Culture Matters

Culture Matters
  • 4.5 (486)
  • Christianity
  • Updated Weekly

Matters of culture should matter to us—because they matter to God. Hosted by Adam Hawkins, Tymarcus Ragland and Chelsea Conway—the Culture Matters podcast explores the intersection of faith and culture. Looking at everything from politics, art and entertainment to issues such as racial reconciliation and the sanctity of human life, we discuss what it looks like to live faithfully on mission—in the world but not of the world.

  1. 19h ago

    The Church Part 1: The People of God

    Chelsea and Tymarcus kick off a new mini-series on the church. Today they explore a question that many Christians wrestle with: Do you have to be part of a church to follow Jesus? Rather than approaching the topic as a defense of church attendance, they examine how the New Testament consistently assumes that followers of Jesus are connected to the people of God. The discussion highlights the church as more than a weekly gathering or building—it is the global, historic, and Spirit-filled community of believers united in Christ. Drawing from Scripture, church history, and personal experience, Chelsea and Tymarcus unpack themes of discipleship, accountability, spiritual formation, church hurt, community, and the beauty of belonging to Christ’s bride. They also address common objections to church involvement, acknowledging the reality of painful experiences while encouraging listeners not to abandon God’s design for Christian flourishing. The episode closes by looking ahead to future conversations on union with Christ, discipleship, and the mission of the church. Key TakeawaysThe New Testament assumes Christians are connected to the people of God.Church participation is about more than attendance; it is about belonging.Spiritual growth requires community, accountability, and discipleship.Church hurt is real, but unhealthy churches should not redefine God’s design for the church.The church is imperfect because people are imperfect, yet Christ remains committed to His bride.Isolation often deprives believers of the very means God uses for encouragement and sanctification.Gathering with believers is a gift and grace from God.Scriptures MentionedActs 2:42–47Romans 8:29–30Ephesians 4:4–6Proverbs 27:17 (“Iron sharpens iron”)1 John 2:19 Thanks to our SponsorsIn A Compelling Faith in a Compromising Culture, pastor and longtime NBA chaplain Mike Tatlock invites believers to cultivate a faith that isn’t loud or trendy—but holy, steady, and unmistakably different. To learn more about A Compelling Faith in a Compromising Culture, visit moodypublishers.com or find it wherever books are sold. Cozy Earth Discover how Cozy Earth turns everyday routines into moments of softness and ease. Head to cozyearth.com and use code CULTURE for an exclusive 20% off. Follow Us!Instagram Youtube --  Editing and support by The Good Podcast Co. If you would like to sponsor this show, email sponsor@thegoodpodcast.co.

    51 min

  2. Apr 23

    Codependency and Boundaries with Katherine Bahcall

    This episode dives deep into the intersection of boundaries, codependency, and discipleship. Katherine Bahcall helps reframe a culturally saturated conversation by grounding it in Scripture and the gospel. While the world often defines boundaries as a tool for self-protection and self-esteem, this conversation pushes further—revealing that the root issue isn’t just relational dysfunction, but misplaced worship. Codependency isn’t merely unhealthy attachment; it’s often a sign that we’re looking to people to give us what only God can. Adam, Chelsea and Katherine explore how these dynamics form (often in family systems), how they play out in friendships, marriage, and ministry, and why discernment—not formulas—is the key to healthy relationships. Ultimately, boundaries aren’t about building walls—they’re about loving people rightly and pointing them to Christ. Key TakeawaysBoundaries are not about protecting yourself—they’re about loving rightly.Codependency often reveals a deeper issue: misplaced identity and worship.You don’t need a formula for every relationship—you need discernment.Start with your relationship with God, and other relationships will follow.A healthy boundary may disappoint someone—but still be the most loving thing you can do.Mentioned ResourcesBoundaries — Dr. Henry Cloud & Dr. John TownsendCodependent No More — Melody BeattieThe Meaning of Marriage — Timothy Keller (for relational dynamics)ScriptureJeremiah 2:13 — God as the fountain of living waterProverbs 29:25 — Fear of man vs. trust in GodRomans 14 — Conviction, conscience, and not causing others to stumble1 John (themes of abiding and relationship with God referenced throughout) Thanks to our SponsorsIn A Compelling Faith in a Compromising Culture, pastor and longtime NBA chaplain Mike Tatlock invites believers to cultivate a faith that isn’t loud or trendy—but holy, steady, and unmistakably different. To learn more about A Compelling Faith in a Compromising Culture, visit moodypublishers.com or find it wherever books are sold. Cozy Earth Let this Mother’s Day be a reminder that she deserves care, too — discover how Cozy Earth turns everyday routines into moments of softness and ease. Head to cozyearth.com and use code CULTURE for an exclusive 20% off. Follow Us!Instagram Youtube --  Editing and support by The Good Podcast Co. If you would like to sponsor this show, email sponsor@thegoodpodcast.co.

