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

In this week’s Brief: We’re talking about Trump’s whirlwind Asia tour, including stops in Qatar, Malaysia, Japan, South Korea, and an upcoming high-stakes meeting with China. And we take a look at what’s happening back at home with the White House’s East Wing demolition, a PR war with Canada, and the never-ending government shutdown. We also dig into the NBA betting scandal involving Chauncey Billups and Terry Rozier, looking at what it reveals about the larger issue of sports gambling. Plus, we cover updates on Hurricane Melissa, drug boats in Venezuela, election day insights, and so much more. From politics and global affairs to sports and faith, listen now for grounded and thoughtful insights on what’s shaping the world right now—and what it means for believers.Topics(01:23): Political roundup: Trump's Asia tour(07:55): Domestic affairs: Canada & East Wing(13:02): Government shutdown: Impacts and reflections(17:54): Betting scandal: NBA under scrutiny(22:45): Mafia's involvement in high-stakes poker(26:36): Major League Baseball's gambling issues(28:08): NCAA and the culture of gambling(36:25): Mailbag and scented stamps(39:15): Current events and updates(45:14): Halloween fun and YouTube announcementResourcesSend us your thoughts, questions, and topic ideas: culturebrief@denisonforum.orgCulture Brief InstagramWatch on Youtube! Sign-up for Denison Forum’s daily newsletter: DenisonForum.org/subscribeLinks mentioned in this episode:Canada Tariff AdConner’s article on the dangerous rise of sports bettingCulture Brief Ep. 35 - popularity of sports bettingFaith & Clarity Podcast ft. Conner & Micah - Following Christ in a sports-obsessed worldOther articles on this week’s top headlines:East Wing demolished for new White House State Ballroom - Denison ForumAn unstaffed air control tower and 42 million hungry Americans - Denison ForumWith Ronald Reagan ad, this Canadian leader beat Trump at his own gameOctober 26, 2025: Trump in Asia for diplomatic tour | CNN Politics.Betting scandal rocks the National Basketball Association - Denison ForumNBA player and head coach among 30 arrested in illegal US gambling investigationNBA Commissioner Adam Silver 'deeply disturbed' by gambling arrests of Billups and RozierMLB fires ump Pat Hoberg over betting violations | ReutersNCAA will allow college athletes to bet on professional sports starting Nov. 1What we know about the Billups-Rozier NBA gambling cases - ESPNExplaining the NBA gambling investigation involving Chauncey Billups, Terry Rozier - CBS SportsThe Real Problem with Sports Betting - by Zac BissonnetteCategory 5 Hurricane Melissa brings flooding and catastrophic winds to JamaicaAbout 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.

In this week’s Brief: We’re talking about the global tug-of-war over rare earth minerals and what the U.S. is doing to loosen its reliance on China. We also dive into the daring, Hollywood-worthy heist at the Louvre. And we tackle updates on the government shutdown, the "No Kings" protests, Ukraine and Israel before sharing our World Series predictions. Plus, don’t miss a big announcement at the end of the episode about what’s next for Culture Brief!From politics and global affairs to pop culture and faith, Conner and Micah offer grounded, thoughtful insight on what’s shaping the world right now—and what it means for believers. Plus, don’t miss a big announcement at the end of the episode about what’s next for Culture Brief!Topics(00:47): What are rare earth minerals?(05:54): US-Australia deal on rare earth minerals(11:54): Spiritual application: Planning with faith(15:26): The Louvre heist: A Hollywood-style robbery(25:46): Reflecting on the value of human life(29:16): Mailbag: Responses to last week’s audiobook hot take(32:17): Ukraine's plea for Tomahawk missiles(34:24): "No Kings" protest across the country(36:41): Government shutdown and economic impact(38:58): Fragile ceasefire in the Middle East(41:06): World Series and NBA updates(43:17): Big announcement!ResourcesSend us your thoughts, questions, and topic ideas: culturebrief@denisonforum.orgCulture Brief InstagramSign-up for Denison Forum’s daily newsletter: DenisonForum.org/subscribeNOTE - you can catch Conner & Micah on last week’s Faith & Clarity podcast episode discussing the spiritual implications of the AI Bible, euthanasia, congressional term limits and freedom of speech.Links mentioned in this episode:Can’t Believe the Louvre Robbery? These 6 Heist Movies Are Just as Wild.Other articles on this week’s top headlines:U.S., Australia Deal Advances Critical Minerals Ambitions, While Detail Light - WSJReuters: ROI US-Australia critical minerals dealUS and Australia sign critical-minerals agreement as a way to counter ChinaAustralia and the US have signed a critical minerals deal to take on China’s monopoly. Here’s what you need to knowApple inks $500M deal with US-based rare-earth mine operator MP MaterialsUnited States-Australia Framework For Securing of Supply in the Mining and Processing of Critical Minerals and Rare Earths – The White HouseTime is running out to save stolen Napoleonic jewelry - Denison ForumHistoric jewels stolen in ‘national disaster’ for France: What we know about missing Louvre treasures | CNNHow the Louvre Jewelry Heist Unfolded - The New York TimesLouvre Robbery May Have Been More About Stones Than Art, Experts SayPolitico: 'No Kings' protests against Trump bring a street party vibe to cities nationwideAbout 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.

