The Regents Podcast: Recent Episodes
Regents School of Austin
Welcome to The Regents Podcast--a weekly podcast for K-12 classical Christian educators and parents.
To celebrate the 200th episode of the Regents podcast, Dan Peterson, Kirk Avery, and Brandon Shufflebarger discuss their top 3 favorite episodes of all time.
The link to the episode archives going back to the very first one is: https://regentspodcast.libsyn.com
Dan's top 3:
- Episode #87: The Devil of Perfectionism
- Episode #26: David Thomas and Sissy Goff on Intentional Parenting
- Episode #167: Harlan Gilliam - Story of Redemption
Kirk's top 3:
- Episode #125: Alumni in the Military Academies
- Episode #98: Emotional Intelligence of our Kids
- Episode #167: Harlan Gilliam - Story of Redemption
Brandon's top 3:
- Episode #73: The Joy of Reading
- Episode #175: Re-engage Marriage Ministry
- Episode #94: David Thomas on the Mind of Boys
NOTE: This episode is a re-release of a conversation that was previously recorded in February of 2024. As a perennially relevant topic at Regents, we are releasing it again for those of you who may have missed it the first time around.
David Thomas and Sissy Goff join Dr. Dan Peterson in the studio again to talk about techniques to handle the rising anxiety in our kids and in ourselves.
Regents alumni Kyle Choy and Lucy Taylor talk with Kirk Avery about their experiences as students in the innagural class at the University of Austin (UATX), a new university with a focus on inquiry, curiosity, and intellectual freedom.
The admissions team at Regents talks to Kirk Avery about the true, good, and beautiful of the admissions process at the school and dispels some myths along the way.
New Chief Operations Officer, Joseph McElmurry talks to Kirk avery about his eclectic career experience and his journey to Regents.
NOTE: This episode is a re-release of a conversation that was previously recorded in November of 2023. As a perennially relevant topic at Regents, we are releasing it again for those of you who may have missed it the first time around.
Dr. Ed Welch, faculty member at the Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation (CCEF), talks with Dr. Dan Peterson and Dr. Ryan Lister about a biblical approach to dealing with anxiety.
Robert Henneke, Executive Director at the Texas Public Policy Foundation, talks with Kirk Avery about the work TPPF does defending liberty in Texas. They also discuss opportunities for Regents juniors/seniors through the Texas Scholars Program that aim to give students hands-on experience in a think-tank environment over the course of a semester.
Ben Broughton, Taylor Holcomb, and Clayton Ripley talk to Kirk Avery about the challenges, rewards, and opportunity to preach the gospel message they experienced taking their younger children on an international mission trip.
Rob Galvan, the "Voice of the Regents Knights", talks with Kirk Avery about how he became the primary announcer of Regents sporting events and how he approaches the craft of announcing. Along the way you'll get to hear a little Regents Athletics history as well as Rob's own background as a sports announcer.
Dan Peterson and Kirk Avery talk to board members Will Davis and Brent Heath about the intricacies of serving on the Regents Board of Directors. Topics discussed include: the board structure, long-term strategic decisions, length of service, and how the board handles issues that are raised at the school.
Heath Hale, known to most Regents families for his work with the Cowboy Auctioneer team, talks about his history as an auctioneer raising money for charities and his personal conviction to fulfill Jesus' Great Commission.
Katy Faust, author, speaker, and Founder/President of "Them Before Us", sits down to talk with Kirk Avery and Dan Peterson after her presentation on campus for Regents families. They discuss the concept of children's rights (from a Christian and conservative framework) and the importance of guiding and preparing students to engage with anti-children perspectives in the culture at large.
Alumni Coulter Cowden and Caroline O'Leary talk with Kirk Avery about their experiences preparing for and joining the U.S. Naval Academy.
Athletic Directors Kyle Shotwell and Sheila Henderson talk to Kirk Avery about the upcoming Regents "Sports Symposium" event for student athletes and coaches of Grammar aged kids.
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Sports Symposium sign up link:
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSd2JRnVPXW4D11v4t0ZHRoDNmFwB3pXIHkOqru5sq28GcVJgA/viewform
Kirk Avery and Dan Peterson talk with Dr. Jonathan Pennington (Professor of New Testament Interpretation at Southern Seminary) about his RICE training sessions with Regents teachers coming back from Christmas Break. Topics discussed included Christian culture, curriculum, the musical Wicked, and human flourishing in the context of happiness.
Kirk Avery (Directory of Advancement) and Ryan Lister (Director of Residency) talk with this year's Regents Residents about what the Residency program entails and how it is having an impact on students as well future teachers in the Classical education movement.
Visit with Becky Walter and Kirk Avery to learn why preparing your child for kindergarten has nothing to do with academics.
Long-time Regents dad Heath Driver joins Kirk Avery to discuss his experience leading Jouney to Manhood and the impact it has had on Regents fathers and sons over the years.
Kathi Haralson is the Excecutive Director of Pop-Up Birthday, one of the ministry partners for Regents 3rd graders. In this conversation with Kirk Avery, Kathi describes the history and mission of Pop-Up Birthday and ways the Regents community can get invovled.
Regents parents Kendall and Kyle Harvey sit down with Kirk Avery to discuss Friedreich's ataxia (FA), a rare degenerative disorder that Kendall was diagnosed with in her early 20's. Their discussion covers the history of Kendall's diagnosis, how it has affected her faith and family, and the Harveys' perspective on living with FA.
Mobile Loaves and Fishes founder Alan Graham and his wife Tricia join Kirk Avery this week to talk about the history of the organization, how God has grown their ministry, and how Regents has partnered with them over the years. Along the way, they dive into other topics like Alan's faith journey and his recent appearance on the Joe Rogan podcast.
