Culture Brief - Christian perspectives on the week's biggest news, sports & pop-culture stories

Denison Forum
Denison Forum
  • 4.6 (43)
  • Christianity
  • Updated Weekly

The world moves fast. Every week brings new headlines, viral moments, political debates, sports stories, technological breakthroughs, and cultural trends competing for your attention. Culture Brief helps you stay informed, think biblically, and engage the culture from a Christian perspective. Join host Conner Jones and friends every Thursday as they break down the biggest trending stories of the week and explore what they mean for Christians. From elections and global events to movies, music, AI, sports, and internet trends, they offer thoughtful biblical insights, practical takeaways, and informed predictions about where today's headlines may lead tomorrow. No partisan spin. No outrage. Just honest, engaging conversations about the issues shaping our world and what Scripture has to say about them. If you want to keep up with what's happening, understand what's coming next, laugh a little along the way, and navigate today's culture with wisdom and conviction, this is the podcast for you. New episodes every Thursday.

  1. 5d ago

    Should We Be Worried About Data Centers? & Why Is Everything So Expensive? | Ep. 79

    In this week's Brief: Conner's out, so Micah and Josh take the reins for a deep dive on two questions everyone's asking. First: Should we be worried about data centers? They break down what one actually is, why North Texas is suddenly full of them, and the real pros and cons behind the fights breaking out over land, water, and power, landing on whether this technology is being built with integrity. From there, they tackle why everything feels so expensive, running real numbers on gas, beef, electricity, and coffee since Culture Brief launched, and unpacking the causes: oil instability, a shrinking cattle herd, data centers straining the grid, and tariffs. They flag a striking Gallup stat showing that Americans feel worse about their finances now than in 2008 or during the pandemic. Plus, a challenge from Scripture: when money's tight for everyone, it's a chance to be generous, not silent. Topics(0:00) Introduction(1:37) Why data centers everywhere(5:35) What is a data center(8:30) The case for data centers(15:26) The case against data centers(20:43) Christian wisdom and integrity(24:42) Why everything so expensive(25:07) Price check since launch(27:56) Everyday costs spike(29:48) Polls show anxiety(30:51) Stock market disconnect(35:04) Why prices rise(37:35) Electricity and data centers(39:18) Tariffs and politics(45:37) Church steps up(48:26) Radical generosity(49:57) Conclusion ResourcesSend us your thoughts, questions, and topic ideas: culturebrief@denisonforum.orgCulture Brief InstagramWatch on Youtube Sign-up for a Denison Forum newsletter: DenisonForum.org/subscribe Articles on this week’s top headlines:A Peace Plan for the Data Center WarsWhy Mark Cuban says many AI data centers could wind up as 'pickleball courts'AI revolution arrives in North Texas: Nvidia and Wistron launch manufacturing plant in Fort WorthConsumer Price Index SummaryAmericans’ evaluations of the economy remain negativeAmericans feel worse off financially than at any point in 25 years, Gallup findsThe AI boom’s hidden electricity bill — and why you’re paying itBeef prices hit record highs as nationwide cattle inventory drops to lowest level in 70 yearsTracking the Impact of the Trump Tariffs & Trade WarNAR Existing-Home Sales Report Shows 2.4% Decrease in June About Josh MillerJosh Miller is the Chief Executive Officer at Denison Ministries. He is also a disciple of Jesus, husband, and father. A Christian leader, author, and songwriter, Josh brings over 20 years of ministry experience—from global worship tours to pastoral leadership. He lives in Plano, Texas with his wife and two sons, fueled by faith, craft coffee, and a love for tacos. About Micah TomasellaMicah Tomasella is the Director of Advancement at Denison Ministries and co-hosts Denison Forum's "Culture Brief" podcast. A graduate of Dallas Baptist University, Micah is married to Emily, and together they are the proud parents of two daughters. With an extensive background in nonprofit work, finance, and real estate, Micah also brings experience from his years in pastoral church ministry. About Denison ForumDenison Forum exists to thoughtfully engage the issues of the day from a biblical perspective through The Daily Article email newsletter and podcast, the Faith & Clarity podcast, as well as many books and additional resources. All episodes are produced by Sound of a Rose. For more information, you can visit soundofarose.com.

