"To Be And Do" with Philip Amerson

Show Notes – To Be and Do Podcast Episode: Global United Methodism: Bishop Malone’s Insights on Vibrancy Across Continents Guest: Bishop Tracy Smith Malone | Host: Philip Amerson In this warm and inspiring episode of "To Be and Do," host Philip Amerson sits down with Bishop Tracy Smith Malone, the area bishop for Indiana and the President of the United Methodist Church’s Council of Bishops. Friend...

In this thought-provoking episode of To Be and Do , host Philip Amerson invites listeners to pause and reflect on the deeper layers of their identity through a simple, daily ritual. Opening with the melodic rhyme, “Clock strikes ten. Coffee time again,” Phil sets the mood for a moment of contemplation amid the rush of daily responsibilities and the noise of a world that often seems driven toward “...

Show Notes: To Be and Do Podcast Guest: Seana Murphy | Host: Philip Amerson In this special encore episode of the To Be and Do podcast, host Philip Amerson welcomes back Seana Murphy, the newly appointed Executive Director of the Martin Luther King Jr. Center in Indianapolis. Seana's return is cause for celebration, and her wisdom is as timely as ever. Drawing on her lived experience growing up in...

Show Notes: To Be and Do – Because.short.2 Welcome back to “To Be and Do” and our special mini-series, the “Because” podcast! In this concise and heartfelt second installment, host Philip Amerson turns his focus to a universal need—encouragement. Drawing inspiration from both ancient scripture and a captivating modern parable, Phil unpacks why, how, and where we find the courage to push forward, e...

On this episode of the To Be and Do podcast from The Belonging Exchange, Rev. Dr. Brad Miller, co-host Philip Amerson, and their remarkable guest, Dr. Charlie Nelms, deliver a heartfelt conversation on actionable steps for making the world a better place. Drawing on Dr. Nelms’ rich experience—from his upbringing in the cotton fields of Arkansas to his decades of leadership in higher education and...

Show Notes: To Be and Do Podcast Host: Philip Amerson (he/him) Episode Theme: Preventing “Truth Decay” in Our Everyday Lives In this thoughtful and concise episode of To Be and Do , host Philip Amerson reflects on the importance of truthfulness in everyday life, drawing on personal anecdotes, biblical references, and a bit of humor. Responding to listener requests for shorter “thought for the day”...

Welcome to To Be and Do from the Belonging Exchange, hosted by Philip Amerson and distinguished guest Dr. Charlie Nelms joining for a heartfelt and timely conversation. This episode spotlights the podcast’s central mission: “to foster a sense of belonging, strengthening relationships through storytelling and shared exchanged experiences.” The episode begins with the Heartfelt segment, where Philip...

In this heartfelt episode of the To Be snd Do podcast from the Belonging Exchange, hosts Philip Amerson welcome special guests Jonathan Massimi to dig deeply into themes of belonging, hospitality, and the surprising places where genuine community begins. The episode opens with Ken Medema’s evocative lyrics about the world rushing toward “judgment day,” providing a poignant backdrop for the episode...

In this thoughtful episode of the To Be and Do podcast, host Philip Amerson is joined by Jonathan Massimi and to explore the profound themes of belonging, hospitality, and the transformative power of community. Rooted in the mission of the Belonging Exchange, the conversation invites listeners to reflect on the richness found in genuine relationships and the everyday practice of being both hosts a...

Welcome to another enriching episode of “To Be snd Do,” hosted by Dr. Philip Amerson where the stories and exchanges that nurture real belonging come alive. In our episode ” we dive deep into the world of community building, spirituality, and the intersection where personal faith translates into meaningful action. This week’s special guest, Jonathan Massimi, joins us from Kitchener, Ontario—a vibr...

In this thoughtful episode, Phil Amerson explores the concept of the “Gospel Conspiracy,” inviting listeners into a deeper understanding of what it means to live with wholeness in turbulent times. Drawing from historical examples and personal reflections, Phil discusses how authentic faith calls for behavior rooted in justice, repentance, and community—not hollow nationalism or performative piety....

Show Notes: To Be and Do — Facing Racism Together In this powerful and timely episode of To Be and Do , host Phil Amerson delves into the deeply rooted challenges of racism in America, particularly in light of recent events and ongoing debates around DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion). Drawing from his personal journey, decades of academic research, and lived experience, Phil unpacks what it w...

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...