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Welcome to a very merry episode of the podcast!
Join us as Nino, Karlie, Tobin, and Caleb share what makes Christmas feel special to them—and maybe get a little inspiration to bring back to your holiday celebrations!
Here’s what we’ll be talking about:
Traditions & Activities
From timeless family gatherings to unique holiday traditions, we reveal our favorite Christmas activities that make the season unforgettable. Whether you’re a fan of cozy movie nights or have a knack for getting competitive in holiday games, these ideas might inspire some new traditions in your home!
Favorite Festive Foods
What would Christmas be without some delicious eats? Hear the team’s top Christmas treats, from family-recipe dishes to seasonal sweets that they just can’t get enough of. You might end up with some new dishes to try this holiday season!
Holiday Music Magic
There’s nothing like the right song to set the Christmas mood. Nino, Karlie, Tobin, and Caleb each share their favorite Christmas tunes, from nostalgic classics to upbeat anthems. They’ll let us know which songs bring back the best memories—and maybe get you humming along too.
Movies That Make Christmas
Get ready for a dive into Christmas cinema! Everyone picks their favorite holiday film, describing what makes it perfect for watching year after year. They’ve got picks that are sure to bring all the feels (and maybe a laugh or two!).
(Read our post 5 Christmas Movie Lessons for Teens for some great insights, too!)
Christmas Characters & Icons
We’ll also talk about the people and characters who make Christmas magical. From Santa himself to beloved characters, hear which figures best capture the holiday spirit and why.
Whose Christmas is your favorite?
Nino
Tradition/Activity: Opening family presents on Christmas Eve
Food: Cranberry Sauce
Song: Jingle Bell Rock by Daryl Hall & John Oates
Movie: The Muppet Christmas Carol
Character/Person: Clarence Odbody
Karlie
Tradition/Activity: Stockings on Christmas Morning
Food: Apple Pie
Song: Joy to the World by Pentatonix
Movie: White Christmas
Character/Person: Jesus
Tobin
Tradition/Activity: Alone time on Christmas Eve to set up presents while everyone is asleep
Food: Reese’s Trees
Song: Skating by Vince Guaraldi Trio
Movie: Jingle All the Way
Character/Person: Buddy the Elf
Caleb
Tradition/Activity: Making gingerbread houses
Food: Christmas Sugar Cookies
Song: 12 Days of Christmas by Reliant K
Movie: It’s a Wonderful Life
Character/Person: Jim Carrey’s The Grinch
Links & Resources
Songs
- Joy to the World (Pentatonix)
- Jingle Bell Rock by Daryl Hall & John Oates
- Skating by Vince Guaraldi Trio
- 12 Days of Christmas by Reliant K
- The Little Drummer Boy by For King + Country
Movies
- White Christmas
- The Muppet Christmas Carol
- Jingle All the Way
- It’s a Wonderful Life
- How the Grinch Stole Christmas
- Home Alone
- The Santa Clause
- Rudolf the Red-Nosed Reindeer
- Santa Claus is Comin’ to Town
- The Nightmare Before Christmas
Also Mentioned
Karlie Duke
Communications Director
Tobin Hodges
Program Director
Caleb Hatchett
Podcast Host
Nino Elliott
Executive Director
More Resources You Might Like
Karlie Duke | Director of Communications
Karlie has always had a heart for teenagers. Through her role at Teen Life, she loves to showcase the amazing stories coming out of Support Groups, but she is especially passionate about helping adults and teenagers find connection. Karlie has a BS in Communications with a minor in Family Studies from Abilene Christian University.
Caleb Hatchett | Podcast Co-Host
Caleb loves helping teenagers take ownership of their faith and relationships. He graduated from Abilene Christian University with a degree in Youth and Family Ministry and is currently Student Ministry Director at Jenks Church in Oklahoma.
Tobin Hodges | Program Director
Tobin’s entire career has been centered around students and teens from all walks of life. He has a passion for helping teens be their best selves. As Program Director, he loves working directly with school staff and students through Teen Life Support Groups. Tobin has a Bachelor’s Degree in Music from Texas Tech University.
Nino Elliott | Executive Director
Nino is the Executive Director for Teen Life, driven by a deep passion for supporting and empowering teens. With a Bachelor’s in Youth and Family Ministry and a Master’s in Marriage and Family Therapy from Abilene Christian University along with time spent working as a pastor and as a fundraiser, he brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to Teen Life. Committed to fostering positive relationships and creating meaningful programs, Nino is dedicated to helping young people navigate life's challenges and discover their potential.