BeyondU

As we close this chapter ofBeyondU, we have some bittersweet news: for now, this will be our final episode. In this special farewell, we take a moment to reflect on the incredible journey we’ve shared with you—our listeners, our guests, and our dedicated team behind the scenes.Though we’re pausing for now, the mission continues. Stay connected with us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube to revisit past episodes and keep the conversation alive. As Romans 12:2 reminds us,“Do not be conformed to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” May that transformation continue in your journey.Thank you for being part ofBeyondU!Watch episodes of BeyondU onYoutubehttps://www.okwu.edu/beyondu/Opinions expressed on BeyondU are those of the individuals and do not necessarily reflect the views of OKWU, nor are they official university statements. Mention of products or services does not imply university endorsement.

In this episode of BeyondU, we share the inspiring journey of Pol Mur, a standout student-athlete at Oklahoma Wesleyan University (OKWU). Hailing from Barcelona, Spain, Pol came to OKWU to pursue academics and play soccer. During his time here, he experienced a profound transformation in his personal faith, culminating in his baptism during a chapel service this past year. In this conversation, Pol opens up about his spiritual journey and how it has reshaped his approach to soccer and his mission to serve others. His story exemplifies the transformative power of community and faith at OKWU. See Pol's Baptism: https://youtube.com/live/JulWiKBdhXM?feature=share Watch Pol's story in chapel: https://youtube.com/live/ywszGwvseac?feature=share Opinions expressed on BeyondU are those of the individuals and do not necessarily reflect the views of OKWU, nor are they official university statements. Mention of products or services does not imply university endorsement.

In this episode we discuss the connection between the fruit of the spirit in a well formed follower of Jesus and becoming the kind of professional that doesn't have to compromise success or values. As people of faith in the workplace, where does growing in the fruit of the spirit fit into our plan for success? Or put another way, does becoming more patient, kind, gentle, or joyful have any relation to the skills and personality traits that will help you be successful? Dr. Stacey Duke, associate dean of the school of business here at OKWU and Dr. Jerome Van Kuiken, professor of christian ministry and thought, discuss integrating faith into the workplace and what role the fruit of the spirit has in our lives at work. Watch this episode on youtube: https://youtu.be/hROeGy1KiiY https://www.okwu.edu/ Opinions expressed on BeyondU are those of the individuals and do not necessarily reflect the views of OKWU, nor are they official university statements. Mention of products or services does not imply university endorsement.

Josh McNall returns to discuss intersection of theology, technology, and childhood development, particularly in light of Jonathan Haidt's book 'The Anxious Generation.' We discuss the implications of smartphone use on mental health, the importance of embodiment in theology, and practical steps for managing technology use in a faith context. Then we explore the dangers of groupthink and the concept of cultural bundling as defined by Alan Jacobs in his book "How to Think," and the significance of engaging with diverse perspectives to foster understanding and connection in a fragmented society. Chapters 00:00 The Centrality of the Body in Theology 02:47 The Impact of Technology on Childhood 06:08 Theological Reflections on Social Media 08:58 The Importance of Embodiment 11:50 Navigating Technology and Faith 15:13 Practical Steps for Healthy Technology Use 18:04 Community Support in Managing Technology Use 21:01 The Role of Paper Bibles in a Digital Age 28:04 Navigating Distractions in a Digital Age 30:31 The Impact of Technology on Adult Relationships 33:53 Groupthink and Its Dangers 36:40 Emotional Responses vs. Rational Thinking 39:32 Recognizing Echo Chambers 40:59 Cultural Bundling and Its Implications 47:07 Protecting Orthodoxy in a Fragmented World 49:28 Resisting Groupthink and Embracing Diversity https://www.okwu.edu/beyondu/

