heart, danced before the Lord (2 Samuel 6:14), does that mean we should be dancing between the pews every Sunday? Church is so much bigger than just our one experience of worship. But why is there such a wide variety in the ways we feel moved by the Spirit to praise, lament, or express our devotion to the infinite God—and how do I know what’s right for me? Join hosts Rasool Berry, Christin Thorpe, and guest Pastor Kellen Brooks as they unpack the history and culture behind the Black church experience.     Guest Bio:   Kellen Brooks, M Div, ThM is a musician, author, pastor, and public speaker in the Metro Detroit area. He pastors the Pentecostal Temple Church Of God In Christ, in Inkster, Michigan and is the founding pastor of Philos Church Of God In Christ in Detroit, MI. He received his Master of Divinity from Ashland Theological Seminary and his Master of Theology from Columbia Theological Seminary. Additionally, Pastor Brooks is an international speaker and musician ministering in places such as South Africa, Scotland, Turks and Caicos Islands, Jamaica, France, and Israel.    Verses Mentioned:   Joshua 6 Psalm 150 2 Samuel 6:20–22 Exodus 15:20 Hebrews 5:7 Galatians 6:2 Romans 8:26 Featured Links:   Keep the conversation going with the Discussion Guide from this episode! Pastor Kellan Brooks’ website: www.Kellenbrooks.com Connect with Pastor Books on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok Faith Under Construction Landing Page: https://www.odbm.org/en/voices/faith-under-construction VOICES Community: https://www.odbm.org/en/voices Follow VOICES on Instagram

    1h 3m
  4. How To Find the Right Church for Me? (Troy "PE" Evans)

    May 11

    How To Find the Right Church for Me? (Troy "PE" Evans)

    Ever had to “shop around” for a church before? Definitely not fun. It’s easy to come up with a long list of must-haves for a certain place of worship to become our church home—and it’s even easier to jump ship when something doesn’t meet our expectations. But is there anything about how we choose our church that should be non-negotiable? Is it all up to our priorities and preferences? Join our conversation with Rasool, Christin, and special guest Troy “PE” Evans as we turn to Scripture and consider what truly makes the right church the best fit.     Guest Bio:   Troy Evans is the Founder and CEO of Nitrogen Urban Network, an organization dedicated to equipping pastors and leaders in under-resourced communities to build healthy, multiplying churches. With more than two decades of leadership experience, Troy specializes in leadership development, strategic planning, and sustainable ministry systems. Troy is also the architect of the THRIVE Initiative, a multi-year leadership development model designed to help churches move from survival to sustainability through holistic discipleship and measurable impact.   Troy previously launched and pastored four urban churches in Michigan and has trained and coached leaders nationally. His work focuses on practical execution, multiplication, and long-term community transformation. In addition to his ministry leadership, Troy is the founder of SimpleNow, an AI-focused training and consulting organization that helps small and mid-sized leaders integrate artificial intelligence into training, planning, and operations.   Troy is an author, speaker, and strategist committed to helping leaders combine faith, structure, and technology to produce measurable results. He resides in Michigan with his wife, LaDawn.    Verses Mentioned:   Acts 2:42–27 Acts 6:1-4 Luke 24:13-35 Psalm 27:10 Acts 15:36–41 Featured Links:   Keep the conversation going with the Discussion Guide from this episode! Connect with Troy Evans on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok Faith Under Construction Landing Page: https://www.odbm.org/en/voices/faith-under-construction VOICES Community: https://www.odbm.org/en/voices Follow VOICES on Instagram

    1h 3m
  5. Hey God, It’s Me: Prayer 101 (Dr. Barbara Peacock)

    May 4

    Hey God, It’s Me: Prayer 101 (Dr. Barbara Peacock)

