October 26, 2025

Episode 124: David Foster Wallace, Kluck's Essays, Sports, And…Cats (feat. Ted Kluck)

Speaker: Aaron Downs Series: Literature Topic: Literature

In this episode, Ted Kluck, an associate professor of communication arts at Union University, discusses his journey as a writer and educator, the influence of David Foster Wallace on his work, Christian hope, and a range of other topics. 

Ted Kluck Interview

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Ted Kluck and His Work
02:56 Teaching Journalism at Union University
05:59 David Foster Wallace: An Influential Writer
09:07 The Impact of Wallace's Writing Style
12:03 Exploring Themes of Loneliness and Connection
14:51 The Duality of Humor and Seriousness in Writing
17:53 Navigating Modern Loneliness and Technology
20:54 Lessons from David Foster Wallace's Life
24:08 Writing with Honesty and Vulnerability
30:15 The Evolution of Christian Media
31:46 Balancing Sin and Grace in Preaching
34:11 The Authenticity of Pastoral Preaching
36:05 David Foster Wallace: A Reflection on Hope
39:29 The Struggle for Meaning in a Secular World
41:54 Exploring David Foster Wallace's Work
43:01 The Journey to Pastoral Ministry
45:38 David Foster Wallace Starter Pack
48:06 Ted Kluck's Writing Journey
52:44 Celebrating Spouses and Personal Growth
55:23 Vulnerability in Relationships and Ministry
56:42 The Complexity of Vulnerability in Modern Society
01:01:04 Cats, Comfort, and Authenticity
01:02:18 Football Fandom and Personal Connections
01:08:00 Finding Purpose Through Hardship