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Faith Meets AcademiaEpisode 49: A Testimony Not Given Might Be a Blessing Withheld (Part 2)Send us a textHave you ever hesitated to share your success story because it felt like boasting? That reluctance might be keeping someone from the very encouragement they desperately need.In this second episode of our three-part series "A Testimony Not Given Might Be a Blessing Withheld," Dr. A. introduces four transformative principles that empower you to share your testimony with integrity and purpose. Moving beyond the discomfort of seeming self-promotional, these strategies reframe your experiences as bridges that help others journey from doubt to confidence, from "I can't" to "I can do all...2025-07-1411 minFaith Meets AcademiaEpisode 48: A Testimony Not Given Might Be a Blessing Withheld - Part 1Send us a textHave you ever hesitated to share your achievements because it might sound like bragging? That pause, that moment of self-doubt when God has clearly blessed your work but you're afraid to acknowledge it openly—this is the spiritual tension we're diving into today."A testimony not given might be a blessing withheld." This quote frames our exploration of why sharing what God is doing through you isn't self-promotion but spiritual obligation. Drawing from scripture and sociology's Impression Management Theory, Dr. A. unpacks how false humility often masquerades as godliness when it's ac...2025-06-2328 minFaith Meets AcademiaEpisode 47 - They'll Come Along Later: Your Vision Isn't for Everyone Right NowSend us a textGod gives visions to specific individuals for a reason, and not everyone will immediately understand or support your calling. The diffusion of innovations theory explains why some people embrace new ideas early while others need more time and evidence before coming on board.• Your vision isn't for everyone right now: It was entrusted specifically to you.• Some people can only see where you are, not where you're going.• Many supporters would rather join you at your destination than accompany you on the journey.• The innovation adoption curve divides people i...2025-06-0926 minFaith Meets AcademiaEpisode 46: How Faith-Based Leaders Can Support Mental Health Without Replacing Professional Support ServicesSend us a textList of national mental health resources with contact information descriptions of when to use each one:1. 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline•Phone: Call or Text 988•Website: 988lifeline.org•When to use: If you or someone you know is in emotional distress or thinking about suicide. Also for general mental health crises. Available 24/7 with trained crisis counselors.2. Crisis Text Line•Text: Text HOME to 741741•Website: crisistextline.org•When to use: If you’re experiencing a crisis and prefer texting over talking—especially helpful for panic attacks, anxiety, depress...2025-05-1825 minFaith Meets AcademiaEpisode 41 - Mental Health and Ministry: Caring for Yourself to Lead OthersSend us a textDrawing from a 2023 study by Mental Health America, Dr. A uncovers the staggering prevalence of mental illness, substance use disorders, and suicidal thoughts in communities of faith. Pastors, often the pillars of support, face unique challenges like burnout and the difficult decision of stepping away from their calling. Prioritizing mental health is not just crucial for clergy but for the entire faith community, with an emphasis on reducing stigma and ensuring access to professional resources. We aren't just here to inform but to inspire action. Discover practical steps you can take to foster...2025-05-0624 min
FIEC Resources for Church LeadersJoys and Sorrows // Adrian ReynoldsChurch ministry is the best work in the world. But in a sense it is the hardest work in the world too.The nature of Christian ministry is a mixture of the sound of the shouts of joy with the sound of weeping (Ezra 3:13). Sometimes in the same person and even in the same event.It is a Christian discipline to seek out the joys whilst being realistic about the burdens and committing them to God.Adrian Reynolds is FIEC's Head of National Ministries. He previously served as Associate Minister of East London...2025-04-1510 minFaith Meets AcademiaEpisode 45: How to Speak Up and Make an Impact in MeetingsSend us a textHave you ever sat in a meeting with brilliant ideas trapped behind your hesitation? That tension