The Comedian Next Door

Sorry this episode is a tad late, Neighbor. We're enjoying this week with our friend from Australia, Jasmine! Listen to the playful chatter for awhile... Then, help us determine the difference between a Friend and a Fan!

Sound Bites "I'm actually... You can't see the sweat, but I've got two little sweat marks on my shirt.""I brought the incredibly funny Lisa Gilbert who has a Dry Bar special out and what's it called? All the Time Tired.""No outside carry-in food, drink or ice cream products. That's literally what it said.""That sounds like barbaric to me. That sounds like something that you wouldn't need to do in modern times, Brian.""Yeah, I like it. I'm a fan. I get that in the sushi, so.""He misses a lot of spots, so I still have a lot of work to do, but it's still helpful.""Santa's dead.""The responsibility of my kids still believing in Santa or not is not mine as a parent. It's not for me to tell them. I'm not going to have blood on my hands. It is all the kids on the playground.""I'm not signing for a fake guy anymore."  

We have an important question for you today:  when you travel, do you unpack your suitcase and put things in the hotel dresser??? And speaking of traveling, the Peaches has a HOT TIP for packing clothes for lots of kids!   Then: here's a sermon illustration you probably should NOT use... and an example of the world's worst Humor Sermon.  Later: Put on your serious pants, because we have another important question. Can you be a homeschool parent if you think Elon Musk is smart?  The internet sounds off. Finally, contact the Comedian's family to tell us how many days a retreat or conference needs to last...  [email protected] 

Imagine our shock and horror when we realized this gem had been skipped over!  It's here now and that's all that matters.   "Why have we never seen a book written from the opposite perspective?" "Men don't mind being objectified. That's every man's dream." "In this dystopian future, men would be content with their role as sex slaves." "Kids start to act better during December because Christmas is coming" "What they should do is take your annual raise and divide it by 52" "When she's mad, she doesn't care that she's taller than me" "Boredom for parents is just a distant dream" "Nothing thrills me like washing the dishes" "Boredom is intended to be a punishment"

Welcome to the table, Neighbor.  Is there anything more manly than mowing your lawn?   Modern gas cans suuuuuuuck.  And also--if you have a bald baby girl, just put a bow on her head when you're going out! It will be a courtesy to strangers in public... To contact The Comedian's Family, email [email protected] . 

Sound Bites "I made a sound, a pretty girly, feminine sound.""He was clinging to my arm as I tried to get him off.""Hornets are the jerks of the animal world.""There aren't very many cool injuries though, really.""Yeah, or you were trying to like rescue somebody from like, you know, push a car out of the street or something.""I don't ever want to be stung by anything that isn't a murder hornet.""Leaving early at a thing that you enjoy. That's funny.""It's like, spoiler, Dorothy makes it home in The Wizard of Oz.""It's like you're not getting out of the parking lot before me, pal.""War of the Worlds, the movie by Orson Welles, before inspired by the radio play by Orson Welles, inspired by the short story by Jules Verne written in 1890? That ending?""My dad likes to arrive everywhere early. He  also likes to leave everywhere early""It's not even watered down mango juice. I know you don't like the taste of mango."  

The McKinney's have BIG NEWS.  (So, here's an obscure quote from an old movie... do you recognize it?) We chat about all the horn-tooting compliments we've received this week.  Then: John shares another example of "men can't win" with the Feminists, no matter what they do. Later:  You get to hear the advice that John shared with a Highschool-age Peaches YEARS AGO and has been repeated countless times since... Finally:  What would you do in a crisis situation? Would you steal? Murder? Eat your loved ones? Who really knows for sure????? Christians really need to stop saying they may or may not act like Pagans when they're caught in a hurricane and forced to sin...   Contact the Comedian's family by emailing [email protected]  

Takeaways Natural conversation is key in stand-up comedy, and segues are not always necessary.Internet connectivity can be unpredictable, causing interruptions in online conversations.The ironclad beetle is a fascinating creature that can withstand immense pressure.Being in the same room during a podcast recording can eliminate technical issues and improve the overall experience. Incorporating elements of a rock concert into a comedy show can add excitement and enhance the comedic experience.Audience participation can be a fun and engaging way to involve the crowd in the comedy show.Breaking up with a realtor can be awkward, but it's important to be upfront and honest about your decision.The real estate industry can be confusing, with different types of agents and agreements, but it's important to understand the process when buying or selling a house. Sound Bites "You don't need segues, just transition to whatever it is and who cares.""There's a beetle that you can drive a car over and not crush it.""They're testing sharks for cocaine.""There's no bad time to worship John.""I could do a comedy rock and roll show or a rock comedy show.""The more low budget, the better with all of this stuff, the more garage made."  

