Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast Biblical Higher Ed Talk

What does it mean to live out faith in a world where belief can cost everything? Ed Brown, Secretary General of Stefanus Alliance International, brings a global perspective shaped by frontline work with persecuted communities. Through powerful stories and firsthand insight, this conversation explores the tension between religious freedom and gospel witness, revealing both the quiet pressures and extreme realities faced by believers, and why defending human dignity opens doors for the message of Christ to be heard.

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Tune In to Discover

▫️How persecution shows up on a spectrum, from subtle discrimination to extreme violence

▫️Why defending human rights creates opportunities to share the gospel

▫️The theological foundation for advocating for all people, not just Christians

▫️Practical ways Christian higher education can engage and respond globally.

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Inside the Episode

02:39 – The mission and global impact of Stefanus Alliance International

06:45 – Organizational pivots and rediscovering purpose after the Iron Curtain

12:49 – The spectrum of persecution, from discrimination to violence

17:52 – A pastor’s story of persecution and misunderstanding in India

24:08 – The theology behind advocating for human rights

30:46 – Human rights as a bridge for gospel conversations

33:53 – Practical ways Christian higher education can engage globally

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To hear this interview and many more like it, subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or our website, or search for Biblical Higher Ed Talk in your favorite podcast player.

The Biblical Higher Ed Talk podcast is brought to you by The Association of Biblical Higher Ed and is proud to be a part of The Higher Ed Marketer Podcast Network. 

Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Most professors in higher education are trained deeply in their disciplines but rarely trained in how to teach through a biblical worldview. That gap shapes how future leaders think, practice, and integrate faith into their fields. Seth Scott, Columbia International University, shares why worldview awareness is essential for Christian higher education and how educators and counselors can begin the work of disentangling secular assumptions from their training. Seth offers a thoughtful vision for forming practitioners who are both clinically excellent and biblically grounded.

🎧 Tune In to Discover

• Why most higher education faculty are trained in content but not in teaching or worldview formation

• How hidden worldview assumptions shape disciplines like counseling and psychology

• The difference between biblical integration and biblical worldview immersion

• How the CARE Institute is equipping counselors to practice from a Christ-centered worldview

• Three practical steps faculty and leaders can take to cultivate biblical worldview thinking

🎙️ Inside the Episode
04:54 – How worldview shapes counseling and the way we understand people

10:41 – The Emmaus road story as a model for unlearning and relearning truth

17:36 – The vision behind the CARE Institute and training counselors

30:47 – Three practical steps for faculty pursuing biblical worldview formation

To hear this interview and many more like it, subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or our website, or search for Biblical Higher Ed Talk in your favorite podcast player.

The Biblical Higher Ed Talk podcast is brought to you by The Association of Biblical Higher Ed and is proud to be a part of The Higher Ed Marketer Podcast Network.

Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Dr. Brad Johnson, president of College of the Ozarks, shares how the school’s distinctive work college model shapes students academically, spiritually, and personally. Known by many as “Hard Work U,” the college requires every student to work as part of their education, helping them graduate debt free while building character, responsibility, and a biblical understanding of work. This conversation explores the dignity of work and how Christian higher education can form students for lives of leadership, citizenship, and faithful service.

🎧 Tune In to Discover

• How students at College of the Ozarks graduate debt free

• Why work builds dignity, character and lifelong habits

• How Christian colleges can resist reducing education to job training

• What it means to form students for citizenship and calling

🎙️Inside the Episode

02:26- What a work college is and how the model works

06:00 - How the college's work program allows students to graduate debt free

08:40 - Serving students who arrive with significant financial challenges

15:49 - Why education must form leaders, not just prepare workers

18:48 - The dignity of work and the character it builds in students

29:11 - A leadership lesson on articulating what Christian institutions stand for.

To hear this interview and many more like it, subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or our website, or search for Biblical Higher Ed Talk in your favorite podcast player.

The Biblical Higher Ed Talk podcast is brought to you by The Association of Biblical Higher Ed and is proud to be a part of The Higher Ed Marketer Podcast Network.

Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Enrollment pressures are real. The demographic cliff has arrived, public sentiment toward higher education has shifted, and competition is fierce. Yet in the midst of these challenges, Christian colleges have a powerful opportunity, not to widen the door by diluting mission, but to lean into it with greater clarity and confidence. In this insightful conversation, Keith Ramsdell shares nearly three decades of enrollment wisdom and practical guidance for recruiting students in a rapidly changing landscape.

🎧 Tune In to Discover

• Whether the enrollment cliff lived up to its expectations

• Why mission clarity is a long term enrollment strategy, not just a branding statement

• The balance between digital strategy and personal engagement in recruitment

• The three essential traits every admissions counselor must develop

• How recruiting adult learners differs from traditional undergraduate students

🎙️ Inside the Episode

05:23 – The enrollment cliff, COVID, and shifting public perception

10:45 – Digital marketing versus relational engagement

13:23 – Why mission focused institutions are seeing stronger enrollment outcomes

19:11 – Listening first, adapting well, and closing the deal

26:10 – Recruiting adult learners versus traditional students

33:05 – The biggest institutional mistake in today’s enrollment environment

To hear this interview and many more like it, subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or our website, or search for Biblical Higher Ed Talk in your favorite podcast player.

The Biblical Higher Ed Talk podcast is brought to you by The Association of Biblical Higher Ed and is proud to be a part of The Higher Ed Marketer Podcast Network. 

Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Christian higher education is facing disruption, but the outlook may be stronger than many believe. Drawing on decades of experience serving Christian colleges and universities, ABHE Senior Fellow Dan Campbell explains why faith-based institutions are often outperforming the broader higher education sector. He also shares practical leadership lessons about governance, innovation, and the personal disciplines leaders need to sustain healthy institutions and faithful service.

🎧 Tune In to Discover

• Why Christian higher education is outperforming many predictions about institutional closures

• The leadership and governance patterns that help faith-based colleges remain strong

• How identifying an “economic engine” can sustain mission-driven institutions

• Lessons learned from leadership mistakes, including the importance of self-care

• Why optimism and shrewdness are essential mindsets for Christian higher education leaders

🎙️ Inside the Episode

03:02 – Why Christian higher education is outperforming the broader higher education industry

05:33 – Understanding the real competition for Christian colleges

12:23 – Governance challenges and the difficulty of letting go of legacy programs

15:15 – A leadership mistake, neglecting self-care and its impact on others

20:30 – Safeguards against moral failure through connection and accountability

24:45 – Defining professional success through institutional and relational impact

29:31 – Leadership turning points and learning to make decisive choices

32:31 – Final leadership advice, cultivating optimism and practicing shrewd stewardship

To hear this interview and many more like it, subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or our website, or search for Biblical Higher Ed Talk in your favorite podcast player.

The Biblical Higher Ed Talk podcast is brought to you by The Association of Biblical Higher Ed and is proud to be a part of The Higher Ed Marketer Podcast Network. 

Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Biblical higher education leaders are grappling with a "perfect storm" of unprecedented complexity. They must navigate a confluence of challenges, including demographic shifts, persistent financial pressures, and escalating regulatory demands. In this candid conversation, John Derry reflects on more than five decades in Christian higher education, offering hard earned wisdom on governance, risk taking, fundraising, and moral leadership. With humility and clarity, he challenges leaders to stay grounded, seek counsel, and remain faithful in both crisis and calling.

🎧 Tune In to Discover

• Why today’s higher education landscape feels like a perfect storm

• The three dangerous leadership responses that can sink an institution

• Lessons learned from delaying difficult personnel decisions

• Why fundraising is essential and how to approach it relationally

• Practical safeguards that help leaders avoid moral failure

🎙️ Inside the Episode

05:01 – The “perfect storm” facing biblical higher education today

10:58 – Leadership mistakes and necessary personnel changes

14:49 – Fundraising lessons and overcoming reluctance

27:27 – Turnaround leadership and building strong teams

32:07 – Catalysts for leadership growth and taking calculated risks

33:56 – Why wise leaders ask for help

To hear this interview and many more like it, subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or our website, or search for Biblical Higher Ed Talk in your favorite podcast player.

