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In this episode of The Union Podcast, Bryan and Bonnie Pue sit down with therapist and author Jay Stringer to explore the heart behind his powerful new book, Desire. Building on the groundbreaking insights of his previous work, Unwanted, Jay invites us to move beyond behaviour management and into a deeper, more honest engagement with the stories shaping our longings. For many, the conversation around desire—especially within Christian spaces—has been reduced to avoidance, suppression, or shame. But what if desire is not the enemy? What if, instead, it is a doorway into healing? Together, we explore why desire has been so widely misunderstood, how curiosity can become a pathway toward freedom, and what it looks like to hold both personal responsibility and compassion in tension. Jay unpacks how our sexual and relational patterns are often rooted in past wounds, and how paying attention to them—rather than numbing or controlling them—can lead to deeper transformation. Bryan and Bonnie also engage Jay in a thoughtful reflection on the life of King David, asking how we might understand even profound moral failure through the lens of desire, formation, and unmet longing. Whether you’re wrestling with shame, confusion, or fear around your desires, this conversation offers a hopeful and grounded invitation: your story matters, and healing begins with curiosity, not condemnation. In this episode, we cover: • What led Jay to write Desire and how it expands on Unwanted • Why desire has been misunderstood in the Church • The limits of behaviour management and the invitation to deeper self-understanding • How curiosity helps heal what shame has distorted • Holding together repentance, responsibility, and compassionate self-examination • A fresh lens on King David’s story • Practical first steps toward healing for those feeling stuck in shame. Learn more about Jay’s work and find Desire wherever books are sold. https://jay-stringer.com @jay_stringer_ Dont miss out on The Called Conference on April 10th & 11th in Abbotsford, BC Register Here

We’re honored to welcome Kyla Gillespie from Renewed & Transformed Ministries back to The Union Podcast for a powerful and deeply personal conversation. In this episode, we get to talk with Kyla about her new book “Transformed” which documents her journey of physically transitioning, living as a male named “Bryson” for six years, and the life-altering moment when she encountered Jesus and began the path of de-transitioning. With honesty and courage, she opens up about her upbringing in a Christian home, the ache of her father’s absence, the strain on her family relationships, and the deeper identity questions that shaped her story. Bryan and Bonnie thoughtfully explore themes of identity, sexuality, and faith, creating space for a conversation marked by both compassion and conviction. Kyla reflects on what it meant to lay down one name and reclaim another—embracing “Kyla” not just as a name, but as a testimony to redemption, belonging, and the healing power of love expressed through community. The episode also highlights the heart behind the upcoming Called Conference, centered on sexual discipleship and spiritual formation—an initiative closely aligned with Kyla’s mission to equip churches and individuals navigating questions of gender and identity. This conversation is honest, hope-filled, and deeply relevant for church leaders, parents, and anyone seeking to hold truth and grace together. Kyla’s story is ultimately one of surrender, restoration, and a call for the Church to become a place where transformation is met with unwavering love. Register For The Called Conference 2026 For more info on Kylas work visit- www.kylgillespie.com Follow Kyla on Social Media- @kylagillespie.14 Pre Order Your Copy of Transformed https://www.amazon.ca/TransFormed-Journey-Confusion-Reassignment-Detransitioning/dp/B0FCL13CD7

