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The RELEVANT Podcast

The RELEVANT Podcast

By RELEVANT Magazine

Join the RELEVANT team as they tackle the intersection of faith and culture like no one else — all with a hilarious twist! In addition to the week's news and randomness, Cameron Strang, Jesse Carey, Jamie Ivey, Derek Minor and Tyler Huckabee are joined by thought-provoking leaders, influencers, and artists you don't want to miss.
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NEEDTOBREATHE

The RELEVANT PodcastOct 15, 2021

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Episode 935: Art Rainer

Episode 935: Art Rainer

Financial expert Art Rainer joins us for the next installment of our “New You” series to explain why God cares about our money problems and how you can take better care of your finances. Plus, this week’s Slices cover the team of theologians helping NASA prepare for aliens, why you should always tip your servers, and two cops who risked it all for a rare Pokemon. And stick around to the end to find out what Jesse’s been thinking!

Jan 18, 202254:54
Episode 934: Saint Motel

Episode 934: Saint Motel

Saint Motel frontman AJ Jackson joins us on today’s episode to discuss what it was like to create a soundtrack for a movie that doesn’t exist. Plus, we discuss what it’s been like navigating life in the pandemic, and we’ve got a double feature for RELEVANT News that covers racial reparations and the scientists trying to close the “Gates of Hell.”

Jan 14, 202254:22
Episode 933: Brittney Moses

Episode 933: Brittney Moses

Mental health expert Brittney Moses joins us for the second week of our “New You'' series to tell us about the benefits of therapy and what to look for in a counselor. Plus, we cover Keanu Reeves being an amazing human, why so many Americans are leaving their jobs, and fish who can drive cars (seriously). And at the end we’ve got an outrageous round of Epic Battle you won’t want to miss!

Jan 11, 202245:56
Episode 932: Denzel Washington

Episode 932: Denzel Washington

Denzel Washington (you read that correctly) joins us with author Dana Canedy to talk about the role their faith played in their new film ‘A Journal for Jordan.’ Plus, we talk about the insane Virginia snowstorm that left people stranded for hours, a Boston church that is paying “royalties” for spirituals, recent late celebrities’ legacies and more!

Jan 07, 202247:22
Episode 931: Nish Weiseth

Episode 931: Nish Weiseth

Faith expert Nish Weiseth joins us to explain what deconstruction really is and why it’s gained so much popularity over the last few years. Plus, we examine why humans are cussing more and more, how a husband and wife safely delivered their baby in a Tesla, and why we should all be reading the fine print. At the end, we test the cast’s knowledge of 2021.

Jan 04, 202246:10
Episode 930: The Best of 2021

Episode 930: The Best of 2021

We can’t believe we’re saying it, but 2021 is (nearly) over! This year has truly been a memorable one for us at RELEVANT, and we’re celebrating by remembering a few of our favorite moments with guests. From faith leaders like Christine Caine and Derwin Gray, to global superstars like Jessica Chastain and Daniel Kaluuya, we’ve had some incredible conversations with some of our favorite people. Take a walk down memory lane with our Best Of episode!

Dec 28, 202101:22:30
Episode 929: Andrew Garfield

Episode 929: Andrew Garfield

Andrew Garfield (who may be having the best year of his life?) tells us about all the creative boundaries he’s been pushing and what’s next for him. Plus, we dig into Billie Eilish’s bold statements about pornography, and a special guest listener joins us to explain why she said Jesse might be a sociopath. It’s a jam-packed episode you won’t want to skip!

Dec 24, 202152:57
Episode 928: Danté Stewart

Episode 928: Danté Stewart

Author and activist Danté Stewart joins us to explain why it’s important for the Church to focus on reconciliation, liberation and freedom for all people. Jesse shares his thoughts on Christmas shopping — and it’s something we all can agree on. And, Derek shares the awesome story behind his Christmas song, “Black Santa.”

Dec 21, 202149:40
Episode 927: Zachary Levi

Episode 927: Zachary Levi

The ‘Chuck’ and ‘Shazam!’ star joins us to discuss his exciting new role as NFL legend Kurt Warner and how his faith has played a major influence in his life on and off screen. Plus, we have RELEVANT News and a special fan joins us to predict our favorite ice cream flavors, and she dishes out a major twist at the end you won’t believe!

Dec 17, 202159:46
Episode 926: Shauna Niequist

Episode 926: Shauna Niequist

The best-selling author of 'Bread & Wine' and 'Present Over Perfect' joins us to talk about what's happened since her last book (to say everything changed is an understatement), and yes, gives a sneak peek at her new book releasing this spring. Plus, we dive into Joel Osteen's plumbing problems and Jesus' mad carpentry skills. And it's cast family game night!

