In this week’s Brief: We’re talking about the political maneuvering that happened to reopen the government. And Micah dives into the Democratic Party’s ongoing identity crisis, exploring questions of leadership, vision, and unity as the 2026 elections loom. Should they choose the socialist or moderate path?

Shifting gears, they cover a major week in sports and pop culture, including Nancy Pelosi’s retirement announcement, an MLB betting scandal involving top pitchers, and tragic losses across the NFL that have fans reflecting on life and legacy. And catch our thoughts on the firing of Nico Harrison, the Dallas Mavericks GM who was responsible for the worst trade in NBA history.

Through it all, we’re considering what this mix of chaos and change reveals about our culture—and why true stability and hope can only be found in Christ.

• (00:00): Introduction
• (01:10): Government shutdown: Current status and impacts
• (03:36): Political maneuvering and shutdown resolution
• (17:38): Democratic party dynamics and future challenges
• (23:43): Democrats' identity crisis
• (30:04): The American political system's distraction
• (31:51): Spiritual reflections on leadership
• (36:14): Nancy Pelosi's retirement announcement
• (37:50): MLB pitchers' betting scandal
• (40:21): NFL tragedies and legacies
• (43:43): NBA's worst trade in history

• Send us your thoughts, questions, and topic ideas: [email protected]
• Culture Brief Instagram
• Watch on Youtube! 
• Sign-up for Denison Forum’s daily newsletter: DenisonForum.org/subscribe

Links mentioned in this episode:

• Gov. Gavin Newsom X Post

Other articles on this week’s top headlines:

• Lawmakers take step to end US government shutdown - Denison Forum
• Politico: Dem Civil War
• Politico: The shutdown endgame gets clearer
• 'A very bad night': Democrats face blowback from their own party over shutdown deal - ABC News
• Government shutdown end in sight as Senate approves funding package, sending it to House
• What to Know About the Deal to End the Shutdown | TIME
• These 8 senators broke with Democrats on the government shutdown deal. Here's how they explain it
• The delicate dance of the Democrats

Conner 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.

Micah Tomasella is the Director of Advancement 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.

Denison Forum exists to thoughtfully engage the issues of the day from a biblical perspective through The Daily Article email newsletter and podcast, the Faith & Clarity podcast, as well as many books and additional resources.

In this week’s Brief: We’re talking tariffs and how they’re not impacting the US economy nearly as much as experts predicted back in April. But this week’s SCOTUS hearing could change that. We also take a closer look at Christian persecution in Nigeria, where Trump is threatening military action if the killings of Christians continue.

Plus updates on the death of Dick Cheney and the UPS plane crash in Kentucky before a recap of Tuesday’s elections across the country and what they mean for the future of both political parties. We also cover the ongoing US government shutdown, MLB World Series, and key NFL trade deadlines. Tune in to explore how culture, sports, and faith intersect in our daily lives.

• (00:00): Introduction
• (00:41): Tariffs, Supreme Court, and US economy
• (06:57): Impact of tariffs on the economy
• (18:09): Christian persecution in Nigeria
• (28:23): Call to prayer for Nigeria
• (29:29): Prayer for persecuted Christians
• (31:12): How to help persecuted Christians
• (32:08): Listener's hot take: 18-wheelers in express lanes
• (34:52): Tragic plane crash in Louisville
• (35:37): Dick Cheney's legacy and passing
• (37:49): Election results and political implications
• (42:01): Government shutdown: The longest in history
• (45:18): Dodgers win the World Series
• (46:33): NFL trade deadline highlights

• Send us your thoughts, questions, and topic ideas: [email protected]
• Culture Brief Instagram
• Watch on Youtube! 
• Sign-up for Denison Forum’s daily newsletter: DenisonForum.org/subscribe

Links mentioned in this episode:

• Donald Trump on Truth Social: Persecution of Christians in Nigeria
• Donald Trump on Truth Social: Message to Nigeria
• Jihadists Persecute Christians in Nigeria. Is It Genocide?
• Open Doors
• 21Wilberforce
• The Voice of the Martyrs
• World Evangelical Alliance
• First Liberty Institute

