Downstream from Florida College

On this episode of Downstream from Florida College, Dr. John Weaver sits down with Derek, a professional airline pilot for JetBlue, for a conversation about faith and keeping first things first in a demanding career.As part of our “Professions and Faith” series, Derek shares his journey from undergraduate studies to flight school and ultimately into a career in commercial aviation, offering a behind-the-scenes look at the discipline, sacrifice, and persistence required to become a pilot. But beyond the career path, this episode centers on the importance of non-negotiables. Derek discusses how he intentionally chose a path within the airline industry that would allow him to pursue what he loves while still prioritizing family, church, and spiritual growth. He reflects on the pressures of a career built around travel and schedules, and why success means very little if the most important things are neglected along the way.This episode is an encouraging listen for students exploring career paths, parents preparing young adults for the future, and anyone seeking wisdom on how faith can remain central in both work and life.

In this episode of Downstream from Florida College, Dr. John Weaver sits down with Dr. Steven Ford- a physician, professor, husband and father- whose life reflects a thoughtful balance of calling and commitment.Serving as a neonatologist at Tampa General Hospital and an associate professor at University of South Florida, Dr. Ford shares his journey from college to a demanding and meaningful career in medicine, while also investing deeply in his family and church, the Henderson Boulevard Church of Christ.Together, they explore what it looks like to pursue excellence without losing sight of what matters most. Dr. Ford offers practical wisdom for parents raising children in today’s world, along with insight for those seeking a career in medicine. For anyone interested in a career in medicine, here are resources Dr. Ford recommends: Complications: A Surgeon’s Notes on an Imperfect Science - Atul Gawande https://a.co/d/03n074Q9Better: A Surgeon’s Notes on Performance - Atul Gawande https://a.co/d/039v8Pi5

In this episode of Downstream from Florida College, Dr. John Weaver continues the series on the intersection of profession and faith with guest Jamie Reynolds. As a financial planner, Jamie has built a career that not only provides for his family but also creates the bandwidth to serve others. Through his work, church involvement, and support of nonprofit Project 9:12, Jamie shares how thoughtful career choices can open doors for generosity, service, and impact. Drawing from his own journey, he offers practical wisdom for those a generation behind him seeking to pursue both meaningful work and faithful living.Here is a link to the nonprofit that was mentioned in this episode: https://www.p912.org/

Profession and Faith | Episode 1In this episode of Downstream from Florida College, Dr. John Weaver launches a new series exploring the intersection of profession and faith—conversations with Christians who have built lives of purpose and service through their work.Dr. Weaver is joined by Florida College alumnus Will Speer, who now preaches at the Bremerton Church of Christ in Washington. Will shares thoughtful wisdom for life in the season right after college, offering insight on vocational decision-making, character, and keeping service to God at the center of one’s choices. This conversation encourages young adults to think beyond job titles and toward lives shaped by faith, purpose, and faithful service. Will Speer is available to encourage young people on their career journey anytime. Please contact him here: (714) 768-4095bremertoncoc.com

On this episode of Downstream from Florida College, Dr. Weaver sits down with Phil Robertson for a thoughtful conversation on how families can wisely approach technology. Together, they discuss healthy household norms, the impact of tech on brain development, and practical strategies for being proactive with cell phones and social media.We hope this conversation offers clarity, encouragement, and actionable insight as your family navigates the digital world with purpose and faith.Resources: The Anxious Generation Contact for Phil Robertson: [email protected]

Dr. Weaver sits down with Daniel Broadwell to discuss how parents can help shape young men into who God intended them to be. Together, they explore the importance of risk, responsibility, and spiritual adventure in a young man’s life—and how fathers can nurture faith and character in their sons. The conversation also tackles the growing challenge of passive masculinity and offers practical ways to raise confident, godly men in today’s world.Recommended books:On cultural challenges for young people:The Coddling of the American Mind, Jonothan Haidt & Greg Lukianoff - https://a.co/d/eX6o6pnThe Anxious Generation, Jonothan Haidt - https://a.co/d/0atlpb2On Fatherhood:Wild at Heart, John Eldredge - https://a.co/d/8I7ephcThe Intentional Father, Jon Tyson - https://a.co/d/h0XD8hsHabits of the Household, Justin Earley - https://a.co/d/6udOTfpOn Overcoming PornographyThe Freedom Fight, Ted Shimer - https://a.co/d/d1NpOnyThe Healing Church, Sam Black - https://a.co/d/hxSXeP1Finally Free, Heath Lambert - https://a.co/d/iXFN7tN

