The mental health needs and profile of Bible College Students with Dr David Eagle

Dr David Eagle is an Associate Research Professor of Global Health and Sociology. He leads the Religion and Social Change Lab (RaSCL) RaSCL. RaSCL is a team of researchers and practitioners who use the tools of social science to deepen understanding, spark conversations, and develop resources for the training and formation of faith leaders and their communities. They work collaboratively with the Duke Clergy Health Initiative (CHI) to promote clergy well-being across the lifecycle and shifting cultural landscapes.

He is an expert on the health of religious clergy, the changing role of churches in North American society and the implications of these trends for the professional training of ministers. He has done significant work on burnout, depression and social support. 

He is the Principal Investigator of The Seminary to Early Ministry Study, a multi-year, multi-cohort study seeking to understand how seminary impacts the health, occupational wellbeing, theology, and career trajectories of students.  In this episode, Dr. David Eagle discusses this particular research.

Season 3 of the Clergy Wellbeing Down Under Podcast brings you into the rich conversations shared at the Common Table Global Gathering in Houston earlier in 2026, a collaborative meeting of leading scholars and practitioners committed to clergy and congregational wellbeing. At this interdenominational table, leaders from many christian faith traditions chose to set aside what divides their beliefs and lean into what they hold in common, seeking the common good not only of the church, but of the world—and this season, we’re inviting our guests to continue that same hopeful, cross-tradition dialogue with you. 

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Dr. David Eagle and His Work
03:09 The Clergy Health Initiative: Understanding Clergy Wellbeing
06:39 The Seminary to Early Ministry Study: Insights and Findings
10:31 Adverse Childhood Experiences and Their Impact on Seminarians
13:21 Navigating Vulnerabilities: The Role of Community in Seminary
16:49 Political Polarization and Its Effects on Ministry
20:12 The Importance of Identity and Belonging in Ministry
23:35 Protective Factors for Seminarians: Strengths and Support
26:31 The Role of Beliefs and Community in Seminary Experience
30:09 Building Human Capacity in Pastoral Leadership
33:34 Advice for Early Career Pastors and Ministry Workers
37:03 Recommendations for Seminaries and Churches Supporting New Leaders

 

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Podcast Disclaimer:

Please be aware that the opinions and viewpoints shared on this podcast are personal to me and my guests, and do not represent the stance of any institution.  This podcast aims to present findings for open discussion and dialogue, inviting listeners to engage critically and draw their own conclusions. While the content serves informational purposes, it is not a substitute for professional advice. Thank you for joining me on this journey of exploration and conversation!