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Episode 107: Check Out This Joker

The guys discuss the newest film from DC Movies, The Joker. They discuss the impact of mental illness, having compassion for enemies, and how any of us can take the road to darkness. They close with their Top 5 Movies About Mental Health.




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Episode 108: Good Things About Good Omens

Christina Andresen and Emma Solak discuss the new Amazon Prime show, Good Omens. They discuss how we are all fallen, the battle between heaven and hell, and whether or not the gospel falls flat for those in comfort. They close with their Top 5 Gangs of Kids.




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Episode 109: New Kanye, New Kanye Album

This week the guys discuss Kanye West’s latest release, Jesus is King. They discuss materialism, the importance of honesty in repentance, and the cost of following Christ. They close with their Top 5 Christian Albums.




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Episode 110: Falling in Modern Love

The girls discuss the podcast-gone-Amazon series, Modern Love. They reflect on the nature of "modern" love, how love makes us vulnerable, and how true love calls us to become real. They close with their Top 5 Love Stories That Are Not About Romantic Love.




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Episode 111: True Life in Luxury

A couple months ago, the guys watched a documentary following the band, Luxury. They were so impressed by the band and their music, they decided to focus this week on Luxury's album, Trophies. The guys discuss how the world is in decay, how we still need to be affirming of life, and how grace and repentance mean we actually have to change our lives. They close with their Top 5 Things They Are Thankful to God For.




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Episode 112: The Cold Truth About Frozen II

The girls take on the highly anticipated Disney movie, Frozen II, and (spoiler alert) they weren't impressed. They discuss how we ought to gauge the next right thing, whether newness of knowledge equates with wisdom, and how we should acquire a spirit of service. They end with their Top 5 Sequels (That Were Actually Good).




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Episode 113: Lord of the Rings Live! (Feat. Fr. Andrew Stephen Damick)

Live from New York, it’s PCCH! The guys discuss the epic trilogy, Lord of the Rings. The touch on topics such as friendship, the human obsession with power, and where hope can be found. Fr. Andrew joins the guys for a Q&A;, as well as a special quiz designed just for him.




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Episode 114: Another Star Wars Bonanza! The Rise of Skywalker!

It's finally here. The end of the Skywalker Saga! Join the guys as they discuss the final film of a story 42 years in the making! Spoiler Porgs included.




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Episode 115: Hey, Mando!

The guys discuss the first live-action Star Wars TV Series: The Mandalorian. They touch on the interplay between nostalgia and creativity, the role of choice in identity formation, and the self-sacrificial love. They close with their Top 5 Westerns.




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Episode 116: Big Talk about Little Women

The girls discuss the newest version of the classic story, Little Women. They take on topics such as death, the place and shape of gratitude in our lives, and the role of women in society. They close with their Top 5 Movies Based on Classic Novels.




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Episode 117: Thank You and Goodnight! (Again!)

This week the girls revisit the critically acclaimed Amazon Prime show, The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel. They discuss the need to be clear on our lives priorities, how where we are shapes who we become, and how each of us is called to follow Christ authentically. They close with their Top 5 Songs Released in 1960.




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Episode 118: This Was Your Afterlife

The guys revisit the NBC hit, The Good Place, after the Series Finale, and they were...a little disappointed. They discuss images of the afterlife, how love is other people, and visions of "the good." They close with their Top 5 Season Finales.




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Episode 119: PCCH LIVE! Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Podcast (Pt. 1)

Steve Christoforou and Christian Gonzalez are joined by Christina Andresen for this special live episode of Pop Culture Coffee Hour! Recorded at the 2020 Youth and Camp Workers Conference in Phoenix, they discuss why Hogwarts is a CPS call waiting to happen, how friendship makes us better, and whether youth can be trusted with the Church. They close with a brief Q&A; and a promise to finish what Dumbledore started. Listen to Part 2 at https://www.ancientfaith.com/podcasts/popculture/episode_120_harry_potter_and_the_half_blood_podcast_pt_2.