    Should We Be Worried About Data Centers? & Why Is Everything So Expensive? | Ep. 79

  2. Jul 23

    World Cup reflections, Trump’s election speech, Middle East update & ‘The Odyssey’ | Ep. 78

    In this week's Brief: We look back at a World Cup that exceeded every expectation. It brought millions together, introduced Americans to the world's biggest sport, and reminded us that shared joy is still possible in an increasingly divided culture. Why did this tournament resonate so deeply, and what can Christians learn from it? We dive in! From there, Conner offers a hot (warm?) take on commercials. Then we unpack President Trump's address on election integrity, discuss the latest developments in the Middle East, the arrests of Andrew and Tristan Tate, Ryan Fox's surprise Open Championship victory, Christopher Nolan's "The Odyssey" dominating the box office, and why Christians should resist cynicism by letting Scripture—not the headlines—shape how we see the world. Topics(0:00) Introduction(1:17) Spain wins it all(3:03) World Cup halftime show reactions(6:09) World Cup unites America(8:06) New stars and Messi tribute(16:49) DFW World Cup encounters(20:30) Scripture over headlines(21:55) Denison Forum mission(25:57) Trump election speech recap(28:14) Iran conflict update(29:51) Tate brothers arrested(31:17) British Open highlights(32:18) Masters lottery heartbreak(33:02) Nolan Odyssey box office(34:32) ConclusionResourcesSend us your thoughts, questions, and topic ideas: culturebrief@denisonforum.orgCulture Brief InstagramWatch on Youtube Sign-up for Denison Forum newsletters: DenisonForum.org/subscribe Articles on this week’s top headlines:Spain wasn’t the only World Cup winner‘I Never Want It to End’: The Surprise Economic Boost for World Cup Host CitiesAmerica Is Going to Really, Really Miss the World CupThe Gooooooool of the 2026 World Cup, according to TelemundoThe Death Toll of U.S. Service Members Rises to 17 Over the Weekend About Conner JonesConner Jones is the Managing Editor at Denison Forum and Co-Hosts Denison Forum's "Culture Brief" podcast. He graduated from Dallas Baptist University in 2019 with a degree in Business Management. Conner passionately follows politics, sports, pop-culture, entertainment, and current events. He enjoys fishing, movie-going, and traveling the world with his wife and son. About Micah TomasellaMicah Tomasella is the Director of Advancement at Denison Ministries and co-hosts Denison Forum's "Culture Brief" podcast. A graduate of Dallas Baptist University, Micah is married to Emily, and together they are the proud parents of two daughters. With an extensive background in nonprofit work, finance, and real estate, Micah also brings experience from his years in pastoral church ministry. About Denison ForumDenison Forum exists to thoughtfully engage the issues of the day from a biblical perspective through The Daily Article email newsletter and podcast, the Faith & Clarity podcast, as well as many books and additional resources. All episodes are produced by Sound of a Rose. For more information, you can visit soundofarose.com.

    World Cup reflections, Trump’s election speech, Middle East update & ‘The Odyssey’ | Ep. 78

  3. Jul 16

    Lindsey Graham dies, Charlie Kirk hearing, Trump’s address, RIP Sam Neill & World Cup Final | Ep. 77

