In this reflective and thought-provoking "Because" episode of To Be and Do, Phil Amerson guides listeners through a contemplation of faith, community, and the essential distinction between form and substance in religious life. Opening with Sam's evocative lines about coffee and time, the mood is set for a discussion grounded in both the everyday and the transcendent. Phil Amerson, discusses the often-overlooked difference between focusing on religious structures—like congregations or denomina...

In this inspiring episode of the To Be and Do podcast, Phil Amerson welcomes the multifaceted and ever-energetic Brad Miller, a retired United Methodist clergy whose dedication to ministry and media has only expanded in retirement. Miller shares insights from his years of creativity in service, his pivot into podcasting, and his commitment to “meaningful media”—producing positive, transformative content that touches listeners' lives. Here are three key takeaways from today’s conversation: ...

In this reflective "Because" episode of To Be and Do, Phil Amerson explores the evolving nature of parish life, the power of faith expressed beyond institutional boundaries, and the temptation to focus on perfecting forms rather than embracing the messy, vibrant reality of faith in action. Through vivid storytelling and thoughtful analogy, the episode invites listeners to reconsider how they recognize and respond to the spiritual rhythms that pulse through ordinary and extraordinary moments alik...

Show Notes: To Be and Do Guest: Jonathan Massimi, Managing Director at Civic Bloom Host: Phil Amerson Episode Overview In this reflective episode, Jonathan Massimi delves into the complexities of leadership transitions within faith communities. Drawing from his experiences in Kitchener, Ontario and the frameworks of asset-based community development (ABCD), Jonathan Massimi and Phil Amerson explore how structure and spontaneity coexist, the role of institutional frameworks, and the s...

Episode Overview In this reflective episode, Philip Amerson takes listeners behind the scenes of a pastors’ retreat he helped facilitate, diving into the “why” behind gathering faith leaders away from their usual busy routines. Instead of offering programs or solutions, the focus was set on shared reflection about the future of the church—from a place of rest, quiet, and intention. Using a powerful analogy from the documentary From Mao to Mozart and a moving personal story, Philip Emerson cha...

Episode Overview In this insightful episode, Phil Amerson reconnects with Jonathan Massimi in a reflective conversation exploring the intersections of technology, memory, and spiritual community. Together, they probe what it means to be human in an age where artificial intelligence and digital tools shape not just our actions, but also our relationships and our collective memory. Drawing on classroom experiences and personal practices, Jonathan Massimi challenges listeners to consider the imp...

Connecting Community and Ministry: Tyler Brinks on Asset Based Development and Convening Change In this insightful episode of To Be and Do, host Phil Amerson welcomes Reverend Tyler Brinks of First Presbyterian Church, Bloomington, Indiana, for an authentic conversation about aligning identity with action, the power of connectorship, and the transformative philosophy of Asset Based Community Development (ABCD). The discussion opens with Amerson reflecting on the recurring tension many feel...

Because: To Be and Do: Because Show Notes In this reflective episode of To Be and Do, Phil Amerson offers a brief meditation on the importance of togetherness, compassion, and the deeply spiritual act of sharing a meal. Rooted in personal experience and theological insight, the episode invites listeners to consider how everyday moments—especially coming together at the table—can become opportunities for healing, connection, and hope in a fractured world. The episode opens with a poet...

Show Notes: To Be and Do Guest: Tyler Brinks, Associate Pastor at First Presbyterian Church, Bloomington Episode Overview In this episode of To Be and Do, host Phil Amerson sits down with Tyler Brinks, a young pastor whose ministry journey traverses denominational traditions and diverse congregational settings. Together, they explore the changing landscape of mainline Protestantism, the power of hope and creativity in faith communities, and the intersection of contemplation and activism...

In this heartfelt "Because" episode of To Be and Do, Phil Amerson invites listeners into a brief meditation on perspective, hope, and resilience through the stories of two friends—Bob and Joe. Set against the everyday backdrop of coffee and morning rituals, Phil reflects on how these two characters embody different approaches to life’s challenges and offers personal insight on navigating the spectrum between complaint and hope. Three Key Takeaways 1. Your Outlook Shapes Your Experience ...

https://www.parishcollective.org/ In this compelling episode of the To Be and Do podcast, host Phil Amerson welcomes Tim Soerens, executive director of the Parish Collective, for an enriching conversation about what it means to be the church in the neighborhood and how that impacts both individual lives and communities. Listeners are taken on a journey that weaves together stories of playful evangelism, real-life examples of neighborhood flourishing, and the deeper meaning of church as a connect...

In this reflective "Because" episode of To Be and Do, Phil Amerson revisits a pivotal period serving as pastor at Broadway United Methodist Church in Indianapolis, sharing personal anecdotes and hard-earned wisdom about building a truly welcoming church community. Weaving together Biblical references, personal stories, and social observations, the episode confronts the realities and aspirations involved in embracing multiculturalism—both in faith communities and society at large. Key Themes ...