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Episode 120: Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Podcast (Pt. 2)

Christina Andresen, Steve Christoforou, and Christian Gonzalez finish up their conversation on Harry Potter. They discuss how youth ministry should look like Defense Against the Dark Arts, how sacrifice shows true mastery over death, and who they think the true hero of the story is. They close with their Top 5 Things (and an Accidental One) They'd Make Into Horcruxes. Listen to Part 1 at https://www.ancientfaith.com/podcasts/popculture/episode_119_pcch_live_harry_potter_and_the_half_blood_podcast_pt_1.




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Episode 121: Hanging with the Sack Lunch Bunch

The guys watched John Mulaney's new children's-program-inspired Netflix special, and (spoiler alert) it's hilarious. They discuss the power of taking children seriously, how fear plays deeply into much of our lives, and the power of listening. They close with their Top 5 Children's TV Shows.




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Episode 122: Going Live with Groundhog Day!

This week, the guys take to Zoom before a live digital audience to discuss the classic movie, Groundhog Day! They discuss life under quarantine, how the divine desires the salvation of all, and how change occurs in the heart. The close with some Q&A;! Make sure to join every week at www.y2am.org/PopCultureLive!




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Episode 123: Let's Take It to the Street!

This week, the guys discuss the frantic comedy game show, Billy on the Street! They discuss how important a name is, the abnormality of social distancing, and the desire to return to life.




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Episode 124: Living the Dream

The guys reflect on the 2010 film, Inception. They discuss the nature of consciousness, the relationship between the mind and the human person, and the importance of conversion over inception.




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Episode 125: Vulnerability Hour

Steve Christoforou and Christian Gonzalez open up for a vulnerable conversation where they share what they're struggling with, how they're doing, and how they're still finding God at work in the midst of a global pandemic.




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Episode 126: Onward (And Upward!)

What if magic were real? The guys explore the new Disney feature film, "Onward." They explore the truth in stories, the challenges of a disenchanted world, and the ways Disney films present love.




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Episode 127: Becoming New Men

The guys explore the beautiful new documentary film, "New Men." They explore the challenge of staying in one place, whether monastic life is a higher calling, and struggles of the Christian life. You can find the film at newmendoc.com.




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Episode 128: The Clone Wars

“It takes strength to resist the dark side. Only the weak embrace it.” – Obi-Wan Kenobi After talking with Ancient Faith's John Maddex about the current financial situation and opportunities (please support the guys' virtual Regatta team here: https://afm.kindful.com/lifeboat-2020/the-supplicants), Steven Christoforou and Christian Gonzalez explore the recently-concluded Star Wars animated series: The Clone Wars. They discuss why Star Wars TV shows have been better than the recent movies, the depth of the characters (both old and new), and what the failings of the Jedi Order can teach us as Christians.




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Episode 129: The Fantastic Mr. Fox

"And even in this not particularly flattering light, you are without a doubt the five and a half most wonderful wild animals I've ever met in my life. So let's raise our boxes - to our survival.” – Mr. Fox The guys explore the Wes Anderson film: "Fantastic Mr Fox." They discuss art, what our "real" nature is, and the way we can only be truly united in our diversity.




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Episode 130: Fetch the Bolt Cutters

“I used to think that being blacklisted would be grist for the mill until I realized I’m still here.” - Fiona Apple The guys explore the new Fiona Apple album: "Fetch the Bolt Cutters." They discuss life under quarantine, cycles of sin, and how Christ breaks us free.




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Episode 131: Inside Out

“Take her to the moon for me. Okay?” The guys explore the beautiful Pixar movie: "Inside Out." They discuss the importance of learning to handle our emotions, the danger of suppressing (rather than processing) negative emotions, and how sadness leads to empathy.




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Episode 132: Bonfire in America

“Don't kill me.” - George Floyd The guys were going to talk about the Netflix series: Bonfire of Destiny. But important things are happening. And we, as a nation and a Church, need to talk about them. Steve Christoforou and Christian Gonzalez have a tough conversation about the unjust slaying of George Floyd on May 25 and the protests that have developed since. They discuss race in America, violence and virtue, and the theology of the cross.




