Lifework Podcast

In this LifeWork Podcast episode, host Dr. Stan Norman sits down with Belina Dulaney, Assistant Professor of Natural Sciences – Mathematics at Williams Baptist University, to explore how God uses numbers, work, and hardship to shape a calling. From growing up in a single–parent home in small–town Arkansas to becoming a valedictorian with 52 college credit hours and eventually a college math professor, Belina shares how her mother’s unwavering work ethic and faith created a culture of consistency, integrity, and perseverance in their family.Mrs. Dulaney opens up about becoming pregnant at 15, the loneliness that followed, and how the unconditional love she experienced from her mother and her church family became the crucible where her trust in Christ became real. She and Dr. Norman talk candidly about disappointment, expectations, and what it means when someone tells you, “You were almost perfect,” and how God meets us when our image of perfection collapses.The conversation also dives into why so many people have a negative experience with math, why she jokes that she teaches “all the math,” and how she helps students see that “everybody does math every day” and that creation itself reflects a God who is a kind of mathematician. This episode will encourage anyone who has wrestled with failure, felt written off by others, or wondered how their work, their story, and even their struggles can be used by God in His larger equation for their life.

In Part 2 of this Lifework conversation, host Dr. Stan Norman picks up Dr. Trevor Babcock’s story right where the cliffhanger left off: a clear, lifelong plan to become a chemical engineer—and the slow-motion collapse of that plan in the real world of co-op work, panic attacks, and an unexpected loss of desire for the career he had built his identity around. Trevor describes how God used that work experience not to confirm his calling, but to clarify that engineering was not it, leading him through psychology and, finally, into an English degree that fit his loves more than his family legacy did.From there, Trevor walks through a winding path of substitute teaching (including the one memorable job he was fired from), a move to New York City and graduate school at NYU, and a season of spiritual drift in the “big, crowded, lonely” city that culminated in a shocking cancer diagnosis discovered only because he was worried about the health consequences of his own bad choices. He reflects on how God used that lowest point—his worst behavior and deepest rebellion—to literally save his life, reshaping his view of God’s providence, anxiety, and control.Trevor then traces how “just do the next right thing” became his practical theology of calling: adjunct teaching in Texas during the recession, a PhD at Indiana University, and eventually a faculty role at Williams Baptist University, all discerned not by dramatic signs but by biblical wisdom, community, prayer, and ordinary obedience. Finally, he opens a window into his day-to-day vocation in the classroom—using world literature, Augustine, Boethius, and Shakespeare’s Hamlet to talk about virtue, suffering, depression, and hope—and explains how sharing his own story of darkness and redemption helps students see that they are not alone and that God can also work through their pain to shape their lifework

In this first part of a two-episode conversation, Lifework host Dr. Stan Norman sits down with Williams Baptist University English professor Dr. Trevor Babcock to trace the unlikely path that shaped his calling and character. From a childhood that bounced between Kentucky, Cincinnati, and the suburbs of Sacramento, to a home marked by Naval Academy discipline on one side and pastoral ministry on the other, Trevor reflects on how family, frequent moves, and church life quietly formed his view of work, faith, and responsibility.Trevor candidly revisits the darkest season of his adolescence—an isolating mid–seventh grade move back to snowy Cincinnati, deep depression, and even getting kicked out of his church youth group—and explains why, even as a cancer survivor, he still calls that winter the worst experience of his life. He then shares how God “turned the lights on” at a Young Life camp before his freshman year, transforming a sullen, self-loathing “little goth boy” into a student leader eager to bring others to Christ.Along the way, listeners get a glimpse into the Naval Academy–shaped work ethic of his father, the quiet, faithful labor of his stay-at-home mom, and the early clarity that he was destined to follow the family engineering legacy—even as God was preparing to redirect his gifts toward the classroom and the study of literature. This episode sets the stage for part two, where Dr. Babcock’s story moves from chemical engineering dreams to an unexpected vocation in English and Christian higher education.

In this second conversation with Coach John Mayberry, Dr. Stan Norman explores how God redirected a plan that once pointed toward North Texas and college soccer into a life of ministry through Christian higher education and basketball at Williams. Coach Mayberry traces the unlikely path from Foot Locker management, to working in recycling, to a last‑minute trip to Williams Baptist University that made it clear he was supposed to be here.He shares why he majored in Christian ministries, how God shifted his calling from traditional youth ministry into college students, admissions, and coaching, and how serving as an admissions counselor and assistant coach prepared him to lead the Lady Eagles.Mayberry unpacks his theology of calling and work, why he wants players to see him first as a Christian husband, father, and man of integrity, and how he prays specifically for the players God wants him to coach—not just the ones with the best stats. This episode is a clear picture of what lifework looks like when you trust that the Lord’s plan is bigger than your own.

In this episode of the Lifework Podcast, Dr. Stan Norman sits down with Coach John Mayberry, head coach of the Williams Baptist Lady Eagles, to trace an unlikely journey from inner-city Hot Springs, Arkansas to the sidelines in Walnut Ridge. Coach Mayberry shares stories of growing up in a blue-collar home, learning the value of hard work from a dad who never complained and a mom who logged 30+ years at the hospital.He talks about church buses, zebra cakes, and a youth pastor with a basketball goal who introduced him both to the game and to a clear presentation of the gospel that led to his conversion in high school. You’ll hear how he fell in love with basketball late, honed his game in gyms all over Hot Springs, and eventually found his way to Williams, first as a student–athlete and now as the head women’s coach.This conversation is a rich picture of lifework—how God uses family, work ethic, church, and sport to shape a calling that serves student–athletes today.

In this second conversation with Williams Baptist University head men’s basketball coach Josh Austin, host Dr. Stan Norman picks up the story right where Part 1 left off—at the moment when faith moved from the margins of Josh’s life to the center of his calling. Josh shares how a hard sophomore season, a stairwell conversation with a stranger, and a renewed hunger for God’s Word reshaped his priorities, redirected his dreams of the NBA, and clarified his desire to use coaching as a platform for ministry rather than just a pathway to wins and summers off.From there, the conversation turns to calling, mentors, and the long obedience of showing up: Josh talks about the coaches who formed him, the step of faith that took him from unpaid volunteer to 24-year-old interim head coach, and the surprising way God “kicked him through” an open door into college coaching leadership. He also reflects on how God eventually led him and his family to Williams, giving them a deep sense of peace that this small campus in Northeast Arkansas was the place they were meant to plant their lives and ministry.Josh and Dr. Norman then walk through one of the hardest vocational seasons of his career—a year of losses, culture challenges, and discouragement on the court—and how passages like Galatians 6 taught him not to “grow weary in doing good” even when the scoreboard said otherwise. Josh explains his coaching philosophy, why he believes every player is wired to want to win, and how he is working with team chaplain Pastor Jamar to help young men find their true identity in Christ rather than in minutes, stats, or results.The episode concludes with a deeply personal story of loss and community: Josh recounts the night his family received a 1:30 a.m. phone call that their campus home in the Cove was on fire, what it was like to FaceTime while watching their house burn, and how returning to a smoke-damaged home and a daughter’s ruined bedroom became a classroom of grace. Through the hands and feet of the Williams community—housing, practical care, and presence—Josh and his family experienced what it means for the body of Christ to carry one another’s burdens, and how God often uses trials not only to sustain us, but to prepare us to comfort others with the comfort we have received.If you are a coach, parent, student-athlete, or anyone wrestling with calling in a season that feels more like loss than victory, this episode will help you see how God can redeem disappointing seasons, redirect ambitions, and use even house fires and hard years to deepen trust, shape character, and reframe what it really means to “win” in Christ.

In this Lifework Podcast episode, Dr. Stan Norman sits down with Williams Baptist University head men’s basketball coach Josh Austin to trace how a small-town Arkansas upbringing, an IT-dad and jeans-factory-mom, and Saturdays filled with yard work—not screens—forged his relentless work ethic. Coach Austin shares stories from Magnet Cove, from spotlighting deer and folding Arizona jeans to getting pancaked by a future D‑end standout, and reflects on how his parents’ expectation-driven home and ag-style grit taught him that “winning” is a daily process, not just a final score. He also opens up about coming to faith as a boy on a back road in Wicks, Arkansas, how his mom quietly explained the gospel in a 1976 Ford pickup, and how that moment planted a relationship with Christ that would later deepen in college and ultimately shape his vocation as a Christian coach.

In Part 2 of their conversation, WBU President Dr. Stan Norman sits back down with Head Softball Coach Jessica Nutt to explore how God used closed doors, unanswered job applications, and long seasons of waiting to clarify her calling to coach. Drawing from her time at Kids Across America, in the classroom, and on the field, Jessica shares how relationships, not résumés, helped her see that investing in students through sport was exactly where the Lord wanted her. Today, she leads a 32-player program at Williams Baptist University shaped by the team hashtag “#FIGHT”—with “fight for Christ” at the center—and a culture where who you are matters more than your stats. Jessica talks candidly about learning it’s okay not to be okay, why how you treat people really does matter, and how mentors and former players have reminded her that coaching is a ministry of impact and gratitude, not just wins and losses.

In this episode of the Lifework Podcast, Williams Baptist University President Dr. Stan Norman sits down with Head Softball Coach Jessica Nutt to trace her journey from a sports‑saturated childhood in Bolivar, Missouri, to leading the Lady Eagles on the field at WBU. Coach Nutt shares how growing up in a tight-knit, church‑centered family at First Baptist Bolivar and coming to faith in Christ in fifth or sixth grade laid the foundation for her view of work, calling, and competition. She reflects on sibling rivalry with her identical twin, learning that relationships and how you treat people truly matter, and how distance in college helped transform conflict into deep, supportive family bonds.Listeners will hear how a major “failure” in a high school CNA program closed the door on her dream of becoming a trauma surgeon and unexpectedly redirected her toward college softball, coaching, and eventually a career investing in young women. Coach Nutt explains why she tells recruits not to let a test score define them, how God’s plan is often better than the one we script for ourselves, and why she’s convinced she is right where she’s supposed to be—using softball as a platform to shape lives for Christ on and off the field.

In this second part of their conversation, WBU President Dr. Stan Norman sits back down with Director of Athletics Mitch Mathis to trace how a winding coaching career became a clear sense of calling and ministry. Coach Mathis shares how God used closed doors, hard seasons, and unexpected moves—from small-town Arkansas to inner-city Houston and back—to shape his heart for students, coaches, and families. He reflects on the mentors and “God-appointments” that marked his journey, the role of prayer in navigating divorce, transition, and leadership, and how he now understands athletic administration as coaching the coaches and pastoring the people God has placed in his path. Whether you serve on the field, in the classroom, or in the marketplace, this episode invites you to see your own work as ministry and your career as a canvas for God’s faithful, guiding hand.

WBU President Dr. Stan Norman talks with Athletic Director Mitch Mathis about how a blue-collar childhood in Pine Bluff, a catcher’s grind on the baseball field, and a winding spiritual journey shaped his work ethic, leadership, and calling in athletics.In this first part of a two-episode conversation, WBU President Dr. Stan Norman sits down with Williams Baptist University Director of Athletics, Mitch Mathis, to trace the early story behind his calling, character, and career. Growing up in Pine Bluff in a hardworking, blue-collar home, Mitch shares how watching his father log timber, serve as a command sergeant major in the National Guard, and “fix” struggling units—and seeing his mother care for people as a hospital social worker—formed his understanding of work, responsibility, and leadership. He reflects on early jobs from candy striper to construction laborer, the blisters that tested his grit, and the expectation that if you took a job, you owed your boss a full day’s work.Mitch also unpacks his spiritual journey: coming to faith as a 10-year-old during Vacation Bible School, drifting in the demanding rhythm of college baseball at Arkansas State, and later returning to church as a young husband and father who wanted his kids rooted in the local body. Along the way, he tells the story of how a Little League coach helped him fall in love with catching, why he walked on at ASU without even knowing where Jonesboro was, and how one unforgettable Senior Day game against Memphis became the perfect ending to his playing career. Candid and down-to-earth, this episode lays the groundwork for Part 2, where Mitch and Dr. Norman will explore calling, coaching, and how God orchestrates a life of service through athletics.

What do you do when the calling you thought would define your life runs straight into the brick wall of real ministry hurt? In this episode of the LifeWork Podcast, we listen in as WBU president Dr. Stan Norman sits down with former worship guitarist and once–full-time pastor, now digital recruiting coordinator, Bill Jeffery. Bill opens up about chasing the dream of professional music, stepping into local church ministry with big expectations, and then hitting rough waters—disappointment, confusion, and the grief of watching a long–imagined future fall apart.Through honest stories and hard-won insight, Bill and Dr. Norman wrestle with what calling really means when your plans die, doors close, and “ministry” no longer looks like a church office or a title. They explore how God meets us in vocational wreckage, how He retools our gifts for new settings, and why serving in Christian higher education can be just as spiritually weighty as standing behind a pulpit. If you’ve ever wondered, “Did I miss my calling?” or felt burned by ministry but still hungry to be used by God, this conversation will help you see your detours as part of His design, not the end of your story.

In this first part of a two-episode conversation, we turn the spotlight behind the scenes to hear the story of Bill Jeffery—the voice you usually don’t hear, but the one shaping many of the stories told through the LifeWork Podcast.Bill reflects on growing up in a divided home, encountering faith for the first time as a teenager, and finding refuge in church, music, and meaningful relationships during seasons of uncertainty and hardship. From small-town Arkansas to late-night conversations that clarified his calling, this episode explores how God uses disruption, disappointment, and unexpected mentors to form a life of purpose.This conversation isn’t about a polished testimony—it’s about formation. About how calling often takes shape long before clarity arrives.Part two continues the story, tracing how these early years eventually led Bill to Williams Baptist University and the work he now does behind the camera.

In this second conversation with Laquietta Stewart, Dean of Students at Williams Baptist University, host Dr. Stan Norman explores how God used nearly three decades in public education, school counseling, and coaching to prepare her for her current role at Williams.Laquietta reflects on discovering her calling as a high school counselor, walking with students through grief and big decisions, and learning to lead with both truth and grace. She shares how marriage to her husband Matt, renewed involvement in the local church, and years of mentoring students and fellow counselors eventually converged into a clear sense of God’s leading to “come home” to Williams as Dean of Students.Together, Dr. Norman and Laquietta talk about redemptive discipline, forming student leaders, and their shared prayer for spiritual revival on campus—asking God to deepen prayer, purpose, and Christian community in the life and work of Williams.

In this episode of the LifeWork Podcast, host Dr. Stan Norman is joined by Laquietta Stewart, Dean of Students at Williams Baptist University, for a wide-ranging conversation about faith, leadership, and the long work of formation.Laquietta shares her story growing up in small-town Arkansas, coming to faith through the influence of a local church community, and navigating college as a first-generation student and student-athlete at Williams. From learning how to study and persevere through challenges, to holding the school record for rebounds and discovering a calling to serve students, she reflects honestly on seasons of growth, struggle, and God’s patient work over time.This episode explores how leadership is shaped not in a single moment, but through perseverance, relationships, and learning to stay the course—both in faith and in life’s work.

Dr. Robert Foster has a confession: he hates “The Little Drummer Boy.”In this special Christmas episode of the LifeWork Podcast, Dr. Stan Norman continues his conversation with Dr. Foster by uncovering a long-running (and legendary) faculty controversy. But what starts as a humorous takedown of a beloved Christmas song quickly turns into something far more meaningful.Dr. Foster explains why fictional additions like the Little Drummer Boy often overshadow the real people God chose to highlight in the Christmas story—figures like Mary, Simeon, and Anna, whose lives were marked by obedience, waiting, hope, and faithfulness over time. Together, they explore Luke 2, the power of God’s promises kept, and why Christmas is less about noise and spectacle and more about quiet trust, delayed gratification, and hope rooted in God’s faithfulness.This episode is both lighthearted and deeply reflective—an invitation to rediscover the wonder of Christmas by returning to the biblical story and remembering that God delivers on His promises… without a drumbeat.

What if your calling didn’t begin with a single dramatic moment—but with a lifetime of faithful work, community influence, and God quietly weaving it all together?In this episode of the LifeWork Podcast, Dr. Stan Norman sits down with Dr. Robert Foster to explore the formative experiences that shaped his life, faith, and vocation. From growing up in a hardworking Oklahoma family, to encountering Christ at Falls Creek, to sensing a call to ministry through the steady voices of a local church community, Dr. Foster reflects on how God uses work, relationships, and lived experience to guide us toward our purpose.Along the way, he shares stories of early jobs, influential mentors, and the churches and teachers who helped him discern God’s direction—reminding us that God wastes no life experience. This conversation is especially meaningful for students wrestling with questions of calling, ministry, and what it means to live faithfully in their life’s work.This is part one of a two-part conversation with Dr. Foster, setting the foundation for how calling is discovered, confirmed, and lived out over time.

In Part 2, we continue Heather Parson’s incredible journey—moving from her college decision at WBU to a series of unexpected pivots that shaped her vocation.Heather recounts choosing Williams when it made no logical sense on paper, discovering a love for finance, leading a pregnancy resource center at age 22, navigating nonprofit leadership, earning her MBA in Finance, and walking through emotionally demanding ministry roles that deepened her dependence on the Lord.She shares the surprising way God called her into education—something she once resisted—and how He eventually led her back to Williams, where she discovered her true vocational sweet spot: teaching, mentoring, and shaping future business leaders through Christ-centered instruction.Heather also reflects on motherhood, stewardship, and the lifelong lesson she now gives to her younger self: Trust the Lord. If you haven’t heard Part 1 yet, go back and listen—this episode completes the story in a deeply meaningful way.

In Part 1 of this two-episode conversation, host Dr. Stan Norman sits down with Heather Parson—Assistant Professor of Business and Chair of the Department of Business at Williams Baptist University—to explore the remarkable story behind her calling.Heather opens up about growing up in an agricultural community, her father’s near-death accident, years of financial hardship, and the ways God provided through the kindness of His people. She reflects on working from a young age, the pivotal educators who redirected her life, and the seeds of faith planted long before she fully understood God’s plan.This episode traces the foundations of Heather’s spiritual journey—one marked by resilience, providence, and a God who was “never early but always on time.” A powerful beginning to a story that reveals how the Lord uses every chapter to shape a life of purpose.

In part two of our conversation, Dr. Ruth Provost returns to the Lifework Podcast to look more closely at her vocational journey—especially how God led her back to Williams and ultimately into academic leadership.Host Dr. Stan Norman asks Ruth to unpack the “heavenly call” that accompanied an unexpected job offer, the holy restlessness that marked much of her young adulthood, and the incredible peace she experienced when she finally arrived at the place God intended to be her home.Dr. Provost shares the internal wrestling she felt when first encouraged to apply for the position of Academic Dean, the wise counsel that confirmed God’s leading, and how surrendering her will opened the door to a new season of joyful, meaningful work.Drawing on insights from The Gospel at Work and her own years of mentoring students, she offers practical wisdom for anyone struggling with questions of calling: how to discern God’s prompting, how to take faithful next steps, and how to trust that God wastes no life experience.A thoughtful, encouraging episode for students, leaders, and anyone learning to follow God’s direction with open hands.

In this deeply personal episode of the Lifework Podcast, host Dr. Stan Norman sits down with Dr. Ruth Provost, Vice President for Academic Affairs at Williams Baptist University, to explore the surprising and Spirit-led journey that shaped her calling.Dr. Provost shares her remarkable upbringing as a missionary kid in Yemen, Cyprus, and Jordan—where faith was lived out through quiet service, compassionate action, and the simple witness of love. She reflects on homeschooling in the Middle East, attending boarding school in Germany, her unexpected shift from English major to psychology, and the moment she discovered her “thing”: teaching.With warmth and humility, she unpacks how God used her parents, her passions, and her unique life experiences to direct her steps—even when she didn’t know where “home” really was. This episode offers a powerful reminder that God shapes our vocation through every chapter of our story, and that obedience—one step at a time—reveals His faithfulness.A rich conversation for anyone discerning calling, identity, and direction.

In part two, Dr. Broussard opens up about the night everything changed — when a revival led him to true faith in Christ and a deeper calling to serve through music and teaching. Hear how God transformed his life and vocation, leading him from the choir loft to the classroom, and why he believes that all meaningful work begins with surrender.

In part one of this two-part conversation, Dr. Stan Norman talks with Dr. Trent Broussard, Chair of Fine Arts and Director of Choral Activities at Williams Baptist University. From his childhood in Fort Smith to discovering his love for music, Dr. Broussard shares how his parents’ work ethic and a heart for song shaped his understanding of calling, character, and the joy of doing work that glorifies God.

In Part 2 of our conversation with Melinda Williams, Assistant Professor of Communication Arts and Director of the Liberal Arts Program at Williams Baptist University, we explore how faith and calling intersect through theater, education, and even cattle raising. Melinda shares how she views the stage as a mission field for sharing Christian values, how she helps students find their voice and purpose through creativity, and how she and her husband invest in the next generation through their Shorthorn cattle farm. Her reflections remind us that true success isn’t measured by status or income, but by loving God, loving others, and living out the calling He’s placed on your life.

In this first part of our conversation with Melinda Williams, Assistant Professor of Communication Arts and Director of the Liberal Arts Program at Williams Baptist University, we explore how God uses ordinary moments to reveal extraordinary purpose.Growing up in Walnut Ridge, Melinda gave her life to Christ at just nine years old. Initially shy and unsure of her future, she was encouraged by her high school theater teacher to step onto the stage — an experience that changed her life forever. From her early days as an admissions counselor to over 40 years of teaching, Melinda has witnessed God’s hand guiding every step of her journey.Her story is one of faith, transformation, and obedience — a reminder that God’s calling often unfolds in unexpected ways.

In part two of our conversation with Luke Colley, we trace his journey from youth ministry to nearly two decades in banking and then back to Williams Baptist University. Luke wrestles honestly with questions like “Does God ever un-call us?” and shares how he learned to see every workplace—whether a teller line, a boardroom, or a college campus—as a place to follow Christ and serve others.Hear how faith shaped his leadership, why he built his career on “small loans with big impact,” and how returning to WBU revealed a deeper purpose behind the work we do. If you’ve ever wondered whether your 9-to-5 can be ministry, this episode will give you fresh hope that all good work can be worship.📆 Don’t miss our next Preview Day: Friday, Oct 24 📍 Catch us at the Arkansas Baptist State Convention: Oct 21-22 — stop by the WBU booth to say hi!

Season 2 Episode 5 of the LifeWork Podcast takes listeners back to the roots of Luke Colley—WBU alumnus (’02) and now Vice President for University Advancement & Business Development at Williams.Luke shares stories of growing up in Fort Worth and Clarksville, AR—learning integrity from a third-shift dad who never stopped working, steadiness from a mother who kept the household thriving, and the lessons of his first jobs in a peach orchard and a small-town grocery store.This episode invites students, parents, and alumni alike to see how character is formed in the everyday—and how finding your place in God’s mission can begin long before you choose a career.

Dr. Melissa Davis, Agri-Business Professor at Williams Baptist University, shares how her journey from a small town in Tennessee led to launching a new agribusiness program at Williams. Drawing inspiration from Dorothy Sayers’ classic essay “Why Work,” Dr. Davis explores work’s intrinsic and instrumental value—showing how it can be both a livelihood and a calling aligned with God’s greater plan.She discusses the program’s unique blend of small class sizes, hands-on learning, and real-world engagement through greenhouses, farms, and processing facilities, as well as its rare place among private Christian universities. With a passion for raising up well-rounded agricultural leaders, Dr. Davis invites students from all backgrounds to explore how work can fulfill purpose, serve others, and transform communities.Preview Day: https://williamsbu.edu/previewApply Now: https://williamsbu.edu/application/

Charlie Kirk’s assassination has shaken a family, a nation, and the world of higher education. In this special episode of the LifeWork Podcast, we reflect on the grief of his wife and children, the trauma witnessed by students on a university campus, and the questions this tragedy raises about justice, freedom, and the kind of people we are becoming. From a Christian perspective, we explore what it means to live faithfully in a broken world and to prepare leaders who will walk through doors of opportunity with conviction, even when hostility awaits. At Williams Baptist University, our mission remains clear: to cultivate Christ-centered leaders who will make a difference through their life work.

From Rural Roots to Global Impact: Dr. Melissa Davis on Agriculture and Calling On this episode of the Lifework Podcast, host Dr. Stan Norman talks with Dr. Melissa Davis, a new agribusiness professor at Williams Baptist University.Growing up in the rural farming community of Eads, Tennessee, Dr. Davis originally planned to major in psychology—until a class debate on land preservation sparked a passion for environmental science. She set out to become a park ranger, but after 9/11 cut the funding for her job, she pivoted to parks and recreation work and eventually discovered a love for teaching and research. Encouraged by a mentor, she entered a direct PhD program in plant pathology at Virginia Tech, where she conducted field research on plant diseases and taught biology for three years.Now at Williams, Dr. Davis is driven to prepare the next generation of agribusiness leaders—helping students see that agriculture isn’t just a career, but a calling with the power to nourish communities and sustain the world’s food supply.

Dr. Stan Norman is joined by Dr. Mike Fox, Associate Professor of Christian Ministries at Williams Baptist University, for a conversation about how biblical wisdom shapes the way we work and live. Drawing from Proverbs, Job, Ecclesiastes, and Song of Songs, Dr. Fox explores how the fear of the Lord forms the foundation for a faithful work ethic—and how cutting corners leads us off the path of wisdom. This episode is a reminder that our work and our calling are inseparable from our worship, and that God’s wisdom can transform not only our careers, but our lives.

Season 2 of the Lifework Podcast launches with a fresh new direction. Host Dr. Stan Norman, president of Williams Baptist University, sits down with Dr. Mike Fox—alumnus, pastor, and professor of Christian Ministries—to talk about the surprising path from a cabin in Moody Hollow to the classroom and pulpit.In this episode, Dr. Fox shares his early work experiences, the mentors who shaped his journey, and how God wastes no life experience. Together, he and Dr. Norman explore what it means to discover calling, endure hardship, and see every job—whether on a farm, a construction site, or a classroom—as a stage for God’s providence.This is more than a conversation about career. It’s a story of how ordinary work shapes extraordinary purpose.

In this thought-provoking episode of The Lifework Podcast, Dr. Stan Norman and Academic Dean Dr. Rhyne Putman tackle one of the most pervasive challenges in today’s workforce—the struggle to work faithfully. From employees doing the bare minimum to students using AI to avoid real effort, the modern workplace (and classroom) is filled with "thorns and thistles" that distort God’s design for labor.Join the conversation as they explore:Why doing the minimum (or cheating) fails to honor GodThe rise of AI and the temptation to bypass real workBiblical wisdom on diligence, idleness, and work-life balanceHow leaders and workers can model a faithful work ethicDrawing from Scripture (Colossians 3:23, 2 Thessalonians 3) and real-world examples, this episode offers both a sobering diagnosis and a hopeful path forward for Christians who want their work—whether in school, career, or ministry—to reflect wholehearted devotion to Christ.Listen now and rediscover what it means to labor as unto the Lord in a culture that often resists it.

In this episode of The Lifework Podcast, Dr. Stan Norman and Dr. Rhyne Putman of Williams Baptist University dive into the biblical perspective on work in a fallen world. Drawing from Genesis 3 and the story of Cain and Abel, they explore how sin manifests in the workplace—through temptation, difficult relationships, and misplaced motivations.Key discussion points include:How faith transforms our work into worshipThe dangers of working for self-glory rather than God’s gloryPractical ways to align your work with biblical principles, no matter your vocationInsights from Colossians 3 on serving the Lord in every taskHow to find joy and purpose in work, even amid thorns and thistlesWhether you’re a factory worker, farmer, healthcare professional, or corporate leader, this conversation offers wisdom for honoring Christ in your daily labor. Tune in for a thoughtful exploration of work, faith, and eternal perspective!Listen now and reimagine your work as an act of worship.

In this episode of The Lifework Podcast, Dr. Stan Norman and Dr. Rhyne Putman pick up where they left off last week as they explore the profound impact of the Fall on human labor—from the idyllic work of Eden to the sweat and toil of a broken world. Drawing from Genesis 3 and Revelation 22, they discuss how thorns and thistles symbolize not just physical hardship but also the spiritual and emotional struggles we face in our daily work.Yet, there’s hope! The conversation turns to the redemptive power of Christ, who transforms our labor even in a fallen world. How does the gospel reshape our perspective on frustration, legacy, and purpose? And what does eternity reveal about God’s ultimate restoration of work?With deep theological insight, unexpected tangents (including Rocky IV and manna in the wilderness), and a dose of humor, this episode offers both realism and encouragement for anyone wrestling with the challenges—and joys—of work under the sun.Subscribe to The Lifework Podcast for more conversations on faith, calling, and the biblical vision for work.Join us for the upcoming Accepted Students Day on May 22, 2025Sign Up Here: https://williamsbu.edu/registration/Applying at WBU is Free! https://williamsbu.edu/application/

In this episode of the Lifework Podcast, Dr. Stan Norman and Dr. Rhyne Putman dive into the challenges of work in a world marked by the Fall. Drawing from Genesis 3, they explore how sin has impacted labor, productivity, and our daily struggles in the workplace. From humorous anecdotes to deep theological reflections, they discuss how followers of Christ can find purpose, perseverance, and even redemption amid thorns and thistles. Whether you're frustrated with your job or seeking a biblical perspective on work, this conversation offers wisdom, encouragement, and a few unexpected pop culture references along the way.Join the conversation as we navigate the complexities of work under the curse—and discover hope in the midst of the struggle.Key Topics:- The biblical theology of work post-Fall- How sin affects our labor and expectations- Finding contentment and purpose in difficult workplaces- The tension between human effort and divine redemptionSubscribe to the Lifework Podcast for more discussions on faith, work, and culture!Join us for the upcoming Accepted Students Day on May 22, 2025Sign Up Here: https://williamsbu.edu/registration/Applying at WBU is Free! https://williamsbu.edu/application/

What if students could graduate debt-free by working real jobs while earning their degree? That’s exactly what’s happening at Williams Baptist University! In this episode, we dive into the Williams Works program—where students take on roles in agriculture, business, and even high-tech industries to fund their education. Join us as we discuss how this model is changing lives and preparing students for success.Tune in for practical wisdom on aligning work with God’s design and visit williamsbu.edu/lifeworkpodcast to explore how Williams Works is transforming education, one student at a time.

What does it mean to truly cultivate Christ-centered leaders? In this episode of the LifeWork Podcast, Drs. Norman and Putman dive deep into the heart of Williams Baptist University’s mission—how it was shaped, why it matters, and how it guides everything from student life to career development. Join them as they discuss the power of a clear, impactful mission statement, the Williams Works initiative, and how faith-driven leadership makes an eternal difference in every field. Whether you’re a student, educator, or leader, this conversation will inspire you to see your work as more than a job—it’s a calling.Tune in for practical wisdom on aligning work with God’s design and visit williamsbu.edu/lifeworkpodcast to explore how Williams Works is transforming education, one student at a time.

In this enlightening episode of the Lifework Podcast, join hosts Dr. Stan Norman, President of Williams Baptist University, and Dr. Rhyne Putman, Vice-President of Academic Affairs, as they delve into the groundbreaking Williams Works initiative. Launched in 2020, this program redefines Christian higher education by combining affordability with a mission to instill a Christ-centered work ethic. Discover how students like Alex Cole are graduating with minimal debt while gaining hands-on experience that bridges classroom learning, vocational skills, and biblical truth.Drs. Norman and Putman explore the spiritual urgency of restoring a theology of work in a generation grappling with purpose, sharing stories of how Williams Works cultivates leaders who integrate faith, discipline, and service. From tractors to classrooms, learn why this initiative is reviving the university’s historic DNA and equipping students to thrive in their careers—and their callings.Tune in for practical wisdom on aligning work with God’s design and visit williamsbu.edu/lifeworkpodcast to explore how Williams Works is transforming education, one student at a time.

What if your job was more than just a daily grind? This episode dives into the journey of discovering purpose in your work by understanding how God shapes our desires, talents, and opportunities. Whether you’re searching for direction or struggling with career uncertainty, this conversation will offer guidance, encouragement, and biblical wisdom.__Learn more about Williams Works and the opportunity to earn your education instead of paying for it! https://williamsbu.edu/debt-free-degree/Applying is always free at WBU: https://williamsbu.edu/application/

What does it really mean to follow Jesus? In this episode, we explore the moment when Jesus calls His first disciples, asking them to leave everything behind. What can we learn from their immediate response, and how does this call apply to our lives today?__Learn more about Williams Works and the opportunity to earn your education instead of paying for it! https://williamsbu.edu/debt-free-degree/Applying is always free at WBU: https://williamsbu.edu/application/

Have you ever asked, “God, what do you want me to do with my life?” You’re not alone. In this episode of The LifeWork Podcast, Dr. Stan Norman takes us through his journey of discovering his calling—from reluctant beginnings to leading in Christian higher education. His story is filled with lessons on faith, obedience, and the unexpected ways God refines our purpose. If you’ve ever struggled with doubt about your career, ministry, or life’s direction, this episode is for you.__Learn more about Williams Works and the opportunity to earn your education instead of paying for it! https://williamsbu.edu/debt-free-degree/Applying is always free at WBU: https://williamsbu.edu/application/

In this episode of The LifeWork Podcast, Dr. Rhyne Putman shares his personal journey of discovering purpose and calling. From growing up in a preacher’s home to wrestling with different career paths—including film—and ultimately finding his passion in teaching and theology, Rhyne's story is one of faith, growth, and divine direction. Through candid reflections and personal experiences, this episode offers encouragement for anyone seeking to align their work with God’s purpose. Tune in for an inspiring conversation on how calling unfolds over time!__Learn more about Williams Works and the opportunity to earn your education instead of paying for it! https://williamsbu.edu/debt-free-degree/Applying is always free at WBU: https://williamsbu.edu/application/

Many claim to love Jesus but see no need for a local church, believing faith is personal or that the “universal church” is enough. However, Scripture teaches that Christianity is meant to be lived in community. Dr. Norman and Dr. Putman challenges “Lone Ranger Christianity” by exploring the biblical meaning of ekklesia, the “called-out ones.” Addressing objections like hypocrisy and private faith, they highlight how spiritual growth, accountability, and the use of gifts require a local body. It also examines how church life shapes work life and discipleship. For those questioning if following Jesus requires commitment to a church, this episode offers a clear biblical answer.__Learn more about Williams Works and the opportunity to earn your education instead of paying for it! https://williamsbu.edu/debt-free-degree/Applying is always free at WBU: https://williamsbu.edu/application/

Genesis lays out a divine blueprint for life, where work, worship, and family are intertwined. In this episode, Dr. Norman and Dr. Putman examine the creation account and its profound implications for how we live and relate to one another. They explore the interplay between vocation and relationships, emphasizing the role of family as the first context for fulfilling God’s cultural mandate. The discussion dives into how the husband-wife partnership and parent-child relationship are designed to glorify God through shared work, worship, and stewardship.__Learn more about Williams Works and the opportunity to earn your education instead of paying for it! https://williamsbu.edu/debt-free-degree/Applying is always free at WBU: https://williamsbu.edu/application/

In this episode of The LifeWork Podcast, Dr. Stan Norman and  Dr. Rhyne Putman dive into the story of Gideon from Judges 6, unpacking the transformative power of God’s calling. They discuss the difference between primary calling—a relationship with God—and secondary calling, where God equips us for specific tasks and vocations. Through Gideon’s journey from doubt and insecurity to faith-driven action, they highlight how God meets us in our weakest moments, challenges us to trust Him, and works through our lives in unexpected ways. This conversation offers encouragement and practical wisdom for embracing both faith and purpose in the workplace and beyond__Learn more about Williams Works and the opportunity to earn your education instead of paying for it! https://williamsbu.edu/debt-free-degree/Applying is always free at WBU: https://williamsbu.edu/application/

In this New Year episode, Dr. Rhyne Putman and Dr. Stan Norman reflect on the joy of winter and the promise of new beginnings. They explore the concept of “calling,” starting with the most significant one: a primary calling to follow God. Drawing from Matthew 4 and broader biblical insights, they discuss how this foundational calling shapes a purposeful life and informs all other callings, such as vocation and relationships. If you’ve ever wondered about the deeper meaning behind the idea of calling or how to respond to God’s invitation, this episode provides thoughtful insights and encouragement.__Learn more about Williams Works and the opportunity to earn your education instead of paying for it! https://williamsbu.edu/debt-free-degree/Applying is always free at WBU: https://williamsbu.edu/application/

In this episode of Life Work, hosts  Dr. Stan Norman and Dr. Rhyne Putman dive into the profound connection between faith, vocation, and relationships. They discuss how work is not just a solitary endeavor but a relational expression rooted in our design as image-bearers of God. Drawing from Genesis 2 and the relational nature of the Trinity, they explore why working in community enhances productivity, fosters deeper connections, and reflects God’s intention for humanity.The conversation also touches on the challenges of remote work, the dynamics of family life in shaping work ethics, and how Jesus’ invitation to “take His yoke” reveals the beauty of relational labor. Whether you’re navigating tensions in your workplace, balancing family and career, or seeking purpose in your work, this episode offers encouragement and practical insights to help you thrive.__Learn more about Williams Works and the opportunity to earn your education instead of paying for it! https://williamsbu.edu/debt-free-degree/

In this special Christmas episode, the hosts dive deep into the life of Mary, the mother of Jesus, and her humble yet profound vocation. Reflecting on her faith, surrender, and pivotal role in the greatest story ever told, they uncover timeless lessons about God’s work in the lives of ordinary people.Through heartfelt discussion and theological insights, Dr. Norman and Dr. Putman examine the richness of Mary’s “yes” to God and its implications for family, vocation, and Christmas devotion. With humor, reverence, and real-world applications, they invite listeners to consider what it means to say, “I am the Lord’s servant; may it be to me according to your word.”Whether you’re reflecting on Christmas carols, contemplating the Beatitudes, or looking for a meaningful way to weave prayer into your holiday season, this episode will inspire you to embrace God’s call in your own life.Join Dr. Stan Norman and Dr. Rhyne Putman from Williams Baptist University as they explore the intersection of faith, work, and daily life in the LifeWork Podcast. Merry Christmas from the LifeWork Podcast!__Learn more about Williams Works and the opportunity to earn your education instead of paying for it! https://williamsbu.edu/debt-free-degree/Applying is always free at WBU: https://williamsbu.edu/application/Order your copy of the book "Conceived by the Holy Spirit: The Virgin Birth in Scripture and Theology"

In this special Christmas-themed series of LifeWork Podcast, they dive into the diverse vocations represented in the Nativity narrative: the blue-collar labor of the shepherds, the intellectual work of the Magi, and the familial devotion of Mary.Through insightful discussion, Dr. Norman and Dr. Putman reveal how God meets people where they are—whether in fields, royal courts, or homes—and uses their work to draw them closer to Himself. They unpack the profound lessons these characters teach about humility, faith, and vocation, offering encouragement for listeners in every profession.Whether you’re a shepherd in spirit or a scholar in practice, this series will inspire you to see your work as part of God’s greater story. Tune in to discover how Christmas speaks to the work we do and the hearts we bring to it.Join hosts Dr. Stan Norman and Dr. Rhyne Putman from Williams Baptist University as they explore how the Christmas story intersects with the world of work. Merry Christmas from the LifeWork Podcast team!__Learn more about Williams Works and the opportunity to earn your education instead of paying for it! https://williamsbu.edu/debt-free-degree/Applying is always free at WBU: https://williamsbu.edu/application/Order your copy of the book "Conceived by the Holy Spirit: The Virgin Birth in Scripture and Theology"