The World Needs A Little Talk

PODCAST · arts

The World Needs A Little Talk

Join nerd, Austin Schwartz and Professor of Theology, Matthew Umbarger, on a search for wisdom as they discuss religious allegory, cinematic revelations, and other elements they love from prominent stories within pop culture. Books, movies, TV, music, and more; point us toward an interesting story and we'll talk about it.Cover art by Austin Schwartz

  1. 32

    S1 E32 - "Frankenstein" (2025)

    Masterpiece or monstrosity? Austin and Matthew pick apart Guillermo del Toro's Frankenstein for better and for worse.Find your hosts on other podcasts! Matthew Umbarger is on "Sacred Realms," and Austin Schwartz is on "The Floating Tavern," an actual play Dnd podcast.Check out Austin and Matthew's original show, "Apocalypse How?"Episode Description by Matthew UmbargerEditing by Austin SchwartzMusic theme by Madi Laughlin

  2. 31

    S1 E31 - "Humani Generis"

    Matthew introduces Austin to his first papal encyclical, Humani Generis, opening up to a discussion about the ways faith and reason inform one another.Find your hosts on other podcasts! Matthew Umbarger is on "Sacred Realms," and Austin Schwartz is on "The Floating Tavern," an actual play Dnd podcast.Check out Austin and Matthew's original show, "Apocalypse How?"Episode Description by Matthew UmbargerEditing by Austin SchwartzMusic theme by Madi Laughlin

  3. 30

    S1 E30 - "Ruins"

    Have you ever dined on something that is pretty much universally loathed by anyone who has ever tasted it? That's sort of what Austin and Matthew discover when they read "Ruins," the follow up to "Marvels." Come, share their misery. Have a bite of this. You'll hate it.Find your hosts on other podcasts! Matthew Umbarger is on "Sacred Realms," and Austin Schwartz is on "The Floating Tavern," an actual play Dnd podcast.Check out Austin and Matthew's original show, "Apocalypse How?"Episode Description by Matthew UmbargerEditing by Austin SchwartzMusic theme by Madi Laughlin

  4. 29

    S1 E29 - "Marvels"

    Austin and Matthew discuss human adaptability and the search for identity through the lense of "Marvels." A four issue limited series that follows the birth of the heroic age from a reporters perspective. Matthew also uncovers Austin's comic filled childhood which contrasts his own comic light upbringing.Find your hosts on other podcasts! Matthew Umbarger is on "Sacred Realms," and Austin Schwartz is on "The Floating Tavern," an actual play Dnd podcast.Check out Austin and Matthew's original show, "Apocalypse How?"Episode Description by Matthew UmbargerEditing by Austin SchwartzMusic theme by Madi Laughlin

  5. 28

    S1 E28 - "The Door in the Wall"

    Austin introduces Matthew to H. G. Wells's haunting short story, "The Door in the Wall," and it sparks a conversation about dreams and nostalgia.Find your hosts on other podcasts! Matthew Umbarger is on "Sacred Realms," and Austin Schwartz is on "The Floating Tavern," an actual play Dnd podcast.Check out Austin and Matthew's original show, "Apocalypse How?"Episode Description by Matthew UmbargerEditing by Austin SchwartzMusic theme by Madi Laughlin

  6. 27

    S1 E27 - "The Assyrians: Empire of Iron"

    Matthew tests Austin's historical mettle with an epic, amateur, three hour documentary on Assyria...Find your hosts on other podcasts! Matthew Umbarger is on "Sacred Realms," and Austin Schwartz is on "The Floating Tavern," an actual play Dnd podcast.Check out Austin and Matthew's original show, "Apocalypse How?"Episode Description by Matthew UmbargerEditing by Austin SchwartzMusic theme by Madi Laughlin