Dec 14, 202155:11
Episode 925: Alexandra Shipp and Robin De Jesus

Episode 925: Alexandra Shipp and Robin De Jesus

The stars of the hit movie 'tick, tick...BOOM!' share what it's like to be creative in a difficult season and how to maintain your mental health while pursuing your passions. Plus, the cast gets into Peter Jackson's The Beatles documentary and (unrelated) why sorcery has been trending this year. Plus more!

Dec 10, 202151:25
Philip Yancey

Philip Yancey

Philip Yancey joins us today to discuss how you can get rid of toxicity in the Church without walking away from your faith. Plus, on Slices we cover some interesting news, a heart-warming sports moment, and a recent chaotic cash grab incident. And stick around for the end to play Cage Match — a game about, you guessed it, Nicolas Cage.

Dec 07, 202152:12
Madison Prewett

Madison Prewett

Madison Prewett joins us today! The former Bachelor contestant shares an inspiring message about how we are all made for this specific moment. Plus, we try to unpack the age-old question of why a good God allows bad things to happen on RELEVANT News. And, we share our favorite responses about your most regrettable purchases — some of these answers will shock listeners.

Dec 03, 202154:28
David Kinnaman

David Kinnaman

This week, the Barna Group's David Kinnaman joins us to shed some light on new research into the rise of pastor burnout. Also, the gang breaks down just how realistic the Thanos snap was and ranks their favorite Keanu Reeves movies. Oh, and Jesse's thinking about opening a new video rental store.

Nov 30, 202158:11
Lecrae

Lecrae

Lecrae joins us today to talk about his new financial web series and give some of his thoughts on how Christians can manage their money better. Also, the gang delves into the strange origins of "Black Friday," hear your thoughts about which foods should never be added to a recipe and Jesse has a new beef with Bagel Bites.

Nov 26, 202151:23
Jon Tyson

Jon Tyson

Jon Tyson joins us today to discuss the importance of fatherhood. Plus, we try to unpack the future of the metaverse, the rise of wired headphones (again) and space babies. And stick around to the end for a brand new Thanksgiving-themed game!

Nov 23, 202151:50
Vanessa Hudgens

Vanessa Hudgens

Vanessa Hudgens and Joshua Henry join us today to talk about their new film ‘Tick, Tick...Boom!’ Plus, we try to unpack an unsettling event at Cornerstone Church earlier this week and discuss the best Thanksgiving dishes, early pop culture memories and more. Listen now!

Nov 19, 202145:12
Kirsten Powers

Kirsten Powers

Kirsten Powers joins us to discuss how we can actually show grace and love to people we disagree with. Plus, we discuss Thanksgiving side dishes, the new nine ideological beliefs Americans tend to fall into, diapers in space, and more. And stick around to the end when the cast answers your questions!

Nov 16, 202158:43
Tony Hale

Tony Hale

Tony Hale joins us today to discuss his latest acting adventure. Plus, we discuss the tragedy at Astroworld, the right time to decorate for Christmas, and why the world needs more pizza bagels. Check it out now!

Nov 12, 202157:03
Jenn Johnson

Jenn Johnson

Jenn Johnson joins us on today’s podcast to talk about her brand new book, “All Things Lovely.” Plus, we discuss the first CCM A.I. artist, a ton of trash piling up in the world, and the return of a parrot who learned Spanish. And at the end, we test our word knowledge in a brand new game.

Nov 09, 202153:15
Brandon Lake

Brandon Lake

On today’s episode, Brandon Lake joins us to share his latest musical adventures with us. Plus, we’ve got RELEVANT News and we dig into why millennials who grew up in church go hard for Halloween. And you have to stick to the end to hear the new question of the week – it’s a good one!

Nov 05, 202150:24
Erwin McManus

Erwin McManus

Pastor and author Erwin McManus joins us today to explain why he thinks Jesus is a genius. Plus, we discuss an insane cruise deal, a bizarre food deal, and why you should always answer your phone. And we’ve got a fantastic new “What’s Jesse Thinking?” at the end of the show. Listen now!

Nov 02, 202141:52
John Mark McMillan

John Mark McMillan

Our guest today is John Mark McMillan! We spoke with him about his new ep ‘Has It Been You’ (which you should definitely listen to!). Plus, we discuss a potentially misleading survey that’s been making it’s way around the Internet on RELEVANT News, and Cameron’s questionable choice to visit a cabin in the woods during Halloween. At the end, we share some potential last minute Halloween costume ideas. It’s a spooktacular episode you won’t want to miss!

