The Intersection with Dr. J + Friends


In this episode, Dr. J dialogues with Jahshua Smith—educator, leader, and hip hop sage—for a wide-ranging and layered conversation at the crossroads of Jesus and justice. With wisdom, candor, and insight, Jahshua helps unpack the historical and spiritual significance of Juneteenth, not just as a commemorative event, but as an invitation to deeper discipleship and authentic community.


From the power of education to the pain of church hurt, from hip hop pedagogy to healing, this episode explores how scripture speaks into oppression and calls the church to be more than a Sunday sanctuary. Through personal stories, theological reflection, and cultural critique, Jahshua and Justin challenge us to imagine a church that truly embodies the freedom it proclaims.


Whether you're new to understanding Juneteenth or have long wrestled with the intersections of faith, race, and justice, this episode offers needed clarity and loving provocation. If you’ve ever wondered what justice has to do with Jesus—or how the gospel informs equity, community building, and collective hope—this conversation is for you.




What is The Intersection with Dr. J + Friends?

Intersections are high-traffic areas, with people coming from and heading in all sorts of directions. While intersections are places of potential collision and calamity, they are also the very places where we can find direction and learn where to go. The Intersection is a podcast where faith engages the complexities of our modern world. Though intersections sometimes feel risky, they are where real dialogue happens, they are where we find direction and discover where to go next.