Counteract Podcast

Herzog Foundation
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Counteract USA seeks to embolden Christ followers to counteract ever-changing political and cultural ideologies with grace and truth, according to the steadfastness of Scripture. Different voices, different perspectives; one podcast, one mission. Join our Counteract Podcast hosts and contributors as we apply Biblical truth to the conversations shaping our generation! For more information about Counteract USA, visit counteractusa.org

  1. 6 HR AGO

    Ep. 190 - "Project Hail Mary" & The Alien Empathy Problem

    What does a space movie about a rock alien have to do with abortion, AI, and the image of God? In this episode, Abigail breaks down the worldview of Project Hail Mary — and the broader cultural pattern it represents. From aliens to robots to AI companions, our movies are quietly redefining what it means to be human — and it's not neutral storytelling. It's a theological claim with the theology removed. Abigail explores why the recurring narrative of non-human things receiving human value isn't just a cinematic trend, but a cultural shift with real consequences — for how we define personhood, how we treat the vulnerable, and how we understand what it means to be made in the image of God. From G.K. Chesterton's warning about animal worship and child sacrifice, to Romans 1:25, to Genesis 1:26–28, this episode gives you the framework to watch media with your eyes open. Share this episode with someone! "Because they exchanged the truth about God for a lie and worshiped and served the creature rather than the Creator." — Romans 1:25 (ESV) Links:Follow Abigail on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/abigail.dejarnatt/Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@counteractusaFor more about Counteract USA: Website: https://counteractusa.org/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/counteract.usa/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/counteract.usa/For more about the Herzog Foundation: Website: https://www.herzogfoundation.com/For more about the Real Life Network: Website: https://reallifenetwork.com/ Mentions: Project Hail Mary, worldview analysis, imago dei, personhood, alien empathy, AI companions, creature worship, G.K. Chesterton, C.S. Lewis, Romans 1:25, Genesis 1:26–28, Philippians 4:8, Tron, Ron's Gone Wrong, Age of Ultron, Guardians of the Galaxy, Interstellar, secular humanism, Darwinism, prolife, transhumanism

    29 min

  2. 5 DAYS AGO

    Ep. 189 - The Cross Is Everything: Jaden Ivey & Why the Resurrection Is True

    What if everything you’re building your life on disappeared tomorrow—would Jesus still be enough? In this Holy Week episode, Abigail reflects on burnout, cultural chaos, and the overwhelming reminder that the cross is not just part of our faith—it is everything. From the story of Jaden Ivey choosing Christ over an NBA career, to the undeniable historical reality of Jesus’ crucifixion and resurrection, this episode grounds listeners in both the truth and the evidence of the gospel. If Christianity is true, it changes everything. So the question is—are we living like it? Listen in as we walk through practical apologetics, the cost of following Jesus, and why the resurrection isn’t just a story—it’s the foundation of our hope. Are you ready to build your life on what’s eternally true? “For if Christ has not been raised, your faith is futile and you are still in your sins.” — 1 Corinthians 15:17 (ESV) Links:Follow Abigail on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/abigail.dejarnatt/Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@counteractusa For more about Counteract USA:Website: https://counteractusa.org/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/counteract.usa/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/counteract.usa/ For more about the Herzog Foundation:Website: https://www.herzogfoundation.com/ For more about the Real Life Network:Website: https://reallifenetwork.com/ Mentions: Holy Week, apologetics, resurrection evidence, crucifixion of Jesus, 1 Corinthians 15, Acts 4:20, Galatians 6:9, I Don’t Have Enough Faith to Be an Atheist, Roman crucifixion evidence, disciples’ martyrdom, cultural pressure and faith, counting the cost of following Christ

    30 min

  3. 25 MAR

    Ep. 188 - Not Afraid of the News: Iran War, Islamic Ideology, & Gen Z’s “Quiet Revival”

    In this March edition of “Not Afraid of the News,” Abigail breaks down the most significant developments of the past few weeks—from conflict in Iran to acts of terrorism on U.S. soil—and what they reveal about the cultural and spiritual moment we’re in. These are not isolated events—they reflect deeper ideological and spiritual realities shaping this moment. At the same time, there are early signs of what some are calling a “quiet revival” among Gen Z. Christians are not called to fear, ignore, or react emotionally—but to be sober-minded, discerning, and rooted in truth. Listen in as we assess the moment and consider how to respond with clarity, conviction, and the hope of the gospel. “For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.” — 2 Timothy 1:7 (NKJV) Links:Follow Abigail on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/abigail.dejarnatt/Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@counteractusa For more about Counteract USA: Website: https://counteractusa.org/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/counteract.usa/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/counteract.usa/ For more about the Herzog Foundation: Website: https://www.herzogfoundation.com/ For more about the Real Life Network: Website: https://reallifenetwork.com/ Mentions: Not Afraid of the News, Iran, Israel, terrorism, Islamic ideology, Islam, Muhammad, secularism, worldview, Gen Z, quiet revival, evangelism, Acts 8, Counteract USA

