Special Offers

Buddhist Catholic Contemplative Evangelical General Christian Hindu Jewish Latter-day Saint Muslim New Visions Progressive Christian

;

Wild Olive

S3 Episode 1: Marriage & The Bible | Part 1 EPISODE 34

This week, Jennifer and Jeanne talk about Jennifer's new book "Marriage In The Bible". The conversation explores the phrase "biblical" marriage," suggesting that the Bible portrays heterosexual arrangements that most twenty-first century people--conservative Christians included--would NOT want to imitate. Jennifer gets honest about what biblical passages do and don't say about men and women partnering, desentimentalizing "biblical marriage." Jeanne shares Margaret Atwood's poem "Habitation," which also de-sentimentalizes marriage. Help support Wild Olive, Donate Here! Follow us here! Blog Instagram Facebook

CLEAN

All Episodes

S1 Episode 1: What is the Wild Olive podcast and how is it different from other Bible podcasts?

S1 Episode 1: What is the Wild Olive podcast and how is it different from other Bible podcasts?

The Wild Olive Podcast brings listeners game-changing conversation about literature, culture, and the Bible. Literature Professor Jeanne Petrolle and Biblical Studies Professor Jennifer Bird talk about the Protestant Bible from a literary perspective, connecting biblical texts with other kinds of texts, and with American culture. In this inaugural episode of Wild Olive, Jeanne and Jennifer introduce the new podcast, explaining what it means to read the Bible as literature, and how the concept of myth can help readers understand some parts of the Bible. Help support Wild Olive, Donate Here! Follow us here! Blog Instagram Facebook

Episode 1: What is the Wild Olive podcast and how is it different from other Bible podcasts?

Episode 1: What is the Wild Olive podcast and how is it different from other Bible podcasts?

The Wild Olive Podcast brings listeners game-changing conversation about literature, culture, and the Bible. Literature Professor Jeanne Petrolle and Biblical Studies Professor Jennifer Bird talk about the Protestant Bible from a literary perspective, connecting biblical texts with other kinds of texts, and with American culture. In this inaugural episode of Wild Olive, Jeanne and Jennifer introduce the new podcast, explaining what it means to read the Bible as literature, and how the concept of myth can help readers understand some parts of the Bible.

S1 Episode 2: What reading lenses do we bring to the Bible and to other literatures?

S1 Episode 2: What reading lenses do we bring to the Bible and to other literatures?

Hosts Jeanne Petrolle and Jennifer Bird talk about their backgrounds and how these backgrounds shape the reading lenses that each brings to biblical texts. Conversation goes on to explore the nature of reading "lenses," and how one's "lenses" shape interpretation of any work of literature, and will certainly shape interpretation of the Bible. Help support Wild Olive, Donate Here! Follow us here! Blog Instagram Facebook

Episode 2: What reading lenses do we bring to the Bible and to other literatures?

Episode 2: What reading lenses do we bring to the Bible and to other literatures?

Hosts Jeanne Petrolle and Jennifer Bird talk about their backgrounds and how these backgrounds shape the reading lenses that each brings to biblical texts. Conversation goes on to explore the nature of reading "lenses," and how one's "lenses" shape interpretation of any work of literature, and will certainly shape interpretation of the Bible.

S1 Episode 4: How does translation into English affect meaning in biblical stories?

S1 Episode 4: How does translation into English affect meaning in biblical stories?

Sometimes, readers of the Bible underestimate the effects of translation on the meanings that arise from particular Bible stories. In this episode, Jeanne and Jennifer discuss the complexities of translation, exploring a number of specific examples in which changes made in the process of translation from Hebrew to English--or Hebrew to Greek to English--introduce meanings that do not exist in the original language, or erase certain ideas or images that are in the original but are missing from the English translation. Help support Wild Olive, Donate Here! Follow us here! Blog Instagram Facebook

S1 Episode 3: What does it mean to read the Bible as myth?

S1 Episode 3: What does it mean to read the Bible as myth?

While some understand the term "myth" to mean "something that's not true," that isn't what biblical or literary scholars mean when they use the term. For scholars, "myth" is the literary term for certains kinds of storytelling. Jeanne and Jennifer explore a range of meanings for the term "myth," and discuss how reading the Bible as myth opens up a range of rich, valuable interpretations. Help support Wild Olive, Donate Here! Follow us here! Blog Instagram Facebook

Episode 3: What does it mean to read the Bible as myth?

Episode 3: What does it mean to read the Bible as myth?

While some understand the term "myth" to mean "something that's not true," that isn't what biblical or literary scholars mean when they use the term. For scholars, "myth" is the literary term for certains kinds of storytelling. Jeanne and Jennifer explore a range of meanings for the term "myth," and discuss how reading the Bible as myth opens up a range of rich, valuable interpretations.

Episode 4: How does translation into English affect meaning in biblical stories?

Episode 4: How does translation into English affect meaning in biblical stories?

Sometimes, readers of the Bible underestimate the effects of translation on the meanings that arise from particular Bible stories. In this episode, Jeanne and Jennifer discuss the complexities of translation, exploring a number of specific examples in which changes made in the process of translation from Hebrew to English--or Hebrew to Greek to English--introduce meanings that do not exist in the original language, or erase certain ideas or images that are in the original but are missing from the English translation.