The Biblical Higher Ed Talk podcast is brought to you by The Association of Biblical Higher Ed and is proud to be a part of The Higher Ed Marketer Podcast Network. 

Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Leadership in biblical higher education demands more than strategic insight. It requires spiritual depth, moral courage, and unwavering fidelity to the authority of Scripture. In this rich and transparent conversation, Dr. David Gyertson reflects on more than five decades of ministry and presidential leadership, offering wisdom forged through failure, perseverance, and deep dependence on Christ. From governance challenges to personal vulnerabilities, this episode calls leaders to anchor their influence in both orthodoxy and spiritual formation.

🎧 Tune In to Discover

• Why biblical orthodoxy must fuel spiritual formation, not replace it

• The biggest leadership mistake David made and what it taught him

• How to make difficult personnel decisions with courage and compassion

• Practical safeguards leaders need to prevent moral failure

• The role mentors and accountability play in sustaining long term impact

🎙️ Inside the Episode

00:00 – Celebrating new ABHE Senior Fellows and David’s journey in biblical higher education

03:53 – The state of Christian higher education, opportunities and challenges

12:12 – Leadership mistakes and the cost of delayed personnel decisions

26:55 – Safeguards against moral failure and understanding personal vulnerabilities

35:37 – Mentorship, calling, and catalysts for long term leadership impact

To hear this interview and many more like it, subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or our website, or search for Biblical Higher Ed Talk in your favorite podcast player.

The Biblical Higher Ed Talk podcast is brought to you by The Association of Biblical Higher Ed and is proud to be a part of The Higher Ed Marketer Podcast Network. 

Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

After decades of faithfully serving as Vice President for Advancement at Indiana Wesleyan University, Terry Munday has seen firsthand how generosity, obedience, and relationships shape both institutions and eternal lives. In this compelling conversation, Terry reflects on a calling that led him from public education into Christian higher education fundraising, often requiring personal sacrifice, long-term trust, and spiritual courage. Through stories marked by humor, heartbreak, and unmistakable miracles, he reveals how fundraising, when rooted in faith, becomes far more than raising money. It becomes ministry.

🎧 Tune In to Discover

• How holy boldness reshapes the way leaders approach the ask

• Why relationship-driven fundraising requires patience and long-term trust

• How stewardship and obedience intersect in Christian higher education

• What decades of advancement work reveal about ministry, generosity, and eternal impact

🎙️ Inside the Episode

05:40 – Following God’s call despite a significant financial sacrifice

10:01 – Why fundraising is a spiritual discipline, not a transaction

17:05 – Sustaining institutional growth through faithful stewardship

24:03 – A miraculous story of generosity, salvation, and eternal impact

33:50 – Why relationship-based fundraising requires patience and longevity

34:18 – The most common mistake colleges make in fundraising

To hear this interview and many more like it, subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or our website, or search for Biblical Higher Ed Talk in your favorite podcast player.

The Biblical Higher Ed Talk podcast is brought to you by The Association of Biblical Higher Ed and is proud to be a part of The Higher Ed Marketer Podcast Network.

Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

What kind of church will exist for our children and grandchildren? In this thoughtful and forward-looking conversation, Jason Ballard reflects on the health of the church in Canada, the growing leadership pipeline crisis, and why long-term faithfulness matters more than short-term urgency. Drawing from his pastoral experience and national leadership work, Jason challenges listeners to think beyond

🎧 Tune In to Discover

• The current state of the evangelical church in Canada and what gives reason for hope

• Key challenges facing churches in an increasingly complex cultural moment

• Why leadership exhaustion and scarcity threaten the future of the church

• Practical ways churches can empower and develop young leaders

• How churches and biblical higher education can work together for long-term impact

🎙️ Inside the Episode

01:44 – A realistic and hopeful look at the evangelical church in Canada

06:08 – Cultural pressure, distraction, and the challenges facing today’s church

12:05 – The looming leadership pipeline crisis

15:50 – Why the future of church leadership matters personally and deeply\

20:51 – Creating a culture that empowers and releases young leaders

27:35 – Bringing theological education closer to the life of the local church

32:01 – Healing the divide between the church and the academy

38:40 – Leading with a long-term, generational vision of faithfulness

To hear this interview and many more like it, subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or our website, or search for Biblical Higher Ed Talk in your favorite podcast player.

The Biblical Higher Ed Talk podcast is brought to you by The Association of Biblical Higher Ed and is proud to be a part of The Higher Ed Marketer Podcast Network.

Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Biblical higher education exists to prepare leaders for the full scope of ministry, including moments when theology meets suffering, loss, and the realities of death. In this episode, Brian Hennan reflects on how his journey from pastoral ministry into hospice care revealed a critical gap in how Christian leaders are trained to guide individuals and families through end of life decisions. Drawing from years of hands-on experience, Brian calls Bible colleges and seminaries to more intentionally equip students with a biblical framework for the sanctity of life, pastoral presence, and faithful decision-making from birth to death.

🎧 Tune In to Discover

• Why end of life care is a discipleship issue, not just a medical one

• How biblical higher education can better prepare future pastors for death and dying

• What theological principles should shape end of life decisions

• How Christian leaders can shepherd families with clarity, humility, and hope

🎙️ Inside the Episode

01:59 – From pastoral burnout to a calling in hospice and end of life education

06:11 – The training gap facing Bible colleges and seminaries

08:35 – Teaching the sanctity of life from birth through death

12:57 – Navigating dementia, suffering, and God’s sovereignty

16:45 – What higher education does well, and where it must grow

18:46 – Pastoral presence, listening well, and avoiding easy answers

21:09 – Stewardship, advance directives, and loving others wisely

25:12 – Re-centering hope on eternity and the promise of resurrection

27:53 – Why humility and collaboration matter in pastoral leadership

To hear this interview and many more like it, subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or our website, or search for Biblical Higher Ed Talk in your favorite podcast player.

The Biblical Higher Ed Talk podcast is brought to you by The Association of Biblical Higher Ed and is proud to be a part of The Higher Ed Marketer Podcast Network. 

Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

What does faithful leadership look like when vision is bold, change is constant, and the stakes are eternal? In this wide-ranging and deeply personal conversation, Bill McCarthy, Chairman of the Board and former CEO of Logos Bible Software, reflects on decades of leadership across technology, business, and ministry partnership. From operationalizing vision to building culture and investing in global evangelism, Bill offers hard-won wisdom for leaders navigating complexity while staying anchored in faith and mission.

🎧 Tune In to Discover

• The four leadership responsibilities every effective leader must embrace

• Why turning vision into action is often the hardest leadership challenge

• How culture shapes long-term organizational health and impact

• What faith-driven leadership looks like in seasons of rapid change

• Why investing in the global church remains a defining priority

🎙️ Inside the Episode

02:14 – Four core responsibilities every leader must carry

06:48 – Why operationalizing strategy is harder than setting vision

12:21 – Navigating organizational change, chaos, and stability

16:09 – How culture reinforces mission and builds trust

23:05 – Where Bill’s passion for evangelism and global ministry began

26:48 – Scaling Logos to serve the global church

32:06 – A word of encouragement for leaders in biblical higher education

To hear this interview and many more like it, subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or our website, or search for Biblical Higher Ed Talk in your favorite podcast player.

The Biblical Higher Ed Talk podcast is brought to you by The Association of Biblical Higher Ed and is proud to be a part of The Higher Ed Marketer Podcast Network. 

Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

What does faithful leadership in theological education look like amid cultural change, secularization, and global realignment? In this insightful conversation, Marvin Oxenham offers a grounded and hopeful perspective on the state of theological education in Europe. Drawing from his leadership with the European Council for Theological Education and his work across multiple global networks, Marvin challenges narratives of decline and highlights growth, innovation, and renewed opportunity for the church and academy across Europe.

🎧 Tune In to Discover

• Why theological education in Europe is not fading but evolving

• How cultural diversity and migration are reshaping ministry preparation

• What distributed leadership and bi-vocational ministry mean for training leaders

• How accreditation and quality assurance function across Europe’s varied systems

• Why micro-credentials present new opportunities for theological education

🎙️ Inside the Episode

01:50 – The spiritual landscape of Europe today and common misconceptions

05:08 – Surprising growth trends in European theological education

07:17 – Distributed leadership and bi-vocational ministry formation

10:15 – Why “evangelical” was removed from ECTE’s name

13:22 – How accreditation works across Europe’s diverse systems

25:15 – What micro-credentials are and why they matter for theology

35:03 – The greatest threat and opportunity facing theological education in Europe

To hear this interview and many more like it, subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or our website, or search for Biblical Higher Ed Talk in your favorite podcast player.

The Biblical Higher Ed Talk podcast is brought to you by The Association of Biblical Higher Ed and is proud to be a part of The Higher Ed Marketer Podcast Network. 

Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

What does it take to equip leaders, boards, and faculty for the rapidly changing realities of biblical higher education? In this forward-looking conversation, Eric Brandt offers a first look at the ABHE Leadership Academy, a new initiative designed to strengthen institutions from the inside out. Drawing on decades of experience in digital education and faculty development, Eric shares why accessible, mission-aligned leadership formation is essential for the future health and flourishing of ABHE institutions.

🎧Tune In to Discover

• Why leadership and faculty development are critical for institutional flourishing

• How the ABHE Leadership Academy expands access beyond conferences.

• What makes micro-courses and effective tool for ongoing formation

• How biblical integration and effective teaching practices are being addressed for faculty

• Why ABHE is investing deeply in leaders at every level.

🎙️ Inside the Episode

02:00 - The evolution of distance and online education and why it matters now.

09:47 - Why leadership and faculty development are essential for institutional health

15:40 - What makes the ABHE Leadership Academy different from past initiatives

21:35 - Addressing biblical integration and effective teaching gaps among faculty

28:03 - What courses are launching first and the long-term vision for 100 micro-courses.

32:02 - Why the Leadership Academy is offered as a member benefit for ABHE institutions

To hear this interview and many more like it, subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or our website, or search for Biblical Higher Ed Talk in your favorite podcast player.

The Biblical Higher Ed Talk podcast is brought to you by The Association of Biblical Higher Ed and is proud to be a part of The Higher Ed Marketer Podcast Network. 

Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Philip Dearborn shares a brief message of gratitude, vision, and anticipation for what lies ahead. He thanks listeners for being part of Biblical Higher Ed Talk and reflects on the mission of highlighting faithful leadership across biblical and Christian higher education and the church. 

Philip also looks ahead to Season 7, previewing upcoming conversations, leadership development initiatives, and key gatherings, including the ABHE Annual Meeting and spring leadership conferences. With an encouraging pastoral tone, he invites listeners from every context to continue growing as leaders, deepening their walk with the Lord, and engaging the work God is doing across the global biblical higher education community.

To hear this interview and many more like it, subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or our website, or search for Biblical Higher Ed Talk in your favorite podcast player.

The Biblical Higher Ed Talk podcast is brought to you by The Association of Biblical Higher Ed and is proud to be a part of The Higher Ed Marketer Podcast Network. 

Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

For Dr. Dondi Costin, President of Liberty University,  God’s direction led from a timid teenager afraid to speak in public, to a decorated military chaplain, to the presidency of one of the largest Christian universities in the world. His story is a powerful reminder that God’s sovereignty weaves every season, assignment, and relationship into a calling far greater than we imagine. With humility and clarity, Dr. Costin reflects on leadership, obedience, identity, and the future of Christian higher education.

🎧 Tune in to discover

✅How God redirected a young Air Force cadet into ministry and chaplaincy.

✅Why authentic leadership begins with self awareness and Spirit shaped character.

✅How Liberty University’s early innovation shaped distance learning nationwide.

✅What younger leaders need to understand about calling, initiative, and humility.

✅Why leaning into Christian identity is essential for the future of biblical higher education.

🎙️ Inside the Episode:

04:49 – How Liberty University shaped his early ministry preparation

10:24 – Entering the chaplaincy and discovering a calling to serve young adults

13:49 – God’s providence in opening doors to university leadership

19:20 – Leading authentically and surrounding yourself with complementary strengths

26:10 – Why decisive leadership matters in today’s higher education landscape

32:55 – Two core leadership principles for young leaders.

To hear this interview and many more like it, subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or our website, or search for Biblical Higher Ed Talk in your favorite podcast player.

The Biblical Higher Ed Talk podcast is proud to be a part of The Higher Ed Marketer Podcast Network. 

Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

A 200 year old organization does not thrive by accident. Jennifer Holloran shares how the American Bible Society is renewing its mission for a new generation, strengthening Bible engagement in the U.S. and globally, and helping people encounter Scripture in transformative ways. Her leadership journey, combined with fresh insights from the State of the Bible survey, offers a compelling look at how God is moving through one of the nation’s oldest ministries.

🎧 Tune in to discover

✅ Why ABS’s founding vision still shapes its mission today

✅ How Bible engagement is growing, especially among younger men

✅ What the State of the Bible research reveals about human flourishing

✅ How ABS is innovating with digital tools to support churches and individuals

✅ Why emerging leaders should take one simple next step in their Bible journey

🎙️ Inside the Episode:

01:53 – The spiritual legacy behind ABS’s founding vision

05:39 – Why Bible access is not enough for real discipleship today

12:13 – Leading change in a 200 year old ministry

19:57 – Encouraging trends from the State of the Bible research

24:45 – How ABS is preparing for America’s 250th anniversary

32:44 – A word of encouragement for emerging leaders

To hear this interview and many more like it, subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or our website, or search for Biblical Higher Ed Talk in your favorite podcast player.

The Biblical Higher Ed Talk podcast is proud to be a part of The Higher Ed Marketer Podcast Network. 

Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

🎉 We’re celebrating the 100th episode of Biblical Higher Ed Talk with a powerful conversation on mission, strategy, and the urgent need for clarity in today’s educational landscape. Matt Whitman, creator of The Ten Minute Bible Hour, joins us to reflect on the intersection of biblical fidelity, communication, and creative leadership in an era of cultural reset.

From his unique vantage point as a content creator and seminary grad, Matt offers both encouragement and challenge for leaders navigating what’s next. The conversation calls for greater collaboration, intentional value propositions, and a bold embrace of both shrewdness and spiritual conviction. Whether you're a college president, classroom professor, or ministry leader, this episode invites you to think freshly about your call.

📚 Mentioned Resource:

Getting to Yes: Negotiating Agreement Without Giving In by Roger Fisher et al.

🎧 Tune in to discover

✅Why distinctives aren’t enough and what truly defines a compelling value proposition

✅What Christian institutions can learn from marketing and media

✅A biblical case for bold, strategic decision-making

✅Why collaboration and creativity are non-negotiables for the future

✅A vision of revival sparked through biblical higher education

🎙️ Inside the Episode:

04:06 – Matt’s journey into podcasting and storytelling

14:32 – Distinctives vs. value propositions in institutional messaging

24:44 – Jesus’ surprising command to be both innocent and shrewd

30:09 – Three challenges facing Christian institutions today

35:48 – How to lead with strategic clarity

44:56 – The power of defining outcomes clearly for students

To hear this interview and many more like it, subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or our website, or search for Biblical Higher Ed Talk in your favorite podcast player.

