With the new Marvel series "Loki" hitting Disney+, the Plugged In team unpacks the trend toward embracing anti-heroes onscreen. As these stories seemingly seek to generate sympathy for characters that we used to consider pure evil, lines are blurred. You’ll better understand the need to be in conversation with your family about knowing the difference and continuing to act as “heroes” in our own relationships with those in need all around us. Get the book "Burning Bush 2.0: How Pop Culture Replac...
Jun 24, 2021•36 min
Jumping from hit novels to hit TV shows and movies, the dystopian genre has taken the entertainment world by storm. The Plugged In team explores some these dark stories, particularly Hulu’s "The Handmaid’s Tale," discussing the positives and negatives. You’ll see how these stories have both content and worldview issues that need your attention if your kids are drawn to them. Get the book "Burning Bush 2.0: How Pop Culture Replaced the Prophet" for your donation of any amount: https://donate.focu...
Jun 17, 2021•33 min
The Plugged In team explores some of the movies and programs that romanticize broken, unhealthy relationships, and why we embrace them without a second thought. You’ll be encouraged to set emotion aside, think critically, and seek God’s wisdom about some of the choices your family might be considering. Get the book "Seven Traits of Effective Parenting" with your donation of any amount: https://donate.focusonthefamily.com/don-plugged-in-2021-01-07?refcd=1101703 Get more episode resources: https:/...
Jun 10, 2021•37 min
Whether we like it or not, our culture influences us. And the Plugged In team is no exception. They examine how certain popular culture phenomena have affected them, motivated some of their habits, and informed their emotions. You’ll see how your media options shape who you are, which is why you want to help your family make wise choices. Get the book "Burning Bush 2.0" with your donation of any amount: https://donate.focusonthefamily.com/don-plugged-in-2020-12-31?refcd=1098601 Get more episode ...
Jun 03, 2021•33 min
Disney’s "Cruella" screeches into theaters this Memorial Day weekend, exploring the origin story of "101 Dalmatians’" Cruella de Vil. The Plugged In team takes a look at Disney villains as a whole and examines how the new movie trends into the darker, grittier twists and turns Disney has taken the last few years. You’ll see why it’s critical to talk about the stories you and your family choose to engage in so you can address the ideas and values they deliver. Get the book "Burning Bush 2.0" with...
May 27, 2021•31 min
Plenty of kids under the age of 13 use Instagram, and big tech is trying to make it even easier for young users to get started on social media. The Plugged In team explains why this is a bad idea and equip you with what you need to know when it comes to kids and their online interactions. You'll gain some tools to help your child avoid the pitfalls that can come with social media. Get the book "Seven Traits of Effective Parenting" for your donation of any amount: https://donate.focusonthefamily....
May 20, 2021•35 min
Pop stars come and go. But sometimes their unique stories, behaviors, and cultural influences can leave a lasting impact. The Plugged In team explores the rise of recording artist Billie Eilish and some of her more recent choices in terms of self-expression. You’ll be encouraged to examine this phenomenon through the lens of a Christian worldview. Get the book "Seven Traits of Effective Parenting" for your donation of any amount: https://donate.focusonthefamily.com/don-plugged-in-2021-01-07?refc...
May 13, 2021•35 min
Hollywood significantly influences how we see things in our culture, including family and parenting. The Plugged In team explores the way movies and television reflect our daily lives, spinning stories with both drama and comedy. You'll better understand how the entertainment industry reflects and reinforces cultural values, which may not align with yours. Get the book "Seven Traits of Effective Parenting" for your donation of any amount: https://donate.focusonthefamily.com/don-plugged-in-2021-0...
May 06, 2021•37 min
The drama "Nomadland" just took the Oscar for best picture. Adam and Paul of the Plugged In team dig into the film and examine the themes relevant to the family. You’ll see that while some stories like "Nomadland" may challenge you and your family to go deeper in your faith, you still need to exercise discernment. Get the book "Burning Bush 2.0: How Pop Culture Replaced the Prophet" for your donation of any amount: https://donate.focusonthefamily.com/don-plugged-in-2020-12-31?refcd=1090205 Get m...
Apr 29, 2021•33 min
If your child has a screen, you’re likely facing an uphill battle with the amount of time spent with that digital device. Adam Holz, director of the Plugged In team, talks about screen time with Dr. Gary Chapman and Arlene Pellicane, authors of the book "Screen Kids: 5 Skills Every Child Needs in a Tech-Driven World." You’ll get some ideas on how to balance tech use and healthy boundaries to connect with your child. Get the book "Burning Bush 2.0: How Pop Culture Replaced the Prophet" for your d...