Welcome, Pkarghl!  The Pod Ninja saw a church sign that he didn't like very much...  If you want to make things REALLY WEIRD for the men at your church, John and Luke can tell you how.  Then: God is very mad at librarians...  But let John tell you about his conversation with Sheila Gregoire first. Later:  If you want the PERFECT GAME for bossy women--may we suggest The Sims?  Or Roller Coaster Tycoon?   Contact the comedian's family by emailing [email protected] 

Just me and Luke today. We manage to discuss some important concepts even without Brian and Juan. Takeaways Honesty in social interactions can lead to better understanding and communication.Sometimes we do things we don't want to do to accommodate our spouses or loved ones.Different people have different approaches to activities and hobbies.The discovery of sharks with cocaine in their system raises questions about drug use in aquatic animals. Sound Bites "So you'd rather the honesty of knowing that you were not as good as something else?""I don't think that you necessarily have to want to go to a place in order to go to a place if your wife wants you to go there.""There's so many things that I want to know about. Specifically, I want to know how long the guy who tests drugs, who tests sharks for drugs, I want to know how long he's been doing that job."  

Hey, Neighbor. If this is your first episode--please don't assume we ALWAYS talk about bodily functions...  But, we're talking about them today.  Two-month-old Bridger's life has improved significantly since probiotics turned his poo yellow. (That's the color a breastfed baby's poo is SUPPOSED to be.)  From there, the conversation about ways to heal your gut biome just gets weirder and weirder... Joe stops in temporarily, to offer his expert opinion about fecal transplants.  Later:  John wants to talk about the Steve Lawson Scandal, even though nobody at his church knows who Steve Lawson is... Contact the Comedian's family by emailing [email protected]

The gang dives into theme songs, chronic pain, and the mysterious allure of pickup trucks. We swap hilarious stories about cigarette lighters, Fourth of July shenanigans, and the quirks of patriotism. Things get wild with tales of fireworks, vending machine ammo, and our lack of culinary snobbery—let’s just say we’re not foodies! We wrap up with a light chat about edible bowls and a missing host. You're welcome to tag along!

Hey, Neighbor! The McKinney Kids are at the table for another improv game.   They answer some important questions--just one word at a time. We love laughing with these crazy characters... How do you know you've had a great birthday party? What's the best way to get rid of hornets? How do you make a birdhouse? Find out on today's episode. Email the Comedian's Family at [email protected]

This wasn't the right episode at first....but it is now. The gang gets nostalgic about cars, laughing over how we remember them more than people’s names. We joke about using cars as nicknames—hilarious or creepy? You decide. We also dive into the quirks of self-checkout machines and their fake gratitude, wishing they’d just give us a sarcastic “thanks.” Then, it’s all about weird food combos, like ice cream on hot stuff (why?), fried ice cream, and the genius idea of a cookie dough caulking gun. We wrap things up with a silly take on the phonetic alphabet and Morse code.

You can't just sit and listen to a podcast, Pkarlgh!  The Podcast Ninja has spoken.   Turns out, all of our attention spans are shorter than we'd like...   What's the minimum amount of time you have to concentrate on something for it to count as "focus?" Then: Joe and Luke both have the sort of study habits that make their wives craaaaaazy.  Later: Play "guess that word" with Emmi's spelling test.   Contact the Comedian's family by emailing [email protected]. 

