Pop Culture Coffee Hour

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Steven Christoforou and Christian Gonzalez talk about pop culture, theology, and whatever else is on their minds. They might even make you laugh. Maybe. A joint production of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America and Ancient Faith Radio.

The Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America and Ancient Faith Radio


    • Jul 6, 2022 LATEST EPISODE
    • infrequent NEW EPISODES
    • 1h 11m AVG DURATION
    • 404 EPISODES

    4.8 from 143 ratings Listeners of Pop Culture Coffee Hour that love the show mention: coffee hour, orthodoxy, i'm also, steven, suggestion, 13, themes, christians, star wars, pop culture, guess, movies, faith, thought provoking, discussions, side, inspired, season, minutes, etc.


    Ivy Insights

    The Pop Culture Coffee Hour podcast is a delightful and insightful show that combines Orthodox Christianity with discussions about popular culture. As an Orthodox Christian myself, I find it fascinating to discover the hidden Christian messages in films and TV shows. The hosts, Christian and Steve, have a great dynamic and their Top Five segments add an extra layer of enjoyment to each episode. I highly recommend this podcast to both Orthodox and non-Orthodox listeners alike.

    One of the best aspects of this podcast is the way it connects pop culture to the ultimate Orthodox way of thinking and living. In a world filled with modern chaos, it's refreshing to hear interpretations that align with our Orthodox background. The hosts bring their own personal experiences and perspectives into the discussions, making them relatable and engaging. They strike a perfect balance between fun and thoughtful exploration of various themes present in popular culture. This podcast consistently inspires me to reflect on my own life and faith in a meaningful way.

    While there are many positives about this podcast, one potential drawback is that the first 10-15 minutes of each episode can be somewhat off-putting for some listeners. The inside jokes and folksy banter may feel like eavesdropping on private phone calls that aren't particularly interesting or relevant. However, once you get past these initial moments, the actual content of the show is often astonishingly fresh, inspired, and honest. It would benefit from depersonalizing the episode intros to make them more accessible to new listeners.

    In conclusion, The Pop Culture Coffee Hour podcast is an excellent resource for anyone interested in exploring the intersection between pop culture and faith through an Orthodox lens. The hosts' friendship shines through their lively banter and intelligent discussions on various topics. Despite a minor flaw in its introduction segments, this podcast never fails to entertain, inspire, and enlighten its audience. It's worth giving it a listen if you're looking for an enjoyable combination of fun, deep insights, and meaningful connections to our Orthodox faith.



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    Latest episodes from Pop Culture Coffee Hour

    Episode 200: The One Where They Say Goodbye

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 6, 2022


    It's been a wild ride, and now, after seven years, Christina, Steve, Emma, and Christian gather for the final episode Pop Culture Coffee Hour. They discuss the high points of the last 200 episodes, play some games, and have a whole lot of laughs. Listener voicemails and blooper reels abound in this series finale. Join the Wonder Twins and Headscarf Mafia as they lovingly say goodbye to the podcast and the faithful thirteen. All this and the introduction of a brand new, canine-based childhood curriculum. Agni Parthene (Dance & Do Not Sin Remix) was written and produced by Jim John Marks of Generative Sounds; this song and his other works can be found at generativesoundsjjm.bandcamp.com.

    Episode 200: The One Where They Say Goodbye

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 6, 2022 117:04


    It's been a wild ride, and now, after seven years, Christina, Steve, Emma, and Christian gather for the final episode Pop Culture Coffee Hour. They discuss the high points of the last 200 episodes, play some games, and have a whole lot of laughs. Listener voicemails and blooper reels abound in this series finale. Join the Wonder Twins and Headscarf Mafia as they lovingly say goodbye to the podcast and the faithful thirteen. All this and the introduction of a brand new, canine-based childhood curriculum. Agni Parthene (Dance & Do Not Sin Remix) was written and produced by Jim John Marks of Generative Sounds; this song and his other works can be found at generativesoundsjjm.bandcamp.com.

    Episode 199: Obi-Wan Kenobi

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 29, 2022 91:12


    Steve Christoforou and Christian Gonzalez discuss the new Disney+ series "Obi-Wan Kenobi." They explore the self, sacrifice, and the allure of the Dark Side.

    Episode 199: Obi-Wan Kenobi

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 24, 2022


    Steve Christoforou and Christian Gonzalez discuss the new Disney+ series "Obi-Wan Kenobi." They explore the self, sacrifice, and the allure of the Dark Side.

    Episode 193: Pray Away

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 22, 2022


    Steve and Christian are joined by Gregg Webb to discuss the new Netflix documentary, "Pray Away." Spoilers ahead! They explore struggle, identity, and pastoral care. Leave your comments for the 200th episode at 917-524-7483 (call or text) by July 1, 2022.

