Shows
Education for Sustainable DemocracyDiscussing Immigration in a High School Classroom, with Zorielle Rodriguez-Alcazar (Peekskill High School & University at Albany, SUNY)In today’s environment, how should teachers help students understand immigration? How can they create a classroom culture in which students can discuss these kinds of highly sensitive and personal controversial issues? And why is it important that we give students the chance to talk about these issues?To examine these issues, Brett speaks to Zorielle Rodriguez-Alcazar, a veteran high school teacher at Peekskill High School in Peekskill, New York. Zorielle, who is also a doctoral student in the University at Albany’s School of Education, is a creative and thoughtful veteran social studies educator who gets to k...2025-06-0128 min
Education for Sustainable DemocracyBest of ESD: Online Technologies to Enhance Student Learning: Possibilities & Perils, with Dan Krutka (University of North Texas)How can technology enhance students' engagement in classroom learning? When are technologies helpful, and when are they harmful? In this episode, I talk to Dr. Dan Krutka, associate professor of social studies education at the University of North Texas. Dan's research sits at the intersection of technology, education, and democracy. We discuss how teachers can decide which technologies would strengthen their teaching or whether technologies would even be helpful at all. We also discuss many specific online tools and how they can be useful for enhancing student engagement and learning. In our conversation, Dan...2025-04-3040 min
Education for Sustainable DemocracyCurrent Events Instruction in Early 2025, with Kyle Dalton (Lansingburgh High School, New York)In classrooms around the country and beyond, teachers and students are navigating how to discuss the quick and often surprising actions of our current federal administration. How can and how should teachers help students understand and think critically about these issues? In this episode, Brett speaks with Kyle Dalton, a veteran teacher at Lansingburgh High School in Troy, New York. Kyle is a high-energy social studies educator who prioritizes his relationships with his students and generating their long-term interest in civic and social learning. He teaches various subjects, including sociology, psychology, civics, and economics. Listen as Kyle shares his...2025-03-3136 min
Education for Sustainable DemocracyIntegrating Sustainability Principles into Higher Education, with Emily Affolter and Pavel Cenkl (Prescott College)How can educators create more holistic learning experiences for students? How can higher education better prepare students to become active civic participants? In this episode, Brett speaks with two educational leaders and innovators from Prescott College, based in Arizona. Emily Affolter is the director of Prescott’s doctoral program in sustainability education and an expert in culturally responsive teaching, and Pavel Cenkl is Prescott’s dean of academic affairs. In our conversation, we discuss how Prescott integrates its core principles of regenerative sustainability, experiential learning, creativity, and justice into their programs; and we also discuss what brought Pavel and Emil...2025-02-2845 min
Education for Sustainable DemocracyBest of ESD: Building a Coalition for Civic Education, with Michael Rebell (Teachers College, Columbia University & Democracy Ready New York)We all know that we could be doing a better job preparing young people for civic participation – and government officials and the public largely agree, but few organizations focus primarily on addressing this problem. Democracy Ready New York is one of the groups that’s taking action on this issue – advocating for government policies to better support civic education and broadening public engagement in the issue. This episode features the leader of Democracy Ready New York, Michael Rebell. Since 2005, Michael has served as the Executive Director of the Center for Educational Equity at Teachers College, Columbia University. Over t...2025-01-3146 min
Education for Sustainable DemocracyHow Did They Feel?: Teaching about Emotions in African-American History, with Brittany Jones (University at Buffalo, SUNY)Educators around the country have been increasingly interested in expanding the teaching of African-American history, and many resources have been created to help. At the same time, scholars have begun to explore how African-American history is represented in these resources, in standards, in popular textbooks, and beyond. One emerging scholar in this area is Brittany Jones, an assistant professor at the University at Buffalo, State University of New York. Her work explores how emotions are represented in the curriculum, how we can help students consider the lived emotions of those in the past, whether or not some types history...2024-12-3130 min
City Church Georgetown SundayThe Magi's Big Give Was Their ResourcesIn today's message, we explored the often uncomfortable topic of money and generosity through the lens of the biblical narrative. We began by examining the story of the Magi in Matthew chapter 2, who brought gifts to Jesus at the manger. This scene, often romanticized in our nativity displays, was actually quite uncomfortable and messy, much like the reality of our own lives. The Magi, likely practitioners of a different faith, brought valuable gifts to Jesus, symbolizing the importance of giving and generosity.We then transitioned to Matthew chapter 6, where Jesus teaches about storing treasures in heaven rather...2024-12-2341 min
City Church Georgetown SundayThe Shepherd's Big Give Was Their StoryIn today's message, we explored the profound impact of stories and how they can transform lives. Stories have the power to inspire change, as seen in the example of the Day of the Dead festival in Mexico City, which was brought to life by the influence of a fictional movie scene. This illustrates the potential of our own stories to influence and impact others. At City Church, we emphasize the importance of influence and leadership, encouraging everyone to recognize their ability to impact their surroundings, whether through resources, influence, or personal stories.We delved into the story...2024-12-1640 min
City Church Georgetown SundayThe Angels' Big Give Was Their WorshipIn today's message, we explored the profound theme of worship and its transformative power in our lives. We began by reflecting on the changing nature of Christmas music, noting how contemporary songs often miss the true essence of the season, which is the celebration of Jesus Christ. This shift in focus serves as a metaphor for how our lives can become misaligned when we fail to center them on worshiping God.We revisited the story of Mary, whose life was radically redirected by her willingness to surrender to God's plan. Her act of giving the direction of...2024-12-0842 min
