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

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.

This week, we’re breaking down Cracker Barrel’s rebrand disaster, what it says about cultural and brand identity in America, and how we, as Christians, should apply the lessons learned to our own faith and lives. We’ll also look at the nation’s growing divisions and ask what unity really means from a Christian perspective.Then, big news in sports and pop culture: Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce’s engagement, the kickoff of college football season, National Championship predictions, and Coach Bill Belichick stepping onto the college field for the first time.All that and more in culture, sports, and faith—get caught up with a fresh Christian perspective!Topics(00:53): Cracker Barrel's rebrand controversy(08:13): Chili's revival and success(13:40): The Christian brand(16:01): The divided states of America(26:27): Revival and community renewal(29:42): Pop culture news: Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce(34:27): Global affairs: Russia and Ukraine(35:15): College football 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:Cracker Barrel, Chili’s, and the Dallas Cowboys- Denison ForumOther articles on this week’s top headlines:How a Cracker Barrel Logo Change Spawned a Political Firestorm - WSJChili's was once a relic of the '90s. Then it blew past its competitors—and conquered casual American dining. In its Texas test kitchen, I saw how.CrackerBarrel on XTexas Senate passes redistricting bill, California counters - Denison ForumParty Affiliation | Gallup Historical TrendsDemocrats and Republicans live in partisan bubbles, study findsAbout 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, we’re breaking down the recent Trump-Putin summit in Alaska, European leaders visiting the White House, and the next steps in bringing peace to Ukraine and Israel/Gaza. But what does it mean for US foreign policy and Europe’s stability? And how should Christians think biblically about peace and power on the world stage…and in our own personal lives? We share our own stories of finding peace in life’s very difficult moments.Then we dive into the summer box office – which movies flopped and which ones were blockbuster hits? Plus, who won our box office prediction game, Bust the Block?? Tune in to find out! You’ll even hear our go-to movie theater snacks. And of course, we have thoughts on the Texas Democrats coming back home and Scottie Scheffler’s insane win this past weekend. Get caught up on culture this week—with clarity, context, and a Christian perspective.Topics(01:05): Alaska summit: High hopes and disappointments(03:33): European leaders and the path to peace(07:45): Ceasefire talks in Gaza(10:08): Spiritual reflections on global conflicts(12:27): Personal conflicts and seeking peace(23:02): Personal testimonies of peace(29:48): Summer movie box office results(36:16): Texas House Democrats return(41:09): Scottie Scheffler's stunning victory(42:26): Conclusion and farewellResourcesMailbag: culturebrief@denisonforum.orgCulture Brief InstagramSign-up for Denison Forum’s daily newsletter: DenisonForum.org/subscribeLinks mentioned in this episode:Ending the war in Ukraine and a ceasefire in Gaza? -Denison ForumOther articles on this week’s top headlines:Was the Alaska summit a success? - Denison ForumPolitico Playbook: How Trump and Zelenskyy hit resetHamas accepts latest Gaza ceasefire and hostage deal proposalHamas says it agrees to latest ceasefire proposal; Netanyahu sounds dismissivePro golfer Ben Griffin rebounds after “creatine overdose” - Denison ForumAbout 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 Denison Forum Podcast, as well as many books and additional resources.

