Sacred Legions: A Podcast for Secular Saints

In this episode, we speak with Phillip Mutebi, the founder and executive director of HUREED (Human Rights and Economic Empowerment Development) and delve into their critical work in Uganda. As a grassroots organization dedicated to supporting people chased away from their homes, conducting prison visits, assisting with economic empowerment, and promoting community awareness, HUREED have faced the challenges of Uganda’s anti-homosexuality act head on.

Melissa Crick shares her inspiring journey of community rebuilding after the 2018 Paradise Campfire, highlighting innovative solutions, community resilience, and international collaborations with Ukraine.

In this conversation, Max Goller interviews John Russell, a high school English teacher and debate coach, about his journey in education and debate coaching. John shares his passion for debate, the structure of speech and debate competitions, and the pathway for students to reach national levels. He discusses the importance of challenging societal norms, particularly patriarchy, and emphasizes the need for diverse representation in literature and education. The conversation highlights the transformative power of debate and literature in shaping students' perspectives and understanding of the world. In this conversation, John discusses the importance of diverse literature in American high school education, emphasizing the need for representation of various authors, including those from marginalized backgrounds. The discussion then shifts to John's time in the Peace Corps, where he reflects on the challenges and rewards of serving in Mongolia, and the cultural experiences he encountered. Overall, the conversation underscores the significance of literature and cultural exchange in shaping perspectives and fostering understanding.

Host Max Goller explores the inspiring story of Jen Tianen as she delves into innovative projects like the literary garden, environmental initiatives, and the human side of authors. Discover how place-based education, mental health awareness, and community engagement can transform learning and personal growth. Jen is joined by her saintly sidekick, Emily McQuillan, who recounts the plant-focused literary trips of your youth, and her work with neurodivergent children.

Join Max Goller in an insightful discussion with Colonel Scott Buren about the importance of peace, ethics, and strategic peacebuilding initiatives. Discover the history, current efforts, and future plans to promote peace through community engagement, art, and education, highlighting the unique role of Carlisle, Pennsylvania as a hub for peace and justice. Also learn about the J. Sherwood McGuinness War Peace and Justice Project’s Ukrainian art exhibit currently taking place at the International Peace Museum in Dayton, OH.