In this episode of College Conversations, Jeff Sherrod, Gregg Garner, and Laurie Kagay discuss the pervasive issue of burnout, exploring its causes and effects on individuals in various life stages, particularly within the context of Christian ministry. They discuss practical strategies for recognizing and addressing burnout, emphasizing the importance of waiting on the Lord and sharing burdens with others. The conversation highlights the need for self-awareness and the understanding that seeking help is essential for maintaining mental and emotional health.

Why Christians Should Ask Better Questions

Jeff Sherrod and Laurie Kagay host Dave Medders, Executive Vice President for The Association for Biblical Higher Education, discusses the role of Christian higher ed in shaping future leaders through discipleship. After a career as a college president, Medders now visits dozens of college campuses annually and speaks on the hope for higher ed. This is a timely podcast as much of the news has covered the failure of higher ed, and specifically a large number of Christian colleges shutting down. In the midst of that, Medders stresses the need for flexibility, spiritual leadership, and listening to God's voice in shaping the future of education.

This podcast features two Institute alum, Matthew Parker and Stephen Carver, who are both employed in the construction industry while also working as pastors and development workers. Joined by hosts Gregg Garner and Jeff Sherrod, the four discuss changing job opportunities for graduates of Christian colleges, focusing on non-traditional ministry roles. They stress the importance of values and social intelligence gained from a biblical education in preparing for a job, while offering some critique to traditional Bible colleges for focusing too narrowly on academic knowledge. The four highlight the need for holistic development and intentional preparation for various career paths, integrating biblical teachings with practical skills.

The College Conversations podcast explores the issue of loneliness among college students, exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Gregg, Jeff, and Laurie emphasize the importance of feeling seen and heard, integrating into community, and recognizing ways of combatting isolation. They discuss the limitations of social media in addressing loneliness and highlight the need for self-awareness and denial of self in becoming effective disciples of Jesus. The importance of finding belonging and community through a shared identity as children of God is stressed, along with the role of Christian colleges in preparing students to help others in various communities.

Gregg, Jeff, and Laurie discuss the impact of school size on student interaction, resources, and facilities. One is not better than the other, what’s important is aligning yourself with a school’s mission and vision, keeping a discerning eye on their ability to fulfill it. What is most important for students is the value of individualized education and holistic development.

Gregg Garner, Jeffrey Sherrod, and Institute Professor and historian Shaun Galford discuss the importance of prioritizing biblical education, emphasizing the need for understanding beyond symbols and procedures. They highlight the role of the community in educating the next generation and stress the significance of passing down faith and values, drawing on historical lessons.

In this episode, Jeff Sherrod, Gregg Garner, and Laurie Kagay discuss the phenomenon of summer melt, where accepted students don't show up in the fall. They explore the challenges faced by students during the transition from high school to college, including lack of support and unfamiliar tasks. The speakers suggest practical solutions such as creating media profiles for incoming students and facilitating Zoom meetings between roommates. They also emphasize the importance of communication, family support, and seeking help from college counselors. The episode concludes with an invitation to apply for summer internships and mission experiences abroad.