  7. 26

    S1 E26 - Dax: Top Songs

    Austin and Matthew enjoy some hip-hop from former Newman University student Dax. Austin gets a little too theraputic with Matthew. And Matthew helps Austin catch up on his slang. Do YOU know what "burger music" is? Check out Austin and Matthew's original show, "Apocalypse How?"Find your hosts on other podcasts! Matthew Umbarger is on "Sacred Realms," and Austin Schwartz is on "The Floating Tavern," an actual play Dnd podcast.Episode Description by Matthew UmbargerEditing by Austin SchwartzMusic theme by Madi Laughlin

  8. 25

    S1 E25 - "17776"

    For their landmark 25th episode, Austin and Matthew invite their very first guest, Deqlan Mitchell. Deqlan introduces them to one of the most bizarre pieces of science fiction they have ever encountered, "17776" by Jon Bois.Check out Austin and Matthew's original show, "Apocalypse How?"Find your hosts on other podcasts! Matthew Umbarger is on "Sacred Realms," and Austin Schwartz is on "The Floating Tavern," an actual play Dnd podcast.Episode Description by Matthew UmbargerEditing by Austin SchwartzMusic theme by Madi Laughlin

  9. 24

    S1 E24 - "Sweet Bird of Youth"

    Austin and Matthew go a bit dark with a discussion of Tennessee Williams's "Sweet Bird of Youth." (Tennessee Williams should NOT be confused with Tennessee Ernie Ford). Matthew also snatches an opportunity to talk about Israel.Find your hosts on other podcasts! Matthew Umbarger is on "Sacred Realms," and Austin Schwartz is on "The Floating Tavern," an actual play Dnd podcast.Episode Description by Matthew UmbargerEditing by Austin SchwartzMusic theme by Madi LaughlinAustin and Matthew have an original show, "Apocalypse How?" (This was a student project.)

  10. 23

    S1 E23 - "Bullet Train"

    Matthew (aka Honeycrisp) finally gets around to watching "Bullet Train," and explains how his wife connects it to Catholicism; meanwhile, Austin (aka Lime) gets emotional about the bond of brotherhood.Check out Austin and Matthew's original show, "Apocalypse How?"Find your hosts on other podcasts! Matthew Umbarger is on "Sacred Realms," and Austin Schwartz is on "The Floating Tavern," an actual play Dnd podcast.Episode Description by Matthew UmbargerEditing by Austin SchwartzMusic theme by Madi Laughlin

  11. 22

    S1 E22 - "The Latin Life of Adam and Eve"

    An ancient piece of biblical fan-fiction gives Austin and Matthew plenty to discuss. They discuss the importance of classic fairy tales and the significance of Adam and Eve's roles.Check out Austin and Matthew's original show, "Apocalypse How?"Find your hosts on other podcasts! Matthew Umbarger is on "Sacred Realms," and Austin Schwartz is on "The Floating Tavern," an actual play Dnd podcast.Episode Description by Matthew UmbargerEditing by Austin SchwartzMusic theme by Madi Laughlin

  12. 21

    S1 E21 - "Daredevil: Born Again"

    What makes a great character? Why should hero's be flawed? Is it okay for comics to be dark and scary? Austin and Matthew enjoy a discussion over a true work of art, "Daredevil: Born Again" by Frank Miller and David Mazzucchelli.Check out Austin and Matthew's original show, "Apocalypse How?"Find your hosts on other podcasts! Matthew Umbarger is on "Sacred Realms," and Austin Schwartz is on "The Floating Tavern," an actual play Dnd podcast.Episode Description by Matthew UmbargerEditing by Austin SchwartzMusic theme by Madi Laughlin

  13. 20

    S1 E20 - "KPop Demon Hunters"

    Austin and Matthew think KPop Demon Hunters is "Golden." Find out why they strongly recommend this Netflix phenomenon.Check out Austin and Matthew's original show, "Apocalypse How?"Find your hosts on other podcasts! Matthew Umbarger is on "Sacred Realms," and Austin Schwartz is on "The Floating Tavern," an actual play Dnd podcast.Episode Description by Matthew UmbargerEditing by Austin SchwartzMusic theme by Madi Laughlin

