

Axis Conversations
Axis
Each week on Axis Conversations, we survey cultural trends, host expert interviews, and answer listener questions to help parents and caring adults understand and disciple the next generation
Episodes
Mentioned books

7 snips
Jun 20, 2025 • 54min
Roundtable: Summer Vacation, Fridge Cigs, and AI Companionship
Dive into the quirky world of summer teen trends, exploring the rising popularity of 'fridge cigs'—chilled Diet Coke—their cultural significance and the pride teens take in this refreshing choice. Delve into the intriguing connection between AI chatbots like ChatGPT and spirituality, as users navigate emotional ties and potential insights. Plus, discover strategies for parents to maintain connections with their teens during summer, balancing independence with communication. All this, sprinkled with thoughts on incel culture and digital influences, makes for a thought-provoking listen!

Jun 20, 2025 • 9min
Summer Vacation, Fridge Cigs, and AI Companionship
Summertime sparks unique connections with teens as TikTok trends like 'fridge cigs' take off. The discussion delves into AI companionship, with some claiming ChatGPT opens doors to the spiritual realm. Slang like 'Blackpill' is introduced, while a young director, Kane Parsons, is making waves with a horror film for A24. Trending phenomena include AI-generated ASMR videos and an anticipated final season of 'Squid Game.' Additionally, tips for breaking the doomscrolling habit are highlighted.

Jun 17, 2025 • 1min
Introducing Our New Podcast Show: Ask Axis
Explore a fresh approach to parenting with personalized insights on raising teens. Discover how biblical wisdom can illuminate modern challenges parents face today. Listeners are encouraged to submit their questions, making each discussion relevant and engaging. Enjoy bite-sized segments that tackle real-life issues, creating a supportive community for families navigating this journey together.

Jun 13, 2025 • 49min
Roundtable: Lobster Sweaters, "Grow a Garden" on Roblox, and Father's Day
Discover the latest cultural shifts as Gen Z embraces nautical-themed knitwear and the viral Roblox game 'Grow a Garden.' Explore the need for strong role models for young men, especially around Father's Day. A look at how traditional fashion contrasts with slow living ideals highlights changing values. Delve into the complexities of fatherhood, the significance of male figures in children's lives, and the essential skills of apology and forgiveness for emotional growth. Plus, catch up on pop culture highlights, including Sabrina Carpenter's new album.

Jun 12, 2025 • 9min
Lobster Sweaters, "Grow a Garden" on Roblox, and Father's Day
A viral Roblox game called “Grow a Garden” has captured Gen Z's attention, while they embrace summer's nautical knitwear trend. As Father's Day nears, the importance of positive male role models comes to the forefront, sparking discussions about heroism in modern culture. The podcast also explores AI interpretations of Biblical figures as influencers and shares insights on TikTok's most-followed personality facing detention. Listeners hear about an emerging no-contact order trend on campuses, and Apple's upcoming design changes are highlighted.

Jun 10, 2025 • 43min
Nathan Davis on Culture, Creativity, and Being a Christian in Hollywood
Nathan Davis, Head of Marketing Strategy and Operations at The Chosen and former Disney executive, shares his unique journey from preaching to filmmaking. He discusses the vibrant Christian community in Hollywood, contrasting stereotypes with real connections. The conversation delves into the challenges of Christian media, advocating for narratives that provoke genuine faith exploration. Nathan highlights the courage needed for creativity and the importance of being 'in the world but not of it,' reminding listeners to embrace vulnerability in their art.

Jun 5, 2025 • 9min
Switch 2 Debuts, Porn Popularity Falls, and Grandfamilies
A new Nintendo console has gamers buzzing, but many are hesitant to upgrade. Gen Z is shifting perceptions about pornography, questioning its positive narrative. The challenges and joys of grandparents raising grandchildren are explored, highlighting deep emotional connections amid exhaustion. Meanwhile, a pop culture musical moment gets roasted on TikTok, and a cooperative Elden Ring spinoff gains traction. Plus, stuffed keychain monsters are trending, and NBA star Chet Holmgren shares his favorite books!

10 snips
May 30, 2025 • 1h 5min
Roundtable: Goodnight Phone Calls, Annabelle, and Gen Z Tech Restrictions
Young men are embracing the trend of calling each other goodnight, fostering emotional connections in their friendships. A haunted doll named Annabelle is humorously linked to a plantation fire, blending folklore with modern fears. Meanwhile, Gen Z shares their plans to restrict technology use for their own kids, influenced by their own experiences with social media. As discussions unfold, the cultural implications of technology and communication in relationships are examined, shedding light on the evolving dynamics of friendship today.

May 29, 2025 • 9min
Goodnight Phone Calls, Annabelle, and Gen Z Tech Restrictions
Young men are embracing a quirky trend of calling each other to say goodnight, showcasing a charming side of male friendships. A haunted doll named Annabelle is at the center of a wild story linked to a plantation fire. Gen Z discusses their thoughts on imposing technology restrictions for their future kids, highlighting the push for digital minimalism. The cultural landscape also includes surprising box office stats, a unique debate by Dr. Jordan Peterson, and a wildly busy influencer on her wedding day.

5 snips
May 27, 2025 • 37min
Jake Weidmann on Empowering Young Creatives in an AI World
Join Jake Weidmann, one of only nine Master Penmen in the world, as he dives into the challenges young creatives face today. He emphasizes the importance of curiosity and humility in the creative journey, revealing how a playful mindset can unlock true potential. Jake beautifully connects faith with artistry, urging a return to art’s original purpose of glorifying God. As AI technology advances, he passionately defends the value of human creativity, encouraging all to embrace their artistic spirit as a profound, spiritual journey.


