Insight with Karl Faase

Dani Treweek: Rethinking Singleness and What the Church Gets Wrong

In many of our churches, there's an unspoken script: grow up, find someone, get married, have kids. And if that doesn't happen - or hasn't happened yet - it can leave people quietly wondering: Is there something wrong with me? Is this just a waiting room?
Dr Dani Treweek has spent over a decade thinking, writing, and living these questions. In this episode of Insight with Karl Faase, she shares her journey of growing up in Sydney's eastern suburbs, studying at Moore Theological College, and completing a PhD that became the book The Meaning of Singleness.
Along the way, she's wrestled personally and academically with what it truly means to be single in the Christian life.
Whether you're single, married, widowed, divorced, or leading a church community, this conversation has something important to offer. As Dani shares, the Bible's vision for singleness is far more expansive and far more hopeful than most of us have been taught.
 
Key Moments and Takeaways:
- The "disenfranchised grief" of singleness - mourning something you've never had
- The moment in a Moore College ethics lecture that changed how Dani read the Bible
- What Jesus's words in Matthew 22 reveal about the eternal significance of singleness
- How the Reformation accidentally devalued singleness in Protestant churches
- The problems with dating apps and the deeper disembodiment crisis behind them
- What Paul actually means (and doesn't mean) by the so-called "gift of singleness"
- Why the church needs its single members as much as single members need the church 
 
Resources mentioned:
The Meaning of Singleness — Dani Treweek (IVP Academic)
Single Ever After — Dani Treweek (IVP)
Cross Related Ministry
"On Sitting Alone in Church" — article by Dani Treweek 
 
Find Out More
Olive Tree Media: www.olivetreemedia.com.au
Watch+ Platform: www.olivetreemedia.com.au/watch
Daily Nudge: www.dailynudge.org 
 
Special Thanks ToExcelsia University College
Christian Finance 
Vision Christian Media

Simon Smart: Boys, Bullying and the Manosphere

What does it take to raise a good man in a culture that can't decide whether masculinity is a problem to be solved or a strength to be celebrated? In this episode of Insight, Karl Faase sits down with Simon Smart - a teacher, writer and Director of the Centre for Public Christianity (CPX). This is a wide-ranging, deeply personal conversation about boys, bullying, fatherlessness, the manosphere, and what it actually means to be a good man.
Drawing on his own brutal boarding-school years and his book The End of Men, Simon makes the case for a richer, more compassionate model of masculinity - one rooted in the example of Jesus.
Simon Smart is a teacher, writer and the Director of the Centre for Public Christianity (CPX), a media organisation working to promote a thoughtful, generous understanding of the Christian faith in Australian public life. Before CPX, Simon spent a decade teaching English and history in boys' schools, an experience that, alongside his own childhood in a tough country boarding environment, shaped his recent book The End of Men. He lives on Sydney's Northern Beaches with his wife and two adult children, and is, in his own words, "an average but enthusiastic surfer."
 
Key Moments and Takeaways:
Simon's education in masculinity and the moment everything shifted.
His slow road to faith.
An unplanned path to CPX.
The case for writing The End of Men.
Untangling "toxic masculinity."
Fatherlessness and the algorithm.
What actually makes a good man.
 
Find Out More
Olive Tree Media: www.olivetreemedia.com.au
Watch+ Platform: www.olivetreemedia.com.au/watch
Daily Nudge: www.dailynudge.org 
 
Special Thanks ToExcelsia University College
Christian Finance 
Vision Christian Media

