ABQ Connect Episode Archive

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Delano Squires of the Heritage Foundation joins us on ABQ Connect to discuss a recent Daily Signal article examining the limits of First Amendment protections and whether disruptive protests inside church services are protected speech. Delano explores the balance between free expression, religious liberty, and the right of congregations to worship without disruption. It’s a timely conversation about constitutional rights, public discourse, and protecting spaces dedicated to faith and worship.

Zach Mettler, writer and issues analyst with Focus on the Family‘s Daily Citizen, joins us to discuss a thought-provoking article highlighting research showing that one in eight young men regularly engage in a combination of pornography, gambling, and video gaming. Zach explores what these trends reveal about the challenges facing young men today, the impact these habits can have on relationships, purpose, and spiritual growth, and how families, churches, and mentors can offer hope and guidance. It’s an important conversation about helping the next generation pursue healthier habits and a stronger foundation for life.

Bishop Daniel with GFA World joins us on ABQ Connect to provide an update on the recent disaster in Nepal and the ongoing relief efforts serving affected communities. He shares how local churches and ministry teams are responding with practical aid, compassionate care, and the hope of Christ during a difficult time. It’s an important look at how believers are coming alongside those in need and how listeners can pray for and support recovery efforts around the world.

Today, we welcome Jogi Hendricks from NMFAM to discuss #NoFilter and the importance of understanding who we are through the truth of the Gospel. In a culture marked by confusion and an ongoing identity crisis, Jogi will share encouragement for believers to find their true identity, worth, and purpose in Christ.

 

In today’s digital world, a careless post can have consequences long after it’s shared. But could a teenager’s social media activity—or even their use of AI—actually affect their chances of getting into college? With schools like Harvard having revoked or denied admission over offensive online content, the concern is more than hypothetical.

Plugged In Managing Editor Bret Eckelberry breaks down how much social media and AI really factor into college admissions, what parents and students should know, and how likely an average applicant is to face consequences. He’ll also offer practical advice for parents, including how to start meaningful conversations with college-bound teens and use available safety tools to help them navigate the digital world responsibly.

Take Care With What You Share: The Exposure of Social Media & AI Chats – Plugged In

Carla Sonntag with the New Mexico Business Coalition and Better Together New Mexico joins us on ABQ Connect to discuss several issues shaping the future of New Mexico. The conversation includes record state revenues and growing government spending, debates over taxpayer funding priorities, proposals related to election integrity and ballot accountability, and ongoing discussions about tax reform and the state’s personal income tax. Carla will also share updates on the upcoming Heroes Banquet and how New Mexicans can become more engaged in issues affecting businesses, families, and communities across the state.

Marriage challenges can change throughout a couple’s relationship, with certain stressors becoming more common during particular seasons of married life. Drawing on the 2025 State of the Family Marriage Study from Focus on the Family, the Marriage Problems Analysis examines marital difficulties through the lens of years married, revealing patterns that can help couples anticipate challenges and strengthen their relationships.

Dr. Bob Paul, Vice President of the Focus on the Family Marriage Institute, can share what the research reveals about when specific marital problems tend to peak, which seasons bring relatively fewer challenges, and how couples can be proactive rather than reactive. He can also offer encouragement and practical resources for couples navigating difficult seasons.

State of the Family – 2025 – Focus on the Family

Today on ABQ Connect, Dr. Ray Mondragon joins us for a fascinating conversation about Genesis, science, and the mystery of light. Drawing from his background as an engineer, seminary professor, and author of Science! Is God Shouting? The Biblical Foundation for Science, Ray explores what Genesis reveals about creation, why scientific questions don’t have to undermine faith, and what we can learn from God’s first recorded words: “Let there be light.” It’s a thought-provoking discussion that helps listeners think deeply about Scripture, science, and the Creator behind it all.

Brian Cochran, President of John Moore Associates, joins us on ABQ Connect to discuss today’s market environment and why diversification remains one of the most important principles in investing. Brian takes a closer look at the performance of the “Magnificent Seven” technology stocks from 2024 through 2026 and explores the major market themes currently shaping the economy.

The conversation also examines the explosive growth of artificial intelligence, the role of large language models (LLMs) in driving demand, and why major technology companies are investing billions to build AI infrastructure. Brian discusses the opportunities and risks associated with this trend, including concerns about rising debt among hyperscale technology companies and the concentration of demand among a relatively small number of AI firms. If those companies struggle or fail, what could that mean for investors and the broader market? It’s a timely discussion on balancing opportunity and risk while maintaining a sound, long-term investment strategy.

Dr. Sharen Ford of Focus on the Family and Clay Schroff on ABQ Connect to discuss an upcoming Foster Care Information Event designed specifically for the Calvary Church congregation. This special event will introduce families to a fast-track foster care program and provide practical information for those who are considering opening their homes to children in need.

Dr. Ford and Clay will share the urgent need for foster families, the life-changing impact a safe and loving home can have on a child, and how churches can play a vital role in supporting vulnerable children and families. Whether you’re exploring foster care, interested in adoption, or simply want to learn how to support foster families, this conversation offers insight, encouragement, and a clear path to getting involved. It’s a powerful opportunity to discover how ordinary families can make an extraordinary difference in the lives of children.