The Biblical Higher Ed Talk podcast is proud to be a part of The Higher Ed Marketer Podcast Network. 

Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Historically, many colleges and universities in the United States and Canada have their roots in churches and denominations. But over time, those connections have faded on campuses and in classrooms. What exactly makes a Christian college "Christian" today?. Jesse Rine, Executive Director of The Center for Academic Faithfulness & Flourishing, is working to provide prospective students and their parents with the information they need to make informed decisions about their college choice.

🎧 Tune In to Discover
✅ What makes a Christian college "Christian"

✅ A vision for long-term culture change in Christian institutions

To hear this interview and many more like it, subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or our website, or search for Biblical Higher Ed Talk in your favorite podcast player.

The Biblical Higher Ed Talk podcast is proud to be a part of The Higher Ed Marketer Podcast Network. 

Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

For Kevin Ingram, president of Manhattan Christian College, leadership and discipleship extend onto the football field. In addition to leading a thriving college in the heart of Kansas, Kevin serves as the volunteer chaplain for the Kansas State University Wildcats football team.

What began as a simple act of community involvement has grown into a powerful ministry of presence, trust, and discipleship among student-athletes and coaches. From praying with players on the sidelines to mentoring future leaders in the classroom, Kevin embodies what it means to serve wherever God opens the door. In this heartfelt conversation, Kevin shares lessons on balancing leadership with service, finding joy in the midst of responsibility, and living authentically as the person God designed you to be. His journey is a reminder that faithful leadership is less about position and more about presence.

🎧 Tune In to Discover

✅How a college president became chaplain for Kansas State University football

✅Why chaplaincy is a ministry of presence, prayer, and trust

✅What game-day ministry looks like behind the scenes of a D1 program

✅How serving in the community strengthens your leadership on campus

✅The importance of being comfortable in who God made you to be

🎙️ Inside the Episode

01:33 - How serving in the community opened doors to chaplaincy

06:07 - Why more organizations are turning to chaplains for spiritual care

09:49 - What a typical game day looks like for a team chaplain

14:52 - The power of presence and divine appointments on the sidelines

16:48 - Why serving outside your institution refuels your calling as a leader

21:12 - Significant ministry moments through K-State football

24:19 - Building trust and relationships in high-pressure environments

28:23 - Kevin’s advice to young leaders.

To hear this interview and many more like it, subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or our website, or search for Biblical Higher Ed Talk in your favorite podcast player.

The Biblical Higher Ed Talk podcast is proud to be a part of The Higher Ed Marketer Podcast Network. 

Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Religious liberty is not a political stance but a founding principle essential to a free and flourishing society. In this powerful conversation, Dr. Todd Williams, president of Cairn University, explores why defending religious freedom matters not only for Christian institutions but for the good of all. Drawing from his testimony before the U.S. Religious Liberty Commission, Dr. Williams offers wisdom for leaders seeking to preserve conviction, uphold truth, and prepare the next generation to live faithfully in a changing world.

🎧 Tune In to Discover
✅Why religious liberty is foundational to a free society

✅How removing faith from culture weakens justice and virtue

✅What Christian educators can do to protect institutional autonomy

✅The dangers of open enrollment and mission drift in Christian colleges

✅Three practical ways to strengthen your institution’s religious identity

🎙️ Inside the Episode

02:02 - Why religious liberty is a founding principle, not a policy issue

06:13 - How freedom of faith sustains a just and virtuous society

08:02 - What history teaches when religion is removed from culture

14:56 - Todd’s experience testifying before the Religious Liberty Commission

22:12 - Why worldview and theology can never be separated from education

26:44 - Three ways Christian colleges unknowingly weaken their own liberty

34:28 - A practical first step for every Christian leader

To hear this interview and many more like it, subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or our website, or search for Biblical Higher Ed Talk in your favorite podcast player.

The Biblical Higher Ed Talk podcast is proud to be a part of The Higher Ed Marketer Podcast Network. 

Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Few institutions have the privilege,or the challenge, of helping millions engage with the most influential book in history. As CEO of the Museum of the Bible, Dr. Carlos Campo is leading with purpose, humility, and excellence to make Scripture accessible to all. His journey from Christian higher education leadership to stewarding a world-class museum in the heart of Washington, D.C. reveals what it means to glorify God through culture, scholarship, and creativity.

In this inspiring conversation, Dr. Campo shares how the Museum of the Bible is connecting ancient truths to modern audiences through immersive exhibits, groundbreaking artifacts, and a posture of radical hospitality. From the story of the Megiddo Mosaic, the earliest known Christian worship space, to the arrival of the Dead Sea Scrolls and the Magdala Stone, listeners will gain a deeper appreciation for the living story of Scripture and the extraordinary ways God’s Word continues to transform hearts and nations.

🎧Tune In To Discover

✅The remarkable story behind the first Christian church ever uncovered in Israel

✅How the museum of the Bible is presenting the Dead Sea Scrolls and Magdala Stone for the first time in over 30 years

✅The museum's vision to invite all people to engage God's Word

✅Dr. Campo's biblical encouragement for young leaders pursuing holiness and purpose in a distracted age.

🎙️Inside the Episode

01:42 - Carlos Campo's journey from university president to leading the Museum of the Bible

03:24 - The challenges and vision of operating a faith-based museum in D.C.

05:02 - How immersive exhibits bring the Bible to life.

11:19 - The discovery of the Megiddo Mosaic and its meaning for early Christianity

23:47 - Leadership lessons from humility, discipline and excellence

27:31 - Spiritual wisdom for young leaders pursuing God's call

To hear this interview and many more like it, subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or our website, or search for Biblical Higher Ed Talk in your favorite podcast player.

The Biblical Higher Ed Talk podcast is proud to be a part of The Higher Ed Marketer Podcast Network.

Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Andrew Peterson has spent decades shaping hearts and imaginations through story and song. In this episode, he shares the journey behind his calling as a Christian creative, the impact of Rich Mullins on his spiritual direction, and how he’s stewarding his art today through music, books, and animation.

Andrew also reflects on the challenges of leadership, the need for truth-tellers, and the growing implications of AI for creative integrity and human formation. From Wingfeather to worship, this conversation is full of depth, wisdom, and encouragement for anyone seeking to follow Christ through

🎧 Tune In to Discover
✅How Rich Mullins’ music led Andrew toward Christ

 ✅Why storytelling is central to spiritual formation

 ✅The danger of using AI to bypass the creative process
✅What it means to lead even when you don’t feel ready

 ✅The power of community, humility, and truth-tellers in leadership

🎙️ Inside the Episode

10:23 – Writing the Wingfeather Saga and shifting to books

16:45 – Finding purpose in seasons of uncertainty

23:04 – Drawing the line: preserving human-made art in animation

27:23 – The antidote to tech: learning to tend and keep

29:25 – Leadership, boardrooms, and growing into responsibility

34:12 – Final words of encouragement for emerging leaders

To hear this interview and many more like it, subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or our website, or search for Biblical Higher Ed Talk in your favorite podcast player.

The Biblical Higher Ed Talk podcast is proud to be part of The Higher Ed Marketer Podcast Network.

Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

From a small spark in 1936 to ministry in 56 countries today, BCM International is a testament to how faithfulness multiplies. President Rick Rhoads joins us to share how this global organization is equipping thousands of local leaders to disciple, plant churches, and serve vulnerable children across the world.

In this conversation, Rick reflects on the challenges of stewarding leadership across continents, balancing organizational systems with Spirit-led freedom, and why developing spiritually healthy leaders is essential in every context.

