"To Be And Do" with Philip Amerson

Philip Amerson
"To Be And Do" with Philip Amerson

Encouraging and cultivating a wider sense of mutuality and joy, the Belonging Exchangei provides resources, education, and times of celebration for congregations and local communities. One expression of this is through festivals and occasions for thoughtful reflection on faith and civic mutuality

  1. 18H AGO

    A Conversation with Elinor Ostrom: Seven Tribulations of Higher Education

    A Conversation with Elinor Ostrom:: Seven Tribulations of Higher Education Seven Tribulations of Higher Education Indiana University, Bloomington   Like the Ten Plagues visited on the ancient Egyptian Pharoah, today American universities struggle with the Seven Tribulations of Higher Education.  Sadly, great flagship universities, like Indiana University, Bloomington, suffer from these tribulations. Actually, there are more than 7 or 10 tribulations. These tribulations involve dozens of intermingling jetties of mean-spirited national and state bigotries posing as populist politics. They are often cover for greedy efforts by the wealthy to lower their own taxes and undermine basic benefits for the poor in our nation and world. Birthed in ignorance of history and implemented with arrogance, they also, sadly, undercut educational opportunities for future generations of our children and youth.   These seven tribulations are mentioned in a series of four brief video recordings. These recordings were made alongside four of the remarkable leaders in the history of Indiana University. The video featuring Herman B Wells speaks of Academic Freedom, Equity and Racial Justice, Strong Community Relationships, and the right to Peaceful Protest. The video featuring Ernie Pyle speaks to the Freedom of the Press. The video featuring Alfred Kinsey speaks of the significance of scientific research. Finally, the video featuring Elinor Ostrom, speaks to the value of an Economic and Environmental Commons.    Here is more background to accompany the Seven Tribulations of Higher Education videos:   1)  Academic Freedom: In recent years professors have been suspended, censured, or threatened for holding unpopular views; graduate student worker requests for better pay are ignored; a long-scheduled art exhibit was cancelled at the last minute; support for academic centers like the Kinsey Institute has been withheld; and, attacks on faculty from members of the state legislature pertaining to course content, faculty hiring and evaluation processes have been met with complicit silence. In April 2024, by large majorities, the faculty voted “no confidence” in the president, provost and vice provost. The “no confidence” vote on the president was over 93%. Following this, the board of trustees indicated “full support” for the president and offered scant attention to attacks on academic freedom.  (#1 video is at the statue with former president and chancellor, Herman B Wells)     2)  Equity and Racial Justice: The university commitment to an equal and accessible education for all has been attacked, undercut and greatly diminished. Again, this has been led by state house crafted legislative attacks on programs and funds designed to provide equal access to education for ALL students. The current national administration joins in a racist commitment to end all programming that is said to fall under the rubric of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion or DEI. The irony, of course, is that this hurts ALL students, including white students from low-wealth communities. I.U. has removed all DEI language from the university website. Posters on campus reading “Build a community where all belong” are being removed. The extent of the DEI cleansing is outlined in this article from the Indiana Daily Student: https://www.idsnews.com/article/2025/03/iu-dei-removed-diversity-language-website-posters. Addressing bigotry and discrimination based on race or wealth was once a core value of the university’s mission. As a Christian pastor, let me clearly name this as...

