Clearly Christian with Dr. Cy Smith

Dr. Cy Smith
  • 4.7 (12)
  • EDUCATION
Clearly Christian with Dr. Cy Smith

The Clearly Christian with Dr. Cy Smith podcast is designed to help to Know More about the way your children are being educated, so that you can say NO MORE to the same. Dr. Cy Smith interviews leaders in the Christian Education field in order to help you learn what is happening in our schools, and to our children. Today, after 16,000 hours of K-12 education, our kids come out of many government schools rolling their eyes at religion and showing disdain for our Christian history. Western culture is on the ropes. Kids are often bored and aimless, floundering for purpose in a system that says racial and gender identity is everything. This podcast will help you to realize that you are not alone, though many will make you feel that way. Or, it may serve to awaken you to what is happening in government education and to your family, and give you the conviction to do something about it.

  1. Extra Credit: A Deeper Dive Into Cultural Engagement as a Christian

    5D AGO

    Extra Credit: A Deeper Dive Into Cultural Engagement as a Christian

    In a recent episode of this podcast, we talked with Aaron Baer, President of Center for Christian Virtue about “Engaging with Culture as Christians”.   In this episode of the Clearly Christian Podcast, Dr. Cy Smith, Superintendent of Mansfield Christian School takes a deeper dive into the topics discussed, adding additional insight and strengthening the arguments made.   Topics explored include the complexities of cultural Christianity, the intersection of faith and politics, the importance of education in fostering a biblical worldview, and the current political landscape's impact on Christian values.  Takeaways -Christianity is fundamentally about a relationship, not rules. -Engagement in politics is a responsibility of Christians. -Education, particularly reading, is crucial for understanding faith. -Biblical literacy is essential for discerning truth from falsehood. -Christians should not shy away from cultural engagement. -The current political climate is shifting towards recognizing Christian values. -Courage is needed to advocate for biblical principles in society. -Speaking the truth in love is vital for effective communication. Chapters 00:20 Introduction to Clearly Christian Podcast 01:50 Cultural Christianity: A Double-Edged Sword 03:59 The Intersection of Politics and Christianity 06:20 The Role of Education in Shaping Future Generations 08:40 Current Political Landscape and Christian Values 12:10 Training the Next Generation Helpful Links:   Aaron Baer, Center for Christian Virtue: https://www.ccv.org/ Dr. Cy Smith, Mansfield Christian School: https://www.mcsflames.org/

    13 min
  2. Aaron Baer: Engaging with Culture as Christians

    MAR 11

    Aaron Baer: Engaging with Culture as Christians

    Is God having a cultural moment? It certainly seems so. Society as a whole is changing its tune when it comes to Christianity and how it fits into its understanding of the world. From our government leaders down the line, Christianity seems to be having a rebirth in acceptance. Is this good? If so, how can we capitalize on the opportunity to help equip more and more people to see the world with a biblical perspective. In this episode of The Clearly Christian Podcast, host Dr. Cy Smith, Superintendent at Mansfield Christian School, welcomes Aaron Baer, President of the Center for Christian Virtue (CCV). Together, they discuss the importance of cultural engagement from a Christian perspective, and what that means during these changing times in society. They explore the renewed interest in Christianity in the public square, the role of Christian values in shaping public policy, and Aaron's personal journey in advocating for conservative Christian principles. The conversation emphasizes the need for Christians to actively participate in cultural discussions and legislative processes, highlighting recent successes in Ohio's public policy landscape. it also highlights the critical role of Christian education and advocacy in shaping societal values and addressing cultural challenges. In this podcast, Cy and Aaron dig deep into the importance of establishing Christian schools, engaging churches and businesses, and the need for a strong focus on family and marriage, culminating in the urgency for Christians to be involved in public policy and community engagement. Takeaways -Christianity is experiencing a renewed interest in the public square. -Engaging with culture is essential for Christians. -Cultural moments can lead to lasting change. -Disagreement does not equate to hate. -Christians are called to be salt and light in society. -The process of governance is crucial for protecting values. -Legislative wins can significantly impact communities. -Avoiding culture is not a viable option for Christians. -Christian schools are essential for providing a biblical worldview. -Literacy is a key issue that needs to be addressed in education. -The decline of family structures impacts societal issues. -Understanding the roots of anti-Christian sentiment is vital. -Churches and businesses must engage in cultural issues. -Family and marriage are central to a healthy society. -Practical involvement in politics is necessary for change. Chapters 00:20 Introduction to Clearly Christian Podcast 01:21 Is God Having a Cultural Moment? 04:51 Welcome Aaron Baer 07:24 The Mission of the Center for Christian Virtue 13:37 Cultural Moments and Renewed Interest in Christianity 22:50 Legislative Wins and Impact in Ohio 26:25 The Importance of Education in Christian Advocacy 29:20 Establishing Christian Schools: A Growing Movement 31:36 Understanding the Roots of Anti-Christian Sentiment 43:16 Practical Steps for Christian Engagement Helpful LInks: Aaron Baer, Center for Christian Virtue: https://www.ccv.org/ Dr. Cy Smith, Mansfield Christian School: https://www.mcsflames.org/

