The Fellowship, The Family, and The National Prayer Breakfast with Doug Burleigh

In this episode of Faithful Politics, hosts Will Wright and Pastor Josh Burtram sit down with Doug Burleigh, a longtime Christian leader, speaker, and former National President of Young Life. Doug has been deeply involved in global faith diplomacy, notably through the National Prayer Breakfast and extensive ministry in Russia and former Soviet states. The conversation covers Doug’s personal faith journey, his experiences working with political and religious leaders worldwide, and the importance of keeping Jesus at the center of faith, rather than institutional religion. He also addresses the Netflix documentary "The Family", offering insight into misconceptions about the Fellowship. This episode is packed with wisdom on discipleship, leadership, and the power of faith-based relationships across cultural and political divides.

Guest Bio: Doug Burley

Doug Burley is a Christian leader, author, and global faith diplomat who has dedicated decades to ministry and mentorship. He served as the National President of Young Life for 25+ years before becoming a key figure in the Fellowship (The Family), the group behind the National Prayer Breakfast in Washington, D.C. His work has taken him across the world, including extensive faith-building efforts in Russia and post-Soviet states. Doug’s book, Jesus Changes Everything, emphasizes personal faith over institutional religion, guiding readers toward a deeper, more intimate relationship with Christ.