In this episode, Dr. John Weaver sits down with Jeff Mathis, President of Southern Heritage Financial Group, to discuss how we can use our resources to live lives of greater service and generosity.Together, they explore the heart behind planned giving — how thoughtful stewardship and wise investment can create a lasting impact for God’s kingdom. From practical insights to spiritual perspective, this conversation will inspire you to think differently about your finances and your legacy.Tune in to learn how to invest with intention — and to become a blessing to others.To learn more about planned giving from Mr. Mathis: https://www.yoursouthernheritage.com/

How do parents build deeper, lasting connections with their teens? In this episode of Downstream from Florida College, Dr. Weaver sits down with Shawn and Diane Bain, who have dedicated their lives to serving families through parenting, teaching, mentoring, and camp leadership.Together, they explore how to identify common communication pitfalls parents face and practical ways to express love in ways that truly connect.Drawing inspiration from Gary Chapman’s The 5 Love Languages of Teenagers, this conversation is packed with wisdom for families who want to strengthen relationships. Tune in and be encouraged to invest intentionally in the heart of your teen.

Today on Downstream from Florida College, Dr. Weaver is joined by Dr. Jason Longstreth for a thoughtful and timely conversation about young people and lasting faith.How can we help our children develop a faith that sticks? What practical steps can parents—and young adults—take to ensure faith takes root and thrives through every stage of life?Whether you’re raising kids or navigating your own spiritual journey, this episode offers valuable insight, encouragement, and actionable wisdom. Don’t miss it!Sticky Faith: Everyday ideas to build faith in your kidshttps://a.co/d/eiAMKOfThis episode is proudly sponsored by Bosun Solutions, a staffing solution for all businesses! www.bosunsolutions.com

In this episode of Downstream from Florida College, we talk with Alex Hale, Director of Online Education, about the shifting challenges families face in today’s educational environment. From cultural tensions to the subtle erosion of biblical values, many Christian parents feel caught between the education their children receive and the truths they uphold at home.Whether you’re a parent, educator, or simply passionate about faith-based learning, this conversation explores how Fortress is helping families reclaim their role in shaping both the hearts and minds of the next generation.This episode is proudly sponsored by Bosun Solutions, a staffing company for all your business needs. www.bosunsolutions.comLearn more about Fortress Christian School here: www.fortresschristian.net 

In this episode of Downstream from Florida College, Dr. Nathan Ward shares insights from his book Our Eyes Are on You, focusing on the vital role of prayer in family life. Together, we explore how consistent, intentional prayer draws families closer to God—and to one another. Dr. Ward reflects on how prayer shapes hearts, guides children toward becoming Christians, and builds relationships grounded in submission, trust, and dependence on our Creator. Whether you’re a parent, mentor, or simply seeking to strengthen your walk with God, this conversation is rich with encouragement and practical wisdom.This episode is proudly sponsored by Bosun Solutions, a complete staffing company for all your business needs. www.bosunsolutions.comPurchase Dr. Ward's featured book here: https://bookstore.floridacollege.edu/MerchDetail?MerchID=1030902

Join Dr. Weaver in this special episode of Downstream from Florida College as he sits down with Briar Purcell and Joshua Brown, this year’s Mr. and Miss Florida College. Chosen by their peers for embodying the mission and spirit of Florida College, Briar and Joshua reflect on the people, experiences, and moments that shaped their four-year journey. From spiritual growth to meaningful relationships, they share what made their time at FC rich and memorable—and where the current is taking them next, in sharing the gospel and exploring nonprofit work. Don’t miss this heartfelt conversation as we continue downstream from Florida College.This episode is proudly sponsored by Bosun Solutions, providing staffing solutions for all you business needs. www.bosunsolutions.com

Join Dr. Weaver as he sits down with Annetta Hastings and Julie Gant, two of the authors behind Each Winding Path—a powerful collection of stories from 15 women of faith and faculty at Florida College. Discover how life’s twists and turns become opportunities to see God more clearly and walk by faith.Everyone’s story is shaped by choices. This book—and this conversation—is about trusting Him at every turn.Purchase Each Winding Path here: https://bookstore.floridacollege.edu/MerchDetail?MerchID=1062732This episode is sponsored by Bosun Solutions, staffing solutions for all your business needs. https://www.bosunsolutions.com/

