Podcasts

A few years ago I discovered the beauty of a podcast which allowed access to ROD (radio-on-demand).  Not only did it provide great access to such programming, but its format allowed for virtually anyone with minimal recording gear and a computer to host their own podcast.  This leads to programming of all different varieties and levels of quality.  However, there is some excellent stuff out there.

 Here are some of the podcast that I enjoy the most (I wish I had more time to listen to it all):

• Relevant - off-the-wall, quirky, and cohesive podcast fills the void that exists in all the world’s hipsters longing for a new indie rocker to push.  I go through streaks with this one as my tastes differ from season to season.  Usually has a great perspective on the fusion of faith and culture.
• Simple Youth Ministry – it’s the basic show of answering questions written in by listeners.  Has some humor, but its greatest appeal is how it feels like a friend sitting next to you on the lonely days in ministry.
• Mars Hill (Seattle) - Mark Driscoll is one of my favorite Bible teachers because of his thorough use of scripture while teaching systematic theology.  I also like his sense of humor (although some might find him offensive).
• Mars Hill (Grand Rapids) – I like Rob Bell’s Nooma videos much more than I like his teaching, but he still has some good stuff.  His deep knowledge of Hebrew culture brings life to passages that often seem dry and is very interesting (for Bible nerds like me).  Personally, I find him to be a bit too eco/green/tree-hugger at times, but many of my friends listen every week.
• Cornerstone (Simi Valley) - Francis Chan is really good and speaks to the heart of the deepest issues that face American suburbanites.
• NPR (National Public Radio) - I usually listen on my drive to work and don’t go online too much for their content, but Fresh Air always has interesting interviews (in subdued, soft voices).
• Coffee Break Spanish - I really like this podcast for learning Spanish.  There are guides for every language imaginable, this is just the one I’ve found.

There are many, many podcasts available at your disposal with a quick download of iTunes.  Regardless of your likes and tastes, there is a podcast out there for you.  Happy listening.

The All-American Gay Man

BTW, the commercial about the “all-American gay man” just came on TV (it’s happening in AZ…not sure about elsewhere).  See it here.   I’m not really sure what the message the commercial is trying to convey.  The guy tells us how he has loving parents and graduated college only to follow it with informing the audience that he has HIV and he’s lucky to be alive and not alone.  Then “we have more work to do” flashes across the screen.

Turns out the ads are put out by www.cablepositive.com.  Their goal is to help educate the public about HIV and AIDS through television (as this is where most Americans cite their learning).  Their website has some good info and gives a TV schedule for when there are showings of programs that support this group’s message.

I really like the goals and the logic of the group, but am perplexed by this commercial because it really doesn’t tell you anything pertinent about their organization or purpose (which I support).  Unless you go to the website, all you get out of this is a disconnected 30-second story that makes you glad such to be inching closer to your desired program of the moment.

starting anew

Perhaps it’s the new year roohaha or just a sudden inclination tonight.  Either way, I’m moving on from blogger and entering the world of wordpress.  You can still view my blogger at www.imuncovered.blogspot.com.  This year I’m dedicated to updating this more often and making it a worthwhile read.  From time to time you may find copied content from my postings on www.youthesource.com.  So here’s to a new start with a new template and hopefully worthwhile thoughts and info.