721: Easy Optimism vs Durable Hope with Sharon McMahon

From The Holy Post by Phil Vischer

May 20, 2026 · 1h 26m

About this episode

Sharon McMahon discusses the relevance of her canceled commencement speech and the shifting questions of morality among Gen Z.

MAGA politicians, pastors, and influencers gathered on the National Mall this weekend to rededicate America to God. Unlike biblical ceremonies of rededication, however, this one included no repentance or lament. Elon Musk is upset that a black woman was cast as Helen of Troy in Christopher Nolan's upcoming film "The Odyssey." Sharon McMahon is back to explain how political backlash and violent threats canceled her commencement speech at Utah Valley University, and why the message she planned to deliver is more relevant than ever. Also this week—religious skeptics used to ask, "Why do bad things happen to good people?" So, why is Gen Z asking a different question, "Why don't bad things happen to bad people?" Holy Post Plus: Ad-Free Version of this Episode: https://www.patreon.com/posts/721-easy-vs-hope-158706698/ Bonus Interview with Sharon McMahon: https://www.patreon.com/posts/158708712/ 0:00 - Theme Song 3:14 - Sponsor - PolicyGenius - Secure your family's tomorrow so you have peace of mind today. Go to https://www.policygenius.com/HOLYPOST to find the right life insurance for you 4:13 - Sponsor - BetterHelp - This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try…

People in this episode

Host: Phil Vischer

Guest: Sharon McMahon

Topics covered

optimism
hope
politics
Gen Z
religion
society

Keywords

optimism
hope
political backlash
Gen Z
religion
canceled speech
Elon Musk
Utah Valley University

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Utah Valley University