RELEVANT Podcast

05.17.13 :: Martin Smith

Fri, 17 May 2013 21:31:00 +0000

This week we spotlight worship leader and former Delirious? frontman Martin Smith. He has a new solo album out (God's Great Dance Floor, Step 01) and he shares with us his heart for God and these new songs he's created. We also talk to innovation leader Bobby Gruenewald. As part of the LifeChurch.tv team, Bobby helped create the YouVersion Bible App, which has been downloaded over 90 million times! And we unveil a new theme (and theme song) for our summer, which includes a Jesse Carey singalong. Let's just say we now understand why Jesse is a writer and not a singer...

A big thanks to the sponsor of this week's show, Warby Parker. Warby offers an easy way to buy fashion-forward prescription glasses and sunglasses online for only $95—and as part of our partnership, they're giving all RELEVANT Podcast listeners free expedited 2-day shipping on your purchase! To get your free in-home try-on and the shipping discount, visit WarbyParker.com and enter the promo code "RELEVANT" during your final check-out. Listen for more info on the show. We love Warby.

Subscribe to the RELEVANT Podcast via iTunes, download the episode MP3 here, or add our RSS feed to any other podcast aggregator.

05.10.13 :: Leagues

Fri, 10 May 2013 21:00:00 +0000

This week we spotlight one of our favorite new bands, Leagues. The Nashville rock n' rollers, fronted by industry veteran Thad Cockrell, make music that will force you to sing along and dance, and as summer approaches, we're positive this will be your windows down, volume up, go-to album. We also get a listener on the line to play a game against newly-knighted podcaster, Tyler, and we debate the trustworthiness of some of our world's greatest celebrities.

A big thanks to the episode's sponsor, Tonx Coffee, an amazing new roaster out of LA. They source beans directly from the growers, roast them, and ship within 24 hours so they're as fresh as can be. For a free sample, check out Tonx.org/RELEVANT.

Subscribe to the RELEVANT Podcast via iTunes, download the episode MP3 here, or add our RSS feed to any other podcast aggregator.

05.03.13 :: Donald Miller

Fri, 03 May 2013 21:15:00 +0000

This week we talk to author, speaker, filmmaker and podcast-friend, Donald Miller. He shares his thoughts on the aftermath of Blue Like Jazz The Movie and explains his passion for the work he's currently doing with Storyline. We also talk to the editors about the new issue of RELEVANT Magazine, featuring one of our favorite bands, Phoenix, on the cover! Plus, we uncover Tyler's college freshman year bio and Jesse develops a new business strategy for Hot Pockets.

A big thanks to our sponsor, Audible.com, the leading provider of premium digital spoken audio information and entertainment on the Internet. They're giving all RELEVANT Podcast listeners a free audiobook! To get yours, click here.

Download the show MP3 here, subscribe to the RELEVANT Podcast via iTunes or add our RSS feed to any other podcast aggregator.

04.26.13 :: Rob Bell

Fri, 26 Apr 2013 21:00:00 +0000

This week we talk to controversial author and speaker Rob Bell about his new book, What We Talk About When We Talk About God. (No matter what you think about Rob, it's a surprising interview that deserves a listen.) We also talk to photographer Andy Barron about a life-changing challenge Mark Foster (of Foster the People) put him on, and the crew brings back the glory of their youth by revisiting favorite childhood Christian shows.

Subscribe to the RELEVANT Podcast via iTunes, download the episode MP3 here, or add our RSS feed to any other podcast aggregator.

04.19.13 :: Michael Gungor

Fri, 19 Apr 2013 22:00:00 +0000

This week we talk to one of our favorite artists, Michael Gungor. His band, Gungor, has just finished recording their upcoming album, so he talks to us about the process and his take on being labeled a "worship" band. We also talk to columnist Kirsten Powers (USA Today, Fox News, ) about the Kermit Gosnell abortion clinic murder trial. Kirsten was the one who initially made the cry that this story should be front-page news, and she brings up some fascinating points in our conversation with her (don't miss the full interview below). And it wouldn't be a podcast without a new Hoodman story, so you can look forward to that too!

