Be & Do: Belonging Exchange
The Be & Do podcast introduces the mission and vision of "Belonging Exchange." Philip Amerson reflects on faith and life in conversations with friends.
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Aug. 28, 2026
Best of To Be and Do: Exploring Belonging with Charlie Nelms and Philip Amerson
Best of To Be and Do:
In this compelling debut episode of "To Be and Do," hosts Dr. Brad Miller and Philip Amerson delve into a meaningful conversation with Dr. Charlie Nelms, renowned servant leader, philanthropist, and advocate for equity and excellence, particularly in the realm of education for historically marginalized communities. Dr. Nelms shares his transformative journey and insights, offering inspiration and wisdom for fostering belonging and creating positive societal change.
Here a
In this compelling debut episode of "To Be and Do," hosts Dr. Brad Miller and Philip Amerson delve into a meaningful conversation with Dr. Charlie Nelms, renowned servant leader, philanthropist, and advocate for equity and excellence, particularly in the realm of education for historically marginalized communities. Dr. Nelms shares his transformative journey and insights, offering inspiration and wisdom for fostering belonging and creating positive societal change.
Here a
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Aug. 21, 2026
Best of To Be and Do: Exploring Shifting Margins: Love, Belonging, and Moving Beyond Fear and Exclusion w/ Bishop Ken Carder
Best of To Be and Do:
In this captivating episode of "To Be and Do," host Philip Amerson welcomes Bishop Ken Carder to discuss his life journey and the influential themes within his recent work, "Shifting Margins: From Fear and Exclusion Toward Love and Belonging." This episode delves into the wisdom gained from Bishop Carder's experiences as both a pastor and a bishop, his profound understanding of institutional influence, and the deeply personal encounters that have shaped his theological per
In this captivating episode of "To Be and Do," host Philip Amerson welcomes Bishop Ken Carder to discuss his life journey and the influential themes within his recent work, "Shifting Margins: From Fear and Exclusion Toward Love and Belonging." This episode delves into the wisdom gained from Bishop Carder's experiences as both a pastor and a bishop, his profound understanding of institutional influence, and the deeply personal encounters that have shaped his theological per
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Aug. 14, 2026
Best of To Be and Do: Christian Nationalism Examined: A Call for Inclusion and Faithful Representation with Philip Amerson
Best of To Be and Do:
In the latest episode of "To Be and Do," Phil Amerson takes a deep dive into the complex and contentious issue of Christian nationalism. Drawing from personal experiences, historical context, and the insights of various scholars, Phil offers a thoughtful examination of why Christian nationalism is gaining momentum in the United States and why it presents a challenge to both the Christian faith and the nation's values.
Phil begins by addressing the rise of Christian nation
In the latest episode of "To Be and Do," Phil Amerson takes a deep dive into the complex and contentious issue of Christian nationalism. Drawing from personal experiences, historical context, and the insights of various scholars, Phil offers a thoughtful examination of why Christian nationalism is gaining momentum in the United States and why it presents a challenge to both the Christian faith and the nation's values.
Phil begins by addressing the rise of Christian nation
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Aug. 7, 2026
Best of To Be and Do: Composing Change: Ken Medema’s Journey from Concerts to Justice Through Music
In this uplifting episode of the "To Be and Do" podcast, host Phil Amerson welcomes renowned composer, performer, and all-around creative force Ken Medema for a conversation brimming with humor, heart, and musical insight. From the outset, it's clear that their friendship is built on decades of camaraderie and good-natured ribbing, instantly putting listeners at ease and drawing them into an authentic dialogue.
The episode begins with Phil Amerson highlighting the many hats worn by Ken Medema—a
The episode begins with Phil Amerson highlighting the many hats worn by Ken Medema—a
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July 31, 2026
Best of To Be and Do: Exploring Altruism and Community with Bud Herron and Phil Amerson
Best of To Be and Do:
In this deeply engaging episode of "To Be And Do," hosted by Phil Amerson, listeners are invited into the life and reflections of Bud Herron. A storyteller with a rich background in media, Bud shares profound insights shaped by his experiences from his upbringing and college years at Indiana University. Growing up in Hope, Indiana, Bud paints a vivid picture of his middle-class family life, the socio-economic divides present in his childhood town, and the unexpected perspe
In this deeply engaging episode of "To Be And Do," hosted by Phil Amerson, listeners are invited into the life and reflections of Bud Herron. A storyteller with a rich background in media, Bud shares profound insights shaped by his experiences from his upbringing and college years at Indiana University. Growing up in Hope, Indiana, Bud paints a vivid picture of his middle-class family life, the socio-economic divides present in his childhood town, and the unexpected perspe
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July 24, 2026
Best of To Be and Do: Lessons in Grief A Father’s Story of Faith Amid Tragedy with Tom Heaton
Best of To Be and Do:
In this deeply moving episode, Philip Amerson welcomes Tom Heaton for a candid and vulnerable conversation on grief, faith, and the abiding power of human connection. Tom Heaton, a pastor, blogger, and humanitarian, shares the tragic experiences of losing both of his sons, Jose and Manny, to acts of violence. The episode explores his responses not just as a father but also as a Christian and a pastor, and what these experiences have taught him about God, prayer, and being
In this deeply moving episode, Philip Amerson welcomes Tom Heaton for a candid and vulnerable conversation on grief, faith, and the abiding power of human connection. Tom Heaton, a pastor, blogger, and humanitarian, shares the tragic experiences of losing both of his sons, Jose and Manny, to acts of violence. The episode explores his responses not just as a father but also as a Christian and a pastor, and what these experiences have taught him about God, prayer, and being
Recent Blog Posts
June 17, 2026
Reflecting on Goodbyes
The latest episode of the To Be and Do podcast invites listeners into a meaningful contemplation on the significance of goodbyes. With over a hundred episodes behind it, the podcast pauses to reflect on the moments of parting that shape our con…
June 14, 2026
"Because": Rethinking Trash, Compassion, and Social Responsibility
The latest "Because" episode of To Be and Do, invites listeners into a raw, deeply reflective conversation about what trash in our neighborhoods truly reveals about us—and the often-overlooked connections between everyday debris, social empathy, a…
June 11, 2026
Finding Presence in Grief: Reflections on Loss and Faith with Tom Heaton
In this moving episode of To Be and Do, host Philip Amerson sits down with Tom Heaton for an honest, vulnerable discussion on family tragedy, grief, and the enduring presence of faith. Known for his work as a pastor, preacher, and advocate for mis…
About the Host
Philip Amerson
Philip and Elaine Amerson live in Bloomington, Indiana where they enjoy work the multiple educational and cultural opportunities of the city. They each are active in several community activities from addressing issues of low-income housing, public safety, encouraging civic and faith community involvement.