Whether you’re leading a global mission, building a campus culture, or just starting out in ministry, this episode offers hard-won insights on leadership, trust, and legacy.

🎧 Tune In to Discover

✅How BCM grew from a single curriculum moment to a global movement

✅What it means to lead in a “flat” international organization

✅Why proximity matters more than policy in global leadership

✅Why the safest place you can be is in the center of God’s will

✅The crisis and miracle rhythm of global ministry

✅Opportunities for higher ed to partner with global, grassroots training

🎙️ Inside the Episode

01:55 – The story behind BCM International’s founding and global growth

07:44 – Building global trust through presence and listening

10:26 – Modeling healthy leadership succession across cultures

15:30 – The challenge of balancing freedom and systems in global ministry

18:23 – Faith under fire: leading through war, disaster, and crisis

25:07 – Developing spiritual practices to prevent decision fatigue

31:32 – Bridging the education access gap for pastors and leaders

34:55 – A leadership lesson on humility and valuing unseen voices

To hear this interview and many more like it, subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or our website, or search for Biblical Higher Ed Talk in your favorite podcast player.

The Biblical Higher Ed Talk podcast is proud to be a part of The Higher Ed Marketer Podcast Network. 

Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Radical obedience is more than a moment. It's a lifelong posture of trust. In this powerful episode, Dr. Paul and Dr. Carol Alexander reflect on a global life of ministry marked by faith, perseverance, and God's providence. From unexpected callings to remote Samoa to building a graduate program in Ellendale, North Dakota, their story is a compelling reminder that the safest place to be is in the center of God's will.

If you're wrestling with next steps, calling, or what it really looks like to surrender your plans, their insights will encourage and challenge you. This conversation draws from their book Radical Obedience: The Chronicles of Two Global Pilgrims and their leadership at Trinity Bible College and Graduate School.

🎧 Tune In to Discover

✅ What radical obedience really means in everyday life

✅ How Paul & Carol Alexander followed God's call across 4 continents

✅ The story behind their book Radical Obedience: The Chronicles of Two Global Pilgrims

✅ Why the safest place you can be is in the center of God's will

✅How God uses both big and small moments to shape a life of trust and surrender.

🎙️ Inside the Episode

08:38 - What makes Trinity Bible College unique.

16:47 - Carol's role in launching the graduate program.

24:17 - Why Paul & Carol wrote Radical Obedience.

52:14 - The incredible story of their calling to Samoa

63:36 - God's provision in small & miraculous ways.

82:54 - Why practicing obedience is hard, and how to grow in it.

116:27 - Encouragement & Wisdom for young leaders following God's Call.

To hear this interview and many more like it, subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or our website, or search for Biblical Higher Ed Talk in your favorite podcast player.

The Biblical Higher Ed Talk podcast is proud to be a part of The Higher Ed Marketer Podcast Network. 

Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Oswald Chambers' classic devotional My Utmost for His Highest has shaped countless lives for more than a century. With support from the Oswald Chambers Publications Association, a modernized edition is now helping a new generation engage with Chambers’ timeless insights.

Macy Halford, the editor behind the rewrite, spent years studying Chambers’ original sermons and notes, which were carefully recorded by his wife, Biddy. In this conversation, Macy shares how the updated edition was developed, the challenges of honoring Chambers' voice while making the content accessible, and what this enduring devotional can offer readers today.

🎧 Tune In to Discover

✅ The legacy of Oswald and Biddy Chambers

✅ Why My Utmost for His Highest still resonates today

✅ The process and philosophy behind the modern rewrite

✅ Making a Victorian devotional accessible without losing its power

✅Biddy Chambers’ incredible work as a writer, editor, and steward

✅ The spiritual vision that underpins My Utmost and its impact across biblical higher ed

🎙️ Inside the Episode

03:08 - The Life and Legacy of Oswald Chambers

05:55 - Biddy Chambers: The Unsung Hero

08:57 - The Birth of 'My Utmost for His Highest'

12:04 -The Challenge of Modernizing a Classic

15:10 - Macy Halford's Journey with the Devotional

21:01 - Reflections on the Impact of the Devotional

26:51 - Oswald Chambers' Perspective on Modern Challenges

Resources & Links from this Episode

• Macy Halford’s Memoir Title: My Utmost: A Devotional Memoir on Amazon  

• Oswald Chambers Publications Association Website: https://utmost.org

To hear this interview and many more like it, subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or our website, or search for Biblical Higher Ed Talk in your favorite podcast player.

The Biblical Higher Ed Talk podcast is brought to you by The Association of Biblical Higher Education and is proud to be part of The Higher Ed Marketer Podcast Network.

Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Season 6 - Episode 91

Graduate education is fiercely competitive, rapidly evolving, and increasingly flexible. In this episode, Blanton Feaster of Dallas Baptist University shares how he and his team are growing enrollment by adapting delivery methods and creating mission-fit programs that stay true to the ethos of Christian higher ed.

Blanton also unpacks DBU’s strategy for integrating faith into curriculum, building microcredential partnerships with churches, and mentoring faculty through changes in technology and teaching methods. If you’re exploring the future of graduate education, this conversation is packed with wisdom and practical direction.

🎧 Tune In to Discover

✅How graduate education is shifting demographically and technologically

✅Why DBU built a master’s in AI focused on ethics

✅Flexible modalities and how they impact faculty and students

✅Building residency-to-certificate pipelines in ministry

✅Strategies for curriculum agility and market relevance

🎙️ Inside the Episode

08:00 – What’s Driving Graduate Education Growth

09:45 – Launching a Master's in AI, with a Christian Ethos

12:00 – A New Generation of Graduate Students

14:00 – Modality Flexibility and Faculty Adaptation

22:00 – Creating Real Church Partnerships through Microcredentials

26:00 – Empowering Faculty through Mentoring and Workshop Culture

To hear this interview and many more like it, subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or our website, or search for Biblical Higher Ed Talk in your favorite podcast player.

The Biblical Higher Ed Talk podcast is proud to be a part of The Higher Ed Marketer Podcast Network. 

Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Season 5 - Episode 3

How can ministries authentically connect younger generations to God in an era shaped by social media, technology, and shifting cultural values? In this episode, Daniel Day, Senior Director of Reclaim Today and New Audience Engagement at Our Daily Bread Ministries, shares how his team is creating fresh approaches to discipleship that meet Gen Z and millennials where they are.

From digital-first devotionals to printed resources making a comeback, Daniel explains how Reclaim Today is helping young adults build meaningful faith practices and discover belonging in Christ-centered communities. Whether you’re a campus leader, educator, or parent of a digital native, this conversation will challenge how you think about technology, mentorship, and hope for the next generation.

🎧 Tune In to Discover

✅ How Our Daily Bread’s legacy led to Reclaim Today’s Gen Z ministry

✅ The tension between digital platforms and spiritual formation

✅ Why belonging and friendship are critical for younger generations

✅ Practical discipleship in an age of AI and social media

🎙️ Inside the Episode

02:30 – The Origins of Reclaim Today at Our Daily Bread

06:45 – Why Social Media Became a Starting Point for Outreach

11:00 – Should We Use Every Platform? 

15:30 – Gen Z Realities: Belonging, Mental Health, and Hope

20:00 – When Digital Natives Want Print Resources Again

24:00 – The Four C’s of Spiritual Formation: Content, Context, Conduct, Community

28:00 – Daniel’s Concerns & Hopes for Gen Z and Millennials

Resources & Links from this Episode

Explore Reclaim Today: reclaimtoday.org

Learn more about Our Daily Bread Ministries: ourdailybread.org

To hear this interview and many more like it, subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or our website, or search for Biblical Higher Ed Talk in your favorite podcast player.

The Biblical Higher Ed Talk podcast is brought to you by The Association of Biblical Higher Education and is proud to be part of The Higher Ed Marketer Podcast Network.

Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

How do we shift our view of wellness from diet plans and discipline to discipleship and spiritual alignment? In this episode, April Jones, Founder and CEO of Storehouse Wellness, shares her powerful journey from pharmacy and healthcare leadership into Christ-centered wellness entrepreneurship.

Through faith, experience, and innovation, April is helping individuals and institutions approach health as a whole-person pursuit (mind, body, and spirit). Whether you're a student, campus leader, or someone navigating burnout, this conversation will challenge how you think about self-care, responsibility, and healing.

🎧 Tune In to Discover

✅ Wellness as a spiritual and practical calling.

✅ Starting a mission-driven business with faith at the center

✅ Why students need support for mind, body and spirit

✅ How shame and identity affect health choices.

 ✅Practical tools for campus-wide wellness implementation

🎙️ Inside the Episode

02:00 – From Pharmacy to Faith-Based Wellness

06:00 – The Realities of Starting a Mission-Driven Business

10:00 – Changing the Why Behind Wellness

14:30 – Inner Healing as the First Step

20:00 – Wellness for Gen Z on Campus

25:00 – Introducing Storehouse’s Campus Ministry of Wellness

Resources & Links from this episode:

Learn more about Storehouse Wellness at storehousewellness.com (http://storehousewellness.com/)

Reach out to April directly at april@storehousewellness.com(april@storehousewellness.com)

Explore the Faith-Food-Fitness-Focus-Fun framework (contact April to request the visual.)

To hear this interview and many more like it, subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or our website, or search for Biblical Higher Ed Talk in your favorite podcast player.

The Biblical Higher Ed Talk podcast is brought to you by The Association of Biblical Higher Edand is proud to be a part of The Higher Ed Marketer Podcast Network. 

Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

How can the church and higher education take children seriously in discipleship? Esther Zimmerman, Program Chair of Undergraduate Ministry Studies at Lancaster Bible College and global advocate for children, joins us to share her journey in children’s ministry and her conviction that investing in kids is one of the most strategic ways to advance the kingdom of God. 

We explore why children are often overlooked, how broken systems leave them vulnerable, and what faithful discipleship looks like for the next generation. From sobering global statistics to hopeful grassroots stories, this episode calls the church to put children at the center of ministry, not the margins.

🎧 Tune In to Discover
✅ Why children’s ministry is the most strategic investment for the future of the church
✅ How cultural perceptions have reduced ministry to babysitting rather than discipleship
✅ What global realities reveal about children’s vulnerability and the church’s response
✅ How higher education can shape leaders to take children seriously in theology and practice

🎙️ Inside the Episode
02:18 Esther’s journey into children’s ministry and why she stayed
05:34 Misconceptions of children’s ministry in the West vs. globally
09:15 Why broken systems place the heaviest weight on children
12:01 Troubling trends and hopeful signs in global children’s ministry
18:37 Three practical ways to disciple and advocate for children
24:10 How seminaries and Bible colleges can integrate children into their curriculum

Check out these resources we mentioned during the podcast:

• Global Children’s Forum

• Bible Centered Ministries International

• World Evangelical Alliance Children’s Network

• Lausanne Children's Forum

To hear this interview and many more like it, subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or our website, or search for Biblical Higher Ed Talk in your favorite podcast player.

The Biblical Higher Ed Talk podcast is proud to be a part of The Higher Ed Marketer Podcast Network.

Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

"THANK YOU," from the entire team at Biblical Higher Ed Talk.

A special message from Phillip Dearborn.

• A sneak peek into Season 5

• Speakers for ABHE 79th ANNUAL MEETING: A Time to Lead -- February 11-13, 2026.

• We are approaching 10,000 downloads

Biblical Higher Ed Talk is to be a part of The Higher Ed Marketer Podcast Network.

To hear this interview and many more like it, subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or our website, or search for Biblical Higher Ed Talk in your favorite podcast player.

Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Leading With Purpose Summer Series

Join Philip Dearborn, President of ABHE, for a special summer series designed to strengthen your leadership and renew your sense of mission. Every other week, you’ll hear one of the most-listened-to conversations from past seasons. Each episode offering practical encouragement and a fresh reminder of why Christ-centered higher education matters.

This episode originally aired FEB 2025

Stephen Nichols, President of Reformation Bible College, talks about how his journey from classroom professor to institutional leader shaped his educational philosophy.

He discusses the intentional design of RBC’s curriculum, blending theology and the liberal arts, and how their unique house system fosters community and discipleship. Stephen offers insights into balancing growth with mission fidelity and the importance of being faithful in both education and leadership.

This episode is packed with inspiration for leaders navigating the complexities of biblical higher education curriculums.

Join us as we discuss:

• [8:35] The transition from classroom professor to college president

• [16:14] How a hyper-focused curriculum impacts student life

• [20:34] Why capping enrollment builds community and accountability

  
  

Check out these resources we mentioned during the podcast:

• Logos Bible Software

• Uptime: A Practical Guide to Personal Productivity and Wellbeing by Laura Mae Martin

• Ligonier Ministries

To hear this interview and many more like it, subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or our website, or search for Biblical Higher Ed Talk in your favorite podcast player.

Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Leading With Purpose Summer Series

Join Philip Dearborn, President of ABHE, for a special summer series designed to strengthen your leadership and renew your sense of mission. Every other week, you’ll hear one of the most-listened-to conversations from past seasons. Each episode offering practical encouragement and a fresh reminder of why Christ-centered higher education matters.

This episode originally aired Oct 2024

Michael Lindsay, President of Taylor University, joins the show to share how the principles of grace and truth guide his leadership, especially in the turbulent times facing Christian higher education.

Michael tells us why he believes the pandemic elevated expectations for the value proposition of biblical higher ed and how Christian leaders can turn these challenges into opportunities. He also provides insights into a successful fundraising campaign for some of Taylor's exciting projects, including community outreach and campus expansions.

Tune in to hear how Taylor University is helping to shape the next generation of Christian leaders through discipleship initiatives.

Join us as we discuss:

• [5:17] Finding the motivation in a college president’s work

• [13:16] How Taylor University is giving back to their community 

• [18:59] Discipleship and seeking counsel from your predecessors

Check out these resources we mentioned during the podcast:

• ABHE 78th Annual Meeting

• Hinge Moments: Making the Most of Life’s Transitions by Michael Lindsay

• Presidential Fellows Program - Taylor University

To hear this interview and many more like it, subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or our website, or search for Biblical Higher Ed Talk in your favorite podcast player.

Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Leading With Purpose Summer Series

Join Philip Dearborn, President of ABHE, for a special summer series designed to strengthen your leadership and renew your sense of mission. Every other week, you’ll hear one of the most-listened-to conversations from past seasons. Each episode offering practical encouragement and a fresh reminder of why Christ-centered higher education matters.

This episode originally aired April 2024

Jeremiah 17:7 says, “But blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord, whose confidence is in Him.”

Today we are having a conversation with Roger Parrott, the President of Belhaven University. With over 20 years of presidential experience, Roger wasn’t afraid to kick long-range planning out the door and he wants to help others do the same. Planning is good, but only when we continue to leave room for God to speak.

In this episode, we dive into the keys to a successful university presidency.

Join us as we discuss:

• [4:32] The current state of higher ed turbulence

• [16:00] Why you should abandon long-range strategic planning

• [21:39] Taking the critic’s perspective

Check out these resources we mentioned during the podcast:

• The Longview by Roger Parrott

• Opportunity Leadership by Roger Parrott

To hear this interview and many more like it, subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or our website, or search for Biblical Higher Ed Talk in your favorite podcast player.

Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Leading With Purpose Summer Series

Join Philip Dearborn, President of ABHE, for a special summer series designed to strengthen your leadership and renew your sense of mission. Every other week, you’ll hear one of the most-listened-to conversations from past seasons. Each episode offering practical encouragement and a fresh reminder of why Christ-centered higher education matters.

