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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.

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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.

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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.

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In Episode 9 of Go Getters & Go Givers, John Ed Mathison welcomes John Gibbons and Jimmy Reeves from the Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) to discuss the powerful impact of faith in sports.

John Gibbons’ journey with FCA began as an 18-year-old freshman linebacker at Auburn, and today, he serves as the state director, leading efforts to bring Christ-centered fellowship to athletes and coaches. Jimmy Reeves, a dedicated coach for 30 years, was introduced to FCA through his work with student-athletes. His commitment to mentorship and faith has shaped countless lives, emphasizing the importance of putting God first in both athletics and leadership.

Together, they share how FCA transforms the lives of athletes and coaches by keeping Christ at the center of competition and personal growth. Tune in to hear their inspiring stories and learn how you can support FCA’s mission at AlabamaFCA.org.

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In Episode 8 of Go Getters & Go Givers, John Ed Mathison is joined by Pastor Ken Austin and Drew Woods, two leaders making a profound impact in Montgomery, Alabama. Pastor Austin, Executive Director of Mercy House and Senior Pastor of New Walk of Life Church, has dedicated his ministry to serving the community through food, housing, and essential services. Drew Woods, National Sales Manager at WCOV and Board Chairman of Mercy House, has been instrumental in fundraising efforts like the Day of Dreams telethon, which raised over $320,000 to support Mercy House and the MAP Center.

Together, they’ve launched multiple outreach programs, including Mercy House, to support underprivileged areas and give back through faith-driven initiatives. This episode highlights their mission to uplift communities, provide hope, and make a lasting difference through the power of service and God’s love.

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In Episode 7 of Go Getters & Go Givers, John Ed Mathison sits down with two veterans making a powerful impact: Toby Warren, President of the National Leadership Conference, and Ken Phillips, former University of Alabama football player and President & CEO of Priority Soldiers Incorporated. Together, they discuss the critical work being done in Alabama to support veterans, tackling issues such as homelessness, mental health, PTSD, and secondhand PTSD. Through their organizations, Toby and Ken are providing resources, mentorship, and faith-based support to help veterans reclaim stability and purpose. This episode sheds light on the challenges many veterans face and how dedicated leaders are stepping up to serve those who have served us.

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In Episode 6 of Go Getters & Go Givers, John Ed Mathison sits down with Hallie Bridgers and Jack Burt, two recent college graduates now pursuing graduate studies. Hallie and Jack dedicated their summer to working alongside Ken Austin in Montgomery, leading a transformative program for children focused on prayer, academics, mentorship, and empowerment. Through field trips, meaningful relationships, and faith-centered guidance, this program equips kids from underprivileged areas of Montgomery with the tools to find purpose and confidence in themselves and their relationship with Christ. This episode highlights the power of investing in the next generation and how faith-driven leadership can create lasting change in a community.

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In Episode 5 of Go Getters & Go Givers, John Ed Mathison sits down with Matt Bostic, a world record holder for most free throws in 24 hours and a leader in expanding The Lifehouse Nonprofit in Alabama. Matt has opened three Lifehouse campuses, which help men transition out of prison and avoid returning to the system. He discusses how The Lifehouse partners with the community to transform lives by providing housing, education, job stability, coaching, and a strong foundation in faith. This episode is a testament to how serving others and living in freedom through Christ can make a lasting impact.