Words of the Wise

In this special birthday release of Words of the Wise, Lexie sits down with Karen Delaney to reflect on a life shaped by faith, resilience, music, family, and the quiet strength of knowing who you are.Karen shares what it was like growing up on a farm in Hershey, Pennsylvania, where feeding 32,000 chickens was just part of daily life, and where her parents instilled the values of integrity, education, creativity, and consistency. She reflects on how one unexpected church decision sparked a lifelong passion for piano, how she navigated the challenges of being a pastor’s wife, and how she learned one of the most important lessons of her life: never lose your identity trying to please everyone else.From raising seven children to becoming a grandmother of 20 and a great-grandmother of 26 (with more on the way), Karen shares the wisdom she has gathered through decades of living, loving, learning, and growing.This episode is filled with practical life wisdom, heartfelt stories, and powerful reminders about boundaries, faith, and staying true to yourself.Memorable wisdom from Karen: "Others can only do to you what you allow." "Keep your identity. That's the most important thing." "Be inwardly directed, not externally motivated." "Stop and think. So many problems could be prevented if we just stopped and thought." Karen also shares powerful moments of faith, unexpected “God moments,” and how journaling and reflection helped her reclaim her voice and eventually write her book A Penny for Your Thoughts.This conversation is a beautiful reminder that wisdom often comes quietly, through experience, reflection, and the courage to grow.And in honor of this episode releasing on her birthday — happy birthday, Karen! What a gift it is to celebrate your story and the wisdom you’ve shared.

In this hope-filled conversation, Jenifer Foxworthy shares how faith, family, and community have carried her through unimaginable loss—her husband, step daughter, brother, father, and most recently her son, James (“Foxy”). Recorded at the Fore Foxy Memorial golf outing, Jen reflects on raising her family, the dinner-table values that shaped them, and the ways God met her in the very moments of grief. She also introduces her new book Finding Love in the Confessional, written in a single Spirit-led sitting, and talks about turning sorrow into service through the annual scholarship in James’s name.What We Cover The heart behind the Fore Foxy Memorial Golf Outing and James’s ongoing legacy How Jen’s first book, Are You There, Mary?, became a healing companion through layered loss The Holy-Spirit nudge that sparked her new book, Finding Love in the Confessional Mother Mary’s comfort on the day James passed — and the peace that followed Randy’s (Jen’s late husband) deathbed encounter with God and the hope it gave their family Practicing presence: family dinners, living simply, and putting the phones down Choosing blessing: moving from grief to gratitude, pain to purpose Wisdom for young people on faith, quiet, and real conversation Memorable Quotes “It’s all about James. It’s all the lives crossing paths.” “I try to turn everything into a blessing. With James’ death, my relationship with God grew stronger.” “My husband woke up and said, ‘My God loves me. My God loves you.’ That changed us.” “James loved everybody—from his friends to the man at the gas station.” “I want to say his name to the day I die. I post a photo of James every morning—it’s healing.” “Put your phones down. Have dialogue. Get quiet enough to hear where God is leading.” Resources & Links Jenifer’s Books: Are You There, Mary? (reflection and healing after loss) Finding Love in the Confessional (on the grace of confession and encountering the Trinity) Fore Foxy Memorial Golf Outing: Supports an annual scholarship in James’s name.

In this heartfelt and joy-filled episode, Lexie sits down with Steveann Devoe-Granger — the mother of one of her greatest mentors and closest friends, Aunt Danielle. This episode is a birthday surprise for Danielle, airing on the day she and Lexie share their special day.Steveann reflects on her childhood in Albany, raising her family, walking through seasons of deep loss, and learning to live with gratitude and faith through it all. A few favorite quotes from Steveann: “If you don’t have God first, you’re in trouble.” "To me, I wasn't poor, I was rich." “Look at the good that you have. Why dwell on the bad?” “Life is good. I woke up this morning, and I’m going to make it the best day ever.” "One day you'll be sad those fingerprints aren't there." “People don’t need you to tell them you’re good. They’ll see it.” Want to gift a Words of the Wise podcast for someone special in your life? Email us at [email protected] to learn more about the process! 