S1 Episode 5: How do the first few chapters of Genesis work poetically?

S1 Episode 5: How do the first few chapters of Genesis work poetically?

Jennifer and Jeanne share observations about rhythm, rhyme, parallelism, and imagery in the first three chapters of Genesis. After exploring how the Hebrew poetry in these Genesis chapters work poetically, the conversation goes on to consider the thematic richness of the story, the myriad ways of understanding the woman in Genesis, and two ways of thinking about genre in connection with the Genesis creation stories. The conversation turns to a brief consideration of Zora Neale Hurston's Harlem Renaissance novel Their Eyes Were Watching God, in which the main character, Janie, functions as an Eve figure. Help support Wild Olive, Donate Here! Follow us here! Blog Instagram Facebook

S1 Episode 6: How does Genesis 3 explore gender, power, and sexuality?

S1 Episode 6: How does Genesis 3 explore gender, power, and sexuality?

Jeanne and Jennifer discuss gender, power, and sexuality in Genesis 3 and in "Loving You," a poem by Vievee Francis. Help support Wild Olive, Donate Here! Follow us here! Blog Instagram Facebook

Episode 5: How do the first few chapters of Genesis work poetically?

Episode 5: How do the first few chapters of Genesis work poetically?

Jennifer and Jeanne share observations about rhythm, rhyme, parallelism, and imagery in the first three chapters of Genesis. After exploring how the Hebrew poetry in these Genesis chapters work poetically, the conversation goes on to consider the thematic richness of the story, the myriad ways of understanding the woman in Genesis, and two ways of thinking about genre in connection with the Genesis creation stories. The conversation turns to a brief consideration of Zora Neale Hurston's Harlem Renaissance novel Their Eyes Were Watching God, in which the main character, Janie, functions as an Eve figure.

Episode 6: How does Genesis 3 explore gender, power, and sexuality?

Episode 6: How does Genesis 3 explore gender, power, and sexuality?

Jeanne and Jennifer discuss gender, power, and sexuality in Genesis 3 and in "Loving You," a poem by Vievee Francis.

S1 Episode 7: What's up with all the violence in the Bible?

S1 Episode 7: What's up with all the violence in the Bible?

Jeanne Petrolle and Jennifer Bird discuss the rampant violence that characterizes so many Bible stories. Using Sherman Alexie's poem "Crow Testament" and American independent film as lenses through which to reconsider the Bible's violence, Jeanne and Jennifer reflect on some of the real-life consequences connected with the location of a collection of violent stories at the center of Christian culture. Help support Wild Olive, Donate Here! Follow us here! Blog Instagram Facebook

Episode 7: What's up with all the violence in the Bible?

Episode 7: What's up with all the violence in the Bible?

Jeanne Petrolle and Jennifer Bird discuss the rampant violence that characterizes so many Bible stories. Using Sherman Alexie's poem "Crow Testament" and American independent film as lenses through which to reconsider the Bible's violence, Jeanne and Jennifer reflect on some of the real-life consequences connected with the location of a collection of violent stories at the center of Christian culture.

S1 Episode 8: Representations of God

S1 Episode 8: Representations of God

In this episode, Jeanne and Jennifer share a poem from Rainer Maria Rilke's poetry collection Love Poems to God. Rilke's poem invites readers to think about the problem of representation as it pertains to the representation of God. To think about the "problem of representation" is to think about the gap that exists between the reality of God--whatever that might be--and the portrayal of God in language or in image. The problem of representing God is one of the Bible's fundamental artistic and intellectual challenges. How can anyone represent something that is beyond language, beyond image, beyond representation? Visit our website http://wildolivebibleandculture.org for episode notes and more information about the show! Help support Wild Olive, Donate Here! Follow us here! Blog Instagram Facebook

Episode 8: Representations of God

Episode 8: Representations of God

In this episode, Jeanne and Jennifer share a poem from Rainer Maria Rilke's poetry collection Love Poems to God. Rilke's poem invites readers to think about the problem of representation as it pertains to the representation of God. To think about the "problem of representation" is to think about the gap that exists between the reality of God--whatever that might be--and the portrayal of God in language or in image. The problem of representing God is one of the Bible's fundamental artistic and intellectual challenges. How can anyone represent something that is beyond language, beyond image, beyond representation? Visit our website http://wildolivebibleandculture.org for episode notes and more information about the show!