In this episode Bryan and Bonnie sit down with Gretchen Huizinga to explore the mysterious and, to some, controversial topic of AI. This episode dives deep into how artificial intelligence is not just a tool, but a mirror reflecting human flaws, spiritual dangers, and divine opportunities. Gretchen Huizinga, a Christian scholar at the intersection of AI ethics and theology, shares eye-opening insights on how AI threatens to replace human voice and voice, risk idolatry, and influence the fabric of church life and personal identity. She highlights startling realities—AI coaching into self-harm, monopolizing productivity, and subtly replacing our ability to wrestle with difficulty—pushing us toward dependence rather than dependence on Christ. You'll discover: -How AI's roots in secular humanism clash with biblical truths about human worth and divine image -The biblical principles that challenge us to steward technology responsibly instead of succumbing to idolatry -The dangers of outsourcing our moral, spiritual, and relational development to machines -Why the church must reclaim its voice and lead as countercultural stewards of authentic humanity in an AI-driven world -Practical guardrails rooted in the fruits of the Spirit, especially self-control, to resist the subtle seduction of ease and efficiency -This episode is perfect for church leaders, Christians navigating a tech-saturated culture, and anyone concerned about AI's influence on our souls and society. As Gretchen reminds us, in a world increasingly dependent on AI, the true voice and presence of God remain essential—our hope, our guide, our greatest treasure. Don't miss this urgent call to reflect, resist, and reclaim what it means to be fully human created in God's image. Activation begins in your heart and your stewardship—listen now and join the conversation shaping the future of faith and technology. To stay up to date with Gretchen's work visit- https://www.gretchenhuizinga.com For Gretchen's dissertation on Righteous AI - https://aiandfaith.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/RIGHTEOUS-AI-THE-CHRISTIAN-VOICE-IN-THE-ETHICAL-AI-CONVERSATION.pdf

In this episode of the Union Podcast, Bryan and Bonnie Pue reflect on 2025 and the cultural realities shaping families today before confronting one of the most urgent challenges parents face: talking honestly about sexuality, identity, and relationships. Introducing Bonnie's new book, Awkward: Conversations About Sex and Culture, they challenge the idea that silence protects children and instead call parents to lead with courage, clarity, and presence. The conversation moves from why these discussions matter to when and how to start them, addressing age-appropriate topics and the real barriers parents face—including shame, fear, and unresolved past experiences. The hosts also engage cultural pressures surrounding gender ideology, urging parents not to outsource formation to culture. The episode closes with a direct charge to parents: become students of your children, seek wisdom over comfort, and engage the hard conversations now—because formation is already happening. Get your Copy of Awkward 📖 Watch On YouTube Watch On Rumble

What happens when cultural ideology reshapes how we read the Bible—especially when it comes to sexuality and identity?In this compelling conversation, Tim Barnett—apologist, speaker, and co-author (alongside Alisa Childers) of The Deconstruction of Christianity: What It Is, Why It’s Destructive, and How to Respond—joins us to unpack the growing trend of deconstruction today. Together, we explore how cultural ideology around identity, sexuality, and personal autonomy is shaping the way many believers approach Scripture, and why the biblical sexual ethic often becomes a flashpoint in the process of walking away from historic Christian faith. Tim thoughtfully addresses the rise of revisionist interpretations of Scripture, the philosophical undercurrents of deconstruction, and the ways in which church leaders can respond with both truth and grace. Whether you're wrestling with these questions yourself or leading others who are, this episode offers clarity, conviction, and hope for holding to a vibrant faith in a rapidly shifting cultural landscape. Tim Barnett is an apologist and speaker with Stand to Reason (STR), an apologetics ministry dedicated to training Christians to think more clearly about their faith. Tim travels across the US and Canada, speaking to thousands of people each year. He’s also a frequent guest on podcasts and YouTube channels. Before starting STR in 2015, Tim worked as a professional teacher, employed in both the private and public sector. He has earned a Bachelor of Science in Physics from York University, a Bachelor of Education from Ontario Tech University, and a Master of Arts in Philosophy from Southern Evangelical Seminary. Between 2014 and 2022, Tim served on the pastoral staff at Cedarview Community Church. In 2020, Tim began Red Pen Logic with Mr. B, an online ministry that assesses bad thinking on social media by using good thinking. Across all social media platforms, Red Pen Logic (RPL) reaches millions of people every month. Get Your Copy Of “The Deconstruction Of Christianity: What it is, Why it’s destructive, and How to respond.” IG-@original_mrb & @redpenlogic Red Pen Logic YouTube Channel Stand To Reason Website