The gang, with special guest Curtis Crow, dives into the hilarious transition from young to old—think reading glasses, sensible shoes, and pharmacy apps. We also chat about the wacky world of Guinness World Records and the absurdity of some titles. Then, we tackle the ultimate culture clash: marriage. Cue the awkward gift-giving scenarios with white elephants and secret Santas, and brace yourself for the laugh-out-loud idea of the "Joelympics"—where regular folks compete in everyday tasks like grocery bag hauling and car packing. We wrap it up with some honest family talk, exploring the quirks of communication and the art of not offending Aunt Mildred.

Welcome to the table, Pkarghl!  We're joined by two, young McKinneys to play one of our favorite Family Improv games.  But first--allow Luke to tell you about his latest KILL... Then, Cami and Collin help us demonstrate how easy it is to create comedy without ANY advanced planning or set-up!  Email the Comedian's family at [email protected].  And don't forget to pray for The Peaches' thighs!

If you like outlines, you're going to LOVE this week's  synopsis! Navigating life with oblivious kids? You'll need the patience of a saint and a sense of humor the size of Texas. Roughhousing: where childhood fun meets a near-certain trip to the ER. Gold mining: a high-stakes game of “Will I strike it rich or just strike out?” TV shows: where even the simplest task turns into a life-or-death struggle, because who needs realism? Reality TV: more about dramatic glances and less about actually doing the thing they’re supposed to be doing. Society’s greatest hits: pretending you’ll keep in touch, and convincing yourself that all babies are adorable. Asking real questions: it’s rude until it’s not, and suddenly, you’re deep in conversation about life’s big mysteries. Social interactions could use a lot less small talk and a lot more “Let’s be real for once.”

Hey, Neighbor, the family almost had to do this episode WITHOUT the Comedian because John is passing a kidney stone.  But he is present and soldiering on! (If you struggle with the same ailment, Luke has a suggestion for something to try.)  Drink more water, find the nearest theme park, and try to get some "bang" for your buck.  Next:  John and his wife are landlords who have been fighting a legal battle with a group of squatters for over a year... The whole Branyan family pitched in this weekend, to help clean up the mess left behind by these people.  Why would someone hang a boat motor from a tree? Maybe for the same reason they would keep a rotting deer head in their kitchen?  Or a hollowed out tree stump full of scrap metal?  Later:  Let's try to make sense of the fact that some human beings actually live in that sort of squalor (and refuse to pay any bills).  What causes someone to make those sorts of decisions? And if you've never read the Lord of the Flies, tune in for a quick summary of what you're missing. Email the Comedian's family at [email protected].

Juan kicks things off with a wild tale about his dad’s mysterious age and a hilarious take on Tom Brady’s Hertz commercials. Things get deep with a chat about gratitude—like how hard it is to find new stuff to be thankful for without rolling your eyes. Then, they dive into the evolution of pants and why wearing them low is a fashion fail. They also touch on credit scores, organic food, and the odd value of a perfect score. And if you think that's random, wait till they introduce the Humpty Dumpty scale for fall risk and debate World War I interest rates! It’s a whirlwind of laughs and life’s quirks.

Tabby's at the table--with her enormous baby.  He's even bigger than a baby panda! Next, Luke did a show with Chris Farley's brother, and he unintentionally gave us a GREAT new marketing idea!  (How much would YOU pay for a lousy T-shirt???) Later:  John reads a piece of sage wisdom...   Who cares what your parents think? Defer to your children instead! Join the conversation, Neighbor! Contact the Comedian's family by emailing [email protected] . 

The guys discuss the idea of celebrities doing ordinary things and how it becomes news. What about a service where normal people can hire paparazzi to make them feel famous? Luke talks about the joy of gift-giving and the pressure to find the perfect gift. There is some anxiety in gift exchanges. Technology is impacting amusement parks and  algorithms control our lives. At Disney World, anything counts as an 'attraction.'

