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

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

Feeling overwhelmed by the endless stream of news, politics, and pop culture? Join Denison Forum’s Conner Jones and Micah Tomasella as they break down the week’s biggest stories from a Christian perspective. Culture Brief dives into the topics that matter most, from the latest TV shows, movies, and celebrity buzz to trending stories in politics, sports, and technology. Expect laughs, insights, and honest conversations about navigating today’s fast-paced world with biblical discernment.  Whether you’re looking for entertainment, encouragement, or a fresh take on the culture around us, Conner and Micah are here to help you make sense of it all. New episodes drop every Thursday. 

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

    3d ago

    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.

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

    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.

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

    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.

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

    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.

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

    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.

    49 min
  6. Iran deal problems, Spencer Pratt for LA Mayor, Pope’s AI warning, Kyle Busch & New York Knicks | Ep. 71

    May 28

    Iran deal problems, Spencer Pratt for LA Mayor, Pope’s AI warning, Kyle Busch & New York Knicks | Ep. 71

    In this week's Brief: An Iran deal is close—but is it the deal the US went to war for? We break down the deal’s framework, why three Republican senators are publicly questioning the entire operation, and why the biggest objective of the war—preventing Iran from getting a nuclear weapon—may not even be in the agreement. From there, we dive into the enigma that is Spencer Pratt and his unlikely run for mayor of Los Angeles. How did a reality TV villain become a legitimate political force? We explore what's fueling his rise, the parallels to Zohran Mamdani in New York, and what it says about a culture that's desperate for someone—anyone—to finally fix what feels broken. Plus, Pope Leo's stark AI warning, Tulsi Gabbard's resignation, NASCAR legend Kyle Busch's sudden passing at 41, the NBA Finals and Stanley Cup matchups, and a reminder that no politician can fully heal what's ultimately a heart problem—true restoration comes only through Christ. Topics(00:00) Introduction (0:44) Iran war costs and stakes(2:45) Draft deal terms and nuclear gap(5:10) Midterms pressure and senator backlash(11:59) Negotiation snags and regional politics(17:52) Spencer Pratt LA mayor shockwave(25:03) LA disorder videos(26:22) Angry Angelinos surge(29:16) Election math runoff(32:09) Hope beyond politics(37:47) Pope warns on AI(39:20) Tulsi Gabbard resigns(40:42) Kyle Busch tribute(42:54) Sports finals preview(45:43) 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:Three Big Political Story Lines to Watch This WeekTrump Says a Deal for Talks With Iran to End War Is Near FinalizationRepublican MS Sen. Roger Wicker on XSen Lindsey Graham on XSen Ted Cruz on XUS Military says it carried out ‘self-defense’ strikes in Iran, including on missile launch sitesThe Pratt PackSpencer Pratt Is Running for LA Mayor. Could He Win?Everything is Reality TV. Spencer Pratt Knows It 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.

    46 min
  7. Rise of antisemitism, America's AI backlash & the heart problem underneath it all | Ep. 70

    May 21

    Rise of antisemitism, America's AI backlash & the heart problem underneath it all | Ep. 70

