beached white male

Ken returns from a month of travel and shares an essay he wrote for his new Substack Page entitled Woke Pride. The article got great responses - indicating that many are reacting to the current anti-woke crusade.  In this short episode, he reflects on the series Truth Quest aired this month, and shares plans for upcoming interviews. He encourages his listeners to call out the critics of woke and join our voices to express pride in being awake, aware, engaged, and working together for the common good. 

Ken's Substack Page

In this second installment of Ken's special series, TRUTH QUEST - Exploring the History of Race in America, we launch the Civil Rights tour of the South in New Orleans.  The Whitney Plantation in St. John the Baptist Parish is a non-profit dedicated to preserving the history and legacy of slavery in Louisiana. You'll hear an in-depth description of the exhibits, displays, and elegant plantation house and how those displays impacted our team of pilgrims. In this episode, we are invited to a team "debrief," in which several share their personal responses to a history that has been hidden until now. Then Ken takes us to the French Quarter on a bustling Saturday evening in the heart of the New Orleans. Under the tutelage of master-guide, Leon A. Waters, the team wanders down the Mississippi River and Washington Artillery Park, to Jackson Square, by the St. Louis Cathedral, the Federal Courthouse, and the Slave Exchange, along the narrow streets filled with iconic architecture, surrounded by eager crowds, street vendors and musicians, lively multitudes lined up for the annual Pride Month Parade - New Orleans style.  SHOW NOTES

Meet our contributors.

Listen to the entire series - TRUTH QUEST: Exploring the History of Race in America - in their own words.

In his shortest episode ever, Ken announces the launch of his Substack Page - and his first post: "All My Friends Are Finding New Beliefs."* The podcast just passed a new milestone. After 283 episodes, in a phrase borrowed from author Steven Pressfield (The War of Art), this podcast is exactly what Ken "cannot not do." He expresses his deep appreciation to the some 75 guests and the many new folks who have signed up for his newsletter. He asks a favor - to leave a comment on your podcast feed, especially for those who listen on Apple Podcasts.

*The title of a poem by Christian Wiman in a book entitled Poetry Unbound

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Ken welcomes first-time guest, author Martyn Whittock to discuss his recent book, The End Times, Again? -2000 Years of the Use & Misuse of Biblical Prophecy. While listening to the BWM podcast at his home near Bath in England (the UK), Martin reached out to Ken to discuss his book's themes and how they play out in the US... and much more.  Ken shares his concern about the misappropriation of eschatology (the study of the last times) in American politics. Martin agrees and expands the conversation to include Brexit, the Economic Union (EU), and Russia not only on the contemporary scene but throughout history. The author of more than fifty books, Whittock shares his early fascination with evangelical Christianity. His father, a conservative Methodist minister, gave him an early immersion in prophetic teachings - much of which Martyn had to rework as he studied history and religion at the University of Bristol.  The conversation takes them through a millennium of European and American history and touches on the Viking raids, The Crusades, the English Civil War of 1640, the Pope in Rome, Napoleon and on to Mikhail Gorbachev, Henry Kissinger, Vladimir Putin, the election of Donald Trump and his "evangelical support." The misuse of Bible prophesy has contributed to Christian Nationalism, and conspiracy theories (including Q-Anon) in America and in Europe as well. Whittock, a self-proclaimed Bible-believing evangelical Christian, shares his ideas regarding a proper approach to prophetic and apocalyptic literature.  SHOW NOTES

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Ken Fong stumbled across an opinion piece in the L.A. TIMES by Osamudia James, Professor of Law at the University of North Carolina. Entitled - Florida’s censorship of ‘diversity’ efforts are a tantrum born of white guilt - Kemp agreed the article is worthy of full discussion. The author's phrase, "white innocence," underscores the claim made by Robyn DiAngelo in her now classic book, White Fragility. White folks instinctively resist real conversations about race, often with vigor. Ken Fong wanted to know if The Beached White Male agreed: Is white folks' common claim to "innocence" a factor in the Anti-Woke, Anti-CRT campaign that this article calls a childish "tantrum"? In response, Kemp shares his journey - from conservative white Boomer to host of his progressive podcast. He identifies as "white," but deplores "whiteness." The two Kens explore their personal stories that confirm the good professor's thesis. They call out the Florida governor's highly politicized crusade against D.E.I. (diversity, equity, and inclusion) for what Kemp calls "whiteness at work." SHOW NOTES

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Ken Kemp and Betsey Newenhuyse celebrate 100 Episodes of their regular podcast series "Beach Talk." The first Beach Talk aired August 26, 2020, began as an "experiment," but has run for over two years. It's been a near-weekly conversation around headline events from the Democratic Convention through the election, the insurrection, impeachments, mass shootings, political jockeying, reading books, religious and spiritual commentary, calling out villains, and celebrating heroes. To celebrate this milestone, they welcome two cherished friends who are also fans of Beach Talk - Ken Fong (host of Asian American the Ken Fong Podcast and the Two Kens series co-host with Ken Kemp) and Darcy McKenzie (see podcast interview with Ken). SHOW NOTES.