between knowing you have something valuable to contribute and finding the courage to speak up is exactly what we tackle in this episode.Join Dr. A. as he reflects on his own professional journey, and shares how two recent events on the job increased his awareness of how he was showing up differently in meetings: From quietly observing to confidently contributing, Dr. A. introduces the concept of self-efficacy—your belief in your ability to influence sit...2025-03-2124 minFaith Meets AcademiaEpisode 44: How to Use AI to Learn How to Use AI in Your MinistrySend us a textWelcome to today’s episode! Today I have an exciting, groundbreaking announcement regarding the transformative impact of AI in ministry leadership. As faith-based leaders face various challenges (e.g., declining engagement and volunteer burnout). AI innovation can be a game changer--that is, if you know how to optimize its use. I have created an invaluable resource, Anointed Prompts, designed to empower faith-based leaders to turn AI into a personal coaching assistant.Subscribe to faithmeetsacademia.substack.com to learn more. WEBSITE: https://fa...2025-03-0416 minFaith Meets AcademiaWord of the Day # 7 - Mind Over Matter: How Your Thoughts Shape Your RealitySend us a textYour mind is the command center of your life—shaping your mood, behavior, and faith. Inspired by Philippians 4:8, this episode explores how filtering your thoughts can transform your mindset. Take practical steps to guard against negativity, focus on truth, and embrace a mindset grounded in wisdom and peace. Tune in now to take control of your thoughts and step into a more intentional, purposeful life! WEBSITE: https://faithmeetsacademia.buzzsprout.com/2312145/episodesCONTACT: faithmeetsacademia@gmail.com DISCLAIMER: The views and opi...2025-02-2605 minFaith Meets AcademiaEpisode 43 (Part 2) - Money Talks: What Is It Saying to You?Send us a textCan money dictate your happiness, or is it simply a tool to be used for the good of humanity? Today, Dr. A delves into the complex relationship between money and morality through a biblical lens, guided by the thought-provoking scriptures of 1 Timothy 6:10, Proverbs 23:4-5, Matthew 6:24, and James 5:1-3. We'll unravel how the love of money can lead to greed and corruption, while emphasizing the virtues of godliness, contentment, and generosity. Reflect on your financial choices and discover whether they align with your principles or merely pursue wealth for wealth's sake. As you listen...2025-02-2422 minFaith Meets AcademiaEpisode 42 (Part 1) - Money Talks: What Is It Saying to You?Send us a textWhat if the key to a life of fulfillment isn't how much money you have, but how you relate to it? Today on Faith Meets Academia, we unravel the complexities of wealth, success, ambition, and contentment, challenging the often misinterpreted notion that money itself is the root of all evil. We explore the biblical teaching that it is the love of money that breeds all kinds of wrongdoing, as noted by Paul in 1 Timothy 6:10. This episode promises will shift your perspective on wealth by looking at how financial resources can be wielded as...2025-02-1719 minFaith Meets AcademiaWord of the Day #6: Feeling God's Glory in His creationSend us a textHave you ever found yourself captivated by the simple beauty of a sunrise or the calming sound of rain? Today, we reflect on the inspiring message of Psalm 19:1. This Word of the Day is a heartfelt invitation to pause amidst your busy life, step outside, and let the tranquility of nature revitalize your spirit. WEBSITE: https://faithmeetsacademia.buzzsprout.com/2312145/episodesCONTACT: faithmeetsacademia@gmail.com DISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are solely my own and do not reflect o...2025-01-2404 minFaith Meets AcademiaWord of the Day #5 - Write the Vision, Make it PlainSend us a text WEBSITE: https://faithmeetsacademia.buzzsprout.com/2312145/episodesCONTACT: faithmeetsacademia@gmail.com DISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are solely my own and do not reflect or represent the positions, policies, or opinions of my employer, any organization or academic institution with which I am affiliated. This podcast is a personal initiative, and is not connected to my official/ formal duties and responsibilities as a university professor. 