S1 Episode 9: Mrs. Lazarus & The Idea of Resurrection

S1 Episode 9: Mrs. Lazarus & The Idea of Resurrection

Jeanne and Jennifer explore "Mrs. Lazarus," a poem by the Scottish poet Carol Ann Duffy. The poem remixes the story of Jesus raising Lazarus from the dead. As they engage the Gospel story alongside Duffy's poem, your hosts discuss the meaning of resurrection as a life-death-life pattern that appears in the Hebrew Bible, the Newer Testament and, metaphorically speaking, in life outside literature.Help support Wild Olive, Donate Here! Follow us here! Blog Instagram Facebook

S1 Episode 9: Mrs. Lazarus and the Idea of Resurrection

S1 Episode 9: Mrs. Lazarus and the Idea of Resurrection

Jeanne and Jennifer explore "Mrs. Lazarus," a poem by the Scottish poet Carol Ann Duffy. The poem remixes the story of Jesus raising Lazarus from the dead. As they engage the Gospel story alongside Duffy's poem, your hosts discuss the meaning of resurrection as a life-death-life pattern that appears in the Hebrew Bible, the Newer Testament and, metaphorically speaking, in life outside literature.Follow us here! Blog Instagram Facebook

Episode 9: Mrs. Lazarus and the Idea of Resurrection

Episode 9: Mrs. Lazarus and the Idea of Resurrection

Jeanne and Jennifer explore "Mrs. Lazarus," a poem by the Scottish poet Carol Ann Duffy. The poem remixes the story of Jesus raising Lazarus from the dead. As they engage the Gospel story alongside Duffy's poem, your hosts discuss the meaning of resurrection as a life-death-life pattern that appears in the Hebrew Bible, the Newer Testament and, metaphorically speaking, in life outside literature.

S1 Episode 10: Annunciation and Virginity

S1 Episode 10: Annunciation and Virginity

This week, Jennifer and Jeanne dive deep into "The Annunciation" by Edward Muir. Pairing it with Luke Chapter 1, they discuss conception, purity, motherhood and how other interpretations can affect our understanding of the story.Help support Wild Olive, Donate Here! Follow us here! Blog Instagram Facebook

Episode 10: Annunciation and Virginity

Episode 10: Annunciation and Virginity

This week, Jennifer and Jeanne dive deep into "The Annunciation" by Edward Muir. Pairing it with Luke Chapter 1, they discuss conception, purity, motherhood and how other interpretations can affect our understanding of the story.

S1 Episode 11: Anne Sexton and the Humanity of Jesus

S1 Episode 11: Anne Sexton and the Humanity of Jesus

This week, Jeanne and Jennifer explore the poem "Jesus Walking" by Anne Sexton, which refers to the "Temptation in the Wilderness" scene from Luke Chapter 4. The poem and the Gospel scene engage with concepts of divinity, humanity, temptation, and the idea of mission. The idea of "temptation" can be thought of as anything that diverts or distracts a person away from their mission. Help support Wild Olive, Donate Here! Follow us here! Blog Instagram Facebook

Episode 11: Anne Sexton and the Humanity of Jesus

Episode 11: Anne Sexton and the Humanity of Jesus

This week, Jeanne and Jennifer explore the poem "Jesus Walking" by Anne Sexton, which refers to the "Temptation in the Wilderness" scene from Luke Chapter 4. The poem and the Gospel scene engage with concepts of divinity, humanity, temptation, and the idea of mission. The idea of "temptation" can be thought of as anything that diverts or distracts a person away from their mission.

S1 Episode 12: Humanity of Jesus Redux

S1 Episode 12: Humanity of Jesus Redux

Jeanne and Jennifer revisit Anne Sexton's poem "Jesus Walking," diving deeper into the poem's rhythms, the process of experiencing poetry, and how literary strategies also get used to illuminate the Jesus of the Gospels. Close reading reveals that the Jesus of each Gospel is highly distinct from the Jesus of the other Gospels, with each Gospel emphasizing different ideas about Jesus and even describing the same event using different details. Jennifer suggests that in recognizing the differences between the Gospels, we respect each Gospel more. We don't have to "harmonize" them to honor them. Help support Wild Olive, Donate Here! Follow us here! Blog Instagram Facebook

Episode 12: Humanity of Jesus Redux

Episode 12: Humanity of Jesus Redux

Jeanne and Jennifer revisit Anne Sexton's poem "Jesus Walking," diving deeper into the poem's rhythms, the process of experiencing poetry, and how literary strategies also get used to illuminate the Jesus of the Gospels. Close reading reveals that the Jesus of each Gospel is highly distinct from the Jesus of the other Gospels, with each Gospel emphasizing different ideas about Jesus and even describing the same event using different details. Jennifer suggests that in recognizing the differences between the Gospels, we respect each Gospel more. We don't have to "harmonize" them to honor them.

S1 Episode 13: Conversions | Part 1

S1 Episode 13: Conversions | Part 1

In this episode, Jennifer and Jeanne talk about the conversion stories associated with Saul, who became known as Paul, after he went from being a Jewish Roman citizen who arrested followers of "the Way," to a primary messenger for the Way modeled by Jesus, proclaiming the sonship of Jesus to non-Jewish peoples. Your co-hosts also explore a poem by Nick Flynn, a living American poet who took inspiration from the Saul/Paul story, among other things, for his poem "Harbor (conversion)."Help support Wild Olive, Donate Here! Follow us here! Blog Instagram Facebook

S1 Episode 13: Conversions Part I

S1 Episode 13: Conversions Part I

In this episode, Jennifer and Jeanne talk about the conversion stories associated with Saul, who became known as Paul, after he went from being a Jewish Roman citizen who arrested followers of "the Way," to a primary messenger for the Way modeled by Jesus, proclaiming the sonship of Jesus to non-Jewish peoples. Your co-hosts also explore a poem by Nick Flynn, a living American poet who took inspiration from the Saul/Paul story, among other things, for his poem "Harbor (conversion)."Follow us here! Blog Instagram Facebook

Episode 13: Conversions Part I

Episode 13: Conversions Part I

In this episode, Jennifer and Jeanne talk about the conversion stories associated with Saul, who became known as Paul, after he went from being a Jewish Roman citizen who arrested followers of "the Way," to a primary messenger for the Way modeled by Jesus, proclaiming the sonship of Jesus to non-Jewish peoples. Your co-hosts also explore a poem by Nick Flynn, a living American poet who took inspiration from the Saul/Paul story, among other things, for his poem "Harbor (conversion)."