As families of faith prepare to launch their children into adulthood, the question of college costs looms large. In this episode, we sit down with Russ Stevens, author of Say No to College Debt, to discuss practical strategies for reducing or eliminating student debt while still earning a valuable degree. Russ shares his expert insights on scholarships, alternative education paths, and financial wisdom to help families make smart, faith-driven decisions about higher education.Tune in for a conversation full of actionable advice that can set your family up for financial freedom and success! 🎓💰Purchase Say No To College Debt:https://a.co/d/ixzbNZeThis episode is graciously sponsored by Bosun Solutions, meeting all your staffing needs. www.bosunsolutions.com

Join Dr. Weaver and Dr. Erdvig as they explore worldviews and the college experiences that shape our perspectives. In this episode, Dr. Erdvig discusses how colleges can immerse students in biblical thinking and living.Buy Dr. Erdvig's book here: https://a.co/d/7pwBpEeThank you to our episode sponsor Bosun Solutions, providers of tailored staffing needs for all businesses. https://www.bosunsolutions.com/

Tune in to Downstream from Florida College as Dr. Weaver sits down with speaker, author, and family counselor Terry Reese to explore his latest book, Walk by Faith, Not by Sexuality. In this episode, Mr. Reese shares biblical insights and practical encouragement for those striving to live a life of purity and honor God in every aspect of their journey. https://biblicalsexualintegrity.org/Terry can be reached at: [email protected] episode is proudly sponsored by Bosun Solutions, staffing solutions for all. https://www.bosunsolutions.com/

Join Dr. Weaver as he sits down with Dr. Emerson Eggerichs, renowned author, international speaker, and leading authority on male-female relationships. Together, they explore how the foundational principles of love and respect, essential for a healthy and balanced marriage, extend to family dynamics, dating, and beyond. Tune in to this insightful episode for practical wisdom on building strong relationships at every stage of life.Thank you to our sponsor, Bosun Solutions. No matter your stage of business, Bosun has the Talent Solution to build your Team. Find out more here: https://www.bosunsolutions.com/Popular Titles by Dr. Eggerichs: https://www.loveandrespect.com/store/books

In this episode, Florida College President Weaver sits down with Ryan Shutt, Director of Admissions, to discuss the ins and outs of the college application process. Ryan shares valuable insights into current trends in higher education, tips for navigating admissions, and key information parents and students need to know. This episode is proudly sponsored by Bosun Solutions. No matter your stage of business, Bosun has the Talent Solution to build your Team. https://www.bosunsolutions.com/

Dr. Weaver and author Jeremy Adams discuss highlights from his newest book, Lessons in Liberty. In Lessons in Liberty, Jeremy S. Adams distills inspiring advice from the lives of extraordinary Americans from our past. Adams, a veteran educator of over 25 years, believes that today's anxious, passive, and cynical students need change. "Lessons in Liberty" aims to restore individual freedom by discovering the better angles of our nature.This episode is generously sponsored by Bosun Solutions, providing staffing solutions for all! https://www.bosunsolutions.com/Amazon link for book purchase- https://a.co/d/c9BldRF

Join Dr. Weaver and Phil and Diane Comer, founders of www.intentionalparents.org and authors of "Raising Passionate Jesus Followers" for a rich discussion about the changing roles parents should embrace in each stage of raising children to love the Lord and what is good. https://www.intentionalparents.org/https://a.co/d/0c0GNaTpThis episode is proudly sponsored by Bosun Solutions, offering a unique and cutting edge approach to staffing solutions for your business. https://www.bosunsolutions.com/

Join Dr. Weaver and Erica Young Reitz, author and founder of After College Transition, as they unpack the importance of guidance and support during the transition to adult life after college. "The years after college can be some of the most uncertain, unstable times of life. Recent graduates grieve the loss of community, question their place in the world and struggle to find meaningful work. Erica Young Reitz specializes in helping college seniors and recent graduates navigate the transition to post-college life. She offers practical tools for a life of faithfulness, addressing the top issues graduates face: making decisions, finding friends, managing money and much more. Discover how to flourish as a Christ-follower in a complex world."https://www.aftercollegetransition.com/https://a.co/d/1k9HXIPThis episode is proudly sponsored by Bosun Solutions, offering a unique and cutting edge approach to staffing solutions for your business. https://www.bosunsolutions.com/

In this episode, rising seniors Brandon McCann and Pate Clevenger sit down with President Weaver to share their best tips and tricks for college success in and out of the classroom. A special thank you to Bosun Solutions for sponsoring this episode. Bosun provides nationwide staffing solutions. Learn more here: https://www.bosunsolutions.com/