    Is prayer your first step, or last resort? It can be a little awkward to keep a conversation going with someone you can’t see or speak to in person. But what if our prayer time wasn’t meant to be an occasional check-in? What if our prayers were meant to be part of an ongoing chat with our best friend, someone who loves us, who wants to hear about all the details of our life, and who willingly comes alongside us in every moment? God created us to be in deep relationship with Him—two-way conversations included. Join your hosts Rasool Berry and Dr. Christin Thorpe as they sit down with Dr. Barbara Peacock to explore different ways we can maintain a daily dialogue with our Creator.    Guest Bio:   Dr. Barbara Peacock is a sought-after keynote speaker and writer, who engages audiences nationwide with wisdom, authenticity, and spiritual depth. Some of her published works include Soul Care in African American Practice, Spiritual Practices for Soul Care: 40 Ways to Deepen Your Faith, and her newest book, Soul Journey.   Additionally, Dr. Peacock is the founder of Barbara L. Peacock Ministries (2013) and Peacock Soul Care (2021), a Christ-centered institute that offers certification in Spiritual Direction and Formation. Dr. Peacock and her husband Gilbert enjoy traveling, writing, and staying active. They have a daughter, Vernee who is married to Michael, with two grandchildren, Eden and Eliah.    Verses Mentioned:   Matthew 6:6–13 John 14:26 Daniel’s Prayer (Daniel 9:1-19) 2 Chronicles 7:14 Luke 22:42 1 Samuel 16:7 Psalm 1:2 1 Thessalonians 5:17 Psalm 46:10 Featured Links:   Keep the conversation going with the Discussion Guide from this episode! Get your copy of Dr. Peacock’s NEW book, Soul Journey!  Connect with Dr. Peacock on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, or LinkedIn   Faith Under Construction Landing Page: https://www.odbm.org/en/voices/faith-under-construction VOICES Community: https://www.odbm.org/en/voices Follow VOICES on Instagram

    1 hr
  6. Marketplace Ministry: Calling or Career? (Rebekah Sharpe)

    Apr 27

    Marketplace Ministry: Calling or Career? (Rebekah Sharpe)

    Have you ever struggled with feeling you’re supposed to be one type of way when you walk through the office doors, and a whole different type of way when you walk through the church doors on Sunday? Because we live in a culture that champions “work, hustle, grind, repeat,” we’ve gotten pretty good at separating our career paths from our faith paths. But God didn’t intentionally create each one of us with a unique blend of gifts, passions, and talents so we’d only use them certain times of the week. We’re called to be workers for His kingdom both inside and outside the church walls! Join hosts Christin Thorpe and Rasool Berry as they sit down with Rebekah Sharpe and explore how we can tap into the full power, potential, and rest God desires for us to experience.    Guest Bio:   Rebekah Sharpe is a graduate of The University of Michigan and has been employed with Ford Motor Company for thirteen years. She currently works as a senior manager in the Customer Service Division. In 2023, Rebekah was appointed the global chair of the Ford Interfaith Network, affording her the opportunity to deepen her sense of humanity and further the peace-making process through empathy, education, and empowerment around the world. She was ordained as a minister in 2018 and has since authored two faith-based books, Millennial Transformations and Truths from The Throne. In 2021, she and her father, Luis, were elected as Ambassadors with the NFL Hall of Fame to bring resources and inspiration to families impacted by substance misuse and behavioral health issues.  In addition to speaking and sharing her story of turning wounds into wisdom, Rebekah co-hosts “Sharpe Talk, a podcast about faith, family, and football with Luis. She ardently believes “what the enemy meant for evil, God will use for our good and the saving of many other lives” and is a living testament of this truth. Rebekah currently serves in leadership at her local church and can be found stewarding intercessory prayer, passionately sharing the church announcements, on the women’s ministry leadership team, and hosting the annual Women’s Conference.  Verses Mentioned:   2 Timothy 1:7 The Great Commission (Matthew 28:18–20)  Matthew 5:16 Colossians 3:23 Exodus 31:3 Exodus 20:8 Genesis 2:2–3 2 Timothy 3:16–17 Jeremiah 29:11 Ephesians 4:11–12 Ephesians 2:10 Featured Links:   Keep the conversation going with the Discussion Guide from this episode! Rebekah’s Website: https://www.rebekahsharpe.com/ Follow Rebekah on Instagram and LinkedIn!  The Whole Man Project: https://www.odbm.org/en/voices/the-whole-man Faith Under Construction Landing Page: https://www.odbm.org/en/voices/faith-under-construction VOICES Community: https://www.odbm.org/en/voices Follow VOICES on Instagram

    54 min
  7. Self-Care or Soul Care? (Charlotte Crabbe)

    Apr 20

    Self-Care or Soul Care? (Charlotte Crabbe)