Welcome to another Sunday evening at the Branyan/McKinney table--after another great Sabbath day of family fellowship and DISC GOLF.  Yes, The Peaches will allow a Disc Golf Recap today, since her husband accomplished something totally world-changing... Then:  John's yardwork adventures aren't getting any less painful.  Hear the latest injury story, especially if it has been awhile since you considered the danger of using a chainsaw near stinging insects.  Later: Some Christians really are shocked--SHOCKED--about how "quickly" the culture is declining. To them it seems it happened over night. But at least they're shockable, right? Their eyes are apparently working, even though they're a little slow on the uptake.    The big kids are making a happy ruckus in the background, and the newborn fusses (just a little) in his daddy's arms. If you want to be part of it all, tune in! Contact the Comedian's family by emailing [email protected]  

Hey, Neighbor!  John has some things he wants to say--while the Peaches and the Pod Ninja ignore him... Did you hear about the man (or is it a woman?) who failed the gender test in women's boxing? Did you know even CONSERVATIVES are struggling to understand what makes someone a woman? Tune in for this biology-heavy lecture on female hormones, fertility cycles, and--oh yeah--all of our headphones are broken, so listen while we complain about that.  Baby Bridger makes himself known a time or two as well.  It's a pretty typical Sunday at the Comedian's house! Email the Comedian's family at [email protected].  

Another riff session with the gang. Among other topics, we discuss the intrigue of candy hearts and how the Handmaid's Tale would be a different story from the male perspective.

John is sweaty. Peaches is sweaty. But the baby doesn't mind... Luke hurt his tongue...twice. And, eventually we get around to talking about being "counter-cultural."  Viva la Revolucion!  You can email the Comedian's family at [email protected].

Join us as we workshop some ideas for comedy. It's possible you'll have a laugh, but we can't promise that.

New Baby Bridger is at the table! He has been a little cranky lately, so we'll see if he makes himself heard... The baby is hearing and smelling new things, while old men are LOSING those senses. John remembers the old man neighbor who used to "putter" around and do Old Man things when John was a kid.  That's the neighbor whose bushes were set on fire by Bob Branyan... Let us tell you the story! Later: John had a brief conversation with a Christian lady about "unity." But did she really mean "just agree with me"? Email the Comedian's family at [email protected] .     

We're riffing on the destructive force of children, pro wrestling, and the back of IKEA stores. Plus some other random thoughts. Join us for another comedy writing session.

 It’s just you and me. No other podcast pals, just us. So, if you’ve been with us before, you know there was a baby on the way. Well, that baby has now made his grand entrance, and as predicted, it’s shaken up the podcast schedule. I feared the podcast might be canceled, but The Peaches assured me, "No worries, Dad, I'll pop out the baby, and we’ll be back on track, no big deal." Fast forward a couple of weeks, and here I am, solo at the mic because my usual crew is at the hospital with the newborn boy. My kids have been griping about our intro music, calling it not just mediocre, but downright bad. So, I decided to skip it this week. Maybe it’s time for a new format: no music, just straight into the chatter. Let me know what you think. Now, about the baby. His name is Bridger Luke Michael McKinney. That’s right, Bridger. Not Alexander, which I was half-expecting because Amanda was adamantly saying it wouldn’t be Alexander. But no, it's Bridger. And like all new names, it feels a bit odd. Babies are weird little strangers when they first arrive, but eventually, they grow into their names. Soon enough, Bridger will be running around, and it’ll be the perfect fit. On a personal note, I got new hearing aids. The old ones conked out, so now I'm trying to get used to the new ones. It's like discovering sound all over again. I can hear leaves rustling and kids playing from a distance. It’s a game-changer, though my comedy shows have taken a hit since I struggle to hear the audience. Speaking of senses, my taste and smell aren't what they used to be. I can barely smell coffee brewing unless I stick my nose right over the pot. Same goes for food. Everything tastes kind of the same unless it’s something drastic like a pepper versus a banana. So, if I ever compliment your cooking, take it with a grain of salt because I probably can’t taste how terrible it might be.

Join us for another comedy riff session. We'll talk about slow motion, Paul Bunyan's actual size, antiquated messaging systems and some other stuff. We had fun. Maybe you will too!

This is an absolute carnival of Branyan Family Improv.   That is to say, we're just shooting the breeze and telling stories... Hear us talk about: -Squeaky birthing balls and Lactation Chairs -Why milk is bad in New Mexico -What squirrels have in common with Jared Leto (spoilers: it's the way they talk) -Tech issues and new equipment -Fortunately/Unfortunately -And finally: Our new family project idea!   Plus...  There's a succulent in the middle of the table. We probably better stop to talk about it. Email the Comedian's family at [email protected]

We're launching a new show that will hopefully ease a bit of the pain caused by the end of SCQS. This is our first episode and we're pretty sure the format and production is going to change. But we gotta start somewhere.The Riff sessions are comedy writing workshops. We're taking a premise and 'riffing' ideas with fellow comedians. Enjoy!

