The 9941 Podcast

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Latest Episodes:

SPECIAL EPISODE: Easter - A Pagan Holiday? Apr 17, 2025

Show notes

This week Granger and AntMan discuss whether Christians should celebrate Easter, ultimately affirming it as a time to honor Christ’s resurrection—something believers should reflect on daily, not just annually.

They share personal Easter memories and explore traditions like eggs and bunnies. AntMan explains that eggs were preserved during Lent and later decorated, even gifted by King Edward I. The Easter bunny, originally a hare, became linked to spring, but ties to paganism are historically weak.

Granger reads from Exodus 12, connecting the first Passover to Jesus as the spotless Lamb. They emphasize that Easter isn’t about pagan roots or cultural symbols, but about God’s redemption through Christ.

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How Do We Know If We Have A Healthy Church? | Alex Duke & Marshall Canales Apr 14, 2025

Show notes

This week Alex Duke offers insights on how to recognize a healthy church.

Alex explains how his love for storytelling began in childhood, finding comfort in movies after his parents' divorce. This passion led him to create Storms in the Desert, a podcast exploring the slow, steady growth of churches over time.

The discussion contrasts deep, lasting faithfulness with the rapid, flashy growth many associate with modern churches.

Alex also reflects on his megachurch background, recognizing their impact while highlighting the powerful influence of smaller, faithful congregations.

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“Jesus Loves You” Is NOT Biblical | Ray Comfort Apr 07, 2025

Show notes

This week Ray Comfort shares his journey of faith, detailing his upbringing in New Zealand without a Christian background. At 20, despite business success, he faced an existential crisis that led him to Christ after reading Jesus’ words on sin.

Passionate about evangelism, Ray uses creative methods like gospel tracts, billboards, and even riding a bike with his sunglasses-wearing dog to spark conversations about faith. He critiques the modern church’s neglect of evangelism, emphasizing its urgency. His street preaching gained attention from a Christian media group, leading to the documentation of his impactful encounters.

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When a Child Dies...Calling It What It Is | Annie Downs Mar 31, 2025

Show notes

This week Annie Downes and Granger discuss faith, ministry, and generational shifts in Christianity. Annie reflects on learning from Granger and navigating the flow of worship events. They highlight the challenge of reaching young people wrestling with faith and identity.

They explore cultural Christianity in America, where churchgoing can be a social norm rather than a deep conviction—contrasting it with other cultures. Granger shares how suffering strengthens faith and should be understood universally.

They note how younger generations, shaped by technology, approach faith differently—some even simplifying their lives to stay grounded. While external motivations may bring people to church, they emphasize that true faith is about a personal relationship with Jesus, not just habit or obligation.

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What If Jesus Saw You Doing That? | John Crist Mar 24, 2025

Show notes

This week John Crist talks with Granger about his journey into comedy. He recalls realizing he was funny during college while working in journalism, where his improvisation skills stood out. Encouraged to try stand-up, he pursued comedy despite his parents' disapproval. Raised in a strict household, John discovered comedians like Jay Leno, Kings of Comedy, and Katt Williams through sneaky means, as comedy was often seen as rebellious.

They discuss how comedy has evolved from being underground to mainstream, even appearing at political events. John notes that increased demand for comedy may indicate people are struggling more, similar to how alcohol sales rise in tough times. He reflects on how late-night shows once relied on structured bits, whereas modern comedy is more personal and unscripted.

They also touch on shifts in country music, from lighthearted storytelling to deeper, emotional themes. Granger brings up John's past church-planting satire, highlighting humor in cultural observations. Their conversation blends nostalgia, industry changes, and the enduring role of comedy in society.

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When Empathy Becomes Toxic | Allie Beth Stuckey Mar 17, 2025

Show notes

This week we have Allie Beth Stucky who discusses her busy schedule and how she balances her professional and personal life. She shares that working with her husband, who serves as her business manager, has been a game-changer, allowing them to travel together as a family while managing their responsibilities. Ali explains that she records multiple podcast episodes per week and relies on a large team to handle behind-the-scenes tasks.

She also reflects on how her career has shifted over time, particularly after having children, leading her to make adjustments in speaking engagements and interviews. Additionally, she discusses her faith journey, how she and her husband chose a church based on strong biblical teaching and community involvement, and the importance of being actively engaged in their local church. Ali highlights her upbringing in a Christian household, the influence of her mother and grandmother, and her deep interest in theology and apologetics, which shaped her beliefs.

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Standing On An Imperfect Faith | Canaan Smith Mar 10, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of The Granger Smith Podcast, Granger sits down with country artist Canaan Smith, diving deep into faith, career struggles, and personal transformation.

Canaan opens up about the highs and lows of his music journey—from the pressures of chasing radio success to the moments that forced him to step back and realign his purpose. He shares how fatherhood, faith, and unexpected setbacks led him to a newfound contentment in life and music. The conversation explores themes of identity, purpose, and trusting God’s plan, even when the path is unclear.

Whether you're an artist, a believer, or just someone seeking inspiration, this episode delivers raw honesty, powerful reflections, and a reminder that success isn’t measured by hits—it's found in knowing who you are in Christ.

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“I Don’t Have Enough Faith To Be An Atheist” | Frank Turek Mar 03, 2025

Show notes

In this episode, Granger and Frank Turek discuss Christianity, apologetics, and their personal journeys. They start with a fun rivalry (Granger’s Cowboys vs. Frank’s Giants) before diving into deeper topics like intellectual worship and the role of apologetics in faith. Frank shares how apologetics led him to faith and shaped his ministry, while emphasizing the difference between belief that and belief in. Tune in for an insightful and engaging conversation on defending the truth of Christianity and strengthening faith with both heart and mind.

Email your questions to podcast@grangersmith.com to be featured in future episodes, and don’t forget to leave your thoughts in the comments!

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Steven Rinella | The Man Behind MeatEater Feb 24, 2025

Show notes

On this episode, Granger sits down with American outdoorsman and writer Steve Rinella for a deep dive into storytelling, hunting, and the power of narrative.

From the challenges of MeatEater’s unscripted moments to addressing the controversies shaking up the hunting world, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss.

Email your questions to podcast@grangersmith.com to be featured in future episodes, and don’t forget to leave your thoughts in the comments!

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Adult Film Star Finds Hope In A Second Chance Feb 17, 2025

Show notes

On this episode, Granger reconnects with his good friend Joshua Broome whose journey from the adult film industry to pastor has been nothing short of miraculous. From a chance encounter to deep conversations about redemption, identity, and surrendering to God’s plan, this episode dives into a powerful testimony of transformation. Don’t miss this inspiring story!

Email your questions to podcast@grangersmith.com to be featured in future episodes, and don’t forget to leave your thoughts in the comments!

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