    Guest Bio:   Charlotte Crabbe is the founder and president of Cultivate Vibrance, whose mission is to inspire Black women in leadership to be well, lead with authenticity, and live vibrantly. Her experience is diverse—from leading a nonprofit in New York City, to conference and event planning, to creating a DEI program that successfully built pathways for emerging leaders of color. Charlotte is also the co-author of The Rest Guide, a workbook that invites Black women to rediscover soul rest in Jesus. Most importantly, she is a daughter, an auntie, a runner, a community builder, and a woman of faith.    Episode Summary:   Doesn’t it feel like stress and anxiety have been our society’s default setting recently? It’s no surprise that in a world that confuses productivity with purpose more younger people are seeking anything and everything to help keep their mental health in check. But prioritizing our wellbeing means more than just self-care and being open to the idea of God. If we’re leaning into spirituality but not Jesus, we’re missing the mark. If we’re focusing on our physical care, but not our soul, we’ve ignored the whole plot. Join your hosts Dr. Christin Thorpe, Rasool Berry, and special guest Charlotte Crabbe as we explore what it means to cultivate an abundant, rest-filled life knowing God cares about every need—and the emotions that come with them.    Verses Mentioned:   Philippians 4:6-8 John 10:10 1 Kings 18:16–19:15 Psalm 46:10 Joshua 1:8 1 Timothy 4:8 Isaiah 54:4 Featured Links:   Keep the conversation going with the Discussion Guide from this episode! Looking for a new resource to help prioritize personal rest, prepare for a season of leadership support, or just a quick five-minute read that gives you a dose of encouragement? The Rest Guide is a tool for Black women seeking soul rest through the words of Jesus. Designed as a small companion book, this resource includes practical examples, Scripture, mental health practices, and prayer prompts. Order your copy! https://www.cultivatevibrance.org/rest-guideCultivate Vibrance’s Website: https://www.cultivatevibrance.org/ Follow Cultivate Vibrance on Instagram and Substack!  The Whole Man Project: https://www.odbm.org/en/voices/the-whole-man Our Daily Bread Ministries: https://www.odbm.org Faith Under Construction Landing Page: https://www.odbm.org/en/voices/faith-under-construction VOICES Community: https://www.odbm.org/en/voices Follow VOICES on Instagram

    57 min
  8. I Love God, But His People are Weird (Briana McCarthy)

    Apr 13

    I Love God, But His People are Weird (Briana McCarthy)

    Guest Bio:   Briana McCarthy is the director of engagement for African American Ministries at Our Daily Bread Ministries and the founder and president of The Brilliant Tribe, a discipleship organization committed to equipping the church to intentionally follow Christ in everyday life—not just on Sundays. Additionally, Briana has had the opportunity to write for and partner with organizations such as the Jude 3 Project, Christianity Today, and the AND Campaign, contributing to thoughtful conversations at the intersection of faith, culture, and discipleship.    Episode Summary:   Let’s be real: Christianity is a little weird, right? Like, what do you mean we’re supposed to love everyone wholeheartedly? We’re actually supposed to offer forgiveness to those who hurt us? In a perfect world, our church families would be constant, grace-filled communities where everyone found a home. But in today’s reality, our churches are being called to disciple growing populations of those who are hurting, skeptical, or de-churched—and still need to unify them under Christ’s standards. But before we can hold accountability with one another, we need Christ-like relationships. And for Christ-like relationships to thrive, we need grace. Join today’s episode with Rasool, Christin, and special guest Briana McCarthy as we see how Scripture helps us define what it means to be part of a healthy church family.    Verses Mentioned:   1 Peter 2:9 1 Corinthians 11:1 Matthew 15:21–28 Luke 7:36–50 Romans 7 Featured Links:   Keep the conversation going with the Discussion Guide from this episode! Learn more about Briana’s work with The Brilliant Tribe on Instagram and Facebook! Briana’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iambrianamccarthy Faith Under Construction Landing Page: https://www.odbm.org/en/voices/faith-under-construction VOICES Community: https://www.odbm.org/en/voices Follow VOICES on Instagram

    1h 3m
  9. Is Christianity A White Man's Religion? (Dr. Eric Mason)

    Apr 6

    Is Christianity A White Man's Religion? (Dr. Eric Mason)