    In this week's Brief: Conner is joined by Clayton Harris to process the sudden death of Senator Lindsey Graham at age 71. We walk through his legacy as one of the most influential and polarizing figures in modern politics, his role in shaping the Iran war, and the massive hole his absence leaves in the Senate. We reflect on former Senator Ben Sasse's powerful words about facing death with faith and ask: if you knew you were in your last days, what would you do differently? From there, we break down the Charlie Kirk murder case as the preliminary hearing reveals DNA evidence, surveillance footage, and a roommate's testimony. With a death penalty case and a wave of political conspiracy on the horizon, we explore how believers can resist the pull of distrust and lean into the trust that Scripture calls us to. Plus, Trump addresses the nation on Iran and election fraud, the US fires missiles at Iran again, Jurassic Park legend Sam Neill passes away, the World Cup Final is set, and the British Open tees off this weekend. And don’t miss Clayton's hot take on why the US will never dominate global soccer. Topics(0:00) Introduction(1:18) Lindsey Graham dies suddenly(5:40) Who fills Lindsey’s Senate seat(8:56) Graham's life and career(17:27) Charlie Kirk case overview(27:44) Kingdom citizens first(28:52) John 9 and limits(34:09) Trump address preview(36:58) Remembering Sam Neill(38:14) Weekend watch list(40:48) World Cup rivalry(42:20) US soccer hot take(45:51) Conclusion ResourcesSend us your thoughts, questions, and topic ideas: culturebrief@denisonforum.orgCulture Brief InstagramWatch on Youtube Sign-up for a Denison Forum newsletter: DenisonForum.org/subscribe Articles on this week’s top headlines:The sudden deaths of Sen. Lindsey Graham and actor Sam NeillRemembering tenacious, ubiquitous Lindsey GrahamWashington wonders at Graham replacementLindsey Graham Was More Than a Senator. He Was a Bridge.Hearings for man accused of killing Charlie Kirk end todayFollowing five days of preliminary hearing, court adjourned until Sept. 1The Latest: Testimony concludes in pre-trial hearing in Charlie Kirk killingKey hearing for Charlie Kirk murder suspect will be open to reporters and members of the public, judge rulesJudge in Charlie Kirk murder case finds prosecutor in contempt for public comments, but won't take death penalty off the table About Conner JonesConner Jones is the Managing Editor at Denison Forum and Co-Hosts Denison Forum's "Culture Brief" podcast. He graduated from Dallas Baptist University in 2019 with a degree in Business Management. Conner passionately follows politics, sports, pop-culture, entertainment, and current events. He enjoys fishing, movie-going, and traveling the world with his wife and son. About Denison ForumDenison Forum exists to thoughtfully engage the issues of the day from a biblical perspective through The Daily Article email newsletter and podcast, the Faith & Clarity podcast, as well as many books and additional resources. All episodes are produced by Sound of a Rose. For more information, you can visit soundofarose.com.

    Lindsey Graham dies, Charlie Kirk hearing, Trump’s address, RIP Sam Neill & World Cup Final | Ep. 77

  4. Jul 9

    SCOTUS recap, America's next 250, Taylor Swift wedding, World Cup heartbreak & Culture Brief news | Ep. 76

    In this week's Brief: The Supreme Court dropped some of its biggest rulings of the year and we break down all four—campaign finance limits erased, mail-in ballots upheld, transgender athlete bans sustained, and birthright citizenship preserved. We explore what each means, where the justices split, and why our ultimate judge isn't in Washington. Then Micah takes us through "The Next 250"—what the next 250 years of America could look like and the four forces that will shape it: technology, energy, institutions, and cultural character. He makes the case that the future of our nation depends less on DC and more on what happens in our homes, our churches, and our relationship with God. Plus, we have a big announcement about the future of Culture Brief and exciting changes at Denison Forum. Trump threatens to end the Iran ceasefire, Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce tie the knot, LeBron is a free agent, the US gets humbled at the World Cup, and the quarterfinals are set. Topics(0:00) Introduction(2:12) SCOTUS summer recap(5:35) Mail in ballots ruling(8:18) Trans athletes in sports(10:25) Birthright citizenship blockbuster(14:03) God above the courts(17:12) America at 250 snapshot(26:18) Faith as foundation(27:02) Worship shapes nations(31:57) Denison Forum expansion vision(37:06) NATO and Iran update(38:20) Swift Kelce wedding buzz(39:52) NBA trades LeBron watch(41:38) World Cup highs lows(45:51) ConclusionResourcesSend us your thoughts, questions, and topic ideas: culturebrief@denisonforum.orgCulture Brief InstagramWatch on Youtube Sign-up for a Denison Forum newsletter: DenisonForum.org/subscribe Articles on this week’s top headlines:A win and three losses for President Trump at Supreme CourtSupreme Court rules on transgender athletes in girls’ sportsHere Are the Major Cases the Supreme Court Decided This TermTwo-Thirds in U.S. Prefer Birth Sex on IDs, in AthleticsSupreme Court Upholds State Laws Banning Transgender Girls and Women From School Athletic TeamsChanging the Constitution: Five Proposals for a More Perfect UnionA profound speech about America’s past and futureChoosing between two revolutionsSix-Chart Sunday – America at 50, 100, 150, 200 & 250The Greatest Country on EarthAmerica’s Next 250 Years Are Ours to Build1 big thing: What America gets right About Conner JonesConner Jones is the Managing Editor at Denison Forum and Co-Hosts Denison Forum's "Culture Brief" podcast. He graduated from Dallas Baptist University in 2019 with a degree in Business Management. Conner passionately follows politics, sports, pop-culture, entertainment, and current events. He enjoys fishing, movie-going, and traveling the world with his wife and son. About Micah TomasellaMicah Tomasella is the Director of Advancement at Denison Ministries and co-hosts Denison Forum's "Culture Brief" podcast. A graduate of Dallas Baptist University, Micah is married to Emily, and together they are the proud parents of two daughters. With an extensive background in nonprofit work, finance, and real estate, Micah also brings experience from his years in pastoral church ministry. About Denison ForumDenison Forum exists to thoughtfully engage the issues of the day from a biblical perspective through The Daily Article email newsletter and podcast, the Faith & Clarity podcast, as well as many books and additional resources. All episodes are produced by Sound of a Rose. For more information, you can visit soundofarose.com.

