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

On this episode of Culture Brief, we break down the intense 12-day showdown between Israel and Iran—and the U.S. jumping in with surprise bombings with Operation Midnight Hammer (awesome name btw). Plus details on how the ceasefire came together, who brokered it (thanks, Qatar), and what it all means moving forward.Plus, a rapid-fire check-in on more top headlines in politics, entertainment, sports, and pop-culture. And you’ll want to take part in a crucial debate: which casual dining chain reigns supreme? It’s geopolitical chaos, American headlines, and lighthearted banter—all through a Christian lens. Let’s get into it.Topics(00:43): Israel-Iran conflict breakdown(02:38): US bombs Iran’s nuclear facilities(06:29): Ceasefire agreement and diplomatic efforts(10:41): Operation Midnight Hammer: Detailed breakdown(18:37): Were the strikes constitutional? (22:13): Listener question: Were the strikes justified?(27:30): Biblical perspective on political conflicts(31:08): Listener mailbag and casual dining debate(34:45): Current events and sports updates(37:13): Upcoming political events and celebrity newsResourcesMailbag: culturebrief@denisonforum.orgCulture Brief InstagramDenisonForum.org/subscribeDr. Jim Denison: Why is Iran the world’s most dangerous regime?Here’s how B-2 bomber pilots pull off grueling 33-hour flightsB-2 bombers moving to Guam amid Middle East tensions, US officials say | ReutersHow bunker-busters and B-2 stealth bombers struck at the heart of Iran's nuclear program - ABC NewsTuesday briefing: What you need to know about Trump’s declaration of peace between Israel and Iran | Iran | The GuardianCeasefire between Israel and Iran appears to hold as Trump vents frustration with both sidesTrump successfully pressures Israel to scale back retaliation strike in IranStrike Set Back Iran’s Nuclear Program by Only a Few Months, U.S. Report Says - The New York TimesAxios: Israeli officials see "significant" damage to Iran's nuclear facilitiesX: Net Approval: U.S. Airstrikes on IranAbout 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 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 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.

Tensions escalate as Israel strikes Iran, raising questions about potential U.S. involvement. The MAGA movement faces an internal divide over the appropriate response. Dive into the future of AI, exploring job market shifts and ethical concerns. A quirky Pentagon Pizza Index theory connects food to military events. Sports highlights include a surprising U.S. Open victory and Stanley Cup celebrations, all wrapped up with a fun mailbag question. Join the conversation blending serious analysis with a touch of humor!

This week dives deep into the Los Angeles riots, contrasting peaceful protestors with violent clashes while examining political fallout. It discusses the NCAA's groundbreaking decision on compensating college athletes and the fairness debate in sports. The heated feud between Musk and Trump is explored, revealing the complexities of public perception. Controversy brews over Simone Biles and Riley Gaines' views on transgender athletes, adding another layer to the sports dialogue. Plus, a tribute to the late writer Jon Tjarks takes center stage.

