New South Christians

David Fuqua

Welcome to New South Christians! Our podcast explores the evolving spiritual perspectives of Generation Z and how they contrast with traditional beliefs found in the Bible Belt's more conservative religious institutions. Join us every Tuesday and Thursday as we dive deep into discussions on faith, culture, and the generational shift in Christianity. Whether you're curious about the future of religion or simply want to understand how Gen Z is reshaping spiritual dialogue, New South Christians is your go-to source for fresh insights on modern faith.Stay connected with us through email at newsouthchristians@gmail.com and subscribe to never miss an episode!

  1. 10/30/2025

    When Church Camp Changes Everything; A Gen Z Christian Story — Dasan | New South Christians #35

    When church camp changes everything, life is never the same. This Gen Z Christian story follows a powerful faith journey from California to Tennessee, where one transformative church camp experience turned head knowledge about God into a real, personal relationship with Jesus Christ. In this honest Christian testimony, discover what happens when Gen Z takes Christianity seriously—navigating faith, dating struggles, modern culture, and living with an end times perspective. From growing up in a Christian home to truly understanding what it means to follow Jesus, this faith journey captures the difference between knowing about God and actually knowing Him. Whether you're part of Gen Z questioning your faith, a young adult seeking spiritual growth, or anyone curious about authentic Christian transformation, this church camp story reveals the moment everything changed. Hear about the challenges of being a serious Christian in today's world, the reality of youth ministry impact, and what genuine faith looks like when religion becomes relationship. This is more than just another Christian story—it's a raw, unfiltered look at Gen Z faith, the power of church camp experiences, and what happens when young Christians move from cultural Christianity to radical discipleship. When Church Camp Changes Everything; A Gen Z Christian Story Church Camp, Gen Z, Christian Story, Jesus Christ, Faith, Christianity, Christian Testimony, Faith Journey, Youth Ministry, Spiritual Growth #ChurchCamp #GenZChristian #ChristianTestimony #FaithJourney #GenZ

    24 min
  2. 06/17/2025

    Faith After Fallout: Gen Z’s Search for Real Spirituality — Michael Lenz | New South Christians #32

    In this thought-provoking episode, New South Christians welcomes Dr. Michael Lenz to delve into the spiritual realities facing Gen Z in a time marked by doubt, deconstruction, and digital distraction. Together, we unpack why traditional religious frameworks often fall short for younger generations—and how authentic faith might still have a future. Dr. Lenz shares candid insights from years of teaching Gen Z students across multiple universities, where he’s witnessed a dramatic shift in spiritual identity. Most young people no longer identify with traditional religion, but they’re not atheists either. Instead, they’re searching for something deeper: a direct connection to God, meaningful spiritual community, and inner peace—not institutional rules. This episode explores how Gen Z is exploring faith through practices like meditation, mysticism, and even psychedelic reflection, all in pursuit of what feels real. We also examine how growing up in a world shaped by school shootings, anxiety, and the isolation of the pandemic has fueled a spiritual hunger. Many feel disconnected from others, uncertain about relationships, and overwhelmed by the performative nature of modern culture—even in church. The result is a generation deeply aware of their need for something transcendent but wary of shallow, commercialized religion. Dr. Lenz explains that spiritual revival isn’t a thing of the past. In fact, the cultural climate is ripe for something new—an awakening driven by grassroots hunger, not institutional revivalism. From student-led worship on college campuses to personal testimonies of transformation, there’s growing momentum for a fresh movement of spiritual depth and authenticity. Whether you're a spiritual guide, a curious seeker, or someone who feels stuck in the gap between religion and relationship, this episode is a must-listen. Through raw stories, bold insight, and hopeful reflection, we discover why Gen Z’s fallout from tradition may actually be the first step toward a more honest, connected spiritual future. Faith After Fallout: Gen Z’s Search for Real Spirituality — Michael Lenz | New South Christians #32 #NewSouthChristians #GenZFaith #SpiritualRevival #FaithAfterFallout #ReligiousDeconstruction #ModernChristianity #ChristianPodcast #PostPandemicChurch #SpiritualHunger #AuthenticFaith

    30 min
  3. 04/03/2025

    Rediscovering Jesus in a Disconnected Generation — Sarah Keefer | New South Christians #31