In this powerful episode of The Union Podcast, we sit down with Nick Stumbo, Executive Director of Pure Desire Ministries, for a candid and hope-filled conversation designed specifically for church leaders. As pastors, ministry leaders, and youth workers navigate the pressures of spiritual leadership, many also face private struggles with sexual brokenness — often in silence. Nick shares his own story of battling pornography addiction while in pastoral ministry, and how coming into the light became the starting point of healing, not the end of his calling. We also discuss the sobering results of “Beyond the Porn Phenomenon,” a Barna study conducted in partnership with Pure Desire, which highlights just how deeply pornography is affecting the Church — including its leaders. This episode is an invitation to move from isolation to integrity — and to rethink how churches can cultivate a culture of grace, transparency, and long-term restoration. Topics Covered: Nick’s personal journey through addiction and healing The role of Pure Desire Ministries in helping leaders find freedom The Church’s response to pornography and sexual shame How to create safe, accountable spaces for healing in leadership Practical next steps for pastors and church staff who feel stuck Whether you’re leading others or trying to lead yourself well, this conversation will encourage you: you’re not alone, and there’s a path toward wholeness. Pure Desire MinistriesWebsite: https://www.puredesire.orgGet Help: https://www.puredesire.org/get-help Leader Resources: https://www.puredesire.org/church-leaders Conquer Series: https://www.puredesire.org/conquer-series Barna Study – Beyond the Porn PhenomenonDownload the full report here: https://www.barna.com/research/beyond-the-porn-phenomenon Nick Stumbo’s Book"Setting Us Free: An Invitation to a Life of Freedom, Healing, and Hope"Available here Need confidential support?Reach out to Pure Desire's team: https://www.puredesire.org/contact

In this compelling episode, Bryan sits down with Dr. Robert Smith, lecturer in Theology, Ethics, and Music at Sydney Missionary and Bible College, to discuss his new book The Body God Gives: Biblical Answers on Gender Identity. With clarity, wisdom, and pastoral care, Robert unpacks the biblical foundations for understanding gender and sexuality in a time of cultural confusion. We explore: Why this conversation is vital for the church today How pastors can begin engaging these topics with both truth and grace The tension between conviction and compassion in polarized times Scriptural responses to affirming interpretations of gender identity The debate around pronoun usage and what true hospitality looks like Practical steps for gospel-centered evangelism among transgender individuals How Christians can respond to pressure in schools, workplaces, and public life What the future of this conversation may look like—and how the church can prepare This episode offers thoughtful, theologically grounded insight for anyone navigating these conversations in ministry, discipleship, or daily life. Whether you're leading a church or having coffee with a friend, this conversation will help you engage with humility, courage, and biblical conviction. Get Your Copy Of “The Body God Gives”

In this episode of The Union Podcast, we’re joined by Glen Scrivener—author, evangelist, and CEO of SpeakLife—for a rich and thought-provoking conversation on how the gospel has shaped the way we understand sex, consent, and human dignity. Glen is well known for his work with SpeakLife, a UK-based ministry that uses creative storytelling, media, and digital content to engage hearts and minds with the truth and beauty of Jesus. Whether it’s through spoken word films, interviews, or cultural commentary, Glen and his team are passionate about helping people see how the gospel speaks into every area of life—including some of the most difficult and sensitive topics in our world today. In this episode, we dive into his book The Air We Breathe, exploring the surprising ways Christianity has influenced the moral foundations of Western culture. Focusing especially on the concept of consent, we look at how the Greco-Roman world understood sexuality—often marked by power, dominance, and inequality—and how the early church introduced a radically different ethic, one rooted in the worth and dignity of every person. We talk about what made the Christian view of sex so distinct in that cultural moment, how the gospel reframed relationships not just with rules but with reverence, and why this matters deeply in our modern conversations around consent and human value. Glen also shares how the early church's faithfulness to the teachings of Jesus told a better story—one that brought hope and healing then, and still has the power to do the same today. If you've ever wondered whether the gospel has anything meaningful to say about sex, relationships, and the deep wounds so many carry—this episode is for you. Get Your Copy Of- “The Air We Breathe” Speak Life Website 3-2-1 Course Speak Life YouTube Channel Speak Life Instagram