City Church Georgetown SundayMary's Big Give Was the Direction of Her LifeIn today's message, we explored the profound story of Mary, a young girl from a humble background, who was chosen by God to be the mother of Jesus. This narrative from Luke chapter 1 serves as a powerful reminder that God often chooses the seemingly insignificant to fulfill His grand purposes. Mary, likely around 14 years old, was not from a notable family or town, yet she was entrusted with the most significant role in history. Her story challenges us to consider the direction of our own lives and whether we are willing to surrender our plans to God's greater purpose.2024-12-0136 min
City Church Georgetown SundayWin Fights or Win PeopleIn today's message, we explored the universal nature of conflict and the Christian call to handle it with love and wisdom. Conflict is an inevitable part of life, present from the earliest chapters of Genesis and throughout human history. Jesus taught that the hallmark of His followers is their love for one another, even amidst disagreements. This love is not demonstrated through outward symbols like bumper stickers or T-shirts but through genuine, loving interactions, especially during conflicts.We began by examining the importance of being slow to anger, as highlighted in Proverbs. This wisdom allows us to...2024-11-2446 min
City Church Georgetown SundayYou Are The First Step to Managing ConflictIn today's message, we explored the profound and often challenging topic of conflict management through the lens of biblical teachings. We began by acknowledging the inevitability of conflict in our lives, whether it be at home, work, or even during family gatherings. The key to navigating these conflicts lies in self-reflection and humility. We are reminded that our natural inclination is to view ourselves as the center of the universe, often leading to pride and a skewed perception of our own righteousness. This pride can blind us to our own faults, making it difficult to resolve conflicts effectively.2024-11-1739 min
City Church Georgetown SundayWise People Weigh The Cost of The BattleIn our journey through life, conflict is inevitable. Today, we began a series on understanding and managing conflict, drawing from a courtroom story in Florida where a judge and a public defender let their tempers lead to a physical altercation. This story serves as a reminder of how irrational and destructive conflict can become when anger takes control. As we navigate through high-emotion periods like election cycles or family gatherings, it's crucial to recognize that most conflicts are self-created and not based on substantial issues. Often, these conflicts arise from our own anger, insecurities, or grudges.Proverbs 19:11...2024-11-1039 min
City Church Georgetown SundayGod is Pursuing YouPsalm 23 is a profound reminder of God's relentless pursuit of us, His beloved children. The story of Rudy Ruettiger, a young man who overcame numerous obstacles to fulfill his dream of playing football for Notre Dame, serves as a powerful metaphor for the way God pursues us with unwavering love and dedication. Just as Rudy was driven by his passion, God is driven by His love for us, seeking to draw us into a deeper relationship with Him.In Psalm 23, David paints a vivid picture of God's provision and protection, likening Him to a shepherd who cares...2024-11-0343 min
Education for Sustainable DemocracyTeaching Elections while Supporting Open-Minded Political EngagementHow can we teach about elections in ways that support students' political engagement and also strengthen their willingness to consider diverse perspectives? In this episode, Brett draws on his own research to address this question, offering practical tips for the classroom.Related ResourcesTeaching Elections SiteEducation for Sustainable Democracy HomepageBrett Levy's Open-Access Research ArticlesEducation for Sustainable Democracy Facebook Page (Please Like!)YouTube Channel for Education for Sustainable Democracy (Please subscribe!)Related ESD EpisodesThe...2024-11-0118 min
Education for Sustainable DemocracyBest of ESD: Teaching Elections & Modeling Political Tolerance, with Wayne Journell (University of North Carolina at Greensboro)This is a rebroadcast of an interview with Professor Wayne Journell about teaching elections, recorded in 2020. How should educators teach about elections? How can they maximize student learning, foster engagement, and minimize overly heated exchanges among students? Professor Wayne Journell from the University of North Carolina, Greensboro, has conducted research on how high school teachers help students learn about elections. He describes how teachers can frame productive discussion of elections, integrate election-related content into other aspects of the curriculum, and model a tolerant attitudes towards different political perspectives. Dr. Journell also explains how educators can help students...2024-10-3026 min
City Church Georgetown SundayGod in the GrayPsalm 23 is a profound reminder of God's presence in our lives, especially during our darkest moments. Today, we explored the imagery of the "valley of the shadow of death," a metaphor for the deep, dark valleys we all encounter. These valleys can manifest as job loss, illness, betrayal, or any personal struggle that casts a shadow over our lives. Yet, the focus is not on the valley itself but on the God who walks with us through it. God never promised to remove the valleys from our lives, but He assured us of His presence as we navigate them.2024-10-2749 min
City Church Georgetown SundayFinding Rest in God: Trusting Our Shepherd DailyIn today's message, we explored the profound truth of Psalm 23, focusing on the importance of rest and the role of God as our shepherd. The story of Tattoo, the Basset hound, humorously illustrated how we often find ourselves caught in the relentless pace of life, much like Tattoo's unintended jog. This relentless busyness can contribute to the mental health challenges we face today. Science and Scripture both emphasize the necessity of rest, with God commanding us to take a day each week to pause, rest, and recreate. This is not just a suggestion but a divine design for our...2024-10-2039 min
City Church Georgetown SundayFinding Fulfillment in God's Shepherding LoveIn our journey through life, we often find ourselves yearning to be known, to be seen, and to feel valuable. This desire can manifest in various ways, from seeking recognition on social media to making significant life changes in pursuit of love and acceptance. However, the ultimate fulfillment of this longing is found in the realization that we are already known and loved by God. Psalm 23, a timeless passage, reminds us of this profound truth. It begins with the declaration, "The Lord is my shepherd; I have all that I need." This statement is not just a comforting thought...2024-10-1444 min
City Church Georgetown SundayFinding Fulfillment in God's Shepherding LoveIn our journey through life, we often find ourselves yearning to be known, to be seen, and to feel valuable. This desire can manifest in various ways, from seeking recognition on social media to making significant life changes in pursuit of love and acceptance. However, the ultimate fulfillment of this longing is found in the realization that we are already known and loved by God. Psalm 23, a timeless passage, reminds us of this profound truth. It begins with the declaration, "The Lord is my shepherd; I have all that I need." This statement is not just a comforting thought...2024-10-1344 min