    In this episode of New South Christians, Sarah Keefer shares her honest and heartfelt experience navigating faith as a member of Generation Z. From growing up in a small-town church to stepping away during the pandemic, and eventually rediscovering Jesus through truth-driven teaching and intentional community, Sarah opens up about what spiritual growth really looks like in today’s disconnected culture. She discusses the difference between conviction and shame, the challenges of finding authentic faith in large church settings, and how meaningful connection requires far more than showing up on Sundays. Sarah also reflects on the struggles Gen Z faces in building friendships and relationships — not only within the church, but across college campuses, dating culture, and everyday social spaces. Through stories of church hurt, pandemic isolation, and her journey back to Christ-centered faith, Sarah gives voice to a generation searching for something deeper than performance-based religion and surface-level relationships. Whether you're a young adult trying to navigate your own walk with God, or someone looking to understand the spiritual landscape of Gen Z, this episode offers a powerful glimpse into the tensions, hopes, and redemptive moments shaping modern Christianity. 🎧 New South Christians explores the evolving spiritual perspectives of Generation Z and how they contrast with traditional beliefs in the Bible Belt. Join us every Tuesday and Thursday for honest conversations about faith, culture, and the generational shift in Christianity. Rediscovering Jesus in a Disconnected Generation — Sarah Keefer | New South Christians #31 #GenZFaith #RediscoverJesus #DisconnectedGeneration #NewSouthChristians #ChurchHurt #ChristianCommunity #FaithJourney #ModernChristianity #BiblicalTruth #StandUpFaith

    39 min
  4. 02/06/2025

    Bridging the Gap – Faith in a Changing Culture — Tex Cook | New South Christians #30

    The way people engage with faith is changing. Gen Z and younger believers are questioning traditional church models—not because they reject God, but because they struggle to find authenticity, relevance, and real connection. In this episode of New South Christians, Tex Cook joins us to explore why the church feels disconnected from younger generations, how faith is evolving in a digital world, and what needs to change to bridge the gap. 💡 Topics We Cover: ✅ Why Gen Z is disengaging from traditional church structures ✅ The difference between performative faith and genuine faith ✅ How social media and technology have reshaped spiritual conversations ✅ What the church must do to remain relevant and impactful ✅ How to balance biblical truth with modern cultural shifts This isn’t about abandoning tradition—it’s about building real connections with real people. Whether you're a church leader, a believer struggling with faith, or just curious about the future of Christianity, this conversation is for you. Bridging the Gap – Faith in a Changing Culture (Feat. Tex Cook) Chapters: 00:00 - Introduction and Guest Introduction (Tex Cook) 02:33 - Tex’s Background: Moving to Tennessee and Joining Northfield Church 05:12 - Building Community in Young Adults Ministry 09:30 - Challenges of Community College Ministry and Student Engagement 13:45 - Creating Authentic Spaces for Fellowship 18:10 - Event Planning: Open Mic Night and Easter Outreach 22:45 - Discussing the Role of Community in Ministry 27:30 - Generational Differences in Church Experience 32:55 - Addressing Declining Church Attendance in Younger Generations 36:40 - Importance of Authentic Faith and Connection 41:15 - Tex’s Experience at Passion Conference 46:00 - Hope and Optimism for the Next Generation’s Faith Journey 51:30 - Challenges of Ministry in Modern Culture 56:15 - How Churches Can Adapt to Reach Younger Generations 1:01:00 - Encouraging Involvement Beyond Church Walls 1:06:40 - Final Reflections and Encouragement for Building Community #FaithAndCulture #GenZFaith #NewSouthChristians #TexCook #Christianity #ChurchEvolution #FaithInModernTimes #SpiritualGrowth #ReachingGenZ #ChristianPodcast

    32 min
  5. 11/28/2024

    From Struggles to Spirituality — Sierra Sage | New South Christians #28

    Sierra Sage joins us in Episode 28 of the New South Christians Podcast, where she shares her heartfelt story of growth, faith, and finding her purpose. From starting out in a career in dental assisting to discovering her calling through marketing, Sierra’s journey is filled with lessons about resilience and spiritual awakening. She discusses the importance of having a strong faith community, how her experiences in church shaped her outlook, and the challenges young adults face when balancing modern life with traditional beliefs. We also explore critical questions: What does it mean to live authentically as a Christian? How can we serve others and live out our faith in practical ways? Whether you’re questioning your own spiritual journey or seeking encouragement, Sierra’s insights will inspire and uplift you. In this episode, you'll discover: The transition from religious expectations to a genuine relationship with God. Why community and fellowship are essential for spiritual growth. Personal stories about faith during life’s storms and how serving others brings fulfillment. 🎙 Don’t miss this heartfelt conversation and be sure to like, subscribe, and share to support our community of faith! Want to hear more? Comment below with your thoughts and what faith topics you'd like us to discuss next! Stay connected and inspired by subscribing to the New South Christians Podcast. Together, let’s explore faith, purpose, and life. #FaithConversations, #NewSouthChristians, #SierraSage, #ChristianInspiration, #YoungFaith, #PodcastTalks, #CommunityFaith, #NonDenominational, #ModernChristianity, #FaithJourney2024

    32 min

About

Welcome to New South Christians! Our podcast explores the evolving spiritual perspectives of Generation Z and how they contrast with traditional beliefs found in the Bible Belt's more conservative religious institutions. Join us every Tuesday and Thursday as we dive deep into discussions on faith, culture, and the generational shift in Christianity. Whether you're curious about the future of religion or simply want to understand how Gen Z is reshaping spiritual dialogue, New South Christians is your go-to source for fresh insights on modern faith.Stay connected with us through email at newsouthchristians@gmail.com and subscribe to never miss an episode!