    22 min

  2. 1D AGO

    A Conversation with Alfred Kinsey: Seven Tribulations of Higher Education

    A Conversation with Alfred Kinsey: Seven Tribulations of Higher Education Seven Tribulations of Higher Education Indiana University, Bloomington   Like the Ten Plagues visited on the ancient Egyptian Pharoah, today American universities struggle with the Seven Tribulations of Higher Education.  Sadly, great flagship universities, like Indiana University, Bloomington, suffer from these tribulations. Actually, there are more than 7 or 10 tribulations. These tribulations involve dozens of intermingling jetties of mean-spirited national and state bigotries posing as populist politics. They are often cover for greedy efforts by the wealthy to lower their own taxes and undermine basic benefits for the poor in our nation and world. Birthed in ignorance of history and implemented with arrogance, they also, sadly, undercut educational opportunities for future generations of our children and youth.   These seven tribulations are mentioned in a series of four brief video recordings. These recordings were made alongside four of the remarkable leaders in the history of Indiana University. The video featuring Herman B Wells speaks of Academic Freedom, Equity and Racial Justice, Strong Community Relationships, and the right to Peaceful Protest. The video featuring Ernie Pyle speaks to the Freedom of the Press. The video featuring Alfred Kinsey speaks of the significance of scientific research. Finally, the video featuring Elinor Ostrom, speaks to the value of an Economic and Environmental Commons.    Here is more background to accompany the Seven Tribulations of Higher Education videos:   1)  Academic Freedom: In recent years professors have been suspended, censured, or threatened for holding unpopular views; graduate student worker requests for better pay are ignored; a long-scheduled art exhibit was cancelled at the last minute; support for academic centers like the Kinsey Institute has been withheld; and, attacks on faculty from members of the state legislature pertaining to course content, faculty hiring and evaluation processes have been met with complicit silence. In April 2024, by large majorities, the faculty voted “no confidence” in the president, provost and vice provost. The “no confidence” vote on the president was over 93%. Following this, the board of trustees indicated “full support” for the president and offered scant attention to attacks on academic freedom.  (#1 video is at the statue with former president and chancellor, Herman B Wells)     2)  Equity and Racial Justice: The university commitment to an equal and accessible education for all has been attacked, undercut and greatly diminished. Again, this has been led by state house crafted legislative attacks on programs and funds designed to provide equal access to education for ALL students. The current national administration joins in a racist commitment to end all programming that is said to fall under the rubric of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion or DEI. The irony, of course, is that this hurts ALL students, including white students from low-wealth communities. I.U. has removed all DEI language from the university website. Posters on campus reading “Build a community where all belong” are being removed. The extent of the DEI cleansing is outlined in this article from the Indiana Daily Student: https://www.idsnews.com/article/2025/03/iu-dei-removed-diversity-language-website-posters. Addressing bigotry and discrimination based on race or wealth was once a core value of the university’s mission. As a Christian pastor, let me clearly name this as...

    22 min

  3. 2D AGO

    A Conversation with Ernie Pyle: The Seven Tribulations of Higher Education at Indiana University

    A Conversation with Ernie Pyle: The Seven Tribulations of Higher Education at Indiana University Seven Tribulations of Higher Education Indiana University, Bloomington   Like the Ten Plagues visited on the ancient Egyptian Pharoah, today American universities struggle with the Seven Tribulations of Higher Education.  Sadly, great flagship universities, like Indiana University, Bloomington, suffer from these tribulations. Actually, there are more than 7 or 10 tribulations. These tribulations involve dozens of intermingling jetties of mean-spirited national and state bigotries posing as populist politics. They are often cover for greedy efforts by the wealthy to lower their own taxes and undermine basic benefits for the poor in our nation and world. Birthed in ignorance of history and implemented with arrogance, they also, sadly, undercut educational opportunities for future generations of our children and youth.   These seven tribulations are mentioned in a series of four brief video recordings. These recordings were made alongside four of the remarkable leaders in the history of Indiana University. The video featuring Herman B Wells speaks of Academic Freedom, Equity and Racial Justice, Strong Community Relationships, and the right to Peaceful Protest. The video featuring Ernie Pyle speaks to the Freedom of the Press. The video featuring Alfred Kinsey speaks of the significance of scientific research. Finally, the video featuring Elinor Ostrom, speaks to the value of an Economic and Environmental Commons.    Here is more background to accompany the Seven Tribulations of Higher Education videos:   1)  Academic Freedom: In recent years professors have been suspended, censured, or threatened for holding unpopular views; graduate student worker requests for better pay are ignored; a long-scheduled art exhibit was cancelled at the last minute; support for academic centers like the Kinsey Institute has been withheld; and, attacks on faculty from members of the state legislature pertaining to course content, faculty hiring and evaluation processes have been met with complicit silence. In April 2024, by large majorities, the faculty voted “no confidence” in the president, provost and vice provost. The “no confidence” vote on the president was over 93%. Following this, the board of trustees indicated “full support” for the president and offered scant attention to attacks on academic freedom.  (#1 video is at the statue with former president and chancellor, Herman B Wells)     2)  Equity and Racial Justice: The university commitment to an equal and accessible education for all has been attacked, undercut and greatly diminished. Again, this has been led by state house crafted legislative attacks on programs and funds designed to provide equal access to education for ALL students. The current national administration joins in a racist commitment to end all programming that is said to fall under the rubric of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion or DEI. The irony, of course, is that this hurts ALL students, including white students from low-wealth communities. I.U. has removed all DEI language from the university website. Posters on campus reading “Build a community where all belong” are being removed. The extent of the DEI cleansing is outlined in this article from the Indiana Daily Student: https://www.idsnews.com/article/2025/03/iu-dei-removed-diversity-language-website-posters. Addressing bigotry and discrimination based on race or wealth was once a core value of the university’s mission. As a Christian pastor, let me...