  14. 19

    S1 E19 - The Hatman

    Austin introduces Matthew to the Hatman conspiracy. He may never take Benadryl ever again... This episode also features personal accounts of paranormal adventures from Matthew and Austin.Check out Austin and Matthew's original show, "Apocalypse How?"Find your hosts on other podcasts! Matthew Umbarger is on "Sacred Realms," and Austin Schwartz is on "The Floating Tavern," an actual play Dnd podcast.Episode Description by Matthew UmbargerEditing by Austin SchwartzMusic theme by Madi Laughlin

  15. 18

    S1 E18 - "Lovecraft Country"

    Austin and Matthew discuss the creatively brilliant yet morally murky HBO series, "Lovecraft Country." They wrestle with their love of the fantastic cinematic piece, as the their are few low plot beats and questionable threads in the writing.Check out Austin and Matthew's original show, "Apocalypse How?"Find your hosts on other podcasts! Matthew Umbarger is on "Sacred Realms," and Austin Schwartz is on "The Floating Tavern," an actual play Dnd podcast.Episode Description by Matthew UmbargerEditing by Austin SchwartzMusic theme by Madi Laughlin

  16. 17

    S1 E17 - "The Monkey's Paw"

    Austin and Matthew get creeped out by a classic, "The Monkey's Paw." Be careful what you wish for! (Better yet, let's just not make a wish).Check out Austin and Matthew's original show, "Apocalypse How?"Find your hosts on other podcasts! Matthew Umbarger is on "Sacred Realms," and Austin Schwartz is on "The Floating Tavern," an actual play Dnd podcast.Episode Description by Matthew UmbargerEditing by Austin SchwartzMusic theme by Madi Laughlin

  17. 16

    S1 E16 - "Morbius"

    Austin and Brenden! That's right, Austin's twin brother will be filling in this week to talk about Morbius and the film franchise that could have been a very cool Sonyverse. Too bad it wasn't...Check out Austin and Matthew's original show, "Apocalypse How?"Find your hosts on other podcasts! Matthew Umbarger is on "Sacred Realms," and Austin and Brenden Schwartz are on "The Floating Tavern," an actual play Dnd podcast.Episode Description by Brenden SchwartzEditing by Austin SchwartzMusic theme by Madi Laughlin

  18. 15

    S1 E15 - "Star Wars: The Holiday Special"'s

    Matthew attempts to introduce Austin to television of the seventies and eighties. Maybe starting with the "Star Wars Holiday Special" was a bad idea. Austin in turn introduced Matthew to the world of Lego in cinema and the guys see how the "Lego Star Wars Holiday Special" carries on a tradition. The forty minute children's show winds up giving them quite a bit to chew on in terms of the fundamentals of Jedi doctrine.Check out Austin and Matthew's original show, "Apocalypse How?"Find your hosts on other podcasts! Matthew Umbarger is on "Sacred Realms," and Austin Schwartz is on "The Floating Tavern," an actual play Dnd podcast.Episode Description by Matthew UmbargerEditing by Austin SchwartzMusic theme by Madi Laughlin

  19. 14

    S1 E14 - "The Lottery"

    Austin and Matthew read another Shirley Jackson classic, "The Lottery," per the request of their fan, and it opens up a wide ranging conversation about fertility rituals, scapegoating and human depravity. Enjoy!Check out Austin and Matthew's original show, "Apocalypse How?"Find your hosts on other podcasts! Matthew Umbarger is on "Sacred Realms," and Austin Schwartz is on "The Floating Tavern," an actual play Dnd podcast.Episode Description by Austin SchwartzEditing by Austin SchwartzMusic theme by Madi Laughlin

  20. 13

    S1 E13 - "Company"

    Austin and Matthew, but shorter and less hairy, sit down to discuss Sondheim's "Company." A musical they both watched recently performed by Wichita State University. They dive into the different perceptions of depression and what the value or lack of having people in your life can look like.Check out Austin and Matthew's original show, "Apocalypse How?"Find your hosts on other podcasts! Matthew Umbarger is on "Sacred Realms," and Austin and Brenden Schwartz are on "The Floating Tavern," an actual play Dnd podcast.Episode Description by Brenden SchwartzEditing by Austin SchwartzMusic theme by Madi Laughlin