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. 

In this week’s Brief: Micah’s out on vacation, so we had Alex Kondratev join the show as guest co-host to break down the headlines! We're talking about the Israel–Gaza ceasefire and hostage release, Donald Trump’s central role in the negotiations, the still unresolved issues, and Trump’s thoughts on if he’s “heaven-bound”. Then we dive into the debate over Turning Point USA’s alternative Super Bowl halftime show, the heart behind it, and whether or not it’s the right move. Plus, we discuss the Nobel Peace Prize, Diane Keaton’s death, the NHL coming back, the NBA’s return next week, and the MLB playoffs and that wild 15-inning game.It’s a mix of geopolitics, pop culture, and thoughtful conversation—all through a biblical lens to help you navigate the week with clarity and faith.Topics(01:39): Hostage release in Israel and Gaza(04:30): Trump's role in the peace deal(07:58): Reflections on peace and conflict(16:18): Trump's views on heaven and misunderstanding the Gospel(21:36): Alternative Super Bowl halftime show by Turning Point USA(24:16): Controversy surrounding Bad Bunny's Super Bowl performance(29:53): The heart behind the alternative show(38:32): Alex shares a hot take!(42:44): Current events and updatesResourcesSend us your thoughts, questions, and topic ideas: culturebrief@denisonforum.orgCulture Brief InstagramSign-up for Denison Forum’s daily newsletter: DenisonForum.org/subscribeNOTE - you can catch Conner & Micah on the latest Faith & Clarity podcast episode discussing the spiritual implications of the AI Bible, euthanasia, congressional term limits and freedom of speech.Links mentioned in this episode:Why didn’t God free the hostages two years ago? - Denison ForumJoe Biden statementBill Clinton statementOther articles on this week’s top headlines:The last twenty living hostages are released by Hamas - Denison ForumAll 20 surviving hostages freed by Hamas under Gaza peace dealPolitico: The hostages walk freeRichard Haas: Two Years After October 7, Progress is Finally at Hand Turning Point USA announces 'All-American' halftime show on Super Bowl SundayMAGA rage over Bad Bunny at Super Bowl sparks an alternative show - The Washington PostThe Bad Bunny Super Bowl 2026 Controversy, ExplainedTHE ALL-AMERICAN HALFTIME SHOWAbout 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 Alex KondratevAlex Kondratev is the Chief Content Officer at Denison Ministries. Alex is passionate about creating content that helps people encounter God in practical, transformative ways. She lives in Charleston, South Carolina, with her husband and son, and finds inspiration in books, the ocean, and the art of good storytelling.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.