Ken welcomes back author and psychologist, Dr. Brian Rush McDonald to continue their conversation around his book A Long Surrender... his memoir detailing his spiritual and academic journey in which he sheds a toxic version of fundamentalist religion and devotes his life and career to helping others through psychotherapy. They unpack the malady of religious trauma, relating their personal stories. They discover in their quest, that both of them stumbled across an internet social site that pulls together clergy atheists. You read it right: working ministers who have given up on a belief in God. They share their reaction and their experience on the site. Their view of religion impacts their view of the Bible, too. Ken and Brian talk about literalism, inerrancy and the way in which their understanding and appreciation for the Bible has evolved. These two new friends from opposite ends of the nation have found much in common.  If you are struggling with your faith, your church, your religious tribe - listen in. SHOW NOTES

Become a Patron: www.patreon.com/beachedwhitemale

Dr. McDonald's Official Site - https://www.brianrushmcdonald.com/

Ken welcomes back historian and author, Martyn Whittock, from his home outside Bath in England. The two got acquainted when Ken interviewed Martyn (S2E58) about his new book. They discussed the misappropriation of biblical prophesy throughout history, and especially today. Since then, Ken learned that Martyn was a popular television guest in the U.K., offering historical context for the week-long series of events surrounding the remembrance of Queen Elizabeth II, and the long-anticipated accession of King Charles to the throne. Ken shares his personal connection through his grandmother, born in London in 1903, and Ken's visit to London the same week Princess Diana was memorialized in August of 1997. Ken and Martyn trace the events from Balmoral in Scotland to London - Buckingham Palace, Westminster Cathedral, and Windsor Castle. Ken shares his mixed emotions, citing friends who just cannot watch - the conspicuous wealth, the history of colonization, and the display of "theocracy." Martyn brings a rich perspective to it all, bringing context and depth. Ken's affection for his grandmother's homeland and Martyn's knowledge and appreciation of America's perspective makes for a lively, informative, and stimulating exchange. Thank you, Martyn Whittock! 

SHOW NOTES - find Martyn's books, links to television appearances, and additional biographical information.

Become a Patron: www.patreon.com/beachedwhitemale

Ken welcomes Dr. Brian Rush McDonald, former pastor, missionary, musician, author, and now a psychotherapist. Dr. McDonald found Ken's podcast, and the two connected. After Ken read Brian's book, A LONG SURRENDER - A Memoir About Losing My Religion, the two connected. From Alexandria, VA, Brian tells his story of awakenings - from high school "Jesus Freak" to Bob Jones University, on to Taiwan as a GARB missionary, back to Jerry Falwell's Liberty University for graduate work, and after six years pastoring a church (preaching in Mandarin and English), a Ph.D. at The College of William and Mary. It's a journey of evolving faith. They talk about M. Scott Peck's stages of faith development. For Dr. McDonald, it's a journey from religion to freedom. SHOW NOTES

Become a Patron: www.patron.com/beachedwhitemale

Ken welcomes first-time guest, author Martyn Whittock to discuss his recent book, The End Times, Again? -2000 Years of the Use & Misuse of Biblical Prophecy. While listening to the BWM podcast at his home near Bath in England (the UK), Martin reached out to Ken to discuss his book's themes and how they play out in the US... and much more.  Ken shares his concern about the misappropriation of eschatology (the study of the last times) in American politics. Martin agrees and expands the conversation to include Brexit, the Economic Union (EU), and Russia not only on the contemporary scene but throughout history. The author of more than fifty books, Whittock shares his early fascination with evangelical Christianity. His father, a conservative Methodist minister, gave him an early immersion in prophetic teachings - much of which Martyn had to rework as he studied history and religion at the University of Bristol.  The conversation takes them through a millennium of European and American history and touches on the Viking raids, The Crusades, the English Civil War of 1640, the Pope in Rome, Napoleon and on to Mikhail Gorbachev, Henry Kissinger, Vladimir Putin, the election of Donald Trump and his "evangelical support." The misuse of Bible prophesy has contributed to Christian Nationalism, and conspiracy theories (including Q-Anon) in America and in Europe as well. Whittock, a self-proclaimed Bible-believing evangelical Christian, shares his ideas regarding a proper approach to prophetic and apocalyptic literature.  SHOW NOTES

Become a Patron: www.patreon.com/beachedwhitemale

In this second installment of Ken's special series, TRUTH QUEST - Exploring the History of Race in America, we launch the Civil Rights tour of the South in New Orleans.  The Whitney Plantation in St. John the Baptist Parish is a non-profit dedicated to preserving the history and legacy of slavery in Louisiana. You'll hear an in-depth description of the exhibits, displays, and elegant plantation house and how those displays impacted our team of pilgrims. In this episode, we are invited to a team "debrief," in which several share their personal responses to a history that has been hidden until now. Then Ken takes us to the French Quarter on a bustling Saturday evening in the heart of the New Orleans. Under the tutelage of master-guide, Leon A. Waters, the team wanders down the Mississippi River and Washington Artillery Park, to Jackson Square, by the St. Louis Cathedral, the Federal Courthouse, and the Slave Exchange, along the narrow streets filled with iconic architecture, surrounded by eager crowds, street vendors and musicians, lively multitudes lined up for the annual Pride Month Parade - New Orleans style.  SHOW NOTES

Meet our contributors.