In this premiere episode of Season 3, Torrey, Ben and Aaron discuss ideas we're going to explore this season, all centered on the concept of wisdom. What is wisdom? Why are we lacking in wisdom and discernment in our culture today, and how can we grow deeper in our biblical understanding and practice of wisdom in our everyday lives? Ben and Aaron interview Dr. Richard Shaw on the topic of shame. Dr. Shaw is associate professor of Marriage, couple and family counseling at George Fox University, author of the book "Shame No More."We explore the every day aspects of how shame can keep us from a fulfilling life. With a new openness to discussing mental health in our culture, are we still missing the power of grace to reverse shame? https://www.okwu.edu/beyondu Chapters 00:00 Exploring Wisdom in Season 3 07:03 Understanding Shame with Dr. Richard Shaw 28:21 The Impact of Grace on Self-Perception and Relationships 32:29 Understanding Transformation as a Process 35:48 Starting the Journey of Healing and Repair 39:54 The Role of Relationships in Overcoming Shame 41:43 Shame as a Motivator: The Double-Edged Sword 45:35 Grace vs. Shame: A New Source of Motivation 49:10 Defining Grace: Embracing Enoughness 51:49 Resources for Further Exploration Further Resources "Shame No More" by Richard Shaw: https://www.amazon.com/Shame-No-More-Framework-Healing/dp/1944470123 Curt Thompson: https://curtthompsonmd.com/how-shame-affects-us-all-with-curt-thompson/ Lewis Smedes: https://www.amazon.com/Shame-Grace-Healing-Dont-Deserve/dp/0060675225 Brene Brown: https://brenebrown.com/articles/2013/01/15/shame-v-guilt/

In the season finale of BeyondU, our hosts get together for a roundtable conversation about this season’s discussions. They cover things that surprised them, conversations they hope to continue, and talk about some recent headlines that stand out to them. Opinions expressed on BeyondU are those of the individuals and do not necessarily reflect the views of OKWU, nor are they official university statements. Mention of products or services does not imply university endorsement.

On this week's special episode of BeyondU, you'll hear from former NASA Administrator Jim Bridenstine, who recently visited campus for a special conversation about faith and space exploration. We think you'll be inspired by his perspective on those topics as he speaks a little about his experiences working in government as a Christ-follower, space exploration, and the importance of faith to the astronauts of the Apollo program in historical moments of the space race. https://www.okwu.edu/beyondu/ Opinions expressed on BeyondU are those of the individuals and do not necessarily reflect the views of OKWU, nor are they official university statements. Mention of products or services does not imply university endorsement.

On this week’s episode of BeyondU, Dr. Josh McNall joins the show. Check out their discussion about the distinctions between doubt and dogmatism, what faith means to the younger generation of students, and the importance of imagination for Christians. Josh is the author of "Perhaps: Reclaiming the Space Between Doubt and Dogmatism." https://www.okwu.edu/beyondu/ Opinions expressed on BeyondU are those of the individuals and do not necessarily reflect the views of OKWU, nor are they official university statements. Mention of products or services does not imply university endorsement.

This week's episode of BeyondU features OKWU student leaders Audrey Hofer and Nathanel Anderberg. They join Torrey and Ben to discuss servant leadership through a Gen Z lens. What does servant leadership look like for the emerging generation joining the workforce? Chapters 00:00 Show starts 09:00 Gen Z: Challenging Misconceptions 13:45 Defining Servant Leadership 27:29 The Compassion and Mental Health Focus of Gen Z 35:00 Finish the Lyric Game - CCM edition Opinions expressed on BeyondU are those of the individuals and do not necessarily reflect the views of OKWU, nor are they official university statements. Mention of products or services does not imply university endorsement.

