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2D AGO · BONUS

Ahsoka and Anakin: The Jedi Council's Greatest Misses

Dive into the cosmic chaos of this special May the 4th bonus episode of Systematic Geekology, where they explore the Jedi Council's significant role in shaping the destinies of Anakin Skywalker and Ahsoka Tano. Rose, John, and Kevin are all aboard the Millennium Falcon of thought, dissecting how the Council’s decisions influenced these iconic characters' journeys—spoiler alert, it's not all sunshine and lightsabers. They tackle the fine line between the Council’s guardianship and their rigid adherence to rules, which ultimately led to Anakin's tragic downfall and Ahsoka's disillusionment. With a mix of humor and insightful commentary, this episode serves up a fresh perspective on the Council's impact amidst the backdrop of the grand Star Wars saga. So, grab your lightsabers and tune in as they geek out about the Force, board meetings, and the faces behind the most epic stories in the galaxy! Celebrating the iconic May the 4th, Systematic Geekology pulls back the curtain on the Jedi Council's impact on two of Star Wars' most pivotal characters: Anakin Skywalker and Ahsoka Tano. The panel, featuring the dynamic trio of Rose, John Erdely, and Kevin Schaefer, dives deep into the Council's decision-making process, revealing how their rigid structure and traditional views contributed to Anakin's tragic fall to the dark side. They explore the nuances of the Jedi's hesitations regarding Anakin's attachments, particularly his love for his mother and later Padmé, suggesting that this emotional depth was perceived as a weakness by the Council. The discussion flows like a lightsaber duel, sparking insights on how the Council's failure to adapt and connect with their Jedi ultimately led to their downfall. Ahsoka's story is also examined, showcasing her disillusionment with the Council—a pathway that beautifully mirrors Anakin's own journey. As they unravel these character arcs, the hosts inject humor and relatability, likening the Jedi Council to modern-day boards of directors, complete with the bureaucratic banter. This episode is a must-listen for fans eager to understand the underlying themes of choice, attachment, and the eternal struggle between light and dark, all while celebrating the beloved Star Wars universe in a light-hearted, engaging manner. Takeaways: The Jedi Council's early dismissal of Anakin Skywalker illustrates how institutional skepticism can hinder potential greatness.Ahsoka Tano's exit from the Jedi Order showcases the consequences of mistrust and the need for personal autonomy in the face of authority.The dynamic between Anakin and the Jedi Council reflects a broader commentary on the challenges of leadership and governance in high-stakes environments.Exploring the Jedi Council's influence reveals the complexity of attachment and emotional connections in a rigidly structured order.The podcast dives deep into how the Jedi Council's decisions shaped the destinies of pivotal characters like Anakin and Ahsoka, highlighting the weight of leadership choices.Listeners gain insight into the flaws within the Jedi Council, drawing parallels to real-world organizations and their governance challenges. . Be sure to check out our merch, find extra content, and become an official member of Systematic Geekology on our website: https://systematic-geekology-shop.fourthwall.com/ . Check out all of our annual theme series for 2026, "The Faces Behind Us": https://player.captivate.fm/collection/dd903597-98be-49ed-998c-5cdaf73b6af4 . Listen to our other Star Wars episodes: https://player.captivate.fm/collection/8a69b978-b30c-4515-9e5d-a38a84cc367f . Check out other episodes with Kevin: https://player.captivate.fm/collection/84fd7d06-cf1f-48e5-b358-09a01c5a6bc9 . Check out other episodes with Will: https://player.captivate.fm/collection/4559ab55-4b6a-4432-b0a7-b61540df8803 . Listen to all of John's episodes: https://player.captivate.fm/collection/0501276f-17e9-48cf-81a7-140cc6dbad53 Mentioned in this episode: Systematic Geekology Our show focuses around our favorite fandoms that we discuss from a Christian perspective. We do not try to put Jesus into all our favorite stories, but rather we try to ask the questions the IPs are asking, then addressing those questions from our perspective. We are not all ordained, but we are the Priests to the Geeks, in the sense that we try to serve as mediators between the cultures around our favorite fandoms and our faith communities. The Anazao Podcast Network Be sure to check out the network website to see other podcasts trying to engage honestly with Scripture, Theology, Pop Culture, Martial Arts, Science, and more! Anazao Podcast Network Get Your SG Merch now! Check out the link to see all of our different t-shirts, backpacks, drinking glasses, pajamas, and more! SG on Fourthwall Follow us on Instagram and BlueSky to keep up to date! Follow our show on our socials to keep up to date and get some exclusive content and fun memes! Check out our Fourthwall site for quite literally everything to do with our show! All SG merch, extra content, our youtube page, SG memberships, tips / donations, etc. can all be found at this one convenient spot! SG on Fourthwall

