Unapologetic from SBU

Ep. 17 - Computer Science from A Christian Worldview

Brandt Merritt welcomes SBU faculty Dr. Tim DeClue to the Unapologetic podcast to talk about his journey teaching computer science at the university, particularly his approach to the integration of a Christian worldview in computer science. They explore the ethical implications of technology, the role of AI in education, and the importance of building relationships with prospective students. They also discuss innovative programs for high school students to earn college credit.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to the Unapologetic Podcast02:55 Tim DeClue's Journey at SBU05:57 Teaching Computer Science from a Christian Worldview09:12 The Role of Ethics in Computer Science12:11 Integrating AI in Education14:48 Innovative Programs for High School Students18:01 The Impact of SBU's Computer Science Program21:00 Building Relationships with Future Students

Ep. 16 - Trump Administration Impacts on Higher Education

In this episode of the Unapologetic podcast, hosts Brandt Merritt and Jonathon Woodyard, along with SBU President Dr. Rick Melson, discuss various pressing issues in higher education, including the challenges of financial aid, the impact of weather on campus operations, advocacy efforts in Washington, D.C., and the importance of partnerships and mergers in the evolving landscape of education. They also delve into the dynamics of the Department of Education under the new Trump administration, the balance between accountability and bureaucracy, and the future of Christian higher education in a changing political environment.
Chapters
00:00 Navigating Financial Aid Challenges05:05 Weathering Campus Decisions10:10 Advocacy in Higher Education14:50 Mergers and Partnerships in Education19:59 Department of Education Dynamics25:08 Accountability and Bureaucracy in Education29:46 Future of Higher Education and Christian Identity
 

Ep. 15 - Missouri Baptist Life with Dr. Wesley Vance

In this conversation, Dr. Wesley Vance joins Jonathon Woodyard and Brandt Merritt to discuss the Missouri Baptist Convention and related topics as he helps lead the MBC in his first year as president. He shares his journey from being a business owner to answering a call to ministry, detailing his experiences in church planting and his current role at Crossway Baptist Church. They also dive into the importance of Christian education, the cooperative program among Southern Baptists, and the role of higher education in shaping culture and community. They discussion emphasizes the need for local churches to take responsibility for evangelism and the integration of faith in education. Additionally, they addresses the ongoing conversation about gender roles within the church and the necessity of clear communication on these issues.
 

Ep. 14 - Servant Leadership and Church History

In this episode, Jonathon Woodyard and Brandt Merritt discuss a range of topics related to SBU. They share personal updates, including playing basketball and engaging in campus events. The conversation emphasizes the importance of servant leadership, understanding church history, and the role of Christian higher education in shaping future leaders. They also touch on upcoming events and the significance of community in fostering spiritual growth.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Personal Updates05:49 Campus Life and Events12:00 The Importance of Servant Leadership18:06 Understanding Church History24:10 The Role of Christian Higher Education29:52 What's Ahead in the Coming Weeks

Ep. 13 - A Deeper Look at the SBU Student Experience

In this conversation, Taylor Wehrle joins Jonathon Woodyard and Brandt Merritt to discuss the student experience at SBU's Bolivar Campus. They explore the importance of building a supportive campus culture, the role of faith in education, and the impact of recent political events on the community. The discussion emphasizes the need for meaningful experiences in student life and the significance of discipleship in shaping future leaders. In Taylor's role over campus events and experience, he oversees student groups, student leadership, and a host of activities that together create a culture of engagement and discipleship on the Bolivar campus.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Background05:47 Political Reflections and Inauguration Insights15:57 Student Experience and Campus Activities22:43 Building Relationships and Campus Culture25:36 The Role of Administration in Ministry30:11 Navigating the First Semester Challenges37:08 Understanding Team Structures and Dynamics41:45 Planning for Spring Events and Activities

Ep. 12 - Talking Discipleship and Chapel with Stedman Valentine

In this episode of the Unapologetic podcast, hosts Jonathon Woodyard and Brandt Merritt welcome SBU Campus Pastor Stedman Valentine to talk about various aspects of student life at Southwest Baptist University. They explore the significance of chapel services, the growth and impact of discipleship groups, and the importance of diversity and inclusion on campus. For a little fun, they also talk about the college basketball season. Throughout, the hosts emphasize the centrality of the gospel in shaping the university's culture and community.

Ep. 11 - Events, Classes, Recruiting Updates for the New Year

In this episode of the Unapologetic podcast, hosts Jonathon Woodyard and Brandt Merritt give insight into plans for the upcoming spring semester, including changes in the spiritual formation curriculum to help students understand the importance of their identity and purpose in Christianity. The conversation also covers upcoming events, admissions strategies, and the future of the physical therapy program, along with plans for the podcast's guest speakers throughout the spring semester.
 

Ep. 10 - Our Favorite Moments from the Fall Semester

In this episode of the Unapologetic Podcast, hosts Jonathon Woodyard and Brandt Merritt reflect on the Fall 2024 semester. They discuss significant moments, including the addition of new staff, creative team-building activities, and the importance of student engagement through events like Welcome Week. The conversation highlights the spiritual growth of students through worship gatherings and the recognition received from external organizations. They also celebrate the relationships built with students and the joy of witnessing their milestones, such as graduations and engagements. Looking ahead, they share excitement for upcoming spring initiatives and the continued growth of the university community.
 

Ep. 9 - Music Education with Dr. Sarah Howes

In this episode of the Unapologetic Podcast, hosts Brandt Merritt and Jonathan Woodyard welcome Dr. Sarah Howes to discuss her journey in music education, her path to SBU, and the role of music in faith and community. They explore the importance of gospel conversations in a Christian educational setting, and the various musical opportunities available at SBU. The conversation also highlights the recent Festival of Christmas event and its significance in bringing the community together through music.

Ep. 8 - Why We Take Missions So Seriously at SBU

In this episode of the Unapologetic Podcast, hosts Brandt Merritt and Jonathan Woodyard discuss the importance of missions at SBU and how it connects to the heritage of Baptists and Christians throughout history. They highlight the role of the Center for Global Connections at Southwest Baptist University, which facilitates student mission trips around the world, emphasizing the university's commitment to preparing servant leaders for a global society. They also highlight some of the many events taking place on campus before the end of the semester.