On this week’s episode of the BeyondU podcast, our hosts are joined by Stacey Duke, professor of business, and Aaron Bunker, the director of PATH Development. They talk through what it means to create a team atmosphere that emphasizes strengths and encourages members to discover how they operate best. Chapters 00:00 Introduction: StrengthsFinder and Team Culture 06:32 The Power of StrengthsFinder 14:31 Maximizing Team Performance with Strengths 30:00 The Value of the StrengthsFinder Assessment in Understanding and Leveraging Strengths 38:23 Avoiding Pitfalls and Maximizing the Benefits of Strengths Assessments 46:37 Recognizing the Value and Potential of Each Individual

On this week's episode of BeyondU, OKWU President Jim Dunn talks all about leadership: how to stay focused long-term, how to create a proactive and positive culture for your team, and what it means to for an organization to stay "on mission." Jim also discusses resources and tips for how to create margin and be proactive as a leader which we know you will find helpful. Chapters 00:00 Intro 01:07 Give Week Update 04:28 Jim's leadership experience 19:25 The Importance of Developing and Trusting Others 28:55 Focusing on the Mission, Not the Method 35:40 Creating Margin for Proactive Leadership 42:52 Being Part of Something Bigger https://www.okwu.edu/giveweek/

On this week's BeyondU, OKWU coaches Kirk Kelley (baseball) and Donnie Bostwick (men's basketball) join the show to talk about the impact the transfer portal is having on collegiate athletics and what coaching at a place like OKWU means to them. Consider investing in the next generation of servant leaders at Oklahoma Wesleyan University during Give Week 2024: https://www.okwu.edu/give-week

On this week’s episode of BeyondU, OKWU professor of history Julie Hufstetler to discuss this year’s Oscar nominated films Oppenheimer and Zone of Interest. Both films are set in the World War II period, and Hufstetler talks about why this period of history continues to resonate with audiences all these years later. You’ll enjoy this conversation about film and history! Chapters 00:00 Introduction 02:20 Teaching History through Storytelling 03:13 The Banality of Evil and Ordinary Perpetrators 05:31 The Appeal of Movies about History and World War II 09:27 The Importance of Visual Media in History Education 10:21 Zone of Interest: Depicting the Holocaust 13:46 The Banality of Evil and Hannah Arendt 23:39 The Power of Individual Stories 32:19 Oppenheimer: Pursuit of Scientific Achievement 39:11 Lessons from History and Human Nature 41:36 Finding Hope in Studying History 42:25 Historically Inaccurate Movies: Victoria and Pearl Harbor

We celebrate #MarchMadness as OKWU Women's Basketball Head Coach Heidi Messer joins BeyondU this week to talk about the growing support and interest in women's athletics. The conversation touches on the influence of dynamic personalities like Caitlin Clark and the impact of social media on the visibility of women's sports. Heidi also discusses the impact sport has made on her life and what led her to becoming a coach at the collegiate level. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 01:45 Coach Messer's Journey 04:30 March Madness and Bracket Talk 06:00 The Rise of Women's Basketball07:30 Influential Female Figures 09:08 Factors Contributing to the Growth of Women's Sports 11:13 The Impact of Social Media 16:20 NCAA's Impact on Small Christian Colleges 20:28 The Influence of Caitlin Clark 21:35 Advice for Players and Parents 23:39 The Discipleship Element in Coaching 28:46 The Hope in Coaching

On this week’s episode, Professor Sam Johnson joins the show to talk about the study of organizational psychology. The conversation tackles workplace culture, the psychology of today’s workers, and how employers can better understand a new generation of employees.   Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 03:06 Passion for Teaching and Psychology 06:19 Interest in Organizational Psychology 07:11 Rebounding Organizations after COVID 09:58 Changing Dynamics in the Workplace 13:08 Shift in Employee Loyalty 16:25 Managing and Mentoring Young Employees 20:14 Investing in Employees 23:39 The Role of Culture in the Workplace 25:33 Preparing Students for the Workforce 30:38 Hope for the Future Generation 32:00 Advice for Job Seekers 33:28 Advice for Employers https://www.okwu.edu/academics/undergraduate/bachelor-psychology/

Kyle White, the Vice President for Student Affairs at OKWU, discusses the importance of personal agency in mental health and how forgiveness is a critical step in moving from victimhood to empowerment. Kyle also shares his insights on the resilience and potential of college students and the ways OKWU is equipping them for the present and future. Chapters 00:00 Show starts 01:28 Kyle's background 05:03 The Importance of Responsibility in Mental Health 06:38 The Concept of Forgiveness 08:00 Labels and Identity 10:09 Barriers to Taking Agency in Mental Health 12:37 Moving from Victimhood to Empowerment 18:49 The Relationship Between God's Forgiveness and Our Ability to Forgive 23:11 Misconceptions about Gen Z/College Students 26:07 Equipping Students for the Present and Future 30:26 Hope for Students and Their Futures https://www.okwu.edu/beyondu/

In this week’s episode of BeyondU, Torrey and Ben are joined by Sandy Lynn, a professor at OKWU. Lynn teaches courses on emotional intelligence, and the three discuss the importance of emotional intelligence and how this skill is relevant for any profession. Professor Lynn has spent over thirty years in nonprofit organizations, is a certified Emotional Intelligence practitioner, and leads the Business Communication degree program at OKWU. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 03:10 Defining Emotional Intelligence 04:00 Teaching Emotional Intelligence 06:48 The Importance of Emotional Intelligence 08:13 Emotional Intelligence in Various Fields 10:00 Emotional Intelligence and Jesus' Example 11:43 Resources for Emotional Intelligence 12:57 Developing Emotional Intelligence 16:06 Overcoming Barriers to Emotional Intelligence 19:47 Engaging with Emotionally Unintelligent People 27:04 Leaders Lacking Emotional Intelligence 30:21 Hope for the Future

This week, Ben Rotz and Torrey Martin are joined by Tommy Lister, associate provost at Oklahoma Wesleyan University. They continue the discussion on AI, including some of the specific implications AI could have on higher education in the months and years to come. How can educators best implement AI into their day-to-day roles in the classroom? 00:47 Show Starts 03:21 The Impacts of AI on Higher Education 04:20 Current State and Future of AI in Education 08:04 Implications of AI for Education 12:00 Stewardship of AI in Christian Higher Education 18:05 AI's Ability to Enhance Creativity 18:57 AI's Role in Research and Resource Gathering 20:20 The Value and Limitations of AI-generated Art 21:49 Using AI to Inspire and Create 28:48 AI's Impact on Jobs  29:23 Ethical Considerations in AI and Education 31:30 Talking to Your Children about AI in Education 35:24 Hope for the Future of AI in Education Watch this episode on Youtube: https://youtu.be/uXfMuAlK5Kw

It’s been over a year since AI has come to the forefront of public conversation with the launch of Chat GPT 3. Ben and Torrey talk with Kenny Jahng, a marketing expert who consults with faith-based, cause-driven organizations and non-profits on utilizing AI for effective engagement. They discuss the recent advances in generative AI and its' impact on every aspect of work and life, what our response to AI says about our theology, and how we can change our perspective to faithfully engage and utilize this new technology. 00:00 Show starts 02:28 Introduction to Generative AI 04:19 Accessibility and Everyday Use of AI 06:16 Impact of AI on Everyday Life 08:31 AI in the Church 09:58 Navigating AI Conversations in the Church 11:24 AI as Intimidation or Innovation 12:21 Theology of AI and Divinity 13:19 Using AI Responsibly 15:16 AI in Education 18:32 AI in Higher Education 20:02 Ethical Use of AI in Education 23:19 Implementing AI Policies 26:10 Concerns and Future of AI 27:50 The Future of AI in the Church 31:28 Multimodality in AI 33:52 AI and Job Displacement 36:11 Personal Use of AI 40:18 Theology of Technology and AI

On this week’s episode of BeyondU, Ben Rotz is joined by Dr. Jerome Van Kuiken for a conversation about his latest book, spiritual scam artists, and what lessons we can learn from the early Church. You can learn more about The Judas We Never Knew: A Study on the Life and Letter of Jude here: https://my.seedbed.com/product/the-judas-we-never-knew/

Hosts Jim Dunn, Torrey Martin, and Ben Rotz kick off BeyondU Season 2 with this week's conversation. Join them as they discuss leadership in the midst of change, the future of OKWU, and what's to come in this season!  BeyondU on Youtube: https://youtu.be/nV8lJLlK05k

In the final episode of this season of BeyondU, hosts Jim Dunn, Torrey Martin, and Ben Rotz recap this season’s discussions and why they believe the mission of OKWU is so important in today’s culture! You won’t want to miss this finale! Watch this episode on Youtube: https://youtu.be/6shdq_ln0sA https://www.okwu.edu/

Dr. Brian Turner, OKWU’s professor of physics, joins Ben Rotz to discuss the relationship between faith and science and how God relates to His creation. You’ll enjoy this conversation with one of OKWU’s most-loved professors. Watch this episode on Youtube: https://youtu.be/6shdq_ln0sA https://www.okwu.edu/

Ken and Marilyn Blake join BeyondU to talk about their lives on the mission field and what it means to be obedient to the Lord’s calling. They talk about their early experiences in college, their marriage, and their journey to serve as missionaries in Europe. Watch this episode on youtube: https://youtu.be/WTIPsyn3W7I https://www.okwu.edu/news/2023/09/ken-marilyn-blake-2023-hall-of-faith/

On the latest episode of BeyondU, Leslie Clingenpeel joins Dr. Jim Dunn to talk about her work with The Spring, an organization dedicated to supporting victims of abuse, trafficking, and sexual assault. They talk about her experience and discuss practical ways others can get involved in their communities to combat these issues. This episode contains sensitive discussions of sexual abuse and human trafficking. The Spring - 24/7/365 hotline - 918-245-4075 National Human Trafficking Hotline - 1-888-373-7888 National Domestic Violence Hotline - 1-800-799-7233 thespringOK.org Watch this episode on youtube: https://youtu.be/qct1LM6G3mM

On this week's episode of BeyondU, OKWU alumnus Trevor Shakiba discusses his journey to OKWU, his success as a financial planner, why he is passionate about investing in Christian education, and what it looks like to be a parent with an eternal perspective.  00:53 - Intro 05:30 - Trevor's Background in Financial management 08:20 - Talking with your kids about Christian higher education 25:56 - Financial advice to parents 27:58 - Are we heading for recession? 31:56 - Is cryptocurrency a wise investment? 38:20 - What do people get wrong when it comes to financial planning? 43:10 - Making decisions based on things that matter Watch this conversation on our youtube channel at https://youtu.be/B_R7WCj15bo Learn more about OKWU at https://www.okwu.edu/

In this week’s BeyondU, Torrey Martin is joined by Ben Rotz, OKWU’s Associate VP for Student Development. A certified StrengthsFinder coach, Rotz talks about what it means to lead with the gifts that God has given to you and how students at OKWU are learning to step out boldly in their areas of strength. He also discusses the topic of servant leadership and what that looks like across OKWU’s campus. 00:00 - Intro 06:15 - What is strengths-based coaching? 12:45 - Freedom in a strengths based mindset 18:30 - what is P.A.T.H. coaching? 27:50 - How strengths help graduates professionally 33:30 - Transformational leadership 44:15 - Rapid fire questions

Pastor and OKWU alum Scott Stevenson joins the podcast to tell us about how his church does ministry in Scottsdale, Arizona. He discusses what he’s learned in the last seven years of ministry and how the Church can be a positive force in communities across the country. Join Torrey Martin and Scott Stevenson for a conversation about church, Gen Z, and some of the strangest weddings he’s officiated. 00:54 - Intro 01:54 - The funniest weddings Scott has officiated 07:26 - Withdrawal from The Church 11:46 - The need for community 24:30 - Dealing with "Church Hurt" 32:16 - Is the church asking too much or too little of people? 35:53 - Mental health issues in The Church 47:05 - What gives you hope?

Step into the world of esports and ministry with John Merritt, OKWU's esports program director, as he joins Torrey Martin on BeyondU. Discover the unexpected ways gaming shaped John’s life and became a platform for spreading the Gospel. Explore the evolving landscape of esports and its massive impact on today's generation. Level up on uniting passion and purpose.

Mike Wilson, an OKWU alum and lead pastor, joins President Jim Dunn in a candid conversation about calling and purpose. Explore the idea of standing for something, not just against it, as they discuss countercultural Christianity and OKWU's role in equipping young people for their unique journeys. Engage with stories that shape perspectives. 00:00 - Intro 06:35 - Mike's ministry culture and context 10:09 - Wesleyan doctrine of Optimistic Grace

In this powerful episode of BeyondU, Torrey Martin is joined by Sam Savat, a pastor and mother, as she unveils her journey of redemption from addiction to ministry. Explore the concept of living a missional life, impacting others in simple but profound ways. Tune in for a conversation that reminds us of God's grace in every chapter.

This week on BeyondU, Ethan Lewallen, a pastoral ministry major at OKWU, shares his story of transformation and baptism. Journey with us as Ethan and Torrey Martin discuss faith, growth, and the divine calling that led him to OKWU. Prepare to be inspired by a story of faith in action.

Join us for a compelling conversation on BeyondU with Dr. Jonathan Ensor, an OKWU assistant professor of Biblical studies and 4x student-voted Faculty of the Year. Delve into teaching the Bible without bias, cultivating a faith that transcends knowledge, and understanding the nuances of genuine, child-like faith. Tune in for profound insights that transform your perspective. No matter where you are on your faith journey, this week’s conversation is for you. 00:00 - Intro 06:32 - Why study the Bible? 10:13 - Validity of the Bible 18:06 - Students as "refugees of the culture wars" 30:51 - Desired outcomes for students 35:35 - Speed round

In this episode of BeyondU, we sit down with renowned leadership expert Dr. John C. Maxwell. With over 100 books on leadership and relationships, John offers wisdom on encouragement, learning from failure, and the true cost of leadership. Dive into an insightful conversation about shaping a new generation of impactful leaders.

Welcome to BeyondU! We're thrilled to kick off this journey of meaningful conversations about faith, culture, and higher education. Join President Jim Dunn and University Pastor Torrey Martin as they delve into the role of Christian education in today's world. Get ready for insightful discussions and captivating stories that ignite your curiosity and inspire your path forward.

Welcome to BeyondU, a podcast from ⁠Oklahoma Wesleyan university⁠ exploring faith, culture and higher education. As a University, we’re dedicated to developing students to Be One Sent into the world. It’s more than just degrees. It’s about embracing a life-long practice of being continually transformed in the ways we think and live. We're all about equipping spiritual discerners, servant leaders, and compassionate individuals who thrive in every aspect of life, wherever God leads.  We think there’s a crucial conversation to have about the purpose of higher education, the role of faith in our everyday lives, and the ways that these two are often in conflict in our society.   What does it mean to become a faithful scholar or a servant leader? What does it mean to live “on mission” in the workplace? How do we find solutions to cultural issues with wisdom, truth, and grace?   Join us for candid conversations with a range of people in the OKWU community who are exploring these questions with us, from students, to professors, to alumni, to professionals that we see making a faithful impact in the world.  Season one begins August 23rd with new episodes every Wednesday. Subscribe and listen on Spotify.  BeyondU – Exploring faith, culture, and higher education.  Watch full episodes on ⁠youtube⁠. ⁠https://www.okwu.edu/beyondu⁠