Brentwood Academy Podcast

A Conversation with Julie Alley '92, Castaway from CBS Survivor 45

Conversation with Daystar featuring Melissa Trevathan, Sissy Goff, and David Thomas

USMNT on Campus

Join us for a conversation with BA soccer coaches JD Binger and Phil Masters recapping the recent US Men's National Team visit to campus. Hear about the incredible experience of hosting training camp for the USMNT, meeting heroes, and even a few fun interactions with our guests.

A Conversation About Frederick Douglass with Leroy Hyter, Jr.

Join us for a conversation with Leroy Hyter, Jr., artist and friend of Christian Life Director Freddie Scott, as we discuss the life and legacy of Frederick Douglass, the man who inspired one of Mr. Hyter's most influential works of art. We're glad you're here for this fascinating and important conversation. You can purchase the print of Frederick Douglass displayed in the video of this podcast for $40 (plus the cost of shipping) by emailing Mr. Hyter at [email protected].

Introducing Coach Paul Wade, Brentwood Academy Varsity Head Football Coach

Portrait of a Graduate – Introduction (Part 1)

Welcome to part one of a special series on this video edition of the Brentwood Academy podcast. We’re highlighting the implementation of Portrait of a Graduate at BA. Together, Headmaster Curt Masters and Dean of Academics Josh Davis share more about the concept, which incorporates five key characteristics of a Brentwood Academy graduate. These include resilient, critical thinker, thoughtful communicator, problem-solver, and Christ-follower.  In this series, Mr. Masters will feature BA facul...

Portrait of a Graduate – Thoughtful Communicator (Part 3)

This is part three of an important conversation about Brentwood Academy’s Portrait of a Graduate. In this episode, Middle School Director Jenny Cretin joins Headmaster Curt Masters as they talk about the ways Brentwood Academy faculty members develop a Thoughtful Communicator.

Portrait of a Graduate – Christ Follower (Part 5)

We hope you’ve enjoyed this series on the Brentwood Academy Portrait of a Graduate. In part five, Christian Life team member Linus Nguyen joins Mr. Masters as they talk about the trait of  “Christ-Follower.” 

Portrait of a Graduate – Critical Thinker (Part 4)

Critical thinkers seek a deeper understanding, and that is one of the five character traits of Brentwood Academy’s Portrait of a Graduate. Today, Mr. Masters welcomes Upper School Director Andy Bradshaw to share more in episode # 4 of this special series.

Portrait of a Graduate – Resilient (Part 2)

This is part two of our series on the Portrait of a Graduate. Mr. Masters welcomes school counselor Alyssa Hall as they share the first character trait of Brentwood Academy’s Portrait of Graduate- Resilient. 

Portrait of a Graduate – Problem Solver (Part 6)

Welcome to our final episode of this special series hosted by BA Headmaster Curt Masters, sharing more about Brentwood Academy’s Portrait of a Graduate.  Director of Athletics and Community Engagement Jason Mathews is in the studio for this episode, and along with Mr. Masters, they share more about our final trait- Problem Solver. 

Serving with Compassion: BA Service Project – Agape Nashville

A Look Inside the Senior Theme Verse Retreat

Many Brentwood Academy alumni will tell you the Senior Theme Verse Retreat, which takes place each summer before the school year begins, is a highlight of their time at BA.  In this episode of the podcast, you’ll hear from Christian Life team member and senior chair Matt Brown ‘97 and seniors Bailey Elliott and Luke Gardner about this year’s retreat, how the senior theme verse was chosen, and more about the selected school-wide service project.

Introducing Dr. Jason Powell

Get to know recently named Development Director Jason Powell.  Dr. Powell is a Brentwood Academy parent, a former faculty member, and has a heart for sharing the mission and ministry of Brentwood Academy.  Learn more about his perspective in this new role and some exciting growth ahead for BA!

BA Family Update – Athletics

Listen to the final installment of our BA Family Update for the 22-23 school year. In this episode we focus on Athletics at Brentwood Academy with Athletic Director Jason Matthews, Middle School Athletic Director Buddy Alexander, and new Head Varsity Football Coach & Assistant Athletic Director Jacob Gill. 

