The PeppTalk Podcast

What is true friendship—and why does it matter now more than ever? In this thought-provoking episode of PeppTalk, the Fletcher Jones Chair of Great Books Dr. Jessica Hooten Wilson joins us for a conversation on the meaning of friendship in a fragmented, fast-paced world. Drawing from classical thinkers, Christian tradition, and her own experience in the classroom, Dr. Hooten Wilson explores how friendships of virtue are essential for human flourishing. Together, we unpack timeless texts—from Aristotle to C.S. Lewis—and discuss how the Great Books invite us into a richer understanding of friendship as a moral and spiritual practice. Whether you're a student, a seeker, or simply someone longing for deeper connection, this episode will inspire you to rethink the relationships that shape your life.

Interested in learning more about Pepperdine's Great Books Program? Click here.

In this special episode of PeppTalk, hosts Alexa and Coby speak with Pete Peterson, dean of the Pepperdine School of Public Policy, to discuss the launch of the Master of Middle East Policy Studies program—a first-of-its-kind graduate program in partnership with the Washington Institute for Near East Policy.

Located at Pepperdine’s Washington, DC, campus, this two-year, in-person program combines the study of the modern Middle East and US foreign policy with hands-on training for careers in diplomacy, intelligence, development, advocacy, and more. To ensure that merit is the sole factor in admission, the program will provide full scholarships to the inaugural cohort.

Discover today how the academically rigorous Master of Middle East Policy Studies program will equip students with real-world experience and a faith-informed perspective to lead in one of the world’s most complex regions.

🔗 Learn more and Apply Today

Hosts Alexa and Coby sit down with Kelly Haer to unpack what it truly means to build and sustain a healthy relationship with oneself. In this episode, listeners will go far beyond self-care to explore how their thoughts, emotions, and beliefs shape every connection they have. Discover why knowing oneself—an undertaking supported by Augustine—is essential, and how differentiation—staying rooted in Christ while remaining connected to others—can lead to genuine freedom and wholeness.

Learn more about the Boone Center's RelateStrong programs here.

In this episode, hosts Alexa and Coby sit down with Kelly Haer to discuss the season of singleness. In a culture filled with dating apps, romantic comedies, and social timelines, the question looms: Will Prince Charming ever come? (Spoiler: it’s not that simple!) Whether you’re single by choice, circumstance, or simply for now, this conversation invites you to reframe singleness—not as a pause in your story, but as a meaningful, purpose-filled chapter. Together, we explore how to embrace singleness with hope and intention, rather than viewing it as an ambiguous loss.

Learn about the RelateStrong, framework that has brought healing and transformation around the globe here.

In this episode, hosts Alexa and Coby sit down with Dee Dee Mayer to explore the vital role of relationships in the workplace. Drawing on insights from Gallup research, they unpack what truly drives job satisfaction and employee engagement. The conversation also delves into how pop culture reflects and shapes our understanding of work-life, with thoughtful references to Severance and The Office. Whether you're navigating office dynamics or leading a team, this episode offers valuable takeaways on building healthier, more connected workplaces.

Learn about the RelateStrong, framework that has brought healing and transformation around the globe here.

In this episode, hosts Alexa and Coby sit down with Kelly Haer, executive director of the Boone Center for the Family, for a thoughtful and engaging conversation on parenting, family dynamics, and the biblical significance of the family. Together, they explore what it means to build strong, resilient families in today’s cultural climate and answer the following question: Is having a family today still worth it?

Learn about the RelateStrong, framework that has brought healing and transformation around the globe: https://boonecenter.pepperdine.edu/relatestrong/

Learn more about the Boone Center's RelateStrong programs here.

In this episode of PeppTalk, hosts Coby and Alexa sit down with Dee Dee for a conversation on the current state of the Church. From shifting cultural attitudes to changing demographics, they explore how the Church is experiencing both significant challenges and significant opportunities in today’s world.

Together, they dive into some of the pressing questions shaping modern faith communities: Why are so many young adults drawn to liturgical traditions like Catholicism and Orthodoxy? How can the Church contribute to human flourishing and authentic fellowship? And lastly, what should someone consider when searching for a church home?

Whether you’re a young seeker, a church leader, a St. Francis nerd, or even a curious skeptic, this episode invites you into a deeper look at the topic of church—past and present.

Learn more about the Boone Center's RelateStrong programs here.

In this episode, PeppTalk hosts Coby and Alexa sit down with Dee Dee Mayer, senior director of RelateStrong at the Boone Center for the Family and a trusted expert on relationships, to explore a big question: Is marriage still worth it in today’s world?

As cultural norms shift and divorce rates remain high, many are rethinking the value and purpose of marriage. In this episode, we unpack the emotional, spiritual, and practical realities couples face today—drawing from data, real-life stories, and decades of insight.

Whether you’re single, dating, married, or simply curious, this episode invites you into an honest, encouraging conversation about commitment, connection, and what makes true intimacy worth it.

Learn more about the Boone Center's RelateStrong programs here.

In this episode, PeppTalk hosts Coby and Alexa chat with Kelly Haer, executive director of the Boone Center and expert on relationships, to discuss the challenges of modern dating. From the impact of dating apps to the rise of ambiguity and lack of clarity in relationships, Kelly shares insights on why dating feels more difficult today and offers practical advice on how to date with intention.

In a world of mass optionality and run clubs, this episode explores how to date well and navigate the complexities of emotional connections. With 61 percent of dates originating online, how do we foster meaningful connections in today’s digital world? Kelly also discusses the Relationship IQ program, which offers tools for dating and developing relationships with clarity.

Learn more about the Boone Center's RelateStrong programs here.

In this premiere episode, “Relationships: A PeppLearn Podcast,” we dive into one of life’s most persistent questions: Why do relationships seem so difficult? From romantic partnerships and friendships to workplace dynamics and family ties, relationships are at the center of our lives—and yet, they often come with conflict, frustration, and misunderstanding.

Pepptalk host, Alexa, is joined by two experts from Pepperdine’s Boone Center for the Family:

Kelly Haer, executive director of the Boone Center, brings clinical insight and years of counseling experience to explore the deep emotional and cultural forces that shape how we connect with—and disconnect from—one another.

Dee Dee Mayer, Senior Director of RelateStrong and Interim Chaplain, offers a practical lens on how young adults and emerging leaders can build healthy, thriving relationships in a world increasingly marked by disconnection and digital overload.

Together, they unpack the reasons relationships can be so challenging, from the loneliness epidemic and "alone together" paradox to the impact of social media, shifting values, and spiritual neglect. With personal stories, biblical wisdom, and psychological research, this episode invites listeners to examine their own relationships and begin the journey toward greater connection and flourishing.

The PeppTalk Podcast is brought to you by PeppLearn. PeppLearn brings together the intellectual, creative, and spiritual life of Pepperdine University to alumni and friends of the university. Here, you can engage in conversations of personal and global significance across the university from world-renowned professors and global thought leaders who visit campus.

Learn more about the Boone Center's RelateStrong program here.