Other articles on this week’s top headlines:

• Denison Forum: What kind of Mayor will Zohran Mamdani be?
• Denison Forum: If spreading the gospel was as easy as ‘67’
• What’s at Stake as Trump’s Tariffs Go Before the Supreme Court
• How the U.S. Economy Has Defied Doomsday Predictions on Tariffs
• What Have We Learned from the U.S. Tariff Increases of 2018-19?
• Trade | The Budget Lab at Yale
• Tariffs | Brookings
• Trump’s New Line of Attack Targets Nigeria
• Daily Brief on Persecution of Nigerian Christians
• Jihadists Persecute Christians in Nigeria. Is It Genocide?
• The Government of Nigeria Versus Senator Ted Cruz | Council on Foreign Relations

Conner 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.

Micah Tomasella is the Director of Advancement 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.

Denison Forum exists to thoughtfully engage the issues of the day from a biblical perspective through The Daily Article email newsletter and podcast, the Faith & Clarity podcast, as well as many books and additional resources.

In this week’s Brief: We’re talking about Trump’s whirlwind Asia tour, including stops in Qatar, Malaysia, Japan, South Korea, and an upcoming high-stakes meeting with China. And we take a look at what’s happening back at home with the White House’s East Wing demolition, a PR war with Canada, and the never-ending government shutdown.

We also dig into the NBA betting scandal involving Chauncey Billups and Terry Rozier, looking at what it reveals about the larger issue of sports gambling. 

Plus, we cover updates on Hurricane Melissa, drug boats in Venezuela, election day insights, and so much more. From politics and global affairs to sports and faith, listen now for grounded and thoughtful insights on what’s shaping the world right now—and what it means for believers.

• (01:23): Political roundup: Trump's Asia tour
• (07:55): Domestic affairs: Canada & East Wing
• (13:02): Government shutdown: Impacts and reflections
• (17:54): Betting scandal: NBA under scrutiny
• (22:45): Mafia's involvement in high-stakes poker
• (26:36): Major League Baseball's gambling issues
• (28:08): NCAA and the culture of gambling
• (36:25): Mailbag and scented stamps
• (39:15): Current events and updates
• (45:14): Halloween fun and YouTube announcement

• Send us your thoughts, questions, and topic ideas: [email protected]
• Culture Brief Instagram
• Watch on Youtube! 
• Sign-up for Denison Forum’s daily newsletter: DenisonForum.org/subscribe

Links mentioned in this episode:

• Canada Tariff Ad
• Conner’s article on the dangerous rise of sports betting
• Culture Brief Ep. 35 - popularity of sports betting
• Faith & Clarity Podcast ft. Conner & Micah - Following Christ in a sports-obsessed world

Other articles on this week’s top headlines:

• East Wing demolished for new White House State Ballroom - Denison Forum
• An unstaffed air control tower and 42 million hungry Americans - Denison Forum
• With Ronald Reagan ad, this Canadian leader beat Trump at his own game
• October 26, 2025: Trump in Asia for diplomatic tour | CNN Politics.
• Betting scandal rocks the National Basketball Association - Denison Forum
• NBA player and head coach among 30 arrested in illegal US gambling investigation
• NBA Commissioner Adam Silver 'deeply disturbed' by gambling arrests of Billups and Rozier
• MLB fires ump Pat Hoberg over betting violations | Reuters
• NCAA will allow college athletes to bet on professional sports starting Nov. 1
• What we know about the Billups-Rozier NBA gambling cases - ESPN
• Explaining the NBA gambling investigation involving Chauncey Billups, Terry Rozier - CBS Sports
• The Real Problem with Sports Betting - by Zac Bissonnette
• Category 5 Hurricane Melissa brings flooding and catastrophic winds to Jamaica

Conner 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.

Micah Tomasella is the Director of Advancement 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.

Denison Forum exists to thoughtfully engage the issues of the day from a biblical perspective through The Daily Article email newsletter and podcast, the Faith & Clarity podcast, as well as many books and additional resources.