This week, we welcome special guest Landon Wolfe, the voice behind the worship hit “The Lord Will Provide”!We dive into Landon’s journey in music, his ministry at Passion City Church, leading NFL stadiums in worship at Passion Conferences, and the movement of young people turning to faith.We talk through the story behind “The Lord Will Provide”, what goes into preparing for Passion Conferences, and why more and more of Gen Z is showing up hungry for God.Plus, Landon shares practical wisdom on living a faithful life, trusting God’s plan, and shaping culture through the lens of Christ. It’s an inspiring, hope-filled conversation you won’t want to miss.We’ll be back next week with trending headlines, but this conversation was well worth the pause!Topics(00:14): Introducing our special guest: Landon Wolfe(00:54): Landon's journey and impact(05:38): The Passion Conference experience(12:08): The story behind “The Lord Will Provide”(17:39): Landon's musical background and calling(21:18): Advice for young listeners: Discerning God's call(25:02): Impacting culture: Using your unique position(29:03): Gen Z's struggles: Anxiety, depression, and social media(33:38): Passion Conference: Preparation and excitement(37:34): Final thoughts and encouragementResourcesFollow us! Culture Brief InstagramLandon Wolfe Instagram“The Lord Will Provide” on YoutubePassion Music on InstagramPassion 2026 ConferenceAs always, send us your thoughts, questions, and topic ideas: culturebrief@denisonforum.org And make sure to sign-up for Denison Forum’s daily newsletter: DenisonForum.org/subscribeAbout 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.

In this week’s Brief: The US government is officially shutdown, and it isn’t just about stalled budgets—it’s about the deeper dysfunction in Washington. We’re unpacking the fallout, the blame game, and what it means for everyday Americans.We’re also looking at President Trump’s 20-point Israel/Gaza peace proposal—the pros, the cons, and what it could mean for the region’s future.Plus, a viral UFO video and our thoughts on the phenomenon, Tim Allen’s powerful forgiveness moment, an NYC mayoral election update, a Ryder Cup recap, and the biggest pop-culture headlines this week.And don’t miss a preview of our very first guest appearance coming next week. We’re here to help you navigate the noise with biblical insight and thoughtful conversation.Topics(01:22): Government shutdown breakdown(02:58): Political blame game(10:11): Impact on Federal employees(13:00): What's closed during the shutdown(17:37): Trump's 20-Point peace proposal for Gaza(27:14): Broader issues and double standards(31:44): UFOs and conspiracy theories(36:16): Current events and cultural updates(43:06): Upcoming guestResourcesSend us your thoughts, questions, and topic ideas: culturebrief@denisonforum.orgCulture Brief InstagramSign-up for Denison Forum’s daily newsletter: DenisonForum.org/subscribeLinks mentioned in this episode:Why can’t Congress pass a budget? - Denison ForumWill Trump’s meeting with Muslim leaders mean peace in Gaza? - Denison ForumTMZ on X: UFO VideoTim Allen on X Other articles on this week’s top headlines:Why should you care about a government shutdown? - Denison ForumWhat closes during a government shutdown? What we know about how it would unfold | PBS NewsTrump unveils 20-point plan to secure peace in Gaza, including granting some Hamas members 'amnesty'READ: Trump’s 20-point proposal for peace in Gaza Strip, ending Israel-Hamas warTrump touts Israel’s approval of his Gaza peace plan. Hamas has not agreed. - POLITICOTrump peace plan envisions 'New Gaza' and Trump-led 'Board of Peace' | ReutersThe New York Times: The Morning, September 30, 2025About 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.

In this week’s Brief: Jimmy Kimmel’s suspension and return to late-night TV isn’t just about comedy—it’s about the FCC, political pressure, and what this says about the state of free expression in America. We’re unpacking the story, the fallout, and what it reveals about today’s media landscape.We’re also looking at the powerful moments from Charlie Kirk’s memorial service—especially Erica Kirk’s public act of forgiveness—and how grace in the public square can reshape our understanding of faith, politics, and culture. Plus, we offer thoughts on the viral movements around “revival” and “rapture”, Trump’s announcement regarding Tylenol and pregnancy, the looming government shutdown, the Ryder Cup, and this weekend’s must-watch football matchups.We’re here to help stay grounded with biblical insight and thoughtful conversation as you navigate today’s culture. Topics(00:59): Kimmel's suspension(05:07): Public and political reactions(15:13): Kimmel's return and monologue(20:24): Erica Kirk's powerful speech at Charlie’s Memorial(24:33): Radical forgiveness and revival(30:46): Biblical mandate for forgiveness(35:51): Culture check-in: ICE shooting, Tylenol, UN meeting, Gov. shutdown(41:00): Sports tune-inResourcesSend us your thoughts, questions, and topic ideas: culturebrief@denisonforum.orgCulture Brief InstagramSign-up for Denison Forum’s daily newsletter: DenisonForum.org/subscribeLinks mentioned in this episode:Jimmy Kimmel suspended for comments on Charlie Kirk’s killer - Denison ForumOther articles on this week’s top headlines:Jimmy Kimmel is returning to ABC tonight - Denison Forum400 Celebs Sign Open Letter Backing Jimmy Kimmel, Including Tom Hanks, Meryl Streep, Jennifer AnistonFCC’s Carr says Jimmy Kimmel ‘misled’ the public with remarks on Charlie Kirk’s killerABC temporarily suspends Jimmy Kimmel's showErika Kirk forgives her husband’s alleged assassin - Denison ForumFor Erika Kirk, a Husband’s Life Cut Short by Violence He Seemed to Foresee - The New York TimesChristian author Frank Turek describes being 25 feet away when Charlie Kirk was shot: 'Like a son to me'Why the alleged assassin killed Charlie Kirk - Denison ForumKey Moments From the Charlie Kirk MemorialCharlie Kirk’s Wife Erika Forgives His Killer at Memorial ServiceAt Charlie Kirk memorial, Trump rallies MAGA against political opponents | ReutersErika Kirk, Charlie Kirk’s widow, says she forgives man accused of murderErika Kirk Forgives Charlie's Killer in Heartbreaking Memorial Speech: FULL TRANSCRIPT | CBN NewsAbout 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 Senior 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 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.

In this week’s brief: the cultural shockwave of Charlie Kirk’s assassination has rocked the nation—politics, media, public safety, and Americans are all grappling with the aftermath of his death. We’re breaking down the investigation, the cultural responses, and what his legacy means for a new generation of voters.We’re also digging into the rise of political violence, security for public figures, and the thorny free speech fights sparked by Kirk’s death. And yes—there’s a spiritual awakening angle you’re not hearing anywhere else.Plus, quick updates on Israel’s ground offensive in Gaza, a US drone strike on a Venezuelan drug boat, fresh updates from the Russia–Ukraine war, the Emmys, Larry Ellison leapfrogging Elon Musk, and the passing of Robert Redford. Oh, and we respond to listeners wanting to know if we’re Team Conrad or Team Jeremiah (iykyk).We’re here to help you cut through the noise and make sense of a whirlwind news cycle. No spins—just biblical insights to help you stay grounded and engaged in today’s culture.Topics(00:21): Deep dive into Charlie Kirk's assassination(08:26): Cultural impact and responses(16:35): Political violence and free speech(26:48): Kirk's posthumous influence(27:30): Spiritual awakening and revival(29:45): A call to action for believers(37:34): TSITP teams(40:35): Current events and pop-culture updatesResourcesSend us your thoughts, questions, and topic ideas: culturebrief@denisonforum.orgCulture Brief InstagramSign-up for Denison Forum’s daily newsletter: DenisonForum.org/subscribeLinks mentioned in this episode:White House on X Can Bonton Farms show us a better way to restore hope to struggling communities? - Denison ForumOther articles on this week’s top headlines:Charlie Kirk fatally shot at speaking event in Utah- Denison ForumWhat does Charlie Kirk’s death mean for America? - Denison ForumTrump says suspect arrested in Charlie Kirk assassination - Denison ForumThree reasons Charlie Kirk’s murder is relevant to us all - Denison ForumCould Charlie Kirk’s death be a “turning point” for America? - Denison ForumHow should Christians respond to the assassination of Charlie Kirk and rising violence in our culture? - Denison ForumSources: Kirk suspect's transgender roommate "aghast," may be key to motive‘It Will Scar This Generation.’ Charlie Kirk’s Death Ignites a Campus ReckoningCharlie Kirk Helped Republicans Break Through to Young PeopleAxios: America's Violent SpiralThe Assassination of Charlie Kirk - The Free PressAxios: Four ominous trendsSuspect left note saying he planned to kill Charlie Kirk, later confessed in texts, prosecutor saysSuspected gunman Robinson wrote note threatening Kirk, tied to scene by DNA, FBI director says | ReutersCharlie Kirk vigils held at universities across America following assassination of conservative activistAbout 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 Senior 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 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.

Sadly, we start this episode with a brief update on the tragic killing of conservative influencer Charlie Kirk. His death came after we recorded the episode, and we hope to offer more information on next week’s podcast.In this week’s brief: The Department of Defense has rebranded itself as the Department of War—yes, really—and tensions with Venezuela are heating up. We also didn’t miss the social media showdown between the Vice President and a powerful senator.We’ll unpack fresh polling that reveals America’s growing crisis of hope, and weigh in on viral clips of adults snatching souvenirs from kids at sporting events.Plus, quick takes on the latest from Russia and Ukraine, Israel and Gaza, the MTV Music Awards, Cracker Barrel, the US Open, the Emmys, and the NFL kickoff.It’s a packed episode in a wild week of headlines—join us as we frame it all through a Christian lens, helping you think biblically, live faithfully, and engage today’s culture with confidence.Topics(01:00): Department of Defense renamed to Department of War(07:30): US drone strike on Venezuelan cartel(12:59): Spiritual perspective on war and peace(16:11): A crisis of hope in America(25:45): The urgency of encouragement(29:46): The power of mindset(32:24): Viral moments in sports(35:31): Global political updates(37:51): Pop-culture and sports highlights(42:51): NFL season kickoffResourcesSend us your thoughts, questions, and topic ideas: culturebrief@denisonforum.orgCulture Brief InstagramSign-up for Denison Forum’s daily newsletter: DenisonForum.org/subscribeLinks mentioned in this episode:Charlie Kirk fatally shot at speaking event in Utah - Denison ForumDonald Trump on Truth Social: NarcoterroristsDonald Trump on Truth Social: DeportationsImage of Capitalism Slips to 54% in U.S.Millionaire CEO goes viral for stealing a hat from a child - Denison ForumPhillies home run ball stolenMedia Bias Headline: U.S. Open Crowd Booed Trump RepeatedlyMedia Bias Headline: President Donald Trump Gets Cheers at US Open Men’s FinalOther articles on this week’s top headlines:Trump signs order renaming Pentagon 'Department of War' - ABC NewsVenezuelan fighter jets flew over U.S. Navy ship in "show of force" - CBS NewsUS deploying 10 fighter jets to Puerto Rico in fight against drug cartels, as Trump threatens to 'shoot down' Venezuelan military planesTrump 2.0 refashions U.S. military muscleMorning Brew: September 9Belief in the American dream hits record lowAxios: September 3 NewsletterAbout 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 Senior 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 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.

This week on Culture Brief, we’re looking at the deployment of federal troops in U.S. cities and what it means for crime, local authority, and national precedent. We’ll also dig into the rapid rise of sports betting across the country, how it’s reshaping culture, and its dangerous possibilities.Plus, a roundup of politics, world news, college football updates, some NFL predictions, and our favorite NFL theme songs.It’s the week’s top stories in culture, sports, and faith—all with a Christian perspective to help you think clearly and respond faithfully.Topics(00:40): Troops in American cities: Background & legal debate(13:09): Spiritual application: Navigating gray areas(14:49): Sports betting epidemic in America(20:45): Dangers & consequences of sports betting(26:46): Christian perspective on gambling(29:27): Weekly check-in: World & U.S. headlines(33:24): College football recap & upsets(36:01): NFL returns: Trades, predictions & rivalries(40:22): How to connect & closing thoughtsResourcesSend us your thoughts, questions, and topic ideas: culturebrief@denisonforum.orgCulture Brief InstagramSign-up for Denison Forum’s daily newsletter: DenisonForum.org/subscribeLinks mentioned in this episode:The dangerous rise of sports gambling- Denison ForumFollowing Christ in a sports-obsessed world - Denison ForumOther articles on this week’s top headlines:Reuters: US judge blocks Trump from using troops to fight crime in CaliforniaCrime in Washington, DC: What You Need to Know - Council on Criminal JusticeD.C. mayor praises federal surge, angering residents and pleasing Trump - The Washington PostWhat Americans think about Trump's handling of crime, according to a new pollWhy March Madness can be both a joy and a danger - Denison ForumYoung gamblers place sports bets while showering, wager away student loan money, addiction therapist warnsFor a new generation of kids, sports and gambling now go hand in gloveSports Betting Activities Survey April 2023 Key FindingsMLB gambling investigation raises game integrity concernsJontay Porter pleads guilty in case tied to NBA betting scandal - ESPNAbout 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 Senior 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 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.