    SCOTUS recap, America's next 250, Taylor Swift wedding, World Cup heartbreak & Culture Brief news | Ep. 76

  5. Jun 25

    Reflecting pool mess, Air Force One drama, Clavicular, 'Maxxing' trends, World Cup & new studio! | Ep. 75

    In this week's Brief: Welcome to our brand new studio! Conner is joined by Josh Miller, CEO of Denison Ministries, to tackle the reflecting pool drama in DC, the controversial new Air Force One, and how both expensive "birthday gifts" for America's 250th point us back to the one gift that truly came with no strings attached: the gospel. Then we dive into the bizarre trend of "maxxing"—the obsession with optimizing every aspect of life to the extreme. We focus on “looksmaxxing” and Clavicular, a social media star serving as the movement’s primary ambassador. Josh breaks down what it all reveals about control, self-worth, and why identity rooted in anything other than Christ will never be enough. Plus, UK PM Keir Starmer resigns, Toy Story 5 is a hit, Giannis traded to the Heat, Wyndham Clark wins the US Open amid booing, World Cup updates, and a fun Declaration of Independence signer or company name game for America 250.  No episode next week—Happy Fourth of July! Topics(0:00) Introduction(0:16) New studio tour(2:05) Reflecting Pool drama(8:12) Air Force One upgrade(16:06) Josh turns 40(30:34) “Maxxing” trend warnings(33:07) America 250 name game(35:47) UK leadership turmoil(38:09) Toy Story 5 rebound(39:35) Sports roundup reactions(43:24) World Cup fever(47:59) ConclusionResourcesSend us your thoughts, questions, and topic ideas: culturebrief@denisonforum.orgCulture Brief InstagramWatch on Youtube Sign-up for a Denison Forum newsletter: DenisonForum.org/subscribe Articles on this week’s top headlines:“Team Algae” protests Trump Administration at Reflecting PoolTrump doubles down on Reflecting Pool vandalism claims without providing evidenceReflecting Pool renovations to cost more than $16 million Trump doubles down on Reflecting Pool vandalism claims What's going on with the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool? Trump blames vandals, announces arrests and vows to fix it again.New ‘Bridge’ Air Force One Arrives at Andrews for Commissioning FlightsHow L3Harris transformed a Qatari 747 into a new Air Force One plane before July 4Truth SocialGoogle TrendsWhy The Career ‘Maxxing’ Trend Is Everywhere In The WorkplaceHealth.com About Josh MillerJosh Miller serves as Chief Executive Officer at Denison Ministries, where he helps lead a global effort to equip believers with biblical truth for everyday life. A disciple of Jesus, husband, and father, Josh has spent more than 20 years in ministry, ranging from global worship tours to pastoral leadership and nonprofit strategy. As a Christian leader, author, and songwriter, Josh is passionate about helping the church think critically, live faithfully, and engage culture with courage and grace. He brings a unique blend of creativity and strategic insight, rooted in Scripture and strengthened by his pastoral heart. Josh lives in Plano, Texas, with his wife and two sons. He loves sharing a good taco, brewing craft coffee, and encouraging others to follow Jesus with wisdom and joy. About Conner JonesConner Jones is the Managing Editor at Denison Forum and Co-Hosts Denison Forum's "Culture Brief" podcast. He graduated from Dallas Baptist University in 2019 with a degree in Business Management. Conner passionately follows politics, sports, pop-culture, entertainment, and current events. He enjoys fishing, movie-going, and traveling the world with his wife and son. About Denison ForumDenison Forum exists to thoughtfully engage the issues of the day from a biblical perspective through The Daily Article email newsletter and podcast, the Faith & Clarity podcast, as well as many books and additional resources. All episodes are produced by Sound of a Rose. For more information, you can visit soundofarose.com.

