Phoenix Generation Rising Together

In this episode of the Phoenix Generation podcast, Dr. Lua Hancock sits down with Sara Grossman, founder of The Dru Project. Dru was one of the 49 people killed at Pulse on June 12, 2016. He was also the friend who started his high school's first Gay-Straight Alliance in 2002, the one who pulled everyone together, the one whose hugs you could "taste." Out of unimaginable grief, his friends turned...

This episode explores how wisdom from different traditions can deepen empathy, strengthen connections between faith communities, and cultivate pluralism through conversations about emotional and spiritual wellbeing. Time Stamp: 00:00 Opening Reflections on Hope and Impact 00:30 Introducing Faces of Faith Series 01:04 Meet the Panel: Youth from Different Faiths 02:30 Meaningful Scriptures: Sharing...

What does it take to lead in a deeply divided society? Rev. Dr. Gary Mason brings firsthand experience to that question. A Methodist minister from Belfast who lived and worked through the decades of conflict known as "The Troubles," he has spent his career building relationships across sectarian lines and facilitating dialogue between communities shaped by violence. In this episode, Dr. Mason refl...

What does it take to solve complex problems with lasting results? In part 2 of this two-part series, two local leaders- a college student and a faculty member- share the framework for how to be a successful community organizer. Join us for this master class in how to make impactful, long-term change. Time Stamps: 00:00 Intro to Community Organizing 00:52 Podcast Welcome & Guest Introductions 01:40...

What does it look like to build a better community today? Two local leaders- a college student and a faculty member, share the framework for how to be successful community organizers. Join us for this master class in how to make impactful, long-term change. Time Stamp: 00:00 What is Community Organizing? 03:40 Meet the Guests: Dr. Panadus & Derek Doe 06:39 Why Community Organizing Matters 09:32 Pe...

If you hope to lead — in government, nonprofits, business, or community life — you will eventually face the tension between faith and public responsibility. This episode explores how moral conviction shapes political engagement, and why effective leadership in diverse societies requires restraint, empathy, and credibility. You are not asked to change your beliefs. You are challenged to elevate you...

In an era when disagreement often turns into division, a new generation of leaders is experimenting with a different approach: curiosity. Harvard graduate Shira Hoffer has dedicated her work to teaching students how to engage across political, religious, and ideological differences without abandoning their convictions. Through initiatives like the Institute for Multi-partisan Education, she is hel...

Join us as we ask local student leaders: " Why do you fast?" "What do people wonder about your fasting?" "How does it change you?" For one of the rare moments in a generation, multiple sacred seasons—Ramadan, Lent, Purim, Holi, and the Bahai Fast—are overlapping, with billions of people around the world observing in their own way, including fasting. In this episode, students and young leaders give...

 Generational Differences 2 - Want to have better conversations and relationship in your family, community and workplaces? Check out the second in our series about Generational Difference where we welcome panelists from four generation exploring how formative experiences—such as advances in technology, shifting social norms, and major historical events—shape attitudes toward work, relationships, a...

Let's Play" - features a group engaging in a guided conversation game designed to move participants from light, fun questions into deeper and more meaningful dialogue. As the game progresses, the players begin to open up, sharing personal stories, perspectives, and emotions that reveal how play can serve as a bridge to trust, empathy, and connection. The episode highlights the power of structured...

Generational Differences 1 - Join Dr Joel Hunter, Pastor of Community Impact at Action Church and past spiritual advisor to President Obama, and Dr Alicia Scott, Major Gifts Officer at Stetson University and creator of GENtentional Leadership™ to explore how people from different age groups develop distinct values, perspectives, and communication styles based on the social, technological, and cult...

Agree To Disagree 3 continues the Phoenix Generation's series focused on respectful dialogue and exploring differing viewpoints. The goal is not to win arguments, but to highlight how thoughtful disagreement can strengthen communication and broaden understanding. Hot topics in this episode include technology and human connection, political views of professors, immigration issues, the American drea...

In the "Let's Get Deep" episode of The Phoenix Generation, local college students play a conversation card game that explores personal stories and perspectives. They start with light questions as a warm up to diving into deeper topics. The group shares laughs over conspiracy theories—from reptilians to Area 51—then transitions to thoughtful discussions on trust, honesty, and confidentiality in fri...

"Diverse Conversations" explores the value of bringing together people from different backgrounds and perspectives to engage in meaningful dialogue. In this episode, local college share insights on being international students, navigating disagreement respectfully, and highlighting that growth often comes from discomfort and open-minded questioning. Time Stamp: 00:00 Meet The Guests & Their Backgr...

"Interfaith Conversations" explores the importance of dialogue and understanding between people of different faiths and belief systems. The guests are Dr. Joel Hunter, is the Pastor of Community Benefit at Action Church. He has served on the White House Office of Faith-Based and Neighborhood Partnerships as a member of the Commission on Accountability and Policy for Religious Organizations and on...

"Agree To Disagree: 2" brings together a diverse panel of local college students with contrasting viewpoints to explore how people can communicate across differences without hostility. Through respectful debate, the participants share their personal experiences, beliefs, and emotional reactions to social issues. The episode emphasizes listening, empathy, and the value of understanding others' pers...

"Agree to Disagree 1" brings together a diverse panel of local college students with contrasting viewpoints to explore how people can communicate across differences without hostility. Through respectful debate, the participants share their personal experiences, beliefs, and emotional reactions to social issues. The episode emphasizes listening, empathy, and the value of understanding others' persp...

Meet the people behind the movement: Philanthropist and real estate developer Alan Ginsburg, shares his life story, values, and vision for empowering youth through community and dialogue. Reflecting on his upbringing as a Jewish minority in Michigan, he describes how his parents' example of service inspired his lifelong commitment to fighting prejudice and promoting unity. Marc McMurrin, President...

Meet the people behind the movement: Philanthropist and real estate developer Alan Ginsburg, shares his life story, values, and vision for empowering youth through community and dialogue. Reflecting on his upbringing as a Jewish minority in Michigan, he describes how his parents' example of service inspired his lifelong commitment to fighting prejudice and promoting unity. Marc McMurrin, President...

Meet the people behind the movement: Philanthropist and real estate developer Alan Ginsburg, shares his life story, values, and vision for empowering youth through community and dialogue. Reflecting on his upbringing as a Jewish minority in Michigan, he describes how his parents' example of service inspired his lifelong commitment to fighting prejudice and promoting unity. Marc McMurrin, President...

Join Daryl Davis, an American R&B and blues musician and activist who has convinced dozens to leave the KKK. Jeff Schoep, once the leader of America's largest neo-Nazi organization, has become a global advocate for peace and human rights. This podcast emphasizes the value of listening with empathy, staying engaged despite discomfort, and speaking one's truth. The speakers highlight how genuine und...