Happy Birthday, JJ Lynch!My cousin, JJ Lynch turns 18 the day this episode airs — and honestly, he’s one of the wisest “young adults” I know. He’s a coach’s kid and the oldest of six, which explains a lot about his servant heart. JJ’s an old soul who loves deep talks, random t-shirts, and tennis, but more than anything, he loves Jesus. His life reflects a maturity that can only come from walking closely with the Lord — humble, funny, thoughtful, and grounded beyond his years. This conversation captures all of that and more as we celebrate JJ stepping into adulthood with a heart that’s already anchored in wisdom.Memorable quotes (from JJ): “Pain accompanies growth; comfort isn’t where the learning happens." “Life is simply an opportunity to get to know God.” Highlights to listen for: The Danny effect: joy, advocacy, and real-time lessons in unconditional love Hattie’s Type 1 diagnosis and gratitude for health “Control what you can control” — the family maxim that keeps him grounded A coach’s-kid tip for new schools: introduce yourself first and break the awkward Fruits of the Spirit as a mirror for growth (Galatians 5) Humility vs. approval: the Litany of Humility and living for an Audience of One Soli Deo Gloria.

In this Words of the Wise episode, Lexie sits down with Larry Delaney, an 83-year-old lifelong Christian minister whose calling began at 15 watching a pastor pray over his stepfather in the hospital. Larry shares how early influences—radio sermons at his family’s Sunday table, jail visitation during college, migrant-camp outreach, and work at the Muncie Mission—formed a ministry defined by compassion and presence. What began with eight folding chairs in his basement grew into decades of preaching, shepherding, and mentoring.Larry’s story is stitched together by gratitude and grace. “I’m not a self-made man—there are fingerprints of all kinds of people on my life,” he says, urging listeners to “practice an attitude of gratitude.” He reflects on seasons of weakness and resilience—“Our sufficiency is in God”—and on aging with purpose: after preaching recently, someone told him, “You still got the fire in the belly,” to which he replied, “Yes, I do.”From his “apple-dumpling days” of childhood to learning he’s content being a “tender willow” rather than a “strong oak,” Larry’s wisdom is gentle, practical, and deeply hopeful. The conversation is made even more special with his grandson Carter Anderson sitting in—an image of legacy unfolding “for such a time as this.”Listeners will come away steadied by Larry’s simple north star: know Jesus, make Him known, love your family, and give thanks—every day.

In this kickoff to the Practicing Proverbs mini-series—rooted in Proverbs 3:6 and the broader Words of the Wise theme that “the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom”—Lexie sits down with her childhood best friend, Stella Anderson, to talk about identity in Christ, getting married young, and learning to lead and be led in marriage. Stella shares about moving to Kentucky, finding church community, and the everyday practice of seeking counsel and wisdom. She opens up about miscarriage and God’s comfort (“It Is Well”), the “poppy” reminder of hope, and the redemption of welcoming her son, George, one year later to the day. The conversation turns to motherhood (childlike faith, dependence on God), discerning a move back to Muncie and a surprising sign of “abundance,” and forming family purpose, values, and beliefs—practical ways to acknowledge God in all our ways.

Former Butler player, head coach, and longtime administrator Ken LaRose reflects on the three pillars that shaped his life: faith, family, and football. He shares tender memories of growing up in Cincinnati, the impact of his parents and siblings—especially his deaf brother Michael who taught him eye contact and empathy—and the coaches who became second fathers (Gerry Faust, Bill Sylvester).Ken recounts choosing Butler, captaining the team, and returning to coach—eventually becoming head coach during the turbulent transition to non-scholarship Division I. He tells the story behind Butler’s 1996 game in Cologne, Germany, and later, his pivot into development, helping raise $65M+ for facilities and programs under AD Barry Collier.Woven throughout are Ken’s life rules: appreciate what you have, start each day with an attitude of gratitude, and life is 10% what happens, 90% how you react. The result is a portrait of a welcoming, genuine servant-leader who loves helping people—and who proudly answers to Dad, Pops, Coach, and “Butler guy.”