    Reflecting pool mess, Air Force One drama, Clavicular, 'Maxxing' trends, World Cup & new studio! | Ep. 75

  6. Jun 18

    World Cup tourists love America, Iran deal explained, Knicks win & SpaceX soars | Ep. 74

    In this week's Brief: Conner is joined by Dr. Ryan Denison to break down the Iran memorandum of understanding—what we know, what we don't, and whether this war actually accomplished what it set out to do. With nuclear questions unresolved and trust in short supply, Ryan reminds us that the credibility of the gospel depends on the credibility of Christians. From there, we celebrate World Cup tourists falling in love with America. From Buc-ee's to biscuits and gravy to yellow school buses, foreign fans are reminding us of everything we take for granted—and it's a breath of fresh air in a country that's been told it's broken. We explore what this means for American pride and the biblical call to welcome one another as Christ has welcomed us. Plus, three tragic aircraft crashes including the loss of pop artist Oliver Tree, SpaceX soars past $2.6 trillion, the Hurricanes win the Stanley Cup, the Knicks end a 53-year championship drought, the US dominates Paraguay 4-1, and the US Open tees off in 40 mph winds. Topics(0:00) Introduction(1:42) Iran deal explained(4:35) Ceasefire terms and stakes(7:41) Israel and war goals(12:31) Trust and Gospel credibility(16:03) World Cup tourists love America(24:19) World Cup reality check(30:13) Scripture and Gospel call(35:07) SpaceX IPO surge(36:00) Hurricanes win cup(38:15) Knicks end drought(39:28) USMNT and US Open(41:51) ConclusionResourcesCatch Conner and Ryan discussing AI and UFOs on this week’s episode of the Faith & Clarity podcastSubscribe to Ryan’s newsletter “The Focus”Send us your thoughts, questions, and topic ideas: culturebrief@denisonforum.orgCulture Brief InstagramWatch on Youtube Sign-up for a Denison Forum newsletter: DenisonForum.org/subscribeArticles on this week’s top headlines:A Sidelined G7 Awaits Trump’s Triumphant ArrivalThe Trump-Iran Deal Allows Tehran to Immediately Sell OilThese visitors’ viral World Cup videos are showing what really makes America greatU.S. World Cup hotel bookings are disappointing, and Trump is a major reasonWorld Cup tourists swoon over the real America — and they’re making us fall in love, tooAbout Conner JonesConner Jones is the Director of Performance Marketing at Denison Ministries and Co-Hosts Denison Forum's "Culture Brief" podcast. He graduated from Dallas Baptist University in 2019 with a degree in Business Management. Conner passionately follows politics, sports, pop-culture, entertainment, and current events. He enjoys fishing, movie-going, and traveling the world with his wife and son. About Micah TomasellaMicah Tomasella is the Director of Advancement at Denison Ministries and co-hosts Denison Forum's "Culture Brief" podcast. A graduate of Dallas Baptist University, Micah is married to Emily, and together they are the proud parents of two daughters. With an extensive background in nonprofit work, finance, and real estate, Micah also brings experience from his years in pastoral church ministry. About Denison ForumDenison Forum exists to thoughtfully engage the issues of the day from a biblical perspective through The Daily Article email newsletter and podcast, the Faith & Clarity podcast, as well as many books and additional resources. All episodes are produced by Sound of a Rose. For more information, you can visit soundofarose.com.