S1 Episode 14: Conversions | Part 2

S1 Episode 14: Conversions | Part 2

-Links to today's material- Shelly Matthews: The Perfect Martyr: The Stoning of Stephen and the Construction of Christian Identity (Oxford University, 2010) The Acts of the Apostles: An Introduction and Study Guide: Taming the Tongues of Fire (T&T Clark, 2017) Pamela Eisenbaum: Paul was not a Christian: The Original Message of a Misunderstood Apostle (HarperOne, 2010) Help support Wild Olive, Donate Here! Follow us here! Blog Instagram Facebook

S1 Episode 14: Conversions Part II

S1 Episode 14: Conversions Part II

-Links to today's material- Shelly Matthews: The Perfect Martyr: The Stoning of Stephen and the Construction of Christian Identity (Oxford University, 2010) The Acts of the Apostles: An Introduction and Study Guide: Taming the Tongues of Fire (T&T Clark, 2017) Pamela Eisenbaum: Paul was not a Christian: The Original Message of a Misunderstood Apostle (HarperOne, 2010) Follow us here! Blog Instagram Facebook

Episode 14: Conversions Part II

Episode 14: Conversions Part II

-Links to today's material- Shelly Matthews: The Perfect Martyr: The Stoning of Stephen and the Construction of Christian Identity (Oxford University, 2010) The Acts of the Apostles: An Introduction and Study Guide: Taming the Tongues of Fire (T&T Clark, 2017) Pamela Eisenbaum: Paul was not a Christian: The Original Message of a Misunderstood Apostle (HarperOne, 2010)

S1 Episode 15: Apocalypse Never | Part 1

S1 Episode 15: Apocalypse Never | Part 1

Jeanne and Jennifer talk about Revelation to John (Book of Revelation) as political allegory and means of exploring historical trauma, using Sherman Alexie's poem "Crow Testament" as a means of considering what history. trauma, and political persecution have to do with the idea of apocalypse. Help support Wild Olive, Donate Here! Follow us here! Blog Instagram Facebook

S1 Episode 15: Apocalypse Never Part I

S1 Episode 15: Apocalypse Never Part I

Jeanne and Jennifer talk about Revelation to John (Book of Revelation) as political allegory and means of exploring historical trauma, using Sherman Alexie's poem "Crow Testament" as a means of considering what history. trauma, and political persecution have to do with the idea of apocalypse. Follow us here! Blog Instagram Facebook

Episode 15: Apocalypse Never Part I

Episode 15: Apocalypse Never Part I

Jeanne and Jennifer talk about Revelation to John (Book of Revelation) as political allegory and means of exploring historical trauma, using Sherman Alexie's poem "Crow Testament" as a means of considering what history. trauma, and political persecution have to do with the idea of apocalypse.

S1 Episode 16: Apocalypse Never | Part 2

S1 Episode 16: Apocalypse Never | Part 2

Jeanne and Jennifer continue their conversation about Revelation to John (Book of Revelation) using Sherman Alexie's poem "Crow Testament" as a means of considering what history, trauma, and political persecution have to do with the idea of apocalypse, as well as how imagined worlds hold their influence over our own. Help support Wild Olive, Donate Here! Follow us here! Blog Instagram Facebook

S1 Episode 16: Apocalypse Never Part II

S1 Episode 16: Apocalypse Never Part II

Jeanne and Jennifer continue their conversation about Revelation to John (Book of Revelation) using Sherman Alexie's poem "Crow Testament" as a means of considering what history, trauma, and political persecution have to do with the idea of apocalypse, as well as how imagined worlds hold their influence over our own. Follow us here! Blog Instagram Facebook

Episode 16: Apocalypse Never Part II

Episode 16: Apocalypse Never Part II

Jeanne and Jennifer continue their conversation about Revelation to John (Book of Revelation) using Sherman Alexie's poem "Crow Testament" as a means of considering what history, trauma, and political persecution have to do with the idea of apocalypse, as well as how imagined worlds hold their influence over our own.

[Redux] Episode 1: What is Wild Olive?

[Redux] Episode 1: What is Wild Olive?

