Processing

40 Episodes
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By: River Valley Church

Welcome to “Processing,” your weekly podcast where we discuss faith and culture hosted by Pastor Kirk Graham and Pastor Logan Ketterling. Each week, we dive into how faith and pop culture and what it means to live out our faith in today’s world. We answer questions submitted by our listeners with honest and biblically grounded answers. Join us as we process the big and small questions of life and faith together, one episode at a time. To learn more, visit our website at https://www.rivervalley.org/ or download the River Valley Church app.

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Faith & Politics, Party Loyalty & Why Your Vote Matters
Faith & Politics, Party Loyalty & Why Your Vote Matters episode artwork
#105
Today at 12:00 PM

Should Christians stay out of politics, or is our involvement more important than ever?

On this episode of the Processing Podcast, Logan sits down with Minnesota State Representative Ben Bakenberg to discuss the intersection of faith, politics, and the responsibility Christians have in shaping their communities. From the realities of working across party lines to the pressure politicians face to compromise their convictions, Ben shares an inside look at what really happens in government. Together, they unpack why local elections matter, how biblical values influence political decisions, and why your vote may carry more weight than you...


God's Timing & the State of America
God's Timing & the State of America episode artwork
#104
10/14/2026

What do God's timing, David's journey to becoming king, and the current state of America have in common? In this episode, we dive into the tension between God's promises and His timing, exploring what David's story teaches us about patience, preparation, and trusting God when life doesn't make sense.  We tackle immigration, assimilation, cultural identity, and the difficult conversations Christians shouldn't shy away from.  Through it all, we explore how to stand firm in our faith, love our neighbors, and navigate a changing world with wisdom and grace.


David & Goliath, God's Voice & Winning the Battle in Your Mind
David & Goliath, God's Voice & Winning the Battle in Your Mind episode artwork
#103
10/07/2026

What if the story of David and Goliath is about more than defeating the giant in front of you? In this episode, we talk about hearing God’s voice, remembering His faithfulness, and learning which voices deserve our attention. From fighting fear to speaking truth over our circumstances, this conversation is a reminder that no matter what giant you’re facing, God still gets the final word. 


The Antidote to Family Dysfunction
The Antidote to Family Dysfunction episode artwork
#102
09/30/2026

Logan sits down with his parents, Pastors Rob and Becca Ketterling, to talk about raising kids, releasing control, navigating family conflict, and learning how to influence your adult children without trying to manage their lives. From family dysfunction to grandparent boundaries, they share honest lessons from decades of parenting and the kind of wisdom you probably won’t get from AI.


Raising Godly Teenagers
Raising Godly Teenagers episode artwork
#101
09/23/2026

How do you raise kids who are ready for adulthood while helping them build a faith of their own?

Logan sits down with Carter and Paula to talk about what they’ve learned from raising seven kids and beginning to send them out into the world. They share practical wisdom on building independence, letting go, navigating dating and social media, teaching responsibility, and creating a home where faith becomes personal.

From college drop-offs to family adventures, this conversation is full of honest stories, laughs, and encouragement for parents in every season.


Episode 100! Vikings Win, Marriage & Parenting Young Kids
Episode 100! Vikings Win, Marriage & Parenting Young Kids episode artwork
#100
09/16/2026

Processing is back! Logan sits down with Davey and Nicole to talk about parenting, marriage, and everything they’ve learned while raising a family.

From the things no one prepares you for to learning how your priorities change as your family grows, they have an honest conversation about embracing the season you’re in, keeping your marriage strong, and being intentional with the time you have with your kids. They also talk about the role faith and community play in raising a family and why even the ordinary moments of parenting matter more than we sometimes realize.


Ten Things I've Learned From My Pastor
Ten Things I've Learned From My Pastor episode artwork
#99
08/19/2026

In his last regular episode as co-host, Kirk shares ten things he's learned from Pastor Rob over 15 years at River Valley on faith, generosity, trust, and how to leave a place well. Logan and Kirk look back on some of their favorite moments from the podcast, talk through what's next, and close with a heartfelt send-off as Kirk and his family head to Texas. 