    World Cup tourists love America, Iran deal explained, Knicks win & SpaceX soars | Ep. 74

  7. Jun 11

    World Cup preview, SpaceX IPO, helicopter shot down, Knicks-Spurs & UFC at the White House | Ep. 73

    In this week's Brief: The World Cup kicks off on American soil and we break down why this isn't just a soccer tournament—it's the most-watched event in human history. We explore what 48 nations gathering together means culturally, highlight the players boldly sharing their faith on the world's biggest stage, and connect it all to Revelation 7:9 and the ultimate gathering of nations before the throne of God. From there, we dive into “Hot IPO Summer” as SpaceX prepares to become the most valuable IPO in history, potentially making Elon Musk the world's first trillionaire. With OpenAI and Anthropic also filing to go public, we talk about what this means for AI, the economy, and how to handle financial anxiety through the lens of Philippians 4:6. Plus, a U.S. helicopter is shot down over the Strait of Hormuz and rescued by a drone boat for the first time ever, Spencer Pratt falls short in the LA mayor race, Stanley Cup and NBA Finals updates, and UFC is coming to the White House lawn. Topics(00:00): Introduction (1:29) The World Cup explained(8:06) Europeans discover America(11:14) Why the World Cup matters(13:06) Faith on the world stage(19:18) SpaceX IPO and AI bets(24:37) Mind-blowing wealth(26:22) Is SpaceX worth it?(30:31) Faith over financial fear(35:12) LA mayor race update(37:04) Middle East drone rescue(39:43) Tune In: NHL, NBA, UFC at the White House ResourcesSend us your thoughts, questions, and topic ideas: culturebrief@denisonforum.orgCulture Brief InstagramWatch on Youtube Sign-up for a Denison Forum newsletter: DenisonForum.org/subscribe Articles on this week’s top headlines:Christianity Today: 14 World Cup Stars Who Follow JesusESPN: World Cup is almost here! Time for soccer to do the talkingMorning Brew: Is hosting the World Cup worth it?The Athletic: How big is the World Cup? In a word: colossalCNN: World Cup beginner’s guide: What you need to know for the biggest sporting event in the worldFreddy the German Soccer Fan discovers Waffle House - X PostFreddy the German Soccer Fan Goes to Auburn’s Football Stadium - X PostFreddy the German Soccer Fan discovers Buc-ees - X PostWSJ: Terms Revealed for SpaceX’s Unconventional $75 Billion IPOWSJ: OpenAI Files to Go Public in Test of Investor Appetite for Top AI StartupsWSJ: For a Select Few, IPOs Are Winners. Good Luck to Everyone Else.How Great Is Our God (World Edition)Dr. Jim Denison: When you fear for your finances: How to avoid the ‘prison of anxiety’Max Lucado: Anxiety Ain’t Fun About Conner JonesConner Jones is the Director of Performance Marketing at Denison Ministries and Co-Hosts Denison Forum's "Culture Brief" podcast. He graduated from Dallas Baptist University in 2019 with a degree in Business Management. Conner passionately follows politics, sports, pop-culture, entertainment, and current events. He enjoys fishing, movie-going, and traveling the world with his wife and son. About Micah TomasellaMicah Tomasella is the Director of Advancement at Denison Ministries and co-hosts Denison Forum's "Culture Brief" podcast. A graduate of Dallas Baptist University, Micah is married to Emily, and together they are the proud parents of two daughters. With an extensive background in nonprofit work, finance, and real estate, Micah also brings experience from his years in pastoral church ministry. About Denison ForumDenison Forum exists to thoughtfully engage the issues of the day from a biblical perspective through The Daily Article email newsletter and podcast, the Faith & Clarity podcast, as well as many books and additional resources. All episodes are produced by Sound of a Rose. For more information, you can visit soundofarose.com.

