What Is It?

In this episode of What Is It, current Manna University student AJ shares what led him to pursue biblical higher education and why he felt now was the right time to start his journey at Manna U. AJ reflects on the difference between being educated and being equipped, and explores the question of whether God calls us before He equips us—or equips us before He calls us.We also dive into how AJ’s understanding of empowerment has changed since becoming a Manna U student and what it looks like to step confidently into what God has called you to do. This conversation encourages anyone wondering if now is the right time to pursue their education, calling, and next step.

In this episode of What Is It, Bryson Hopkins shares his journey from being a Manna University student to serving as a pastor at Manna Church. Bryson reflects on how his education shaped him beyond earning a degree, what he learned about himself as a student, and how his understanding of being equipped has grown through ministry and leadership.He also shares the moment he realized he had what he needed to step into God’s calling and when he first began to see himself as a leader. From education to ministry, this conversation highlights how Manna University helps students grow in confidence, discover their calling, and become effective biblical leaders.

In this episode of "What Is It?" we sit down with Manna University student Lakita Williams as she shares what led her to choose Manna U and how her educational journey is preparing her for the future God has called her to. From the classroom to everyday life, Lakita reflects on the ways Manna University has strengthened her faith, developed her leadership, and equipped her to grow with confidence.

Together, we explore how being educated, equipped, and empowered has transformed her perspective on ministry and calling. Whether you're already pursuing your education or wondering if now is the right time to take the next step, Lakita's story is a reminder that God can use your "yes" to accomplish more than you ever imagined.

In this episode of "What Is It?" Dr. Carlos Sanchez shares his journey from Manna University student to faculty member and how that experience continues to shape the way he educates, equips, and empowers future leaders. Drawing from both his time as a student and his role in the classroom, Dr. Sanchez reflects on what makes the Manna U experience unique and how it prepares students for effective biblical leadership.

Together, we explore how Manna University equips students for ministry, leadership, and life beyond graduation while fostering a culture that empowers them to step confidently into their calling. Whether you're a current student, an alum, or considering Manna University for the first time, this conversation offers encouragement to pursue the purpose God has placed on your life.

In this episode of "What Is It?", Pastor Joe Adams from Manna Church Colorado joins us to share his journey from Manna University student to city site pastor and faculty member. Pastor Joe reflects on how his experience at Manna U shaped the way he now leads, disciples, and develops the next generation of leaders.

Together, we explore what makes the Manna University learning environment unique, how students are equipped for ministry and leadership beyond graduation, and the role community and culture play in empowering people to step confidently into their calling.

Whether you’re a current student, future student, or someone wondering if now is the time to take your next step, Pastor Joe offers practical encouragement and a powerful reminder that God can use your “yes” to impact your community, career, and calling in ways bigger than you imagined.

In this episode of What Is It, Dr. Serrano joins us to share exciting updates from Manna University, including the launch of the Manna University Leadership Institute (MULI). He unpacks the heart behind this new initiative and how it aligns with Manna U’s commitment to educating students for effective biblical leadership.We also take a look at key developments from the past year and how these changes are equipping students with the tools, experiences, and support they need to grow both academically and spiritually.Finally, Dr. Serrano casts vision for what’s ahead—sharing how these initiatives are empowering students, staff, and faculty, and what it looks like for Manna U students to step confidently into their calling in the year to come.

Join Manna U alum and staff member, Dee Bowie and this episode's co-host Michelle, a current Manna University student who is faithfully balancing school, family life, and leadership at Manna Church. Michelle shares how her journey at Manna U began, what degree program she’s pursuing, and why she chose this path.She opens up about the ways she’s being equipped in her everyday student life, the faculty and staff who have impacted her most, and how her education is strengthening her roles as a wife, mother, and Growth Track leader.If you’ve ever wondered whether you can truly do it all—or if going back to school feels out of reach—Michelle’s story will encourage and empower you to take the next step with confidence.

In this episode of “What Is It?” we sit down with Tamara, a current Manna University student who is faithfully balancing work, church involvement, and her Master’s degree. She shares how her journey at Manna U began, what led her to choose her degree path, and how her education is shaping her everyday life.
Tamara gives insight into how she’s being equipped as a student through the support of faculty and the Manna U community, and how that foundation is helping her lead and serve with confidence.
With a powerful testimony of balancing multiple responsibilities while staying rooted in her calling, Tamara encourages anyone who feels like they can’t do it all. This episode is a reminder that with the right support, you can step into everything God has for you.
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Join Manna U alum and staff member, Dee Bowie and this episode's co-host, Manna University's Academic Coordinator, Kylie Alfaro as she shares her story as an alum who is now serving in a key role within Manna Church Worship. Kylie shares how her journey at Manna U began, what she gained from her education beyond a bachelor’s degree, and how that foundation prepared her for leadership in both the church and the university.

Their conversation explores what it means to be equipped for ministry, how empowerment shapes confident leadership, and why taking the step to return to school can be transformative. This episode offers encouragement for anyone discerning their next step in education, ministry, or calling.

Join Manna U alum and staff member, Dee Bowie and this episode's co-host, Manna University's Enrollment Counselor, Cherish Thompson as she shares her journey from student to staff member at Manna University. She reflects on how she found Manna U, what her education gave her beyond a degree, and how it equipped her for her current role on campus and in Manna Church.

Cherish also unpacks what empowerment has looked like in her life and offers encouragement to anyone considering returning to school but feeling uncertain. This conversation highlights how Manna University educates, equips, and empowers students to step confidently into their calling.