Warrior Talk: Recent Episodes
Little Rock Christian Academy
In this episode of Warrior Talk, Head of School Dr. Justin Smith sits down with Warrior alumni parent Dee Brown for a meaningful conversation about faith, leadership, and the lifelong journey of following Jesus. Dee shares how his work with C12 and the Colson Fellows is helping him continue to live out the gospel beyond the school years—shaping a biblical worldview not only in business and community, but as a parent in every season of life. It’s an encouraging reminder that the mission doesn’t end at graduation—it deepens.
Continuing our LRCA Alumni Series, Dr. Justin Smith sits down with Pearson Dennis, a Harvard University graduate, to reflect on how life in Warriorville shaped him. Pearson shares what it was like to study and play football on such a historic campus, how his academic focus informs his approach to life and work, and the lessons he carried from LRCA to Harvard and beyond.
🎙️ Warrior Talk Alumni Series continues!
This week, we sit down with Ava Martin (Class of 2024), who’s juggling four majors (yes—four!) and traveling the world through her program to gain real-world experience. Ava reflects on how LRCA shaped her journey and how her faith is guiding her in this exciting season of life.
Once a Warrior, always a Warrior. 🌍✈️💙
🎙️ Warrior Talk – Alumni Series, Episode 2
In our second alumni spotlight, we sit down with Clara Bozzay (Class of 2023), currently studying at Hillsdale College. Clara reflects on how LRCA prepared her for the academic rigor of college, the lasting impact of thoughtful discussion in the classroom, and the vital role of faith on college campuses today.
Insightful, encouraging, and unmistakably Warrior-hearted—this episode is a great reminder that preparation doesn’t stop at graduation. Once a Warrior, always a Warrior.
🎙️ New Series on Warrior Talk!
We’re launching a brand-new Warrior Talk series spotlighting LRCA alumni—where they are now, how LRCA helped shape them, and the ways they’re stepping boldly into the world beyond Warriorville.
Our first episode features Natalie Bray (Class of 2024), currently attending Union University. From the halls of LRCA to college life in Tennessee, Natalie shares her journey, reflections, and what it looks like to live out the Warrior Way beyond campus.
Once a Warrior, always a Warrior.
In this episode of Warrior Talk, Dr. Justin Smith welcomes Matthew Foster, Director of Academic and College Counseling, for a conversation about what it truly takes for high school students to thrive. Together, they unpack how LRCA partners with families of students in grades 9–12—equipping them with the guidance, support, and faith needed to flourish in high school, navigate college with confidence, and step boldly into life beyond Warriorville.
In this episode of Warrior Talk, we take you behind the scenes of Little Rock Christian Academy’s vision for the future. Join Dr. Justin Smith and the new Mission Advancement Team as they share how Warriorville is being shaped for generations to come—through generosity, innovation, and a bold commitment to Christian education. From new spaces for learning to the eternal impact of giving, discover how our community is helping to elevate hearts and minds for God’s glory.
Hear the story behind LRCA’s brand new Victory Bell—a meaningful symbol of celebration and tradition on our campus. Join Head of School Dr. Justin Smith and Director of Fine Arts Travis Kaye as they ring in this exciting addition and share how it all came to life.
Counting the costs of college? Apprehensive about the application process? Wondering where the road leads? Director of Academic & College Guidance Matt Foster, along with Warrior parent and Board of Trust member Sarah Wood, join Dr. Justin Smith for an important podcast conveying key steps and support for demystifying your student’s journey leading up to and after graduation.
Soaking in the whole story of God…Hear how the House of Love’s refreshed biblical curriculum builds “Aha!” moments and bolsters the higher aim of elementary students knowing and loving Jesus for a lifetime. Head of Lower School Ann Chami and Kindergarten teacher Stacy Wingfield, join Dr. Smith for this don’t miss podcast conveying how students and teachers alike are collecting and connecting the dots from Genesis to Revelation.