In this week’s Brief: We’re talking about the global tug-of-war over rare earth minerals and what the U.S. is doing to loosen its reliance on China. We also dive into the daring, Hollywood-worthy heist at the Louvre. And we tackle updates on the government shutdown, the "No Kings" protests, Ukraine and Israel before sharing our World Series predictions. Plus, don’t miss a big announcement at the end of the episode about what’s next for Culture Brief!

From politics and global affairs to pop culture and faith, Conner and Micah offer grounded, thoughtful insight on what’s shaping the world right now—and what it means for believers. Plus, don’t miss a big announcement at the end of the episode about what’s next for Culture Brief!

• (00:47): What are rare earth minerals?
• (05:54): US-Australia deal on rare earth minerals
• (11:54): Spiritual application: Planning with faith
• (15:26): The Louvre heist: A Hollywood-style robbery
• (25:46): Reflecting on the value of human life
• (29:16): Mailbag: Responses to last week’s audiobook hot take
• (32:17): Ukraine's plea for Tomahawk missiles
• (34:24): "No Kings" protest across the country
• (36:41): Government shutdown and economic impact
• (38:58): Fragile ceasefire in the Middle East
• (41:06): World Series and NBA updates
• (43:17): Big announcement!

• Send us your thoughts, questions, and topic ideas: [email protected]
• Culture Brief Instagram
• Sign-up for Denison Forum’s daily newsletter: DenisonForum.org/subscribe
• NOTE - you can catch Conner & Micah on last week’s Faith & Clarity podcast episode discussing the spiritual implications of the AI Bible, euthanasia, congressional term limits and freedom of speech.

Links mentioned in this episode:

• Can’t Believe the Louvre Robbery? These 6 Heist Movies Are Just as Wild.

Other articles on this week’s top headlines:

• U.S., Australia Deal Advances Critical Minerals Ambitions, While Detail Light - WSJ
• Reuters: ROI US-Australia critical minerals deal
• US and Australia sign critical-minerals agreement as a way to counter China
• Australia and the US have signed a critical minerals deal to take on China’s monopoly. Here’s what you need to know
• Apple inks $500M deal with US-based rare-earth mine operator MP Materials
• United States-Australia Framework For Securing of Supply in the Mining and Processing of Critical Minerals and Rare Earths – The White House
• Time is running out to save stolen Napoleonic jewelry - Denison Forum
• Historic jewels stolen in ‘national disaster’ for France: What we know about missing Louvre treasures | CNN
• How the Louvre Jewelry Heist Unfolded - The New York Times
• Louvre Robbery May Have Been More About Stones Than Art, Experts Say
• Politico: 'No Kings' protests against Trump bring a street party vibe to cities nationwide

Conner 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.

Micah Tomasella is the Director of Advancement 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.

Denison Forum exists to thoughtfully engage the issues of the day from a biblical perspective through The Daily Article email newsletter and podcast, the Faith & Clarity podcast, as well as many books and additional resources.

Feeling overwhelmed by the endless stream of news, politics, and pop culture? Join Denison Forum’s Conner Jones and Micah Tomasella as they break down the week’s biggest stories from a Christian perspective.

Culture Brief dives into the topics that matter most, from the latest TV shows, movies, and celebrity buzz to trending stories in politics, sports, and technology. Expect laughs, insights, and honest conversations about navigating today’s fast-paced world with biblical discernment. 

Whether you’re looking for entertainment, encouragement, or a fresh take on the culture around us, Conner and Micah are here to help you make sense of it all. New episodes drop every Thursday. 

In this week’s Brief: Micah’s out on vacation, so we had Alex Kondratev join the show as guest co-host to break down the headlines! 

We're talking about the Israel–Gaza ceasefire and hostage release, Donald Trump’s central role in the negotiations, the still unresolved issues, and Trump’s thoughts on if he’s “heaven-bound”. 

Then we dive into the debate over Turning Point USA’s alternative Super Bowl halftime show, the heart behind it, and whether or not it’s the right move. 

Plus, we discuss the Nobel Peace Prize, Diane Keaton’s death, the NHL coming back, the NBA’s return next week, and the MLB playoffs and that wild 15-inning game.