Thanks also to our sponsor, CreationSwap. Check out free church graphics shared and sold by thousands of designers available at creationswap.com.

Download the show MP3 here, subscribe to the RELEVANT Podcast via iTunes or add our RSS feed to any other podcast aggregator.

04.12.13 :: Kurt Warner

Fri, 12 Apr 2013 21:05:00 +0000

This week we talk to former NFL Quarterback and Super Bowl MVP Kurt Warner, who has a new show on USA called "The Moment." The show gives ordinary people the opportunity to realize their dreams and rewrite their life stories. We also talk to Page CXVI, a great band that is making hymns accessible and known again. Plus, Tom Cruise, our NCAA basketball recap and the terrifying return of Petman.

A big thanks to the episode's sponsor, Tonx Coffee, an amazing new roaster out of LA. They source directly from the growers, roast it, and ship within 24 hours so it’s as fresh as can be. For a free sample, check out Tonx.org/RELEVANT

Download the show MP3 here, subscribe to the RELEVANT Podcast via iTunes or add our RSS feed to any other podcast aggregator.

04.05.13 :: Regina Spektor

Fri, 05 Apr 2013 20:55:00 +0000

This week we talk to pop-folk singer/songwriter Regina Spektor. She tells us about her latest album, What We Saw From The Cheap Seats, and what it was like growing up in Russia. Author Jonathan Merritt also joins us to talk about "10 Things That Defined the Last Decade" (which he wrote about in the current issue of RELEVANT). Plus, a pastor encounters a ninja, Jesse tries to wrap his head around modern art, and we discover a real-life mermaid.

Download the show MP3 here, subscribe to the RELEVANT Podcast via iTunes or add our RSS feed to any other podcast aggregator.

03.29.13 :: Sixpence None The Richer

Fri, 29 Mar 2013 23:45:00 +0000

This week we talk to Leigh Nash of legendary pop/rock band Sixpence None The Richer. After a breakup in 2004, the band is back with a new full-length album called Lost In Transition. We also talk to international evangelist Luis Palau about his friendship with someone who's been in the news recently, Pope Francis. Plus, Cameron's White House robe, Tyler's cephalophobia and a Wal-mart deer hunt. Of course.

A big thanks to our sponsor, The Bible Series, an epic 10-part miniseries retelling stories from Scripture for a whole new generation. Own The Bible On Blu-ray & DVD April 2! For more information, click here.

Download the show MP3 here, subscribe to the RELEVANT Podcast via iTunes or add our RSS feed to any other podcast aggregator.

03.22.13 :: Charity: Water's Scott Harrison

Fri, 22 Mar 2013 20:52:00 +0000

Today (March 22) is World Water Day, so on this week's show we talk to Charity: Water founder and CEO Scott Harrison. Scott is doing some significant things to fight the world water crisis, and he gives us some practical steps to engage the issue and help bring relief. We also introduce you to a great new indie/folk band, Mount Moriah. Plus, Jesse returns as an "older, wiser and more-mature" dad (not really), Cameron recounts his best birthday ever and the crew debates the awesomeness of going to space.

Download the show MP3 here, subscribe to the RELEVANT Podcast via iTunes or add our RSS feed to any other podcast aggregator.

03.15.13 :: Fiction Family's Jon Foreman

Fri, 15 Mar 2013 21:00:00 +0000

This week we talk to one of our favorite artists, Jon Foreman. You might recognize him from a couple of different bands, Fiction Family and Switchfoot. Well Fiction Family has some great new music out so we decided to talk to Jon and get the scoop on the band's new album, Fiction Family Reunion. We also talk to Kay Warren (wife of Rick Warren) about her HIV and AIDS Initiative. She's doing some significant things so you'll definitely want to check this out. And of course, we get the play-by-play of Cameron's altercation with Dwight Howard during last week's Magic/Lakers game in Orlando. Dwight may have won the game, but we're pretty sure Cameron won the night.