Lent Series Ep. 7 - Celebration

We've arrived at the seventh episode of the podcast portion of our Lent series, "Behold the Lamb." Join our hosts, BA Christian Life faculty members Matt Brown and Linus Nguyen, in this final episode, as they focus on the art and discipline of celebration. We explore this somewhat surprising call and command on us as Believers and how this practice can shape our lives.  This important conversation is timely as Lent comes to an end and Easter, the greatest reason we could ever have to celebra...

Hoops & Healing with Coach Andy Blackston

In this episode, BA communication team member Jennifer Vickery Smith sits down with Andy Blackston and senior basketball team member Alec Rasmussen to discuss this year's state championship-winning season and to hear Andy's story of healing after a medical scare in the fall of 2022.

Lent Series Ep. 6 - Worship

In part six of our Lent series podcast, we join our hosts, BA Christian Life faculty members Matt Brown and Linus Nguyen, as they dial in on the spiritual discipline of worship.  Is worship more than the designated, collective gathering of Sunday service, or a specific category of music? We'll examine this topic deeper and discuss what it means to live a life of worship as a Christian. 

Lent Series Ep. 5 - Simplicity

Welcome to part five of our Lent series podcast, "Behold the Lamb." Join hosts, BA Christian Life faculty members Matt Brown and Linus Nguyen, as they unpack spiritual disciplines associated with this season. In this episode, they discuss the spiritual discipline of simplicity.  They provide an engaging commentary on a Christian approach to this practice that is so often only associated with Eastern spirituality or known as a pop-culture trend. 

Lent Series Ep. 4 - Service & Compassion

Thanks for joining us for part four of the podcast portion of our Lent series, "Behold the Lamb." Join our hosts, BA Christian Life faculty members Matt Brown and Linus Nguyen, as they focus on spiritual disciplines associated with this season. Today, they look at service and compassion. We'll explore how we engage in service as Believers, the "why" behind it, and what it truly means to live a life of compassion serving others. Resources: "Celebration of Discipline" by Richard Foster  

What to Expect on the Journey from Middle School to Upper School

Join Brentwood Academy’s Dean of Academics Josh Davis, Middle School Director Jenny Cretin, Upper School Director Andy Bradshaw, and Director of Athletics Jason Mathews as they examine the student experience of rising Freshmen at BA. The transition from middle school to upper school holds many exciting opportunities and additional challenges for students as they mature into teenagers and young adults. In upper school, your student will experience more personal responsibility, increased acade...

Lent Series Ep. 3 - Prayer & Meditation

We hope you enjoy the third part of the podcast portion of our Lent series, "Behold the Lamb." Join our hosts, BA Christian Life faculty members Matt Brown and Linus Nguyen, as they focus on spiritual disciplines associated with this season. In this episode, they unpack prayer and meditation, how we approach both, and how we can cultivate a deeper and richer prayer life.  Resource:  "Celebration of Discipline" by Richard Foster

Lent Series Ep. 2 - Confession & Repentance

This is the second part of the podcast portion of our Lent series, "Behold the Lamb." Join our hosts, BA Christian Life faculty members Matt Brown and Linus Nguyen, as they focus on spiritual disciplines associated with this season. In this episode, they dive deep into confession and repentance as well as practical steps to strengthen both of these disciplines in your own life. Resource:  "Celebration of Discipline" by Richard Foster

Lent Series Ep.1 - Fasting

Welcome to the first part of the podcast portion of our Lent series, "Behold the Lamb." Join our hosts, BA Christian Life faculty members Matt Brown and Linus Nguyen, as they focus on spiritual disciplines associated with this season. In this episode, they introduce the season of Lent and discuss fasting, exploring the connection between them. Resource:  "Celebration of Discipline" by Richard Foster

BA Family Update – Christian Life

BA Family Update – Academics

Welcome back to the four-part BA Family Update series. This episode features academics at BA. Join us for a discussion led by Brentwood Academy faculty member and alumnus Matt Brown '97, Upper School Director Andy Bradshaw, Middle School Director Jenny Cretin, and Dean of Academics Josh Davis.  We'll discuss what it means to foster "academic excellence in a Christ-centered environment" as we commit to  "nurturing and challenging each whole person – body, mind, and spirit– to the glory of Go...

BA Family Update – State of BA

Student Support with School Counselor Alyssa Hall

In this episode, we talk with school counselor Alyssa Hall who supports our students and teachers in a variety of ways.  We talk about her role as a resource for BA students and families, as well as tips to help you keep your student’s mindset healthy during this time of uncertainty.   

