EP. 78: Bridging Worlds with Jermaine Van Buren Jr.

We would love to hear from you! Send us a text message.

Jermaine Van Buren Jr. opens up about the painful realities of living between two worlds—navigating white academic spaces and Black church communities while struggling with a fractured sense of identity. Labeled an “Oreo” and exhausted by code-switching, Jermaine found healing in Black mentorship and spiritual truth: "God made you Black on purpose." Now leading campus ministry at Jackson State University, Jermaine shares how anchoring identity in Christ—rather than cultural expectations—can free the next generation. This episode dives deep into race, reconciliation, and how authentic faith breaks down walls of ignorance. Tune in to hear one man’s journey of becoming whole and helping others do the same.

Special thanks to our sponsors:

Nissan, St. Dominic's Hospital, Atmos Energy, Regions Foundation, Mississippi College, Anderson United Methodist Church, Grace Temple Church, Mississippi State University, Real Christian Foundation, Brown Missionary Baptist Church, Christian Life Church, Ms. Doris Powell, Mr. Robert Ward, and Ms. Ann Winters.

Support the show