The RELEVANT Podcast

Episoder

• Sondae and Jesus Image’s Jessica Koulianos 23.06.2026 1t 8min

  This week — after the crew discusses summer vacations, cruise classes and the Jersey Shore — we talk to Jessica Koulianos, co-founder of Jesus Image, about what it actually looks like to go deeper with God instead of just consuming more church content.In RELEVANT Buzz, Team USA has turned the World Cup into a faith story, and we get into Steven Spielberg's new film ‘Disclosure Day’ and the surprising amount of room it gives to faith. In RELEVANT Recommends, we talk to Christian R&B artist Sondae, whose new album is a must-listen.In Slices, scientists are trying to find Noah’s Ark, and a pastor preached for 96 hours straight to chase a Guinness World Record. Then your feedback closes it out with the things everyone loves that you just don't get: matcha that tastes like grass, smash burgers, Hey Dudes and yes, we get distracted by your unusual usernames.Highlights:00:00 — Intro: Alaska cruises, classes and Jesse's classy Jersey Shore vacation14:03 — RELEVANT Buzz: Team USA's faith goes viral at the World Cup21:55 — ‘Disclosure Day’ and what aliens would do to Christian belief30:31 — RELEVANT Recommends: Sondae on his vulnerable new album 'Boy'36:23 — RELEVANT Conversation: Jessica Koulianos on real intimacy with Jesus50:33 — Slices: Drilling for Noah's Ark near Mount Ararat55:29 — The pastor who preached for 96 hours59:02 — Your Feedback: Things everyone loves that you just don't get1:07:14 — OutroAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
• Episode 1305: Andy Mineo & Wordsplayed on Magic and Bird 2, How CHH Has Changed and Derek’s Net Worth 16.06.2026 1t 7min

  Andy Mineo and Wordsplayed are back as Magic and Bird, and tell us all about the sequel to their 2017 cult classic album. We also get into the state of Christian hip-hop, why nobody is vetted anymore, and spend a genuinely uncomfortable amount of time guessing Derek Minor's net worth to his face.In RELEVANT Buzz, the SBC voted to ban women from the pulpit and it wasn't close. Victory Boyd forgave Travis Scott and ended up in the studio with him. And Pharrell started his Christian rap era with a Voices of Fire song called "The One."In Slices, someone claimed a religious exemption from using AI at work, and Derek has decided it might be the greatest finesse in history. We also stop to mark World Refugee Day with an eye-opening conversation from the frontlines of Sudan about the world’s largest humanitarian crisis happening there. Then One Has to Go closes it out: a suspiciously cheap dollar slice, Rambo in 2026, and the case against Shaq.Highlights:00:00 — Intro / Derek’s frustrating tech updates 10:42 — RELEVANT Buzz: Victory Boyd & Travis Scott go from lawsuit to collaborating14:08 — The SBC votes to ban women in the pulpit 17:23 — Pharrell's "The One" with Voices of Fire 20:38 — World Refugee Day: the crisis in Sudan with World Vision’s Grace Mavhezha 25:13 — Slices: A religious exemption to not use AI at work? 29:36 — RELEVANT Conversation: Andy Mineo & Wordsplayed on Magic and Bird 2 36:24 — The state of Christian hip-hop 40:16 — Putting Derek Minor's net worth on blast 51:51 — The five-week album rollout and why nothing breaks through anymore 56:24 — One Has to Go1:07:40 — OutroAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
• Philip Anthony Mitchell on the Gospel's Urgency, Plus Derek Breaks Christian Hip-Hop — Ep. 1304 09.06.2026 1t 3min

  This week 2819 Church pastor Philip Anthony Mitchell joins us, the Atlanta preacher whose sermon clips have taken over your feed. He tells us why he buried his old church after losing everything during COVID and why he believes the church is running out of time to wake up.Before that convo, the guys recap a week off the grid in Montana that turned into a grown-man sleepover built around 80s action movies. We also get into how one offhand comment on Derek's "You Can't Say That in Church" podcast set off a week-long Christian hip-hop firestorm, and the unbelievable fake commercial made in response.In Slices, dozens of mystery people keep climbing out of New York City manholes and nobody knows why. And a cop ticketed a woman for texting on her phone, even though she had a very convincing reason why she wasn’t guilty. Then your feedback about hills you’re willing to die on closes it out!Highlights:00:00 — Intro and Montana recap: the trip turns into a grown-man sleepover 03:10 — 80s action movies and their 45-minute dialogue-free montages 14:50 — How Derek broke Christian hip-hop23:33 — Derek's petty clout commercial 29:52 — Slices: NYC manhole mystery people 38:00 — The cop who ticketed a woman with no right hand 47:44 — RELEVANT Conversation: Philip Anthony Mitchell of 2819 Church 57:44 — Your Feedback: Hills you'll die on Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
• Episode 1303: Johnnyswim, Plus Scottie Scheffler's Faith & Some Mel Gibson ‘Resurrection’ News 26.05.2026 58min

