The RELEVANT Podcast

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 gaming 45:05 — Would You Rather Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

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 — recorded in 10 days with zero pre-written songs. They also tell the story of how they met, which is genuinely unhinged. (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 figures Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

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 — Outro Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

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 sick 4:00 — The podcast economy is in trouble 11:30 — Mike Lindell gets served mid-interview 19:58 — RELEVANT Buzz 20:30 — NCAA Tournament buzzer beater & Dan Hurley headbutts a ref 23:30 — Alabama basketball's faith culture and Bible study movement 25:45 — Stephen Colbert leaving Late Show; late night legends ranked 27:25 — 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 alumni 34:50 — SNL's Cam Patterson and Christian rapper Caleb Gordon went to school together 39:05 — Slices: Googly eyes deter seagulls (and lions in Botswana) 41:35 — Slices: The Big Mac world record holder reviews the Big Arch 44:42 — RELEVANT Recommends: Indie Tribe's Who Do You Say I Am? 47:37 — Derek on writing albums in lockdown camps 53:00 — One Has to Go: pop icons, comedians, board games, sneakers, Nickelodeon, MTV Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

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: Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

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 BUZZ 07:43 — 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 Garrels 19:22 — 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 — SLICES 30:14 — 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 space 46:42 — 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 Future 50:01 — WHAT'S JESSE THINKING?: Should Golden Corral run the US government? 56:23 — Post-credits: Apology to the estate of Shel Silverstein Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

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 stuff 10:41 — RELEVANT BUZZ 10:41 — Papa Roach lead singer Jacoby Shaddix shares his Christian testimony. Foxhole prayers, sobriety and millennial rockers finding faith 14:25 — Marty's attempt to join the Elk Club for a Newport parking spot 22:04 — Iranian Christians: nearly 1 million believers inside Iran 28:33 — Atlanta Hawks "Magic City Night" 30:42 — Kyle Idleman interview: How American Christianity has missed the real Jesus 35:16 — SLICES 35:16 — Turkish soccer player performs CPR on a seagull he accidentally hit 41:01 — United Airlines bans passengers who won't use headphones 45:31 — 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 vacation Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

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! TIMESTAMPS 0:45 — 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 Israel 11:15 — 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/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

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. HIGHLIGHTS 01:07 — Jesse Got Roasted on YouTube and It's Eating Him Alive 08:10 — Hate Follows: Why Do People Follow Content That Triggers Them? 10:03 — Golden Rule the Comments Section 12:57 — 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 Movement 19:31 — What Chaplains Are Seeing Behind the Scenes 23:23 — Jesse's Celebrity All-Star Game Fix: Danny DeVito & Tom Cruise 26:46 — The Worst National Anthems of All Time 31:26 — Gen Z Is Killing the Alcohol Industry — $830 Billion Lost 35:09 — Elevation Worship's Chris Brown on Their New Album So Be It 36:45 — Interview Clip: Why They Took Time Off for the First Time in a Decade 38:08 — SLICES: Buffalo Wild Wings Sued Over "Boneless Wings" 42:10 — A Man Got Bear-Sprayed, Tased & Zip-Tied at Waffle House Over Hash Browns 44:42 — 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 Room 49:48 — Dream Guests: The RELEVANT Mount Rushmore 50:31 — 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 Thing Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

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. TIMESTAMPS 00:00 — Jesse's Super Bowl Spreader Event 05:46 — RELEVANT Buzz: The SEU Outpouring 18:49 — Kevin Durant's Burner Account 22:06 — Is Christian Hip Hop Really Huge on Spotify? 24:44 — Worship Pastor Goes Viral on American Idol 29:26 — RELEVANT Recommends: The Lone Bellow 34:49 — SLICES: The Wendy's Chili Bet 41:31 — AI Is Bad at Medical Advice 45:57 — ASK THE CAST: Embarrassing TikTok Purchases & Weird Google Searches Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