Regents cross country coaches Mary Frances Payne and Aly Faulk talk to Kirk Avery about their own experiences running cross country at Regents and how the program has always been primarily centered on spiritual and relational growth.
Pano Kanelos, the founding president of the University of Austin and a Regents parent, talks with Dan Peterson about what initially drew him to education, the contributing factors to intellectual fragility in young people, and his hopes for the graduates of the University of Austin.
Courtney Abernethy, former Regents parent, talks with Kirk Avery about The Source, a full-service women's healthcare clinic in Austin and Houston that focuses on providing whole-person care for women.
Daniel Darling is an author, pastor and Christian leader. He currently serves as the Director of The Land Center for Cultural Engagement at Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary and Assistant Professor of Faith and Culture at Texas Baptist College. He joins Dr. Dan Peterson, Head of School at Regents School of Ausitn, to discuss the nuances of intertwining one's faith and politics.
Mark and Sara Franz are long-time Regents parents and community members and have each served in a variety of capacities on campus. Mark is currently in his 11th year serving on the Board of Directors. Now that their kids are older, Mark and Sara spend a lot of their time investing in the marriages of others through the Re|engage Marriage ministry. That ministry, and its fruits, are the topic of this conversation with Kirk Avery.
Bryce Waller, a pastor in the PCA, and his wife Lisa talk with Kirk Avery about following God's call to move their entire family to Bogotá, Colombia so Bryce could pastor a church in the heart of the city. The Wallers have since moved back to Austin and are rejoining the Regents community this school year.
Stefan Wilson, a pastor and Director of Educators at the Colson Center, joins Dr. Dan Peterson to discuss belief formation in the context of education and his training of Regents teachers to kick off the 2024-2025 school year.
James Tessmann and Michael Heidler talk with Director of Advancement, Kirk Avery, about the impact the Dad's Bootcamp has had on their lives over the course of their time at Regents. They also preview some of the speakers and topics for this year's event.
Ellen Troxclair is a former Austin City Council member and currently serves as a member of the Texas House of Representatives for District 19. She is also a new Regents parent. In this conversation, Rep. Troxclair sits down with Director of Advancement Kirk Avery to discuss the negative impact phones are having on children in the classroom.
Three seniors from the class of 2024 sit down with Dan Peterson to talk about their journeys developing their Senior Theses at Regents.
Melissa Piercy, Tracie Dickey, and Marie Artaza join Dan Peterson to talk about their experiences serving on the Regents Parent Council (RPC).
The current and past RPC chairs would like to extend a very big thank you to the Regents Facilities team. Without the wonderful support from Facilities, none of the RPC events throughout the year would be possible!
Katy Faust, author of "Raising Conservative Kids in a Woke City", talks with Dr. Dan Peterson about raising kids intentionally with core faith and family values in the midst of strong cultural headwinds.
Harlan Gilliam sits down with Liz Benigno to tell the difficult story of how he came to faith.
Christopher Yuan, a speaker and writer on the issue of Biblical sexuality, sits down with Liz Benigno in the second of a two-part interview where he shares his story of struggling with homosexuality and drugs as a young man and how he and his parents came to Christ.
Dr. Christopher Yuan, a speaker and writer on the issue of Biblical sexuality, sits down with Liz Benigno in the first of a two-part interview where he shares his story of struggling with homosexuality and drugs as young man and how he and his parents came to Christ.
Author Liz Benigno and illustrator Claire Greiner Franklin talk with Dr. Dan Peterson about their journey creating their first book: Francine Rasberry, The Not So Scary Sleepover.
Regents Learning Specialist Jane-Ann Myers and parent Brittany Neff join Liz Benigno to talk about the Learning Initiative at Regents and how it benefits the community.
Regents Science teacher Chris Corley discusses the science behind the upcoming total eclipse and the opportunities available to Regents students to participate in the viewing.
David Thomas and Sissy Goff join Dr. Dan Peterson in the studio again to talk about techniques to handle the rising anxiety in our kids and in ourselves.
Regents grads and current Regents parents Erin Holcomb, Merrill Laguarta, and Landon Lill talk with Liz Bengino about their experiences attending Regents and why they choose to send their own kids here.
Sara Soenen is a Regents mom and the founder of Hope & Laughter, a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing mental health resources and care for believers. She joins Liz Benigno to tell her very difficult, but redemptive life story.
Regents Athletic Director Sheila Henderson joins Liz Benigno to discuss the lessons she's learned through years, both on and off the field, on raising boys to become godly men.
Amy Laurer, current Regents parent with 20 years of involvement at Regents, joins Liz Benigno to discuss the importance of Christian service at our school and how to instill it as a virture in our students.
Dick Mattern, a long-time and beloved member of the Regents community, sits down with Liz Benigno to talk about his life and missionary work in Africa. If you've been at Regents for any length of time you've probably been privileged to run across Dick and have a conversation with him in the plaza--now you get to hear his story!
Dr. Ed Welch, faculty member at the Christian Counseling and Educational Foundation (CCEF), talks with Dr. Dan Peterson and Dr. Ryan Lister about a biblical approach to dealing with anxiety.
NOTE: This is a re-release of an episode with Becky Walter and Liz Benigno from May of 2021. Liz has a new intro explailning the importance and timeliness of this topic at Regents!
Becky Walter, K-2 Associate Head, sits down with Liz Benigno to talk about some of their favorite books and reading memories from childhood as well as strategies to instill the love of reading in all children.
