Perkins School of Theology launches Theology Matters: A Perkins Podcast
DALLAS (SMU) – Perkins School of Theology at Southern Methodist University announces the launch of Theology Matters: A Perkins Podcast, a new monthly conversation series hosted by Bryan Stone, Leighton K. Farrell Endowed Dean. The series brings Perkins faculty into public conversation about the theological questions shaping faith, ministry and society today.
"Theology isn't meant to stay in the classroom – or, for that matter, safely tucked away in very large books. It's meant to help us think more clearly and live more faithfully in the real world," said Stone.
The first episode, "Why Theology Matters in a Changing World," releases in September 2026 and features Stone in conversation with faculty members Dr. Rebekah (Beka) Miles, Albert C. Outler Chair of Wesley Studies, and Dr. Farris Blount III, Director of the Doctor of Ministry degree program and Director of the Black/Africana Church Studies (BACS) program. The episode explores why Perkins is investing in faculty thought leadership and how theological reflection speaks to leadership, ethics, justice and the future of ministry.
Two additional episodes will follow on a monthly cadence. “Sustainable Pastoral Ministry” releases in October and features Clinical Assistant Professor and Associate Director of the Intern Program the Rev. Dr. April Bristow of Perkins and Director of Christian Education and Formation the Rev. Dr. James Woods of First United Methodist Church in McKinney. “Spiritual Care and Mind-Body Healing” releases in November and features Professor of New Testament the Rev. Dr. Jaime Clark-Soles.
Theology Matters: A Perkins Podcast will live on the Perkins School of Theology YouTube channel and be featured on the Perkins Faculty & Research page, alongside faculty spotlights connected to the series.
The podcast is part of a broader Perkins initiative to elevate faculty scholarship and public voice, guided by the core message: Perkins faculty help people think faithfully and act wisely in a changing world. While Perkins faculty anchor the series, future episodes will also include Perkins administrators, alumni and guests from beyond the school, reflecting the same thoughtful, faith-informed conversation.
The series premiere is available to stream on YouTube.
SMU Perkins School of Theology, founded in 1911, is one of five official University-related schools of theology of The United Methodist Church. Degree programs include the Master of Divinity, Master of Sacred Music, Master of Theological Studies, Master of Arts in Ministry, Master of Theology, Doctor of Ministry, and Doctor of Pastoral Music as well as the Ph.D., in cooperation with The Graduate Program in Religious Studies at SMU's Dedman College of Humanities and Sciences.