Listen to the entire series - TRUTH QUEST: Exploring the History of Race in America - in their own words.

Ken marks a major milestone: 200 episodes since the podcast was launched in April of 2020. He reflects on the journey that has transformed his life, cemented his friendships and broadened his horizons. A good number of Ken's listeners. partners and friends check in, including Ken's life partner Carolyn who makes her debut appearance sharing her perspective on her husbands wild retirement project. 

Become a Patron: www.patreon.com/beachedwhitemale

In this very special episode, Carla reveals her real identity. Ken and Carla share how they met, the projects that brought them together, and how they began this 18-month weekly conversation they call "Beach Talks." Rather than spell out the details here, you'll need to listen to the podcast. Sharing the early days, pre-podcast, they talk about their new friendship working together on a published book. Carla relays some of the detail of her college and then the beginnings of the career that shaped her political and spiritual perspectives. If you are drawn, as Ken is, to Carla's intelligence, quick wit, political commentary, and infectious, soulful faith, you'll appreciate these fresh, new disclosures. It's a delightful and personal account. 

This week, Secretary Pete Buttigieg appears at the University of Chicago.  Macron wins!

Follow Carla on Twitter

Become a Patron: www.patreon.com/beachedwhitemale

Episodes since the launch: 190

The tornadoes that hit the mid-west have left a swath of devastation. Carla complements California's Governor Gavin Newsom for leading the way for the rest of the nation. Liz Cheney outed Mark Meadows who continues to take his cues from the former President, hindering the work of the House Select Committee on the January 6 Attack. Fox News personalities (Sean Hannity, Brian Kilmeade) offered their advice to Mark Meadows as the insurrection exploded on national television, blurring the boundaries between governing and journalism. Laura Ingraham cried out via text that January 6 would "destroy the President's [Trump] legacy!" Carla underscores the imminent threat to democracy and the need to call out the forces currently in play. Senator (Rev.) Raphael Warnock delivers a powerful speech on voting rights. A call for "bi-partisanship" can be a smoke-screen obscuring the issues that lead to legislative progress. The delivery of the new baby, making Carla a grandmother, could happen any day now. Carols carry us into the season.

Become a Patron: www.patreon.com/beachedwhitemale

The 2 Ken's pick up where they left off. In the last 2 KENS podcast editions, Ken Fong and Ken Kemp discussed the first four editions of Mike Flanagan's Netflix drama, Midnight Madness.  They both went back to Netflix and took in the remaining three episodes. SPOILER ALRT: We cover the entire series, all seven episodes. They talk about characters and scenes and relate them to their experience as former pastors - miracle, superstition, biblical interpretation, addiction, the afterlife, and the power of cults and cult leaders.

SHOW NOTES:  https://thebeachedwhitemale.com/2kens_midnight_mass/

Become a PATRON: www.patreon.com/beachedwhitemale

The Two Kens - Asian America the Ken Fong Podcast and The Beached White Male (Ken Kemp) - review an interview by Ken Fong with Claire Chao and her breakout memoir/novel, Remembering Shanghai. It's a living, breathing model of the cost-benefit of "deconstruct." Their conversations turns to a reflection on the popular new Netflix series, Midnight Mass. The characters give more grist to deconstruction conversation. Writer/Director Mike Flanagan, has created a powerful drama that focusses on religion, addiction, miracle, social conflict, philosophy, superstition and much more. It's in the genre of vampire, horror even, which is not either Ken's preference for entertainment, but this one leaves both with much to discuss. SPOILER ALERT - if you have not seen the series, you may not want to listen to this episode until you've seen it. The two Ken's get personal - they weigh cost of changing one's mind about tribal assumptions.

It's been a full year since Ken launched the Beach White Male podcast in March of 2020. In his episode, he reflects on an eventful twelve months. The podcast began just as the pandemic crisis changed the world. From his "man cave," he has interviewed an amazing collection of authors, thinkers, and influencers. He and Carla have brought their open and candid responses to political, religious, and literary events throughout a tumultuous year. Listen to a number of friends and associates express their congratulations.

CONTACT KEN 
Posted March 26, 2021

Ken welcomes James Ross, Educator, Professional Trainer trainer to Public School  Administrators and teachers. His specialty: diversity training. James has a long and productive career in the classroom, then as a principal and finally a trainer in Los Angeles and LA County schools. He reflects on his growing up years in South Central LA, then off to UCSB and UCLA and on to credentials for secondary education and administration and his insight as a communicator and instructor in reconciliation. Ken met James through his Table Talks on Seeing White (Scene on Radio) - a five-week online course through the history and impact of whiteness in America. SHOW NOTES