Education for Sustainable DemocracyStraightforward Election Teaching in 2024, with Dan Hornick (Ballston Spa High School, New York)How should secondary school teachers help their student learn about the election during this heated political moment? In this episode, Brett speaks to Dan Hornick, who teaches high school government in a politically diverse district in upstate New York. Dan shares his insights, experiences, and suggestions on teaching about elections in the current era. He also explains how to get students to develop good media literacy habits and become engaged in local civic issues. Dan brings to this discussion over two decades of classroom experience and years working in local government in various positions. Episode Resources2024-10-0142 min
City Church Georgetown SundayIntentional Pursuit: Building Meaningful Relationships with God and OthersToday, we explored the concept of intentional pursuit in our relationships, both with God and with others. We began with a story about a man named Michael Zinkiewicz, whose six-hour police chase in Southern California highlighted the lengths to which people will go in pursuit of something important. This set the stage for our discussion on the importance of pursuing meaningful relationships in our lives.We revisited the series "Blueprints," which focuses on developing everyday rhythms to foster spiritual maturity. We emphasized that spiritual growth cannot be sustained by Sunday services alone; it requires daily engagement in...2024-09-2948 min
City Church Georgetown SundayLiving Missionally: Sharing Faith in Everyday LifeCan your passion for something as simple as pickleball be a gateway to deeper spiritual connections? In this enriching episode, we uncover how Nancy's love for pickleball has transformed into a powerful tool for building community and inviting others into the fold of City Church. Along the way, she shares practical advice on how to identify and use your own passions to engage and pray for others, showing that living missionally isn't confined to Sunday services but can seamlessly integrate into our everyday lives.Meet Don, a business owner who prioritizes people and transparency, infusing his faith...2024-09-2246 min
The Brett Allan ShowMatt Danner Interview | The Brett Allan Show | The Muppet Babies 'Kermit' Being a Creative and More!Matt Danner Interview | The Brett Allan Show | The Muppet Babies 'Kermit' Being a Creative and More!Watch here!https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WrqIFmTepHw&t=8sEmmy award winner Matt Danner is a well-established Director/Writer, Executive Producer, and Creator in the animation industry. He has worked with Disney, 20th Century Studios, Nickelodeon, Warner Brothers, Cartoon Network, Adult Swim, and Mattel, among other studios. His overall development deals have spawned multiple hit series.Matt recently directed the animated...2024-09-1836 min
City Church Georgetown SundayEmbracing Community: The Importance of Church EngagementIn our ongoing series, "Blueprints," we are focusing on developing everyday rhythms for spiritual maturity and intentional discipleship at home. This week, we delved into the second pillar: church engagement. We began with a touching story about Tammy Harris, who found her birth mother through a series of providential events, illustrating our innate desire for connection and family. This longing for relationships is a reflection of how God created us—not to be alone but to be in community.We explored the concept of church engagement through the lens of Ephesians 2:19-22, where Paul speaks about Gentiles no...2024-09-1542 min
City Church Georgetown SundayIntentional Spiritual Growth Through Everyday DisciplinesToday, we explored the concept of spiritual disciplines and how they can shape our everyday lives. We began by comparing two individuals with vastly different lifestyles to illustrate the principle of "you get what you pay for," which aligns with the biblical law of sowing and reaping. This principle applies not only to our physical lives but also to our spiritual growth. We emphasized that while salvation is a free gift from Jesus, spiritual maturity requires intentional effort and discipline.We introduced the idea of "everyday rhythms," a structured plan to incorporate spiritual disciplines into our daily...2024-09-0836 min
City Church Georgetown SundayGrowing in Spiritual Maturity: A Lifelong JourneyToday, we explored the concept of spiritual maturity through a relatable story about a young boy's innocent misuse of his father's phone, leading to an unexpected Grubhub bill. This story served as a metaphor for how immaturity, whether emotional, intellectual, or spiritual, can impact our lives and those around us. We acknowledged that everyone has been both a victim and a perpetrator of immaturity at some point. The key takeaway is that spiritual maturity is not about being perfect but about recognizing our ongoing need for growth and understanding the vastness of God's holiness and righteousness.We...2024-09-0144 min
Education for Sustainable DemocracyParenting for Good Citizenship, with Lindsey Cormack (Stevens Institute of Technology)As the central adults in children’s lives, what should be the role of parents in creating well-informed and active civic participants? This episode's guest wrote a book to help answer that question. Lindsay Cormack is an associate professor of political science at Stevens Institute of Technology in New Jersey, and this month, she released a new book entitled, “How to Raise a Citizen (and why it’s up to you to do it).” Her book and this episode are full of practical advice and rules of thumb that can be useful to many parents uncertain of how to support...2024-08-3034 min
City Church Georgetown SundayThriving Through Intimacy: The Power of Quiet PrayerIn today's sermon, we explored the concept of thriving in different environments and how God has uniquely designed each of us with specific gifts and personalities. I shared a personal story about a chaotic situation on the Frio River, where I felt most alive and effective, contrasting it with the structured, planning-oriented personalities of my team during the COVID pandemic. This led us to the core message: the importance of the "quiet place" in our spiritual lives.We delved into Matthew 6:5-6, where Jesus teaches about the significance of private prayer. Jesus emphasizes that prayer is not...2024-08-2539 min
City Church Georgetown SundayFinding True Peace in Christ Amid ChaosIn today's sermon, we explored the profound concept of peace, particularly the peace that Jesus offers, which is distinct from the peace the world provides. We began by discussing the common experience of feeling ill-equipped to handle life's unexpected challenges, as illustrated by a popular quote from "The Hunger Games." This sentiment resonates with many, as we all face moments of chaos and uncertainty. I shared personal stories to highlight how both good and bad events can disrupt our lives, creating a sense of chaos that we often struggle to manage.We revisited the importance of finding...2024-08-1840 min