    Episode 194: Uprooted

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 22, 2022


    Christina and Emma, along with special guest and Effective Christian Ministry Cohort Director, Dr. Pres. Athanasia Kostakis, discuss the fantasy novel, Uprooted. They touch on how many gifts can work together, the responsibility of discipleship, and friendship. As always, what they're cooking. Leave your comments for the 200th episode at 917-524-7483 (call or text) by July 1, 2022.

    Episode 195: Mr. Morale and the Big Steppers

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 22, 2022


    Steve and Christian are joined by Dn. Rico Monge and David Paddison to discuss Kendrick Lamar's new album, "Mr. Morale and the Big Steppers." They explore identity, transformation, and trauma. Leave your comments for the 200th episode at 917-524-7483 (call or text) by July 1, 2022.

    Episode 197: The G Word with Adam Conover

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 22, 2022


    Steve and Christian discuss the new Netflix series, "The G Word with Adam Conover." They explore Christian approaches to politics, power, and the Kingdom of God. Leave your comments for the 200th episode at 917-524-7483 (call or text) by July 1, 2022.

    Episode 198: The Time Traveler's Wife

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 22, 2022


    Christina and Emma discuss The Time Traveler's Wife. They touch on themes such as trusting in God's providence, absence and waiting, and sticking with the present moment. And, of course, what they're cooking. Leave your comments for the 200th episode at 917-524-7483 (call or text) by July 1, 2022.

    Episode 198: The Time Traveler's Wife

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 22, 2022 51:10


    Christina and Emma discuss The Time Traveler's Wife. They touch on themes such as trusting in God's providence, absence and waiting, and sticking with the present moment. And, of course, what they're cooking. Leave your comments for the 200th episode at 917-524-7483 (call or text) by July 1, 2022.

    Episode 197: The G Word with Adam Conover

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 18, 2022 84:40


    Steve and Christian discuss the new Netflix series, "The G Word with Adam Conover." They explore Christian approaches to politics, power, and the Kingdom of God.

    Episode 196: Downton Abbey, A New Era

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 13, 2022


    Christina and Emma are back to discuss the new Downton Abbey movie! They discuss themes of growing up, changes, and preparation for death. As always, what they're cooking. Leave your comments for the 200th episode at 917-524-7483 (call or text).

    Episode 196: Downton Abbey, A New Era

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 8, 2022 56:26


    Christina and Emma are back to discuss the new Downton Abbey movie! They discuss themes of growing up, changes, and preparation for death. As always, what they're cooking. Leave your comments for the 200th episode at 917-524-7483 (call or text).

    Episode 195: Mr. Morale and the Big Steppers

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 1, 2022 100:38


    Steve and Christian are joined by Dn. Rico Monge and David Paddison to discuss Kendrick Lamar's new album, "Mr. Morale and the Big Steppers." They explore identity, transformation, and trauma.

    Episode 179: Spiderman: No Way Home

    Play Episode Listen Later May 25, 2022


    Steve and Christian are back to discuss the new MCU film, "Spiderman: No Way Home." Spoilers ahead! They explore restorative justice, loss and sacrifice, and identity.

    Episode 194: Uprooted

    Play Episode Listen Later May 25, 2022 69:31


    Christina and Emma, along with special guest and Effective Christian Ministry Cohort Director, Dr. Pres. Athanasia Kostakis, discuss the fantasy novel, Uprooted. They touch on how many gifts can work together, the responsibility of discipleship, and friendship. As always, what they're cooking.

    Episode 193: Pray Away

    Play Episode Listen Later May 18, 2022 88:16


    Steve and Christian are joined by Gregg Webb to discuss the new Netflix documentary, "Pray Away." Spoilers ahead! They explore struggle, identity, and pastoral care.

    Episode 192: Man of God

    Play Episode Listen Later May 11, 2022


    Christina and Steve watched the new film about Saint Nektarios, "Man of God." Spoilers ahead! They explore struggle, salvation, and the choice to live as faithful Christians.

    Episode 192: Man of God

    Play Episode Listen Later May 11, 2022 100:21


    Christina and Steve watched the new film about Saint Nektarios, "Man of God." Spoilers ahead! They explore struggle, salvation, and the choice to live as faithful Christians.

    Episode 191: The Batman

    Play Episode Listen Later May 4, 2022 78:36


    Steve and Christian explore the new DC superhero movie, "The Batman." Spoilers ahead! They explore lies, power, trauma, and radicalization.

    Episode 191: The Batman

    Play Episode Listen Later May 2, 2022


    Steve and Christian explore the new DC superhero movie, "The Batman." Spoilers ahead! They explore lies, power, trauma, and radicalization.