    22 min

  4. 3D AGO · BONUS

    A Conversation with Herman B Wells: Seven Tribulations of Higher Education at Indiana University, Bloomington

    Seven Tribulations of Higher Education Indiana University, Bloomington   Like the Ten Plagues visited on the ancient Egyptian Pharoah, today American universities struggle with the Seven Tribulations of Higher Education.  Sadly, great flagship universities, like Indiana University, Bloomington, suffer from these tribulations. Actually, there are more than 7 or 10 tribulations. These tribulations involve dozens of intermingling jetties of mean-spirited national and state bigotries posing as populist politics. They are often cover for greedy efforts by the wealthy to lower their own taxes and undermine basic benefits for the poor in our nation and world. Birthed in ignorance of history and implemented with arrogance, they also, sadly, undercut educational opportunities for future generations of our children and youth.   These seven tribulations are mentioned in a series of four brief video recordings. These recordings were made alongside four of the remarkable leaders in the history of Indiana University. The video featuring Herman B Wells speaks of Academic Freedom, Equity and Racial Justice, Strong Community Relationships, and the right to Peaceful Protest. The video featuring Ernie Pyle speaks to the Freedom of the Press. The video featuring Alfred Kinsey speaks of the significance of scientific research. Finally, the video featuring Elinor Ostrom, speaks to the value of an Economic and Environmental Commons.    Here is more background to accompany the Seven Tribulations of Higher Education videos:   1)  Academic Freedom: In recent years professors have been suspended, censured, or threatened for holding unpopular views; graduate student worker requests for better pay are ignored; a long-scheduled art exhibit was cancelled at the last minute; support for academic centers like the Kinsey Institute has been withheld; and, attacks on faculty from members of the state legislature pertaining to course content, faculty hiring and evaluation processes have been met with complicit silence. In April 2024, by large majorities, the faculty voted “no confidence” in the president, provost and vice provost. The “no confidence” vote on the president was over 93%. Following this, the board of trustees indicated “full support” for the president and offered scant attention to attacks on academic freedom.  (#1 video is at the statue with former president and chancellor, Herman B Wells)     2)  Equity and Racial Justice: The university commitment to an equal and accessible education for all has been attacked, undercut and greatly diminished. Again, this has been led by state house crafted legislative attacks on programs and funds designed to provide equal access to education for ALL students. The current national administration joins in a racist commitment to end all programming that is said to fall under the rubric of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion or DEI. The irony, of course, is that this hurts ALL students, including white students from low-wealth communities. I.U. has removed all DEI language from the university website. Posters on campus reading “Build a community where all belong” are being removed. The extent of the DEI cleansing is outlined in this article from the Indiana Daily Student: https://www.idsnews.com/article/2025/03/iu-dei-removed-diversity-language-website-posters. Addressing bigotry and discrimination based on race or wealth was once a core value of the university’s mission. As a Christian pastor, let me clearly name...

    22 min

  5. 5D AGO

    Embracing Authenticity: Bishop Ken Carder's Journey from Bubba to Bishop

    In this episode of the "To Be and Do" podcast, host Philip Amerson engages in a heartfelt conversation with Bishop Ken Carder. The discussion weaves through memories, highlighting the importance of being true to one's heritage and the unique challenges of understanding and empathy across cultural and social divides. At the center of this dialogue is the story of how Ken Carder came to be affectionately known as "Bubba," a term bestowed upon him by his friend, the late Will Campbell. Will Campbell, a renowned advocate for civil rights and a man who bridged cultural gaps, humorously called Ken "Bubba" during a farewell service in Nashville. At first glance, the nickname might seem casual or even informal, but as Ken explains, it was a compliment that spoke to his continued connection with his roots and the "Bubbas of the world." This term of endearment reminded Ken that he hadn't lost touch with his upbringing and the working class people who influenced him. Takeaway Points: Embrace Your Roots: The episode underscores the significance of staying connected to one's background, no matter where life's journey may lead. Ken Carder's pride in being called "Bubba" resonates as a testament to honoring one's history and the people who shape it.Understanding Through Names: A powerful moment arises when Ken Carter recalls an encounter with Will Campbell relating to the KKK. Will's insistence on knowing the names of individuals highlights the importance of seeing people beyond labels, fostering deeper understanding and compassion.Beyond Belief and Actions: Ken Carder reflects that true Christian discipleship is more about being than simply believing or doing. This echoes the podcast's central theme of "be and do," encouraging listeners to embrace their authentic selves in their spiritual journey.The Dance of Love: The conversation beautifully explores the concept of participating in God's triune dance of love. Ken shares how his late wife, Linda, despite her battle with dementia, drew love from him and others, reminding us that being present and open to receiving love is as crucial as giving it. Tune in to hear more about the profound impacts of empathy, connection, and staying true to oneself in this warm and insightful episode with Bishop Ken Carder. For a deeper dive, listeners are encouraged to explore Ken's books, which offer further reflections on community, identity, and love.