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Some books mentioned in this episode:
Because of Winn-Dixie, My Side of the Mountain, The Red Wall series, Fantastic Mr. Fox, The Wolves of Willoughby Chase, On the Banks of Plum Creek, Hank the Cowdog
Liz Benigno, Paige Ueltschey, and Brandon Shufflebarger discuss the life and works of Flannery O'Connor, a mid-century Christian writer that Regents seniors are introduced to in literature class. Beyond talking about her influence, Paige and Brandon discuss the thematic details of two of her short stories -- Good Country People and The Enduring Chill. If you have never heard of Flannery O'Connor, or don't know much about her, this episode is a great introduction!
Dan Finkel, founder of Math for Love, sits down with Liz Benigno and Josh Wilkerson to talk about the importance of "playing with math" to develop a deeper understanding and love for the subject.
Eighth grader Sawyer Jackson and his mother, Megan Jackson, talk with Liz Benigno about the Embrace Special Needs ministry and the joy of serving on mission trips as a family.
Sam Thompson, Betsy Nowrasteh, and Kirk Avery join Liz Benigno to discuss the historical camaraderie between Athletics and Fine Arts and the need for new facilities through the Momentum capital campaign.
Parker Stuckey, the Area Director of Young Life for Capital City, talks with Liz Benigno about ministering to teenagers at Regents through Young Life.
Dr. Mark Regenerus, a sociologist and professor at the University of Texas at Austin, talks with Rhetoric Head of School Josh Simmons about the state of relationships and sex in modern society. Dr. Regenerus was on campus to give a talk to Regents seniors as part of the Rhetoric guest speaker series.
Chip Roy, Regents dad and U.S. representative for Texas’s 21st congressional district, talks with Liz Benigno about the Christian response to sex trafficking in Texas and abroad.
Sam Thompson and Kristen Stone join Liz Benigno to discuss fitness and nutrition at Regents.
Regents Alumni Network members Jordan Needham and Joy Baughman talk to Liz Bengino about various events and opportunities for Regents Alumni and also reminisce on the school's early days.
Liz Benigno talks with Laura Powell, Director of Spiritual Development for Athletics, about what spiritual formation looks like among coaches and within our Athletics department.
NOTE: This episode is a re-release of a conversation that was previously recorded in February of 2023. As a relevant topic at Regents, we are releasing it again for those of you who may have missed it the first time around.
Kirk Avery visits with Momentum capital campaign co-chairs, Julie Thomas and Will Davis to discuss the history, planning, and hopes for bringing our campus to maturity.
NOTE: This episode is a re-release of a conversation that was previously recorded in November of 2021. As a perennially relevant topic at Regents, we are releasing it again for those of you who may have missed it the first time around.
Former Regents student Nolan Gore talks to Liz Benigno about how to properly orient our attitudes toward money.
NOTE: This episode is a re-release of a conversation that was previously recorded in October of 2021. As a perennially relevant topic at Regents, we are releasing it again for those of you who may have missed it the first time around.
Mindy Dixon, Ryan Magill, and Jana Gomillion join Liz Benigno to unpack the phrase "the true, good, and beautiful" in the context of a Regents education.
NOTE: This episode is a re-release of a conversation that was previously recorded in January of 2022. As a perennially relevant topic at Regents, we are releasing it again for those of you who may have missed it the first time around. Dr. Lister now serves as the Regents Director of Residency.
Today's guest is Dr. Ryan Lister, professor of Theology at Western Seminary in Portland, Oregon. Dr. Lister discusses the ways in which Christian education can flourish in a post-modern cultural context.
NOTE: This episode is a re-release of a conversation that was previously recorded in October of 2022. As a perennially relevant topic at Regents, we are releasing it again for those of you who may have missed it the first time around.
Tyler Robert, a Regents graduate and former teacher, talks with Liz Benigno and Josh Simmons about how the younger generation grapples with issues of Christianity in culture.
NOTE: This episode is a re-release of a conversation that was previously recorded in August of 2022. As a perennially relevant topic at Regents, we are releasing it again for those of you who may have missed it the first time around.
Liz Benigno sits down to talk candidly with three Regents seniors from the class of 2022 about how taking fine arts classes positively shaped their experiences at Regents.
NOTE: This episode is a re-release of a conversation that was previously recorded in March of 2022. As a perennially relevant topic at Regents, we are releasing it again for those of you who may have missed it the first time around.
Mary Bennett is a former professor at Texas State University and currently works as a play therapist and counselor at the Austin Stone Counseling Center. In this conversation with Liz Benigno, she discusses techniques to develop emotional intelligence in our children.
NOTE: This episode is a re-release of a conversation that was previously recorded in February of 2022. As a perennially relevant topic at Regents, we are releasing it again for those of you who may have missed it the first time around.
David Thomas is a counselor in Nashville, TN where he and Sissy Goff have over 50 years of collective experience counseling kids and families. In this interview, he discusses the stages of development boys go through and how parents can use this knowledge to guide them into adulthood.
NOTE: This episode is a re-release of a conversation that was previously recorded in December of 2021. As a perennially relevant topic at Regents, we are releasing it again for those of you who may have missed it the first time around.
Regents graduate, Haley Foster, joins Liz Benigno in the studio to talk about her struggles with perfectionism throughout High School.
NOTE: This episode is a re-release of a conversation that was previously recorded in October of 2022. As a perennially relevant topic at Regents, we are releasing it again for those of you who may have missed it the first time around.
As a follow-up to our alumni interview on perfectionism, Martha Bauman joins Liz Benigno to talk about her own struggles with perfectionism as a Regents parent. All five of Martha's children have graduated from Regents and the Bauman family has been involved with the school since the very first year it was founded in 1992.