Kirk's Big News, WNBA & Progressivism
Kirk's Big News, WNBA & Progressivism episode artwork
#98
08/12/2026

After 15 years at River Valley, Kirk shares the news: he and his family are stepping into a new calling as lead pastor of Freedom Church in Texas. Logan and Kirk talk through how it all started, the difference between staying planted and taking a faith leap, and what it means for the podcast going forward. Then: a wide-ranging conversation on the WNBA and trans athletes, culture, and why speaking the truth in love sometimes means being willing to offend.


Apostles, Prophets & Speaking in Tongues
Apostles, Prophets & Speaking in Tongues episode artwork
#97
08/05/2026

Dave, Connor, and Josiah recap Sunday's message on Galatians 4, slave mentality vs. sonship. Then react to a viral video of "Apostle" Catherine Crick and dig into what actually makes someone an apostle or prophet. From there: speaking in tongues, discerning what's really from God, and a listener question on what a healthy Sabbath looks like. 


Dude Perfect, Excellence Culture & Singleness Epidemic
Dude Perfect, Excellence Culture & Singleness Epidemic episode artwork
#96
07/29/2026

Fresh off watching Dude Perfect live, Logan and Kirk unpack what it means to pursue excellence without letting it slide into pride and why efficiency isn't always the same as faithfulness. Then a listener question kicks off a candid, no-fluff conversation about the singleness epidemic in the church, and what guys (and girls) actually need to do about it!


Jesus Told Me To Move Your Couch
Jesus Told Me To Move Your Couch episode artwork
#95
07/22/2026

What are you really trusting in when everything else gets stripped away? Logan and Josiah recap Sunday's message on Galatians 2, dig into what humility actually looks like in daily life, and answer a listener question on the character God's been shaping in each of them. Plus, the story of the couch Josiah didn't want to carry up three flights of stairs, and what it taught him!


Blind Ranking Counterfeit Christianity
Blind Ranking Counterfeit Christianity episode artwork
#94
07/15/2026

The boys who make noise are back behind the mic! Zeus and Dave share stories from youth camp, Serve Day, and everything that's been happening during the busy summer season. They then dive into Galatians 1, discussing why the gospel of Jesus doesn't need anything added to it and how believers can guard against false teaching. We wrap things up by blind ranking movements that have influenced Christianity and culture. What are your thoughts on our ranking? Let us know in the comments! 


Overcoming the Evils of AI
Overcoming the Evils of AI episode artwork
#93
07/09/2026

What happens when technology moves faster than we can keep up? And how do followers of Jesus respond without living in fear?

This week, Kirk and Logan are joined by Davey Collins for an honest conversation about AI, discipleship, contentment, and why God's truth never changes...even when everything around us does. 

Be sure to subscribe, leave a comment, and let us know what you'd like us to process in a future episode.


4th of July, Patriotism & Return of Christ
4th of July, Patriotism & Return of Christ episode artwork
#92
07/01/2026

In this episode of the Processing Podcast, Pastor Kirk is joined by pastors Josiah and Connor for a conversation on the 4th of July, patriotism, and what it means to be grateful for America while keeping Christ and His kingdom first. Together, they reflect on American freedom, unity, the responsibility Christians have to live as a witness, and how the return of Christ should create urgency, righteousness, and eager anticipation rather than fear or escapism. The conversation also touches on John Bevere’s message, confession and obedience, public faith in sports and culture, and why believers should live ready fo...


Pastor Rob's Dad, Jonah Response & Future Vision
Pastor Rob's Dad, Jonah Response & Future Vision episode artwork
#91
06/24/2026

Pastor Rob joins the podcast with Logan for a meaningful conversation that begins with Kids Camp, Father’s Day, and memories of Pastor Rob’s dad. They reflect on Jonah’s response to God’s mercy, the challenge of loving people we disagree with, and what it means to stay on mission in Minnesota and beyond. The episode closes with future vision for River Valley, the importance of listening to the Lord, and encouragement to stay in the flow of what God is building in the church.