    42 min

  4. 17 MAR

    Ep. 187 - South Korea’s Warning: When the Church Falls Asleep (Guest: Mina Kim)

    What can American Christians learn from what’s happening in South Korea? At the 2025 Resolve to Stand Conference, Abigail sits down with Mina Kim—founder of Build Up Korea—to discuss the growing spiritual and cultural shift happening in South Korea and why it should serve as a warning to the global Church. As political pressure rises and truth becomes more costly to speak, Mina shares firsthand what it looks like to stand firm in faith—even when it comes with real risk. From government overreach to pastors being targeted, this conversation is a sobering reminder that freedom is not guaranteed—and that a complacent Church is a vulnerable one. But through it all, Mina’s story ultimately points to the faithfulness of God: that He calls, He provides, and He sustains those who are willing to obey. Listen, be challenged, and ask yourself: are you awake—or have you grown comfortable? “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.” — Hebrews 13:8 (ESV) Links: Follow Abigail on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/abigail.dejarnatt/ Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@counteractusa For more about Counteract USA: Website: https://counteractusa.org/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/counteract.usa/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/counteract.usa/ Follow Mina Kim: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mina.kimmm/ Learn more about Build Up Korea: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/buildupkorea.official/ For more about the Herzog Foundation: Website: https://www.herzogfoundation.com/ For more about the Real Life Network: Website: https://reallifenetwork.com/ Mentions: Mina Kim, Build Up Korea, South Korea, Christian persecution, religious freedom, the Church, spiritual complacency, Gen Z faith, prayer, cultural shift, Resolve to Stand Conference, Charlie Kirk

    16 min

  5. 11 MAR

    Ep. 186 - I'm 25, Single, and Really Okay With That: On Christian Singleness

    Is the goal of the Christian life to get married—or to obey God in every circumstance? In this episode, Abigail reflects on being single at 25 and what she has learned about surrendering personal desires to the will of God. In a Christian culture that often treats marriage as the ultimate milestone (though it is good, honorable, and beautiful), this conversation reframes singleness as an opportunity for undivided attention and devotion to Christ. Abigail shares her own story of ending a five-year relationship when God redirected her life, why pursuing the Kingdom of God matters more than pursuing marriage (and how godly spouses are sometimes found in that Kingdom pursuit), and how Christians should think about calling, relationships, and obedience. From the example of Hannah More to the teachings of Jesus and Paul, this episode explores what it really means to seek first the kingdom of God—no matter the season of life. Share this episode with someone who needs encouragement to pursue God’s will above everything else. “But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.” — Matthew 6:33 (ESV) Links: Follow Abigail on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/abigail.dejarnatt/  Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@counteractusa  For more about Counteract USA: Website: https://counteractusa.org/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/counteract.usa/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/counteract.usa/  For more about the Herzog Foundation: Website: https://www.herzogfoundation.com/  For more about the Real Life Network: Website: https://reallifenetwork.com/ Mentions: Singleness, Christian dating, pursuing God’s will, vocation and calling, Matthew 6:33, 1 Corinthians 7:32–35, Galatians 2:20, Eric Metaxas, Hannah More, mission in your twenties, sanctification

    19 min

  6. 9 MAR

    Ep. 185 - Is America a Christian Nation? Truth, History, & the Church’s Role in Culture (Guest: Ryan Helfenbein)

    Was America founded as a Christian nation—and does that matter? In this episode of the Counteract Podcast, Abigail sits down with Ryan Helfenbein, founding director of the Standing for Freedom Center at Liberty University, live at the 2025 Resolve to Stand Conference in Northwest Arkansas. They discuss America’s Christian heritage, why truth requires a biblical reference point, and why Christians must engage culture instead of retreating from it. Ryan also explains why cultural conversations can serve as an on-ramp to the gospel and what he’s seeing among Gen Z as many young people search for meaning, history, and truth. “But in your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you.” — 1 Peter 3:15 ESV Links: Follow the Standing for Freedom Center on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/freedomcenterlu/  Follow Abigail on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/abigail.dejarnatt/ Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@counteractusa For more about Counteract USA: Website: https://counteractusa.org/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/counteract.usa/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/counteract.usa/ For more about the Herzog Foundation: Website: https://www.herzogfoundation.com/ For more about the Real Life Network: Website: https://reallifenetwork.com/ Mentions: Ryan Helfenbein, Liberty University, Standing for Freedom Center, Christian worldview, Christian nationalism debate, Gen Z faith trends, cultural apologetics, Resolve to Stand Conference

