Be & Do: Belonging Exchange

The Be & Do podcast introduces the mission and vision of "Belonging Exchange." Philip Amerson reflects on faith and life in conversations with friends.

Pathways of Hope Reflecting on 9/11, Community, and Congregational Renewal
Be And Do: Belonging Exchange
Pathways of Hope Reflecting on 9/11, Community, and Congregational Renewal
Sept. 14, 2026

Finding Hope in Difficult Times: Reflections from Phil Amerson. [Recorded on 09/11/2026]


In this episode of the To Be and Do podcast, Phil Amerson offers a timely meditation on hope, especially in the context of congregational life and broader social realities. Recorded on September 11th, a date that evokes powerful memories for many,…
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Sept. 14, 2026

Pathways of Hope Reflecting on 9/11, Community, and Congregational Renewal

To Be and Do with Phil Amerson


[Recorded on 09/11/2026]


In this reflective episode of the To Be and Do Podcast, Phil Amerson marks the anniversary of 9/11 by exploring the enduring relevance of hope, especially in times of tragedy and uncertainty. Drawing on personal anecdotes, theological insights, sociology, and poetry, Phil Amerson unpacks how communities—particularly congregations—can reclaim hope amid narratives of decline and scarcity.


Correction: The audio and the transcript refe
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Sept. 11, 2026

Best of To Be and Do: Mission Guatemala’s Story: Partnership, Health, and Lasting Change with Tom Heaton

Best of To Be and Do:

Episode Overview

In this episode, Phil Amerson sits down with Tom Heaton, founder of Mission Guatemala and longtime leader in missions and justice ministries in Indiana and beyond. Together, they explore Tom Heaton journey from local church challenges to creating a nonprofit making a tangible difference in rural Guatemala. The conversation touches on the organization’s origins, ongoing projects, guiding principles, and the power of genuine partnership.

Three Key Takeaway
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Sept. 4, 2026

Best of To Be and Do: Love, Risk, and Community: Lessons in Belonging with Seana Murphy

Love, Risk, and Community: Lessons in Belonging with Seana Murphy

Welcome to another inspiring episode of To Be and Do! In this heartfelt conversation, host Phil Amerson welcomes back his friend and longtime teacher, Seana Murphy, for an exploration of love, community, and resilience. Building on their previous discussion, Phil and Shauna reflect on the powerful, often unrecognized abundance found within community relationships—particularly in neighborhoods marked by hardship.

Seana shares mov
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Aug. 28, 2026

Best of To Be and Do: Exploring Belonging with Charlie Nelms and Philip Amerson

Best of To Be and Do:

In this compelling debut episode of "To Be and Do," hosts Dr. Brad Miller and Philip Amerson delve into a meaningful conversation with Dr. Charlie Nelms, renowned servant leader, philanthropist, and advocate for equity and excellence, particularly in the realm of education for historically marginalized communities. Dr. Nelms shares his transformative journey and insights, offering inspiration and wisdom for fostering belonging and creating positive societal change.

Here a
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Aug. 21, 2026

Best of To Be and Do: Exploring Shifting Margins: Love, Belonging, and Moving Beyond Fear and Exclusion w/ Bishop Ken Carder

Best of To Be and Do:

In this captivating episode of "To Be and Do," host Philip Amerson welcomes Bishop Ken Carder to discuss his life journey and the influential themes within his recent work, "Shifting Margins: From Fear and Exclusion Toward Love and Belonging." This episode delves into the wisdom gained from Bishop Carder's experiences as both a pastor and a bishop, his profound understanding of institutional influence, and the deeply personal encounters that have shaped his theological per

Recent Blog Posts

Sept. 14, 2026

Finding Hope in Difficult Times: Reflections from Phil Amerson. [Recorded on 09/11/2026]

In this episode of the To Be and Do podcast, Phil Amerson offers a timely meditation on hope, especially in the context of congregational life and broader social realities. Recorded on September 11th, a date that evokes powerful memories for many,…
June 17, 2026

Reflecting on Goodbyes

The latest episode of the To Be and Do podcast invites listeners into a meaningful contemplation on the significance of goodbyes. With over a hundred episodes behind it, the podcast pauses to reflect on the moments of parting that shape our con…
June 14, 2026

"Because": Rethinking Trash, Compassion, and Social Responsibility

The latest "Because" episode of To Be and Do, invites listeners into a raw, deeply reflective conversation about what trash in our neighborhoods truly reveals about us—and the often-overlooked connections between everyday debris, social empathy, a…

About the Host

Philip Amerson Profile Photo
Philip Amerson

Philip and Elaine Amerson live in Bloomington, Indiana where they enjoy work the multiple educational and cultural opportunities of the city. They each are active in several community activities from addressing issues of low-income housing, public safety, encouraging civic and faith community involvement.