Oct 29, 202157:29
Dr. Hillary McBride

Dr. Hillary McBride

Dr. Hillary McBride joins us today to discuss the powerful idea of “embodiment” — viewing our bodies as more than just physical things. Plus, we dig into robot dogs with guns, why Amazon is listening in on us, turning hobbies into themed rooms and more. And stick around to the end for the Spooky Season Spectacular game!

Oct 26, 202156:29
Aaron Cole

Aaron Cole

Christian hip-hop artist Aaron Cole joins us on today’s episode to discuss his journey as a musician. Plus, we get to know our associate editor Emily Brown a little bit better, explore why so many employees are leaving their jobs right now, and reveal our favorite stories from you about water mishaps. There’s a ton of fun, so start listening now!

Oct 22, 202158:47
Ruth Chou Simons

Ruth Chou Simons

On today’s episode, author and speaker Ruth Chou Simons joins us to discuss how we can push back on the negative self-improvement narrative. Plus, we’ve got some crazy slices about wizards, bumblebees and enneagrams. And at the end we have our best round of Epic Battle ever! You will be thinking about this all week long. Listen now!

Oct 19, 202150:50
NEEDTOBREATHE

NEEDTOBREATHE

Bear Reinhart from NEEDTOBREATHE joins us on today’s episode. Plus, we discuss the shocking news of Katie Couric editing Ruth Bader Ginsberg’s comments on RELEVANT News, the need for a rescuing duck boat and more. Stick around to the end to hear last week's responses to our question about Hell Houses. Things get pretty wild!

Oct 15, 202156:59
Sadie Robertson Huff

Sadie Robertson Huff

On today’s episode, Sadie Robertson Huff joins us to explore how we can live on purpose. Plus, we discuss the failed plan to spread joy with a Mike Meyers mask, the actual joy of COVID-19 deaths decreasing, and the insanity of an art gallery paying thousands of dollars for a blank canvas. At the end, Jamie, Jesse and Kristen each take a turn defending their home states in a brand new game. You won’t want to miss it!

Oct 12, 202152:59
Andy Mineo

Andy Mineo

Things get a little crazy on today’s episode: Andy Mineo joins us to talk about his brand new album, ‘Never Land II.’ Plus, Kristen Howerton is back! She joins us to discuss Facebook’s crazy week and hell houses, and we look through your submissions for last week’s editorial question of the week about crazy MLMs.

Oct 08, 202145:18
Derwin Gray

Derwin Gray

On today’s episode, Derwin Gray joins us to discuss how we can utilize prayer to get our lives back on track. Plus, we get into what Derek’s "Rap Snacks" flavor would be, Amazon’s “Astro” robot, Kenneth Copeland’s latest attempt to get money for a private jet and the clown shortage in Northern Ireland. And stick around to the end when we play Mystery Mascot. This episode gets pretty wild so start listening now!

Oct 05, 202151:31
Riley Clemmons

Riley Clemmons

Riley Clemmons joins us today to talk about how her faith keeps her grounded and how she wants to grow as an artist. Plus, we discuss the recent controversy rising in the Southern Baptist Convention on RELEVANT News, and Jesse explains how he is on his way to becoming the next great football coach (at least, in his eyes). And we reveal some of the best responses from last week’s Editorial Question of the Week. Stick around to the end to hear next week’s question — you’re going to love it!

Oct 01, 202152:40
Levi Lusko

Levi Lusko

Levi Lusko tells us how the next generation of believers is shaping the Church and what we can do to encourage and equip Gen Z. Plus we have some of our most unbelievable Slices, from mammoth’s coming back from the dead to Chick-fil-a sandwiches being sold on a Sunday! And find out what a “damp squib” is in our brand new game, The Queen’s English. All on today’s episode!

Sep 28, 202146:36
Director Ted Melfi

Director Ted Melfi

Happy Friday! Award-winning director Ted Melfi joins us today to discuss his latest film, ‘The Starling,’ starring Melissa McCarthy and Chris O’Dowd as a couple trying to find hope in a tragic situation. Plus, on RELEVANT News we discuss the tragedy of the 710 indigenous women who have gone missing since 2011. We also discuss the unbelievable MLM schemes people fall trap to, and Jesse tells us he’s been thinking about the joy of physics. And stick around to the end to hear the editorial question of the week!

Sep 24, 202156:11
John Mark Comer

John Mark Comer

On today’s episode, pastor John Mark Comer joins us to discuss how Christians can best pursue truth in a world that constantly spreads lies. Plus, we talk about the Beanie Babies scandal on Ebay, how Jeff Bezos is trying to find eternal life his own way, the cringeworthy idea of turning social justice into a reality show competition and more. Stick around ‘til the end where we play our own version of Rotten Tomatoes.

