From Bible School to ’Trump Grumpies’: Gen Z Asks, What Would Jesus Really Do? with Emerson Riley Nathan

In this heartfelt and wide-ranging episode, host Corey Nathan sits down with a very special guest — his own son, Emerson Riley Nathan. Together, they dive into Gen Z’s unique perspective on faith, politics, and culture. As a young adult navigating the complexities of belief, identity, and creativity, Emerson offers refreshing candor about his spiritual journey, social views, and passion for music. This conversation is an inspiring look at how different generations can engage in meaningful, respectful dialogue.

What You Will Learn:

• Insights into Gen Z's evolving relationship with faith and spirituality
  
  
• How Emerson balances skepticism and open-mindedness about religion
  
  
• The impact of politics and social media on young people's worldview
  
  
• How music and community-building are vital for mental health and connection
  
  
• The dynamic of a father and son having open, vulnerable discussions about big life questions
  
  

Episode Highlights:

• [00:01:00] – Emerson's "graveyard shift" lifestyle and its impact on his creativity
  
  
• [00:03:00] – Emerson shares his journey growing up between Christianity and Judaism
  
  
• [00:07:00] – How the 2012 election and political polarization shaped Emerson’s views
  
  
• [00:11:00] – Moving away from organized religion and questioning traditional beliefs
  
  
• [00:20:00] – Emerson's current agnostic beliefs and embracing uncertainty about the afterlife
  
  
• [00:27:00] – The healing power of kindness and defining what it means to be good
  
  
• [00:32:00] – Emerson’s passion for dubstep, rave culture, and community through music
  
  
• [00:45:00] – Corey and Emerson discuss responsible adulthood, fatherhood, and finding purpose
  
  
• [00:59:00] – How politics today have created both division and a sense of helplessness
  
  

Resources Mentioned:

• Sugar Magnacious on Instagram
• Debased Sound on Instagram
  
  

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Let’s keep talking politics and religion—with gentleness and respect. 🎙️💡