This episode features Dr. Michele Borba, an internationally renowned educator,award-winning author, and parenting, child and bullying expertrecognized for her solution-based strategies to strengthenchildren’s empathy and social-emotional intelligence andcharacter, and reduce peer cruelty. Dr. Borba and Dr. Weaver discuss practical methods for setting your teenager up for success in and out of the classroom during college. Find Dr. Borba's latest releases here: https://a.co/d/grb84sWhttps://a.co/d/4JPPqedA special thank you to our podcast sponsor, Bosun Solutions- staffing solutions for all!https://www.bosunsolutions.com/

On this episode of Downstream from Florida College, Dr. Weaver sits down with Beth Roth, coordinator of Dual Enrollment and Virginia Wickerham, V.P. of Enrollment for a candid discussion of the good and bad of Dual Enrollment. Join us to learn more about whether Dual Enrollment could benefit your path to a degree. Learn more about Florida College Dual Enrollment here: https://floridacollege.edu/academics/dual-enrollment/This episode is proudly sponsored by Bosun Solutions, offering a unique and cutting edge approach to staffing solutions for your business. https://www.bosunsolutions.com/

In this episode Dr. Weaver is joined by the President and CEO of Bosun Solutions, Nicole Grinnell.  Tune in to learn about the many hybrid and virtual options that exist now for professionals looking to support their families outside of a cubicle setting. To learn more about Bosun Solutions or to apply: https://www.bosunsolutions.com

Dr. Weaver and Teri White discuss approaches to sexual integrity and sex education including SRR, Sexual Risk Reduction as well as SRA, Sexual Risk Avoidance. Tune in for conversations about truth and safety, healthy mindsets and communication tools for families on this topics. Resources mentioned in today's episode: Fight The New Drug (learn about the harm of porn) https://fightthenewdrug.orgDefend Young Minds (resource for protecting children) https://www.defendyoungminds.comAxis.org (how to have hard, meaningful conversations with your teen) 

Evangelist and global tour leader, Luke Chandler enlightens us on how how family travel can be used for leisure, but also education and bonding. We also explore the benefits of travel during the college years, as it relates to world view. For future tour opportunities with Luke: https://www.lukechandlertours.comFor Florida College group travel opportunities: https://floridacollege.edu/travel-with-fc/

In this episode Dr. Weaver is joined by Terry Reese, a licensed mental health counselor who specializes in sexual addiction. Together, they explore ways to combat temptation and addiction during all the changes of life that accompany the college years. The following resources were recommended in today's episode: https://puredesire.org/courses/sexual-integrity-101/https://www.conquerseries.com

Dr. Weaver interviews author Jim Musser, whose career in campus ministries prompted him to write two books to encourage families of faith who are deciding how to choose a college for their Christian teens. Find Jim's books here: https://read.amazon.com/kp/embed?asin=B0C41H2CXQ&preview=newtab&linkCode=kpe&ref_=cm_sw_r_kb_dp_A0XX0RVC4JZGTKC4A0EZhttps://read.amazon.com/kp/embed?asin=B09QJ9VR2R&preview=newtab&linkCode=kpe&ref_=cm_sw_r_kb_dp_B7GTFBS2FTNDGJJQQTH9

Senior students Andrew and Anna give insight into their four-year journey, sharing the intentions and choices that helped make the most of their time at a Christian college.  Led by Dr. Weaver, this interview uncovers the importance of family support, finding your identity, academic discipline and more! 

Dr. Weaver interviews Coach Carry Brown, FC volleyball coach, professor and mentor to college athletes. If you are an athlete pursuing a degree AND time on the court or field, this episode is for you. Coach Brown discusses team chemistry, what to ask during a tour, the long game, and three things to consider before signing. 

What does it mean to have a Christian worldview  and how can college shape that for young people? Dr. Doy Moyer, professor Shane Scott and President Weaver explore the ways we can shape our thinking and bring every thought captive on this episode of Downstream from Florida College. 

Join President Weaver and Mrs. Alyssa Johnson, V.P. of Technology at Florida College as they discuss the progression of technology in higher education and in the home.  Tune in to learn some practical ways to harness the good of technology while filtering out the bad. 

Join Dr. John Weaver along with camp directors Phil Robertson and Tim Earnhart as they break down cultural trends among young people and what they have learned about the next generation from their unique role. In this episode, Dr. Weaver mentions Florida College summer camps. Find out more about our 21 camps for youth ages 8-18 here: https://floridacollege.edu/summer-camps/