Episodes
July 13, 2022
Episode 137.5: The GentleMinion Phenomenon
A new TikTok challenge is erupting--and interrupting--in theaters across the country. On this bonus episode, Adam Holz and Paul Asay discuss the "GentleMinion" phenomenon surrounding the new Minions movie The Rise of Gru, why...
July 7, 2022
Episode 137: The Fun and Fumble of Fantasy Sports and The Rise of Gru and Thor: Love and Thunder
Fantasy sports started out as a fun way to imagine what it might be like to run your own team, but it’s become a hobby that can prove compulsive. The Plugged In team looks at fantasy sports and how this kind of competition co...
June 30, 2022
Episode 136: The Never-Ending Scroll & Elvis
We've all been there...spending hours online when we've intended to jump on, get the info we needed, and then to get back to “real life." The Plugged In team discusses why we get so wrapped up in our phones and why it's impor...
June 23, 2022
Episode 135: Virtual Babies and Lightyear
Believe it or not, tech companies are talking about the idea of virtual babies. The Plugged In team explores the impact this kind of technology could have on parenting and what this may mean for our culture as a whole. Paul A...
June 16, 2022
Episode 134: Interview with an Influencer & Jurassic World: Dominion
Your child wants to be an influencer. What does that mean? And what do they--and you--need to know? The Plugged In team talks with former influencer Andrew Armstrong about his experience with YouTube and what he learned throu...
June 9, 2022
Episode 133: Navigate or Avoid? How Do We Decide? Plus: Ms. Marvel
You may have noticed that The Plugged In team sometimes says you and your family can navigate content, while others might want to avoid it. When it comes to growing in media discernment, the important question is how do we kn...
June 2, 2022
Episode 132: A Look at Obi-Wan Kenobi and Stranger Things 4
Two of the biggest TV shows of the year recently hit streaming services--Obi-Wan Kenobi (Disney+) and Stranger Things Season 4 (Netflix). The Plugged In team examines both series and highlights what you need to know about eac...
May 26, 2022
Episode 131: I Kissed Disney+ Goodbye: Alternatives to Mainstream Streaming Services. Plus: LEGO Sta
With all the streaming services available, you may be wondering what is best for your family. The Plugged In team examines the growing constellation of Christian and family-friendly streaming alternatives. Adam Holz then talk...
May 19, 2022
Episode 130: Adult Animated Shows & Your Family, Plus: Top Gun: Maverick
You may have noticed that animated cartoons are not just for kids anymore! The Plugged In team discusses "adult" cartoons like The Simpsons, Family Guy, and Bob's Burgers and the impact they could have on your family. Adam Ho...
May 12, 2022
Episode 129: Hobby, Habit or Addiction: Bingeing Under the Microscope
Streaming services make it all too easy for you and your kids to continue watching shows after one episode is over. The Plugged In team examines the habit of binge-watching and how to navigate that as a family. Paul Asay then...
May 5, 2022
Episode 128: Dr. Strange and the Multiverse of Madness: Why Is One Storytelling Universe Not Enough
The latest Marvel movie, Dr. Strange and the Multiverse of Madness, hits theaters this week, and there's a lot you should know about it! The Plugged In team tackles the movie itself and the bigger discussion of the multiverse...
April 28, 2022
Episode 127: Digging Into Disney’s New Worldview...and Father Stu
Many of us grew up watching Disney movies and shows, but over the last few years, Disney seems to be embracing a different worldview that may not be one you want for your family. The Plugged In team examines Disney’s push to ...
April 21, 2022
Episode 126: Exploring the New Common Sense Media Census
Every couple of years, Common Sense Media releases its latest definitive report of what’s happening with kids, entertainment and screens. The Plugged In team discusses the results of the latest census, which will reveal some ...
April 14, 2022
Episode 125: Morbius, Moon Knight and Murky Superhero Spirituality. Plus, Just What are Dumbledore’s
The latest superhero movies and television shows seem to be darker than ever. The Plugged In team explores Marvel’s Morbius and Moon Knight, revealing all you need to know about the almost horror-like content in both. Paul As...
April 7, 2022
Episode 124: The Slap Heard ‘Round the World … Plus: Best-Picture Winner Coda
Every now and then, something happens on live television that immediately becomes an indelible part of pop culture history. The Plugged In team discusses the infamous moment that happened between Will Smith and Chris Rock at ...
March 31, 2022
Episode 123: Social Media State of the Union … Plus: When Calls the Heart
If you have teens or tweens, you’re probably grappling with the question of their social media use. The Plugged In team explores the various social media platforms—like TikTok, Instagram, and Discord—and the issues each one p...
March 24, 2022
Episode 122: And the Pluggie Goes to ... ?
Award season had begun—Grammys, Golden Globes, Oscars…Pluggies! The Plugged In team reveals the winners for their annual awards for 2021 in four categories—best Christian movies, best movies for adults, best movies for teens,...
March 17, 2022
Episode 121: We Don't Talk About Uno: Board Games and Other Things
Walking through the toy department at your favorite store, you may notice quite a few interesting and creative board games on the shelves. The Plugged In team discusses how playing board games can be fun and can also benefit ...
March 10, 2022
Episode 120: Swearing, Drinking & Plugged In
As the Plugged In team reviews various forms of entertainment for your family, one of the main categories they focus on is profanity. They explain the how and why behind keeping track of the language in movies, music, and mor...
March 3, 2022
Episode 119: Just When You Think It's Safe to Go Back to the Batcave
If you haven’t heard, a new Batman movie is about to hit theaters. The Plugged In team discusses the latest Dark Knight offering—with actor Robert Pattinson taking the helm—and what you need to know about it. They then kick o...
Feb. 24, 2022
Episode 118: Plugged In Talks to Focus on the Family's Jim Daly
Ever wonder how the president of Focus on the Family managed entertainment and technology in his home? Adam Holz has a conversation with Jim Daly about how he and his wife raised their boys in the face of screen time. He then...
Feb. 17, 2022
Episode 117: Online Sports Betting Ads and Death on the Nile.
The Super Bowl brings us friendly competition, football fun, and some crazy commercials—including ones highlighting online sports gambling. The Plugged In team discusses why we’re seeing a barrage of these ads and the impact ...
Feb. 10, 2022
Episode 116: Thinking About Violence and Profanity in Movies, and The Legend of Vox Machina
Many of today’s popular movies are full of violence and profanity. The Plugged In team takes a deep-dive into the way they use these two categories to review entertainment for your family. Adam Holz then talks with Paul Asay ...
Feb. 3, 2022
Episode 115: Plugged In Talks Movie Review Content and the Movie Belle
Have you ever wondered why Plugged In reviews things the way they do? The Plugged In team gives you an inside look at their review process and what kinds of content they cover. Adam Holz then talks with Bob Hoose about an ani...