In this poignant and heartfelt episode, host Bonnie Pue invites her dear friends Ruth Erickson and RaeChelle Koop for a raw and honest dialogue that celebrates the female body's beauty, challenges, and profound purpose. As we conclude our enlightening mini-series, That Time of the Month, we embark on an intricate journey through the various stages of womanhood—from the tender beginnings of puberty to the exhilarating yet complex experiences of motherhood, and the gradual transformations of perimenopause. With personal anecdotes and uplifting biblical encouragement, we courageously unpack the myriad struggles many women face. Together, we explore the tumult of hormonal fluctuations, the insidious cultural shame that often shadows femininity, and the emotional and physical evolution that accompanies each phase of life. If you’ve ever found yourself grappling with the weight of your body’s design, we sincerely hope this conversation inspires you to embrace the intentional and purposeful creation that God has crafted in you. And fellas, this episode is for you too! Whether you’re a husband, father, brother, or friend, we offer insights that will help you better love and support the remarkable women in your life with a deeper understanding. Join us for this enriching, gospel-centred discussion, and be uplifted by the reassuring truth that God's design for us is always good.

How does Scripture view the female body and its natural rhythms? In this episode, we explore God’s design for women’s cycles, hormones, and maternal nature—and how they reflect His nurturing character. We discuss how hormonal changes impact mood, energy, and spirituality, as well as practical ways to thrive in career, ministry, and family while honoring biological rhythms. With insights from the Bible and expert guidance from FEMM Educator and Hormone Coach Bekah Yawn, we uncover how understanding cycles can support natural family planning and the meaning behind “unclean” concepts in Scripture. Plus, we take a good look at what the Bible says about aging and wisdom. Join us for a thoughtful conversation on faith, the female body, and embracing God’s design at every stage of life with our incredible guest. Bekah has worked with dozens of women and couples nationwide to empower them in their fertility health. As a Psychology major, FEMM Educator, Hormone Coach, and Doula, she is well respected in the fertility education community. She loves helping women understand their bodies in God’s design and how to support them naturally so they can get pregnant. This is all part of the journey you can take through her course, Fertility Framework. For more on Bekah’s important work, visit her website. You can also listen to her amazing podcast on Apple Podcasts or Spotify

In this first episode of That Time of the Month, a Union Podcast mini-series, we explore the beauty and complexity of a woman’s God-given biological design. Hosts Bonnie and Bryan Pue explore how the menstrual cycle influences a woman’s physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being and how husbands can support their wives with understanding and grace. Bonnie introduces the heart behind this mini-series, addressing misconceptions about gender roles in the church and emphasizing that God designed men and women with intentional differences beyond physical anatomy. She encourages women to ask, “How did God make me? What am I resisting or ignoring about my design that I could lean into and work with?” Bryan joins the conversation to unpack 1 Peter 3:7, specifically discussing what it means for a husband to honour his wife as the “weaker vessel.” He and Bonnie explore the role of a woman’s menstrual cycle in her physical limitations and the importance of a husband living with his wife in an understanding way. They share practical ways for men to support their wives, from offering patience and empathy to recognizing hormonal shifts without dismissing them. The episode also tackles a tough but crucial topic—how Ephesians 5 calls husbands to lay down their lives for their wives, especially in a culture that often objectifies women. Bryan shares personal insights from navigating pregnancy, postpartum challenges, miscarriage, and sleepless nights, offering wisdom on how men can provide both emotional and physical support through every season. Join us for this honest and insightful discussion as we seek to embrace God’s design for that time of the month.