LRCA's highly decorated Cross Country program has a higher aim than just earthly accolades. Elite runners themselves, Coaches Christy Nipper and Cameron Beckett, convey in the latest episode of "Warrior Talk" how team culture and life lessons prepare students...mind, body, and soul...for success in running and in life.
In its 10th year, Warrior Blitz is a BLITZTASTIC total team effort engaging families, faculty, staff, and students of all ages. Here, Dr. Justin Smith talks about the x’s and o’s of the annual celebration supporting non-tuition enhancements with PTF’s Event Chair Stacey Knoernschild and PTF President Rachel Rainwater.
In this season's premiere of Warrior Talk, LRCA Head of School, Dr. Justin Smith, shares insights into the heart of LRCA's mission and core values. Dr. Smith also introduces this year's school theme and explains how these guiding principles shape and influence the daily experiences and spiritual formation of students on campus. Tune in to learn how LRCA's commitment to excellence and faith drives everything from academics to student life. Whether you're a parent, student, or faculty member, this episode sets the tone for a great year ahead!
Check out this very charming version of Warrior Talk podcast! The leads in LRCA’s production of Cinderella, Ava Fletcher and Emerson Bailey, sit down with Dr. Smith to chat about all the enchanting ingredients that shape this magical show for all ages!
Cultivating a student’s growth mindset is fundamental to a Warrior education. Check out this week’s Warrior Talk episode with LRCA’s Dr. Tony Saegert, Modern and Classical Languages Department Leader and Educational Travel Coordinator, to hear about the life changing impacts of international travel and powerful learning opportunities beyond the traditional scope of the classroom.
This Warrior Talk imparts a holiday tradition sampling from LRCA and beyond.
So grab some hot cocoa…gather ‘round as a family and give a listen!
Conveying the Christmas meaning true, traditions old and new,
And all things that in their hearts glisten–
Are Head of School Dr. Justin Smith, Ann Chami, Dr. Tony Davis, and Tyler Eatherton too.
Sharing wishes of love and Christmas joy from us to yours and to you!
This week on the podcast, Dr. Justin Smith explores The Arts at Little Rock Christian Academy through a conversation with faculty members Melanie Buchanan, Travis Kaye, and June Hendren. They dive deep into how students are formed into followers of Jesus through creating and building culture in visual arts and performing arts.
In the latest episode of Warrior Talk Podcast, Dr. Smith sits down with Brandon Eller, LRCA's Head Baseball Coach, and Kyle Pennington, LRCA's Head Men's Basketball Coach. While both coaches are coming off state championship seasons, they both discuss how their greatest aim is higher than just winning with their teams. It's a great episode that embodies the mission of Warriorville. We can't wait for your to listen!
In its 9th year, Warrior Blitz is a BLITZTASTIC total team effort spanning families, faculty, staff, and students of all ages. Here, Dr. Justin Smith talks about the x’s and o’s of the annual celebration supporting non-tuition enhancements with PTF’s Event Chair Megan Garrison.
Warrior Talk Podcast is back for a new season with Dr. Justin Smith, recently appointed Head of School of Little Rock Christian Academy. In this episode, Dr. Smith walks through the distinctives of Warriorville and what it means to be a Warrior at LRCA.
Dr. Gary Arnold sits down with Caroline Kitchens, LRCA parent and Registered Pharmacist, to discuss the growing spread and dangers of fentanyl.
In its 8th year, Warrior Blitz is a BLITZTASTIC total team effort spanning families, faculty, staff, and students of all ages. Here, Dr. Gary Arnold talks x’s and o’s of the annual celebration supporting non-tuition enhancements with PTF’s Event Chair Megan Garrison and President Stacy Knoernschild.
In the latest episode of Warrior Talk, Dr. Gary Arnold unpacks the six components of LRCA's "Portrait of a Preferred Graduate". He discusses with Dr. Justin Smith why it's important to start with the end in mind as we partner with church and family to disciple our students in the grace and truth of Jesus.
