AACS Today

Embodying the Truth with Billy Hutchinson

This episode of AACS Today features Billy Hutchinson, Director of Colson Educators at the Colson Center. Hutchinson addresses the vital distinction between simply teaching Bible stories and cultivating a comprehensive biblical worldview that informs every aspect of a student's life. He argues that while many schools operate with a biblical framework, a true biblical worldview requires teachers to act as “worldview communicators” who replicate their own character and faith in their students. The discussion introduces a framework where the campus becomes a manifestation of culture, shaped specifically by what is stated, tolerated, and celebrated. By emphasizing “relational capital” and a leadership style that balances justice and mercy, Hutchinson illustrates how schools can foster genuine human flourishing. He also highlights free professional development resources available through Colson Educators, including worldview formation courses and the “Planning Period” newsletter, designed to help busy teachers integrate faith into subjects like math and science. This episode serves as a practical guide for leaders striving to ensure their school environment is a living embodiment of the biblical worldview. For more information about Colson Educators, visit this link [https://www.colsoneducators.org/]. To signup for the Planning Period newsletter, click here [https://www.colsoneducators.org/planning-period].

What Really Matters: Restoring a Legacy of Faith, Freedom, and Family with Tim Goeglein

Join Matt and Jamison as they welcome back Tim Goeglein, Vice President for External Relations at Focus on the Family, for an insightful discussion on his forthcoming book, What Really Matters: Restoring a Legacy of Faith, Freedom, and Family. In this episode, Goeglein explores the urgent need to "restate the obvious" by returning to first principles—faith, family, and marriage—to counter aggressive secularism. A significant portion of the conversation focuses on "restoring the American male," addressing the crisis of fatherlessness and the cultural shift toward a more "feminized" society. Goeglein presents sobering data on male loneliness and employment trends, arguing that strong marriages remain the highest predictor of life satisfaction in America. The discussion also highlights the importance of historical literacy and character-based education in sustaining a constitutional republic. Ultimately, the episode emphasizes that true restoration will not come from government or politics, but from a bottom-up reclaiming of the foundational values that define the American experience. This summary provides a roadmap for listeners dedicated to preserving a legacy of virtue for the next generation. Tim's book can be purchased here [https://www.amazon.com/What-Really-Matters-Restoring-Freedom/dp/1956454888] or at your favorite bookstore.

Wanted: Men of Purpose – Navigating the Manosphere and Reclaiming True Masculinity

In this episode, Jamison interviews Dr. Matthew Mehan, Associate Dean at Hillsdale College, and together, they explore the modern identity crisis facing young men. The discussion delves into the rise of the "manosphere"—a digital ecology of influencers who, while filling a cultural vacuum, often promote a "toxified" version of masculinity characterized by misogyny, vanity, and a lack of self-restraint. Countering these trends, Dr. Mehan argues for a return to true masculinity modeled after Christ and virtuous fatherhood, emphasizing roles as protectors, providers, and men of wit. He proposes practical solutions for educators to foster academic and character growth. The episode also previews Dr. Mehan’s work, The American Book of Fables, which offers redemptive stories of family life and masculine virtue. This podcast serves as a "soulful venture" for those dedicated to shaping the next generation of responsible men through sacrifice and intentional modeling.

Finding Identity in Christ on Capitol Hill: A Conversation with Luke Ball

Join Jamison as he welcomes Luke Ball, an alumnus of the AACS Youth Legislative Development Conference (YLDC) and a prominent political communications strategist. Luke shares his journey from a student exploring worldviews to a professional navigating the fast-paced world of Capitol Hill and high-level presidential communications. The conversation dives deep into the "ministry of politics," emphasizing the biblical foundation of government service found in Romans 13. Luke provides a candid look at the spiritual challenges of Washington, D.C., reflecting on his own "quarter-life crisis" and the danger of placing one's identity in a job title rather than in Christ. Listeners will gain valuable insights on overcoming the "sacred-secular split" and the necessity of maintaining a fellowship of believers within high-pressure vocations. This episode serves as both a roadmap and an encouragement for the next generation, offering practical counsel on pursuing a career in public service while serving "someone big"—God himself.

The Making of the American Mind with Dr. Matthew Spalding

In this episode of, Jamison is joined by Dr. Matthew Spalding, a distinguished constitutional scholar and Dean of the Van Andel Graduate School of Government at Hillsdale College. They discuss Dr. Spalding’s award-winning book, The Making of the American Mind, which provides a clause-by-clause commentary on the Declaration of Independence. Spalding argues that while many Americans "venerate" the Declaration, few truly understand its deep philosophical and theological roots. The conversation explores the transition from instinctive patriotism—a natural love for one’s home—to reflective patriotism, which is rooted in a deep understanding of the nation’s founding principles. Spalding describes the Declaration as a "symphony" of legislative logic that synthesizes reason and revelation, drawing from Greek, Roman, and Christian traditions to establish the "laws of nature and of nature's God". For Christian educators, the episode offers profound insights into using storytelling and historical truth to help students transcend themselves and "know" the country they are called to love. Ultimately, the Declaration is presented as the "electric cord" that unifies all Americans through its timeless, universal claim that all are created equal.