Episode 48 of Words of the Wise features one of the most decorated and respected leaders in American high school sports and education: Coach J.T. Curtis. At 78 years old, J.T. is not only the winningest football coach in the nation with over 600 victories and 28 state championships, but also serves as Head of Schools at John Curtis Christian School—the very school his parents founded.Throughout our conversation, JT reflects on his upbringing in a pastor’s home, the leap of faith his father took to start the school, and the lessons he carried into coaching, education, and ministry. “My dad was a man who didn’t understand walls. He’d go over them, around them, or through them. And he taught me you’ve got to be qualified—you can’t just rely on a name, you’ve got to earn it.”J.T. shares stories of the mentors who shaped him, from his high school coach Bob Whitman to Arkansas coaching legend Frank Broyles. He also opens up about building not only a football dynasty, but a school community rooted in consistency and faith: “The key to success is consistency. Innovation is important, but you change because it’s better—not just because it’s new.”Beyond football, J.T. reflects on his greatest legacy: his family. He speaks with gratitude for his late wife Lydia—“She was a servant, a wonderful mother, and I miss her every day”—and for the chance to watch his three children and ten grandchildren grow. As Head of Schools, coach and pastor, his life message is simple: “There’s no substitute for the grind, for the hard work. But most importantly, your relationship with God through Christ is all that matters.”This episode isn’t just about football history—it’s about faith, family, and a life lived pouring into others.SOLI DEO GLORIA!If you have someone wise in your life—a grandparent, coach, mentor, or friend—whose story deserves to be captured, I’d love to interview them and preserve their wisdom forever. You can email me at [email protected] or send us a message on social media. It makes a great holiday or birthday gift.

Hey friends! In this special solo episode (with some very sweet guest voices), I’m exploring what it really means to have childlike faith. We’ve all heard Jesus say to become like children, but recently, through study, conversations, and even music, I’ve started to see His words in a new way.Before I dive in, I want to give a special shoutout to my cousin Max Lynch, the talented designer behind the Words of the Wise cover art. PLEASE DO NOT COMPLIMENT HIM ON IT. HE DOES NOT LIKE ATTENTION! BUT, I had to brag on him just a little! His drawing of a family meal set and ready perfectly reflects the anticipation of sitting at the Father’s table—and it beautifully ties into today’s theme.From discipline talks with my dad, to clips from some of my favorite young voices Beau Lynch, Harper Griffis, and Roland Lynch, to mentions of Forrest Frank’s joyful Child of God album—this episode is full of reminders that faith is both trust and delight.Scripture in this Episode John 13:7 – You don’t realize now what I am doing, but later you will understand Proverbs 13:24 – The one who loves disciplines Psalm 68:5 – A Father to the fatherless Voices & Guests Beau Lynch (5), Harper Griffis (4), Roland Lynch (6) Episode 7: Mr. Jackson on discipline Reece Mann (In memoriam) Episode 8: Mary Armstrong on parenting joy Nancy Nieman (In memoriam) Other Mentions Pastor Ryan Bramlett (Traders Point) on wisdom & pride Uncle Billy’s Four Thumb Tacks podcast (Tony Bennett quote) Anna Sebree & Remi Beckham on waiting & faith Dr. Seuss Oh, the Places You’ll Go! (read by Isaac) George Strait’s Love Without End, Amen Takeaway: Childlike faith isn’t just about awe and innocence—it’s reliance, obedience, and joy. It trusts God’s “no” as much as His “yes,” and believes His way is always better.