    50 min
  3. Extra Credit: “Re-True” the Compass

    FEB 24

    Extra Credit: “Re-True” the Compass

    In a recent episode of this podcast, featuring Dr. Keith McDaniel, we discussed what it means to operate in uncharted territory, in unstable times. In this Extra Credit episode of the Clearly Christian Podcast, Dr. Cy Smith, Superintendent of Mansfield Christian School and producer Bryan Lefelhoc dig deeper into the key themes brought up in that episode. They dive deeper into the concept of instilling a 'true north' in our children through christian education, the significance of family dinner conversations, and the challenges of allowing children to experience failure as a part of their growth. The conversation emphasizes the need for intentionality in parenting and the role of Christian education in shaping the next generation. Takeaways -The concept of 'true north' is essential for leaders in education. -Intentional parenting involves sharing values and convictions with children. -Family dinner conversations can be a platform for meaningful dialogue. -Children respect their parents' wisdom and experience. -Allowing children to fail can lead to important life lessons. -Christian education plays a crucial role in developing a biblical worldview. -Leaders must seek God's direction in their decision-making. -Parents should anticipate and guide discussions at the dinner table. -Building trust with children is vital for their development. -The responsibility of shaping the next generation lies with both parents and educators. Chapters 00:18 Introduction to Clearly Christian Podcast 02:20 Leadership and True North in Education 04:31 Instilling Values in Children 06:44 The Importance of Family Dinner Conversations 09:55 Navigating Failure and Trust in Education 11:27 Closing and Call to Action - Helpful Links: Cy Smith, Mansfield Christian School: https://www.mcsflames.org/ Dr. Keth McDaniel, Shiloh Christian School: https://www.shilohsaints.org/

    13 min
  4. Uncharted Territory and Unstable Times:  A Conversation with Dr. Kieth McDaniel

    FEB 11

    Uncharted Territory and Unstable Times:  A Conversation with Dr. Kieth McDaniel

    The world we live in today is uncharted territory. And society as it is is certainly bringing about unstable times. If we aren't careful, we'll get lost. We'll need a map, and a compass, especially if we are teaching and leading a team, or paving the way for our next generation. School and leadership can certainly provide a strong map. Our souls will be our compass. In this episode of the. Clearly Christian Podcast, Dr. Cy Smith, Superintedent of Mansfield Christian School, welcomes USAF pilot and Shiloh Christian School Superintendent Dr. Keith McDaniel to discuss the challenges of leadership in uncharted territory, particularly in the context of Christian education. They explore the importance of establishing a 'true north' for both leaders and students, emphasizing the need for a solid foundation of values and beliefs grounded in a biblical worldview in an ever-changing world. Dr. McDaniel shares his unique journey through military service and education, highlighting the parallels between navigating physical terrain and guiding students through their educational and spiritual journeys. McDaniel emphasizes adaptive leadership while maintaining core values and the significance of building relationships in education, particularly within a Christian context. Together, they discuss the importance of intentional parenting, trust in education, and the role of stress in learning, and they explore how technology impacts student independence and the necessity of allowing failure for growth. Takeaways -Leadership today requires a recommitment to core values. -Students need a single reference point to navigate their world. -Christian education provides a framework for establishing true north. -Maps in education are often outdated; we need to adapt continuously. -A compass represents a student's soul, which must be aligned with truth. -The gospel serves as the fixed point for faith-based education. -Parents should define success for their families and adjust accordingly. -Alignment between home and school values is crucial for student success. -Faith-based education offers a unique opportunity to impact students' lives. -The journey of leadership is about guiding others through uncertainty. -Trust is essential for effective learning. -Allowing children to fail fosters independence and trust. -Stress can enhance learning and memory retention. -Adaptive leadership requires flexibility without compromising core values. -Every interaction in education matters for relationship building. -Comfortable parenting can hinder children's ability to manage stress. -Courageous leadership is needed in today's educational landscape. -Christian education plays a vital role in shaping future leaders. -Building trust with students is crucial for their success. Chapters: 00:21 Introduction to Christian Leadership and Education 01:25 Navigating Uncharted Territory in Leadership 07:34 The Journey of Dr. Keith McDaniel 11:07 Leadership Training and Military Experience 13:04 The Importance of Maps and Compass in Education 21:20 Intentional Parenting: Advice for Parents on Navigating Education 25:48 The Role of Trust in Education 27:23 The Importance of Allowing Failure 32:42 Adaptive Leadership in Changing Times 41:07 Building Relationships in Education Helpful Links: Dr. Keith McDaniel, Shiloh Christian School: https://www.shilohsaints.org/ United States Air Force: https://www.airforce.com/ Dr. Cy Smith, Mansfield Christian School: https://www.mcsflames.org/