Apr 22, 2021•32 min
Some of the most popular television series and podcasts include dark, gritty, grisly stories of true crime. From serial killers to cold cases, the Plugged In team explores this genre and why we're drawn to it. While these real-life tales can be strangely captivating, you'll want to remain vigilant for your family in terms of exercising discernment. You'll pick up some strong insight on how to navigate these stories with a solid Biblical worldview. Get the book "Burning Bush 2.0: How Pop Culture ...
Apr 15, 2021•34 min
Entertainment can influence your attitudes, outlook and beliefs, and oftentimes, that influence is rather abstract. The Plugged In team examines a real-world case study that will help you see what cultural and worldview influence actually look like in a very concrete way to clue you into some of these hidden messages. You'll learn to ask questions and discuss them with your family to incorporate the discipline of spiritual media discernment. Get the book "Burning Bush 2.0: How Pop Culture Replac...
Apr 08, 2021•34 min
The life of Jesus has been depicted in many movies, including the latest biblical epic, "Resurrection," which debuted on Discovery+ this week. The Plugged In team reflects on their favorite films about Jesus and how these types of movies can deepen your faith. Still, the extra-Biblical nature of the stories and the violence of Jesus' crucifixion are things you'll want to think about carefully with your family, because some of those images may be more problematic than helpful. Get Jerry B. Jenkin...
Apr 01, 2021•32 min
As Disney introduces fans and families to "Raya & The Last Dragon," you may be wondering if it will be a good movie night option for your kids. The Plugged In team pushes a bit deeper into the use of mythological elements in "pop culture." Because these types of stories often weave threads of spiritual content that represent a different worldview than Christianity, you'll want to be aware of what your kids are watching and engage them in conversation. Get the book "Burning Bush 2.0: How Pop ...
Mar 25, 2021•31 min
With the Oscars, Golden Globes, and Grammys on the airwaves, it is Award season. It's time to add the Plugged In Movie Awards to the list! The Plugged In Team invites you to sit in on their deliberations as they choose their favorite films in each of four categories: Best Movies for Kids, for Teens, for Adults and Best Christian movies. You'll get a solid feel for available movie offerings and what might be best for your family. Get the book "Burning Bush 2.0: How Pop Culture Replaced the Prophe...
Mar 19, 2021•1 hr 2 min
The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has rolled out its list of nominees ... so what does that mean for your family? The Plugged In team reflects on their favorite Best Picture award winner throughout Oscar history and discusses several of the current contenders. You'll gain some perspective on what it looks like for you to pick winning movies to watch for yourself and your family. Get the book "Burning Bush 2.0: How Pop Culture Replaced the Prophet" for your donation of any amount: h...
Mar 18, 2021•34 min
Streaming apps, video game consoles, YouTube, and even your child's smart phone have ways to restrict harmful images and ideas. Are you taking advantage of parental controls? The Plugged In team examines why these barriers often aren't enough to help your kids safely navigate their digital worlds today. You'll get a better feel for how you can utilize some of these overwhelming parental controls as well as deepen the conversation with your child about their screen time. Get the book "Seven Trait...
Mar 11, 2021•34 min
Kids love video games, and Roblox has many of them hooked! But it's a more than just a fun game; it's a whole series of games and a creation platform under the Roblox banner. The Plugged In team recalls the video games they grew up with and how they have evolved over the last few decades. With a deep dive into the Roblox platform, they explain what you need to know as a parent and how you can navigate this digital universe with your child. Get the book "Seven Traits of Effective Parenting" for y...
Mar 04, 2021•32 min
Entertainment compels us to think deeply about the issues of our day and often drives us to make decisions based on feelings over more objective information or truth. The Plugged In team looks at the way our worldview can be swayed by the stories and culture around us. You'll learn how to engage your children in ways that teach and guide them through this seductive cultural lie. Get the book "Seven Traits of Effective Parenting" for your donation of any amount: https://donate.focusonthefamily.co...
Feb 25, 2021•36 min
While theaters and streaming services often promote the big Hollywood blockbusters, many other movies fly under the radar that touch on heart-wrenching topics like dementia, depression, and anxiety. The Plugged In team explores how Hollywood handles these delicate topics. You'll be encouraged to actively and intentionally engage your family with these stories, discerning truth and responding with wisdom to ideas that veer from what is true, right and noble. Get the book "Beauty in the Browns: Wa...