Episode 46 of Words of the Wise features longtime coach, mentor, and family friend, Coach Bob Bartolomeo—known to most as Coach Bart. From his childhood in Gary, Indiana, to his years as a player at Butler, and decades on the sidelines shaping college football programs, Coach Bart’s story is one of consistency and a passion for people.Throughout our conversation, he reflects on the values passed down from his parents, the lessons learned from mentors, and the advice he has carried into every season of life. He also shares about the unwavering support of his wife, their marriage of over 40 years, and the joy of raising two daughters who have gone on to build lives of their own.“The greatest thing my parents taught me was hard work. My dad didn’t cut corners, and he laid the groundwork for me to understand what it means to provide and to give your best.”“As a coach, the most important thing is to be yourself. Players see right through it if you try to be someone you’re not.”“You have to be a sponge. Take in something from everyone you meet—hold onto the good, and let it shape who you are.”Coach Bart also shares his favorite memories of building programs, what it means to lead with consistency, and the joy of watching players grow not only into athletes, but into men.This episode is filled with wisdom for coaches, athletes, and anyone who believes in the power of influence and mentorship.If you have someone wise in your life—a grandparent, coach, mentor, or friend—whose story deserves to be captured and preserved forever, I’d love to hear from you. Email Lexie at [email protected] or send a message on social media so we can set up an interview and make sure their wisdom lives on.Soli Deo Gloria!

In Episode 45 of Words of the Wise, host Lexie Manor revisits a conversation with Marilyn Culler. Marilyn’s life story is one of unexpected turns, deep faith, and steady kindness.She recalls her idyllic childhood exploring the mountains and streams of eastern Pennsylvania, often saying: “Growing up in nature and being surrounded by such beauty has really stuck with me my whole life.”Her career path is full of surprises—working as a freelance photographer, training law enforcement officers in photography, and eventually finding her calling at DePauw University. As she says: “I feel like I’ve followed breadcrumbs, and they’ve worked out.”Throughout the episode, Marilyn reflects on what it means to guide young people, describing it as a high calling: “When parents entrust their children to us, I take that very seriously. Everything else falls in line behind that.”She offers wisdom for both students and listeners alike: “Don’t be discouraged. Follow your passion and find what you love and you’ll never work a day in your life.” “Listen. Because if we don’t listen to others, we can’t learn about them.” “If I’m remembered for anything, I hope it’s for being kind.” This re-release is a celebration of Marilyn’s legacy at DePauw, her impact on generations of students, and the reminder that often the little things in life are the most important.

In Episode 44 of Words of the Wise, host Lexie Manor sits down with Max Newlin, an 84-year-old lifelong Plainfield, Indiana resident, farmer, husband, and man of deep faith.From a playful kiss on the playground in first grade to nearly 64 years of marriage, Max’s love story with his wife Beverly is as enduring as it is inspiring. He reflects on their simple but powerful marriage advice: “Two words: yes ma’am.”Max and Beverly raised three children, including their son Brad, who was diagnosed with terminal cancer at 22 while studying to be a minister at Taylor University. Brad passed away at just 23, and in his honor, the family established a scholarship that continues to bless future ministers. Max’s faith carried him through, as he shared: “I knew where he was.”Throughout the episode, Max reflects on: His childhood lessons in self-reliance: “My parents didn’t give me anything, they gave me everything.” His decades of farming the land he grew up on and the joy of “watching things grow.” His lifelong commitment to serving others: “I hope to be remembered as someone who tried to serve the Lord.” Opening his home and heart to friends who became family. This episode is both tender and timeless—a testimony of a man whose faith shaped his family and his community, and whose legacy of love and service will continue to ripple through generations.

In episode 43 of Words of the Wise, host Lexie Manor shares a deeply personal and faith-filled reflection of her grandpa, Jon Manor "Papa Jon," and the enduring spiritual legacy he left behind. Growing up in a broken home, once known as the small-town rebel, and later transformed by his faith in Christ, Papa Jon became the foundation of a multi-generational blessing by choosing to put "Jesus First."Through vivid childhood memories, family anecdotes, and Scriptural truths, Lexie weaves a story that illustrates how one person's obedience and trust in God can alter the course of generations. Whether you come from a long line of faith or are starting a new chapter for you family, this episode is a heartfelt invitation to consider: What story will your life tell for those who come after you?Past Episode Connections: Episode 3 - Sharon "Shu Shu" Manor: Papa Jon's love story with his wife in her own words Episode 9 - Pastor Gregg Parris: On the importance of knowing who you are Episode 11 - Mr. Bill Murphy: Family being the legacy we leave behind, and our inability to control what we're born into Episode 23 - Tom Hartman: Navy memories and Papa Jon's dreams for land and a family Scripture References: Luke 12:48 - "To whom much is given, much is required" Ephesians 2:8-9 - Salvation by grace through faith 2 Corinthians 12:9 - God's power in our weakness Genesis 6-9 - Noah's obedience and legacy

Larry Abed is more than a professor—he’s a life coach, mentor, and lifelong learner who believes in hard work and kindness above all. In this re-released conversation, we talk about: Larry’s childhood growing up in Detroit and the lessons it taught him. How sports and a strong work ethic helped him find his place in the world. His unexpected career path, from newsrooms and ad agencies to a thriving role in academia. The importance of listening to your inner voice and surrounding yourself with mentors who believe in you. What it means to love your work and find purpose in guiding the next generation. Larry has a gift for seeing the best in people, and his advice resonates with everyone—students, professionals, and anyone chasing a dream.Soli Deo Gloria.

Childhood lessons from growing up in a family with seven kids and learning to embrace her differences. The advice her mother gave her: “Catie, there is nothing wrong with what you are, you’re the best.” Meeting her late husband, Steve, and their 50-year marriage. Raising four boys. Wisdom for younger generations: “Work hard, talk less.” Her faith-driven outlook on life: “God will be there every time… and that door that shut, that window will open every time.” Stories of biking hundreds of miles cross-country—her “recovery plan” being a nice meal, a cozy hotel, and two beers. Why her life philosophy is to always “walk in a room and smile and be open to everybody, and they’ll come to you.” Soli Deo Gloria.

Originally recorded in February 2024 as a private interview, this tender and hope-filled conversation with Cathy Campbell is now being shared publicly—thanks to her courageous “yes” and Lexie’s gentle encouragement.In this episode, Cathy shares: Her joyful outlook on life, even after seasons of deep heartache Why she considers raising her children her greatest ministry The grief of losing two husbands—one suddenly, and another to cancer What it was like to walk alongside her grandson, Tyler Trent, during his cancer battle How her faith has sustained her through every high and low Tyler Trent, Cathy’s grandson, became a nationally beloved Purdue superfan and cancer advocate whose story inspired millions before his passing in 2019. Cathy’s quiet, steady faith is part of the legacy Tyler carried forward.Through every chapter, Cathy has continued to choose light. Her warmth, resilience, and trust in the Lord make this one of the most moving and redemptive stories we’ve shared.This episode is about loss, yes—but more than that, it’s about legacy, family, joy, and the faith that anchors us when life takes unexpected turns.Soli Deo Gloria.

In this special solo episode, Lexie takes listeners back to the very first Words of the Wise recording, an afternoon on the porch with her Great Grandpa Lux. Just three months after that interview, he passed away, but his voice, laughter, and wisdom live on.Lexie reflects on: What it means to "be a good homebody" The legacy of her Great Grandpa and Papa Jon Why she started her podcast The connection between family stories and personal identity The spiritual reminder that our true home is with the Lord This is episode is for anyone who values home, legacy, and the voices that shape us.Referenced Verse: Proverbs 1:5-6Quote Highlight: "Be a good homebody." - Grandpa LuxGratitude Note: Soli Deo Gloria - All glory to God for every story shared and remembered.