NOTE: This episode is a re-release of a conversation that was previously recorded in May of 2022. As a perennially relevant topic at Regents, we are releasing it again for those of you who may have missed it the first time around.
Chip Roy, Regents dad and U.S. representative for Texas’s 21st congressional district, talks to Dr. Dan Peterson about the fentanyl crisis in America and how it impacts our children.
Head of School Dan Peterson and his wife Brooke sit down to chat with Liz Benigno about how they met, how Dan got into the field of education, and the lessons they've learned over the years raising their own children.
Marshall Bowen ('08), Molly Frances Glasgow Denham ('09), and Joseph Benigno ('12) sit down with Liz Benigno to reflect on their senior thesis presentations and give advice to current Regents students and parents.
NOTE: This episode is a re-release of a conversation that was previously recorded in November of 2020. As a perennially relevant topic at Regents, we are releasing it again for those of you who may have missed it the first time around.
Allison Jackson, a long-time Regents science teacher, discusses classical methods of teaching and how they are distinct from what may be found in other educational environments.
Liz Benigno talks with Dr. Daniel Eaton about what the Apologetics program looks like in the School of Rhetoric and how parents can help prepare their younger kids for this course of study. For parents who feel unprepared to start talking with their children about this subject, Dr. Eaton provides several short book recommendations.
Dr. Justin Dyer, Executive Director of the Civitas Institute at UT, and Dr. Will Imboden, Executive Director of the Clements Center for National Security and faculty member at the LBJ School of Public Affairs at UT, join Dan Peterson to discuss cultivating civil discourse in our community and being a faithful Christian in academia.
NOTE: This episode is a re-release of a conversation that was previously recorded in May of 2019. As a perennially relevant topic at Regents, we are releasing it again for those of you who may have missed it the first time around.
Dr. Leonard Sax, author of several books, including Boys Adrift, Girls on the Edge, and The Collapse of Parenting,stops by the Regents studio. In this extended interview, he and Dr. Dan Peterson discuss the cultural dangers for boys and girls and how parents and educators should think differently about cultivating curiosity in their kids both in the classroom and at home.
Ford Knippa, 2020 Regents graduate and junior at the Naval Academy, talks with Kirk Avery about what led him to join one of the United States' service academies and what they have to offer our graduating seniors.
Dan Peterson talks to the new Chief of Security, Collin Fallon. Officer Fallon enlisted in the Marine Corps in 2001 and served Regents as a uniformed police officer as part of the Austin Police Department for several years. He is also a Regents dad.
Kirk Avery visits with Momentum capital campaign co-chairs, Julie Thomas and Will Davis to discuss the history, planning, and hopes for bringing our campus to maturity.
Liz Benigno sits down with Josh Simmons (Head of the School of Rhetoric) to discuss the details of the upcoming Europe trip as well as how it functions as one of the capstone experiences for a classical education.
Vicki Courtney, author of 5 Conversations You Must Have With Your Daughter and 5 Conversations You Must Have With Your Son, talks with Liz Benigno about the breadth of faith conversations her books have stirred over the years. Vicki is also an early Regents parent and high school friend of Liz's.
Liz Benigno chats with Hillary Ferrer of Mama Bear Apologetics as an extension of her conversation on campus with Regents families. The goal of Mama Bear Apologetics is to empower mothers by giving them accessible apologetics resources.
Head of School Dan Peterson, Chair of the Board of Directors Kelly Benzon, and Director of Advancement Kirk Avery kick off the new year by discussing Regents' annual State of the School report for 2023.
NOTE: This episode is a re-release of a conversation that was previously recorded in May of 2019. As a perennially relevant topic at Regents, we are releasing it again for those of you who may have missed it the first time around.
Harlan Gilliam, the much beloved teacher and gardener, discusses the history of the Regents Science and Nature Center and why it's important to teach students about gardening.
Dr. Angel Parham, Associate Professor of Sociology and senior fellow at the Institute for Advanced Studies in Culture at the University of Virginia, joins Dan Peterson to discuss how Classical Christian schools can think about choosing curriculum and fostering civil discourse in the broader community.
Regents Campus Task Force members Garrett Martin and Travis Thomas join Director of Advancement Kirk Avery to discuss the details of the process they have undertaken over the last 18 months to develop a plan for the construction of new campus facilities.
Sheila Henderson, new Assistant Athletic Director at Regents, sits down with Dan Peterson to discuss her faith journey and vision for discipling student athletes.
In this week's episode, Dane Bundy, Laura Weenig, and Sarah Heidler join Liz Benigno to talk about the upcoming Fine Arts Celebration as well as new RPC and parent volunteer opportunities with the Regents Fine Arts program.
U.S. Senator and and soon-to-be president of the University of Florida, Ben Sasse, joins Dan Peterson in the studio to discuss the concept of maintaining thought leadership in education.
NOTE: This is a re-release of an older conversation.
Chris Corley, chair of the Science department and long-time Regents teacher, stops by the studio to talk about cycling, how he got into the teaching profession, good habits for parents, and how faith and science should interact in a classical Christian context.
Tyler Robert, a Regents graduate and former teacher, talks with Liz Benigno and Josh Simmons about how the younger generation grapples with issues of Christianity in culture.
As a follow-up to our alumni interview on perfectionism, Martha Bauman joins Liz Benigno to talk about her own struggles with perfectionism as a Regents parent. All five of Martha's children have graduated from Regents and the Bauman family has been involved with the school since the very first year it was founded in 1992.
Liz Benigno interviews Karen Berlanga and Megan Jackson about the new math curriculum in the Grammar school and Regents' general philosophy about teaching the good, true, and beautiful aspects of mathematics.