    Episode 190: Finding Neverland

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 27, 2022


    Christina and Emma discuss the 2004 film, Finding Neverland. They discuss themes such as how stories help us make sense of reality, the importance of the imagination for holding onto joy, and how the grief we carry transforms who we are. And as always, what they're cooking!

    Episode 190: Finding Neverland

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 27, 2022 49:38


    Christina and Emma discuss the 2004 film, Finding Neverland. They discuss themes such as how stories help us make sense of reality, the importance of the imagination for holding onto joy, and how the grief we carry transforms who we are. And as always, what they're cooking!

    Episode 189: Finding Frances (Nathan for You)

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 20, 2022 77:15


    Steve and Christian explore the series finale of "Nathan for You," a stand-alone film called "Finding Frances." Spoilers ahead! They explore love, regret, and reality.

    Episode 189: Finding Frances (Nathan for You)

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 18, 2022


    Steve and Christian explore the series finale of "Nathan for You," a stand-alone film called "Finding Frances." Spoilers ahead! They explore love, regret, and reality.

    Episode 188: Cheer

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 14, 2022


    Christina and Emma discuss the docuseries, Cheer. They touch on themes of belonging and healing, idolatry (even of the good stuff), and love. As always, they share what they're cooking.

    Episode 188: Cheer

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 14, 2022 57:20


    Christina and Emma discuss the docuseries, Cheer. They touch on themes of belonging and healing, idolatry (even of the good stuff), and love. As always, they share what they're cooking.

    Episode 187: Turning Red

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 7, 2022


    Erin joins Steve and Christian to explore the new Disney+ movie, "Turning Red." Spoilers ahead! They explore growing up, emotions, and love.

    Episode 187: Turning Red

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 6, 2022 87:47


    Erin joins Steve and Christian to explore the new Disney+ movie, "Turning Red." Spoilers ahead! They explore growing up, emotions, and love.

    Episode 186: Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, Season 4 (with Hibbah Kaileh)

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 30, 2022


    Christina and Emma invite Hibbah to join the conversation around the fourth season of the Amazon Prime Original, The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel. They discuss questions of what it means to be a woman, different types of friends, and community. All that, plus what they're cooking!

    maisel marvelous mrs amazon prime original marvelous mrs maisel season
    Episode 186: Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, Season 4 (with Hibbah Kaileh)

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 30, 2022 72:20


    Christina and Emma invite Hibbah to join the conversation around the fourth season of the Amazon Prime Original, The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel. They discuss questions of what it means to be a woman, different types of friends, and community. All that, plus what they're cooking!

    church culture theology orthodox maisel marvelous mrs amazon prime original marvelous mrs maisel season
    Episode 185: The Adam Project

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 23, 2022 78:44


    Steve and Christian explore the new Netflix movie, "The Adam Project." Spoilers ahead! They explore formation, character, and repentance.

    Episode 185: The Adam Project

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 22, 2022


    Steve and Christian explore the new Netflix movie, "The Adam Project." Spoilers ahead! They explore formation, character, and repentance.

    Episode 184: Cinderella Remix

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 16, 2022


    The girls discuss Cinderella and the various themes associated with her stories. This includes friends as helpers, the line between truth and lies, and the power of resilience in the face of adversity. All this, plus what they're cooking!

    Episode 184: Cinderella Remix

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 16, 2022 51:50


    The girls discuss Cinderella and the various themes associated with her stories. This includes friends as helpers, the line between truth and lies, and the power of resilience in the face of adversity. All this, plus what they're cooking!

    Episode 183: Matrix Resurrections

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 9, 2022 82:12


    Dn. Rico Monge joins Steve and Christian to discuss "Matrix Resurrections." Spoilers ahead! They explore humanity, freedom, and love.

    Episode 183: Matrix Resurrections

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 7, 2022


    Dn. Rico Monge joins Steve and Christian to discuss "Matrix Resurrections." Spoilers ahead! They explore humanity, freedom, and love.

    Episode 182: A River Enchanted

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 2, 2022 55:53


    The girls discuss the novel, A River Enchanted. They touch on how music has power, how love means trust and loyalty, and how home provides comfort. Plus, what they're cooking for meatfare week!

    Episode 182: A River Enchanted

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 1, 2022


    The girls discuss the novel, A River Enchanted. They touch on how music has power, how love means trust and loyalty, and how home provides comfort. Plus, what they're cooking for meatfare week!

    Episode 181: Am I Normal?

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 2, 2022 55:35


    The girls discuss a pair of podcasts, "Spectacle: An Unscripted History of Reality TV" and "Am I Normal?" They touch on topics like whether something being a cultural "norm" necessarily means it's "good," how we can build empathy for others, but also how easy it can be to slip into judgment and inauthenticity, plus, what they're cooking.

    Episode 181: Am I Normal?

