The SkyePod - Drew's News: In-Depth Analysis of Christian Nationalism and Modern Relationship Dynamics

Release Date: August 15, 2025
Host: Skye Jethani
Guest: Drew Dick

Introduction

In this episode of The SkyePod, host Skye Jethani welcomes Drew Dick for the monthly segment titled Drew's News. The episode commences with exciting news: Drew Dick is officially joining the Holy Post Media team in an editorial capacity. Skye humorously notes, "We only want you in a certain capacity," to which Drew responds with his signature wit, establishing a congenial rapport between the hosts ([00:17]).

Drew Dick Joins Holy Post Media

Skye enthusiastically announces Drew's official role, highlighting his ongoing contributions to various podcasts and upcoming projects. Despite remaining based in Portland, Drew will significantly influence Holy Post Media's written content and other initiatives. Drew celebrates the occasion by showcasing his Holy Post Media-branded Yeti tumbler, adding a light-hearted touch to the announcement ([00:27] - [01:43]).

Holy Post Plus and Content Strategy

Skye delves into the workings of Holy Post Plus, the subscription-based model supporting Holy Post Media's diverse content offerings. He explains the innovative approach of releasing his new book serially, with interactive live streams accompanying each chapter. Addressing listener feedback, Skye discusses the strategic placement of exclusive content behind the paywall, inspired by Andrew Sullivan's Dishcast, to encourage subscriptions without traditional advertising ([01:46] - [05:09]).

Drew humorously introduces his new puppy, Moby Dick, a nod to his last name, reinforcing the show's personable and relatable atmosphere ([05:09] - [05:54]).

Main Segment: Christian Nationalism and Pastor Douglas Wilson

The primary focus of this episode centers on a controversial CNN segment featuring Pastor Douglas Wilson, labeled as a "Christian nationalist" with affiliations to Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth. Drew and Skye dissect the implications of Wilson's beliefs and his growing influence within both religious and political spheres ([05:55] - [09:50]).

UnAmerican Views:

• Pastor Wilson's stance against democracy, advocating for a theocratic system where Christianity governs societal structures ([06:38] - [09:24]).

• His opposition to equal rights for women and the abolition of slavery, positing biblical justifications for these views ([06:38] - [09:24]).

  • Drew remarks, "He, strictly speaking, does not believe in democracy," highlighting the incompatibility of Wilson's beliefs with foundational American principles ([06:38]).
  • Skye emphasizes the contradiction of having officials who reject the Constitution, stating, "How can you say God gave us the Constitution and then put someone in charge... who doesn't believe in the Constitution? That's insane to me" ([22:49]).

Christian Perspective:

• Wilson's advocacy for Old Testament law in modern society contradicts the teachings and intentions of Jesus Christ, posing significant theological concerns ([10:08] - [11:39]).

  • Skye critiques Wilson's approach, noting, "It's a bad reading of Scripture... a misunderstanding of what Jesus came to create" ([11:19]).

Appeal and Media Savvy:

• The duo explores why Wilson's brand of Christian nationalism resonates today, attributing it to societal complexities and a desire for clear, authoritative guidance in a polarized culture ([12:07] - [19:12]).

  • Drew observes, "There's a loss of cultural power that some Christians feel... and it resonates with a lot of people" ([12:07]).
  • Skye connects Wilson's movement to post-millennialism, contrasting it with the traditionally dominant premillennialism in American evangelicalism, and discusses its fundamentalist appeal ([14:03] - [19:12]).

Institution Building and Longevity:

• Skye praises Wilson's strategic institution-building, which ensures the movement's persistence beyond his personal leadership, unlike movements centered around charismatic leaders like MAGA under Donald Trump ([20:11] - [21:26]).

  • Drew adds, "He's very media savvy... he understands the media landscape" ([20:56]).

Concerns and Accountability:

• The conversation shifts to the alarming endorsement of Wilson by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, questioning the Senate's role in approving such appointments and holding Congress accountable for oversight failures ([22:29] - [24:29]).

  • Skye passionately states, "Blame President Trump all you want... At the end of the day, it's Congress's responsibility to prevent these kinds of people from having Power" ([24:13]).

Shift to Gender Dynamics in Relationships

Transitioning from political-religious discourse, Drew introduces a New York Times article discussing the emotional labor burden on female partners due to shrinking male social circles. The article posits that men often confide solely in their romantic partners, who then shoulder the responsibility of emotional support ([25:25] - [26:09]).

Discussion Highlights:

• The pressure on women to act as unofficial therapists for their male partners.

  • Drew humorously critiques the article, stating, "I kind of think this is a load of bull" ([26:03]).

• Skye playfully responds, indicating acceptance of traditional relationship dynamics, yet the conversation is cut short as the transcript moves towards a promotional segment ([26:09] - [26:56]).

Conclusion

The episode provides a compelling examination of the intersection between religion, politics, and societal norms, anchored by the dynamic discussions between Skye Jethani and Drew Dick. The analysis of Pastor Douglas Wilson's Christian nationalism serves as a critical lens on contemporary issues affecting American values and governance.

Notable Quotes:

• Drew Dick ([06:38]): "He, strictly speaking, does not believe in democracy."
• Skye Jethani ([22:49]): "How can you say God gave us the Constitution and then put someone in charge... who doesn't believe in the Constitution? That's insane to me."
• Skye Jethani ([19:12]): "It's a way not only to support the work we're doing and the content we're creating, but also resourcing yourself with all kinds of great stuff."

For full access to this episode and more exclusive content, consider subscribing to Holy Post Plus at holypost.com/skyepod.