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Episode 133: The Chosen

"I have called you by name; you are Mine!" (Isaiah 43:1) For the series finale of "Pop Culture Coffee Hour," the guys explore season 1 of the new TV series "The Chosen." It's the first ever multi-season exploration of the life of Jesus. The guys discuss Christian art and theology, the call of the Gospel, and the transformative power of real, authentic Christianity. https://studios.vidangel.com/the-chosen




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Episode 134: Hamilton

"I’m just like my country—I’m young, scrappy, and hungry, and I am not throwing away my shot." Steve, Christian, Emma, and Christina are all back for the series premiere of "Pop Culture Coffee Hour." They explore the popular musical, "Hamilton." They discuss the cost of honor, the beauty of forgiveness, and the complexities of race in the American story.




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Episode 135: The Social Dilemma

”There are only two industries that call their customers ‘users’: illegal drugs and software.” Steve Christoforou and Christian Gonzalez watched the new Netflix documentary, "The Social Dilemma." The guys discuss vulnerability, disconnection, and the polarizing effects of social media. They close by reflecting on changes we can each make to unplug and reconnect.




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Episode 136: New Girl

The girls discuss the sit-com, New Girl. They talk about self-knowledge, how love takes work, and how we are formed by the spaces we inhabit.




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Episode 137: Shore (by Fleet Foxes)

“I’m not the season I’m in...You’re not the season you’re in.” Steve and Christian listened to the new album by Fleet Foxes, "Shore." The guys discuss connection vs isolation, tradition vs traditionalism, and the beauty of forgiveness.




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Episode 138: Dracula

The girls discuss Dracula. They touch on what makes for good horror, as well as what horror seeks to reveal, namely that true life is not given by taking it from others, nor is life the end in itself, but true life involves Resurrection.




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Episode 139: 1917 (Movie)

"There is only one way this war ends. Last man standing." Steve Gonzalez and Christian Christoforou watched the World War I film, "1917." The guys discuss just war, violence, human nature, and finding beauty in the midst of pain. We're also shining a light on the Theotokos Orphanage and St Ignatius School in Bakeswar, India. Run nearly singlehandedly for over a decade by Sister Nektaria of Corinth, Greece, these programs strive to provide the children of Kolkata and Bakeswar with the love of Christ and a quality education (a crucial tool in breaking the cycles of poverty). Learn more on their website: fili-inc.com.




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Episode 140: Taylor Swift's Folklore

The girls discuss Taylor Swift's newest album, touching on themes such as how growing up changes your perspective, how we grow aware of our own failings, and how love fills the background of much of our lives.




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Episode 141: Cobra Kai

“Strike first. Strike hard. No mercy.” Steve and Christian watched the Netflix series, "Cobra Kai." The guys discuss just regret, trauma, nostalgia, and more. We're also shining a light on the Family Promise, a national non-profit that changes the lives of families experiencing homelessness. Learn more on their website: familypromise.org




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Episode 142: The Breakfast Club

The girls discuss the classic 80's film, The Breakfast Club. They discuss issues of identity, generational sin, and the community of God's Kingdom.




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Episode 143: Bill and Ted Face the Music

“Dude!” Steve and Christian watched the new film, "Bill and Ted Face the Music." The guys discuss the failures of past generations, ways to empower younger people, and the unity of all people. We're also shining a light on Orthodox Christian Prison Ministry, which serves those who are incarcerated and their families, and provides resources, training and support to their ministry partners so that lives are transformed and God is glorified. Learn more on their website: theocpm.org.




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Episode 145: The Matrix

"There is no spoon." Steve and Christian watched the classic sci film, "The Matrix." The guys discuss what it means to be human, the nature of reality, free will, and taking the "red pill." We're also shining a light on the Saint Haralambos Agape Grocery, which has distributed over 16 tons of groceries to the public since in the last few months. It's one of many outreach programs the parish offers to the wider community. Learn more on the parish website: saintharalambosgoc.org. In our next episode, we'll get in the holiday spirit and dig into the Netflix movies "The Christmas Chronicles."




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Episode 146: The Queen's Gambit

The girls take on the Netflix series, The Queen's Gambit. They discuss the needs to take responsibility for ourselves, how love is not the same as turning a blind eye, and the need for healthy emotional boundaries.




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Episode 144: Becoming Mrs. Lewis

The girls discuss Becoming Mrs. Lewis, the historical fiction novel about Joy Davidman, CS Lewis' wife. They address the idea of womanhood, how love builds up, and how faith is often very messy.