City Church Georgetown SundayFinding Spiritual Rest in a Busy WorldToday, we continue our series, "A Quiet Place," by exploring the importance of finding a quiet place for our spiritual health. We began by discussing how iconic slogans like "Have it your way" and "Just do it" resonate with us, but there's one slogan that truly speaks to our need: "Want to get away?" We all need to get away for our physical, emotional, and mental health, but we often overlook the necessity of getting away for our spiritual health.Historically, even medieval peasants, who lived under constant threats of famine, disease, and warfare, took more time...2024-08-1142 min
City Church Georgetown SundayFinding Peace in a Fast-Paced WorldIn today's sermon, we explored the theme of slowing down and finding peace in a world that constantly pushes us to move at breakneck speed. We began by reflecting on how our fast-paced lives often lead us to make hasty decisions, much like the math problem involving a bat and a baseball that many of us got wrong because we didn't take the time to think it through. This rush to keep up with the world can feel like a stampede, driving us to say yes to everything and everyone, often at the expense of our own well-being.2024-08-0437 min
Education for Sustainable DemocracyBridging Political Divides Among Youth, with Mary Hunt and Brett Levy (University at Albany, SUNY)How can young people living in vastly different communities learn to understand each others' political perspectives? The Youth Civic Connections Project aims to answer that question. This episode explores the origins of this project and how it will expand this fall.More on the Youth Civic Connections ProjectProject Overview on Carnegie SiteESD Podcast ResourcesEducation for Sustainable Democracy HomepageBrett Levy's Open-Access Research ArticlesEducation for Sustainable Democracy Facebook Page (Please Like!)YouTube Channel for Education...2024-07-3052 min
City Church Georgetown SundayGuardrails: Essential Boundaries for Spiritual SafetyToday, we conclude our "Despicable Me" series by discussing the importance of guardrails in our lives. Guardrails, both literal and metaphorical, are essential for our safety and well-being. They protect us from danger and keep us on the right path. This concept is vividly illustrated through personal anecdotes, such as my family's vacation to Colorado Springs, where the absence of guardrails on a mountain road led us to choose a safer, albeit more expensive, option. Similarly, the mandatory use of seatbelts, once resisted, is now universally accepted as a necessary safety measure.Our natural inclination towards selfishness...2024-07-2833 min
City Church Georgetown SundayRefocusing on Purpose: Overcoming Spiritual MisdirectionIn today's sermon, we explored the concept of misdirection and how it applies to our spiritual lives. Just as illusionists use misdirection to divert our attention, we too can be easily distracted by things that seem important but ultimately lead us away from our true purpose. This misdirection can happen in various aspects of life, including sports, business, and even within the church. We examined the story of Intel's shift from memory chips to microprocessors as an example of how focusing on the wrong thing can lead to failure, and how a change in focus can save an organization.2024-07-2137 min
City Church Georgetown SundayTransforming Generational Influence Through Faith and ObedienceIn today's sermon, we delved into the profound impact of generational influence and the doctrine of original sin. We began by exploring the tragic story of May West, the daughter of infamous serial killers Fred and Rosemary West, to illustrate how the actions and sins of parents can deeply affect their children. This led us to reflect on our own lives and the influence our parents and grandparents have had on us, as well as the impact we are having on the next generation.We discussed the biblical doctrine of original sin, which teaches that humans are...2024-07-1439 min
City Church Georgetown SundayUnderstanding Worthiness: Grace Over PerformanceToday, I want to talk about the concept of worthiness and how it shapes our lives and our relationship with God. From a young age, many of us are conditioned to believe that our worth is tied to our performance, whether in academics, sports, or social interactions. This belief often leads to a compulsive need to be liked and accepted by others, as I experienced growing up as a class clown and later in my youth ministry career. However, this mindset can be damaging, as it creates a false narrative that we must earn love and acceptance....2024-07-0743 min
City Church Georgetown SundayFinding True Joy Through Connection and ObedienceIn our journey through emotions, we've explored anxiety, sadness, anger, and fear, and now we conclude with joy. Joy is not just a fleeting emotion but a profound state of being that can transform our lives. Research shows that something as simple as smiling can significantly impact our well-being, adding years to our lives and enhancing our relationships. Smiling releases feel-good hormones, changing our internal state from unhappiness to happiness. This simple act can be a gateway to experiencing joy.We often chase joy through external means—buying things, changing jobs, or seeking new relationships—only to find...2024-06-3038 min
Education for Sustainable DemocracyBest of ESD: Creating Inclusive Environments and Curricula for LGBTQ+ Youth, with Marc Lewis (R.J. Grey Junior High, Acton MA)How can educators create inclusive environments for LGBTQ+ youth? To explore this question, Brett speaks to a veteran middle school social studies teacher in Massachusetts, Marc Lewis, who has been enacting and experimenting with strategies and curricula to help all of his students feel welcome in his classroom – and to help them understand the complexity and truth of our world and its history. In our conversation, Marc describes how he builds a trusting classroom community, how he physically designs his classroom, how he integrates LGBTQ+ history into his curriculum, how he shares his own identity as an op...2024-06-301h 04
City Church Georgetown SundayConquering Fear: Embracing God's Promises for CourageTaking a deep breath, I reflect on the journey we've been on this summer, exploring the complex world of emotions through our series. We've delved into anxiety, sadness, anger, and today, we confront fear. Emotions like fear are not inherently negative; they are God-given and serve a purpose, such as keeping us safe. However, when fear becomes a permanent residence in our hearts, it can hinder us from experiencing the fullness of life that God intends for us.I shared a personal story about my fear of heights, illustrating how fear can sometimes grow beyond its intended...2024-06-2337 min