HOW MANY BABIES ARE YOU PLANNING TO HAVE?!  Turns out, we've been fielding that question for over a decade... Next: did you know the very first automobile was tested in our town of Kokomo, Indiana?  Well... that's because it's not actually true.  But Kokomo still loves to call itself the City of Firsts.  (And we really are responsible for that loveable Big, Red Dog!) Still no McBaby... The Big Kids are drinking "coffee."  And John wants to talk about the Presidential Debate that he didn't watch. Later: a shocking number of people can't figure out when they're talking to a robot...or when they're sharing photos of a "missing person" who is actually a plastic doll.  How does THAT affect the voting situation?  Join us at the table, Neighbor! 

Hi, Neigbor! We're going to have another baby in a matter of moments! Though...it could be many, many moments before the event actually happens... It's HOT and some of us are very puffy while others are very burnt.  John is worried that the Peaches can't record a podcast after the baby is born.  But there are ways to make it happen! It's all about priorities! Then: The whole extended family was out in the woods this week... Apparently, the First Graders have been internalizing that Post-Mil Theology!  (Kids who are surrounded by aunts and uncles and babies look forward to building their own families someday.) Later: Why are we so excited about posting the Ten Commandments in school?    Is this a small baby-step toward cultural victory?    Or are the majority of Christians completely confused about how the Word of God actually works itself into the human mind and heart? We're out here trying to build shrines and cast Bible Spells!  Jesus-cadabra! Email the Comedian's family at [email protected]

Tabby brought her new baby, and Andrew is home on military leave!  So--join us for a noisy chat, Branyan Sibling Style.  What does an unmarried 25-year-old male think is an average size for a newborn?  And whose fault is it, really, that Andrew is always the last to hear family news? You be the judge, Neighbor. And, Later:  Does God care about tattoos and cigarettes?   (Just ask your favorite 90's pop star!) Email the Comedian's family at [email protected]

Hey, Neighbor!  Luke's microphone isn't switched on, and it distracts us from sharing all the intricate Baby Details.  But--rest assured--Tabby had her baby.   While the Peaches was supporting the birthing mother, Juan and John and Luke were attending the Christian Comedy Association Conference.  There were some very encouraging testimonies shared during that time.  Luke wonders if churches should make space for MORE testimonies to be shared on Sunday mornings... Later: Why does the word "psychology" keep getting used as a synonym for "spirituality?"  Are they one in the same concept? Contact the Comedian's family by emailing [email protected] 

We have a special Someone at the table today--though we can't decide whether he's a "guest" or a "friend."  One thing we DO know for sure is, we are pretty slap-happy to have a few days with Juan DeVevo...Did you know disc golf brands like to NAME the various discs? Usually they come with names like "Punisher" or "Intimidater."  But Juan wants to market a line of more peaceful-sounding discs. Next: Tabby is in labor! Thus sayeth The Doula (though she really isn't qualified to say much else)... Then: What happens when an Atheist rejects religion and insists there's no such thing as evil, but then she experiences tremendous evil perpetuated against HERSELF?  (Spoiler: they do NOT suffer well.) Email the Comedian's family at [email protected]

Hey, Neighbor! The Comedian's family lives within 75 miles of the Indy 500 race track, so we settle a very important question:  does racing count as a "sport?"  And can we call the competitors "athletes" when they sit in a car all afternoon? Then:  Just a little more Labor/Birth talk... (Spoilers: Tabby is still pregnant!) (Also, apparently nobody knew what the date was when we recorded.)  Later:  A former contestant on the Bachelor is struggling with "fertility issues." Just wait until you hear what kind! And: have you heard what's happening in El Salvador?  Finally:  John ignores a call from his wife. And The McKinneys conducted their annual Book Burning. Here are the details.   You can contact the Comedian's Family by emailing [email protected] 

