"To Be And Do" with Philip Amerson

In this poignant and timely episode of the To Be and Do podcast, host Philip Amerson delves into the escalating challenges currently facing Indiana University (IU) and ties them to broader currents of social, racial, and political change in the United States. Drawing on his personal connection to IU and his experience as an observer of both academic and civic life in Bloomington, Philip provides a...

In this compelling episode of To Be and Do , host Phil Amerson sits down with John Wagner, a passionate activist and advocate for justice, to discuss solidarity, courage, and belonging across cultural and religious boundaries. Through firsthand accounts and reflective conversation, John offers listeners an inside look into the current struggles and ongoing hope for peace in the West Bank and beyon...

On this episode of To Be and Do , host Phil Amerson reconnects with Reverend John Wagner—pastor, activist, and founding member of United Methodists for Kairos Response (UMKR)—for a deeply human conversation about faith, interdependence, and seeking justice in Israel and Palestine. Speaking candidly, John shares his transformative journey from a non-activist visitor to an outspoken advocate for Pal...

In this inspiring episode of “To Be snd Do,” host Phil Amerson sits down for a heartfelt conversation with Jacaiya Gross, a dedicated sophomore at Indiana University with a unique vision for her future. Jacaiya is more than just a student; she’s a student ambassador, an aspiring crime scene photographer, and a passionate advocate for justice and equality. As the conversation unfolds, listeners are...

To Be and Do Podcast In this compelling episode of the To Be and Do podcast, host Phil Amerson continues his conversation with Dr. Gloria Howell, director of the Neal-Marshall Black Culture Center at Indiana University. Building on their prior discussion about her upbringing in New Albany, Mississippi, and her early influences, Gloria now reflects on her role as a leader, mentor, and change-maker...

In this episode of the To Be and Do podcast, host Phil Amerson sits down with Jaciaya Gross, a sophomore at Indiana University, for a candid and inspiring conversation about student life, resilience, and the current challenges facing college students. Jaciaya, majoring in studio art and minoring in criminal justice, shares her journey from Westfield High School to IU, revealing the impact that sup...

In this powerful episode of To Be and Do , host Philip Amerson welcomes Michael Mather, Pastor of First United Methodist Church in Boulder, Colorado, A for a candid, enlightening discussion held at St. Luke’s United Methodist Church in Indianapolis. Drawing from decades of ministry across diverse communities, Mike shares the transformative stories and hard lessons that have reshaped his understand...

In this heartfelt episode of To Be and Do , host Phil Amerson welcomes Dr. Gloria Howell, the esteemed Director of the Neal-Marshall Black Culture Center at Indiana University. Known for her deep community involvement and infectious energy, Dr. Howell joins Phil to share her journey from small-town Mississippi to finding purpose and fostering belonging in Bloomington, Indiana. Dr. Howell begins by...

"Trifling Picnic Update" In this uplifting episode of the To Be and Do podcast, host Phil Amerson brings a gentle reminder about the power of community, laughter, and togetherness, all centered around the tradition of picnics. Drawing from years of experience holding the beloved Trifling Picnic, Phil takes us on a brief journey through the roots of this event, its whimsical connection to John Wesl...

Welcome to another inspiring episode of To Be and Do ! In this heartfelt conversation, host Phil Amerson welcomes back his friend and longtime teacher, Seana Murphy, for an exploration of love, community, and resilience. Building on their previous discussion, Phil and Shauna reflect on the powerful, often unrecognized abundance found within community relationships—particularly in neighborhoods mar...

To Be and Do Podcast: Show Notes Host: Phil Amerson | Guest: Seana Murphy In this deeply engaging episode of the To Be and Do podcast, host Phil Amerson welcomes Seana Murphy, a proud parent, experienced professional, and lifelong learner, for a conversation full of wisdom, reflection, and encouragement. Phil, ever grateful to his many "teachers," counts Seana among them—though she reminds us that...

Show Notes: To Be Encouraged – "Sick to Death" In this powerful episode of the To Be and Do podcast, host Phil Amerson addresses the mounting anxiety and despair many feel in the face of sweeping social and political changes across the nation and Indiana. Drawing inspiration from the 19th-century philosopher Soren Kierkegaard and his book Sickness Unto Death , Phil challenges listeners to recogniz...

