ACSI Podcasts
This podcast channel features four ACSI programs: Sharpening Kingdom Leaders, Grafted Together, Student Leadership & Learning, and The Flourishing Journey. Each show, hosted by different ACSI leaders, offers interviews, stories, and research aimed at supporting Christian school educators. The content focuses on leadership development, building flourishing school communities, and applying a biblical worldview. Episodes are released weekly and can also be watched on YouTube.
Episodes
Student Leadership & Learning Ep 34: Courageous Questions: Forming Students Who Can Engage Hard Questions with Wisdom and Grace
How do we equip students to wrestle with questions with wisdom and grace? Emily Pigott shares practical tips for educators.
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Do you read the quarterly Student Leadership & Learning newsletters? Subscribe at www.acsi.org/subscribe
The Student Leadership & Learning Podcast aims to help create enriching experiences beyond the classroom, explore ways to maximize educators' impact, and develop
Grafted Together Ep 80: Kingdom Athletics Series: The Seven Enemies of Greatness
Billy Sparacio rejoins the Grafted Together Podcast for the third part of the Kingdom Athletics Series, discussing how coaches in both Christian and public schools can look beyond scoreboard wins to intentionally cultivate character, leadership, and faith in athletes.
See the 7 enemies of greatness (and how to defeat them) document here: https://www.acsi.org/docs/default-source/communication---eng
Stronger Together Ep 21: Dr. Larry Taylor on Christian Education Advocacy at the PPA Summit
Dr. Larry Taylor, ACSI President & CEO, gave a presentation at the recent ACSI Public Policy & Advocacy Summit in Washington, D.C. on how, and why, we advocate for Christ-centered education. This episode is the majority of that presentation, plus a quick summary of the ACSI Convene network.
Learn more at acsi.org/convene
Grafted Together Ep 79: From Clean Water to the Living Water: Christian Education by Immersion
Chad McDaniel with WorldVision joins Jerry Nelson to discuss how students learn not just by hearing but by witnessing, practicing, and connecting lessons to real-life circumstances.
View the Walk for Water School Guide here: https://www.acsi.org/docs/default-source/communication---engagement/podcasts/walk-for-water-school-guide.pdf
Chad McDaniel leads World Vision’s efforts to serve Christian scho
Grafted Together Ep 78: King Jesus' Children Deserve a Royal Education, with Chad Dirkse
Chad Dirkse, Head of School at Annapolis Area Christian School (MD), joins the Grafted Together Podcast for a conversation on the relationship between the church and the school.
Chad Dirkse has served in Christian education for over 25 years in roles that include math and science teacher, coach, athletic director, principal, head of school, and board member. He is currently the Head of School at A
Student Leadership & Learning Ep 33: The Courage to Think
How do we help students navigate complexity, truth, and discernment? Emily Pigott has helpful insights on how to lead students in not only what to think, but how to process the biggest questions.
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Do you read the quarterly Student Leadership & Learning newsletters? Subscribe at www.acsi.org/subscribe
The Student Leadership & Learning Podcast aims to help create enriching experiences beyo
Stronger Together Ep 20: John Stonestreet on Christ-Centered Education & Dr. Steve Whitaker on the FFI
Hear a portion of John Stonestreet's presentation at the Rooted Educator Worldview Summit earlier this year, as he discusses schools who want to lead with a biblical worldview. Plus, Dr. Steve Whitaker, Head of School at The First Academy (FL) shares how the FFI fits into his school's larger goal of preparing students to walk with Jesus far beyond their graduation.
Grafted Together Ep 77: Kingdom Athletics Series: Determine your “Why” then Developing Your Vision
Part Two of the Kingdom Athletics Series focuses on how identifying your goals will lead to forming your vision. Billy Sparacio, longtime athletic director and educator, rejoins the Grafted Together Podcast.
Victory Formation exists to equip and encourage coaches to see their role as more than coaching a sport. Learn more: www.victoryformation4hg.org
Grafted Together Ep 76: Kingdom Athletics Series: Victory Formation, with Billy Sparacio
Billy Sparacio, longtime athletic director and educator, rejoins the Grafted Together Podcast to discuss Kingdom athletics and how to forge deeper connections and discipleship through sports.
With close to 30 years of experience in high school athletics, Billy Sparacio is a seasoned and respected leader in the field. Billy has worked in both the Public and Private School arena, serving as a Classr
Stronger Together Ep 20: Accreditation Story with Heather Hager & School Spotlight w/ David Kilgore
Heather Hager, Head of School at Harp's Crossing Christian Academy (GA), didn't realize how beneficial the ACSI accreditation process would be until she experienced it. Hear her school's story and also learn what makes Calvary Christian High School (FL) unique with Head of School David Kilgore.
Learn more about ACSI accreditation at www.acsi.org/accreditation
Grafted Together Ep 75: Church, Home, School, and Screen: Who’s forming Who? With Robb Warfield
Robb Warfield, Superintendent of Cascade Christian Schools (WA), joins the podcast to discuss the partnership of various parties in spiritual formation.
Robb Warfield serves as the Superintendent of Cascade Christian Schools (WA) and formerly Superintendent of the International Schools of West Africa (ISWA), bringing over two decades of transformative leadership experience in educational environme
Grafted Together Ep 74: Spiritual Formation Matters: A Research Perspective, with Dr. Lynn Swaner
Discussing the latest research on spiritual formation, Dr. Lynn Swaner joins the Grafted Together Podcast.
Dr. Lynn Swaner is the President, US at Cardus, a non-partisan think tank dedicated to clarifying and strengthening, through research and dialogue, the ways in which society’s institutions can work together for the common good. She is a Senior Fellow at ACSI. Dr. Swaner holds a doctorate in o
Grafted Together Ep 73: Wise AI: Using Powerful Technology in a Deeply Human Way, with Paul Matthews
What does it mean to be human in the age of AI? Paul Matthews, bestselling author and TEDx speaker, joins Jerry Nelson to take about wise AI use.
Paul Matthews is a school leader at an independent school in Southern Tasmania, a TEDx speaker, and a bestselling author with a passion for helping others navigate Artificial Intelligence with clarity and confidence. He speaks to professionals across Aus
Student Leadership & Learning Ep 32: Leading Beyond the Spotlight: Developing Servant Leaders in a Self-Focused Culture
When student leadership becomes primarily about being seen, the heart behind it is corrupted. At the same time, it is good to recognize students when they serve others. Emily Pigott provides a helpful framework for developing students who lead beyond the spotlight.
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Do you read the quarterly Student Leadership & Learning newsletters? Subscribe at www.acsi.org/subscribe
The Student Leadership
Grafted Together Ep 72: Lead with Prayer, with David Balik and Mike Epp
Jerry Nelson talks with ACSI's Mike Epp and Dr. David Balik about the foundation of prayer in leadership roles.
Watch this episode on YouTube!
Mike Epp & David Balik bios:
Mike Epp has served for more than four decades in Christian education, including 19 years at Pan American Christian Academy in São Paulo, Brazil. Now in his 19th year with ACSI, he serves as the Vice President of Global Deve
Grafted Together Ep 71: Reading Your Bible for All It's Worth, Part Two
Jerry Nelson shares the second part of a two-part devotional-style teaching on Biblical study and how to allow God's Word and the Holy Spirit to transform you.
This podcast is also on YouTube with accompanying slides, watch here: https://youtu.be/tcLRWByny1w
Grafted Together 70: May All Your Families Flourish, with Lainie Montgomery
Lainie Montgomery, ACSI Director of Spiritual Formation, talks with Jerry Nelson about the Flourishing Families initiative and how to get all constituents at your school to see family as a core value.
Flourishing Families website: https://flourishingfamiliesplan.org/
Lainie Montgomery serves as the Director of Spiritual Formation for ACSI, where she leads initiatives that help schools cultivate Ch
Grafted Together Ep 69: Reading Your Bible for All It's Worth, Part One
Jerry Nelson shares a brief devotional-style teaching on Biblical study.
This episode is also on YouTube with powerpoint slides accompanying it. Watch here: https://youtu.be/FrC9c6Ud69o
When the assumptions we have held about scripture are challenged, it is the responsibility of every believer to return to the inerrant, infallible word of God to hear his voice afresh. Hear more insights in this e
Student Leadership & Learning Ep 31: Reclaiming the Middle | Why Middle School is the Most Strategic Leadership Window
Middle school is not something to get through. It's something to steward. Emily Pigott provides ways to reclaim the middle and capitalize on the special opportunities that middle school educators possess.
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Do you read the quarterly Student Leadership & Learning newsletters? Subscribe at www.acsi.org/subscribe
The Student Leadership & Learning Podcast aims to help create enriching experi
Aha Leader Series Ep 9: Failing Forward (Flourishing Journey Podcast)
Rachael Jones sits down with Dr. Edward Bunn to discuss lessons he has learned as a leader and ways in which he has grown.
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The Flourishing Journey podcast explores strategies for building a thriving school culture through research and practical application. The show is hosted by Dr. Edward Bunn, ACSI's Director of Professional Development.
The ACSI podcasts will help sharpen your leadership a
Stronger Together Ep 19: From California Public School to Indonesian Christian Education, with Helen Schleper
Helen Schleper is the Head of School at Sekolah Pelita Harapan (Lippo Village campus) in Jakarta, Indonesia. Helen talks with ACSI Chief Ministry Officer Dr. Gavin Brettenny about her journey from San Jose, CA to Indonesia, the importance of teaching classes before—or during—her tenure as a head of school, and lessons from the International Christian Educator Conference.
Sekolah Pelita Harapan: ht
Grafted Together Ep 68: Education that Disciples, with AJ Crocker & Caleb Williams
Jerry Nelson talks with AJ Crocker and Caleb Williams about the importance of spiritual formation and discipleship, and the lessons they've learned in their journey in Christian education.
Caleb Williams is the Director of Student Development & Discipleship at Briercrest Christian Academy, College, and Seminary in Saskatchewan.
Caleb resides in Caronport, Saskatchewan, with his wife, Jori, an
Grafted Together Ep 67: Abiding with Christ in the New School Year, with Josh Leonard
Guest host Josh Leonard shares insights from Jesus' teaching about a fruit-bearing tree to encourage Christian educators to abide in Christ. How can we recognize both the presence and the work of our creator the entire day?
This episode is part of a series of episodes hosted by core members of ACSI's Spiritual Formation Network. Learn more about the SFN at www.acsi.org/spiritual-formation
Josh Leo
Grafted Together Ep 66: Death and the Human Experience, with Dr. Chuck Fuller
Jerry Nelson and Dr. Chuck Fuller explore death, grief, and the human experience through a biblical worldview, discussing how Christians can approach suffering, mortality, and hope in Christ. The conversation offers practical and theological insight for Christian educators, school leaders, and believers seeking to understand how faith shapes the way we process loss, purpose, and eternal life.
Dr
Student Leadership & Learning Ep 30: Learning That Lasts, Why Experiential Learning Forms Better Leaders
When you were a student, what moments shaped you? Emily Pigott explores how experience forms in ways that information alone cannot, and how we can use this to develop leadership skills in our students.
Grafted Together Ep 65: From Belonging to Unity, with Tia Gaines
True unity is not forced uniformity, but a Christ-centered commitment to relationship & shared purpose. Tia Gaines, Executive Director of UnifiEd, shares how Christian education can move beyond surface-level diversity efforts toward genuine biblical unity.
Tia Gaines is the Executive Director of UnifiEd: A Center for Hope and Unity, and she also serves as Associate Director in the Office of S
Grafted Together Ep 64: Engaging Students Effectively Through Events, with Lilly Wooten
Guest host Lilly Wooten shares her heart for seeing students grow in their understanding of God, and how to ensure the events and missions programs at your school actually provide opportunities for students to grow.
Lilly Wooten currently serves as the Christian Life Director at North Raleigh Christian Academy in Raleigh, NC. In this role, she is actively involved in student life and discipleship
Grafted Together Ep 63: Parent Engagement, with Mark Wickersham
Guest host Mark Wickersham discusses parent engagement and provides practical steps. Students with engaged parents tend to do better academically, socially, and most importantly, spiritually. So how do we get parents engaged?
This episode is part of a series of episodes hosted by core members of ACSI's Spiritual Formation Network. Learn more about the SFN at www.acsi.org/spiritual-formation
Mark W
Grafted Together Ep 62: Service, Suffering, and Awe in the Christ-centered Curriculum, with Dr. Nathan Johnson
Dr. Nathan Johnson, Head of School at Charleston Bilingual Academy, joins the Grafted Together Podcast to discuss how what we teach--and how we teach-- in Christian schools should be colored by suffering, service, and awe.
Dr. Nathan Johnson is the Head of School at Charleston Bilingual Academy in South Carolina and serves on the board of the Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI).
Aha Leader Series Ep 8: Attention to Detail That Slips Into Micromanagement (Flourishing Journey Podcast)
Rachael Jones and Dr. Edward Bunn discuss ways leaders can maintain high standards without slipping into micromanagement, by empowering teams while fostering trust.
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The Flourishing Journey podcast explores strategies for building a thriving school culture through research and practical application. The show is hosted by Dr. Edward Bunn, ACSI's Director of Professional Development.
The ACSI podc
Grafted Together Ep 61: Implementing a Bible Reading Plan to Increase Biblical Literacy, with Sean Englert
Guest host Sean Englert shares what Northlake Christian School (LA) has learned through student assessments about biblical literacy and what type of biblical reading plan can help.
This episode is part of a series of episodes hosted by core members of ACSI's Spiritual Formation Network. Learn more about the SFN at www.acsi.org/spiritual-formation
Sean Englert serves as the Head of School and Dire
Grafted Together Ep 60: Recovering the Divine Purpose of Work, with Steve Buttry
Steve Buttry is a real estate developer as well as the President of Workplace Ministries, Inc., and he joins Jerry Nelson to discuss God's vision for work.
Steve Buttry has more than 25 years of experience in both commercial and residential real estate development. As a founding partner at Buttry & Brown Development, Steve has led complex projects that blend strategic vision with practical e
Stronger Together Ep 18: The "No-Brainer" of the LDRP (with Philip Scott), and PPA Summit Keynote Speaker Dr. Shirley Magazi
Learn about how the Legal Defense Reimbursement Fund can supplement your school's risk management with ACSI VP for Legal Affairs, Philip Scott. Also hear about advocacy work in Christian education and the Public Policy and Advocacy Summit from keynote speaker Dr. Shirley Magazi.
Learn more about the LDRP at www.acsi.org/LDRP
Register for the Public Policy & Advocacy Summit at www.acsi.org/Su
Grafted Together Ep 59: AI and the Tower of Babel, with Samantha Farinacci
Guest host Samantha Farinacci of Oaks Christian Online School shares insights on chaplaining at a Christian school during an era of artificial intelligence.
This is the first of several episodes this summer that will be hosted by core members of ACSI's Spiritual Formation Network. Learn more about the SFN at www.acsi.org/spiritual-formation
Samantha (Sam) Farinacci received her bachelor's degree i
Grafted Together Ep 58: Assessing Your School with the Flourishing Faith Index, with Dr. Steve Whitaker
Dr. Steve Whitaker, Head of School at The First Academy (FL), talks with Jerry Nelson about the Flourishing Faith Index and how to properly assess your school's spiritual formation progress. Learn more about the FFI at acsi.org/ffi
Dr. Steve D. Whitaker has been the Head of School at The First Academy since July 2003. Under his leadership, the school has implemented an ambitious spiritual format
Stronger Together Ep 17: Starting a Christian School in India, with David Singh
David Singh is the founder of Harbour International School in India. He talks with ACSI Chief Ministry Officer Dr. Gavin Brettenny about leading a Christian school in India and how the school lives out faith within the context of Indian culture.
Harbour International School: https://www.harboureducation.org/
Grafted Together Ep 57: Equipping for the Journey (Spiritual Formation Network Wrap-up)
Douglas Campbell, Senior Coordinator with the ACSI Ministry Team, hosts this edition of the Grafted Together Podcast alongside three members of the ACSI Spiritual Formation Network, Josh Leonard, Mark Wickersham, and Lilly Wooten.
Guest bios:
Mark Wickersham is in his 10th year at Evansville Christian School (where he serves as the Director of Spiritual Formation), 24th year in Christian education
Grafted Together Ep 56: Discipleship How? With Katherine Gallagher
Katherine Gallagher, CEO of GoStrategic, joins the Grafted Together Podcast to discuss God's command to make disciples. Gallagher is an experienced speaker and writer on topics including biblical worldview and organizational stewardship.
Katherine Gallagher is the CEO of GoStrategic, operating in generational momentum as second generation in leadership. With a robust background in education and le
Grafted Together Ep 55: Faithful in the Long Walk, with Laci Demeter
Laci Demeter, Director of ACSI Europe, shares a devotional about long-term faithful leadership, using the example of Noah. Laci shares how Noah's capacity to withstand the culture came from relationship, not willpower.
More on Laci Demeter:
Laci holds four master's degrees: MSc in Engineering, MA in Teaching EFL, MEd in Christian School Education, and EdS in Educational Leadership. Laci has been w
Grafted Together Ep 54: Take the Romans Road and Live in a New Way, with Kim Park
This episode features Kim Park, ACSI Accreditation Specialist in the International Division, speaking in a recent ACSI online chapel service on how true believers live in the realm of the spirit.
Kim Park is an experienced education professional who has served at ACSI for the past 11 years as an accreditation specialist for schools in the international division. A former educator, Kim holds a mast
Student Leadership & Learning Ep 29: Not Just Information, but Spiritual Formation (Student Testimonies)
Emily Pigott hears from four seniors at Christian schools about how Christ-centered education has shaped their understanding of God and their own identities. These interviews were captured at a recent ACSI Apologetics Conference in Florida.
Grafted Together Ep 53: Take the Romans Road and Be Transformed, with Dr. Mauro Meister
This episode features Dr. Mauro Meister, Director of ACSI Brazil, speaking on the Romans Road in a recent ACSI online chapel service.
Mauro has been involved with Christian Education for over 30 years in theology and over 20 years with Christian Schools. He holds a Doctor of Literature (D.Litt.) from the University of Stellenbosch, South Africa, and a Th.M. from Covenant Theological Seminary. He i
Aha Leader Series Ep 7: Quiet Isn’t Always Healthy (Flourishing Journey Podcast)
Rachael Jones sits down with Dr. Edward Bunn to explore ways leaders can listen beyond the silence to uncover hidden disengagement, misalignment, or burnout.
Watch this episode on YouTube!
The Flourishing Journey podcast explores strategies for building a thriving school culture through research and practical application. The show is hosted by Dr. Edward Bunn, ACSI's Director of Professional Devel
Grafted Together Ep 52: Who is the Holy Spirit? The Lord, the Giver of Life, with Mike Epp
This episode features Mike Epp, ACSI Senior Vice President of Global Development, speaking on the Holy Spirit during a recent ACSI Chapel service.
Mike has been involved in Christian school education for over 40 years, including nearly 20 with ACSI. Mike served at Pan American Christian Academy, a bilingual international Christian school in São Paulo, Brazil, for 19 years. He holds a Master’s in E
Stronger Together Ep 16: A Testimony in Christian Education in Thailand, with Jenn Lindemuth
Jenn Lindemuth is the Curriculum Director of Chang Rai International Christian School in Thailand. She sits down with ACSI Chief Ministry Officer Dr. Gavin Brettenny to discuss the makeup of her school and her journey in Christ-centered education.
Chang Rai International Christian School: https://crics.asia/
Stronger Together Ep 15: Dr. Tim Padgett and Megan Almon | Part of a Greater Story in Christian Education
Dr. Tim Padgett, Resident Theologian with the Colson Center, and Megan Almon, a speaker with Stand to Reason, are both keynote presenters at the upcoming Rooted Educator Worldview Summit (June 15-17 in Colorado Springs). They share pieces of what they will speak on at the Summit; to register, visit acsi.org/rooted.
Grafted Together Ep 51: Care in Hardship, with Courtney Crenshaw & Brayden Brown
Douglas Campbell, Senior Coordinator with the ACSI Ministry Team, hosts this edition of the Grafted Together Podcast alongside two members of the ACSI Spiritual Formation Network, Courtney Crenshaw and Brayden Brown.
Courtney Crenshaw leads a team of five youth pastors at Liberty Christian School in Argyle, Texas. She is passionate about intentional discipleship of the next generation, equipping
Grafted Together Ep 50: On Becoming a Calling (not College) Preparatory School, with Noah Brink
"You can't just sprinkle Jesus dust on an otherwise secular education." Noah Brink joins the Grafted Together Podcast and shares how Franklin Christian Academy (TN) prepares students for God's calling by teaching Christianly.
Noah Brink has spent the past twenty-three years serving in a wide range of roles within Christian schools and currently serves as the Head of School at Franklin Christian Sc
Student Leadership & Learning Ep 28: Not an Add On; The Real Work of Christian Worldview Formation, with Billy Hutchinson
It's not an add-on: the real work of forming a biblical worldview takes a systematic approach at each Christian school. Billy Hutchinson, Director of Colson Educators with the Colson Center, shares insights and resources.
LINKS:
To learn more about Colson Educators visit, https://colsoneducators.org/
Educators get 50% off your Colson Fellows program at http://www.colsonfellows.org
For more free
Grafted Together Ep 49: Spiritual Formation Begins at Hello, with Angie St. Pierre
As an admissions specialist, Angie St. Pierre sees how spiritual formation begins with the very first interaction, ensuring that Christ is central in every aspect of the school experience. She joins Jerry Nelson to discuss how every moment with parents and students is treated as a ministry opportunity, with a focus on building relationships and pointing families toward Christ—even if they don’t ul
Stronger Together Ep 14: Dr. Adam Wilson on Student Mental Health, and Elizabeth Urbanowicz on identity
This episode features Dr. Adam Wilson, speaker at the Secure & Sound Mental Health Symposium (May 1 in Denver, with a virtual option as well), and Elizabeth Urbanowicz, speaker at the Rooted Educator Worldview Summit (June 15-17 in Colorado Springs).
Register for the Secure & Sound Mental Health Symposium at acsi.org/secure
Register for the Rooted Educator Worldview Summit at acsi.org/root
Aha Leader Series Ep 6: The Open-Door Illusion (Flourishing Journey Podcast)
Rachael Jones sits down with Dr. Edward Bunn to discuss ways to move beyond the typical “my door is always open” promise and truly create an environment where people feel safe, heard, and encouraged to speak openly.
Watch this episode on YouTube!
The Flourishing Journey podcast explores strategies for building a thriving school culture through research and practical application. The show is hosted
Grafted Together Ep 48: Addressing Gender Ideology: Four Foundational Strategies
This episode is from a recent meeting of ACSI Early Educators in which Jerry Nelson spoke to the group about a biblical approach to current cultural beliefs on gender.
To connect with the ACSI Early Education team, please visit https://www.acsi.org/academic-programs/early-education/early-education-network
Grafted Together Ep 47: From Goals to Systems to Flourishing, with Nathan Stark
Nathan Stark, founder of FolioBridge, shares his journey from a new teacher with no classroom structure to a leader passionate about systems thinking in education.
Nathan Stark is a 16-year educator with experience across both public and private education, having served as a classroom teacher, district trainer, PLC and team leader, county History Fair coordinator, and as an assistant principal wit
Stronger Together Ep 13: Dr. Sean McDowell on Building a Culture of Curious Students
Dr. Sean McDowell, keynote speaker at the upcoming Rooted Educator Worldview Summit, joins the podcast to discuss Rooted, how to encourage questions in your classroom, and the impact of Christian education when done right—or wrong.
To register for the Rooted Educator Worldview Summit this June 15-17 in Colorado Springs, CO, visit acsi.org/rooted
Grafted Together Ep 46: Faith, Reconciliation, and the Blessings of Diversity, with John Murray
Should we consider a faith-informed form of risk and reward for educators who choose to teach in a population other than their own? How can leaders navigate the tension between pursuing a more diverse culture while fostering belonging for both staff and students? John Murray, Head of School at Brookstone Schools (NC), joins the podcast with Jerry Nelson.
With 31 years in Christian education–23 yea
Grafted Together Ep 45: Biblical Infusion: Equipping Educators to Teach Like Jesus, with Dr. Kevin Miller
What does it mean to be a Christlike teacher? Kevin Miller, Director of Spiritual Life at Cincinnati Christian Schools, joins the Grafted Together Podcast, with Douglas Campbell hosting.
Kevin began his ministry in Christian education in 2014 at Cincinnati Christian Schools as a biblical studies teacher. In 2020, at home because of COVID lockdowns, he finished his Doctor of Ministry degree with Ch
Grafted Together Ep 44: Christian Education: The Next Generation, with Tatiana Smith
Tatiana Smith, the Superintendent’s Assistant for the Enlightium School System Agency, discusses the evolution of Christian education, the role of international and distance learning models, and more.
Tatiana Smith serves as the Superintendent’s Assistant for the Enlightium School System Agency, an international, accredited private Christian school district. In this role, she supports administrati
Grafted Together Ep 43: From Spiritual Formation to Biblical Unity, with Deon Parker
Deon Parker rejoins the Grafted Together Podcast to discuss biblical themes stemming from the recent ACSI Biblical Unity Summit. Deon is the author of ChristiUnity: The History of God-authored Unity as well as Biblical Unity: It Takes You And Me.
Deon Parker has spent over two decades in vocational Christian ministry–primarily in pastoral ministry. He is currently serving as the Director of Biblic
Grafted Together Ep 42: A Spiritual Formation Plan That Gets a Result, with Dr. Cy Smith
When a school leader gets fired up about the right things, transformation happens. Dr. Cy Smith joins Jerry Nelson to discuss practical ways for spiritual formation directors to influence students.
Dr. Cy Smith is the Superintendent of Mansfield Christian School and a national leader in Christian education. As host of the Clearly Christian Podcast, he challenges cultural drift, highlights the impo
Grafted Together Ep 41: Race and Grace: A Providential Journey, with Dr. James Noble
Jerry Nelson discusses Gospel-centered racial reconciliation with Dr. James Noble, the Vice President for the Center of Community, Dignity, and Inclusive Campus Family at Anderson University (SC), and the Pastor of Kingdom Community Church of Anderson.
Dr. Noble earned his Master of Divinity and Doctor of Philosophy degree from Mid-America Baptist Theological Seminary. He is the author of Race and
Student Leadership & Learning Ep 27: The Leadership Gap | Why Capable Students Often Lack Leadership Readiness
Why do some students seem to be ready for leadership but don't take the initiative, and what can we do about it? Emily Pigott has insights on what leads to the leadership gap and how educators can help bridge it.
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Do you read the quarterly Student Leadership & Learning newsletters? Subscribe at www.acsi.org/subscribe
The Student Leadership & Learning Podcast aims to help create enriching
Grafted Together Ep 40: Parental Engagement to Spiritual Formation, with Toyin Atolagbe
What would happen if our desire for more parental involvement extended beyond the child's academics to something of greater worth? Dr. Toyin Atolagbe shares how parental engagement shapes spiritual formation.
Dr. Toyin Atolagbe serves as Executive Director of Great Hearts Christos, a private Christian classical school with campuses in Phoenix and Gilbert, Arizona. Previously, she led Archway Linco
Aha Leader Series Ep 5: Neglecting Middle Leaders (Flourishing Journey Podcast)
Rachael Jones sits down with Dr. Edward Bunn to discuss ways to recognize the crucial role that middle leaders serve as the "bridge" between upper-level leadership and staff.
The Flourishing Journey podcast explores strategies for building a thriving school culture through research and practical application. The show is hosted by Dr. Edward Bunn, ACSI's Director of Professional Development.
The AC
Grafted Together Ep 39: An Education for All Times, with Dr. Chuck Fuller
Dr. Chuck Fuller, Associate Professor of Christian Studies at Anderson University, shares his transition from pastoral ministry to higher Christian education and identifies traits of "good" and "the right" types of education.
Dr. Chuck Fuller serves as Director of the Honors College and Associate Professor of Christian Studies at Anderson University. A native of Kentucky, Dr. Fuller came to AU in
Grafted Together Ep 38: Spiritual Formation is a Team Sport, with Dr. David Brinkley
How does someone in charge of spiritual formation build a team to ensure growth continues beyond themself? Are you a spiritual formation lone ranger? Dr. David Brinkley, Director of Spiritual Life at Rosslyn Academy in Kenya, has helpful insights.
David is the Director of Spiritual Life at Rosslyn Academy, a Christian international school in Nairobi serving about 700 students from over 50 nations.
Stronger Together Ep 12: FSi, the Federal Tax Credit Scholarship, and an ACSI Europe Update
Hear a snippet of Trevin Wax's presentation at the 2026 FSi Dallas, learn more about the Federal Tax Credit Scholarship, and hear how God is working through ACSI Europe.
For more on the Federal Tax Credit Scholarship, visit everystudenteverystate.org and childrenstuitionfund.org
Grafted Together Ep 37: The Transformative Power of Christian Education: Serving the Least of These, with Jonathon Basurto
To discuss how underserved students have been transformed by Christian education, Jonathon Basurto joins the Grafted Together Podcast.
Jonathon is the Principal at Pusch Ridge Christian Academy South Campus in Tucson, AZ, the first school in the nation that is Christian, Classical, Covenantal, and Dual Language. He has been in education and educational leadership for over fifteen years. He serves
Grafted Together Ep 36: Putting the Human back in Human Resources, with Chris Loncar
What is the responsibility of leaders to invest in the spiritual formation of the employees they steward? Chris Loncar, ACSI's VP of Human Resources, discusses how organizations should care for their most important asset: people.
Chris Loncar is the VP of Human Resources at ACSI. He spent the first 10 years of his calling as a pastor before transitioning to the human resources field, a blend that
Grafted Together Ep 35: Building an Organizational Commitment to Biblical Unity, with Darin Long
Darin Long hosts a session on making biblical unity a goal across your entire organization, using stories from his Christian school leadership experience.
Darin Long is the Superintendent of the Christian Academy School System, serving more than 3,000 students across campuses in Louisville, Kentucky, and New Albany, Indiana. With over 26 years in education — from teacher to principal to superinten
Grafted Together Ep 34: Christians: Pursue and Promote Unity Biblically, with Deon Parker
Deon Parker hosts a session on pursuing biblical unity with Jesus Christ as the pace setter.
To view Deon Parker's presentation slides, view here.
Deon Parker has spent over two decades in vocational Christian ministry–primarily in pastoral ministry. He is currently serving as the Director of Biblical Unity at Christian Academy School System in Louisville, Kentucky & New Albany, Indiana.
To o
Student Leadership & Learning Ep 26: The Architecture of Influence: How Classroom Culture Forms Student Leaders Before You Ever Teach a Lesson
The question isn't if culture transforms students, but how. Emily Pigott shares what it means to make classrooms a place of safety and being known for the sake of spiritual growth.
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Do you read the quarterly Student Leadership & Learning newsletters? Subscribe at www.acsi.org/subscribe
The Student Leadership & Learning Podcast aims to help create enriching experiences beyond the classro
Grafted Together Ep 33: Biblical Unity: The Antidote to Hate, with Dr. Matt Daniels
Dr. Matt Daniels hosts a session on biblical unity and looking to Dr. King for an antidote to political hate. For more on Dr. Matt Daniels, visit here.
Click here for a document on the Biblical Unity Summit
Aha Leader Series Ep 4: Communication Echo Chambers (Flourishing Journey Podcast)
Rachael Jones interviews Dr. Edward Bunn to discuss strategies for clear communication that lead to collaboration and clarity.
Watch this episode on YouTube!
The Flourishing Journey podcast explores strategies for building a thriving school culture through research and practical application. The show is hosted by Dr. Edward Bunn, ACSI's Director of Professional Development.
The ACSI podcasts will
Grafted Together Ep 32: The Proper Care and Feeding of a Spiritual Life Director
What are common pitfalls for a spiritual life director, and how can they best care for themselves as they lead others? Greg Tonkinson has insights on this and more.
Greg Tonkinson is the Spiritual Life Director at Valley Christian Schools in Chandler, AZ, where he has served for 18 years. A Phoenix-area resident for nearly four decades, Greg is the author of Unwanted Fraternity and hosts Meliora
Stronger Together Ep 11: Dr. Michael Lindsay on "Hinge Moments" and a Federal Tax Credit Scholarship explainer
Dr. Michael Lindsay, keynote speaker at FSi 2026, shares how to capitalize on life's "hinge moments," the topic of his keynote presentation at FSi this month.
Also, learn how the Federal Tax Credit Scholarship could help your school, from Shanda Adams of the ACSI Children's Tuition Fund.
Finally, see how Pantego Christian Academy (TX) supports its community. ACSI loves to highlight member schools!
Grafted Together Ep 31: The Transformative Power of Christian Education: The Gospel in the City
Russ Gregg started a Christian school in Minneapolis not only for his own kids, but for his neighborhood with no access to quality Christian education. Hear his insights on how to start a school and how Christian education can transform lives in a city.
Russ Gregg (M.A. in Educational Leadership, Gordon College) has served as Head of School at Hope Academy in Minneapolis since its founding in 2000
Student Leadership & Learning Ep 25: Before We Teach, God Forms
Spiritual Formation is the Foundation of Student Leadership and Engaged Learning. Emily Pigott shares encouragement on being a Christlike example in the classroom, because when it comes to worldview formation, learning is never neutral.
Watch this episode on YouTube!
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The Student Leaders
Grafted Together Ep 30: Accreditation as Stewardship, with Stephen Deck
Jerry Nelson and Stephen Deck discuss a biblical view of accreditation.
For more on accreditation, visit https://www.acsi.org/accreditation-certification/accreditation-for-schools
Stephen Deck, Ed.S. serves as the Vice President of Education Standards for the Association of Christian Schools International, overseeing ACSI’s accreditation and credentialing teams. During his time at ACSI, Stephen h
Grafted Together Ep 29: Ethnic Diversity and the Teacher/Leader Pipeline, with Dr. Page Curlee
Jerry Nelson and Dr. Page Curlee share research on recruiting and retaining a more diverse staff in Christian schools, drawing from Dr. Curlee's experience overseas.
Digital Resources:
Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/page.curlee/
Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/pagecurlee/
LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/page-curlee-edd-562294157/
Dr. Page Curlee is an educator and ministry leader