This episode originally aired Jan 2024

What does courageous leadership in higher education look like?

It’s about utilizing situational styles.

It’s about relying on faith to drive out fear.

It’s time to get real about what it means to be courageous in biblical higher education.

That’s why I’m joined by Todd Williams, President and CEO at Cairn University, a courageous leader who didn’t always envision himself at the forefront of a higher ed institution.

In this episode, we delve into what it means to be a courageous leader.

Join us as we discuss: 

- Different styles of courageous leadership, from positional to situational (5:39)

- The “romance” of leadership and why it can quickly burn out (9:36)

- A historical example of situational leadership in the face of fear (16:41)

To hear this interview and many more like it, subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or our website, or search for Biblical Higher Ed Talk in your favorite podcast player. 

Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Leading With Purpose Summer Series

Join Philip Dearborn, President of ABHE, for a special summer series designed to strengthen your leadership and renew your sense of mission. Every other week, you’ll hear one of the most-listened-to conversations from past seasons. Each episode offering practical encouragement and a fresh reminder of why Christ-centered higher education matters.

Originally aired Jan 2024

Bridging the gap between local churches and Bible Colleges is essential to see success for both sides.

It’s time to invest in the community around our students and come together towards a common goal – serving God.

That’s why we’re talking to Mark Jobe, President of Moody Bible Institute. As a bi-vocational pastor, Mark offers a unique perspective from both sides of the pulpit.

In this episode, we talk about the importance of getting your students and staff involved in the local community.

Join us as we discuss: 

- Tension between the academy and the church (8:00)

- How we can best serve the local church (13:54)

- Ways to connect your institution to surrounding churches (20:49)

To hear this interview and many more like it, subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or our website, or search for Biblical Higher Ed Talk in your favorite podcast player. 

Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Leading With Purpose Summer Series
Join Philip Dearborn, President of ABHE, for a special summer series designed to strengthen your leadership and renew your sense of mission. Every other week, you’ll hear one of the most-listened-to conversations from past seasons. Each episode offering practical encouragement and a fresh reminder of why Christ-centered higher education matters.

Originally aired Oct 2023

Be it blind arrogance or a lack of accountability, it can be easy for church and academic leaders to allow pride to consume them and to point fingers when they fall.

That’s why Bill Blocker, President of the College of Biblical Studies - Houston, believes the leadership journey should start by understanding that it’s not about you. God doesn’t care how talented you are — only that you’re available to use your gifts to lead and inspire others.   

Bill shares how Christ called him from the legal industry to help equip others and what leading from the front with humility means to him.    

Join us as we discuss:

• Measuring personal success in how you inspire others (6:11)

• What God cares about more than your abilities (11:43)

• Stumbling blocks that Christian leaders need to avoid (18:40) 
  

To hear this interview and many more like it, subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or our website, or search for Biblical Higher Ed Talk in your favorite podcast player. 

Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

How does theological education continue its mission amid war? Evan Hunter, Executive VP at ScholarLeaders International, joins us to share his experiences walking alongside seminaries and churches in Ukraine throughout the ongoing conflict. Drawing from more than eight visits to Ukraine since the full-scale invasion, Evan reflects on what theological education looks like in a crisis, how seminaries have stepped up to serve as humanitarian hubs, and how the church in Ukraine is enduring deep losses while still growing in unexpected ways. From pastoral shortages to profound spiritual renewal, this episode explores what it means to teach, lead, and lament faithfully during wartime.

Join us as we discuss:

• [2:09] Juxtaposing daily life with a constant wartime threat

• [8:36] The toll the war has taken on Ukrainian pastors and the church

• [17:49] How theological education has adjusted to the conflict

• [23:53] Why the church needs to temper fixing the world’s problems to listen
  

Check out these resources we mentioned during the podcast:

• Tavriski Christian Institute (Kherson, Ukraine)

• Mesa Global

To hear this interview and many more like it, subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or our website, or search for Biblical Higher Ed Talk in your favorite podcast player.

Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Old student recruitment methods are quickly becoming obsolete as we approach the demographic enrollment cliff. In this episode, Bart Caylor, President and Founder of Caylor Solutions, makes a case for refining and expanding recruitment efforts in higher education. 

Bart has advice on targeting older demographics, increasing focus on student retention, and raising efficiency through the use of AI, as well as mistakes he sees smaller schools make when trying to compete for prospective students’ attention.

Join us as we discuss: 

• [3:17] The enrollment cliff and more serious issues for student recruitment

• [7:54] Why schools need a more disciplined approach to enrollment

• [11:52] Why it’s important to market towards students who are already enrolled

• [18:31] How AI is being used and misused on campuses
  

Check out these resources we mentioned during the podcast:

• The Higher Ed Marketer

To hear this interview and many more like it, subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or our website, or search for Biblical Higher Ed Talk in your favorite podcast player.

Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Accrediting and supporting Christian education in Africa comes with its own set of values and challenges unique to the continent.

Our guest, David Tarus, Executive Director at The Association for Christian Theological Education in Africa (ACTEA), shares the need to center African scholars and voices in their curriculum and why it's essential, not only for African institutions, but for the global theological community. David talks about how African schools face logistical hurdles in distributing homegrown texts and resources in sometimes hostile political environments, and why much can be gained from examining their resilience, community, and scholarship.

Join us as we discuss:

• [1:54] How ACTEA accredits and supports schools in Africa

• [5:52] The importance of non-Western texts in international Christian schools

• [14:42] The challenge in distributing local African theological resources

• [28:45] How North American organizations can help African ministries
  

Check out these resources we mentioned during the podcast:

• Circle of Concerned African Women Theologians

• ACTEA video

To hear this interview and many more like it, subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or our website, or search for Biblical Higher Ed Talk in your favorite podcast player.

Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Christian educational institutions all serve one Lord, but the way in which they serve their students varies from school to school. 

Our guest and President of Free Lutheran Bible College. Wade Mobley, suggests that there isn’t one correct model for Christian colleges to follow. However, it is important to consider your school’s individual identity and purpose when making decisions for its future. 

Upholding a school’s identity, following new innovations in Biblical higher ed, and trying to manage the business side of education creates a lot of tension for presidents and school boards. Wade has suggestions and words of encouragement for new leaders struggling to find their path in our field.

Join us as we discuss: 

• [7:19] How to establish your school’s identity on campus

• [16:42] Staying open to innovation while not chasing trends

• [23:26] Encouragement for new leaders struggling with their identity

To hear this interview and many more like it, subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or our website, or search for Biblical Higher Ed Talk in your favorite podcast player.

Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

As Christ-followers, we answer to a higher law. But American biblical higher ed institutions must comply with federal guidelines. Our guest, Andrew Smith, Attorney and Title IX Coordinator at Moody Bible Institute, urges campuses to work more closely with their legal team and to train their employees in basic legal understanding. Andrew also has advice on how schools can receive exemptions from Title IX and opinions on how Title IX aligns with God’s law.

Join us as we discuss: 

• [6:27] Aligning God’s word with the law and over-and-underutilizing legal resources

• [17:21] The benefits of fundamental legal training for school employees

• [22:06] The theological discussion around Title IX and how it might impact your mission
  

Check out these resources we mentioned during the podcast:

• Andrew.Smith@moody.edu

To hear this interview and many more like it, subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or our website, or search for Biblical Higher Ed Talk in your favorite podcast player.

Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

The concept of separation of church and state makes it seem like teaching the Bible in public schools is impossible. But Bible2School is doing just that. 

CEO Kori Pennypacker explains how our freedom of religion ensures that we are able to enact God’s mission at schools nationwide. In our conversation with Kori, we’ll cover how the Bible can be taught to public school students, what motivated her mission, and the effects Bible study has had on students. 