Download the show MP3 here, subscribe to the RELEVANT Podcast via iTunes or add our RSS feed to any other podcast aggregator.

03.08.13 :: Judah Smith and Sandra McCracken

Fri, 08 Mar 2013 22:05:00 +0000

This week we talk to author and pastor (not to mention Justin Bieber buddy) Judah Smith. He has a new book out called Jesus Is ___, and it's one of the most talked-about books this year. We also spotlight singer/songwriter, Sandra McCracken. She's performed on the podcast before (with her husband, Derek Webb), but this week we talk to her about her new album, Desire Like Dynamite. Other "highlights" include Jesse's preparations for having a baby, stopping a Dunkin Donuts drive-through mugger and compelling infomercials.

Download the podcast MP3 here, subscribe to the RELEVANT Podcast via iTunes or add our RSS feed to any other podcast aggregator.

03.01.13 :: Joel Houston of Hillsong United

Fri, 01 Mar 2013 23:10:00 +0000

This week we talk to Joel Houston of Hillsong United about the band's new album, Zion. The album debuted at #1 on the iTunes charts this past week, so if you haven't picked it up yet, you definitely need to get on your game! We also bring in our editors to take a look inside the very special 10-year anniversary issue of RELEVANT. The issue features Tony Hale of Arrested Development and Veep, along with numerous others like The Lumineers, Rick Warren, Mark Burnett & Roma Downey, Michael Gungor and Jon Foreman. Oh, and we listen to some singing goats, so you also have that to look forward to!

Download the show MP3 here, subscribe to the RELEVANT Podcast via iTunes or add our RSS feed to any other podcast aggregator.

02.22.13 :: The Lumineers

Fri, 22 Feb 2013 21:59:00 +0000

This week we talk to one of 2012's true break-out bands, The Lumineers. They played at The Grammys (and were nominated for two awards), have a newly minted platinum record and are in the new issue of RELEVANT. Yeah, they're kind of a big deal.

Also in the show, break out the formalwear because it's time to walk the red carpet and find out who takes home the year's most coveted "award" celebrating non-celebrity reality TV shows —an Oskarz.biz trophy. We actually don't have any trophies to give the winners, but we do have Jon Acuff, who serves as this year's Master of Ceremonies. It's a segment you won't want to miss.

A big thanks to the sponsor of this week's show, Warby Parker. Warby offers an easy way to buy fashion-forward prescription glasses and sunglasses online for only $95! As part of our partnership, they're giving all RELEVANT Podcast listeners free expedited 2-day shipping on your purchase! To get your free in-home try-on and the shipping discount, visit WarbyParker.com and enter the promo code "RELEVANT" during your final check-out. Listen for more info on the show. We love Warby.

Download the podcast MP3 here, subscribe to the RELEVANT Podcast via iTunes or add our RSS feed to any other podcast aggregator.

02.15.13 :: The City Harmonic Performs

Fri, 15 Feb 2013 22:30:00 +0000

This week, The City Harmonic stops by our studio to perform a few of its best songs. You'll hear two of the songs on the actual episode, but you can watch videos of all three performances below and over at our YouTube channel. And it's the moment you've all been waiting for (or at least a handful of you): The 3rd Annual Oskarz.biz Nomination Ceremony. Jesse unveils all the categories and nominees, but it's up to you to go vote for your favorites. We'll announce the winners on next week's show. Plus, Cameron goes on a political rant, we create a new "Dance Party" and we read your best Apple feedback.

A big thanks to the sponsor of Jesse's line, Audible.com, the leading provider of premium digital spoken audio information and entertainment on the Internet. They're giving all RELEVANT Podcast listeners a free audiobook! To get yours, click here.

Download the show MP3 here, subscribe to the RELEVANT Podcast via iTunes or add our RSS feed to any other podcast aggregator.

