Meet The Prof, with Shane and Spence

What happens when a college professor breaks into tears… at Disney World? Or gets spiritually called out by a student? We sit down with Jeff Colbert, Political Science professor at the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. Jeff shares his love for Disney World, how his own freshman year changed everything. He tells how as a professor, his life was transformed by an anonymous note from a stud...

In this episode of  Meet The Prof , Shane Hartley continues with part 2 of his interview with Dr. Jonathan Pettigrew, a professor in the School of Human Communication at Arizona State University. They go deep discussing how Dr. Pettigrew integrates his Christian faith into his academic career, mentors students in their spiritual journeys, and addresses worldview presuppositions within the academic...

Jonathan Pettigrew is a professor in the School of Human Communication at Arizona State University. In part 1 of our interview, he shares how his journey from campus minister to professor shaped his understanding of student discipleship, faith-learning integration, and ministry through academia. He offers deep reflections on spiritual formation, parenting, and how Christian professors can pursue s...

Dr. Ashlee Balena is a senior lecturer of Spanish at the University of North Carolina, Wilmington. In this episode, she shares powerful stories of following God's promptings in everyday life, from small acts of kindness to moments of deep spiritual impact. She also discusses her approach to classroom engagement, including her strong stance on technology use, and reflects on the blessings that come...

Dr. Ashlee Balena, Senior Lecturer of Spanish at the University of North Carolina Wilmington, shares how she integrates her Christian faith into her role as a professor. We discuss her journey back to Christ, practical ways she signals to students that she is a safe space for Christ-centered conversations, and bold steps of obedience that have led to incredible opportunities for sharing Christ on...

In this episode of  Meet The Prof , Shane Hartley continues his conversation with Dr. Janet Reed, Professor of Nursing at Kent State University. Janet shares how she navigates teaching topics that could conflict with her faith, her research on generative AI and virtual reality in healthcare, and how faith underpins her academic work. She also provides practical advice for professors managing heavy...

In this episode of  Meet The Prof , Shane interviews Dr. Janet Reed, an Assistant Professor of Nursing at Kent State University. Janet shares how she integrates her faith into her work as a nursing professor, from helping create a Christian faculty and staff group on campus to naturally engaging students in spiritual conversations. She also discusses how being attentive to opportunities can open d...

In this episode of  Meet The Prof , Shane continues his conversation with Derek Crews, a Professor of Management at Texas Woman’s University. Derek shares how his approach to student relationships has changed over the years as he transitioned from in-person to primarily online teaching. He explains how he intentionally prays for his students and subtly integrates his faith in ways that spark spiri...

In this episode of  Meet the Prof , Shane interviews Dr. Derek Crews, a Professor of Management at Texas Woman's University. Dr. Crews emphasizes the importance of serving Christ in every profession and the need for Christian faculty to support one another in their calling as a professor. He discusses his experience teaching at a predominantly female university, the importance of mentorship, and h...

In this episode, Shane Hartley interviews NC State professor Steve Hall for Part 2 about overcoming fear, sharing faith in the classroom, and mentoring students. Steve offers helpful advice to other professors to avoid burnout and live out their faith on campus. Read more about Steve Hall online: https://meettheprof.com/view/professors/entry/steven-hall/ Professor Hall's Campus Email Address: shal...

In this episode of Meet The Prof, host Shane Hartley interviews Dr. Steven Hall, Professor and Director of the Marine Aquaculture Research Center at North Carolina State University. Dr. Hall shares his journey from a nominal Christian upbringing to a profound faith transformation during graduate school. He discusses the challenges and rewards of integrating faith into his academic career, the impo...

We reflect on the year's recurring theme of integrating faith with academia. They highlight questions from students and insightful answers from professors. If you’re a college student, professor, or someone interested in how faith can intersect with education, this episode is for you. Key Takeaways for Professors There are numerous ways to integrate faith into academia without compromising academi...

A heartfelt conversation between Shane Hartley and Spence Hackney about their motivation to interview Christian professors, the importance of intergenerational influence, advice for college graduates and for parents, and encouragement to Christian professors to be open about their faith.  Takeaways: The importance of generational spiritual influence  How students can influence professors  Advice f...

