Thanos to Theos artwork

Thanos to Theos

45 episodes - English - Latest episode: 10 months ago -

Thanos to Theos is a podcast for youth and student workers committed to reaching teenagers with the Gospel, featuring conversations ranging from comics and culture to theology and ministry. Join us as we discuss our efforts to contextualize the gospel and sound doctrine to youth culture and family lives of our students. Thanos to Theos is hosted by Clark Fobes, Mike McGarry and Kevin Yi. The podcast is a part of the Rooted Family of Podcasts.

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Episodes

Episode 44: Across the Spider-Verse - Multiversal Magic

June 20, 2023 11:00 - 1 hour - 59 MB

In this episode, the guys talk about the second entry in the Miles Morales animated Spiderman adventure, Across the Spiderverse.  They talk about the important themes in the movie, and all of the things that stood out to them in this incredible film. Contact us on Twitter @ThanosToTheos, Instagram @ThanosToTheos, or email us at [email protected] If you want to respond to any of our hosts, you can reach us on Twitter: Mike McGarry: @revmcgarry Clark Fobes: @fobesman Kevin Yi: @kevi...

Episode 43: Guardians of the Galaxy Vol 3 - Hello Morons

May 16, 2023 12:00 - 1 hour - 57.8 MB

In this episode, the guys sit down in Knowhere, the new Guardians Headquarters to discuss the latest movie, Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3.  They discuss their thoughts on the movie, and the themes that are present in this film.    00:00:00 Introduction 00:00:45 Initial Thoughts 00:27:48 Infinity Stone Rankings 00:40:42 Theos Connections 01:02:37 Post-Show Contact us on Twitter @ThanosToTheos, Instagram @ThanosToTheos, or email us at [email protected] If you want to respond to a...

Episode 42: Youth Pastor Mandalorian

May 04, 2023 11:00 - 1 hour - 60.4 MB

In this episode, the guys do a deep dive on the third season of the Mandalorian, and how youth pastors can connect the themes of this third season to our faith.  There are so many vectors for us to talk about the themes of acceptance, religious beliefs, community, and faith.  We hope that our episode is helpful in giving you tools for opening up conversation with your students about the things that they're watching.  Contact us on Twitter @ThanosToTheos, Instagram @ThanosToTheos, or email u...

Episode 41: Antman, a Quantumania Mess

March 16, 2023 12:00 - 52 minutes - 47.9 MB

In this episode, the guys share their thoughts about Antman and the Wasp: Quantumania, the state of the MCU, and how important good storytelling is.  They also take a moment to shine a light on some great storytelling that's happening right now.  Contact us on Twitter @ThanosToTheos, Instagram @ThanosToTheos, or email us at [email protected] If you want to respond to any of our hosts, you can reach us on Twitter: Mike McGarry: @revmcgarry Clark Fobes: @fobesman Kevin Yi: @kevinhyi

Episode 40: The One with Two Guys

January 17, 2023 14:00 - 1 hour - 59.9 MB

In this very special Clark-less episode, the guys try to do a decent show without him.  As much as we want to pat ourselves on the back, it's a little lacking in something.  But they try their best to do some recaps of the content that came out in 2022, and also talk about what it looks like to do year end youth ministry evaluation, along with discussing some of the challenges coming up ahead. Contact us on Twitter @ThanosToTheos, Instagram @ThanosToTheos, or email us at thanostotheos@gmail...

Episode 39: Andor and the Guardians of the Galaxy Holiday Special - A Nerdy Christmas

December 23, 2022 12:00 - 55 minutes - 51.1 MB

In this episode, the guys sat down around a beautiful Christmas tree to talk about the greatest present of all: Kevin.  Kevin Bacon of course, and the Guardians of the Galaxy Holiday Special.  Then they shift gears to talk about another great gift, the Star Wars Disney+ series, Andor.  Lastly, they also announce the winner of the Thanos To Theos Listener Questions giveaway!  We hope that you guys all have a very Merry Christmas!! Thank you so much for being one of our cherished listeners thi...