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 Drone 04:59 — Ring Cameras Have Ruined Jesse's Hypothetical Heist 06:18 — The Dark Knight Predicted the Ring Camera Era 09:20 — Apple Is Buying Tech That Can Hear Your Silent Speech 16:29 — RELEVANT BUZZ 19:31 — Coach Mike McDonald: From Accountant to Super Bowl Champion 23:04 — New Study: Gen Z Is Scoring Lower on IQ Tests Than Their Parents 24:40 — The Lost Art of Daydreaming & Why Boredom Matters 30:09 — Milo Ventimiglia on ‘I Can Only Imagine 2’ 33:24 — Jesse Makes the Crew Watch the Carman Movie Trailer (Live Reaction) 37:47 — SLICES 38:11 — Man Cited for Juggling Fire on a Unicycle in a Crosswalk 41:11 — Man Breaks Into Little Caesars After Hours & Starts Selling Pizzas 43:09 — ASK THE CAST 44:05 — What Belief Have You Changed Your Mind On? 45:46 — Boundaries You Didn't Know You Could Set 46:40 — What Today Would Shock Yourself 10 Years Ago? 47:18 — Podcast Voice vs. Real Voice 49:48 — Who Has the Worst Music Taste on the Crew? 51:04 — Why Jesse Is a Terrible Texter 52:55 — NBA All-Star Weekend: Does Anyone Care? 53:59 — Outro & YouTube Growth Update Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

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 Stories 07:43 — RELEVANT Buzz 08:00 — Jelly Roll's Powerful Grammy Acceptance Speech 11:27 — Eight-Year-Old Becomes Youngest Grammy Winner in History 12:33 — New Study: 92% of Viewers Want Authentic Faith in TV & Movies 16:37 — Jury Duty Season 2 Preview: Hot Sauce Company Chaos 18:00 — Neighbors: HBO and A24's New Reality Series 24:00 — Medieval Combat League Axe Warrior Goes Viral 31:09 — Trip Lee 32:00 — Why Trip Lee Made a Worship Album After Years in Hip-Hop 35:00 — Trip Lee on Being a Teaching Pastor and Collaborating With Worship Leaders 37:00 — SLICES: Miami's Iguana Apocalypse 43:30 — Super Bowl Edition: "One Has to Go" Game 45:53 — 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 Chaos 49:31 — 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/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

This week, we talk to ‘Mercy’ star Chris Pratt about how faith shapes his life and career. He opens up about navigating public narratives, using his platform with purpose and why he believes being open about faith matters more than ever. In RELEVANT Buzz, the crew dives into Jelly Roll’s moving moment on 'Star Search,' why Gen Z is intentionally disconnecting from their phones and whether music is actually getting sadder. Plus, stories about AI fatigue, bizarre license plate drama, a ketchup packet felony and a guy trying to create a new nation in Texas. And at the end of the show, don't miss the Best Game Ever! Highlights: 01:00 Storm prep anxiety and riding it out 03:27 The man who tried to start his own country in Texas 06:56 The confidence of mediocre white men 18:23 RELEVANT Buzz 18:53 Jelly Roll’s Gospel moment on Star Search 21:58 Study finds popular music is getting sadder 24:36 Gen Z intentionally disconnecting from phones 30:10 Chris Pratt 36:40 SLICES 38:38 Mr. Potato Head license plate controversy 39:34 Florida man charged over ketchup packet 45:14 “Best Game Ever” Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

This week, we sit down with Chelsea Smith to talk about dating wisely, building a resilient marriage and navigating seasons when love feels harder than usual. She shares practical advice for singles, couples and anyone wondering if what they’re experiencing is normal. In RELEVANT Buzz, we unpack the rise of political independents among Gen Z and millennials, Brandon Lake’s Good Morning America moment and why Christian hip-hop is showing up at Rolling Loud. Plus, the crew debates whether it’s easier to bowl a perfect game or hit a hole-in-one for a million dollars, discusses illegal monkeys in St. Louis and breaks down Gen Z’s newest solution to burnout: a “retirement home” in Malaysia. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this episode of The RELEVANT Podcast, we break down a surprisingly faith-heavy week in pop culture. In RELEVANT Buzz, Khloé Kardashian opens up in depth about her faith and prayer life, Stranger Things star Caleb McLaughlin shares why he’s returning to faith after growing up as a pastor’s kid. Then we discuss news at the other end of the spectrum: Bestselling Christian author Philip Yancey stepping away from ministry after confessing to an eight-year extramarital affair and Christian pop singer Stacie Orrico’s lawsuit alleging childhood sexual abuse by her former manager. We wrap things on an up-note, highlighting Daniel Caesar’s spiritually charged Tiny Desk performance. Plus, the crew reacts to DMX’s posthumous ordination, Jesse spirals over the murder math of NCIS, shares a wild Lamar Odom encounter and we play another round of ‘Overrated, Underrated or Just Right.’ Highlights: 03:00 Jesse’s NCIS take and the Navy murder math spiral 14:15 RELEVANT Buzz begins 17:05 Khloé Kardashian opens up about her Christian faith 28:15 Caleb McLaughlin talks faith, deconstruction and returning to God 31:55 Philip Yancey steps away from ministry after affair confession 34:35 Stacie Orrico files lawsuit alleging childhood sexual abuse 37:50 Daniel Caesar’s Tiny Desk and his spiritual journey 39:20 Slices: Lottery odds website exposes Powerball math 44:10 DMX to be posthumously recognized as a minister 46:05 Game: Overrated, Underrated or Just Right (Part 2) 47:15 Mayonnaise, squats and Chris Hemsworth 49:00 Pet fish, LaCroix and Philip Yancey books 50:00 Air fryers, motorcycles and voice notes Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

