Have a comment? Send us a text! (We read all of them but can't reply). Email us: Will@faithfulpoliticspodcast.com

Step into the cultural whirlwind of the late '90s with Ross Benes, author of 1999: The Year Low Culture Conquered America and Kickstarted Our Bizarre Times. In this episode, Will Wright and Ross dive deep into how pop culture phenomena—from Insane Clown Posse and Jerry Springer to Pokémon and Beanie Babies—shaped today’s political and societal landscape. They explore how "low culture" influences modern politics, religion, and consumer behavior, revealing surprising parallels between 1999 trends and current events. Whether it’s dissecting the "kayfabe" tactics of pro-wrestling or connecting moral panics like the satanic scare to today's misinformation epidemics, this conversation is a nostalgic yet critical look at how the '90s still echo in our world today.

Pre-Order the book, "1999 The Year Low Culture Conquered America and Kickstarted Our Bizarre Times": https://kansaspress.ku.edu/9780700638574/

Guest Bio
Ross Bennis is a critically acclaimed author and cultural commentator with expertise in media analysis and journalism. His work has been featured in renowned publications like Rolling Stone, Entertainment Weekly, and The Wall Street Journal. His latest book, 1999: The Year Low Culture Conquered America and Kickstarted Our Bizarre Times, delves into the cultural, political, and societal shifts of the late '90s that continue to influence America. Known for his keen insights and engaging storytelling, Ross brings a fresh perspective to understanding pop culture's profound impact on contemporary life.

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*We originally aired this episode in 2021 after the insurrection at the Capitol*


January 6th is a date that, before 2021, was a somewhat obscure date in the minds of most Americans. Many months after the general election, the victor of that contest has but one more hurdle to overcome, and until recently, was a benign and quiet event; the certification of the election. We talk with a Capitol Police Officer, Harry Dunn, who thought that day would unfold like all the others had over his 14 year career. But the events that occurred that day has shown us how fragile our democracy really is.

Special co-host, and previous guest, Corinna Lain sits with Will to chat with one of the courageous officers who experienced that day first hand. They discuss issues of racisms, religion, and talk about what everyday Americans can do to ensure it doesn't happen again. It's an interview that focuses less on the details of that day, and more on the moments before, after, and the future.

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To learn more about the show, contact our hosts, or recommend future guests, click on the links below:

• Website: https://www.faithfulpoliticspodcast.com/
• Faithful Host: Josh@faithfulpoliticspodcast.com
• Political Host: Will@faithfulpoliticspodcast.com
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This episode of Faithful Politics features Robert Callahan II, a Texas attorney, writer, and advocate, discussing his book, Fire in the Hole: Embracing Our Righteous Anger with White Christianity and Reclaiming Our Wholeness. The conversation explores the intersection of race, faith, and politics, focusing on the challenges faced by marginalized groups within white Christian spaces. Callahan shares how personal experiences, including the racial and political turmoil of 2020 and his struggles with spiritual abuse, inspired his writing. He highlights the role of righteous anger as a tool for transformation and discusses the systemic racism and prejudice often embedded in church culture. Alongside hosts Will Wright and Pastor Josh Burtram, Callahan dives into theological perspectives on reconciliation, activism, and maintaining faith amid injustice. This thought-provoking dialogue examines how Christians can embrace love, justice, and inclusion while addressing deep-seated cultural and institutional issues.

Learn more about our Guest: https://www.robertgcallahan.com

Guest Bio:
Robert is an accomplished attorney and author, dedicated to fighting for justice in his practice at Callahan & King, PLLC in Waco, Texas. He earned a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from Gonzaga University and a Juris Doctorate at Baylor University School of Law where he teaches a course entitled Integrating Faith and Legal Practice. In 2020, Robert was named Lawyer of the Year by the Texas Criminal Defense Lawyers' Association. As a writer, Robert has an undeniable talent for blending humor and insight as he tackles the issues of law, race, and religion. Robert and his wife celebrate an interracial marriage which has gifted them with three beautiful children, two demanding dogs, and a mountain of student loan debt.

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Please Help Support the show
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To learn more about the show, contact our hosts, or recommend future guests, click on the links below:

• Website: https://www.faithfulpoliticspodcast.com/
• Faithful Host: Josh@faithfulpoliticspodcast.com
• Political Host: Will@faithfulpoliticspodcast.com
• Twitter: @FaithfulPolitik
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