Feb 18, 2021•34 min
With blockbuster movies on COVID hiatus, we're engaging more with streaming services at home. Disney Plus' WandaVision is a breakout show that has drawn a lot of attention, delivering a unique mix of sitcoms and superheroes. The Plugged In team reflects on their favorite sitcoms and the alluring escapism of this type of program. You'll be inspired to think about your own television habits – and those of your family. Get the book "Burning Bush 2.0: How Pop Culture Replaced the Prophet" for your d...
Feb 11, 2021•31 min
The biggest football game of the year is here! With the Super Bowl coming up this weekend, the Plugged In team examines our culture's devotion to sports – an entertainment pursuit that we might not normally think in the same vein as the other forms of entertainment. You'll better understand the role you play as a parent in helping your child keep their favorite teams and athletes in the right perspective. Get the book "Seven Traits of Effective Parenting" for your donation of any amount: https:/...
Feb 04, 2021•31 min
Stories – whether they're in print or on film – or both – can powerfully shape our imagination as well as the way that we see the world. The Plugged In team reflects on the stories that had an impact on them and explores the relationship between movies and books. You'll be encouraged to intentionally engage with what you watch and read – and teach your children to do the same. Get the book "Burning Bush 2.0: How Pop Culture Replaced the Prophet" for your donation of any amount: https://donate.fo...
Jan 28, 2021•32 min
With the new year, you may have made a resolution or goal to help your family get healthy. The Plugged In team explores a few of the tech options available to reach that goal. You'll learn about some fun apps and video games that will get you and your family moving. Get the book "Seven Traits of Effective Parenting" for your donation of any amount: https://donate.focusonthefamily.com/don-plugged-in-2021-01-07?refcd=1048902 Get more episode resources: https://www.pluggedin.com/blog/the-plugged-in...
Jan 21, 2021•28 min
Thinking back to your teen years, you'll likely be able to construct the soundtrack of your favorite songs. The Plugged In team shares some of their teenage listening experiences and explores the current music landscape. As the lyrics in our kids' favorite songs exert influence, this conversation will give you some avenues to open dialogue and get involved with the messages and values being communicated. Get the book "Seven Traits of Effective Parenting" for your donation of any amount: https://...
Jan 14, 2021•31 min
You may see the new year as a chance to reset and have a fresh start, maybe including some of the habits you may have set in during the COVID lockdown. The Plugged In team recalls some of the tech boundaries they grew up with before the dive into questions you may have as your kids engage with digital entertainment. You'll be encouraged to intentionally connect with your children and set healthy boundaries that work for your family. Get the book "Seven Traits of Effective Parenting" for your don...
Jan 07, 2021•33 min
With a year like 2020 behind us and a new year ahead, you may be pondering life's meaning and significance. And Disney/Pixar's newest release "Soul" is raising similar questions. The Plugged In team reflects on the movies that have impacted them theologically and discusses this latest offering from Disney. You'll pick up some great points and tips to wade through these spiritual elements with your family. Get the book "Burning Bush 2.0: How Pop Culture Replaced the Prophet": https://donate.focus...
Dec 31, 2020•31 min
Christmas is full of memories, family ... and movies! The Plugged In team shares some of their favorite family traditions and movies they enjoy during the holiday season. You'll hear about some perennial favorites as well as some new offerings you may want to enjoy with your family. Get the book "Burning Bush 2.0: How Pop Culture Replaced the Prophet": https://donate.focusonthefamily.com/don-plugged-in-2020-12-24?refcd=1036901 Get more episode resources: https://www.pluggedin.com/blog/the-plugge...
Dec 24, 2020•35 min
The world of entertainment is packed full of fan franchises. The Plugged In team shares their favorite franchises and explore the draw of these different universes. You'll get a glimpse into some of the most popular franchises your kids enjoy and ways to be intentional with setting boundaries for them to connect with that entertainment. Get the book "Burning Bush 2.0: How Pop Culture Replaced the Prophet": https://donate.focusonthefamily.com/don-plugged-in-2020-12-17?refcd=1029506 Get more episo...
Dec 17, 2020•30 min
With Christmas on the horizon, family, traditions – and gift-giving – are likely on your mind. The Plugged In team reflects on their favorite holiday traditions and offers their Gift Giving – or Playing, or Streaming, or Listening – Guide. You'll get a solid reminder of why it's so important to exercise intentionality when it comes to any sort of entertainment or technological gift. Get the book "Teen's Guide to Face-to-Face Connections in a Screen-to-Screen World": https://donate.focusonthefami...
Dec 10, 2020•27 min