    52 min

  3. Apr 14

    Created to Create

    Chelsea and Tymarcus unpack the deeper meaning of creativity—not just as artistic expression, but as a core part of being human. Rooted in Scripture and lived experience, they challenge the cultural narrative that creativity only matters if it’s monetized or platform-worthy. From sourdough baking to engineering, parenting to music, they explore how creativity shows up in everyday life—and why it’s worth pursuing even when no one is watching. This conversation reframes creativity as stewardship, formation, and worship, reminding us that we are created by a creative God and invited to reflect Him in both work and play. Key TakeawaysCreativity is not limited to art—it’s woven into how we live, work, and relate.Your gifts are less about you and more about reflecting the God who gave them.You don’t need a platform, paycheck, or perfection to pursue creativity.Discipline + time = growth, even in “small” things.Play, rest, and hobbies are spiritually formative—not distractions.Community is essential for discernment, balance, and sustainability.Start where you are. Stay consistent. Let God shape you through the process.  Mentioned ResourcesCulture Matters Episode with Jonathan Pennington (on work & vocation)  Thanks to our SponsorsIn A Compelling Faith in a Compromising Culture, pastor and longtime NBA chaplain Mike Tatlock invites believers to cultivate a faith that isn’t loud or trendy—but holy, steady, and unmistakably different. To learn more about A Compelling Faith in a Compromising Culture, visit moodypublishers.com or find it wherever books are sold. Cozy Earth This Mother's Day, give the gift that shows up every single night. Head to cozyearth.com and use my code CULTUREBOGO for an exclusive Buy One, Give One offer running from April 12th to April 18th on sheet sets and if you get Follow Us!Instagram Youtube --  Editing and support by The Good Podcast Co. If you would like to sponsor this show, email sponsor@thegoodpodcast.co.

    48 min

  4. Apr 7

    Fasting & Feasting

    In this Tuesday-after-Easter conversation, Chelsea and Ty reflect on the beauty, tension, and purpose behind spiritual rhythms like feasting and fasting. From Easter services to Good Friday reflections, they unpack why certain moments in the church calendar feel more significant—and why that’s actually by design. The conversation explores how celebration (feasting) and lament (fasting) work together to shape us spiritually. These rhythms aren’t about performance or tradition for tradition’s sake—they’re about reorientation. In a world full of distraction, discouragement, and noise, God gives His people intentional markers to remember the story we’re part of. Resources & ReferencesBooksDwell — Barry JonesYou Are What You Love — James K. A. SmithScripturesNehemiah 1:4 – Fasting in response to brokennessExodus 12 – Passover as remembranceLuke 22 – The Last Supper2 Corinthians 3 – “Unveiled face” and transformationJames 1 – Remembering and living the WordKey TakeawaysWe are forgetful people—rhythms like Easter and Lent help us remember what matters most. Feasting reminds us of joy and hope—a foretaste of the Kingdom. Fasting reminds us of brokenness and dependence—we cannot fix the world on our own. The goal isn’t constant intensity—it’s faithful formation. We live between two realities Jesus has already risenAnd we are still waiting for full restoration Thanks to our Sponsors In A Compelling Faith in a Compromising Culture, pastor and longtime NBA chaplain Mike Tatlock invites believers to cultivate a faith that isn’t loud or trendy—but holy, steady, and unmistakably different. To learn more about A Compelling Faith in a Compromising Culture, visit moodypublishers.com or find it wherever books are sold. Cozy Earth Let this Mother’s Day be a reminder that she deserves care, too — discover how Cozy Earth turns everyday routines into moments of softness and ease. Head to cozyearth.com and use code Culture for an exclusive 20% off. Follow Us!Instagram Youtube --  Editing and support by The Good Podcast Co. If you would like to sponsor this show, email sponsor@thegoodpodcast.co