City Church Georgetown SundayTransforming Anger: Embracing Righteous Responses in ChristAnger is a universal emotion that everyone experiences, yet it can be a destructive force if not managed properly. Today, we explored the nature of anger, its roots, and how we can align our responses with biblical teachings. Anger is not inherently sinful, as even Jesus displayed righteous anger when His Father's house was defiled. However, the challenge lies in distinguishing between righteous anger and the anger that stems from personal grievances or pride.The Bible provides clear guidance on anger, urging us to refrain from it and to rid ourselves of bitterness, rage, and malice. Anger...2024-06-1637 min
City Church Georgetown SundayEmbracing Sadness: Finding Hope in God's PresenceIn our ongoing series on emotions, today we delve into the complex and often misunderstood emotion of sadness. Sadness is a universal experience, manifesting in various forms from mild melancholy to deep grief and anguish. Society often teaches us to suppress these feelings, equating sadness with weakness or moral failure. However, the Bible offers a different perspective, emphasizing that God is close to the brokenhearted and rescues those whose spirits are crushed. This truth is beautifully illustrated in Psalm 34, written by David during a time of intense personal crisis. Despite his dire circumstances, David recognized God's presence and deliverance...2024-06-0936 min
City Church Georgetown SundayFinding Peace: Navigating Anxiety Through PrayerToday, we began a new series called "Inside Out," focusing on emotions, with a particular emphasis on anxiety. I had the privilege of co-preaching with Dr. Jimmy Myers, a seasoned counselor and founder of the Timothy Center in Austin. We explored the pervasive nature of anxiety in our society, using a real-life example of Sarah Felder, whose tweet about anxiety went viral, highlighting how common this struggle is.We turned to Philippians 4:6-7 to see what the Bible says about dealing with anxiety. Paul instructs us not to worry about anything but to pray about everything, presenting...2024-06-0248 min
City Church Georgetown SundayTrusting God: The Path to True FulfillmentIn our journey through life, we often encounter beliefs and ideas that seem strange or unfounded. History is filled with examples of people holding onto misconceptions, from medieval beliefs about left-handedness to modern flat-earth theories. These beliefs often arise from a deep-seated need for answers to life's big questions, such as our purpose and existence. Blaise Pascal famously noted that we all have a "God-shaped hole" in our lives, a void that only God can fill. This longing for answers has led to the creation of various belief systems and religions.About a century ago, there was...2024-05-2640 minEducation for Sustainable DemocracyBest of ESD: Learning about Election Integrity, with Tom Connolly and Brendan Lovullo (NYS Board of Elections) and Meghan Cook (Center for Technology in Government)How do we ensure that elections are free and fair? For the past few years, we’ve heard more and more false claims about stolen elections, but the truth is that our election systems are very well-managed. Yes, there are areas where systems can be improved, but among the biggest problems in our election system now are misinformation about the elections and the skepticism that this creates.In this episode, I speak with Meghan Cook, Program Director of the Center for Technology in Government at the University at Albany, and two election experts – Tom Connolly, the Director of E...2024-05-2446 min
BARGUMENTSEP54 - BRETT ANDREWSOn this special anniversary episode of; "Barguments the Podcast" - host Dan "Bass" Levy is joined by 95-7 Big FM morning show host Brett Andrews! Together they #Bargue over the following topics:- Who is today's most talented singer?- Is the Kool-Aid man the liquid or the pitcher?- and much much more.Once again, please continue to share the Barguments the Podcast with neighbors and friends, and make sure you subscribe so you never miss an episode of the show. And while you are at it, please give us a 5-star ra...2024-05-2148 min
City Church Georgetown SundayUnderstanding Sin: The Heart's Condition and RedemptionIn today's gathering, we explored the concept of sin and how we often categorize it into "big" and "small" sins. We began with a light-hearted text poll, asking which minor infractions people considered worse, such as speeding or telling an innocent lie. This exercise highlighted our natural tendency to compare and rank sins, much like we compare prices or features when shopping. However, this mindset can lead us to underestimate the significance of what we perceive as "small" sins.I shared a personal story from my youth, illustrating how we often rationalize our actions by comparing them...2024-05-1939 min
City Church Georgetown SundayAuthenticity in Faith: Confronting Hypocrisy TogetherIn today's message, we explored the pervasive issue of hypocrisy, particularly within the Christian community, and how it is a reflection of the broader human experience. We began by addressing the common perception that Christians are hypocrites, a stereotype that often stems from blanket statements that fail to capture the complexity of individual actions and beliefs. While hypocrisy is not exclusive to Christianity, it becomes more pronounced when faith is involved, as it highlights the gap between professed beliefs and actual behavior.We delved into Matthew 23, where Jesus condemns the religious leaders of His time for their...2024-05-1244 min
City Church Georgetown SundayRelying on God's Strength Through Life's BurdensTaking a deep breath, I reflect on the journey of life, much like a marathon, where we often encounter moments of hitting the wall. This metaphorical wall represents the burdens and challenges that weigh us down, leaving us feeling overwhelmed and unable to move forward. These burdens can be illness, deadlines, heartbreak, or fear, and they compound, making us feel like we're carrying an elephant on our shoulders. In these moments, we might hear the well-meaning but misguided phrase, "God will never give you more than you can handle." However, this is a myth. The truth is, God will...2024-05-0535 min
City Church Georgetown SundayFinding Purpose in Suffering: A Divine PerspectiveIn today's message, we explored the profound question of why bad things happen to good people, a question that has puzzled humanity for centuries. We began by reflecting on the story of Rabbi Harold Kushner, who faced unimaginable pain when his son was diagnosed with a terminal illness. This personal tragedy led him to write "When Bad Things Happen to Good People," a book that resonates with many who grapple with the justice of God in the face of suffering.We delved into the nature of justice, acknowledging that while God is the embodiment of justice, our...2024-04-2834 min
City Church Georgetown SundayLife is Not Meant to Be WearyIn today's gathering, we explored the pervasive sense of weariness that many of us experience in our fast-paced, demanding lives. This exhaustion manifests physically, emotionally, and spiritually, often leaving us feeling overwhelmed and disconnected from our true purpose. We live in a world that constantly pushes us to do more, achieve more, and be more, leading to a cycle of relentless busyness and burnout. This is not the life we were meant to live. Jesus offers us a different way, a path of rest and relationship rather than relentless striving.In Matthew 11:28-30, Jesus invites us to...2024-04-2143 min