    22 min

  6. MAR 21

    Exploring Shifting Margins: Love, Belonging, and Moving Beyond Fear and Exclusion w/ Bishop Ken Carder

    In this captivating episode of "To Be and Do," host Philip Amerson welcomes Bishop Ken Carder to discuss his life journey and the influential themes within his recent work, "Shifting Margins: From Fear and Exclusion Toward Love and Belonging." This episode delves into the wisdom gained from Bishop Carder's experiences as both a pastor and a bishop, his profound understanding of institutional influence, and the deeply personal encounters that have shaped his theological perspectives. Ken Carder reflects on the theme of "shifting margins," a concept inspired by the work of John Swinton from Scotland's Saint Andrews. This idea, which suggests that Jesus shifts the margins to place the marginalized at the center, has guided Carder's personal and professional journey. From his upbringing in Southern Appalachia to his pastoral roles, Carder's life reflects a continuous broadening of understanding and inclusivity. Key takeaway points include: Shifting Margins and Expanding Horizons: Carder shares how his life's journey has been a constant evolution of shifting margins, moving from limitations of poverty and rigid beliefs to a more inclusive understanding of belonging and love. This growth is seen not just in personal relationships but in the broadening of theological perspectives, highlighting the ever-expanding nature of understanding God.Institutional Influence and Personal Responsibility: Carder candidly discusses the dual nature of institutions that shape us, noting that while they are necessary, they can also perpetuate societal sins like racism and privilege. He emphasizes the importance of not allowing institutions to bear the burden of our sins, thereby shirking personal responsibility.Moments of Conversion and Recognition: Throughout his narrative, Carder identifies pivotal life moments as conversions, times when his perspectives were realigned. One notable story is of learning the disparity in salaries with fellow pastor Tom Barrington, highlighting systemic racial inequities within the church and awakening Carder to his inherent privilege.Reconciliation through Second Corinthians 5: Carder discusses how the passage "God was in Christ reconciling the world to himself" has been a guiding light in his ministry, reinforcing the call to live into reconciliation in a world marked by division.Symbolic Relics and Personal Heritage: The episode touches on the power of tangible objects, like Carder's grandfather's pocketknife, which serves as a reminder of the wisdom in simplicity and the value retained beyond functional capacities. As you listen to this heartfelt dialogue, you'll find inspiration in Carder's journey of recognizing and embracing change, weaving a narrative of personal growth towards a more inclusive understanding of humanity and God. Get the Book "Shifting Margins: From Fear and Exclusion Toward Love and Belonging"

    24 min

  7. MAR 14

    From Humble Beginnings to Philanthropy: Jerre Stead's Journey of Giving and Community Building