It’s a mix of geopolitics, pop culture, and thoughtful conversation—all through a biblical lens to help you navigate the week with clarity and faith.

• (01:39): Hostage release in Israel and Gaza
• (04:30): Trump's role in the peace deal
• (07:58): Reflections on peace and conflict
• (16:18): Trump's views on heaven and misunderstanding the Gospel
• (21:36): Alternative Super Bowl halftime show by Turning Point USA
• (24:16): Controversy surrounding Bad Bunny's Super Bowl performance
• (29:53): The heart behind the alternative show
• (38:32): Alex shares a hot take!
• (42:44): Current events and updates

• Send us your thoughts, questions, and topic ideas: [email protected]
• Culture Brief Instagram
• Sign-up for Denison Forum’s daily newsletter: DenisonForum.org/subscribe

NOTE - you can catch Conner & Micah on the latest Faith & Clarity podcast episode discussing the spiritual implications of the AI Bible, euthanasia, congressional term limits and freedom of speech.

Links mentioned in this episode:

• Why didn’t God free the hostages two years ago? - Denison Forum
• Joe Biden statement
• Bill Clinton statement

Other articles on this week’s top headlines:

• The last twenty living hostages are released by Hamas - Denison Forum
• All 20 surviving hostages freed by Hamas under Gaza peace deal
• Politico: The hostages walk free
• Richard Haas: Two Years After October 7, Progress is Finally at Hand 
• Turning Point USA announces 'All-American' halftime show on Super Bowl Sunday
• MAGA rage over Bad Bunny at Super Bowl sparks an alternative show - The Washington Post
• The Bad Bunny Super Bowl 2026 Controversy, Explained
• THE ALL-AMERICAN HALFTIME SHOW

Conner 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.

Alex Kondratev is the Chief Content Officer at Denison Ministries. Alex is passionate about creating content that helps people encounter God in practical, transformative ways. She lives in Charleston, South Carolina, with her husband and son, and finds inspiration in books, the ocean, and the art of good storytelling.

Denison Forum exists to thoughtfully engage the issues of the day from a biblical perspective through The Daily Article email newsletter and podcast, the Faith & Clarity podcast, as well as many books and additional resources.

This week, we welcome special guest Landon Wolfe, the voice behind the worship hit “The Lord Will Provide”!

We dive into Landon’s journey in music, his ministry at Passion City Church, leading NFL stadiums in worship at Passion Conferences, and the movement of young people turning to faith.

We talk through the story behind “The Lord Will Provide”, what goes into preparing for Passion Conferences, and why more and more of Gen Z is showing up hungry for God.

Plus, Landon shares practical wisdom on living a faithful life, trusting God’s plan, and shaping culture through the lens of Christ. It’s an inspiring, hope-filled conversation you won’t want to miss.

We’ll be back next week with trending headlines, but this conversation was well worth the pause!

• (00:14): Introducing our special guest: Landon Wolfe
• (00:54): Landon's journey and impact
• (05:38): The Passion Conference experience
• (12:08): The story behind “The Lord Will Provide”
• (17:39): Landon's musical background and calling
• (21:18): Advice for young listeners: Discerning God's call
• (25:02): Impacting culture: Using your unique position
• (29:03): Gen Z's struggles: Anxiety, depression, and social media
• (33:38): Passion Conference: Preparation and excitement
• (37:34): Final thoughts and encouragement

• Follow us! Culture Brief Instagram
• Landon Wolfe Instagram
• “The Lord Will Provide” on Youtube
• Passion Music on Instagram
• Passion 2026 Conference

As always, send us your thoughts, questions, and topic ideas: [email protected] And make sure to sign-up for Denison Forum’s daily newsletter: DenisonForum.org/subscribe

Conner 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.

Micah Tomasella is the Director of Advancement 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.

Denison Forum exists to thoughtfully engage the issues of the day from a biblical perspective through The Daily Article email newsletter and podcast, the Faith & Clarity podcast, as well as many books and additional resources.

In this week’s Brief: The US government is officially shutdown, and it isn’t just about stalled budgets—it’s about the deeper dysfunction in Washington. We’re unpacking the fallout, the blame game, and what it means for everyday Americans.