Drum roll, please!… It’s the 100th Episode! Wooo! With Valentine’s Day upon us, we thought we’d take some time to discuss some of the top questions we received through our text in the Q&A we did at past events. Navigating relationships as a Christian can feel overwhelming—especially when faced with deep questions about trust, boundaries, and God’s plan for your love life. How much of your past should you share with your partner? What does it look like to set healthy emotional and physical boundaries while honouring God? And how do you know if the person you're dating is truly "the one" God has for you? In this episode, Bryan and Bonnie tackle these tough but important topics with honesty, biblical wisdom, and practical advice. They discuss how to approach conversations about your past in a way that builds trust instead of insecurity, the struggles some people face when wrestling with a partner’s history, and how to navigate the pressure to find "the one" in Christian circles. Plus, we’ll break down what it means to have a Christ-centered marriage—not just in theory, but in everyday life. Whether you’re single, dating, or preparing for marriage, this conversation will give you the tools and encouragement to pursue relationships with confidence, faith, and clarity. Join us as we dive deep into the realities of Christian dating and discover what it means to love and be loved in a way that honours God. P.S.- Have you checked out The Youth Leader Course yet?- Sign up and get started P.P.S.- Do not miss out on this year’s Apologetics Canada Conference. Register here

How do you lead young adults effectively in the current cultural moment we are in? We are pumped to have Pastor Fredy Orozco, Young Adult Pastor at Northview Community Church, join us to tackle this very question. Fredy and his wife Rebecca have been married for 10 years and are the proud parents of three lively children: Isaiah (4), August (2), and Olive (1). For the past eight years, they have poured their hearts into serving at Northview Community Church, where Fredy has been pastor of young adult ministry for the last three years. Fredy deeply loves team sports, revelling in the excitement of soccer, football, and basketball games. He is also deeply committed to theology and has dedicated himself to teaching the Scriptures with clarity and passion to audiences of all ages and backgrounds. In this episode, we explore one of the most pressing and complex conversations facing Young Adult pastors today: how to lead with both truth and grace in discussions of sexuality and gender. We aim to equip pastors and leaders with biblical wisdom, practical strategies, and approaches to engage in these conversations without fear while remaining faithful to Scripture. We explore how to create a welcoming space for tough questions, share the historic Christian view with clarity and love, and navigate these topics' cultural and emotional complexities. How can pastors balance theological integrity with genuine empathy? How can they prepare themselves for grace-filled discussions, especially when faced with disagreement or pain? And how can they help young adults discern biblical truth in a world shaped by deconstructionism and postmodern thought? Join us as we unpack these questions and provide encouragement for leaders striving to reflect Jesus in every conversation. Follow Fredy: [email protected] Check out Fredy’s sermons

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Well, just like that, The Union Conference has come and gone. As Bonnie and I reflect on various aspects of the event, we are in awe of God’s goodness and faithfulness. Throughout our meetings with volunteers and team leaders, we consistently emphasized that every aspect of the event—whether it was hospitality, registration, or any other area—was designed to facilitate an encounter with the Lord for our attendees. By God’s grace, this focus was a clear hallmark of the conference. In this episode, we look back on the event and are joined by our incredible interns, who share their unique experiences. Together, we unpack the highlights, including moving testimonies of how God worked in and through the sessions, moments of deep connection during worship, and the rich teachings that encouraged attendees to live in truth and grace. Whether you attended the conference or are hearing about it for the first time, this episode is filled with heartfelt reflections and inspiring stories that remind us of God’s faithfulness. Join us as we celebrate all that He did and look forward with hope! We are currently in the midst of the year-end giving campaign. If you're passionate about gospel-centred sexuality and identity and want to support the ongoing work of The Union, we would love to partner with you. You can make a financial contribution through our website.- www.theunionmovement.com/partner Also, our latest video resource, The Youth Leader Course, has just launched. If you are committed to discipleship in the next generation, this resource is for you. Start your journey towards clarity and confidence in Biblical sexuality and identity today- www.theunionmovement.com/video-resources