    48 min
  5. Extra Credit: Temperature Check for Educators

    JAN 27

    Extra Credit: Temperature Check for Educators

    This is a deeper dive into Episode 23 "In Pursuit of Teacher Well Being" with Dr. John Walker. In this episode of Clearly Christian, Host Dr. Cy Smith, Superintendent at Mansfield Christian School, discusses the complexities and challenges faced by teachers today, and how hard it is for them to do their job. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the taxing nature of teaching, the need for teacher wellbeing, and the significance of having a clear vision for educational outcomes. The conversation also touches on the necessity of supporting teachers spiritually and mentally, as well as the importance of keeping the end goals in mind to navigate the ups and downs of the teaching profession. Takeaways -Teaching is a taxing profession that requires immense dedication. -Teachers often enter the field out of love for children and their subjects. -Unexpected challenges can derail even the best lesson plans. -Teachers need spiritual and emotional support to thrive. -The concept of a 'temperature check' can help gauge teacher well-being. -Regular surveys can provide insights into teachers' needs. -Teachers are deeply engaged with their students, often at the expense of their own well-being. -It's crucial for teachers to have a clear vision of their goals. -Keeping the end in mind helps teachers stay motivated. Chapters: 00:18 A Deeper Dive 01:24 How Hard is it to be a Teacher 04:04 Unique Hurdles of a Christian Educator 06:03 Temperature Check to Measure Teacher Well-Being 08:47 Begin with the End in Mind Helpful Links: John Walker: https://www.cougarsccs.com/ Cy Smith with Mansfield Christian School: https://www.mcsflames.org/

    11 min
  6. In Pursuit of Teacher Well Being: A Conversation with Dr. John Walker

    JAN 14

    In Pursuit of Teacher Well Being: A Conversation with Dr. John Walker

    Teachers do not have it easy. Not by any measure. Most people have no idea what they go through, day in and day out. And it's getting harder. But the work they do is so important that we simply can not take their well being for granted. In this episode of the Clearly Christian podcast, host Dr. Cy Smith, Superintendent at Mansfield Christian School welcomes Dr. John Walker, Superintendent with Central Christian School in Hutchinson, Kansas. Together, they discuss the importance of leading with a clear vision and the unique role of Christian schools in shaping culture. They explore the transition a teacher makes from higher education to K-12, emphasizing the need for teacher well-being and the impact of a healthy school culture on student outcomes. Dr. Walker shares insights from his research on faculty well-being and the initiatives implemented at Central Christian School to foster a supportive environment for both teachers and students. They also discuss he need for educators to model positive behaviors and engage with culture while maintaining a biblical worldview. Takeaways -Christian schools are designed to meet cultural needs. -Effective leaders prioritize improvement over expansion. -Teacher well-being directly impacts student success. -A unified mission in education is crucial. -Investing in faculty leads to a thriving school culture. -Learning organizations adapt and grow continuously. -Spiritual, physical, and mental health are interconnected. -Encouragement among staff fosters a positive environment. -Healthy leaders model behavior for their students. -Regular assessment of well-being can drive improvement. Teacher well-being is essential for effective education. -Students learn by modeling the behaviors of their teachers. -Comfort zones hinder growth in both educators and students. -Engaging with culture is crucial for Christian educators. -Collective action can lead to significant changes in schools. -Educators must continuously seek improvement and growth. -Scripture should guide decisions in education and parenting. -Building relationships with students is vital for their development. -Christian schools have a unique opportunity to influence culture positively. -Leaders should actively listen to their staff to understand their needs. Chapters 00:20 Introduction to Christian Education Leadership 01:24 Bigger or Better: Lessons learned from Chick Fil-A 05:22 Chalkboard Points 06:31 Welcome Dr. John Walker 11:33 Teacher Well Being 21:25 Creating a Healthy School Culture 23:39 The Importance of Teacher Well-Being 26:49 Modeling Behavior for Students 34:10 Engaging in Cultural Change 40:38 Practical Steps for Leaders in Education Helpful Links: Central Christian School: https://www.cougarsccs.com/ Mansfield Christian School: https://www.mcsflames.org/

    46 min
  7. Extra Credit: Who are We Becoming, and Why?

