Breaking the Cycle of Poverty
“Breaking the Cycle of Poverty” explores why poverty remains such a persistent problem in the United States and how individuals and organizations can help people secure economic independence and a higher quality of life.
Episodes

Jul 31, 2025
Jul 31, 2025
19 min
Shepherd Community Center Executive Director Jay Height and historian Dan Miller discuss how the Christian view of compassion has shaped American history and our social safety net.

Jul 17, 2025
Jul 17, 2025
11 min
Executive Director Jay Height talks about Shepherd Community Center’s celebration of 40 years in ministry with plans to build a health and wholeness center, expand its school, and build new affordable housing.

Jul 3, 2025
Jul 3, 2025
10 min
Executive Director Jay Height discusses how Shepherd Community Center is helping families ensure that children are safe, learning and receiving necessities like food this summer.

Jun 19, 2025
Jun 19, 2025
14 min
Shepherd Community Center Executive Director Jay Height discusses how cuts to social service programs like Medicaid and food stamps will harm neighbors living in poverty.

May 15, 2025
May 15, 2025
27 min
Shepherd Community Center’s Chief Learning Officer Tim Streett and Redeemer Presbyterian lead pastor Charles Anderson discuss how Christians can interact with love and kindness for their neighbors, friends, families and coworkers during a time of deep political polarization and tension.

Apr 24, 2025
Apr 24, 2025
10 min
Dr. Ben Carson, the famed neurosurgeon and former secretary of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, discusses how ministries can help lift people out of poverty during his visit to Shepherd Community Center.

Apr 10, 2025
Apr 10, 2025
14 min
Executive Director Jay Height and Chief Engagement Officer Phil Edwards discuss Shepherd’s collaboration with Indianapolis Public Schools to reduce students’ stress and anxiety.

Mar 27, 2025
Mar 27, 2025
10 min
Executive Director Jay Height and Phil Edwards, Shepherd’s chief engagement officer, discuss an innovative program the ministry has launched to improve students’ mental health at an Indianapolis high school.

Mar 13, 2025
Mar 13, 2025
10 min
Executive Director Jay Height talks about key lessons he’s learned about serving in ministry during 30 years at Shepherd.

Feb 27, 2025
Feb 27, 2025
20 min
Executive Director Jay Height and Tim Streett, Shepherd’s chief learning officer, discuss why building strong relationships is essential for helping neighbors break the cycle of poverty.