This week, we’re breaking down the headlines shaping our world. We start with Pride Month and explore how corporations are responding this year—what’s changed, what hasn’t, and why it matters. Then, we shift to unpacking Ukraine’s latest drone strike inside Russia and what it signals for the future of warfare. Finally, we lighten things up with a round of “Would You Rather” and a quick analysis of what’s going on with Elon Musk leaving DOGE and slamming Trump’s “Big Beautiful Bill”. Plus, a quick preview of the NBA Finals, Stanley Cup Finals, and a return of a McDonald's favorite. Pull up a chair and join the conversation—we’re glad you’re here!Topics(00:23): Pride Month: Cultural shifts and corporate responses(10:45): Biblical perspective on Pride Month(15:57): Ukraine's drone attack: A new era in warfare(24:39): Exploring the impact of AI on modern warfare(25:26): The sovereignty of God in uncertain times(31:26): Would You Rather (36:53): Rising antisemitism and recent attacks(38:27): Elon Musk's shifts and political showdowns(41:42): Upcoming sports events and McDonald's snack wraps(44:41): Conclusion and call to actionResourcesMailbag: culturebrief@denisonforum.orgCulture Brief on InstagramDenisonForum.org/subscribeSesame Street celebrates Pride Month againWhat does the Bible say about homosexuality? • Denison ForumShould I attend a same-sex wedding?In “Does the Bible Support Same-Sex Marriage?”, Dr. Preston Sprinkle answers 21 objections with clarity and compassionPride Month: How America changed its mind on gay marriageWho Am I? What the Bible Says About Identity and Why it Matters • Denison ForumSacred Sexuality: Reclaiming God’s Design • Denison ForumX: Breaking 911 Air Canada Pride MonthPeople Are Having Absolute MELTDOWNS Over Sesame Street's Pride MessagePride parades 2025: Here's when major cities are celebratingNASCAR Announces Official Decision On Pride Month - The SpunTarget employees reveal embarrassing Pride collection mistake amid backlash | Daily Mail OnlineThe Scoop: How Target, Macy’s and more are handling Pride month - PR DailyDoubling Down: 29 Of MLB’s 30 Teams Celebrate ‘Pride Month’Trans Athlete AB Hernandez Wins Two Girls' State Titles In California, Insane Medal Ceremony EnsuesCass Review Final ReportGOP Rep. Launches Bid To Replace 'Pride Month' With 'Family Month'MAGA Svengali Steve Bannon Wants Trump to Pull Ukraine Support Over Surprise Drone AttackRussia and Ukraine Ratchet Up War While Trying to Show Trump They Want Peace - WSJOpinion | Ukraine’s massive drone attack came with a hidden messageUK to invest £2bn in drones to make army ‘10 times more lethal’ | Defence policy | The GuardianAxios: New Military NightmareLessons from the Ukraine Conflict: Modern Warfare in the Age of Autonomy, Information, and ResilienceOperation Spiderweb shows how small $400 drones deliver big blows to Russia's $7 billion fighter jets - The Economic TimesCould American sanctions bring an end to the war in Ukraine?Trump Is Losing Patience With Musk’s Outbursts Over Megabil - WSJAbout Micah TomasellaMicah Tomasella is the Advancement Officer at Denison Ministries and co-hosts Denison Forum's "Culture Brief" podcast. A graduate of Dallas Baptist University, Micah is married to Emily, and together they are the proud parents of two daughters. With an extensive background in nonprofit work, finance, and real estate, Micah also brings experience from his years in pastoral church ministry.About Conner 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 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.

The discussion dives into the alarming rise of antisemitism and its connection to the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Listeners learn about Vladimir Putin's troubled upbringing, shedding light on his authoritarian behaviors. Lighthearted moments follow with a fun debate on parking preferences and engaging thoughts on summer movie predictions. The hosts also touch on current sports events and influential figures like Joe Rogan, emphasizing faith and prayer in turbulent times. It's a blend of serious insights and enjoyable banter.