Episode 38: Wakanda Forever

November 25, 2022 12:00 - 1 hour - 75.5 MB

In this episode, the guys talk about one of the most anticipated movies of the year, Black Panther 2: Wakanda Forever.  They discuss their reactions to this massive film, and everyone's individual Infinity Stones rankings.  They also talk about the biggest themes in the movie and how we can draw out spiritual conversations from the MCU for our "Theos" topic.  We're also soliciting questions (and podcast reviews) for a Q&A episode that we'd like to do, so please submit questions via Twitter, ...

Episode 37: She-Hulk: It's K.E.V.I.N's Show

October 20, 2022 12:00 - 54 minutes - 49.7 MB

In this episode, the guys sit down to talk about their experiences at the Rooted 2022 Conference and why Mike wasn't there.  We're also soliciting questions for a Q&A episode that we'd like to do, so please submit questions via Twitter, Instagram, or email and you'll be entered in to win a Thanos to Theos shirt!  We also do our final thoughts on the complete first season of She-Hulk along with our Infinity Stones ranking.  For our Theos topic, we talk a little bit about Jennifer Walter's ide...

Episode 36: Ms. Marvel with Jared Kennedy

September 20, 2022 12:00 - 1 hour - 58.6 MB

In this episode, the guys are joined by a very special guest, Jared Kennedy.  He’s the author of Keeping Your Children's Ministry on Mission: Practical Strategies for Discipling the Next Generation, The Beginner’s Gospel Story Bible, and number of children’s Bible board books as well like God Wins: Walls, Giants, and Enemies Fall.  He’s also an editor for the Gospel Coalition.  Jared joins us to do a full discussion and breakdown of the MCU Disney+ series, Ms. Marvel.  This is a great conver...

Episode 35: She-Hulk, the DCEU, and Setting a Vision for Youth Ministry

September 06, 2022 12:00 - 1 hour - 59.4 MB

In this episode, the guys sit down to talk about their first impressions of the Disney+ show She-Hulk, and have a bit of a rant as to what’s going on in the DC Universe which leads to a really important discussion: as youth workers, how can we learn from the DCEU’s mistakes when it comes to leading with vision in our youth ministries?  The guys also talk about what it looks like to set a Biblical foundation for youth ministry that allows for contextualization as well as leading with vision. ...

Episode 34: Thor: Love and Thunder & Top Gun: Maverick

August 16, 2022 12:00 - 53 minutes - 49.3 MB

Here it is, the long awaited Thor: Love and Thunder episode!  We appreciate everyone's patience as it took awhile for us to get this episode out.  But as a bonus for waiting so long, we decided to talk about the biggest movie of the year, Top Gun: Maverick as well!  So in this mega two for one episode, the guys talk about their reactions to both of these movies as well as some "Theos" connections worth discussing. 02:24 Thor: Love and Thunder 35:06 Top Gun: Maverick Contact us on Twitter ...

Episode 33 - Obi Wan Kenobi, You're my Only Hope?

June 30, 2022 17:30 - 1 hour - 102 MB

In this episode, the guys talk about their brief reactions to the first 3 episodes of the Ms. Marvel Disney+ series.  Then the guys get to the main topic by talking about the latest Star Wars Disney + series, Obi Wan Kenobi.  They explain their Infinity Stones ranking for the show and discuss ministry connections related to the youth pastor of the Star Wars Universe, Obi Wan Kenobi.   01:27 Ms. Marvel Reactions 21:39 Obi Wan Kenobi Contact us on Twitter @ThanosToTheos, Instagram @ThanosTo...

Episode 32: Youth Ministry Lessons: Leading Through Change

June 14, 2022 13:00 - 44 minutes - 61.7 MB

In this special episode of Thanos to Theos focused on youth ministry applications, the guys get together to talk about leading through change.  We've all been through so many different kinds of adjustments in the last few years, and this conversation is focused on what we've seen in our respective ministries, how we've led through various changes, and what we've learned in hindsight.  With a particular emphasis on what it looks like to become more gospel-centered, we hope that you will be en...