    Guest Bio:   Dr. Eric Mason is the founder and lead pastor of Epiphany Fellowship Church in Philadelphia, PA. He is married to Yvette and has three sons—Immanuel, Nehemiah, and Ephraim—and one living daughter, Amalyah. Dr. Mason has been graced by God to preach and teach at churches and conferences in the US and abroad. He is the recipient of multiple earned degrees, including a BS in psychology from Bowie State University, a master of theology from Dallas Theological Seminary, and a doctoral degree from Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary. He is the founder and president of Thriving, an urban resource organization committed to developing leaders for ministry in the urban context. Dr. Mason has written several books, including Manhood Restored, Woke Church, Beat God to the Punch, Unleashed, Urban Apologetics, and Nehemiah For You. After over two decades of gospel ministry, Dr. Mason is known for his unquenchable passion for seeing the glory of Jesus Christ.    Episode Summary:   Have you met someone who dismissed the Christian faith because it’s the “white man’s religion”? The relationships between race, ethnicity, culture, and church doctrine have been hot topics since the very beginning. And the conversations get even more complicated when misconceptions about how the faith and story of the Bible have been passed down—and its intended audience—get in the way. But here’s the real truth: God wants a relationship with everyone, and the good news of Jesus is for anyone. Join our conversation with Dr. Eric Mason as we address past and present misconceptions and discover what it means to reclaim our dignity, identity, and significance as image bearers of God.  Verses Mentioned:   Titus 3 Ephesians 3:2-5 Acts 17:26-27 Ephesians 2:14-15 Genesis 11:1-9 Acts 2:1-12 Acts 6:1-7 Galatians 5:1-12   Featured Links:   Keep the conversation going with the Discussion Guide from this episode! Dr. Eric Mason’s Website: https://www.pastoremase.com/ Dr. Eric Mason’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pastoremase/?hl=en Faith Under Construction Landing Page: https://www.odbm.org/en/voices/faith-under-construction VOICES Community: https://www.odbm.org/en/voices Follow VOICES on Instagram

    1h 4m
  10. I Have Jesus—Why Do I Need the Church? (Dr. Brianna Parker)

    Mar 30

    I Have Jesus—Why Do I Need the Church? (Dr. Brianna Parker)

    Guest Bio:   Rev. Dr. Brianna K. Parker is a nationally recognized author, faith leader, and data-driven strategist shaping the future of the Black Church and community transformation. As founder and CEO of Black Millennial Café, LLC (BMC), she leads the nation’s foremost research consultancy focused on faith, justice, and culture within Black communities. Her work provides empirical data, cultural insight, and strategic support to churches, nonprofits, and national movements.   Besides her work with BMC, Rev. Bri has served in pastoral leadership and in higher education as Dean of Chapel and adjunct professor at Paul Quinn College and as associate professor of Religion at Jarvis Christian University. Additionally, her published works include What Google Can’t Give, I Still Believe in the Black Church, and the forthcoming The Black Church Effect.     Episode Summary:   Church can mean many different things depending on who you ask. For some, it’s their second home, representing the community that raised them. For others, it’s a constant reminder of past hurts, present doubts, and the big “God questions” they’re trying to answer. God’s love, power within, and purpose for our lives isn’t contained by the church walls—but He uses the people and relationships within them to reach out amid our storms and help bring us back to Him. Join hosts Dr. Christin Thorpe and Rasool Berry as they sit down with Rev. Dr. Brianna Parker to share personal stories and data-driven insights about finding God, rebuilding faith, and the importance of being an active part of the body of Christ.  Verses Mentioned:   Isaiah 64:6 Revelation 12:11 Matthew 18:18-20 John 16:33 2 Kings 4:1-7  Featured Links:   Keep the conversation going with the Discussion Guide from this episode! Follow Black Millennial Café on Facebook and  Instagram!  Rev. Bri’s Instagram  Faith Under Construction Landing Page:  https://www.odbm.org/en/voices/faith-under-construction Thriving Black Church Initiative: https://www.odbm.org/en/voices/thriving-black-church-initiative VOICES Community: https://www.odbm.org/en/voices Follow VOICES on Facebook and Instagram

    1h 12m
  • 10 Episodes

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
4 Ratings

About

What if faith isn’t about pretending to have it all figured out? Faith Under Construction centers Black Millennials and Gen Z voices wrestling openly with Christianity — its beauty, its baggage, and its place in our culture. As they engage in thoughtful conversations with experts at the intersection of faith and culture, the hosts Rasool Berry and Christin Thorpe dive deep into the big questions so many in the Black community are wrestling with—questions about God, justice, the church, and identity. Things like: • If I have Jesus, do I really need the church? • Is Christianity a white, oppressive religion? • What do I do with my doubts? … and so much more. This isn’t church PR. It’s real people navigating belief in public. Whether you’re committed, curious, skeptical, or somewhere in between — there’s space for you here. #FaithUnderConstruction #FaithAndCulture #BlackVoices #SpiritualQuestions

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