  21. 12

    S1 E12 - "All is Calm"

    Matthew came to see Austin perform in "All is Calm," produced by the Wichita Grand Opera. They reflect on the beautiful piece and express the importance of how a historical story can still carry powerful relevance today.Check out Austin and Matthew's original show, "Apocalypse How?"Find your hosts on other podcasts! Matthew Umbarger is on "Sacred Realms," and Austin Schwartz is on "The Floating Tavern," an actual play Dnd podcast.Episode Description by Austin SchwartzEditing by Austin SchwartzMusic theme by Madi Laughlin

  22. 11

    S1 E11 - A Christmas Special

    Matthew introduces Austin to two sentimental Christmas classics, "The Gift of the Magi" by O. Henry and Dylan Thomas's "A Child's Christmas in Wales." They discuss nostalgia and 'Christmases long ago,' and honestly get in their feels as a couple of tears are shed.Check out Austin and Matthew's original show, "Apocalypse How?"Find your hosts on other podcasts! Matthew Umbarger is on "Sacred Realms," and Austin Schwartz is on "The Floating Tavern," an actual play Dnd podcast.Episode Description by Matthew UmbargerEditing by Austin SchwartzMusic theme by Madi Laughlin

  23. 10

    S1 E10 - "The Chronicles of Narnia" Books 4-7

    Austin and Matthew journey back into the wardrobe to revisit Lewis' Narnia. Austin is enamored by "The Last Battle" while Matthew wishes they talked more about "Prince Caspian." But, they both admire the "Silver Chair."Check out Austin and Matthew's original show, "Apocalypse How?"Find your hosts on other podcasts! Matthew Umbarger is on "Sacred Realms," and Austin Schwartz is on "The Floating Tavern," an actual play Dnd podcast.Episode Description by Austin SchwartzEditing by Austin SchwartzMusic theme by Madi Laughlin

  24. 9

    S1 E9 - "Ampersand" by Bastille

    Austin introduces Matthew to some of what the young 'uns listen to these days, Bastille! Now Matthew is hip with the kids, who are trying to learn. Dan Smith's "Ampersand" album was a passion project that tells the stories of historic figures with Bastille's artistic flare.Check out Austin and Matthew's original show, "Apocalypse How?"Find your hosts on other other podcasts! Matthew Umbarger is on "Sacred Realms," and Austin Schwartz is on "The Floating Tavern," and actual play Dnd podcast.Episode Description by Matthew UmbargerEditing by Austin SchwartzMusic theme by Madi Laughlin

  25. 8

    S1 E8 - "The Chronicles of Narnia" Books 1-3

    Austin finally got around to reading CS Lewis's Narnia series. Matthew feels like they at last have got something he is passionate about to discuss.Check out Austin and Matthew's original show, "Apocalypse How?"Find your hosts on other other podcasts! Matthew Umbarger is on "Sacred Realms," and Austin Schwartz is on "The Floating Tavern," and actual play Dnd podcast.Episode Description by Matthew UmbargerEditing by Austin SchwartzMusic theme by Madi Laughlin

  26. 7

    S1 E7 - "Carousel"

    Austin and Matthew discuss a delightful musical with a bland interpretation of a Christian theology based afterlife, Carousel. Newman University just performed this phenomenal production by Rodgers and Hammerstein on the first weekend of November. Feel free to listen in even if you missed the show.Check out Austin and Matthew's original show, "Apocalypse How?"Find your hosts on other other podcasts! Matthew Umbarger is on "Sacred Realms," and Austin Schwartz is on "The Floating Tavern," and actual play Dnd podcast.Episode Description by Matthew UmbargerEditing by Austin SchwartzMusic theme by Madi Laughlin

  27. 6

    S1 E6 - "Watchmen" (2019)