In this special edition of Meet The Prof, Shane Hartley and Spence Hackney step into the interview chairs themselves to let listeners know more about their lives and faith journeys, pivotal moments during their college years, and what drives their passion for encouraging Christ-centered conversations on college campuses. Topics Covered: Shane’s early walk with Christ and his turning point in colle...

Dr. Micah Green, Professor of Chemical Engineering at Texas A&M, shares his journey of faith in academia, from stepping into a career as a Christian professor to mentoring students navigating faith and doubt. He offers practical advice for professors on sharing faith in the classroom, discusses the importance of grace in parenting, and encourages students to see the church beyond stereotypes....

Dr. Micah Green is a Professor of Chemical Engineering at Texas A&M. He received his PhD at MIT and studied early Christian history at Harvard.  Micah shares his journey of faith, the challenges he faced during his academic career, and how he reconciles his scientific background with his Christian beliefs. He reflects on personal experiences, including his favorite movies, embarrassing moments...

In this special live recording episode at Coastal Carolina University, we’re joined by an enthusiastic group of Cru students and three remarkable faculty & staff members who are making an impact on campus through their faith and careers.  Professors Jeff Ranta, Associate Professor of Communication; Nathan LaRubbio, Academic Coordinator of Student-Athletes; and Heather Hagan, Associate Professo...

Today’s episode covers some sensitive topics that may not be suitable for children. Please use discretion.  Shane Hartley and Spence Hackney interview Dr. Pamela Kelly, an Adjunct Faculty of Healthcare Administration at the University of North Carolina Wilmington and a veteran of the US Navy. The discussion covers her life-changing experiences, including a harrowing encounter with a murderer, her...

Dr. Jonathan Kladder, Assistant Professor of Music at the University of North Carolina Wilmington, shares insightful conflict resolution strategies drawn from biblical principles for his students. He discusses the original purpose of music, and practical advice for standing firm in your faith on a secular campus. Read about Jonathan on Meet The Prof:  https://meettheprof.com/view/professors/entry/...

Jonathan Kladder is a professor of Music Education at the University of North Carolina Wilmington and discusses: the intersection of music education and faith in Christ   his unique journey from being a punk rocker to becoming a music educator  the importance of creating a safe and encouraging classroom environment   on the influence of popular music, particularly U2, on worship music   his spirit...

Shelly is a Professor of Education at Voorhees University. She discusses the complexities of student engagement in a world of virtual interactions. She emphasizes the importance of teaching interpersonal skills, coping with grief in educational settings, and the dual realities of the physical and spiritual worlds. Shelly also shares practical advice for young adults and parents, as well as insight...

Shelly is a Professor of Education at Voorhees University. She shares her unique path to college through a football scholarship, and an embarrassing college moment with WWE superstar Bobby Lashley. Shelly opens up about making unhealthy choices which now informs her work with students, and recounts how she met her husband while "running away" from a toxic relationship to Alaska. She explains how b...

In this episode, Jhon Figueroa, a chemistry professor at the University of South Florida, continues Part 2 of our interview and shares his insights on the intersection of faith and science, the importance of mentoring students, and how to engage in meaningful discussions about belief. He emphasizes the need for kindness in conversations, the significance of prayer in his teaching, and the value of...

In this episode of Meet the Prof we sit down with Dr. Jhon Figueroa, professor of chemistry, Safety Coordinator and Undergraduate Lab Manager at the University of South Florida. Dr. Figueroa shares his incredible journey from arriving in the U.S. as a refugee, becoming a chemistry professor, learning to make chemistry relatable, and how becoming a father deepened his understanding of God’s love. J...

Karen Petersen, the President of Hendrix College, shares the importance of joy, questioning, and community support in navigating college life. Petersen also offers valuable advice for students and parents, highlighting the significance of prayer and the need for open conversations about faith and doubt. Takeaways Students can impact others through genuine joy. Education can enhance understanding o...