Education for Sustainable DemocracyBest of ESD: Democracy Prep Charter Schools, with Rashid Duroseau (Civics Program Director, Democracy Prep Public Schools)What if a school made preparation for democracy its central goal? That’s what Democracy Prep tries to do - not in just one school but in many. This charter school network includes 24 schools in five states, with schools at the elementary, middle, and high school levels. In this episode, Brett talks to Rashid Duroseau, the Civics Program Director at Democracy Prep. Rashid describes the civic participation experiences that these schools require of students, how various courses integrate civic issues into the curriculum, how he found his way into education, and more. This a rebroadcast of...2024-04-1750 min
City Church Georgetown SundayWe Worship God For Who He Is, Not What He GivesIn today's message, we explored the concept of transactional living and how it permeates various aspects of our lives, from our jobs to our relationships, and even our faith. We often find ourselves in a cycle of giving and receiving, constantly seeking the best deal or the most efficient transaction. This mindset, while prevalent in our culture, can be detrimental when applied to our spiritual lives. We delved into the story of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego from Daniel 3, who faced a life-threatening situation but chose to worship God for who He is, not for what He could give them...2024-04-1438 min
City Church Georgetown SundayDiscernment Prevents DeceptionIn today's world, scams and deception are becoming increasingly sophisticated, not just in our daily lives but also in our spiritual journeys. We are often bombarded with messages that can lead us astray if we are not discerning. The story of a young man almost falling for a car scam serves as a metaphor for the spiritual deceptions we face. Just as we need to be vigilant against financial scams, we must also be discerning in our spiritual lives to avoid being led astray by false teachings.In 2 Corinthians, Paul addresses the issue of false apostles who...2024-04-0739 min
City Church Georgetown SundayYou Can't Find Life in Dead PlacesTaking a moment to reflect on the message shared today, we find ourselves in the midst of a series inspired by the local Two-Step In festival, where we explore themes of life, purpose, and resurrection. The festival, much like our lives, is filled with music and celebration, yet it also serves as a backdrop to delve into deeper spiritual truths. We began by discussing the dissonance we often feel when we seek life in places that are inherently dead, much like the absurdity of hosting a wedding at Auschwitz. This dissonance is a reflection of our attempts to find...2024-03-3139 min
City Church Georgetown SundayLife is Short, Live on PurposeLife is short, and we must live with purpose. This truth resonates deeply in our hearts, reminding us of the finite nature of our time on earth. We often find ourselves caught up in the busyness of life, distracted by the ticking clock, much like the pressure felt in an escape room or the final minutes of a sports game. Yet, the urgency of time should not lead us to panic but to intentional living. The Apostle Paul, in his letter to the Ephesians, urges us to be careful how we live, to walk wisely, and to make the...2024-03-2438 min
Education for Sustainable DemocracyBest of ESD: Teaching Elections & Modeling Political Tolerance, with Wayne Journell (University of North Carolina at Greensboro)This is a rebroadcast of an interview with Professor Wayne Journell about teaching elections, recorded in 2020. How should educators teach about elections? How can they maximize student learning, foster engagement, and minimize overly heated exchanges among students? Professor Wayne Journell from the University of North Carolina, Greensboro, has conducted research on how high school teachers help students learn about elections. He describes how teachers can frame productive discussion of elections, integrate election-related content into other aspects of the curriculum, and model a tolerant attitudes towards different political perspectives. Dr. Journell also explains how educators can help students...2024-03-2326 min
City Church Georgetown SundaySmall Groups Life is About Growth, Accountability and 2 AM FriendsIn today's gathering, we explored the profound theme of authenticity in our relationships, both with each other and with God. Reflecting on my long-standing friendship with Brett, I shared how our journey together has been a testament to the power of being real and vulnerable. This authenticity is not just about sharing the good times but also about holding each other accountable and supporting one another through life's challenges. Our friendship, which began at Howard Payne University, has been rooted in a shared faith in Jesus Christ, which has been the foundation and the glue that has kept us...2024-03-1046 min
City Church Georgetown SundaySmall Groups Life is About Loving Messy People, Rather Than Being LovedIn today's message, we explored the complexities of human relationships, particularly within the context of small groups and community life. We began by acknowledging the inherent challenges that come with interacting with others, even when we share common goals or beliefs. This is evident in the surprising revelation that the number one stressor for missionaries is often their relationships with fellow missionaries. This insight serves as a reminder that people, by nature, can bring drama and conflict into any setting, whether it's a professional sports team or a neighborhood community.We delved into biblical examples, starting with...2024-03-0340 min
City Church Georgetown SundaySmall Groups Lead Us Towards The Accountability That Leads to God's BestIn today's message, we explored the profound impact of anonymity and isolation on our spiritual lives and the importance of community and accountability in our faith journey. We began by discussing the concept of anonymity, using humorous yet poignant examples from New York City, where even beloved characters like Spider-Man and Elmo have found themselves in trouble due to the anonymity their costumes provide. This anonymity can lead to behaviors that are out of character, much like how social media can embolden people to act in ways they wouldn't face-to-face. This led us to reflect on the necessity of...2024-02-2540 min
City Church Georgetown SundayEmbracing Authenticity: Finding Community in ChristIn today's world, social media has become an integral part of our lives, with billions of people spending hours daily on these platforms. While social media can connect us, it often presents a "polished illusion" of life, leading to feelings of inadequacy and hopelessness, especially among young people. This curated image problem is not limited to social media; it also affects the church. Many people come to church feeling broken and burdened, only to see others who seem to have it all together, which can perpetuate the lie that one must clean up their mess before joining the community...2024-02-1839 min
