Author: scotloyd

Scot Loyd is a follower of Jesus Christ, activist and a liberal arts educator. In all these roles, he is continually pressured by social expectations of what he should be. Through his writing, speaking, and activism he hopes to demonstrate that the solution to the problems of both religion and politics lie in being inclusive to diversity, rather than trying to wall others in to our own expectations. Scot also seeks to challenge others to think clearly and critically about what they believe and why they behave in accordance with or in contradiction of those beliefs. Scot has coached champion collegiate debate teams and individuals, and has been featured as a keynote speaker to various National and International audiences. Scot has earned two Masters degrees, in Communication Studies and The Philosophy of Heritage Studies, at Arkansas State University, where he is also a PhD candidate in Heritage Studies. He is currently serving as a debate coach and Communications professor at a Private University in the Midwest, United States.

Plugging in the loud speakers. My review of “I won’t shut up!” by Ally Henny

Ally Henny writes with clarity, purpose, and the anointing of a modern-day prophet. She pushes back against the cacophony of voices in the dominate culture that normalizes and caters to white expectations, white institutions, and all the systemic racisms they perpetuate and boldly declares, “I won’t shut up!” I was honored to read a prerelease … Continue reading Plugging in the loud speakers. My review of “I won’t shut up!” by Ally Henny →

An olive skinned beauty born in April of 1935

An olive-skinned beauty Born in April of 1935Your hair was as dark as nightYour eyes bright as the sky Born to a railroad man and his humble wifeHelen Elsie MayYou brought them joy and much delightYou were fearfully and wonderfully madeYou grew, matured, and a beautiful woman becameLike a sultry summer serenade In the 1940s … Continue reading An olive skinned beauty born in April of 1935 →

Gerrymandering racism in Tennessee

Gerrymandering is the practice of manipulating electoral district boundaries to benefit a particular political party or group. While it may seem like a purely political issue, the reality is that gerrymandering can have a significant impacts on furthering systemic racism in the United States. And in State Houses across the United States, like what we … Continue reading Gerrymandering racism in Tennessee →

Holy Week applications in pursuing a better world

Holy Week is the most important week in the Christian calendar as it marks the events that led to the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. This week starts with Palm Sunday, where Jesus made his triumphant entry into Jerusalem, and ends with Easter Sunday, where he rose from the dead. The events that occurred … Continue reading Holy Week applications in pursuing a better world →

Effective management of Criticism

Criticism can be difficult to handle, but it is an essential part of personal and professional growth. Learning to receive and learn from criticism can be an invaluable skill that can help us improve our performance, develop our skills, and build stronger relationships with those around us. One of the most significant benefits of receiving … Continue reading Effective management of Criticism →

This side of perspective. Reuniting with Brother Yadon

Socrates famously wrote, "Education is the kindling of a flame, not the filling of a vessel." This quote speaks to the idea that education is not just about imparting knowledge, but about inspiring students to think critically and creatively. Teachers who encourage their students to ask questions and explore their own interests help to ignite … Continue reading This side of perspective. Reuniting with Brother Yadon →

Practical devotion in post-Christian America?

An endorsement of Matt Schur's Imperfectly Perfect “What sort of flag would Jesus fly and why does the one in the sanctuary have stars and stripes?” This is among many profound questions asked by Matt Schur in his latest offering Imperfectly Perfect. This question resonates with me, because much of my time as a writer … Continue reading Practical devotion in post-Christian America? →

Just one tear. Reflecting on “An American Marriage” by Tayari Jones

“The vast generosity of women is a mysterious tunnel, and nobody knows where it leads. The writing on the walls spells out trick questions, and as a man, you must know that you cannot reason your way out.” I read these words this morning among the closing pages of an emotionally charged and delightful read … Continue reading Just one tear. Reflecting on “An American Marriage” by Tayari Jones →