Our Common HomePope Francis and Earth Day 2025On Easter Monday 2025 the lead story in every newspaper is that Pope Francis is dead. I read the headlines, and glancing above my desk, see a copy of what I believe is one of the most important d…

In this compelling episode of the "To Be and Do" podcast, we dive into a heartfelt conversation with Bud Herron as guest and host Philip Amerson. The dialogue transports us to Bud's college days at Indiana University, where he meets Pat Patterso…

In a recent episode of "To Be and Do," we had the pleasure of hearing from Bud Herron, a seasoned journalist, as he shared insights from his distinguished career. Hosted by Phil Amerson, this episode delves into Bud's experiences in both religio…

In the latest episode of "To Be and Do," hosted by Phil Amerson, guest Bud Herron offers an insightful narrative filled with rich history and life lessons, underscoring the essence of interdependence over mere independence. In this captivating c…

Seven Tribulations of Higher EducationIndiana University, Bloomington Like the Ten Plagues visited on the ancient Egyptian Pharoah, today American universities struggle with the Seven Tribulations of Higher Education.  Sadly, great f…

In the recent episode of "To Be and Do," host Philip Amerson delves into a riveting conversation with Bishop Ken Carder, uncovering the profound lessons of identity, belonging, and love. The episode starts on an intriguing note—with the ta…

In the latest episode of "To Be and Do," host Philip Amerson engages in a profound conversation with Bishop Ken Carder. Ken's new book, "Shifting Margins: From Fear and Exclusion Toward Love and Belonging," serves as a springboard for this enlig…

In this inspiring episode of the "To Be and Do" podcast, host Philip Amerson engages in a conversation with the remarkable Jerre Stead. Known for his philanthropy and leadership, Jerre shares insights into his lifelong commitment to giving and how…

In the "To Be and Do" podcast, host Philip Amerson delves into an enlightening conversation with Jerre Stead, a remarkable leader known for his extensive experience with corporate boards and transformative leadership in both for-profit and nonprof…

 On a recent episode of "To Be and Do,"  Phil Amerson brings a thoughtful perspective to the topic of Christian nationalism—a concept that has gained traction in some political and religious circles. Phil delves into the origins, m…

In a thought-provoking episode of the "To Be and Do" podcast, host Phil engages in an enlightening conversation with Dr. Charlie Nelms, an educator and philanthropist who passionately discusses the contributions individuals can make toward creatin…

Opening to Joy - ExercisePhilip AmersonHow does joy and laughter contribute to our liberation? To our healing? To our knowing God?You are invited to sit quietly for a moment and think of the last time you laughed. When was thelast chuckle? W…

In a recent episode of "To Be and Do," a podcast that aims to foster a sense of belonging and strengthen relationships through storytelling, host  Philip Amerson welcomed the insightful Dr. Charlie Nelms. As a servant leader, philanthropist, an…

 So-called Christian Nationalism appears to have mushroomed in our body politic. Books like Taking Back America for God (Andrew Whitehead and Samuel Perry) and The Kingdom, The Power and The Glory (Tim Alberta) document the spread and extent …

What makes Bloomington “BLOOM”? What offers vitality, hope, knowledge and hospitality? We have great institutions: centers of education, health science, manufacturing and culture. Innovation and technology are known to be essential. Stil…

In a recent episode of "To Be and Do," https://www.belongingexchange.org/s1e7 we continue our insightful conversation with Michael Mather, a revered guest who has shared profound experiences from his ministry work, particularly during his tenure at …

 In a recent episode of the "To Be and Do" A Podcast Conversation with Philip Amerson with Mike Mather-Part 2 Philip Amerson engages in a thought-provoking discussion with Michael Mather, pastor at First United Methodist Church in Boulder, Co…

 In a recent episode of "To Be and Do," [https://www.belongingexchange.org/s1e5] host Philip Amerson sat down with his long-time friend, Michael Mather, the lead pastor of Boulder First United Methodist Church. As they reminisce about their e…

Integrity and Jimmy Carter are synonymous. For one hundred years he offered his witness. There were ups and downs, missteps and the recognition of a Nobel prize. I see his life as a wonder-filled demonstration of human decency and generosity. A para…

Christmas Eve 2024 and National Public Radio’s Lisa Desjardins reports on the political word of the year. Suggested words included: Broken, Unstable, Whiplash, Banjaxed (Irish slang meaning broken, not working, messed up), along with Polarized…

 In a thought-provoking episode of the "To Be Do" podcast, Philip Amerson, a seasoned pastor, delves into the profound concept of embracing our ignorance. Throughout the conversation, Amerson touches upon various experiences and perspectives …

 On the "To Be Do Podcast" host Philip Amerson takes us on an inspiring journey through the life and friendship of Clarence Smart, a man whose story illuminates the transformative power of education, determination, and mutual respect. The epi…

Embracing The Stranger: Lessons From The Belonging ExchangeIn the latest episode of "To Be and Do From the Belonging Exchange," host Philip Amerson sits down with Jonathan Massimi to explore the profound themes of faith, community, and what it t…

Seeing the World as a Guest: Reflections from Jonathan Massimi on the "To Be and Do" PodcastIn the latest episode of "To Be and Do," host Philip Amerson continues his intriguing discussion with Jonathan Massimi, a community organizer and Angli…