Dr. Arnold caps off our podcast series on the educational leaders by interviewing Dr. Justin Smith, LRCA's Assistant Head of School and Head of Upper School. In this episode, Dr. Smith discusses his "why" and how he sees the fingerprints of God all over Warriorville.
Dr. Gary Arnold continues his series with interviewing LRCA's educational leaders. In this episode, Mr. Tyler Eatherton, Middle School and Junior High Principal, discusses how equipping students to follow Jesus in the years between elementary and high school is his reason for being in Warriorville!
My greatest pleasure as President and Head of School is experiencing the collaborative force of the Little Rock Christian Academy educational leadership team - Dr. Justin A. Smith (Assistant Head of School and Head of Upper School), Mrs. Ann Chami (Head of Lower School) and Tyler Eatherton (Principal of the Middle School and Junior High). As the wisdom of Ecclesiastes affirms, "A cord of three strands is not quickly broken." Their collective passion for a Christ-centered, student-loving education is unmatched, second-to-none. For the next three episodes of Warrior Talk, we will listen to our division leaders share their "why" and their hope for the coming year. Join me on Warrior Talk this week as we hear from a wellspring of love and wisdom, Mrs. Ann Chami. - Dr. Gary Arnold, LRCA Head of School
Warrior Talk: The Official Podcast of LRCA returns for the start of the new school year! In this episode Dr. Gary Arnold, LRCA Head of School, introduces our school theme of 10,000 Reasons and what that means for our students, faculty, and parents as we partner together for a new and exciting year!
Dr. Gary Arnold sits down with Bill Parkinson to discuss the critical influence of Christian grandparenting in the latest episode of Warrior Talk.
Warrior Blitz is LRCA's only fundraiser that supports enhancements not covered by tuition and helps kick off our Annual Fund. In the latest episode of Warrior Talk, Dr. Gary Arnold and our PTF leaders preview Warrior Blitz 2021. We are excited for a fun week together on October 25-29!
In the latest episode of Warrior Talk, Dr. Arnold sits down with Athletic Director Johnny Watson to discuss the Arkansas Activities Association's new "Competitive Equity Factor" and how it will impact private schools.
In our second episode of Warrior Talk since the start to the new school year, Dr. Gary Arnold discusses how LRCA's governance model works and compares it to other independent school models of governance that are out there. We want our new and current families to know how LRCA stays on mission.
LRCA Head of School Dr. Arnold kicks off the new school year with our "Welcome back!" podcast episode. He discusses our school theme, "One Another", and how it applies to our community, school year, and following Jesus in all things.
In this episode, Dr. Arnold sits down with Mrs. Murry and Mr. Eatherton to talk about TikTok and the conflict it can bring.
In this episode, Dr. Arnold talks about school choice and the new Arkansas School Choice Bill with Laurie Lee from Trace Strategies.
In this episode, Dr. Arnold sits down with Ann Chami and Dawn Sanders for a mid-year check-up on Elementary reading, math, and history.
In this episode, Dr. Arnold sits down with Dr. Justin Smith for part III of the discussion on Miles McPherson's The Third Option.
In this episode, Dr. Arnold sits down with Mr. MaRon King, Upper School Dean and Guidance Counselor for part II of their discussion on Miles McPherson's The Third Option.
In this episode, Dr. Arnold sits down with Mr. MaRon King, Upper School Dean and Guidance Counselor to discuss Miles McPherson's The Third Option.
In this episode, Dr. Arnold sits down with Biblical Worldview Chair Ms. Amanda Glenn who shares how to navigate a crisis of faith.
In this episode, Dr. Arnold goes over a Barna study with research and tips on how to increase the chances of our children staying in the faith.
In this episode, Dr. Arnold sits down with Junior High Assistant Principal Tyler Eatherton.