From Carlton Flatt Field to the NFL with Dawson Knox ’15

Class of 2015’s Dawson Knox completed his first season with the Buffalo Bills and sat down to talk with us about the role of faith and perseverance helped him beat the odds to be drafted to the NFL.

Alumni Spotlight Ep. 6 - Dawson Knox ’15 "From Carlton Flatt Field to the NFL"

Class of 2015’s Dawson Knox completed his first season with the Buffalo Bills and sat down to talk with us about the role of faith and perseverance helped him beat the odds to be drafted to the NFL.

From Carlton Flatt Field to the NFL with Dawson Knox ’15

Class of 2015’s Dawson Knox completed his first season with the Buffalo Bills and sat down to talk with us about the role of faith and perseverance helped him beat the odds to be drafted to the NFL.

Alumni Spotlight Ep. 5 - Billy Ivey ’91 "Small Acts, Big Results"

Fifteen years ago BA graduate Billy Ivey had the idea to leave personalized notes in his kids' lunch boxes which unexpectedly led to a positivity movement known as “Napkinisms.” "Attitude is everything. Today is not yet anything. Fill it with Laughter."  

Small Acts, Big Results with Billy Ivey ’91

Fifteen years ago BA graduate Billy Ivey had the idea to leave personalized notes in his kids' lunch boxes which unexpectedly led to a positivity movement known as “Napkinisms.” "Attitude is everything. Today is not yet anything. Fill it with Laughter."  

Alumni Spotlight Ep. 4 - DeeAnn Hodge '85 "Wonderfully Made"

In this episode of the Brentwood Academy podcast, we talk with BA graduate DeeAnn Hodge ’85.  DeeAnn has a heart for others that is truly inspiring - particularly her passion to pour into the lives of young girls. Hear how a simple idea of a back-yard camp turned into a ministry that has now served thousands of young girls in our community. DeeAnn will be one of the speakers at this year’s Christian Life Week (January 27-31) as we celebrate each decade of God’s faithfulness.  Enjoy this epis...

Wonderfully Made w/ DeeAnn Hodge '85

In this episode of the Brentwood Academy podcast, we talk with BA graduate DeeAnn Hodge ’85.  DeeAnn has a heart for others that is truly inspiring - particularly her passion to pour into the lives of young girls. Hear how a simple idea of a back-yard camp turned into a ministry that has now served thousands of young girls in our community. DeeAnn will be one of the speakers at this year’s Christian Life Week (January 27-31) as we celebrate each decade of God’s faithfulness.  Enjoy this epis...

Why it’s ok to be Wrong with Paul Battaglia

In this episode we talk with one of the newer members of the BA faculty, math teacher and 11th grade chair, Paul Battaglia.  Our Dean of Academics, Jeff Bryant hosts this episode with Paul about his “EPIC” teaching methods and why his heart for his students is about so much more than what goes on inside the classroom.  Enjoy! 

Why it’s ok to be Wrong with Paul Battaglia

In this episode we talk with one of the newer members of the BA faculty, math teacher and 11th grade chair, Paul Battaglia.  Our Dean of Academics, Jeff Bryant hosts this episode with Paul about his “EPIC” teaching methods and why his heart for his students is about so much more than what goes on inside the classroom.  Enjoy! 

Alan Killingsworth – Relationships & Sports Medicine

In this edition of the BA Podcast we talk with respected athletic trainer, Alan Killingsworth. Alan shares how a special relationship with his son inspired him to work with students as well as more about the BA athletic training program, concussion protocol, and more. Also, hear from Lillie Hulgan ’20 as she helps co-host the episode!  

Teen Suicide Awareness with India Way ‘12

In addition to her job in medical sales, Brentwood Academy graduate India Way ’14 volunteers her time as the Chair of Programs and Education for the Tennessee Chapter of the American Foundation of Suicide Prevention. In this edition of the BA podcast, India shares her passion for education and awareness as well as practical tips for parents and students. 

What's New in Christian Life at BA!

