March 22, 2026
Because: Exploring The Vanishing Church: Faith as Community Versus Commodity
This episode of “To Be and Do,” hosted by Phillip Amerson, dives deeply into the evolving role of the church in modern society. Drawing from recent literature—including “Separation of Church and Hate” by John Fugelsang and “The Vanishing Church…
March 19, 2026
Rediscovering Community and Tradition with Rachel Metheny
This episode of the To Be and Do podcast, hosted by Phil Amerson, dives into a candid and inspiring conversation with Rachel Metheny, the lead pastor at Meridian Street United Methodist Church in Indianapolis. As part of the Lenten 2026 series, …
March 15, 2026
"Because". How a Simple Hymn Changed the Atmosphere at a Klan Gathering
"Because": To Be and Do with Phil Amerson In this moving episode of To Be and Do, host Phil Amerson shares a personal story that resonates deeply with anyone wrestling with questions of faith, community, and the challenges of responding to hate…
March 12, 2026
"Global Methodist Missions, Education, and the Call to Inclusion" with Philip Wingeier-Rayo
To Be and Do Podcast: Episode Recap — In the latest episode of "To Be and Do," host Phil Amerson welcome back Philip Wingeier-Rayo , professor at Wesley Seminary and director at the General Board of Higher Education and Ministry for The Unite…
March 8, 2026
"BECAUSE" Standing for Faith and Justice – Reflections on ICE, Community, and the Call to Love
Podcast Blog: In this deeply personal and thought-provoking episode of "To Be and Do," host Philip Amerson invites us to reflect on the intersection of faith, justice, and the current practices of the Department of Homeland Security and ICE ag…
March 5, 2026
Exploring the Roots and Evolution of Methodist Missions: with Philip Wingeier-Rayo
The latest episode of the "To Be and Do" podcast, hosted by Philip Amerson, dives deep into the fascinating history of Methodist missions with guest Philip Wingeier-Rayo , a scholar uniquely positioned at the intersection of missions, intercult…
March 1, 2026
Because Lent 2026: Reflections on Morality, Education, and Faith: Insights from "To Be and Do"
In the latest "Because Lent 2026" episode of To Be and Do, Philip Amerson offers a thought-provoking meditation on the intricate relationship between education, morality, and the enduring presence of the church. Drawing from recent commentary and…
Feb. 26, 2026
The Enduring Power and Changing Landscape of Theological Education with Bob Hill from Boston University School of Theology
In this episode of To Be and Do, Philip Amerson sits down with Bob Hill, Dean of Marsh Chapel at Boston University and professor at the School of Theology, to explore pressing contemporary issues in theological education, ministry, and the often-o…
Feb. 22, 2026
Finding Your Place This Lenten Season: Reflections from Phil Amerson
In this "Because" Episode of the podcast To Be and Do, host Phil Amerson invites listeners into a short yet powerful reflection on the onset of the Lenten season. Through personal anecdotes and gentle guidance, Phil Amerson encourages listeners…
Feb. 19, 2026
Leading With Faith: Bob Hill on Marsh Chapel at Boston University, Preaching, and Sustaining Community
To Be and Do Podcast: Reflections with Bob Hill – Three Key Takeaways The latest episode of the To Be and Do podcast, featuring Bob Hill, Dean of Marsh Chapel and Professor at Boston University School of Theology, offers rich insights for liste…
Feb. 12, 2026
Navigating the Complex Realities of Asylum and ICE: Key Insights from "To Be and Do" with Christie Popp
The latest episode of the "To Be and Do" podcast brings listeners directly into the heart of America’s ever-evolving asylum process, focusing on both the policy landscape and its impact on real people. Host Philip Amerson welcomes Christie Popp, a…
Feb. 5, 2026
Diving into ICE, Immigration Law and Justice with Christie Popp
Diving Into Immigration Law and Justice – To Be and Do Podcast, The latest episode of the “To Be and Do” podcast brings a timely and insightful conversation to the table. Hosted by Philip Amerson, with special guest Christie Popp, a foun…