  This week, Johnnyswim joins us to give an exclusive look at three major projects they’re about to release. The duo has had a very busy couple of years, and surprisingly it’s not been all about music. In RELEVANT Buzz, we bring the recent update on Mel Gibson's The Resurrection of the Christ and get some inspiration from PGA great Scottie Scheffler. In Slices, a Cybertruck owner tests his freedom by driving straight down a boat ramp into a lake because Elon said it could float, and Joey Chestnut got into some legal trouble after a recent eating contest win. Jesse has the latest.Then we have your feedback on movies you saw way too young, and this week’s Question of the Week: What's a hill you'll absolutely die on that most people think is ridiculous? Drop your answer in the comments on YouTube or answer on our stories!Highlights: 00:00 — Intro and Emily's flu game show 05:21 — Montana trip prep and the case for a basketball hoop 07:30 — Pool basketball is just rugby in the water 10:50 — Cameron's diving board vs. the insurance inspector 13:08 — When America was a proper country: wood-paneled wagons 14:44 — The factory-installed van bar (and mandatory roof ladder) 17:24 — Emily wants to mod her Nissan Rogue 19:43 — Pre-Slices slice: A Cybertruck goes for a swim 28:53 — RELEVANT Buzz: Mel Gibson's ‘Resurrection’ movie announces a delay33:39 — Scottie Scheffler’s faith38:25 — Johnnyswim's year of musicals, movies and a surprise worship album 48:45 — Slices: Joey Chestnut's bologna arrest 51:00 — Question of the Week: movies that scarred you / the new question 57:51 — OutroAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
• Episode 1302: Brooke Ligertwood, the Two Kinds of Churches Actually Growing & What Drake Says About the State of Music 20.05.2026 50min

  This week, we talk to Brooke Ligertwood about her new album ‘Eat,’ which is unlike anything she's put out before. In RELEVANT Buzz, we break down new data that highlights where the Church has actually been growing over the last decade — and where it hasn’t. We also tell the story of the e.l.f. Cosmetics co-founder who gave away his fortune and is becoming a priest. Plus we have a look at the new Moses limited series on Prime Video starring Sir Ben Kingsley. (It’s impressive.)In Slices, Jesse has some thoughts about kamikaze dolphins, and the cast of course opens the show with thoughts on the new Drake albums, which leads to a fascinating conversation about what’s been wrong with the music industry and our thoughts on where things are going. This week’s Question of the Week is based on the ‘Thief In the Night’ post we had this week: What's a movie or show you watched way too young that you now realize was completely inappropriate (and your parents probably had no idea)? Drop your answer in the comments on YouTube or reply on our Stories on social — we're reading our favorites on next week's episode.Highlights:00:00 — Intro / Drake drops three albums and burns down his Universal deal20:43 — RELEVANT Buzz: Elf Cosmetics founder becomes a Catholic priest24:11 — RELEVANT Buzz: The only churches actually growing (Pew data)34:02 — RELEVANT Buzz: Moses limited series on Prime Video37:43 — RELEVANT Recommends: Brooke Ligertwood, Eat45:00 — Slices: Kamikaze dolphins and the beluga whale that defected47:45 — Editorial Question of the Week50:55 — OutroAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
• Episode 1301: Comedian Anjelah Johnson-Reyes + Christian UFO Expert Timothy Alberino 12.05.2026 58min

  Comedian Anjelah Johnson-Reyes joins the show to talk about her new special "Ugly Baby" and how a joke-writing class at her church kicked off her stand-up career. Then Christian UFO researcher Timothy Alberino comes on to make sense of the Pentagon's newly declassified UFO files. The cast walks through why aliens, demons and military tech are three different conversations most people are lumping into one, where the Nephilim theory in Genesis 6 fits in and why none of this should rattle anyone's theology. Alberino's book "Birthright" is worth a read if this rabbit hole calls to you.In RELEVANT Buzz, we also break down the American Idol finale, where all three finalists this season (Jordan McCullough, Hannah Harper and Keyla Richardson) are outspoken Christians. Plus comedian Jay Pharoah's conversation with Tamron Hall about the insane experience he had while committing to read through the Bible last year.In Slices, Derek tells us about a black bear in Gatlinburg that clawed its way into a bakery for some cinnamon rolls, and Jesse tells us about a CPR instructor that went into cardiac arrest and was saved by the students he was teaching CPR to."One Has to Go" closes things out with 2000s R&B, sequels better than the original, phone-era nostalgia, all-time athletes.Then it's the debut of the Editorial Question of the Week: Is it OK to turn down a friend's wedding party invitation just because you know it's going to be expensive? Drop your answer in the comments or @ us — we'll read our favorites on next week's episode.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
• Episode 1300: Hulu’s Christian College Dating Show, Sophie Cunningham’s Baptism and Lots of Frisbee Golf 05.05.2026 57min