Josh Simmons interviews Jonathan Pageau, an artist and woodcarver who regularly discusses Christian art and symbolism on YouTube with the likes of psychologist Jordan Peterson, cognitive scientist John Vervaeke, and reformed theologian Paul Vander Klay, among others.
Director of Athletics, Beck Brydon, introduces ARMOR, the Regents athletics theme for the upcoming school year.
Dr. Aaron Howard who has spent over 25 years teaching, leading, and mentoring in diverse organizations, joins Dan Peterson to discuss issues of race and diversity in the context of Christian living.
Liz Benigno sits down to talk candidly with three Regents seniors from the class of 2022 about how taking fine arts classes positively shaped their experiences at Regents.
Dan Peterson introduces new Head of the School of Logic, Stephen Steiner, to the Regents community.
Chip Roy, Regents dad and U.S. representative for Texas’s 21st congressional district, talks to Dr. Dan Peterson about the fentanyl crisis in America and how it impacts our children.
Kristen Turner, Regents parent and licensed professional counselor, talks with Liz Benigno about how to successfully launch your kids into the world.
In this special 100th episode Brandon Shufflebarger, software developer, computer science teacher, and producer of the podcast talks to Dan Peterson about designing a recording studio at Regents, funny podcast moments that were edited out, and other random adventures in the history of recording these interviews.
Jana Gomillion and Rob Williams join Dan Peterson to talk about just what exactly goes down on the upcoming 8th grade class trip.
Dane Bundy (Director of Fine Arts) interviews Betsy Nowrasteh (SOR Theatre) about her creative process, how a drama production mirrors the body of Christ, and the common stereotypes of an artist.
Bryce Waller and Josh Simmons talk to Dan Peterson about the final document and conclusions of the Christ and Culture task force that will be released to the Regents community.
Mary Bennett is a former professor at Texas State University and currently works as a play therapist and counselor at the Austin Stone Counseling Center. In this conversation with Liz Benigno, she discusses techniques to develop emotional intelligence in our children.
Janet Shuffield and Hannah Gamble discuss the liturgies in a math classroom at Regents.
David Thomas is a counselor in Nashville, TN where he and Sissy Goff have over 50 years of collective experience counseling kids and families. In this interview, he discusses the stages of development boys go through and how parents can use this knowledge to guide them into adulthood.
Mark Adams is a local pastor, long-time Regents parent, and husband of Grammar School teacher Jill Adams. On this episode, he talks with Liz Benigno about the role of parents, the church, and Regents in the spiritual formation of students.
Director of Fine Arts, Dane Bundy, talks with Betsy Nowrasteh about the Regents theater program and how the process of Christian formation happens on the stage.
Ellen Tucker, a former Regents parent and staff member, has a heartfelt discussion with Liz Benigno about how discipleship impacted her and her children at Regents and how it should look in a community.
Ronnie Long, Liz Benigno, and Matt Jasinski talk to Dr. Dan Peterson about the joys and challenges of leading staff and students at Regents.
Today's guest is Dr. Ryan Lister, professor of Theology at Western Seminary in Portland, Oregon. Dr. Lister discusses the ways in which Christian education can flourish in a post-modern cultural context.
Matt Jasinski, Head of Logic, talks Classical Pedagogy with Dan Peterson--the mechanics and practice of teaching children from within a Classical framework.
Regents graduate, Haley Foster, joins Liz Benigno in the studio to talk about her struggles with perfectionism throughout High School.
Long-time Regents teachers and parents-Trish Brydon and Jana Gomillion-talk to Dr. Peterson about why we teach the Great Books and why its important to expose students to excellent pieces of literature.
Former Regents student Nolan Gore talks to Liz Benigno about how to properly orient our attitudes toward money.
Lee Jones (CFO at Regents) sits down with Kirk Avery (Director of Advancement) to discuss tuition, affordability, and financial accessibility at Regents School of Austin.
Ryan Tucker serves as senior counsel and director of the Center for Christian Ministries with Alliance Defending Freedom. He talks to Dan Peterson about the litigation efforts to maintain and defend the freedom of churches, Christian ministries, and religious schools to exercise their rights under the First Amendment.
Jenn Harper and Sarah Heidler, parent co-chairs of the 2021 Families Helping Families event (formerly the Regents Gala), walk through what this year's fundraising event will entail. FHF starts at 5:00pm on Saturday, November 6th at Star Hill Ranch. See here for registration details and more information.
Erin Holcomb, former Regents student and current Regents parent, talks with Liz Benigno about attending the school in its earlier years and the influence that teachers and the classical model of education had on her pursuits.
Mindy Dixon, Ryan Magill, and Jana Gomillion join Liz Benigno to unpack the phrase "the true, good, and beautiful" in the context of a Regents education.
David Eaton, President of Axis, joins Dr. Peterson to discuss how to empower productive faith conversations across generations and the idea of raising kids to be sin confessors rather than sin concealers.
Trillia Newbell is a noted author, speaker, and leader on issues of faith, family, and diversity. Today, she's back in the studio to discuss her book Creative God, Colorful Us, and the time she spent on campus with Regents Grammar students.
Coach Beck Brydon sits down with Dan Peterson to discuss the new athletic theme for this year - RISE.
Dane Bundy, the new Director of Fine Arts, introduces himself to the Regents community.
Well known author and Christian thinker, Nancy Pearcey, joins Dr. Dan Peterson to discuss a variety of topics including the time she spent with Francis Schaeffer, her conversion to Christianity, and the role of Christian educators. Pearcey has been dubbed by The Economist as "America’s preeminent evangelical Protestant female intellectual" and her books include Total Truth: Liberating Christianity from Its Cultural Captivity, and Love Thy Body: Answering Hard Questions about Life and Sexuality.