Last week, we were jolly and funny.  This week: some of us are a little grouchier...and sunburnt...  The Peaches' water bottle went missing at the soccer game.  And, what's with the lack of "booing" from the Branyan, McKinney, and Farkas section?!?! Where's the loyalty?!    Not to mention: John's 4-year-old grandson was being veeeeeery virtuous today. He couldn't help noticing himself. Playing organized sports can help develop a person's character!... but it's not automatic. Then: Luke was surprised to hear there's (yet another) couple divorcing in our local church body.  It's hard coming to terms with the fact that many families (even professing Christians) don't hold each other accountable.   How should we counsel those who are persuing a divorce?  What sort of "baggage" should a married couple expect, and how can they manage it?  Later: Why don't people like to communicate?  Well, the Ninja and the Peaches had a small falling out this week, and they share a few details.  It ended up being a fairly short (and relatively painless) process back to fellowship--thanks to practice.   But a few years ago, it would not have gone so smoothly... Email the Comedian's family at [email protected] .

Our family spent several hours sharing Big Thoughts after church (before we started recording), so now we're ready to just shoot the breeze... Join us for this lighthearted chat.   Why does Luke like spaghetti--but not lasagna? How many clothes can be squeezed into a standard washing machine?  John gives an update on his landscaping projects. (Spoiler: John is turning into an old man before our very eyes.) And--hey look--a rabbit in the yard!  Should we talk about Richard Dawkins being a "cultural Christian?"   Meh.  Too serious.  Let's not. See, Neighbor, not EVERY conversation deep and convicting.  (Oh, now Luke's parents are dropping off some patio furniture!)  There's some real life happening over at the Comedian's House, and you're invited to take a listen. Email the comedian's family at [email protected]. 

Hey, Neighbor!  There are babies due to be born in our family over the next few weeks, so we're talking about the birth process!  What do "real" contractions feel like? How can we distinguish between "early" labor and "active" labor?  Maybe you weren't expecting this conversation, Neighbor, but it sure beats talking about disc golf!   Riiiiiiiight? Next:  Communication with medical professionals can be challenging... (Here's an example.)  Then: Communication as a pastor/speaker can ALSO be callenging--especially if you're trying too hard to be profound or memorable.  (Here's an example.) (Also, here's our favorite riddle ever invented by a 3-year-old.)  Somewhere in the midst of all these topics, we have an excellent book idea for the Podcast Ninja! Don't forget to laugh, Carl.  Email the Comedian's Family at [email protected].  If nobody is in labor, we'll do our best to respond!

It's the season for MOLE HUNTING.  If you don't remember The Podcast Ninja's technique, he shares all the gory details again in this episode.  Next, John talks about his big plans to avoid yard work...   (Psssst, he's going to be sorely disappointed, Neighbor!)  Then, Luke tells us the thing that John shared at Church today that felt noteworthy and then he forgot and then remembered again.   People's actions will tell you what they really think.  It's easy to say, "I am a Christian who believes the Gospel."  But, the choices made in daily life will reveal much! Finally,  both "Christians" and "Atheists" in America are struggling with an Authority Problem.  We'll unpack that the best we can--but if you know, you know! Email the Comedian's Family at [email protected] . 

First, let's talk about making cake for no reason... And,we need a short word-study, because the word "bi-weekly" has too many definitions. Next:  John has been watching lots of videos of sermons from Charismatic preachers.  This false doctrine happens to be the very first theological question that Luke and the Peaches tackled before they got married! Later:  A friend of John's almost made him choke on his chicken caesar salad.  What sort of "authority" are Christians "supposed" to have when it comes to raising the dead? Finally: Luke wants to know, "Is believing a false Gospel the same as not being a Christian at all?"  How much truth about Jesus do you need in order to be saved? Email the Comedian's family at [email protected]    

Well, Neighbor, it has been TOO LONG since we talked about disc golf!  Go get yourself some discs, so you don't have to be left out of the recurring conversation.  Next:  We're going to answer all your questions about how to schedule your time...  No, wait, we're going to tell you whether or not to quit your job.   No, actually we're going to talk about productivity.  Luke feels guilty because he doesn't think he's bringing enough focus to his day job.  How should bosses and employees measure "productivity?"  (And what kind of "productivity" really brings the most value to the people you love?) There are so many different directions we could take this conversation! But, of course, it always comes back to home-education and family life.   Contact the Comedian's family by emailing [email protected] .