Rod Best: Forgiveness Isn't Enough When It Comes To Protecting Children

What happens when the church's greatest virtue becomes its greatest blind spot? In one of the most important conversations on faith and institutional responsibility you'll hear, Karl Faase sits down with Roderick Best - a Sydney lawyer who spent decades at the coalface of child protection, and ultimately served as Senior Solicitor for Australia's Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse.
Rod brings rare insight: the legal mind and perspective of someone who shaped national reform, and the honest thoughts of a committed Christian wrestling with what the church got wrong. This is not an easy conversation at times, but it's a necessary one.
Roderick Best is a Sydney-based lawyer with over four decades of experience across private practice and government. He served as the longest-tenured senior child protection lawyer in New South Wales before being appointed Senior Solicitor to the Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse (est. 2013) — one of the most significant public inquiries in Australian history. 
A note before you listen: This conversation touches on child sexual abuse and the findings of Australia's Royal Commission. Rod speaks with care and without graphic detail, but if this is a sensitive topic for you, please be aware before listening.
Key Moments and Takeaways
The Royal Commission was deliberately scoped to institutional abuse — roughly 20% of all child abuse — because it was actionable. Family-based abuse, the larger problem, is far harder to legislate.
Rod was not surprised by the scale of abuse uncovered — but was surprised by the diversity across denominations, and by research showing celibacy made no statistical difference to abuse rates.
The key risk factor wasn't theology — it was vulnerability. Institutions working with the most vulnerable children had the highest rates of abuse.
The church's instinct to "move people on" rather than report was compounded by disbelief, reputational concern, and over-powerful old-boy networks in church governance.
Professor Patrick Parkinson identified the core theological error: the church drew the wrong line on forgiveness, treating it as a substitute for accountability rather than something that must coexist with structural safeguards.
Rod's framework for the failure is theological: the church forgot it was operating in a post-Fall world. Forgiveness doesn't reset human nature — it requires structures that account for ongoing human frailty.
Working with Children checks, introduced in the lead-up to the Commission, are already showing statistical results — particularly in reducing institutional sexual abuse.
The biggest ongoing child protection issue isn't sexual abuse — it's poverty and neglect, which remain largely unaddressed.
Rod still fields questions from former colleagues who say they "never understood why you go to church." Reputational damage is real and ongoing.
The church's greatest asset in a fragmented, anxious society is community — but it must normalize belonging and be seen as a safe, ordinary place for ordinary people.
Find Out More
Olive Tree Media: www.olivetreemedia.com.au
Watch+ Platform: www.olivetreemedia.com.au/watch
Daily Nudge: www.dailynudge.org 
 
Special Thanks ToExcelsia University College
Christian Finance 
Vision Christian Media

Simon Hood: The Recurring Question: "Will You Trust Me?"

This episode features Simon Hood, a passionate advocate for children's ministry and faith-based creativity, sharing his journey from a puppeteer in Hornsby to a global influencer in children's evangelism. However, alongside growing a global ministry, he and his wife travelled a long road through infertility, IVF, international adoption, and living through the joys and challenges of neurodiversity. 
During some of the most painful years, Simon felt God continue to ask him: "Will you trust me, even when you don't know what I am doing?"
This conversation is powerful, emotional, and a helpful reminder about how to show up for people who are in grief and difficulty. 
Simon Hood is the founding director of Logosdor - a global ministry serving kids worldwide. He is a professional puppeteer and creative innovator in sharing the gospel with kids through media. 
 
Key Moments and Takeaways:
- The power of creative evangelism through puppetry and media
- Personal journey through infertility, adoption, and international ministry
- Navigating neurodiversity, mental health, and faith in family life
- The importance of movement thinking and multiplying Kingdom work
- Lessons on trust, lament, and resilience in suffering
 
Find Out More
Olive Tree Media: www.olivetreemedia.com.au
Watch+ Platform: www.olivetreemedia.com.au/watch
Daily Nudge: www.dailynudge.org 
 
Special Thanks ToExcelsia University College
Christian Finance 
Vision Christian Media
 

Louise Baur: Being a Christian in the Workplace is a Significant Call

Professor Louise Baur has spent decades helping children and families navigate the complex realities of obesity, body image, and health. In this episode of Insight, host Karl Faase explores the deeply personal and often misunderstood challenges surrounding childhood obesity - from biology and mental health to social media pressure and stigma.
As both a leading pediatrician and a Christian, Louise shares how her faith shapes the way she approaches medicine, compassion, and care for vulnerable families. Together, Karl and Louise unpack the growing global obesity crisis, the impact of shame and judgment, and why Christians should lead with grace, empathy, and understanding when discussing health and body image.
They also explore the rise of medications like Ozempic and the cultural pressures young people face online today.
Louise also reflects on her calling to paediatric medicine, sharing how her Christian faith shapes the way she lives, works, and engages in both the workplace and the public square.
This is a thoughtful and compassionate conversation about health, identity, faith, and what it means to truly care for others.
 