Education for Sustainable DemocracyMaximizing Youth Voter Registration, with Laura Brill (The Civics Center)We have millions of young people in school every year who become eligible to register during their time in school, but there are few mechanisms in place to get them registered. Laura Brill is starting to change that. Through her new organization, the Civics Center, she’s trying to make voter registration drives a regular feature of high schools around the country. We discuss why she started the organization, how they reach students, the variety of ways that voter registration drive can take place in schools, how educators can get involved, and much more. Episode Re...2024-02-1537 min
City Church Georgetown SundayFierce Love and Loyalty Are Keys to Great RelationshipsToday, we explored the profound impact of relationships on our lives and how they can lead us to our best year yet. We began by hearing from Dennis and Lori Anderson, who shared their journey of making the past year their best in marriage. This set the stage for our discussion on relationships, emphasizing that whether it's a marriage, friendship, or a work relationship, the goal is to make each year better than the last. We delved into the importance of being in the Word regularly, as it significantly impacts our spiritual growth and relationship with God....2024-02-1142 min
City Church Georgetown SundayForgiveness Frees The Power in PrayerIn today's message, we explored the profound impact of harboring unforgiveness in our lives, likening it to living with a bomb under our bed, as illustrated by the story of Zinaida Bregen-Stova. For 43 years, she lived with a literal bomb beneath her bed, a powerful metaphor for the emotional and spiritual bombs we carry when we hold onto past hurts and grudges. These unresolved issues can explode, affecting not only us but also those around us, much like the story of a man whose unresolved anger affected his young son.We are reminded that forgiveness is not...2024-02-0439 min
The Brett Allan ShowBenjamin Levy Aguilar Actor Interview | Chicago PD Season 11 Updates and More !Benjamin Levy Aguilar Actor Interview | Chicago PD Season 11 Updates and More! WATCH HERE!https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zOmBRgP0Ml8&t=24sConnect with us on our website for more amazing conversations! www.brettallanshow.com Got some feedback? Let us know!openmicguest@gmail.com Follow us on social media!IG / brettallanshow FB 2024-02-0411 min
City Church Georgetown SundayYou Cannot Serve God and Be Enslaved to MoneyIn today's gathering, we explored the profound tension between our spiritual lives and our financial pursuits. We began with a light-hearted interaction with the children, discussing the allure of material possessions like video games, new phones, and cars. This set the stage for a deeper conversation about the biblical perspective on money, particularly focusing on Hebrews 13:5, which reminds us to be content with what we have and trust in God's promise never to abandon us.We delved into the tug-of-war many of us experience between our spiritual commitments and financial desires. This struggle is akin to a...2024-01-2839 min
City Church Georgetown SundayReading the Bible Clears Your Path to a Better FutureIn 2005, Waldemar Semenov donated a compass to the Smithsonian Museum, a small yet significant artifact that played a crucial role in saving lives during World War II. This compass guided Semenov and his fellow seamen to safety after their ship was attacked by a German submarine. This story serves as a powerful metaphor for our lives, illustrating how many people drift aimlessly, seeking fulfillment and purpose in various shores like wealth, relationships, or career success, only to find them empty. The true compass that leads to genuine fulfillment and purpose is Jesus Christ.Kat Von D's journey...2024-01-2138 min
Education for Sustainable DemocracyLateral Reading & Other Media Literacy Skills, with Sarah McGrew (University of Maryland)In today’s media environment, there’s no shortage of information and disinformation – so how do we know if we’re being misled? How can young people know? The ability to tell fact from fiction is vital for maintaining a healthy civil society, and researchers are exploring how to teach these skills. On this episode, Brett speaks with Sarah McGrew, a cutting-edge researcher in this area. After earning her PhD at Stanford in 2019, she joined the faculty at the University of Maryland, where she has several ongoing studies about fostering students’ media literacy. On this episode, she discusses her research, ke...2024-01-2137 min
Education for Sustainable DemocracyBest of ESD: Guiding Productive Political Discussions, with Diana Hess (University of Wisconsin-Madison)What do students learn when they discuss controversial political issues? What are the benefits and limitations? How can teachers guide these discussions and maintain a positive classroom environment? In this episode - published originally in late 2020, renowned social studies education scholar Diana Hess explores these questions, drawing on her two decades of research in classrooms. Hess is professor and dean at the University of Wisconsin-Madison School of Education and has written two award-winning books about how young people can learn about and productively discuss controversial political issues. In this episode, she describes her major research findings and...2023-12-1738 min
Education for Sustainable DemocracyAddressing the Israel-Hamas War in Schools, with Lauraine Langreo (Education Week)The recent conflict in Israel and Gaza has been upsetting to so many of us and to so many young people. How should educators respond? How should they help their students make sense of these events? On this show, I speak with Lauraine Langreo, a staff writer at Education Week who has written two recent articles on these questions. We discuss these articles, the resources that she recommends, and what she’s learned about how teachers and administrators are addressing the conflict - and related conflicts among students - in schools.Episode ResourcesAb...2023-11-2124 min
The Brett Allan ShowSarah Levy and Tim Rozon Talk Season 2 of "SurrealEstate" Now on the SYFY Network!Sarah Levy and Tim Rozon Talk Season 2 of "SurrealEstate" Now on the SYFY Network!https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=veBz0p00WisConnect with us on our website for more amazing conversations! www.brettallanshow.com Got some feedback? Let us know!openmicguest@gmail.com Follow us on social media!IG https://www.instagram.com/brettallanshow/FB https://www.facebook.com/thebrettallanshow/...2023-11-1709 min
Inside with Brett Hawke#338 Matt Levy on Balancing Life, Work, and the Paralympic Pursuit5x Australian Paralympian Matt Levy discusses his journey juggling intensive training with a full-time job, emphasizing the importance of recovery, open communication, and a strong support network. While praising Australia's seamless integration of Paralympic athletes with the overall Olympic movement, Matt reflects on the value in shaping a shared societal perspective.