02.08.13 :: Alt-J

Fri, 08 Feb 2013 22:00:00 +0000

This week, we talk to a band that came out of nowhere and seized our attention: the British indie rock quartet Alt-J. The band released its debut album, An Awesome Wave, last year and has garnered accolades from music fans and critics alike. We're obsessed with them and think you'll be too. We also honor the pinnacle of music achievement with a Grammy game, unpack why Jesse is tweeting again and analyze your best 3-D printing ideas.

Download the show MP3 here, subscribe to the RELEVANT Podcast via iTunes or add our RSS feed to any other podcast aggregator.

02.01.13 :: Local Natives

Fri, 01 Feb 2013 22:30:00 +0000

This week we talk to one of our favorite indie-rock bands, Local Natives. The L.A. band has just released its second album, Hummingbird, and it's one you need to check out. We also talk to musician and actress Caitlin Crosby about her organization, "The Giving Keys," aimed at getting people out of homelessness through the power of recycled keys. Plus, Cameron scares the neighborhood hoodlums, we unpack the future of 3-D printers and then dissect the quality of your mixtapes.

Download the show MP3 here, subscribe to the RELEVANT Podcast via iTunes or add our RSS feed to any other podcast aggregator.

01.25.13 :: Propaganda and Shane Hipps

Fri, 25 Jan 2013 22:00:00 +0000

This week we introduce you to a fresh voice in the hop-hop world, outspoken M.C. Propaganda. Prop brings an uncompromising message mixed with some sick beats, and yes, we're big fans. We also talk to author (and former pastor of Mars Hill) Shane Hipps about his new book and thoughts on Christianity and religion. We round out the episode with some discussion about Mark Driscoll's controversial political tweet (and Shaun King's equally divisive reply), Cameron's first mixtape to Maya, and our favorite David Caruso one-liners (you guys killed it this week).

Download the show MP3 here, subscribe to the RELEVANT Podcast via iTunes or add our RSS feed to any other podcast aggregator.

01.18.13 :: The Lone Bellow and Eugene Cho

Sat, 19 Jan 2013 01:00:00 +0000

This week we introduce you to THE band to know in 2013: The Lone Bellow. The trio makes self-described "Brooklyn country music" and has just released their emotionally captivating self-titled debut (that cracked the top 15 on iTunes). We also talk to Eugene Cho, pastor of Quest Church and founder of One Day's Wages, a movement seeking to alleviate extreme global poverty. Also, we deal with Lance Armstrong, drop some David Caruso wisdom, and do our best to implement your suggestions for making the show more enjoyable. Oh, and don't miss our favorite listener-submitted Yolo/Bolo pictures below!

Download the show MP3 here, subscribe to the RELEVANT Podcast via iTunes or add our RSS feed to any other podcast aggregator.

01.11.13 :: Ben Folds Five

Fri, 11 Jan 2013 22:11:00 +0000

This week we talk to the one and only Ben Folds of legendary rock band Ben Folds Five. After an 11-year hiatus, the band is back with a great new record and perspective on music and touring. Also, our longtime British podcast correspondent, Lloyd Kinsley, joins us in-studio for a game of royal proportion. And if that wasn't enough, we get another listener on the phone, break down Arnold Schwarzenegger's career options and develop a new marketing tagline for bolo ties.

Download the show MP3 here, or subscribe to the RELEVANT Podcast via iTunes or any other podcast aggregator.

01.04.13 :: Sugar & the Hi Lows

Fri, 04 Jan 2013 22:29:00 +0000

This week, one of our favorite new bands, Sugar & the Hi Lows, comes by and performs live in our studio. Last year saw the band release its self-titled debut as well as a Christmas EP, and if you're into new music with an old sound, you will love Sugar & The Hi Lows. Also this week, we bring in our editors to talk about the brand new issue of RELEVANT, featuring a compelling look at the epidemic of suicide, the return of Five Iron Frenzy and a recap of the year of the Christian athlete. Plus, we get a couple of listeners on the phone to talk about their podcast-inspired YouTube song, "The Ukulele and the Slide Whistle."

Download the show MP3 here, or subscribe to the RELEVANT Podcast via iTunes or any other podcast aggregator.