2d ago · Bonus

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56 min
APR 25

The One Where We Do the Time Warp Again (again)

This episode has everything. Hot tubs. Psych evals. Rocky Horror. Ghosts. The existential dread of being wrong. The liberating feeling of being comfortable with being wrong. And spritzers. Also, big (not entirely shocking) announcements and teasers!

Apr 25

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1h 13m
05/28/2025

Understanding Messianic Judaism: Pastor Andrae's Insights from Charlotte

Elder Andrae Parker, the esteemed pastor of Faith Temple of Hope—a Messianic Jewish temple situated in Charlotte, North Carolina—provides profound insights into the significance of the new covenant as articulated in the book of Jeremiah. He elucidates how this covenant is not merely a continuation of the old, but a transformative relationship that is written on the hearts of believers. The discussion delves into the implications for modern-day faith practices, emphasizing the importance of understanding one's identity in relation to both Jewish traditions and Christian beliefs. Throughout the episode, we explore how the observance of the Sabbath and other biblical feasts serves as a means of fostering spiritual renewal and community cohesion. Join us as we engage in this enlightening conversation that bridges the ancient with the contemporary in the pursuit of faith and unity. Elder Andrae Parker's interview on The Whole Church Podcast offers an in-depth exploration of Messianic Judaism, a faith tradition that intertwines Jewish customs with the belief in Yeshua as the Messiah. With Joshua Noel as the interlocutor, the episode unfolds a rich narrative of Elder Parker's faith journey, tracing his roots from a Pentecostal background to the establishment of his community at Faith Temple of Hope in Charlotte, NC. Elder Parker discusses the significance of the new covenant as foretold in the scriptures, particularly drawing from the book of Jeremiah, which speaks of a time when God's teachings would be inscribed upon the hearts of His people. This transformation emphasizes the continuity of God's promises from ancient times to the present, inviting listeners to contemplate their relationship with the divine. The conversation delves into the theological nuances of Messianic Judaism, addressing common misconceptions that arise when Jewish identity is conflated with a rejection of Jesus as the Messiah. Elder Parker articulates a vision for unity within the Church, advocating for an understanding that transcends denominational barriers. His insights underscore the importance of community and the shared pursuit of holiness, as well as the necessity of engaging with scripture to foster a deepened faith. By emphasizing the observance of sacred times, particularly the Sabbath, Elder Parker invites believers to explore how these practices can enrich their spiritual lives and enhance communal bonds. As the episode progresses, practical advice is offered for fostering unity within the Christian community. Elder Parker encourages listeners to dedicate time to observe the Sabbath, framing it as a spiritual discipline that cultivates a deeper reliance on God and encourages community engagement. This call to action resonates with the episode's overarching theme of unity amidst diversity, challenging believers to actively seek connections with those from different faith backgrounds. The episode concludes with a powerful reminder of the transformative potential of faith and the importance of nurturing a collective identity rooted in shared beliefs and practices. Takeaways: Elder Andrae Parker emphasizes the significance of the new covenant as a transformative relationship with God, where His teachings are inscribed upon the hearts of believers rather than merely written on tablets. In the practice of Messianic Judaism, observance of the Sabbath and Jewish festivals is seen not only as a tradition but as a vital connection to the spiritual heritage and teachings of the Scriptures. The podcast discusses the misconceptions faced by Messianic Jews, particularly the misunderstanding that they do not believe in the Messiah, emphasizing the belief in Yeshua as the fulfillment of Jewish prophecy. Elder Parker articulates the importance of unity among diverse Christian denominations, advocating for a return to the Scriptures as the foundation of faith to foster communal harmony and understanding. The conversation reveals the depth of Elder Parker's faith journey, which includes a significant transformation influenced by his family's commitment to the study of Scripture and the observance of the Sabbath. The episode highlights the role of community in Messianic Judaism, where believers come together not only for worship but also for mutual support and spiritual growth, particularly through the observance of holy days. . Check out all of the other shows in the Anazao Podcast Network: https://anazao-ministries.captivate.fm . Check out more from TJ on Systematic Geekology: https://player.captivate.fm/collection/642da9db-496a-40f5-b212-7013d1e211e0 . Check out Joshua's Kingdom Hearts substack, The Kingdom Key: https://thekingdomkey.substack.com/ . Wanna meet our hosts? Get your tickets to Theology Beer Camp 2025 to meet Joshua & TJ in St Paul, MN, this fall! https://www.theologybeercamp2025.com/ Mentioned in this episode: Check out the other AMP Network shows! https://anazao-ministries.captivate.fm . https://open.spotify.com/show/725pdvTzkle0fDWK2sdxnD?si=e317918366e04338 https://podcasts.apple.com/us/channel/anazao-podcasts/id6447432145 One Time Donations Easily subscribe to our show wherever you listen! https://the-whole-church-podcast.captivate.fm/listen

