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...
Jun 24, 2025•33 min
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 ...
Jun 17, 2025•32 min
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 lo...
May 27, 2025•34 min
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’ a...
May 20, 2025•30 min
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...
May 13, 2025•35 min
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 manag...
May 06, 2025•28 min
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 ...
Apr 29, 2025•35 min
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 sur...
Apr 22, 2025•30 min
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 t...
Apr 15, 2025•29 min
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...
Apr 08, 2025•32 min
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 inspi...
Apr 01, 2025•31 min
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 stude...
Mar 25, 2025•31 min
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, a...
Mar 18, 2025•28 min
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 leaders...
Mar 11, 2025•28 min
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 hea...
Mar 04, 2025•33 min
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 h...
Feb 25, 2025•33 min
In the second part of our interview with Mark Barnes , Principal Product Manager at Logos Bible Software , we expand on the global landscape of theological education. Mark sheds light on the challenges faced by pastors and ministry workers worldwide, many of whom lack access to formal training. He shares insights into how Logos is equipping these leaders with robust study tools and highlights the importance of cultural and contextual relevance in theological education. Join us to explore how men...
Feb 18, 2025•28 min
AI is transforming the way ministry leaders and educators approach their work, but it comes with opportunities and challenges. In this episode, Mark Barnes , Principal Product Manager at Logos Bible Software , joins us to explore the integration of AI in theological education and ministry contexts. Mark shares how institutions and pastors can responsibly leverage AI tools like Logos and ChatGPT for sermon preparation, theological insights, and administrative efficiency. With decades of experienc...
Feb 11, 2025•30 min
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 ...
Feb 04, 2025•30 min
David Hoag , President of the Council for Christian Colleges & Universities (CCCU), joins us to share his vision for the future of Christian higher education. From addressing the challenges of membership growth to fostering leadership and spiritual formation, David explains the three priorities guiding his presidency — strengthening membership, nurturing leadership, and advocating for religious freedoms on Capitol Hill. David also offers insights into advocacy, spiritual mentorship, and prep...
Jan 28, 2025•32 min
The rise of anxiety and depression among college students has reached alarming levels in biblical higher education. In this episode, we speak with Dr. Ryan Kuehner , Clinical Psychologist and Founder of Truman Counseling Services , about addressing these challenges. Dr. Kuehner explores the top contributors to student mental health struggles, the impact of social media and the pandemic, and the importance of leadership in normalizing therapy on campus. Learn actionable steps to foster a supporti...
Jan 21, 2025•31 min
Jason Mitchell , the senior pastor at LCBC (Lives Changed By Christ) Church in Pennsylvania, joins us to discuss the intersection of ministry and biblical higher education. With decades of pastoral experience, Jason reflects on his transformative journey into ministry, including key moments of personal surrender and vocational discovery. He shares the vital role Christian higher education played in equipping him for leadership while also addressing how institutions can better prepare students fo...
Jan 14, 2025•35 min
In today’s higher ed landscape, more and more students are choosing to go to secular colleges and universities. How can educators bridge the gap between Christian K-12 and faith-based higher ed institutions? One word — relationships. By investing in relationships with local or national Christian K-12 institutions, the path is established early on for students to give your university a try. We’ve brought in Nate Long , the Head Of School at Lancaster County Christian School to chat about educatio...
Jan 07, 2025•34 min
Transitions in leadership are a critical moment for any organization, and in biblical higher education, they carry unique challenges and opportunities. Bryce Ashlin-Mayo , President of Ambrose University in Calgary, Alberta, joins us to reflect on his journey from pastoral ministry to academia and now to university leadership. Bryce shares how God guided him through unexpected transitions, lessons from his first six months as president, and strategies for leading through complexity while maintai...
Dec 31, 2024•31 min
Welcome to the 2024 Biblical Higher Ed Talk Christmas Special! This year, we are joined by several members of Team ABHE to hear all about their Christmas traditions, memories, and what the celebration of Christ’s birth means to them. So grab some hot cocoa and settle in — but don’t take a long winter’s nap just yet because you won’t want to miss this holiday fun! Join us as we discuss: [2:04] Team ABHE's favorite Christmas memories [10:55] Favorite Christmas movies and family traditions [18:31] ...
Dec 24, 2024•30 min
Doug Clay , General Superintendent of the General Council of the Assemblies of God , joins the show to discuss the vital role of discipleship in biblical higher education and the broader church community. Drawing from his journey as a third-generation Pentecostal preacher’s kid to leading a global denomination, Doug shares how defining moments and the local church shaped his ministry. He talks about the importance of investing in young leaders, differentiating between calling and assignment, and...
Dec 17, 2024•33 min
In this episode, we explore how the work college model is redefining holistic education at Kuyper College in Grand Rapids, MI. President Patti Harris discusses how integrating learning, work, and service cultivates a student experience rooted in Christian principles that exemplify dignity and respect. Learn about the unique challenges, intentional practices, and lasting impacts of this model that aligns work with faith, fostering personal and professional growth. Join us as we discuss: [5:17] Ku...
Dec 10, 2024•32 min
Many biblical higher ed institutions measure success in several different ways. For Stark College & Seminary , success is reflected in three key areas: building and serving your external network, having diverse leadership, and utilizing a data dashboard. Stark’s president, Tony Celelli , breaks down Stark’s internal processes that help them stay student-oriented and mission-focused. Join us as we discuss: [9:00] Building your external leadership network [13:06] Title IV and FAFSA funding [16...
Dec 03, 2024•33 min
After 30 years behind the pulpit before transitioning to higher ed, President Michael Pawelke of Briercrest College and Seminary shares his experiences from 11 years as a college president. We talk through brand clarification and what it’s like to implement intense transformation in an institution, such as a name change or program reductions. Our conversation also dives into what it means to be a leader, fiscal responsibility, and how to find your own foundation and character. Join us as we disc...
Nov 26, 2024•34 min
From the battlefields in Ukraine to American prisons, chaplains are in high demand. That’s why our guest James Kirkland , the Executive Director of Christian Chaplains & Coaching , believes chaplains will eventually become the preeminent ambassadors of the mission community. In this episode, we dive into the chaplain experience and break down how someone can become mission-fit in response to God’s call. Join us as we discuss: [7:38] Chaplaincy history in North America [14:31] Heeding God’s c...
Nov 19, 2024•32 min