Hey, Neighbor!  Papa John's is selling a pizza featuring crispy "cuppy-roni."  This is worth mentioning at LEAST a few times this episode... Next: there has been a little bit on controversy in the Fight Laugh Feast network. (But, really, what else is new?) Sometimes listeners feel like their favorite hosts aren't practicing what they preach...  The Peaches thinks this speaks to the natural limitations of the podcast platform. It's impossible to get a complete picture of a person's beliefs, even if you consume several hours worth of their content every week! (There's sooooooo much that is still happening behind the scenes.)  It's possible to hear a message about "Rowdy Christians" multiple times and STILL not understand how to apply it, until you've spent more in-person time with the messenger. Later:   Some concepts and analogies we share on the podcast are not going to translate if listeners are not part of a real-life community.   Podcasts have their place! Sermons are valuable! But there is no substitute for committed, imtimate relationships, where true disciples are made.  Contact the Comedian's family by emailing [email protected]

Hey, neighbor! The Peaches and The Ninja have been together longer than they were "single."  They've gone by many names over the years...   But why does Uncle David call John "Scooter?" (Settle in, while Scooter unloads his coffee-related trauma.)  Then: HAPPY TRANS VISIBILITY DAY!  We actually know people--in real life--who have swallowed that Kool-Aid.  AND:  Our Comedy Clique has been talking about Foot-Washing Ceremonies.  Some good questions have been raised in the last few days!  What message is the Pope sending when he washes the feet of 12 female prisoners?  Is there a better way to demonstrate "servanthood' to a modern culture? Finally:  Jesus taught that being a servant makes you the GREATER in the Kingdom of Heaven. Many Christians are uncomfortable with the way they are elevated to places of Authority, while they keep trying to be perpetual doormats. How do we deal with the reality that our acts of service give us more responsibility and "power?"   Contact the Comedian's family, [email protected]    

It's basketball season, Neighbor, and our NCAA bracket is looking sad!  But legend has it, the Branyan kids once predicted all four of the Final Four teams and won enough money for John to retire for about two hours.  Also, there is DRAMA among the McKinney/West/Farkas cousins.  (No, nothing scandalous.) A group of actors, aged 13 and under, are producing their own musical theater show. It's the most adorable thing we've seen in a while. Next: If a person can't explain WHY the believe something, do they really even believe it? Use your words, Pkarlgh!   Pictures aren't really worth 1000 words, and you CAN'T preach the Gospel silently... Contact the Comedian's family by emailing [email protected] 

If you're tuning in for this episode, you will be among the first to sample The Podcast Ninja's new Outgoing Personality! (Tell us if you think he's not being "serious" enough.) We tackle other questions like: should men wear a suit and tie to church?  And should adults watch cartoons?... Later: If you want to add rocks to your health and wellness journey, we have a great opportunity for you!  (It's basically witchcraft--but it's all the rage.)   Email the Comedian's family: [email protected]  Tell us what kind of "crystal" John should take to the Quack Doctor's virtual event.  

Welcome to the table, Pkarlgh.  Our family participated in a huge fundraiser for our local Christian school--and we were very encouraged! Many hands make for light work... It's great to be part of a functioning community! Then:  If you're hearing us talk about this well-oiled machine and wishing your community was as Perfect as ours, let us remind you that we are very critical of parachurch organizations!  We really need to make some clarifications about WHY we focus on the Bad Stuff in the culture...  (Someone wrote to us and said, "I'm struggling to find a church that I can trust. I don't understand the different denominations, but I know you guys disagree with most of them...")  Keep this in mind at all times: God will not hold you accountable for things you DON'T understand; he holds you accountable for obeying what you DO understand. Later: Let's talk about the problem with popular Christian worship leaders. (But don't let fear of heretical music keep you from going to church!)  Email the Comedian's family at [email protected]. (But don't ask us questions that should be directed at your elders.  :) )