05/28/2025

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1h 10m
APR 17

The One Where the Fundamental Force Is With Us

Leah and Stuart co-wrote an article on religion and Star Wars! In the forthcoming Encyclopedia of Religion and Pop Culture, all three of us will have contributions and we'll give you all the info when it comes out!

Apr 17

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1h 12m
MAR 3

Page Actually Knows This One!

On today's episode, Pixel explains the game Life is Strange. A game that includes mystery, time travel, and even some teen angst. Instagram: @pageandpixelpc

Mar 3

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37 min
1D AGO

From Bith to Sith: The Legacy of Darth Tenebrous

Darth Tenebrous takes center stage in this episode as Christian Ashley and TJ Blackwell dive deep into the shadowy world of the Sith. Known primarily as the master of Darth Plagueis and a precursor to Sheev Palpatine, Tenebrous is a pivotal, yet often overlooked, figure in the Star Wars lore. The duo explores Tenebrous's ambitions, including his attempts to manipulate the Force and his visionary schemes that shaped the future of the Sith. They also tackle the complexities of the Rule of Two, a principle that has governed the Sith for ages, and how Tenebrous's legacy intertwines with the galaxy's ultimate villainy. With their signature blend of wit and insight, Christian and TJ shed light on the essence of this enigmatic Sith Lord while having a few laughs at his expense. Christian Ashley and TJ Blackwell delve into the dark and twisted lineage of the Sith in their latest podcast episode, focusing on the enigmatic Darth Tenebrous. The discussion kicks off with a light-hearted banter that sets the tone for a deep dive into the lore surrounding this lesser-known Sith Lord. As they navigate through the complexities of the Rule of Two established by Darth Bane, they unravel how Tenebrous played a pivotal role in shaping the future of the Sith, particularly his influence over Darth Plagueis and, indirectly, Darth Sidious himself. The hosts cleverly contrast Tenebrous's ambition and cunning with the more infamous figures of the Sith, providing listeners with a fresh perspective on the dark side's history. The conversation takes a whimsical turn as they explore Tenebrous's unique characteristics as a Bith—a species often relegated to background roles in the Star Wars universe. Christian and TJ emphasize the importance of diversity in storytelling, especially when it comes to the portrayal of villains. They reflect on how Tenebrous's lesser-known exploits, such as his attempts to manipulate the Force and his involvement in starship construction, highlight the intricate web of power and deceit that defines the Sith legacy. The episode wraps up with a thought-provoking discussion on the implications of Tenebrous's existence (or non-existence) on the overarching narrative of Star Wars, leaving listeners to ponder the ripple effects one character can have on an expansive universe. Takeaways: Darth Tenebrous is a lesser-known Sith Lord who played a pivotal role in the lineage of evil, influencing both Plagueis and Sidious in their dark pursuits.The Rule of Two, established by Darth Bane, defines the dynamic between master and apprentice, highlighting the tension and ambition characteristic of Sith relationships.Tenebrous's ambitions included projecting his consciousness through time to possess the Chosen One, showcasing a complex layer of Sith lore that intertwines with the broader Star Wars narrative.The podcast cleverly contrasts Tenebrous's strategic genius with his eventual downfall, emphasizing the irony of Sith ambition leading to their own destruction.Christian and TJ shed light on Tenebrous's manipulation of the Force and technological advancements, which laid groundwork for the chaos seen in the Galactic Senate during the prequels.The discussion dives into the unique aspects of Tenebrous as a Bith Sith Lord, breaking norms of traditional Sith characterizations and enriching the Star Wars universe with diversity. . Be sure to check out our merch, find extra content, and become an official member of Systematic Geekology on our website: https://systematic-geekology-shop.fourthwall.com/ . Check out all of our annual theme series for 2026, "The Faces Behind Us": https://player.captivate.fm/collection/dd903597-98be-49ed-998c-5cdaf73b6af4 . Listen to our other Star Wars episodes: https://player.captivate.fm/collection/8a69b978-b30c-4515-9e5d-a38a84cc367f . Check out other episodes with Christian: https://player.captivate.fm/collection/ebf4b064-0672-47dd-b5a3-0fff5f11b54c . Check out other episodes with TJ: https://player.captivate.fm/collection/f4c32709-d8ff-4cef-8dfd-5775275c3c5e Mentioned in this episode: Join our Facebook group and Discord Server Find our Facebook group, "Priests to the Geeks", then join our Discord server with this link to continue on the conversation with us! Discord The Anazao Podcast Network Be sure to check out the network website to see other podcasts trying to engage honestly with Scripture, Theology, Pop Culture, Martial Arts, Science, and more! Anazao Podcast Network Become a member of Systematic Geekology on our Website! Check out the link to become a member of Systematic Geekology! All member get exclusive extras and shout outs on the show! Some of the paid tiers of membership get store discounts, free merch, and more! SG on Fourthwall Donate to our Show / Check Out Free Extras Check out our show on Fourthwall to donate to the podcast or get free extra content! SG on Fourthwall Systematic Geekology Our show focuses around our favorite fandoms that we discuss from a Christian perspective. We do not try to put Jesus into all our favorite stories, but rather we try to ask the questions the IPs are asking, then addressing those questions from our perspective. We are not all ordained, but we are the Priests to the Geeks, in the sense that we try to serve as mediators between the cultures around our favorite fandoms and our faith communities.