Key Moments and Takeaways
The biological and environmental factors contributing to obesity across the globe
The psychological and health impacts of high body weight in children
The influence of social media on body image and eating disorders
The importance of compassionate, stigma-free support for families
The potential and challenges of medications like Ozempic and bariatric surgery
The role of faith and how Christians can advocate for body positivity and health
Louise's story of faith and the challenge of not being able to start a family 
The role of Louise's Christian faith in her work 
The future and next steps
 
Find Out More
Olive Tree Media: www.olivetreemedia.com.au
Watch+ Platform: www.olivetreemedia.com.au/watch
Daily Nudge: www.dailynudge.org 
 
Special Thanks ToExcelsia University College
Christian Finance 
Vision Christian Media

David Bennett: Truth Is Not A Concept, It's A Person Named Jesus

How does a gay man find faith in Jesus?
David Bennett's story is a must listen to. In this episode of Insight, Karl hears David share his story, which journeys from coming out as gay when he is a teenager in a Sydney private school - to studying and living in Oxford. 
The turning point of the story is when David meets someone in a pub who doesn't try to convince him that Jesus is the truth, but instead, embodies the compassion, presence and love of God. 
As she prays for him, something life-changing happens as David experiences the love of God not as words - but as an encounter. 
David Bennett is a now a Christian, a theologian, and a writer who works at Oxford University. He also identifies as gay - a reality that once felt completely incompatible with his faith. His story isn’t a simple one, and it doesn’t offer easy answers - but it does invite us into a deeper conversation about belonging, and the cost and beauty of following Christ.
 
Key Moments and Takeaways
- Faith Through Doubt: Explore how genuine faith is built through questioning and vulnerability.
- The Power of Presence: Discover the impact of empathy and presence in conveying love.
- Redemptive Suffering: Understand how hardship and rejection play a role in transformation.
- Trust in Scripture: Learn the importance of surrendering control and trusting divine authority.
- Identity in Divine Love: See how rooting identity in love offers stability beyond societal labels.
 
Find Out More
Olive Tree Media: www.olivetreemedia.com.au
Watch+ Platform: www.olivetreemedia.com.au/watch
Daily Nudge: www.dailynudge.org 
 
Special Thanks ToExcelsia University College
Christian Finance 
Vision Christian Media

Tim Kirk: From Theologian to Award-Winning Winemaker

What does theology have to do with winemaking?
In this fascinating conversation, Tim Kirk from Clonakilla Wines shares how faith, creativity, craftsmanship and the landscape itself all shape the wines he creates. From the cool climate to the spiritual symbolism of wine throughout the Bible, Tim offers a unique perspective on what makes great wine truly memorable.
Karl unpacks his story, his faith, his perspective on ministry and how he returned to the family business of making wine. Tim has such a passion for wine and understanding creativity as an expression of our faith - you'll love this conversation. 
 
Key Moments and Takeaways:
How landscape and terroir shape flavour
The story behind Clonakilla Wines
Why craftsmanship matters in winemaking
His journey from theology to wine
The spiritual significance of wine and creation
Building a reputation for quality and excellence
 
Find Out More
Olive Tree Media: www.olivetreemedia.com.au
Watch+ Platform: www.olivetreemedia.com.au/watch
Daily Nudge: www.dailynudge.org 
 
Special Thanks ToExcelsia University College
Christian Finance 
Vision Christian Media
 

Greg Low: Finding Light In The Darkest Places

Most people only see the surface of a life filled with trauma, adventure, and profound faith. Greg Low’s story reveals how even in the darkest moments - plane crashes, the loss of his mother, and dangerous war zones - there's a remarkable thread of hope, purpose, and discovery.
In this episode of Insight, Greg shares stories from decades of filming in the world's most volatile regions - from Rwanda to Somalia, Ethiopia to Mozambique - and how he’s confronted death firsthand more times than he can count.
Greg’s courageous stories aren't just about danger; they’re about finding good in the chaos and God’s presence in unexpected places.
Karl's guest, Greg Low, is an accomplished cameraman and author, whose career spans filming across war zones, natural disasters, and humanitarian crises around the globe. His experiences have shaped a life dedicated to capturing truth and living it with faith, despite the chaos. His story is a reminder that light and hope can be found in the darkest places! 
Buy Greg's book here: https://www.gdu.com.au/book
 