    World Cup preview, SpaceX IPO, helicopter shot down, Knicks-Spurs & UFC at the White House | Ep. 73

  8. Jun 4

    America's vice problem, Iran update, Gen Z box office boom, 60 Minutes turmoil & NBA Finals | Ep. 72

    In this week's Brief: The Iran deal negotiations feel like Groundhog Day—another week, another "we're almost there." We break down Trump's heated call with Netanyahu, the stalled peace talks, and a call to prayer for an end to the conflict. Then we look the vices that are quietly dominating American culture—sports gambling, marijuana, and online prostitution. We explore how instant gratification has turned every phone into a pocket Las Vegas—and what biblical stewardship looks like in response. Plus, Scott Pelley fired from 60 Minutes, the Spencer Pratt mayoral race update, Gen Z directors are blowing up the box office while Star Wars stumbles, Myles Garrett sent to the Rams in a blockbuster NFL trade, and the Stanley Cup and NBA Finals are here! Through it all, we're reminded that God is our refuge and fortress—and that the vices of this world were never meant to satisfy what only He can fill. Topics(0:00) Introduction(1:37) Iran deal stalemate(2:03) Trump and Netanyahu clash(7:50) Psalm 46 and prayer(15:22) Sports betting everywhere(22:46) Marijuana goes mainstream(25:05) Porn industry and AI(31:23) CBS 60 Minutes shakeup(33:48) LA mayor race update(40:03) NFL blockbuster trades(42:04) College baseball and softball(43:38) World Cup betting boom(44:34) Stanley Cup and NBA Finals(48:27) ConclusionResourcesSend us your thoughts, questions, and topic ideas: culturebrief@denisonforum.orgCulture Brief InstagramWatch on Youtube Sign-up for a Denison Forum newsletter: DenisonForum.org/subscribeArticles on this week’s top headlines:Trump ‘shouted and cursed Netanyahu over threat to resume Beirut bombing’The altars of our culture’s excessConfidence in InstitutionsThe Rattled Generation: A unified theory of this American momentBehind the Curtain: Scaling sinThe Future of Movies Is Here: ‘Backrooms,’ ‘Obsession’ Mark Turning Point for Hollywood | AnalysisAbout Conner JonesConner Jones is the Director of Performance Marketing at Denison Ministries and Co-Hosts Denison Forum's "Culture Brief" podcast. He graduated from Dallas Baptist University in 2019 with a degree in Business Management. Conner passionately follows politics, sports, pop-culture, entertainment, and current events. He enjoys fishing, movie-going, and traveling the world with his wife and son. About Parker JonesParker is the Groups Pastor at Midway Church in Pilot Point, TX. He received a Bachelor's degree in Politics, Philosophy and Economics from Dallas Baptist University and recently completed a Master of Arts in Theological Studies from Southern Seminary. Parker's main interests include baseball, football, history, and current events. He loves fishing, attending Texas Rangers games, and spending time with his wife and two daughters. About Denison ForumDenison Forum exists to thoughtfully engage the issues of the day from a biblical perspective through The Daily Article email newsletter and podcast, the Faith & Clarity podcast, as well as many books and additional resources. All episodes are produced by Sound of a Rose. For more information, you can visit soundofarose.com.

    America's vice problem, Iran update, Gen Z box office boom, 60 Minutes turmoil & NBA Finals | Ep. 72
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The world moves fast. Every week brings new headlines, viral moments, political debates, sports stories, technological breakthroughs, and cultural trends competing for your attention. Culture Brief helps you stay informed, think biblically, and engage the culture from a Christian perspective. Join host Conner Jones and friends every Thursday as they break down the biggest trending stories of the week and explore what they mean for Christians. From elections and global events to movies, music, AI, sports, and internet trends, they offer thoughtful biblical insights, practical takeaways, and informed predictions about where today's headlines may lead tomorrow. No partisan spin. No outrage. Just honest, engaging conversations about the issues shaping our world and what Scripture has to say about them. If you want to keep up with what's happening, understand what's coming next, laugh a little along the way, and navigate today's culture with wisdom and conviction, this is the podcast for you. New episodes every Thursday.

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