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Episode SummaryIn this episode of Stories from Real Life, host Melvin E. Edwards speaks with filmmaker and author Matthew Pridgen, creator of the documentary The Sins of Our Fathers: Race, Religion, and the Rise of Trump. This powerful conversation explores how Christian nationalism, generational racism, and white evangelical culture helped shape the political rise of Donald Trump—and what that means for America today.
Drawing from his own dramatic life transformation—from addiction and atheism to faith and social awareness — Matthew brings a rare combination of vulnerability, insight, and lived experience to this discussion. Together, we unpack the cultural, historical, and theological forces that continue to influence American politics.
Key Topics Covered• The inspiration behind The Sins of Our Fathers• How race, religion, and politics intersected during the rise of Donald Trump• The role of Christian nationalism and white evangelical culture• Generational belief systems and inherited racial bias• The fear narratives driving modern political movements• Why so many Christians supported Donald Trump• What Matthew hopes viewers will confront about race and faith
Why This Episode MattersThis conversation is essential for anyone interested in:• race relations in America• evangelical Christianity• Christian nationalism• political polarization• the rise of Trump and its cultural roots• documentary filmmaking focused on social justice• reconciling faith with historical truth
About the Guest: Matthew PridgenMatthew Pridgen is a documentarian, author, speaker, and advocate who explores the intersections of race, religion, and justice through film and storytelling. His documentary The Sins of Our Fathers has sparked national conversations around racism, faith, and political identity.
Resources and LinksWebsite: matthewpridgen.comDocumentary: The Sins of Our Fathers
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