Kings Dream Live [podcast]

In this episode, Ruslan explores the intense physical transformations of Christian Bale and 50 Cent — and the deeper questions behind them. Why did Bale starve himself to play a guilt-ridden insomniac in The Machinist, then bulk up beyond recognition to become Batman? Why did 50 Cent shed over 50 pounds for a little-known movie about his friend’s battle with cancer?Ruslan unpacks these two stories to examine what really fuels our ambition. Is it love and meaning, like 50 Cent’s tribute to his friend? Or is it ego and insecurity, like Bale admitted about pushing himself too far?You’ll hear how the Bible distinguishes between selfish ambition that destroys and godly ambition that glorifies God and serves others. Ruslan also shares practical insights on how to discern your own motives and embrace ambition as stewardship — using your gifts with humility and excellence.If you’ve ever wrestled with the tension between wanting more and honoring God, this episode will challenge and inspire you to ask: What’s really d

Powfu, the artist behind the viral hit “Deathbed” with over 2 billion streams, sits down to share the untold story of his rise to fame — and the tension it created with his faith. From being told to stop posting about Jesus, to choosing integrity over industry pressure, Powfu reveals how his relationship with God shaped his journey. We also dive into how he creates his unique sound, his ministry in his local community, and how he’s using his art to point people to hope.

In this episode, Ruslan opens up about a dark season in his life — even as a Christian — when selfish ambition led him to one of his lowest moments on stage. He shares the story of his disastrous House of Blues show, the lessons learned about godly vs. selfish ambition, and how viewing ambition as stewardship changed everything. Learn how to pursue your calling without letting pride or apathy derail you.

In this episode, we dive deep into the disturbing true story of how the CIA and Harvard collaborated in the 1960s on secret psychological experiments — experiments so cruel and invasive they may have helped create one of America’s most notorious domestic terrorists: Ted Kaczynski, the Unabomber.We explore how the CIA’s MKUltra program used hypnosis, LSD, and psychological torture on students under the guise of academic research, and how Harvard willingly provided cover for it. The speakers reflect on the moral failure of these institutions, the impact it had on Kaczynski, and what it reveals about the battle for our minds today.They also tie the story to biblical truths — warning listeners not to conform to the world, encouraging them to take every thought captive, and to put on the full armor of God. This episode unpacks the spiritual and cultural battle for your mind and why standing firm in your faith is essential.

In this episode, we unpack a fiery exchange between apologist Wes Huff and controversial professor Aman Hillman. Hillman, once a Baptist Sunday school teacher, now pushes bizarre theories about Jesus leading a drug-fueled cult and dying from venom instead of crucifixion. His claims — reinterpreting Christian texts through drugs, myths, and scandal — are challenged head-on by Wes, who dismantles Hillman’s arguments and exposes his misuse of Greek.What happens next is wild: as Wes calmly corrects him, Hillman grows visibly agitated — fidgeting, covering his head, and eventually being accused by the host of “manifesting a demon.” We also explore Hillman’s own stories of alleged demonic encounters and his claim to be protected by a “troop of demons” to bring the Antichrist.This conversation dives deep into spiritual warfare, false teaching, and what it means to stand for biblical truth in the face of deception.

The hosts dive deep into the shocking closure of the Jeffrey Epstein case — despite years of promises, no client list, no names, no justice. They unpack the bizarre timeline, missing evidence, and public frustration, and explore what the Bible says about hidden evil, imperfect earthly justice, and God’s ultimate judgment. They challenge listeners to live with integrity and godly ambition even when the world feels dark.

In this powerful episode, the story of Brock Purdy — once laughed at as “Mr. Irrelevant,” the very last pick of the NFL draft — becomes a vivid picture of how God chooses the overlooked and extends mercy to the outsider. Ruslan walks through Purdy’s unlikely rise from underdog to NFL starter, tying it to Romans 9 and the truth that God’s mercy is not based on our status, pedigree, or works, but on His grace alone.The conversation dives into deep questions about God’s mercy, fairness, and how salvation works — whether it’s earned, chosen, or simply received as a gift. Along the way, Ruslan shares his own reflections, weaving together scripture, real-life examples, and encouragement for those who feel disqualified or forgotten.If you’ve ever wondered whether you belong in God’s story, this episode will remind you: mercy is for the humble, the outsider, the underdog — for all who will receive it.

Did Apple Accidentally Preach the Gospel? | Rick Sherman’s Rescue & 1 Corinthians 15In this episode, we explore how Apple’s powerful commercial about Rick Sherman—a man rescued from drowning thanks to his Apple Watch—mirrors the good news of Jesus. Ruslan unpacks how Rick’s desperate cry for help parallels our own spiritual condition: drowning without Christ, dead in our sin, yet rescued by grace.Drawing from 1 Corinthians 15, we discuss what it means to stand on the gospel, why it’s trustworthy, and how it transforms us daily—not just once, but continually. We also reflect on how even in our struggles, God’s grace sustains and sanctifies us over time.This episode combines cultural commentary, biblical teaching, and a reminder that we never graduate from the gospel—we keep leaning on it, just as Rick will never forget the watch that saved his life.