    In this enriching episode of "To Be and Do," host Philip Amerson continues his conversation with the inspiring Jerre Stead, delving into Stead's journey of philanthropy and the values that have guided him throughout his life. Joining them is guest Jonathan Massimi, contributing to a lively exchange of insights about generosity, faith, and leadership. Jerre Stead shares the roots of his and his wife Mary Jo's philanthropic endeavors, recounting their early days of marriage when they lived modestly yet prioritized giving. Despite limited resources during their undergraduate years, the Steads tithed and contributed $250 annually to their local Methodist church, reflecting their deeply ingrained belief in the joy of giving. Stead emphasizes the importance of devoting time, talent, and treasure, showcasing how their unwavering commitment has left a profound impact across various sectors. One significant takeaway from the discussion is the notion of "investing" instead of mere giving. Stead approaches his contributions with a strategic mindset, setting measurable goals and engaging actively with the projects he supports. This philosophy ensures that his philanthropic efforts lead to tangible, sustainable outcomes. The conversation also touches upon the Stead family's focus areas for philanthropy, including education, business, research, and religious leadership. Notably, the Steads have expanded their vision to address urgent issues like Alzheimer's, child obesity, and mental illness, demonstrating their adaptability and forward-thinking approach to philanthropy. Another key highlight is Stead's advocacy for unity and civil discourse within communities. He emphasizes the importance of bridging differences in a productive manner, promoting a vision of a "red, white, and blue country" that celebrates diversity and unity simultaneously. Throughout the episode, the guests reflect on the increasing re-engagement with faith communities post-COVID-19, suggesting a revived interest in spiritual connection and communal belonging. This observation underscores the broader theme of interconnectedness and the pivotal role faith communities play in nurturing civic life. In closing, Philip Amerson appreciates Jerre Stead's unwavering dedication to making the world a better place through thoughtful, intentional giving. He invites listeners to reflect on their own potential to contribute meaningfully to society, drawing inspiration from Stead's journey of generosity and service. Listeners are encouraged to share this insightful episode, packed with wisdom on philanthropy, leadership, and faith, as it provides valuable lessons on how individual actions can collectively create a profound impact.

    19 min

  8. MAR 7

    Leadership and Faith: Insights from Jerre Stead on Building Successful Teams (Part 1)

    In this captivating episode of the "To Be and Do" podcast, host Philip Amerson welcomes his dear friend and exemplary leader, Jerre Stead, to discuss leadership, teamwork, and community building. With a rich career spanning 47 years, Jerre shares profound insights and experiences from his time leading ten public companies, including NCR, a global enterprise with over 120,000 employees. As a seasoned leader, Jerre offers a unique perspective on setting and achieving ambitious goals while cultivating an inclusive and respectful workplace culture. Throughout the conversation, Jerre emphasizes the value of setting aggressive yet achievable goals, highlighting the importance of stretching the "rubber band of change" to discover the true potential of a team. By setting these aspirational targets, organizations can push beyond perceived limits and achieve remarkable outcomes. A key takeaway from Jerre's leadership philosophy is the emphasis on treating every individual with equal dignity and respect. He shares how this principle, rooted in his faith, has been a cornerstone in creating successful and harmonious environments across both for-profit and non-profit organizations. By fostering a culture of 100% trust and ensuring clear, measurable goals, Jerre has consistently empowered his teams to succeed and grow. Jerre introduces the concept of "Power, Permission, and Protection," which underscores the importance of granting team members the autonomy to pursue their goals while providing the necessary support and safety. This framework enables employees to take ownership of their work, fostering innovation and engagement. Another significant aspect of Jerre's approach is the regular use of colleague engagement surveys. These anonymous surveys allow employees to share their candid feedback, providing invaluable insights for continuous improvement. Jerre's commitment to reading each comment highlights his dedication to understanding and addressing the needs of his team. Finally, the episode touches on Jerre's disdain for perks that create divisions within an organization. By eliminating unnecessary perks, Jerre has consistently fostered an egalitarian environment where everyone feels valued and included. Listeners are encouraged to explore more about Jerre Stead's remarkable journey and leadership philosophy in his published works, where his wisdom as a manager and his grace as a Christian shine through. Key Takeaways: Setting ambitious, achievable goals is crucial for discovering an organization's true potential.Treating every person with equal dignity and respect fosters a harmonious and effective workplace.Empowering teams through "Power, Permission, and Protection" encourages ownership and innovation.Regular engagement surveys provide essential insights for organizational growth.Eliminating perks that create divisions promotes an inclusive and egalitarian culture. https://steadimpact.com/team_member/jerre-stead/

    21 min
See All (25)

Trailer

About

Encouraging and cultivating a wider sense of mutuality and joy, the Belonging Exchangei provides resources, education, and times of celebration for congregations and local communities. One expression of this is through festivals and occasions for thoughtful reflection on faith and civic mutuality

Information

You Might Also Like

  • Explicit, SmartLess
    Comedy
    Comedy

    Updated Weekly

To listen to explicit episodes, sign in.

Stay up to date with this show

Sign in or sign up to follow shows, save episodes, and get the latest updates.
Select a country or region

Africa, Middle East, and India

Asia Pacific

Europe

Latin America and the Caribbean

The United States and Canada