083: Megachurch Culture and Christian Nationalism with Scott Latta
Dec 02, 2025Is there a link between the rise of megachurches, Christian Nationalism, and spiritual abuse?
In this conversation with journalist and author Scott Latta, he exposes surprising findings from his research on how "successful" evangelical churches are driving much of the Christian Nationalism and abuse reported today. After interviewing survivors of spiritual abuse in America's megachurches, lawyers, and advocates, he reveals systemic gaps that allow misconduct to thrive, the effects on smaller churches, and how money and politics are at play. Tune in to hear numerous stories and examples, including Scott's own reflections from working in churches, discovered in his process of writing Gods of The Smoke Screen.
Guest Spotlight ✨
Scott Latta is an award-winning journalist who has spent a decade reporting for humanitarian organizations on conflict, displacement, and climate change around the world. He is the author of the new book, "Gods of the Smoke Machine: Power, Pain, and the Rise of Christian Nationalism in the Megachurch," which explores how large churches coalesce power and political influence. He lives in Oregon.
Links & Resources 🔗
- Gods of the Smoke Machine: Power, Pain, and the Rise of Christian Nationalism in the Megachurch | Amazon
- Post Evangelical Collective
- Restored Voices Collective
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