    37 min

  5. Mar 31

    Cultural Roundup

    The crew tackles heavy global headlines—from tensions involving Iran and U.S. military action to immigration debates and ICE-related unrest—while asking a deeper question: How should Christians respond when the world feels unstable and unclear? Rather than offering political prescriptions, the conversation centers on spiritual posture: lament, prayer, discernment, and faithful presence in everyday life. They wrestle honestly with information overload, mistrust in media, and the tension between civic responsibility and Christian identity. The episode closes on a lighter but still meaningful note, diving into books, films, and the Oscars—highlighting how art, storytelling, and theology shape our imagination and help us process grief, beauty, and truth. Resources & Mentions📖 BooksAwaiting the King — On Christian political theology and cultural formationJesus and the Disinherited — A profound look at Jesus’ message for the oppressedThe Cross of Christ — Deep theological reflection on the meaning of the crossChanged into His Likeness: A Theology of Change — Biblical framework for transformationThe Word in the Wilderness — Poetry and reflection for LentHere I Stand - Martin Luther Biography (Roland Bainton) — Insight into Luther’s life and struggle for grace🎬 Movies & MediaHamnet — Grief, art, and Shakespearean storytellingSentimental Value — Family, reconciliation, and lossSinners — Michael B. Jordan’s dual performance (notable acting craft)Project Hail Mary — Sci-fi story centered on friendship, hope, and collaborationKey TakeawaysClarity isn’t always available—but faithfulness is.Christians may disagree on policy, but not on how people are treated.Prayer, lament, and love are not passive—they are formative.You don’t need global influence to live faithfully—start local.Rejecting hatred is a radical, Kingdom-centered act.Art helps us process truth, grief, and beauty in ways arguments cannot.Thanks to our SponsorIn A Compelling Faith in a Compromising Culture, pastor and longtime NBA chaplain Mike Tatlock invites believers to cultivate a faith that isn’t loud or trendy—but holy, steady, and unmistakably different. To learn more about A Compelling Faith in a Compromising Culture, visit moodypublishers.com or find it wherever books are sold. Follow Us!Instagram Youtube --  Editing and support by The Good Podcast Co. If you would like to sponsor this show, email sponsor@thegoodpodcast.co

    53 min

  6. Mar 24

    Spirit-Filled Singing with Ryanne J. Molinari

    Chelsea sits down with Michael Bleecker and Ryanne Molinari, author of Spirit-Filled Singing: Bearing Fruit as We Worship Together, to explore how congregational singing is not just expressive—but formative. Rooted in passages like Ephesians 5, Colossians 3, and Galatians 5, Ryanne draws a compelling connection: singing together is one of the primary ways the Holy Spirit cultivates His fruit in us. If you’ve ever struggled with “not liking the music,” questioned excellence vs. authenticity, or wrestled with how to lead people into meaningful worship—this one will sharpen and ground you. Key TakeawaysSinging is formative: It doesn’t just express what we feel—it shapes who we become.Preference can be sanctified: Loving others through their songs grows unity.Participation fuels joy: Engagement often precedes emotion.Faithfulness > performance: Worship is about offering, not impressing.Patience builds people: Especially in volunteer-driven ministry.Worship is a lifestyle: Not a Sunday experience, but a daily rhythm. Guest ResourcesSpirit Filled Singing by Ryanne Molinariryannemolinari.com Follow Ryanne Thanks to our SponsorIn A Compelling Faith in a Compromising Culture, pastor and longtime NBA chaplain Mike Tatlock invites believers to cultivate a faith that isn’t loud or trendy—but holy, steady, and unmistakably different. To learn more about A Compelling Faith in a Compromising Culture, visit moodypublishers.com or find it wherever books are sold. Follow Us!Instagram Youtube --  Editing and support by The Good Podcast Co. If you would like to sponsor this show, email sponsor@thegoodpodcast.co