Regents Christ and Culture Task Force members Dan Peterson, Josh Simmons, Sabrina Stuckey, and Bryce Waller discuss the task force's purpose and how it has been functioning over the past year.
Becky Walter, K-2 Associate Head, sits down with Liz Benigno to talk about some of their favorite books and reading memories from childhood as well as strategies to instill the love of reading in all children.
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Book lists, by grade, from the Regents Grammar Library
Some other books mentioned in this episode:
Because of Winn-Dixie, My Side of the Mountain, The Red Wall series, Fantastic Mr. Fox, The Wolves of Willoughby Chase, On the Banks of Plum Creek, Hank the Cowdog
Grammar School teachers Mrs. Everswick and Mrs. Ochsendorf discuss the concept incorporating Christian liturgies into the classroom and how students learn to love God through well-cultivated habits.
Dr. Carl Trueman taught Church History at Westminster Theological Seminary for 16 years and is currently a professor of Religion and Biblical Studies at Grove City College in Western Pennsylvania. In this interview, Dan Peterson and Josh Simmons talk to Carl about his new book The Rise and Triumph of the Modern Self. If you've never before heard Carl's thoughts on Theology and modern culture, you are in for a real treat.
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Episode links:
Carl' book: The Rise and Triumph of the Modern Self
Carl's YouTube lectures at Grove City College
Liz Benigno interviews former Thesis Director, Deb Gore, and current Director, Rose Usry, to discuss the history and evolution of the Thesis program at Regents. This episode will leave you feeling encouraged and excited about our Thesis Program!
Dr. Daniel Eaton joins Dan Peterson to define the term "worldview" and discuss how the concept is taught at Regents and what it looks like to engage with the broader field of philosophy as a Christian.
Chairman of the Board, Will Davis, Director of Advancement, Kirk Avery, and Head of School, Dan Peterson, discuss the details of "ONWARD"--the recently released 5-year strategic plan for Regents School of Austin.
Bonnie Shipley, long-time Regents Grammar school teacher, stops by to talk the history and tradition of character rocks at the school.
School of Logic art teacher Kristen Lemon and Director of Fine Arts Andrew Smalley join Dan Peterson to talk about art at Regents in the context of serving the community around us.
Below are the details of the upcoming art ministerium mentioned in this episode:
Date: Thursday, March 11th Time: 5:30 pm Location: Texas Oncology South (James Casey St.) Information: Only five people will be allowed to be present. Three T.O. staff members, Mrs. Lemon, and Ellie Grace Goode (student artist representative) because of CDC regulations. The event will be held outdoors. Andrew Smalley will video the presentation to share with the Regents community in an upcoming Newsletter.
Regents Head Football Coach, Tim Phillips, talks through his history coaching football, what he has been thankful for as a Regents Dad, and the character attributes he hopes to emphasize in the Regents football program.
Dr. Christopher Yuan has taught at Moody Bible Institute for twelve years and frequently speaks on the topic of faith and sexuality. This is the second of a two-part conversation he had with Dan Peterson after spending time on the Regents campus sharing his testimony of coming to Christ and grappling with his identity and sexuality.
Dr. Christopher Yuan has taught at Moody Bible Institute for twelve years and frequently speaks on the topic of faith and sexuality. This is the first of a two-part conversation he had with Dan Peterson after spending time on the Regents campus sharing his testimony of coming to Christ and grappling with his identity and sexuality.
Dr. Mary Bennett is a Regents grammar mom, child play therapist, and former professor at Texas State University. She joins Liz Benigno to discuss the challenges of parenting kids during the pandemic.
Admissions coordinator Kate Zinnecker, who has been associated with Regents since 1994, looks back on some of her favorite memories and defining moments in the school's history.
Calvin College professor of Philosophy and author James K. A. Smith joins Dan Peterson to discuss the central thesis of his book You Are What You Love and how it applies to parents, students, and teachers in the education context. Note: this is the second part of a two-part conversation.
Calvin College professor of Philosophy and author James K. A. Smith joins Dan Peterson to discuss the central thesis of his book You Are What You Love and how it applies to parents, students, and teachers in the education context. Note: this is the first part of a two-part conversation.
Trillia Newbell is a noted author, speaker, and leader on issues of faith, family, and diversity. She joins Dr. Dan Peterson to discuss the foundational gospel truths that should guide how Christians approach the issue of racism.
Elizabeth Bernhardt (actor, singer, writer, and Regents Logic drama teacher) discusses her recent book The Power of Pretend: An Actor's Struggle to Unite Faith and Work. The book was born out of the struggles she has faced as a follower of Christ in the world of the performing arts.
This is the second part of a panel discussion that took place over Zoom at the beginning of the school year during Regents in-service/RICE training. Teachers and administrators gathered to discuss the the concept of "In Loco Parentis", why it is so important to the school's culture, and what it looks like in practice.
Director of Advancement, Kirk Avery, discusses the Grateful Giving project that starts this week, what the donations will be used for, and why a family might want to give to Regents in the first place.
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regentsaustin.org/giving
This week's special episode is the first part of a panel discussion that took place over Zoom at the beginning of the school year during Regents in-service/RICE training. Teachers and administrators gathered to discuss the the concept of "In Loco Parentis", why it is so important to the school's culture, and what it looks like in practice.
Allison Jackson, science teacher and 7th grade Dean, discusses classical methods of teaching and how they are distinct from what may be found in other educational environments.