In this episode, Dr. Arnold sits down with sister duo Amanda Glenn and Sarah Crabill to talk about ways to have family fun at home and stay engaged as the days get shorter and colder.
In this episode, Dr. Arnold sits down with LRCA Nurse Wendy Lynn to get a health and safety update.
In this episode, Dr. Arnold sits down with PTF superstars Stacey Knoernschild and Megan Garrison to discuss the upcoming WARRIOR BLITZ! Find more information on Blitz at www.LittleRockChristian.com/WarriorBlitz
In this episode, Dr. Arnold sits down with Junior High teacher Shonda Phelps to discuss the new Netflix Documentary The Social Dilemma.
In this episode, Dr. Arnold sits down with Mrs. Chami and Dr. Smith to reflect on the first week back at school.
In light of Easter truth, Dr. Arnold points out several subtle heresies that have crept into the evangelical church.
This episode features special guest Dr. Gregory Bledsoe, the Arkansas Surgeon General. Dr. Bledsoe shares wisdom and insight regarding COVID-19.
In this episode, Dr. Arnold sits down with some cast members from Mary Poppins to give a behind the scenes glimpse of the upcoming production from LRCA Fine Arts. Tickets are on sale now and can be purchased here.
In this episode, Dr. Arnold sits down with Dr. Smith to discuss the Harkness Method and how it is woven into LRCA BWV curriculum and used as a teaching technique to encourage collaboration, creativity, problem-solving, listening, and making connections.
In this episode, Dr. Arnold discusses the best selling book The Coddling of the American Mind and some of the dangers that come with coddling.
In this episode, Dr. Arnold sits down with financial advisor and Warrior dad, Toby Burkett to go over the Arkansas 529 Plan and the benefits it may have for Warrior Parents.
In this episode, Dr. Arnold and guests deep dive into J-term and the impact it has on students.
In the final episode of this calendar year, Dr. Arnold interviews veteran Warrior parents on how to parent well.
In this episode, Dr. Arnold follows up last week's episode with nine practical handles on disciplining children under two truths.
In this episode, Dr. Arnold visits with Dr. Smith and Mrs. Chami to discuss additional tools for parenting well.
In this episode, Dr. Arnold gives an update on the progress of Warrior Arena with a walkthrough of this incredible new space.
This episode features special guest Dr. Gregory Bledsoe, the Arkansas Surgeon General. Dr. Bledsoe shares the major health concerns associated with vaping and marijuana. High School Assistant Principals Andy Baxley and Justin Kirkes share some ideas on how to discuss these issues with your child.
In this episode, Dr. Arnold discusses THREE THINGS: Learning from PA, Breakpoint, and Bible-snacking. This episode features Junior High teacher Dr. Margo Turner who gives a special idea on how to gift scripture to your child.
In this episode, Dr. Arnold is live from Gordon College outside of Boston, Massachusetts with two recent graduates, Graham Seymour ('19) and Rebecah Ortega ('18).
Dr. Arnold brings a special message from Washington D.C. and talks about four P's - Parenting, Praying, Partnership and Promise.
In this episode, Dr. Arnold visits with Mrs. Chami and Dr. Smith to dive deeper into how to "Prepare the child for the road, not the road for the child".
With the start of fall athletics, Dr. Arnold sits down with our Athletic Director Johnny Watson to unravel the mysteries of the AAA (Arkansas Activities Association) and answers the question “Are We a 4A? 5A? Or 6A School?”.
In this episode of Warrior Talk Head of School Dr. Gary Arnold sits down with our Director of Safety and Security Boyd Boshears.
Welcome to the very first episode of Warrior Talk - the official podcast of Little Rock Christian Academy. Head of School Dr. Gary Arnold sits down with Head of Upper School Dr. Justin Smith and Head of Lower School Ann Chami to talk about ways to make the drive home from school more meaningful for you and your student.