The Court Cases Christians Are Talking About | w/ Renee Carlson - General Counsel, True North Legal
The Court Cases Christians Are Talking About | w/ Renee Carlson - General Counsel, True North Legal episode artwork
#90
06/17/2026

In this episode of Processing, attorney and True North Legal General Counsel Renee Carlson joins Kirk and Logan to discuss some of the legal battles and court cases impacting churches, religious freedom, and biblical values in Minnesota and across the nation. Together, they unpack high-profile cases involving churches, prison ministry, free speech, and the growing tension between faith and public policy. Whether you're a pastor, church member, or simply interested in how the law intersects with faith, this conversation provides important insight into the issues the Church is talking about right now.


Aliens, the Book of Jonah & River Valley Tokyo | Ep. 89
Aliens, the Book of Jonah & River Valley Tokyo | Ep. 89 episode artwork
#89
06/10/2026

In this episode, Anthony and Josiah process everything from coffee, sabbatical, church unity, and the launch of River Valley Tokyo to identity, truth, and cultural conversations happening right now. They also talk through aliens, Disclosure Day, biblical cosmology, and why Christians should stay focused on the substance of the gospel instead of getting lost in distractions. The conversation closes with reflections on the book of Jonah, abiding in Scripture, communion, and Jesus as the Bread of Life.


HS Grads, Boomers & Nate Bargatze
HS Grads, Boomers & Nate Bargatze episode artwork
#88
06/03/2026

Logan and Kirk are joined by recent high school grads for a candid conversation about growing up in the church, stepping into the next season of life, and what it looks like to carry their faith forward. The guys dive into the dynamics between generations, why honoring the Boomers and older saints around us matters more than we think, and wrap up with a fun deep-dive into clean comedy and why Nate Bargatze might be the most skilled comedian alive right now.


Yoga, Fallen Soldiers & Disney Movies | Ep. 87
Yoga, Fallen Soldiers & Disney Movies | Ep. 87 episode artwork
#87
05/28/2026

Pastors Anthony and Dave take over this week’s episode of Processing Podcast for a wide-ranging conversation on Memorial Day, patriotism, faith, and honoring fallen soldiers. They also work through listener questions about Disney movies, yoga, forgiveness, and how Christians can use discernment in everyday life. The episode closes with a challenge for men to step into spiritual strength, discipline, and leadership through the Be the Man Challenge. 


Fake Christians, Kids on Social & Pentecost
Fake Christians, Kids on Social & Pentecost episode artwork
#86
05/20/2026

Kirk and Logan are back together for a wide-ranging conversation on faith, family, and life in the Spirit. They discuss how to lovingly reach family members who may identify as Christians without showing spiritual fruit, how parents can think wisely about kids and social media, and why Pentecost still matters for the church today. The episode closes with a deeper reflection on prayer, waiting on God, and learning to depend on the Holy Spirit instead of striving in human effort.


Playoffs, UFO Files & The Evangelist
Playoffs, UFO Files & The Evangelist episode artwork
#85
05/13/2026

Kirk is joined by guest evangelist Micah Mac as the podcast returns to its normal weekly rhythm after a four-part live YouTube series on the book of Samuel. They kick things off by processing Minnesota playoff storylines, late-night games, and the drama surrounding controversial moments in sports before shifting into the renewed conversation around UFO files, disclosure, and how Christians should think about fear, mystery, and the supernatural. Micah also shares powerful stories from his life and ministry, including ministering angels, his call as an evangelist, his passion for the local church, and the importance of raising up the...


Verse by Verse: 1 Samuel 16 | Live Episode
Verse by Verse: 1 Samuel 16 | Live Episode episode artwork
#84
05/06/2026

This week, Logan is joined by Pastor Dave Olson and Pastor Jamer Shrum as they wrap up the Samuel series with a verse-by-verse conversation through 1 Samuel 16. They unpack the anointing of David, what it means to be a person after God’s own heart, and how God looks beyond outward appearance to the inner life. Along the way, they talk about obedience, worship, the power of the Holy Spirit, faith-filled response, and how God often prepares us in hidden seasons before calling us into something greater.


Verse by Verse: 1 Samuel 8 | Live Episode
Verse by Verse: 1 Samuel 8 | Live Episode episode artwork
#83
04/29/2026

This week, Logan and Kirk are back as we continue our Samuel series with a verse-by-verse walk through of 1 Samuel 8. They talk honestly about Israel’s demand for a king, the danger of wanting what everyone else has, and how getting what we want is not always the same as receiving God’s blessing. It’s a real conversation about leadership, surrender, trusting God’s timing, and letting Scripture shape everyday life.


Verse by Verse: 1 Samuel 7 | Live Episode
Verse by Verse: 1 Samuel 7 | Live Episode episode artwork
#82
04/22/2026

Pastors Zeus, Dave, and Josiah continued the church’s Live Processing episodes in the Samuel Series with a verse-by-verse walk through of 1 Samuel 7, exploring Israel’s return to the Lord and the call to wholehearted repentance. Their conversation unpacked what it means to surrender fully, depend on God, and remember His faithfulness in every season. It’s a thoughtful, Scripture-centered discussion that helps connect God’s Word to everyday life.


Verse by Verse: 1 Samuel 3 | LIVE Episode
Verse by Verse: 1 Samuel 3 | LIVE Episode episode artwork
#81
04/15/2026

We went live on YouTube for the first time as part of our Samuel series, kicking things off with a verse-by-verse walk through of 1 Samuel 3. Pastor Rob joined us as we slowed down and spoke honestly about what it looks like to hear God’s voice and respond to it. It’s a real conversation  working through Scripture together and figuring out what it means for everyday life.


Artemis II, Thief on the Cross & Jaden Ivey
Artemis II, Thief on the Cross & Jaden Ivey episode artwork
#80
04/08/2026

Logan and Anthony cover everything from Artemis II and public skepticism to a deeper discussion on the gospel, the thief on the cross, and the life-changing reality of Easter weekend. They unpack how salvation is not earned by religious performance but received through the grace of Jesus Christ. The episode wraps with reflections on Jaden Ivey, Christian courage, and the importance of standing on truth in a complicated world.


Global Leaders, Boundaries & One King
Global Leaders, Boundaries & One King episode artwork
#79
04/01/2026

In this episode, Kirk and Logan help listeners think through big leadership questions, personal boundaries, and the deeper issue underneath it all—who we ultimately trust to lead our lives. It speaks directly to listeners who want to follow Jesus with conviction, wisdom, and spiritual maturity. It’s a reminder that while the world looks for strong leaders, our hope is rooted in the one true King.


Finding Joy, Parenting Teens & Babies in Heaven
Finding Joy, Parenting Teens & Babies in Heaven episode artwork
#78
03/25/2026

Carter finally makes his debut—and it’s as fun and insightful as you’d expect! The conversation covers everything from parenting teens and building faith at home to processing grief and the hope of heaven, while also diving into joy in ministry, raising independent kids, and what it really looks like to live out your faith day-to-day.  It’s a mix of wisdom and personality that hits both the practical and the deeply meaningful.


Snow Storm, WWIII & Israel
Snow Storm, WWIII & Israel episode artwork
#77
03/18/2026

Kirk and Logan kick things off by sharing stories from a massive snowstorm before shifting into meaningful conversation around global conflict and the possibility of World War III, with a focus on Israel and the Middle East. They explore how Christians can navigate topics like war, politics, and justice without losing sight of biblical truth or compassion for people. They also touch on church life and recent events while working through some of the bigger cultural and spiritual questions people are facing right now.


How to Fight Problems, Not Each Other!
How to Fight Problems, Not Each Other! episode artwork
#75
03/11/2026

Logan and Mac share a candid conversation from Marriage Night about how couples can learn to fight the real problems in their marriage instead of fighting each other. Drawing from their own story, they talk about expectations, communication styles, family culture, past wounds, and the spiritual atmosphere we bring into our homes. Together, they offer practical wisdom and biblical perspective to help couples move from conflict toward unity and purpose in their marriage.


Atmosphere of the Home, Apathy & Sex
Atmosphere of the Home, Apathy & Sex episode artwork
#76
03/11/2026

Kirk and Kaylee live at Marriage Night! They explore how the atmosphere of a home is created—and how apathy can quietly erode connection in marriage. Through candid stories and practical wisdom, they talk about staying intentional, communicating well, and pursuing your spouse even in busy seasons of life. The conversation also tackles intimacy and sex in marriage with honesty, humor, and practical perspective.


Live at YTHCON | Ep. 74
Live at YTHCON | Ep. 74 episode artwork
#74
03/04/2026

Recorded live at YTHCON 2026, Logan and Kirk open up about their teenage years—sharing honest parts of their stories, from running from God to finding freedom. The conversation moves through real student questions submitted live, covering faith, temptation, identity, and what it looks like to follow Jesus when it’s not easy. It’s a candid night shaped by testimony, laughter, and questions from the room.


USA Hockey, Glory & Dumb Money Decisions
USA Hockey, Glory & Dumb Money Decisions episode artwork
#73
02/25/2026

Logan and Kirk kick off the episode celebrating the USA Men's Hockey Olympic gold medal and process that level of glory and fame through a Christian perspective. Then they pivot to discuss some financial mistakes people often make, continuing the conversation around our generosity series we just wrapped up.


Olympics, SEU Revival & Attractional Church
Olympics, SEU Revival & Attractional Church episode artwork
#72
02/18/2026

Logan and Kirk kick off this episode talking about some of the wild Olympic events they've watched so far and compare the Winter and Summer Olympics. Then they dive into the SEU revival, calling in Justin Lathrop who is on the leadership team, to hear first hand what is happening. Lastly, they react to a clip saying that Gen Z is hungry for discipleship and discuss if the attractional church model still works.


Super Bowl, Halftime Shows & Trump's Post
Super Bowl, Halftime Shows & Trump's Post episode artwork
#71
02/11/2026

Logan is back from Australia and gives us the run down of how things went. Then he and Kirk dive into some hot topics: the Epstein files, Bad Bunny's Halftime Show and Trump's controversial post making fun of the Obamas. It's an episode where we weigh what justice is, how to discern what we consume as believers, and how good leaders take responsibility for their errors. 


Life Jackets, Plastic Surgery & True Crime
Life Jackets, Plastic Surgery & True Crime episode artwork
#70
02/04/2026

By popular demand, Kaylee Graham is back on Processing! Kaylee processes how she has handled the political climate in Minnesota and how she and Kirk have addressed it with their kids. Kaylee shares about her Global Team to Sweden, the sermon she preached, and leading her first mission trip. And they didn't miss your questions! They talk plastic surgery, juggling ministry and family, and true crime - you don't want to miss this one!



Alex Pretti, Flipping Tables & Fox Recap
Alex Pretti, Flipping Tables & Fox Recap episode artwork
#69
01/28/2026

Logan and Kirk take this episode to process the emotions around the recent events that have taken place in Minnesota. Kirk debriefs his interview on Fox News, then they discuss the shooting of Alex Pretti and the weight of seeing this much tragedy on social media. Lastly, they answer some questions about the ins and outs of 2026 and how to lead people older than you.


Cities Church, Fox News & Fasting
Cities Church, Fox News & Fasting episode artwork
#68
01/21/2026

Logan is joined by Anthony and Josiah to discuss the recent disruption at Cities Church in St. Paul, Minnesota. They react to Pastor Kirk's interview on Fox News regarding the incident, elaborate on why this was wrong, and further discuss what has occurred in our state regarding ICE and protesting. They also have a conversation about why we fast as we are in the last week of 21 Days of Prayer and Fasting.


ICE, Iran & Hearing God's Voice
ICE, Iran & Hearing God's Voice episode artwork
#67
01/14/2026

Logan and Kirk are back, and are joined by the one and only Pastor Rob! They debrief Pastor Rob's vision for our church this year, and dive into our topic for prayer and fasting this week, "How to Hear God's Voice." They spend the rest of the episode responding to the myriad of current events that have come up in the past few weeks: ICE raids and the death of Renee Good, the revolution in Iran and the new food pyramid. 


Venezuela, Stranger Things & The Lord's Prayer
Venezuela, Stranger Things & The Lord's Prayer episode artwork
#66
01/07/2026

Pastors Josiah and Anthony kick off the first episode of the year by processing faith, current events, and spiritual formation. From Venezuela and Stranger Things to a deep dive into the Lord’s Prayer, the conversation unfolds during 21 Days of Prayer and Fasting. This episode sets the tone for a year centered on prayer, discernment, and growing closer to God.