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Education for Sustainable DemocracyCivic Education during a Democratic Crisis, with Walter Parker (University of Washington, Seattle)How should educators prepare youth for democratic participation at a moment when democracy itself seems so fragile? For ESD's third anniversary episode, Walter Parker, professor emeritus at the University of Washington - Seattle, explores the answer to this question by sharing ideas from his new book, Education for Liberal Democracy: Using Classroom Discussion to Build Knowledge and Voice. Walter Parker is one of the most influential social studies education scholars of our time. In his new book and on this episode, he argues that education can and must address a twofold crisis in our democracy – a legitimacy crisis and an...2023-10-0749 min
Education for Sustainable DemocracyCreating "Brave Spaces" for Learning, with Dr. Kewsi Burgess (Hackett Middle School, Albany, NY)How can literacy learning support civic engagement? How can educators best support the literacy learning of young African-American males? On this episode, Brett speaks with Kewsi Burgess, a veteran middle school teacher in the City School District of Albany. Dr. Burgess recently earned his doctoral degree at the University at Albany, and his dissertation closely examined how one seasoned African-American educator supported the literacy learning of the black boys in his classroom. In this interview, he explains how literacy learning is intertwined with civic education and how teachers can create a positive classroom culture that encourages broad and meaningful p...2023-09-0636 min
Education for Sustainable DemocracyBest of ESD: Learning to Care for Our Community Environments, with Dr. Ethan Lowenstein (Eastern Michigan University & Southest Michigan Stewardship Coalition)How can we help young people learn to care for their local communities and their natural environments? Ethan Lowenstein believes that a big part of the answer is place-based education - a method that enables youth to explore, analyze, and begin to address local challenges. Lowenstein is a professor at Eastern Michigan University and the director of the Southeast Michigan Stewardship (SEMIS) Coalition, which has built a broad network of educators and local organizations to foster place-based education in Michigan and beyond. In this "Best of ESD" episode, first published in 2021, Lowenstein tells Brett about how the principles of pl...2023-08-0840 min
Education for Sustainable DemocracyBest of ESD: Integrating History and Current Events & Creating an Open Classroom Climate, with Amber Joseph (East Side Community School, NYC)This is a re-broadcast of one of ESD's most popular episodes. Amber Joseph, a public school social studies teacher in New York City, discusses how teachers can create safe spaces for discussing controversial public issues and how they can guide students to explore potentially emotion-laden current events, such as police shootings. We also consider how history teachers can integrate current events into their curricula. Ms. Joseph currently teaches 8th grade history and civics at East Side Community School in Manhattan. Enjoy hearing from this dynamic and wise educator.Resources Related to this Episode2023-07-0345 min
Education for Sustainable DemocracyA Research-Practice Partnership for Civic Education, with Kei Kawashima-Ginsburg (Tufts & CIRCLE) and Mary Ellen Daneels (Illinois Civics Hub)How can state laws improve civic education, and how can research-practice partnerships support the enactment of these state laws? This episode explores how an ambitious Illinois civic education law, passed in 2015, is being enacted with the help of a research-practice partnership. I speak with Kei Kawashima-Ginsburg and Mary Ellen Daneels, who are leading this partnership, which has helped tens of thousands of educators strengthen their civics-oriented teaching. Kei is the Director of CIRCLE, the Center for Information and Research on Civic Learning and Engagement, and Mary Ellen is the Director of the Illinois Civics Hub and the Illinois Democracy Sc...2023-06-0254 min
The Brett Allan ShowBenjamin Levy Aguilar Talks the Evolution of "Officer Dante Torres" and Chicago PD and More!Benjamin Levy Aguilar Talks the Evolution of "Officer Dante Torres" and Chicago PD and More! Connect with us on our website for more amazing conversations! www.brettallanshow.com Got some feedback? Let us know!openmicguest@gmail.com Follow us on social media!IG https://www.instagram.com/brettallanshow/FB https://www.facebook.com/thebrettallanshow/Twitter https://twitter.com/brettallanshowCo...2023-05-1711 min
Education for Sustainable DemocracyA High School Course on Public Policy, with Tim Northrop (Saratoga Springs High School, NY)How can high school courses help adolescents learn to carefully analyze public policies and summarize their analyses in writing? In this episode, veteran teacher Tim Northrop explains how his public policy courses foster these important skills. He also discusses how these courses support students' capacities in media literacy and civil discourse - and how these skills could be integrated into other courses.Episode ResourcesUniversity in the High School Program at SyracuseUniversity in the High School Program at UAlbanyESD Podcast ResourcesBrett Levy's Open-Access Research Articles (Free...2023-05-0646 min
Education for Sustainable DemocracyThree Types of Civically Engaging Pedagogy, with Brett Levy (University at Albany, SUNY)In this episode, Brett Levy summarizes how concepts of intrinsic motivation, civically engaging pedagogy, and inquiry-based learning can help to strengthen civic and social studies education.Episode ResourcesBrett's Article on Civic Science Education Brett's Article on Inquiry-Based LearningNew York State Council for the Social Studies SiteESD Podcast ResourcesBrett Levy's Open-Access Research Articles (Free Downloads)Education for Sustainable Democracy Facebook Page (Please Like!)YouTube Channel for Education for Sustainable Democracy (Please Subscribe!)Brett...2023-04-0609 min
Education for Sustainable DemocracyBuilding Skills for Environmental Advocacy, with Dr. A.J. Schneller (Skidmore College)How can we help young people build the skills they need to become advocates for environmental sustainability? In this episode, Professor A.J. Schneller of Skidmore College describes how his course helps students develop their advocacy toolkit by requiring them to create a website, write an op-ed, author a policy memo for a public official, design a public service announcement, write an elevator speech, and more.Episode ResourcesA.J. Schneller's SiteSyllabus for the Environmental Advocacy Bootcamp CourseEnvironmental Justice AtlasESD Podcast...2023-03-0748 min
Education for Sustainable DemocracyFacilitating Youth Podcasting, with Gerardo Mancilla (Edgewood College) and Luz Rodriguez Camacho (Dominican University)How can young people learn to share their stories and perspectives through podcasts? In this episode, we hear about a youth podcasting program for Latino and Latina youth in Madison Wisconsin. Gerardo Mancilla, a professor at Edgewood College, and Luz Rodriguez Camacho, a student who completed the program (who now attends college at Dominican University in Illinois) tell us about how the program worked, what students learned from the experience, how the program was funded, how it might expand, and much more.Guests & Their WorkSanchez Scholars ProgramSanchez Scholars o...2023-02-0746 min
Shot At LoveSober Dating Is A Superpower! With "Drinking Games" Author, Sarah LevySend us a textToday’s guest is Sarah Levy; she’s a writer in recovery and author of the new book “Drinking Games.” At the age of 28, Sarah, on paper, looked like she had it all together, a great job – and a successful life that was on track. The truth was she felt empty and alone, suffered from blackouts, and repeatedly put herself in dangerous situations. Sarah thought using alcohol helped heal her broken heart, empowered her to date, and quenched her thirst for validation. But drinking only numbed her pain and dimmed her light as she dated...2023-01-1142 min