    Austin and Matthew revisit Alan Moore's "Watchmen" via its HBO sequel. The comic left Matthew cold, but the TV series goes Catholic for him... hard. Austin tries desperately not to spoil the final episode for Matthew, and nearly succeeds.Austin and Matthew talk about the original graphic novel on their old show, "Apocalypse How?"Find your hosts on other podcasts! Matthew Umbarger is on, “Sacred Realms” and Austin Schwartz is on “The Floating Tavern.”Episode description by Matthew UmbargerEditing by Austin SchwartzMusic theme by Madi Laughlin

  28. 5

    S1 E5 - "The Witch"

    Austin and Matthew explore interpretations of an expertly written short story, “The Witch,” by Shirley Jackson. They are still wrestling the question, who is the witch?Episode description by Matthew UmbargerEditing by Austin SchwartzMusic theme by Madi LaughlinCheck out our original show, “Apocolypse How?”Find your hosts on other podcasts! Matthew Umbarger is on, “Sacred Realms” and Austin Schwartz is on “The Floating Tavern.”

  29. 4

    S1 E4 - "Agatha All Along"

    Austin and Matthew get creeped out by the overly realistic witchcraft in the MCU's "Agatha All Along," while delving into the deeper concerns of how shows and their protagonist impact the viewers who idolize them.Episode Description by Matthew UmbargerEditing by Austin SchwartzMusic by Madi LaughlinLook at our previous show, "Apocolypse How?"Find your hosts on other podcasts! Matthew Umbarger is on, "Sacred Realms," and Austin Schwartz is on "The Floating Tavern."

  30. 3

    S1 E3 - "Tom, Dick, and Harry"

    Matthew and Austin discuss Austin's professional directorial debut, "Tom, Dick, and Harry." Austin give directorial insight and shares how an invading bat stole the show on opening night. Matthew implores listeners to support live theatre in their local area.Weren't able to see the show? You can still join the discussion by watching Newman University's recording of the show: https://youtu.be/AkberJXmHqI?si=VfOMsMek8rrERHwMEpisode Description by Matthew UmbargerEditing by Austin SchwartzMusic by Madi LaughlinLook at our previous show, "Apocolypse How?"Find your hosts on other podcasts! Matthew Umbarger is on, "Sacred Realms," and Austin Schwartz is on "The Floating Tavern."

  31. 2

    S1 E2 - "Harry Potter" Books 1 & 2

    Matthew heard about this "new" book all the kids have read... He has finally gotten around to reading the first two books of the series and he's got some controversial opinions. Austin defends "Harry Potter" as it was a central point of his childhood, but concedes to some valid observations.Episode Description by Matthew UmbargerEditing by Austin SchwartzMusic theme by Madi LaughlinLook at our previous show, "Apocolypse How?"Find your hosts on other podcasts! Matthew Umbarger is on, "Sacred Realms," and Austin Schwartz is on "The Floating Tavern."

  32. 1

    S1 E1 - "Superman" and "Fantastic Four"

    We're ba-ack. It's been a long while, but the world hasn't ended just quite yet, so we have time for a few more little talks. In this episode, Austin explains why Superman makes him cry and the Fantastic Four does not. Matthew celebrates the fact that Hollywood has rediscovered the centrality of the family for the meaningful narratives. And both of them cringe over supposedly Kansan accents in the movies.Episode Description by Matthew UmbargerEditing by Austin SchwartzMusic theme by Madi LaughlinLook at our previous show, "Apocolypse How?"You can also find Matthew Umbarger on, "Sacred Realms," and Austin Schwartz on "The Floating Tavern."#PopCultureTheology#NerdAndTheologian#StorytellingMatters#FaithAndFandom#AllegoryInPopCulture#MeaningfulNarratives#SupermanFeels#FantasticFour#HollywoodFamily#MovieAccents#KansasInTheMovies#SuperheroStories#WhyStoriesMatter#FaithInFiction

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ABOUT THIS SHOW

Join nerd, Austin Schwartz and Professor of Theology, Matthew Umbarger, on a search for wisdom as they discuss religious allegory, cinematic revelations, and other elements they love from prominent stories within pop culture. Books, movies, TV, music, and more; point us toward an interesting story and we'll talk about it.Cover art by Austin Schwartz

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