Bushnell Professor Launches Podcast Exploring the Bible

EUGENE, Ore. – Dr. Melisa Ortiz Berry, an adjunct professor in the College of Theology, Arts and Sciences at Bushnell University, has launched an exciting new podcast, What’s the Word?, designed to dive deep into the Bible’s origins, interpretation, and practical use in daily life. The PodClass format brings together scholars, ministry leaders, and theologians from across the globe to discuss crucial questions about the Bible, such as: Who wrote it? How did it become a book? Why do different translations exist? And how can we apply it in our everyday lives?

Dr. Berry (pictured) explains, “Not everyone has access to Bible college or a Sunday school class where these kinds of meaty conversations happen. So, this podcast aims to create a space where anyone, anywhere, can engage with Scripture deeply.” The podcast features various perspectives, including conservative, progressive, Pentecostal, Catholic, and Orthodox views on who wrote the Bible, as well as insights from Messianic Jewish, Palestinian Christian, African American, and Indigenous scholars on how people interpret it across cultures.
 
Bushnell Bible and theology professor A.J. Swoboda, Ph.D., was recently featured in an episode discussing the Bible from a Pentecostal Protestant perspective. Known for his work in theology and spiritual formation, Dr. Swoboda’s conversation adds a rich layer to the podcast’s unique offerings.

Listeners can access What’s the Word? on Spotify and YouTube, with Apple Podcasts coming soon. Dr. Berry’s goal is to provide an educational resource that serves not only as a personal study tool but also as a conversation starter for small groups and Sunday school classes or as supplemental material for college courses.

To explore the full podcast schedule or listen to the introductory episode, visit Dr. Berry’s website for more information and resources.