PCA Podcasts

Students' Life-Changing Trip to Costa Rica

Join Mike Runey, head of school at Portsmouth Christian Academy, as he engages in a heartfelt conversation with four students who ventured on a transformative cultural mission trip to Costa Rica. Introducing their journey of stepping out of their comfort zones, they share their inspiring stories of personal growth, cultural immersion, and their earnest efforts to make a difference in global communities.
Experience the emotional roller-coaster of their conversations with local children at orphanages and schools - a testament to the power of unity, despite language barriers. Discover how they raised funds for this trip, demonstrating their dedication and resourceful spirit. They reflect on the effects of living sans personal electronic devices, an unexpected blessing that brought them closer together.
In this episode, our guests reveal how they overcame challenges, tasting the flavors of local cuisine and navigating through language barriers along the way. Hear how the experience strengthened their friendships, deepened their love for God, and amplified their understanding of other cultures.
Listen to the lasting memories they created and the profound impact this journey had on their personal growth and faith. Wrapping up the episode, they share words of wisdom for future travelers and express their yearning to revisit Costa Rica. Let their stories of bravery and camaraderie inspire you to take your own transformative journey.

Finishing strong! 40 days until end of year...

Welcome to another episode of Mondays with Mike where PCA's Mike Runey shares the latest happenings on campus and emphasizes the importance of finishing the school year strong.
The academic year is coming to an end, but not without a series of exciting events and activities. From mission trips to Costa Rica and Puerto Rico, musical performances, athletic meets, and AP tests, Mike updates on how the PCA community has been making the most of the year.
He then moves on to emphasize the importance of finishing the school year strong, both academically and relationally. He highlights the value of character development, cooperation, and fostering healthy relationships among peers as crucial aspects to achieving a successful school year.
Looking ahead to athletics, Mike acknowledges the stretching challenges experienced throughout the year and commends the students for their dedication and progress. He thanks the parents for supporting their children’s growth and the coaches for helping the students in their journey. He also celebrates a thriving year in fine arts and anticipates a grand culmination with the upcoming musical.
Moving on, Mike speaks about the spiritual growth of the students through the year and the consequent plans of taking this growth into the summer. He also shares his anticipation for the upcoming key spiritual ceremonies like the baccalaureate service for seniors and the milestone event for eighth graders.
In conclusion, Mike invites you to encourage your children to finish strong in every aspect of their school life, joining in his mantra of "running through the tape". He looks forward to partnering with the parents in raising their children and expects to see everyone on campus soon.

Broadening Horizons and Changing Lives

Join Mike Runey on "Mondays with Mike" as he delves into the transformative power of travel for Portsmouth Christian Academy students. Discover how trips to D.C., Costa Rica, and Puerto Rico expand worldviews, foster empathy, and cultivate leadership, all through the lens of Christ-centered service. 

Navigating Forward: Insights and Actions from Our Parent Survey

Join Mike Runey in this enlightening episode of 'Mondays with Mike' as we delve into the recent parent survey results at Portsmouth Christian Academy. Discover what we're doing right, where we aim to improve, and how your invaluable feedback is shaping a brighter, Christ-centered future for our students.

Insights on AI: Nurturing PCA's students today to become tomorrow's trusted thinkers

Join me in a post-Easter reflection on the pivotal role of AI in education. Discover our balanced approach at Portsmouth Christian Academy to fostering independent thinking, ethical technology use, and preparing our students for a future where technology complements, not replaces, human creativity.

Mike Recommends #4: Digital Hugs

Dive into "Mike Recommends: Digital Hugs," where I unravel the art of parenting in the digital age. Discover the Three G's—Guiding, Guarding, and Grounding—prepare for your child's digital future, and learn how to stay connected while granting freedom. Join us for insights on nurturing digital wisdom and independence.

Mike Recommends#3: Fighting through Tech

Dive into the art of peaceful conflict resolution and smart technology use at PCA! This episode unpacks my top tips for enhancing connections and guiding our kids through the digital age with wisdom and faith. Tune in for a blend of personal stories and actionable advice.

Mike Recommends #2: Melodies and Memes--Shaping Our Youth's Digital Diets

Dive into 'Melodies and Memes: Shaping Our Youth's Digital Diet' with Mike Runey. Discover how meaningful conversations, discerning discourse, and cultivating curiosity can empower your children to navigate the digital world with confidence and integrity. Join us on this journey of nurturing minds and hearts in the digital age.

Mike Recommends #1: Navigating your child's secret conversations

Dive into "Bridging the Digital Divide" and explore navigating your child's digital, and often secret, conversations. Hear about strategies for open dialogue, setting boundaries, and instilling critical thinking in the digital age that keeps you as the parent at the forefront. Join us in fostering a safe, understanding environment for our kids, guided by wisdom and love. 

Exemplars of Excellence--Defining and Describing at PCA and beyond

Join Mike Runey to explore further how PCA measures excellence through growth, proficiency, and achievement, all anchored in faith. Discover insights from personal anecdotes and reflections on visiting Pepperdine University, inspiring continuous improvement. Learn how PCA fosters a culture of excellence to equip students with skills and character for impactful leadership. Delve into the transcript for key takeaways and join the journey toward Christ-centered excellence at PCA.