Key Moments and Takeaways:
- Greg's early career in media and how he transitioned from student to cameraman for major political moments in Australia.
- Experiences filming in war zones like Rwanda, Somalia, and Ethiopia, including close encounters with danger and death.
- The story of losing his mother and how that tragedy shaped his faith and outlook on life.
- Greg’s reflections on faith, how God met him through a Supertramp song, and his evolving relationship with spirituality.
- Personal stories of family, adoption, and balancing a life of danger with raising children.
 
Find Out More
Olive Tree Media: www.olivetreemedia.com.au
Watch+ Platform: www.olivetreemedia.com.au/watch
Daily Nudge: www.dailynudge.org 
 
Special Thanks ToExcelsia University College
Christian Finance 
Vision Christian Media
 

Phil Cave: Work In Your Strengths And Beware Of Ego

Phil Cave is the Principal and Partner at private equity firm, Anchorage. In this conversation, Phil shares about his career running and turning around major businesses and what it takes to succeed in business. But, Karl and Phil also talk about the time he considered a career change and moving into ministry. He’ll share why he didn’t make the change and how God has used him exactly where he is.
Phil Cave’s insights remind us that whether in ministry or business, understanding our strengths and limitations is essential for fulfillment and success. By surrounding ourselves with supportive people and recognizing where we can best serve, we can avoid burnout and enhance our contributions.
As Phil aptly puts it, "Let's maximise our skills."
 
Key Takeaways:- Burnout often stems from working outside one’s strengths.- Faith can grow in unexpected places, such as sports.- Leadership is rooted in effective people management.- It’s crucial to empower others and avoid micromanagement.- Recognizing and maximizing our skills leads to fulfillment.
 
Find Out More
Olive Tree Media: www.olivetreemedia.com.au
Watch+ Platform: www.olivetreemedia.com.au/watch
Daily Nudge: www.dailynudge.org 
 
Special Thanks ToExcelsia University College
Christian Finance 
Vision Christian Media
 

Duncan Brown: Many Assignments But Only One Calling

Most of us chase after success, significance, and purpose through our careers, families, or achievements. But what if our true calling is found in the place we often overlook - in the everyday moments and relationships that build a life of genuine impact?
Duncan Brown's extraordinary journey reveals how life's deepest identity and calling are rooted in Christ, not in career accomplishments or societal status and it’s a story that will reshape how you see your own purpose.
In this episode of Insight, Duncan shares the pivotal moments that defined his life - from childhood farm memories during Queensland's dairy crisis to the painful departure of his father and the profound way God's grace brought healing. You’ll discover how Duncan's relentless pursuit of success was finally reshaped through encounters with Jesus, unconditional love, and a renewed understanding of identity rooted in faith. His story highlights that whether you’re in business, ministry, or at home, your true calling can unfold in any stage of life when grounded in Christ’s limitless love.
 
Chapters and Key Moments
00:00 - Duncan’s diverse career paths and identity in Christ
02:27 - Childhood memories on the farm amid dairy industry crisis 
05:45 - Personal story of familial breakup at age 13
07:39 - The influence of community and church in healing and mentorship
15:58 - The subtle idolatry of success and the role of Jesus in life
21:55 - Journalism: creativity, stories, and connecting with people 2
34:13 - Leadership in crisis and God’s provision in tough seasons
36:32 - Returning to ministry leadership at Scripture Union Queensland
49:23 - Duncan’s side ventures: Cafe and community enterprise
57:16 - Family dynamics, relationship with his father, and reconciliation
66:07 - The legacy of his father’s salvation and faith journey 
70:20 - The overarching insight: trusting God amidst volatility 
 
Find Out More
Olive Tree Media: www.olivetreemedia.com.au
Watch+ Platform: www.olivetreemedia.com.au/watch
Daily Nudge: www.dailynudge.org 
 
Special Thanks ToExcelsia University College
Christian Finance 
Vision Christian Media
 