Jan. 29, 2026
Finding Joy and Purpose with Mark Feldmeir
On the latest episode of the “To Be and Do” podcast, host Philip Amerson sits down with Mark Feldmeir, lead pastor at St. Andrew United Methodist Church in Highlands Ranch, Colorado, and author of “Life After God: Finding Faith When You Can’t Beli…
Jan. 29, 2026
Encouraging Faith Leaders: Pastors as Spiritual First Responders
Encouraging Faith Leaders: Key Takeaways from "To Be snd Do" Episode 012926.BEC.C.Draft In the latest episode of the "To Be snd Do" podcast, host Philip Amerson dives into a heartfelt conversation aimed at uplifting faith leaders, particularly …
Jan. 25, 2026
Reflecting on Tragedy in Minneapolis and Peacemaking
In this "Because" episode of the “To Be and Do” podcast, Philip Amerson invites listeners into a thoughtful and heartfelt reflection on the violence that unfolded in Minneapolis. Through personal anecdotes, historical parallels, and spiritual wisd…
Jan. 22, 2026
Exploring Faith, Preaching, and Presence in Challenging Times with Mark Feldmeir
In the latest episode of the To Be and Do podcast, host Philip Amerson sits down with his friend and renowned pastor Mark Feldmeir for a deep and moving conversation. As the lead pastor at St. Andrew United Methodist Church in Highlands Ranch, …
Jan. 15, 2026
From Missionary Kid to Ministry: Ed Kilbourne’s Journey and Reflections on Faith and Evangelicalism
In this heartfelt episode of To Be and Do, host Philip Amerson reconnects with longtime friend and guest, Ed Kilbourne—a musician, storyteller, and thought leader loved by progressive Christian communities across the country. Their conversation…
Jan. 8, 2026
Stories, Songs, and Stones: Ed Kilbourne on Faith, Laughter, and Spiritual Change
The latest episode of "To Be and Do," hosted by Philip Amerson, was a heartfelt, humorous, and deeply reflective conversation with folk singer, storyteller, and self-proclaimed "folk theologian" Ed Kilbourne. With decades of performing experience—…
Jan. 1, 2026
"Because" - Reflections for the New Year: Wisdom, Faith, and “Wiggling On” with Phil Amerson
As the year 2026 dawns, Phil Amerson invites us into a space of reflection, possibility, and quiet wisdom in the latest "Because" episode of To Be and Do. His brief yet meaningful meditation draws from personal milestones, spiritual texts, and …
Jan. 1, 2026
Entering My Ninth Decade: Phil Amerson Looks Back and Ahead at Turning 80
Reflecting on “Because Birthday” — A Special Episode of To Be and Do with Phil Amerson The "Because Birthday” episode of To Be and Do invites listeners into a heartfelt, personal reflection as Phil Amerson celebrates the start of his ninth deca…
Dec. 21, 2025
Because: Embracing Christmas Hope, Symbols, and Community
Embracing Hope, Symbols, and Community In the holiday-themed episode of "To Be and Do," host Philip Amerson delivers a heartfelt reflection on the traditions and symbolic reminders that make the holiday season both meaningful and grounding. T…
Dec. 19, 2025
Because: No One Is Garbage in God’s Realm: An Advent Conversation
In the latest episode "Because" of "To Be and Do," host Philip Amerson dives into complex and timely issues, weaving together reflections on power, love, and the true meaning of Advent. Drawing inspiration from a poem by Walter Wangerin Jr., Phili…
Dec. 18, 2025
Surprise, Friendship, and the Warmth of the Nativity
In the "Because" episode of To Be and Do, Philip Amerson delivers a heartfelt meditation grounded in memory, friendship, and a beautiful poem about the Nativity. The episode’s tone is gentle and reflective, and through a brief yet profound nar…
Dec. 14, 2025
Because: Reflections on the Red Wing Church and the Hidden Power of Small Congregations
“Because Moment” – To Be and Do Podcast In the latest episode of “To Be and Do,” Philip Amerson leads us through a quiet, contemplative “because moment”—a unique segment dedicated to meditation and poetry. This episode offers a thoughtful refl…