The God Squad Pod

4.9 (85)
CHRISTIANITY
UPDATED WEEKLY

Let's talk US politics and culture from a progressive Christian perspective. Author and former pastor Desimber Rose, along with progressive theologian and author Dillon Naber Cruz, are here to make you think - and laugh - about the madness that ensues when we mix faith and politics.

5D AGO

#075: Render Unto Congress... an Actual Answer

This week's episode dives headfirst into the congressional hearing where Pam Bondi somehow managed to answer questions without actually answering… well… anything — especially when it comes to accountability for victims connected to the long-shadowed Jeffrey Epstein scandal and the ever-mysterious “files that apparently live in the witness protection program.” Expect receipts, righteous side-eye, and a reality check on what justice should look like when truth isn’t treated like classified gossip. But it’s not all holy frustration — the crew flips the script in Religion Done Right, spotlighting pastors and faith leaders who are actually walking out the teachings of Christ: serving communities, protecting the vulnerable, and reminding folks that the Gospel was never meant to be weaponized for power or profit. If you like your theology with backbone, your politics with accountability, and your faith with a side of humor sharp enough to cut through hypocrisy — this is your Thursday night service. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

59 min
FEB 6

#074: What We Preach vs. What We Practice

Tonight’s headlines remind us that theology isn’t just what we preach, it’s what we practice. When the Gospel confronts power, somebody has to decide whether love or law will have the last word. This week, we dive into the week’s headlines through a Gospel lens, asking not just what happened, but what would Jesus say about it? From immigration crackdowns and global conflict to institutional religion controversies, tonight’s stories reveal where politics, power, and piety collide… and where theology gets twisted along the way. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

58 min
JAN 30

#073: Authority without Mercy

This week on The God Squad, Dillon & Desimber take on a news cycle that feels more ruthless than righteous. From immigration raids involving children and manipulated images of protestors to global power plays and faith leaders pushing back, we put today’s headlines on trial against the teachings of Jesus. Join us Thursday at 8:00pm EST for Scripture, truth-telling, and a necessary reality check on what’s being done in God’s name—and what absolutely isn’t. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

1h 1m
JAN 23

#072: Authority, AI, and the Absence of Mercy

This week, Dillon & Desimber tackle a wild week in the headlines — from civil liberties and immigration enforcement to truth distortion and the state of the church itself. We’re sifting through seven major stories to see where today’s headlines collide with the Gospel call to love our neighbors and follow Christ. Buckle up: truth, Scripture, and holy side-eye are coming! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

1h 4m
JAN 16

071: Law and Order vs. Love Thy Neighbor

This week has been a theological cage match no one asked for — but everyone’s watching.... This week on The God Squad, Dillon & Desimber take on the headlines lighting up the nation, from protests and power plays to the growing tension between justice and compassion. What happens when political authority collides with gospel ethics — and which side does Jesus actually take? Join us live every Thursday at 8:00pm EST for faith, facts, and a little holy side-eye. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

1 hr
JAN 9

#070: Trump vs. Jesus with Keith Giles and Matthew J. Distefano

Join hosts Dillon Naber Cruz and Pastor Desimber Rose every Thursday at 8 PM EST for a timely and thought-provoking episode of The God Squad. In the wake of recent events making headlines nationally and globally—from unfolding developments in Venezuela to ongoing tensions and reckonings here in Minnesota—this conversation could not be more pertinent. We’re honored to welcome Keith Giles and Matthew Distefano of Quoir Publishing to discuss their new release, Trump vs. Jesus, a book challenging readers to wrestle with faith, power, politics, and the teachings of Christ in turbulent times. 📖 Get the Book! https://www.amazon.com/Trump-vs-Jesus... Join us for honest dialogue, moral reflection, and faithful engagement on #TheGodSquadPodcast Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

1h 9m
12/12/2025

#069: Celebrating Hanukkah with Rabbi Seth Goldstein of Temple Beth Hatfiloh

Join hosts Dillon & Desimber for a special holiday episode of The God Squad as we welcome Rabbi Seth Goldstein of Temple Beth Hatfiloh (Olympia, WA)! We’re diving into the history, practice, and purpose of Hanukkah — from the origin story to the meaning of the menorah, modern celebrations, and why this festival of light still speaks powerfully today. Whether you celebrate or you’re just curious, pull up a seat. It’s going to be warm, wise, joyful, and full of good conversation. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

59 min
12/05/2025

#068: Racism Towards Somalis, Sleepy Don, and a Poorly Written "Essay"

The God Squad is LIVE every Thursday at 5 PM PST! Tune in with Dillon & Desimber to get your weekly dose of faith, sanity, and politics. This week, the Squad talks about Trump's racism and sleepiness, as well as a particular essay from Oklahoma upperclassman Samantha Fulnecky. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

1h 5m

See All (79)

4.9

out of 5

85 Ratings

Liquor Locker

07/14/2025

liquor locker

A fresh look at the book of Jewish fairy tales.
Dave from New Mexico

07/05/2025

dcpruyn

Man, that spontaneous prayer by Dillon about pressing on a la Hakim Jeffries inspiration was 🔥.
Brilliant truth telling

06/28/2025

TruthBeToldAlways

Desimber, Dillon and Keith reveal the Bible in the context of current events. Every show gives me hope! Keep up the good work and congratulations on your 50th episode!
EpicAF Humans

06/01/2025

Pats73

Brilliant REAL theological professors

Let's talk US politics and culture from a progressive Christian perspective. Author and former pastor Desimber Rose, along with progressive theologian and author Dillon Naber Cruz, are here to make you think - and laugh - about the madness that ensues when we mix faith and politics.