Media Bias, the Met Gala, gorilla vs man debate & an Alcatraz theory | Ep. 18

This week, we’re starting with a hard look at media bias. How does slanted coverage shape public trust—and are we part of the problem? Then it’s off to the red carpet (sort of) for a deep dive into the Met Gala. From its origins to its over-the-top outfits, we’re unpacking what this annual fashion spectacle says about our culture’s values.

And yes, we tackle the viral question the internet didn’t know it needed: Could a gorilla take on 100 unarmed men? 

Add in quick hits on the India–Pakistan conflict, Trump's announcements, rumors about Alcatraz reopening, and a closing challenge to rethink your media habits through a biblical lens. Tune in and enjoy a full episode of news, pop culture, and thoughtful Christian insight.

Topics

• (00:28): Media bias: Are we to blame?
• (05:54): The decline of trust in media
• (08:44): Balanced news sources and recommendations
• (13:04): The Met Gala: What is it?
• (21:32): Vanity and Ecclesiastes
• (25:33): Gorilla vs. 100 men debate
• (27:09): Check-in: Global and national updates
• (30:18): Tune-in: Upcoming events & Alactraz

Resources

• Mailbag: culturebrief@denisonforum.org
• DenisonForum.org/subscribe
• Culture Brief on Instagram
• Media Research Center finds 92% negative coverage of Trump in first 100 days
• Deputy Press Sec. slams 'comical' and 'unfortunate' negative media coverage of Trump
• The media owes Trump an apology — and an about-face in his second term
• At 100 Day Mark: Coverage of Biden Has Been Slightly More Negative Than Positive, Varied Greatly by Outlet Type
• Overview and key findings of the 2024 Digital News Report | Reuters Institute for the Study of Journalism
• AllSides Media Bias Chart
• Ground News
• The Flyover - Bias and Credibility - Media Bias/Fact Check
• Tangle News
• The 2025 Met Gala Will Celebrate Black Style Tonight. Here’s How to Watch.
• Met Gala Red Carpet Arrivals 2025: See Every Look [PHOTOS]
• Wait, What Actually Happens at the Met Gala Inside? Here's What Goes Down

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.