1d ago

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41 min
MAR 10

To Nerdfinity and Beyond

Join us this week as Page talks about the Secret Astromers. Leran how an old astronomy textbook in a tiny Appalachian high school will change the lives of two teenage girls. Instagram: @pageandpixelpc

Mar 10

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30 min
APR 8

Renewing Minds and Building Bridges: A Conversation with Pastor Sarah Hinlicky Wilson

Rev. Dr. Sarah Hinlicky Wilson joins us to elucidate her extensive work in fostering greater Church Unity across diverse global contexts. Through her profound insights, we explore the critical necessity of speaking truthfully to one another, a practice she asserts is vital for the vitality of the Church in our contemporary, tumultuous culture. Dr. Wilson reflects on her experiences as a pastor in Japan, highlighting the unique challenges faced by Christians in a predominantly non-Christian society, and emphasizes the importance of local ecumenical relationships over abstract theological dialogues. As she articulates the imperative of grounding our ecclesiastical identities in shared beliefs, particularly through the historical creeds, we are reminded that unity is not merely an ideal but a tangible commitment lived out in community. This episode serves as a clarion call for Christians everywhere to engage in meaningful conversations and collaborative actions that transcend denominational boundaries in pursuit of a more unified Church. The conversation between Joshua Noel, TJ Blackwell, and Pastor Sarah Hinlicky Wilson unfolds in a profound exploration of church unity, drawing upon her extensive experience as a pastor and theologian. Pastor Sarah reflects on her tenure at a Lutheran church in Tokyo, a context characterized by a small Christian demographic in a predominantly non-Christian nation. She articulates the complexities of fostering community and dialogue among disparate Christian traditions, emphasizing the necessity of understanding and respecting each denomination's unique contributions to the larger body of Christ. Through her narratives, she challenges the notion of ecumenism as a luxury, suggesting instead that true unity emerges from local, meaningful interactions rather than abstract theological debates. The discussion is enriched by Pastor Sarah's insights into the importance of theological education and the role of creeds in unifying believers across generations and cultural contexts. Her emphasis on the creeds as foundational expressions of faith underscores a critical pathway for achieving greater understanding and collaboration among different Christian communities. Takeaways: Pastor Sarah Hinlicky Wilson emphasized the significance of renewing our minds for church unity, as articulated in Ephesians 4, which calls for spiritual transformation and truthfulness among believers.The complexity of understanding truth in a noisy culture was highlighted, where individual perceptions of truth do not necessarily align with objective truth as defined by Christian doctrine.Ecumenism, while often viewed as a luxury, becomes essential when congregations feel secure in their identity and are more willing to engage with one another.Pastor Sarah shared her experiences in Japan, noting that the ecumenical landscape is challenged by a small Christian population, which affects the willingness to collaborate among different denominations.A call to action was made for local church leaders to connect personally, suggesting that practical collaboration can foster unity beyond theological differences.Pastor Sarah remarked that understanding and using the historic creeds can guide congregations towards greater unity, as they encapsulate core Christian beliefs shared across denominations. . You can leave a donation, buy podcast merchandise, check out previous series that we've done, or become an official member of The Whole Church Podcast on our website: https://the-whole-church-podcast-shop.fourthwall.com/ . Check out all of the other shows in the Anazao Podcast Network and find merch to support some of your favorite podcasts on the network's website: https://anazao-podcasts-shop.fourthwall.com/ . Don't miss any of the great work Pastor Sarah is doing! You can follow her a number of ways through her website here: https://www.sarahhinlickywilson.com/about . Check out TJ on Systematic Geekology: https://player.captivate.fm/collection/f4c32709-d8ff-4cef-8dfd-5775275c3c5e . Hear more from Joshua on Be Living Water: https://be-living-water.captivate.fm/listen . Be sure to listen to these episodes of Sarah's podcast, "The Queen of the Sciences": Hey Jude Unbaptized God Pastoral Preaching