We’re kicking off this season of the Brentwood Academy podcast with the Director of Christian Life, Rian Berger.  Rian fills us in on all of the exciting changes to chapel, service projects, and more.  Rian tells us about new and innovative ways we’re helping students to engage in scripture.  Plus, you’ll hear the real story behind Mr. Berger’s “rented” pet rabbit in “5 Questions with Mr. Berger!” 

Alumni Spotlight Ep. 3 - Reid Besch '13 "Never Stop Fighting"

In this episode we sit down with Reid Besch ’13.  Diagnosed with Leukemia in January of 2018, Reid will inspire you with his positive outlook and faith-filled journey.  Hear how the BA family encouraged and supported Reid along the way and how he is choosing now to raise awareness and funds to help end blood cancers. bit.ly/teamreid

Never Stop Fighting - A Conversation with Reid Besch '13

In this episode we sit down with Reid Besch ’13.  Diagnosed with Leukemia in January of 2018, Reid will inspire you with his positive outlook and faith-filled journey.  Hear how the BA family encouraged and supported Reid along the way and how he is choosing now to raise awareness and funds to help end blood cancers. bit.ly/teamreid

An Interview with Becca Stevens of Thistle Farms

Becca Stevens is an author, speaker, social justice entrepreneur, and priest. She is the founder and president of Thistle Farms, a movement dedicated to supporting women survivors of trafficking, prostitution, and addiction. Becca has been named a White House "Champion of Change," a 2016 CNN Hero, and has been featured in the New York Times, on ABC World News and NPR. Her newest book, Love Heals, was published by Harper Collins in September of 2017. Becca will speaking at Brentwood Academy ...

Worship at The Well

Students at Brentwood Academy are reviving a culture of worship. In this episode, faculty member Emily Borders, senior Jack Victory '19, and junior Gracey Sanderson '20 join BA faculty member and podcast host Matt Brown '97 on a discussion on the importance of musical worship and how students are leading the way. Hear about how Worship at The Well got started and how it's helping students gain a new perspective on their faith. 

Growing Up on the Mission Field: An Interview with Headmaster Curt Masters – Part 2

25 years later, Curt Masters returns to mission field where his father was killed. He shares how the valley had been influenced by the word of God and how it changed. What it was like coming face to face with  members of the tribe he interacted with as a child, and how this experience has impacted his life today.

Curt Masters: Growing Up on the Mission Field, Ep. 2

25 years later, Curt Masters returns to mission field where his father was killed. He shares how the valley had been influenced by the word of God and how it changed. What it was like coming face to face with  members of the tribe he interacted with as a child, and how this experience has impacted his life today.

Helping Children Cope With Anxiety

Anxiety is very real and on the rise among our children. Dr. Lauren King from Southeast Psych works with children and young adults, helping them work through their anxiety while navigating life. She talks about the increase in this condition, what things contribute to anxiety, and what we can do to help students work through anxiety in the classroom and in daily life.

So Much To Celebrate!

Southern cuisine runs deep in the soul of Katie Horrell Jacobs '03, author of So Much To Celebrate, an inspiring guide to entertaining. Katie is a stylist, photographer, graphic designer and content contributor for Reese Witherspoon’s brand Draper James. Katie shares her family legacy of southern cuisine, her grandmother’s elegant touch and ordinary moments made special. She offers ideas and advice on how to manage the coming holiday gatherings and shares some of her own families traditions.

Alumni Spotlight Ep. 2 - Katie Horrell Jacobs '03 "So Much To Celebrate!"

Southern cuisine runs deep in the soul of Katie Horrell Jacobs '03, author of So Much To Celebrate, an inspiring guide to entertaining. Katie is a stylist, photographer, graphic designer and content contributor for Reese Witherspoon’s brand Draper James. Katie shares her family legacy of southern cuisine, her grandmother’s elegant touch and ordinary moments made special. She offers ideas and advice on how to manage the coming holiday gatherings and shares some of her own families traditions.

Growing Up on The Mission Field: An Interview with Headmaster Curt Masters – Part 1

Headmaster of Brentwood Academy, Curt Masters, shares his unique and fascinating story of growing up as a child on a mission field in a remote and primitive part of the world. Curt Masters journey as only the second headmaster of an almost 50-year-old school is inspiring, but it’s his story about growing up on a mission field in a remote part of the world with stone-age tribes-people that is truly fascinating. Curt shares how his parents’ made the decision to respond to God’s call to move t...