In this episode of "To Be And Do," host Phil Amerson delve into the soul-stirring artistry of Kenton Hundley, the Executive Director of Dream School of the Arts, a renowned poet, and a deeply reflective voice on social issues. The conversation weaves through Kenton's evocative poetry, capturing his experiences, perceptions, and emotions on pressing societal themes, while drawing listeners into a r...

In this heartwarming episode of the "To Be and Do" podcast, host Phil Amerson sits down with Kenton Hundley to discuss his impactful role in community building and education through the Dream School of the Arts. The episode begins with a friendly reminiscing of how Phil and Kenton first met at the First United Methodist Church in San Diego, highlighting their deep-rooted connection and shared love...

In this deeply engaging episode of "To Be And Do," hosted by Phil Amerson, listeners are invited into the life and reflections of Bud Herron. A storyteller with a rich background in media, Bud shares profound insights shaped by his experiences from his upbringing and college years at Indiana University. Growing up in Hope, Indiana, Bud paints a vivid picture of his middle-class family life, the so...

In this episode of "To Be and Do," host Phil Amerson sits down with Bud Herron, who shares insights from his remarkable career in journalism, reflecting on the dynamic roles and evolution of local newspapers in communities. Bud Herron’s journey through journalism started with religious reporting and seamlessly transitioned into a significant role as the editor of the Franklin Journal. Bud shares a...

In this episode of "To Be and Do" "Houses of Fragrances" a Sermon at First United Methodist Church, Boulder Colorado by Rev. Dr. Philip Amerson listeners are invited into a conversation filled with themes of courage, love, and community as experienced within the spiritual life of the First Church community. This episode, featuring Reverend Dr. Philip Amerson, is not just a spiritual exploration bu...

In this captivating episode of "To Be And Do," host Phil Amerson sits down with the seasoned journalist Bud Herron, whose career has spanned various facets of the newspaper industry. From his early days in Hope, Indiana, to becoming a significant figure in journalism, Bud shares personal stories and insights that not only highlight his professional journey but also the lessons learned along the wa...

A Conversation with Elinor Ostrom:: Seven Tribulations of Higher Education Seven Tribulations of Higher Education Indiana University, Bloomington   Like the Ten Plagues visited on the ancient Egyptian Pharoah, today American universities struggle with the Seven Tribulations of Higher Education .  Sadly, great flagship universities, like Indiana University, Bloomington, suffer from these...

A Conversation with Alfred Kinsey: Seven Tribulations of Higher Education Seven Tribulations of Higher Education Indiana University, Bloomington   Like the Ten Plagues visited on the ancient Egyptian Pharoah, today American universities struggle with the Seven Tribulations of Higher Education .  Sadly, great flagship universities, like Indiana University, Bloomington, suffer from these t...

A Conversation with Ernie Pyle: The Seven Tribulations of Higher Education at Indiana University Seven Tribulations of Higher Education Indiana University, Bloomington   Like the Ten Plagues visited on the ancient Egyptian Pharoah, today American universities struggle with the Seven Tribulations of Higher Education .  Sadly, great flagship universities, like Indiana University, Bloomingt...

Seven Tribulations of Higher Education Indiana University, Bloomington   Like the Ten Plagues visited on the ancient Egyptian Pharoah, today American universities struggle with the Seven Tribulations of Higher Education .  Sadly, great flagship universities, like Indiana University, Bloomington, suffer from these tribulations. Actually, there are more than 7 or 10 tribulations. Thes...

In this episode of the "To Be and Do" podcast, host Philip Amerson engages in a heartfelt conversation with Bishop Ken Carder. The discussion weaves through memories, highlighting the importance of being true to one's heritage and the unique challenges of understanding and empathy across cultural and social divides. At the center of this dialogue is the story of how Ken Carder came to be affection...

In this captivating episode of "To Be and Do," host Philip Amerson welcomes Bishop Ken Carder to discuss his life journey and the influential themes within his recent work, "Shifting Margins: From Fear and Exclusion Toward Love and Belonging." This episode delves into the wisdom gained from Bishop Carder's experiences as both a pastor and a bishop, his profound understanding of institutional influ...

In this enriching episode of "To Be and Do," host Philip Amerson continues his conversation with the inspiring Jerre Stead, delving into Stead's journey of philanthropy and the values that have guided him throughout his life. Joining them is guest Jonathan Massimi, contributing to a lively exchange of insights about generosity, faith, and leadership. Jerre Stead shares the roots of his and his wif...