Mike Bird: An Unexpected Journey from Army Life to Biblical Scholar

Dr Mike Bird is a respected New Testament scholar, author, and lecturer, but his story begins in a very different place.
Growing up in a dysfunctional home marked by addiction, instability, and fear, Mike learned early how deeply childhood shapes identity. With no faith background and little academic direction, he joined the army as a way out. It was there amid discipline, challenge, and unexpected invitation that everything began to change.
In this episode, Mike shares his journey from trauma to transformation: discovering faith through a local church, wrestling with questions of meaning and morality, and eventually stepping into a life of scholarship, teaching, and writing.
Along the way, we explore:
How childhood trauma shapes adult life
Why Christianity still underpins modern ideas of justice
The tension between faith and military service
The intellectual and personal journey to belief
What it means to find purpose and redemption
This is a story about identity, hope, and the surprising paths that lead us to who we’re meant to become.
 
Chapters and Key Moments
00:00 – A Childhood Shaped by Chaos
06:30 – Searching for Escape and Identity
16:30 – An Unexpected Encounter with Faith
28:30 – A Life Transformed
40:30 – From Soldier to Scholar
 
Find Out More
Olive Tree Media: www.olivetreemedia.com.au
Watch+ Platform: www.olivetreemedia.com.au/watch
Daily Nudge: www.dailynudge.org 
 
Special Thanks ToExcelsia University College
Christian Finance 
Vision Christian Media
 

Ruth Powell: We’re Wired for Hope - What the Data Really Says About Faith in Australia

What is really happening with faith in Australia?
In this insightful conversation, Karl Faase sits down with leading researcher Ruth Powell to explore the shifting spiritual landscape which is moving from church decline and cultural distrust to surprising signs of curiosity and hope among younger generations. Drawing on decades of research through the National Church Life Survey, Ruth offers a nuanced perspective.
While the church has lost confidence and cultural influence, there are fresh opportunities emerging - particularly among Gen Z and young men. This episode is both honest and hopeful, calling the church to rediscover its message, reimagine its methods, and step boldly into a new season.
 
Takeaways
The cultural moment is not just hostile — it’s open.
Hope is a powerful entry point for faith conversations.
The next generation needs new language, not just old answers.
Churches must move from preservation to mission again.
Innovation (“new wineskins”) is no longer optional.
Chapters and Key Moments
00:00 — Introduction
02:00 — A Childhood in Papua New Guinea
06:00 — Mission, Transformation & Cultural Change
10:30 — The Role of Women & the Message of Worth
18:00 — Wrestling with Colonialism
27:00 — From Psychology to Church Research
31:00 — 30 Years of Church Trends in Australia
36:00 — Is There a Quiet Revival?
40:30 — The Rise of Spiritual Curiosity in Gen Z
42:30 — Young Men & Faith
48:00 — We’re Wired for Hope
50:00 — Advice for Church Leaders
 
Find Out More
Olive Tree Media: www.olivetreemedia.com.au
Watch+ Platform: www.olivetreemedia.com.au/watch
Daily Nudge: www.dailynudge.org 
 
Special Thanks ToExcelsia University College
Christian Finance 
Vision Christian Media
 

Greg Attwells: Healthy teens don't raise themselves

In this episode, Greg Attwells discusses the 36-month campaign, a movement aimed at delaying children's access to social media until age 16. A campaigned that massed over 150,000 signatures of concerned parents; a campaign that changed the law; a campaign that was profiled at the UN. Greg shares insights on parenting challenges in the digital age, the impact of technology on youth, and the importance of creating a supportive environment for teens. Greg also reflects on his personal journey, including his upbringing, faith, and experiences in church leadership.
Takeaways
Let's give our kids another 36 months to get to know themselves before the world does.
Healthy teens don't raise themselves; they're raised by adults brave enough to build better systems.
The 36-month campaign successfully pushed for change in social media laws, helping protect kids by delaying their access to social platforms until the age of 16.
Social media trades in comparison, not belonging, and it's not community, not the way that community should be for a young person.
The campaign was built on hope, not fear, focusing on what we are for, not against.
Parents needed the ability to say, 'Not yet, it's against the law,' to their kids regarding social media.
The campaign amassed about 150,000 signatures from parents across the country, showing overwhelming public support.
Greg shares his personal journey, including being raised by a single mum and his experiences in church leadership.
He emphasizes the importance of being a non-judgmental presence for his children, fostering intimacy in their relationship.
Greg reflects on the challenges of learning to be a husband and father without having role models growing up.
Chapters and Key Moments:
00.00 Introduction to Greg Attwells and the 36-Month Campaign
03.00 Parenting Challenges in the Digital Age
09:00 The Impact of Technology on Youth
15:00 Greg Attwells' Personal Journey and Faith
21.00 Building Supportive Environments for Teens 
 
