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

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.

This week we’re breaking down the trending headlines and asking what it all means for Christians navigating today’s world. Micah breaks down major shifts in U.S. trade policy with countries like China, Japan, and India. Then Conner reflects on the death of wrestling icon Hulk Hogan and the lesser-known story of his faith, before zooming out to look at the spiritual journeys of other public figures like Justin Bieber, George Clooney, Skip Bayless, Deion Sanders, and Forrest Frank. Plus updates on Gaza, the NYC shooting, and more top headlines before our thoughts on Happy Gilmore 2, Fantastic Four, the proper protocol for evacuating an airplane and the return of sports events that are actually getting us excited!It’s a fast-moving conversation that cuts through the noise—and invites you to think biblically about the stories shaping our culture.Topics(00:53): US trade deals and tariffs update(16:07): Hulk Hogan's legacy and faith(19:46): Celebrity faith and influence(21:25): Skip Bayless and prioritizing faith(25:20): Deion Sanders: Balancing family and career(26:42): Forrest Frank's inspirational story(30:03): Gaza and global conflicts update(32:51): New York City shooting incident(33:59): Jay Leno & Coldplay scandal update(39:54): Happy Gilmore 2, Fantastic Four & Airplane evacuation etiquette(42:06): Upcoming sports eventsResourcesMailbag: culturebrief@denisonforum.orgCulture Brief InstagramSign-up for Denison Forum’s daily newsletter: DenisonForum.org/subscribeLinks mentioned in this episode:Hulk Hogan on Instagram: "Total surrender and dedication to Jesus is the greatest day of my life. No worries, no hate, no judgment… only love!"Aaron Filippone on XSkip Bayless 'jolted' by Scottie Scheffler prioritizing family over golfForrest Frank InstagramAstronomer on XAmerican Airlines fire evacuation videoOther articles on this week’s top headlines:Fox Business: July tariff revenues break monthly recordTax FoundationUS customs duties top $100 billion for first time in a fiscal year | ReutersTrump’s New Trade Standard Takes Shape With 15% Tariff Deal - WSJChinese exports to the US could decrease by $488 billion without a trade deal, as the end of the tariff pause loomsEU Reaches Tariff Deal With US to Avert Painful Trade BlowTrump tariffs: EU-US trade deal agreed | MoneyWeekEU fails to reduce 50% steel tariff in outline trade deal with USTrump strikes 'biggest deal ever made' with EU: Europeans will buy $750B in US energy, invest $600B after meeting with prezThe death of Hulk Hogan and the transforming power of faithAre three-parent embryos a good idea?Hulk Hogan, Shirt-Shredding Superstar of Pro Wrestling, Dies at 71Skip Bayless 'jolted' by Scottie Scheffler prioritizing family over golfDeion Sanders Says He Kept Bladder Cancer Diagnosis From His SonsDeion Sander’s most recent struggle transcends footballAbout 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.

