AACS Today

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.

50 Years of ODACS: Protecting Christian Schools in Virginia

In this episode of AACS Today, Jamison is joined by Dan Zacharias, Executive Director of the Old Dominion Association of Church Schools (ODACS), to discuss the landscape of Christian education in Virginia. As ODACS celebrates its 50th anniversary, the conversation highlights the association's unique role in supporting member schools across the state of Virginia. A primary focus is the recent legislative battle over House Bill 359, a radical proposal that sought to grant the state absolute control over private school hiring, curriculum, and disciplinary procedures by broadly defining private donations as "public assistance." While the bill is currently stalled in appropriations due to its significant fiscal impact, Jamison and Dan emphasize that this is only a temporary victory requiring continued vigilance.  The episode also recounts vital regulatory victories involving childcare ratios and fundraising overreach, underscoring the necessity of active political engagement.  Looking forward, Zacharias and Coppola explore the "golden opportunity" presented by the Education Freedom Tax Credit, a federal provision set for 2027 that will allow taxpayers to reclaim funds for Christian education. The discussion concludes with a reflection on the spiritual importance of maintaining a Biblical worldview in the classroom.

Do No Harm? Accountability and the Future of Christian Higher Ed

In this episode of AACS Today, Matt and Jamison welcome Hannah DeBruler back to the podcast. Hannah serves as the Higher Ed Policy Analyst for AACS, and she brings her expertise to unpack the implications of the "Do No Harm" test—a key accountability measure within the Working Families Tax Cut legislation. The episode provides an in-depth analysis of how this federal mandate requires college programs to prove their graduates out-earn high school graduates to maintain eligibility for federal funding. The conversation specifically addresses the potential threat this "utilitarian" view poses to Christian higher education and service-oriented vocations like ministry and teaching, which prioritize spiritual and societal impact over material wealth. Furthermore, the hosts examine how this federal standard is already influencing state-level legislation in places like Indiana.  With implementation beginning in July 2026, this episode is an essential resource for educators and advocates looking to understand the shifting landscape of higher ed accountability and the upcoming opportunities for public comment to protect faith-based institutions.