Episode 31: Are You Happy? Dr. Strange in the Multiverse of Madness and Moon Knight Finale

May 10, 2022 12:00 - 1 hour - 93.6 MB

In this spoiler spectacular, the guys talk about Dr. Strange and the Multiverse of Madness.  Does it live up to the hype?  Was it too scary for Mike?  The guys also take some time to unveil the new Thanos to Theos Infinity Stones ranking system.  Lastly, we discuss the series (or season) finale of Moon Knight, and as always, take you through some analysis of these stories from a gospel lens.     01:05 Moon Knight Finale   16:53 Moon Knight "Theos" Analysis   30:21 The New Rating System   ...

Episode 30: Moon Knight and Mental Health

May 03, 2022 12:00 - 1 hour - 71.9 MB

And we're back! Welcome to the 5th season of Thanos to Theos! Ok we're just kidding.  We took an extended break because the MCU took an extended break, but we're back with our thoughts and analysis on the first 5 episodes of Moon Knight.  We also take a bit of time to discuss the new "The Batman" movie, and the DC HBO Max show, Peacemaker.  Did Clark enjoy any of the DC movies/shows?  Was Moon Knight too scary for Mike?  Does Kevin use the word "interesting" too much?  And is it just us, or ...

Episode 29: The Book of Boba Fett

March 01, 2022 13:00 - 48 minutes - 44.3 MB

Listen in on this spoiler-saturated episode where we discuss The Book of Boba Fett and hear Mike's epic "theosification" of the themes in this show.  We talk about what it looks like to keep the main thing the main thing in our youth ministry planning, as we all know how hard it can be to keep things on track as we plan for our ministry calendar.  What did you think of the Book of Boba Fett?  What are some of the ways that you've been able to keep things on track in your youth ministry? We w...

Episode 28: Russell Moore on Comics & Culture

January 27, 2022 21:00 - 1 hour - 56.2 MB

Dr. Russell Moore joins this wide ranging podcast episode as we discuss the dual role of comic book stories as a mirror (which shows us who we are) and a map (which normalizes and reinforces certain values). He takes us to school about why Superman is so heroic and shares insight into how youth workers and parents can help their kids develop cultural discernment.  We would love your feedback, input, or questions for future episodes. Contact us on Twitter @ThanosToTheos, Instagram @ThanosTo...

Episode 27: An MCU Christmas Extravaganza with Spiderman and Hawkeye

December 24, 2021 12:00 - 1 hour - 70.7 MB

Listen in on this spoiler-saturated episode where we discuss Spider-Man: No Way Home and the Hawkeye series. As Spider-Man: No Way Home continues to dominate the box office and the hearts of Marvel fans, there are some who wonder what all the fuss is about. So, we address some of the critiques while sharing what we loved about it, especially the central theme of redemption. Then we transition to talk about the Hawkeye series, why it was so refreshing, and what we enjoyed about Clint and Kate...

Episode 26: Black Widow (with Rebecca Heck)

December 02, 2021 13:00 - 59 minutes - 54.1 MB

The guys are joined by Rebecca Heck once again to discuss the MCU's Black Widow.  This movie does feature some heavy topics such as sex trafficking and abuse so we want to let listeners know that this episode won't be appropriate for children.  We also spend a lot of time talking about family and how to reach our students where they are while sharing some practical tips on how to address issues in the home during our youth meetings. We would love your feedback, input, or questions for futur...

Episode 25: Eternally Conflicted (with Michelle Ami Reyes)

November 18, 2021 13:00 - 1 hour - 60.2 MB

The guys are joined by Michelle Ami Reyes (who has a PhD in mythology) to discuss the MCU’s latest movie, Eternals. Join this conversation about what mythology is, how good story-telling works, and what representation is supposed to look like. Regardless of how much (or little) you liked the movie, there are many helpful discussion-starters for youth workers and parents to discuss with teenagers.  For more about our guest host, visit her website, www.michelleamireyes.com where you can find ...

Episode 24: What if... It was Good?

November 04, 2021 12:00 - 50 minutes - 46.1 MB

In this episode coming off of the 2021 Rooted Conference, we talk about our post conference thoughts.  What stuck with us afterwards, and what is the benefit of being a part of the Rooted conference, especially after missing last year because of the pandemic?  We also dive into the first MCU proper animated show, the "What If" series, and discuss our thoughts on what we enjoyed and didn't enjoy about the series and what we found that was redemptive and helpful.   We would love your feedback...

Episode 23: What the Heck?

October 20, 2021 13:00 - 31 minutes - 28.5 MB

In this live-show from the 2021 Rooted Conference, we’re joined by Becca Heck to discuss an obvious question - “Why would a ministry like Rooted host a podcast about comics?” The four of us discuss the meaning and value of comics and reflect on the power of myth when it comes to the big questions of life, meaning, purpose, etc. We wrap up by sharing a few examples of ways that comics (and the Marvel Cinematic Universe, in particular) has helped us initiation spiritually significant conversat...

Episode 22: Nerds & Pop Culture

September 28, 2021 11:00 - 41 minutes - 38.2 MB

In this episode, the guys talk about nerd culture and pop culture and how the acceptance of certain aspects of nerd culture show us and teach us about culture in general and how it's changing.  Walking through a variety of different nerd cultures like comic books, Pokemon, Star Wars vs Star Trek, and even Harry Potter, the guys discuss how these changes have implications in youth ministry and theology, and how as students of culture, youth works can take advantage of the "nerd culture" aspec...

Episode 21: Catching up with Shang-Chi

September 14, 2021 11:00 - 1 hour - 59.6 MB

In this episode, the guys catch up about their summers: Clark started at a new church, Kevin is back in youth ministry (and graduated from seminary!), and Mike released a new book, "Lead Them to Jesus: A Handbook for Youth Workers." We're ready to dig into a new season on the podcast with episodes dropping every-other week. We react to the release of Shang Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings. Clark and Kevin, as Asian-Americans, share what the movie has meant for them and why it’s been so me...

Episode 20: God's Multiverse.mp3

July 21, 2021 12:00 - 41 minutes - 37.9 MB

In this episode, the guys give their brief spoiler free reviews of the Black Widow movie. They promise that they will circle back around to this and give the movie a proper discussion with some special guests! Then the guys move on to discussing the universe changing implications of the Loki season finale and what it means for the MCU going forward.  And as always, how can this show be useful to discussing theology with our students?  What kinds of theological and philosophical assumptions d...

Episode 19: The Fates of Loki

June 22, 2021 22:39 - 55 minutes - 50.5 MB

Aaaand we’re back! After a hiatus, the guys discuss the glorious Captain America 1979 movie that Mike had to watch because of his terrible predictions about The Falcon and the Winter Soldier. Then we discuss the first two episodes of the new Loki series. In the end, we reflect on the theological questions the show raises for youth workers to discuss with students - about creation, God’s sovereignty, human freedom, and God’s will. Some basic predictions about the Loki series are made. We wou...

Episode 18: The People's Cap

April 28, 2021 10:00 - 1 hour - 66.8 MB

In this episode, the guys are joined by our friend Bryan Brown to discuss the Disney+ series, “Falcon and the Winter Soldier.”   We discuss what we liked about the show, where it could’ve been stronger. Since one of the central storylines of the show focused on race and whether or not there could ever be a Black Captain America, we discuss the show’s interaction with much of what’s happening in our culture today. The conversation wraps up by focusing on ways youth workers can discuss the sh...

Episode 17: Falcon, the Winter Soldier, and RJ Nakajima

March 25, 2021 19:00 - 1 hour - 67.2 MB

In this episode, we gush about our excitement for the Falcon & Winter Soldier series on Disney+. We make a friendly wager about three predictions for the series and we hope that you would share your own predictions with us on social media too. After discussing the first episode of the show, we talk about the racism that’s been experienced by Asian Americans over the past few months, and what does it look like to genuinely support and seek justice for our Asian American students and families....

Episode 16: A Grief Observed

March 12, 2021 13:00 - 1 hour - 58.8 MB

We would love your feedback, input, or questions for future episodes. Contact us on Twitter @ThanosToTheos, Instagram @ThanosToTheos, or email us at [email protected] If you want to respond to any of our hosts, you can reach us on Twitter: Mike McGarry: @revmcgarry Clark Fobes: @fobesman Kevin Yi: @kevinhyi

Episode 15: WandaVision

February 05, 2021 15:33 - 51 minutes - 46.9 MB

In this episode the guys discuss the return of the MCU! WandaVision is here and Marvel is back. What do we like, what don’t we, and what are our predictions about where the series is heading? We would love your feedback, input, or questions for future episodes. Contact us on Twitter @ThanosToTheos, Instagram @ThanosToTheos, or email us at [email protected] If you want to respond to any of our hosts, you can reach us on Twitter: Mike McGarry: @revmcgarry Clark Fobes: @fobesman Kev...

Episode 14: This is the Way

November 24, 2020 11:00 - 51 minutes - 47 MB

The guys take a break from the MCU to discuss the Mandalorian and the Star Wars universe. Afterward, we dish on exegetical vs. topical teaching in youth ministry and how to ensure we lead students to think biblically about culture without allowing the culture to drive our teaching.   We would love your feedback, input, or questions for future episodes. Contact us on Twitter @ThanosToTheos, Instagram @ThanosToTheos, or email us at [email protected] If you want to respond to any of o...

Episode 13: The Great Presidential Debate

November 05, 2020 16:17 - 40 minutes - 37.1 MB

As we continue to await the results of the election in the USA, we tackle an important question: Who from the comics would be a good President/Vice-President, and what would their presidency look like?  We also discuss how to address the aftermath of the election in our ministries. Referenced: John Piper’s article, “Policies, Persons, and Paths to Ruin: Pondering the Implications of the 2020 Election” 

Episode 12: Solving Our Social Dilemma?

October 08, 2020 11:00 - 1 hour - 56.7 MB

Join this conversation about the Netflix documentary, “The Social Dilemma.” It’s a fascinating look into the ways social media is shaping our culture, but especially how it’s affecting our teenagers. This isn’t a comics episode, but an important look into a cultural trend that’s youth workers need to engage from a gospel-centered worldview.   We would love your feedback, input, or questions for future episodes. Contact us on Twitter @ThanosToTheos, Instagram @ThanosToTheos, or email us at...

Episode 11: Discipleship Models and Ranking the MCU

September 09, 2020 06:00 - 1 hour - 55.3 MB

In this episode, the guys talk about discipleship in an age of COVID. What’s worked, what hasn’t, and how are we adjusting as quarantine continues? After that enlightening discussion, they have a fun debate over their top three and bottom three movies in the MCU. Join us as we talk ministry and relive the joys and disappoints of comic book movies. We would love your feedback, input, or questions for future episodes. Contact us on Twitter @ThanosToTheos, Instagram @ThanosToTheos, or email u...

Episode 10: Civil War Revisited: The Thing About Neutrality...

August 20, 2020 08:54 - 47 minutes - 43.4 MB

In this episode, the guys discuss what we can learn from the Civil War storyline regarding our posture towards one another. How do we engage with students and congregation members over cultural issues that are highly volatile, and when is it helpful to speak up? Is there such a thing as neutrality, or is everyone either a hero or a villain? Scott Saul's Article about "Stepping Away from Un-Christian Politics" Scott Saul's Latest Book: A Gentle Answer Stand to Reason Article by Alan Shlemo...

Episode 9: Building a Bigger Table

August 05, 2020 12:00 - 1 hour - 55.9 MB

In this episode, the guys are joined by Rebecca Heck from Intown Community Church, a veteran youth director of over 10 years to discuss gender and representation in comics and church leadership.  We would love your feedback, input, or questions for future episodes. Contact us on Twitter @ThanosToTheos, Instagram @ThanosToTheos, or email us at [email protected] If you want to respond to any of our hosts, you can reach us on Twitter: Mike McGarry: @revmcgarry Clark Fobes: @fobesman ...

Episode 8: Without Great Power Comes Great Suffering

July 23, 2020 07:48 - 25 minutes - 23.7 MB

In this lighter episode, the guys ponder the age-old question: "If you could have any superhero's power, who would it be and why?" But they tackle it with an interesting twist.  They also speculate on which superheroes and which superpowers would be most useful in a youth ministry context.   We would love your feedback, input, or questions for future episodes. Contact us on Twitter @ThanosToTheos, Instagram @ThanosToTheos, or email us at [email protected] If you want to res...

Episode 8: With Great Power Comes Great Suffering

July 23, 2020 07:48 - 25 minutes - 23.7 MB

In this lighter episode, the guys ponder the age-old question: "If you could have any superhero's power, who would it be and why?" But they tackle it with an interesting twist.  They also speculate on which superheroes and which superpowers would be most useful in a youth ministry context.   Here's a link to the power/suffering chart graphic we're discussing. We would love your feedback, input, or questions for future episodes. Contact us on Twitter @ThanosToTheos, Instagram @ThanosToTheo...

Episode 7: Civil War & Civil Disobedience

July 08, 2020 19:05 - 47 minutes - 43.8 MB

Episode 8: Civil War & Civil Disobedience In this episode, the guys use the Sokovia Accords and Civil War storyline to help us think through the right use of civil disobedience. We also discuss the ways our churches are considering when and how to regather for worship.     Helpful articles: Sokovia Accords Church, Don’t Let Coronavirus Divide You Churches Rights and Responsibilities When Reopening in the Pandemic   We would love your feedback, input, or questions for future episodes....

Episode 6: Re-Inking the Color of Comics: A Conversation On Race and Representation in Comics and Ministry

June 23, 2020 23:05 - 1 hour - 58.3 MB

If you’d prefer, watch us on YouTube here. Have questions or comments or a topic for an upcoming episode?  We’d love to get your feedback – email us or @ us on Twitter: Email: [email protected]: @thanostotheos If you want to respond to any of our hosts, you can reach us on Twitter: Mike McGarry: @revmcgarry Clark Fobes: @fobesman Kevin Yi: @kevinhyi Bryan Brown: @brownbei4

Episode 5: Friendly Neighborhood Youth Pastor

June 23, 2020 18:46 - 45 minutes - 41.5 MB

We would love your feedback, input, or questions for future episodes. Contact us on Twitter @ThanosToTheos or email us at [email protected] If you want to respond to any of our hosts, you can reach us on Twitter: Mike McGarry: @revmcgarry Clark Fobes: @fobesman Kevin Yi: @kevinhyi

Thanos to Theos: Episode 4

June 23, 2020 18:37 - 44 minutes - 41.1 MB

Articles Referenced: Christianity Offers No Answers About the Coronavirus. It’s Not Supposed to, by NT Wright (Time Magazine) Stop Looking for the Greater Good, by Chris Talbot (Rooted Ministry) Have questions or comments or a topic for an upcoming episode?  We’d love to get your feedback – email us or @ us on Twitter: Email: [email protected] Twitter: @thanostotheos

Thanos to Theos: Episode 3

June 23, 2020 18:36 - 44 minutes - 40.4 MB

Have questions or comments or a topic for an upcoming episode?  We’d love to get your feedback – email us or @ us on Twitter: Email: [email protected] Twitter: @thanostotheos

Thanos to Theos: Episode 2

June 23, 2020 18:17 - 36 minutes - 33.7 MB

A followup article Payne has written can be found here. Have questions or comments?  We’d love to get your feedback – email us or @ us on Twitter: Email: [email protected] Twitter: @thanostotheos

Thanos to Theos: Episode 1

June 18, 2020 18:35 - 1 hour - 58.7 MB

Shownotes: MCU March Madness bracket: https://fansided.com/2020/03/16/mcu-bracket-marvel-avengers-iron-man/ Spurgeon Quote and Article: https://www.spurgeon.org/resource-library/sermons/the-voice-of-the-cholera#flipbook/

Twitter Mentions

@thanostotheos 29 Episodes
@kevinhyi 29 Episodes
@revmcgarry 29 Episodes
@fobesman 29 Episodes