In this episode, Conner and Micah sit down with Dr. Mark Turman and Dr. Ryan Denison for a thoughtful roundtable conversation exploring the intersection of faith, sports, and culture. Together, they discuss the spiritual implications of sports gambling, the complexities of compensating college athletes, and what it means to follow Christ in the world of competitive athletics.They also reflect on the example of professional golfer Scottie Scheffler, whose quiet faith continues to speak louder than his success. Finally, the group offers biblical wisdom for families navigating youth sports and the challenge of keeping Christ at the center.Whether you're deeply invested in the sports world or simply curious about its cultural impact, this conversation offers helpful, faith-first perspectives on one of the most influential forces in American life today.Topics(00:24): Meet the hosts(02:17): Culture Brief podcast insights(05:33): The slowest sports day of the year(08:18): The ESPYs and sports media(11:22): Personal sports fandom(17:20): Scottie Scheffler's perspective on golf and life(23:32): Biblical perspectives on sports(27:57): The evolution of college sports compensation(33:34): Exploitation of families in NIL deals(35:34): Spiritual reflections on NIL inequities(41:12): The rise of sports gambling(46:10): The impact of gambling on athletes and fans(55:45): Balancing faith and sports in family life(01:05:07): Final thoughts and reflectionsResourcesMailbag: culturebrief@denisonforum.orgCulture Brief InstagramSign-up for Denison Forum’s daily newsletter: DenisonForum.org/subscribeSports betting culture negatively impacts mental health; NCAA works to support student-athletesScottie Scheffler before winning The Open: “This is not a fulfilling life”Why March Madness can be both a joy and a dangerWhat watching sports says about our soulsWhat Travis Hunter’s Heisman win says about our cultureMLB’s Faith and Family events can expand our view of evangelismMarch Madness tips off today: How the NCAA tournament became a cultural phenomenonBabe Ruth, the curse of the Bambino, and seeking truth over perceptionAbout Dr. Ryan DenisonRyan Denison, PhD, is the Senior Editor for Theology at Denison Forum. Ryan writes The Daily Article every Friday and contributes writing and research to many of the ministry’s productions. He holds a PhD in church history from BH Carroll Theological Institute after having earned his MDiv at Truett Seminary. He’s authored The Path to Purpose, What Are My Spiritual Gifts?, How to Bless God by Blessing Others, 7 Deadly Sins, and has contributed writing or research to every Denison Forum book.About 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 Dr. Mark TurmanMark Turman, DMin, serves as the Executive Director of Denison Forum, where he leads with a passion for equipping believers to navigate today’s complex culture with biblical truth. He is best known as the host of The Denison Forum Podcast and the lead pastor of the Possum Kingdom Chapel, the in-person congregation of Denison Ministries.Dr. Turman is the coauthor of Sacred Sexuality: Reclaiming God’s Design and Who Am I? What the Bible Says About Identity and Why it Matters. He earned his undergraduate degree from Howard Payne University in Brownwood, Texas, and received his Master of Divinity from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in Fort Worth. He later completed his Doctor of Ministry at George W. Truett Theological Seminary at Baylor University in Waco.Before joining Denison Forum, Mark served as a pastor for 35 years, including 25 years as the founding pastor of Crosspoint Church in McKinney, Texas.Mark and his high school sweetheart, Judi, married in 1986. They are proud parents of two adult children and grandparents to three grandchildren.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, Conner breaks down the sudden cancellation of The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, the theories surrounding the move, and what it means for the future of late-night TV. Then Micah explores the latest controversies surrounding Israel—what’s really happening, and how should Christians think biblically about the conflict and the nation of Israel? Plus some thoughts on the viral Coldplay concert saga, Ozzy Osbourne, movie stars, and SO much more. It’s a fast-moving episode with thoughtful insight and a steady reminder: even in the chaos, we’re called to think clearly and live faithfully.Topics(00:56): Stephen Colbert's cancellation(01:41): Media lawsuits and settlements(06:08): Financial troubles in late night(10:26): The future of late night TV(15:55): The theology of Israel(25:03): Theological perspectives on Israel and the church(27:37): Praying for peace and rejecting antisemitism(30:41): Fun and games: Movie stars still matter(34:55): Check-in: Recent news and updates across cultureResourcesMailbag: culturebrief@denisonforum.orgCulture Brief InstagramSign-up for Denison Forum’s daily newsletter: DenisonForum.org/subscribeLinks mentioned in this episode:Stephen Colbert responds to cancellation of The Late ShowIs the conflict in Israel a sign of the end times?Are the Jews still God’s chosen people?The Coldplay Couple Did Something Bad. The Internet Did Something Worse.Other articles on this week’s top headlines:Morning Brew: Colbert’s show got canceled and TV may never be the samePolitico:  Trump’s Epstein evolutionMonday, July 21, 2025 - The FlyoverWhy Colbert got canceled - by Nate SilverCanceling ‘The Late Show’ Is Bad News for Late-Night TV, not Stephen Colbert - The New York TimesAll-star roster of comedians show solidarity with Stephen Colbert in first ‘Late Show’ after cancellation | CNN BusinessCNN Newsletter: Reliable Sources with Brian Stelter"He's a madman": Trump's team frets about Netanyahu after Syria strikesFinancial Times: Mike Johnson shuts US House early to avoid Jeffrey Epstein voteAbout 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.