Sep 21, 202150:41
Jessica Chastain

Jessica Chastain

Happy Friday! On today’s episode, the incredibly talented Jessica Chastain joins us to talk about her new film, ‘The Eyes of Tammy Faye,’ and what she thinks we get wrong about Tammy Faye Bakker. Plus, we discuss how flawed Facebook’s algorithm is and why society is more interested in divisive and fake news. And stick around for the end because we brought back one of our favorite segments — Ask the Cast. We answer some of your wacky questions that you won’t want to miss.

Sep 17, 202157:33
Rebekah Lyons

Rebekah Lyons

Rebekah Lyons, author and speaker, joins us for today’s episode to discuss the importance of surrendering our “yes” to God even in the midst of uncertainty. Plus, we discuss the flawed plan of faking a vaccine card and the epidemic of the McDonald’s McFlurries machine always being down, and we debate the braggability of being in the Boy Scouts. And stick around to the end to hear Jesse’s thoughts about the real, secretive room hidden within Mount Rushmore.

Sep 14, 202149:25
Jennifer Hudson and Remembering Michael K. Williams

Jennifer Hudson and Remembering Michael K. Williams

The Friday episode is here! Today, the one and only Derek Minor speaks with Jennifer Hudson about her upcoming role as the Queen of Soul Aretha Franklin in the biopic ‘Respect.’ Plus, we remember legendary actor Michael K. Williams for who he was on and off the screen. And we celebrate the beginning of fall by quizzing our knowledge of Taylor Swift songs vs. Christian Romance Novels. Grab a pumpkin spice latte and listen now!

Sep 10, 202154:47
Housefires' Pat Barrett and Inside Our Fall Issue

Housefires' Pat Barrett and Inside Our Fall Issue

SURPRISE! You asked, we listened — the RELEVANT Podcast is back to two episodes a week. On this episode, Pat Barrett from Housefires joins us to discuss being both a worship leader and a musician. Speaking of worship leaders, we look into how Fender is setting their sights on praise and worship bands. Plus we discuss Harvard’s new atheist chaplain and Mountain Dew’s new flamin’ hot flavor. And stick around for the end, where we reveal our fall digital issue and all the new RELEVANT stuff we have coming your way.

Sep 07, 202154:26
Jenny Yang on the Crisis in Afghanistan

Jenny Yang on the Crisis in Afghanistan

On today’s episode, World Relief’s Jenny Yang joins us to explain the ongoing crisis in Afghanistan and what Christians can do to help. Plus, Derek is back, and he is ready to talk! We discuss RELEVANT blowing up Instagram and who exactly gets to wear a band’s merch. And, we have another round of Epic Battle. You won’t want to miss this!

Sep 03, 202101:08:36
Jon Foreman

Jon Foreman

On this week’s episode, Jon Foreman joins us to tell us what he and Switchfoot have been up to and what they’re looking forward to in the future. Plus, we discuss Facebook’s virtual staff meeting idea no one asked for, a new study on Christian’s thoughts on salvation and Argentina’s capybara problem. And, stick around until the end for one of our favorite games: Epic Battle!

Aug 27, 202101:27:02
'CODA' Filmmaker Sian Heder

'CODA' Filmmaker Sian Heder

On today’s episode, filmmaker and writer Sian Heder joins us to tells us all about her latest film, ‘CODA,’ which recently premiered on Apple TV+. Plus, we discuss how talking a lot can strengthen your mind, getting mistaken for famous people and remembering important, practical things in life by getting them tattooed on you. And, stick around for the end when Jesse tries to convince us to go on a buried treasure hunt with him.

Aug 20, 202101:14:39
Jackie Hill Perry

Jackie Hill Perry

On today’s episode, author and speaker Jackie Hill Perry discusses her new book, which explores the importance of God’s holiness in our lives. Plus, Cameron, Derek, Jesse and Tyler contemplate Little Ceasar’s creepy marketing strategy, the new hosts for Jeopardy!, and the asteroid colliding with the Earth (in 60 years). And, in honor of Friday the 13th, we test our superstition knowledge in our new game, Dumb Luck. Listen now!

Aug 13, 202101:32:34
Jefferson Bethke

Jefferson Bethke

On today’s episode, Jefferson Bethke tells us how we can establish Biblical, mission minded families in our homes. Plus, Cameron, Jamie, Derek and Jesse discuss Scarlett Johanson’s lawsuit against Disney, Hobby Lobby’s legal trouble, Jean Claude Van Damme (accidentally!) aiding a heist, and more. Be sure to stick around for the end for another hilarious round of the Podcast Olympics. Listen now!