Apr 8

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1h 2m
2D AGO

Judges 13 & 14

How does Israel descend into sin yet again? How does the Angel of the Lord prove Himself as Jesus? What are the sins of the Danites? How did the Philistines oppress Israel? Who are Samson's parents and why did he have to become a Nazarite? What are Samson's sins and how does God still use him? How does Samson start to break his vows? How does God still get glory despite Samson's sins?

2d ago

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1h 27m
08/24/2022

Who Are the Beasts of Job?

Welcome back to our Dividing Scriptures series! Our hosts Joshua Noel and TJ Blackwell discuss the different theories of who or what the Leviathan and Behemoth in the book of Job are! What is the Behemoth in the Bible? Does the Leviathan still exist? Is the Ziz mentioned in the Bible? What animals are the Leviathan and Behemoth? Are the Leviathan and Behemoth of the Bible really dinosaurs? How tall is the Ziz? Why does any of this matter? Are these beasts literal or figurative? How much can we disagree about these beats and still maintain Church unity? Let us know what you think of these three beasts of Jewish mythology on our Facebook group, the Whole Church group! . Check out our reading list, here. . Please consider sponsoring our show on Patreon, here, for access to our extra content like our "Too Long; Didn't Listen" series, our "Pet Peeves" series, and our "Whole Church News" episodes! . Make a one-time donation, here. . Subscribe to our show, here. . Rate us & leave a review, here. Mentioned in this episode: Easily subscribe to our show wherever you listen! https://the-whole-church-podcast.captivate.fm/listen Check out the other AMP Network shows! https://anazao-ministries.captivate.fm . https://open.spotify.com/show/725pdvTzkle0fDWK2sdxnD?si=e317918366e04338 https://podcasts.apple.com/us/channel/anazao-podcasts/id6447432145 One Time Donations

08/24/2022

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34 min

Anazao (an-ah-zah’-o) is a Koine Greek word meaning “new life” or “life restored,” describing both a moment of revival and an ongoing process of renewal. To wake from death, to be re-formed, or to continually renew the mind, body, and soul is to "anazao". Our network aims to live into that renewal by asking better questions and engaging the world as it actually is. We explore a variety of topics such as martial arts, Taoism, horror, science, pop culture, questions of Church unity, and more. Too often Christian media settles for safe answers and shallow conversations; we’d rather wrestle with what’s hard, strange, or uncomfortable. By digging beneath clichés and taking ideas seriously - whether from the Bible, a dojo, a film, the Church, or a laboratory - we believe faith doesn’t shrink. It restores, engages, and brings new life.

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