This week, we tackle the biggest faith questions young adults are asking right now (according to the recent Passion Conference) — from evidence for God’s existence and the tension between free will and predestination, to suffering, salvation and thoughts on hell. It’s an honest conversation about doubt, belief and why curiosity might be essential to spiritual growth. From there, Emily sits down with CITIZENS frontman Zach Bolen to talk about the band’s new album Museum, being in the Christian music bubble while feeling like an outsider and why art doesn’t need to explain itself to be meaningful. Plus, Jesse has some thoughts over the increasingly unhinged Guinness World Records, from pigs on skateboards to LEGO-related pain tolerance, and the crew plays a round of “Overrated, Underrated or Just Right,” covering reboots, word-of-the-year culture and more! Highlights: 3:10 New Year check-in 4:20 The Crown 5:25 Why New Year’s TV is terrible 9:55 Fireworks gone wrong 14:15 RELEVANT BUZZ 17:05 The top faith questions young adults are asking at the Passion Conference 31:00 Awards season highlights 38:30 Zach Bolen of CITIZENS 42:10 Faith, deconstruction, and the Nashville bubble 46:20 Curiosity as a spiritual discipline 50:10 SLICES 50:14 Guinness World Records need a reboot 56:20 OVERRATED, UNDERRATED, OR JUST RIGHT? Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

