The Institute Blog

Thoughts on Jesus, Education, and Life from Faculty, Students & Grads

S3E2: Therapy vs. Prayer: A Generational Divide in the Hispanic Community?

In this episode of College Conversations, host Jeff Sherrod is joined by Gregg Garner and student guests Julian Carrion and Rebecca Castellanos to discuss the intersection of mental health and faith on college campuses. They explore the stigma surrounding therapy, particularly within Hispanic communities, and how it contrasts with the acceptance of spiritual guidance from pastors. The conversation delves into the challenges students face regarding mental health and the importance of accountability and support from friends and faith. Tune in for an insightful discussion on whether therapy and prayer can coexist in the journey of healing and personal growth.

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S3E1 - Gen Z is Leaving the Church — Why Are They Walking Away?

This College Conversations episode explores why many young people, especially Gen Z women, are leaving the church. Based on Barna Group research, students Elijah Lovelace and Brooke Vavold discuss issues like feeling unseen, gender inequality, the "Church Too" movement, and church culture. The episode stresses the importance of authentic community and mentorship to reverse the trend of disaffiliation.

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S2E29 - Why Christians Should Ask Better Questions

Jeff Sherrod, Gregg Garner, and Laurie Kagay discuss the role of questions in a Christian community. As in, where do academic freedom, intellectual honesty, and how do they work in a Christian setting? Some people view questions as a negative thing regarding faith, but as professors, these guests highly favor asking questions. Think through what kinds of questions you answer, and how to get better at it.

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WECare: Reconnecting Generations through Service

This blog highlights the relaunch of the WECare Program, which connects college students with the elderly and widowed in the community to provide essential support and companionship. Rooted in faith and service, the initiative fosters meaningful connections across generations while addressing the practical and emotional needs of seniors.

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S2E8 College Conversations Podcast: Will Anyone Hire Me with my Bible Degree? (Summary & Transcript)

In this episode of College Conversations, Jeff Sherrod, President Gregg Garner, and VP of Enrollment and Marketing Laurie Kagay discuss how colleges prepare students for the workforce. They explore the disconnect between graduates' readiness and employers' expectations, highlighting the importance of practical experiences and skills beyond a degree. The podcast also touches on the Institute for GOD's innovative approaches to addressing this issue.

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S2E5 College Conversations Podcast Transcript: “Does anyone do Discipleship Like Jesus Anymore?” Part 2 (Transcript)

Gregg, Jeff, and Laurie discuss the topic of discipleship on college campuses and the various programs available. They highlight the misconception that discipleship is solely about one's relationship with God and emphasize the importance of interactions with others, and college as the premier venue for discipleship (even above church). Listen and check out what cooperation is necessary between churches and colleges for discipleship to occur effectively.

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For Release: The Institute for GOD Launches “College Conversations” Podcast

The Institute for GOD has launched its first season of “College Conversations” — a podcast for college goers and their parents, facing a very different academic, economic, and social climate than previous generations. Hosted by Gregg Garner and Jeff Sherrod, the show invites interested students and families into discussions that range from the cost of college, the point of college, making friends, studying abroad, mental health, and more. It’s available now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube.

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