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The Plugged In Show

Join Focus on the Family's media and culture analysts for lighthearted reviews for parents and conversation about entertainment, pop culture and technology. Through this 30-minute podcast from Focus on the Family, you'll hear practical information from a Biblical worldview to help guide decisions about what to watch, listen and visit. And connect to a ton of related Christian resources and articles.

Recent Episodes

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July 17, 2025

Episode 295: Jesus Glow, plus The Smurfs

Social media influencers are shaping the way the broader culture thinks about Jesus—in both good ways and some that might seem a bit questionable. The Plugged In team looks at the TikTok trend “Jesus Glow” and how it may impa...

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July 10, 2025

Episode 294: Superman, Mario Kart, and a Super Important Announcement

With another Superman movie flying into theaters, the Plugged In team examines the Superman character, the phenomenon, and why this superhero has stood the test of time. They also talk a bit about Mario Kart World, a new/old ...

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July 3, 2025

Episode 293: Jurassic World: Rebirth. Plus, Phishing Scams on Social Media

The Jurassic World: Rebirth film is coming out. Does it look dino-riffic? The Plugged In team looks at the newest installment and the franchise as a whole, letting you in on what you need to know. The team then discusses onli...

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June 26, 2025

Episode 292: Are Youth Finding Faith Again? Plus, Batman Begins Turns 20

We are seeing an increase in Gen-Zers seeking more answers to their faith questions. The Plugged In team explores this phenomenon and how technology and social media may be contributing to it. The team then reflects on Christ...

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June 19, 2025

Episode 291: Under the Skin - A Conversation about Nudity in Art and Entertainment. Plus, Elio!

Nudity is often seen in paintings and certain movies and television shows. The Plugged In team discusses the artistic (and gratuitous) use of nudity and offers thoughts on how your family can navigate that. Paul Asay then tal...

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June 12, 2025

Episode 290: How to Train Your Dragon. Plus, Bad Influencers

The Dreamworks’ classic How to Train Your Dragon returns to the big screen in a new live-action version. Kennedy Unthank of the Plugged In team talks with the movie’s director, Dean DeBlois to get some insider secrets on Toot...

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June 5, 2025

Episode 289: The Power of Music in Movies, plus, the Switch 2

Music can be powerful. It can shape us, inspire us, terrify us. And when it’s paired with a movie, we might not even notice how manipulative it can be. The Plugged In team reflects on cinematic songs and soundtracks and the i...

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May 29, 2025

Episode 288: The Scary Science of Screen Time. Plus, Bono’s Stories of Surrender

As parents, we want to help our kids develop healthy tech habits. But where do we start? Paul Asay of the Plugged In team speaks with Melanie Hempe, founder of ScreenStrong, and Dr. Danny Huerta, Vice President of Focus on th...

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May 22, 2025

Episode 287: AI in Entertainment & Technology, plus Lilo & Stitch

AI is infiltrating entertainment and technology. The Plugged In team examines the potential impacts and what they could mean for your family. Bret Eckelberry then talks with Emily Tsiao about the new live action Disney movie ...

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May 15, 2025

Episode 286: Does Summertime Mean Screentime? Plus, Christian YouTubers

As school releases and summertime approaches, kids have a lot more free time. But does that mean more screentime? The Plugged In team says no and offers some thoughts on how to keep your child engaged without being on a scree...

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