Join us as we discuss:

• [1:58] The laws surrounding teaching religion in public schools

• [7:34] What the average American youth knows about Christianity

• [16:57] How to effectively teach the Bible to elementary students
  

Check out these resources we mentioned during the podcast:

• Bible2School

• koripennypacker@bible2school.com

To hear this interview and many more like it, subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or our website, or search for Biblical Higher Ed Talk in your favorite podcast player.

Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Leaders in biblical higher education hear many different theories and terms about leadership, so many that it can be difficult to decide what is the best way to pursue one’s goals. Our guest today, Kirk Brothers, the president of Heritage Christian University, has a suggestion — define spiritual leadership. He discusses how the examples of leadership that Christ can bring us closer to this answer. 

By examining Christ’s example, Kirk also shares insights into how one should lead for God — not themselves — how to set goals for a Christian educational institution, and how to view youth and family ministry. 

Join us as we discuss:

• [8:10] The relationship between youth and family ministry

• [14:12] The importance of defining leadership terms

• [21:49] What Christian higher education should strive for
  

Check out these resources we mentioned during the podcast:

• Lead Like the Lord: Lessons in Leadership from Jesus

• In Christ’s Image: A Guide to Youth and Family Ministry

• Ministry Matters podcast

To hear this interview and many more like it, subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or our website, or search for Biblical Higher Ed Talk in your favorite podcast player.

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Young Leaders in Biblical Higher Education can feel pressured to advance their institution’s goals as swiftly as possible. Our guest, David Dockery, President of Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, is here to share wisdom gained from over forty years in the industry. His advice is to slow down, learn more about the history of your institution, create enactable plans on multi-year timeframes, and ensure that your actions align with your institution’s mission. 

Carrying out this mission is more difficult than ever, with growing economic and cultural challenges threatening campuses, but Dockery has suggestions for how faith-based nonprofit schools should move forward into the future.

Join us as we discuss: 

• [2:08] The importance of recognizing one’s own leadership gaps

• [14:35] The pitfalls of rushing change in a new leadership position

• [20:37] How the business model of biblical higher education must adapt
  

Check out these resources we mentioned during the podcast:

• IACE
  

To hear this interview and many more like it, subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or our website, or search for Biblical Higher Ed Talk in your favorite podcast player.

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Sexual exploitation on college campuses is a pervasive issue that demands both awareness and action. 

Christen Price, Senior Legal Counsel at the National Center on Sexual Exploitation, sheds light on the harsh realities of exploitation and shares how faith-driven communities can make a difference. Christen unpacks the systemic nature of crimes like trafficking and the theological imperative to confront injustice. She also explores the role of institutions in addressing these issues while inspiring listeners with stories of hope and resilience.

Tune in to learn how faith, justice, and advocacy converge to combat exploitation and protect vulnerable student populations.

Join us as we discuss:

• [8:50] Defining sexual exploitation and confronting enablers

• [17:52] Statistics on exploitation and the impact of pornography use

• [24:42] Keeping a positive mindset while fighting the good fight
  

Check out these resources we mentioned during the podcast:

• National Center for Sexual Exploitation Resources

• International Justice Mission

• Rights4Girls

• Unwanted: How Sexual Brokenness Reveals Our Way to Healing

To hear this interview and many more like it, subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or our website, or search for Biblical Higher Ed Talk in your favorite podcast player.

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Adam Porcella, Senior Vice President and Provost at Cairn University, shares his insights on how faculty recruitment directly impacts institutional success and mission alignment. 

Drawing from his research and leadership experience, Adam outlines strategies for identifying candidates who embody your institution’s faith-based mission while excelling in their academic disciplines. 

Tune in as we explore practical approaches to fostering a community of faithful scholars who inspire and mentor students.

Join us as we discuss:

• [2:28] How institutional leaders can directly impact the student experience 

• [8:21] Conclusions from a qualitative study on mission-fit faculty hiring

• [17:22] The need for professors to love their students and be good mentors

• [24:03] Who should have oversight in hiring and developing new faculty

To hear this interview and many more like it, subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or our website, or search for Biblical Higher Ed Talk in your favorite podcast player.

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Jessica Lugo, Executive Director for the Association of Hispanic Theological Education (AETH), joins us to explore how theological education can address the growing needs of the Hispanic church.

Jessica shares her journey from seminary student to executive leader, insights on bridging cultural gaps between the church and academy, and the importance of culturally aware leadership in theological education.

Learn about key trends in the Hispanic population, strategies for empowering new leaders, and the role of education in the spiritual growth of Hispanic communities.

Join us as we discuss:

• [8:08] The rising Hispanic population and dispelling its monolithic label

• [13:47] How AETH is helping institutions that are serving Hispanic students 

• [23:09] Going beyond the minimum threshold for HSI-certification
  

Check out these resources we mentioned during the podcast:

• U.S. Department of Education: Hispanic-Serving Institutions

• Register for ABHE’s 78th Annual Meeting in Orlando, Florida here! 

To hear this interview and many more like it, subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or our website, or search for Biblical Higher Ed Talk in your favorite podcast player.

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The average tenure of a college president at ABHE institutions is steadily declining, now averaging just 7.2 years — far from the decades-long leadership of past generations. Why is this happening, and what does it mean for the future of biblical higher education?

Matt Pinson, President of Welch College, shares his perspective as an exceptional long-term leader who has served for over 20 years. He reflects on the challenges of presidential longevity, the shifting landscape of higher ed leadership, and the key lessons he’s learned along the way. 

From hiring and faculty relations to balancing institutional change with stability, Matt offers wisdom for current and aspiring leaders navigating today’s fast-changing environment.

Join us as we discuss:

• [10:41] Realistic leadership expectations and adopting an evolutionary mindset

• [20:56] People management and dealing with hiring pressures

• [25:30] Family and the work-life balance in higher ed leadership

To hear this interview and many more like it, subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or our website, or search for Biblical Higher Ed Talk in your favorite podcast player.

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What does it really take to lead a Christian university in today’s complex educational landscape? 

John Mark Yeats, President of Corban University, reflects on his first 18 months as a college president, sharing insights on mentorship, leadership preparation, and the joys of serving in this pivotal role. From his formative years to his unexpected journey to the presidency, he highlights how biblical higher education nurtures holistic growth — academic, spiritual, and personal. 

Tune in for a heartfelt discussion about leadership, service, and the transformative power of Christ-centered education.

Join us as we discuss:

• [7:19] Formational experiences and seeking out learning opportunities

• [12:31] Why a Christian college presidency is a team sport

• [19:53] Finding the joy in investing in your school’s constituents

To hear this interview and many more like it, subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or our website, or search for Biblical Higher Ed Talk in your favorite podcast player.

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Jeff Spear, Principal Founder of CFO Colleague, shares his expertise on the financial health of biblical higher education.

With over 25 years of experience as a CFO for faith-based institutions, Jeff offers a sobering analysis of the current challenges facing Christian colleges, including declining enrollment, financial mismanagement, and the need for strategic pivots. He highlights the role of clear value propositions, sustainable budgeting, and local church partnerships in overcoming these hurdles.

Jeff’s insights are a must-listen for leaders navigating the complexities of institutional sustainability.

Join us as we discuss:

• [5:34] Influencing factors in the epidemic of school closings

• [12:16] Schools failing to deliver on their value proposition

• [22:02] Pivoting strategies to align with students’ expectations

• [27:15] Three actionable steps for schools with financial woes
  

Check out these resources we mentioned during the podcast:

• Sign up for the CFO Colleague newsletter here!

To hear this interview and many more like it, subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or our website, or search for Biblical Higher Ed Talk in your favorite podcast player.

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