This week, we’re diving into the headlines with our usual mix of curiosity and conviction. Conner runs down the latest updates on President Joe Biden: the “cover-up” accusations, the Hur tapes, his cancer diagnosis and how it’s all bubbling up into a tense political saga leading to one big question the nation is forced to ask– was he fit to serve in the world’s most powerful position?Then Micah breaks down the disturbing federal charges against Sean “Diddy” Combs—and why some people are comparing his case to Jeffrey Epstein’s.But don’t worry, it’s not all serious. We wrap things up with Bust the Block, our totally unofficial, probably-wrong-but-still-fun summer movie prediction game. Which blockbusters will blow up and which ones will bomb? We’ve got thoughts. Let’s get into it.Topics(00:55): Nonpartisan stance and Biden's battles(02:58): Biden's book excerpts and media reactions(10:03): Biden's health and public appearances(16:08): Spiritual reflection on compassion(20:54): Introduction to Sean “Diddy” Combs trial(26:46): Media frenzy and misinformation(28:51): The dangers of hidden sin(32:57): Summer blockbuster predictions(39:59): Current events check-in(41:40): Memorial Day weekend send offResourcesMailbag: culturebrief@denisonforum.orgDenisonForum.org/subscribeCulture Brief on InstagramJoe Biden diagnosed with “high grade” prostate cancerResponding redemptively to President Biden’s cancer‘Watch Me,’ Biden Said. But Hearing Him in Hur Interview Is More Revealing.Trump Suggests Biden’s Cancer Diagnosis Was Hidden From Public - The New York TimesBiden-Hur interview: Special counsel audio shows Biden's memory lapsesDoctor Who Worked With Biden Says He Had Cancer for YearsAxios: Biden's Sudden DiagnosisPlaybook: Saints and sinnersReliable Sources with Brian StelterAmazon.com: Original Sin: President Biden's Decline, Its Cover-Up, and His Disastrous Choice to Run Again eBookThe court of public opinion weighs in on Diddy trialCelebrities With Close Ties To Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs Under Fresh Scrutiny'He thought of himself as a king': The parties that led to Diddy's downfallThe Sean Combs Trial - The New York TimesSean 'Diddy' Combs' White Parties: Celebs share wild stories of spiked drinks, drugs, and forced sexual acts - The Economic TimesSean "Diddy" Combs' sex trafficking trial is underway. Here's what to know about the charges, evidence and more. - CBS NewsSean 'Diddy' Combs Legal TimelineSean 'Diddy' Combs trial: A timeline of allegations | Ents & Arts NewsThe 36 Most-Anticipated New Movies of Summer 2025About Micah TomasellaMicah Tomasella is the Advancement Officer at Denison Ministries and co-hosts Denison Forum's "Culture Brief" podcast. A graduate of Dallas Baptist University, Micah is married to Emily, and together they are the proud parents of two daughters. With an extensive background in nonprofit work, finance, and real estate, Micah also brings experience from his years in pastoral church ministry.About Conner 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 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, Micah navigates the latest tariff, hostage, and ceasefire agreements made between the US and nations around the globe alongside Trump’s Middle East tour. Then it’s “Aviation Corner with Conner” – understanding the chaos unfolding at Newark airport and the “free” Air Force One replacement. Plus quick hits on the first American Pope, Pete Rose’s Baseball Hall of Fame eligibility, and a wild theory about a deeper conspiracy in the NBA. As always, we offer spiritual reflections and a look at what’s coming up in culture. We’re here to help you discern the news differently—and seek God’s wisdom along the way!Topics(01:00): Global deals and ceasefires(04:20): China-US tariff reductions(05:47): Russia-Ukraine talks(09:18): Trump's Middle East tour(16:28): “Aviation Corner with Conner”(25:09): Qatar's $400 million gift to America(30:04): Spiritual reflections on trust and sin(32:43): Check-in section: New pope and Disney's new theme park(35:21): Sports updates: NBA, NFL, and MLB(38:07): Tune-in section: New tax bill, explosive book, and PGA championshipResourcesMailbag: culturebrief@denisonforum.orgDenisonForum.org/subscribeCulture Brief on InstagramIran and US conclude a fourth round of negotiations over Tehran's nuclear program in OmanIran says recent negotiations with U.S. useful, sanctions not compatible with talks | ReutersSa’ar backs newly announced 'US aid plan' to bypass Hamas in Gaza | The Times of IsraelIndia and Pakistan Agree to Full, Immediate Ceasefire: Trump | TIMEChina celebrates hard-line stance after trade deal with U.S.US agrees ceasefire with Houthis in Yemen after dozens killed in airstrikesTrump to Lift Sanctions on Syria, Touts Deals in Middle East Tour - WSJTrump must realise Putin is obstacle to peace, Zelenskyy saysZelenskyy says he will be waiting for Putin in Ankara for talks | AP NewsFlying cars, flight delays, and the path to “life and peace”5 things to know for May 12: Trade war, PKK disarms, Habeas corpus, Newark airport, Air Force One | CNNAirport Chaos - The New York TimesSee How a Communications Outage Affected Flights at Newark AirportTransportation Secretary Unveils Plan to Overhaul Aging Air-Traffic Systems - The New York TimesHow Lost Radar and Silent Radios Have Upended Newark Air Travel - The New York TimesThe FAA relocated 24 air traffic controllers. It caused 800 delays within 2 weeks at Newark Airport. - CBS New YorkAnother Newark airport disruption as Trump's transportation secretary talks of reducing flightsBen Shapiro, Laura Loomer lead rare MAGA backlash to Trump's Qatari jetTrump set to receive $400 million ‘flying palace’ from Qatar to use as Air Force One: reportTrump’s Disgraceful ‘Palace in the Sky’ - by The EditorsOriginal Sin: President Biden's Decline, Its Cover-Up, and His Disastrous Choice to Run Again eBookAbout Micah TomasellaMicah Tomasella is the Advancement Officer at Denison Ministries and co-hosts Denison Forum's "Culture Brief" podcast. A graduate of Dallas Baptist University, Micah is married to Emily, and together they are the proud parents of two daughters. With an extensive background in nonprofit work, finance, and real estate, Micah also brings experience from his years in pastoral church ministry.About Conner 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 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.

Dive into the perplexing world of media bias and its impact on public trust. A flamboyant exploration of the Met Gala reveals what its over-the-top fashion says about our cultural values. The hilariously debated question of whether a gorilla could take on 100 unarmed men sparks laughter and contemplation. Global tensions, sports triumphs, and a cheeky theory about Alcatraz reopening round out the conversation, prompting listeners to rethink their media consumption with thoughtful insight.

This week we unpack Donald Trump’s wild return to the Oval Office—yep, we’re talking executive orders flying left and right and policy pivots that have us all trying to keep up. Then we break down the unexpected NFL Draft freefall of Shedeur Sanders and what his fifth-round slide says about pride, pressure, and perception.Join as we talk about humility and the subtle dangers of pride—with a surprise twist: one listener’s cringe-worthy oil change story that might just be the sermon illustration of the year. Plus, quick hits on what’s brewing in Canada’s political scene and rising tensions between India and Pakistan.It’s a full table—pull up a chair and take a listen. Topics(01:13): Trump's first 100 days(17:31): NFL draft drama: Shedeur Sanders' story(35:39): Listener mailbag: Oil change mishap(38:45): Global news updatesResourcesMailbag: culturebrief@denisonforum.orgDenisonForum.org/subscribeCulture Brief on InstagramTrump’s first hundred days and Judge Hannah Dugan’s arrestPromises kept, broken and TBD: Defining Trump's first 100 days - POLITICOAll of the Trump Administration’s Major Moves in the First 100 Days - The New York TimesFox News Poll: The first 100 days of President Trump's second termTrump steams ahead on these campaign promises as he reaches 100 days in officeDeion Sanders’ advice to his son Shedeur after draft slideDeion Sanders cites 'couple NFL teams' Shedeur Sanders will not play for in 2025 draftWhy did Shedeur Sanders fall to the 5th round? 3 reasons to explain his slide | FOX SportsTruth Social Post by TrumpAdam Schefter on X NFL Network - WikipediaAbout Micah TomasellaMicah Tomasella is the Advancement Officer at Denison Ministries and co-hosts Denison Forum's "Culture Brief" podcast. A graduate of Dallas Baptist University, Micah is married to Emily, and together they are the proud parents of two daughters. With an extensive background in nonprofit work, finance, and real estate, Micah also brings experience from his years in pastoral church ministry.About Conner 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 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 lively segment, Josh Miller, Chief of Staff and Chief Strategy Officer at Denison Ministries, joins to explore pivotal topics. They reflect on the legacy of Pope Francis, highlighting his progressive approach and the significance of the upcoming conclave. The conversation shifts to antitrust issues facing Big Tech and the need for ethical oversight, drawing parallels to Francis’s teachings on humility. Josh also sparks debate with a fiery take on K-Cups, comparing them to frozen pizza, while wrapping up with insights on the NFL draft excitement.