The God Squad Pod

This week on The God Squad Podcast with Desimber Rose & Dillon Naber Cruz, we’re diving into a powerful listener question that gets personal, practical, and just a little uncomfortable (in the best way). Then we’re back with our signature segment: Breaking News, Bad Theology, unpacking Iran, Bondi, and Theology in the headlines that just doesn’t hold up.

If you’ve ever wondered how faith intersects with the chaos of the world around us—then tune in! 

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This week on The God Squad, we’re sitting down with one of the most provocative and inspiring voices in modern Christianity—Shane Claiborne.

Shane is a best-selling author, activist, and co-founder of Red Letter Christians, a movement centered on living out the actual words of Jesus—the “red letters”—with courage, compassion, and conviction.

From working alongside Mother Teresa in Calcutta to founding The Simple Way in Philadelphia, Shane has spent his life embodying a faith that refuses to stay comfortable. He’s been arrested advocating for the homeless, stood in war zones calling for peace, and...

This week on The God Squad, Dillon Naber Cruz and Desimber Rose sit down with Rabbi Danya Ruttenberg, the acclaimed Jewish scholar and author of On Repentance and Repair: Making Amends in an Unapologetic World. In a time when public apologies are often little more than PR damage control, Rabbi Ruttenberg brings ancient Jewish wisdom to a modern crisis of accountability.

Drawing from the teachings of the medieval philosopher Maimonides, Rabbi Ruttenberg explains what real repentance actually requires—truth-telling, repair of harm, and meaningful transformation—not just empty words. Together, Dillon and Desimber explore how these principles appl...

What Happens When Foreign Wars Get a Bible Verse?

This week, Dillon’s seat is being held down by author and theologian Matthew J. Distefano, who joins Desimber to unpack a week where geopolitics apparently came with a side of Revelation commentary.

First up: the newly launched war with Iran, which has already escalated across the region after coordinated U.S.– Israel strikes triggered retaliation and widening conflict in the Middle East. But the real theological curveball? Reports from service members say some commanders are telling troops the conflict is part of “God’s divine plan” an...

Dillon & Desimber are sitting down with author and podcaster Stuart Delony, creator of Snarky Faith and writer of the delightfully timely new book The Tribulation Survival Guide — because apparently, we’re all living in the group project from Revelation and nobody agreed to the assignment.

Stuart has built a following calling out toxic theology, spiritual manipulation, and end-times fear-mongering with wit, wisdom, and just enough holy sarcasm to keep it honest. In this episode, we’ll unpack why so many Christians are addicted to apocalyptic panic, what it actually means to survive spiritual chaos with your faith intact...

This week, the God Squad sits down with Author and Pastor Dr. Kevin Young, whose insightful new book "Reconstruct Your Faith: An Ancient Relationship for a Modern World" flips the script on everything we thought we knew about faith, doubt, and what it actually looks like to follow Jesus in an age of distraction and disillusionment. Whether you’ve ever wondered how ancient wisdom still applies to your daily walk, or you’re wrestling with questions no one seems brave enough to ask, Kevin brings clarity, courage, and a whole lot of compassion to the table.

Dillon & Desi...

This week's episode dives headfirst into the congressional hearing where Pam Bondi somehow managed to answer questions without actually answering… well… anything — especially when it comes to accountability for victims connected to the long-shadowed Jeffrey Epstein scandal and the ever-mysterious “files that apparently live in the witness protection program.” Expect receipts, righteous side-eye, and a reality check on what justice should look like when truth isn’t treated like classified gossip.

But it’s not all holy frustration — the crew flips the script in Religion Done Right, spotlighting pastors and faith leaders who are actually walking out the teachings of...

Tonight’s headlines remind us that theology isn’t just what we preach, it’s what we practice. When the Gospel confronts power, somebody has to decide whether love or law will have the last word. This week, we dive into the week’s headlines through a Gospel lens, asking not just what happened, but what would Jesus say about it? From immigration crackdowns and global conflict to institutional religion controversies, tonight’s stories reveal where politics, power, and piety collide… and where theology gets twisted along the way.