    47 min

  7. Mar 17

    Faith and Work with Dr. Pennington

    Adam, and special guests Jamin Roller, and Dr. Jonathan Pennington explore the connection between faith and work. They challenge the sacred-secular divide, reminding us that work is not a post-fall curse—but a pre-fall calling. From Genesis to the New Testament, Scripture affirms that all work—done with excellence, love, and integrity—is an act of worship. The conversation reframes vocation, not as a narrow “dot” to discover, but as a wide “circle” of God’s will in which believers are free to create, contribute, and flourish. Whether you love your job or dread it, this episode offers a compelling vision: God cares deeply about how you work, who you become through your work, and how your work serves others. Key TakeawaysWork is worship. Not just ministry jobs—all work done in faith honors God.You don’t need a perfect job to live a meaningful life. Meaning is found in how you work, not just what you do.Calling is broader than you think. God’s will is a circle of freedom, not a pinpoint target to stress over.Character > Career. Who you become at work matters more than what you accomplish.Struggle is formative. Difficult work often shapes the deepest growth.Look for beauty. A life of joy at work often comes down to attention, curiosity, and gratitude.Guest ResourcesTo learn more about Dr. Pennington, book him for speaking or to buy one of his books, check out www.jonathanpennington.com Other ResourcesEvery Good Endeavor – Timothy KellerWork: A Kingdom Perspective on Labor – Ben Witherington IIIGarden City – John Mark Comer Thanks to our SponsorIn A Compelling Faith in a Compromising Culture, pastor and longtime NBA chaplain Mike Tatlock invites believers to cultivate a faith that isn’t loud or trendy—but holy, steady, and unmistakably different. To learn more about A Compelling Faith in a Compromising Culture, visit moodypublishers.com or find it wherever books are sold. Follow Us!Instagram Youtube --  Editing and support by The Good Podcast Co. If you would like to sponsor this show, email sponsor@thegoodpodcast.co

    43 min

  8. Mar 10

    Spiritual Grandparenting

    Adam Hawkins is joined by guests Michael Bleecker and Brenda Peitzman. Together they explore the powerful and often overlooked role grandparents play in passing down faith to the next generation. The conversation highlights the biblical vision of generational discipleship, the cultural challenges families face today, and the incredible opportunity grandparents have to shape identity, faith, and legacy. Whether you're a grandparent, parent, or church leader, this episode invites you to rethink how generations can and should partner together to pass the baton of faith. Key TakeawaysGrandparents have a biblical mandate to disciple not only their children but also their grandchildren (Deuteronomy 4:9).Many churches unintentionally overlook grandparents as a vital part of children’s and youth ministry.Cultural messages often encourage grandparents to step back, but Scripture calls them to run alongside the next generation.Grandparents can influence faith through everyday conversations, prayer, and presence.Resources MentionedLegacy Coalition — https://legacycoalition.comLegacy Coalition Summit — https://legacycoalition.com/summitThanks to our SponsorIn A Compelling Faith in a Compromising Culture, pastor and longtime NBA chaplain Mike Tatlock invites believers to cultivate a faith that isn’t loud or trendy—but holy, steady, and unmistakably different. To learn more about A Compelling Faith in a Compromising Culture, visit moodypublishers.com or find it wherever books are sold. Follow Us!Instagram Youtube --  Editing and support by The Good Podcast Co. If you would like to sponsor this show, email sponsor@thegoodpodcast.co

    31 min
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Hosts & Guests

4.5
out of 5
486 Ratings

About

Matters of culture should matter to us—because they matter to God. Hosted by Adam Hawkins, Tymarcus Ragland and Chelsea Conway—the Culture Matters podcast explores the intersection of faith and culture. Looking at everything from politics, art and entertainment to issues such as racial reconciliation and the sanctity of human life, we discuss what it looks like to live faithfully on mission—in the world but not of the world.

Information

  • Creator
    Culture Matters
  • Years Active
    2014 - 2026
  • Episodes
    321
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2025 All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    Culture Matters

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