The Enigma of Putin: Power and Psyche

This week, we’re talking about the rise of antisemitism—why it’s on the rise, why it’s messy, and how it connects to the humanitarian crisis unfolding in Gaza. We also peel back the layers on Vladimir Putin’s mysterious past and how his upbringing impacts his harmful decision-making today.

But it’s not all heavy! In the mailbag, we debate a fun hot topic (trust us, you’ll have feelings). Then we preview the second half of the summer movie slate in round 2 of Bust the Block! And so much more! Come hang out with us for a mix of serious takes, lighthearted moments, and thoughtful conversation—all with a Christian lens.

Topics

• (00:54): The rise of antisemitism
• (05:20): Humanitarian crisis in Gaza
• (09:20): Navigating complex emotions and faith
• (13:41): Prayer for peace
• (14:58): Who is Vladimir Putin?
• (30:26): Listener mailbag: Parking preferences
• (33:55): Bust the Block: Round 2
• (41:53): Sports updates: NBA, NHL, and College World Series
• (42:35): Joe Rogan's spiritual journey
• (43:51): Conclusion and call to action

Resources

• Mailbag: culturebrief@denisonforum.org
• DenisonForum.org/subscribe
• Culture Brief on Instagram
• Most anticipated movies of the summer
• What we know about the DC shooting where 2 staff members of the Israeli Embassy were killed
• Report: Antisemitic Incidents Reach Record High in Year Since Oct. 7 Attack
• Global antisemitism surged 340% in two years, report finds | The Times of Israel
• People in Gaza starving, sick and dying as aid blockade continues
• Israeli couple killed near Jewish Museum in Washington, DC
• Ukraine says Russia launched its biggest drone attack yet | AP News
• Trump Says Putin Is ‘Playing With Fire’
• Financial Times on X
• Why Russia “invaded” Ukraine: Explaining “Putin’s endgame”
• The inevitability of the Russian invasion of Ukraine: How Putin’s history reveals his destiny
• Why does Russia want Ukraine? A timeline of Russian aggression against Ukraine
• Pregnant Ukrainian woman wounded by Russian bombs has died: How much death and destruction will be enough for Putin?
• From Chasing Rats To Blood Baths: How Putin's Childhood Shaped His Leadership
• About a Boy: The Story of Vladimir Putin - Podcast
• The Best of Christian Compassion, the Worst of Religious Power - The Dispatch

About Micah Tomasella

Micah Tomasella is the Advancement Officer 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 Conner Jones

Conner 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 Denison Forum

Denison Forum exists to thoughtfully engage the issues of the day from a biblical perspective through The Daily Article email newsletter and podcast, The Denison Forum Podcast, as well as many books and additional resources.