  It’s episode 1300! In RELEVANT Buzz, we talk about Hulu’s new Christian college dating series that you need to hear to believe. We also talk about WNBA star Sophie Cunningham's recent faith declaration, Timberwolves guard Ayo Dosunmu’s faithful pregame ritual and a new Bible movie about Daniel that’s releasing this fall.In Slices, a Wisconsin solid waste facility has an unusual speed limit, a Harvard scientist helps build China’s AI supercomputer, and the crew finds a Guinness World Record worth actually pursuing.The show ends with One Has to Go, and be warned there’s a lot of frisbee golf and male ponytail talk.Highlights:00:00 — Frisbee golf and ponytail culture 14:23 — RELEVANT Buzz: Hulu's "Ring by Spring Break" Christian college dating show 26:28 — Sophie Cunningham gets baptized 28:17 — Ayo Dosunmu’s pregame Bible routine 28:56 — "Daniel: The Fiery Furnace" is releasing on 9/11 31:54 — Slices: An odd speed limit at a Wisconsin recycling facility 40:45 — A Harvard scientist defects to China after prison 43:28 — A new world record for solving a Rubik's Cube in free fall 47:21 — One Has to Go: Old Testament epics / 90s sitcoms / Wes Anderson / boy bands / NFL fan bases / late-night snacksAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
• Episode 1299: Hulvey on Turning Down Kanye, Theo Von's Surprising Vulnerability & Mr. T + Ice-T's Album 29.04.2026 53min

  This week we're joined by Hulvey, who just dropped his final album on Reach Records. He tells us why he turned down a Kanye West collab and the reason behind his new season.In RELEVANT Buzz, Theo Von gets surprisingly vulnerable on his podcast about being stuck in destructive cycles. A new study finds that 60% of Gen Z has gone no contact with friends or family. We get into why. There's NBA playoff rivalries, unexpected gifts, insane 80s movies, insurance fraud, bees escaping. It's a packed, crazy episode!Highlights:00:00 — Intro / Magic vs Pistons and the Angel Reese love triangle03:50 — Jesse pitches Over the Top as the greatest sports drama ever made12:30 — Sudden Death: Van Damme plays goalie in the Stanley Cup finals15:20 — The Taco Bell hat and the Pistons shorts gift exchange19:14 — RELEVANT Buzz: Theo Von's vulnerable moment 28:55 — 60% of Gen Z is going no contact32:55 — Mr. T and Ice-T's 1984 Ten Commandments36:30 — RELEVANT Recommends: Hulvey on his final Reach album and turning down Kanye43:00 — Slices: Operation Bear Claw46:35 — A million bees escape on a Knoxville highway48:30 — Would You RatherAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
• Episode 1298: Comedian Derrick Stroup, Charlie Puth's Gospel Moment & RAYE's Faith Turn 21.04.2026 50min

  The week, we’re joined by one of the funniest comedians going right now — Derrick Stroup, who has a fantastic new special on Netflix. He tells us how he got his start in comedy and why keeping things clean is an intentional choice.In RELEVANT Buzz, we dive into a new Gallup study that reveals 50% more young men say religion is very important to them than did just a few years ago. There’s a lot to unpack — including why young women are going the opposite direction. We then share a clip that went viral this week of Charlie Puth breaking down his favorite gospel song and why he “loves everything Church.” Then we check out RAYE’s incredible new single “Joy,” and her faith-filled album, ‘This Music May Contain Hope.’ In Slices, a guy in California got caught running a nationwide LEGO scam that you won’t believe. And a 91-year-old Ohio grandma ignored her wellness checks because … she was locked in on a video game. Then Would You Rather closes it out: Horse-sized ducks, finger guns, a raccoon with a grudge.Highlights:04:38 — RELEVANT Buzz: 42% of young men say their faith is very important 09:03 — Charlie Puth's gospel moment on the Terrell Show 17:51 — RAYE's new album and her faith story 29:59 — RELEVANT Recommends: Derrick Stroup on his Netflix special "Nostalgic"38:05 — Slices: The Lego pasta heist 42:44 — Slices: 91-year-old grandma blows off her wellness check to keep gaming45:05 — Would You RatherAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
• Episode 1297: Aodhan King & Benjamin William Hastings Made a Worship Album in 10 Days, Plus Lecrae and M.I.A. 16.04.2026 58min