In this compelling episode of To Be and Do, Phil Amerson welcomes Tim Soerens, a pastor, author, and leader in the Parish Collective, to explore how interdependence is vital for both personal and communal flourishing. Together, they dive into the evolving role of the church, the legacy of John McKnight, and how finding hope and joy is essential for leaders, especially in times of rapid change. https://www.parishcollective.org/ Three Major Takeaways Asset-Based Community Development and Ne...

In this reflective episode of To Be and Do, the theme of living on the edge—spiritually, emotionally, and within our conflicted world—takes center stage. , Phil Amerson, invites listeners to pause for a meditative moment, weaving together poetry and poignant observations to spark contemplation about faith, paradox, and the spaces we inhabit. The episode opens with a gentle scene: the clock strikes ten, signaling coffee time—a recurring motif reminding us of the simple, comforting rituals that...

In this insightful episode of "To Be and Do," host Phil Amerson welcomes Dr. Rachel Metheny, pastor at Meridian Street Church, for an honest and inspiring conversation about soul care, joy, and navigating the complexities of ministry in a modern world. The episode opens with Phil Amerson asking how Rachel Metheny maintains her own spiritual energy amidst the demands of leading a wealthy, vibrant congregation. What follows is a lively exploration of hiking, gratitude, family, and the wider implic...

In this thought-provoking episode of "To Be snd Do," Phillip Amerson offers a heartfelt reflection on the changing landscape of faith communities. Drawing from recent readings, including John Fugelsang’s Separation of Church and Hate and Ryan Burge’s The Vanishing Church, Phillip Amerson delves into the realities facing mainline churches today. He addresses Burge’s sociological perspective, which centers on the decline of traditional congregations, particularly focusing on Burge’s own experience...

Show Notes: To Be and Do Podcast Host: Phil Amerson Guest: Rachel Metheny, Lead Pastor at Meridian Street United Methodist Church, Indianapolis Episode Overview: In this thoughtful and energizing episode, Phil Amerson sits down with longtime friend and colleague Rachel Metheny, lead pastor of Meridian Street United Methodist Church in Indianapolis. Their conversation delves deeply into what it means for churches—and church leaders—to be relevant, vibrant, and true to their mission in a ...

Host: Phil Amerson This "Because" episode of "To Be and Do" features Phil Amerson as he shares deeply personal reflections on life, faith, and ministry in the context of responding to challenging events—both locally and nationally. Drawing on memories of ICE raids in Minneapolis and historical tragedies at Kent State and Jackson State, Phil Amerson connects these large-scale events to a pivotal experience in Evansville, Indiana in the late 1980s, centered around a neighborhood’s encounter wit...

In this insightful episode of the To Be and Do podcast, host Phil Amerson welcomes back Rev. Dr. Philip Wingeier-Rayo for a deep dive into the historical and current impact of Methodism worldwide, particularly through the lens of education, diversity, and inclusion. Takeaway 1: The Global Legacy of Methodist Missions Philip Wingeier-Rayo shares captivating stories from his recent book, “John Wesley and Methodist Missions,” highlighting/logging the surprising roots of Methodism in the Caribbea...

In this powerful and timely episode, host Philip Amerson brings to the forefront pressing concerns about the practices of the Department of Homeland Security and ICE agents in the United States. Through a deeply reflective and faith-centered lens, Philip Amerson discusses the ongoing tension between national security measures and the foundational values of justice, faith, and constitutional rights. The episode opens with Philip Amerson expressing dismay at the “overfunding and overindulgence”...

Show Notes: To Be and Do Podcast Host: Philip Amerson Guest: Philip Wingeier-Rayo In this rich and insightful episode of the To Be and Do podcast, Philip Amerson sits down with noted missions scholar Philip Wingeier-Rayo , who brings his decades of experience as a professor at Wesley Seminary and work with the General Board of Higher Education and Ministry. The episode springs from Philip Wingeier-Rayo ’s new book, "John Wesley and the Origins of Methodist Missions," and takes listeners de...

In this enlightening Because for Lent 2026 episode of To Be and Do, host Philip Amerson reflects on the evolving landscape of education, morality, and the role of faith organizations. Drawing inspiration from an article by Jay Caspian Kang, Philip Amerson challenges listeners to reconsider where our values and sense of morality are truly cultivated, especially during the Lenten season. Here are three key takeaways from the episode: 1. Universities Aren’t the Sole Keepers of Morality Philip...

In this episode, Philip Amerson welcomes Bob Hill, Dean of Marsh Chapel at Boston University and professor at the School of Theology, for a thoughtful conversation about the evolving landscape of theological education, the unique depth of the Gospel of John, and the ongoing importance of parish ministry and pastoral leadership. Their friendly and insightful exchange brims with wisdom from decades in ministry and teaching, and offers encouragement for all who care about the future of church life ...