Keith McCurdy, a licensed counselor serving as President and CEO of Total Life Counseling in Roanoke, VA, discusses some of the essential things parents can do to raise "sturdy children" in a generation of emotional fragility.
Dynamic teaching duo Scott Moneyhon and Rob Williams talk about why they love history and why it is such a fundamental discipline for students to study.
Associate Head of Rhetoric, Josh Simmons, discusses why there is a need for schools to think about "Christ and Culture" and gives an update on the Christ and Culture Task Force at Regents.
Beck Brydon, Director of Athletics discusses the new athletic theme for this year - UNITE. He also walks through what games will look like for fans during the pandemic.
Dan Darling, bestselling author, pastor, and Senior Vice President of National Religious Broadcasters (NRB), discusses why and how Christians should be engaged in politics. The conversation includes some good principles to adhere to when engaging in online discussion, and how parents can teach their children to have civil discourse grounded in a Christian worldview.
Mike Stevens, Director of Operations at Regents, sits down with Dan Peterson to discuss the process of developing and maintaining a back-to-school plan for the Fall of 2020.
Dr. Francis Su, the Benediktsson-Karwa Professor of Mathematics at Harvey Mudd College and author of the book "Mathematics for Human Flourishing", joins Dr. Josh Wilkerson to discuss how the study of mathematics, at all levels, is an important human pursuit.
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Dr. Su's homepage
Graduates of the Class of 2019--Evelyn Voelter, Katelyn Rodrigues, Case Harris, and Clara Grace Cowden--talk to Dr. Peterson about what their transition to college has been like and how each of their respective schools has handled COVID-19.
Andrea Heath is parent of four Regents students who has served in many capacities throughout the school. She and Dr. Dan Peterson discuss the parental perspective of what remote learning has looked like in their homes.
Nick Gordon, Department Chair of Physical Education at Regents, talks to Dr. Dan Peterson about the goal of P.E. in a Classical context and how the Regents motor lab plays into the broader context of educating children.
Dance Director Elizabeth Milburn discusses why she's passionate about dance and how she uses it for discipleship.
Our division heads - Ronnie Long - Head of Grammar, Matt Jasinski - Head of Logic, and Liz Benigno - Head of Rhetoric join Dr. Dan Peterson to discuss the principles behind Regents' approach to remote learning.
Veteran Grammar school teachers Mindy Dixon and Caroline Herlin discuss the role of the imagination in both the Gospel and in Classical education.
Bryce Waller, pastor at Redeemer Presbyterian Church in Austin, TX, talks with Dr. Dan Peterson about how to properly define the role of the church and the role of a Christian school for families.
Marilyn Boyd, a teacher at Regents since 2005, shares her heart for teaching the Word of God to young children and how she works to equip them with the tools to navigate their walk through life.
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"...teach them that not every voice they hear is their voice..."
Josh Simmons, Associate Head of School of Rhetoric at Regents School of Austin, joins Dr. Dan Peterson to discuss the foundational principles of a Classical Christian education.
Alaina Hanson, Paige Strickland, and Becky Walter join Dr. Dan Peterson to discuss the annual Reading Round Up Rodeo event at Regents School of Austin and how it aims to inspire a love of reading in young students.
Dr. Josh Wilkerson and a group of four AP Statistics Students (Cade Morris, Caroline Hooten, Lucy Gifford, and Chris Kuhlman) talk about their class survey/data analysis project with Mobile Loaves and Fishes and how they were impacted by the residents at the Community First! Village.
Note: this conversation was recorded last Spring and the Junior students who were involved are now Seniors!
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Episode links:
Community First! Village
Liz Benigno, Head of Rhetoric, discusses the practical ways in which the the philosophy of the Trivium distinguishes the School of Rhetoric at Regents from other high schools in the country and shapes the student experience.
Liz Benigno sits down with former Regents parents Martha Bauman and Amy Duncan to chat about the importance of finding a mentor mom during the K-12 years and how they all have benefited by connecting with more experienced moms.
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Episode links:
Register here for the Regents "Moms for Moms" event February 20, 2020.
On this week's podcast, Liz Benigno, Head of School of Rhetoric, interviews Dr. Dan Peterson. This wide-ranging discussion covers everything from what it's like raising four children to the challenges of leading a cross denominational school.
Mat and Beth Hames are Regents parents and own Alpheus Media, an award-winning production company based in Austin, TX. They join Dr. Dan Peterson to discuss their experience working on the recent Regents short film: "Classical. Christian. Community."
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Episode Links:
Classical. Christian. Community.
Alpheus Media
Guest John Stonestreet, President of the Colson Center for Christian Worldview, discusses the characteristics of "thinking Christianly", looming cultural challenges for the Church, and how Christians should communicate what they stand for and against.
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Episode Links:
Colson Center
John Stonestreet on Twitter
Jen Bryce, Associate Head of 3rd and 4th grades, discusses how Regents School of Austin approaches curriculum integration across multiple subjects. This includes how to integrate faith into the learning process.
Dr. Josh Wilkerson, author of the God & Math blog, explains what it means to "think Christianly" about math. Along the way, he discusses how to pursue the true, good, and beautiful in a math education and how to deal with the phrase: "I am just not a math person."
Episode links:
www.godandmath.com
Kirk Avery, Director of Advancement at Regents School of Austin, discusses what "advancement" means at Regents and what excites him about his new role.
Special guests David Thomas and Sissy Goff, both counselors at Daystar Counseling Ministries in Nashville, join Dr. Dan Peterson in the studio. They discuss the current trends and issues they see kids struggle with and what it looks like to be an intentional parent.
Rob Williams, author of the Thinkwave books and history teacher at Regents for 24 years, talks to Dr. Dan Peterson about exciting curiosity in students, the writing process, and his trilogy book series.
