How Charisma Shapes Faith and Politics with Historian Molly Worthen

Have a comment? Send us a text! (We read all of them but can't reply). Email us: Will@faithfulpoliticspodcast.com In an era where political figures command crowds with cult-like devotion, what role does charisma truly play in shaping public life? Historian and journalist Molly Worthen joins Faithful Politics to explore the deep history of charisma—from the revivals of Anne Hutchinson and Joseph Smith to the populism of Donald Trump. Worthen, author of Spellbound: How Charisma Shaped American History from the Puritans to Donald Trump, unpacks how this powerful force straddles the sacred and secular. She also shares her own remarkable journey from secularism to Christianity, explains why younger generations may be rethinking faith, and reflects on the prophetic burden Christians carry in a polarized democracy. From MAGA rallies to megachurches to TikTok gurus, we explore how belief, authority, and identity are being redefined in the 21st century. 👤 Guest Bio: Molly Worthen is a historian, journalist, and associate professor at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. She specializes in American religious and intellectual history. Her latest book is Spellbound: How Charisma Shaped American History from the Puritans to Donald Trump. Worthen is also a contributing writer for outlets like The New York Times and The New Yorker. 🔗 Resources & Links: Spellbound by Molly Worthen: https://bookshop.org/a/112456/9780593729007 Molly Worthen’s Website: mollyworthen.com Support the show 🎧 Want to learn more about Faithful Politics, get in touch with the hosts, or suggest a future guest? 👉 Visit our website: faithfulpoliticspodcast.com 📚 Check out our Bookstore – Featuring titles from our amazing guests: faithfulpoliticspodcast.com/bookstore ❤️ Support the show – Help us keep the conversation going: donorbox.org/faithful-politics-podcast 📩 Reach out to us: Faithful Host, Josh Burtram: Josh@faithfulpolitics.com Political Host, Will Wright: Will@faithfulpolitics.com 📱 Follow & connect with us: Twitter/X: @FaithfulPolitik Instagram: faithful_politics Facebook: FaithfulPoliticsPodcast LinkedIn: faithfulpolitics 📰 Subscribe to our Substack for behind-the-scenes content: faithfulpolitics.substack.com 📅 RSVP for upcoming live events: Chec...