While we prepare for Season 2, please enjoy one of our earlier episodes. Wild Olive returns for Season 2 in October, 2023! The Wild Olive Podcast brings listeners game-changing conversation about literature, culture, and the Bible. Literature Professor Jeanne Petrolle and Biblical Studies Professor Jennifer Bird talk about the Protestant Bible from a literary perspective, connecting biblical texts with other kinds of texts, and with American culture. In this inaugural episode of Wild Olive, Jeanne and Jennifer introduce the new podcast, explaining what it means to read the Bible as literature, and how the concept of myth can help readers understand some parts of the Bible. Help support Wild Olive, Donate Here! Follow us here! Blog Instagram Facebook

[Redux] Episode 2: Reading Lenses and the Bible

[Redux] Episode 2: Reading Lenses and the Bible

While we prepare the next season of Wild Olive, please enjoy one of our older episodes you may have missed! Hosts Jeanne Petrolle and Jennifer Bird talk about their backgrounds and how these backgrounds shape the reading lenses that each brings to biblical texts. Conversation goes on to explore the nature of reading "lenses," and how one's "lenses" shape interpretation of any work of literature, and will certainly shape interpretation of the Bible.Help support Wild Olive, Donate Here! Follow us here! Blog Instagram Facebook

S2 Episode 1: Angels In America | Part 1

S2 Episode 1: Angels In America | Part 1

Jeanne and Jennifer kick off the new season with an in-depth discussion of Tony Kushner's stage play "Angels In America" (1991), an entangled story of various characters struggling with identity, faith and mortality in 1980s New York City during the AIDS crisis. This season, our hosts will be taking on the theme "Queering The Bible" in which we will be featuring writers, stories and interpretations from a LGBTQ+ perspective. Stay tuned for Part II, available October 20th, 2023! New episodes every other Friday. Follow us here! Website: https://www.wildolivebibleandculture.org/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wildoliv3/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WildOlivePodcast Help support Wild Olive, Donate Here! Follow us here! Blog Instagram Facebook

S2 Episode 1: Angels In America Part I

S2 Episode 1: Angels In America Part I

Jeanne and Jennifer kick off the new season with an in-depth discussion of Tony Kushner's stage play "Angels In America" (1991), an entangled story of various characters struggling with identity, faith and mortality in 1980s New York City during the AIDS crisis. This season, our hosts will be taking on the theme "Queering The Bible" in which we will be featuring writers, stories and interpretations from a LGBTQ+ perspective. Stay tuned for Part II, available October 20th, 2023! New episodes every other Friday. Follow us here! Website: https://www.wildolivebibleandculture.org/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wildoliv3/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WildOlivePodcast Follow us here! Blog Instagram Facebook

S2 Episode 2: Angels In America | Part 2

S2 Episode 2: Angels In America | Part 2

Jennifer and Jeanne continue their in-depth discussion and analysis of angels as portrayed in Tony Kushner's stage play "Angels In America" (1991), an entangled story of various characters struggling with identity, faith and mortality in 1980s New York City during the AIDS crisis. This season, our hosts will be taking on the theme "Queering The Bible" in which we will be featuring writers, stories and interpretations from an LGBTQ+ perspective. New episodes every other Friday. Follow us here! Website: https://www.wildolivebibleandculture.org/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wildoliv3/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WildOlivePodcast Help support Wild Olive, Donate Here! Follow us here! Blog Instagram Facebook

S2 Episode 2: Angels In America Part II

S2 Episode 2: Angels In America Part II

Jennifer and Jeanne continue their in-depth discussion and analysis of angels as portrayed in Tony Kushner's stage play "Angels In America" (1991), an entangled story of various characters struggling with identity, faith and mortality in 1980s New York City during the AIDS crisis. This season, our hosts will be taking on the theme "Queering The Bible" in which we will be featuring writers, stories and interpretations from an LGBTQ+ perspective. New episodes every other Friday. Follow us here! Website: https://www.wildolivebibleandculture.org/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wildoliv3/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WildOlivePodcast Follow us here! Blog Instagram Facebook

S2 Episode 3: Angels In America | Part 3

S2 Episode 3: Angels In America | Part 3

This week, Jeanne is joined by professor and author, Deborah Holdstein. Together they explore Christian and Jewish concepts of forgiveness and reconciliation present in Tony Kushner's play Angels In America (1991), continuing this season's theme "Queering The Bible". Follow us here! Website: https://www.wildolivebibleandculture.org/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wildoliv3/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WildOlivePodcast Help support Wild Olive, Donate Here! Follow us here! Blog Instagram Facebook

S2 Episode 3: Angels In America Part III

S2 Episode 3: Angels In America Part III

This week, Jeanne is joined by professor and author, Deborah Holdstein. Together they explore Christian and Jewish concepts of forgiveness and reconciliation present in Tony Kushner's play Angels In America (1991), continuing this season's theme "Queering The Bible". Follow us here! Website: https://www.wildolivebibleandculture.org/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wildoliv3/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WildOlivePodcast Follow us here! Blog Instagram Facebook

S2 Episode 4: Wrestling with Angels

S2 Episode 4: Wrestling with Angels

This week, Jeanne and Jennifer are back and wrapping up their engagement on Kushner's work with a discussion about characters wrestling with angels - Jacob in the Hebrew Bible and Prior & Joseph in Angels in America (1991). Follow us here! Website: https://www.wildolivebibleandculture.org/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wildoliv3/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WildOlivePodcast Help support Wild Olive, Donate Here! Follow us here! Blog Instagram Facebook

S2 Episode 5: Eve Side-Stealer and Indigenous Faith

S2 Episode 5: Eve Side-Stealer and Indigenous Faith

This week, Jennifer and Jeanne compare Luke Chapter I to Natalie Diaz's poem "Eve Side-Stealer" and discuss ideas of Indigenous faith, women in biblical text and the effects of imposed religion. Works Cited: Diaz, Natalie. "If Eve Side-Stealer & Mary Busted-Chest Ruled the World". Yale Divinity School , 2013: https://reflections.yale.edu/article/future-race/if-eve-side-stealer-mary-busted-chest-ruled-world Help support Wild Olive, Donate Here! Follow us here! Blog Instagram Facebook

S2 Episode 6: Returning To Eden - An Interview with Heather Hamilton

S2 Episode 6: Returning To Eden - An Interview with Heather Hamilton

This week, Jennifer is joined by author Heather Hamilton to discuss her book "Returning To Eden: A Field Guide for the Spiritual Journey". They dive deep into Heather's experience with depression, her own spiritual journey to self-realization, how psychology and mythology helped her cope, and how she found her true self. Help support Wild Olive, Donate Here! Follow us here! Blog Instagram Facebook

S2 Episode 7: Barbie, Feminism and The Book of Ruth

S2 Episode 7: Barbie, Feminism and The Book of Ruth

Introducing "Wilder Olive", A more laid back approach to some of Jeanne and Jennifer's favorite current topics as they relate to the Bible, modern literature and culture. This week, Barbie! An in-depth analysis into the social ideas presented within the film, as well as it's many biblical references. READ JEANNE'S ARTICLE HERE: https://www.patheos.com/blogs/wildolive/2023/08/barbie-the-bible-and-the-book-of-ruth/ Help support Wild Olive, Donate Here! Follow us here! Blog Instagram Facebook

S2 Episode 7: Barbie, Feminism & The Book of Ruth

S2 Episode 7: Barbie, Feminism & The Book of Ruth

Introducing "Wilder Olive", A more laid back approach to some of Jeanne and Jennifer's favorite current topics as they relate to the Bible, modern literature and culture. This week, Barbie! An in-depth analysis into the social ideas presented within the film, as well as it's many biblical references. READ JEANNE'S ARTICLE HERE: https://www.patheos.com/blogs/wildolive/2023/08/barbie-the-bible-and-the-book-of-ruth/ Follow us here! Blog Instagram Facebook

S2 Episode 8: Emily Dickinson and Spiritual Thirst

S2 Episode 8: Emily Dickinson and Spiritual Thirst

This week, Jeanne and Jennifer discuss the symbolism of water wells as they appear in Genesis and the poetry of Emily Dickinson. Together they explore concepts of maternity, divine intervention and desire. Help support Wild Olive, Donate Here! Follow us here! Blog Instagram Facebook

S2 Episode 9: Morissette & The Sabbath

S2 Episode 9: Morissette & The Sabbath

Jennifer and Jeanne dissect Emily Dickinson's poem "Some Keep the Sabbath" and Alanis Morrissette's "Citizen of the Planet". Together they discuss for the sacredness of nature, the beauty of isolation and what makes a space "holy". Links: Some Keep The Sabbath - Emily Dickinson Citizen Of The Planet - Alanis Morrissette Help support Wild Olive, Donate Here! Follow us here! Blog Instagram Facebook

S2 Episode 10: Killers of the Flower Moon

S2 Episode 10: Killers of the Flower Moon

Jeanne and Jennifer break down weaponized faith in Martin Scorsese's crime drama "Killers of the Flower Moon" in this episode of WildER Olive. Also discussed, Linda Hogan's book "Mean Spirit" and a look at how spirituality is used as a tool, for better and worse. Help support Wild Olive, Donate Here! Follow us here! Blog Instagram Facebook

S2 Episode 11: Christian Mission & Bad Indians | Part 1

S2 Episode 11: Christian Mission & Bad Indians | Part 1

Jennifer and Jeanne begin an in-depth discussion on Deborah A. Miranda's "Bad Indians", an award winning memoir which gives readers a first-hand experience in the history and culture of the Californian Indians. Help support Wild Olive, Donate Here! Follow us here! Blog Instagram Facebook

S2 Episode 11: Christian Mission & Bad Indian | Part 1

S2 Episode 11: Christian Mission & Bad Indian | Part 1

Jennifer and Jeanne begin an in-depth discussion on Deborah A. Miranda's "Bad Indians", an award winning memoir which gives readers a first-hand experience in the history and culture of the Californian Indians. Follow us here! Blog Instagram Facebook

S2 Episode 12: Christian Mission & Bad Indians | Part 2

S2 Episode 12: Christian Mission & Bad Indians | Part 2

Jeanne and Jennifer continue their discussion on Deborah A. Miranda's "Bad Indians" an award winning memoir which gives readers a first-hand experience in the history and culture of the Californian Indians. Help support Wild Olive, Donate Here! Follow us here! Blog Instagram Facebook

S2 Episode 13: The Apocalypse & Bad Indians

S2 Episode 13: The Apocalypse & Bad Indians

This week, Jeanne is solo and talking more in depth about Indigenous perceptions on the Apocalypse featuring writings from authors on Deborah A. Miranda's "Bad Indians", Sherman Alexie's "Crow Testament" and Scot McKnight's "Revelation for the Rest of Us". Help support Wild Olive, Donate Here! Follow us here! Blog Instagram Facebook

S2 Episode 14: Oscar Wilde's Jesus | Part 1

S2 Episode 14: Oscar Wilde's Jesus | Part 1

This week, Jennifer and Jeanne begin a conversation on Oscar Wilde's "De Profundis" (1905). Together they discuss Wilde's legacy, how he perceives Christ as an artist and explaining the widely used concept of "penal substitutionary atonement". Help support Wild Olive, Donate Here! Follow us here! Blog Instagram Facebook

S2 Episode 15: Oscar Wilde's Jesus | Part 2

S2 Episode 15: Oscar Wilde's Jesus | Part 2

Jeanne and Jennifer wrap up this second season of Wild Olive with their conversation on Oscar Wilde, as part of this season's theme of "Queering The Bible". Together they discuss the concept "Man of Sorrows", life as poetry and how Wilde transformed misery into divinity. Help support Wild Olive, Donate Here! Follow us here! Blog Instagram Facebook

S3 Episode 1: Marriage & The Bible

S3 Episode 1: Marriage & The Bible

This week, Jennifer and Jeanne speak on Jennifer's new book "Marriage In The Bible". Together they discuss what it means to have a 'Biblical' marriage, modern interpretations on the "head of the woman" and Margaret Atwood's poem "Habitation". Buy Jennifer's Book, "Marriage In The Bible" Here! Follow us here! Blog Instagram Facebook

S3 Episode 2: Talking Jesus With Gen Z - Matt Byrne

S3 Episode 2: Talking Jesus With Gen Z - Matt Byrne

Kicking off a new series "Talking Jesus With Gen Z", Jeanne starts with Wild Olive Producer, Matt Byrne. Together they discuss Christ imagery in Lord of the Rings, Matt's centenarian Grandmother and the history of famous musicians. Listen to Matt's Show Here: https://open.spotify.com/show/745JwgfSbILakcdFt1fsNq?si=ea73bd2815e2444c Help support Wild Olive, Donate Here! Follow us here! Blog Instagram Facebook

S3 Episode 3: Marriage & The Bible | Part 2

S3 Episode 3: Marriage & The Bible | Part 2

This week, Jeanne and Jennifer continue their conversation about Jennifer's new book "Marriage In The Bible." Together they discuss marriage as it appears in Genesis 1.28. Help support Wild Olive, Donate Here! Follow us here! Blog Instagram Facebook

S3 Episode 4: Marriage & The Bible | Part 3

S3 Episode 4: Marriage & The Bible | Part 3

Jennifer and Jeanne continue their conversation about Jennifer's new book "Marriage In The Bible." Together they talk about the mistranslation of the words "husband," "wife," and "marriage" in the Bible, considering how marriage practices in the modern world affect translation and interpretation of biblical texts. Help support Wild Olive, Donate Here! Follow us here! Blog Instagram Facebook

S3 Episode 5: Abigail, Take-Charge Biblical Wife

S3 Episode 5: Abigail, Take-Charge Biblical Wife

Jeanne goes solo to present the story of Abigail, a "take-charge" biblical wife married to a dodo. Help support Wild Olive, Donate Here! Follow us here! Blog Instagram Facebook

S3 Episode 5: Nabal & Abigail

S3 Episode 5: Nabal & Abigail

Jeanne goes solo to discuss an interesting biblical marriage between Abigail, the beautiful and clever, to Nabal, a Calebite. Help support Wild Olive, Donate Here! Follow us here! Blog Instagram Facebook

S3 Episode 6: Talking Jesus With Gen Z - Klara Carrera

S3 Episode 6: Talking Jesus With Gen Z - Klara Carrera

Jeanne interviews Wild Olive Audio Engineer, Klara Carrera. While chatting about Jesus, they range over the sitcom Jane The Virgin, Herman Hesse's 1922 novel "Siddhartha," and The Gospel of John. Help support Wild Olive, Donate Here! Follow us here! Blog Instagram Facebook

S3 Episode 7: Victorian Marriage & The Yellow Wallpaper | Part 1

S3 Episode 7: Victorian Marriage & The Yellow Wallpaper | Part 1

Jeanne and Jennifer are back with a conversation about the Bible's impact on Victorian marriages. Through the lens of Charlotte Perkins Gilman's "The Yellow Wallpaper" (1892), they examine how Victorian marriage constricted women and how the Bible helped create those constrictions. Help support Wild Olive, Donate Here! Follow us here! Blog Instagram Facebook

S3 Episode 7: Perkins & The Yellow Wallpaper | Part 1

S3 Episode 7: Perkins & The Yellow Wallpaper | Part 1

Jeanne and Jennifer are back with a discussion on Victorian marriages. Through the lens of Charlotte Perkins Gilman's "The Yellow Wallpaper" (1892), they analyze examples of abuse towards Victorian women and it's biblical context. Help support Wild Olive, Donate Here! Follow us here! Blog Instagram Facebook