In this powerful episode, Ruslan sits down with actor Nick Alvarez—best known for his role in The Chosen—to unpack his incredible journey through Hollywood, faith, and family legacy. From being cast in a Pampers commercial as a toddler to almost walking away from acting for soccer, Nick opens up about the real grind of being a working actor, including countless auditions, rejection, and the emotional toll of trying to "make it."He shares how growing up in a faith-influenced household with a pastor grandfather laid the foundation for his eventual spiritual awakening. But it wasn’t until the industry pressures and the isolation of COVID hit that he found a deep, personal faith in Jesus.The conversation also dives into the tension between craft and clout in today’s acting world—how influencers are landing roles without traditional training, and what it means to stay rooted in purpose when the industry often rewards popularity over skill.This is a raw and inspiring conversation about calling, perseverance, and ho

In this powerful conversation, Ruslan sits down with Father Josiah Trenham, a prominent Eastern Orthodox priest, author, and YouTuber, for an in-depth dialogue about sacred architecture, spiritual formation, and reclaiming the culture for Christ.Father Josiah shares the incredible story of how his Riverside parish began in a hot, windowless warehouse next to a train track—and how, through faith, grit, and community, it became a breathtaking church modeled after a 13th-century Greek structure. They explore why Orthodox churches are lavishly built, the deep symbolism behind facing east in worship, and why believers literally spit west when renouncing Satan.The discussion expands into critiques of modern universities and hospitals, the rise of secularism, and how Christians have slowly retreated from institutions they once built—from Ivy League schools to popular art and culture. Father Josiah argues that this retreat stems from cold hearts more than just cultural pressure, urging believers to reorient their liv

Why I Haven’t Converted to Orthodox or Catholic ChristianityIn this thought-provoking episode, Ruslan KD unpacks the real reason he hasn’t converted to Eastern Orthodoxy or Catholicism—despite growing up Oriental Orthodox and having deep respect for high church traditions. Drawing from personal experience, theological study, and conversations with priests across Christian streams, Ruslan explores the debate around apostolic succession and the structure of church leadership. He challenges the common assumption that Protestants lack historical or biblical legitimacy and explains why many remain unconvinced by the high church claim to be the "one true church." This episode also features insights from the YouTube channel Biblical Understanding and tackles early church writings from Ignatius, Clement, and Jerome. Whether you’re Protestant, Orthodox, Catholic, or just curious, this conversation sheds light on the theological framework behind Ruslan’s convictions—and why he believes Scripture remains the f

In this episode, Ruslan KD dives into what he believes is one of the most destructive teachings influencing Christians today: the idea that "all sin is the same." Prompted by a confrontational Instagram DM and recent heartbreaking revelations about Christian artists like Michael Tait and leaders like Robert Morris, Ruslan unpacks why this oversimplified view of sin can be harmful—and how it’s being used to minimize serious moral failures, even involving minors.Joined by insights from apologist Mike Winger, the episode explores biblical distinctions between sins, consequences, and justice. Ruslan also responds directly to criticism from a viewer who accuses him and other Christian YouTubers of lacking grace. The conversation exposes deeper issues in church culture—how we talk about repentance, restoration, and accountability in the digital age.This episode isn’t about cancel culture. It’s about clarity, truth, and protecting the vulnerable—while still believing in redemption through Jesus.

In this special panel from the Bless God Summit, Ruslan KD sits down with some of the most influential Christian YouTubers—David Wood, Inspiring Philosophy, What Do You Meme, Nate Salah, and God Logic Apologetics—to talk all things YouTube, faith, and calling.They dive deep into how each of them got started, what it takes to grow a channel in today’s saturated landscape, and why authenticity matters more than fancy gear or a viral strategy. From early struggles to finding their niche in apologetics and cultural commentary, each speaker shares real stories, practical advice, and hard-earned wisdom.If you’re thinking about launching your own channel—or just want to know what it’s like behind the scenes of Christian creators who are shaping conversations around faith and culture—this episode is packed with insight, laughs, and encouragement.

Ruslan unpacks the Michael Tait scandal, shares his own journey with sin, and offers a biblical, practical path to freedom through confession, transformation, and purpose.My Go-To Bible Software (Logos 60 Day Free Trial): http://logos.com/ruslan

This video explores the complex immigration crisis in Los Angeles, sparked by ICE raids and escalating protests, examining the political backstory, scriptural perspectives, and common objections like U.S. destabilization and claims of stolen land. It argues for a balanced Christian approach that upholds both compassion and lawful order.0:00 - Introduction: ICE raids and escalating unrest in LA0:27 - Overview: What this video covers (backstory, scripture, objections)3:08 - Backstory: How we got here—policy shifts under Obama, Trump, and Biden12:16 - Abbott's strategy: Busing migrants and shifting national sentiment15:57 - Scripture: Old Testament commands regarding the foreigner18:09 - Romans 13: Government's biblical role in law and order22:13 - Balanced view: Compassion vs. law, avoiding binary thinking26:42 - Christian responsibility vs. government responsibility30:37 - Common objections: U.S. destabilization and "stolen land" claims35:18 - Practical solutions: Helping asylum seekers respo

In this powerful episode, Ruslan KD sits down with lawyer, author, and spiritual formation advocate Justin Whitmel Earley to unpack the intersection of habits, faith, mental health, and purpose. Justin shares his deeply personal story of anxiety, burnout, and the turning point that led him to rediscover the ancient Christian practice of spiritual disciplines — not as legalism, but as a path to flourishing.From missionary work in underground Chinese house churches to the high-stress world of corporate law, Justin reflects on how unchecked ambition and tech-driven distractions almost destroyed his health and family. Through simple, consistent rhythms like “Scripture before phone,” Sabbath rest, and weekly community, he found renewal — and now helps others do the same.