We’re also looking at President Trump’s 20-point Israel/Gaza peace proposal—the pros, the cons, and what it could mean for the region’s future.

Plus, a viral UFO video and our thoughts on the phenomenon, Tim Allen’s powerful forgiveness moment, an NYC mayoral election update, a Ryder Cup recap, and the biggest pop-culture headlines this week.

And don’t miss a preview of our very first guest appearance coming next week. We’re here to help you navigate the noise with biblical insight and thoughtful conversation.

• (01:22): Government shutdown breakdown
• (02:58): Political blame game
• (10:11): Impact on Federal employees
• (13:00): What's closed during the shutdown
• (17:37): Trump's 20-Point peace proposal for Gaza
• (27:14): Broader issues and double standards
• (31:44): UFOs and conspiracy theories
• (36:16): Current events and cultural updates
• (43:06): Upcoming guest

• Send us your thoughts, questions, and topic ideas: [email protected]
• Culture Brief Instagram
• Sign-up for Denison Forum’s daily newsletter: DenisonForum.org/subscribe

Links mentioned in this episode:

• Why can’t Congress pass a budget? - Denison Forum
• Will Trump’s meeting with Muslim leaders mean peace in Gaza? - Denison Forum
• TMZ on X: UFO Video
• Tim Allen on X 

Other articles on this week’s top headlines:

• Why should you care about a government shutdown? - Denison Forum
• What closes during a government shutdown? What we know about how it would unfold | PBS News
• Trump unveils 20-point plan to secure peace in Gaza, including granting some Hamas members 'amnesty'
• READ: Trump’s 20-point proposal for peace in Gaza Strip, ending Israel-Hamas war
• Trump touts Israel’s approval of his Gaza peace plan. Hamas has not agreed. - POLITICO
• Trump peace plan envisions 'New Gaza' and Trump-led 'Board of Peace' | Reuters
• The New York Times: The Morning, September 30, 2025

Conner 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.

Micah Tomasella is the Director of Advancement 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.

Denison Forum exists to thoughtfully engage the issues of the day from a biblical perspective through The Daily Article email newsletter and podcast, the Faith & Clarity podcast, as well as many books and additional resources.

In this week’s Brief: Jimmy Kimmel’s suspension and return to late-night TV isn’t just about comedy—it’s about the FCC, political pressure, and what this says about the state of free expression in America. We’re unpacking the story, the fallout, and what it reveals about today’s media landscape.

We’re also looking at the powerful moments from Charlie Kirk’s memorial service—especially Erica Kirk’s public act of forgiveness—and how grace in the public square can reshape our understanding of faith, politics, and culture. 

Plus, we offer thoughts on the viral movements around “revival” and “rapture”, Trump’s announcement regarding Tylenol and pregnancy, the looming government shutdown, the Ryder Cup, and this weekend’s must-watch football matchups.

We’re here to help stay grounded with biblical insight and thoughtful conversation as you navigate today’s culture. 

• (00:59): Kimmel's suspension
• (05:07): Public and political reactions
• (15:13): Kimmel's return and monologue
• (20:24): Erica Kirk's powerful speech at Charlie’s Memorial
• (24:33): Radical forgiveness and revival
• (30:46): Biblical mandate for forgiveness
• (35:51): Culture check-in: ICE shooting, Tylenol, UN meeting, Gov. shutdown
• (41:00): Sports tune-in

• Send us your thoughts, questions, and topic ideas: [email protected]
• Culture Brief Instagram
• Sign-up for Denison Forum’s daily newsletter: DenisonForum.org/subscribe

Links mentioned in this episode:

• Jimmy Kimmel suspended for comments on Charlie Kirk’s killer - Denison Forum

Other articles on this week’s top headlines:

• Jimmy Kimmel is returning to ABC tonight - Denison Forum
• 400 Celebs Sign Open Letter Backing Jimmy Kimmel, Including Tom Hanks, Meryl Streep, Jennifer Aniston
• FCC’s Carr says Jimmy Kimmel ‘misled’ the public with remarks on Charlie Kirk’s killer
• ABC temporarily suspends Jimmy Kimmel's show
• Erika Kirk forgives her husband’s alleged assassin - Denison Forum
• For Erika Kirk, a Husband’s Life Cut Short by Violence He Seemed to Foresee - The New York Times
• Christian author Frank Turek describes being 25 feet away when Charlie Kirk was shot: 'Like a son to me'
• Why the alleged assassin killed Charlie Kirk - Denison Forum
• Key Moments From the Charlie Kirk Memorial
• Charlie Kirk’s Wife Erika Forgives His Killer at Memorial Service
• At Charlie Kirk memorial, Trump rallies MAGA against political opponents | Reuters
• Erika Kirk, Charlie Kirk’s widow, says she forgives man accused of murder
• Erika Kirk Forgives Charlie's Killer in Heartbreaking Memorial Speech: FULL TRANSCRIPT | CBN News

Conner 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.

Micah 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.

Denison Forum exists to thoughtfully engage the issues of the day from a biblical perspective through The Daily Article email newsletter and podcast, the Faith & Clarity podcast, as well as many books and additional resources.

In this week’s brief: the cultural shockwave of Charlie Kirk’s assassination has rocked the nation—politics, media, public safety, and Americans are all grappling with the aftermath of his death. We’re breaking down the investigation, the cultural responses, and what his legacy means for a new generation of voters.

We’re also digging into the rise of political violence, security for public figures, and the thorny free speech fights sparked by Kirk’s death. And yes—there’s a spiritual awakening angle you’re not hearing anywhere else.

Plus, quick updates on Israel’s ground offensive in Gaza, a US drone strike on a Venezuelan drug boat, fresh updates from the Russia–Ukraine war, the Emmys, Larry Ellison leapfrogging Elon Musk, and the passing of Robert Redford. Oh, and we respond to listeners wanting to know if we’re Team Conrad or Team Jeremiah (iykyk).

We’re here to help you cut through the noise and make sense of a whirlwind news cycle. No spins—just biblical insights to help you stay grounded and engaged in today’s culture.

• (00:21): Deep dive into Charlie Kirk's assassination
• (08:26): Cultural impact and responses
• (16:35): Political violence and free speech
• (26:48): Kirk's posthumous influence
• (27:30): Spiritual awakening and revival
• (29:45): A call to action for believers
• (37:34): TSITP teams
• (40:35): Current events and pop-culture updates

• Send us your thoughts, questions, and topic ideas: [email protected]
• Culture Brief Instagram
• Sign-up for Denison Forum’s daily newsletter: DenisonForum.org/subscribe

Links mentioned in this episode:

• White House on X 
• Can Bonton Farms show us a better way to restore hope to struggling communities? - Denison Forum

Other articles on this week’s top headlines:

• Charlie Kirk fatally shot at speaking event in Utah- Denison Forum
• What does Charlie Kirk’s death mean for America? - Denison Forum
• Trump says suspect arrested in Charlie Kirk assassination - Denison Forum
• Three reasons Charlie Kirk’s murder is relevant to us all - Denison Forum
• Could Charlie Kirk’s death be a “turning point” for America? - Denison Forum
• How should Christians respond to the assassination of Charlie Kirk and rising violence in our culture? - Denison Forum
• Sources: Kirk suspect's transgender roommate "aghast," may be key to motive
• ‘It Will Scar This Generation.’ Charlie Kirk’s Death Ignites a Campus Reckoning
• Charlie Kirk Helped Republicans Break Through to Young People
• Axios: America's Violent Spiral
• The Assassination of Charlie Kirk - The Free Press
• Axios: Four ominous trends
• Suspect left note saying he planned to kill Charlie Kirk, later confessed in texts, prosecutor says
• Suspected gunman Robinson wrote note threatening Kirk, tied to scene by DNA, FBI director says | Reuters
• Charlie Kirk vigils held at universities across America following assassination of conservative activist

Conner 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.

Micah 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.

Denison Forum exists to thoughtfully engage the issues of the day from a biblical perspective through The Daily Article email newsletter and podcast, the Faith & Clarity podcast, as well as many books and additional resources.