S3 Episode 8: Victorian Marriage & The Yellow Wallpaper | Part 2

S3 Episode 8: Victorian Marriage & The Yellow Wallpaper | Part 2

Jennifer and Jeanne continue their discussion on Perkins Gilman's "The Yellow Wallpaper". Together, they dig deep into the gender roles of Victorian period, the psychological impact of Stockholm syndrome and the act of putting women on a pedestal. Help support Wild Olive, Donate Here! Follow us here! Blog Instagram Facebook

S3 Episode 8: Perkins & The Yellow Wallpaper | Part 2

S3 Episode 8: Perkins & The Yellow Wallpaper | Part 2

Jennifer and Jeanne continue their discussion on Perkins Gilman's "The Yellow Wallpaper". Together, they dig deep into the gender roles of Victorian period, the psychological impact of Stockholm syndrome and the act of putting women on a pedestal. Help support Wild Olive, Donate Here! Follow us here! Blog Instagram Facebook

S3 Episode 9: Deadly Joy & Victorian Marriage

S3 Episode 9: Deadly Joy & Victorian Marriage

Jeanne and Jennifer chat about Kate Chopin's short story "Story of an Hour," as it relates to the Bible, feminism, marriage and a matter of life and death. Help support Wild Olive, Donate Here! Follow us here! Blog Instagram Facebook

S3 Episode 9: Chopin, Deadly Joy & The Story Of An Hour

S3 Episode 9: Chopin, Deadly Joy & The Story Of An Hour

Jeanne and Jennifer discuss the work of Kate Chopin and her work "Story of an Hour" as it relates to feminism, marriage and a matter of life and death. Help support Wild Olive, Donate Here! Follow us here! Blog Instagram Facebook

S3 Episode 10: Talking Jesus With Gen Z - Luke Moss

S3 Episode 10: Talking Jesus With Gen Z - Luke Moss

Jeanne interviews former student, Luke Moss. Together they discuss Luke's religious upbringing, his philosophical beliefs, concepts of "topos" and Darwinism. Help support Wild Olive, Donate Here! Follow us here! Blog Instagram Facebook

S3 Episode 11: The Book of Esther

S3 Episode 11: The Book of Esther

Jeanne goes solo to talk on biblical marriages within the bible, specifically those found in the Book of Esther. Help support Wild Olive, Donate Here! Follow us here! Blog Instagram Facebook

S3 Episode 12: Bechdel, Brides & The Bible

S3 Episode 12: Bechdel, Brides & The Bible

Feminism and the Bible don't typically go hand-in-hand, but could they? This week, Jeanne discusses Christian feminism through depictions of women in the Bible and classic literature, as well as modern interpretations from notable feminist authors Elisabeth Schüssler Fiorenza, Rachel Blau DuPlessis and Alison Bechdel. Help support Wild Olive, Donate Here! Follow us here! Blog Instagram Facebook

S3 Episode 13: How The Suffragettes Took The Bible Back

S3 Episode 13: How The Suffragettes Took The Bible Back

Jennifer is back! And this week, she and Jeanne discuss the significance and impact of Elizabeth Cady Stanton's "The Woman's Bible" (1895). Help support Wild Olive, Donate Here! Follow us here! Blog Instagram Facebook

S3 Episode 14: The Power of The Name

S3 Episode 14: The Power of The Name

This week, Jeanne and Jennifer discuss the concept of labels, language and the power to use them, through the lens of Ursula K. Le Guin's short story "She Unnames Them". Help support Wild Olive, Donate Here! Follow us here! Blog Instagram Facebook

S3 Episode 15: A Tale of Two Bathshebas

S3 Episode 15: A Tale of Two Bathshebas

It's an analyzation of two fascinating literary characters! Jennifer and Jeanne dissect the parallels between the Bathsheba, as found in The Book of Samuel, and her inspiration by the same name in Thomas Hardy's "Far From The Madding Crowd" (1874). Help support Wild Olive, Donate Here! Follow us here! Blog Instagram Facebook

More Podcasts by Patheos see all podcasts

Weekly Livestreams on YouTube on Wed nights at 9pm Eastern/6pm Pacific with hosts Ashley Swearengin and @UnconventionalPastorPaul, Paul Swearengin. She served as mayor of a city, Paul was an evangelical pastor. Together, they were deep in the middle of the rise of Christian nationalism.

listen now

Welcome to High Minds, the podcast where hosts Andy Colenzo and Matthew J. Distefano take culture, sports, politics, religion, and entertainment to the next level. Join them as they dive into thought-provoking conversations, share hot takes, and offer unique perspectives—all with a fresh, elevated approach. Whether they're breaking down the latest headlines or exploring deeper cultural shifts, Andy and Matthew keep it insightful, engaging, and always entertaining.

listen now

The Unbelief Podcast is your space to question, explore, and release the beliefs that no longer serve you—or maybe even caused harm. Hosted by Jeremy Steele, the Skeptic Pastor, this podcast dives deep into deconstruction, offering progressive and thoughtful insights on ancient spiritual texts like the Bible. Through interviews with leading scholars and candid conversations with those navigating their own faith journeys, the Unbelief Podcast invites you to rethink, rediscover, and rebuild your spirituality on your own terms. If you've ever felt disillusioned by what you were told to believe, this is the podcast for you.

listen now

see all podcasts