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Episode 148: The Mandalorian (Season 2)

"Wherever I go, he goes." Steve and Christian watched season 2 of the amazing Disney+ series, "The Mandalorian." The guys discuss the difference between tradition and traditionalism; the empire's evil; and discerning the Way. Philanthropy Spotlight: We're also shining a light on the Astoria Food Pantry, a neighborhood mutual aid project that provides high-quality fresh food to 200 people per week. In 2021, they plan to both continue the programs that they started in 2020 and expand operations to some new projects to serve the community. Learn more on their website: https://www.astoriafoodpantry.com.




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Episode 149: Evermore

The girls take a listen to Taylor Swift's new new album, evermore. They discuss dealing with mistakes, life after death, and how repentance is not the same as getting off the hook.




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Episode 150: Soul

“Those really aren't purposes, 22. That's just regular old living.” Steven Christoforou and Christian Gonzalez watched the new Pixar movie, "Soul." The guys discuss spark vs purpose, lost souls, and living with gratitude. Philanthropy Spotlight: We're also shining a light on "The Second Liturgy," a podcast which explores how Orthodox Christians can partake fully, not just at the first altar we approach on Sundays, but also with our encounters with all people, especially those in need, throughout the week. Learn more on their website: ancientfaith.com/podcasts/secondliturgy




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Episode 151: Transcendent Kingdom

The girls discuss the novel, Transcendent Kingdom. They address issues of cross-pressure between belief and doubt, the role or purpose in our lives, and how the modern self is buffered against engagement with the transcendent.




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Episode 152: Community

"Cool. Cool cool cool." Steve and Christian watched the classic comedy series, "Community." The guys discuss plot-driver vs character-driven Christianity, unconditional love, and the importance of the table. Philanthropy Spotlight: We're also shining a light on "Reconciliation Services," non-profit serving in Kansas City, MO. Desiring to accept the challenge to “love thy neighbor,” they approach each person with dignity and love, seeing them as made in the image of God. Their programs strategically address community needs for affordable food access, safe environments to gather to combat social isolation and build positive community connections, and increased access to social and mental health services that lead to improved health and self-sufficiency. Learn more on their website: rs3101.org




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Episode 153: Ma Rainey's Black Bottom

The girls watched the Netflix film, Ma Rainey's Black Bottom. They discuss the emphasis on community over individualism, how death impacts life (and vice versa), as well as issues between races.




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Episode 155: Amanda Gorman's Poetry

The girls discuss the poetry of Amanda Gorman, the young poet who read her work at the inauguration and Super Bowl. They discuss themes of light and darkness, the way burdens can be inherited, and a vision of God's Kingdom.




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Episode 147: The Christmas Chronicles 1 & 2

"I'm Santa Claus, Teddy, not Yoda." Steve and Christian watched the delightful holiday movies, "The Christmas Chronicles" and "The Christmas Chronicles: Part Two" The guys discuss Santa Claus, pastoral care, the struggle to determine our identity, and a sacramental view of the world. ​ Philanthropy Spotlight: We're also shining a light on the FOCUS North America, a national movement of Orthodox Christians, united in faith and joined by a desire to provide action-oriented and sustainable solutions to poverty in communities across America. FOCUS has operations and youth volunteer experiences in more than 20 cities in the United States. Learn more on the parish website: https://focusnorthamerica.org/ ​




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Episode 156: Firefly Lane

The girls discuss the Netflix series, Firefly Lane. They touch on issues of self-discovery, the importance of friendship, and what constitutes a real relationship.




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Episode 157: WandaVision

"What is grief, if not love persevering?" Steve and Christian watched the new Disney+ series in the MCU, "WandaVision." The guys discuss grief, justice, power, and the cross-pressure of Secular3. Philanthropy Spotlight: We're also shining a light on "Philoptochos," the philanthropic arm of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America. Philoptochos fulfills its mission to “help the poor, the destitute, the hungry, the aged, the sick, the unemployed, the orphaned, the imprisoned, the widowed, those with disabilities and the victims of disasters through its National and Metropolis Boards and its 26,000 members and more than 400 active chapters, nationwide. Philoptochos responds immediately to needs and crises and its philanthropic outreach extends to each area of the country and throughout the world. In 2019, National Philoptochos distributed $1.7 million in philanthropic aid. Learn more on their website: philoptochos.org