At Sea with Justin McRoberts

Justin answers questions about navigating AI use and recognizing when religion becomes destructive, then closes with a reflection on Phoebe Bridgers and the role of great art. He explores the narratives underneath productivity culture, why peace and wholeness should not be rewards for achievement, how cultic systems confuse access to God with loyalty to an institution, and why the best art meets us where we are without leaving us there.

Justin answers two listener questions about nihilism and accusations of “wokeism” in art. He argues that the desire to stop caring is often less about nihilism than overwhelm and paralysis, fueled by systems that flood us with problems beyond our control. The way forward is smaller and more tangible: limit the noise, act locally, and develop a creative practice that moves you from reaction to generation. Justin also examines the difference between art and propaganda, arguing that great art does not exist to confirm what we already believe. Beauty invites us into unfamiliar territory and changes how we see ourselves, other people, and the world.

Justin sits down with author Jess Janz to discuss the release of her new book and the deeper questions underneath every creative project. Together they explore creativity, friendship, identity, uncertainty, and why the process of making something beautiful often changes the maker more than the finished work itself.

Justin answers listener questions about ambition, gratitude, faith, ADHD, creativity, and artificial intelligence. From navigating spiritual doubt to rediscovering play and wrestling with AI’s impact on artists, this episode explores how the questions we ask often matter more than the answers we expect.

Justin talks with Charles Lee about purpose, implementation, creativity, and the growing crisis of meaning in modern life. Together, they explore why productivity alone cannot satisfy the human soul, how unfinished ideas erode confidence, and why designing a good life requires intentionality, contribution, and meaningful relationships.