#35

Social media connects us more than ever before—so why do so many of us still feel so alone?

In this episode of Uncomfortable Conversations with Christians, host Paul Basden sits down with Ashlynn McKay Lurkens, social media influencer, and podcast producer, for a candid look at the beautiful and broken realities of life online. From influencer culture and identity formation to adolescent anxiety and digital discipleship, this conversation unpacks the pressures and possibilities of social media in the modern age.

Join us as we explore: Why comparison and curated content can be toxic for young minds How the rise of screens is shaping the next generation’s mental health Practical boundaries for healthier social media engagement The role of Christian wisdom in a hyper-connected world

Whether you're a parent navigating tech with your kids or a content creator seeking meaning beyond metrics, this episode offers grace, insight, and tangible takeaways. As Ashlynn reminds us, “Social media isn’t the enemy—but it’s not always real, either.”

🔗 Resources mentioned:

• The Anxious Generation by Jonathan Haidt
• Explore How to Know a Person by David Brooks

#34 Social media touches nearly every part of our daily lives—but is it helping us love better, or hurting our ability to connect meaningfully?

In this thought-provoking solo episode of Uncomfortable Conversations with Christians, host Paul Basden explores the power, pitfalls, and potential of social platforms through a biblical lens. From endless scrolling to the search for validation, Paul challenges listeners to evaluate their digital habits in light of Jesus’ command to love our neighbors—online and off.

Join us as we explore: The addictive nature of social media—and why we touch our phones 2,600 times a day How social media can be both a relational gift and a cultural curse What Jesus’ Golden Rule looks like in a digital world (Matthew 7:12) Practical reflections on how to scroll with purpose, not passivity

Reflections on How to Know a Person by David Brooks Key insights from Jonathan Haidt’s research on teen mental health and tech use

Whether you’re an influencer or a casual scroller, this episode will challenge you to think more deeply about the role of social media in your life— and consider what it might mean to live your faith out loud, even in the comment section.

#33 What if your deepest sense of identity doesn’t fit within the traditional framework of the church—but your love for Jesus still burns bright?

In this honest and moving episode of Uncomfortable Conversations with Christians, host Paul Basden sits down with author and speaker Greg Coles for a vulnerable conversation about faith, identity, and what it means to live as a single, gay Christian committed to the authority of Scripture.

Together, they explore: Greg’s personal story of discovering his same-sex attraction and reconciling it with his Christian faith The tension between authenticity and orthodoxy in today’s church How the church can better welcome LGBTQ believers without compromising biblical convictions The beauty of chosen singleness and the calling to faithful community

As Greg says in the episode, “My identity in Christ doesn’t erase my sexuality, but it gives me a lens to live it out in love, truth, and hope.”

Whether you’re wrestling with your own identity or seeking to love those who are, this episode is a masterclass in nuance, empathy, and theological faithfulness.

Dive deeper with Greg’s resources: • Single, Gay, Christian – Amazon | GregoryColes.com • No Longer Strangers – Learn More • The Center for Faith, Sexuality & Gender – CenterforFaith.com

Follow Greg on Instagram, Twitter/X, or visit GregoryColes.com

Tune in now and join a conversation that’s changing the way the church loves and leads.