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 2, 2022


    The girls discuss a pair of podcasts, "Spectacle: An Unscripted History of Reality TV" and "Am I Normal?" They touch on topics like whether something being a cultural "norm" necessarily means it's "good," how we can build empathy for others, but also how easy it can be to slip into judgment and inauthenticity, plus, what they're cooking.

    Episode 180: West Side Story

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 19, 2022


    The girls watched the new adaption of the classic musical West Side Story. They explore how time can change your perspective, the tension between hope and the reality of hurt, and the tragedy of rejecting Love.

    Episode 180: West Side Story

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 19, 2022 58:00


    The girls watched the new adaption of the classic musical West Side Story. They explore how time can change your perspective, the tension between hope and the reality of hurt, and the tragedy of rejecting Love.

    Episode 179: Spiderman: No Way Home

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 5, 2022 89:43


    Steve and Christian are back to discuss the new MCU film, "Spiderman: No Way Home." Spoilers ahead! They explore restorative justice, loss and sacrifice, and identity.

    Episode 177: The Rise and Fall of Mars Hill, part 2

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 29, 2021 97:01


    Steve and Christian are back to continue their discussion on the new Christianity Today podcast, "The Rise and Fall of Mars Hill." They explore authority, culture wars, and celebrity. christianitytoday.com/ct/podcasts/rise-and-fall-of-mars-hill Additional Resource: markdejesus.com/14-signs-spiritual-abuse Subscribe to "Pop Culture Coffee Hour" on Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen to podcasts. We do more than simply offer reviews. Just like a bee can take good things from flowers (and leave the rest behind), we can learn to take the good things from pop culture as we seek to open ourselves to Christ and His saving work in our lives. It's Orthodox Christian engagement with today's culture.

    Episode 177: The Rise and Fall of Mars Hill, part 2

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 28, 2021


    Steve and Christian are back to continue their discussion on the new Christianity Today podcast, "The Rise and Fall of Mars Hill." They explore authority, culture wars, and celebrity. christianitytoday.com/ct/podcasts/rise-and-fall-of-mars-hill Additional Resource: markdejesus.com/14-signs-spiritual-abuse Subscribe to "Pop Culture Coffee Hour" on Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen to podcasts. We do more than simply offer reviews. Just like a bee can take good things from flowers (and leave the rest behind), we can learn to take the good things from pop culture as we seek to open ourselves to Christ and His saving work in our lives. It's Orthodox Christian engagement with today's culture.

    Episode 177: The Rise and Fall of Mars Hill, part 1

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 28, 2021


    Steve and Christian discuss the new Christianity Today podcast, "The Rise and Fall of Mars Hill." This is part 1. They discuss authority, celebrity, and spiritual abuse. christianitytoday.com/ct/podcasts/rise-and-fall-of-mars-hill Additional Resource: markdejesus.com/14-signs-spiritual-abuse Subscribe to "Pop Culture Coffee Hour" on Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen to podcasts. We do more than simply offer reviews. Just like a bee can take good things from flowers (and leave the rest behind), we can learn to take the good things from pop culture as we seek to open ourselves to Christ and His saving work in our lives. It's Orthodox Christian engagement with today's culture.

    Episode 178: Encanto

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 22, 2021


    The girls and their guest, Dan, discuss the latest Disney/Pixar offering, Encanto. They discuss the how place (and the temple) impacts formation, how people are more than their gifts, and the healing power of forgiveness. As always, they close by discussing what they're cooking.

    Episode 178: Encanto

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 22, 2021 55:57


    The girls and their guest, Dan, discuss the latest Disney/Pixar offering, Encanto. They discuss the how place (and the temple) impacts formation, how people are more than their gifts, and the healing power of forgiveness. As always, they close by discussing what they're cooking.

    Episode 177: The Rise and Fall of Mars Hill

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 15, 2021 107:47


    Steve and Christian discuss the new Christianity Today podcast, "The Rise and Fall of Mars Hill." They discuss authority, celebrity, and spiritual abuse. christianitytoday.com/ct/podcasts/rise-and-fall-of-mars-hill Additional Resource: markdejesus.com/14-signs-spiritual-abuse Subscribe to "Pop Culture Coffee Hour" on Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen to podcasts. We do more than simply offer reviews. Just like a bee can take good things from flowers (and leave the rest behind), we can learn to take the good things from pop culture as we seek to open ourselves to Christ and His saving work in our lives. It's Orthodox Christian engagement with today's culture.

    Episode 176: The Lightkeeper

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 7, 2021


    SPOILER ALERT The girls discuss the Ancient Faith Publishing book, The Lightkeeper. They discuss the relationship between suffering and salvation and how love is both a choice and painful, but it is ultimately essential for a meaningful life.

    lightkeeper ancient faith publishing

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