    12/20/2024

    Extra Credit: Who are We Becoming, and Why?

    In this Extra Credit episode of Clearly Christian Education, Dr. Cy Smith, Superintendent with Mansfield Christian School takes a deeper dive into key topics discussed in his latest Clearly Christian Education podcast conversation with guest Dan Beckering, Head of School at Southwest Christian High School. In this episode, Cy dives expands on the topics of the challenges of modern education, including the impact of technology and AI, and the importance of character development and critical thinking in students. Takeaways -Education should focus on transformation rather than mere success. -A biblical worldview is essential for meaningful education. -Character development is a lifelong journey. -Technology, like cell phones, can distract from learning. -AI presents both opportunities and challenges in education. -Generative AI can enhance learning if used wisely. -Critical thinking skills are vital for students' growth. -Christian education offers hope for societal change. -The importance of maximizing our humanness in education. -We must strive to hold a biblical worldview in all aspects of life. Chapters 00:18 Introduction to Christian Education 01:47 Culture and Formation 04:07 The Definition of Success in Career and Christian Formation 06:14 The Role of Technology in Education 09:00 The Changing Landscape of Social Media 11:28 Call to Action Helpful Links: Southwest Christian High School: https://www.swchs.org/ Mansfield Christian School: https://www.mcsflames.org/

    13 min
  8. Education as Transformation: A Conversation with Dan Beckering

    12/09/2024

    Education as Transformation: A Conversation with Dan Beckering

    In this episode of the Clearly Christian podcast, host Dr. Cy Smith, Superintendent of Mansfield Christian School, discusses the transformative nature of education from a Christian perspective with Mr. Dan Beckering, Head of School at Southwest Christian High School. They explore the importance of leadership in Christian education, the cultural changes affecting students today, and the concept of education as a lifelong formation process aimed at becoming more like Christ. The conversation emphasizes the role of parents in supporting their children's educational journey and the need for a holistic approach to student development that goes beyond academic performance. In this conversation, Cy and Dan Beckering explore the themes of spiritual formation, the importance of discipline in personal growth, the impact of technology on youth mental health, and the future of education in the context of AI. They emphasize the necessity of intentionality in spiritual development and the role of Christian education in shaping a biblical worldview for students. The discussion also touches on the challenges posed by social media and the need for a supportive community to foster healthy habits in young people. Takeaways -Education shapes and molds children beyond just content. -Parents underestimate the transformative power of education. -Children absorb everything around them, seeking meaning. -Good educators know that behavior results from thinking. -Christian education aims for transformation, not just information. -Cultural changes challenge traditional views on morality. -Technology offers both opportunities and distractions for students. -Students today question teachings they once accepted as given. -Education should focus on character development and values. -Parental involvement is crucial in supporting educational formation. Spiritual formation is a universal process affecting everyone. -Intentionality is crucial in spiritual growth to avoid cultural conformity. -Discipline can be cultivated in teenagers through modeling and support. -Technology, especially smartphones, significantly impacts youth mental health. -Christian education plays a vital role in developing a biblical worldview. -AI presents both challenges and opportunities for education. -Students need to learn to navigate technology with a biblical perspective. -The process of formation is slow and requires patience and encouragement. -Building a kingdom vision is essential for students' future roles in society. -Parents and educators must model the values they wish to instill in students. Chapters: Chapters 00:20 Welcome to the Clearly Christian Podcast 01:17 Introduction to Christian Education and Transformation 05:48 Welcome Dan Beckering 11:03: Leadership Development for Young People 12:06 Navigating Cultural Changes in Education 15:22 Education as Formation: A Christian Perspective 21:51 Parental Involvement in Educational Formation 27:26 Understanding Spiritual Formation 31:50 The Role of Discipline in Spiritual Growth 35:33 Impact of Technology on Youth Mental Health 42:00 Future of Education and AI Helpful Links: Southwest Christian High School: https://www.swchs.org/ Mansfield Christian School: https://www.mcsflames.org/

    53 min
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Ratings & Reviews

4.7
out of 5
12 Ratings

About

The Clearly Christian with Dr. Cy Smith podcast is designed to help to Know More about the way your children are being educated, so that you can say NO MORE to the same. Dr. Cy Smith interviews leaders in the Christian Education field in order to help you learn what is happening in our schools, and to our children. Today, after 16,000 hours of K-12 education, our kids come out of many government schools rolling their eyes at religion and showing disdain for our Christian history. Western culture is on the ropes. Kids are often bored and aimless, floundering for purpose in a system that says racial and gender identity is everything. This podcast will help you to realize that you are not alone, though many will make you feel that way. Or, it may serve to awaken you to what is happening in government education and to your family, and give you the conviction to do something about it.

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