  This week, we sit down with former Hillsong-ers Aodhan King and Benjamin William Hastings, who just announced a joint worship album dropping next month. They tell us about it — and also tell the unhinged story of how they met 15 years ago. (Lesson: Need pants? You might meet a new friend.)In RELEVANT Buzz, this week Lecrae became the first Christian rapper on NPR's Tiny Desk Concerts (apologies to Marla) and we tell you about M.I.A.'s new faith-rooted album inspired by the Book of Revelation and the Ark of the Covenant. (Yes, we play *that* Indiana Jones scene.)In Slices, the heroic Artemis crew had a very relatable problem during the mission, and a chimp clan in Uganda is apparently in a full civil war."One Has to Go" hits youth group bands, cereals, comedy movies, Disney Channel shows, sports movies, reality TV and worship era anthems. Jesse was sweating at one point.Highlights:00:00 — Intro / Magic game recap, documentary tangents 16:27 — RELEVANT Buzz: Lecrae's Tiny Desk debut 21:37 — M.I.A. announces MI7 31:42 — Benjamin William Hastings & Aodhan King 39:45 — Slices: Artemis & Microsoft Outlook in space 43:25 — Chimp clan civil war 47:00 — One Has to Go: Youth group icons / Cereals / Comedy movies / Disney Channel shows / Sports movies / Christian music / Worship anthems / Bible figuresAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
• Episode 1296: Madison Ryann Ward, American Idol Goes Full Worship & DC3's Historic Win 07.04.2026 50min

  This week, Cameron, Derek, Emily and Marty cover a ton: American Idol's Songs of Faith Night, which was way more Jesus-heavy this year than last, British Christian rapper DC3 making MOBO Awards history, and the story of Forrest Frank's new indie band having to ditch their name days before releasing their debut album.In RELEVANT Recommends, we talk to Madison Ryann Ward — an amazing, soulful singer (and former D1 volleyball player) who walked away from Rick Rubin's label after rededicating her life to Christ, and is now showing up everywhere and absolutely thriving. In Slices, we cover a guy who’s selling a compass that only points to the Olive Garden in Times Square, and the story of 12 tons of stolen Kit Kat bars giving some pretty great April Fool's fodder.At the end of the episode, we have a great edition of One Has to Go!Highlights:00:00 — Intro / Derek Minor's new single "Up" 07:35 — RELEVANT Buzz: American Idol Songs of Faith Night 15:00 — RELEVANT Buzz: DC3 wins two MOBO Awards 17:30 — RELEVANT Buzz: Forrest Frank's new band 24:50 — RELEVANT Recommends: Madison Ryann Ward 33:00 — Slices: Compass pointing to the Olive Garden in Times Square 35:15 — Slices: Someone stole 12 tons of Kit Kat bars 38:30 — One Has to Go: Holidays / Florida animals / Blockbuster night / MTV cartoons / Sports video games 49:00 — OutroAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
• Indie Tribe, Colbert's LotR Movie, Alabama's Faith & SNL's Christian Rap Connection | Ep. 1295 31.03.2026 58min