Aug 06, 202101:20:24
Hillsong Young & Free

Hillsong Young & Free

On today’s episode, Hillsong Young & Free tells us all about their new EP, ‘Out Here on a Friday Where It Began,’ which drops today. Plus, we discuss Facebook stepping into the religious world and New York utilizing mental health specialists instead of police. Derek and Cameron also give a rundown on their families’ adventures in Orlando. And stick around for the end when we play another round of Podcast Olympics!

Jul 30, 202101:09:42
KevOnStage

KevOnStage

On today’s episode, KevOnStage joins us to discuss his humorous journey and how he uses his faith to set him apart from other comedians. Plus, we discuss Nicolas Cage stepping down from his role as ‘Tiger King,’ some interesting Central Florida attractions (other than Disney) and highly unusual hibachi restaurant experiences. And, we have a pretty sports-packed episode: we talk about Norway women’s handball uniforms and the Milwaukee Bucks, and we play our version of the Olympics on the podcast. Don’t miss out!

Jul 23, 202101:23:02
Skye Jethani, William Fitzsimmons, and Cruising Q and A

Skye Jethani, William Fitzsimmons, and Cruising Q and A

On this week’s episode, Skye Jethani, author, speaker and friend of the show, joins us to discuss how taking prayer seriously can change our lives. And, William Fitzsimmons talks with us about his latest album, ‘Ready the Astronaut.’ Plus, we discuss Richard Branson launching into space, a new Tower of Babel attraction (what could go wrong with that?), a New Mexico church that paid off the entire state’s medical debt and more. Stick around for the end, too, when we play a new game that just might inspire your next road trip. Listen now!

Jul 16, 202101:13:30
Japanese Breakfast, RELEVANT News: Paris Edition and Cure for the Comment Cold

Japanese Breakfast, RELEVANT News: Paris Edition and Cure for the Comment Cold

On this week’s episode, Michelle Zauner aka Japanese Breakfast tells us all about the wild and incredible year she’s been having, and what’s on the horizon for her. Our senior editor Tyler Huckabee joins us from Paris to give us some very French news. Plus, we discuss how advertisers are trying to hack into our dreams, whether or not the House of Mouse can copyright a deity, and more. And stick around to the end for our new game, Cure for the Comment Cold. You don’t want to skip this!

Jul 09, 202101:20:50
Mark Batterson, Ellie Holcomb and the VeggieTales Theological Debate

Mark Batterson, Ellie Holcomb and the VeggieTales Theological Debate

On this week’s episode, pastor and author Mark Batterson joins us to discuss strategies we can implement for success. And, Ellie Holcomb talks with us about the songs on her latest album, Canyon. Jesse dives deep into sensory deprivation tanks and we discuss how a Noah’s Ark replica is stuck in the UK. Plus, we explain the VeggieTales “theology controversy” between our very own Tyler Huckabee and the Holy Post Podcast. Listen now!

Jul 02, 202101:21:42
Cautious Clay, Dr. Caroline Leaf on Brain Health, and Epic Battle

Cautious Clay, Dr. Caroline Leaf on Brain Health, and Epic Battle

On this week’s podcast, Kristen Howerton fills in for Jamie, and she takes part in Epic Battle at the end of the episode. But first, Joseph Karpeh, better known as the singer, songwriter and producer Cautious Clay joins us to talk about his musical journey — where he’s been and where he’s going. Plus, for our final installment of our Quarterlife series, we talk to Dr. Caroline Leaf about the importance of taking care of your brain in order to keep a healthy life. And, during Slices we discuss the unknown ingredients in Subway’s tuna sandwiches, Jesse's new haircut, the new Fast and Furious film 'F9' and so much more. Listen now!

Jun 25, 202101:30:03
Sleeping At Last, Marvel's Christian Superhero and Talking Church and Sex

Sleeping At Last, Marvel's Christian Superhero and Talking Church and Sex

Episode 886: This week, Sleeping at Last (aka Ryan O'Neal) joins us to discuss his musical, creative and spiritual journey. Then for our Quarterlife Conversation, we speak with the co-authors of 'The Great Sex Rescue,' Sheila Gregoire and Rebecca Lindenbach, who are pioneering a new way for the Church to talk about sex. Plus, the gang has a major nerd-out moment talking about Marvel Comics' little-known 1990s Christian superhero, The Illuminator. Then there's Slices, Jesse shares his very passionate thoughts about Shark Week and more!

Jun 18, 202101:13:58