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This week on The God Squad, Dillon & Desimber take on a news cycle that feels more ruthless than righteous. From immigration raids involving children and manipulated images of protestors to global power plays and faith leaders pushing back, we put today’s headlines on trial against the teachings of Jesus. Join us Thursday at 8:00pm EST for Scripture, truth-telling, and a necessary reality check on what’s being done in God’s name—and what absolutely isn’t.

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This week, Dillon & Desimber tackle a wild week in the headlines — from civil liberties and immigration enforcement to truth distortion and the state of the church itself. We’re sifting through seven major stories to see where today’s headlines collide with the Gospel call to love our neighbors and follow Christ. Buckle up: truth, Scripture, and holy side-eye are coming!

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This week has been a theological cage match no one asked for — but everyone’s watching.... This week on The God Squad, Dillon & Desimber take on the headlines lighting up the nation, from protests and power plays to the growing tension between justice and compassion. What happens when political authority collides with gospel ethics — and which side does Jesus actually take? Join us live every Thursday at 8:00pm EST for faith, facts, and a little holy side-eye.

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Join hosts Dillon Naber Cruz and Pastor Desimber Rose every Thursday at 8 PM EST for a timely and thought-provoking episode of The God Squad.

In the wake of recent events making headlines nationally and globally—from unfolding developments in Venezuela to ongoing tensions and reckonings here in Minnesota—this conversation could not be more pertinent. We’re honored to welcome Keith Giles and Matthew Distefano of Quoir Publishing to discuss their new release, Trump vs. Jesus, a book challenging readers to wrestle with faith, power, politics, and the teachings of Christ in turbulent times. 

📖 Get the Book...

Join hosts Dillon & Desimber for a special holiday episode of The God Squad as we welcome Rabbi Seth Goldstein of Temple Beth Hatfiloh (Olympia, WA)!

We’re diving into the history, practice, and purpose of Hanukkah — from the origin story to the meaning of the menorah, modern celebrations, and why this festival of light still speaks powerfully today.

Whether you celebrate or you’re just curious, pull up a seat. It’s going to be warm, wise, joyful, and full of good conversation. 

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The God Squad is LIVE every Thursday at 5 PM PST! Tune in with Dillon & Desimber to get your weekly dose of faith, sanity, and politics. This week, the Squad talks about Trump's racism and sleepiness, as well as a particular essay from Oklahoma upperclassman Samantha Fulnecky.

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The Squad is Live with Pennsylvania State Representative Ismail "Izzy" Smith-Wade-El. Join us for a candid conversation about the state of politics, a nation divided, a recent election indicating a shift in the tide after a year of under the Trump Administrative, and what's next on deck for Rep Izzy. Tune In every Thursday @ 8pm EST for your dose of faith, sanity, and politics with Dillon & Desimber! 

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Join Dillon & Desimber on The God Squad LIVE to chop up Today's News.... The state of our Democracy, The Recent Election, The Epstein Files, and More... it's a wild week in the United States. Get your weekly dose of Faith, Sanity, and Politics tonight with The God Squad.

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Join hosts Dillon Naber Cruz and Desimber Rose for an engaging evening of theological discussion!

Featured Guest: Author Greg Carey

We'll dive deep into Greg Carey's compelling work, Rereading Revelation: Theology, Ethics, and Resistance, exploring fresh perspectives on one of the Bible's most misunderstood books. What does Revelation really say about power, resistance, and faithful witness in challenging times?

Dr. Carey invites us to reconsider how "our social and commercial entanglements may compromise our loyalty to Jesus Christ" and challenges us to read Revelation not as a roadmap to the end times, but...

The Squad is Back to chop it up with current events, the government shutdown, the Fake Ceasefire and all the shenanigans and shams that make up the present day reality in these United States of America. Tune in with Dillon & Desimber for your weekly dose of faith, sanity, and politics!