2025-01-2305 minFaith Meets AcademiaEpisode 40 - From Thoughts and Prayers to Action: Turning Compassion Into Humanitarian AidSend us a textIn this episode of Faith Meets Academia, Dr. A shares insights on the unfolding humanitarian crisis in Mozambique, a country he visited twice in 2023. He discusses the devastating impact of political unrest and climate disasters while highlighting the resilience of the Mozambican people. Dr. A challenges listeners to move beyond thoughts and prayers, encouraging practical steps like donating, volunteering, or advocacy to support those in need. This inspiring episode is a call to action, reminding us of the power of compassion in creating meaningful change. WEBSITE: https://faithmeetsacademia.buzzsprout...2025-01-2022 min
News For Reasonable People#2,671 - "Scandalous Love Letter Exposes Seattle Police Chief Adrian Diaz’s Downfall"The scandal surrounding Seattle Police Chief Adrian Diaz’s resignation epitomizes the dysfunction plaguing liberal urban governance. A steamy love letter allegedly written by a former reporter turned Diaz’s $200K-per-year Chief of Staff escalated from mere rumor to a full-blown investigation. Mayor Bruce Harrell terminated Diaz after a report by the Office of Inspector General cited breaches of police code, including dishonesty and misuse of power. Despite Diaz’s claims of being blindsided and his controversial public revelation of being gay amidst harassment allegations, the evidence, including the letter, proved too damning. This incident spotlights the erosion of trust...2024-12-3123 min
News For Reasonable People#2,667 - Seattle Police Chief Adrian Diaz Fired Over Scandal and Alleged DishonestySeattle’s former Police Chief Adrian Diaz has been dismissed amid allegations of dishonesty and policy violations. The controversy revolves around claims of a romantic relationship with a subordinate, Jamie Tomkins, and subsequent dishonesty during the investigation. Mayor Bruce Harrell cited findings from the Office of Inspector General, revealing violations of professionalism, conflicts of interest, and supervisory protocols. Diaz denies the allegations and has filed a $10 million lawsuit against the city, alleging discrimination and retaliation after coming out as gay. This development highlights ongoing challenges within Seattle’s leadership amid a backdrop of understaffed police forces and public distrust fuel...2024-12-2813 minFaith Meets AcademiaWord of the Day #4 - The Purpose of Studying Scripture...According to Scripture (2 Timothy 3:14-17)Send us a textDo we seek only comfort from the holy scriptures or are we willing to let them challenge and mold us, even when it means reevaluating our habits, values, and beliefs? Through the wisdom imparted by Apostle Paul to Timothy, we are reminded that Scripture is not just inspirational but is a robust guide to living a life aligned with God's will. By engaging with the entirety of Scripture, including the difficult parts, we open ourselves to growth and alignment with God's purpose for us. WEBSITE: https://faithmeetsacademia.buzzsprout.com/2312145/e...2024-12-2706 minFaith Meets AcademiaWord of the Day #3: Don't Forget to PraySend us a textWhat if every day could start and end with a sense of peace and purpose? Explore the transformative practice of prayer inspired by Psalm 55:17 as Dr. A shares a simple, yet profound routine to bring more focus and fulfillment to your daily life. By beginning your day with prayer instead of social media or the news, you'll set a purposeful tone that carries you through the demands of your schedule. Experience the power of connecting with God at strategic times—6 am, noon, and 6 pm—to refresh and recenter, helping you to navigate the hust...2024-12-2506 minFaith Meets AcademiaEpisode 39 - Set Up for Success in 2025 and Beyond: How You Go in Determines How You Come OutSend us a textLet this episode be your guide to transforming preparation into your most powerful tool for professional and personal growth in 2025 and beyond. Preparation is the unsung hero of success, transforming potential into achievement. Think about this: How often do you genuinely prepare for life's pivotal moments, from career-defining interviews to crucial meetings? In this episode, I guide you through the art of preparation, drawing wisdom from biblical insights like James 2:26 and Proverbs 21:5. We'll explore how preparation isn't just about faith but a conscious effort to honor the opportunities and people we e...2024-12-2424 min