Find Out More
Olive Tree Media: www.olivetreemedia.com.au
Watch+ Platform: www.olivetreemedia.com.au/watch
Daily Nudge: www.dailynudge.org 
 
Special Thanks ToExcelsia University College
Christian Finance 
Vision Christian Media
 

Colin Buchanan: Music That Shaped Generations

Colin Buchanan shares his remarkable journey from his childhood in Dublin to becoming a celebrated country music artist and children's songwriter in Australia. He reflects on the crossroads he faced between pursuing a stable teaching career and following his passion for music, ultimately choosing the latter. Colin discusses the importance of faith in his life and music, the legacy of his children's songs, and how he navigates being a public Christian in the music industry. He emphasises the significance of writing songs that resonate with people and the joy of connecting with audiences through his music.
 
Takeaways
Colin's journey began in Dublin before moving to Australia.
He faced a crossroads between teaching and music.
His faith played a crucial role in his life decisions.
Colin's children's songs are designed to be propositional and meaningful.
He values the connection his music creates with audiences.
The importance of family and integrity in his career choices.
Colin's music reflects his personal experiences and observations.
He believes in the significance of children's music in shaping values.
Colin navigates his public faith with respect and authenticity.
Success for Colin is defined by meaningful connections through music.
 
Chapters and Key Moments
00:00 The Journey Begins: From Dublin to Australia02:45 Finding Faith and Community in Burke06:00 The Crossroads: Music or Teaching?08:55 The Birth of a Songwriter: Early Inspirations11:40 The Rise of Country Music Career14:44 Transition to Children's Music18:01 Legacy of Children's Songs20:50 Navigating Public Faith and Music23:59 Defining Success in Music and Life
 
Find Out More
Olive Tree Media: www.olivetreemedia.com.au
Watch+ Platform: www.olivetreemedia.com.au/watch
Daily Nudge: www.dailynudge.org 
 
Special Thanks ToExcelsia University College
Christian Finance 
Vision Christian Media
 

Al Stewart: Redefining Masculinity in Modern Society

Al Stewart and Karl Faase explore the evolving concept of masculinity, the challenges faced by men in contemporary society, and the importance of healthy masculinity. They discuss personal experiences, family dynamics, and the transition from corporate life to ministry, emphasising the need for men to take responsibility in their roles within families and communities. The dialogue highlights the significance of mentorship, the impact of cultural changes on masculinity, and the importance of nurturing relationships with children and spouses.
 
Al Stewart's book The Manual can be purchased from Matthias Media
 
Takeaways
Life has become softer and safer since WWII.
Healthy masculinity is crucial for families and communities.
Boys are struggling in education and mental health.
Cultural narratives often devalue masculinity.
Men need to take responsibility in their roles.
Father hunger is a real issue in society.
The transition from boyhood to manhood is complex.
Mentorship plays a vital role in personal development.
Family dynamics can be challenging in ministry.
You can make a difference in your immediate world.
Chapters and Key Moments:
00:00 The Changing Landscape of Masculinity
09:27 Understanding Healthy Masculinity
16:27 Personal Journey and Family Dynamics
26:44 Transitioning to Ministry
38:36 Navigating Family Life and Faith
45:54 Making a Difference in Your World
 
Find Out More
Olive Tree Media: www.olivetreemedia.com.au
Watch+ Platform: www.olivetreemedia.com.au/watch
Daily Nudge: www.dailynudge.org 
 
Special Thanks ToExcelsia University College
Christian Finance 
Vision Christian Media