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We are back with another God Squad, and even though Desimber Rose is still on vacation, fear not because author, farmer, and publisher Matthew J. Distefano is here to fill in to discuss the latest in the world of politics. The Young Republican group chat has been leaked, JD Vance is planning a military display on No Kings Day, and lots more to discuss on this week's episode of The God Squad!

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We are back with another God Squad, and even though Desimber Rose is still on vacation, fear not because author, farmer, and publisher Matthew J. Distefano is here to fill in to discuss how we keep on keeping on in the midst of this exhausting fascistic takeover of the United States. Tune in and talk it out with Dillon & Desimber (and sometimes Matt) live every Thursday at 5 PM PST on The God Squad. 

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We are back with another God Squad, and even though Desimber Rose is on vacation, fear not because author, farmer, and publisher Matthew J. Distefano is here to fill in. Pete Hegseth delivered a dystopian and cringe speech to the US Military brass and the fundamentalist f***wittery presses on from the Religious Right. Tune in and talk it out with Dillon & Desimber (and sometimes Matt) live every Thursday at 5 PM PST on The God Squad. 

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We are back again with this week's news and the state of our nation under an ever-increasing oppressive administration. The First Amendment is under attack, corporations are bowing the knee to a thin-skinned President who doesn't believe networks should have a license if they don't have nice things to say about him... specifically. Where do we go from here... will the First Amendment survive the Trump Administration? Tune in and talk it out with Dillon & Desimber live every Thursday on The God Squad. 

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Join hosts Dillon Naber Cruz and Desimber Rose as they address the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk at Utah Valley University and the alarming rise of political violence in America. How does faith call us to respond to political violence? What is the church's role in healing our divided nation? Where do we go from here? Let's talk it out!

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Join Dillon & Desimber an interview with theologian, minister, and author, Bruce Epperly, one of the leading process theologians in the United States. So, what in the world is Process Theology? How does it impact modern religious doctrine and practice?  Let's find out together!

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The God Squad welcomes Kellie Snider to The God Squad Podcast. Kellie is a celebrated author, award-winning artist, and provocative content creator whose bold, politically-charged art and commentary challenge the dominant narratives about history, privilege, and democracy. Across platforms like YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok, Kellie weaves powerful visuals, daily “Woke Walks,” and commentary into a thoughtful mix that sparks curiosity and inspires change. Tune In every Thursday at 8 PM EST with Dillon & Desimber for your weekly dose of Faith, Politics, and Sanity with special guest Kellie Snider.

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The God Squad is BACK! And we've got Special Guest Brandan Robertson, Author of "Queer & Christian: Reclaiming The Bible, Our Faith, and Our Place at the Table" joining us this week.  Tune in for an in-depth discussion about what it means to be Queer and Christian... is that even possible? What does the Bible really have to say about it? Author, Activist, and Pastor Brandan Robertson is going to break it all down.

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This Thursday, August 7th at 8PM EST, The God Squad Podcast welcomed the one and only April Ajoy! Join Dillon & Desimber as we highlight April’s powerful deconstruction journey from Christian Nationalist Evangelicalism to Ex-Conservative advocate for Social Justice as we discuss her bold new book, Star Spangled Jesus -- a timely, thought-provoking look at faith, freedom, and reclaiming Jesus from the grip of nationalism. Tune in Thursdays for the Live Show, and available for download Friday wherever you listen to podcasts!

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Another week in the news, another week in the Twilight Zone called the United States under the Fascist Trump Regime and the Exposure of the Hypocrisy & Hate-Based Policies of Evangelical Politicians in Power. We're here to make it all make sense. Tune in every Thursday at 8 PM EST/5 PM PST with Dillon & Desimber for your weekly dose of faith, politics, and sanity on The God Squad LIVE!

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Guess Who's Back... Back Again! It's Dillon & Desimber with another episode of Faith, Sanity, & Politics. The question isn't What's happening in the News, it's WHAT'S NOT happening.... Why the Epstein Cover Up? Where are the Evangelicals on this matter? From the Lincoln Project to South Park, it's all adding up to Trump's terrible, no good, very bad week...

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You don't want to miss The God Squad this week. Dillon & Desimber will be Live with Author, Podcaster, and Award-Winning Bible Historian Dan McClellan, who has recently released "The Bible Says So: What We Get Right (and Wrong) About Scripture's Most Controversial Issues". Tune in as we dive into Dan's "Data over Dogma" approach to Christianity and all things Bible.

Use the code "godsquad" upon checkout at The Quollective to save an extra 10% off a yearly subscription.

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What does it mean to be Free? Has our country advanced toward or retreated from Freedom in the Trump Era of these United States of MAGAmerica? Have we "Made America Great Again" yet? Let's talk about the state of Freedom in the country vs. what the Scriptures say about Freedom and Liberty. Tune in for your weekly dose of Faith, Sanity, and Politics with Dillon & Desimber every Thursday @ 8:00PM EST.

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We're Celebrating The God Squad's One Year Anniversary! That's right, we've been on air for one whole year, 50+ episodes of Faith, Sanity, and Politics and we want to take a moment to thank our faithful viewers and listeners, and check out what in the world has transpired over the last 365 days... spoiler alert, it's been a doozy! 

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Desimber is back to join Dillon for another episode of The God Squad. With so much to talk about, the hosts get right into it to discuss the past week's political news and all the wild goings on in America and the world. Let's get into it and all things Faith, Sanity, and Politics every Thursday @ 8pm EST on The Squad. 

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Dillon is joined by former host Keith Giles to catch up on the latest in faith and politics. The past week has been wild, with the Trump Administration illegally sending the military in to Los Angeles. Let's get into it and all things Faith, Sanity, and Politics every Thursday @ 8pm EST on The Squad. 

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Dillon & Desimber are back to cover this week in The Twilight Zone we call the United States. Just days after exiting The White House Elon Musk is trashing the "Big Beautiful Bill" and encouraging voters to Fire All Republicans who voted for it... apparently the Billionaire Bros honeymoon is over. Let's get into it and all things Faith, Sanity, and Politics every Thursday @ 8pm EST on The Squad.

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Tune In for your weekly dose of Faith, Sanity, and Politics with Dillon & Desimber as we tackle another week in News, Religion, and a Nation under the rule of Oligarchs, Kleptocrats, & Billionaire Bozos. The silver lining is at least we can speak freely about it... for now, let's see how our Democracy and First Amendment Rights are holding up live every Thursday @ 8:00PM EST.

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The God Squad is joined by Special Guest Theologian, Social Media Influencer, and TOTTENHAM HOTSPUR SUPPORTER, Joseph Yoo, Priest & Vicar of Mosaic Episcopal Church of Houston, TX. We'll be discussing his unique approach to the Gospel, how he uses social media to spread the radical message of God's unconditional love, and his book, "When the Saints Go Flying In." Tune in for your weekly dose of Faith, Sanity, & Politics with Dillon & Desimber on The God Squad Live, every Thursday at 5 PM PST/8 PM EST.

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The God Squad is joined by Special Guest Author & Journalist Catherine Nixey! They dive into her latest book "Heretic: The Many Lives and Deaths of Jesus Christ" which leaps from century to century across continents and eras into little known images and iterations of Christ long forgotten and even deliberately buried to prop up and promote the Western version of Christ and Christianity. Join Dillon & Desimber for your weekly dose of Faith, Sanity, and Politics.

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Rabbi Seth Goldstein of Temple Beth Hatfiloh in Olympia, WA will be joining The God Squad This Thursday for an in-depth discussion on The Weaponization of Judaism against Women, Immigrants, and Democracy. Christian Nationalists in the government have created a false equivalency between speaking out against the genocide of Palestinians and Anti-Semitism, seeking to use Judaism as another wedge issue while actively rejecting the mission and ministry of Christ.

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We're 100 Days Into the Trump Regime, are we there yet?! The Squad is back this week with Dillon & Desimber trying to make sense of the world through faith, politics, and a side of sanity. Tune In to hear us break it down the twilight zone marathon that is the United States and tackle the rise of Christian Nationalism in US Politics.

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