We wrap up 2025 and kick off 2026 by catching up on everything from post-holiday chaos to the optimism that comes with starting a new year. Along the way, we touch on Justin Bieber’s recent reflections on faith, how people in 1998 predicted 2025, and surprising new archeological evidence that Noah's Ark was real. From there, the episode takes a turn into full chaos as Jesse introduces his own idea for the “Patriot Games”: teams of Americans competing using everyday life skills, jury duty-style. The episode then wraps with the cast predicting the trends of 2026 — all delivered with the usual mix of humor, honesty and side-tracking that makes the show what it is. Highlights: 05:10 — Spring-free trampolines and modern parenting stress 07:40 — Childhood injuries, backyard chaos and growing up feral 12:30 — The unspoken pressure of being “the capable adult” 13:33 — SLICES: Noah’s Ark evidence 25:03 — 1998 predicts 2025 31:53 — Justin Bieber’s faith posts 30:45 — WHAT'S JESSE THINKING? Jesse introduces his Patriot Games concept 43:20 — IN OR OUT? Predicting 2026 Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In our Christmas episode, Cameron Strang, Jesse Carey, Derek Minor and Emily Brown dive into a packed RELEVANT Buzz, including NFL players putting faith into action in unexpected ways, a Christian animated film debuting near the top of the box office, Timothée Chalamet unexpectedly singing Kirk Franklin and a spontaneous worship moment from Justin Bieber that caught the internet’s attention. The crew also tackles one of the most important questions of the season: what actually makes a perfect Christmas day? From wake-up times and breakfast spreads to family expectations, church plans and evening traditions, they attempt—somewhat successfully—to agree on a Christmas schedule everyone can enjoy. Plus, it’s an Ask the Cast: Christmas Edition, with listener questions about end-of-year burnout, holiday boundaries and when it’s officially time to stop saying “Merry Christmas.” Highlights: 1:00 – Emily’s Quilt Room Setup 4:00 – RELEVANT BUZZ 4:30 – Baltimore Ravens Wash Kids Feet 8:20 – David Hits No. 2 at the Box Office 11:30 – Is Avatar Still Impressive? 14:30 – Timothée Chalamet Sings Kirk Franklin 24:30 – Justin Bieber’s Worship Moment 25:45 – Designing the Perfect Christmas Day 36:12 – SLICES: The 6-7 Meme Gets Real 44:05 – The World's Largest Gingerbread Home Alone House 46:05 – ASK THE CAST: Christmas Edition Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In the final episode of the RELEVANT Podcast Impact Conversations series, we sit down with two influential voices using their platforms to point toward something deeper. First, New England Patriots rookie running back TreVeyon Henderson shares how his faith was shaped long before the NFL spotlight. From a season-ending injury at Ohio State that led him to Jesus to helping spark faith gatherings across campus, Henderson talks about spiritual leadership, obedience over outcomes, and what it looks like to follow Christ inside high-pressure locker rooms. His story is also featured in the new docuseries Redemption, now streaming on Prime Video via The Wonder Project. Then, Lecrae, one of the most influential figures in Christian hip-hop, joins the conversation following the release of his 10th album, Reconstruction. He reflects on misunderstanding, therapy, deconstruction and why he believes Christian hip-hop is entering a new era without categories. Lecrae also opens up about legacy, leadership, and his role as a bridge between faith and culture. This episode is presented by World Vision, a global Christian humanitarian organization working to tackle the root causes of poverty and injustice worldwide. Chapters: 01:15 – Why TreVeyon Henderson uses his NFL platform for faith 02:01 – Growing up with football as a lifeline 04:24 – When faith became real during a season-ending injury 06:40 – Sleep paralysis, spiritual warfare and healing through prayer 08:28 – Faith leadership inside Ohio State football 11:33 – Carrying faith into the NFL locker room 12:58 – Spiritual disciplines and the “secret place” 16:21 – Why faith is rising among professional athletes 18:56 – Why Henderson highlighted persecuted Christians in Nigeria 22:45 – Lecrae on why Reconstruction is different 24:53 – Transparency vs vulnerability in creative work 26:08 – Therapy, confidence and owning your voice 29:25 – Why Lecrae chose the word “Reconstruction” 30:46 – Leadership, loneliness and stewardship 33:01 – The future of Christian hip-hop 34:41 – Lecrae on legacy and being a bridge between faith and culture 44:17 – How Reconstruction invites people back to faith Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Rian Johnson’s new Knives Out film, 'Wake Up Dead Man,' is sparking conversations few mainstream movies ever touch — faith, forgiveness, power and what it actually means to follow Jesus in a polarized world. In this episode, we talk with the filmmaker about growing up in the Church, walking away from faith and why Christ’s teachings — especially “love your enemy” — still shape the stories he wants to tell. Johnson opens up about wrestling with the us-versus-them mentality, the corrupting pull of power and influence, and why he wanted to portray Christian belief with empathy rather than caricature. Plus, the RELEVANT crew debates the best Christmas movie of all time in a chaotic bracket showdown, reacts to surprising year-end culture stories and discusses new research suggesting adolescence doesn’t actually end until age 32. HIGHLIGHTS: 01:40 – Why 'Wake Up Dead Man' Feels Like a Gospel Story 04:00 – Serving vs. Fighting: Faith and the Culture War 06:45 – Why Culture Is More Open to Spiritual Conversations 09:20 – Is Wake Up Dead Man the Best Knives Out Movie? 12:10 – Is Rian Johnson Done With Faith? 13:10 – Christianity vs. Church Culture 20:15 – RELEVANT Buzz 22:00 – Forrest Frank Breaks Into Google’s “Hum to Search” List 26:30 – Theo Von and Morgan Wallen’s Bible Study Revealed 32:00 – Rian Johnson on Growing Up Evangelical 34:00 – “Arms Wide Open vs. Fists Up” Faith Explained 39:00 — SLICES 39:20 – New Research Says Adolescence Lasts Until Age 32 45:15 – AI Reality TV Is Here (Unfortunately) 47:30 – Christmas Movie Bracket Challenge Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy