The Really Real Podcast (Real FM): Recent Episodes
Real FM
The Really Real Podcast is the flagship podcast from Real FM. Join Ansen, Kara, and Isaac as they sit down for a drink and some refreshingly honest conversation about real life. Topics covered include daily living, pop-culture, current events, and faith... with plenty of silliness included. New episodes bi-weekly.
Hi friends! It's been a while since you've heard from us, so we want to update you on all the goings-on with the Real FM Podcast Network. We've had so much fun with The Really Real Podcast, but we feel like it's time to try some new things. If you loved the fun we've had on this show, check the new Real FM Rewind podcast (https://real.fm/podcasts/real-fm-rewind). Or if you really dig our in-depth spiritual conversations, take a look at Faith Refresh (https://real.fm/podcasts/faith-refresh). We've got more exciting content on the way as well, so come and join us!
On this spring's final episode of The Really Real Podcast, Kara details her fancy new patio swing (11:32), Isaac trains Real FM Bot on how to buy a car (17:06), Ansen gives a shout-out to a passenger that successfully landed an airplane (23:00), and the group discusses a quote from Seth Godin about creating a life you don't feel the need to escape from (33:53).
In this episode of the Really Real Podcast, Isaac gives a shout out to non-severe thunderstorms (13:27), Ansen coaxes Real FM Bot into helping Kara navigate conflict (17:11), and Kara fangirls (just a little) over Benedict Cumberbatch (25:07). Finally, the group debates one of the most controversial quotes they've tackled thus far: "If you genuinely want something, don't wait for it — teach yourself to be impatient." (30:34)
In this episode, Ansen pushes through his idiosyncrasy and embraces spring weather (13:50), Kara teaches Real FM Bot to take over Isaac's podcast (18:28), Isaac celebrates some friends' parenting efforts (25:47), and the group peels back the layers on a short but powerful quote from Susan B. Anthony: "Independence is happiness" (32:51).
Kara shares why she enjoys consuming books and podcasts about personal development (11:03), Isaac repurposes Real FM bot to inspire Ansen during his workouts (18:03), Ansen gives a shout out to a church friend (22:17), and the group debates the merits of spending more time on your strengths rather than your weaknesses (29:29).
In this episode, Isaac enlists his teenage sister as a movie critic (14:33), Ansen replaces Kara on the radio with a robot (19:55), Kara introduces us to a community college advisor named Mr. Fritz (28:48), and we discuss where we agree and disagree with Albert Einstein's take on how to live a happy life (36:32).
On this week's episode, Ansen discusses the importance of "just-for-fun" creative hobbies (13:32), Kara programs Real FM bot to help Isaac with taxes and small-talk (23:07), Isaac gives a shout-out to Polish moms, and the group discusses a quote from the 2011 American comedy classic, Bridesmaids (34:29).
In this episode, Kara goes old-school and rents some movies (11:42), Isaac helps Real FM Bot learn how to help Ansen go to the doctor and go shopping (15:30), Ansen reflects on what Mikaela Shiffrin's Olympic experience can teach us about life (22:11), and the group takes on a famous quote from Steve Jobs about living your own life (30:10).
Ansen, Kara, and Isaac are back for 2022! In this episode, Isaac shares how he's ready for warmer weather (11:22), Ansen unleashes Real FM's very own proprietary AI to help with Kara's errands (14:04), and Kara celebrates an inspiring young snowboarder (23:12). Then, the whole gang ponders the so-called "power of positive thinking" in reaction to a quote from Henry Ford (27:30).
In the final Really Real Podcast episode of 2021, Kara describes the magical properties of Zumba (15:55), Isaac declares each co-host of the show to be an Olympic athlete (20:54), Ansen reviews unique pizza topping combos (29:43), and special guest Christy Rodriguez teaches the crew the way of the extrovert (39:08).
Isaac shares why he enjoys drawing (9:31), Ansen decides to Jesus juke the Multiverse of Madness segment (16:04), Kara reviews glamping (27:34), and special guest Dri Bayer joins the show to chat about the joys and challenges of parenting (33:02).
In this episode of The Really Real Podcast, Ansen looks forward to the Olympics (12:34), Kara introduces small changes to the universe that have a big impact (17:39), Isaac reviews COVID-19 like it's a bad restaurant (28:27), and special guest Justin Rusinowski joins the show to discuss what the heck epistemology means, and more importantly, why it matters (35:00).
In this episode, Kara wants to get back into reading (09:53), Isaac leads an animal revolt (14:30), Ansen reviews building a computer (22:52), and special guest Scott Thompson joins us for a conversation how to integrate our faith and work (33:38).
In this episode, Isaac shares the joy of making mixtapes, er, playlists, for others (13:18), the NWA Avengers assemble (18:50), Kara relives a harrowing experience with her cat (29:11), and special guest Mark Hansen joins us for a conversation on adoption, including what it can teach us about the nature of God's love (34:50).
In this episode, Ansen shares about learning to recognize the value in things that don't fit our taste (10:26), Kara asks some "what if" questions (16:00), Isaac reviews giving his dog a bath (26:00), and special guest Tracy Balzer joins us for a conversation in the ins and outs of how contemplative spirituality can improve our relationship with God (30:56).
In this episode of The Really Real Podcast, Kara talks trying new recipes (12:58), Isaac asks what the world would be like if the the Real FM team took over the country (18:07), Ansen reviews his wireless earbuds (25:25), and guest Jennifer Watson joins us for a conversation on brokenness and breakthrough (33:00).
Ansen, Kara, and Isaac are back with new episodes of the Really Real Podcast! Isaac shares the joys of being a beginner in a new hobby (12:17), Ansen leads the gang on a trip through the Multiverse (16:42), Kara reviews her bougie coffee-maker (24:11), and the group welcomes guest Keri Corn for a conversation on one of culture's hottest topics: mental health (28:25).
In the final Spring 2021 episode of the Really Real Podcast, Isaac admits he'd prefer just staying mentally checked out on current events right now (13:22) Kara shares an idea from Jon Acuff about changing the soundtracks playing in our brains (19:55), Ansen moderates "Favorite Thing Faceoff" between two special guests (24:20), and the group discusses how words like certainty and doubt relate to the Word of the Week: "Faith" (31:22).
In Episode 71 of The Really Real Podcast, Isaac proposes the idea of focusing on marginal gains (8:28), Ansen boasts about his Google searching proficiency (13:40), Kara takes us into the world of competitive towel folding (19:33), and the group discusses why and how we tend to get "stuck" (26:32).
In Episode 70 of the Really Real Podcast, Ansen shares a quote about God's design for men and women to be co-laborers in the Kingdom (13:50), Kara admits that she likes hanging out underneath her desk (20:34), Isaac introduces us to a slightly disturbing school mascot (24:37), and we discuss an aspirational "Word of the Week" in "gentleness" (30:30).
In Episode 69 of the Really Real Podcast, Kara recommends that everyone comes up with a post-pandemic recovery plan (12:35)), Isaac asks if he's alone in feeling like extreme wealth is unattractive (17:48), Ansen tries to get Isaac and Kara to discuss basketball (25:08), and the group discusses how the word discipline is a bit misunderstood (34:05).
In this episode, Isaac is reminded of the importance of authentic connection (07:23), Ansen notes that he sometimes feels like he's addicted to new insights (10:51), Kara reveals the discovery of a new but frighteningly adorable creature in the animal kingdom (19:10), and the group discusses the foundation underneath the Word of the Week: wisdom (26:11).
In Episode 67, Ansen shares a quote that helps define what appropriate civic engagement looks like for Christians (11:07), Kara confesses that it's hard to be happy for other people's success (16:39), Isaac moderates a debate on recent (fake) news out of North Korea (21:56), and the group discusses this week's word of the week: fear (28:31).
In this episode, Kara's "Quote of the Week" reminds us that the Gospel is not self-care (9:07), Isaac never wants to make a phone call ever again (14:10), Ansen dives into the latest Royal Family gossip (22:10), and the group discusses how to give and receive community, emotional, and spiritual support (29:23).
The Really Real Podcast returns from a winter break! Isaac shares his "Quote of the Week" from Bob Goff (12:01), Ansen wonders if we ought to share compliments more liberally (15:44), Kara guides everyone through the most ridiculous show segment yet (21:30), and the whole crew works to hone in on the true definition of humility (39:07.
It's our final episode of 2020! Ansen shares how he (barely) succeeded at not overshadowing someone else's challenges (11:38), Isaac attempts to wrap a present for the first time in his entire life (18:48), Kara takes us back to a time when she was "thirty, flirty, and thriving" (30:04), and everyone takes some time to ponder the word of the week: refresh (37:45).
On tap for Episode 63, Isaac attempts to stay quiet and avoid sarcasm when there is mischief afoot (12:13), Kara learns how to build a fire with numerous, variably-sized sticks (17:17), Ansen takes us back to the days when he started a Tumblr blog (28:25), and everyone discusses the word "anger" and the many different ways people express it (34:13).
Ansen, Kara, and Isaac return for Episode 62, where Kara eventually manages to make a decision (10:55), Ansen spends some quality time with the girls in his family (15:04), Isaac revisits some hot takes from a decade ago (32:57), and the group discusses the nuances of the word "peace" (37:17).
In Episode 61 of the Really Real Podcast, Ansen shares how he narrowly avoided being over-competitive (12:34), Isaac tries his hand at grocery shopping (17:57), Kara revisits her Doctor Who fandom (25:46), and the whole gang discusses how the word "Contempt" does a pretty good job of summarizing our culture's attitude towards each other in 2020 (31:17).
In Episode 60 of The Really Real Podcast, it takes all of Isaac's strength to resist stealing someone else's puppy dog (13:10), Kara takes her first test in a long time on a subject she knows very little about (18:36), Ansen is thoroughly embarrassed by his membership in an old Facebook group (27:09), and the group perseveres through a conversation about the word "perseverance" (33:29).
It's Episode 59 of The Really Real Podcast, where Ansen, Kara, and Isaac discuss how to avoid the "Pit of Despair" (or climb back out when it's unavoidable) (13:07), Ansen's desperate endeavor to write something legible (17:53), Isaac's Japanese weapons collection (29:19), and some questions surrounding the word "joy" (32:28).
In Episode 58, Ansen, Kara, and Isaac share some honest conversation on taking control of how we spend our time (08:30), Isaac's valiant attempt to imitate the Great British Baking Show (15:19), Kara's haunting memories of a demon spider-wasp home invasion (27:05), and some aspirations and fears related to the word "honesty" (33:45).
The Real Talk Podcast is now The Really Real Podcast! Ansen, Kara, and Issac return from a summer hiatus to discuss Isaac’s attempt to stop doomscrolling (08:30), Kara’s video gaming adventure (15:15), a new political party involving a monkey (29:12), and the word “essential” (35:15).
Some people love a well-thought-out plan. Others like to fly by the seat of their pants. Is one method better than the other? Is one approach more indicative of strong, unwavering faith in God? Ansen, Kara, and Isaac bring you that conversation, as well as trying to fix the unfixable, family time, and "On The Record" with Wande.
Ansen, Kara, and Isaac discuss their successes, failures, and lessons learned when it comes to reading and studying the Bible. If we accept that Scripture is the Word of God, how should we respond? Plus... Ansen expresses his desire to talk less, Kara finds joy in revisiting old social media posts, and Isaac goes "On The Record" with Steven Malcolm.
On this episode, Ansen, Kara, and Isaac discuss the OTHER epidemic many of us are dealing with right now... and that's loneliness. Why is it so hard for adults to make friends? Plus... Kara opens up about quarantining with someone who is coping differently from you, Isaac celebrates finding his rhythm in the midst of the current crisis, and Ansen goes "On The Record" with Real FM artist Joshua Micah.
2:43 - Struggle Bus8:48 - Good Vibes13:09 - On The Record w/ Joshua Micah28:08 - The Conversation
Ansen, Kara, and Isaac discuss quarantine realities like working remotely and playing way too much Animal Crossing, while Kara goes "On The Record" with Real FM artist David Dunn. The gang then takes a break from coronavirus talk to discuss balancing sensitivity with boldness when it comes to evangelism.
Ansen, Kara, and Isaac share the challenges and successes they've experienced while under self-quarantine during the COVID-19 pandemic. Plus, Ansen talks about divvying up household chores, Kara celebrates measurable growth, and Isaac goes "On The Record" with Real FM hip-hop artist Peabod.
We know that environmentalism is a highly politicized topic. But political response aside, what does the Bible have to say on the subject of environmental stewardship? Ansen, Kara, and Isaac discuss that, as well as the challenge of embracing repentance and celebrating incremental improvements in life. Plus, Ansen goes "On The Record" with Alexander Pappas of Hillsong Young & Free!
Ansen, Kara, and Isaac discuss our personal and cultural obsession with optimizing our lives through self-help, materialism, and more. Plus... Isaac confesses that he doesn't always feel like going to church, Ansen raves about The Good Place, and Kara introduces us to new Real FM artist Elizabeth Grace.
Ansen, Kara, and Isaac are back for Season 6! Ansen hops on "The Struggle Bus" and admits to sulking, Kara shares why her stress ball makes her happy, and Isaac goes "On The Record" with special guest... Andy Mineo! For Valentine's Day, the group discusses Gary Chapman's "5 Love Languages," and how this framework can help us express love more effectively in our relationships.
Ansen, Kara, and Isaac are joined by Real Talk's first ever guest host: Dr. James Hawkins. James is a counselor, pastor, and podcaster who joins us for a candid conversation on racism and racial reconciliation from a Christian worldview.
Before we move on to 2020, Ansen, Kara, and Isaac time some time to ponder some personal reflection questions for the past year. Want to go through the questions yourself?
- What was an unexpected joy in your life this last year?
- If you were to have a "catch phrase" for 2019, what would it be?
- What was your biggest time waster this year?
- What was your biggest personal change?
- Who were your most valuable relationships with?
- What made you laugh the hardest?
- What was an area you felt stuck in?
- What are 3 words your partner would use to describe your year?
- What was a new discovery you made this past year?
Ansen, Kara, and Isaac attempt to answer two questions: 1) What is the purpose of suffering? 2) How do we not just survive, but rejoice in the midst of suffering? And since those are some difficult questions, the gang also discusses (and drinks) some delicious hot chocolate.
What do you make of Kanye's new album, "Jesus is King?" And what about his self-proclaimed conversion? Ansen, Kara, and Isaac tackle those topics... plus a quick detour into "fibroblasting." Also for some reason Ansen is ranking countries' flags.
Ansen, Kara, and Isaac are back to talk about fun! Why do many of us find it hard to be ok with the idea of having fun just for fun's sake? Plus... lots of fun is had talking about meanies, movies, and the mythical cactopus.
Does God have a plan for your life? Well, probably... but how do you figure out what that plan is exactly? What you're stuck in a dead-end job or are facing down a seemingly impossible decision? Ansen, Kara and Isaac discuss calling, sleep, and even candles on this episode of Real Talk.
Ansen, Kara, and Isaac discuss the topic of forgiveness... is it an immediate decision, or is it a process? What makes it so hard? Is there a difference between forgiveness and reconciliation? All that, plus a brief sidetrack about whether or not dogs can operate street sweepers.
Ansen, Kara, and Isaac return to ask the question, "What do we do with doubt?" Is "deconstructing" our faith an important spiritual practice, or a danger to avoid? And why is Isaac so obsessed with sparkling water?
We all know that mentoring relationships make sense, but how do we get started? Plus... Ansen, Kara, and Isaac discuss how to recognize your time-traveling children and their favorite baby names. Ansen and Isaac's future sons may need counseling.
It's the Real Talk Podcast "Avengers: Endgame" Special! We discuss our favorite moments from the movie, our favorite minor MCU characters, and our preferred superpowers. If it wasn't obvious already, spoilers abound.
CancelCulture is trending, but should it be? How do we know when it's appropriate to boycott an organization or even a person? Plus Ansen, Kara, and Isaac discuss purchasing TV's, firearms, and massages.
Ansen, Kara, and Isaac decide to take a break from the heavy stuff for an episode, focusing instead on the little things in life that bring us joy... which happens to include road trips, the color pink, snow days, and getting a hug.
Death is a part of life, but it's not something most people prefer to think much about. Ansen, Kara, and Isaac discuss what impact our mortality should have on the way we live our lives. Oh, and they rank their top classic Disney movies.
Ansen, Kara, and Isaac get nostalgic about video rental stores, classic children's literature, skateboarding, and other things that shaped our childhood. Plus, Isaac makes a compelling case for launching horses into the sun.
"Hard work" is one of the great virtues of American society. Is it possible to push ourselves too far? And if so, how do we know when we've crossed the line? Ansen, Kara, and Isaac discuss those questions, as well how to win a giant game of hide-and-seek.
We're kicking off Season 4 of Real Talk with THE Talk. Ansen, Kara, and Isaac discuss what both modern mainstream and Christian culture has gotten wrong about sexuality. Plus... how to be angry, top date night ideas, and gambling with our lives.
It's time to put a bow on 2018! What were some Ansen, Kara, and Isaac's favorite (and least favorite) things that happened this year? We cover "Baby Shark," Black Panther, customer service reps, ageism, and more...
Don't worry... Ansen, Kara, and Isaac aren't going to share their laundry lists of political opinions. Instead, they discuss the question, "What role should Christians play in politics?" Oh, and the merits of robot vacuums.
Christmas shopping season is here, so Ansen, Kara and Isaac present the Real FM Holiday Gift Guide! We've got ideas for every category of person in your life, including the "Man of the Woods," the "Impossible-to-Shop-for-Dad," and "Blanket Fort Betty!
Mawwaige. Mawwaige is what bwings us togethew today. Ansen, Kara, and Isaac get silly about everything from waffles to Nebraska, and get serious about everything from miscarriage to married life.
Why is everyone in Christian circles obsessed with The Enneagram? What even is it for that matter? Ansen, Kara, and Isaac dive into that, plus reading with your kids, fall festivals, procrastination, and more...
Ansen, Kara, and Isaac are back and tackling the topic of body image. How can we better understand the distinction between weight and health, and how can we use methods other than shame to encourage ourselves to lead healthy lives?
Ansen, Kara, and Isaac are taking a break from the serious stuff to talk movies! Learn about a few of their niche favorites, and bear witness as they burn bridges with thousands of Lord of the Rings, Batman, and Disney fans.
Ansen, Kara, and Isaac are back for Season 3 to discuss deepening our relationship with God. Why, when, and how should we go about it? Plus, new segments for Season 3, including "How to Adult," "OVERRATED," and "Mad-Lib the News."
Ansen, Kara, and Isaac are joined by Dri and Bri (not confusing at all!) to answer an interesting question: What's the one thing you wish the opposite gender knew about your gender? Plus... could Isaac really eat 50 scoops of ice cream?
Questions answered on this episode: Is church attendance mandatory for Christians? How do you know which church is right for you? What if you've been hurt in church? And perhaps most importantly, how in the world would you take care of an elephant-size...
When you're feeling stressed and overwhelmed, what are some small activities or ideas that you turn to that help "save your life"? Ansen, Kara, and Isaac discuss that, as well as the three types of people you meet on a float trip.
Ansen, Kara, and Isaac take on the issue of obscene language and how to evaluate whether our words are building others up. Also, Isaac tries to apply these lessons while doing battle with a bird on his front porch.
Ansen, Kara, and Isaac discuss the pros and cons of a polarizing form of media – video games. The gang also makes some admissions concerning their discomfort with public bathrooms.
Kara proposes and experiment – make a list of the Top 10 most influential songs of your life. Ansen, Kara, and Isaac each give it a try, with some interesting results. Find the playlists here: http://realfm.online/community/blog/our-musical-lives/
Is it possible to "agree to disagree?" Ansen, Kara, and Isaac discuss balancing the importance of truth with the reality of varying perspectives.
What is self-care? Is it selfish or selfless? Is there a difference between true self-care and escapism? And perhaps most importantly... are jelly beans the best Easter candy?
Isaac has finally finished Harry Potter... so of course we have to talk about it. Also, we address the never-ending debate between books versus movies.
We all deal with fear, so what do we do with the Biblical command to not fear? And is there really a scenario where Ansen and Isaac would voluntarily choose to hug a porcupine?
Money is the #1 cause of stress for Americans, and yet we never seem talk about it. Ansen, Kara, and Isaac discuss that, and also how to survive being attacked by a horde of angry cats.
Why do we always seem to fail at New Year's Resolutions? Ansen, Kara, and Isaac discuss the keys to setting healthy goals that will actually help us develop long-term.
Ansen, Kara, and Isaac discuss what causes the "winter blues" and how to work through it.
Ansen, Kara, and Isaac are back with a special Christmas episode, discussing how to navigate through family get-togethers during the holidays.
Ansen, Kara, and Isaac discuss a fun and unique "Would You Rather" scenario, and end up getting a bit deep in the course of their evaluation.
Ansen, Kara, and Isaac discuss the idea of "slippery slopes." Do Christians over-use this argument, or is it valid in some instances? Also discussed: Isaac's "Swagger Scale."
Ansen, Kara, and Isaac discuss Stranger Things and Parks & Rec fan theories, camping with wild animals, and the usefulness of Personality Type systems.
In light of the Harvey Weinstein scandal and #MeToo movement, Ansen, Kara, and Isaac discuss the pervasiveness of sexism. This episode is intended for mature audiences.
Ansen, Kara, and Isaac take on social media. There's lots of potential pitfalls, but are there any ways that social media can impact our lives for the better?
Ansen, Kara, and Isaac take a break from the serious stuff to work through a very important debate: which is better, iPhone or Android?
Ansen, Kara, and Isaac discuss the topic of processing pain, including some common misconceptions, pitfalls, and tools to navigate tough times...
This week on the show, Ansen, Kara, and Isaac talk about their favorite (and least favorite!) superheroes, including Wonder Woman, Spiderman, Batman, and more!
This week on the show, Ansen, Kara, and Isaac tackle the pros and cons of generational stereotyping. Oh, and there's some brief discussion on the importance of lawn care.
Ansen, Kara, and Isaac discuss Harry Potter, the pitfalls of online dating, and how Christians should approach the issue of Christian vs. secular music.