Send us a text

In Episode 12 of Go Getters & Go Givers, John Ed Mathison celebrates the Fourth of July with two extraordinary guests who have devoted their lives to serving both our country and their communities. Retired Air Force Generals Ed Crowell and Bowen Ballard share stories of leadership, sacrifice, and faith that reflect the true spirit of patriotism.
General Ed Crowell is a longtime community leader, serving on the Troy University Board of Trustees and the AUM Advisory Board, as well as holding key roles with the YMCA and other local organizations. He was named YMCA Man of the Year in 2018 for his dedication to making a difference.
General Bowen Ballard served at Headquarters U.S. Air Force as mobilization assistant to the Assistant Chief of Staff for Intelligence and later transitioned into leadership roles in business, including chief executive officer of a real estate corporation and director of a commercial bank.
In this special Independence Day episode, Generals Crowell and Ballard reflect on what it means to live a life of service. Their stories offer a powerful reminder that the values we celebrate on the Fourth of July—freedom, faith, and responsibility—are upheld every day by men and women who choose to lead with purpose.

Send us a text

In Episode 11 of Go Getters & Go Givers, John Ed Mathison welcomes Anthony Brock, the co-founder and head of Valiant Cross Academy in Montgomery, Alabama. The son of a Methodist minister, with a father who served as a principal and a mother who was a teacher, Anthony was raised in a home where education and faith were foundational. After spending 13 years working in the public school system and launching a successful mentorship program, Anthony saw firsthand the challenges many young men faced, especially those without strong family support. This realization sparked a God given vision: to create a school built on structure, discipline, and love. Valiant Cross Academy was born, offering young Black men and now women a place to thrive academically and spiritually. In this inspiring conversation, Anthony shares how his calling to serve has changed lives and continues to shape the future of Montgomery. To help support the mission of Valiant Cross Academy, visit valiantcross.networkforgood.com/projects/109603/main-giving-page.

Send us a text

In Episode 10 of Go Getters & Go Givers, John Ed Mathison sits down with Dr. Larry Epperson, a dedicated physician whose faith and resilience have touched countless lives. Born and raised in Louisiana, Dr. Epperson built a successful medical career in Montgomery. But not long ago, he received a life-changing diagnosis: the deadliest form of brain cancer. Given just twelve months to live, he now celebrates over two years since that diagnosis and continues to embrace each day with gratitude. Through it all, Dr. Epperson has remained a devout follower of Christ, sharing the Word of God daily with his patients and living out his faith in every moment. This episode is a powerful reflection on perseverance, purpose, and the peace that comes from trusting in God.

4o