As 2025 comes to a close, Aaron, David, and Mike look back on a year that set cultural change in motion and reveal where the ground is shifting.

From the shocking assassination of Charlie Kirk and the unexpected national hunger for the Gospel that followed, to a major media outlet naming CCV one of Ohio's most influential political forces, this episode explores what these stories really mean.

The guys also unpack the growing backlash to gambling expansion, the integrity crisis in professional sports, historic wins for school choice, and why some cultural losses may be setting the stage for long-term renewal.

It’s part year-in-review, part unfiltered conversation, and part reminder that when faith refuses to stay private, the world takes notice. If you want to understand where the culture is heading in 2026, don't miss this conversation.

Listen to Aaron, David, and Mike on The Narrative.

Want to Go Deeper?

Early-bird ticket sales are available for the 2026 Essential Summit! On Friday, October 23, business owners, ministry leaders, educators, and families will gather to be equipped to have a faithful influence in a rapidly shifting culture. 

Use code FIRSTINLINE at checkout on EssentialSummit.org by December 31 to lock in $50 off—our lowest ticket price of the year.

After December, prices go up and won’t return. Register today and secure your spot for the third annual Essential Summit featuring The Narrative hosts, Dr. Rosaria Butterfield, Frank Turek, and dozens more. We’ll see you on October 23!

📢 Talk to Us

We want to hear from you! As a valued listener, your feedback is critical for us to keep The Narrative insightful, relevant, and helpful. If you have a particular guest, topic, or question you'd like us to cover, let us know! We’ll answer your questions on an “Ask Us Anything” episode later, so send in your questions now.

👉  Leave us a voicemail or text at 614-769-7077.

👉  Email us at [email protected].

To learn more about Center for Christian Virtue and to get involved, visit CCV.org.

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🔎 About The Narrative

The Narrative breaks away from the script to cut through the typical media narratives and helps you understand the root causes of today’s culture and political controversies.

Join Center for Christian Virtue (CCV) President Aaron Baer, Policy Director David Mahan, Communications Director Mike Andrews, and world-renowned experts as they dissect current issues and events from multiple angles and viewpoints, equipping you to be a critical thinker on some of the hottest topics today.

Support the show: https://www.ccv.org/donate

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