  Cameron, Jesse, Derek and Emily are all back together for a packed episode. In RELEVANT Recommends, we highlight Indie Tribe's new album, Who Do You Say I Am? and caught up with the guys at SXSW to talk about the making of the project and what it says about who they are as a group.In RELEVANT Buzz: Alabama's basketball team has been quietly building a faith culture all season that's worth knowing about. Then, as Stephen Colbert is wrapping up the Late Show, his next move is pretty unexpected: writing a Lord of the Rings movie with Peter Jackson. And then we highlight an unexpected connection between SNL's newest cast member and Orlando-based Christian rapper Caleb Gordon. For real.Plus we cover NCAA tournament drama, late night legends ranked, and the high school celebrity alumni rabbit hole (yes, DJ Khaled, Joey Fatone and Wayne Brady went to school together). In Slices: googly eyes are scientifically proven to deter seagulls (and lions), and the world record Big Mac guy has opinions on the Big Arch. And at the end of the show it's One Has to Go: pop icons, board games, classic Comedy Central, sneaker culture and more. We said it was packed.0:00 — Intro / Derek's back, everybody's been sick4:00 — The podcast economy is in trouble11:30 — Mike Lindell gets served mid-interview19:58 — RELEVANT Buzz20:30 — NCAA Tournament buzzer beater & Dan Hurley headbutts a ref23:30 — Alabama basketball's faith culture and Bible study movement25:45 — Stephen Colbert leaving Late Show; late night legends ranked27:25 — Colbert is co-writing a Lord of the Rings movie (Shadows of the Past)33:00 — Unexpected celebrity connections: Snoop & Cameron Diaz, Dr. Phillips HS alumni34:50 — SNL's Cam Patterson and Christian rapper Caleb Gordon went to school together39:05 — Slices: Googly eyes deter seagulls (and lions in Botswana)41:35 — Slices: The Big Mac world record holder reviews the Big Arch44:42 — RELEVANT Recommends: Indie Tribe's Who Do You Say I Am?47:37 — Derek on writing albums in lockdown camps53:00 — One Has to Go: pop icons, comedians, board games, sneakers, Nickelodeon, MTVAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
• Episode 1294: Pat Barrett, Vince Gilligan and the March Madness Mascot Bracket 26.03.2026 1t

  Worship leader Pat Barrett — known for "Good Good Father" and "Build My Life" — joins Cameron, Jesse and Emily to talk about his new live album 'Break Open,' why he sat on the title track for nearly a decade, and his late-in-life obsession with surfing (including an upcoming trip to Kelly Slater's Surf Ranch). He also gets honest about how his thinking on songwriting vs. worship leading has shifted, because of course we ask awkward questions.Also, Emily brings RELEVANT Buzz fresh from South by Southwest, where she sat in on a panel with Vince Gilligan — creator of Breaking Bad and Better Call Saul — who said he thinks he owes the world something better than anti-heroes. Plus: High Point University's Cinderella March Madness run, and the faith story behind Chase Johnston's #99 jersey that everyone's been talking about.And to close it out — Pat helps the crew run the Sweet 16 mascots through a no-stats, vibes-only bracket challenge to crown the real national champion. Based solely on mascots, not teams. One with a mustache may or may not have won.Highlights:0:00 – Why last week's episode was late2:30 – Starlink satellites9:30 – Driving gloves17:50 – RELEVANT Buzz: High Point University's Chase Johnston's #99 story27:00 – Emily's South by Southwest panel with Vince Gilligan31:45 – The Lost arc, the Sawyer problem, and what Vince Gilligan owes culture36:00 – Pat Barrett joins the show38:30 – Recording 'Break Open' live in a sweaty tent40:40 – Why the title song sat unreleased for nearly 10 years42:50 – Songwriting vs. worship leading — what's actually better?45:20 – Pat's surfing obsession48:15 – The March Madness Mascot Bracket ChallengeAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
• Episode 1293: Ryan Gosling on 'Project Hail Mary,' a Christian Oscar Nod & the NFL Star Turning Missionary 23.03.2026 57min

  Ryan Gosling joins the RELEVANT Podcast to talk about his new sci-fi film Project Hail Mary — what made him fall in love with this story and why this one might be a "core memory" film for a generation. Before that, Emily reports from SXSW to break down the week's biggest faith-and-culture stories: a Christian animated short film made by two Pixar animators and 200 volunteers (including musician Josh Garrels) got nominated for an Oscar. Also Christian apologist Wesley Huff went on the popular podcast 'Diary of a CEO' and told Stephen Bartlett to his face he's going to hell. Plus, NFL quarterback Justin Fields reveals he wants to become a missionary after football. Then in Slices: the Tooth Fairy economy is growing (Jesse has a lot of thoughts), a huge scandal in a camel beauty pageant, and you'll never be able to predict this week's 'What's Jesse Thinking?' segment. It's a wild ride this week.Highlights:00:25 — SxSW breakdown: The decline from tech-and-music powerhouse 07:38 — RELEVANT BUZZ07:43 — The Office canon errors: a deep dive nobody asked for (Michael Scott's anniversary math)10:11 — Forevergreen: Oscar-nominated Christian animated short by two Pixar animators + 200 volunteers, featuring Josh Garrels19:22 — Wesley Huff talks Christianity on 'Diary of a CEO'26:07 — NFL QB Justin Fields says he wants to be a missionary after football 30:07 — SLICES30:14 — The Tooth Fairy economy 35:34 — Camel beauty pageant scandal 37:53 — RELEVANT RECOMMENDS: Project Hail Mary 43:25 — Ryan Gosling on why he keeps making space movies and why he won't actually go to space46:42 — Ryan Gosling on why he picked Project Hail Mary — "you would die for this rock alien"48:54 — Ryan Gosling on Project Hail Mary as a "core memory movie" like E.T. and Back to the Future50:01 — WHAT'S JESSE THINKING?: Should Golden Corral run the US government?56:23 — Post-credits: Apology to the estate of Shel SilversteinAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
• Episode 1292: Colony House, Papa Roach Gets Saved, Iranian Christians, and Kyle Idleman on the Real Jesus 10.03.2026 58min

  Colony House is back with a new album, and they sat down with Emily to reflect on 10 years of making music and what they want the next decade to look like. In RELEVANT Buzz: Papa Roach lead singer Jacoby Shaddix shares his powerful faith journey — from foxhole prayer, to sobriety and a faith that sounds like the real thing. We also bring a story flying under the radar: nearly a million Christians are living inside Iran right now, and we hear directly from believers on the ground to get their thoughts on the war and religious freedom. Plus, the backlash to the Atlanta Hawks announcing "Magic City Night" — a themed game night centered around an infamous Atlanta strip club.Then, pastor Kyle Idleman joins us to talk about how modern American Christianity has slowly turned Jesus into a therapist and self-help guru — and what we've lost in the process. It's a challenge worth sitting with.In Slices: a Turkish soccer player performs CPR on a seagull he accidentally hit mid-game, United Airlines starts banning passengers who refuse headphones, and we close with a Spring Break edition of Would You Rather.01:00 — The crocheting trend taking over 03:48 — The appeal of old stuff10:41 — RELEVANT BUZZ 10:41 — Papa Roach lead singer Jacoby Shaddix shares his Christian testimony. Foxhole prayers, sobriety and millennial rockers finding faith14:25 — Marty's attempt to join the Elk Club for a Newport parking spot22:04 — Iranian Christians: nearly 1 million believers inside Iran28:33 — Atlanta Hawks "Magic City Night"30:42 — Kyle Idleman interview: How American Christianity has missed the real Jesus35:16 — SLICES35:16 — Turkish soccer player performs CPR on a seagull he accidentally hit41:01 — United Airlines bans passengers who won't use headphones45:31 — RELEVANT RECOMMENDS: Colony House — 77 Part 2 50:33 — WOULD YOU RATHER: Spring Break Edition | Pullout couches, photo shoots, emo cruises, bad vibes vs. mediocre food, and Marty's 3am cockfight vacationAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
• Episode 1291: Zachary Levi on His New David Docu-Drama, and Is Revival Actually Happening in America? 03.03.2026 54min

  Zachary Levi — Chuck, Shazam, and now host of the new docu-drama David: King of Israel — joins us to talk about why the story of David is the one he keeps coming back to. It's a story of someone who's broken, who makes terrible decisions, and who somehow still gets called a man after God's own heart. Levi explains what sets this show apart from all the other David content out there right now and why he thinks everyone needs to hear this story again.Also in this episode: We've been hearing a lot about revival — from the SEU outpouring to Asbury to rising Bible sales. But does the data actually back that up? We talked to Ryan Burge, a pastor, researcher and political analyst who's spent 20 years studying church trends, and his answer might surprise you. Plus, Gen Z is quietly bringing physical media back, why AI in the operating room is already causing problems, and Jesse drops a statistic about cats and birds that is either shocking or deeply unpopular depending on whether you own a cat.And it's the spring edition of One Has to Go!TIMESTAMPS0:45 — Cameron stress-eating popcorn at the Magic game and them losing because of it 5:45 — RELEVANT Buzz 7:00 — Zach Levi on David: King of Israel11:15 — DVDs and physical media are making a comeback, thanks to Gen Z 19:00 — Is revival actually happening in America? Researcher Ryan Burge on the data 28:15 — SLICES: Jesse's very unpopular take on cats and birds 36:05 — Derek: AI in the operating room and why we need to pump the brakes 41:00 — ONE HAS TO GO: Spring Edition Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
• Episode 1290: Elevation Worship's Chris Brown, Plus the Faith Revival in Pro Sports 24.02.2026 56min

  This week, Elevation Worship's Chris Brown tells us why the band took an extra year off from releasing music — and what their new album ‘So Be It’ sounds like on the other side of that pause. We also hear from Portland Trail Blazers chaplain Mike Tatlock, who talked to us during NBA All-Star Weekend to share what he's seeing behind the scenes: more players showing up to chapel, more genuine conversations about faith, and a tangible spiritual shift across pro sports.In RELEVANT Buzz, we dig into a new report revealing the alcohol industry has lost $830 billion in the last four years — largely because Gen Z just isn't drinking. Plus, the cast gets real about dealing with hateful internet comments, the Celebrity All-Star Game gets a much-needed fix, and we settle the TGIF sitcom debate once and for all. Oh, and a man at a Nashville Waffle House ordered a hash brown bowl and got bear-sprayed, tased and zip-tied instead. You know, a typical RELEVANT Podcast.HIGHLIGHTS01:07 — Jesse Got Roasted on YouTube and It's Eating Him Alive08:10 — Hate Follows: Why Do People Follow Content That Triggers Them?10:03 — Golden Rule the Comments Section12:57 — RELEVANT Buzz: Is A Faith Revival Happening in Pro Sports?15:12 — NBA Chaplain Mike Tatlock 18:10 — Derek on How Christian Hip Hop Maybe Helped Fuel the Movement19:31 — What Chaplains Are Seeing Behind the Scenes23:23 — Jesse's Celebrity All-Star Game Fix: Danny DeVito & Tom Cruise26:46 — The Worst National Anthems of All Time31:26 — Gen Z Is Killing the Alcohol Industry — $830 Billion Lost35:09 — Elevation Worship's Chris Brown on Their New Album So Be It36:45 — Interview Clip: Why They Took Time Off for the First Time in a Decade38:08 — SLICES: Buffalo Wild Wings Sued Over "Boneless Wings"42:10 — A Man Got Bear-Sprayed, Tased & Zip-Tied at Waffle House Over Hash Browns44:42 — ASK THE CAST: Has Jesse Ever Been Pranked?45:24 — Jesse's Most Diabolical College Pranks (Alarm Clocks, Air Horns & Peanut Butter)48:45 — Cameron Put Squirrels in a Guy's Room49:48 — Dream Guests: The RELEVANT Mount Rushmore50:31 — Which Cast Member Would You Want to Be Stranded With?51:05 — Do Your Families Listen to the Podcast?51:30 — Favorite TGIF Era Sitcom 53:22 — If You Could Go Back to 2003 and Tell Yourself One ThingAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
• Episode 1289: The Lone Bellow, Plus the Pastor of the SEU Outpouring 17.02.2026 55min

  This week, Zach Williams from indie-folk band The Lone Bellow joins the show to talk about their new album — including the wild story of how their van was broken into, all their recordings were stolen, and their fans raised enough money to help them start over.In RELEVANT Buzz, we show you the ongoing worship outpouring happening at Southeastern University in Florida, where students have been in nonstop prayer, worship and confession for the last week (we talk to the campus pastor). We also break down the viral claim that Christian hip hop is the #1 rap subgenre on Spotify — and why it's not actually true. Plus, a worship pastor goes viral on American Idol, Kevin Durant gets exposed for burner accounts during All-Star Weekend, and a guy who lost a golf bet is now 23 days into eating nothing but Wendy's chili. At the end of the show, we've got Ask the Cast and Jesse and Emily confess to the one question they both regret asking in an interview.TIMESTAMPS00:00 — Jesse's Super Bowl Spreader Event05:46 — RELEVANT Buzz: The SEU Outpouring18:49 — Kevin Durant's Burner Account 22:06 — Is Christian Hip Hop Really Huge on Spotify?24:44 — Worship Pastor Goes Viral on American Idol29:26 — RELEVANT Recommends: The Lone Bellow 34:49 — SLICES: The Wendy's Chili Bet41:31 — AI Is Bad at Medical Advice45:57 — ASK THE CAST: Embarrassing TikTok Purchases & Weird Google SearchesAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
• Episode 1288: Milo Ventimiglia Tells Us Why He's Starring in a Christian Movie, our Super Bowl Recap & Is Gen Z Getting Dumber? 10.02.2026 55min

  This week, actor Milo Ventimiglia — known for 'This Is Us,' 'Gilmore Girls' and 'Heroes' — tells us why he chose to star in a new Christian movie, playing real-life worship artist Tim Timmons, who was diagnosed with terminal cancer over 20 years ago and is still defying the odds today. In RELEVANT Buzz, the crew recaps the Super Bowl — including the incredible story of Seahawks coach Mike McDonald, who followed God's calling to leave the corporate world to take an unpaid internship in coaching. And now 12 years later, it's led to a Super Bowl championship. We also dig into a new study revealing that Gen Z is statistically dumber than their parents (and why that's significant). Plus, Jesse forces the crew to watch the Carman movie trailer, and at the end of the show, we have Ask the Cast! And of course Jesse and Derek have some strong thoughts on Ring cameras and drones.Highlights:01:28 — The Olympics and Derek's New Drone04:59 — Ring Cameras Have Ruined Jesse's Hypothetical Heist06:18 — The Dark Knight Predicted the Ring Camera Era09:20 — Apple Is Buying Tech That Can Hear Your Silent Speech16:29 — RELEVANT BUZZ19:31 — Coach Mike McDonald: From Accountant to Super Bowl Champion23:04 — New Study: Gen Z Is Scoring Lower on IQ Tests Than Their Parents24:40 — The Lost Art of Daydreaming & Why Boredom Matters30:09 — Milo Ventimiglia on ‘I Can Only Imagine 2’33:24 — Jesse Makes the Crew Watch the Carman Movie Trailer (Live Reaction)37:47 — SLICES38:11 — Man Cited for Juggling Fire on a Unicycle in a Crosswalk41:11 — Man Breaks Into Little Caesars After Hours & Starts Selling Pizzas43:09 — ASK THE CAST44:05 — What Belief Have You Changed Your Mind On?45:46 — Boundaries You Didn't Know You Could Set46:40 — What Today Would Shock Yourself 10 Years Ago?47:18 — Podcast Voice vs. Real Voice49:48 — Who Has the Worst Music Taste on the Crew?51:04 — Why Jesse Is a Terrible Texter52:55 — NBA All-Star Weekend: Does Anyone Care?53:59 — Outro & YouTube Growth UpdateAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
• Episode 1287: Trip Lee's Worship Pivot, Jelly Roll's Grammy Sermon & Free Iguanas in Miami 03.02.2026 53min

  This week, legendary Christian rapper Trip Lee tells us about his unexpected move into worship music with his new album. Before that, the crew swaps stories from last week's historic winter storm—Emily survived three days without power in freezing temps and Jesse narrowly avoided going to a fun Orlando Magic game with Cameron.In RELEVANT Buzz, we break down Jelly Roll's powerful Grammy acceptance moment, plus the youngest Grammy winner at just eight years old. We also dive into new research showing the vast majority of people want authentic faith representation in TV and movies, and then Emily previews two interesting new shows: Jury Duty Season 2's unexpected premise and Neighbors, HBO and A24's reality series about strangers forced to live together.Plus, Jesse announces his new podcast Target Intelligence: Psyop and Derek plugs his brand-new show, You Can't Say That in Church. Jesse of course brings his most rewatched video of the week: a Medieval Combat League warrior armed with a real axe who keeps targeting opponents from behind with hilarious headshots. Then in SLICES we cover Miami's iguana apocalypse—dinosaurs falling from trees as residents collect them by the armload (and definitely aren't disposing of them properly).And to close it out, it's Super Bowl week, so we're playing a special edition of "One Has to Go" covering everything from iconic Super Bowl commercials and halftime show moments to game-day snacks and controversial performances. Spoiler: mozzarella sticks do not survive Jesse's hot take.Highlights:00:00 — Intro & Winter Storm Survival Stories07:43 — RELEVANT Buzz08:00 — Jelly Roll's Powerful Grammy Acceptance Speech11:27 — Eight-Year-Old Becomes Youngest Grammy Winner in History12:33 — New Study: 92% of Viewers Want Authentic Faith in TV & Movies16:37 — Jury Duty Season 2 Preview: Hot Sauce Company Chaos18:00 — Neighbors: HBO and A24's New Reality Series24:00 — Medieval Combat League Axe Warrior Goes Viral31:09 — Trip Lee 32:00 — Why Trip Lee Made a Worship Album After Years in Hip-Hop35:00 — Trip Lee on Being a Teaching Pastor and Collaborating With Worship Leaders37:00 — SLICES: Miami's Iguana Apocalypse43:30 — Super Bowl Edition: "One Has to Go" Game45:53 — Iconic Super Bowl Commercials (Doritos, Tide, QR Code)46:21 — Controversial Super Bowl Ads (GoDaddy, Carl's Jr., Axe)47:04 — Super Bowl Snacks Face-Off (Doritos, Lay's, Pringles)47:30 — Soda Showdown (Coke, Pepsi, Dr. Pepper, Mountain Dew)48:00 — Jesse's Mozzarella Stick Hot Take Sparks Chaos49:31 — Halftime Show Showdown (Lady Gaga, Bruno Mars, Beyoncé)50:01 — Most Controversial Halftime Moments (Nipplegate, Dancing Sharks)50:52 — Halftime Props (JLo's Pole, Usher's Skates, Dr. Dre's Lowrider)Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy