Living Reconciled

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What does real reconciliation look like across racial and economic lines? Pastor Wayne Hall shares his compelling journey from growing up as “the only white kid” in one of Meridian’s poorest neighborhoods to leading a diverse church at Jackson First. Wayne reflects on the early influence of an inclusive church, the painful shift of racially divided friendships in high school, a...

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Jermaine Van Buren Jr. opens up about the painful realities of living between two worlds—navigating white academic spaces and Black church communities while struggling with a fractured sense of identity. Labeled an “Oreo” and exhausted by code-switching, Jermaine found healing in Black mentorship and spiritual truth: "God made you Black on purpose." Now leading campus...

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Dr. Stephen Cook shares powerful wisdom from his journey growing up in rural Mississippi, serving in the military, and leading in ministry. Drawing from his parents' example and life experiences, he outlines his practical framework for unity—Three V’s (Voice, Vision, Victory) and Four M’s (Meeting, Making time, Meeting needs, Manifestation)—that turns reconciliation into d...

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What does it take to bring real change to a city that’s been written off? Pastor Chris Vowell shares how hope is rising in Greenville, Mississippi, through intentional unity across racial and denominational lines. From launching a community feeding ministry with a neighboring Black church to helping shift a city’s mindset from despair to possibility, this episode explores what ...

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From childhood mission learner to Director of Multicultural Ministries, Paula Smith’s journey is a powerful testimony to the beauty of mutual learning in cross-cultural ministry. In this episode, Paula shares how experiences—from Uruguay to Mississippi—reshaped her view of reconciliation, moving from a one-way model to true partnership. With practical insights and heartfelt sto...

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In this heartfelt episode, Jason “Smiley” Abrams of InterVarsity shares how his father’s suffering and steadfast faith redefined his view of Christianity—from performance to relationship. We explore how authenticity, not polish, is the key to reaching younger generations, and how genuine relationships rooted in the fruit of the Spirit can bridge even our deepest racial and gene...

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Elizabeth Perkins, daughter of civil rights legend Dr. John Perkins and co-president of the Perkins Foundation, shares what it was like growing up in the heart of the movement. From family dinners with Fannie Lou Hamer to navigating her own journey of faith and justice, Elizabeth reflects on the legacy her parents built—and the work still ahead. She challenges us to move beyond...

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What does God really think of our worship when it lacks justice? In this powerful episode, we unpack the convicting words of Amos 5 with hosts Brian Crawford, Neddie Winters, and Austin Hoyle. Together, we explore how worship disconnected from justice becomes noise to God’s ears—and how true worship calls us to embody justice in every area of life. From Jesus’s rebuke of the Ph...

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How can Christians bridge deep political divides? In this episode of Living Reconciled, Forest Thigpen, Senior Advisor for Empower Mississippi, shares how faith-driven engagement can transform public discourse. Drawing from his experience in policy work, he highlights the power of personal connection over political battles, from uniting legislators across racial lines to advoca...

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In this episode of Living Reconciled, we talk with Felecia Marshall about her journey through grief after the murder of her daughter, Alexia. She shares how faith transformed her pain into purpose, leading to the creation of Grant Me Justice, a nonprofit supporting families affected by violent crime. Felicia’s story is a powerful reminder of forgiveness, empathy, and the fight ...

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Can faith and politics work hand in hand? In this powerful episode of Living Reconciled, Representative Ronnie Crudup Jr. shares his journey from political skepticism to a faith-driven calling in public service. We dive into the challenges of being a Christian politician, the importance of integrity, and how reconciliation moves beyond theory into action. Join us for an inspiri...

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What happens when a Philly native dives into Southern culture and discovers a deeper faith? In this episode of Living Reconciled, Chris DiGiovanni shares his journey from Pennsylvania to Mississippi, exploring how his time at Jackson State University, an HBCU, opened his eyes to untold Black history and the power of diverse voices. We discuss the intersections of faith, justice...

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What if your financial decisions could reflect your deepest values and faith? In this episode, we sit down with financial advisor Chris McAlpin, who shares his journey from high-stakes finance to faith-driven stewardship. We explore how money, societal values, and personal beliefs shape our sense of contentment and purpose. Chris unpacks biblical principles on wealth, challenge...

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What if recognizing every person as an image bearer of God could heal our divided society? In this episode of Living Reconciled Neddie and Austin join Brian to explore how Genesis 1:26 calls us beyond political and racial divides to embrace our shared humanity. Through personal stories and historical insights, we confront the dangers of letting ideology overshadow Christian val...

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What does it truly mean to reflect God’s image in today’s world? In this episode, Brian, Austin, and Neddie have a deep and thought-provoking conversation and explore the divine identity we all share. Neddie reminds us of humanity’s intrinsic value, while Austin challenges us to see our divine reflection before our flaws. They also tackle the dangers of materialism, the power o...

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Join us as Dr. Seth Parry, history professor at Belhaven University, shares his journey from Cleveland, Ohio, to Jackson, Mississippi, exploring how faith, history, and education intersect. From his early life in a predominantly white Methodist congregation to his work promoting diversity and racial reconciliation, Dr. Parry offers insights into fostering unity and embracing Go...

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Reverend Terry Williams takes us on a heartfelt journey through his life and mission in Greenwood, Mississippi, sharing how his faith has fueled his dedication to reconciliation. We uncover his personal experiences growing up in a divided community and the strides made toward unity, from increased representation of black officials to integrated churches and schools. Reverend Wi...

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How does faith shape the way we engage in a post election culture? On this episode of Living Reconciled, Austin, Neddie, and Brian unpack what it means for Christians to stay true to their identity in Christ while navigating the political sphere. Grounded in scripture like 1 Timothy 2 and 1 Peter 2:16-17, they explore how praying for leaders, embodying godliness, and living wit...

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Brett Barnhill's journey from Alabama to the mission field is nothing short of remarkable. Growing up with Texas roots, Brett discovered his passion for ministry during his time at Mississippi College, spurred on by a powerful sermon on the Great Commission. His path was further illuminated by a life-changing intercultural communication class that deepened his commitment t...