    14 min

  7. 3 MAR

    Ep. 184 - Erika Kirk, Candace Owens & the Cost of “Just Asking Questions”

    What happens when we keep asking questions — but stop anchoring ourselves in what is true? In this episode, Abigail addresses the cultural firestorm surrounding Erika Kirk and Candace Owens. But this conversation goes deeper than one controversy. It’s about what happens when curiosity becomes speculation, when discernment drifts into darkness, and when believers forget the foundation that makes critical thinking actually biblical. As Christians, we are called to expose darkness — but we are also commanded to think on what is true, honorable, and pure. If our pursuit of truth isn’t grounded in Scripture, wisdom, and the fruit of the Spirit, we won’t find clarity. We’ll spiral. This episode walks through: Why you cannot pursue truth unless you are anchored in TruthThe danger of endless questioning without a biblical baselineThe difference between discernment and dwelling in darknessHow conspiracy culture especially hooks Gen ZWhy independent voices still require character and motiveGod’s heart for widowsA practical framework for navigating viral narratives faithfully We don’t reject questions. We reject questions that aren’t anchored in truth.  If we are going to challenge narratives, we must first be rooted in something unshakable. “Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable… think about these things.” — Philippians 4:8 ESV If this episode sharpens you, send it to a friend and leave a five-star review. Let’s be believers who are bold, discerning, and anchored — not swept away by every narrative. Links: Follow Abigail on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/abigail.dejarnatt/Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@counteractusaFor more about Counteract USA: Website: https://counteractusa.org/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/counteract.usa/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/counteract.usa/ For more about the Herzog Foundation: Website: https://www.herzogfoundation.com/ For more about the Real Life Network: Website: https://reallifenetwork.com/ MENTIONS:Erika Kirk, Candace Owens, conspiracy culture, biblical critical thinking, Gen Z and algorithms, discernment, Philippians 4:8, Ephesians 5:11

    34 min

  8. 28 FEB

    Ep. 183 - Your Friends Form You: The Theology of Christian Community (Guest: Zeke Wallace) - w/ Allison Lind

    What if your friendships are shaping far more than your social life — what if they’re shaping your destiny? In this episode, Counteract Podcast host Allison Lind sits down with Counteract USA’s Church Relations & Men’s Cell Coordinator, Zeke Wallace, to unpack the theology behind Christian community. From Aristotle’s three types of friendship to Augustine’s concept of “spiritual gravity,” they explore how what you love — and who you surround yourself with — forms who you become. They discuss why Christianity was never meant to be practiced alone, how isolation weakens discipleship, why the New Testament centers around the local church, and what it practically takes to build friendships that actually make you holy. If you want to grow in sanctification, you cannot do it in isolation. Your friends are forming you — the question is: forming you into what? “And we all, with unveiled face, beholding the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another.” — 2 Corinthians 3:18 ESV Links: Follow Allison on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/____lind____/Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@counteractusaFor more about Counteract USA:Website: https://counteractusa.org/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/counteract.usa/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/counteract.usa/For more about the Herzog Foundation:Website: https://www.herzogfoundation.com/For more about the Real Life Network:Website: https://reallifenetwork.com/ MENTIONS: Biblical community, iron sharpens iron, koinonia, John 17, Acts 2, Proverbs 27:17, 2 Corinthians 3:18, Gen Z isolation, church discipleship gap, Aristotle’s Nicomachean Ethics, friendships of pleasure/utility/virtue, Augustine’s “spiritual gravity,” City of God, sanctification, confession and forgiveness, Tolkien & C.S. Lewis, monastic communities, men’s cell groups, partnering with the local church

    56 min
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Counteract USA seeks to embolden Christ followers to counteract ever-changing political and cultural ideologies with grace and truth, according to the steadfastness of Scripture. Different voices, different perspectives; one podcast, one mission. Join our Counteract Podcast hosts and contributors as we apply Biblical truth to the conversations shaping our generation! For more information about Counteract USA, visit counteractusa.org

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