This week, we’re previewing the Trump-Putin summit in Alaska, unpacking what’s at stake for the US, Russia, Ukraine, and Europe, and what pursuing peace looks like spiritually. Then, we analyze AI talent wars across Silicon Valley where tech giants like Mark Zuckerberg are battling it out with eye-popping 9 to 10 digit salaries to snatch up top AI researchers as they race to be the first to achieve “superintelligence”...what does that even mean? We’ll tell you!Plus a few more national, pop-culture, and sports headlines, including this week’s big Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce news. Get caught up on culture with a fresh Christian perspective!Topics(00:56): US-Russia summit: Stakes and implications(05:49): Human cost and historical context of the Ukraine War(14:42): Spiritual and moral reflections on the conflict(17:40): AI talent wars: The race for superintelligence(25:34): Meta's AI ambitions(27:47): The concept of superintelligence(30:06): AI and human purpose(34:03): Listener responses to top fast-food burger list(36:23): Trump and pop culture headlinesResourcesMailbag: culturebrief@denisonforum.orgCulture Brief InstagramSign-up for Denison Forum’s daily newsletter: DenisonForum.org/subscribeLinks mentioned in this episode:Thanks for Your $1 Billion Job Offer, Mark Zuckerberg. I’m Gonna Pass. - WSJMark Zuckerberg Says ‘Superintelligence’ Is Imminent. What Is It?We're building personal superintelligence for everyone. Stay tuned 🚀 | Mark Zuckerberg | FacebookBiblical clarity on climate change, Ten Commandments in the classroom, and AI companions -Faith & Clarity Podcast Other articles on this week’s top headlines:What to know about the Putin-Trump summit in Alaska | AP NewsWhite House confirms Trump-Putin summit in Anchorage, calling it 'listening exercise'Russian forces advance in Ukraine as Trump tempers outlook for Alaska summit - The Washington PostVladimir Putin and the problem of autocratic power- Denison ForumPresident Trump will meet with Vladimir Putin this week- Denison ForumIs Ukraine now willing to trade land for peace?One million and counting: Russian casualties hit milestone in Ukraine war | Russia | The GuardianIs Anyone Worth a Billion Dollars? - by Tyler CowenZuckerberg says AI superintelligence is 'in sight,' touts 'new era of personal empowerment'OpenAI gives some employees a ‘special’ multimillion-dollar bonus | The VergeAbout 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 Denison Forum Podcast, as well as many books and additional resources.

This week, we’re breaking down the headlines everyone’s talking about—from the Texas redistricting showdown to the internet’s uproar over American Eagle’s latest ad featuring Sydney Sweeney. PLUS: Unpacking the ongoing crisis in Gaza, an Epstein saga update, a surprising Moon mission, the NFL/ESPN deal, and Micah’s very strong opinions on USA Today’s bold (and questionable) fast food burger rankings. All of it, through a lens of biblical clarity!Topics(00:19): Dallas Cowboys drama(01:21): Texas redistricting controversy(15:30): Spiritual reflections on political actions(18:04): American Eagle ad controversy(27:43): Christian perspective on sexual advertising(30:34): Top 10 fast food burgers of 2025(36:48): Trump's controversial moves(39:07): Gaza crisis and global politics(40:56): NFL and media updates(43:16): Closing remarks and listener engagementResourcesMailbag: culturebrief@denisonforum.orgCulture Brief InstagramSign-up for Denison Forum’s daily newsletter: DenisonForum.org/subscribeLinks mentioned in this episode:Texas governor orders arrests for Democrats who left the statePresident Trump comments on the Sydney Sweeney controversyTed Cruz on XCraving a burger? Here are 10 fast food options you need to tryOther articles on this week’s top headlines:New York Mag: come and take it ‘If They’re Going to Cheat, We’re Not Going to Play’Blue-state Democrats face hurdles countering Texas GOP’s new election map - The Washington PostDemocrats say GOP's Texas redistricting harms Black, Hispanic voters | AP NewsWhat Trump Has to Do With Texas Democrats Fleeing the State | TIMELive redistricting updates: Dems say there was a bomb threat made at their hotelHistory of Texas legislative quorum breaks from 1870 to now - Axios San AntonioWhy Is the Sydney Sweeney ‘Great Jeans’ American Eagle Ad Causing a Social Media Firestorm? | GlamourWhy Sydney Sweeney’s Body Is Causing a Total MeltdownYahoo News: Sweeney Registered RepublicanBBC: Nasa to put nuclear reactor on the Moon by 2030Jonny Root on Jared Allen Hall of Fame Inductee SpeechAbout 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 Denison Forum Podcast, as well as many books and additional resources.