    In this week’s Brief: Micah Tomasella and Dr. Ryan Denison tackle two pressing cultural conversations — and find a deeper spiritual thread connecting them both. First, they dig into a troubling trend: antisemitism is no longer lurking in the shadows. Drawing from pieces in The Free Press and Axios, they examine how weakly sourced accusations against Israel are quietly reviving ancient hatred in modern form, and how open threats against Jewish lawmakers are becoming disturbingly casual. They explore the historical and scriptural dimensions of why this hatred tends to rise in times of cultural pain — and why Christians should be paying close attention. Then Ryan unpacks a Wall Street Journal report showing that Americans' negative feelings about AI may be growing even faster than the technology itself. From graduation speeches getting booed to massive data centers reshaping rural America, they talk honestly about the anxiety AI is stirring — and what our reaction to it reveals about our hearts. The through-line? Whether it's antisemitism, AI, or any headline grabbing our attention, the deeper issue is the same: a culture losing its grip on truth, dignity, and trust in God. The invitation is to stop reacting and start surrendering. Topics(0:00) Introduction(0:47) Connor on vacation(2:07) Anti-semitism rising(14:55) Americans turning on AI(17:20) AI in daily life(21:53) Data centers and division(26:12) AI and surrender to God(28:33) Faith over control(31:48) 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:Jewish lawmakers face an explosion of antisemitismA Miscarriage of Journalism at “The New York Times”The American Rebellion Against AI Is Gaining SteamLet’s debate: Data centersFP Data CentersWhat Happens When a Data Center Comes to Town About Dr. Ryan DenisonDr. Ryan Denison is the Senior Editor for Theology at Denison Forum and the author of The Focus newsletter, contributing writing and research to many of the ministry’s productions. He holds a PhD in church history from B. H. Carroll Theological Institute and an MDiv from Truett Seminary. Ryan has also taught at B. H. Carroll and Dallas Baptist University. He and his wife, Candice, live in East Texas and have two children. 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.

    33 min
  8. Trump goes to China, summer box office predictions, Hantavirus & UFO files dropped | Ep. 69

    May 14

    Trump goes to China, summer box office predictions, Hantavirus & UFO files dropped | Ep. 69

    In this week's Brief: Trump lands in Beijing for the most consequential meeting of his presidency. We break down what's at stake as the world's two superpowers sit down—from trade and AI to Iran, Taiwan, and religious freedom for persecuted Chinese Christians—and why we should all be praying for what happens in that room. Then we preview the summer blockbuster season—from “The Mandalorian and Grogu” to “Toy Story 5”, Christopher Nolan's “The Odyssey”, “Spider-Man”, and more. Conner is joined by guest competitor Anna Joy Baxley as Micah hosts them through predictions on which films will flop, break even, or bust the block in Year Two of our annual Bust the Block game. Plus, the Hantavirus scare hits American shores after a deadly cruise ship outbreak, the UFO file drop finally arrives and delivers… gray blurry videos, and a reminder that no matter what shakes the world this summer—our faith doesn't shake with it. Topics(0:00) Introduction(1:58) Trump heads to China(6:01) Pray and respond like Jesus(14:29) Summer movies kickoff(18:38) Mandalorian and Grogu(25:17) Toy Story 5 predictions(26:35) Screen addiction themes(27:31) Supergirl box office bet(31:17) Moana live action debate(33:03) Nolan Odyssey hype(40:32) Hantavirus cruise quarantine(44:33) UFO files faith check(46:32) 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: 1 big thing: Trump's legacy weekXi’s China: Dazzling Technology, Military Muscle—and an Economic Mess2026 SUMMER MOVIE RELEASES: FULL CALENDARSummer 2026 movies: 12 of the biggest releases coming to theatresSummer U.S. Box Office Aims For The Sun With $4 Billion+, But Is Fewer Studio Films The Way To Go? – Season Preview About AJ BaxleyAnna Joy Baxley is a Graphic Designer at Denison Ministries and an artist who seeks to know the Lord more deeply and glorify him in all she creates. 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.

    48 min
See All (78)

Trailer

4.6
out of 5
43 Ratings

About

Feeling overwhelmed by the endless stream of news, politics, and pop culture? Join Denison Forum’s Conner Jones and Micah Tomasella as they break down the week’s biggest stories from a Christian perspective. Culture Brief dives into the topics that matter most, from the latest TV shows, movies, and celebrity buzz to trending stories in politics, sports, and technology. Expect laughs, insights, and honest conversations about navigating today’s fast-paced world with biblical discernment.  Whether you’re looking for entertainment, encouragement, or a fresh take on the culture around us, Conner and Micah are here to help you make sense of it all. New episodes drop every Thursday. 

Information

More From Denison Forum

You Might Also Like