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Episode links:
- You can listen to the first two chapters of the first Thinkwave book here
Stacey Moore, alumni mom and advisor to the 2019 Gala Chairs, shares a bit of Regents Gala history as well as details on the upcoming Gala 2019 at Pecan Grove at The Salt Lick on November 2nd.
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Episode links:
Gala website
Dr. Leonard Sax, author of several books, including Boys Adrift, Girls on the Edge, and The Collapse of Parenting,stops by the Regents studio. In this extended interview, he and Dr. Dan Peterson discuss the cultural dangers for boys and girls and how parents and educators should think differently about cultivating curiosity in their kids both in the classroom and at home.
Episode links:
Boys Adrift
Girls on the Edge
The Collapse of Parenting
Marshall Bowen, Regents alum from the class of 2009, talks to Dr. Dan Peterson about his involvement at Regents after graduating and some of his fondest memories as a student. Bowen is a co-founder of the Regents Alumni Network and also serves as a law clerk to Texas Supreme Justice Paul Green.
Matt Jasinski, Head of School of Logic, joins Dr. Dan Peterson to discuss how Logic fits into the Trivium, the challenges of teaching middle school, and the strengths of the SOL faculty.
Kelly Benzon, who serves on the Regents Board of Directors, and Michael Clark, the Regents Parent Council Chair, join Dr. Dan Peterson to discuss the culture of parent volunteerism at Regents and the variety of ways parents can get involved to serve their school.
Episode links:
https://www.regentsaustin.org/campus-life
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"...it really is a marathon and not a sprint."
Robert Nagel, father to four Regents graduates and former Regents board member, talks to Dr. Dan Peterson about the longtime tradition of Dads Boot Camp--what it is, and how it impacts fathers and their relationship with their families.
Coach Nick Gordon joins Dr. Dan Peterson to kick off the second season of the Regents Podcast. Their conversation covers Gordon’s stint as a professional soccer player and the intentionality of the PE/motor lab program at Regents.
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I just sat up…
Joe White, president and CEO of Kanakuk Kamps, founder of Kids Across America, and the author of numerous books joins Dr. Dan Peterson in the studio.
Regents Latin teacher, Kimberly Brown, stops by to discuss why we study Latin, the practical benefits and difficulties in learning it, and how to properly cultivate student curiosity.
Episode links:
From Achilles to Christ
How Dante Can Change Your Life
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"I'm saving it for the end of the year."
Harlan Gilliam, the much beloved teacher and gardener, discusses the history of the Regents Science and Nature Center and why it's important to teach students about gardening.
Episode links:
For the Children's Sake
Tender Warrior
Rescuing the Gospel from the Cowboys...
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“You’re just admitting you’re lazy if you’re bored.”
Rose Usry, Director of the Senior Thesis program, stops in to chat about the Lord of the Rings, why she likes teaching Rhetoric, her experience with Christianity at Berkeley, and what the Senior Thesis program entails at Regents.
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"Being on a podcast is hard."
Beck Brydon, Director of Athletics, joins Dr. Dan Peterson to discuss "the real UT", his favorite memories at Regents, and what it looks like to redeem sports for Christ.
Episode Links:
Tennessee Volunteers
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“Who you are then….is who you are.”
School of Rhetoric drama teacher, Betsy Nowrasteh, and Regents Seniors (Casey Boyer, Jordan Bailey, Maddie West, and Emma Aldridge) stop by to discuss the upcoming Spring play: The Miser.
Episode links:
The Miser by Molière
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"I found that I'm actually not too bad at it."
Kyle Dillard, Associate Head of Grammar, joins Dr. Dan Peterson to talk about his favorite Grammar field trip memory, how Regents involves parents in the learning experience, the proper way to make a S'more, and tapping into student curiosity.
Episode links:
The Getty in L.A.
Managing Oneself by Peter Drucker
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"I haven't used heat for about a month...just candles."
Chris Corley, chair of the Science department and long-time Regents teacher, stops by the studio to talk about cycling, how he got into the teaching profession, good habits for parents, and how faith and science should interact in a classical Christian context.
Episode links:
Vern Poythress- Redeeming Science
Marilynne Robinson- Gilead
John Irving- A Prayer for Owen Meany
Liz Benigno, Head of the School of Rhetoric, talks to Dr. Dan Peterson about her favorite memories at Regents, having a sense of community on a campus, discipling young men and women in high school, and advice to parents on raising kids.
Episode links:
The Defining Decade
Shepherding A Child's Heart
Raising a Modern Day Knight
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"Be Brave and Parent."
In the second part of their conversation, David Eaton, president of Axis, and Dr. Dan Peterson discuss music, the center of the family, the smartphone era, and intentionally crafting a positive culture at home.
Episode Links:
Alone Together, by Sherry Turkle
Colson Fellows
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“The last thing your kids need is your silence…”
Special guest David Eaton, President of Axis, joins Dr. Dan Peterson to discuss the mission of his organization, cultural translation, and the Christian worldview regarding how our children interact with technology.
Episode links:
Axis
For such a time as this...
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"That's where you can have the real conversations."
Ronnie Long, Head of School of Logic at Regents School of Austin, joins Dr. Dan Peterson to discuss classical Christian education, leading middle schoolers as a teacher and parent, and fly fishing.
Episode Links:
Rainbow trout
Movie: "Eighth Grade"
The Gospel Coalition on "Eighth Grade"
Dostoyevsky
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"They fight different."
Introduction to The Regents Podcast and its mission, hosted by Dr. Dan Peterson, Head of Regents School of Austin in Austin, TX.